Tip#700: Celebrating Life & Disney - Disney’s The Kid

This post is celebrating my 700th movie tip and seven years I have been writing this movie blog! I am also celebrating exciting news that Disney Studios just contacted me about being involved in a promotional campaign for an upcoming movie! I am feeling so good right now! And I actually have another connection to Disney most people don’t know about.

During my high school years I had the honor of being trained as a caricature artist by the original Disney theme park artist instructor, Jess Rubio. He was hired by Walt Disney himself and helped me to hone my creative skills as well as performance skills since doing caricatures at Canada’s Wonderland for 5 seasons always drew huge crowds!

This all lead to my developing a unique style of caricatures commissioned for commercial usage by clients such as American Express, Cineplex Entertainment, Moses Znaimer and John Sleeman of Sleeman Breweries. See: caricature samples

So in celebration of my connections to Disney and this blog anniversary I am writing about one of the most insightful, inspiring family friendly comedies I love to recommend from Walt Disney Pictures.

Disney’s The Kid (2000)

The comedy, Disney’s The Kid, is about a rude, middle-aged workaholic and image consultant, Russ Duritz (Bruce Willis), who encounters his 8-year-old self (Spencer Breslin). Together they see things they don’t like about each other and later help empower one another to face fears. They also give reminders of what is important in life. This is an entertaining look at the consequences of unresolved issues from childhood. See: movie trailer

One important learning from this film is how the quality of life in our present and future is deeply connected to traumatic events of childhood. Many films demonstrate this such as Citizen Kane and Batman Begins. Disney’s The Kid is the most family friendly comedy I can recommend to anyone going through a mid-life crisis or whose life feels stuck on pause!

Related tips:
Tip#713: Celebrating Life & Disney, Part 2 – Saving Mr. Banks  

Remember How Movies Can Help You: 
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B) Re-energize & Release 
C) Insights, Epiphanies & AHA moments 

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Emmanuel Lopez-Motivatorman
Motivational Superhero
Helping Activate Your Indestructible Optimism!
See website: www.motivatorman.com

© Emmanuel Lopez 2013

Tip#699: How Movies Affect You Differently During Your Life - The Graduate

In my lectures and seminars I always talk about how movies affect me in very different ways at different times of my life. Favourite films like Groundhog Day or Jerry Maguire never change, it is I that have changed whenever I see them again. I recently saw The Graduate for the first time and when I posted this on my Facebook wall I got this comment…

“The Graduate is one of my favorite movies of all time. The first time I saw it, I was 18 and didn't get it. The second time I saw it I was 21 and I bawled my eyes out because I identified with Ben. I recently saw it (for maybe the 10th time?) and suddenly felt for Mrs. Robinson. Its a movie that evolves with you...it's amazing.” 
Nishi Dias, Night Day Digital Media

I was happy to read that others felt the same way about favourite films. Another example is from film critic Roger Ebert who, for the film's 30th anniversary reissue, retracted some of his previous praise for the film, noting that he now felt time has passed and Ebert now had more sympathy for Mrs. Robinson than Benjamin. The Graduate came out in 1967 and even though I just saw it now, who knows how it will inspire or affect me years from now?

The Graduate (1967)

The comedy drama film, The Graduate, is about recent university graduate Benjamin Braddock (Dustin Hoffman) seduced into an affair with an older, married woman, Mrs. Robinson (Anne Bancroft). He later falls in love with her daughter Elaine (Katharine Ross). This film was hilarious in many unexpected ways and also very surreal and creative with its camera work. And every performance was so engaging. See: movie trailer

On my first viewing of this film I was affected in that it instantly transported me to the late 60’s growing up as a child with memories of the era’s fashions, cars and music such as the timeless soundtrack by Simon & Garfunkel. I was brought back to happy memories of family road trips to Santa Barbara which I found very synchronistic because that’s where Benjamin travels to for the finale!

Speaking of synchronicity, you must see a funny and related cameo by Dustin Hoffman in the romantic comedy The Holiday. The story is that Hoffman was just walking by and knew the director and got this amazing cameo scene. See: cameo clip

What favourite movies have affected you at different times of your life? Please let me know.

Remember How Movies Can Help You: 
A) Entertain & Escape 
B) Re-energize & Release 
C) Insights, Epiphanies & AHA moments 

NEED A MOTIVATIONAL SUPERHERO TO SPEAK AT YOUR ORGANIZATION?
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EMMANUEL’S FIRST BOOK NOW AVAILABLE ON AMAZON KINDLE:
“Movies for Motivation: How To Stay Strong in Your Life & Career”
Read the Introduction and 1st Chapter now: Click here

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Emmanuel Lopez-Motivatorman
Motivational Superhero
Helping Activate Your Indestructible Optimism!
See website: www.motivatorman.com

© Emmanuel Lopez 2013

Tip#698: Discover Your Cinematic Role Models, Part 2 - 12 Years a Slave

I recently witnessed something I rarely see in a packed movie theatre. Not a single person left their seat during the entire 134 minute film, 12 Years a Slave. And this movie has many scenes that are painful to watch concerning the cruelty inflicted on human beings by other human beings. Through it all though was the strength and resilience of a lead character I felt connected to from the moment he came on screen.

12 Years a Slave (2013)

The historical drama, 12 Years a Slave, is based on the true story of Soloman Northup (Chiwetel Ejiofor) a free black man living with his wife and children in 1841 who is forced into slavery in the south. Along this intense, frightening journey Soloman (forced to use the name Platt) encounters harsh, inhumane slave owners such as Edwin Epps (Michael Fassbender) and his wife Mary (Sarah Paulson). He also encounters benevolent and compassionate people such as William Ford (Benedict Cumberbatch) and Samuel Bass (Brad Pitt).

Solomon’s ability to adapt in order to survive is astounding. He endures years of torture and denigration and yet refused to sink into despair. His resilience is incredible to witness. Solomon’s desire to see his wife and children again helps him to persevere through hopeless times. This film performance inspired me to feel that whatever challenges I face in my life, I have another cinematic role model with amazing inner strengths and courage.

When you see this powerful film please let me know how it inspired you. Is the lead character a cinematic role model for you in some way?

Related Tips:
Tip#147: Discover Your Cinematic Role Models - 3 Movie Tips 

Remember How Movies Can Help You: 
A) Entertain & Escape 
B) Re-energize & Release 
C) Insights, Epiphanies & AHA moments 

NEED A MOTIVATIONAL SUPERHERO TO SPEAK AT YOUR ORGANIZATION? Ask about Motivatorman’s new topic:
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How to Stay Positive & Proactive in Your Career & Life 

EMMANUEL’S FIRST BOOK NOW AVAILABLE ON AMAZON KINDLE:
“Movies for Motivation: How To Stay Strong in Your Life & Career”
Read the Introduction and 1st Chapter now: Click here

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Emmanuel Lopez-Motivatorman
Motivational Superhero
Helping Activate Your Indestructible Optimism!
See website: www.motivatorman.com

© Emmanuel Lopez 2013

Tip#697: What Makes You Laugh? – Part 3 - Russell Peters’ Notorious

The weather yesterday was dark, wet and dreary here in Toronto. And it was drizzling cold rain all day long as I did errands. It didn’t seem to end. By the end of the day I just needed a delicious hot meal and a funny film to lift my spirits. Thankfully I found one right away on Netflix. And even though it is not a feature film it made me laugh so much I wanted to share it on my movie blog for you.

Russell Peters Notorious (2013)

The comedy show, Russell Peters’ Notorious, is Netflix’s first stand-up special featuring Canadian comedian Russell Peters. Like his awesome debut show Outsourced and following shows, Peters delivered hilarious stories featuring his gift for speaking in various accents. He is just amazing at turning racial differences into humour! Topics ranged from tattoos to being a father and more of his own father. And yes there’s lots of raunchy stuff like topics on Thai massage, his ex-wife’s pregnancy and how the city Bangkok got its name!

See: "Angry" clip
See: "Learning Spanish/Home Depot" clip

I can always count on Russell Peters and other comedy films by Adam Sandler, Seth Rogan, Kristen Wiig to make me laugh. And Frank Capra classics like It’s a Wonderful Life, Mr. Deeds Goes to Town and It Happened One Night always make me smile and feel good. Here are 8 health benefits of laughter from Care2.com

• Lower blood pressure
• Increase vascular blood flow and oxygenation of the blood
• Give a workout to the diaphragm and abdominal, respiratory, facial, leg, and back muscles
• Reduce certain stress hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline
• Increase the response of tumor- and disease-killing cells such as Gamma-interferon and T-cells
• Defend against respiratory infections–even reducing the frequency of colds–by immunoglobulon in saliva.
• Increase memory and learning; in a study at Johns Hopkins University Medical School, humor during instruction led to increased test scores
• Improve alertness, creativity, and memory

What favourite comedians make you laugh? What comedy films do you find funny and make you feel good afterwards? Please let me know.

Related Tips:
Tip#46: What Makes You Laugh? - Part 1 
Tip#678: What Makes You Laugh? – Part 2 - Grown-Ups 2 
Tip#697: What Makes You Laugh? – Part 3 - Russell Peters’ Notorious 
Tip#769: What Makes You Laugh? - Part 4 - They Came Together

Remember How Movies Can Help You: 
A) Entertain & Escape 
B) Re-energize & Release 
C) Insights, Epiphanies & AHA moments 

NEED A MOTIVATIONAL SUPERHERO TO SPEAK AT YOUR ORGANIZATION?
Ask about Motivatorman’s new topic:
“Indestructible Optimism” 
How to Stay Positive & Proactive in Your Career & Life 

EMMANUEL’S FIRST BOOK NOW AVAILABLE ON AMAZON KINDLE:
“Movies for Motivation: How To Stay Strong in Your Life & Career”
Read the Introduction and 1st Chapter now: Click here

JOIN ME on FACEBOOK: Click here
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Emmanuel Lopez-Motivatorman
Motivational Superhero
Helping Activate Your Indestructible Optimism!
See website: www.motivatorman.com

© Emmanuel Lopez 2013

Tip#696: Find People Who Believe What You Believe – The Way Way Back

Simon Sinek is the author of “Start With Why” a book with an inspiring message of what separates great companies and great leaders (like Apple and Steve Jobs) from the rest. One of his core messages is “People don’t buy what you do, they buy why you do it. And if you talk about what you believe, you will attract those who believe what you believe.” 

I believe Sinek’s message applies to life as well. When you find people who believe what you believe, like your passions and personal interests, you’ll make new friends and cultivate supportive relationships. Be inspired and see Simon Sinek’s TEDTalks lecture: See video

The Way Way Back (2013)

The comedy-drama, The Way Way Back is about a shy 14-year-old named Duncan (Liam James) having a rough time fitting in while on a summer vacation. His mother’s overbearing boyfriend Trent (Steve Carell) belittles Duncan constantly. Duncan then finds Owen (a funny Sam Rockwell) who owns a waterslide park and helps him find his confidence, self-worth and self-esteem. See: movie trailer

And with the neighbor’s daughter Susanna (AnnaSophia Robb) Duncan found at least two people who believed what he believed and those relationships lifted his spirits and belief in himself. The onscreen transformation is inspiring to watch! Plus this was one of those films that made me feel I was instantly on summer vacation out of the city soaking up the sun and surf! Highly recommended!

Tip#128: I Believe In You, Pt.1 - The Matrix
Tip#129: I Believe In You, Pt.2 - Contact
Tip#637: I Believe in You, Pt.3 - Oz the Great and Powerful
Tip#793: I Believe in You, Pt.4 - Begin Again
Tip#609: Believe in Yourself – ParaNorman
Tip#696: Find People Who Believe What You Believe – The Way Way Back

Remember How Movies Can Help You:
A) Entertain & Escape
B) Re-energize & Release
C) Insights, Epiphanies & AHA moments

NEED A MOTIVATIONAL SUPERHERO TO SPEAK AT YOUR ORGANIZATION?
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“Indestructible Optimism”
How to Stay Positive & Proactive in Your Career & Life

EMMANUEL’S FIRST BOOK NOW AVAILABLE ON AMAZON KINDLE:
“Movies for Motivation: How To Stay Strong in Your Life & Career”
Read the Introduction and 1st Chapter now: Click here

JOIN ME on FACEBOOK: Click here
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Emmanuel Lopez-Motivatorman
Motivational Superhero
Helping Activate Your Indestructible Optimism!
See website: www.motivatorman.com

© Emmanuel Lopez 2013

Tip#695: Be the Change You Want to See In The World, Part 2 – Miss Representation

Within hours of writing the previous blog post I immediately made my emergency move into a new home with the help of friends (see tip#694). And it was only 48 hours before that I had confirmed a place to live. Then as soon as I had moved in I needed to prepare for a motivational talk I was booked to give. Why is my life so full of adversities? I believe it’s to learn how to always maintain my indestructible optimism no matter what AND to be an example for others wanting to overcome their own challenges.

This belief was once again confirmed when I looked into the eyes of my recent audience of internationally educated professionals for the organization M-Bridge, Cultural Integration Society for Professionals. In my talks I share my successes as a business owner and entrepreneur as well as my struggles with depression, mid-life crisis and bankruptcy. That’s when I always see individuals riveted to what I am revealing and they approach me after to thank me. They tell me they just needed inspiration in their own struggles from someone who has gone through it too. These emotional moments give my life meaning and joy.

Miss Representation (2011)

The documentary, Miss Representative, explores how mainstream media contribute to the under-representation of women in influential positions. The film is filled with thought-provoking interviews with Condoleezza Rice, Lisa Ling, Nancy Pelosi, Katie Couric, Rachel Maddow, Rosario Dawson, Geena Davis, Jane Fonda, Dr. Jackson Katz, Dr. Jean Kilbourne, and Gloria Steinem. There are also a myriad of television and movie footage demonstrating the limited portrayal of what it means to be a powerful woman. See: movie trailer

At the end of the film women and girls of all ages share their solutions for making positive change for women in the world. One of the quotes shared in the movie is from Gandhi stating “Be the change you want to see in the world”. This is one of my favourite quotes and is a belief I’ve integrated into my heart and mind about dealing with a difficult world. In the end I believe there are already many empowering female role models to inspire others to be leaders whether they be men or women. They, in turn, will then inspire a whole new generation seeking change!

What favourite movies inspire you to make positive change in your life? What movie heroes are role-models for you? Please let me know.

Related Tips:
Tip#427: Be The Change You Want to See In The World - Groundhog Day 

Remember How Movies Can Help You: 
A) Entertain & Escape 
B) Re-energize & Release 
C) Insights, Epiphanies & AHA moments 

NEED A MOTIVATIONAL SUPERHERO TO SPEAK AT YOUR ORGANIZATION?
Ask about Motivatorman’s new topic:
“Indestructible Optimism” 
How to Stay Positive & Proactive in Your Career & Life 

EMMANUEL’S FIRST BOOK NOW AVAILABLE ON AMAZON KINDLE:
“Movies for Motivation: How To Stay Strong in Your Life & Career”
Read the Introduction and 1st Chapter now: Click here

JOIN ME on FACEBOOK: Click here
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Emmanuel Lopez-Motivatorman
Motivational Superhero
Helping Activate Your Indestructible Optimism!
See website: www.motivatorman.com

© Emmanuel Lopez 2013

Tip#694: Facing Adversity with Hope - Gravity

Toronto film critic Richard Crouse called Gravity “a life-affirming movie about the will to survive” and I whole-heartedly agree. I am currently doing an emergency move out of the beautiful condo space I’ve been in for only four months due to a life crisis my roommate/friend is facing. So it has been emotionally overwhelming on many levels. There were brief moments I felt hopeless and even alone in this situation.

And so, once again, I felt like a movie saved me just at the right time from sinking even further. The film Gravity helped me escape for awhile and be inspired by the movie hero facing incredible adversity. It filled me with hope.

Gravity (2013)

The drama film, Gravity, is about two surviving astronauts, Dr. Ryan Stone (Sandra Bullock) and Matt Kowalski (George Clooney), set adrift when their space shuttle is damaged. The film is a stunning breakthrough in film-making with a breath-taking 17 minute opening scene done in one shot. This is the type of movie you must experience in IMAX 3D to feel the magnitude of being in space. See: movie trailer

The film features powerful themes of adversity, hopelessness, hope and the fear of being alone. The film drew me in completely with the pain the movie hero was experiencing and I was inspired by her will to persevere. And as the film progressed with its gripping scenes and imagery I received epiphanies that I would make it through my current adversity. I hope this film does the same for you if you are also facing overwhelming life challenges right now.

What favourite movies inspire you to deal with adversities? What movie heroes inspire you to persevere? Please let me know.

Remember How Movies Can Help You: 
A) Entertain & Escape 
B) Re-energize & Release 
C) Insights, Epiphanies & AHA moments 

NEED A MOTIVATIONAL SUPERHERO TO SPEAK AT YOUR ORGANIZATION?
Ask about Motivatorman’s new topic:
“Indestructible Optimism” 
How to Stay Positive & Proactive in Your Career, Work & Life 

EMMANUEL’S FIRST BOOK NOW AVAILABLE ON AMAZON KINDLE:
“Movies for Motivation: How To Stay Strong in Your Life & Career”
Read the Introduction and 1st Chapter now: Click here

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

Emmanuel Lopez-Motivatorman
Motivational Superhero
Helping Activate Your Indestructible Optimism!
See website: www.motivatorman.com

© Emmanuel Lopez 2013