Tip#717: Uplifting Reminders & Messages at Christmas - Rocky Balboa – Real Steel

I just arrived back to Las Vegas from Santa Barbara for the third part of my Christmas vacation and I am still in bliss from all the consistent sunshine and overflowing amounts of good food. On Christmas Day we had an epic dinner for about 20 relatives. Two choices of mouth watering pot roast, Japanese style salmon filets, mashed potatoes, honey ham, chicken macaroni, crunchy green bean salad, leek soup and several delicious types of pecan pies and carrot cake!

Most of the evenings I was stuffed to the gills and happily bloated. So I just watched whatever movies were playing on the large flat screen TV. There was a double feature on boxing we saw that magically felt like they had messages for me for the New Year AND a reminder that my Dad’s spirit was definitely with me this Christmas. He had passed away suddenly at Christmas time a few years ago. See: tip#313

Rocky Balboa (2006)

This is the sixth installment in the Rocky film series where Rocky (Sylvester Stallone), now in his late 50’s, is a widower and estranged from his son Robert (Milo Ventimiglia). With an opportunity to go back into the ring one last time, Rocky has a powerful dialogue with his son that ultimately brings them closer together. Seeing this scene made me feel like my Dad was still here motivating me to keep moving forward no matter how many times life keeps knocking me down. See: Rocky’s empowering speech 

Real Steel (2011)

This science fiction sports drama is about a future where robot boxers have replaced humans. Former boxer Charlie (Hugh Jackman) competes using his amazing robots when he must suddenly take his estranged 11 year old son, Max (Dakota Goyo), with him on the road. Max quickly demonstrates he is wiser beyond his years with excellent skills in operating robots, promotion and marketing. Together they make a highly effective team and achieve impossible goals. Again, seeing this made me remember my own Dad and how supportive he was with my creativity and my career. I missed him and yet this film made me feel he was still with me.

If you have lost a loved one and missing them this holiday season I hope you are comforted by the thought they are still with you every time a movie or something triggers a positive reminder of them. Believe they are still with you and cheering you on right now!

Thanks for all your support this year! And I wish you a Happy New Year and that 2014 is the year your dreams and goals come true!

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

SEE NEW CHRISTMAS VIDEO PROMO
FOR “MOVIES FOR MOTIVATION” BOOK: Click here 

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
Providing Inspiring Movies to Empower Your Work & Life!
See website: www.motivatorman.com

© Emmanuel Lopez 2013

Tip#716: Heartwarming TV Christmas Movies, Part 1

I am writing this early on Christmas morning and it is still dark outside. I am also still on vacation in the warm and soothing weather of Santa Barbara. One evening I watched several TV Christmas movies on the Lifetime Channel with one of my aunts and it was so fun and heartwarming. I loved their tagline “It’s a Wonderful Lifetime”.

I also saw a few movies on the Hallmark Channel I wanted to recommend. These are movies you may enjoy watching this year or next holiday season.

All About Christmas Eve (2012): see trailer
Crazy for Christmas (2005): see trailer
Christmas in the City (2013): see trailer
Christmas on the Bayou (2013): see trailer
The Twelve Trees of Christmas (2013): see trailer
Finding Christmas (2013): see trailer
Christmas Magic (2011): see trailer

I normally write about theatrical movies but since this is Christmas Day I wanted to do something different and share some holiday tips on made-for-TV movies I found heartwarming and uplifting. All of the stories featured people facing a difficult time and how miracles happened to help them through their challenges. Some of the endings are a little too convenient or cheesy but they still filled me with that special Christmas feeling that I hope warms your spirit as well.

The sun is now rising as I look out the window at the golden mountains and clear blue skies of Santa Barbara so I will keep this post short. Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to you and your loved ones wherever you are today around the world!

Special Note:
For friends and family and everyone else still affected by the power outage back home in Toronto I am wishing you all a safe and happy Christmas.

Related Tips:
Tip#716: Heartwarming TV Christmas Movies, Part 1
Tip#1012: Heartwarming TV Christmas Movies, Part 2
Tip#908: Movie Messages of Hope for The Holidays, Part 1 - The Night Before
Tip#916: Movie Messages of Hope for The Holidays, Part 2 - Crown for Christmas

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

SEE NEW CHRISTMAS VIDEO PROMO FOR
“MOVIES FOR MOTIVATION” BOOK: Click here 

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
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Emmanuel Lopez-Motivatorman
Motivational Superhero
Providing Inspiring Movies to Empower Your Work & Life!
See website: www.motivatorman.com

© Emmanuel Lopez 2013

Tip#715: Family & Nostalgic Memories - A Christmas Story

I have been having a wonderful vacation in sunny Las Vegas! And now I’ve just arrived in the even warmer sunshine of Santa Barbara. I have many aunts, uncles and cousins here and I’ve been visiting since I was a kid. There is a timeless quality here with all the palm trees, the mountains and unchanging homes my aunts and uncles have lived in for several decades (see tip#417).

One-by-one, as I reconnected with my relatives, my heart overflowed with fond memories growing up with them all. And when we greet each other with warm, loving hugs I feel so blessed for this enduring sense of family. Nostalgic memories fill my soul and it reminds me of the feelings captured in the tangible sights and sounds of one of my favourite Christmas movies.

A Christmas Story (1983)

The holiday classic comedy, A Christmas Story, takes place in the 1940’s where 9-year old Ralphie (Peter Billingsley) dreams of having an official Red Ryder BB rifle for Christmas. That simple plot is enveloped with scenes of timeless childhood rituals and anticipation of the days leading up to Christmas Day. The film also captures the memories of growing up with a family featuring parents and siblings who have their own funny quirks and personalities.

“We plunged into the cornucopia quivering with desire and the ecstasy of unbridled avarice.”

One interesting movie fact is that Billingsley stars in an uncredited cameo in another modern Christmas classic called Elf (see tip#710). He plays Ming the head toy maker elf. And even though he is older he still has the same amazing bright blue eyes. This reminds me of my own relatives I am spending Christmas with, they may be older but their eyes and warm hearted spirits are still the same after all these years.

I wish you the same loving feelings with your own families this holiday season. Whether it’s immediate or extended family I hope you receive warm hugs that fill you with happiness this Christmas season! Happy Holidays!

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

SEE NEW CHRISTMAS VIDEO PROMO FOR
“MOVIES FOR MOTIVATION” BOOK: Click here 

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
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Emmanuel Lopez-Motivatorman
Motivational Superhero
Providing Inspiring Movies to Empower Your Work & Life!
See website: www.motivatorman.com

© Emmanuel Lopez 2013

Tip#714: Praying, Faith & Indestructible Optimism, Part 2 - It’s a Wonderful Life, Colorized

I am so happy to be back with family in Las Vegas for Christmas vacation! One moment I was in the chilly snowstorms of Toronto the next I’m in the sunny warmth of Vegas! And I almost didn’t make my early morning flight because of a new, heavy snowfall and hundreds of people jammed at check-in line-ups at Air Canada. Despite getting to the airport 2.5 hours in advance the line-ups were tremendous and many people were highly upset and missing their flights. It really looked hopeless.

When I realized I could miss my plane just I prayed. I prayed to God for help. I prayed for a miracle. And though time was running out and people around me were complaining, my indestructible optimism kicked in. With the help of a stranger in line we ended up getting through check-in via an Air Canada attendant at another booth we were led to (both angels I believed!). Next, I expected a massive line at customs. The miracle was entering the customs room and seeing no line up except for a few people! It was amazing! I made my flight with 9 minutes to spare! Thank God. And I really mean… Thank God!

It’s a Wonderful Life (1947) Colorized (2007)

The fantasy comedy drama film, It’s a Wonderful Life, is about a discouraged man who contemplates suicide at Christmas after a lifetime of disappointments and setbacks. The film opens with people's prayers to God asking to help George Bailey (James Stewart). Later, at his lowest, George admits he is not a praying man and asks God for help. Heaven hears all the prayers and sends a guardian angel.

“Dear Father in heaven, I'm not a praying man, but if you're up there and you can hear me show me the way... show me the way.”

I recently saw the colorized version of this classic film and was stunned at seeing one of my favourite films as if for the first time. The quality was absolutely fantastic and I loved this new sensory experience! Purists may not agree but I highly recommend you give it a try, especially the 2007 colorized version using the latest conversion technology.

I had watched the black & white version many times as a child and youth remembering those scenes of praying. Yet it wasn’t until I experienced my own difficult and seemingly hopeless times as an adult that I experienced the true power of prayer and faith. I always got through every challenge I faced and ultimately it helped build my indestructible optimism.

How about you? Do you believe in the power of prayer? Do you believe in miracles?

Related Tips:
Tip#638: Praying, Faith & Indestructible Optimism - Unconditional Remember 

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

SEE NEW CHRISTMAS VIDEO PROMO FOR
“MOVIES FOR MOTIVATION” BOOK:
Click here 

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
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Emmanuel Lopez-Motivatorman
Motivational Superhero
Providing Inspiring Movies to Empower Your Work & Life!
See website: www.motivatorman.com

© Emmanuel Lopez 2013

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

I love films that have movie heroes who transform from being negative people into compassionate, happier souls. I believe they can be cinematic role models for anyone desiring to transform their own destructive behavioral patterns. Films like Groundhog Day, Peaceful Warrior and Jerry Maguire demonstrate this process of positive change.

Saving Mr. Banks (2013)

The historical comedy-drama film, Saving Mr. Banks, is about author P.L. Travers (Emma Thompson) and filmmaker Walt Disney (Tom Hanks) and their stormy business relationship in the pre-production of the 1964 film Mary Poppins. Travers has extreme issues with Disney altering her vision of her character and the reasons are revealed in flashback scenes to her childhood and father (Colin Farrell). Amidst all the drama and comedy is a fascinating look at the making of the classic Mary Poppins film. See: movie trailer

Thompson gives a fantastic performance, both emotional and funny, of someone holding much pain from her past and as a difficult team player. And Hanks is great as a creative leader who persevered for years to manifest his vision of creating the magical film which would ultimately represent transformation and redemption for Travers. Saving Mr. Banks demonstrates the healing power of films on so many levels and I highly recommend you see to experience that power.

This film is also filled with many inspiring factors to help empower your own personal development in your work and life.

Inspiring factors:
• Persevering with a vision
• Team spirit
• Creative process
• Brainstorming
• Cathartic work
• Letting go
• Transforming a negative mindset

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

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

SEE NEW CHRISTMAS VIDEO PROMO FOR
“MOVIES FOR MOTIVATION” BOOK: Click here

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
Providing Inspiring Movies to Empower Your Work & Life!
See website: www.motivatorman.com

© Emmanuel Lopez 2013

Tip#712: What Does Family Mean to You? Part 2 - Love Actually

I just had a fantastic dinner with new friends from my weekly fitness class I started a year ago. Our wonderful instructor organized it and everyone was aglow with a warmth that I could best describe as feeling like family. Everyone was heartfelt attentive to each others stories as we got to know more about one another over excellent food and drink at Mugshots Tavern. The crispy fish & chips were massive portions and very delicious!

That feeling of family also extended this year to new friends from the Gift Circle (see tip#683). Along with the warmth of my immediate family and long-term friends, I am counting my blessings during this holiday season and feel so happy and grateful for this blissful abundance!

Love Actually (2003)

The romantic comedy film, Love Actually, follows the lives of eight very different couples that intertwine during the weeks leading up to Christmas. Filled with uplifting music and hilarious, memorable scenes this has become a modern Christmas classic. It also has a star-studded cast of British actors that include Hugh Grant, Colin Firth, Keira Knightley, Emma Thompson, Liam Neeson, Laura Linney, Alan Rickman, Bill Nighy and more! See: movie trailer

"If you look for it, I've got a sneaky feeling you'll find that love actually is all around."

One of my favourite scenes are the opening and closing credits with montages of actual loved ones greeting each other at airports. Whether they are friends or families of different cultures the universal warmth of love young and old fill every scene. The deep embraces and blissful happiness on each person’s face is always so beautiful to witness.

This holiday season I wish you that same feeling of warmth and love with whomever you see as family. And for those of you who have been faithfully reading my blog adventures over the years I dedicate this post to you. You are part of my online family!

Related Tips:
Tip#660: What Does Family Mean to You? Part 1 – Fast & Furious 6 
Tip#712: What Does Family Mean to You? Part 2 - Love Actually 
Tip#773: What Does Family Mean to You? Part 3 - Dawn of the Planet of the Apes
Tip#794: What Does Family Mean to You? Part 4 - The Good Lie
Tip#795: What Does Family Mean to You? Part 5 – This is Where I Leave You 
Tip#948: What Does Family Mean to You? Part 6 – The Jungle Book
Tip#995: What Does Family Mean to You? Part 7 - Captain Fantastic
Tip#1073: What Does Family Mean to You? Part 8 - Office Christmas Party 
Tip#1093: What Does Family Mean to You? Part 9 - Grandma 

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

SEE NEW CHRISTMAS VIDEO PROMO
FOR “MOVIES FOR MOTIVATION” BOOK: Click here

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
Providing Inspiring Movies to Empower Your Work & Life!
See website: www.motivatorman.com

© Emmanuel Lopez 2013

Tip#711: Believe in Earth Angels, Part 3 – Holiday Affair

It’s been an eventful first week of December. I gave a keynote talk on movies inspiring team spirit and later helped organize a Christmas movie night screening. In between I helped out a fellow speaker at her seminar where a Reverend opened up the event with a moment of silence for the passing of Nelson Mandela. That’s how I first heard the news and it reminded me of the passion and perseverance Mandela embodied for surviving 27 years in a prison. He also demonstrated incredible compassion and forgiveness to his former oppressors.

There was also news of the late actor Paul Walker who secretly bought a $9,000.00 engagement ring for a military couple who couldn’t afford it. They were strangers to Walker and yet he demonstrated that miracles do happen for people and that others can act as angels for those in need. Synchronistically I heard from a good friend of mine who helped someone in need that just arrived in the country by giving him all the cash he had in his pocket. It’s stories like these that remind me that earth angels are always around us.

Holiday Affair (1949)

The romantic comedy film, Holiday Affair, is a Christmas season story of a young widow, Connie (Janet Leigh) and a sales clerk, Steve (Robert Mitchum) who becomes unemployed and creates wild changes in her life and relationship with fiance Carl (Wendell Corey). Despite these events Steve learns that Connie’s son Timmy (Gordon Gebert) really wants a train set for Christmas and buys it for him anonymously with all the money he had. In turn, Timmy demonstrates compassion beyond his years to pay Steve back knowing he is broke. This funny film had some wonderful performances by the leads as well as a charming one by Gebert as Timmy.

“Now I guess I’m so happy if I was a dog my tail would be wagging.”

Some Christmas classics like this one may seem dated with current times and yet it is the heartfelt messages of compassion and giving that help them endure as seasonal favourites. Hopefully films like this and all your own favourites remind you to believe in earth angels and also to be an angel for someone in need this holiday season!

Related Tips:
Tip#6: Believe In Earth Angels, Part 1 - It's A Wonderful Life
Tip#7: Believe In Earth Angels, Part 2 - It's A Wonderful Life
Tip#711: Believe in Earth Angels, Part 3 – Holiday Affairs

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

SEE NEW CHRISTMAS VIDEO PROMO FOR “MOVIES FOR MOTIVATION” BOOK: Click here

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
Providing Inspiring Movies to Empower Your Work & Life!
See website: www.motivatorman.com

© Emmanuel Lopez 2013

Tip#710: Timeless Messages & Memories from Christmas Movies - Elf

I recently had an epic dinner with my siblings with a delicious 6 course authentic Parisian meal! Absolutely delicious and filling! My nephew was there and though he’s in his early teens now towers over me in height. I remember we all saw Elf when it first came out in 2003 and he was just a little boy! I loved hearing him laugh when Buddy the Elf drank a whole bottle of Coke and unleashes this long burp. My nephew just kept on laughing! So that heartwarming memory is now added to why I love Elf so much.

I knew then that Elf would be an instant Christmas classic and I’d later feature it in my first downloadable book, “Movies for Motivation: How to Stay Strong in Your Life & Career”. And around this time last year I shot a video promo for the book at Rockefeller Center and waited a whole year to release it for this holiday season. Check it out: Video Promo

There are 55 write-ups of my favourite movies in the book that can help inspire your passion and perseverance during difficult times. Here is an example for Elf of how each film is featured…

Elf (2003) 

This Christmas classic explores the importance of keeping childhood passions alive in a grown-up world. It will remind you of the positive emotional energy that can fill you when you enjoy the little things in life especially what you loved growing up. Buddy (Will Ferrell) is a human who was raised by elves. As a grown man he still exudes a universal, childlike zest for life. And although other humans think him strange at first, Buddy’s passion for life eventually warms their hearts. Let this story inspire you to tap into your silly, playful side and then feel how good you feel!

This movie will help you: 
Be Playful – to laugh and have fun exploring your passions
Identify – childhood memories that are filled with passion and positive energy
Be Optimistic – by focusing on feelings of fun and joy
Recognize – that passion can lead to successes (career and financially)

Quotes: 
 “Some people, they just lose sight of what’s important in life. That doesn’t mean they can’t find their way again. Maybe all they need is just a little Christmas spirit.” 

“I just like to smile! Smiling's my favorite.” 

Let this write-up inspire you to recognize the timeless messages and memories of your favourite Christmas movies this year. These films are there to entertain you as well as provide uplifting words of wisdom AND feel good energy!

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

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
Providing Inspiring Movies to Empower Your Work & Life!
See website: www.motivatorman.com

© Emmanuel Lopez 2013

Tip#709: What Will Your Legacy Be? Part 2 – David Bowie Exhibit – Paul Walker – Good Ol’ Frida

I just became a huge fan of David Bowie when I attended the incredible David Bowie Exhibit here in Toronto. I was just blown away of how creative, multi-talented and groundbreaking this performer was during the 60’s and all the following decades since. I loved seeing the myriad of costumes I’d only seen in his music videos, movies or stage performances. And I loved seeing the crowd filled with children and adults. Bowie had created a legacy that inspires all ages.

As I write this the news just reported that actor Paul Walker was tragically killed in a fiery car crash. I wasn’t a huge fan and yet I was so shocked and saddened. The irony is that Walker became well known for performing actions scenes featuring cars in the Fast and Furious film series. Even though he has done other movies Walker’s character in this series is how I’ll remember him.

Good Ol’ Freda (2013)

The documentary, Good Ol’ Freda, is about Freda Kelly who tells her story about her exciting job of being the secretary for The Beatles. She was a shy Liverpudian teenager that became an important part of the super group’s advances and setbacks, breakthroughs and challenges. The film is also a nostalgic look at The Beatles from an insider’s perspective who was also a friend and fan of four men that left a massive musical legacy. See: movie trailer

What I found interesting was that Freda for many years passed on book deals and was finally motivated to tell her story because of her grandson’s birth. Freda wanted him to eventually see she had amazing accomplishments in her youth. Freda wanted this documentary to be her legacy for her grandson. This film inspired me to remember the importance of legacy and how any of our stories can then inspire current and future generations! What will your legacy be?

Related Tips:
Tip#354: What Will Your Legacy Be? Part 1 – Iron Man 2 
Tip#709: What Will Your Legacy Be? Part 2 – David Bowie Exhibit – Paul Walker – Good Ol’ Frida
Tip#734: What Will Your Legacy Be? Part 3 – Harold Ramis – Alice Herz-Sommer – The Straight Story
Tip#923: What Will Your Legacy Be? Part 4 - Alan Rickman – Top 5 Films 

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

SEE NEW CHRISTMAS VIDEO PROMO FOR “MOVIES FOR MOTIVATION” BOOK: Click here 

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
Providing Inspiring Movies to Empower Your Work & Life!
See website: www.motivatorman.com

© Emmanuel Lopez 2013