Movies That Motivate | The Adventures of Motivatorman!: July 2014

Wednesday, July 30, 2014

Tip#778: Expand Your Mind with Science Fiction, Part 3 – I Origins

My top favourite movie in the mid 90’s was Contact starring Jodie Foster and it represented a decade of my life filled with incredible metaphysical and spiritual experiences. Some of this I documented in the lyrics of my music CD “Rain of Angels”. The sci-fi movie Contact was highly entertaining and filled with thought-provoking topics about science vs spiritual faith.

Contact spoke to me deeply because some of my experiences included amazing synchronistic events that led me to people I felt I had past lives with. I had no scientific proof of this and yet these amazing, loving people and I just knew in our hearts and guts that we remembered each other from another life. This is why when I saw the film I Origins it re-awakened my memories of when my mind expanded because of wild, exciting events that re-wrote what I thought about our world!

I Origins (2014)

The science fiction drama film, I Origins, is about Dr. Ian Gray (Michael Pitt) and his lab assistant Karen (Brit Marling) making a stunning scientific discovery in their research on the evolution of the eye. It is also a unique love story between Ian and an exotic woman named Sofi (Astrid Bergès-Frisbey) who shakes up Ian’s scientific world and beliefs. See: movie trailer

Emmanuel Lopez-Motivatorman
Motivational Speaker & Resilience Expert
Discover How Movies Inspire Resilience in Your Work & Life!
See website: www.motivatorman.com

© Emmanuel Lopez 2014

Sunday, July 27, 2014

Tip#777: Activate Your Imagination Through Movies, Part 2 - Lucy

“Imagination is more important than knowledge. For knowledge is limited to all we now know and understand, while imagination embraces the entire world, and all there ever will be to know and understand.”
Albert Einstein

Ever since I saw the trailer for Lucy I was so excited to see the film! Like other movies The Matrix, Limitless or other superhero films I am always thrilled about seeing characters develop super human abilities. They inspire me to think big and unleash the best I can be at work and in life. These “cinematic role models” help activate my imagination so I can envision a better me!

I just posted 3 short video clips of one of my speaker presentations where I share examples of “cinematic role models” that helped me overcome depression and burnout.

RESILIENCE AT WORK & IN LIFE:
(3 to 4 min. each)
Part 1 - Overcoming Burnout & Depression
Part 2 - Break Negative Patterns
Part 3 - Have a Vision to Focus On

Lucy (2014)

The science fiction action film, Lucy, is about a woman named Lucy (Scarlett Johansson) who is accidentally exposed to an experimental synthetic hormone drug that activates her brain far beyond its normal usage. The results are shown in stunning visual effects as Lucy develops telekinesis, manipulates matter and accesses TV, internet and cell phone frequencies. See: movie trailer

The creative visuals also extend to astounding scenes of time travel and a lecture on brain potential by Professor Norman (Morgan Freeman) who, according to writer and director Luc Besson, is 90% true (see interview). And despite the 10% use of the brain myth discussed in the film I still found many thought-provoking ideas that activated my imagination. There is also a life lesson at the core of this movie. And it is whatever you've learned in life, it is meant to be passed on to others.

This movie is getting negative reviews as well as raves (read Time Magazine review) so it is up to you to decide what you want to believe. I suggest following your indestructible optimism and focus on the insights and aha moments you can get from any film you are drawn to seeing. You just may discover a new cinematic role model to help unleash your amazing potential!

Related Tips:
Tip#179: Important Messages From The Kid - Disney's The Kid
Tip#332: Your Thoughts Have So Much Power – Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban
Tip#445: Everything is Going To Be Okay - Source Code
Tip#499: Choose A Future - Mr. Nobody
Tip#506: Time Travel & Alternate Reality Movies – 4 Hidden Gems
Tip#549: Yes, You Can Alter Your Reality - Men in Black 3
Tip#587: If You Could Talk To Your Younger Self What Would You Say? – Looper
Tip#590: Expand Your Mind with Time Travel Movies, Pt.1 - The Time Traveler’s Wife
Tip#759: Expand Your Mind with Time Travel Movies, Pt 2 - X-Men: Days of Future Past
Tip#682: What if You Could Go Back in Time? - Back to the Future Trilogy

Tip#748: Expand Your Mind with Science Fiction, Part 1 - After the Dark
Tip#772: Expand Your Mind with Science Fiction, Part 2 – The Congress - Under the Skin
Tip#778: Expand Your Mind with Science Fiction, Part 3 – I Origins
Tip#789: Expand Your Mind with Science Fiction, Part 4 – Coherence
Tip#790: Expand Your Mind with Science Fiction, Part 5 - Frequencies
Tip#803: Expand Your Mind with Science Fiction, Part 6 – Interstellar

Tip#551: Activate Your Imagination Through Movies, Part 1 - Prometheus
Tip#777: Activate Your Imagination Through Movies, Part 2 - Lucy
Tip#1053: Activate Your Imagination Through Movies, Part 3 - Valerian and the City of a Thousand Planets

SEE NEW RESILIENCE TIPS PAGE:
See my top resources for increasing your resilience now on my Motivatorman website: click here

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

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

Emmanuel Lopez-Motivatorman
Motivational Speaker & Resilience Expert
Discover How Movies Inspire Resilience in Your Work & Life!
See website: www.motivatorman.com

© Emmanuel Lopez 2014

Wednesday, July 23, 2014

Tip#776: Getting through Dark Times & into the Light - Snowpiercer

I may have to create a new category of the films I have mixed feelings about that are still a must-see for important life lessons, thought-provoking concepts or just to shake up your mindset! Suckerpunch, The Congress and Under the Skin are other films I’ve recommended but were a challenge to watch.

The latest movie I am featuring shows people in extremely difficult living conditions who do what they can to survive and then take action to have a better life. The movie Snowpiercer is an epic metaphor for overcoming long-term adversities with hardships and unexpected wonders along the way to finding freedom.

Snowpiercer (2014)

The science fiction action film, Snowpiercer, is based on a French graphic novel about the only survivors of a future ice age aboard a massive train called Snowpiercer perpetually traveling around the world. From the back of the train a group of “lower class” passengers are led by Curtis (Chris Evans) to fight their way to the front of the train to find freedom. It’s best that you don’t know anymore to enjoy the quirky characters (Tilda Swinton) and surprises along the way. See: movie trailer

My mixed feelings about the film come from the graphically violent aspects. Though, as I mentioned, these scenes can be a metaphor for life’s painful adversities. If you can get half way through the movie there will be unexpected wonders, a lighter tone and highly intriguing visuals. You will discover the train itself is also a metaphor for our current world. So if you are looking for a unique cinematic experience filled with dark and light imagery I highly recommend Snowpiercer.

SEE NEW RESILIENCE TIPS PAGE:
See my top resources for increasing your resilience now on my Motivatorman website: click here

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

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

Emmanuel Lopez-Motivatorman
Motivational Speaker & Resilience Expert
Discover How Movies Inspire Resilience in Your Work & Life!
See website: www.motivatorman.com

© Emmanuel Lopez 2014

Sunday, July 20, 2014

Tip#775: Family & Nostalgic Memories, Part 2 - Boyhood

On my way to see the opening day screening of Boyhood the news of the Malaysian airline being shot down in eastern Ukraine was the major headlines. All 298 people aboard were killed. I was shocked.

This tragedy made me think of my loved ones which was part of the themes of the movie. The film was a reminder of how precious time is and the importance of family. The story and characters were so engaging that even after 3 hours I could have stayed longer.

Boyhood (2014)

The drama film, Boyhood, is about a 12 year story of a divorced couple, Mason (Ethan Hawke) and Olivia (Patricia Arquette) raising their young son Mason Jr. (Ellar Coltrane) from age 6 to 18. Along with their daughter Samantha (Lorelei Linklater) you get to see everyone age and grow since the movie was filmed over a 12 year old period. And though focused on Mason Jr. you still witness fascinating changes with all the characters over the years. See: movie trailer

Boyhood is a masterpiece and an epic cinematic experience about family and growing up. I was utterly speechless after seeing this stunning film. It triggered my own fond memories growing up and how emotionally powerful the little things in life can be.

This movie inspires on two major levels. First are the multiple life lessons throughout the story and second is the making of this 12 year story. Director and writer Richard Linklater had a fantastic vision he maintained for bringing all these actors together year after year. His pereverance led to an astonishing cinematic achievement that will touch your heart.

Some movies can help you escape from the adversities of life for a few hours. And some can help you reconnect with nostalgic memories of happy times growing up with friends and family. I highly recommend Boyhood because it achieves both! You will also be reminded at how precious time is with the ones you love.

Related Tips:
Tip#715: Family & Nostalgic Memories - A Christmas Story
Tip#775: Family & Nostalgic Memories, Part 2 - Boyhood
Tip#877: Family & Nostalgic Memories, Part 3 - J.J. Abrams - Regarding Henry – Forever Young

SEE NEW RESILIENCE TIPS PAGE:
See my top resources for increasing your resilience now on my Motivatorman website: click here

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
JOIN ME on PINTEREST: Click here

Emmanuel Lopez-Motivatorman
Motivational Speaker & Resilience Expert
Discover How Movies Inspire Resilience in Your Work & Life!
See website: www.motivatorman.com

© Emmanuel Lopez 2014

Wednesday, July 16, 2014

Tip#774: Passion & Perseverance, Part 8 - Roger Ebert - Life Itself

I loved watching the Siskel & Ebert Show growing up. I enjoyed hearing the latest reviews of films and seeing these two critics passionately argue with each other. For many years to come I always looked for the “Thumbs Up” statement on newspaper ads for new films. Then in my adult years Roger Ebert's resilience with cancer would inspire me. His perseverance to continue writing reviews without his vocal cords would astound me.

I remember seeing Ebert in the early 90’s at the Toronto International Film Festival prior to his cancer years. It was an exciting moment as he walked right by me to enter a theatre. Little did I know then that he would inspire me to follow my own passion for movies both personally and professionally.

“For me the movies are like a machine that generates empathy. It lets you understand a little bit more about different hopes, aspirations, dreams and fears. It helps us to identify with the people who are sharing this journey with us.”
Roger Ebert, Life Itself (2014)

Life Itself (2014)

The biographical documentary film, Life Itself, is about the life of film critic Roger Ebert and his legacy he left us of his knowledge of movies and his resilience facing the loss of his voice. The story shows Ebert’s journey as a Chicago Sun Times film critic to his Siskel & Ebert TV show that launched him into a celebrity. You also see the health challenges he had to endure in his final months while also seeing the deep love and support of his wife Chaz Ebert. See: movie trailer

Ebert inspires on so many levels. He is the only film critic to have won a Pulitzer prize. He had seen over 10,000 movies and his “Thumbs Up” approval of films had enormous influence on their box office success. For me, it was Ebert’s passion and perseverance to continue writing about movies after he lost his voice that inspired me the most. Ebert demonstrated the power of passion for film lovers and for the whole world to see.

I highly recommend you see this film to inspire more passion and perseverance in your life and work!

Related Tips:
Tip#534: Passion & Perseverance – 100th Year Anniversary - Titanic
Tip#543: Passion & Perseverance, Part 2 – The Natural, Director's Cut
Tip#652: Passion & Perseverance, Part 3 - The Company You Keep
Tip#691: Passion & Perseverance, Part 4 - Rocky
Tip#731: Passion & Perseverance, Part 5 – The Right Kind of Wrong
Tip#752: Passion & Perseverance, Part 6 - Dolphin Tale
Tip#760: Passion & Perseverance, Part 7 - Today’s Special
Tip#774: Passion & Perseverance, Part 8 - Roger Ebert - Life Itself

SEE NEW RESILIENCE TIPS PAGE:
See my top resources for increasing your resilience now on my Motivatorman website: click here

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
JOIN ME on PINTEREST: Click here

Emmanuel Lopez-Motivatorman
Motivational Speaker & Resilience Expert
Discover How Movies Inspire Resilience in Your Work & Life!
See website: www.motivatorman.com

© Emmanuel Lopez 2014

Sunday, July 13, 2014

Tip#773: What Does Family Mean to You? Part 3 - Dawn of the Planet of the Apes

My recent birthday celebrations were heartfelt and meaningful because I was able to share it with family and with some of my closest friends I consider extended family. I was also flooded with feel good feelings from the 100’s of Facebook and Linkedin birthday greetings I received from around the world. I responded to each and every one because it meant a lot to me that they took the time to write me even if it was just a few words.

There was at least one old friend I did not hear from and it made me sad. It’s an amazing contrast to the positive feelings of being remembered on my birthday. My goal and vision is to do what I can to heal any pain I might have caused or make changes to myself to be a better person all my relationships. Synchronistically I was drawn to see a movie that inspired new thoughts and perspectives!

Dawn of the Planet of the Apes (2014)

The science fiction film, Dawn of the Planet of the Apes, is the sequel to Rise of the Planet of the Apes. The story is about a growing nation of genetically evolved apes led by Caesar (Andy Serkis). They must cope with human survivors of a devastating worldwide virus who discover where they live. The ape culture reveals a fascinating society where the values of family, community and home are taught and maintained. Those values then become threatened from outside and from within the ape community. See: movie trailer

This incredible film is epic on so many levels. The CGI effects and the motion capture technology have been taken to a whole new level of realism resulting in stunning characters that demonstrate heartfelt emotions. The action scenes are also highly suspenseful and exciting to watch. Overall the movie is a fantastic resource of life lessons that can also be applied to the workplace and business.

Inspiring Movie Messages:
• Family and community
• Trust and loyalty
• Leadership and teamwork
• Tolerance and respect of racial differences
• Forgiveness
• Consequences of past programming and attitudes

Thankfully I received epiphanies from this amazing film for looking at my personal challenges with family and friends from new perspectives. This is why I love movies so much. They can speak to me in many meaningful ways! I highly recommend this film to entertain you AND to receive your own epiphanies and answers you’ve been seeking for your life and work relationships.

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

SEE NEW RESILIENCE TIPS PAGE:
See my top resources for increasing your resilience now on my Motivatorman website: click here

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
JOIN ME on PINTEREST: Click here

Emmanuel Lopez-Motivatorman
Motivational Speaker & Resilience Expert
Discover How Movies Inspire Resilience in Your Work & Life!
See website: www.motivatorman.com

© Emmanuel Lopez 2014

Wednesday, July 09, 2014

Tip#772: Expand Your Mind with Science Fiction, Part 2 – The Congress - Under the Skin

There are some movies that just feel good as a cinematic experience. And then there are others that feel like they’re pushing the insides of my brain trying to just figure out what is going on! And just like adversities I’ve faced in life I trust that the discomfort I feel was about a lesson I was learning. The challenges offered me a chance to expand my mind to new ideas and new visions. I recently watched to films that were perfect examples of this concept.

The Congress (2014)

The science fiction film, The Congress, is about actress Robin Wright playing herself in the near future. She agrees to sell the movie rights to her digital image to be used in any cinematic form. Twenty years later technology takes another quantum leap forward where Wright is asked again to sell her image so people can experience her as a drink. This part of the film is told through Wright’s animated avatar where people can now be transformed into any animated character. Are you still with me? Feel your brain fidgeting?! See: movie trailer

If you feel adventurous I highly suggest you see this mind-bending film without knowing anymore. The animated storytelling is challenging and yet the sequences are visually stunning and very hallucinogenic. The concepts also bring up issues of ownership and personal rights as well as digital rights applicable today.

Under the Skin (2013)

The science fiction film, Under the Skin, is about an alien disguised as a mysterious, beautiful woman (Scarlett Johansson) luring in isolated or forsaken men into her van while traveling in Scotland. This is considered an art film and feels very experimental in its imagery, pacing, storytelling and minimal dialogue. It has already been compared to filmmakers like David Lynch and Stanley Kubrick. See: movie trailer

The making of the film is fascinating because most of the men the alien character approaches were real people caught on a hidden camera. In other words they didn’t recognize it was Scarlett Johansson asking them for directions! There is also a real person with neurofibromatosis (Elephant Man film) and his face just adds to the unforgettable, surreal and haunting visuals of the movie.

Sunday, July 06, 2014

Tip#771: Celebrate Big News! – Cineplex Pre-Show Trailer - Big Night

A lot of big things this summer I need to celebrate! First I am so excited for the son of good friends who is appearing in the CINEPLEX PRE-SHOW trailer all of July! So theatres in every city across Canada will be featuring his smiling face and energy. He's a special reporter doing an interview for upcoming "Island of Lemurs: Madagascar" Imax movie. See the live Lemurs around him in photos below!

He is extremely talented and an absolute natural in front of the camera! I truly believe he could have a super career in show business.

Secondly I made a dream come true and helped organize the first FILM FOOD FRIENDS event where we screened the popular foodie movie Big Night at a friend’s beautiful lakeshore condo. And when the glorious dish called Timpano is served in the film we paused it and served the homemade dish right out of the oven for our small group of friends! The dream that came true was making this gathering concept come true AND finally tasting Timpano for first time since I saw Big Night in 1996! And it was deeeeeelicious!

Big Night (1996)

The comedy drama film, Big Night, is about two Italian immigrant brothers trying to keep their restaurant from going under on the New Jersey Shore in the 1950’s. Primo (Tony Shalhoub) and younger brother Secondo (Stanley Tucci) are both hilarious and heartwarming in a film filled with loving scenes of food being prepared, served and enjoyed! See: movie trailer

The highlight dish is called Timpano which chef Primo describes as, “Timpano is a pasta with a special crust and is shaped like a drum, like a timpani drum. And inside is the most important things in the world.” It is a highly memorable moment when you see it unveiled and the guests enjoy a slice of heaven! See: recipe and photos

Big news about anything needs to be celebrated and shared! Food can always be part of the celebration. I hope you get to celebrate something big today!

“Bite your teeth into the ass of life!”
Big Night (1996)

SEE NEW RESILIENCE TIPS PAGE:
See my top resources for increasing your resilience now on my Motivatorman website: click here

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
JOIN ME on PINTEREST: Click here

Emmanuel Lopez-Motivatorman
Motivational Speaker & Resilience Expert
Discover How Movies Inspire Resilience in Your Work & Life!
See website: www.motivatorman.com

© Emmanuel Lopez 2014

Wednesday, July 02, 2014

Tip#770: Friendships in Films, Part 2 - The Kings of Summer

I am extremely glad that I was able to get to my friend’s cottage a few weekends ago to soak in the great outdoors with good friends. The reason is this recent July 1st long weekend (and week before) was spent mostly sick in bed with a cold. I missed out on so many Toronto events and yet I knew my body needed rest. I also had the chance to edit 100’s of photos I took from the cottage weekend. See: Facebook photo album

There is something so rejuvenating about the forest air and lake water! And I always love the nature walks my friend Jamie takes us on through his land. And though we only had one hot day some of us jumped into the chilly water. I lasted a few seconds and scrambled out and then jumped in again! I could feel my whole mind, body and spirit jolt wide awake each time. The water reminded me how good it was to be alive and how timeless the great outdoors feels with good friends!

The Kings of Summer (2013)

The comedy film, The Kings of Summer, is about Joe (Nick Robinson) a teen who is so frustrated with his single father that he decides to leave home and build a house in the woods with his best friend Patrick (Gabriel Basso) and a strange kid named Baggio (Moisés Arias). This coming-of-age story had characters that were hilarious and offered heartwarming lessons of friendship and loyalty.
See: fun short teaser
See: movie trailer

Inspiring Themes:
• Friendship
• Loyalty
• Leadership & Teamwork
• Fun & Adventure
• Energy of being in nature

If you like movies like Stand By Me you will enjoy this film! There are many movies about friendship. Which ones do you resonate with?

Related Tips:
Tip#544: Re-Energize in Nature - The Fox and the Child
Tip#684: Friendships in Films - Kick-Ass 2
Tip#770: Friendships in Films, Part 2 - The Kings of Summer

SEE NEW RESILIENCE TIPS PAGE:
See my top resources for increasing your resilience now on my Motivatorman website: click here

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
JOIN ME on PINTEREST: Click here

Emmanuel Lopez-Motivatorman
Motivational Speaker & Resilience Expert
Discover How Movies Inspire Resilience in Your Work & Life!
See website: www.motivatorman.com

© Emmanuel Lopez 201