Tip#734: What Will Your Legacy Be? Part 3 – Harold Ramis – Alice Herz-Sommer – The Straight Story

During high school I remember first seeing actor/writer/director Harold Ramis in the comedy TV show SCTV. I loved the hilarious show and later saw Ramis in the Ghostbusters movies and in bit parts of other comedies. It would be later in mid-life that films he directed would be deeply meaningful to me such as Groundhog Day. His recent passing on Feb. 24, 2014 was sad and unexpected. I am very grateful he left a legacy of one of my top favourite films in Groundhog Day that continues to inspire me every time I watch it.

Alice Herz-Sommer was the oldest known Holocaust survivor who recently passed away at age 110 on Feb. 23, 2014. She is the subject of the Oscar nominated documentary The Lady in Number 6: Music Saved My Life. I have yet to see this film though I was moved by the movie trailer. Her joyful spirit, passion for music and her laughter touched me immediately and her legacy was instantly impressed on my heart. See: movie trailer

The Straight Story (1999)

The drama film, The Straight Story, is based on the true story of elderly Alvin Straight (Richard Farnsworth) and his 240-mile journey on a lawn tractor to visit his ailing brother Lyle (Harry Dean Stanton). Directed by David Lynch, the film is a slow, meditative story of a man’s passion, perseverance and stubborn devotion to travel a far distance at 5 miles per hour, with hip problems, to make amends with his estranged brother. Along the way Alvin inspires each person he meets in some way. See: movie trailer

Alvin’s scenic journey is inspiring especially in how far he will go to forgive and be forgiven by his brother. And so the real Alvin Straight’s story from 1994 becomes a big part of his legacy shared with the world through cinema. Hopefully his story along with the accomplishments of Harold Ramis and Alice Herz-Sommer will inspire you to be mindful of the legacy you’d like to leave the world. 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 

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“Movies for Motivation: How To Stay Strong in Your Life & Career”
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Emmanuel Lopez-Motivatorman
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Providing Inspiring Movies to Empower Your Career, Business & Life!
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© Emmanuel Lopez 2014

Tip#733: You Are Making a Difference - The Monuments Men

I was surprised and excited this week to find out one of my blog posts was referenced in a book by Dr. Gene Orlowsky called The Principles of Inner Success: How to Make Your Dreams Your Reality. In the chapter “Inner Success is a Shedding Process” my blog post of April 15, 2009 (Tip#248) is mentioned about the negative emotions and thinking that overwhelmed me from wave after wave of negative news on my TV. It mentions how I was able to transform my heavy state by catching myself, changing the channel and focusing on positive emotions.

Friends and colleagues often remind me that writing this movie blog for over seven years is making a difference with people around the world even if I never hear from them. And though I do get wonderful email messages from thankful readers I have moments wondering if people read posts I’d written years ago. And though I have never met Dr. Orlowsky I am grateful he read that blog post from 2009 and included it in his self-help book that can further inspire others to stay positive!

Read excerpt in the book: The Principles of Inner Success: How to Make Your Dreams Your Reality
Read original blog post: Tip#248: 7 Positive Emotions That Energize – Stranger Than Fiction

The Monuments Men (2014)

The action drama, The Monuments Men is based on a true story of a unique World War II platoon tasked with going into Germany to rescue art masterpieces from Nazi Thieves. Lt. Frank Stokes (George Clooney) pulls together art experts of various ages from around the world for the greatest treasure hunt in history. The cast includes Matt Damon, Cate Blanchett, Bill Murray, John Goodman, Bob Balaban and Jean Dujardin. The film’s feel for adventure and music score recalls the cinematic style of films like 1963’s The Great Escape. See: movie trailer

Thanks to cinema the story of this brave platoon, that helped recover over 5 million pieces of art, has now been shared with a larger audience. They were passionate about their mission and they made a difference for future generations of art lovers as well as preserve the memory of the culture and people that created the art.

Let this film inspire you to believe that your positive actions make a difference for others even if there are no immediate results. If you are passionate about a project then keep doing it from your heart. Anything that follows will be a bonus!

 Learn more about the real Monuments Men: 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

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Emmanuel Lopez-Motivatorman
Speaker & Movies for Motivation Expert
Providing Inspiring Movies to Empower Your Work & Life!
See website: www.motivatorman.com

© Emmanuel Lopez 2014

Tip#732: What’s Your Headline? - The Shipping News

As I wrote in tip#730, I am always inspired by people, like Nelson Mandela, who are able to forgive those who had inflicted pain upon them. They are able to re-write their attitude from being the victim to taking leadership in their own lives.

They end up creating a new story that is more positive, optimistic and empowering from the hurtful experience they went through. They chose the half-glass full point of view instead of half-glass empty.

 The Shipping News (2001)

The drama film, The Shipping News, is about a man named Quoyle (Kevin Spacey) who has been a victim all his life and finds redemption and his inner strengths when he goes home to Newfoundland. The story includes other characters who experienced childhood traumas and spousal abuse and how a sense of family and friendship can help heal the wounds. See: movie trailer 

There is a mystical air that permeates the beautiful vistas of Newfoundland contributing to the healing energy for Quoyle and others (Judi Dench and Julianne Moore). The film is also inspiring in how Quoyle discovers his hidden talents as a writer for the local newspaper which leads to rebuilding his self-confidence and self-esteem.

The metaphors for his transformation come in the form of headlines he is learning to create for his column but are narrating his life. For example...

“Headline: Blundering Idiot Stuns Crowd… For a Change”
“Headline: Deadly Storm Takes House, Leaves Excellent View”

This film is a great example of a movie hero who finds the strength to break free from his painful past experiences by re-writing his life’s headlines. This is also an exercise you can do for yourself. For example mine would be…

Old headline: “Mid-Life Crisis Leaves Man Depressed, Broke & Lost”
New headline: “Man Learns Empowering Methods To Overcome Mid-Life Crisis”

 So what’s your headline?

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

© Emmanuel Lopez 2014

Tip#731: Passion & Perseverance, Part 5 - The Right Kind of Wrong

There are some romantic comedies, such as Jerry Maguire, that are much more than a love story. They contain inspiring insights of key factors for achieving goals in your career and life. I just saw another amazing romcom about a love story that initially looked impossible and yet intrigued me to watch it for the gorgeous Canadian mountain scenery of Banff, Alberta in the movie trailer.

What surprised me right away was a great lesson in blogging and how a simple, intriguing blog title like “Why You Suck” can generate massive success in readership, media attention and a book deal. And since the movie hero was the subject of the blog I was inspired by how resilient he was when he became the ongoing target of mean spirited readers. He would go on to demonstrate much passion and perseverance for a quest that seemed impossible to achieve. Even I thought it appeared impossible and was happy to be proven wrong. The right kind of wrong!

The Right Kind of Wrong (2013)

The Canadian romantic comedy, The Right Kind of Wrong is about failed writer Leo Palamino (Ryan Kwanten) made famous for his many flaws by his ex-wife’s blog turned book, “Why You Suck”. He then falls in love with Colette (Sara Canning) on her wedding day to another man. Despite opposition from friends, the husband and even Colette herself, Leo follows his heart and proves he has many positive qualities not written in the blog and book. See: movie trailer 

The great supporting cast added to many hilarious scenes and insights for chasing after a dream and not giving up. Sara’s mother Tess (Catherine O’Hara) is a big supporter of Leo and shares these two inspiring statements:

“You don’t know a person’s character until the chips are down.” 
“What you did was obnoxious, selfish, superficial as hell. But it took balls!” 

Here’s a list of Leo’s strengths that helped him:
• Passion
• Perseverance
• People support
• Vision
• Resilience
• Courage
• Tenacity
• Risk taking
• Willing to change and face fears
• Show hidden gifts and talents
• Indestructible optimism

I’m not sure if others will see how fun and inspiring this film was to me but I am going to follow Leo’s lead and just say: I highly recommend this brilliant romantic comedy! This movie can really inspire you to persevere with a dream or goal no matter how impossible it appears and how many people try to put you down. Just listen to your heart!

Related Tips:
Tip#534: Passion & Perseverance, Part 1 – 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#864: Passion & Perseverance, Part 8 - Danny Collins
Tip#885: Passion & Perseverance, Part 9 - Outbreak
Tip#953: Passion & Perseverance, Part 10 - Eddie the Eagle 

Remember How Movies Can Help You: 
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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”
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Emmanuel Lopez-Motivatorman
Speaker & Movies for Motivation Expert
Providing Inspiring Movies to Empower Your Work & Life!
See website: www.motivatorman.com

© Emmanuel Lopez 2014

Tip#730: The Power of Forgiveness - Philomena

Nelson Mandela was imprisoned for over 27 years and upon his release chose not to hold onto any anger or resentment towards his oppressors saying,  

“As I walked out the door toward the gate that would lead to my freedom, I knew if I didn't leave my bitterness and hatred behind, I'd still be in prison.” 

Other insights on forgiveness comes from best-selling author and spiritual teacher Marianne Williamson. She says your greatest power to change the world is your power to change your mind about the world. So she says to pray for happiness towards those that have harmed you in some way to find inner peace with them. Mandela and Williamson inspire me to look more deeply into the power of forgiveness and how to view hurtful people from an entirely different perspective.

1) Nelson Mandela and the Science of Forgiveness: See video clip
2) Marianne Williamson on Forgiveness - Oprah Winfrey Network: See video clip

Philomena (2013)

The comedy-drama, Philomena, is based on a true story of Philomena Lee’s (Judi Dench) 50-year-long search for her son with the help of journalist Martin Sixsmith (Steve Coogan). Philomena became pregnant as a teen, sent to an abbey in Ireland, forced to work in their laundry for four years and then experience the pain of the nuns adopting out her son without warning or a chance to say goodbye. See: movie trailer

Philomena’s search with Martin becomes a surprisingly fun journey for her as she experiences the all expense paid benefits of travel and food delights. Despite the positives of their search in Ireland and the US she still feels the pain of needing to find her son. What inspired me most was Philomena’s choice to forgive the nuns of the abbey for what they did to her.

Let this story and other real-life examples inspire you to know how powerful the heart can be to offer compassion and understanding instead of holding onto anger and resentment. The human spirit can be so resilient!

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 

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

© Emmanuel Lopez 2014

Tip#729: Staying Young at Heart - At Middleton

This winter in Toronto we have seen a lot of snow and cold days. Seeing the plowed snow almost as tall as I reminded me of the winters we used to have as a child. And being in my middle age years now I am amazed how time seemed to fly by. I still feel like a playful kid inside and sometimes in awe when I look in the mirror and see grey hair and wrinkles that weren’t there before.

At Middleton (2013)

The romantic comedy, At Middleton, is about a middle aged man and woman who take each of their kids on a college tour and fall in love. George (Andy Garcia) is a conservative man who meets the eccentric Edith (Vera Farmiga) and they decide to play hooky and ditch the official tour and go on their own adventure of Middleton College. The playful chemistry between Garcia and Farmiga is so wonderful and humorous with several memorable scenes that will touch your heart. One fun scene involves a duet of playing of “chopsticks”! See: movie trailer

The film takes place on one sunny, bright day and it definitely helped me escape the icy winter weather for awhile! And while the main characters made me laugh constantly the movie also brings up insights about whether or not you are truly happy in life. This movie is a super fun and enjoyable, middle-age romcom and I highly recommend especially if you too are in your middle age years. It will make you feel so young at heart again!

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

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Emmanuel Lopez-Motivatorman
Speaker & Movies for Motivation Expert
Providing Inspiring Movies to Empower Your Work & Life!
See website: www.motivatorman.com

© Emmanuel Lopez 2014

Tip#728: Life Changing Choices, Part 1 – Life of a King

On Sunday February 2nd I enjoyed a screening of Groundhog Day at a friend’s condo theatre. That enjoyment was sharply contrasted with the shocking news of actor Phillip Seymour Hoffman’s untimely death. Thankfully, Hoffman left a legacy of great work. He gave great performances in films like Magnolia, Patch Adams, Mission Impossible 3 and Punch Drunk Love.

His death also made me think of how the choices we make in life that can lead to destructive consequences or life changing benefits. This is fully explored in Groundhog Day where every day of his time loop the movie hero makes different choices that affect his well-being or the lives of other people. Movie heroes can inspire us to look at the choices we make and how we can apply similar choices in our own career, business and life.

Life of a King (2013)

The drama film, Life of a King, is based on the true story of Eugene Brown (Cuba Gooding, Jr.), an ex-con who teaches life lessons through a chess club he initiates for inner-city youths. Brown made decisions in life that put him in prison where he learned to play chess. He discovered that the game was a metaphor for staying strong and resilient in life. He made it a goal to help youths to see other options in life through the game of chess. See: movie trailer

The movie trailer was inspirational in itself and compelled me to see this film. It is reminiscent of one of my favourite movies, Freedom Writers, where both movie heroes persevere to help youths make positive choices in life. It was also great to see Gooding still active on the screen giving us a new cinematic role model who persevered through the consequences of past decisions. He can inspire you to make choices that can lead to positive benefits in your life and for those around you.

“In here and in life, you must think before you move.” 
Life of a King (2014) 

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

Related Tips:
Tip#728: Life Changing Choices, Part 1 – Life of a King 
Tip#964: Life Changing Choices, Part 2 - Eye in the Sky
Tip#946: Trust Your Gut, Part 3 - The Finest Hours 

EMMANUEL’S FIRST BOOK NOW AVAILABLE ON AMAZON KINDLE:
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Emmanuel Lopez-Motivatorman
Speaker & Movies for Motivation Expert
Providing Inspiring Movies to Empower Your Work & Life!
See website: www.motivatorman.com

© Emmanuel Lopez 2014

Tip#727: The Power in Repetition, Part 2 - Groundhog Day

In his book Outliers, author Malcolm Gladwell says it takes roughly 10,000 hours of practice to achieve mastery in a field (See examples of his studies). This theory is brought up in a fascinating essay by Simon Gallagher analyzing how many days Phil Connors spent in his time loop in the film Groundhog Day.

The total comes to 33 years and 350 days! The essay’s conclusions can be inspiring to know that learning new skill sets or even transforming a negative mindset into a positive one is achievable. Just remember that it takes time, perseverance AND repetition.

The article is in 5 stages: Read here
Stage One: Days Shown On Screen
Stage Two: Days Mentioned
Stage Three: Days Spent Learning (Vol.1)
Stage Four: Days Spent Learning (Vol.2)
Stage Five: The “Gesture” Days

Groundhog Day (1993)

The comedy, Groundhog Day, is about a self-centred TV weatherman named Phil Connors (Bill Murray) who finds himself caught in a time loop reliving the same day over and over again. The film explores the pros and cons and the humour and pain of this unique situation.  It would took Connors years of repetition to transform his thinking and attitudes in order to achieve his goals and break free. The film ultimately demonstrates lessons for personal growth that can be applied to your own life and career.
See: movie trailer
Watch now: Amazon Prime

Einstein said, “The definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results.” He also said, "We can't solve problems by using the same kind of thinking we used when we created them.” 

This is why I believe Groundhog Day is the greatest self-growth movie disguised as a romantic comedy! The film is a timeless resource for anyone wanting to transform areas of thinking that hold them back from achieving personal or professional goals. And at the same time the movie can encourage you to persevere during the months and even years it takes to transform old habits of destructive thinking.

I hope the movie inspires you to see the power in repetition and to persevere with your dreams and goals no matter how long it takes!



Related Tips:
Tip#77: The Power In Repetition, Part 1 - Groundhog Day
Tip#727: The Power in Repetition, Part 2 - Groundhog Day
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

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

© Emmanuel Lopez 2014

Tip#726: Keep Believing & Persevere, Part 1 - In a World

While on my recent Christmas vacation I reconnected to Las Vegas radio show host, Rejj Smooth and we had another exciting, inspiring conversation, this time over the phone. It also felt good to hear him be so supportive of my dream to turn my passion for film into a long-term endeavor. He said my job as a speaker and movies for motivation expert is very unique and can help many people stay positive.

We both agreed that passion was the primary key to career success and I told him one of the reasons why I loved coming to Las Vegas was the genuine passion from the servers in my favourite restaurants. Rejj said it’s because they absolutely loved their jobs. We both believed that if you loved what you do then you can have a fulfilling career at it. You just need to keep believing and persevering towards the vision of what you desire.

See video clips of Xradio interview in the studio with DJ Rejj Smooth: Groundhog Day Pt.1 - Movies that Motivate Tips 8 of 8

In a World (2013)

The comedy, In a World, is about an underachieving voice coach Carol (Lake Bell) who wishes she could be the voice-over on movie trailers despite it being a man’s job. She then finds herself competing for her dream job against her successful and established father Sam (Fred Melmed) and his protégé Gustav (Ken Marino). Movie fans will enjoy this hilarious film that was also written and directed by its star Lake Bell. Bell is so vibrant, funny and adorably goofy in her performance! See: movie trailer for this movie about movie trailers!

The movie is inspiring in that Carol maintained her vision and belief of what she wanted. Movie trailers in real life are dominated by male voice-overs and yet Carol was resilient and optimistic. She persevered despite her arrogant, unsupportive father and others saying her dream was impossible. And with a handful of people that believed in her, Carol received an exciting offer of being the first female voice-over to say “In a world..” in a movie trailer.

I highly recommend this entertaining film for inspiring you with your dreams and goals when others are not supportive. Keep believing and persevering in your vision of what you want in your career and life!

Related Tips:
Tip#726: Keep Believing & Persevere, Part 1 - In a World 
Tip#879: Keep Believing & Persevere, Part 2 - Little Boy
Tip#39: More About Believing: You’ll See It When You Believe It - 3 Movie Tips 
Tip#609: Believe in Yourself - ParaNorman Remember 

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

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Emmanuel Lopez-Motivatorman
Speaker & Movies for Motivation Expert
Providing Inspiring Movies to Empower Your Work & Life!
See website: www.motivatorman.com

© Emmanuel Lopez 2014

Tip#725: Focus & Resilience, Part 1 – Hunger Games: Catching Fire - 42

Movies are magic because when I feel a strong urge to watch a movie again I somehow receive a powerful message for what my life and career needs at that very moment.

Hunger Games: Catching Fire (2013)

Recently I watched Hunger Games: Catching Fire again and this time I noticed how incredibly focused the heroine Katniss was when unexpected adversity hits her in one scene. She’s about to enter the battle arena she witnessed the sudden beating of her friend and stylist, Cinna. Within seconds she was in the arena and she quickly transformed her pain by focusing on the task at hand.

It was inspiring to recognize this fantastic example of focus and resilience on the second viewing of the film. And because I was noticing this quality of focus in the movie hero I knew this was a reminder for me to stay focused with something in my career right now. The movie hero helped increase my confidence with a current project I needed to complete! Films can inspire you in the same way as long as you are open to receiving the message.

Here’s another film that demonstrated astounding focus and resilience.

42 (2013)

The biographical sports film, 42, is about Jackie Robinson (Chadwick Boseman) becoming the first African-American player in professional baseball with the Brooklyn Dodgers. With the guidance of team executive Branch Rickey (Harrison Ford) they weathered the intense racial discrimination that tested Robinson’s spirit and his relationships with fellow teammates, the players from other teams and anyone else who was racist. See: movie trailer 

There are many scenes where Robinson must stay focused in the face of prejudice people. One intense demonstration of racial discrimination occurs on the field in front of all the team players, media and audience. While at bat Robinson is heckled and verbally abused by Ben Chapman (Alan Tudyk) Manager of the Philadelphia Phillies. Despite the overwhelming racism inflicted on Robinson he maintained his focus. Despite the pain he felt he remained focused. And with the help of Rickey from the first day they met, Robinson becomes an inspiring example of amazing resilience and steely focus.

Whenever I lose my focus on a goal or task I’ll watch a film like 42 or Hunger Games: Catching Fire to inspire my inner strengths. I highly recommend you do the same when you feel stuck. Revisit your own favourite movies you already find inspiring in some way.

Related Tips on Resilience:
Tip#957: Focus & Resilience, Part 2 - Race
Tip#47: Resilience Is Your Hidden Super Power, Part 1 - 18 Movie Tips
Tip#689: Resilience Is Your Hidden Super Power, Part 2 – Riddick
Tip#741: Resilience Is Your Hidden Super Power, Part 3 – Film Critic Richard Crouse - Amazing Grace
Tip#742: Resilience Is Your Hidden Super Power, Part 4 – The Pianist 
Tip#801: Resilience Is Your Hidden Super Power, Part 5 - Whiplash
Tip#134: You Can Bounce Back - Resiliency - Pixar's Boundin'
Tip#260: Be Resilient & Absolutely Confident - You’ve Got Mail
Tip#725: Focus & Resilience, Part 1 – Hunger Games: Catching Fire - 42
Tip#893: Focus & Resilience, Part 2 - The Walk IMAX 3D 

Related Tips:
Tip#389: Focus On The Reality You Want – Inception
Tip#665: Your Greatness, Purpose & Focus – Man of Steel
Tip#725: Focus & Resilience, Part 1 – Hunger Games: Catching Fire - 42
Tip#893: Focus & Resilience, Part 2 - The Walk IMAX 3D
Tip#957: Focus & Resilience, Part 3 - Race

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
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Emmanuel Lopez-Motivatorman
Speaker & Movies for Motivation Expert
Providing Inspiring Movies to Empower Your Work & Life!
See website: www.motivatorman.com

© Emmanuel Lopez 2014

Tip#724: Warm Your Spirit with Good Food, Good Films & Good People - Harvey

I love organizing movie nights with friends and clients! Some of these fun evenings include home-cooked dinners so it combines three of my passions: movies, food and vibrant conversations! I was recently invited to a dinner and movie night by a friend’s work connection.

The wonderful event was hosted by Hal Spradling and Stacey Scher of All Canadian Self-Storage. I met other movie lovers and enjoyed a delicious meal of roast lamb, salmon, veggies, Processo, red wine and a choice of amazing pies: key lime, coconut cream and lemon meringue. My taste buds were singing!

It was a blissful evening where the meal, pleasant new meetings and a classic comedy made the icy weather outside completely disappear! The film we saw was one of my father's favourites and I finally saw it for the first time. The movie added to the warmed in my heart I was already feeling!

Harvey (1950)

The comedy, Harvey, is based on a play of the same name and is about a middle-age, eccentric man, Elwood P. Dowd (James Stewart), whose best friend is in the form of a six-foot, 3 1/2 inch tall invisible rabbit named Harvey. When his sister, Veta (Josephine Hull) tries to have Elwood committed to a sanatorium that’s when the film accelerates into a hilarious screwball comedy of errors. See: movie trailer

What unfolds was the warm and pleasant personality of Elwood and how kind and thoughtful he was with every single person he meets. And though he does scare off some people when he introduces his invisible rabbit friend Elwood always maintained his authentic kindness. He ends up touching the lives of everyone around him including the doctors and staff at the sanatorium!

Elwood’s positive spirit and attitude, despite adversities he faced, inspired me. I highly recommend this film to inspire you to be more compassionate and thoughtful of others. That attitude will warm the spirit of everyone involved!

“Years ago my mother used to say to me, "In this world, Elwood, you must be oh so smart or oh so pleasant." Well, for years I was smart. I recommend pleasant. You may quote me.” 
Elwood P. Dowd, from the film Harvey

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

EMMANUEL’S FIRST BOOK NOW AVAILABLE ON AMAZON KINDLE:
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Emmanuel Lopez-Motivatorman
Motivational Superhero
Providing Inspiring Movies to Empower Your Work & Life!
See website: www.motivatorman.com

© Emmanuel Lopez 2014

Tip#723: Amazing Transformations, Part 2 – American Hustle

There have been many films that feature astounding physical transformations by actors. Robert Deniro gained 60 pounds in Raging Bull while Charlize Theron gained weight, wore unflattering makeup, brown contact lenses and stained, rotting teeth in Monster.

Christian Bale has made the most drastic transformations such as shedding an unbelievable 63 pounds for The Machinist and then within five months putting on 100 pounds for Batman Begins. He later lost weight again for The Fighter where he won an Oscar for best supporting actor.

See: Christian Bale’s body transformations

American Hustle (2013)

The comedy-drama, American Hustle, is loosely based on true events of the FBI ABSCAM operation of the late 1970’s and early 80’s. Two con artists Irving Rosenfeld (Christian Bale) and Sydney Prosser (Amy Adams) are forced by an FBI agent Richard DiMaso (Bradley Cooper) to set up a sting operation on corrupt politicians. This film has many fantastic and funny performances by the leads as well as from Jeremy Renner and a stunning Jennifer Lawrence. See: movie trailer 

All the characters feature dramatic and even hilarious appearances with hairstyles and clothes from the 70’s and 80’s. Bale gained 42 pounds for his beer belly as well as creating a receding hairline and comb-over. The film director says that Bale was so unrecognizable that when he introduced Bale to co-star Robert De Niro he later asked “Who’s that guy?” pointing to Bale!

In the end the lead characters Rosenfeld and Prosser go through transformations of their profession and ethics. The story also shows that people are hustling other people in some way, deceiving themselves along the way. The film demonstrates that dramatic changes can happen not just in physical appearances but also in a person’s attitude towards the treatment of fellow human beings.

What did you think about the film and the amazing transformations?

Related Tips:
Tip#722: Amazing Transformations, Part 1 – Dallas Buyers Club 

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

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

© Emmanuel Lopez 2014

Tip#722: Amazing Transformations, Part 1 – Dallas Buyers Club

Amazing transformations are inspiring to watch with movie heroes who are able to dramatically change their ways of thinking so they can solve seemingly impossible challenges. It is also amazing to see actors transform so much into their roles that they are almost unrecognizable.

Dallas Buyers Club (2013)

The biographical drama film, Dallas Buyers Club, is based on a true story of a reckless, homophobic electrician named Rob Woodroof (Matthew McConaughey) living life carelessly through sex, alcohol and drugs. Once he is diagnosed with AIDS and given 30 days to live Woodroof goes through a personal transformation towards a healthier lifestyle with a powerful will to keep living. He also learns to embrace the gay community. See: movie trailer

Woodroof also demonstrates effective entrepreneurial skills as he not only acquires the drugs and vitamins that prolong his life, he makes them available to help other AIDS patients through the Dallas Buyers Club. Actor McConaughey’s physical transformation is astounding having lost nearly 50 pounds for the role. Actor Jared Leto also lost over 30 pounds to play Rayon, a transgender woman with an equally powerful performance.

The character Woodroof inspires because of his transformation towards life, his health and his acceptance of lifestyles different from his own. He also helped others by raising awareness to the ineffective medical help being offered at the time. Let him inspire you to be more mindful of your own health and relationships so you may live life fully for as long as you can!

Related Tips:
Tip#723: Amazing Transformations, Part 2 – American Hustle

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

© Emmanuel Lopez 2014

Tip#721: The Need for Human Interaction - Her

It’s been over a week and I am finally feeling better after being sick in bed with the flu. During that time I was not well enough to talk or text or even be online with social media for very long. I started to get stir crazy because I really needed human interaction. Thankfully I got a lot of rest and I also had my movie collection to watch. And yet it really got to be very lonely.

Her (2013)

The science fiction romantic comedy-drama, Her, is about a lonely, introverted man named Theodore (Joaquin Phoenix) who develops a deep relationship with the female voice of his computer’s new operating system named Samantha (Scarlett Johansson). The film is an excellent and unique exploration of the primal needs of love and relationships and how far a man goes with artificial intelligence. The soundtrack is also amazing with its moving piano arrangements capturing the love between Theodore and Samantha. See: movie trailer

Phoenix and Johansson’s performances are so emotionally engaging it’s easy to see why this film is winning top awards and expected to receive Oscar nominations. I was so drawn into the story and it made me look at my own life as well as see the film’s insights on relationships we build online. Here are some favourite, inspirational quotes from the film.

“The past is just a story we tell ourselves.” 

“We are only here briefly, and in this moment I want to allow myself… joy.” 

“I trust myself, I trust my feelings. I’m not going to try to be anything other than who I am anymore and I hope you can except that.” 

“You know, I can feel the fear that you carry around and I wish there was something I can do to help you let go of it because if you could I don’t think you’d feel so alone anymore.” 

I hope these quotes help inspire your start to a new year filled with rich interactions whether they be in person or online via social media. And if you see this film please let me know what messages it gave you that were motivating or empowering.

Related Tips:
Tip#721: The Need for Human Interaction – Her 
Tip#1020: The Need for Human Interaction, Part 2 - Passengers 

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 

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

© Emmanuel Lopez 2014

Tip#720: When It's Time to Purge – The Wolf of Wall Street

I just entered my sixth day sick in bed with flu. But there is a silver lining. As in all Christmas holiday vacations to Las Vegas I overindulged in the delicious foods at restaurants, buffets (as in all you can eat) and family gatherings (as in all you can eat :)). I felt bloated and sometimes disgusted with myself. I was lacking in fresh fruits and vegetables and felt my body breaking down and needing help.

Getting the flu forced me to immediately flush my system full of liquids, live foods and vitamins. The purge now feels fantastic and I am on the mend towards an exciting, healthy new year.

The Wolf of Wall Street (2013)

The film The Wolf of Wall Street is based on the true story of Jordan Belfort (Leonardo DiCaprio) from his rise to a wealthy stockbroker living the high life to his fall involving crime, corruption and the federal government. The story features a hard look at Belfort’s addictions with drugs and alcohol and his unethical practices. And though the performances are excellent and humorous there are characters, like Donnie Azoff (Jonah Hill), that are horrible human beings. See: movie trailer

I questioned whether or not to write about this film because watching Belfort at times was extremely disturbing in his self-destructive addictions and business practices. And Azoff is just an appalling character. Even director Martin Scorsese has been targeted by angry reactions to the film. In the end Belfort is an antihero, like Gordon Gekko in Wall Street, and ultimately punished for his crimes. His consequences forced him to purge himself of the toxic lifestyle he created for himself and others.

What do you think? Have you seen The Wolf of Wall Street?

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

© Emmanuel Lopez 2014

Tip#719: Top 10 Movies for Motivation from 2013

On my last day of my Las Vegas vacation I started to feel sick. Once I got off the plane in Toronto that feeling escalated into an intense flu. And even though this is my 3rd day sick in bed I’m going to write my regular Sunday post from a previously written list.

Here’s my list of top 10 movies for motivation from 2013 in alphabetical order. All these films show excellent examples of passion, perseverance and indestructible optimism. They also show how the movie heroes achieved their goals with the help of people who believed in them.

1. About Time (See: tip#701)
2. The Croods (See: tip#642)
3. Delivery Man (See: tip#706)
4. Ender’s Game (See: tip#702)
5. Gravity (See: tip#694)
6. Her (See: tip#721)
7. Now You See Me (See: tip#681)
8. Oz the Great & Powerful (See: tip#637 and tip#659)
9. Saving Mr. Banks (See: tip#713)
10. The Secret Life of Walter Mitty (See: tip#718)

Runner ups include: The Book Thief, 12 Years a Slave

Of course there are always top 10 lists that do not include your favourite films. So please let me know if you discovered a movie from 2013 that was inspiring or motivating in some way.

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 2014