Tip#742: Resilience Is Your Hidden Super Power, Part 4 – The Pianist

I recently gave one of the most enjoyable presentations at a day event called “Resiliency Now! A Capacity Building and Networking Event”. My topic was “Activate Your Indestructible Optimism” and combined it with interactive networking exercises for the audience of Executive Directors, Middle management, Frontline staff and Volunteers. The positive energy in the room was overflowing and I could see the attendees really enjoying themselves!

The key needs of personal resilience and organizational resilience was brought to my attention and I felt this was where I could be of service the most with my talks. Perhaps that’s why I felt so blissful facilitating this presentation because I was able to share the methods and movies that helped build my own resilience during times of depression, burnout, mid-career crisis and bankruptcy. I could really see the silver lining of helping others now from the pain I’d experienced in the past.

“Resilience is no longer a dry and boring topic. With Emmanuel people can relax, have fun and learn something. Time well invested!” 
Peter Dudka, Employment Counsellor/Workplace Coordinator

The Pianist (2002)

The historical drama film, The Pianist, is based on the true story of Polish-Jewish pianist and composer Wladyslaw Szpilman (Adrien Brody) and his story of survival during Nazi Germany’s invasion of Poland. The film begins by showing Szpilman’s supportive relationships with family, friends and colleagues and as the horrors of the war unfold you see how these relationships help him stay resilient over many years. See: movie trailer

Amidst the heartbreaking atrocities there are beautiful moments where the music of the piano helps lift people’s spirit and rescues Szpilman when faced directly with the enemy near the end of the war. His passion for music helped save his life as well as the help of caring, loving relationships he cultivated.

Seeing this powerful, Oscar winning film can help inspire your resilience to persevere in your own adversities in career, workplace and life. You can overcome any unexpected change or crisis as long as you learn to build indestructible optimism and surround yourself with supportive relationships that believe in you.

Related Tips on Resilience:
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 – Hunger Games: Catching Fire - 42

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

© Emmanuel Lopez 2014

Tip#741: Resilience Is Your Hidden Super Power, Part 3 – Film Critic Richard Crouse - Amazing Grace

Toronto film critic Richard Crouse has become my latest hero for inspiring resilience. In a recent article, Richard revealed that in mid-2013 a tumor was found during a routine colonoscopy. He experienced shock and anger and then transformed his mindset and attitude to say…

“Screw you, cancer. You’re not making the rules, I am.” 

He then wrote, “Optimistic maybe, but I firmly believe that a good attitude is one of the keys to leading a healthy life even in the face of serious medical issues.”. Those statements inspired me because during his surgery and chemo treatments there was no clue of his condition in any of his newspaper reviews, TV appearances or even seeing him host press conferences in September at the 2013 Toronto International Film Festival. Richard is a great example of personal resilience in life and at work.

Read article: Richard Crouse-Colon Cancer Awareness Month

Amazing Grace (2006)

The biographical drama film, Amazing Grace, is about the courageous mission of William Wilberforce (Ioan Gruffudd) to end the slave trade in the British Empire in the late 1700’s. His journey would include the support of his close friend, William Pitt (Benedict Cumberbatch), wife Barbara Spooner (Romola Garai) and former mentor and author of the Amazing Grace hymn lyrics, John Newton (Albert Finney). With powerful performances, beautiful scenery, lush period costumes and settings, this film is a powerful example of one man’s enduring passion, vision and resilience to help change the world. See: movie trailer

Richard was the one who recommended this film to me as an example of great leadership. After reading his recent article I was compelled to see Amazing Grace again and felt even more inspired knowing Richard had a strong connection with the movie hero. To me, they are both heroes who demonstrated the power of resilience.

Inspirational Themes of this Movie:
• Passion
• Perseverance
• Supportive People
• Optimism
• Resilience
• Vision
• Courage
• Leadership
• Teamwork & Team Spirit

Be inspired by movie heroes and real-life heroes that demonstrate resilience in the face of adversities. Let them reflect your own hidden super power of the ability to bounce back from unexpected change and crisis. Resilience is that super power and you have it in you now!

Related Tips on Resilience:
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 – Hunger Games: Catching Fire - 42

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

© Emmanuel Lopez 2014

Tip#740: The Timeless Love of a Dad & Son - Mr. Peabody & Sherman

I still have fantastic adventures with my Dad even though he passed away over 10 years ago. Recently I had one of many vivid dreams where everything is in full colour and I see my Dad. I go and hug him and hold him for a long time actually feeling his warm embrace. I am so lucid that I make our hug last as long as possible. Then he takes me somewhere like a rollercoaster ride or teaches me something on some far off land. I treasure these amazing experiences.

And as I’ve written before (see related tips below) whenever I find a shiny dime on the ground I know it is from my Dad’s spirit letting me know he is with me. He is still here supporting and loving me through the ups and downs of life and it reminds me that our love will always transcend time and space!

Mr. Peabody & Sherman (2014)

The 3D computer-animated comic science fiction film, Mr. Peabody & Sherman, is based on the characters from the 1960’s animated TV series, The Rocky and Bullwinkle Show. Mr. Peabody (Ty Burrell) is a talking dog, extremely smart and has invented a time machine to tutor his adopted human son, Sherman (Max Charles) on adventures throughout history. They travel to ancient Egypt, Renaissance Florence and the Trojan War meeting funny historical figures and learning important life lessons along the way. See: movie trailer 

There are many aspects of the film that tapped into my childhood memories like remembering watching the old TV series and seeing the heartfelt love and care Mr. Peabody expresses to his son Sherman. These made me think of my Dad and perhaps he was there laughing and enjoying the film with me.

I believe love does transcend time and space and that movies can trigger happy memories of loved ones that have passed. Watch a movie today that will uplift your spirit and re-ignite happy thoughts of the past!

Related Tips:
Tip#145: Believe in the Impossible - Ghost
Tip#313: Believe In Magic During The Holidays - The Family Stone
Tip#638: Praying, Faith & Indestructible Optimism - Unconditional
Tip#665: Your Greatness, Purpose & Focus – Man of Steel
Tip#740: The Timeless Love of a Dad & Son - Mr. Peabody & Sherman

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

© Emmanuel Lopez 2014

Tip#739: Have a Good Cry at the Movies, Part 3 – Winter’s Tale

I recently had a moment where I felt lost and frustrated with my life despite having some amazing events happen. For example, one of my blog articles was featured in a book by Dr. Gene Orlowsky called The Principles of Inner Success: How to Make Your Dreams Your Reality (see Tip#733). And Vickie Elmer, the reporter who featured my movie blog in The Washington Post, recently featured me on her own blog with 6 films I recommend to motivate your career. See: “A Half Dozen Movies That Motivate Your Career” 

I am grateful for these reassuring gifts from the universe and yet I felt frustrated that other personal goals in my life and career have not come true as of this moment. That’s where the magic of movies came to save me once again and I was compelled to watch a film that I originally had mixed feelings about. This second time viewing was very therapeutic and cathartic. The film's spiritual messages comforted my aching spirit and I was sobbing by the end credits.

Winter’s Tale (2014)

The romantic fantasy drama film, Winter’s Tale, is about a thief named Peter Lake (Colin Farrell) in 1916 Manhattan who falls in love with Beverly Penn (Jessica Brown Findlay) who is dying of consumption (tuberculosis). The story would span over 100 years and would include a flying horse, angels and demons and the power of eternal love. See: movie trailer

On first viewing this film felt a little off because it was a strange mix of drama, magic and fantasy elements. But on second viewing I was use to this specific cinematic world and that’s when it’s rich, spiritual messages touched my soul deeply. The film spoke directly to my heart reminding me that I am on the right path no matter how different my life feels from my friends, family and other people. I also had a really good cry.

This is one film I am not sure if you will be affected as I was. I highly recommend you see twice as I did. All I know is that my spirit was re-energized the second time by the story of eternal love, guardian angels, and that each of us has a specific purpose in life to follow.

Movies can affect you on deep levels. If you were inspired or moved by Winter’s Tale please let me know.

Related Tips:
Tip#692: Have a Good Cry at the Movies, Part 1 – Shadowlands
Tip#703: Have a Good Cry at the Movies, Part 2 - Pirate Radio (The Boat That Rocked)
Tip#739: Have a Good Cry at the Movies, Part 3 – Winter’s Tale

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

© Emmanuel Lopez 2014

Tip#738: You Can Rewrite Your Life, Part 3 - Stuck in Love

As a personal development exercise, I continually rewrite my goals to be more and more focused of what I want in my life and career. And with repetition of reading and saying these goals out loud I increase self-confidence and optimism. The act of writing is a powerful tool for personal growth.

At a presentation I gave recently for CAMP, Communications Advertising and Marketing Professionals I was told by the Chairperson, Murali Murthy, that he brought me in to speak because of his passion for movies. The topic was called “Activate Your Indestructible Optimism” and he was so impressed that he wrote me the most creative thank you filled with movie quotes! It made my day and also demonstrated the power of writing both in uplifting me and in the writer’s motivation to share his enthusiasm and passion.

“Emmanuel, you truly rocked! Thanks for inspiring everyone in a fun, engaging way.” 

We sat down thinking, “You talking to me?” 
And you promised, “I'm going to make you an offer you can't refuse.” 
And we mused, OK, “Here's looking at you, kid”, “Go ahead, make my day.” 

You made us believe in ourselves with an engaging, "Carpe diem. Seize the day, boys. Make your lives extraordinary.” 
And by the end, we all were screaming, “I'm king of the world!” 
Though you concluded with a “Hasta la vista, baby” We know in our hearts you meant, “I'll be back.” 

And all we reciprocate with gratitude, Emmanuel, “May the Force be with you.” 
Murali Murthy, Chairperson CAMP, Communications, Advertising & Marketing Professionals

Stuck in Love (2012)

The romantic drama film, Stuck in Love, is about a fractured family of writers that slowly become a loving family again. Novelist William Borgens (Greg Kinnear) learns to rewrite his life to move forward from his separated wife Erica (Jennifer Connelly). His 19 year old daughter Sam (Lily Collins) just got published and learns to rewrite her negative attitudes towards love. And his 16 year old son Rusty (Nat Wolff) learns to be bolder in life to feed the creativity of his writing career. See: movie trailer

Ironically, for a film about writing, the title has been rewritten three times: Writers (title for film festival release), A Place for Me (for Australia and New Zealand release) and Stuck in Love. This film inspires on many levels that includes learning to let go, second chances, following a passion and transforming a negative mindset into a positive one.

Let these movie characters inspire you to rewrite your life to be more enjoyable and fulfilling. Remember you are always the hero of your own life story!

Related Tips:
Tip#535: You Can Rewrite Your Life, Part 1 – The Cabin in the Woods
Tip#573: You Can Rewrite Your Life, Part 2 – Frequency
Tip#738: You Can Rewrite Your Life, Part 3 - Stuck in Love
Tip#761: You Can Rewrite Your Life, Part 4 - Maleficent
Tip#767: You Can Rewrite Your Life, Part 5 – I’ll Follow You Down 
Tip#1068: You Can Rewrite Your Life, Part 6 - Justice League
Tip#1085: You Can Rewrite Your Life, Part 7 - Annihilation 

Tip#490: Let Go of What You THINK You Know, Part 1 - Rise of the Planet of the Apes 
Tip#491: Let Go of What You THINK You Know, Part 2 – 4 Movie Tips
Tip#495: Let Go of What You THINK You Know, Part 3 – 4 More Movie Tips 
Tip#514: Let Go of What You THINK You Know, Part 4 – The Artist  

Tip#568: Visualization and Your Imagination – 6 Movie Tips
Tip#663: Visualization and Your Imagination, Part 2 – Bedtime Stories
Tip#572: Manifesting Miracles - Ruby Sparks

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

© Emmanuel Lopez 2014

Tip#737: Just Have Fun, Part 5 – Lupita Nyong’o’s Brother Peter – Anchorman 2: The Legend Continues

Audacity: The willingness to take bold risks

I am always inspired when I see moments of fearless, courageous acts in the movies and in real-life. That’s why I loved the playful audacity of Oscar winner Lupita Nyong’o’s younger brother Peter who joined in Ellen DeGeneres’s now famous selfie at the 86th Academy Awards. In fact he is so prominent in the group photo that he upstaged Lupita who was in the back!

On The Ellen Show the next day, Lupita laughs about her brother becoming instantly famous around the world. She says “He lives life in an exclamation point and he just saw that opportunity and he was like ‘I’m getting in, this is my only chance!’”

That is an inspiring statement anyone could apply to their own life and career goals. Seize the moment! Peter was just a freshman in college and yet that didn’t stop him from joining a group photo with superstars like Jennifer Lawrence, Meryl Streep, Julia Roberts, Brad Pitt and more!

See: Lupita Nyong'o talk about Peter on The Ellen Show
See: More of Peter’s own selfies from Oscars

Anchorman 2: The Legend Continues (2013)

The comedy film, Anchorman 2: The Legend Continues, is a sequel to Anchorman: The Legend of Ron Burgundy about a news team that comes back together for the world’s first 24 news network. Actors Will Ferrell, Steve Carell, Paul Rudd, David Koechner and Christina Applegate all return for this hilarious story with many funny cameos in a crazy climatic scene. See: movie trailer 

There is an overflowing sense of fun and audacity to the movie since the actors ad-libbed much of the script. In fact the film has been re-released in theatres with 763 new jokes. The playful audacity also extended prior to the film’s initial release when Ferrell’s character Ron Burgundy appeared in Dodge Durango commercials and covered Olympic curling trials in Winnipeg, Canada!

So let a sense of fun and audacity fuel your drive to seize the opportunities that come your way. Be inspired by Peter Nyong’o and live your “life in an exclamation point”!

Related Tips:
Tip#553: Just Have Fun, Part 1 - Rock of Ages 
Tip#591: Just Have Fun, Part 2 – Iron Sky 
Tip#666: Just Have Fun, Part 3 - This is the End 
Tip#736: Just Have Fun, Part 4 – Ellen DeGeneres at the Oscars - Frozen
Tip#737: Just Have Fun, Part 5 – Lupita Nyong’o’s Brother Peter – Anchorman 2: The Legend Continues
Tip#854: Just Have Fun, Part 6 – Mad Max: Fury Road
Tip#1045: Just Have Fun, Part 7 - The Fate of the Furious - The Great Wall 
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
Speaker & Movies for Motivation Expert
Providing Inspiring Movies to Empower Your Career, Business & Life!
See website: www.motivatorman.com

© Emmanuel Lopez 2014

Tip#736: Just Have Fun, Part 4 – Ellen DeGeneres at the Oscars - Frozen

I love Ellen DeGeneres! She instigated two memorable moments at the 86th Academy Awards that was so fun and entertaining that I thought about it for days afterwards. While hosting the show Ellen wanted to do a selfie photo with Meryl Streep in the audience and go for a world record of retweets on Twitter. Suddenly several other Hollywood actors like Brad Pitt and Jennifer Lawrence jumped into the photo. It became a genuine moment where the stars became ordinary people and behaving like kids having fun!

The selfie ended up making a world record of 1.7 million retweets in less than an hour and made social media history. If you want to retweet it here is the link which, as of this writing, has reached over 3.2 million retweets. Click here

Here is a link with photos from different angles: Click here

The second moment I loved was when Ellen asked the audience if anyone was hungry for pizza and later brought in a real pizza guy from behind the stage. Ellen led him into the audience where they proceeded to give pizza slices out to Julia Roberts, Harrison Ford and others. Again it was so much fun seeing these Hollywood stars just being down-to-earth people and making the Oscars so enjoyable to watch. Plus I was excited and thrilled for the pizza guy, Edgar, who shared his reaction on the Ellen Show the next day. See: Edgar the pizza guy on Ellen Show

Frozen (2013)

The animated musical fantasy-comedy film, Frozen, is about many themes like accepting your uniqueness, healing sibling relationships and what true love means. Anna, princess of Arendelle (Kristen Bell) and sets out to help her older sister Elsa, Queen of Arendell (Idina Menzel) who flees the palace after exposing her magic powers for creating ice and snow. It’s best you know little about this film when you see it except that it is highly entertaining, filled with fun, heartfelt characters, wonderful songs, fantastic animation and important life lessons for every age. See: movie trailer

Frozen is already one of my favourite movies and has so many layers of value that I’ll definitely be writing more about it in future blog posts. As a teaser, I believe Frozen is actually an X-Men superhero movie disguised as an animated musical with self-help empowerment tips embedded into the song lyrics!

Frozen won Best Animated Feature Film and for Best Original Song “Let It Go” at the Oscars. The other big winner is Ellen DeGeneres for bringing so much fun and entertainment to the Oscars show. Sometimes you just need to have fun and feel good! So thank you Ellen and any film that entertains your spirit!

What did you think of these memorable moments on the 86th Academy Awards?

Related Tips:
Tip#553: Just Have Fun, Part 1 - Rock of Ages 
Tip#591: Just Have Fun, Part 2 – Iron Sky 
Tip#666: Just Have Fun, Part 3 - This is the End 
Tip#736: Just Have Fun, Part 4 – Ellen DeGeneres at the Oscars - Frozen
Tip#737: Just Have Fun, Part 5 – Lupita Nyong’o’s Brother Peter – Anchorman 2: The Legend Continues
Tip#854: Just Have Fun, Part 6 – Mad Max: Fury Road
Tip#1045: Just Have Fun, Part 7 - The Fate of the Furious - The Great Wall 
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 Speaker & Movies for Motivation Expert Providing Inspiring Movies to Empower Your Career, Business & Life! See website: www.motivatorman.com © Emmanuel Lopez 2014

Tip#735: Celebrating Friends & Team Spirit, Part 1 - The A-Team

I am currently up north hanging out with my buddies at the same cottage I wrote about in the past (see Tip#584, Tip#684). It’s another chance to catch up in person as we five friends all live in different parts of Ontario. Most of them I’ve known for 10 years and one for over 20! We’ve gotten to know each other’s personality quirks over time and it just feels good to hang out with guys that ultimately respect each other’s differences and have a great time!

We’ve done camping, cave-diving (spelunking) and cleared forestland together. We’ve even created personal growth programs where we met every two weeks and took turns facilitating group exercises to help us break through issues and blocks. Our girlfriends and wives at the time would join us and it would be very empowering. Looking back we’ve really been on a great adventure full of team spirit!

The A-Team (2010)

The action film, The A-Team, is based on the television series of the same name about a Special Forces team wrongfully imprisoned and later escape to clear their names. Led by “Hannibal” Smith (Liam Neeson) and his keen strategic planning skills, the three other soldiers each have talents and strengths that demonstrate resourcefulness and strong teamwork. These characters include “Faceman” Peck (Bradley Cooper), BA Baracus (Quinton Jackson) and “Howling Mad” Murdock (Sharlto Copley. They bring a lot of fun to the witty script and explosive cartoon-like action sequences. See: movie trailer 

Though they each have their quirks there is a genuine comradeship and trust amongst them all. Each would do anything to help the other. This reminded me of my pals here at the cottage. Maybe we’ll watch The A-Team movie together!

Celebrate your good friends and team spirit today whether it's in your life or workplace!

Related Tips:
Tip#735: Celebrating Friends & Team Spirit, Part 1 - The A-Team 
Tip#779: Celebrating Friends & Team Spirit, Part 2 - Guardians of the Galaxy

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

© Emmanuel Lopez 2014

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 

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

© 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
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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: 
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#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: 
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#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 

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#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

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#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:
“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#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

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

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

© Emmanuel Lopez 2014