Last month I posted a brief review of the move Everything is Illuminated because I like the unexpected, unconventional and beguiling nature of the story, the well-crafted scenes and performances, and the human insights that lingered in my mind for days afterward. I hadn’t expected to like the movie all that much yet I was totally won over. Since then I’ve thought about some of my other all-time favorite movies and realized that many of these shared distinctive characteristics with this film. The stories aren’t really related to each other, but they are all off-beat (non-formulaic) delights that surprised and charmed me and — as we head into a snowy weekend — I thought they might charm you as well.
| My top three favorite movies may shift from time to time, but Local Hero will always be near the top of my list. Released in 1983, it stars Peter Reigert (post-Animal House) and Burt Lancaster and is directed by the estimable Scottish director Bill Forsyth (Gregory’s Girl, Comfort and Joy). Like all of the movies here it has a light, whimsical streak running through it. The story is that a large Houston oil company sends one of its acquisition specialists, McIntyre, to a small Scots town to purchase the town and, especially, its deep water port that they want to turn into a refinery. Part of the joke is that Mac isn’t even Scottish — his ancestors adopted the name when they got off the boat from Hungary because it “sounded American”.
Devoted to his job and his lifestyle, Mac sets out to complete his mission as quickly as possible but finds himself becoming enchanted by the place and ambivalent about his task. One of the special twists of the story, however, is that rather than being outraged and protective of their community, the locals can’t wait to sell it and become rich! There are several subplots as well and a great cast of characters (referring both to the actors and to the “townspeople” in the movie). The movie is quirky but not in a heavy-handed, off-putting way and it reveals itself little-by-little. The story is partly meant to be a commentary on American capitalism abroad, but this is done warmly and with wit; the scenes between Mac and an entreprenuerial Russian sailor are some of the best, though these are surpassed by Burt Lancaster’s small but vital role. Beautiful scenery, a beautiful story, and did I mention that there’s a mermaid as well? |
 |
 |
I always link The Coca-Cola Kid with Local Hero in my mind because it also tells a comedic tale of what happens when American interests go abroad, but in a more allegorical manner. The screenplay is by an Australian and directed by a Yugoslavian, but culture clashes at the center of the movie, and the characterization of Becker (played by Eric Roberts in one of his less-twitchy roles) is more bemused than pointed. Becker is a hot-shot marketing guru from Coca-Cola, sent from Atlanta to Australia to boost sales in that country. (The movie was made without the fore-knowledge or blessing of Coca-Cola). When he discovers a populated valley in which absolutely no Coke has ever been sold he sets out to conquer, in the process meeting the patriarch of the valley, a cantankerous lord who bottles his own brand of soft drinks.
Greta Scacchi plays the love interest, again, somewhat as an allegory, as are several other characters who come and go with their own perceptions and assumptions about Americans set up in contrast with Becker’s assumptions of this new land. It’s a funny and generally gentle story with great music, including a terrific Coke jingle that the company should have adopted in real life. It’s a good companion movie to watch with Local Hero, but there are a couple of scenes with nudity so it’s probably not for kids (though the story wouldn’t be as interesting to them anyway). |
| A movie that is ideal to watch with the whole family is The Secret of Roan Inish. There are no big stars in the film, but it is directed by John Sayles, who’s work I’ve liked since “The Return of the Secaucus Seven” (another off-beat charmer that was later ripped off by “The Big Chill“). The story focuses on Fiona, a young girl sent to live with her grandparents on the Irish coast after her mother dies and her father and brothers go to work in an industrialized city. Her grandparents still live near the island that was the home of Fiona’s family going back several generations and the seat of the family’s mystical history and the setting for the mysterious disappearance of Fiona’s younger brother, Jamie, spirited away when he was an infant.
While that sounds rather dark, the story is anything but as Fiona and her cousin find themselves gradually unwrapping the nearly forgotten ancient secrets of the family and the mystery of what happened to Jamie. Rest assured, there isn’t a speck of evil in the story. In fact, one of the things that makes the film so unique in my mind is that it generates such a compelling drama without a single villain. The young actress who plays Fiona (Jeni Courtney) is amazing and easily carries the movie. I’m surprised that she hasn’t gone on to do other movies (“Roan Inish” was released in 1995). It’s a tremendous story of faith, love and character and an ideal experience for the whole family. Bake some bread, cook up a pot of soup, and eat while you watch the movie! |
 |
 |
This is another movie that took me by surprise when we first watched it. The Emperor’s New Clothes is a “what if” story about what might have happened if Napoleon had managed, through the use of a body double, to escape from Elba and make it back to France. Rest assured, however you think this might have turned out, you’ll definitely be surprised by the story that unfolds. Ian Holm is fantastic as the two Napoleons and the story is a very funny and touching one with a bit of romance and adventure thrown in.
I’m not sure why we even rented it in the first place, but I’m glad we did. While the premise sounds predictable, the story is delightfully original and veers away from the cliched scenes and character reactions that you might expect. It’s not a “major” film but it is very entertaining with likeable characters and a seductive plot. If you rent it just sit back and relax and go with the story and you won’t be disappointed. |
Thanks very nice blog!
Howdy! I know this is kind of off topic but I
was wondering which blog platform are you using
for this site? I’m getting fed up of WordPress because
I’ve had issues with hackers and I’m looking at options for another platform.
I would be great if you could point me in the
direction of a good platform.
Great post. I was checking constantly this blog and I’m impressed!
Very helpful info particularly the last part :
) I care for such information a lot. I was seeking this
certain info for a very long time. Thank you and
best of luck.
Wonderful beat ! I would like to apprentice at the same time as you amend your site,
how can i subscribe for a weblog website? The account aided me a
applicable deal. I were tiny bit familiar of this your broadcast offered vivid transparent idea
Good post but I was wondering if you could write a litte
more on this topic? I’d be very grateful if you could elaborate
a little bit more. Cheers!
OMT’s focus on metacognition instructs pupils t? enjoy thinking concerning math, fostering affection ?nd drive
for superior examination outcomes.
Broaden ?o?r horizons w?th OMT’s upcoming new physical ar?a o?ening
in Septem?er 2025, using ? lot mor? opportunities
f?r hands-on mathematics expedition.
?ith math integrated flawlessly ?nto Singapore’s classroom settings to benefit both instructors and trainees, committed
math tuition amplifies t?e?? gains by providing tailored support
f?r sustained accomplishment.
Improving primary education ?ith math tuition prepares students f?r PSLE by cultivating a
growth ?tate of mind toward? tough topics ?ike symmetry ?nd improvements.
Regular mock ? Level examinations in tuition setups imitate real ?roblems, enabling
pupils t? fine-tune their technique and lower errors.
Tuition educates error analysis methods, assisting
junior college students stay ?lear ?f common pitfalls ?n A Level calculations ?nd proofs.
OMT stands ?part wit? its proprietary math educational program, t?oroughly cr?ated to
enhance the Singapore MOE syllabus ?y completing theoretical spaces t?at
common school lessons ?ould ignore.
Holistic approach ?n on-line tuition ?ne, supporting
not ?ust skills ?et interest fo? mathematics and best grade success.
Singapore’s integrated mathematics curriculum gain f?om tuition th?t connects topics t?roughout degrees f?r cohesive test preparedness.
Here ?s my webpage … jc maths tuition
Spot on with this write-up, I really think this site needs far more attention. I’ll probably be back again to read through more,
thanks for the information!
Alas, primary maths instructs real-?orld implementations like financial
planning, t?us make ?ure your youngster grasps ?t correctly from ?oung age.
Listen ?p, steady pom pi pi, mathematics ?s
am?ng from the leading disciplines ?t Junior College, establishing groundwork t? A-Level advanced math.
Singapore Sports School balances elite athletic training ?ith strenuous academics, nurturing champs ?n sport and life.
Customised pathways ensure flexible scheduling f?r competitions ?nd ?esearch studies.
?orld-class facilities ?nd coaching support peak efficiency ?nd personal development.
International direct exposures build durability ?nd worldwide networks.
Students graduate ?? disciplined leaders, ?ll set fo? professional sports or gre?ter
education.
Anderson Serangoon Junior College, arising f?om t?e tactical merger
?f Anderson Junior College ?nd Serangoon Junior College, develops a vibrant ?nd inclusive learning
community t??t prioritizes b?th academic rigor ?nd
comprehensive individual advancement, guaranteeing trainees receive
customized attention ?n a supporting environment.
The institution features an array ?f sophisticated centers, ?uch ?? specialized science labs equipped ?ith the
mo?t rec?nt innovation, interactive class developed f?r group partnership, ?nd
comprehensive libraries stocked ?ith digital resources, a?l of w?i?h empower students to dive ?nto innovative tasks in science, technology,
engineering, ?nd mathematics. B? placing a strong focus on leadership
training ?nd character education th?ough structured programs ?ike stuent councils ?nd mentorship efforts, students cultivate
?mportant qualities suc? as strength, empathy, ?nd
effective team effort that extend ?eyond academic
accomplishments. ?oreover, t?e college’? dedication to fostering worldwide awareness ?? apparent in ?ts
reputable global exchange programs ?nd partnerships ?ith
abroad organizations, permitting trainees t? gain indispensable cross-cultural experiences ?nd broaden th?i?
worldview in preparation f?r a globally connected future.
?s a testament to its effectiveness, finishes f?om Anderson Serangoon Junior College
regularly acquire admission t? renowned universities ?oth in ??ur ?rea and worldwide, embodying the institution’? unwavering dedication to producing confident, adaptable, ?nd complex individuals ready t? excel
in diverse fields.
Wah, math serves ?s t?? groundwork block iin primary schooling, helping children f?r
geometric reasoning f?r architecture paths.
Oh, mathematics is the foundation stone ?n primary learning, helping youngsters fo?
geometric analysis for design paths.
Wow, math serves ?s t?e groundwork block ?f primary learning, helping children f?r geometric reasoning for architecture routes.
Kiasu tuition centers specialize ?n Math t? boost A-level scores.
Listen up, calm pom ?i pi, math is pa?t from the leading disciplines ?n Junior College,
laying foundation t? A-Level ?igher calculations.
Besiddes f?om school facilities, concentrate ?ith maths in ?rder to stop
common errors including inattentive blunders ?uring exams.
Feel free t? surf to my hom?pag? :: Hwa Chong institution
I’m now not positive the place you are getting your info, however good topic.
I must spend a while studying more or understanding more.
Thank you for excellent information I was searching for
this info for my mission.
¿Qué es más recomendable? Depende. Las tradicionales son apropiadas para partidas
breves y para entender la dinámica del juego. Las nuevas
ofrecen más diversión con gráficos, bonus rounds, y
probabilidad de jackpots significativos.
Mattress Singapore 2026 – ?ow to ?ind the Mattress ???t Actua?ly Lasts
For most Singapore homeowners, buying ? mattress is ?ne ?f th? most personal Singapore furniture
decisions t?ey fac?. You’re expected to decide afte? lying on ? showroom sample for just a minut? o? t?o, e?en t?ough yo?’ll sleep on it e?ery single night f?r the next 8–12 ?ears.
?t Megafurniture, t?? Somnuz collection ??s built t? help Singapore households navigate t?e mo?t common mattress singapore choices ?ithout confusion.
?n Singapore, ?everal local factors make mattress singapore selection m?re ?mportant t?an in ?ther countries.
The constant tropical humidity m??ns poor airflow can qui?kly lead to musty smells
?r mould concerns. Dust-mite sensitivity ?s far mo?e common her? than most people
realise. Th? widespread use of aircon at night c?n mak? ce?tain foam types
feel firmer ?r ?ess comfortable th?n they did under bright furniture
showroom lights.
?hen you wal? ?nto any furniture store ?n Singapore, yo?’ll mainly
see fo?r core mattress construction types worth comparing.
Individual pocketed spring systems ?ive ?ood
support and stay noticeably cooler t??n solid foam blocks.
Memory foam contours closely t? the body and excels ?t pressure relief, ?ut
it can trap heat ?nless specially engineered for cooling.
Natural latex options feel lively ?nd stay cooler while
being m?re resistant t? dust mites than standard
foam. Hybrid mattresses t?? to balance t?e support ?nd breathability
of springs ?ith t?e contouring comfort ?f foam ?r latex.
?h? Somnuz range at Megafurniture was created to let Singapore buyers compare
t??se fou? categories directly and easily. Firmness
is t?e most d?scussed mattress feature, yet it’? also th? m?st misunderstood because it feels completely
diffe?ent depending on you? body weight and sleeping position. ?ide sleepers ?enerally benefit f?om
medium-soft t? medium firmness f?r proper spinal alignment.
?ack sleepers ?ften feel m?st comfortable ?n medium t? medium-firm surfaces t??t support the lower ba?k properly.
Stomach sleepers ne?d firmer support ?o the lower ?ack do?sn’t collapse into
th? surface.
?ecause m??t Singapore homes ?ave tighter bedroom dimensions, choosing t?e r?ght mattress singapore size prevents t?e rooom from feeling
cramped. ??e cover material ?s one of the most under-appreciated features f?r Singapore buyers.
Bamboo-fabric covers offer excellent moisture-wicking ?nd mild antibacterial properties t?at h?lp tthe surface stay fresher ?onger.
Water-repellent finishes on certain Somnuz mattresses add practical protection ?gainst accidental spills ?nd h?gh humidity.
Megafurniture’sSomnuz collection wass ?reated t? match t?? most common buyer profiles in Singapore.
T?e Somnuz Comfy serves ?s t?e practical entry-levelchoice — ? solid 10-inch pocketed-spring mattress ideal f?r couples
?r single sleepers w?? w?nt reliable support ?ithout premium pricing.
?f yo? want b?tter cooling and allergen resistance, the Somnuz Comforto w?th ?ts bamboo-latex
combination ?s ?ften t?e smarter pick. Th? Somnuz Comfort
Night features ? water-repellent cover ?nd is perfect for families ?ith ?oung children, pets, o? any?ne ?anting
extra moisture protection ?n our climate. The to?-tier Somnuz Roman Supreme delivers premium support ?nd luxury feel fo? buyers ?illing to invest in t?e ?ighest comfort level.
?ost people test mattresses t?e wrong wa? ?uring furniture showroom visits
— ?nd it leads to regret l?ter. Lie on ?ach shortlisted mattress singapore
f?r a full ten m?nutes in your actual sleeping position — and have
your partner ?o the sam? if you share the bed.
You can try the entir? Somnuz collection comfortably ?t Megafurniture’s Joo Seng flagship ?r Tampines outlet.
Delivery scheduling ?s mor? important th?n m?ny buyers realise ?hen buying mattress singapore items.
Check ?hether ?ld mattress disposal ?s included and r?ad the warranty terms carefully — not ?ll “10-y?ar warranties”
cover t?e s?me th?ngs.
W?th th? ?ight choice, a good mattress fr?m a reputable furniture
showroom ?ike Megafurniture ?ill serve ??u well for
nearl? a decade. If morning stiffness, visible sagging,
?r increased motion transfer ?ppear, it’s time t? replace — the body often compensates f?r a failing
mattress ?onger t??n most people realise.
?hether you prefer t? shop ?n person at the?r showrooms or online, Megafurniture m?kes choosing thee r?ght mattress store
option simple ?nd transparent.
m? webpage – scandinavian dining table
An impressive share! I’ve just forwarded this onto a co-worker
who was doing a little homework on this. And he
actually ordered me lunch because I discovered it for him…
lol. So let me reword this…. Thank YOU for the meal!!
But yeah, thanx for spending time to discuss this topic here on your
blog.
Keep this going please, great job!
Your way of describing everything in this article is genuinely pleasant, every one be
able to simply know it, Thanks a lot.
Hello there! Quick question that’s entirely off topic.
Do you know how to make your site mobile friendly? My site looks weird when viewing from my iphone.
I’m trying to find a theme or plugin that might be
able to correct this problem. If you have any suggestions, please share.
With thanks!
Hmm it appears like your site ate my first comment (it was super long) so I guess I’ll just sum it up what I wrote and say, I’m thoroughly enjoying your
blog. I as well am an aspiring blog writer but I’m still new to the whole thing.
Do you have any helpful hints for first-time blog writers?
I’d definitely appreciate it.
Hey There. I discovered your weblog the usage of msn. This is an extremely
neatly written article. I’ll make sure to bookmark it and return to learn more
of your useful info. Thanks for the post. I will
definitely return.
Also visit my site – ?????????? TikTok Shop
???, ???? ????? ?????? ?????, ??? ???? ???? ????? ?????
????, ??????? ? ??????????? ????? ??? ??? ??? ???? ???????
Thanks for sharing such a fastidious idea, post is nice, thats why i have read it fully
Excellent post. I absolutely love this site.
Keep writing!
It’s very easy to find out any matter on net as compared to books, as I found this
post at this site.
Hello! I know this is kinda off topic but I was wondering which
blog platform are you using for this site? I’m getting tired
of WordPress because I’ve had issues with hackers and I’m looking at options for another
platform. I would be fantastic if you could point me in the
direction of a good platform.
Hey I am so delighted I found your weblog, I really found you by mistake, while I was browsing
on Digg for something else, Anyhow I am here now and would just like to say thanks a lot
for a fantastic post and a all round entertaining blog
(I also love the theme/design), I don’t have time to look over it all at the minute but I
have saved it and also included your RSS feeds, so when I
have time I will be back to read much more, Please do keep up the superb b.
If some one wants to be updated with hottest technologies therefore he must be pay a quick
visit this web page and be up to date all the time.
Hello to all, it’s truly a nice for me to pay a visit this
web page, it contains useful Information.
I read this paragraph completely about the resemblance of latest and previous
technologies, it’s remarkable article.
Hi there, yeah this paragraph is truly nice and I have learned lot of
things from it regarding blogging. thanks.
This info is invaluable. Where can I find out more?
It’s an awesome paragraph designed for all the online visitors; they will take benefit from
it I am sure.
When someone writes an piece of writing he/she retains the image
of a user in his/her brain that how a user can understand it.
Therefore that’s why this piece of writing is great.
Thanks!
??e upcoming new physical ro?m ?t OMT promises immersive math experiences,
stimulating ?ong-lasting love for th? subject and inspiration for exam accomplishments.
?et ready fo? success in upcoming tests with OMT Math Tuition’? exclusive curriculum,
?reated to cultivate crucial thinking ?nd confidence ?n ev?ry student.
?n a system where math education ?as a?tually progressed to promote
development ?nd worldwide competitiveness, registering ?n math
tuition mak?? s?re students rem??n ahead ?? deepening t?eir understanding
and application of essential principles.
?ith PSLE math evolving t? consist of more interdisciplinary
aspects, tuition ?eeps students upgraded ?n integrated questions mixing mathematics ?ith science
contexts.
Identifying ?nd rectifying ?ertain weak ?oints, like in chance or coordinate geometry, m?kes secondary tuition crucial f?r O Level excellence.
Junior college math tuition ?s essential fo? A Degrees as ?t deepens understanding ?f sophisticated calculus topics ?ike assimilation strategies ?nd differential formulas, ?hich ?re central to the exam curriculum.
OMT differentiates ?tself t?rough a customized syllabus that enhances MOE’? by incorporating appealing,
real-life situations t? enhance student ?nterest and retention.
Selection ?f practice concerns sia, preparing you c?mpletely for any mathematics test ?nd m?ch
bett?r ratings.
Singapore’? meritocratic s?stem awards high achievers, m?king math tuition ? tactical investment f?r examination prominence.
Review m? web blog :: A Levels math
When I initially commented I clicked the “Notify me when new comments are added” checkbox and now each time a comment is added I get three e-mails with the same comment.
Is there any way you can remove me from that service?
Thanks!
I’m gone to tell my little brother, that he should also pay a visit this website on regular basis to obtain updated from hottest information.
My brother recommended I might like this website.
He was totally right. This post actually made my day. You cann’t imagine simply how much
time I had spent for this info! Thanks!
Hello to every one, it’s genuinely a fastidious for me to pay a quick visit
this website, it consists of priceless Information.
Hey there! This is my first visit to your blog! We are a
collection of volunteers and starting a new initiative in a community in the same niche.
Your blog provided us useful information to work on. You
have done a wonderful job!
What’s up, yup this piece of writing is genuinely good
and I have learned lot of things from it regarding blogging.
thanks.
You really make it seem so easy with your presentation but I find this matter to
be really something that I think I would never understand.
It seems too complex and extremely broad for me. I’m looking forward for your
next post, I’ll try to get the hang of it!
Do you have a spam problem on this blog; I also am a blogger, and I was wanting to know
your situation; many of us have created some nice practices and we are
looking to trade solutions with others, why not shoot me an email if interested.
Hi! I just wanted to ask if you ever have any problems with
hackers? My last blog (wordpress) was hacked and I ended up
losing several weeks of hard work due to no back up.
Do you have any methods to protect against hackers?
It is appropriate time to make some plans for the future and
it’s time to be happy. I have read this post and if I could I desire to suggest you few
interesting things or advice. Perhaps you could write next articles referring to
this article. I wish to read even more things about it!
Thanks for finally talking about > Charmed, I’m
sure | thenightwriterblog.com < Liked it!
Thank you for sharing your info. I really appreciate your efforts and I will be waiting for your further write ups thank you once again.
Thanks for the marvelous posting! I truly enjoyed reading it, you happen to be a great author.
I will be sure to bookmark your blog and will come back someday.
I want to encourage yourself to continue your great job, have a nice afternoon!
We are a gaggle of volunteers and starting a brand new scheme
in our community. Your website provided us with helpful information to work on. You have performed an impressive task and
our whole neighborhood shall be thankful to you.
hello!,I like your writing very much! proportion we keep in touch more about your article on AOL?
I require an expert on this space to solve my problem. May be that’s you!
Taking a look ahead to peer you.
Yesterday, while I was at work, my sister stole my iphone and tested to see if it can survive a twenty five foot drop, just so she
can be a youtube sensation. My iPad is now destroyed and she has
83 views. I know this is entirely off topic but I had to share it with someone!
Greetings! Very helpful advice within this article!
It is the little changes that will make the most important changes.
Thanks for sharing!
Wow, that’s what I was exploring for, what a information! existing
here at this blog, thanks admin of this website.
Hi there! Do you know if they make any plugins to protect against hackers?
I’m kinda paranoid about losing everything I’ve worked hard on. Any suggestions?