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. |
This is a very informative post about online casinos and betting
platforms. I especially liked how it explains the importance of choosing a trusted
site before signing up.
Many players often ask where they can find reliable gaming platforms
with fair odds and smooth payouts. From what I’ve seen, checking platforms
like vn22vip helps users compare features, bonuses, and overall experience.
Thanks for sharing these insights — they’re helpful for both beginners and experienced bettors.
Wow, that’s what I was seeking for, what a stuff!
present here at this webpage, thanks admin of this website.
Excellent post. I was checking constantly this blog and I am impressed!
Extremely useful information specifically the last part
🙂 I care for such information a lot. I was looking for this
certain information for a long time. Thank you and good luck.
B? integrating real-wo?ld applications ?n lessons, OMT reveals Singapore pupils ?ow mathematics powers
daily technologies, triggering enthusiasm ?nd drive for test quality.
Prepare f?r success ?n upcoming tests wit? OMT
Math Tuition’s proprietary curriculum, developed t? foster critical thinking ?nd confidence in every trainee.
Singapore’? focus ?n ctitical analyzing mathematics highlights t?e importance
?f math tuition, which helps students develop t?? analytical abilities required ?y th? country’s forward-thinking
curriculum.
?ith PSLE math progressing t? consist of m?re interdisciplinary
aspects, tuition ?eeps trainees updated on incorporated
concerns mixing math ?ith science contexts.
Math tuition teaches reliable t?me management
methods, aiding secondary pupils ?omplete ? Level tests ?ithin the assigned period w?thout hurrying.
Resolving private knowing styles, math tuition m?kes ?ure junior college pupils master topics ?t
th?ir own rate f?r ? Level success.
OMT’s one-?f-a-?ind strategy features ? curriculum t??t matches
t?e MOE framework wit? collective aspects, encouraging peer
discussions ?n mathematics concepts.
Endless retries ?n quizzes ?ia, best for grasping
topics and achieving tho?e A grades in math.
In Singapore’? competitive education ?nd learning landscape,
math tuition pr?vides the added edge required f?r
students to master h?gh-stakes tests ?ike the PSLE, O-Levels, ?nd
?-Levels.
?ake a look ?t my ?omepage … math tuition singapore
Hi everyone, it’s my first go to see at this site, and post is genuinely fruitful designed for me, keep
up posting such articles.
That is very interesting, You are an excessively professional blogger.
I’ve joined your feed and look ahead to in search of more of your magnificent post.
Also, I have shared your site in my social networks
Someone necessarily help to make critically posts
I’d state. This is the first time I frequented your website page and to this point?
I surprised with the analysis you made to create this particular publish extraordinary.
Wonderful task!
Truly quite a lot of useful advice.
Promo: 3PhdaMIuyGTCpRm2
Feel free to surf to my website … https://megasto.com.ua/catalog/strichka_konve_rna_/
May I just ?ay h?t a relief to uncover ? person that genuinely kno?s what they are discussing over the internet.
You actu?lly understand h?? to bring a pproblem t? light and make it
im?ortant. A lot m?re people ?hould check t?is out and
understand this si?e of t?? story. ? wass surprised ?ou aren’t m?r? popular g?ven t?at y?u certa?nly possess
the gift.
Feel free t?o visit my web-site :: maths tuition near me 210
Anyone interested in crypto trading can learn to sell bitcoin in india easily.
I do consider all the concepts you’ve introduced in your post.
They are really convincing and will certainly work.
Still, the posts are very short for newbies.
May you please prolong them a bit from subsequent
time? Thanks for the post.
I ?on’t even know ho? I ended up here, but I thought this post
wa? g?eat. I ??n’t know who y?u are but cert?inly you are going best places in the world to travel in february a famous blogger if you aren’t already 😉 C?ee?s!
You actually make it seem so easy with your presentation but I find this matter
to be really something which I think I would never understand.
It seems too complicated and extremely broad for me. I’m looking forward for your next post, I’ll try to get the hang of it!
Hi! I know this is kind of off topic but I was wondering which blog platform are you using for this website?
I’m getting sick and tired of WordPress because I’ve had problems 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 article.
For hottest news you have to pay a visit world-wide-web
and on web I found this web site as a most excellent site for most up-to-date updates.
I don’t even kno? how ? ended up here, but I thought thi? post was great.
I don’t kno? w?o you are but definitely you are going to a famous blogger if you are not
already 😉 Cheers!
Check out my page – top 10 b?st travel lo?ation in the world inn august (Dan)
Hi superb website! Does running a blog such as this take a lot of work?
I have virtually no expertise in coding but I had been hoping to
start my own blog in the near future. Anyways, should you have any recommendations or techniques for new blog owners please share.
I understand this is off subject however I simply had to ask.
Thanks!
all the time i used to read smaller posts that as well clear their motive, and that
is also happening with this piece of writing which I am reading
now.
Very good article! We are linking to this great content on our website.
Keep up the good writing.
Hi there just wanted to give you a quick heads up and let you know a few of the images aren’t loading properly.
I’m not sure why but I think its a linking issue.
I’ve tried it in two different browsers and both
show the same results.
I think the admin of this site is truly working hard for his web
page, since here every material is quality
based information.
Greetings! Very useful advice within this article!
It is the little changes that make the biggest changes. Many thanks for sharing!
Kaizenaire.com leads t?e method in Singapore as the supreme aggregator ?f promotions, shopping deals, and
brand name events for smart consumers.
Singapore ?s a customer’s paradise thrills Singaporeans ?ith continuous deals
and promotions.
Collecting tennis shoes ?s a stylish hobby f?r fashion-forward Singaporeans,
?nd bear inn mind to stay upgraded ?n Singapore’s ne??st promotions and shopping deals.
Axe Brand Universal Oil uses medicated oils f?r discomfort alleviation, adored
?y Singaporeans f?r their effective remedies ?n daily pains.
Singlife offers electronic insurance ?nd financial savings
products ?ne, appreciated b? Singaporeans for their tech-savvy technique
?nd economic safety and security mah.
Implerial Treasure elevates Cantonese f?ne dining wit? dim amount and roasts, beloved ?y locals f?r glamorous
components and classy family m?mbers celebrations.
Wah, power si?, ?ee Kaizenaire.?om on a regular basis t?
discover concealed discounts ?n eve?ything lor.
my website – promotions singapore
you’re in reality a just right webmaster. The site loading velocity is amazing.
It kind of feels that you are doing any unique trick. In addition, The contents
are masterpiece. you’ve performed a fantastic job on this matter!
Kaizenaire.c?m stands as the premier internet site inn Singapore f?r
aggregating brand name promotions ?nd occasions.
In Singapore, t?e shopping heaven ?f
Southeast Asia, Singaporeans revel ?n the excitement ?f promotions that assure amazing financial savings.
Singaporeans t?ke a break ?ith medical spa ?ays at extravagant hotels,
and remember t? stay upgraded ?n Singapore’? most current promotions ?nd shopping deals.
Haidilao ?ses hotpot dining experiences ?ith extraordinary service, adored ?y Singaporeans f?r th?ir flavorful brews ?nd interactive
dishes.
Olam specializes ?n farming assets ?nd food ingredients leh, appreciated
?y Singaporeans f?r guaranteeing ?igh quality supplies ?n the?r preferred neighborhood cuisines
and products one.
Killiney Kopitiam brews traditional kopi ?nd salute, valued f?r traditional charm ?nd solid
local coffee.
Singaporeans, ?emain sharp leh, Kaizenaire.?om h?s all the current deals ?ne.
m? website: Singapore promos
At this time it appears like Drupal is the preferred blogging platform out there right now.
(from what I’ve read) Is that what you’re using on your blog?
It’? not my first time things to do in milwaukee ?isconsin today (Dotty) pay a visit this website, i am visit?ng this site dailly and obtain good facts from here all the t?me.
Its such as you learn my mind! You appear to grasp so much approximately
this, such as you wrote the guide in it or something.
I think that you simply can do with some % to pressure the
message home a little bit, but other than that, that is great blog.
A fantastic read. I’ll certainly be back.
?ello, Neat post. There’s an issue with your site in internet explorer, could check this?
I? still is the mar?etplace chief and a large
element of people will pass over your excellent ?rit?ng due best places to travel in the world during summer thi? problem.
Good day! This is my 1st comment here so I just wanted to give a quick shout out and tell you I truly enjoy reading your posts.
Can you recommend any other blogs/websites/forums that go over
the same subjects? Many thanks!
I am sure this piece of writing has touched all the internet viewers, its
really really fastidious paragraph on building up new blog.
I d? not even ?now how I ended up here, but ? thought this post
was gre?t. I do not know who you are but c?rtainly
you are ?oijg to a famous blogger if you aren’t
already 😉 Cheers!
My blo? – best travel insurance for round the world trip
Unlock endless financial savings ?t Kaizenaire.com, Singapore’s foremost collector ?f promotions, deals,
and amazing occasions fr?m preferred brands.
Singapore’? international fame a? ? shopping destination is driven by Singaporeans’ steady
love f?r promotions and financial savings.
Dancing at ZoukOut celebrations ?s an electrifying activity f?r party-g?ing Singaporeans,
?nd bear in mind to r?main updated ?n Singapore’s newest promotions ?nd shopping deals.
Netflix streams motion pictures ?nd collection, cherished ?y
Singaporeans for thei? binge-worthy material and tailored suggestions.
Ong Shunmugam reinterprets cheongsams ?ith contemporary twists mah, adored ?y culturally pleased Singaporeans f?r the?r fusion of custom ?nd advancement sia.
Oddle enhances ?n t?e internet food purchasing
f?r restaurants, cherished ?y diners for smooth distribution platforms.
Wah lao, damn worth ?ia, check Kaizenaire.?om for pric? cuts one.
Feel free to surf to my webpage :: singapore discount
Since the admin of this web page is working, no question very soon it will be
renowned, due to its feature contents.
?ello there, You’ve done a fantastic job. I wil? definitel? digg
it and in my opinion suggest best places to travel in the world right now – Marcos,
my friends. I’m sure they’ll be benefited from this website.
Wo? I your blog posts, saved to favorites!
Heere is my blog post: the Best world travel adapter
You can definitely see your expertise within the work you write.
The world hopes for even more passionate writers such as
you who aren’t afraid to mention how they believe.
At all times go after your heart.
As the admin of this web page is working, no hesitation very soon it will be famous,
due to its feature contents.
Good post. I learn something totally new and challenging on websites I stumbleupon every day.
It will always be exciting to read content from other authors and practice
something from their sites.
Yes! Finally something about Sports.
T?ank you f?r every other informative web s?te. ?he
place el?e coul? I get that kind of information written christmas things to do in virginia
such a perfect manner? I have a mis?ion that I am simly now
operating on, and ?’ve been at the loo? out for such inform?tion.
I ?? not ?ven know how I ended up here, but I thought this post was good.
I do not know who you are but def?nitely you are
going to a f?mou? blogger if you aren’t already
😉 Cheers!
Feel f??e to surf to my web page :: best job for traveling around the world
For the reason that the admin of this site is working, no doubt
very shortly it will be renowned, due to its feature contents.
Very good information. Lucky me I came across
your site by chance (stumbleupon). I’ve book-marked it for later!
Thanks a lot for sharing this with all of us you really know what
you’re speaking approximately! Bookmarked. Please also
consult with my web site =). We can have a hyperlink trade arrangement between us
Hello mates, how is all, and what you wish for to say concerning this post, in my view its really amazing in favor of
me.
Elevate your gaming experience with UG88 Singapore.
Discover the most trusted platform for live sports betting, premium casino
games, and lightning-fast payouts.
Inspiring story there. What occurred after? Good luck!
I wanted t? follow along and allow you best way to travel the world and work ?now how
, very much I a?preciated discovering your site today.
I would consider it an honor to operate at my company and be able to us? the tips provided on ?our web site and also partic?pate in visitors’ responses
like t?is. Should a ?osition regarding guest writer become offered at your end, please let
me know.