I love movies. I love watching them, talking about them, fangirling over who's in them, but most of all, I love them because of the stories they tell. When I watch the very best of movies, it's like I'm teleported back in time to when our first human ancestors sat around fires, mesmerised by the storyteller spinning her tale.
We need stories now more so than ever because they give us glimpses of what can be, for better or for worse. Stories connect one generation to the next; they gives us some context to who we are and why we are here. They bind us together. And most importantly, they're entertaining!
So one of the responsibilities I take most seriously as a parent is to gift my kids with as many stories as they want to experience. We read all kinds of books; we invent fantastical and weird stories. I still remember one story I told Jordy when he was around four called "the boy who refused to take off his band-aid". Inspired by real-life events, it was a rather chilling fable. Heh heh.
Anyway, back to movies. I was trying to recall the other day what my favourite movies were growing up. One thing united them, certain scenes stayed with me for years and years after. So, in no particular order, I present to you, The Turnip list of the five movies I can't wait to introduce to Jordy and Jonah!
1. STAND BY ME (1986)
We need stories now more so than ever because they give us glimpses of what can be, for better or for worse. Stories connect one generation to the next; they gives us some context to who we are and why we are here. They bind us together. And most importantly, they're entertaining!
So one of the responsibilities I take most seriously as a parent is to gift my kids with as many stories as they want to experience. We read all kinds of books; we invent fantastical and weird stories. I still remember one story I told Jordy when he was around four called "the boy who refused to take off his band-aid". Inspired by real-life events, it was a rather chilling fable. Heh heh.
Anyway, back to movies. I was trying to recall the other day what my favourite movies were growing up. One thing united them, certain scenes stayed with me for years and years after. So, in no particular order, I present to you, The Turnip list of the five movies I can't wait to introduce to Jordy and Jonah!
1. STAND BY ME (1986)
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In my opinion, the movie with hands down, the BEST soundtrack of all time. And the most amazing, believable, subtle, heart-wrenching performances from child actors I've seen to date. What starts out as a boy's own coming-of-age adventure turns into a profound meditation of life, love, loss and friendship. Essential viewing for all young men I think.
2. The Princess Bride (1987)
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The film that spawned the most quotable quotes of all time. A genre-bending, crazy, wonderful tale of heroism, sacrifice, high adventure and rodents of unusual size. And not too much kissing, so I think young boys won't be too grossed out.
3. Labyrinth (1986)
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As fantastical as they come. And the movie that introduced me to my teenage M.C. Escher obsession. A young teenage girl on a quest to rescue her baby brother from Jareth, the Goblin King? Yes, please! And I just realised 1986 was a great year for movies!
4. The Goonies (1985)
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Yet another movie revolving around four boys! This time trying to find some long-lost pirate treasure. I haven't seen this in more than 20 years, and I hardly remember the plot intricacies anymore. But I'll never forget how I watched movie without ever seeming to blink. It was that spellbinding.
5. Star Wars (1977)
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But of course. This one's a no-brainer. And the trilogy must be introduced before "The Force Awakens" opens on Christmas 2015!
I'm curious. What would be on your list?
I'm curious. What would be on your list?
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