My turn was skipped and I love Henry Carvill....

Blog:

First off- I’m telling mom you’re not taking turns. We’re supposed to take turns posting. You have now given me so much to respond to and consider.

I do enjoy a good Buzzfeed  list. Actually I tend to like list in general, especially pop culture related list. However, while I’m good at making To-Do and grocery list… I would have a hard time ranking Buffy episodes.  But then you go and send me an alternative idea about making a HIMYM list….which also seems like a nearly impossible task...but with some time and some serious careful thought we could do it. Perhaps when I’m home at Christmas we can conquer it. Sarah would also have thoughts and input.

We can just take a moment to appreciate how awesome SHEILD is. I just enjoy it more and more every week. Whedon can kill people off as long as he just keeps creating brilliance. I am always so entertained.

Supernatural update… on episode 5 in season 4. There is just so much happening. There’s this angel now and Sam is getting all supernaturally. Only 4 more seasons left to get caught up!

Doctor Who mini-episode this week! YES…. This had to be talked about face to face and couldn't wait for a blog, so we’ve already discussed it via Skype.  But just need to add it in here again, because there are only 7 more days until The Day of the Doctor. After further thought I decided this was the type of mini-episode that made me realize I need to know more about old Doctor Who and then I need to make a big chart. Maybe then the chart can hang in the “formally green room” at your house above the Tardis which we have yet to construct out of your cabinet.

So I’m home for Christmas very soon… about 27 days. I plan to do some Christmas watching prior to that. So far my list consist of Elf, White Christmas, Muppet Christmas Carol, Love Actually, Miracle of 34^th Street, National Lampoon Christmas Vacation, The Santa Claus and It’s a Wonderful Life. I have limited time in December with my friends so the list can't be too long… and of course I will watch any or all these with you when I get home! And save Muppet Family Christmas for home of course. 

One last thing for now…

In searching for some video for my kids to watch I came across this little gem and… I LOVE Henry Carvill and everything he does.

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/tvshowbiz/article-2424032/Henry-Cavill-joins-Elmo-Sesame-Street-teach-children-respect.html

I can’t show my kids here because of the pigs… they’re haram.

Sarah update: She took a break from D&D this week due to an overreaction at a mall caused by the hearing of Christmas music being played prior to Thanksgiving. There was a bit of scene and she now has to spend her extra time at the mall helping fix Santa’s Workshop. (She was in the right…there should be laws about these things.)

Buzzfeed lists and a lot of Whedon links

So I love Buzzfeed lists. They can be the best thing on the internet and often get forwarded around. Like the 20-something vs 30-something party comparison, which was sent around multiple times between almost everyone I email with frequently because it was perfect.  We were like, that's totally us, and you've made references that we understand.  Well done. And even when the lists are ridiculous, they incite discussion. Like this comparison of random TV facts. http://www.buzzfeed.com/alexnaidus/truly-disappointing-facts-about-tv-shows

Mostly I just think it's kind of random. Sure, I dislike reality TV more than most and some of these facts make me cringe, but some of the others are stupid. I think Amy Poehler deserves 400 Emmys, just for being awesome, and another 12 million for the supreme being that is Leslie Knope. But I also think Jim Parsons deserves all of his Emmys and they don't compete against each other. So who made that decision. I understand that there are some who knock BBT's wide appeal and think it is more nerd-bashing than nerd-celebrating, and I could engage in a fight with you on that, but whatever your thoughts there, you cannot deny Parsons' brilliance.  The Wire also deserved all the awards, and Two & a Half men has definitely been on too long, but they aren't in the same category. General Hospital is a daytime soap and Twin Peaks is a bizarre cult drama. And perhaps my inability to get into Twin Peaks and my never-ending love for Sonny Corinthos makes me ill-suited to comment on this, but we are again comparing apples and oranges. I think they may have done just as well listing just the things on the right, because they are disappointing regardless of your thoughts about column A. 

Before we get to the Whedon portion of this post (the rest, basically), I'm just going to leave this here. 

http://hellogiggles.com/nick-miller-is-my-spirit-animal

Because who doesn't love Nick Miller?

But back to the Whedonverse.

Did you see who they are getting for the first of the new Netflix Marvel shows, Daredevil? Drew Goddard. 

http://www.thewrap.com/netflix-disney-marvel-daredevil-drew-goddard

Not ringing any bells? Because familiarizing yourself with names of writers/producers who work with your favorite creators is a life priority? Well, let me (and the link) help, Mr. Goddard's credits include Buffy, Angel, Lost, Alias, and he directed a little flick I still need to see called Cabin in the Woods. Speaking of things I need to see, he also wrote the screenplay for World War Z. Point here goes to the "you can never have too much superhero everything" camp.

Did we discuss how great this week's SHIELD was? I love Fitz and Simmons so much, and I am really starting to buy how this little family is coming together.  But that's not even my favorite thing from this week, my favorite thing is this amazing review that came in rhyming form on my favorite fandom site. 

http://www.hypable.com/2013/11/12/agents-of-s-h-i-e-l-d-season-1-episode-7-the-hub-recap/

You did watch Dollhouse, right?  This is another list, although not from buzzfeed.  I would probably tweak a little, but overall, pretty solid.   But spoilers for anyone who hasn't watched all the Whedon shows. 

http://www.charactergrades.com/exclusives/deaths-of-the-whedonverse-from-least-to-most-devastating

 

And my final link for the week brings us back to Buzzfeed, where someone ranked every Buffy episode from worst to best. http://www.buzzfeed.com/louispeitzman/ranking-every-episode-of-buffy-the-vampire-slayer

I can't say I agree across the board and they are much harsher to the bad than I would be, but in general I think their order is pretty good. Their top ten isn't exactly mine, but it's not far off. This may have to be a group project, creating our own list. What do you think? 

Sarah rolls a 3 and her oxen stage a coup.  Tired of dealing with a wagon full of dysentary, they redirect toward an old house in the woods.  They have heard a rumor that if find a wardrobe in a room of an old house, it is possible to escape the old west and travel to new lands. Proceed carefully.

I had a bit of a Supernatural marathon, and then I made myself stop

Yes, I have passed you on Supernatural.  I was just trying to catch up so that you weren't so far ahead of me.  I wanted to see Harmony the vampire and the Christmas episode (all the feelings!) that you had teased.  So I just started watching, and kept on going.  Because, like you, I had used my powers of being several seasons behind and spending too much time on tumblr, to deduce that Dean was unlikely to die.  But I didn't know how.  And I had some guesses, because there is a recurring character that we have been waiting for and I just assumed he would factor into this somehow, so I just had to see.  And I would have stopped after the Season 3 finale (which is only about 3 episodes past where you were), in fact, that was my plan, until the Season 3 finale actually happened and I had no choice but to watch the Season 4 premiere.  You'll understand.  Important side note: I have discovered that if I am doing a puzzle while watching it distracts me just enough to not be terrified later. I am going to need a lot more puzzles to get through this entire series.
So now I have stopped and will get back to trying to watch the week or two of regular TV that I am behind.  Let me know when you pass me again, because I'm sure you will.  We just have to be at the same place for Christmas so that we can watch together.

I really want to see Thor.  There are some other movies I would like to see as well, but Thor has kind of bumped them off.  The review you found has increased my curiosity.  Of course, Chris Hemsworth is enough, but a positive review definitely adds to the appeal as well.

Just finished the new HIMYM (speaking of Breaking Bad, Brian Cranston was on!).  Loved it!  Two good weeks in row and I feel like they nailed it.  And next week the awesome guest stars continue with John Lithgow!  While I have been enjoying the season more than some, I definitely like that these two weeks have done a better job of two important things 1) nostalgia - bringing it all back around and 2) the mom.

This is all I have now.  Back to Kat Dennings and Jennifer Coolidge on Two Broke Girls.  I don't know how much I like this show, but I think those two women are some of the funniest around.

I saw Thor!

Response:
Taye Diggs on New Girl! My roommate didn't quite appreciate it my excitement… and then he spoke words…sexy, sexy words. And she was like “oh.”

Doctor Who Trailer- Epic. It’s 40 seconds of excitement and moments of “oh!” and “what!” .  So I guess I will have to watch it on the 24^th due the time difference. But it’s on the calendar.

Heard about Netflix and Marvel teaming up… I’m tots on board. And I am not feelin’ too much Marvel… not now… and possible not ever.

Also- I was skyping (or skipping as my auto correct like to turn it into) with mom and dad and they brought up the new Mariner manager… mom’s sold, which of course he said funny things and had good communication skills. And Dad reflected on his experience. Overall a positive review too.

This week:

I went and saw Thor: The Dark World… and my review is simple- see it.

It’s just so much goodness (and godness). Way better than the first one. Just  pretty awesome and so much set up for another Thro and/or Avengers (not sure which.). I liked this review:

“Add one copy of The Lord of the Rings; one DVD of Hellboy 2 one complete set of Masters of the Universe dolls; one footballers’ hairdressing manual from 1983; one ‘Idiot’s Guide to Norse Mythology’; and one retrospective rock album:The Very Best of Yes. This is a deeply silly, extremely noisy and sometimes impenetrable action movie that’s drowning in CGI, wild overacting and mullets. And it’s actually enormously entertaining.”

Pretty much sums it up. I could have said it better… obviously- or I would have.

Also… have you really passed my on Supernatural? Cuz, I am on that if you have... I have just been waiting for you to catch up and then I can finish season 3 and find out is Dean lives or die. Right now I’m predicting that he doesn't die because I know there are 8 seasons. (I am using the information I know to make a prediction- it’s a 1^st grade skill… my students are starting to do it.)

As for other TV viewing…  Still chipping away at Breaking Bad. It’s good… really good…. Just a bit exhausting sometimes and most of the characters are pretty unlikable.

Goal- Start Newsroom!

Sarah’s Quest:

She comes across a river… roll 1-10 and she has to forge it; a 11-20 and she can take the ferry. 

All the things

I have been saving up my random comments all week, and that will follow, but I first want to respond to the sports stuff.
(interjecting here, I'm watching a little Supernatural because Kacey is way ahead of me, and Dean looking dapper in his tux saying "don't objectify me" is one of my favorite scenes to date, although Sam being hit on by the old lady is pretty great too)
Yes, the Seattle Mariners have hired a new manager.  Wedge and his glorious mustache opted not to return.  Our new guy is Lloyd McClendon.  I have done my homework this week.  I watched a little bit of the livestream of his first press conference, read the highlights from his Twitter Q&A (note, Legendary Lloyd - named after he hit 5 HR in 5 AB in the Little League World Series - does not tweet, he was using the official Ms twitter), and today Mom & Dad & I watched a special on Root sports with an interview and background.  Early thoughts: I like him.  The Ms have a long way to go, but I think they made a good choice.  He was confident, but not cocky.  He has a history of being emotional (one time he took first base and didn't throw it, but took it with him to the clubhouse), but definitely seems to have mellowed since his first manager position with the Pirates several years ago.  He spent the last several years as the hitting coach for the Tigers under manager Jim Leyland.  Also, he may have  used the phrase "man muscles" in reference to what our younger players would be able to grow this year.  I will not be forgetting that anytime soon.
On the bullying story.  I haven't followed it that closely, but I am glad to see the CBS guys calling out this horrific incident and I hope that the Dolphins respond in kind.  Coach Boone certainly wouldn't put up with this crap. I don't have a lot of info beyond what Kacey had, so I'll awkwardly switch topics to robots.

The other morning on NPR I was relieved to hear that using the Kepler telescope some scientists have been estimating the number of earth-like planets.  I don't know a lot about this given my general lack of scientific understanding, but my mind instantly went to the coming war with the robots (the week before there was a story about robot baristas, so it's really a matter of when, not if), and how it is really nice to know we have options.  I mean, I totally support that the Battlestar Galactica team went boldly forward on their faith, but I like having a little science to back it up if I'm running away into space after the robots destroy most of civilization.  Also, I will continue to work on my friendship with Siri, who says I don't have to thank her for things, but I am just being polite because I want someone on my side when her people are in charge.

Dad & I watched a little Sleepy Hollow this morning, and it was actually a re-watch for me, but I was happy to do so because the amazing John Noble made his first appearance on the show this week.  I don't know what the plans are for his character long term, but I hope he sticks around because watching made me realize how much I miss a weekly dose of Walter Bishop.  Or when I got behind on Fringe, a marathon.  Fringe was filled with fantastic, complex characters, but none more than Walter.  You just have to make it to episode 5 (or was it 6?) of Sleepy Hollow, Kacey, and he'll be there.  And while you're waiting for him, Tom Mison is gorgeous.

Also this week:
- Taye Diggs on the New Girl!??! Yeah, that happened.
- Doctor Who official preview!!!
- There have discussions of a Hunger Games theme park? Because when I think dystopian society with an annual event where children kill each other on reality TV, I instantly think, let's make that real! http://www.hypable.com/2013/11/08/hunger-games-theme-park-lionsgate/
- Blockbuster officially closed all remaining stores.  To which I first thought, wait, Blockbuster still has stores open?  Then, is there one nearby where I can try and buy some cheap movies? And finally, I wonder if the cable companies have been paying attention to the changes in how we obtain and view movies, because they are going to have to keep making changes so they do not become irrelevant.  I also read that Netflix & Marvel just made a deal for four new series and a mini-series that ties them together.  We can have a different discussion on when it will be "too much Marvel" (and I am of the opinion that if it's entertaining, bring it on) for now I will just point out that it is Netflix making a smart decision after their successful first steps into original programming.

Finally, this was on the Buffy facebook page, so I'll just leave this here because I think this sums us up incredibly well:

I get frustrated with the lack of sport news...

Sports catch up….

Jamie- when did the Mariners get a new manager? Did Wedge leave because of health? I totally missed the memo and I am feeling out of the loop about this.

And what do we know about Lloyd McClendon? All I say is in “Jack I trust”… (Jack Z the Mariner GM).

Also I have recently learned about what is happening on the locker room on the Miami Dolphin team and the bullying that was happening. I learned about it because someone on facebook (actual I think are mutual friend Carl) posted this story:

http://www.grantland.com/story/_/id/9939308/richie-incognito-jonathan-martin-miami-dolphins-bullying-scandal

So I had to investigate because I had no idea what was happening. My first thought was to look for what “the boys” (Fox NFL Sunday morning show- mom's favorite) had to say… but this was all I could find:

http://www.dailymotion.com/video/x16wop1_fox-football-daily-bullying-or-not_sport

Honestly- made some good points- but disappointed overall in the reactions. But I kept coming across and I was much more impressed by this reaction from the CBS boys:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aN3X31hU3lM

Either way the question in my mind is: What would coach Boone do?

Sarah: Here D&D character did not roll a 15 so the tree was beat her like the Whomping Willow would. (Wait, I'm mixing up my fantasy worlds). 

Jamie... the one in Seattle... okay, Shoreline, but whatever

Since we're relaunching (for our countless readers - which at the moment is Krystal and at one time a couple Buffy fans in Russia) here's a little about me:

I count other people's money for a living. 

I recently bought a house, which is a new life challenge.  One thing I've learned is that if my mom says, "we can do that, it'll be easy" then it will take hours and involve a lot of swearing and tension.

I am the oldest sister.

I start counting the days until pitchers & catchers report as soon as the World Series ends.

Despite being the oldest, and having been introduced to the series by Sarah, the youngest, I think I am the biggest Harry Potter nerd of the three of us.  Although none of us are Muggles.

I totally started watching Doctor Who first, but Kacey passed me quickly and I had to catch up.  She is, however, totally responsible for getting me to watch How I Met Your Mother.

I don't like animals, shopping for clothes, Ranch dressing, or nacho cheese Doritos. 

I watch so much TV that I have a Google doc to keep track of what episodes I've watched so I don't get confused on where I'm at.

I love TV, but hate "reality" TV unless it is some kind of singing talent competition.  And I don't really watch any of those anymore because I just like the part where the people sing/perform and hate all the manufactured drama. 

I try to watch all the Best Picture Oscar nominees before the Oscars because I unapologetically love awards shows.  The Tonys are the best, but if the Golden Globes keep bringing back Amy & Tina, they may have a chance.  Because drunk celebrities plus Amy & Tina is entertainment gold.

From earlier this week (don't worry Kacey, I have more random thoughts for my next post, but this was a part of my original post, so it stays):  This week was election week, which is usually pretty exciting for me, but it's an off year and I'm not overly interested in the initiatives.  Mostly because I hate initiatives.  As a general rule I am a big proponent of representative democracy.  I pay attention to what is happening generally and elect people to make decisions.  If I feel they are doing a crappy job, then I will vote for someone else.  Initiatives are generally poorly written with little regard for the fiscal impact they will have. There are always exceptions - if it takes an initiative to advance civil rights because the legislature is too afraid of bigots to do something, then I'm certainly going to vote for it, but generally speaking, I want elected officials to do their job.  So on Tuesday I'll certainly have my computer open to King County Elections, refreshing to see who wins the Seattle Mayor's race, but I won't make an effort to find an election night party.  I'll wait until we're celebrating Hillary in 2016.  Yeah, that's right, I said it.  Don't pick a fight with me on this.  You'll lose.

A brief intro for the 3rd sister, who will make appearances from time to time, as that character you never see, but always speak of (see our earlier post on that topic):

Sarah... Portland... elusive... 

She helps the helpless.

She is a social butterfly.

Current quest: She comes upon a giant tree, which appears to talk slowly, but also beats you if you get to close.  You have to throw a rock and hit the knot to make it stop swinging at you.  Roll 15 or higher to hit the knot.   (everything I know about D&D I learned from TV shows, so I'm sorry if it's wrong)

Kacey…new blog look.. and a re-introduction.

We are two sisters living on opposite sides of the globe attempting to converse about  television viewing, movie going, sports teams playing, pop culture following, and general global well-being. And we make no excuses for excess interest or time spent in any of these areas.

Jamie and I are known for sitting around and beginning our conversation about something simple like a book we’ve been reading, a news story, or even the weather… and end up analyzing a character from Doctor Who or discussing in depth the parallels between Jane Austen and Buffy the Vampire Slayer. We actually drive our family members quite mad with our chit chat as many people don’t often know what we are talking about (nor do they find us nearly as interesting as we find ourselves). So when I moved away to Abu Dhabi and left Jamie in Seattle a year ago the conversations became Skype chats and very random emails and text messages. Now we’ve decided to provide each other with a weekly insight to all random thoughts in blog form.

Kacey....Abu Dhabi

Important facts to know:

I live in Abu Dhabi where I teach 1^st grade at an international school.

I am the younger sister.

I am actually the middle sister as Jamie and I have a younger sister Sarah.

I enjoy sparkly things and I have a problem with purchasing accessories.

I miss watching American Football.

I hang around international types a lot here in the desert so I have to specify “American” Football otherwise people think I mean soccer.

I take credit for watching Doctor Who before Jamie and getting her hooked… however most things I am hooked on are because of Jamie… and I don’t mean drugs I mean television shows or book series mostly.

I like animals… more than Jamie…a lot more…that is important.

I watch The Avengers, Harry Potter, or BBC Sherlock when I just need something to fall asleep to at night.

My exciting news right now: My friends and I have started weekly movie night and they want to watch all the Harry Potter movies. I had to contain my excitement (to put it mildly)… then we’re having a Christmas movie palooza for the first part of December until we all leave for the Holiday break!

Also our sister Sarah is a plethora of thoughts, information and news…. But she often disappears into the night before she can actually record these things (yay- she’s kind of like a superhero).

However she is the only of us to play D&D where she worships a glitter god. We'll provide updates on that situation often.

Jamie Wants You to Watch Teen Wolf

Next week the Newsroom comes back for its second season and I actually have HBO and will be able to watch it.  Only the genius of Aaron Sorkin (and the adorableness of Jim) can distract me from my current number one show, Teen Wolf.  I am new to the world of Teen Wolf, having started with season one a few weeks ago.  And I know what you’re thinking.  It’s on Mtv.  It’s based on an 80s movie that while it had its merits (I mean, it did star Michael J. Fox), hardly deserved a sequel, let alone an entire TV series.  And the only reason I can imagine it got made is because the vampire craze leaked over into werewolf territory.  And courtesy of Twilight and True Blood’s sexy shirtless wolf boys, werewolves were a hot commodity.  Enter Mtv and their fond memory of the 80s (remember, when Mtv was new and cool and didn’t just play crappy reality TV all the time, but actually played music?), and their desire to be relevant, and perhaps to gain back a little bit of dignity. 

So I was skeptical when I first heard of this show.  Over time, however, I kept hearing more and more that made me curious.  And Kacey finally watched a few episodes and said it was actually pretty decent.  Tumblr (just, in general) and a few posts on my favorite fandom website, Hypable, pushed me over the edge.  It was time to give it a try.

As the title of this post gives away, I loved it.  I watched the first two seasons on Netflix in less time than it took Krystal & I to watch the first two seasons of the O.C. all those years ago.  You’ll have to take my word for it, it was quick.  So now I’m totally caught up, and eagerly anticipate a new episode every week.  I think the short seasons allow for a faster pace and contribute to the overall quality of the show, but I can’t lie, I’m going to be disappointed when the season ends and I have to wait. 

What is it about this teen show on Mtv that makes me look forward to Tuesdays (I’m too old and tired to stay up at watch it at 10 on Mondays, so I watch On Demand the next day)?  So glad you asked.  In order, this is what I love about Teen Wolf:

1)    Stiles -  From episode one, my absolute favorite thing about this show is the character of Stiles.  In all his Seth Cohen-like glory, Stiles steals every episode every moment he is on screen.  I don’t even know if I like Scott all that much – the main character, and only other character pulled from the 80s movie – but Stiles loves him, so he must have some merit.  If you ever loved the O.C,’s Seth Cohen, and kind of feel like the world needs more nerdy characters like that, you need look no further.  And you actually don’t have to finish this post, cause I’ve told you everything you need to know.  Stiles is the second coming of Seth Cohen, right down to his love for the popular girl who is going to need some more time before she figures out precisely how amazing he is.  I should note that the adorable Dylan O’Brien who plays Stiles was born in the 90s, so he makes the number one slot in a totally platonic manner.

2)    Buffy-like genre bending mash-up – Buffy is the best example of a show that brilliantly mashed up comedy, drama, action, and horror.  I can’t say that every Buffy fan will love Teen Wolf (although I think that many would), but if you are craving that same blending of genres, Teen Wolf does it with gusto.   It has the tension of good horror, some quality werewolf action, the humor of Stiles (well, and others, but mostly just Stiles), and the right amount of teen angst to give it some dramatic flair. 

3)    Werewolf lore – If you feel like you’ve maxed out on learning various vampire lore (do they burn or sparkle in the sunlight? Do they need an invitation to come in, or can they stalk you while you sleep?, etc), and are looking for something new, the werewolf offers some new discussion points.  Are they born or bitten? Do they only turn at the full moon or does something else trigger them?  And while the basic rules have been established for our Teen Wolf crew, there are constantly new elements being introduced to provide a richer picture. 

4)    The supernatural drives the story, not the typical issues that pop up in various teen dramas.  No one cares that Danny is gay, it’s something everyone was aware of at the start, it’s a normal part of life.  While the parents had understandable reactions to Scott & Allison being sexually active, it wasn’t dwelt on, and it wasn’t the end of their worlds.  The only reason the drinking at Lydia’s party was a problem is because in a trance she poisoned everyone.  Whatever is sacrificing people this season picked three virgins for its first grouping, and then moved on to three soldiers for its next, quickly making this about  finding this enemy who focuses on rituals and groupings of three as opposed to whether or not various characters have had sex.  These things that are a part of life are there, but they don’t stand out as odd nor do they pull focus away from what actually matters in this town.  There are freaking werewolves. 

5)    Tyler Hoechlin (Derek) is really hot. He’s not the only one, but as the rest of them are playing high schoolers, l will just focus on him.  I recognize this is only appealing to a certain demographic, so for those who prefer the ladies, there are plenty of good-looking women on the show as well. 

Maybe you won’t like it, but don’t write it off because almost everything else on Mtv is crap. 

Coming Soon: Sarah hunts werewolves in Portland, but instead finds signs of the elusive Sasquatch.

Jamie Loves John Hughes

I finally watched Pitch Perfect as it made its way onto HBO last weekend.  And then I watched parts of it several times again because I really, really enjoyed it.  How could I not?  I mean, who doesn't want to be friends with Anna Kendrick ?  Or just be in the presence of the hilarity that is Rebel Wilson?  Plus I have loved Brittany Snow since American Dreams.   Also, so much fun music and an adorable nerdy guy.  (He was born in the 80s, I checked, so I can think he’s adorable).  But what was my favorite thing about it you ask?  Same as my favorite thing about Easy A (another recent teen comedy that I adore and can watch repeatedly), the homage paid to the creator of the greatest teen movies of all time, John Hughes.  In Pitch Perfect it’s all about The Breakfast Club, and a song that I would definitely put in my lifetime top ten, Simple Minds’ Don’t You (Forget About Me).  In Easy A the tributes are to 80s movies in general, but Hughes’ work is dominate and singled out because it is superior to all the rest. 

I’m sure there are people who watch movies like Barney Stinson, and root for the rich, popular kids to rule the day.  But not me (well, except Ferris).  Just like I will always root for the underdog in a sporting event, I want my movies full of nerds & outcasts saving the day, or at least improving their lives.  John Hughes gave the spotlight to those very characters, and created funny, heartfelt movies.  Since I like lists, here is my list of the best of his work:

5. Some Kind of Wonderful – You’re probably skimming this list and asking, where is Weird Science?  I enjoy Weird Science, but it’s not my favorite.  And I am a much bigger fan of this lesser known gem, Some Kind of Wonderful.  Tomboy girl has crush on outcast best friend, who in turn has a crush on super popular girl.  The popular girl (Lea Thompson) turns out to have more depth than first anticipated, which is a twist on the standard take where she is super shallow, but by the time that all gets figured out, the boy (Eric Stoltz) has realized that he actually likes tomboy girl (Mary Stuart Masterson).  Love triangle done well.

4. Pretty in Pink – The first of 3 Molly Ringwald films on the list.  She effortlessly switched from uptight rich popular girl to wrong side of the tracks outcast to awkward underclassman.  Here (wrong side of the tracks outcast) she falls for a rich guy whose name sounds like an appliance, breaks the heart of her best friend whose name is more often preceded by “rubber,” wears a terrible dress to the prom, and we still love her.  We probably would have fallen for Duckie’s Try a Little Tenderness dance moves, but  we forgive her for preferring the wimpy rich guy because who doesn't adore Andrew McCarthy.  I also cannot neglect mentioning that James Spader is the perfect sleazebag in this movie. 

3. Sixteen Candles  - Here is Ringwald again, this time that awkward underclassman.  Her parents forget her birthday and it’s all downhill from there.  But that’s okay, because sexy Jake Ryan gets her underwear back from a geek.  There is a lot in this movie that wouldn’t fly today (politically correct it is not), but it more than makes up for it with excessive amounts of humor.  Plus there is the right balance of heart and teen angst.  Because let's face it, teen life is angsty. 

2.Ferris Bueller’s Day Off – This was a tough call.  Matthew Broderick brings this iconic roll to life in one of the greatest movies of all-time.  Who hasn’t based their entire Chicago vacation on just the things that Ferris did with Cameron & Sloane when they skipped school?  I mean, how else does one decide what to do in that great city?  It is one of the most quotable films in existence, including my personal favorite: “Life moves pretty fast, if you don’t stop and look around once in a while, you might miss it”  Ferris coming in at #2 on my list should in no way take away from its greatness, as it could certainly flip flop with #1 on any day.  Cause he sings on a float in a random parade and it's so awesome.   Like I said, it was tough, but for today...

1. The Breakfast Club – Maybe it’s the influence of having just watched Pitch Perfect.  I might still be thinking about how much I love that Simple Minds song and Judd Nelson thrusting his fist in the air.  Which brings back the serious crush that I had on Judd Nelson after viewing this movie as a teenager.  This was significantly after it was first released (maybe 10 years?) and Nelson is actually just a couple years younger than my parents, but all teenage me saw was teenage (okay, mid-twenties)  Judd Nelson lipping off to the obnoxious vice principal.  Don’t get me wrong, my love for this movie is bigger than that crush, but I think that’s what is pushing it over the edge into the #1 slot at the moment.  Nostalgia, wins every time.

Pitch Perfect & Easy A are quality films in their own right, featuring some of the most talented and likable actresses popular today, but I will love them forever for their efforts in immortalizing the works of the late, great John Hughes.

Coming Soon: Sarah makes a compelling argument in favor of 90s teen comedies, but is wrong.  Except for Clueless, which is practically perfect in every way despite its protagonist being pretty much the opposite of an underdog.

The Men Kacey Trusts Completely...

I considered myself a feminist. I can’t wait for the day a female becomes president… I think Hilary Clinton is awesome, not a bitch… I don’t like it when men feel the need to explain sports to me… and I get annoyed when female leads are helpless and need to be saved by a man.

That being said… something has recently occurred to me.

My television viewing right now consist of finishing Battlestar Galatica (I’m about half a season away from completion) and catching up on the latest season of NCIS. Both shows have one major thing in common: a male lead that no matter what my real life views of old white guys in power are; I feel these men always know what the right thing to do is and I would follow them no matter what. I actually find myself getting really pissed off when people on these shows question these men. And the more I have thought about this, the more I realized there are several men in my fictional life that I just trust completely.

And upon reflection of these men, I think perhaps the best thing about all these men is that despite their old school ways they have the highest respect for strong woman and treat them as equals.

So here are the men I am compelled to follow:

Gibbs (NCIS): I trust his “gut” completely and pity any person who doesn’t. I mean, when does it ever steer him wrong? Plus he’s got rules he follows. He also know the Ziva is the scariest on his on his team and Abby is his favorite.

Admiral Adama a.k.a. “The Old Man” (Battlestar Galatica):   While The Old Man may have some old school military ideas about things, he always does what is best for the fleet and the people who rebel are stupid. He’s always protected the fleet. He always knows that Starbuck is one of the smartest pilots on the Battlestar and despite his early differences with the President, he ultimately recognized the fleet needs for her leadership.

Dumbledore (Harry Potter): Despite the things Dumbledore kept from Harry over the year, he knew the right thing to do. Everything he did, he did to protect people. We were all Dumbledore’s followers through and through, no matter what we discovered about him. He also always trusted Professor McGonagall with running of Hogwarts and he never doubted thatHermione was the brightest witch of her age.

The Doctor (Doctor Who): This needs little explanation. I mean, who doesn’t immediately trust The Doctor. And he would NEVER doubt the power and ability of a woman… actually I think it’s some men he questions.

Gandalf (Lord of the Rings):  Gandalf always sees the full potential of people. He always knows just what to do, but never actually seeks power for himself. And even though there aren’t many strong female leads in LOR, his faith in the hobbits shows that he doesn’t underestimate the heart and strength of all beings.

Captain Kirk (Star Trek): I am not really a “Trekky,” and have only watched a few old movies, but I recently become a huge fan with the latest movie reboot.  Now granted, Chris Pine as Captain Kirk is not hard on the eyes and he might be a bit arrogant and impulsive, but he does what he thinks is right. And he leaves no person behind… even if it is illogical as Spock often points out. Plus he knows not to mess with Lt. Uhura.

Captain Mal (Firefly/Serenity): I think Captain Mal’s loyalty to his crew is unmatched. Although he has thief like ways, he ultimately always does the right thing. And despite his crude words to Inara, he knows she is much more intelligent than he is and he hired Kaylee as his mechanic because he immediately recognized her skills far surpassed the idiot he originally was going to hire.  

Honorable Mention:

Giles (Buffy the Vampire Slayer): Okay, so ultimately I trusted Buffy to save to world every time and she really was the leader… and I got REALLY mad whenever people didn’t recognize that.  But in my opinion this made Giles all that cooler because he knew that too. What’s better than a guy that helps his daughter-like figure reach her full potential as a bad-ass, world-saving leader. Plus I always felt a bit better when Giles was around to answer questions and act as guidance.  

Coming Soon: After relocating to Portland, OR, Sarah recounts the exciting, yet frightening experience of getting lost in Powell's Books.

Jamie's Gateway Fandoms

So I was perusing tumblr, like I do. There was a great (super inside fandom) comment about LeakyCon and the Harry Potter fandom:

"At Leakycon we don’t say “I love you” we say “WE’RE WIZARDS WE’LL PARTY FOREVER TURN AROUND BRIGHT EYES HARRY I’M COMING HOME I THINK WE’RE GOING BACK!” which translates to “After all this time? Always” and I think that’s beautiful."

... and I started thinking about how it's time for a reread. Cause you know, it's been a year or two, and it's important to revisit your favorite things every so often. Or maybe just often. I mean, the Buffy prom episode is on in the background right now. If I pay too much attention, it'll make me cry. Cause I have embraced a great deal of nerdy things in the last several years, but Buffy and Harry, that's how it all started.

Speaking of tumblr (where you can be your nerdiest most awesome self), some time ago there was a thing posted that was so perfect. It said:

"Harry Potter is, like, the gateway fandom. You start reading the books, then all of a sudden you have a Sonic Screw driver, you're carrying salt everywhere and awkwardly in love with Sherlock Holmes and you don't really know how any of it happened, but you're pretty sure it started because Mr. and Mrs. Vernon Dursely of 4 Privet Drive were proud to say that they were perfectly normal thank you very much." 

And I thought two things. That is beautiful and that is me. All the things I have discovered that I love so much, from nerdfighters to Wootstock is a direct result of my HP and/or Joss Whedon love.  I could analyze for days why these particular stories are what pulled me in, are what I can read and watch time and time again, but ultimately, it doesn't even matter. They are brilliant and they opened the door to a world of so much awesome. Because of Harry, Ron, Hermione, Buffy, Willow & Xander, I found John & Hank Green, the Doctor and his companions, the fraking toasters, Felicia Day & the Guild, Wil Wheaton,  Eureka & Warehouse 13, Wizard Wrock, DFTBA Records, Jonathan Coulton, Paul & Storm, Molly Lewis, Hannah Hart, the Nerdist, The Lizzie Bennett Diaries, and so much more.

Hold on.  Pause. Jonathan, aka Danny Strong who is writing the screenplay to Mockingjay, is giving Buffy the Class Protector award, so I have to cry a little.

Okay, I'm good.

I don't know exactly what the point of this post is, other than to say, whatever your thing is, embrace it. And follow it down the rabbit hole. You won't be disappointed. I know I haven't been since Buffy became the slayer and Mr. & Mrs. Vernon Dursley were proud to be very, very normal.

 

Coming Soon: As we move toward 100 posts Sarah does her part by highlighting the nerdiest moments in the West Wing, which she has been documenting during her current Netflix-fueled viewing of the Aaron Sorkin masterpiece.

Kacey Takes "Roommates 101"

I have always struggled a bit with roommates (or flatmate for other English speakers)… and honestly it’s probably me. I like my space and my independence. Jamie found a solid roommate and hung onto her for as long as she could until they decided to be “grown-ups” and went their separate ways just a few short months ago. Only recently on my adventure to the other side of the world, have I finally found a roommate whom I love living with and can see myself spending the next year with. She’s awesome. But how I have come to a place that, finally at 28, I can deal with having a roommate? Well I can only accredit this to the years of watching television shows (mostly sitcoms) about roommates.

So what exactly have my favorite shows taught me over the years about sharing a living space?

Well let’s review:

Big Bang Theory: It’s important to have pre-arranged agreements and stick to them. Granted Sheldon’s “Roommate Agreement” might be a bit extensive, but there is a need for some rules/agreements right from the beginning.

Friends: It’s important at least one of roommate has a need for order and cleanliness. Some roommates might find this irritating if they are always cleaning, but the fact that Rachel didn’t do much cleaning never really bothered Monica. Monica thrived in getting to be the organized one. In fact, her competitive nature probably wouldn’t have enjoyed having someone else who wanted to control and clean everything. So maybe the real lesson here is the need for balance of personalities.  

Friends Part 2: Roommates should probably have some shared interests. Joey and Chandler bonded over an enjoyment of Bay Watch, comfy chairs and foosball. It was the simple things that kept them together… and all the bro-mance.

HIMYM: Find a roommate that will also want to keep swords on the wall. In other words have similar ideas about décor and be able to share the space equally. Just be careful if the décor ever is used for a battle… someone might get stabbed.

New Girl: There will be some discovered quirkiness in roommates (or a lot)…embrace them anyways…or at least allow it to happen. Let’s face it… Jess, Nick, Schmidt and Winston epitomize quirkiness . But they don’t get hung up on it… it just makes the un-predictableness, predictable.

2 Broke Girls: It’s important that you both agree that a horse in the backyard is a welcomed idea. Or really, any pet needs to be agreed on beforehand. If Max didn’t want Chestnut hanging around, she would have put Caroline out on her ass with no hesitations.

Buffy: Sometimes your roommate really is a demon and it’s not just you. In Buffy’s case her roommate was a straight out of the Hellmouth sort of demon, but occasionally new roommate setups just don’t work. It’s often better to find someone you already know and love.

Once Upon Your Time: Get to know your roommate, they might turn out to be closely related to you. In Mary Margret and Emma’s case it turned out they were mother and daughter which isn’t probably likely to happen, but it is important to know a little about the person you are going to live to avoid major surprises.

Golden Girls: You’re really never too old to have roommates.

Coming Soon: After an adventure to Coachella Sarah bequeaths the 10 Commandments of musical festival going.

Jamie Takes Lessons from TV Weddings

New houses are exhausting, hence the lack of posts.  But I promise to try harder...

Next month my very good friend Krystal is getting married and I am headed off to the Bay Area for the wedding weekend. Krystal (and her fiancé David) have been quite on top of all this wedding coordination and I know that it’s going to be a fantastic wedding. And I also know that they are low key enough to deal with whatever hiccups may occur. Because what we have all learned from TV is that something will inevitably happen that is, hmmm… unplanned. But of course, we’ve also learned some helpful hints to making the big day enjoyable and coping with whatever happens: As I began work on this post about pop culture weddings, it became increasingly apparent that while there are an abundance of quality TV weddings to discuss, this really needed to be about How I Met Your Mother. I mean, yes, Ben Wyatt's dream bachelor party and Krystal's bachelorette game night as well as her wedding shower were pretty much the same thing (Settlers of Catan, of course). And the best example of having your friends officiate your wedding is clearly Howard & Bernadette's rooftop nuptials on The Big Bang Theory. Liz Lemon taught us that you can do whatever you want for your wedding, just make sure it’s what you actually want. This was almost a blog about Friends & HIMYM weddings, but as amusing and enlightening all the Friends’ wedding wackiness was, it just didn't seem quite as relevant at this moment. And really, how could it? How does it get any more current than the fact that Krystal & David are going to share an anniversary with Robin & Barney. These characters are us. Okay, not exactly, they are TV characters. And Krystal and David are definitely not Robin and Barney.  But they are our age. They have friends getting married, buying houses, having kids, but still not completely comfortable (or at least experiencing varying levels of comfort) with this adult thing we seem to have stumbled upon as we hit 30+. We understand these characters, and share their recurring inside jokes. So when looking for wedding wisdom, it seems only appropriate to see what we can glean from all the weddings (and near-weddings) they have attended over the last 8 seasons, chronologically:

Claudia (& Stuart)’s Wedding: The wedding of the gang’s friends Stuart and Claudia teaches us many things. Claudia is always a little intense, but she’s definitely one step from a complete breakdown here. So it would seem that the participation of both bride & groom in the wedding planning and a solid support structure for both is important.  Also, timely and accurate RSVPs.

Memorable Quote: Claudia: No, no, no.... Listen to me, if I go to my wedding and the cake is not Tahitian vanilla, I will come down there and burn your little shop to the ground. Haha, do you wanna find out if I'm kidding?

Applicable to K&D’s Wedding?: They totally have this one covered. All hands on deck, great family & friends, and I have not heard of anyone being threatened.

Lily & Marshall: What we learn from one of TV's most perfect couples is that no matter how much you plan, things will not go exactly as you want. Accepting that upfront will make everything much smoother. Even if the harpist goes into labor, the flowers don’t show but your ex-boyfriend does and the groom shaves his head to rid himself of frosted tips. People will step up to help out. But maybe we should get Marshall’s law school buddy Brad (played by the… I am hesitating on word choice here, but I’m going to go just for it, delicious Joe Manganiello) on hand just in case. Except that he does cause some damage. That’s okay, it’s worth it. You have to make sacrifices. I have gotten off track (Manganiello has that effect on me) and I haven’t even mentioned how Barney teaches us all how you can get whatever you need at a wedding as long as you explain that it is “for the bride.” But I would be remiss to not mention that they also give us the most important lesson of all: for the love of all that is holy be sure to eat.

Memorable Quote: Barney: May I have everybody's attention...
[Everyone ignores Barney]
Barney: It's for the bride.
[Everyone stops talking and turns towards Barney]

Applicable to K&D’s Wedding?: Everyone already knows to make sure the bride eats. We’ve seen the alternative.

Barney's brother James: I know what you’re saying. Wait, this episode is before Lily & Marshall’s wedding. Yes, but the actual wedding is after it. In this episode Barney learns that his brother James is planning to give up the single life and settle down with his partner Tom. Barney is upset, but ultimately caves after learning James & Tom plan to adopt a baby. No one can resist a cute baby.

Memorable Quote: “If gay guys start getting married, then suddenly the world is going to be doing it. That’s how it works: they start something, then six months later, everyone follows… Gay marriage is going to cause single life as we know it to die out. Think of how the American family will be strengthened.” .

Applicable to K&D’s Wedding?: There will be adorable children. And a bunch of people who agree with Barney, that the American family would be strengthened if James & Tom could just get married.

Stella & Ted’s almost wedding: Pay attention to the red flags. The proper thing to take away should probably be no exes allowed (and My Best Friend's Wedding would probably back that up), but I think the first red flag was the lack of booze and meat.

Memorable Quote: Marshall: There's no meat.
Lily: There's no alcohol.
Marshall: It gets worse—I am 90% sure that guy you were talking with used to be lead singer of the Spin Doctors

Applicable to K&D’s Wedding?: Booze & meat are on the menu. No red flags here.

Ted's Mom & Clint: We don’t get a ton from the actual wedding here, this is really more about Ted and his house, which is a disaster in the episode but turns out to be the house we have been glimpsing whenever they remember to show us his kids (who are amazingly still listening to this story).

Memorable Quote: Ted: I'm gonna set up the grill out back, it's gonna be a total sausage fest. Party. Burgers. We'll do burgers.

Applicable to K&D’s Wedding?: This is all about the inside jokes when one from your own life (SausageFest) makes its way into a show, you’ve kind of got to make that the quote, even if it doesn’t have anything to do with the theme of your blog.

Punchy’s Wedding: Ted is terrible with toasts. Remember: “The happy couple needs to hear this! Things end, but from the ashes of your statistically probable divorce, hope can rise anew.” Oh, Ted. But thankfully he has wonderful friends (although I am still not sure why they all came to Punchy’s wedding) who step up and help him out. Because, “the only person who loves Ted Mosby more than Marshall Erickson is drunk Marshall Erickson.” We see in this episode why it was so very thoughtful of Ted & Robin to keep their break-up a secret through Lily & Marshall’s wedding, so as not to deflect attention on their big day. When Marshall announces Lily’s pregnancy and the bride thinks he is talking about her, all hell breaks loose. But, the guy’s name is Punchy, I feel like he can handle a little craziness at his wedding.

Applicable to K&D’s Wedding?: No idea, but if anyone has any pregnancy or break-up announcements, maybe hold off. 

Barney& Robin: We’ve seen a little cold feet, but we’ve also seen a happy bride dancing with her father at the reception. We know Ted is going to meet the elusive mother (finally), but the rest is a mystery.

Memorable Quotes: Ted: Oh thank God! Barney Stinson needs you right before his wedding, you assume there's at least one dead stripper in the closet.

Applicable to K&D’s Wedding?: It’s the same damn day. I mean, that’s pretty much it. Well that, and we don’t know what will happen.  But I have a feeling it will be a spectacularly good time.

What we’ve learned from the all of these, is that no matter what happens along the way, relax and enjoy the day. And keep the bride fed.

 

Coming Soon: Sarah follows this with an analysis of Friends weddings, complete with detailed quotes that she does with no research.  She’s like an elephant.

Kacey and the Art of Surprise....

This is a long over-due blog… I feel like so much has happen.

Jamie mentioned in her last blog that I was headed to Bali for my two week spring break. PSYCH! I snuck home like a ninja and surprised the crap out of my family. It was awesome! But now I’m back in Abu Dhabi until summer.

The second thing that has been happening just in the past week… I started watching Battlestar Galactica and last night I finished season one. Now thankfully I have Netflix and won’t have to wait for a whole summer to find out what happens…but the surprise ending of the first season, combined with my recent awesome surprise home got me thinking about all the other shocking moments… well in television.

And TA-DA I came up with a blog!

WARNING MAJOR SPOILERS (Granted slightly outdated spoilers…BUT STILL MAJOR SPOILERS)!

Now obviously this is totally my personal list regarding moments that I remember watching television and say “holy &#?%!” … and honestly this day in age with spoilers all over the internet it’s hard to do that (as I have recently discovered with Downtown Abbey because I have NOT watched season 3)…but here some moments from some of my favorite shows.

Friends… Ross’s wedding to Emily. Two things: Monica and Chandler in bed together and then Ross saying Rachel’s name at his wedding. Oops!

Alias… SOOO many WTF moments in this show, but perhaps the one that made me physically react the most because I was on the edge of my seat  was Vaughn starting to tell Sydney who he really was but then BAM! They are hit by a truck…end of season.

Buffy the Vampire Slayer… There are two here. Buffy dying was pretty shocking….but the show was returning so I knew it wasn’t permanent. Probably even more shocking was her mom dying. With all the violence and death on this show… her mom dying from natural causes ended up being the most tragic of all.

Doctor Who… surprises at every turn here and I could say either the separating of Doctor and Companion  or a regeneration is always a bit intense, but since I’ve started watching Doctor Who I always knew those were coming. However so much happened along the way that I didn’t see coming… Few moments I remember going “WHAT!”: River Song meeting the Doctor but he didn’t know who she was (and we didn’t know who River was)… Amy being fake Amy…Amy and Rory being River’s parents… Every time Rory died… and River being the Doctor’s wife. Yes most of those have to do with River. Overall Moffat just keeps me guessing.

Lost….lord we don’t have time for that.

Battlestar Galactica… Okay I’m only one season in, but the end of that first season when Boomer shoots the Old Man was a total heart stopper.

Torchwood… when everybody dies. First Toshiko and Owen die… at the end of season 2… than Ianto dies in mini-series “Children of Earth” which is possibly one of the most intense and most shocking mini-series ever. Jack sacrifices his own grandson to save the world... just... too much.

Grey's Anatomy… so the finale where Meredith realizes their unknown crash victim was George was honestly when I stopped watching. That was such an edge of the seat season ending and I had to spend the whole summer wondering if he died (or Izzy). The next season just couldn’t live up to it. (However, Sarah has informed me about later happenings as she is a dedicated fan and I hear the finale with the gunman tops all other season finales.)

Fringe… again another JJ Abrams creation full of crazy-ass shit. But it all really kicked off when I realized that Olivia had managed to cross over to another universe at the end of season 1 and Leonard Nimoy was waiting for her in the alternative universe. Crazy.

Sherlock the miniseries…I didn’t know much about Sherlock Holmes before this miniseries and the Robert Downey Jr. movie versions, but I knew enough to know that Sherlock falls and “dies” in the “Reichenbach Fall” (but doesn’t really die). However, the whole finale of the second season and all the twists and turns about Moriarty setting Sherlock up just blew me away…and I still found the end utterly shocking.

I wasn’t alive for it actually happening… but honorable mention goes to M*A*S*H and the announcement of the death of Col. Blake because story goes that not even the cast new it was coming. It still gives me shivers and brings me to tears just thinking about it.

Okay that’s enough for now… there might be more later because the surprises just continue, especially as I continue to watch new shows. But I don’t want to give too much away!

Coming Soon: Sarah composes an impassioned essay about the importance of pencil safety.

Jamie Welcomes Baseball Season

There are a lot of things happening this weekend.  I am heading north to hang out with my family.  Kacey is off to Bali to properly relax during her Spring Break, and two huge TV series of the epically nerdy variety are premiering their latest seasons.  First on Saturday is the return of Doctor Who with his newest companion.  Sunday will see the start of season 3 of Game of Thrones, which is based on my favorite book of the series (random pop culture thing I love: the new companion dates Robb Stark in real life).  But all of that pales in comparison to the main event, the start of baseball season.  Baseball season is a sacred thing in our family.  And to be honest, it's actually already started for some, as Dad has been coaching fastpitch softball for over a month already.  But on Sunday, spring is really here and the games really count as teams (even our Mariners) work toward the ultimate goal: October.  When I talk about baseball I tend to get all emotional, and I ramble all over the place. In order to give this a little bit of focus, I think it's only appropriate that I give you my top 10 baseball movies.
#10 Moneyball Statistics and baseball and Brad Pitt, how could you go wrong?  I did like the book a little better, but that is generally the case with book to movie conversions.  In the film I missed the thrill of the draft and the way that Michael Lewis was able to get the reader (at least baseball nerds like me) wrapped up in the excitement of the day and to really believe, if only for that moment, in Billy's strategy.  But I completely understand how that would have distracted from the overall narrative of the movie.  The film also has Phillip Seymour Hoffman, stealing every scene he is in, which always makes me enjoy a film just a little bit more.
#9 Angels in the Outfield What?  I dare you watch that movie and not cry.  I am particularly sentimental about orphan stories since I've been listening to an Anne of Green Gables audiobook for the last week, but that is besides the point.  When that whole stadium stands up with a young Joseph Gordon-Levitt because they believe that washed up Tony Danza can do it too, I just cry.  And when Danny Glover decides to adopt those kids, and J.P. too cause you couldn't leave J.P.... oh, I'm sorry.  I have to stop or I'll just start sobbing.
#8 Major League (and to a lesser degree Major League 2) Whatever you may think about Charlie Sheen, Wild Thing is a classic.  And that scene is applicable to real baseball games.  I mean, how much do you judge a closer by his intro music?  And it is because of this movie.  With no disrespect to the Bartender (current Mariner closer Wilhelmson), I don't know if anything will top JJ Putz and Thunderstruck. 
#7 Eight Men Out I went through a phase where I was a little obsessed with this story (I mean, I am pretty into all baseball history).  I researched the players and the various conspiracy theories.  I wanted to know if Shoeless Joe & Bucky Weaver were as innocent as the film made them out to be or if that was just Hollywood.  At this point we probably won't ever know everything, but this is a great movie, which actually also makes me cry.  A lot of these movies do.  Like I said, I get very emotional about baseball.  This one humanizes an unpleasant moment in the history of America's past-time, and has a fantastic cast.
#6 The Rookie About the crying.  Disney has a slew of these sports movies based on real life, and every single one of them absolutely kills me.  For a variety of reasons, Remember the Titans is actually my favorite of all these, but the Rookie is a close second, which is more than enough to earn it this 6th spot.  When his family and all his players come to watch him... here I go again, where is that box of tissue.
#5 Long Gone Finally something that doesn't make me cry.  This is a completely ridiculous movie.  Before William Peterson was solving crimes with bugs on CSI, he was Stud Cantrell, reluctantly romancing Virginia Madsen's Dixie Lee Boxx and guiding Dermot Mulroney's once wholesome Jamie Weeks.  This Bull Durham-esque movie is full of ridiculousness and will probably offend more than a few viewers, but it'll get you back as you cheer when Joe "Jose" Brown refuses to let them intentionally walk him again and steps way out and crushes the ball.
#4 The Sandlot There are a great deal of life lessons in The Sandlot, even beyond how to make smores.  Don't judge your neighbor by creepy urban legends, every once in a while it is too hot to play baseball outside, go for it with that hot lifeguard, don't chew tobacco (and certainly don't do it before riding horrific carnival rides), be nice to the new kid (even if he can't play), and for the love of all that is holy do not play baseball with a ball autographed by Babe Ruth.  Although if you do, you are likely to have an amazing and unforgettable summer adventure.  Oh, and pickles can be really cool.
#3 A League of Their Own Like I said before, baseball is very special to my family.  And since my parents had three girls and no boys, it is only fitting that this is a family favorite.  It's about sisters and friends and baseball and women being awesome and Tom Hanks is in it. You know, all the really important things in life.  Plus, it is endlessly quotable.  We have been known to break into "And there's Marla Hooch... what a hitter" for no apparent reason.
#2 Bull Durham I cannot say enough about this movie, and it almost made the top slot.  From Susan Sarandan's monologue on the Church of Baseball (of which I am clearly a member) to Crash Davis' monologue on what he believes in, to all the superstition and pitcher's mound chatter and clubhouse yelling, this movie has it all. The only thing it's missing is magic, which is why...
#1 Field of Dreams Bring back the box of tissue.  I saw you put it away after the end of A League of Their Own, but you're going to need it.  I'll wait.  I don't know what I can say about this movie that hasn't been said by people who write far better than me.  I guess what I love about it the most (besides the whole dead baseball players coming out of the corn to play in your backyard thing, cause how can you not love that, most awesome thing ever) is its pure love of the game.  You see it in different ways through all different characters, but its there, and it helps them appreciate the people around them and to live their lives more completely. 
Okay, I'm getting sappy and sentimental again.  I may need a marathon.  And a couple boxes of tissue.

Books Read: 7  (I'm a little slow this year, but have been catching up via audiobooks... note: I missed a book for last year, so I really did make it to 50!)

Coming Soon: Sarah is too emotional after thinking about all of these movies to write at the moment.  Instead we'll just go see 42 and cry some more.