Entry No. 16:

 My Favorite Christmas Movie

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As the semester draws to a close, I'm reminded more and more about the holiday season. Yes, I've seen decorations in stores for about a month now, but I really know 'tis the season when Christmas movies are constantly played on TV.

While most of them are very cheesy (especially Hallmark movies), some can pull at your heartstrings every December, even when you can memorize the dialogue verbatim. My favorite of them all, It's A Wonderful Life, tells the story of an attempted suicide in such a tear-jerking way. The tale of George Bailey and what he means to his family, his town, and the Christmas season is one of the most emotional ones around. 

Going from having long-term aspirations of traveling and seeing the world, George sacrifices those dreams for settling down in Bedford Falls. After he feels like he has no value, his guardian angel comes to save him and show him all the good he has brought to this world. The growth of George from beginning to end is one of the best character examples of growth in a film (up there with Scott Pilgrim for sure). It's a somewhat corny concept for a guardian angel, but the introduction of Clarence the angel and how he wants to help George is one of the best scenes in the film.

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It does have the typical old movie trope of "rich bad guy wants to seize control", but that still won't have you despise Henry Potter any less. Every time, you'll still wince when you see what Uncle Billy messes up. There are some intense topics discussed, but the ending is one of pure holiday bliss.

I've watched this every year with my grandpa in the local theatre in our town, and it holds a special bond in my heart. If you've never seen it, I highly suggest doing so. It's no Elf, but it has stood the tests of time as a holiday classic.

Entry No. 15:

Reviewing Moonlight

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Coming from a background where men were depicted as overly masculine and violent at times, Chiron changes his identity based on the people around him to fit in. The nickname "Little" reflects the idea that he is weak and unable to separate himself from the words. Chiron, based on the centaur, is supposed to reflect his freedom. Centaurs are naturally supposed to roam wild, and Chiron is on the path to self-discovery in this new chapter of his life. Finally, "Black" helps show Chiron's darker, post-prison side, but it also connects him with Kevin (who gave him the nickname.)

As usual in media, black and blue represent doom and sadness. Also, the combination of black and blue represents bruises/abuse sustained by Chiron and his community. The overall tone of the colors helps convey the sense of darkness.

The story jumps from different eras that don't show the natural progression of Chiron. Instead, events are just alluded to. However, these chapters could be viewed as Chiron's pivotal moments, so these could be the "highlights"/"lowlights" of the entire story of Chiron's life.

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When Chiron went out at night, covered by moonlight, that was when he could be his true self. Moonlight is just light reflected off of the moon, so it helps reflect Chiron's desires. Light, naturally, is a sign of hope. Along with moonlight, the beach and waves help demonstrate important moments in his life. From swimming as a child to his moments with Kevin, the final shot of Chiron staring at the waters is one final flashback throughout the journey so far.