Magic Mike (2012)
R | 1h 50m


A male stripper teaches a younger performer how to party, pick up women, and make easy money.

An electrifying and alluring film that delivers on both entertainment and eye-candy. Channing Tatum's charismatic performance as the titular character shines through, adding depth to the storyline. The movie strikes a harmonious balance between humor and drama, providing an engaging glimpse into the world of male stripping. While the plot may not be groundbreaking, the movie thrives in its energetic dance sequences, which are both skillfully choreographed and visually captivating. With its talented cast, appealing soundtrack, and tantalizing dance numbers, "Magic Mike" successfully seduces its audience into an enjoyable and unforgettable cinematic experience.

Snow White and the Huntsman (2012)
PG-13 | 127 min

In a twist to the fairy tale, the Huntsman ordered to take Snow White into the woods to be killed winds up becoming her protector and mentor in a quest to vanquish the Evil Queen.

The adaptation of this classic fairytale was an absolute delight! The visual effects transported me to a mesmerizing world of magic and enchantment, enhancing the story's allure and bringing it to life in a truly captivating manner. And oh, Charlize's acting was simply phenomenal! Her portrayal of the iconic character added depth and charm, making it impossible to take my eyes off the screen. The movie succeeded in breathing new life into a beloved tale, leaving me enchanted from start to finish. A true cinematic gem that I will cherish for its stunning visuals and outstanding performances.

A Trip to the Moon (1902)
Original title: Le voyage dans la lune 
G | 13 min

A group of astronomers go on an expedition to the moon.


I stumbled upon this short movie on YouTube, and what caught my attention was its inclusion in the esteemed "1001 Movies You Must See Before You Die" list. My discovery of this list came while perusing "1000 places to see before I die," and since I don't have the means to travel, I decided to embark on a journey through movies instead.

What I love about watching both new and old films is the opportunity to immerse myself in different cultures, traverse countries, eras, and times, and gain insights into the filmmaking process. It's fascinating to compare the technology used in movies, especially in sci-fi films, from the past to the present. Watching an old movie feels like a delightful time travel experience, offering a glimpse into bygone eras and the artistry of filmmaking back then. Through these films, I get to explore worlds I might never visit physically, expanding my horizons and enriching my appreciation for the diverse wonders of cinema.


Arthur Christmas (2011)
PG | 1hr 37m

On Christmas night at the North Pole, Santa's youngest son looks to use his father's high-tech operation for an urgent mission.


Arthur might not possess the brawn or toughness of his family members, but what sets him apart is his immense heart. While others may excel in strength and skill, it is Arthur's boundless compassion and genuine care for others that make him truly exceptional. His unwavering determination to spread joy and ensure every child receives their Christmas gift embodies the spirit of the holiday season. Arthur's kindness and selflessness remind us that true strength lies not in physical might but in the capacity to show love and bring happiness to others. His heartwarming journey teaches us that the most meaningful gifts we can give are those filled with love and the joy of giving.

Sherlock Holmes: A Game of Shadows (2011)
PG-13 | 2h 9m

Sherlock Holmes and his sidekick Dr. Watson join forces to outwit and bring down their fiercest adversary, Professor Moriarty.


The second installment to the Sherlock Holmes franchise is just as intriguing and captivating as the first one. It keeps you on the edge of your seat with its compelling storyline and brilliant performances from the cast. I thoroughly enjoyed watching it, and it definitely lived up to the high expectations set by its predecessor.

Immortals (2011)
R | 1h 50m

Theseus is a mortal man chosen by Zeus to lead the fight against the ruthless King Hyperion, who is on a rampage across Greece to obtain a weapon that can destroy humanity.


After weeks of searching, I finally discovered the title of this intriguing movie, which I had caught glimpses of during my bus rides to work. Deciding to watch it alone, I knew it wasn't suitable for kids. It's funny how I initially mistook Zeus for Orlando Bloom, but a quick check on IMDb revealed that the talented actor was, in fact, Luke Evans. Surprisingly, I found myself drawn more to his character than the lead actor's.

As the story unfolded, I couldn't help but ponder one thing—how could immortals die in the movie? It was a thought that lingered in my mind, questioning the very nature of their existence. Nonetheless, the movie held me captivated with its unique narrative and engaging performances. Exploring the world of immortals and their struggles, it offered a fresh perspective on the concept of eternal life and the challenges that come with it. Despite the initial confusion about the characters, the movie left a lasting impression, prompting me to reflect on the complexities of immortality and the transient nature of life.

Captain America: The First Avenger (2011)
PG-13 | 2h 4m


After being deemed unfit for military service, Steve Rogers volunteers for a top secret research project that turns him into Captain America, a superhero dedicated to defending USA ideals

In our household, it's customary for my kids and me to associate ourselves with the characters in the movies we watch. In this particular film, my second son enthusiastically claimed the role of Captain America. Despite being slim and small, I couldn't help but playfully tease him about it, saying, "You'll grow up big and strong just like him!" I encouraged him to eat lots of vegetables and maintain a healthy diet to fuel his growth and development. It's a fun way to connect with the movie and, at the same time, instill in him the importance of making healthy choices that will support his growth and well-being. Who knows, maybe one day he'll embrace the qualities of his favorite superhero, both in strength and character!

Howl's Moving Castle (2004)
PG | 1h 59m

When an unconfident young woman is cursed with an old body by a spiteful witch, her only chance of breaking the spell lies with a self-indulgent yet insecure young wizard and his companions in his legged, walking home.


After much urging from my youngest sister, I finally decided to watch this animated movie, and I'm so glad I gave in to her recommendation. As someone who has always been amused by fantasy fiction and utterly fascinated by magic and witchery, this movie spoke directly to my heart, making it an instant favorite. I found myself so captivated by the enchanting world it presented that I couldn't resist watching it not just once, but twice in a single day. It's rare for a movie to evoke such a strong response from me, but this one earned a perfect 10 out of 10 stars in my book. The delightful blend of fantasy elements, endearing characters, and a heartwarming storyline left me thoroughly enchanted, and I'm certain it will remain a cherished film in my collection for a long time to come.

Megamind (2010)
PG | 1h 35m

The supervillain Megamind finally defeats his nemesis, the superhero Metro Man. But without a hero, he loses all purpose and must find new meaning to his life.


While this may be categorized as an animated movie for kids, it offered a valuable lesson even from an adult's perspective. It served as a poignant reminder that life has a way of surprising us with unexpected twists and turns. Sometimes, we find ourselves content with what we have, believing it's the right path, only to discover that true happiness lies elsewhere. The film beautifully captured the essence of this realization, urging us to be open to new possibilities and embrace the journey of self-discovery. Its profound message resonated with me, as it gently reminded me to remain receptive to life's surprises and to be brave enough to pursue the path that brings genuine joy and fulfillment. Beyond its colorful animation, this movie held a meaningful narrative that transcends age, making it a truly impactful and enlightening watch for all.

Hotel Transylvania (2012)
PG | 1h 31m

Dracula, who operates a high-end resort away from the human world, goes into overprotective mode when a boy discovers the resort and falls for the count's teen-aged daughter.


This heartwarming movie brought joy and entertainment to both me and my kids. As we watched, it unexpectedly reminded me of our dear dad, filling my heart with a bittersweet mix of emotions and making me miss him even more :(. The portrayal of the over-protective dad in the film resonated deeply, evoking memories of similar themes from the beloved movie "Finding Nemo." The strong bond between a parent and child, the challenges of letting go, and the overwhelming love that parents have for their kids were all beautifully depicted, striking a chord with my own experiences as a parent. Despite the moments of nostalgia and longing, the movie ultimately left us with a sense of warmth and comfort, reminding us of the enduring power of family connections and the love that transcends time and distance.

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