One more chance for One Life...and a review!

                Hello everyone, you may call me TheCinemaChick.  I’m all about what’s hip, what’s cool and what’s new.  So, let’s talk about what’s new in theaters.  Well, it’s also limited.  There were two showings of this film and tonight was the first.  So that means there is only one more chance to see this.  That’s right, your only other chance to see “One Life” is this Sunday at 7 PM at Harkins Theater.  Now, you’re probably wondering why you should see this movie.  Well, for one, it’s really, really, awesome.  I’m not kidding.  Visually, the entire thing is just beautiful.  Not only do you get to see a bunch of adorable baby animals, you get to see where they live.

                And the documentary doesn’t just stay in one area.  It’s like a worldwide trip that goes from Florida to Africa and back up to Canada.  If that’s not enticing enough, you have to take my word on all this.  The cinematography is to die for.  It’s like a high definition masterpiece.  While watching, I was amazed at how close the cameras could get to the animals and still get an amazing shot.  Plus, the documentary was so bright and colorful.  I never would have known there is such thing as a strawberry poison frog if I hadn’t seen this.  It’s tiny, bright red, climbs trees.  Did you know it’s also smaller than a human thumbnail?

                Or…there’s a frog in South America that can literally bounce of stones when it falls from a great height.  It’s called a stone toad.  I guess that should have been obvious.  It can’t hop, but I can climb up mountains.  When it encounters its archenemy, the frog eating spider, it just tumbles down.  What was really cool about it is that it lives near a waterfall and it’s just like the falls from the Pixar movie “Up”. 

                I could go on and on about each animal that was shown, but I shouldn’t.  This is one of those cases when something is so good, I dare not ruin it.  Also, it’s no one long drawn out thing.  “One Life” is almost like a series of short films.  With each species, there is a new story.  There’s no confusion as to whether you’re watching something about capuchin monkeys or komodo dragons.  And the transition is seamless so you’re not taken away from the experience.  Each location is written out in a small subtitle so you always know where you are.  It’s noticeable but not thrown in your face.

                Normally, I’m not a fan of documentaries, but this one really got me.  It was just a bunch of facts being thrown out as you watched the film.  It actually had moments of humor, sadness, joy, fear…it ran the gamut of emotions.  There were only ten people in my showing, which is a little sad, but that means ten people got to enjoy it.  I wish I had asked them what they thought, but most of them hurried out, like normal people do at theaters.  We were all laughing about the stag beetles though.  See, the male tries to find a female by climbing a tree.  He encounters rivals but has to throw them off the branch in order to proceed.  If the female rejects him, he throws her down too.

                There are some moments that might be scary to little kids.  Seeing an ostrich get taken down by three cheetahs disturbed me a little.  I also got a little nauseated seeing a group of komodo dragons devour a water buffalo.  It’s not graphic at all.  The violence and gore is tasteful.  For me it was just the fact that the dragons killed a buffalo and I felt sad for it.  Then I realized I didn’t know a giant lizard could take down an animal that huge.

                I usually need a few hours to soak something in before I review it.  “One Life” made me want to go to the library and learn more.  There is so much information packed into the 85 minute run time.  That’s really the only thing that bugs me.  It was too short.  I mean there was about 10,000 hours of material shot, but they only used 85 minutes?  I wish it had been much longer.  Well, maybe not much…but still, there was room for more.

                Having Daniel Craig narrate the film was a very wise idea.  His voice was very smooth and relaxing.  He taught without sounding like he was lecturing.  One again, I wish there was more of it.

                As you all know, I rarely see a film that leaves me speechless.  And when I do, it usually means it was just that bad.  This is not the case.  “One Life” is an amazing film that you can take the whole family too.  Seriously!  For me, I think about my four and six year old nephews.  If I think they could see it, then it is suitable for all children.  Not only is it visually stunning, it’s packed full of cool information about animals and the planet.  I would seriously see it again.  I can’t because I’m going out of town for my great aunt’s birthday, but you should.

                The ONLY other showing for “One Life” is this Sunday at 7 PM at Harkins Theater.  It’s located in Southlake, over in the town center.  It’s only 85 minutes, about an hour and twenty five minutes.  You could easily do dinner and a movie. 

                I cannot recommend this film enough.  I’ve already got it on my best 13 of ’13 list.  It’s seriously that amazing.  It’s something you should not miss. 

                And if that’s not convincing enough…there’s a baby ibex climbing a mountain in it.  You can’t say no to the baby ibex.  There are birds that eat bones.  Monkeys know how to crack nuts with rocks.  The film even has a baby elephant stuck in mud!  Baby elephant, mud and Grandma Elephant coming to the rescue equal total awesome-ness.

                I’m TheCinemaChick and I wish a very happy birthday to my great aunt.

One Life, Two Chances to Catch It

                Hello world of internet blog readers and potential movie goers!  I am the one and only, TheCinemaChick and I let you know what’s good out there.  Well, I’m behind one review, but when opportunity knocks, you take it.  So today, let’s talk about life and love and birth.  Now, imagine someone much cooler than me talking about it.  Picture Daniel Craig talking to you about all that.  Now, you’re probably going, “CinemaChick, where can I see such an awesome thing?”

                You are in luck because such a thing exists.  There is a BBC wildlife documentary called “One Life” that is a very limited showing.  For some of you, this may be a bit short notice, but if you have the chance to see it, go see it!  If you don’t know what “One Life” is, don’t worry.  I’ll fill you in on the details, so lets get started.

                Put simply, it is a story about the journeys we all face in life.  And by we, I don’t just mean you and me.  If you think about it, don’t humans and animals all have some of the same goals?  We are born and learn how to survive from day one.  We have a nurturing parent (in most cases) and as soon as we can manage ourselves on two feet, life becomes nonstop.  Eventually, it becomes a life long struggle to find yourself, to explore the world and even to find love.  Both humans and animal live to fulfill specific needs.  We’re not so different after all.  That’s what “One Life” is about.

Narrated by Daniel Craig, the documentary shows the struggles and triumphs of all living things, whether they have four legs, two legs, fins, wings or flippers. It goes to show that we really are connected in the wondrous circle of life.  And if you don’t believe me, definitely check out “One Life”.  It’s got some awesome footage in there.  In fact, there was over  10,000 hours of footage taken for this.  So there is a lot you will see.  Think about it, they pulled out the best just for this showing.  There’s no way you can say no now. 

Of course, let’s ask the obvious question, the one I have been avoiding since we began this lovely little blog.  Go ahead and ask it. 

“CinemaChick, where can I see such a beautiful masterpiece?”

Well, I am thrilled that you asked.   “One Life” is showing at Harkins Theaters.  Now, I go to the one in Southlake.  It happens to be the closest one to me.   I’ll admit, I absolutely love going there.  Also, this is seriously just my opinion.  I’ve mentioned before that I have mobility issues due to a complication from spinal surgery.  The managers have actually approached me and asked if they can do anything to help me.  During the Marvel marathon, they made sure no one pushed me over.  I have been to many theaters in my area and I can say in all honesty, Harkins really cares about their customers.  They listen to all suggestions (or at least mine) and improve their theater.  I have never experienced a sticky floor, never seen a dirty bathroom and the popcorn is seriously always fresh.

Now, Harkins is showing this film on February 21. 2013, which is this Thursday, but there is another showing on Sunday, the 24^th.  It’s also not rated, which means you can take the little ones to see this film.  There may be some scenes that scare them.  Like I said, it’s a lovely little nonfiction piece that celebrates life and all its adventures.  It’s an in depth look at the diversity and tenacity of the heart.

If you can’t come to Harkins Southlake with me, don’t worry.  Check your local Harkins Theater to see if it is playing, which it should be.  Both showings will be at 7:00 PM.  I know it’s short notice, but trust me, it’ll be worth it.  Think of it as a great educational movie for the little ones.  It’s a great chance for them to see a documentary.  Mothers, there’s also stories about protecting and nurturing their offspring.  No one can say no to adorable baby animals!

If you don’t believe me, read my review on Friday.  I’m going on Thursday, so I will tell you what I think on Friday.  My opinion won’t change.  I will still see it as a fascinating look into the natural world.  The way I see it, no matter what, there is always something to learn.  I’m 28 and I still have tons to figure out.  I know Thursday is a strange day to see a movie, since a lot of people have to go to work and/or school in the morning.  Well, guess what?  “One Life” is 85 minutes.  You don’t have to worry about being out til midnight and if you bring younger ones, they will still be able to make bedtime.

I will leave you with the trailer for “One Life”.  I’ve watched it several times and it just looks amazing.  Enjoy this glimpse into nature:

I'm TheCinemaChick and I believe I'll see you at the show.

Ultimate Marvel Movie Marathon!

Here are the questions:

1. In "Iron Man" what is the name of Tony Stark's artificial intelligence computer program and who voices it?

2. In "Iron Man 2", Mickey Rourke plays Ivan Vanko.  He demands one thing before he starts working for the bad guy.  What is it?

3. Three actors have portrayed The Incredible Hulk.  Name 2 of them.

4. Thor has a hammer.  The hammer has a name.  What is the name?  (SPELLING COUNTS)

5. What is Captain America's shield made of?

6. Who is directing "The Avengers"?


My rules:

1. 18 and over please.

2. Answers must be correct (and one spelled correctly)

3. If you leave out any information (name, email address or answers) it will mean that I probably won't pick you as the winner.

4. The contest will run for one week, starting at midnight.  So, from April 11 to April 18, you have a chance to win.

5. One entry per person.

And I am working from a script, so I'm sorry if I keep looking away or down.  I'm new to the world of scripted vlogs.  I am very excited to be doing this and I can't wait to see your answers.

More info is available here if you need it:
http://www.harkinstheatres.com/Avengers.aspx

Good luck everyone!



Questions?  Comments?  Concerns?
Tweet me! @TheCinemaChick

My First Giveaway!!

            Hey everyone’s who survived Thanksgiving, I’m TheCinemaChick and I bring you good tidings!  While I’m not entirely sure what a tiding is, I bring you good ones.  If you’re reading this, that means one thing.

            You want free stuff!  Of course!  Why else would you be reading this when the title clearly states “My first giveaway”?  If you were expecting something else, I apologize sincerely for the confusion and offer you…a hug.  That’s the best I can do for now since Black Friday shopping has cleaned me out.  Yes, I braved the crowds and bought…almost nothing really.  MovieMamma wanted some canvas bags so that’s all I got.  Well and I picked up Fry’s Christmas gift.  Can’t tell you what I got her, it’s a surprise.

            Now, as you know, I have vouchers that can get you a FREE Harkins Theater Loyalty Cup and shirt.  What’s so awesome about that?  Haven’t you been paying attention?  If you wear the shirt to the theater, it means free medium popcorn.  Take the cup with you and you get a refill for one dollar.  Yeah, a single dollar, four quarters, ten dimes…for a soda!  Come on, you have to admit this is pretty cool!

            Now, I have the questions picked out.  There will be three questions.  So, before I tell you what those are, I suppose I should, you know…have rules…to keep things fair, I guess.

            TheCinemaChick’s Rules for this give away are as follows:

1. The answers must be correct.  I’m not doing a two out of three here, I want all of them answered.
2. Please be over 18.  If you are a minor, parental consent would be appreciated.
3. The winner will be notified via email. 
4. I’d like to say no cheating but…I can’t physically stop anyone from doing it…so…I guess you can Google the answers.
5. Everyone is eligible, except for Fry and Kit Kat.  They knew the questions beforehand and therefore cannot enter.  Sorry guys.
6. The winner will receive further instructions in their email…unless they live down the street from me.  I don’t know, the winner could end up being my neighbor or something.
7. The prizes will be sent in the mail.
8. If you don’t win, I’m sorry, maybe another time.

            A couple of things I’d like to point out before starting this:

            I might do another giveaway through the blog, but I don’t know.  That is entirely up to the lovely people at Harkins Theater.  If they wish to do this again, then I will certainly repeat this.  I’ll try to mix it up and keep things fresh for you.

            And now, the moment you’ve all been waiting for…the questions!

            Question 1: In Breaking Dawn, Edward and Bella have a daughter named Renesmee.  What is her middle name?

            Question 2: How many times did I say Tom Hanks in my “How many times will I say Tim Hanks” blog?

            Question 3: What was the first movie I reviewed?

            Answer those three questions and the Harkins prize is yours.  Its first come, first serve, so get your guesses in as soon as you can.

            Please leave your answers in the comments, along a valid email address so I can get in contact with you.  I will do a separate blog to announce who won.

            I’m TheCinemaChick and I bid you all good luck.

Harkins 2012 Loyalty Cups and Shirts!

            Hello blog readers of the state, nation and world!  I go by TheCinemaChick and I write about movies.  Once again, I don’t have a film to review but instead, I have an announcement.   Trust me, it's a good one too.

            As you all know, I often get notices from Harkins Theater about marathons and stuff, but today, I’m going to talk about an awesome thing they do.  In one of my previous blogs, I discussed a few ways to save money when at the movies.  I said some theaters have cups that you purchase and bring back for cheap refills.  Seeing as it’s almost the end of 2011, many of these promotional items will expire soon.

            Don’t feel blue, for with a new year comes a new cup.  I know that sounds a little strange, but hear me out on this one.  This little story has a point, I promise.

“But CinemaChick, why should I get a new cup?”

            Because it’s a cup that you can bring to any Harkins theater in the year 2012 and pay a single dollar for a refill.  Think about that for a moment.  A lot of theaters you go to want to charge $6 for a soda.  If you’re like me and you see up to three or four movies a week, that could cost up to $24.  That’s an insane price to pay.  Since my math skills aren’t the best, I’m not going to go into how much a month and year that would cost.  Let’s just all agree to say “That’s a lot of money, CinemaChick!”

            Exactly.  I like saving money.  I’m the kind of girl who won’t go out to eat unless I have coupons tucked away in my purse.  Let’s be honest, in this economy, any dollar that can be saved is great.

            Now, I hit up the Southlake Harkins Theater whenever I can.  The seats are comfy, the staff is friendly and I love the loyalty cups.  And if you have a loyalty shirt, there are even more benefits.  Who wouldn’t want a free medium popcorn every time they walked in with this shirt on?

           *Side note: The 2012 Harkins Loyalty Cups and shirts are not available yet.  They will be released on November 17.  They can be purchased online or at the theater, whichever makes you happy.

            Interested?  I knew you would be.

            By the way, keep reading.  I might just be giving away one of these cups and shirts through this blog.  Who wouldn’t like free stuff?

            Well, I’m TheCinemaChick and I’m going to be awesome tonight.

            By the way, if you want more information, go to Harkins Theater’s official website.  http://www.harkinstheatres.com/  They have areas for children to stay if you can’t find a babysitter and have movie events on occasion.  

            Don’t forget, the Ultimate Twilight Marathon is rapidly approaching.  I do not know if there are tickets left, so contact the theater for more information.  Fry and I will be there, along with Unown.  Maybe I’ll reveal my identity, maybe I won’t.  All I’ll tell you is that I might be a werewolf in disguise.