Stephanie Beaumont

Welcome back Dear Reader for what I do hope will be a very helpful feature. First I should tell you, I have two favourite seasons – Autumn and Awards! And before the latter draws to a close for another year, I want to take a moment of your time to hearken back to some big big winners from way way back in the day. I mean those Best Picture title holders that were all the rage in the moment, yet over time have been relegated to the far far end of the rows and rows of streaming categories. Back in my day we didn’t have to endlessly scroll through the litany of lesser-thans. We needed only proceed to the nearest Blockbuster where we could peruse an entire wall of winners perched proudly for your rental pleasure. But however exalted I deemed the display, I recognize now how all that ‘home viewing’ evolved into where we are today – with these gems slowly fading from your purview. A demise most aptly delivered by the fictional character of legendary Oscar winning screenwriter, Arthur Abbott in Nancy Meyers THE HOLIDAY. Arthur explains while reading the paper “I counted 9 movies are opening today. I remember when 9 movies would open in a month. Now a picture has to make a killing the first weekend or they’re dead… I came to Hollywood over 60 years ago, and immediately fell in love with motion pictures….When I first arrived in Tinseltown, there were no cineplexes or multiplexes. No such thing as a Blockbuster or DVD. I was here before conglomerates owned the studios. Before pictures had special effects teams. And definitely before box office results were reported like baseball scores on the nightly news.” Now, I will grant you it was great when the Academy of Motion Picture Arts & Sciences expanded the Best Picture category from 5 to 10 nominees in 2010. Did it accommodate more of the deserving? For sure! But I’d be willing to bet in the 15 years since, most of you would be hard pressed to list all the winners, let alone their fellow nominees. Indeed, we have arrived at the era of ‘excess and immediacy’; too many options coupled with fleeting attention spans spell pending obscurity for even the greatest among them. So while there’s no going back, I was thinking – before the 98^th Annual Academy Awards are broadcast live on March 15^th – I could draw your attention to a few previous Best Picture Winners that deserve your attention – for the first time or once again may they live on and not fade away.

Starting with IT HAPPENED ONE NIGHT. A movie that we romantic comedy fans regard as ‘when it all started,’ but if you haven’t seen it my friends, treat yourself to the film that took home 5 Oscars including Best Picture back in 1934.  Frank Capra won Best Director for this film featuring “A rogue reporter trailing a runaway heiress for a big story joins her on a bus heading from Florida to New York and they end up stuck with each other when the bus leaves them behind at one of the stops along the way.” Hollywood legends Clark Gable and Claudette Colbert took home the Best Actor Oscars in their respective categories all thanks to an Oscar winning Adapted script by Robert Riskin. It’s a classic for all the right reasons and for all you romcom fanatics – pure joy! Oh, it’s definitely worth falling in love with over and over again. IT HAPPENED ONE NIGHT is streaming now on Hollywood Suite part of the Prime Video collection.

If you grew up in Ontario like I did, when I did – there’s a good chance your folks tuned in every week to Elwy Yost’s “Saturday Night at the Movies”. That meant, with only one TV in the house (perish the thought), you were tuning in too. Back then his show was one of the few ways you could see old classics (apart from those PBS marathons). He used to give you the inside scoop on the films and interview the stars and filmmakers about their experience making it. Looking back on it now, it was groundbreaking television, and in retrospect really formed my love of movies and movie making. I mention that because it was on “Saturday Night at the Movies” where I first saw HOW GREEN WAS MY VALLEY. It was also the first time I can recall seeing my mom cry. Watch it for yourself and you’ll see why she did. Maureen O’Hara is beyond incredible, as are all the performances in this movie based “at the turn of the century in a Welsh mining village, as the Morgans, he stern, she gentle, raise coal-mining sons and hope their youngest will find a better life.” HOW GREEN WAS MY VALLEY is available to rent/buy through most streaming platforms.

Now before I get too heavy on the Black & White side of cinema, I’m going to list a few more of the classics that, if you’re any kind of cinephile you’re infinitely familiar, but for anyone reading who hasn’t seen the following Best Picture Winners, please do so at your first opportunity: CASABLANCA 1943 (CRAVE), AN AMERICAN IN PARIS 1951 (Prime Video), ON THE WATERFRONT 1954 (Prime Video) and THE APARTMENT 1960 (TUBI). All wonderful. All so worth watching (again and again).

I’m going to fast forward through the technical musical masterpieces of THE SOUND OF MUSIC 1965 (Disney+) and OLIVER 1968 (Prime Video), past the oh so epic GODFATHER 1972 and GODFATHER PART II 1974 (both on CRAVE), beyond my previously saluted film favourite ROCKY 1976 (CRAVE) with the hopes everyone out there who claims to love movies has seen all of those as they remain firmly ensconced in most “Best of” lists. I’ll leave you to watch those again at your leisure and point your attention to the following oh-so-worthwhile winning films that may have fallen off your radar.

Have you seen KRAMER VS. KRAMER?! Because I’m here to tell you – this movie is a must see, and once you do, it never leaves you. The genre listed on IMDb is “legal drama” which explains the title, but this movie is a masterclass in acting. It is real and raw and, have mercy, is it amazing. It is quiet without question, but the performances of Dustin Hoffman and Meryl Streep will resonate through the rafters, and Justin Henry as their son… look! Grab some tissue and get ready for a roller coaster of emotions. KRAMER VS. KRAMER is streaming now on STARZ.

Since we’re on the topic of tearjerkers, if that’s your scene, you haven’t lived until you’ve watch James L. Brooks Best Picture Winner TERMS OF ENDEARMENT 1983.  It’s all in the tagline – “Come to laugh. Come to cry. Come to care. Come to terms.” I promise you will laugh plenty, and I guarantee you will shed a ton of tears… or, at the very least, well up way more than you have before as Shirley MacLaine plays widow “Aurora Greenway, who juggles her own struggles with a new romantic interest while trying to sort out the emotional problems of her daughter who’s married to a philandering husband.”  Jack Nicholson, Debra Winger, Jeff Daniels, John Lithgow and Danny DeVito round out the incredible cast of grownups. The little kids are pretty spectacular too. I gave a quick shout out to this film in my last feature and I still can’t believe how many people told me they’d never heard of it. So, I’ll tell you now what I told all of them – treat yourself and watch it as soon as possible!

Since we’re on the subject of Jack Nicholson, I’m going to tell you about THE DEPARTED. Jack is part of a super-packed slate of powerhouse actors in this crime thriller that took home the gold in 2006. I’ll confess, I didn’t catch this one during its theatrical release days. It wasn’t until much later, following my second binge of OZARK, when Netflix slipped it into my “Top Picks for You” cue. Sometimes their suggestions are more hurtful than hit, but after recalling the initial buzz around this one I gave in and watched, and boy – were they bang on! Martin Scorsese took home the Oscar for his direction of this gripping drama about “an undercover cop and a mole in the police attempt to identify each other while infiltrating an Irish gang in South Boston.” The ensemble includes Matt Damon, Leonardo DiCaprio, Martin Sheen, Mark Wahlberg, Alec Baldwin and more. Oh, it’s such a great ride with some twists and turns you truly don’t see coming. Watch and you’ll see. THE DEPARTED is streaming now on CRAVE.

I’m sure you’ve heard of that saying “It was life imitating art.” When it comes to the 2012 Best Picture winner ARGO, a more appropriate description might be “art imitating life imitating art.” Here’s how the logline reads: “Acting under the cover of a Hollywood producer scouting a location for a science fiction film, a CIA agent launches a dangerous operation to rescue six Americans in Tehran during the U.S. hostage crisis in Iran in 1979.” Yes, based on a true story! In fact Chris Terrio took home the Oscar for his adaptation of the 1999 memoir “The Master of Disguise” by U.S. CIA operative Tony Mendez and an article by Joshuah Bearman that appeared in Wired magazine entitled “The Great Escape: How the CIA Used a Fake Sci-Fi Flick to Rescue Americans from Tehran.” It’s edge-of-your-seat stuff, and knowing it all really happened in real life makes it even more so. For all the real life rundown, just Google “The Canadian Caper”. Ben Affleck directs this big screen telling and stars alongside a stellar cast that includes Bryan Cranston, John Goodman, Alan Arkin, Victor Garber, Scoot McNairy and so many more. It’s a must see to be sure of it!!! ARGO is streaming now Paramount +.

A few more of my special “must see” mentions include SPOTLIGHT 2015 (Prime Video) which has been in the news a lot lately as it reflects a time when America’s First Amendment regarding Freedom of the Press was assured and not attacked as it is today. It’s based on a true story and oh so powerful in its telling. I gave great salute toCODA 2021 in my New Year’s feature so read that here and know for sure that one will have you feeling all the feels. Finally, I want to include GREEN BOOK which took home the Oscar back in 2018 amidst a crazy amount of controversy. I don’t want to rehash the criticisms, but rather salute the wonderful performances by the always outstanding Mahershala Ali and the equally incomparable Viggo Mortensen.

Those are just a few of my pics for past Best Picture Winners to watch (or watch again). With any luck, you’ll find a few worth remembering too and decide to pass them on to your film-loving friends! For a complete list of Best Picture winners from the past 97 years head to oscars.org, and be sure to tune in to CTV/ABC/HULU for the live broadcast of the 98^th Annual Academy Awards on Sunday, March 15^th They’ll be handing out the hardware to the best of the best and I simply can’t wait!

Hello Dear Reader and Happy Valentine’s Day! Unless you’ve found this article beforehand or are maybe coming to it long after, in which case Happy Love Every Day! Between you and me, I feel like that should really be our goal anyway; not just on the one day a year designated by greeting card companies and florists. Of course, I’m all for doubling up that love on that day if you wish.  Who doesn’t love chocolates in heart-shaped boxes and dinner reservations? It’s just, as a self-proclaimed hopeless romantic, I believe you should be putting love into every day, to those around you for sure and most importantly to yourself! It does a heart good to focus on love, that’s for certain, and for me that’s always included the movies! Now, I know it’s getting harder and harder to come by on the big screen. These days, the majority of films that find their way into theatres are more apt to include dystopian landscapes and super powers than they are tender moments and heart-string-pulling plot lines. That’s precisely the reason I’ve compiled the perfect collection of movies to celebrate the sweetest side of love. Oh sure, there’ll be some kind of kerfuffles that aim to keep the two hearts from connecting – what’s a good story without a smidge of conflict to keep it interesting – but rest assured when it’s all said and done you’ll see love will prevail. And I’ve included a little something for everyone from classics to contemporary, perfect pairings, opposites attracting and second chances no one saw coming. Oh, it’s a heartfelt collection alright – so let’s get to it.

Starting with an ever so sweet romcom that made its way into theatres two decades ago – long before the lead actress and actor achieved superstar status. Now he’s an Academy Award Winner and Best Selling Author, and she’s a mega award-winning, platinum selling record artist, clothing designer, beauty company magnate, film exec. and full fledged box office draw to boot. Back in 2001, however, when Matthew McConaughey played Dr. Steve Edison and Jennifer Lopez took on the title role of THE WEDDING PLANNER, it’s amazing to note they were not the studio’s first choice for leads. In fact, Brendan Fraser of THE MUMMY fame and Sarah Michelle Gellar aka BUFFY THE VAMPIRE SLAYER were both cast and both dropped out because of scheduling conflicts. So just like in the movie – fate took a hand, and the on-screen chemistry between McConaughey and Lopez took over in this full-on old-fashioned romantic comedy about love, destiny and other events you just can’t plan for. As for the storyline (without giving too much away) Mary Fiore, one of San Francisco’s best wedding planners, has her life saved by a dashing stranger who she falls for in a heartbeat, only to discover he’s engaged to her biggest client. The story features a wonderful cast of supporting characters, plenty of plot twists and turns, some truly swoon-worthy scenes and lots of laughs along the way to an ending that was simply destined to be. The soundtrack is filled with plenty of lovely tunes including the world record setting song that rolls over the closing credits courtesy of the star herself – “Love Don’t Cost A Thing”. Always with her eye on awesome, Ms. Lopez launched her second studio album simultaneously with the release of the movie and blew the doors off both the box office and the billboard charts – making JLo the first woman to have a number one album and number one film in the same week. THE WEDDING PLANNER is available to buy/rent on Prime Video.

“Alright, alright, alright” (see what I did there), let’s keep this Love Every Day collection of heartwarming flicks clicking along to the most awarded romantic comedy on the list.  And while it was Jessica Lange who took home the Oscar and Golden Globe for Best Actress in the film, you’d be hard pressed to find a more formidable female on-screen presence than that of Dustin Hoffman as Dorothy Micheals. That blockbuster of a romcom of course is TOOTSIE in which both Lange and Hoffman play actors. She’s Julie Nichols who’s already a star on the popular daytime (fictional) soap opera, Southwest General. He’s Michael Dorsey, an out-of-work actor who, after a series of deflating auditions, dawns a wig, a ton of make-up, some serious control top hose and other important under-garments to audition for the role of hospital administrator Emily Kimberly. And wouldn’t you know it – he finally lands a job on TV. As you might imagine tremendous comedy ensues, both on the set of the soap and off-camera, with Michael’s crazy roommate Jeff played by Bill Murray and his long-suffering girlfriend Sandy played by the late great Teri Garr. While Michael did plan on making money from his part on the soap, he never imagined he’d fall in love with his co-star. A co-star who, you guessed it, only knows him as a rather matronly woman. I won’t tell you how it ends, but I will tell you it’s an absolutely phenomenal film, complete with an Oscar-nominated original soundtrack song that went all the way to number one on the AC charts back in 1982 – “It Might Be You” by Stephen Bishop. It’s worth noting that Hollywood legendary Sydney Pollack not only directed the film, but co-starred as Dustin Hoffman’s agent in the movie. His performance, along with the entire cast, was start to finish flawless, funny and moving. It’s no wonder TOOTSIE landed in the #2 slot on the American Film Institute’s 100 years 100 Laughs list. TOOTSIE is available to stream on STARZ.

I’m going to need you to bear with me for a second when I tell you the title of the next one, but not before we roll it back to a kinder gentler time. Back to 1995 when the leader of the free world was Andrew Shepherd. Oh sure, in real life it was Bill Clinton who held the title, but in the Aaron Sorkin written, Rob Reiner directed romantic comedy THE AMERICAN PRESIDENT, it was Michael Douglas who took on the title role with tremendous charm and fantastic finesse. The elevator pitch goes like this “A widowed U.S. President running for reelection and an environmental lobbyist fall in love. It’s all above-board, but politics is perception, and sparks fly anyway.” And boy do they ever. Annette Bening plays the lobbyist Sydney Ellen Wade, who’s just moved to Washington on a mission amidst President Shepherd’s bid for reelection. Sorkin’s gift for weaving wonderful stories within the White House is second to none. The blend of incredible characters and witty dialogue is spectacular and the love between Sydney and the President is motion picture perfection. Reiner turned to his go to composer Marc Shaiman to brilliantly score the film which includes a heart-stirring arrangement of a classic overture from Rodgers and Hammerstein’s 1951 musical THE KING AND I. The song is “I Have Dreamed” and plays as the couple take to the dance floor on their first date, which just happens to be during a black tie state dinner. Just imagine… how romantic.

THE AMERICAN PRESIDENT marks the second time the incomparable Aaron Sorkin and the late great legend Rob Reiner would work together, having the 1992 smash A FEW GOOD MEN to their combined credit. This was the third time Reiner worked with Marc Shaiman for his film scores, with a grand total of 20 projects as a director/composer team at the time of Reiner’s untimely passing late 2025. This seems like the perfect time to mention they first joined forces for my favourite romantic comedy of all time – after being introduced by their mutual friend and the film’s star Billy Crystal. Now before you check my previous features, I’ll admit I have included WHEN HARRY MET SALLY before – but come on! This feature’s here to salute Valentine’s Day and Love Every Day, so please, I implore you – let there be love for WHEN HARRY MET SALLY and naturally all the phenomenal music featured on its Grammy-winning soundtrack. Fall in love with it for yourself as it’s available to purchase on Prime Video.

While all the movies in our Love Every Day collection fall under the same ‘Romantic Comedy’ umbrella, the characters in each story vary greatly. While love is the common thread for all our on-screen couples, the tapestry they weave on their way to a happy ending can really come at it from all directions. Such is the case in the plot presented by our next feature THE PROPOSAL. Dreamy Ryan Reynolds stars as Andrew Paxton, a beleaguered but determined-to-please assistant to beyond-demanding publishing executive Margaret Tate played by the always sensational Sandra Bullock. Things go sideways for Margaret when her work visa is set to expire and in an effort to avoid deportation she forces poor Andrew to marry her. Things go south for Andrew when the couple flies north to visit his family in Alaska. That’s where the comedy continues and the real love story begins. I adore this movie and I’m over the moon for its supporting cast that includes Craig T. Nelson, Mary Steenburgen and Betty White. Everyone plays their part to perfection and the screenplay by Peter Chiarelli is funny for sure, but it’s the tender moments between Bullock and Reynolds that really get me in this movie. The ones that move you to tears and then, just before it gets too serious, have you laughing again in spite of yourself. Case in point, the scene where Margaret tells Andrew about her life before they met in an effort to prepare for their immigration interview. Some little known facts, some interesting details and some really sad memories. It’s the first time the two really let their ‘assistant’ and ‘boss’ animosity levels drop and we see the exact moment this comedy turns romantic. Not so romantic, however, is the song they sing right after that moment – the certified platinum single “It Takes Two” by Rob Base & DJ EZ Rock. You just have to see it to believe for yourself. You can find THE PROPOSAL streaming on STARZ.

Now if this is the first time you’ve read a feature of mine, you should know I fiercely frown on SPOILERS, but it’s not giving anything away to note, for much of movie history, the traditional romantic comedy typically resolves with the leads wrapped in each others arms, or at the very least caught up in each other’s gaze. Every now and again, however, there’s a movie that ticks all the romcom boxes without the text book ‘happily ever after’ ending. I mention that only so that you’ll know where we’re heading with our next two movies, both of which were written and directed by the one and only James L. Brooks. And here’s the thing – Brooks believes the best kind of comedy reflects real life, so he’s always making sure the heart-swelling high notes are balanced by a healthy heaping of the heart-breaking lows. Need I remind you of his Oscar-winning smash TERMS OF ENDEARMENT?! Well anyway, in his 2004 film SPANGLISH he brings another perfectly balanced mix of emotions movie to the big screen and then some. The film stars popular Spanish actress Paz Vega as Flor. a single mother who immigrates to America from Mexico with the hopes of making a better life for her young daughter. Flor finds work with a the family of celebrated chef John Klaski, played by Adam Sandler, and his neurotic and needy wife Deborah played by Tea Leoni. First let me say, the cast is fantastic, the plot is warm and funny, messy and marvellous and everything you want in a romcom. Secondly, never let it be said that Adam Sandler isn’t an incredible actor. Oh sure, he’s a riot in HAPPY GILMORE and all those other slapstick flicks, but in SPANGLISH he’s truly flawless, and truth be told, he’s very easy to fall in love with. In fact, that’s where Brooks finds the hook for his signature heartbreak where Jack and Flor are concerned.I won’t tell you anymore. I’ll only say that when it’s all set to Hans Zimmer’s oh so romantic score – you best have a firm grip on those tissues my friend. Oh how I love SPANGLISH and I hope you do too. It’s available to stream on CRAVE.

On to another James L. Brooks film favourite of mine. One that hit theatres all the way back in 1987 and starred Holly Hunter as Jane Craig, a brilliantly gifted news producer; Albert Brooks as incredibly talented reporter Aaron Altman; and William Hurt, who plays the camera-worthy wanna-be-anchor Tom Grunick. In BROADCAST NEWS, we learn pretty quickly that Tom’s low IQ is the kind of thing that would typically turn Jane off, but instead his lovely looks have her heart racing. Meanwhile, poor Aaron who’s longing to be the one Jane loves,gets lumped in the friend category. So yeah, it’s your basic love triangle scenario, but throw in a non-stop newsroom, with massive layoffs on the line and things get even trickier. The writing is very smart, the performances are extraordinary and having worked in a newsroom myself, I can tell you not much has changed. The technology has for sure, but that organ-shifting pressure lives on, especially on the ‘live broadcast’ side of things. Oscar-winning composer Bill Conti does the score, but my favourite musical moment of movie takes place during a special live breaking news report, as Aaron’s turn on the motown classic “Midnight Train to Georgia” is really one for the ‘record’ books. Just watch and you’ll see – it’s a riot! You can stream/download BROADCAST NEWS now on Prime Video.

Next up on the Love Every Day movie list is Nancy Meyer’s 2023 smart, charming and oh-so-romantic comedy SOMETHING’S GOTTA GIVE. Jack Nicholson stars as perennial bachelor Harry Sandborn, who heads for the Hamptons for the weekend with his much younger girlfriend Marin played by Amanda Peet. Showing his age, Harry suffers a heart attack forcing him to hunker down and recuperate with Marin’s mother Erica Barry played by the late great Diane Keaton. Keanu Reeves takes on the role of young doctor Julian, who to tends to Harry and falls for Erica. Meanwhile Erica falls for Harry, and Harry maybe falls for Erica?! Well, suffice it to say the story is spectacular stuff indeed. When it came to shooting the scenes with Erica and Harry, writer/director Nancy Meyers said she created a ‘wall of sound.’ Basically, an on-set soundtrack if you will, that would play in the background and set the tone in scenes where they were acting alone with no dialogue. With Paris playing such a key role in the story (no spoilers) much of that ‘wall of sound’ music was French, plenty which made its way from on-set to the on-screen soundtrack. Songs like “Je Cherche un Homme”, “La Vie en Rose” and “C’est si bon”.

I adore SOMETHING’S GOTTA GIVE. Have I watched it a million times? Maybe. Will I watch it a million more? You bet. It ticks every single romantic comedy box and honestly gives a person hope. Hope that, no matter how old you might be, love can find you any time in life, and in a lot of cases, at a time when you least expect it. SOMETHING’S GOTTA GIVE is streaming on Prime Video.

Now I’m always amazed when someone can act in and direct a film, but as you’ll hear on the DVD commentary for this next heartwarming romcom, you’d know that with a story this close to her heart, Bonnie Hunt wouldn’t have it any other way. Bonnie co-wrote the screenplay for RETURN TO ME with her longtime creative partner and equally hilarious actor friend Don Lake, who also has a funny role in the film. Just hearing them recount how the movie was made – there’s no denying something magic was afoot. The film stars David Duchovny as architect Bob Ruland, whose life changes in an instant one night when his loving wife is killed in a car crash. Minnie Driver plays Grace Briggs, a young woman on the wait list for a heart transplant, whose life changes in an instant one night when she receives a healthy heart. Look I’m here to tell ya – you’ll laugh, you’ll cry and you’ll fall in love with this movie! And don’t get me started on the supporting cast of screen legends that includes the righteous Robert Logia and the incomparable Carroll O’Connor. This movie plays like a classic from days gone by when stories were sweet, and family was family, and love was true blue beautiful. Only fitting then that the soundtrack be filled with the greatest kind of swinging standards from the likes of Frank Sinatra, the Jackie Gleason orchestra and Mr. Dean Martin. In fact the title track features Dean’s original vocals as released on his record back in 1961 with an all new musical arrangement produced by Nicholas Pike and filmmaker Bonnie Hunt behind them. This new version allowed Bonnie to weave the music throughout the film just like a tailored score. Oh it’s beyond lovely. RETURN TO ME is streaming now on TUBI.

I’ll confess I’m over the moon for Dean Martin’s music, but that’s not only reason I love the final film in our Love Every Day collection of romcoms. Yes, it’s Dean’s signature song “That’s Amore” we hear play over the opening credits to Norman Jewison’s 1987 Academy Award Winning masterpiece MOONSTRUCK, but that’s just a smidge of what makes this love story one for the ages. The film follows Loretta Castorini, an Italian-American bookkeeper from Brooklyn who falls in love the fiery brother of the boring man she’s agreed to marry. I’m simplifying for time, but I’m here to tell ya, this movie has everything and more – including a stellar cast with award-winning performances. Cher won the Academy Award for Best Actress for her role as Loretta, Olympia Dukakis won the Oscar for Best Supporting Actress for her role as Loretta’s mother Rose, and John Patrick Shanley took home the hardware for Best Original Screenplay. The film also received nominations for Best Picture, and Best Direction as well as a best supporting actor nod for venerable Vincent Gardenia who played Cosmo Castorini. And here’s a fun fact, to this day whenever there’s a gigantic moon in the sky I say – “It’s Cosmo’s moon!” And since I believe this thing called love is linked ever so delicately with destiny I’ll leave you with the story Cher tells on the DVD commentary ~ how she wanted Nicolas Cage to play Ronny Cammareri so much that when the studio refused to hire him, she threatened to quit. Guess we know who won that round since it’s Nick Cage’s face that gets slapped twice as Cher yells “Snap out of it!” and it was his powerful portrayal of Ronny that catapulted Cage into the movie star stratosphere. You’ve just gotta love that! MOONSTRUCK is streaming now on CRAVE.

Here’s to a Happy Valentine’s Day and a happy Love Every Day Dear Reader ~ until next time! xosb

Hello Dear Reader, how’s 2026 going for your so far? Make any resolutions? Resolutions that you’ve kept? I ask that only because statistically speaking, by the second Friday of January aka “Quit Day” – the majority of folks have already abandoned their declared New Year’s resolutions. Maybe you’re like me and you’ve gone the ‘new year – new goals’ route. That gives me something to shoot for without feeling like a failure. So even though I’ve already missed a few installments in my 2026 goal of ‘hand-making something new every day,’ I can always make two or three on another day and catch up without the fear of failure a broken resolution can bring. But, regardless of your approach or on which day of 2026 you’re reading this – I’ve gotta believe we’re all out to make the most of this brand new year, and to that I say – GO FOR IT!!! In fact, it’s in that spirit that I bring you some incredible inspiration by way of this marvellous list of movies. All the films contain truly motivational messages and lovely life lessons, complete with extraordinary soundtracks too. And just as varied as I imagine our individual goals must be, so are the musical moments in the films featured – with everything from number one pop hits to Oscar nominated scores, R&B classics to ever so cheerful show tunes, moving originals written specifically for the screen to perfectly placed classics that accentuate the action.

Joy (2015)

First up JOY, the 2015 dramedy written and directed David O.Russell’s in which every musical element hits the perfect ‘can-do’ chord. Teaming up with Music Supervisor Susan Jacobs – story and song are perfectly woven together in this ‘believe in yourself and just go for it’ feeling film. JOY is a mostly fictionalized telling of a true-blue, rags-to-riches journey. It stars Jennifer Lawrence in her Oscar-nominated, Golden Globe-winning role as real-life inventor and entrepreneur Joy Mangano, The movie opens on a little girl full of big dreams and grand plans. She is smart and driven and resourceful. As the story proceeds we see Joy’s dreams take a backseat to family responsibilities. We witness her growing up surrounded by negativity. We watch as she constantly puts other people’s needs ahead of her own. We witness every hardship and are left only to marvel at how the spirit of that dreamer and brilliant inventor fights to stay alive. There are many life lessons in this movie, but perhaps the greatest take away can be found in the moments when Joy stands up for herself, speaks for herself, believes in herself and goes for it – no matter what. Case in point, the scene where she finally stands up to her step-sister and father – insisting that no one will talk about her business on her behalf anymore. As she marches out to take control of her destiny we hear Elvis Presley’s 1968 classic “A Little Less Conversation.” Time to take action indeed! David O. Selznick said “fundamentally JOY is about the soul of a person – what moves them to stay stuck or trapped and what moves them to break out and create something new – using every colour of life.” He wanted the film to inspire people. I sure hope
watching it inspires YOU to believe in yourself and go for it too in this new year! JOY is streaming now on Disney +.

Last Holiday (2006)

Now I imagine most of you have heard that famous quote from New Age author Deepak Chopra “The past is history, the future is a mystery, and this moment is a gift. That is why this moment is called ‘the present.” It’s a great mantra for any life, but what if you were told your future had a rapidly approaching expiration date? Like let’s say your doctor told you that you only had 3 more weeks to live? That’s the diagnosis a sweet store clerk gets after clunking her head on a cupboard door in the 2006 rom/com LAST HOLIDAY. Queen Latifa plays Georgia Bird who, up until that point had led a very modest life – going to work, dealing with a terrible boss, putting all her money into a savings account and placing all of her ‘someday’ dreams into a scrapbook she entitled The Book of Possibilities. Suddenly faced with a finite lifespan, Georgia decides to make the most of what little life she has left, so she quits that job, empties her bank account and sets out on trip of a lifetime. The soundtrack is jam-packed with stellar tunes from classics by Smokey Robinson and Marvin Gaye to pop hits from Gwen Stefani and the Queen herself. Given our topic for today and the true meaning behind this oh-so-charming film, I hope you’ll give a special listen to the truly apropos track from Madeleine Peyroux entitled “Don’t Wait too Long.” Hopefully you know by now I’m against spoilers, so I’ll only tell you LAST HOLIDAY has a happy ending and a ton of take-aways like – try new things, be adventurous, face your fears and many more, but fundamentally the biggest message is to make the most of every minute. Life is short so live it to the fullest and find all the happy you can in the right now. That’s a totally great goal for 2026! LAST HOLIDAY is available to rent/buy on Prime Video.

Into the Wild (2007)

When it came time to compile the motivational movies for this list, just like the lead characters in each of them, I knew everyone reading this feature would be facing this new year with a different set of circumstances. Some of you might have the means to make things happen instantly while others might need to fight through all sorts of adversity before realizing your goals. There might even be some folks who are looking to break away from the ‘comfortable’ path in 2026. To leave behind an ‘expectation-filled future’ set forth by your family and forge ahead on the road less travelled. That certainly was the case for Christopher McCandless. whose real-life adventures are chronicled in the 2007 release INTO THE WILD. Oscar winner Sean Penn wrote and directed this riveting story of a top student, premier athlete and son of a wealthy family who abandons all of his possessions, donates all of his savings to charity, leaves his comfortable life behind and hitchhikes to Alaska to live in the wilderness. By ditching the typical conventions and privilege in pursuit of life’s true meaning, Chris discovers every kind of challenge along the way. Emile Hirsch portrays McCandless
brilliantly through every heart-pounding, peaceful and character-building moment of the journey. It was columnist Jon Krakauer who first wrote an article on McCandless which he then expanded to a nonfiction book. It was the cover of that book that caught the eye of Penn and moved him to make the movie. Penn explains that in crafting the screenplay he consciously left out narrative to make room for songs, space to both tell the story and create a bridge between certain scenes. This was an approach he’d used in all his previously films, but with INTO THE WILD he felt he those songs should have a singular voice. Given the fact that Chris faces so much of his journey alone, Penn believed the songs would serve as the interior voice of the character. For that special task the director reached out to Pearl Jam’s front man Eddie Vedder, asking him to watch the movie and “if he felt something – then write it.” Vedder felt something alright – creating 2 pieces immediately after viewing, with 6 more to follow. Eddie reports he couldn’t remember writing the music so much “moving out of the way for the music to come through him.” How’s that for cool?! INTO THE WILD contains all kinds of motivational messages summed up by Chandless himself – “When you want something in life, you just gotta reach out and grab it,” and “The core of man’s spirit comes from new experiences.” And while I’d never suggest you copy Chris by cutting up your credit cards and hitting the highway for the wilds of Alaska – I do believe ‘forging your own path no matter what anyone says’ and ‘being true to you’ are some seriously solid goals for 2026 and beyond. INTO THE WILD is available to rent/buy on Apple Movies.

The Intern (2015)

It’s crazy when you think about it since it’s really just one day rolling into the next, but generation after generation folks all around the world recognize the momentousness of that particular stroke of midnight. When the calendar officially flips to a brand new year it feels like a fresh new start, like a clean slate – providing the perfect occasion embrace a new lease on life, no matter what stage of life you might find yourself. Something new was exactly what 70-year old widower Ben Whittaker was after in 2015 dramedy THE INTERN. Fed up with the boredom brought on by retirement Ben (played by Robert Dinero) applies for a ‘senior internship’ at a hip and happening online fashion website run by the relatively young and beyond brilliant Jules Ostin (played by Anne Hathaway.) Nancy Meyers wrote and directed this beautiful buddy film that illustrates oh so perfectly how people can make a difference at every age! The soundtrack pops with a delightful blend of current hits from the likes of Megan Trainor, Kendrick Lamar and Busta Rhymes mixed with legendary music makers like Ray Charles and Benny Goodman to name but a few. Oh, and the score crafted by Theodore Shapiro is pure perfection! For the record, I’m a huge fan of all things Nancy Meyers and THE INTERN is no exception. Amidst the unlikely friendships forged when a senior citizen joins the staff of a young start-up you’ll enjoy great laughs, sweet tears and some very important life lessons including ‘it’s never too late for a fresh start.’ THE INTERN is streaming now on Netflix.

Legally Blonde (2001)

Now I’ll be the first to admit, on the surface, this next feature film can come across as more fashion and fluff than moving and motivational, but fundamentally it’s a perfect fit for our focus today as it’s chock-o-block full of life lessons. Like ‘you can do anything you set your mind to,’ ‘don’t judge a book by it’s cover,’ ‘follow your gut instincts,’ ‘be kind,stay positive’ and ‘just be you!’ And those are just a few of the motivational mantras to be found in the 2001 rom/com LEGALLY BLONDE starring Reese Witherspoon as Elle Woods. A character now etched in movie history, burst onto the big screen as a pretty sorority girl who proved, with enough focus and hard work, you can achieve anything – and still look fabulous while you do it! The movie’s soundtrack is just as sweet complete with the big ear candy hit “Perfect Day” by Hoku. And for anyone out there whose goals include writing a book this year you might be keen to learn “Legally Blonde” began as a book written and self-published by first time author Amanda Brown. Since then, in addition to the Golden Globe nominated original film, there has been a sequel, LEGALLY BLONDE 2: RED, WHITE & BLONDE, a Broadway musical, as well as a straight-to-home video release starring twins Camilla and Rebecca Rosso entitled LEGALLY BLONDES. And if that weren’t enough – stay tuned for the Prime Video prequel series ELLE set to premiere this summer. LEGALLY BLONDE is streaming now on CraveTV in Canada.

Forrest Gump (1994)

While there are thousands and thousands of films that could be featured in this ‘make the most of it’ list, there was no denying 6-time Oscar-winning FORREST GUMP just had to be on it. With Tom Hanks in the title role, this film is full to the brim with brilliant life lessons and motivational messages. And the soundtrack?! Well, that’s truly next level!!! You see, when director Bob Zemeckis tapped legendary music supervisor Joe Sill to assemble the soundtrack for his film about “the presidencies of Kennedy and Johnson, the Vietnam War, the Watergate scandal and ton of other historical events as told from the perspective of an Alabama man with an IQ of 75, whose only desire is to be reunited with his childhood sweetheart,” his direction was simple – just make sure that each track be “recognizable material that would pinpoint specific time periods – and be American.” The result was a two-disc album, with more than 30 stellar songs from the likes of Bob Dylan, Aretha Franklin, Lynyrd Skynyrd, The
Beach Boys, The Doors, Simon & Garfunkel, The Doobie Brothers, and Fleetwood Mac to name but a few. Layer on top of that Alan Silvestri’s truly moving score and audiences were transported into every amazing moment that Forrest experiences, including all those times with all those strangers beside him on the bench. The musical theme acts as a thread that weaves in and out of Forrest’s incredible tapestry of trials and tribulations, all the while being guided by his mama’s words of wisdom. From the simple quiet start to the ever so peaceful end, and all the ups and downs in between. “Life is like a box of chocolates. You never know what you’re gonna get.” Just as Forrest said “Mama always had a way of explaining things so I could understand them.” I believe Forrest had a way of living life simply, so that we could understand what’s really important: to not take yourself too seriously, to appreciate life while you have it, and to do what you love. FORREST GUMP proved that everyone has something to contribute and as such everyone should be valued. Indeed, it’s a motion pictured filled with mantras to embrace as you make the most of this new year for yourself. FORREST GUMP is streaming now on Paramount Plus.

Julie & Julia (2009)

Another such film features the tasty tale of two real-life women – legendary Chef and TV host Julia Child, and a young blogger by the name of Julie Powell. Powell’s determined to emulate her culinary idol by cooking every single one of the 524 recipes in Child’s best selling cook book,“Mastering the Art of French Cooking” within just one year. The late great Nora Ephron wrote and directed this parallel telling of JULIE & JULIA (2009). Meryl Streep earned an Oscar nomination for her ever so brilliant performance as Julia Child and Amy Adams was equally engaging as the often flustered, but charmingly focused Julie Powell. While the characters are separated by time and place they are united in their love of cooking, by there integrity and grit, and their willingness to face a challenge and persevere no matter the obstacles. Rise to the challenge and persevere! Now that’s a stellar mantra for this new year. Ephron ensures the music meets the moment with perfect punctuation including Doris Day’s “A Bushel and A Peck.” It’s worth noting that before there was Martha Stewart and Gordon Ramsay there was Julia Child, who built an empire for herself and began a whole new genre for TV the cooking show! And I’ll further note she did all of that while in her 50’s! Julia Powell needed an outlet for her culinary creativity along with her affinity for Child which resulted in a wildly successful blog, a best-selling book and a major motion picture. If all those facts aren’t reason enough to establish your goals go for them – I don’t know what is! JULIE AND JULIA is available to stream on CBC GEM.

The Pursuit of Happyness (2006)

While the majority of the movies in our mix for this edition are fiction, it’s important to note four of them feature real life folks as is the case in this next
truly moving major motion picture inspired by the true story of Chris Gardner – THE PURSUIT OF HAPPYNESS. The movie depicts the homeless salesman who struggles to take care of his little boy amidst all life’s adversities, and through hard work and determination turns an unpaid internship into a wildly successful career. Will Smith stars as Gardner while Smith’s real-life son Jaden plays his on-screen son Christopher. That real-life bond is undeniable, as is this inspirational message delivered from father to son “Don’t let anyone tell you – you can’t do something – not even me – you got a dream – you gotta protect it . You want something – go get it – period.” How’s that for motivational?! Director Gabriele Muccino and music supervisor Pilar McCurry worked to ensure the soundtrack echoed the onscreen emotion – from heartbreaking and tender to ‘dust yourself off and do it’ – every song and sequence of score was en pointe. That includes Stevie Wonder’s “Higher Ground” which captures the Gardner’s tenacity to be sure of it. The epilogue to the film reveals that Chris Gardner went on to form his own multi-million-dollar brokerage firm, proving no amount of adversity could derail him from his vision. I trust you’ll stay true to yours and like Chris – keep moving forward! THE PURSUIT OF HAPPYNESS is streaming now on Netflix.

CODA (2021)

Of all the films featured in my motivational list – this next one is the most recently released. It’s also one of only three movies in this New Year’s collection to have earned that oh-so-coveted Academy Award for Best Picture. It’s the 2021 coming-of-age comedy-drama, the incredible CODA, written and directed by Sian Heder. Emilia Jones stars as Ruby Rossi, the only hearing child of 2 deaf parents who does her best to support her family’s struggling fishing business while following her dreams of becoming a singer. As hard as it is to break away from the expected burden of the family business, Ruby seizes the opportunity she’s been given to audition at Berklee College of Music. A monumental moment in the film for sure and as far as the director was concerned there was only one song for Ruby to sing – Joni Mitchell’s 1968 masterpiece “Both Sides Now.” Emelia Jones felt the same, admitting as intimating as it was at first, she couldn’t have envisioned a better metaphor for her character who was torn between the people whom she loves and her desire to create an identity of her own. There’s no way to watch without crying so considered yourself warned. For the record, Ms.Mitchell was a huge fan of the
cover – calling Emelia’s rendition “an incredible performance” High praise indeed! #FYI CODA is an acronym for children of deaf adults. Another cool thing to note – the song was performed in two languages simultaneously; it was sung in English and by hand using ASL so that Ruby’s deaf parents played by Oscar winners Marlee Matlin and Troy Kotsur (who sneak into the audition) can understand the words she’s singing. CODA is streaming now on AppleTV+.

Rocky (1976)

And with that, we’ve come to the last of our motivational movies, another Best Picture Academy Award Winner, but with the inspirational message of fighting for your dreams with everything you’ve got. Now all you young readers (aka whippersnappers) might find it hard to believe with a franchise that now totals nine, but production of this very first instalment of ROCKY back in 1976 mirrored the on-screen underdog-like battle faced by its lead character. Armed with a mere million dollars, a shoestring of a budget even back then, it’s fair to say writer/director Sylvester Stallone was looking at a mean, lean operation. As the story goes, Stallone was down to his last canister of film on the picture, and still faced with shooting the pivotal and poignant monologue he knew he needed to nail his delivery in 1 take. Fortunately for all concerned, he did that and then some, and that meagre million of a budget gave way to over $225 million in revenue with the franchise now totalling over 1.7 billion in sales. Hey and just like the character Rocky Balboa faced adversity head on to go from rags to riches so did screenwriter and star Sylvester Stallone who’s fortune is now estimated at $400million. Not to imply in anyway that money should be your primary motivator, especially when it comes to screenwriting, but if Sly can craft a truly motivational story amid abject poverty and have it resonate with so many folks for so long – surely you can too! This year marks 50 years since ROCKY first found it’s way into theatres and that incredible Oscar-winning score by Bill Conti “Gonna Fly Now” still rings as true. Put it on and turn it up – I guarantee you’ll be ready to take on whatever 2026 may bring your way. I am wishing with all my heart that’s everything wonderful. You got this dear reader! Now go get ‘em! ROCKY is streaming now on CraveTV.

Hello Dear Reader, how are you? Believe me, I know that can be a very loaded question this time of year. While I’m sure there are some of you out there who have it all well in hand: presents bought, wrapped and under the tree, cookies baked, cards mailed, parties planned, etc., there are those of us way, way, way on the other end of that spectrum who are hurdling towards the big day with a ton of “To Dos” left to be done. Those who despite every best intention of starting earlier so as to ‘finally get a handle on the holidays’ are very far from it. Oh sure, there are those folks somewhere in the middle – the “I’ve just got a few last minute things” and the “we’re pairing back this year” people. And indeed there are those who, for one reason or another, simply don’t celebrate the season at all. I think that covers the bases. When you map it out like that it’s a really broad spectrum. I guess that’s why, when tasked with writing an article to appeal to everyone at this time of year, I’ve been struggling. I’m more than confident I could write for my Christmas Crazy kindred spirits, but what could I possibly offer the already organized, let alone the people who abstain altogether? I started to see the assignment as a kind of like a motley gift list. You know where you totally know what to buy for your best friend, but then there’s that hard to buy for boss, and the neighbour who has everything and that’s when it hit me and I knew what gift would appeal to everyone. The one thing money can’t buy. The one thing that’s the same for everyone in every category – no matter your race or religion, your political affiliation, your financial situation or global location. The greatest of all great equalizers – time! So my friends here’s hoping this article will offer you some much deserved quality time this Christmas.

Now, hear me out. I’ve had “One More Week,” “Another Hour,” and “Just Five More Minutes” on my wish list for the past I don’t know how many years, so I’ll be the first to admit no amount of hoping and praying is ever going to deliver additional time in terms of quantity, but I’m hopeful this feature will give you a few ideas for making the most of the time you have this holiday season and maybe, just maybe, in the New Year too. I’m thinking there may even be some ideas the ‘Marthas’ among you may just incorporate (since you’ve already got everything else well in hand.) And with any luck, even those who’d just as soon see the whole season come and go might just find a glimmer of ‘worthwhile’ among my humble suggestions. I’ve been careful in my compilation, taking into consideration both age and means so that  what follows are, in most cases, free and accessible. True, there are a few you could go to town with, but please remember my goal was to deliverable the doable, the actionable, the enjoyable, and the simplest ideas so you could simply enjoy some time this Christmas. So here goes (in no particular order)

Consider cutting coupons

I’m starting with this one because of all the ideas on my list – this one ticks the most boxes. Truth be told I’ve used this one on more than one occasion and under a wide variety of circumstances. For sure during those times when funds a low, and times when I’ve forgotten to buying something entirely, but also when I was looking to give something money couldn’t buy – my time and attention. When you start to think about coupons in that light, they become a truly priceless gift. For in return for your service – be it an offer to do the laundry for a month or 5 driveway clearings or 10 foot-rubs – what you’re really offering is the gift of time to the recipient. Time freed up from folding, or shoveling, time to do something else they’d rather be doing or time to relax with their feet up… literally. Sure coupons can be for things too like dinners out or movie nights in, but what’s most important is the thoughtfulness you weave into your offering. As for packaging you can be as fancy as you wish, but I can remember a time in high school where I cut an 8.5 x 11 sheet of paper into 16 rectangles, hand wrote each one them stapled it together in a booklet.  It included everything from unloading the dishwasher to vacuuming the house to every other household chore and my mother used every one of those coupons with a glee. In fact, I’d be willing to bet if we all took a minute to examine the people on our gift lists there would be something we could take off their plate, that would either free up their time to do something else, or better still include a special time for just the two of you.

Making the most of it

I remember when I was little so much of the holiday season was spent popping over to the neighbours, welcoming in friends and visiting ours relatives. The one constant among all those occasions and destinations was all the homemade sweets. Hours spent baking up batches for one gathering or another. Treasured recipes passed down through the generations along with mouth watering memories. And yet, somewhere along the way, between the crowded schedules and the ready to buy variety tins, convenience has folks convinced that’s the best way to go. But hear me out when I tell you this ~ I’d argue ‘convenience’ might just be the culprit that has systematically removed the spirit of the season. Think about it. The time that used to be spent baking was time spent creating which is always good for your spirit. Back then the time spent baking allowed for teaching technique and passing along secret tips to the next generation. Back then folks might just have baked in solitude when the kids were at school or asleep and it served as quiet reprieve from the chaos of the day. My late mom’s mother Kathleen Fleming (Mom Flem to us) always said “bake with love so that anyone who eats what you bake feels loved.” Hard to get any of that from a store bought tin of cookies. Please understand – I hear you out there waving wildly.  I appreciate not everyone loves to bake and yes, there are some absolutely delightful bakeries in my hometown too – don’t get me wrong. Cookies are simply a means of saying sometimes making the gifts we give allows us to get a little something in the process. Making something with love is the sweetest gift to give.

Stop and smell the snowflakes

Go ahead call me Bing because I have, for as long as I can remember, always dreamed of a white Christmas. Growing up mostly in Ontario snow was a given. Oakville and Burlington would see at least a good foot and Orillia two and three if not more. In fact with the exception of the two years my family spent in Trinidad, when my father was transferred there with the Bank of Nova Scotia and my Mom had me convinced Santa didn’t need snow to get there because he was magic, my memories of the season were always covered in a blanket of white. Now that I’m grown and my work has had me in all sorts of places including Edmonton (don’t get me started on the snow) and now back to Nova Scotia where, thanks to the ocean’s ever changing ways we’re more apt to get a light dusting on the big day if we’re lucky. Still, I find myself yearning for the days of old. When the lights glowed through the snow-covered eaves and front yard bushes, and your footsteps were the first to make tracks along the deep and crunchy sidewalks. But here’s the thing you don’t need snow to take it all in – just get out into it this season! Go for a walk just after the sun rises or better yet at dusk so you can peer through the windows and see how the other folks are celebrating. The health benefits of walking are well documented as are the mental benefits too. In addition to improving cardiovascular health, easing joint pain, and helping with weight loss (source), walking has been proven to boost creativity, improve alertness and promote problem solving too (source). I’m giving you all that proof on the off chance you need more convincing, but truth be told I’m hoping you’ll just give yourself the time to walk through the world and take some time to wonder at it all. Keep your phone in your pocket and keep your head up so you won’t miss the chance to see all there is to see. You don’t need a destination, you don’t need a purpose, you only need to give yourself time to breath in and out, and take stock as you go. Time to think about where you’re heading and what you aim to do when you get there.

Play around

Seems pretty simple when I put it like that, but you’d be surprise how few of us do… play around that is. Back in my day we’d wait all year for Santa to bring the one big present – the Barbie camper, the Hot Wheel garage, the table-top hockey game, and boy oh boy when he did we’d play for hours and hours. Friends would come over to see what we got and we’d head over to their houses to play with their gifts too. There wasn’t as much given throughout the year back then so there was something truly special about a toy that you wished for finally arriving. It sure felt magical. It was really something if your parents got down on the carpet and played along too. It’s been a while since my daughter had a toy on her wish list but I still make a point to put some sort of game under the tree or in her stocking. That way we both get to play on Christmas morning. A family friend told me a story I’ll never forget – how poor her family was growing up and how she’d always dreamed of having a dolly. All fate would have it all her children were boys so even though she had the means, it was all trucks and sports and such. It wasn’t until her first granddaughter came along that she was finally able to buy the doll she’d always dreamed. Needless to say she was giddy, until the little girl followed her into the kitchen to watch her cook. And that beautiful doll? It was left by the tree so that the little girl could sit as she always did with her ‘favourite big pot’ and a brown potato to “play cooking with Nanny.” Now, I know it’s a rarity for Santa bring kids pots and potatoes and I’m not suggesting we wrap them up either, but it’s worth nothing while we could go crazy spending money on gifts, spending quality time with the ones you love is a pretty great gift on its own.

Tell a few stories

Reading to someone you love is a great gift to be sure of it, but sometimes recalling from memory or “stories from your mouth” as my daughter used to call them, are the sweetest kind. Maybe their tall tales once told to you my your favourite storyteller, or maybe they’re simply recollections of holidays past. The time the cat climbed up the tree and batted the angel into the punch bowl, the year whole village lost power so instead of a turkey we huddled up eating chips and playing cards by candlelight. You get the idea I’m sure of it. It’s also a lovely way to remember all the ones we’re missing at Christmas. Heaven knows we all have those. Remembering the good times when they were here and telling those stories is a great way to keep their memory alive. And if you’re alone this Christmas, write a few of your favourite memories down. I can confidently report more than a few best sellers and award-winning screenplays started with a real life holiday happenstance – why not make your seasonal story the next big thing! 

Make new traditions

As previously declared – I’m Christmas crazy, but in fairness, I get it honestly. My affinity is predisposed having descended from a long line of Christmas lovers, but I wholeheartedly embraced the genetic coding and if anything have amped it up over the years.  Fortunately for me all that holiday heritage came with multiple generations worth of decorations and some truly tasty traditions. One includes a centuries old Newfoundland Christmas Fruit Cake (recipe here) which you haven’t lived till you’ve tried, and another involves the Swinimer Family Fudge which I even made on camera with my Aunt Rae (total legend!) I’m pleased to say my daughter loves Christmas too and even prouder to note that we’ve started our very own traditions. Like the one that began when she was 3 and we set off into the woods at my cousin’s camp to find her a little Charlie Brown tree. Now, fifteen Christmases later not only has she grown, but so has our ‘little’ tree. You can read more about our little Schmantle Tree tradition plus get the recipe for favourite ‘Christmas in a Bowl’ here. Another big deal in our house in the Advent Calendar. I have an ever-growing collection but one very special one my mom gave to my daughter when she was 10. Every year since I’ve filled it with fun little treats and it provides the perfect way to countdown to Christmas as well as a daily moment spent in salute to my late mother Margaret. This year, while scrolling through the socials, I found another awesome approach to the countdown I wish I knew about when she was little – wrapping up picture books and putting them under the tree so that every night of December in the lead up to the 25^th you pick the book with the corresponding number then sit and read as a family. Sure they could be new, or a great mix of their cherished favourites wrapped up for the fun of it.

Give a little of your time

While it’s true the holidays hit differently for everyone, the true meaning of Christmas comes complete with promise of hope, goodness and kindness for all. It sure does a heart good to give, but the results from studies around giving of your time to help others report overwhelming benefits beyond just the emotional. From reduced stress and anxiety to a sense of belonging and purpose (source), even enhanced cognitive function. With our own hard earned dollars being stretched to the max is tricky to find any extra to give to all those deserving charities, but giving of time doesn’t cost a dime. Playing games or entertaining the residents at a seniors home – such a huge it. Serving at a shelter – so much appreciated. Coaching and mentoring through the local Boys’ & Girls’ clubs – so incredibly rewarding. Maybe your calendar is full this holiday season, but make note for the New Year and set aside some of your time to help others in need. I guarantee you’ll see the benefits in your own life too.

Well there it is Dear Reader and no matter how you chose to use your time this festive season I sure hope you make the most of it, and make some truly marvellous memories while you’re at it! Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays!

The happiest of holidays to you Dear Reader and welcome back for Part 2 of my TOP 10 FAVOURITE FESTIVE FILMS OF ALL TIME  List. Now that we’ve finally flipped the calendar to December my level of merriment has shifted into the highest of all gears. Baking, making, wrapping, decorating ~ all the good stuff that goes along with making the season bright. And just so you know, while I’m busy getting ready for the big day, I always a have movie playing in the background. I share this fact with you so you’ll know the movies I have included in this list are tried and true favourites, complete with stellar stories and the most incredible soundtracks. Could I begin to count how many times I’ve watched the movies in this list? No. Could I repeat every word of dialogue from the movies in this list? Maybe, but I promise not to if we ever get a chance to watch them together. Look, here’s something I will tell you with certainty – this list has something for everyone: great love, big laughs, life lessons, tender tears and a healthy heaping of holiday high-jinx. If you haven’t read Part 1 please do. Now, on with Part 2.

Which brings us to the movie in 5^th position on my TOP 10 FAVOURITE FESTIVE FILMS OF ALL TIME list. Truth be told, it’s a movie that ticks every box on what I look for in a movie, no matter the season. Starting with the fact that it was written and directed by Nancy Meyers! So hello ~ full-on rom/com right?! Then there’s the delightful cast that includes Kate Winslet and Cameron Diaz, Jude Law and Jack Black, along with the legendary Elis Wallach too! Heck even the ‘bad guys,’ Edward Burns and Rufus Sewell are the best. And let’s not forget the locations! A mansion in San Marino and cottage in the Cotswalds – yes, please! Serious shout-out to the production design team and set decorators. It’s all phenomenal, but the thread that ties it all together into a heartstrings-pulling, crowd-pleasing picture is the brilliant score crafted by Oscar-winning composer Hans Zimmer. Meyers and Zimmer had already collaborated on SOMETHINGS GOTTA GIVE so she knew having Hans at the helm meant the music would be marvellous. Nancy had so much faith in fact that she had Hans compose the opening score of this picture blindly. THE HOLIDAY opens on a scene in which a film composer named Miles (Jack Black) is working on music for movie. We see Jack Black at a keyboard watching a monitor and matching the music. But when Meyers asked Zimmer to come up with that piece of music Jack Black had yet to be cast and the film within this film that he was scoring, well hadn’t been filmed yet either. Then again, if anyone could compose a heart swelling score it’s Hans Zimmer. On the DVD commentary Meyers admits this piece became so much more than she’d first envisioned. As it weaves its way through the opening montage we hear the voice of Iris (Kate Winslet) describing the effects of love as a means of introducing all the characters. It’s soundtrack perfection and sets the tone for all the wistful heartbreak and lovely love-filled moments yet to come. That piece is called “Maestro” and have mercy, is it magical. But wait! There’s more than scrumptious score to this soundtrack, with nicely placed needle drops that include everyone from Aretha Franklin and James Taylor to Darlene Love and The Killers. Watch THE HOLIDAY this holiday season and take it all in for the first time or the fifth (or the five hundredth – no judgment.)

Alright, let’s keep this countdown going with the movie I’ve placed in the #4 position on my TOP 10 FAVOURITE FESTIVE FILMS OF ALL TIME. Released all the way back in 1985, this family film never really found it’s footing as a ‘mainstream’ Christmas classic, but it’s one that will always hold a special place in my heart for it’s nostalgic nod to the period of my youth: the clothes, the setting, the fact that it was filmed right here in Canada and most importantly how it brings the Christmas spirit back to a lady who had all but lost it.  That lady is Ginnie Granger, played by Mary Steenburgen who, with the help of an angel named Giddeon, played by Harry Dean Stanton, discovers the true meaning of Christmas. Ginnie’s husband Jack (played by Edmonton’s own Gary Basaraba) is a BIG BELIEVER in Santa Claus and the Christmas spirit, and yes – he’s a lot like me in way!  I had the chance to interview Mr. Basaraba back in my entertainment anchor days and I was thrilled to have had the chance to tell him in person just how much his movie meant to me. Ginnie and Jack’s children Abby (Elizabeth Harnois) and Cal (Robbie Magwood) are perfect in their portrayal. As for their little pal Molly Monaghan, well she was played by Oscar winner Sarah Polley (marking her big screen debut.) You need only look at the 1985 Christmas box office to see how this little gem might have gotten buried in theatres, what with blockbusters like Rocky IV and SANTA CLAUS to compete with. But here’s the thing all those moviegoers missed – ONE MAGIC CHRISTMAS is one of those sweet quiet stories, with a simple message and a wonderfully happy ending. The approach to the soundtrack is on the simple side too, with Christmas songs playing on the car radio, over store speakers, and even hummed or sung by the characters themselves. Whether that decision was made through cinematic direction or budgetary limitations the result is the same ~ an authenticity and charm you just can’t beat. I adore ONE MAGIC CHRISTMAS and I hope you will too.

We’re down to the top three films on my list and how’s this for holiday happenstance? They all have a plot comprised of three key components: family, fate and of course the festive season. My pick for #3 comes complete with an all-star cast that includes Sarah Jessica Parker, Dermot Mulroney, Craig T. Nelson, Luke Wilson, Rachel McAdams, Claire Danes and the late great Diane Keaton.  The script is the perfect combination of laughter, tears and Christmas sentiments. It’s THE FAMILY STONE and it’s sooooooo my kind of movie! The picture takes place over the course of three days, when one son Everett Stone (Mulroney) brings his uptight girlfriend Meredith (SJP) home for the holidays. Keaton plays the mother, Sybil Stoneand let’s just say she’s far from impressed with her son’s companion. Truth be told, no one in the liberal New England family likes her really. That is except for brother Ben, played so amazingly well by Wilson.  With all of their faults and flaws, head slaps and quick comebacks there is lots and lots of love, and you’re left wishing you were part of this big Stone family. I know I sure was, and then there’s that house. I mean WOW! Right?! It’s a real one that exists in Connecticut. I’ve let go of the fact that all the interiors were constructed on an LA soundstage so that my dream of one day living there seems real. The soundtrack sure is a dream too. A medley of holiday standards by the likes of Dean Martin and Johnny Mercer combined with pop rock/hits from Jefferson Starship and Maxine Nightingale. But the real dream-come-true track is the Christmas classic around which the movie was built. In fact writer/director Tom Bazooka says he envisioned this song as the centrepiece of the movie even before he started writing. He could picture how it would play over the montage that features each of his characters in what he calls the “truth telling scene.” All I know is you best have a firm grip on your Kleenex when Judy Garland’s“Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas” plays in THE FAMILY STONE. For the record (pun intended) that song that was originally introduced when Judy Garland sang it onscreen in the 1944 MGM holiday musical MEET ME IN ST. LOUIS. That’s the movie that Sybil’s daughter Susannah (played by Elizabeth Reaser) is watching when we hear the song begin to play.

Time for #2 on my TOP 10 FAVOURITE FESTIVE FILMS OF ALL TIME list. For this one I want you to imagine getting a glimpse of what your life would have been… could have been, if only you’d chosen differently. And not just a look at that life, but the chance to actually live it.  That’s the premise of THE FAMILY MAN (2000) starring Nicolas Cage as Jack Campbell – a beyond wealthy Wall Street broker who, after 13 years apart, gets a Christmas eve message from his college sweetheart Kate Reynolds, played by Téa Leoni. Campbell goes to sleep that night and wakes up in this ‘could-have-been other world’ – with a wife, two kids and a house in New Jersey. Quite the opposite of all that he’s known and valued. The rest of the movie Jack spends navigating his way thru bowling leagues, tire sales and drives to daycare only to realize just how truly rich a man he would have been had he given up “the plan” all those years ago and just stayed with Kate. I love, love, love everything about this movie and naturally that includes the soundtrack. Packed with plenty of holiday hits by everyone from Johnny Mathis to Burl Ives, plus chart toppers the include The Rolling Stones, Chris Isaak and U2. For me, however, the one that stands out is a song we experience as Jack views a VHS tape of himself singing The Delfonics classic“La La Means I Love You” to Kate on her birthday. This is the moment in the movie when Jack is confronted by the man he could have been; a man so completely in love with his wife and his life. This is the pivotal moment in the film when he truly realizes all that he’s been missing. Cool to note the footage on the VHS tape was all shot by co-star Jeremy Piven who plays Jack’s best friend Arnie. In early edits of the scene Cage completely breaks down watching it. I know I cry everytime I watch it, that’s for sure. If you’ve yet to see THE FAMILY MAN, please make this the Christmas the time you do and if you have, well give it another view – you’ll be oh so glad you did!

And with that we’ve arrived at my #1. Now there are Christmas movies and then there are CHRISTMAS movies. Not just films to be enjoyed around the holiday season, but motion pictures that have become a part of the festive fabric of this special time of year. IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE is one of those films. In fact, its not only my favourite Christmas movie of all time – it’s my favourite movie period.  Jimmy Stewart stars in this story of George Bailey on one fateful Christmas Eve and all that came before it – both with him and without. Every time I watch this movie I see something different to appreciate, and after every viewing I take a moment to take stock. When I stop to realize just how many lives a person can touch in the course of a day, a year, a lifetime – it’s really is incredible. It makes me want to do better. In the movie George has always dreamed of leaving Bedford Falls and never does – how ironic that the greatest trip and biggest discovery George ever makes happens in very own his hometown. George’s journey towards realizing just how successful he is, well that’s a trip I take as many times as I can over the Christmas holidays.  As for the soundtrack’s score it comes courtesy of the legendary Dimitri Tiomkin and I adore how he wove in George and Mary’s ‘song’ “Buffalo Gal” into the movie’s prologue, but the soundtrack song I love the most is the one sung by two of its characters – Bert the cop (Ward Bond) and Ernie the cab driver (Frank Faylen). The rain soaked duo serenade the just married Mr & Mrs. Bailey (Donna Reed) after a very harrowing wedding day. You’d have to see it to know what I mean. And I’ve got to believe, now nearly 80 years since it’s 1946 release, you’ve found the time to take it in, but just in case… if you can only make the space amidst all your merriment for one movie this Christmas then please make it my #1 pick – IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE.

And that’s all folks! Thanks for taking this time out of your busy schedule to read my TOP 10 FAVOURITE FESTIVE FILMS OF ALL TIME list. I would love to know the movies you’d put on YOUR LIST of Christmas flicks, so if there are any majors I’ve missed or lesser-knowns in need of attention PLEASE LET ME KNOW with a comment on my Instagram post here.  I do hope to be back before too long with more soundtrack stuff and merry musings too. In the meantime, be sure to make the most of this holiday season ~ on the streamers or at the cinema ~ make a little time for movies!

PS – Before all you DIE HARD holiday hooligans come at me – I love it too, but once and for all – it’s not a Christmas movie!

Welcome Dear Reader! I’m so happy you’ve found my column. If you’re returning then you already know, but for those of you just joining us let me catch you up ~ I love movies, I love music and I am over the moon for music from movies. Super stoked to have a spot here on the  yourkenora.ca site to celebrate cinema and soundtracks. And while my first two articles featured my affinity for fall, get ready to read about my absolute favourite time of year for film ~ the Holiday Season!!!

Now I’ll grant you, the time allotted for the Christmas seems to get a little longer each year. Back in my day you never saw a hint of the holidays in the mall before the first of December, let alone around the house. These days, however, I’m counting down the minutes til midnight for November 12^th to arrive. With Remembrance Day in the the rear view mirror that’s when I officially shift into Merry Everything mode, which absolutely includes Christmas Movies!!! And for the record the amount festive films available to view has never been greater. Do I do my best to watch all of them? Yes! Are they all great? Well… let me just say “to each their own.” And with that in mind ~ I humbly submit my TOP 10 FAVOURITE FESTIVE FILMS OF ALL TIME list complete with everything from Hollywood holiday classics to festive family fantasies to the Christmassiest kind of romantic comedies. And for sure I’ll share a sweet selection from each of their respective soundtracks which will include everything from seasonal staples placed in the picture to original tunes written specifically for the film, plus sweeping scores and merry Motown music. Heck, there’ll even be songs that have nothing to do with Christmas at all, but let’s not get ahead of ourselves.

What’s say we kick off this countdown with the movie that holds the #10 spot on my TOP 10 FAVOURITE FESTIVE FILMS OF ALL TIME list. Now there are a lot of people, myself included, who’ll say “don’t mess with a classic,” but when it came to the 1994 retelling of the 1947 movie MIRACLE ON 34^TH STREET – I was more than fine with it. Mara Wilson of MRS. DOUBTFIRE and MATILDA fame was amazing as usual in the roll of Susan Walker – originally played by Natalie Wood.  Elizabeth Perkins played her mother and the dreamy Dylan McDermott played the neighbour and lawyer who defends Kris Kringle played by Sir Richard Attenborough. So clearly the cast is stacked – and when you combine that roster with an updated but ‘not-too-far-off-the-original’ screenplay along with absolutely lovely direction, sweet cinematography, scrumptious production design and beautiful costumes the result it’s simply magical. Music plays a major role in this new telling of MIRACLE ON 34^th STREET too, with tons seasonal standards – sung by everyone from Natalie Cole and Dionne Warwick to the King of Rock ‘n Roll, Elvis Presley. All so good, but the song that stands out the most is one performed by the Queen of Soul herself and marks the only Christmas hymn in our merry mix.  The song plays just as the movie turns to it’s third act, when the CEO of Coles department store goes on TV to declare they will stand behind Kris Kringle and then proceeds to asks the audience “Do you believe in Santa Clause?” What follows is an emphatic “YES” by way of the merriest kind of montage, packed with messages of “I BELIEVE” written all over New York City, all while a jubilant “Joy to the World” is sung as only Miss Aretha Franklin can sing it (backed by Members of the F.A.M.E. Freedom Choir.)

This seems like the perfect time to tell you – I am a big BELIEVER in Santa Claus, and the Christmas Spirit and all the magic that surrounds the holiday season. And I don’t think I’d be wrong to say Clark Griswald is a big believer too.  In fact from the very first frame of NATIONAL LAMPOON’S CHRISTMAS VACATION you can tell Clark, played by Chevy Chase,is on a mission to make sure this year is a “good old fashioned family Christmas.” But around every turn he’s met with opposition – from judgmental in-laws to crazy cousins to nose-in-the-air neighbours to a beyond stingy boss. All we can do is watch and pity as things go from bad to way way worse for Clark in the 1989 John Hughes comedy classic.  Who can forget when that rotten RV pulled up and Cousin Eddie (played by Randy Quaid) rolled out? Or when the squirrel sprung out of that way too big tree? Or when the over-cooked turkey collapsed?! All hilariously horrible to be sure of it, but I hope you gleaned the glimmers of happiness in there too. Like when Clark finally gets his Christmas lights to work… all 25,000 of them. Certainly the sweetest moment amidst the madness comes when Clark gets locked in the attic after his family leaves to go shopping. Remember that time when he’s rummaging through a trunk for things to keep himself warm only to discover some long forgotten family films captured at Christmastime when he was just a boy.  It’s a great break in the action and one that first time feature director Jerimiah Chechik said was his absolute favourite moment in the film. On the movie’s DVD commentary he recalls it being a day where it was just Chevy and a small crew, which made it all the more moving.  When it came time to add the music, there was only one song Chechik and Warner Bros. Studios could think to use for that special scene so they worked like crazy to get secure it. The song was “That Spirit of Christmas” by Ray Charles from the film that holds the 9^th spot on my TOP 10 FAVOURITE FESTIVE FILMS OF ALL TIME list.

Now while John Hughes CHRISTMAS VACATION starred an already famous Chevy Chase, Hughes next holiday hit would serve to launch it’s unknown lead into the superstar stratosphere at the ripe old age of ten, blow the doors off the box office and go on to become a holiday classic. Coming in at #8 on my TOP 10 FAVOURITE FESTIVE FILMS OF ALL TIME list it’s HOME ALONE and HOME ALONE 2 LOST IN NEW YORK. YES – it’s a tie because I love them both so much I simply couldn’t chose between them. Now on the off off off chance you haven’t seen these two gems here’s the deal in the 1990 seasonal smash HOME ALONE Kevin McAllister (aka Macaulay Culkin) is, as the title suggests, left home alone after his family departs for a Christmas vacation in France. That’s when he comes face to face with two knucklehead burglars Harry and Marv who hatch a plan to rob the neighbourhood. Never one for spoilers, let me just skip to the happy ending and move on to the 1992 sequel in which , true to the title once again, Kevin is separated from his clan at the airport and while they board a plane to Florida and he jets off to New York. Only to arrive there alone just as Harry and Marv have broken out of jail to rob a toy store. Again no spoilers, but I can confirm Christmas high-jinks abound in both festive flicks. So yes, there a plenty of laughs and if you’re a fan of slapstick humour then these two are for you! But I gotta say it’s the sweet part of the story in the message that runs through the heart of these films that won me over. The one that let’s you know, after everything the holidays can throw at you – it’s family and friends that matter most. That’s what we must hold onto and cherish. Both films come complete with great laughs, touching moments and amazing music too. The legendary John Williams composed the score and soundtrack reads like a righteous roster of original classics and contemporary covers, featuring everyone from Brenda Lee and Bette Midler to Darlene Love and Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers. There’s so much to love about HOME ALONE 1 and 2, not the least of which is the incredible cast. A young Macaulay Culkin – yes, but also Catherine Ohara and John Heard as his parents, Joe Pesci and Daniel Stern as bad guys Harry and Marv, John Candy as the polka player in the first film, and Brenda Fricker as the bird lady in the second. Come on! Plus Chris Columbus’s direction of Hughes stellar script.  Loved those movies  when they premiered and have loved them every year since. 

Onto the movie that takes the 7^th position on my TOP 10 FAVOURITE FESTIVE FILMS OF ALL TIME list – no more ties promise. But this single film does includes ten different storylines of love – all lovingly intertwined courtesy of award-winning writer/director Richard Curtis. Yes, he’s the guy behind FOUR WEDDINGS AND FUNERAL and NOTTING HILL, so you had to know going in LOVE ACTUALLY (2003) was a slam dunk to take a spot on my “Best List.” I mean the ensemble cast alone is remarkable and while they had me at Hugh Grant, it also includes Liam Neeson, Colin Firth, Laura Linney, Alan Rickman, Keira Knightley, oh and have mercy – Emma Thompson in that Joni Mitchell scene… please! And since we’re shifting to soundtrack, I will tell you a couple of things. Firstly, Curtis is a huge fan of music in movies and is meticulous with his choices.  That includes the song he chose for Hugh Grant’s character –the Prime Minister of Britain to dance to, “Jump (For My Love)” by The Pointer Sisters. As Richard Curtis explained during the DVD commentary – the scene was one Grant absolutely refused to rehearse. Truth be told, he didn’t want to do the scene at all and to this day refers to it as “excruciating.” Curtis however found it mostly frustrating, given the fact that Grant could be scene lip syncing the lyrics throughout each take – which meant they were forced to cut the scene around the song as opposed to the other way around, so as to match up Hugh’s mouth with the lyrics. Ah, cinema secrets.

Which reminds me, I saw all but one of the movies in my TOP 10 FAVOURITE FESTIVE FILMS OF ALL TIME list in a cinema. While movie poster notes the ways in which you can streamed/download each of them these days, I can honestly declare there’s nothing like seeing them on the big screen. I will also confirm I have never laughed harder in a movie theatre than I did the day I saw the film that takes the 6^th spot on my list – ELF (2003) In fact the entire theatre was in stitches. And while I couldn’t begin to count the number of times I’ve watched it since I tell you honestly – I laugh out loud every single time. It’s a beloved Christmas classic for me and so many others – crazy to imagine it almost never got made. You’ve really have to hear the wild story beind how the screenplay made it onto the desk of director Jon Favereau and the ‘gamble’ everyone thought they were making when they cast Will Ferrell as Buddy the Elf. (Listen to the “Rejecting Elf” podcast here.) But the $33million they paid to make the movie paid off to the tune of $220million in initial world-wide ticket sales and that bank has continued to grow ever since. Still, it’s hard to fault New Line Cinema for being hesitant with a logline that read “Raised as an oversized elf, Buddy travels from the North Pole to New York City to meet his biological father, Walter Hobbs, who doesn’t know he exists and is in desperate need of some Christmas spirit.” Fortunately for us, the team behind the film believed in it 100%, and stopped at nothing to bring it to life together with the incredible supporting cast of James Caan, Bob Newhart, Mary Steenburgen, Zooey Deschanel, Amy Sedaris and Ed Asner as Santa. Amidst all the hilarity and the fantastical premise, you’re sure to find a whole lotta heart and a ton of tremendous tunes.  Yes, there are plenty of holiday hits woven throughout the movie along with a song that truly encapsulates the joy of spirit Buddy brings to New York, despite all the negativity he encounters. It’s that infectious spirit that guides him throughout the entire movie. A spirit that eventually spreads into the hearts of most everyone he meets. That same kind of unbridled enthusiasm was employed by the production team too, especially when it came time to shoot all those street scenes. With no budget for permits, all those shots when Buddy takes a bite out of the big apple for the first time – those were just Farrell and Favareau and a camera capturing the honest reaction of real New Yorkers when faced with a 6ft 3in Elf. And the amazing music playing during that montage is the Louis Prima  classic “Pennies from Heaven.” Talk about your perfect placement.

And I guess this is a pretty perfect place to end the first part of my TOP 10 FAVOURITE FESTIVE FILMS OF ALL TIME. I look forward to sharing my top five faves in the next instalment. In the meantime, I sure hope you’ll watch those ones I’ve listed above – for the first time or maybe the hundredth like me! Merry watching everyone!

PS – If by chance you’re looking for something new to view here are a few I highly recommend A MERRY LITTLE EX-MAS, SINGLE ALL THE WAY,  ‘TIS THE SEASON TO BE IRISH

Hey! You’re back!!! I’ve never been happier to see you – for two reasons really. The first of which is that I’m taking it proof you enjoyed my fall-infused debut feature, or at the very least enjoy movies and music and all things autumn. The second reason I’m grateful for your company today is the focus for this edition – “Frightening Films” and all the scary cinematic territory I’d rather not examine alone.

Now, Webster’s Dictionary defines ‘fear’ as “an unpleasant, often strong emotion caused by expectation or awareness of danger.” That’s a fact, but as for ‘scary’ – well, scary is a relative term. I mean, what some might find entertaining and amusing might just keep me up for days… and it did! But ‘tis the season for ghosts and ghouls and goblins and all sorts of things that go bump in the night – so clutching my popcorn for comfort – I’ve come up with a list of Five Frightening Films that aren’t too, too scary but indeed have amazing music to maximize the thrills and chills. From Oscar-winning blockbusters to stand-alone horrors to frightening franchise films all complete with sinister soundtrack songs just as deviously diverse – from original scores to terrifying turns on standards to classical tunes and perfectly placed songs that serve to reinforce the theme and take you to the edge of the ever so gruesome. (insert scream here)

First up, a movie that holds the #5 position on the AFI’s 100 Years…100 Thrills list, and no wonder with a log line that reads “A young F.B.I. cadet must receive the help of an incarcerated and manipulative cannibal killer to help catch another serial killer, a madman who skins his victims.” The one and only Jody Foster stars as agent Clarice Starling who’s on the serial killer case of Buffalo Bill, and it’s Hannibal Lector, played ever so eerily by Sir Anthony Hopkins, whose counsel she seeks to solve the maniacal mystery in THE SILENCE OF THE LAMBS. The late great Jonathan Demme directed this horrifying masterpiece and worked closely with Canadian composer Howard Shore to ensure the music went beyond score to feel more like the fabric of the film. Demme’s mission for the music and every aspect of the movie – from cinematography and lighting to performance and production design was an “impending and building feeling of unease.” And it was that level of attention to detail that lead Demme to the most poignant music placement and character introductions in movie history. He knew he needed a song that would convey a ton of information in very small amount of screen time- 25 seconds to be exact. That’s all the time he allowed the audience to know and care about the character of Catherine Martin before she stepped out of car. For it to work he needed everyone to see her as someone full of life and promise – so that when she’s abducted by Buffalo Bill they truly care about her well being. That perfectly picked tune was one originally released by Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers on their self-titled debut album back in 1976. Little did they know “American Girl” would forever be etched into the minds of movie lovers some 15 years later. Actress Brooke Smith who played that character jamming along to the radio says to this day people are always saying how they immediately think of her when it plays. I know I do!  THE SILENCE OF THE LAMBS won 5 Academy awards back in 1992 including Best Picture, Best Lead Actress for Foster, Best Lead Actor for Hopkins and Best Diector for Demme. Stream it now on Prime Video, but brace yourself when you do!

At this point I feel it imperative to reassert the fact that my favourite genre of film is the RomCom. An affinity that, while on full display in my first feature, is nowhere to be found in this list. I note it now so you’ll know I went into this next film with high hopes that I – at the very least – could relish in the ‘romantic’ side of the movie. I mean it stars Harrison Ford and Michelle Pfeiffer, but – without giving away too much of the plot – WHAT LIES BENEATH drowned those hopes in pretty fast order. I guess forgoing Ford and Pfeiffer on the movie poster should have prepared me for more nightmare than dreamy and yet – I was nowhere near ready for what came at me in this twisty flick. You see, Ford plays a University Research Scientist named Norman Spencer who’s wife Claire, played by Phieffer, starts to feel a ‘presence’ in their home, and that haunting escalates until the ghost gets its revenge.  Full transparency – I own in this movie on DVD and I jump EVERYTIME!!! Oh, it’s that good. Robert Zemeckis directs this 2000 fantasy thriller and I’m gonna tell ya it’ll keep you on the edge of your seat from start to finish. Mega award-winning composer, Alan Silvestri created the gripping score for WHAT LIES BENEATH, and Harrison Ford and Michelle Phieffer were phenomenal in their roles. No surprise to learn they were Zemeckis’ first and only choices to star in the scary feature. Oh, and here’s one more frightening fact – the beautiful house depicted in the film was used for only the day scenes and was torn down immediately after filming because it didn’t meet local building codes. The rooms were duplicated on an LA sound stage for night scenes. And get this, there were 5 versions of the bathroom set created so as to ensure the thrills were thoroughly covered from every angle. You’ll have to watch it for yourself to see why…eeeek! WHAT LIES BENEATH is available to rent/buy through apple movies.

You’ve probably heard it said “Every hit has a hook!” That old adage is as true for movies as it is for music and perhaps never truer than with this next frightening film and all those that followed after in the terrifying franchise. I want to take you all the way to 1997 for the very first installment of I KNOW WHAT YOU DID LAST SUMMER. It’s a simple story really, four high school friends take a nighttime joy ride along the coast of their seaside town, but then – a tragic accident takes place. That’s when things get complicated and what happens next sets into motion a cinematic spiral of epic proportions as stars Jennifer Love Hewitt, Sara Michelle Gellar, Freddie Prince Jr. and Ryan Phillippe must live with the consequences of the decision they made on that dark night. Live and try to stay alive now that they’re being stalked by a vengeful hook-wielding maniac. I told you there’d be a hook. Fair to say there’s a whole lotta screaming and a truly killer soundtrack too. In fact when Columbia Records released “I Know What You Did Last Summer: The Album” they could only fit 15 of the 29 songs featured in the film. Fortunately for Canadian rockers, Our Lady Peace their tune “Clumbsy” was among them, as was”D.U.I.” by The Offspring and Kula Shaker’s “Hush.” A song which fans of the franchise will know was covered by American indie pop band The Marias for the 2025 version of I KNOW WHAT YOU DID LAST SUMMER – which for the record was not a remake – no matter what the title might imply. You can watch the original I KNOW WHAT YOU DID LAST SUMMER streaming now on Netflix.

When you think about the hundreds of thousands of frightening films made over the years, it’s fair to see that villains come in all shapes and sizes. We’ve already covered cannibal killers, ghastly ghosts and horrifying hook-wielders, and while they’ve all been truly scary, back in 1987 there was a big screen villain that terrified men EVERYWHERE! No, not Jason Voorhees, although by then there had already been 6 installments of the FRIDAY THE 13TH franchise. No, I’m talking about the “hell hath no fury like a women scorned” kind of bad guy. Indeed, the James Dearden written, Adrian Lyne directed psychological thriller FATAL ATTRACTION became a cautionary tale for men – and let’s face it – bunnies everywhere. In it Michael Douglas stars as Dan Gallagher, a married man who has a weekend affair with a woman named Alex Forrest, played by Glen Close – who let’s just say ‘refuses’ to allow the affair to end. Things get pretty out of hand alright and very, very scary. Mega award-winning film composer Maurice Jarre created the oh so jarring score, but I want to draw your attention to a tip-off of needle drop. I can’t help but feel if we’d been paying closer attention to that first date in the restaurant we would have heard a musical clue. A foreshadowing as it were. While Dan and Alex are flirting across the table – the song-stylings of the Bill Evans Trio can be heard in the background, and as Dan gets closer and closer to making the decision that would threaten everything the music changes to the Victor Young & Edward Heyman standard “When I Fall in Love (It will be Forever).” Of course, it’s a jazz trio with no lyrics, so can you really blame Michael Douglas for not reading the room?!  Never one for spoilers, I’ll only tell you Glen Close would earn an Oscar nomination for her role as the unhinged jilted lover along with the gratitude of husbands everywhere. As Close told Oprah in an interview several years later, she “can’t count the number of men who thank her for saving their marriage.” FATAL ATTRACTION is set to hit Netflix just in time for the scary season on Wednesday, October 29^th. 

I’m closing out this list of frightful films with a movie that I first saw on the big screen back in 1982. Twice if I’m being honest. YES, because it was that good and I wasn’t alone in loving it. It was such a blockbuster following it’s premiere in June, MGM re-released POLTERGEIST in October to take advantage of the Halloween box-office, thus securing it’s spot as the highest-grossing horror film of 1982. I’m still terrified to watch it, but of course I will again and again. If you’ve yet to see it let me give you the logline – “A family’s home becomes the center of paranormal activity that opens a doorway to the ‘other side’. With help, they must cross over to get their daughter back.” Now before all you slasher film fans come at me – I’ll remind you of the previously established fact ‘scary’ is a relative term. I’ll also tell you that Steven Spielberg, who co-wrote and co-produced the movie, calls POLTERGEIST his “Land JAWS – because the terror is relentless and unseen.” It should be noted, that by the time this picture got the greenlight from the studio Spielberg was already busy filming E.T. THE EXTRA-TERRESTRIAL so he tapped Tobe Hooper (TEXAS CHAINSAW MASSACRE) to direct. And because John Williams was booked doing score for E.T. – they called on Oscar-winning composer Jerry Goldsmith (THE OMEN) to create the music, which by the way was off-the-charts chilling. Goldsmith earned another Academy award nomination for this score which included the beyond creepy kids choir singing “Carol Anne’s Theme.” Couple that with the now legendary line “They’re here.” and it’s spine-shivering stuff I tell ya! Oh, and there’s a ton of lore around the film’s production that’s even more bone chilling, but I’ll leave you to your own deep dive on that front and tell you POLTERGEIST is streaming now on Prime Video.

And there you have it my fellow film-loving folks. I hope you celebrate the spooky season with a watch of all five frightening films and do so confidently in the knowledge that covering your eyes at the really scary parts is perfectly fine by me. With any luck I’ll return in time for winter with some cozy classic movies featuring marvellously musical hits. Take care til then!

First of all Hello! And thanks for checking out my column. For the sake of full transparency there are few things I’d like to declare up front, that’ll save you wondering and provide the perfect jumping off point for what follows. I love movies and I love music. I also love coffee, which helps keep me creative and as the title alludes – I have an inordinate affinity for alliteration. But back to column’s premise – I promise to put a new thematic spin on each feature and shine the spotlight on some amazing movies with stellar soundtracks that come in under that umbrella. Take this first one for instance – the focus is Fall-Infused Films (#BTW – I LOVE FALL!!!) so these motion pictures come complete with those big autumnal backdrops filled with leaf strewn scenes, oodles of cozy sweaters and naturally the most amazing music!

First up, an extraordinary onscreen ensemble piece that made it’s big screen debut 42 years ago (how is that possible?) A film about seven former college pals who gather for a weekend reunion at a South Carolina house following the funeral of one of their mutual friend. The setting is most decidedly fall and the house is simply spectacular.  Written for the big screen by Barbara Benedek and Lawrence Kasdan who also directs stars Tom Berenger, Glenn Close, Jeff Goldblum, William Hurt, Kevin Kline, Mary Kay Place, Meg Tilly, and JoBeth Williams – all of whom are left to hash it all out after Kevin Costner’s character dies. That’s the premise of THE BIG CHILL and if you’re a fan of the film yourself – you just might be thinking – “hang on a second Stephanie – Kevin Costner wasn’t in THE BIG CHILL.” To that I’ll admit, you’re mostly right. You see Kasdan cast a then relatively unknown Costner as the deceased Alex, shooting most of his scenes for flashbacks. Those flashbacks, however, hit the cutting room floor – leaving only those with Costner’s body being dressed for the funeral in the opening sequence which were intercut between shots of the seven friends all reacting separately to the sad news. And while all that plays out – we hear the legendary Marvin Gaye’s 1968 chart topping smash “Heard it Through the Grapevine.” That song sets the tone for a series of 60’s hits placed ever so perfectly throughout the picture. All them personal favourites of Kasdan and his wife Meg who, as Music Consultant for the movie, curated the remarkable collection of more than 20 tunes performed by everyone from Aretha Franklin  and The Temptations to The Rolling Stones and CCR. Ten of those songs made it onto THE BIG CHILL Soundtrack, which following its 1983 release spent 84 weeks on Billboard Top 100 chart. It also marked the resurgence of Motown music that continues to this day and, at last check, clocked in at 6x platinum status in sales. Oscar nominated for Best Picture, Best Original Screenplay and Best Supporting Actress for Glen Close, THE BIG CHILL is filled with great laughs and moving scenes. In fact, to me it feels more like I’m eavesdropping on this close knit crew ~ all the while wishing I could be with them for the tag football amidst the fall foliage and all those fabulous feasts. As for whether their longstanding friendships stand the test of time – well, you’ll need to see that play out for yourself (or watch it again because you loved it too) THE BIG CHILL is streaming now on Crave.

When it comes to the movies I love – I’m all for watching them over and over and over again. And as for this next fall-infused film I’d say I’ve seen it at least 30 times. It stars Academy Award winners Sandra Bullock and Nicole Kidman  – grant it this was pre-Oscar days, but their on-screen chemistry was pure magic. PRACTICAL MAGIC that is. Now if by chance you’ve yet to see the 1998 fantasy for yourself, in it the two play “witch sisters, who are raised by their eccentric aunts in a small town. They’re forced to face closed-minded prejudice and a curse that threatens to prevent them ever finding lasting love.” Set in the fictional town of Hollowell, Massachusetts over many years, amidst many seasons ~ it’s those set in fall that spring to mind most. Witches and spells will do that to person. This soundtrack had me spellbound too for so many reasons, including the enchanting title score composed by the legendary Alan Silvestri. It flows so seamlessly throughout the film you’d never know it was created at the last minute when Warner Bros. ordered the original music by Michael Nyman be replaced. Of course there’s Faith Hill’s huge cross-over hit “This Kiss” and its oh so apropos placement when Bullock’s character is magically moved to the centre of the village to kiss the man she’ll eventually marry. Plus two songs by the eternally mysterious Steve Nicks “If You Ever Did Believe” and an updated version of “Crystal,” with background vocals courtesy of non other than Sheryl Crow. There’s songs by legends like Joni Mitchell, George Jones and even Elvis Presley. Which brings me to the song that haunts to this day – and while I won’t give away the plot, I will say when Jimmy played by Goran Visnjic comes back singing “You Were Always on My Mind” ever-so eerily… let’s just say I’ll take the King’s version any day over Jimmy’s creepy crooning. PRACTICAL MAGIC is available to stream on CRAVE. Oh and in case you haven’t heard – production just wrapped on PRACTICAL MAGIC 2 which is set for release next September.

My next fall-infused film includes a much sweet cover admidst a stellar soundtrack complete with a heartfelt score and plenty of feel good songs. I’m not sure how many of you have seen the 2007 film DAN IN REAL LIFE, but have mercy you’ll be so glad you did when you do. Steve Carrell plays Dan, a widower who finds out the woman he’s fallen in love with named – Marie played by Juliette Binoche is actually the girlfriend of his brother Mitch played by Dane Cook. The story takes place at Dan’s parents Rhode Island home during crisp fall days amidst all those famous New England leaves – Dan’s family is huge and lovely and watching you just wish you were a member. And according to the cast they really did feel like a family. No doubt, in large part, because Director Peter Hedges insisted the entire cast, complete with legends Dianne Wiest and John Mahoney, stay in the home while they filmed. Like most families, traditions are huge – like the family talent show, which brings me back to that sweet cover I mentioned. Now it’s true, we’ve grown to know Steve Carell as a comedic actor thanks to his turns in THE OFFICE, THE 40-YEAR-OLD VIRGIN et al., but he’s a wonderful dramatic actor as well – as evidenced in this scene where Mitch enlists Dan to play guitar for him during the family talent show. You see what starts out as the brother’s pop number gives way to Dan’s romantically gut-wrenching solo delivered to a teary eyed Marie. Oh, it’s heartbreaking ~ and really remarkable when give a listen to the original rockin’ version by The Who’s Pete Townsend. As Dan sings “Let My Love Open the Door” it’s more like a full-fledged ballad. The movie’s arrangement comes courtesy of Norway’s Sondre Lerche who served as music supervisor, composer and contributor on the film. I just know you’re going to love DAN IN REAL LIFE.

While we’re on the subject of love, I realize there’s one more thing I failed to  disclose off the top, although perhaps you’ve already surmised – I love a good love story, especially a well-crafted romcom. That’s why you’ll find this next fall-infused film WHEN HARRY MET SALLY at the top of my all time favourite movie list and I know I’m not alone in that sentiment. Written by the incomparable Nora Ephron and directed by Rob Reiner – I know from interviews neither one of them imagined the longstanding status this movie would go on to enjoy. Then again with stars Billy Crystal as Harry and Meg Ryan as Sally delivering those brilliantly witty lines amidst autumn in New York, well it’s no wonder the film enjoys the 23^rd position on AFI’s 100 Years…100 Laughs chart, or why with all that romance it ranked #25 in on AFI’s 100 years – 100 Passions chart – it even made AFI’s 100 years… 100 quotes chart with that now legendary line “I’ll have what she’s having.” And as for the soundtrack, well that’s legendary too and while the film features the original recordings of everyone from Bing Crosby to Louis Armstrong to Ella Fitzgerald – mixed in among those classics was a newcomer by the name of Harry Connick Jr., who Reiner immediately booked for the project after being slipped his tape by pal Bobby Colomby of the band Blood Sweat & Tears. Connick’s Sinatra-esque sound was a slamdunk for the director who had Harry cover gems like “But Not For Me” and “I Could Write a Book.” In fact, the recorded soundtrack released for WHEN HARRY MET SALLY features all of the movie’s tunes as recorded by Harry Connick Jr.. The album topped Billboard magazine’s Jazz charts, hit double-platinum status, earned Connick a Grammy for Best Jazz Male Vocal Performance and you best believe launched his career to the next stratosphere. Indeed, I proudly own that soundtrack on both cassette and CD (yes, I’m that old), but I must confess I’m happy it’s Frank Sinatra’s original version of “It Had to Be You” that we hear when Harry realizes it’s Sally that he loves and can’t live without. I mean when he’s running all out through the streets of New York to tell her all about it – does it get anymore romantic?! That’s probably why this song and the scene made AFI’s 100 Years…100 Songs list. So, so dreamy! I’m going to have to watch WHEN HARRY MET SALLY again now.

But not before I tell you about this last fall-infused film, complete with the soundtrack that first instilled my love of movie score and along with my tremendous admiration for the man behind the music, the Hit Man himself, Mr. David Foster. I mean, just hearing the first few notes of this movie’s opening sequence and I’m instantly transported back to that Burlington Ontario theatre for my first of like 50 screenings of ST.ELMO’S FIRE. I gotta tell you, when Rob Lowe, Demi Moore, Judd Nelson, Ally Sheedy, Andrew McCarthy, Mare Winningham and Emilo Estevez made their way across the screen in that opening… total game changer for this girl. That 1985 Joel Schumacher film changed everything for that ensemble cast too who on screen played a close knit group of college friends struggling to make their way in the world during that first fall after graduating, while off screen they began ‘The Brat Pack’ portion of their career (for a full explainer on that stream the doc BRATS on Disney+) All I know is I was crazy for the movie – for all the comedy and drama, for all the fall foliage and without question for all the amazing music on the David Foster produced soundtrack, which included a lyrical version that love theme called “For Just A Moment” and of course the title track “St. Elmo’s Fire (Man in Motion)” co written by Foster and singer John Parr. That song would spend 2 weeks atop Billboards Hot 100 and earn a Grammy nomination along with the entire soundtrack itself. Hey and here’s one last note of interest – according to Parr, he and David Foster wrote, recorded and edited that song in less than 24 hours. What a difference a day makes!

Alright my fellow film-loving folks and fans of fall – thanks for reading this first installment. With any luck I’ll return in time for the spooky season to share more of my favourite flicks and soundtrack hits. Take care til then! Sb