My Favorite Mutants!

#10 X-Men

List of Movies: X-Men, X2: X-Men United, X3: The Last Stand, X-Men Origins: Wolverine, X-Men: First Class

Why I love these movies:

I was first introduced to X-Men when I was really young through trading cards, and the awesome 90’s cartoon. As a kid the X-Men were probably my second favorite super heroes. After the 90’s show was over I didn’t really think much about X-Men again until 2000, which was when the first X-Men movie came out.

I saw the movie opening day when I was 11, with my brothers and cousins up in Utah, and I absolutely loved it! Immedeitly after the movie, we were in my cousins backyard pretending like we were our favorite X-men, battling it out. All we could talk about the last few days of our trip was X-men. To me then it was simply just a fun action movie with people and their cool powers, but since then I have learned that these movies are much more than that.

I love X-Men because first of all the concept of humans with special powers has always been so fascinating to me. Like most people who watch these movies I too wish I had some awesome mutant powers (who wouldn't?) I also really like the team aspect of them as well, because with most superhero movies there's usually just one hero.

One of my favorite things about these movies is they teach us great moral messages, as well entertain. These films are an allegory in some way of how mankind has always struggled with understanding each other. In our world we don’t have mutants with crazy powers running around, but each and every one of us does have someone who is different from us.

One of the biggest conflicts in these movies is that humans and mutants don’t try and understand each other, and in our world we do the same thing to one another. These movies show the two opposing sides very well. Magneto fears that humans will destroy mutants out of fear, and he believes that in order to prevent that he needs to take the humans out first. The humans fear the same thing about the mutants. Then we have Professor X, and the X-Men who stand for something different. They believe that mutants and humans can live together. I think sometimes we are like Magneto, when something or someone is different from us we get offended, and then defensive, and then we think that those that are different are bad, and we become aggressive to them. Rather than being offended or aggressive to those who are different, we should take the approach of Professor X, and try to understand those who are different. 

These films are also great because not only are they great action films, but they also show the bad side of discrimination and racism. It shows that we should not fear those that are different from us; rather we should seek to understand them. I think this is a message that we as a society can easily forget, and we all can use a reminder of it from time to time. Through in some awesome action sequences and great message like this, and you've got one awesome movies series! 

Favorite Film: X2: X-Men United

X2 is easily the best of the series for numerous reasons. I think that it demonstrates the best the message that I mentioned above. It is the most complete and well rounded, and has an amazing story. Along with that it has some the best action sequences of all the X-men movies, such as the opening scene with Nightcrawler, and Wolverine going ballistic. While the first has the problem of having to introduce all the characters, this one is able to hit the ground running.  Out of all the movies it feels the most like what I imagine a X-men movie should feel like.

A close second is First Class. This was a solid entry to the series that brought a fresh approach to the X-Men films that may have been lost from the films before it. It shows the struggles of mutants trying to accept themselves and their new gifts, and at the same time trying to find a place in the world. I know a lot of people didn’t like X3, but it is my third favorite. My biggest complaint was that it was too darn short, and they didn’t give some of the characters anything to do. With that said the reason I like it is because it has the most dramatic scenes out of the whole series, like when Jean Gray blows up Professor X! Man, who else didn’t see that coming? A student killing off her mentor/father figure (I won’t lie I shed a small tear the first time I saw that part, haha).

Another tear jerking moment is when Wolverine has to kill Jean at the very end. Pretty intense and dramatic stuff. X-Men 1, my fourth favorite, was great because it introduces all the characters and the concept, but it’s a little outdated when you watch it now. Despite that, it does a great job of bring the characters to life, and it makes them believable. The Wolverine movie just wasn’t that great. Hugh Jackman was outstanding as always, but the rest of it just wasn’t done very well.

Final Rankings:

Favorite Scene:

 When Nightcrawler attacks the White House and single handily takes out the secret service.

Favorite Quote: 

 “Mankind has always feared what it does not understand.”-Magneto

This has nothing to do with the quote, I just thought it was a cool video!

Favorite Hero: Wolverine

Favorite Villain: Magneto

Favorite Supporting Character: Beast

You've Got a Friend in Me......

#11 Toy Story

List of Movies: Toy Story, Toy Story 2, Toy Story 3

Why I love these movies: 

Who doesn't love Toy Story? Seriously, I don’t think I’ve ever met anyone who doesn't like these movies. I was seven years old when I saw the first one, and I absolutely loved it! When the third one came out I was 21, and once again, I loved it! It made me feel like I was seven again. The reason I love these films so much is because they are filled with emotion, drama, exciting adventures, and all the while being hilarious at the same time.

When you stop and think about it, the concept of Toy Story seems kind of bizarre, toys that come alive when we aren't looking. Which after watching when I was seven, I thought that my toys really did come alive when I wasn't around. So I made it a goal to try and catch them in the act. (Unfortunately I still haven't caught them yet L)

All three movies captured my attention by not only being funny, but also by all the memories and emotions that they produced. It’s amazing how Pixar was able to take such a bizarre, and far out concept, and make the characters and the plots so relatable. 

I can still watch these movies today, and be thoroughly entertained. When Taylor and I go babysitting, and when movie time comes around I always put in a request in for Toy Story, and usually I'm the one who wants to watch it more than the kids!

Favorite Film: Toy Story 2. 

This was one of my hardest to choose a favorite. All three of these movies are so evenly matched and balanced, with each film being pretty much flawless. For me though, where I really grew to love these movies was with the second one. Toy Story 2 took everything that was great in the first one, and added to it. The problem with a lot of sequels is that they aren’t as original as their predecessor. Toy Story 2 was able to overcome that obstacle and come up with a totally original plot, but still give us the characters that we loved from the first one. This film teaches us how important the people closest to us in our lives really are, and how we should never take them for granted. Woody realizes this by being kidnapped by a greedy toy collector, and the rest of the toys learn this by putting their lives on the line trying to rescue Woody.

Another reason why I love Toy Story 2 is because it reminds me of my niece Lilee. When she was two years old this was just about the only movie she would watch. One night she was sleeping over at our house and all she wanted to do watch was Toy Story 2. Later that night I got home at about 10:00 and she was still up watching it, and she wouldn’t go to bed until it was over. She never got sick of it, and neither do I. Whenever I think of this movie, I reminded of my cute little niece and her obsession with Toy Story.

It also had an awesome video game!

Toy Story 3 is my next favorite of the series. Pixar and Disney could have gone a totally different way with this movie and made it much more kiddy (like most animated sequels do). But instead they addressed mature issues like abandonment, loss, growing up, change, and betrayal. In the process of this they made a film that kids and adults can both enjoy. One thing I liked was how they showed the character Lotso, go through those issues, and how they turned him into a mean and bitter person. At the same time, it shows the main characters of this film also about to go through a similar experience. Rather than giving into those bitter emotions and feeling they are able to move onto the next stage in their life, and still be happy. Most movie aren’t able to pull off that kind of an emotion impacted and still be fun and light hearted like this film does. This movie works as a drama, a comedy, and as well as an action movie. It blends those three things perfectly with a great story!

Now we can’t forget the first Toy Story because this is what started it all. This movie changed animated films, and set a new bench mark for them. It established the characters that we have grown to love, and it created the universe for toys to come to life.  Like the other films it’s more than just a movie about toys; it’s film that reminds us of the importance of having good friends. Along with that, it teaches us through the eyes of Woody that we should never compare ourselves or try to measure up to others. When Woody starts comparing himself to Buzz he starts doing things that he normally wouldn't do. Jealousy takes over and causes him to act foolishly. He eventually learns that rather than resenting others for their good fortunes and good attributes, we need to focus on our best strengths and talents. We should be our best self and not worry about what other people are doing, and people will appreciate and love us for who we are. Each one of these films are an amazing achievements that provide us with great entertainment as well as great messages!

Final Rankings: 

Favorite Scene: 

The scene that always gets me the most is one from Toy Story 3; it’s the final scene where Andy finally gives his toys away to the little girl Bonnie. That scene has reminded me not only of what it was like when I gave up some of my favorite toys, but also giving up my youth in general. I think this seen is very symbolic of how our lives are filled with bitter sweet moments of when we must give up something good for something better, or when we have to move on from one stage of our life to another. It’s a very great scene that shows a boy going from a boy to a man, as well the toys moving on to the next stage of their lives, just like we all will experience in our own lives.

Favorite Quote: "alright no one look until I get my cork back in!" - Hamm

Favorite Hero: Buzz Lightyear

Favorite Villain: Sid

Favorite Supporting Character: Rex

Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-man!

#12 Spider-man

List of Movies: Spider-man, Spider-man 2, Spider-man 3, The Amazing Spider-man

Why I love these movies:

Like most fans of superheroes, Spider-man has always been one of my favorites. When Stan Lee created Spider-man back in the 60’s he wanted to make a hero that was different than the others. At that time in comics, superheroes were usually depicted as the guy with only one problem, save the day from the bad guys. When Spider-man was introduced not only did he have to face guys like the Green Goblin, Venom, and Doc Ock, but he had girl and relationship problems, homework, the stresses of paying rent, being on time to things, as well as struggling to make a living. Don’t most of those things sound familiar?


Along, with that he wasn’t your typical square jawed hero; he was a nerd with glasses. Spider-man is a normal guy with all the same problems that everyone faces, and that is what makes him so relatable, and likable. Sure he has some pretty awesome powers, (which at times I am pretty jealous of) and some of the most memorable villains, but without his relatable and enduring characteristics he would just be your typical superhero.

 When movies are adapted from comics there are always things they leave out, but with the Spider-man films they were all able to show that relatable side to Peter Parker, and that’s why I love these flicks. Along with great acting (most of time), great actions sequences, and great stories, these films showed the journey of Peter Parker that made me feel like he is one of us. The films had heart to them, in a way that most action and superhero movies are missing. Sure there is some cheesy dialog, but remember it is comic book movie, and plus I’m sure we all talk pretty cheesy from time to time!

Favorite Film: The Amazing Spider-man.

I thought the newest Spider-man was the best, but not by much. I’ve been hearing a lot of people bash the old trilogy lately and I’m really not sure why, because I remember when they all came out everyone loved them (besides Spider-man 3). The reason I like the newest one the best is simply because I liked Andrew Garfield and Emma Stone as Peter Parker and Gwen Stacey much better than Tobey Maguire and Kirsten Dunst. They had great chemistry that really made me want to see what happens to them. (especially if they follow the comics with her story line)

Tobey was a great Spider-man, but overall I think Andrew Garfield did a better job, mostly because I thought he was better in the more dramatic scenes as well being a little bit more funny and sarcastic than Tobey’s version. When I first heard that they were doing Spider-man's origin story again I was actually really disappointed because they had already done it. Some how though, they were able to tell a familiar story in a new way that made me feel like I was seeing the story for the first time. For me, The Amazing Spider-man was exactly what a Spider-man movie should be!

My next favorite is Spider-man 2 because I like how it really shows him struggling to be Spider-man and trying to live a normal life. It also had the best villain of all the movies, Doc Ock! The first Spider-man is close behind number 2. This film introduced Spider-man to cinemas, and was one of the many reasons why superhero movies have became so popular today. 

My least favorite is of course Spider-man 3, but like most people I don’t hate this one, I actually really like it. I realize it has some pretty awful scenes in it, like when Peter is walking down the street like an idiot, or the very unnecessary dance scene. Besides these few scenes, that I like to fast forward, it really is a great movie with some of the best action sequences of the whole series. It really contributes to the overall story arc and journey of Peter Parker. It also has some of the best scenes with J. Jonah Jameson, who I think was one the one the best characters of the old trilogy.

Final Rankings:

Favorite Scene: 

The fight scene between Spider-man and the Lizard, in the high school during The Amazing Spider-man. This was an exciting action scene that demonstrated Spider-man in new way from all the other films. It showed the Lizard as ferocious opponent that can truly challenge Spider-man. It also has best cameo by Stan Lee!

I couldn't find too many good videos or pictures of this scene, but here is a sweet pic of Stan the Man!

Favorite Quote:

“With great power comes great responsibility” – Ben Parker

Favorite Hero: Peter Parker

Favorite Villain: Doc Ock

Favorite Supporting Character: J Jonah Jameson

I had to put this in too! haha

Coming Soon to a blog near you....My Top 12 Favorite Movie Series of All Time!

For most people watching a movie is just simply about entertainment. When my wife and I go see movies she almost always enjoys herself, but when the movie is done, the experience is pretty much over for her, but for me and my peculiar personality it's usually just beginning! After I watch a movie I love to get on Wikipedia or other sites and read about the movie, and find out how they made it. Its fascinating to me. I know my wife probably wishes that fascination went into something more productive like how to fix things, sorry babe;) With that said though certain movies have really proved to have had a very positive influences in my life. All the movies that will be on this list have either inspired me in some way or taught me an important life lesson. So my fascinations aren't totally a waste! I love discussing movies with people afterwards as well. A common dinner conversation when I'm with my siblings is the latest movies we have just watched. 

Many times the excitement for a movie begins before I even see it, especially if it's a sequel to one of my favorite movies. I love to watch the trailers, and discuss theories of what may happen. The hype for an upcoming movie is almost as fun as watching the movie itself. I kind of become like a little kid waiting for Christmas! Recently, my buddy Taylor Johnson and have been talking and speculating about The Dark Knight Rises for probably about the last two years. I think once we talked for an hour and half about it, yikes! While our wives may not always appreciate the excessive Batman talk, for us it’s something that we have bonded over the last few years, which has increased our friendship. I admit I am a pretty big nerd, but nerd or no,t movies have proved to be something that has brought a lot of fun to my life! 

Movies are also all about the experience for me. I can be a very nostalgic person at times, and some movies remind me of specific events in my life. For example, the movie Robin Hood Prince of Thieves reminds me of when I was little boy whenmy mom would go out of town. My mom really didn't like this interpretation of Robin Hood, so whenever she was gone these four mischievous little boys, and one grown up mischievous boy, would always sneak and watch it. (Sorry Ma!) When I think of that movie I don’t necessarily think of the movie itself, but I think of the good memories of bonding I had with my dad and brothers. When I think of the movie Lincoln Lawyer (edited), I think of the recent trip Taylor and I made to New York City. While we were there we stayed with Taylor's awesome cousins, Derek and Amanda Walker, and after a long day of walking around NYC we want back to their cozy little apartment and watched this entertaining flick. As weird as that all sounds, it’s a lot of fun for me to have these great memories associated with movies. The films in my list all have some great memories. 

Now I know the anticipation of finding out what my favorite movie series is probably just killing you. Your probably sweating in your chair right now because you are so anxious! I bet this is all you can think about! J So to make this a little more painful for you I want to point out a few ground rules of how I came up with this list. First off, these movies had to have made me want to talk about it with others. They had to make me want to see the sequels, and watch them numerous times. They had to have some kind of personal experience or memory associated with it. They had to have taught me something, or inspired me in some way. And most of all they had to keep me entertained. Now with that all said, you are going to have to stayed tuned for my post that kicks off my top 12 favorite movie series of all time! Let the hype and speculation begin!!!!