We all have a finite number of days before us. Our available moments are limited and each precious though we never can know how many we are given. When we get a hint as to when those moments end, it changes everything.

This film is the story of Hazel Grace, a 17 year old girl living with terminal cancer. In an attempt to help her to deal with depression and the idea of how many of her moments remain, her parents send her to a support group. At first leery, she meets friends and the one person who makes each moment exponentially more special.

We went into this movie expecting a tearjerker. I mean, how could it not be? Childhood cancer is no laughing matter. We were a bit surprised though. Hazel’s story is one of adversity, connection, joy, and pain. It would be easy and almost cliché to see a story about a child who has her one shining moment then bids the world farewell. This is not that story. We were given a story about how regardless of the circumstance, life is to be lived and enjoyed in the context available. Life isn’t easy for anyone especially children with cancer. Knowing that the chances of your graduating college or seeing your grandchildren are limited would take a toll on anyone. However, placing sorrow and worry aside opens you up to the here and now, able to appreciate the world around you in your individual reality.

I cannot say that I did not cry. I teared up once or twice. However, we finished this one smiling. The movie is not one meant to ruin your day or leave you a sobbing, Kleenex covered wreck. It is one of hope and appreciation of the time that we are given. I found myself moved but to contentment rather that sorrow.

Shailene Woodley and Ansel Elgort (both seen previously and loved in Divergent) are amazing in their roles as Hazel Grace and Augustus. They both portray the endearing and multifaceted characters with easy and honesty. The surrounding cast is excellent as well with a particular stand out being Willem Dafoe’s small role. Are there nominations in the future for this one? I could see it. The heart melting performances and writing are undeniably worthy.

I would like to tell you whether the book is better/not as great as the movie. Considering a friend lent me the book months ago, I should be able to tell you. However, the book still sits on my bed unopened. I can say that my urgency to read it has ramped up considerably. If you read the book, I would like your input. Too often is the translation lost from page to screen. Also, if the book is better, I would say that that you all HAVE to read it.

We very highly recommend this one. I would go with 12/13 and up for a good age category. This is not just a teen movie by the way. Everyone could (and should) love it. Do make sure to have tissues ready most certainly. There are strong emotions throughout and there may be a need to explain some things to younger viewers but nothing inappropriate. Some very limited, nongratuitous language at points.

This was a very impressive piece of cinema. I saw the credits roll while I was smiling. I never would’ve thought in a hundred years that a movie like this could elicit that response. However, through the sadness of the main topic, we are given a story of joy and what it means to truly live in each finite moment we have.

Rating: 4.5 kitties from Justin. I am going the full five. (no jokes on the kitties here. Just an excellent movie.)

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt2582846/?ref_=ttawd_awd_tt



What do you get when improbable circumstances meet impossible odds? A great story. Million Dollar Arm is the story of a sports agent who, in looking for his best last chance, travels to India in search of untapped potential. Through a game show, he stumbles on two boys he hopes will become baseball players and save his career. In the end, much more than that gets saved. 

This true story of Dinesh Patel and Rinku Singh isn't exactly like your run of the mill rags to riches tale. The focus in the film is on how character was built and relationships formed. More lighthearted than tear jerking, we enjoyed this one so much. We laughed a lot and not one tear was shed. The cast was great too with only supporting characters being ever present names (Bill Paxton, Alan Arkin). Of the other cast members, Madhur Mittal is the biggest star having played one of the leads in Slumdog Millionaire. Casting this way takes the focus off the actors and onto the story of these two ball players. 

We split this one over two nights because if mandatory sleep needs so we discussed during the 24 hour intermission. Like I said, this is a true story therefore a happy ending is inevitable. Justin claimed (not kidding) that I could be wrong about that and in fact the guys might've gotten stampeded by Bulls in Pamplona while recovering from a gambling addiction after being mistaken for the other Indians but was proven wrong. (We would absolutely watch if he would've been right. Lol)

It's Disney so definitely kid friendly. No swearing, no sex. There's even a conversation where they specifically state that the physical is private. I think this one is a great family movie so consider it this weekend. 
Until next time, keep Redbox busy and may all your distant dreams come true. 

Rating: 4 kitties with 96 mph fast balls. One has a mean slider. 

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1647668/?ref_=nv_sr_2