2019 BY MONTH

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ALL MOVIE RECOMMENDATIONS FOR 2019 BY MONTH

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MOVIE RECOMMENDATIONS FOR DECEMBER 2019
Yes, we phoned this one in. After all, December is an obvious choice for "Christmas" film recommendations. In December of 2018 we gave you "not so holiday, holiday films." In 2019 we gave you four of our favorite "Christmas" movies. Before anyone get's grumpy and complains to the Internet, we do understand that Christmas may not be your thing. It's ok, because we promise, this is the last time we're going to recommend "Christmas" movies in December. In future years we'll come up with some "Non-Holiday" film themes, we promise!

"National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation" (1989 Warner Bros.) Chevy Chase, Beverly D'Angelo, Juliette Lewis, Johnny Galecki, Randy Quaid, Miriam Flynn, Doris Roberts, John Randolph. Available on Amazon Prime or Apple TV.

If you're a child of the '80s, you couldn't have missed National Lampoon's 1983 classic comedy "Vacation," and it's 1985 follow up "European Vacation." "Christmas Vacation" is the third film of the four in the "Vacation" series, and it packs plenty of comedy, we love it for the sledding scene alone! We're sure you'll be able to find it on cable TV throughout the holiday season, but we recommend you stream it commercial-free with the family.

"Die Hard" (1988 Twentieth Century Fox) Bruce Willis Bonnie Bedelia, Alan Rickman, Reginald VelJhonson, William Atherton, Paul Gleason, James Shigeta, Alexander Godunov. Available on Amazon Prime or Apple TV.

That's right, Die Hard! Best Christmas movie ever! You can make that argument thanks to "The Family Guy." The film is based on the 1979 novel "Nothing Lasts Forever" by Roderick Thorp, and was added to the US Library of Congress National Film Registry in 2017. "Die Hard" is considered a "Christmas" film due to its Christmas Eve setting; however, the film was a summer release in July of 1988. "Die Hard" is the first movie in one of the greatest action movie franchises ever (five films in all spanning 1988 to 2013, and a sixth film "McLane" is rumored to be in the works.) "Die Hard" is our favorite of the bunch and is always fun to watch around the holidays.

"Scrooged" (1988 paramount Pictures) Bill Murray, Alfre Woodard, Karen Allen, John Forsythe, John Glover, Bobcat Goldthwaite, Carol Kane, David Johansen, Robert Mitchum, John Murray, and Brian Doyle-Murray. Available on Amazon Prime or Apple TV.

Second only to "Die Hard" as the "best Christmas movie ever," Scrooged has become an all-time holiday favorite, a "surf-stopper" whenever found on cable TV. Be sure to enjoy this film during the holidays and look for our favorite bit, "Robert Goulet's Cajun Christmas!"

"Love Actually" (2003 Universal Pictures) Bill Nighy, Hugh Grant, Emma Thompson, Keira Knightley, Leam Neeson, Colin Firth, Gregor Fisher, Andrew Lincoln, Laura Linney Chiwetel Ejiofor. Available on Amazon Prime Video or Apple TV. Also currently available on HBO GO/NOW.

Since its release in 2003, "Love Actually" has become a modern Christmas classic. While it's much more of an all-star ensemble cast love story, its Christmas and New Year's setting makes it an excellent movie for the season. While the fans loved the film more than the critics did, "Love Actually" was a box office hit in 2003, earning a Golden Globe nomination for Best Motion Picture — Musical or Comedy in 2004.

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MOVIE RECOMMENDATIONS FOR NOVEMBER 2019
Ah, November, "Thanksgiving Month" the most melancholic month of the year (in our opinion anyway). Oh, you know it's a sad month — leaves on the ground, the impending doom of the holiday season. So, we're giving you four of the most melancholy films we can think up. Enjoy! Also, be sure to check out our November FUN IDEA for an excellent simple Pumpkin Pie recipe!

“Children of Men” (2006 Universal Pictures) Clive Owen, Julianne Moore, Chiwetel Ejiofor, Clare-Hope Ashitey, Pam Ferris, and Michael Caine. Available on Amazon Prime Video or Apple TV.

Directed by Alfonso Cuarón (Gravity, Roma, A Little Princess) and based on the 1992 Novel “The Children of Men” by P.D. James. Set in the not too distant future (2727), depicting a time where decades of human infertility has pushed society to the edge of collapse — a dystopian action-drama with excellent performances from Clive Owen, Julianne Moore, and Michael Caine.

“Lost in Translation” (2003 Focus Features) Scarlett Johansson, Bill Murray, Giovanni Ribisi, Akiko Takeshita, Anna Faris. Available on Amazon Prime Video or Apple TV. Also currently available on STARZ.

This 2003 gem earned Sophia Coppola an Oscar for Best Original Screenplay. The film was also nominated for three other Oscars that year, including Best Picture, Best Director, and Best Actor in a Leading Role for Bill Murray (we feel he was snubbed.) A slow-paced film involving culture shock and loneliness. If you’ve ever been far from home in a country where you did not speak the language, you’ll easily relate to “Lost in Translation.”

“Unforgiven” (1992 Warner Bros.) Clint Eastwood, Gene Hackman, Morgan Freeman, Richard Harris, Jaime Woolvett, Anna Levine, Saul Rubinek. Available on Amazon Prime Video or Apple TV. Also currently available on Showtime Anytime.

Despite what some people may think, Unforgiven is a great American western. Winner of four Oscars, including Best Picture and a Best Director, nod for Clint Eastwood; Unforgiven paints a darker picture of the wild west pointing out the harsh realities of violence for those involved in vigilante justice, not uncommon to the time. Standout performances from Clint Eastwood, and Morgan Freeman. Gene Hackman shines as “Little Bill Daggett,” a role that earned him an Oscar for Best Supporting Actor that year.

"High Fidelity" (2000 Touchstone Pictures) John Cusack, Iben Hjeljle, Jack Black, Todd Louiso, Joan Cusack, Tim Robbins, Lisa Bonet, Catherine Zeta-Jones. Available on Amazon Prime Video or Apple TV.

High Fidelity partners director Stephen Frears and actor John Cusack for a second time; their debut was The Grifters, which won Best Feature at the 1990 Independent Spirit Awards. Based on the 1995 novel by Nick Hornby, High Fidelity is a love letter to old-school record stores and music fans. Cusack stars as Rob Gordon, a music snob who owns Championship Vinyl and is trying to recover from a recent break-up by reconnecting with old flames to learn what he keeps doing wrong. Jack Black and Todd Louiso are featured as the store's "musical moron twins". High Fidelity has earned almost cult-status and is a must-watch for any vinyl lover looking for a sarcastic comedy-love story.

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MOVIE RECOMMENDATIONS FOR OCOTBER 2019
Happy October everybody! "Halloween Month" once again. There's no better time than October for a "scare-fest." Below you will find four scary film recommendations which are sure to keep you up at night! Also, check out our October FUN IDEA and this year's Halloween costume recommendations!

"The Amityville Horror" (1979 American International Pictures) James Brolin, Margot Kidder, Rod Steiger, Don Stroud, Natasha Ryan, Amy Wright. Available on Amazon Prime Video and Apple TV. Also currently available on Hulu.

A classic American haunting tale based on the book of the same name by Jay Anson. The 1979 original is the one to watch! At the time of its release, moviegoers flocked to see "The Amityville Horror." The film was a tremendous box office success; it's the film that gave us the chilling phrase "Get out!" Loosely based on actual events which spurred much controversy, "The Amityville Horror" is an excellent choice for a Halloween fright fest!

"The Conjuring" (2013 New Line Cinema) Vera Farmiga, Patrick Wilson, Lili Taylor, Ron Livingston, Shanley Caswell, Hayley McFarland, Joey King. Available on Amazon Prime Video and Apple TV. Also currently available on Netflix.

Make sure you're wearing clean underwear because this supernatural thriller is sure to scare your pants off! Written by twin brothers Chad and Carey Hayes, "The Conjuring" is the first of a series of films including two sequels: "The Conjuring 2," "The Conjuring 3," and four prequels: "Annabelle," "Annabelle: Creation," "The Nun," and "Annabelle Comes Home." The films of "The Conjuring Universe" have become favorites of horror fans!

"Hereditary" (2018 A24) Toni Collette, Gabriel Byrne, Alex Wolff, Milly Shapiro, Ann Dowd. Available on Amazon Prime Video and Apple TV.

This film will freak you out! Seriously! We're not kidding, the story is a slow build-up, but it will hit you all at once with a shocker and build fast from there. Mysterious, and creepy as all hell, "Hereditary" is a horror-suspense film not for the faint-hearted. If you want to give yourself the "heebie-jeebies" this Halloween, this is the film to watch!

"IT" (2017 New Line Cinema) Jarden Martell, Sophia Lillis, Jeremy Ray Taylor, Finn Wolfhard, Chosen Jacobs, Jack Dylan Grazer, Wyatt Oleff, Bill Skarsgåd. Available on Amazon Prime Video and Apple TV.

Based on the Novel by Stephen King, this is one of the greatest Horror films of the 21st century. We're going to stop you right here and suggest that you READ THE BOOK if you haven't yet done so. We feel it is one of King's best works, full of rich characters and excellent subplots, many of which are referenced across other King novels. This film is the first half of the book, "IT Chapter 2" (currently in theaters) is the second half of the story. So, if you are not a reader, you must watch "IT" before "IT Chapter 2" or you'll be confused (You're welcome!) Both films are very well done and feature great casts. We must stress that you will enjoy the movie more if you have read the book first.

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MOVIE RECOMMENDATIONS FOR "SCI-FI" SEPTEMBER 2019
In September we celebrated huflixPrime's second annual "Sci-Fi" September! September was the obvious choice as it's the only month that starts with an "S". For September 2019, just as we did the previous year, we recommending four "Sci-Fi" films which we feel should not be missed! Also be sure to check out our September FUN IDEA!

"The Time Traveler's Wife" (2009 New Line Cinema) Eric Bana, Rachel McAdams, Ron Livingston, Stephen Tobolowsky, Michelle Nolden, Arliss Howard, Hailey McCann. Available on Amazon Prime Video or Apple TV. Also currently available on Hulu.

Based on Audrey Niffenegger's 2003 best selling novel of the same name, this 2009 film adaptation is well done. We love stories about time travel, who doesn't? Upon the film's release in 2009, "The Time Traveler's" Wife" received mixed reviews at best. In our opinion, those critics can jump in a lake! We like this film; however, as always, we encourage you to read the book. If you're looking for a romantic movie with a Sci-Fi twist, here it is!

"District 9" (2009 TriStar Pictures) Sharlto Copley, Nathalie Boltt, Jason Cope, Sylvanie Strike, John Sumner, William Allen Young. Available on Amazon Prime Video or Apple TV. Also currently available on Hulu.

Directed by Neill Blomkamp (Elysium, Chappie) and co-written with his wife Terri Tatchell, "District 9" came out of nowhere in 2009 surprising critics and sci-fi fans alike. Featuring a stellar performance from Sharlto Copley (The A-Team, Europa Report), this action-packed thrill ride will pull at your heartstrings in the end. If you're looking for a surprisingly excellent sci-fi film, look no further! Check out "District 9" today!

"Battleship" (2012 Universal Pictures) Taylor Kitsch, Brooklyn Decker, Alexander Skarsgård, Tadanobu Asano, Gregory D. Gadson, Rihanna, Jesse Plemons, John Tui, Hamish Linklater, and Liam Neeson. Available on Amazon Prime Video or Apple TV. Also currently available on TNT.

If you loved the game "Battleship" as a kid, you're probably thinking "They adapted the game to a film? Huh?" Yeah, that was our reaction as well. However, the result was a remarkably cool Sci-Fi film! Think of it as "Independence Day" but for the Navy! We were pleasantly surprised by the high production value of this film, and we just had to include it in "Sci-Fi" September!

"The Hitchhiker's Guide To The Galaxy" (2005 Touchstone Pictures) Martin Freeman, Mos Def, Zooey Deschanel, Sam Rockwell, Anna Chancellor, Alan Rickman, Helen Mirren, and Bill Nighy. Available on Amazon Prime Video or Apple TV.

It's too bad "August" doesn't start with "S" because this film just left Netflix last month! Based on the late Douglas Adam's beloved book of the same name, we love this film adaptation of "The Hitchhiker's Guide To The Galaxy." You will get more enjoyment from this film if you have read the book first. However, if you're open-minded with a love of British humor, you may enjoy it without having read the book. (But please read the book!) Brilliant and hilarious performances from the entire cast!

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MOVIE RECOMMENDATIONS FOR AUGUST 2019
It can get pretty darn hot in August. Hot August days are like the summer's last dying breath before the cooler, drier days of September come around. To help you sweat it out, we're recommending four films that make you think of the heat, (and yes, we realize "Dog Day Afternoon" is an obvious choice, which is why we've given you another Sidney Lumet classic) Enjoy! Be sure to check out our August FUN IDEA.

"The Trigger Effect" (1996 Amblin Entertainment) Kyle MacLachlan, Elisabeth Shue, Dermot Mulroney, Richard T. Jones, Bill Smitrovich, and Michael Rooker. Available on Amazon Prime Video and Apple TV.

Written and directed by David Koepp (Stir of Echoes, Panic Room, Spider-Man) this 1996 film explores what happens to society when the power is shut off without explanation. While not as scary a concept in 1996, it's undoubtedly terrifying today where we are as dependent as ever on power and instant communication. True "The Twilight Zone" (now available on Netflix) highlighted this theme in 1960 in the "The Monsters are Due on Maple Street" (S1 E22), but "The Trigger Effect" takes the concept further through interactions and trust between people in desperate situations. A hidden gem well-acted by Kyle McLaughlin, Elisabeth Shue, and Dermot Mulroney.

"Biloxi Blues" (1988 Universal Pictures) Matthew Broderick, Christopher Walken, Matt Mulhern, Penelope Ann Miller, Corey Parker. Available on Amazon Prime Video and Apple TV.

Written by Neil Simon (The Odd Couple, The Goodbye Girl, Murder by Death) and based on his Broadway play of the same name, "Biloxi Blues" was an early spring hit in 1988. Set in 1943 in Biloxi Mississippi, this coming of age story follows United States Army recruits as they enter basic training before heading off to fight during World War II.

"Do the Right Thing" (1989 40 Acres & A Mule Filmworks) Spike Lee, Danny Aiello, Ossie Davis, Giancarlo Esposito, Ruby Dee, Richard Edson, John Turturro. Available on Amazon Prime Video and Apple TV.

This masterwork by Academy Award winner Spike Lee is celebrating a resurgence courtesy of its 30th anniversary this year. "Do The Right Thing" is still as timely and controversial today. Don't miss it.

"12 Angry Men" (1957 United Artists) Henry Fonda, Lee J. Cobb, Martin Balsam, John Fiedler, Jack Warden, Rudy Bond, John Savoca. Available on Amazon Prime Video and Apple TV.

On a hot summer evening in a New York County Courthouse 12 Jurors (all men) must decide the fate of an 18-year-old male accused of murder. This 1957 classic directed by Sidney Lumet (Dog Day Afternoon, Network, The Verdict) is a must-see for any film buff.

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MOVIE RECOMMENDATIONS FOR JULY 2019
In July, we gave you films that included scenes with major "fireworks." Here in the United States, July 4th is when we celebrate our "Independence Day." See what we did there? We snuck in a fifth film recommendation because yes, "Independence Day" technically has a "fireworks" scene at the end. (sorry for the spoiler, but come on — you haven't seen "Independence Day?") We also gave you two simple recipes fit for any BBQ event, check out our July FUN IDEA!

"We're The Millers" (2013, New Line Cinema) Jason Sudeikis, Jennifer Aniston, Emma Roberts, Will Poulter, Ed Helms, Nick Offerman, Kathryn Hahn, Molly C. Quinn, Tomer Sisley. Available on Amazon Prime Video or Apple TV.

Yes, you can be guaranteed to find this film on cable TV, perhaps two or three times a month. However, we're recommending it all the same because we were surprised by just how much fun it was (also it’s better to watch unedited). "We're The Millers" will have you laughing out loud! The entire cast is excellent, and we'd like to highlight Jenifer Aniston's performance because here at huflixPrime, we consider her to be one of the best comedic actors of her generation. We love Jenifer Aniston so much that we're presenting her with a huflixPrime actor page of her very own! Check it out HERE. Look for the knock-out firework scene towards the end of the film.

"Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring" (2001 New Line Cinema) Elija Wood, Ian Holm, Sean Astin, Ian McKellan, Viggo Mortensen, Sean Bean, Liv Tyler, Cate Blanchett, Orlando Bloom, John Rhys-Davies, Billy Boyd, Dominic Monaghan, Hugo Weaving. Available on Amazon Prime Video or Apple TV.

This fantastic film version of Tolkien's epic novel "The Lord of The Rings" is old enough now that a new generation of fans can enjoy it for the first time. While we encourage everyone to READ THE BOOK, "Fellowship" is the start of an excellent three-film set to watch with the family. Look for what has now become one of the most famous firework scene's, "The Dragon Firework" early in the film.

"The Great Gatsby" (2013, Warner Bros.) Leonardo DiCaprio, Tobey Maguire, Carey Mulligan, Joel Edgerton, Elizabeth Debicki, Isla Fisher. Available on Amazon Prime Video or Apple iTunes Store.

Many fans may be angry when we say that this modern remake of F. Scott Fitzgerald's classic novel is our favorite film version. This 2013 version is actually the fourth film version (fifth if you count the TV version from 2000). Winner of two Oscars in 2014, (Best Achievement in Costume Design and Best Achievement in Production Design). If you're a fan of the novel, this version of the film should not be missed. Look for the firework scene when Nick (Toby Maguire) meets the famous "Gatsby" (Leonardo DiCaprio) for the first time.

"The Theory of Everything" (2016) Eddie Redmayne, Felicity Jones, Tom Prior, Harry Lloyd, David Thewlis, Emily Watson. Available on Amazon Prime Video or Apple TV. Also currently available on Netflix.

Adapted from the autobiography of Jane Hawking, (Travelling to Infinity: My Life with Stephen", detailing her life with her first husband, the late physicist Stephen Hawking, "The Theory of Everything" should not be missed. Nominated for five Oscars in 2015, and winning one, (Best Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role) for Eddie Redmayne. You can catch the romantic firework scene when Stephen (Redmayne) takes Jane (Felicity Jones) to the Trinity May Ball.

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MOVIE RECOMMENDATIONS FOR JUNE 2019
June is officially the first month of Summer (in the northern hemisphere), a month during which hard-working students all across the land graduate and move on to bigger, better, hopefully, brighter futures! To help send those graduates on their way, we gave you four of our favorite "graduation" themed films. June is also a great month for outdoor music festivals! Check out our list of the best June music festivals in our June FUN IDEA!

"With Honors" (1994 Warner Bros.) Joe Pesci, Brendan Fraser, Moira Kelly, Patrick Dempsey, Josh Hamilton. Available on Amazon Prime Video or Apple TV.

"With Honors" is an excellent film offering a poignant look at things that really matter in life. We're big Brendan Fraser fans here at huflixPrime, where we feel he is America's greatest "under-rated" actor. That's why we're giving him a huflixPrime actor page of his very own! Check it out HERE. "With Honors" is a film which forces college graduates to take an honest look at their future. Touching, humorous, and thought-provoking all in one. One of our favorite roles for Joe Pesci and the entire cast is outstanding. Not to be missed!

"Ferris Bueller's Day Off" (1986 Paramount Pictures) Matthew Broderick, Alan Ruck, Mia Sara, Jennifer Grey, Cindy Pickett, Lyman Ward, Jeffrey Jones, Edie McClurg, Ben Stein, and Charlie Sheen. Available on Amazon Prime Video or Apple TV.

Take a journey back to 1986, a point in time when a high school student could actually ditch school without being tracked by GPS, Twitter, or Facebook! A John Hughes classic, "Ferris Bueller's Day Off" is an epic journey of hijinks and high school shenanigans! If you've not seen this film, watch it immediately!

"The Graduate" (1967 Embassy Pictures) Anne Bancroft, Dustin Hoffman, Katharine Ross, Willam Daniels, Murray Hamilton, Elizabeth Wilson, Brian Avery, and Buck Henry. Available on Amazon Prime Video or Apple TV. Also currently available on Netflix.

This 1967 classic based on the 1963 novel by Charles Webb, and written for the screen by Buck Henry (What's Up Doc?, Heaven Can Wait, Get Smart) is a film for the ages. The film boasts a Grammy Award-winning soundtrack featuring multiple songs from the folk-rock duo Simon & Garfunkel. A break-out role for Dustin Hoffman, we've got one word for you: "Plastics!"

"The Girl Next Door" (2004 Twentieth Century Fox) Emile Hirsch, Elisha Cuthbert, Timothy Olyphant, Chris Marquette, Paul Dano, James Remar, Timothy Bottoms, Donna Bullock. Available on Amazon Prime Video or Apple TV.

We love this film! It was a welcomed surprise back in the Spring of 2004. Even though it's not, we consider "The Girl Next Door" to be a remake of "Risky Business" because it's a similar concept, only modernized. Hey, we might have to make that a new category! Watch "The Girl Next Door" — it will surprise you.

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MOVIE RECOMMENDATIONS FOR MAY 2019
May our Anniversary Month! That's right, huflixPrime is one year old this month! There will be cake involved at some point, for now, enjoy some excellent "summertime" themed films. Also, Be sure to check out our MAY FUN IDEA! for a great BBQ.

Images link to Amazon. Buttons link to Apple iTunes Store.

“Wimbledon” (2004 Universal Pictures) Kirsten Dunst, Paul Bettany, Sam Neill, Jon Favreau, James McAvoy, Bernard Hill, Eleanor Bron, Nikolaj Coster-Waldau, Austin Nichols, Chris Evert Mary Carillo, and John McEnroe. Available on Amazon Prime Video, or Apple iTunes Store.

There’s nothing like Wimbledon to get you fired up for summer (Wimbledon 2019 begins July 1st) You don’t see a lot of “Tennis” films, so “Wimbledon” was a surprise treat back in late 2004. Is it a rom-com? Yes, but the tennis scenes are fun to watch, and it does keep you on the edge of your seat in the final moments. Who doesn’t love Paul Bettany! The guy makes us laugh with his dry wit — great cameo appearances by Chris Evert, Mary Carillo and John McEnroe. Wimbledon is a great film to start your summer with!

“Little Manhattan” (2005 20th Century Fox) Josh Hutcherson, Charlotte Ray Rosenberg (as Charlie Ray) Bradley Whitford, Cynthia Nixon, Willie Garson, Tony Patano. Available on Amazon Prime Video and Apple TV.

As we enter summer, we thought it might be nice to recommend a “Kid Friendly” movie that didn’t involve super hero’s blowing things up. So we give you one of our favorites, “Little Manhattan.” Released as a sleeper surprise back in 2005 and staring a young Josh Hutcherson long before he portrayed Peeta Mellark in the “The Hunger Games” films, “Little Manhattan” is a kids love story that everyone, (yes, even boys) can enjoy. Be sure to check it out with the family if you can.

“Dirty Dancing” (1987 Great American Films LP) Jennifer Grey, Patrick Swayze, Jerry Orbach, Cynthia Rhodes, Jack Weston, Jane Brucker, Kelly Bishop, Lonny Price. Available on Amazon Prime Video and Apple iTunes Store. Also currently available on Starz.

Sure, you’ve probably seen it many times, but it’s always worth watching again. This nostalgic visit to the Catskills will bring back summertime memories for everyone! And if you’ve never seen “Dirty Dancing” do yourself a favor and add it to your list immediately! Can’t get enough of the Catskills? Check out “The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel” on Amazon Prime Video too.

“Adventureland” (2009 Miramax) Jesse Eisenberg, Kristen Stewart, Ryan Reynolds, Bill Hader, Kristen Wiig, Jack Gilpin, Weide Malick. Available on Amazon Prime Video and Apple TV. Also currently available on Showtime.

We’re going to tell you right now that we’ll watch anything with Jesse Eisenberg, an actor who is destined to receive an Oscar one of these days (Nominated in 2011 for Best Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role for "The Social Network"). All that aside, you’ll love “Adventureland.” This film may just take you back to the summer jobs of your youth, where hopefully, you learned some valuable life lessons! Watch “Adventureland,” you’ll be glad you did!

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MOVIE RECOMMENDATIONS FOR APRIL 2019
Get outdoors and start your gardening! Be sure to check out our APRIL FUN IDEA! This month we're keeping it simple and avoiding a theme. Here are four film recommendations that we're sure you'll enjoy!

“Doc Hollywood” (1991 Warner Bros.) Michael J. Fox, Julie Warner, Woody Harrelson, Barnard Hughes, David Ogden Stiers, Bridget Fonda, Frances Sternhagen, George Hamilton. Available on Amazon Prime and Apple TV.

"Doc Hollywood" is probably one of the best “feel good” movies you’ll ever see. Dr. Ben Stone is our favorite role for Michael J. Fox. Watching this film may make you want to leave the hustle and bustle of the big city and move on out to the country! Check it out; we’re sure you’re going to love it!

“Molly's Game” (2017 STX Entertainment) Jessica Chastain, Idris Elba, Kevin Costner, Michael Cera, Jeremy Strong, Chris O’Dowd, Graham Greene.
Available on Amazon Prime and Apple TV. Also currently available on Showtime.

Based on the 2014 memoir of Molly Bloom, retired Olympic skier, entrepreneur, speaker and author, this film was written and directed by Aaron Sorkin. Even if you don’t know anything about high stakes poker, you’re sure to find this fascinating, educational and entertaining. Featuring excellent performances by Jessica Chastain and Idris Elba, and receiving a Best Adapted Screenplay Oscar nomination for Aaron Sorkin in 2018, “Molly’s Game” is filled with the well-paced witty dialogue you’d expect from Mr. Sorkin. If you’re a fan of Aaron Sorkin’s work, you’re sure to enjoy “Molly’s Game.”

“Edge of Seventeen” (2017 Gracie Films) Hailee Steinfeld, Woody Harrelson, Kyra Sedgwick, Haley Lu Richardson, Blake Jenner, Hayden Szeto. Available on Netflix, Amazon Prime and Apple TV.

You may have first seen Hailee Steinfeld in the Coen Brother’s 2011 remake of “True Grit” for which she received an Oscar nomination for Best Performance by an Actress in a Supporting Role. You may or may not know that Hailee Steinfeld is quite the talented singer as well, be sure to check out her music on iTunes! Highlighted by strong performances from Hailee Steinfeld and Woody Harrelson, “Edge of Seventeen is an excellent look at the struggles of the modern teenage girl. An unexpected treat in 2017, this film is sure to make you laugh, cry and leave you smiling. Be sure to check it out.

“Hell or High Water” (2016 Lionsgate) Chris Pine, Ben Foster, Jeff Bridges, Gil Birmingham. Available on Netflix, Amazon Prime and Apple TV.

Best described as a modern western crime drama, “Hell or High Water” was a surprise hit in 2016 with four Oscar nominations including Best Motion Picture of the Year and Best Performance by an Actor in a Supporting Role for Jeff Bridges, It's a well-paced, classically-styled and somewhat violent film with an excellent plot. If you’re looking for action and drama, this is a film you’ll enjoy.

MARCH 2019 RECOMMENDATIONS
March, our favorite month because it contains our favorite holiday, St. Patrick's Day! To celebrate, we gave you four films which are either set in Ireland or involve Irish characters. Also, be sure to check out our MARCH FUN IDEA for an excellent corned beef and cabbage recipe.

“Brooklyn” (2015 Fox Searchlight) Saoirse Ronan, Emory Cohen, Domhnall Gleeson, Bird Brennan, Maeve McGrath, Hugh Gormley. Available on Amazon Prime Video or Apple TV.

Saoirse Ronan (pronounced “Sir-Sha”, you’re welcome!) is without a doubt one of the finest actors of her generation. Her role of Eillis Lacey in “Brooklyn” earned her an Oscar nomination for “Best Actress in a Lead Role”. Based on Colm Tóibín’s novel of the same name “Brooklyn” tells an authentic tale of a young woman’s experience as an Irish immigrant in the U.S. in the early 1950s. Also nominated for Best Picture and Best Adapted Screenplay, “Brooklyn” should not be missed.

“Waking Ned Devine” (1998 20th Century Fox) Ian Bannen, David Kelly, Fionnula Flanagan, Susan Lynch, and James Nesbitt. Available on Amazon Prime Video or Apple iTunes Store.

If you’ve never seen “Waking Ned Devine” you must move it to the top of your viewing list immediately! We love this film! While some have called “Waking Ned Devine” a dark comedy, we consider it more of a friendly, feel-good small town “dramedy.” The story takes place in the small Irish village of Tulaigh Mhòr (pronounced Tullymore) and involves a plot by its locals to claim the winnings of the Irish National Lottery after learning that one of their own (Ned Devine) held the winning ticket, signed his name to the back, and dropped dead of surprise upon learning that he had won. The ensuing scheme is hilarious! Each character is lovable in their way, even mean old “Lizzie Quinn” We can’t rave enough about this film, so please do yourselves a favor and watch it today!

“Once” (2007 20th Century Fox) Glen Hansard, Markéta Irglová. Available on Amazon Prime Video or Apple TV.

Earning an Oscar in 2008 for “Best Original Song” (“Falling Slowly” written and performed by the film’s stars Glen Hansard and Markéta Irglová). “Once” is a romantic, musical-drama and was a sleeper indie success. “Once” is a well-filmed look at the process of creating and recording original music, a must-see for music lovers.

“The Crying Game” (1992 Lionsgate) Stephan Rae, Miranda Richardson, Forest Whitaker, Jaye Davidson. Available on Amazon Prime Video or Apple TV.

This film was a surprise hit way back in 1992. "The Crying Game" achieved commercial success after it’s American release, and earned six Oscar nominations and a win for Best Original Screenplay. For those of you who haven’t seen it, we’ll say you’re in for a surprise.

FEBRUARY 2019 RECOMMENDATIONS
In February we brought you "Winter" movies. Enjoy, and be sure to check out our FEBRUARY FUN IDEA.

“Winter's Bone” (2010 Lionsgate.) Jennifer Lawrence, Isaiah Stone, Ashlee Thompson, Garret Dillahunt, John Hawkes. Available on Amazon Prime Video or Apple TV. Also currently available on Netflix.

"Winter's Bone" was an early breakout independent hit for Jennifer Lawerence. Many feel that this is the film that launched her career (Lawerence received an Oscar nomination for "Best Performance by an Actress in a Leading Role" for her work in "Winter's Bone"). Based on the novel by Daniel Woodrell, "Winter's Bone" is a dark look at the underworld meth-labs of the Missouri Ozarks, the crime surrounding them and its effects on the lives of families.

“Beautiful Girls” (1996 Lionsgate) Timothy Hutton, Matt Dillon, Natalie Portman, Uma Thurman, Mira Sorvino, Michael Rapaport, Pruitt Taylor Vince, and Rosie O'Donnell. Available on Amazon Prime Video or Apple TV.

This all-star cast film explores the lives of working-class men and women in the fictitious town of "Knights Ridge" Massachusetts. Willie Conway (Timothy Hutton) returns to his home town of Knights Ridge for his high school reunion. Willie is facing a life decision; should he marry his girlfriend and give up his dream of being a professional musician? He finds his old friends are facing similar life choices of their own. The wintery scenes throughout the film will undoubtedly make you crave hot chocolate and a warm blanket.

“Fargo” (1996 MGM) William H. Macy, Steve Buscemi, Frances McDormand, Peter Stormare. Available on Amazon Prime Video or Apple TV. Also currently available on HBO GO/NOW.

It's hard to find a film that makes you think of the cold days of winter more than "Fargo." This film is one of Joel and Ethan Coen's finest. If you've never seen Fargo, do yourself a favor and watch it today! Settle in on the couch with a warm winter beverage and enjoy this dark yet comedic crime-drama. Trust us; you'll love it!

“Frozen” (2013 Walt Disney Pictures) Kristin Bell, Idina Menzel, Jonathan Groff, Josh Gad, Santino Fontana, and Alan Tudyk. Available on Amazon Prime Video or Apple TV.

Hey it's winter, and we can't even discuss "winter themed" films without mentioning "Frozen." This Disney animation was an instant hit back in 2013. Yes, it's a cartoon, yes, it's a musical, but as with all recent Disney classics, there's something for everyone! A comedy, love story, and an adventure all rolled into one. Trust us when we say you'll love "Frozen" as an adult too. The sequel "Frozen 2" is expected to hit theaters in November 2019, so if you haven't seen "Frozen" get out from under that rock and watch it immediately!

JANUARY 2019 RECOMMENDATIONS
In January we gave you movies to take you away to someplace warm. Also check out our JANUARY FUN IDEA.

“The Big Bounce” (2004 Warner Bros.) Owen Wilson, Morgan Freeman, Gary Sinise, Charlie Sheen. Available on Amazon Prime Video or Apple TV.

Based on the novel by Elmore Leonard, if there is such a thing as "Modern Cult Classics" this film should be one of them! Hey! Maybe we'll make that a thing! (Hmm...keep an eye on our "coming soon" section!) No, seriously, this movie is hilarious and just makes you want to go to Hawaii! (We've never been, and we're desperate to find out what the deal is with Spam!)

“The Beach” (2000 20th Century Fox) Leonardo DiCapro, Tilda Swinton, Virginie Ledoyen, Guillaume Canet, and Robert Carlyle. Available on Amazon Prime Video or Apple TV.

Based on the novel by Alex Garland, "The Beach" is an important film that brought us out of the 1990's and into the 2000's. "The Beach" is a dark tale that portrays a time when world travel didn't involve the TSA and the youth of wealthy nations bummed around the globe in search of the permanent vacation.

“The Life Aquatic with Steve Zissou” (2004 Touchstone Pictures) Bill Murray, Owen Wilson, Cate Blanchett, Anjelica Huston, Willem Dafoe, Jeff Goldblum, Michael Gambon, Bud Cort. Available on Amazon Prime Video or Apple TV.

We love all Wes Anderson films, and this is one of our top three favorites (they're all so good we can't really pick a favorite). Join "Steve Zissou" (Bill Murray) and an all-star cast on the search for the never-before seen "Jaguar Shark". You'll be glad you did! The music is fantastic too, it's essentially a tribute to David Bowie by Seu Jorge. Check it out on our "Music From The Movies" page.

“Joe Versus the Volcano” (1990 Warner Bros.) Tom Hanks, Meg Ryan, Lloyd Bridges, Robert Stack, and Abe Vigoda. Available on Amazon Prime Video or Apple TV.

Pop quiz for you: if you load 16 tons, what do you get? You'll have to watch this movie to find the answer! (Hint, it's in the opening credits) Ahh, Tom Hanks and Meg Ryan together. America's couple, don't you agree? If not, feel free to email us your suggestions as to which couple you prefer. "Joe Versus the Volcano" is the first of a series of "couple" films that Tom Hanks and Meg Ryan have starred in. This film is just plain goofy, and it's got Abe Vigoda as "The Chief" You'll love it!

RECOMMENDATIONS