Determining Manhood

Super Bowl Sunday: 

Being in the state of Washington means I'm in Seattle Seahawks fan territory. It was awesome when they won the Super Bowl, even though plenty of friends back home wanted the Broncos to win (one of the reasons is because Denver is closer to the Midwest than Seattle and we enjoy rooting for the nearest team).

Russell Wilson and team quieted Broncos fans super fast

Seahawks fans were like this the whole week after the Super Bowl

Well, on Super Bowl Sunday, I was posting goofy statuses on Facebook about how I can't choose which team to root for. In all honesty, I didn't care who won because I didn't really know the teams and I had no affiliation with either one so I had no stake in the game. A Facebook friend decided to comment on those statuses. It was my cousin Noel.

I don't really know my cousin Noel. He's from my dad's side of the family, who all live farther away from us than my mom's side and therefore I don't really see any of that side of the family too often. Noel's a couple of decades older than me and I didn't meet him until a few years ago. The only time we've physically been in each other's presence was whenever my family went up to visit my dad's sister and my grandma (last time we saw each other was when my grandma passed away).

Anywho, Noel starts telling me to man up and pick a team. He was trying to find ways of telling me to man up without being offensive. I get that a lot of people don't understand my humor, and that humor is difficult to translate online, but I was incredibly confused because his comments came out of nowhere.

Most people's reactions to my humor AND my reaction to this particularly awkward situation

The one comment that stuck out to me the most is he said to me "C'mon, you are a man...You are an American MAN! You can do this...PICK ONE!". (Side note: Noel, if you happen to be reading this, please stick around for the end of this post).

What Makes an American Man?: 

So, I'm trying to understand what that statement means. Just because I'm American and I'm a Man, does that mean I should be intently interested in who wins the Super Bowl? Am I less of an American or a Man if I don't root for a particular team in the Super Bowl because of how little I care about the game? Am I not an American or a Man if I could really care less about professional football (or professional sports in general)? Keep in mind, I will watch professional sports if I randomly find them on TV and I really enjoy playing sports for fun when I have a group of people to make up teams.

Except for Rugby, which is always more fun to watch than it is to play.

What is an American? Well, I was born in St. Louis, Missouri which automatically makes me a citizen of the United States and I'm proud to say I'm from the Midwest. Am I less of an American because I don't have a bald eagle for a pet and my walls aren't draped in US Flags?

And the winner for The Most American Wall Decoration goes to....

Should I go up to any foreign people I come across and tell them how America is the best country in the world, even though I've never traveled outside the US, so I wouldn't know? Do my personal idols have to be Abe Lincoln, Thomas Jefferson, and Stephen Colbert to make me a true American?

Stephen Colbert could be the best Catholic US President since John F Kennedy!

What is a Man? Well, I have male anatomy, I enjoy a good beer, and I like to go adventuring in the wilderness when I can. Am I less of a man if my whole life doesn't revolve around the NFL? Just because I'm not a lumberjack with a footlong beard, does that mean I'm not a dude? Since I didn't spend my weekends in college getting drunk at frat parties and hooking up with random ladies, am I no longer one of the guys?

The epitome of manliness

You get the point. All of the answers to the rhetorical questions above are NO!

Invisible Counselors: 

A little while back, I came across an article on the Art of Manliness about creating a Cabinet of Invisible Counselors. The idea is to come up with a list of men who are role models that inspire you. After gathering that list, you are supposed to know or learn about what makes each man a great model of manliness and be able to imagine meeting with these men when you need advice or guidance.

I really dig this idea because it helps me remember who my role models are and in what ways I need to grow as a man. My personal list mostly consists of holy, Catholic men though there are a few secular role models. My invisible counselors:

-Jesus Christ                                   -Timothy Cardinal Dolan
-St. Paul                                         -Francis Cardinal George
-St. Padre Pio                                 -President Theodore Roosevelt
-St. Anthony Claret                         -John Goodman
-St. Charles Borromeo                    -Martin Sheen
-Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati          -Nikola Tesla

How Do I Define Myself as a Man?:

Let's look at the man at the top of my list. Jesus Christ. He is The Man, the one man I try to follow the most. Every other man on the list is there because there is some sort of characteristic or attitude about them that I enjoy or they are exemplary men who also followed Jesus. In my journey of learning what it means for me to be a man, I look to Jesus and the Gospels in the New Testament to ask myself 'What do I need to do to be more like Jesus? What areas of masculinity is Jesus emphasizing that I'm not exemplifying right now?'.

In the end, my masculinity is not defined by what the American culture is or what other guys say makes me a man or not. I have to define myself as a man according to the innate truths of what the world knows a man is and by what truths stem from my role models. I know that I am a Catholic man first and an American citizen second.


P.S.-Noel, I'm  glad I have gotten to know you, even just a little bit, over the years. I want to get to know you better and be able to communicate with you, whether it's over Facebook or otherwise. Feel free to be honest with me because I want to be honest with you. We may not always agree on things, but that's okay. Just please make it clear whenever you are just joking or when you're being serious so I can respond the same way. I hope we can keep communication lines open and continue getting to know one another as guys from the same family.

Mis Peliculas Favoritas Parte 3

I decided to finish my list of favorite movies with some unique choices, since these 3 movies don't really fit the genres of the previous parts of the list. Plus only putting together descriptions of 3 movies allows me to go into a little more detail (like adding my favorite scene). I hope you've enjoyed this break from serious articles on this blog. I have been putting together notes and ideas and rough drafts for more deep contemplative posts. Until then, enjoy and have an awesome day!

• It Might Get Loud

Why is it a Favorite?: I was already a fan of the music of Jimmy Page/ Led Zeppelin before watching this and I became a fan of Jack White afterwards (as well as gained respect for The Edge of U2). Each of the 3 guitarists featured have a unique style that sometimes clashes with the others, but all of them respect each other's music. It's awesome getting to see a variety of concert footage, behind-the-scenes looks at the lives of the guitarists, and hearing their own personal take about the history of rock'n'roll and the electric guitar. This movie is full of moments when the musicians just sit back and play their instruments. This movie makes me want to pick up a guitar and improve my own skills.

Downsides: There is brief graphic footage of the bombing that occurred in Ireland during the 70's. There is a scene where Jack White cut his finger while performing and the blood flows freely from his finger onto the guitar, which you might skip if you can't stand seeing other people's blood. Also, I feel like this movie could have been lot longer, or that there could have been more deleted scenes on the DVD. A lot of the songs or the discussions are cut short to fit everything in a little over a 90 minute time frame.

Notable Performances: This documentary features each guitarist about equally. All three guitarists are genuine and funny guys and it's fantastic watching them jam together, but it's especially great watching them practice their craft solo. I especially like Jack White during his scenes in a Tennessee home where he played an old, dusty, out-of-tune piano or when he crafted a simple single string guitar in the opening. 

Favorite Scene: Concert footage of Jack White blasting out a guitar solo and he ignores his bleeding finger because of how into the music he is. In the background, Jack talks about how in the Bible God cursed the ground so that man will always have to struggle and work hard no matter what profession, no matter what task one is doing.

• Fantasia 

Why is it a Favorite?: It's a beautiful combination of grand, cinematic Disney animation and classical music. The beauty and intensity of the music is intensified by the epicness of the artwork on the screen. It's a great way to just relax, watch some animation, and listen to music that balances between serene and powerful. The freestyle artwork that opens with 'Tocatta and Fugue in D Minor' is a great opening and the quiet procession of 'Ave Maria' is a gentle way to end.

Downsides: This movie was put together for a more mature audience than typical childish cartoon movies we think of today. Sometimes the animation is creepy (Cherbog in 'Night on Bald Mountain', the T-Rex in 'Rite of Spring', etc.) and there is tiniest bit of animated nudity in 'The Pastoral Symphony' and 'Night on Bald Mountain' segments. Also, the pace of the music can be slow.

Notable Performances: The segments I enjoyed most, besides the opening and the ending, include 'The Nutcracker Suite', 'The Sorcerer's Apprentice', and 'Dance of the Hours'.  Those segments contain either the gentlest  music or the most humorous moments, though 'The Sorcerer's Apprentice' has a pretty epic moment after Mickey puts on the hat.

Favorite Scene: It's a tie between the majestic ending of 'Ave Maria' and the highly imaginative opening to 'Tocatta and Fugue in D Minor'.

• The Scarlet and the Black

Why is it a Favorite?: It's based on the true story of a Vatican priest who helped Allied fighters and Italian Jews hide and escape Nazi-occupied Rome. It's awesome to have a movie that shines a positive light not just on a strong Catholic figure, Monsignor O'Flaherty, but on the activities of Catholics and their Allies to help those in need during World War II. There are also a couple other priests that withstand torture and remain true to their faith and their friends. No matter how strong the villain seems or how desperate the situation seems, the good guys overcome the obstacles and Monsignor O'Flaherty maintains a kind humorous mood during the strife.

Downsides: There is not too much violence or bloodshed in this movie, but since it deals with war and torture, there are some dark moments. Other than that, this movie is pretty accessible to any audience who understands the serious of the situation.

Notable Performances: Gregory Peck as fun-loving and generous Irish Monsignor O'Flaherty. Christopher Plummer as strict, power-hungry Gestapo Colonel Kappler. Sir John Gielgud as gentle Pope Pius XII. The best supporting actor performance goes to Olga Karlatos as Francesca, an Italian mother who aids the Monsignor by hiding Allied soldiers and helping plan operations.

Favorite Scene: A priest is sentenced to death by firing squad at Regina Caeli prison. The soldiers firing on the priest are local Italian soldiers, though Colonel Kappler is present. He does not hold a grudge against them, but forgives the soldiers. When they line up and fire, the soldiers all miss their target. Colonel Kappler eventually has to take things in his own hands and shoots the priest, only after the soldier leading the firing squad argues "He is a priest!"

Mis Peliculas Favoritas Parte 2

Well, it's the second part to my list of favorite movies. I feel like I do not really scratch the surface at describing why I enjoy these movies and yet it takes a lot longer to put together a list of ten movies than I thought it would. I hope these lists shows my enjoyment for a variety of movie genres and types and that while not all of them uphold my faith that there is something that I can enjoy about them as a Catholic man. 

Just a quick note about the Downsides section of my movie descriptions. I decided to write those as a way to ask myself 'Why would I not recommend this movie to someone?'. I know that not everyone is into violent action movies and I myself do not care for coarse language or sexuality in movies.

Since I am writing this blog for a variety of people with a variety of tastes, I want to make everyone aware of the good and the bad of my favorite movies to increase interest in these movies but also increase awareness about what fault or negative material in these movies as well. Now, onward with today's list.

• The Dark Knight

Why is it a Favorite?: We all know this is the best of Christopher Nolan's Batman trilogy. It's suspenseful, thrilling, and it stays within realistic boundaries of the world. It questions the morality of the battle between good and evil and whether stopping chaos demands sacrificing rules. Heath Ledger is terrifying as The Joker and Christian Bale shows a Batman who is desperate yet willful.

Downsides: Maybe that it could be frightening a couple of times? Honestly, I cannot think of anything too bad in this. There's hardly any actual bloodshed, no cursing, and no sexuality. It's just not the kind of movie I would show to very young children.

Notable Performances: Heath Ledger blew me away as The Joker. Aaron Eckhart's take on Harvey Dent was charming and powerful. Michael Caine did another splendid job as wise fatherly Alfred and Christian Bale, while his Batman voice takes some getting used to, did splendidly balancing between Bruce Wayne and Batman.

• Taken

Why is it a Favorite?: The movie's plot is simple which makes it easy to get close to Liam Neeson's character and his conflict. I like that Liam Neeson's character works hard to redeem himself and reconnect with his family. His greatest desire is his daughter's safety and he uses all of the strength and skills he has to rescue his daughter. It is a nice display of love and it's fun to see Liam Neeson taking names and beating the bad guys.

Downsides: This movie has a realistic approach to the underground world of sex trafficking and drugs, which can be tough to watch at times. Also, Liam Neeson's rescue method involves torturing a man to death and threatening another man's wife and kids.

Notable Performances: Liam Neeson has the most stand out performance and carries most of the weight of the film by himself. The only other side character that stood out to me was Famke Jannsen as his ex-wife Lenore because I was astonished at how different she was and how much her character bothered me than her role as Jean Grey in the X-Men movies.

• Snatch

Why is it a Favorite?: It's a funny crime caper. There are multiple storylines happening that do not seem interconnected at first, yet all are intriguing and end up together in the end. The script is a strong part of the movie because of how witty the dialogue is. It's interesting to see some famous faces before they were big or famous people in the midst of their popularity. Also, watching a British crime comedy as an American is pretty entertaining and Brad Pitt makes a pretty great Pikey (not exactly Irish, not exactly British, just...Pikey).

Downsides: Plenty of coarse language throughout the movie. This movie is not super violent, although there is plenty of shooting and the boxing matches can look intense.

Notable Performances: Brad Pitt, as mentioned earlier, plays the off-the-wall charismatic gypsy Mickey O'Neill. Jason Statham also stands out for his narration and his bitter humor as down-on-his-luck criminal Turkish. Vinnie Jones has a small yet hilarious supporting role as Bullet-Tooth Tony. The other strongest supporting roles for me were Rade Sherbedgia as psychopath Russian criminal Boris the Blade and Alan Ford as maniacal crime lord Brick Top.

• Saving Private Ryan

Why is it a Favorite?: It's one of the most intense war movies I have seen. All of the actors give outstanding performances. The movie does a great job of showing heroes who are authentic and have struggles and faults. The battle scenes are all captivating and suspenseful. The main characters exemplify brave, masculine man and the difficulty of being so during horrifying combat.

Downsides: The realism of the violence is intense, especially the battle at Normandy on D-Day, and it can be tough to stomach sometimes. Also, the soldiers swap coarse language and stories about ladies back home.

Notable Performances: Tom Hanks commands the movie as group leader Captain Miller. Jeremy Davies' role as skiddish Corporal Upham stands out, especially his act of bravery in the end. Ed Burns as Private Reiben also stands out of his cocky rebellious attitude. Barry Pepper as Private Jackson brings some southern charm and warrior-like faith in God to the screen. Tom Sizemore also stands out as Captain Miller's wisecracking second-in-command Sergeant Horvath.

• The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford

Why is it a Favorite?: It's not a documentary and yet it has that aesthetic narrative feel to it throughout parts of the movie as it examines the relationships between the last bandits in the Jesse James gang. Brad Pitt's characterization of Jesse James demonstrates the madness of the man near the end of his life and I would almost be sorry for Jesse if I didn't already sympathize with Robert Ford. You never know when Jesse is genuinely nice or when he's getting ready to strike, which makes for suspenseful moments. The danger that the Ford brothers feel also feels real for the audience.

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Downsides: There are just a few instances of cursing or sexual dialogue. The slow pace can sometimes make the movie drag on if the viewer isn't paying close attention to what's going on.

Notable Performances: Casey Affleck is the star and most powerful actor as Robert Ford. Sam Rockwell also stands out for his role as protective older brother Charley Ford. Brad Pitt as Jesse James is charismatic and simultaneously psychotic. The strongest supporting role for me is Garrett Dillahunt as the naively innocent Ed Miller.

• Kingdom of Heaven

Why is it a Favorite?: The locations, costumes, weapons, and even the dust of the movie gives it a feel of authenticity. It's like watching portraits and paintings of the Crusades come to life. I also enjoy the examination of morality and redemption. Is a man noble because of who his family is? Is it right to kill a man and take his wife as your own if it means lives are saved and peace is maintained? Can a man seek forgiveness for his sins by helping the needy in war-torn areas? The battles are grand and gritty.

Downsides: This movie seems to villainize the Christian warriors moreso than the Muslim warriors. Also, it involves a Hollywood forbidden romance which while it may add to the political struggle in the film, it kind of slows the movie down for me. The violence occurs throughout the movie and is bloody.

Notable Performances:Orlando Bloom is the main lead as Balian and delivers a strong performance. Liam Neeson has an almost cameo-like supporting role as Balian's noble father Godfrey. Edward Norton does such an awesome job as Baldwin, the Christian King of Jerusalem, that I didn't even know it was him at first (granted the character wears a mask the whole time). Marton Csokas is dastardly and villainous as knight and future king Guy. Brendan Gleeson also brings a strong performance as egotistical and greedy villain Reynauld de Chatleon.

• Henry V

Why is it a Favorite?: Another Branagh adaptation of Shakespeare, though this time edited to make the story faster and more thrilling. It almost feels like Shakespeare's script was meant to be filmed as the Chorus strolls in and out providing background information and use his words to paint the picture of the setting, even though the audience can see it all happening. Branagh's interpretation of the St. Crispin's Day speech is one of the most inspiring moments of cinema. Also, King Henry is a great role model for men in leadership because he seeks forgiveness for his past mistakes, acts out of justice, and gives all glory to God. I would follow this king into battle.

Downsides: Though the battle scene is not necessarily intense, it can be gritty violent from time to time. As is the case with most Shakespeare movies that utilize the original script, sometimes the actors can speak so fast that it's hard to fully understand all that they're saying. Also, the scenes focused on Falstaff, Bardolph, Pistol, and Nym are so boring and they don't make too much sense without knowing the story from both parts of Shakespeare's Henry IV plays.

Notable Performances: Kenneth Branagh is fantastic as King Henry V. Brian Blessed is a strong supporting actor as the Duke of Exeter. Ian Holm is funny and witty as Welsh Captain Fluellen. Derek Jacobi is also a noteworthy role for his passion as The Chorus.

• No Country for Old Men

Why is it a Favorite?: I know I have been putting a lot of suspenseful or thrilling movies on this list, but this one tops them all. A viewer must sit through the whole two hour movie straight in order to receive the full effect of the creeping suspense that continues to build as the movie progresses. Javier Bardem's villain is almost mythical and monstrous. When the end scene just suddenly cut to the credits, I jumped in my seat saying 'This can't be the end! Where is the rest?'

Downsides: This film doesn't exactly go for realism when its main villain uses an air tank and a shotgun with an absurd silencer for his weaponry. Also, I get why Tommy Lee Jones' character is in the movie (hint: it's related to the title), but his moments on screen are dull in comparison to the cat & mouse chase between Bardem and Josh Brolin. Also, there is some bloodshed throughout the movie, but it adds to the suspense.

Notable Performances: Like I said earlier, Bardem's characterization of Anton Chigurh is mythical. Josh Brolin's chill take on Llewelyn Moss is wonderful and Scottish actress Kelley MacDonald does a great Texas accent as she portrays frightened wife Carla Jean Moss.

• Seven Samurai

Why is it a Favorite?: Kurosawa's epic has been incredibly influential in so much media, including Japanese anime and American westerns. The slow pace in the beginning of the movie allows the viewer to get to know the characters better as well as understand the culture during this time. The fast, action-focused pace of the second half makes the viewer more joyful when the heroes triumph and sad when disaster strikes. The costumes and set pieces makes this movie feel authentic and the hunger and misery that the characters feel are intensified because of how carefully historical accuracy was established. 

Downsides: It took me two tries before I could sit through the entire movie. The classic style of pace and drama is prevalent in this movie, so sometimes it can be a snooze fest if you aren't interested in the characters. You have to be willing to read subtitles if you're an English speaking viewer.

Notable Performance: The star of the picture is not the main lead, but rather it is Toshiro Mifune as the energetic outcast member of the samurai Kikuchiyo. The leader of the samurai Kambei Shimada is played by Takashi Shimura and he brings a sense of wisdom and humor to the role. The other stand-out samurai of the group is grumpy introvert yet most skilled warrior Kyuzo portrayed by Seiji Miyaguchi.

• Children of Men

Why is it a Favorite?: It's the cinematography that makes this film as powerful as it is. There are plenty of single takes that last for several minutes and adds tension and conflict to the moment. Even though this movie is set in a near dystopian future, it looks and feels like it could be happening in the present. The action is intense. Clive Owen is a charming man who reluctantly takes on a monumental task and his sacrifice is huge. In the end, the characters learn more about the value of life only after becoming numb to the wasteful amount of death around them.

Downsides: It's a dystopian nightmare, which viewers may find to be too depressing. There is a variety of language, bloody violence, and drug use throughout the movie. 

Notable Performances: Clive Owen as Theo Faron and Clare-Hope Ashitey as Kee are the main characters and the strongest actors in the movie. Their sense of anxiety or their moments of brief happiness are the strongest emotions in the movie. Michael Caine as the pot-head Jasper brings some calmness and humor to this dramatic movie. Also, Pam Ferris as the dominating mother-like figure Miriam gives a wonderful performance.

Mis Peliculas Favoritas Parte 1

I wanted to do a fun article after writing so many deep, contemplative posts. So I figured I would share with everybody some of my favorite movies and why I enjoy them. Movies have always been a big part of my life. Going to the movie theater was one of the ways I spent time with my dad and my brother growing up. Actors in movies have inspired my own acting and performance style.

So, this will be a list of my Top 23 Favorite Movies. Why 23? Because it is my 23rd birthday on Wednesday and this is one way for me to celebrate, by sharing the things I enjoy with people. Today, I'll talk about 10 movies, tomorrow I'll talk about 10 movies, and Wednesday it'll all end with just 3. This list is in no particular order. Also, this list includes an analysis of the perks and the downsides to each of the movie, as well as actors that really stood out in each film.

• The Prestige

Why is it a Favorite?: This movie gets better and better every time I watch it. There is so much mystery in this movie that keeps me guessing and the ending totally surprised me the first time I saw it. After knowing what the answer to the mystery is, it's great seeing all the clues along the way during a second or third viewing. Also, having the movie set at the end of the 19th and start of the 20th centuries not only made for wonderful costume and location choices, but the whole 'Magic vs. Reality' thematic debate really benefited from the time period.

Downsides: I always feel like the movie slows down in the middle because the less exciting stuff is happening. Also, while it does add elements of drama to the movie, I always find it tough to sit through the destruction of the marriage of Christian Bale's character. Also also, it's another tale of seeking revenge and we already have enough movies about revenge.

Notable Performances: Even though Christian Bale's character is more of the antagonist, his performance stands out the most for being the craziest magician at the turn of the century, yet his passion for magic and strict adherence to the rules of being a magician are very appealing. Hugh Jackman does deserve a nod because while I was more annoyed by his character, he brought an element of class to the film and his acting abilities give weight to the devastation that his character goes through.

• The Big Lebowski

Why is it a Favorite?: This is one of the funniest movies I have ever seen. It's also one of the most quotable. Each scene just feels so random that nothing really seems to connect, yet everything in the plot fits together in the end. There are so many things going on with a variety of crazy characters, and yet I trust the Coen Brothers to make sense of it all.

Downsides: There is so much coarse language throughout. A couple of brief scenes of topless women. The Dude smokes a doobie on occasion. Also, John Turturro's character Jesus (pronounced the Spanish way) is a little too crazy and uncomfortable for my taste.

Notable Performances: Jeff Bridges IS The Dude, he is constantly entertaining. John Goodman's role as Walter Sobchak is his best performance in my opinion. Also, Philip Seymour Hoffman as nervously goofy assistant Brandt is very memorable and his interaction with the Dude is hilarious.

• Super 8

Why is it a Favorite?: It's so imaginative and nostalgic. The freedom, passion, and innocence of the kids makes this movies 'mint' (a reference to the movie). It's a throwback to classic alien and monster movies while still feeling new and fresh. Ultimately it's the kids that make this movie as great as it is. They're funny and they're authentic. Also, the kids are running around filming their own 8mm zombie movie. How cool is that?

Downsides: The adult actors kind of drag the movie for me. Joe's father, a police officer, tries to do his job as protector of the public and dad, and he annoys me as he mostly fails at both. Alice's father is an abusive alcoholic, which I feel is almost a stereotype by now. Both characters are redeemed at the end, but until then I don't enjoy them being onscreen. Also, the military is the main antagonist and is not redeemed at the end. Really? Why is it always the military as the bad guys?

Notable Performances: Like I said, it's the kids that make this movie. Joel Courtney as Joe Lamb, Ellie Fanning as Alice Dainard, and Riley Griffiths as Charles Kaznyk are the main characters and they are the main fun. Also Ryan Lee's performance as Joe's class clown friend Cary was very funny.

• Fiddler on the Roof

Why is it a Favorite?: It is a beautifully made movie. The locations are spectacular, the costumes are realistic, and the songs are given added power with the realistic background instead of a stage. The actors do a great job of telling the story. The music is very engaging. Even if I hadn't been in Fiddler on the Roof for my first high school theatre experience, I would still enjoy the movie. Even though it's nearly 3 hours long, this movie paces itself well so that the slow moments are dramatic and the fast moments are tense or funny, whatever the situation calls for.

Downsides: Sometimes the slow pace can lose my attention if there's not too much going on. I feel like a lot of the action, favorite songs, and the main plot of the story happen in the first act so that the second act is a little more dull to sit through. I feel like sometimes I have to be in a certain mood if I want to sit through all 3 hours of the movie.

Notable Performances: Topol is incredible as Tevye. Without Topol, this movie would not be as tremendously powerful as it is. Perhaps the only other actors' performances that really stand out to me over time are Molly Picon as the funny grandmotherly matchmaker Yente and Michael Glasser as the charming, politically-minded Perchik.

• Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 1

Why is it a Favorite?: This is the most impressive acting performance by the three main actors. Since most of the plot is discussed and resolved in Part 2, this movie gives time for strong character development and the actors deliver. The filmmakers also managed to make the weakest part of the book enjoyable. When I read the book, I didn't enjoy when Harry, Ron, and Hermoine had to go hide in the woods. I felt like it dragged on in for an eternity in the book and added little to the plot. Now, that part in the movie is shorter and adds so much drama.

Downsides: The scene with the snake was super creepy in the theaters, though thankfully it's much easier to stomach on DVD. The animated tale of the Three Brothers felt like something from Tim Burton and was so dark that while it was imaginative, it did not feel like something that belonged in the Harry Potter world established in the movies. Also, the filmmakers managed to turn Voldemort's Ministry of Magic into a modern Hitler's Nazi party, which is not really something I connected when I read the book.

Notable Performances: First, Rupert Grint as Ron Weasley was just so awesome in this film. Daniel Radcliffe and Emma Watson as Harry and Hermoine were also of course wonderful. Bill Nighy's version of Minister Scrimgeour is different than what I had envisioned, and yet it stands out for being a good adaptation of the character. Also, the devastation of Jason Isaac's Lucius Malfoy is tremendous.

• Hot Fuzz

Why is it a Favorite?: This actors and filmmakers know that this is a comedy but treat the movie as a drama and that adds so much humor to the scenes. All of the jokes towards buddy cop movies, action capers, and mystery thrillers hit their mark. The air of mystery mixes well with the tension between Simon Pegg's Sergeant Angel and the villagers of Sanford. And the action scene in the last part of the film is such great fun.

Downsides: Even for an action comedy, the movie's attitude towards death is nonchalant. When Sergeant Angel investigates a murder (or accident as everyone else considers them), his reverence for the dead is more out of a sense of duty than genuine sadness. His search for the murderer is due to his adherence to the law instead of bringing true justice for the murder that occurs. Also, there's plenty of bloody action and coarse language throughout the movie.

Notable Performances: Obviously, Simon Pegg and Nick Frost stand out. Timothy Dalton as Simon Skinner was delightfully sinister. Jim Broadbent's straightforward Inspector is pleasant and yet mysterious. Also the cameo by David Bradley (Caretaker Mr. Filch in Harry Potter movies) was very entertaining.

• Hamlet (1996 version by Kenneth Branagh)

Why is it a Favorite?: The aesthetics of the movie are pleasing to behold, whether it's the snowy exterior shots, or it's the gleaming black and white interiors of the labyrinth-esque palace, or the bright and elegant costumes of early 20th century nobility. Branagh was actually the first to film the entirety of Shakespeare's Hamlet script, which is worth the 4 hour run time. There are some cameo appearances by Billy Crystal, Robin Williams, and Charlton Heston (my favorite cameo). Branagh's portrayal of Hamlet really demonstrates the double life where Hamlet walks a fine line between insanity and genius as Hamlet seeks revenge for his father's murder.

Downsides: It's 4 hours long so sometimes the movie drags on and on because of its slow pacing. Sometimes the actors speak so fast that it's hard to understand Shakespeare's dialogue. Also, Branagh includes footage of Hamlet and Ophelia's relationship in a sexual way that I do not consider necessary for the story and I generally try to skip those brief moments.

Notable Performances: As I said before, Charlton Heston's cameo performance as the lead actor of the traveling players was a highlight for me. Brian Blessed is creepy as the ghost of Hamlet's father. Kenneth Branagh as Hamlet is marvelous and powerful, especially during the monologues.

• The Last Samurai

Why is it a Favorite?: The samurai culture has interested me since childhood and this movie digs deep into that. The action scenes are tense and incredibly realistic (the final charge is especially emotional). The story of a man being haunted by his past and seeking redemption is well done here. Seeing the effects of modernization on this culture and a group of men willing to fight against odds to keep modernization at bay is a powerful experience.

Downsides: This movie shines a light on negative moments in both U.S. and Japanese history, which are tough to stomach. Like I said earlier, the violence is graphically real, and can be tough to sit through at times. Also, part of this movie revolves around the politics of the times, which while they are relevant to the story can get boring for those of us less politically minded and more action oriented.

Notable Performances: Tom Cruise and Ken Watanabe both delivered powerhouse performances as the lead roles of Captain Nathan Algren and Katsumoto respectively. Billy Connolly's short appearance as Captain Algren's military comrade is enjoyable as is Timothy Spall's role as the guide, translator, and witness to the main events Simon Graham. The supporting samurai Ujio and Nobutada, played by Japanese actors Hiroyuki Sanada and Shin Koyamada respectively, add some humor as well as emotional weight to the film.

• Stagecoach

Why is it a Favorite?: The characters are diverse and yet all are enjoyable archetypes of classic western figures (an alcoholic doctor, a southern gentleman, a thieving banker, the classy lady, the woman with questionable morals, etc.). This is the film that made John Wayne a star and his role is a classic example of the cowboy roles he was known for. The chase scene at the end with the Apache horsemen was dramatic and well-choreographed. It's a great adventure, road-trip movie and a go-to black and white film for a nostalgic look at the old days of filmmaking.

Downsides: Not all of the characters get the kind of character development they deserve. Since a lot of the characters are archetypes, you may feel like you have seen these kinds of characters so many times before and be bored with them. Also, there is little sense of tension, it never feels like these characters are in great danger, even though they are traveling through 'wild and dangerous Indian territory'.

Notable Performances: There are only two that really stand out to me since I haven't seen the film in awhile. John Wayne as the Ringo Kidd is a young John Wayne perfecting his signature cowboy style. Thomas Mitchell as the alcoholic doctor is hilariously goofy.

• Pulp Fiction

Why is it a Favorite?: It is the best and most essential Quentin Tarantino film to watch. The storyline is split up and jumbled, yet the story is told in such a great way that I did not mind going back and forth in time. The dialogue is simple yet extraordinary at the same time. Two gangsters talk about the difference between food joints in the US and Europe, two bank theives theorize why no one robs restaurants, a gang leader tells a boxer to throw the big fight. All of these conversational scenes have some power behind them and even some humor. There's great songs that pop up throughout the movie and also some quotable lines.

Downsides: This movie contains plenty of coarse language, violence and blood, sexual content, and drugs. A woman overdoses and nearly dies. Two men are held hostage and beaten. The story line in the middle focused on Bruce Willis is also the slow weak point of the film. Also, Bruce Willis' lover, Fabienne, is an incredibly annoying character and almost unnecessary.

Notable Performances: Samuel L. Jackson as philosophical gangster Jules. Uma Thurman as alluring and funny Mrs. Mia Wallace. John Travolta as troubled druggie gangster Vincent. Even Christopher Walken has a memorable cameo as Captain Koons.

Style Vs. Substance: The Trap

Classy Style:

Sometime during my college career, I discovered the band Arctic Monkeys (I believe it was due to playing Guitar Hero 5). They are a British rock band that once I heard, I sought out their whole discography and even those almost secret B-side songs not found on their studio albums. In an early post I mentioned that I saw them live in concert with my friend Lucas. It was about this time, 2012, that Alex Turner, the front man of Arctic Monkeys, transformed and adapted a strong rock star attitude and style.

Alex Turner, 2009

Alex Turner, 2012

Alex Turner, 2013

There's no doubt this man has style and is no longer a shy teen from a British suburb. I liked his long hair indie look, and his leather jacket rocker look, and his current lounge singer rock star look. I wish I had the resources and ability to pull off any of these looks. Alex's style has affected his stage presence and even his band members now wear nice suits and slick back their hair.

Also during my college career, I began to check out the band The Hives (again thanks to a music video game, Rock Band, as well as a movie trailer). The Hives are an English-speaking rock band from Sweden who are known for an incredibly energetic live performance. Their aesthetic look for the band has always consisted of a nice black and white suit of some sort, though the style has changed over the years.

The Hives, 2004-2007

The Hives, 2007-2011

The Hives, 2012-present

Again, I really really like the style of this band. Their look reflects a bit of the attitude about the band where they feel like rock stars because they look like rock stars (in a very classic sense at least). If I could get away with wearing suits like this for a whole week, I would do so. 

There's something about dressing up and looking classy that I get excited about. Those rare occasions that we had an excuse to dress up in high school were exciting days for me because I enjoyed putting on a button down shirt, dress pants, and nice shoes and hanging out with my friends who also took extra time to look extra special that day. Today I like times when I get to wear bow ties and suit jackets.

Ordinary Clothes

Now, compare the style and aesthetics of bands like Arctic Monkeys and The Hives to the men pictured below.

Andy Mineo

Lecrae

David Crowder

The style of these men does not appeal to me as much. I'm not the biggest fan of caps (especially the flat brimmed hats with stickers). I particularly don't enjoy the 'gangsta' look, but that's probably because I grew up in the suburbs. The point is that these men look ordinary, ordinary in the sense that anyone could wear these clothes in public and look normal.Compare the looks of these men with the style of Alex Turner and The Hives. In today's society, the clothes of Lecrae or David Crowder are normal clothes while even Alex Turner's leather jacket had a sense of extraordinary to it (i.e. one group looks classier than the other group).

But What About Substance?

What I didn't tell you about Andy Mineo, Lecrae, and David Crowder is that they are all Christian musicians. Their songs give praise to Jesus Christ and incorporate their relationship with God. Andy Mineo and Lecrae are rappers that challenge people to rise above the spiritual struggles in society while David Crowder's singer-songwriter style is beautifully uplifting and is often used during Praise & Worship prayer sessions.

Compare that to songs by Arctic Monkeys and The Hives. The titles will give you an idea about the focus of their music. 'I Bet You Look Good on the Dancefloor', 'Still Take You Home', 'The Bad Thing', 'Pretty Visitors', 'Suck It and See', 'One For the Road', 'Why'd You Only Call Me When You're High?' are some of the titles of Arctic Monkeys songs. 'Hate to Say I Told You So', 'Come On!', 'Walk Idiot Walk', 'Main Offender', 'Die All Right', 'Tick Tick Boom' are titles from The Hives catalog.

Keep in mind that I'm being really picky about which song titles I am choosing from. I am trying to reflect what the music of these rock bands are about.

So, you can imagine that the substance of the music that Alex Turner writes is different than David Crowder. You can imagine that a performance by The Hives has a different feel and aim than a performance by Andy Mineo. When Lecrae is interviewed and gives a performance, he preaches the good news about Jesus while Arctic Monkeys interviews and performances are more focused on the party scene and the struggle to rise to fame and fortune.

Preaching about Jesus

Preaching about Fame & Fortune

The Trap:

Sometimes I critique things I like or dislike based on the surface value. If there is a beat that I can't dig or if a musician has a street-wise gangsta appearance, then I have a tendency to tune it out. If the tone of the guitar is energetic or if a musician looks like he has an element of class, then I try to pay deeper attention to what is going on with the music and the live performance.

I can tell that the suits that are worn by Arctic Monkeys and The Hives give them confidence in their music. Their style of rock music is appealing to my ears because of the effects on the guitars, the intensity of the drumming, or the energy presented by the vocalists. Does that mean I don't enjoy songs by Lecrae, Andy Mineo, or David Crowder? No. I enjoy some of their music, even though their style isn't my favorite.

The trap comes when the style of the bands overshadows the content. I have to be careful and listen to what the lyrics are saying. I have to ask myself 'What message is being presented in this song?'.

Part of the trap is the way the singer stares into your soul

If all I cared about was the sound of the instruments and the confidence of the band, I would be trapped by the style of Arctic Monkeys, The Hives, and others. I would not give guys like Lecrae or Andy Mineo a chance because I would say 'I don't like their sound' or 'I can't dig their style'.

It's like they don't care about impressing people by the clothes they wear

The Truth: 

Lyrics are more important to a song and to a band's style than the clothes they wear. Should I condemn all of Arctic Monkeys and The Hives music just because a few of their songs have a bad message? No, I can still listen to some of their songs and enjoy their music, so long as I am aware of the content in each song and steer clear of the songs with a poor message. Should I condemn all the songs by Andy Mineo, Lecrae, and David Crowder because I don't like rap or I don't like the clothes they wear? No, because then I would be missing out on their beautiful message about God.

Not to mention David Crowder's sweet beard.

I cannot judge a band or a musician according to the clothes that the band is wearing. Nor can I judge a band by whether this one particular song appeals to my ears. I would not be a kind Christian man if all I cared about was the surface value and I would be trapped because I did not pay enough attention to the content of the band and its music.

One last thought. While I can appreciate the suits and the style of people like Alex Turner and The Hives, it would be selfish of me to want to wear clothes like that all the time. Clothing like that is expensive and even if it were financially possible for me to have a different suit like that for every day of the week, I couldn't in good conscience buy that. There are too many people in this world that cannot afford decent clothing or food or decent housing. Instead of spending all that money on clothing for myself, I can put that money towards charitable acts and share what I have with those less fortunate. Sure, I could buy one nice suit if I really needed it or if I planned on wearing it a lot, but I should be willing to stop there and figure out where that money would better serve those in need.

Humility: Low & Grounded

Humility and Humiliation:      

               I always found it interesting that humility and humiliation are so close in spelling and yet are two completely different words. Humiliation has a negative connotation because it is based on other people judging the one who is humiliated. Humility is usually seen with a positive connotation because it takes strength and vulnerability to be humble.

               After a quick Google search, I read that the root for words that begin in ‘hum’ come from the Latin humus, meaning 'Earth' or 'ground'. Also, the root of humble is humilis, meaning 'low'. Both phrases are believed to have been started during the 1300s. That’s just interesting to think about how those roots are referenced to language that we use today. We bow low to show a sign of respect. We keep grounded to remain focused.

Where This All Came From:

                I had experienced great humility during Mass a couple of  Sundays ago (February 9^th). I had just recently posted a blog article about stealing (check the link on the side). I only realized I had posted it too early while during the Homily at Mass. The priest talked about the word sharing used in the first reading in Isaiah (Is. 58: 7). He talked about how sharing means giving from what we have, not just the extra, but even the things that are not extra. For example, if all I had available for lunch was a loaf of bread, sharing would mean letting other people have some of my bread too. In my other post I had talked about my need to give more of my extra stuff, but I never touched on giving even when I don't have extra.

                At a Bible Study I was helping facilitate in Helena, there was a woman named Kelsey. We had gotten into a discussion about tithing (giving 10% of monthly income to the collection basket at Mass). Kelsey shared her struggles with tithing and giving money charitably. She referenced Blessed Mother Teresa who said to give until it hurts. Kelsey said she knew that she had to give financially until it hurts and at the same time she was aware of moments when she did not or when she struggled with that giving.

              We are all called to give until it hurts. It's a very humbling moment to have a low food budget and yet giving part of the meal to those who ask for it or need it more. Yet, the kicker is that God will provide for us even when we share when we don't have extra. There's always a part of me that wants to be in control of the way my life, which involves holding onto possessions or food or things that I feel like I can't part with because I don't have extra of it. I'm not being humble and sacrificing for the people around me if I don't let go of control and give when it's hard to give.

Litany of Humility:

A couple nights ago, my teammate Austin led team prayer in which he had us reflect on the Litany of Humility. The person praying the Litany is asking God to deliver them from a feeling or obstacle that is keeping them from becoming more humble as well as asking for the grace to desire blessings upon others. At the beginning of the prayer, I was asking for a greater ability to put God first in my life. I am aware that God and His will needs to be the primary priority in my life. However, I started out asking to put myself second, to be the next priority under God. Then as the prayer continued I began to realize that I did not perceive the situation correctly. I should not be secondary, I should be in last place. If I truly loved and cared for people like God calls me to, then not only should God be my top priority, but then the needs of all the people in my life should be secondary. If I am really humble, I should be my last priority. If I want to grow in humility, then I need to lower myself for the sake of humanity (another 'hum' word).

I Don't Know Everything:

            Let me take a moment to grow in humility. I do not know everything there is to know about the world. I am not the smartest or wisest person there is and I know that. When I write this blog, I'm not trying to be a know-it-all or make it seem like I fully understand people. Everything is this blog contains my thoughts and it stems from my experiences in life and the way I grew up, which is different from other people's experiences and lives. What I try to do in this blog is better understand truth and present it in a style that is my own. I am a Catholic man and so the topics I write about often revolve around either Catholicism or manhood (sometimes both). A lot of the things I write about are things that I have learned from other Catholic men who are wiser and more experienced than I am. 

          Thank you for reading these blog posts and letting me share my thoughts with you.

The Obvious Yet Unknown Advice on Chivalry & Dating

A few weeks ago, the youth ministry organization Life Teen published an article on the subject of dating. The author was giving advice to guys about how to get back into the world of dating, though it also sufficed as advice on how to establish a dating relationship. I saw it pop up on a couple of Facebook walls being praised for its advice on how to ask a girl out and keeping the relationship rooted in prayer, among other things.

My thoughts were more like: "No duh!!!! How do guys not get this already? Do we really need to state the obvious here?"

Then, a little while later, there was another popular article from a blogger who focuses on dating and relationships. The article was about acts of chivalry that need to be brought back into society. It involved things like opening doors, giving up seats, and complimenting a woman on a date.

Again, my thoughts immediately went to: "Seriously?!!!!! This is common sense stuff. Why do we need to reiterate this?"

Then I began to realize that I had a closed-off view of things upon my initial readings of the articles. I was judging these articles based on my thought process now as a recent college graduate. I have been influenced by things like the Art of Manliness blog site and the book 'Wild at Heart' for a couple of years. I had learned from my friend's relationships, their successes and their failures, before I was in a very maturing dating relationship of my own where I was still learning things, but at least I understood what being a gentleman was supposed to be. Even in high school, where I wasn't going on very many dates, I knew what it meant to be a gentleman because that's what I learned while I was growing up. And it was in that thought process that I saw my mistake.

These articles aren't necessarily for me. These articles are targeting high school kids who are still learning what true dating is. They are targeting young adults and college graduates who still haven't done too much growing up. At least that's how I view the situation.

This kind of information may be common sense to me, but it may not be so obvious to other young men. Other guys may not have been raised up the same way I was and may not have figured out what the true purpose of dating is or how chivalry isn't really dead. On Reach, I have the chance to interact with a variety of teen guys. I can see these articles being very informative and provide new information for some of the guys I meet. Especially the guys who are very street-wise and heavily influenced by pop culture. However, why should this be new information for these teens?

Why does our pop culture not promote a lifestyle where guys hold doors open and give up their seats for women and the elderly and are bold enough to ask a girl out on a date face-to-face without fearing the possibility of rejection? Why does our society present for the teens a heavy focus on the physical and emotional highlights of a dating relationship without digging deep into the true purpose of dating (marriage) and the real struggles that they will face in their relationships?

Back to these blog articles. Are the intentions of these blogs and articles that give dating advice good? Yes, they are. Are they the most helpful blogs and articles when it comes to this topic? Well, that requires a subjective answer. For me, I would say if any man needed articles to seek advice about dating, I would recommend the Art of Manliness site. The writers are bold enough to call men out on not being as masculine as they should be while providing good information that focuses on all areas of a man's life. I believe that dating and relationships will improve for a man if he focuses first on figuring out what areas of of his life he needs to work on. A man should first learn what it means to be a man before figuring out how to improve his dating life and his search for a wife. Even I'm still learning in my own journey what it means to be a man.

Below I have links to the articles I've been mentioning throughout this post if you'd like to fully understand what I've been referring to. I recommend you check out more of the Art of Manliness site if you have never heard of it or checked it out before. My hope is that all of the articles and websites below do reach out to guys that need to see writers promoting a chivalrous, masculine lifestyle.

Links:

http://lifeteen.com/getting-back-game-advice-dating/

http://jamesmsama.wordpress.com/2014/02/01/8-acts-of-chivalry-to-bring-back/

http://www.artofmanliness.com/2008/01/16/stop-hanging-out-with-women-and-start-dating-them/