Top Ten Tuesday: 10 Favorite Western Films

It’s another Top Ten Tuesday, hosted by That Artsy Reader Girl!

Today’s official topic is Non-book Freebie, to pick anything other than books for the list. I’m going with a list of movies, something I occasionally talk about here. This time, it’s a little different of a genre with a list of 10 Favorite Western Films.

Due to my parents and some influential uncles, I have been a fan of the western genre since I was a kid. I was watching John Wayne movies at the same time I was obsessed with Disney. I’m still a fan of the genre and enjoy discovering gems I haven’t seen, and I enjoy a well-written western book, too.

This list highlights my favorites — stars and stories. It covers quite a few decades, mostly beyond the peak of westerns on the big screen (50s and 60s). My list is reflective of my tastes and showcases story elements I still love in other genres of film AND books (friendships! justice! action and dynamic casts!). In chronological release order, here’s my list of…

(click the titles to learn more about each one)

10 Favorite Westerns

El Dorado (1966)

The middle film in 3 similar storied titles by director Hawks and star John Wayne, this one stands out for its script and pacing that feels most authentic. Plus it’s a lawmen-and-town-against-a-bully situation.

Two Mules for Sister Sara (1970)

Irony, humor, and Clint Eastwood trying not to be attracted to a nun.

Big Jake (1971)

A family saga with an estranged father back to retrieve his kidnapped grandson. This has some great moments recognizing the changing culture of the west into a modern state. And John Wayne’s own son, Patrick, plays his son in the movie — they have some fun dialogue and scenes that make them more interesting because of their real-life relationship.

Silverado (1985)

A perfect western, and one of my very favorites on this list. It has a fantastic ensemble cast, great cinematography, and a corrupt sheriff storyline that feels fresh.

Quigley Down Under (1990)

A Tom Selleck western set in Australia, it has some iconic moments and highly quotable lines. As many times as I’ve seen it, it never gets old. And, Alan Rickman is a villain!

Wyatt Earp (1994)

I prefer this Earp biopic-imagining to the more popular Tombstone (though I still love Val Kilmer in that one!), mostly because it takes its time as a more thoughtful depiction of Earp’s life.

Maverick (1994)

This is a movie adaptation of the beloved 1950s James Garner TV character. The plucky gambler is played here by Mel Gibson, but Garner does have a great part himself. This is a quintessential 90s movie with a humorous script done right.

Appaloosa (2008)

Yes, this movie is about lawmen, justice, and has a little romance. But it’s a modern classic because of its depiction of loyalty and friendship (dare I say bromance?) between Viggo Mortensen’s and Ed Harris’ (who directs!) characters. Quality visual storytelling.

The Magnificent Seven (2016)

yes I prefer the remake! Denzel Washington and Christ Pratt leading a unique cast of avenging gunslingers in an over-the-top ending. Enough said.

The English (2022 miniseries)

The only miniseries I’ve chosen, this is a bit of a dark horse on my list. It’s a recent one I watched and enjoyed with Emily Blunt shouldering the story. I loved the cinematography and musical choices for the score. It’s a story that takes its time, sometimes slow at times, but one that brings every single detail full circle with meaning. (a side note: it definitely lives up to its “mature” content rating)

What did you choose for this week’s freebie topic? Are you a fan of westerns? Have you seen any on my list? I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments!

Book & TV Pairings, Edition 8

Welcome to another post where I pair books and films or series with similar themes or content! This week I’m bending my own rules a bit and featuring a TV series instead of a movie. This series and book share in common a small town setting, mystery plot, and professional law enforcement officials as main characters: False Pretense and Longmire.

Longmire (2012-2017)

Longmire is a modern western, of sorts, that focuses on a small Wyoming town and Walt Longmire, the sheriff. It is actually based on a book series, too! It shares in common with the book False Pretense local lore — that of Native American culture and traditions — and a political-centric plot that often solves murders, disappearances, and other crimes. It has a strong lead cast with some quirky and courageous characters.

I have not watched all of the later seasons of Longmire after it moved from network TV to Netflix, but it’s on my want-to-watch list!

False Pretense by Heather Day Gilbert (A Murder in the Mountains #4)

False Pretense is a page-turning mystery that’s the last in a book series set in a small town in Virginia. Though it doesn’t have a western theme, it does have a similar “feel” with a thriller of a storyline and a likable protagonist involved with local law enforcement and politics (her husband is the mayor). Its plot has a slight supernatural/fantastical element which cleverly gives a local legend traction in the story, another aspect that links it to Longmire.

Are you a fan of mysteries or modern westerns? Do you have book, movie, or TV recommendations similar to these? I would love to hear your thoughts in the comments!

Top Ten Tuesday: Best Films & Shows I watched in 2022

It’s another Top Ten Tuesday, hosted by That Artsy Reader Girl!

Today’s official topic is Favorite Books of 2022. I’ve already posted about my favorites I read in 2022, so I’m doing a different spin on this week’s official one in sharing my favorite movies and shows I watched in 2022.

Best Films & Shows I watched in 2022

Top Gun: Maverick (2022)

The ultimate sequel 36 years later, it’s no surprise fans new and old love this story. It absolutely lives up to the hype and delivers a high stakes adventure with some deeply emotional moments.

Black Panther: Wakanda Forever (2022)

Both a highly anticipated sequel for its part in the Marvel Cinematic Universe and for the way it handles the loss of actor Chadwick Boseman, I think Wakanda Forever revives a spark for the Marvel franchise that’s been missing from its recent titles. It handles the loss of T’Challa with reverence and a respect I appreciate.

The US and the Holocaust (2022)

A PBS-aired 3 part documentary by Ken Burns, this is a series that’s difficult and sad to watch, but it does a fantastic job showing the harsh realities of our (America’s) treatment of the Jewish people and the horrors they went through under Nazi rule. It will give you empathy and perspective unlike any other story or account of WWII.

Devotion (2022)

I’m often interested in movies or series rooted in true stories. This story of pilots and brothers-in-arms during the Korean War is one I am still pondering and that I appreciate more as time passes. It is fittingly titled, as it explores devotion and loyalty of many kinds, between pilots, friends, husband and wife, and devotion to a cause or a country.

Heartland (2007 – )

I caught up with the episodes available to stream in the US, a total of 15 seasons so far, and I have to say this is the longest running series I think I have ever watched in its entirety. It’s somewhat of a modern family saga set on a cattle and horse ranch in the mountains of Alberta, Canada. I hope season 16 is available here soon!

Doctor Thorne (2016)

This miniseries is one I have long been interested in, and I finally watched it early in 2022. It’s my favorite kind of period drama that defies societal norms and tells a lovely story of sacrifice and romance.

Elvis (2022)

This biopic is one I loved. It does a great job of telling Elvis’ story, though I would recommend watchers do some Googling of the facts vs fiction of the story to see what small bits of creative license the movie takes.

Thirteen Lives (2022

Another based-on-a-true-story, this Ron Howard-directed film is a riveting story of the flooded cave rescue of the Thai soccer team back in 2018. The leading notable actors (Viggo Mortensen and Colin Farrell) deliver an amazing performance, as are the visuals in this feat of filming.

Honorable mentions go to All Creatures Great and Small series and Miss Scarlet and the Duke series, both on PBS. I’m a fan of each of them, and eager to see what the next seasons bring. I didn’t include them in this list because I feel their storylines are still very much ongoing. I might have to write another post about “All Creatures” because I love it dearly.

What did you share for TTT this week? What were your favorite books or films of 2022? I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments!

Book & Film Pairings, Edition 7

Welcome to another post where I pair books and films with similar themes or content! This week it’s time travel from contemporary times to a Medieval setting + romance, with a hint of an archaeological hunt in the mix. All of these elements combine in the 2003 film Timeline (starring Gerard Butler *heart eyes* and a young Paul Walker) and in Jody Hedlund’s “Waters of Time” duology, books Come Back to Me and Never Leave Me.

Timeline (2003, Paramount Pictures)

With an ensemble cast and an archaeological-centered task, the players in Timeline travel to 14th century France amidst dangers of war to fetch an old friend they believe to be there. A nefarious group in the present tries to antagonize and foil their plan to return home, while an impending siege on a castle looms. A couple threads of romance play out in the story, but Gerard Butler’s heroic part is my favorite — with his Lady Claire.

The Waters of Time duology by Jody Hedlund

Come Back to Me and Never Leave Me

These two novels follow the adventures of two sisters, one on a quest for holy water for healing and the other for closure. Both involve scenes and characters from the 14th century in England, with rivalries of knights, romance, and adventures. These novels echo the film in their clever plots and elements of the past influencing — and sometimes changing — the present. Both feature daring heroes and strong heroines, with happy endings and some interesting archaeological treasure hunting that has its basis in real history. And, if you’re like me and your FAVORITE part is usually the romance, Come Back to Me features an intelligent pairing of a heroine from the present and a gallant (swoony) knight from the past. Never Leave Me‘s romantic pairing is a long-established friendship-to-lovers situation. I would recommend reading these in order for the full arc of the story and the important sister dynamic.

Are you a fan of time travel or Medieval stories? Do you have book or movie recommendations similar to these? I would love to hear your thoughts in the comments!

Movie Thoughts: Redeeming Love

Most of my corner of the bookish community is aware of the book and adaptation out now of the 1990s bestselling novel Redeeming Love by Francine Rivers. It has been the recipient of polarized reviews depending on whose opinion readers seek, so I was interested in seeing for myself how it preserves the integrity of the original in a film format.

It has been about 10 years since I read the novel, so I dusted it off and reread a few key parts to refresh my memory of the framework and details of the story before watching the movie. I remember liking the novel upon my initial read, and I understand the appeal of it to an unlikely audience with its strong redemption message. But, it’s not one of my very favorite historical romances. I am still thrilled to see an adaptation of a Christian fiction novel — I hope its success and visibility draws interest in more adaptations and in the genre as a whole.

I think the movie is an admirable and very close adaptation of the story. It does change some of the details for the timeline’s sake, but the message of redemption and the selfless love of Michael (a metaphorical Christ figure, when viewed through a faith lens) is present and impactful. The faith of Michael, and subsequently Angel’s trust and another key character’s redemption plot, are all clearly conveyed.

The cinematography, costuming, and acting delivery are all excellent.

I had forgotten how serious and brutal some of the storyline is, and I think the movie captured it well without getting super violent or explicit on screen. However, its themes are definitely mature and not for a young or apprehensive audience (especially a caution for viewers with a connection to abuse). I would consider it a caution for teens, too, and I would encourage any parents of teens to view with them and discuss after. It could be a great starting point for a discussion of healthy (and unhealthy) relationships and choices.

I also want to address the consensual scenes. This is perhaps the most polarized thing I’ve seen discussed in online reviews. While I feel these love scenes could have been shortened a little for my sensibilities, they are necessary to convey the Godly intent of a sexual relationship in marriage in contrast to the abuse and history of Angel’s character, and her understanding of selfless love. This is an important and tastefully done part of the novel, and I felt like it was handled fairly well on screen. It does push the bounds of the PG13 rating though, in my opinion, when the sensuality of these scenes is considered with the other (violence, both implied and not; and abuse) content.

For further reading, I would recommend the perspective of Tricia Goyer on her blog, an experienced author and personal friend to Francine Rivers.

(CHRISTMAS) Book & Film Pairings, Edition 6

Welcome to another post where I pair books and films with similar themes or content! In fitting with the season, I am featuring Christmas-centric books and a movies today — two pairs of them, actually.

Snow Bride (2013), Hallmark Channel Original

A reporter’s quest for a scoop lands the heroine at a political dynasty’s Christmas gathering under false pretenses. Then, she and the hero strike up an agreement for a fake-dating relationship that complicates his family matters and her original intent tenfold. It has a lead couple with FANTASTIC on-screen chemistry, and one of the cutest first-kiss moments in Hallmark history.

His Mistletoe Miracle by Jenny B. Jones | Review

This novella features a couple in a fake-dating relationship at Christmas time in a small town. The hero and heroine’s families are very active in their lives, complicating family gatherings and allowing for some hilarious situations. The hero, too, has a background in journalism. I love how Jenny B. Jones incorporates humor and depth into the relationship dynamics.

The Nativity Story (2006), Theatrical Release

The Nativity Story is just that: a dramatic visual of the Biblical story of Mary, Joseph, their journey to Bethlehem, and the birth of Jesus. Exceptionally filmed and cast, I often enjoy rewatching this during the Christmas season.

A Night Like No Other by Kristin Vayden | Review

This novella follows a similar timeline and journey of Mary and Joseph through the time of Jesus’ birth. It allows the reader an intimate point-of-view of that time which gives Mary and Joseph a relatable voice and highlights the extraordinary plan of God to use mankind to bring His son into the world.

Have you seen either of these movies? Do you read Christmas stories this time of year? Do you have book recommendations similar to these? I would love to hear your thoughts in the comments!

Book & Film Pairings, Edition 5

Welcome to another post where I pair books and films with similar themes or content! Today’s post features an absolute FAVORITE Victorian miniseries and three books with similar themes or settings. I’m talking about North and South by Elizabeth Gaskell, and the ultimate BBC miniseries adaptation from 2004 starring Richard Armitage and Daniela Denby-Ashe.

Like the novel by Gaskell, each of these books I’ve chosen have an English setting, romance thread, and similarities to the classic, yet I would recommend them as unique stories with vibrant characters of their own.

North and South 2004. Drama, love, & social commentary in my favorite miniseries.

North and South series by BBC, original novel by Elizabeth Gaskell

This work contrasts society, economics, and family bonds through the eyes of its hero and heroine. More than just a romance, I appreciate how the novel and series dive deeper into social problems of the times and the difference one person, or one business owner, can make in the lives of even a small group of people. The romance progresses slowly as outside factors bring the hero and heroine together, begrudgingly at times, then to finally see through each other’s eyes the world around them. I especially love the book’s POV of Mr. Thornton, as I feel he is better understood in that context than his brooding persona in the series.

Isabelle and Alexander by Rebecca Anderson

This Victorian story is mostly set in Manchester and its hero is the owner of a successful cotton mill, much like Mr. Thornton. The backgrounds and contrasts of the protagonists are similar, too, but beyond that, it paints a poignant story of healing and purpose. The couple are married for most of the story, so that makes for emotional glimpses into their life and challenges, and, a unexpectedly sweet romance.

Miss Milton Speaks Her Mind by Carla Kelly

This Regency story has parallels in the name “Milton” and in the societal clash of the hero and heroine. Like Margaret of N&S, Miss Milton has a demanding family that pulls her in many directions. My favorite aspect of this story is how her friendship with the hero is very encouraging. She learns courage and standing up for herself as the story progresses yet doesn’t waver from her initial character.

A Holiday by Gaslight by Mimi Matthews

I couldn’t leave this last Christmas novella off the list! A Holiday by Gaslight ticks all the boxes for a Victorian Christmas story: decorating the country estate, plenty of mistletoe, a cozy library, and a sparkling romance. The initial misconceptions of the hero and heroine are nods to N&S, as are the ways they find common values and intellect once they look past superficiality. Author Mimi Matthews is a pro and this novella is a fantastic introduction to her stories!

Are you a fan of North and South? Do you have book recommendations similar to this classic? I would love to hear your thoughts in the comments!

Binge Watching “Persuasion” Adaptations

Last weekend, I watched the two most recent movie adaptations of Jane Austen’s Persuasion.

Watching them back-to-back was an unexpected thing! I found the 1995 version at a great thrift store, so I decided to watch it first and follow with the newer one, from 2007, in a few weeks. My mom was enthusiastic after the credits rolled on the 1995, and we decided to watch the next one over the weekend, too.

A little about the two films: the 1995 Persuasion stars Amanda Root as Anne Elliot and Ciarán Hinds as Captain Wentworth. The 2007 Persuasion stars Sally Hawkins as Anne Elliot and Rupert Penry-Jones as Captain Wentworth. Both were originally made for British television and both filmed on location in the countryside, Lyme, and Bath.

I recommend either version, as both do a excellent job adapting the beloved Austen novel. Some things were more distinctly likable in each one, yet I find they have enough differences to make them both watchable for their own merit.

~a brief comparison (or, reasons to watch both of these ASAP~

Cinematography: Both have sweeping English views, coastal visits, and on-location filming. The 1995 version, however, takes its time a bit with the storyline and the scenery, allowing for slightly more contemplative shots. The 2007 has tighter framing on the cast, so the emotions are at the forefront in many of their interactions.

Supporting characters: Vibrant! I find a little more empathy and understanding for Anne’s family in the 1995, while the 2007 periphery cast showcases more faults and annoyances. Either way, I can’t believe Anne puts up with them so gently! In both cases, I LOVE the Crofts.

Protagonist casting: I like the protagonist casting of both adaptations. I think the Amanda and Ciarán of the 1995 suit the more reserved, subdued tones of the story — the passion is still there, just under the surface. Sally and Rupert as Anne and Wentworth in the 2007 do an admirable job, especially in the asides Anne has toward the camera which mirror the narrator of the novel itself. But when it comes to the two Captains side by side, I must choose Rupert Penry-Jones as the most handsome Wentworth!

The endings: *Spoiler Alert* each suits the story build-up. 1995’s Anne is to have her first adventure and chance to see the world, as she has expressed desire to do, with her place now as the Captain’s wife on a ship. Perhaps the sweeter ending, to me, is that of the 2007 with what appears to be “home” settled: Wentworth has acquired Anne’s home estate, Kellynch. From Anne’s sad and frazzled appearance in the beginning, and her having to step away from home, this brings closure and a sense of a happy future with Wentworth’s gift. I appreciate that Austen’s original ending left the characters in a happy situation together with an open-ended future, and both adaptations had freedom to depict what that looks like.

For more about Austen’s Persuasion here on the blog, check out my post with Favorite Quotes from “Persuasion” from a few years ago!

Have you read or watched one of these adaptations? Which is your favorite?

Book & Film Pairings, edition 4

Welcome to another post where I pair books and films with similar themes or content! Today’s post is all about romantic comedies that happen to share a church-centric setting of some kind.

All three are self aware of their churchy humor (if you know, you know). And, they all balance humor, romance, and a serious side. Having spent time myself on a worship team, various committees, children’s choir leadership, etc., I definitely related to the humor and situations in these stories! Maybe you will, too. 😉

Off-Script & Over-Caffeinated by Kaley and Rhonda Rea

This lighthearted romcom has the planning of a children’s community theater play as a backdrop to much of the characters’ interactions. The cat-owning beta hero and the grouchy barista are my favorite characters. In addition to some hilarious dragon-building and dress shopping situations, it intentionally spoofs Hallmark movies and tropes throughout.

Then There Was You by Kara Isaac

The comedy in this story is all about clumsiness, fish-out-of-water situations (American girl in Australia!), and the trickiness of working in a megachurch (that’s sarcasm). The emotional journey of healing its romantic leads traverse, though, is most impactful and impressive. It’s a fav!

The Resurrection of Gavin Stone (2016)

It has been a while since I watched this movie, but I love the cast and remember thinking the story was fun and enlightening. I’m pairing it with the books for its comedy and play-planning story content, as well as the unexpected romance and deeper lessons its characters learn. While its hero “pretends” to fit in to the church culture while fulfilling a community service sentence, he learns what true service and faith looks like in action. AND he falls for the pastor’s daughter along the way.

Top Ten Tuesday: Most Anticipated 2021 Movies & Shows

It’s another Top Ten Tuesday, hosted by That Artsy Reader Girl!

Today’s official topic is “most anticipated releases for the first half of 2021”. I’m spinning the topic a bit to cover stories on the big and small screen I’m highly anticipating this year! Some of these were slated for 2020 release, so I’m extra excited to *finally* see them released.

Most Anticipated 2021 Movies & Shows

Top Gun: Maverick This sequel is almost 35 years in the making! I’m all about the nostalgia and anticipated soundtrack of this one.

No Time to Die This James Bond film is Daniel Craig’s last — and I have a feeling it’s going to be my favorite with him. I’m always entertained by the Bond titles but I really liked the story direction of the last one, Spectre, so I’m excited to see how they continue with some of those elements in this one!

Respect Jennifer Hudson as The Queen of Soul.

Black Widow FINALLY we get Scarlett Johansson’s character’s origin story. I hope there’s a nod to Budapest.

Death on the Nile The next Hercule Poirot remake, this highly anticipated period drama/mystery is slated for a late 2021 release. It will (hopefully) be here before we know it!

Dune The classic sci-fi with a fabulous cast. Though I know very little about the story, I am very excited for a new space adventure!

Finding You This Ireland-set romance is adapted from a novel by Jenny B. Jones!!! Hooray! Now, to read it before I watch it…

Luca Disney & Pixar + an Italian setting. I’m in!

On the small screen:

All Creatures Great and Small this promising PBS-Masterpiece slated series follows a veterinarian in 1930s Yorkshire.

Miss Scarlet and the Duke A Victorian mystery with a female lead. ALL things I love!

Your turn! Did you participate in this week’s Top Ten Tuesday? Are any of these shows on your must-watch list? What books are you anticipating this year?