Magical Movies
I love to go to the movies. For as long as I can remember, going into a dark theatre to watch a movie has always been a great joy. How cool is it to enter into another person’s imagination and be inspired by visions they create. Some of my favourite movies are magical, some are inspiring and some create amazing worlds that are brought to life on film.
Magical Movies – Field of Dreams
For some reason or other, this film really resonates with me. As a magician, I think it’s because there were true magical moments carefully interwoven with the everyday. The mystery that’s revealed at the end was surprising and rewarding. Only then did the story make complete sense. My hat goes off to the director for his graceful touch in creating this world of magical realism.
Movies That Inspire
Robin Williams was the star of Dead Poets Society. It was one of his first dramatic roles and he played his character with passion and restraint. He was nominated for an Oscar in the leading actor category. His performance was definitely worthy of being in such great company as the other nominees.
Any creator who enters into the world of arts for a living, works on the faith that all will go well. Every day presents victories and challenges not only with running the business, but also creating new pieces of art. Robin Williams advice to his class was to seize the day, Carpe Diem. That was a powerful message in the movie and gives me inspiration and motivation to continue to follow my dreams.
Designer Movies
As a graduate of Industrial Design from Carleton University in Ottawa, my eye always gravitates towards interesting design, whether it is graphic design, architecture, furniture design or movie production design. A French foreign film captured my designer spirit when it was first released. The cinematography was outstanding. That coupled with a great plot and new wave-style of direction, really appealed to me. The film’s name is Diva and if you don’t mind English subtitles, I encourage you to check it out.
Magical Movies that are Whimsical
As a magician, I enjoy having moments in my show that are whimsical. Inspiration for those moments can come from a variety of sources. One movie that perfectly reflects this approach is the classic, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang. Dick Van Dyke’s character was an inventor and I love to watch as his inventions achieved their purpose in unusual and creative ways. The car was obviously the centerpiece of the film, but many inventions and whimsy were sprinkled generously throughout the story.
I’m on the lookout for sources of inspiration and going to the movies will always be one of my favourite ways to see the world differently. That helps to make my magic more magical.