Quote of the Day #24

"Hey, Buzz! You're flying!"

"This isn't flying. This is falling - with style!"

Toy Story (1995)

Image: pixar-planet.fr

Pixar have just announced there will be a

 Toy Story 4 coming out in 2017.

Are you excited?

Or did you think the trilogy ended perfectly?

Let me know in the comments or on Twitter @TicketStubBlog

Remembering Robin Williams (1951-2014)

Image: blackandwhiteactors.tumblr.com

Hollywood is a little less bright today. Yesterday, the comic star Robin Williams died, aged 63. Like many people across the world, I adored Williams's work and his ability to make my sides ache with laughter. I am deeply shocked and, for the first time in a long while, genuinely upset about this tragic loss.

I grew up on his films - the tense adventure in Jumanji (1995), the cross-dressing nanny in Mrs Doubtfire (1993) and, my favourite, the genius Genie in Aladdin (1992). 

Watching this clip back of all the best bits still makes me giggle! 

It is certainly the role I will remember him for the most.

As well as comedic roles, Williams took on more serious characters. He won the 1998 Oscar for Best Supporting Actor in Good Will Hunting (1997) and was nominated for performances in Good Morning Vietnam (1987), Dead Poets Society (1989) and The Fisher King (1991).

He brought so much joy to the screen not only in his films but also in interviews. I'll never forget him on The Graham Norton Show - one of the most hilarious episodes ever:

I have many films that are on my 'to watch' list. Dead Poets Society is one of them. It seems only appropriate that I'll be watching this tonight in memory of one of the all time greats. 

Goodbye Mr. Williams. We will miss you.

Image: blogs.disney.com

How will you remember Robin Williams?

What is your most loved film or character of his?

Comment below or tweet @TicketStubBlog

Trailer Tuesday: Into the Woods (2014)

Image: teaser-trailer.com

Not gonna lie, I'm pretty excited for this one. 

The new Into the Woods trailer was released last week and it looks magical.

Into the Woods is Stephen Sondheim's musical take on the Brothers Grimm fairy-tales. Winning Tony Awards and Oliviers for both its original productions and revivals, the musical is highly popular and adored across the world. Fans, including myself, have been eagerly anticipating a first glimpse of the film. 

Directed by Chicago (2002) director, Rob Marshall, the movie has one of the best ever casts: Anna Kendrick, Chris Pine (looking very charming indeed), James Corden, Emily Blunt, Meryl Streep and Johnny Depp.  

The set design and special effects certainly look impressive. Above all though, I'm excited to see the songs and story brought to the screen. It's ticking all the right boxes, so hopefully it will live up to the hype and expectation.

Into the Woods will be released in the UK at Christmas.

Check out the trailer below:

What do you make of Into the Woods?

Seen any other great trailers that you think Ticket Stub should share?

Comment below or tweet @TicketStubBlog

Queens on Screen

Image: starpulse.com

Today is Helen Mirren's birthday! The British actress won her Oscar for depicting Queen Elizabeth II in the 2006 film The Queen. Not only has she played Queen Liz, Mirren has also taken on the role of Queen Charlotte in The Madness of King George (1994) and Elizabeth I in the television series.

To celebrate Dame Mirren's 69th birthday (can you believe she looks that fabulous at 69?!) I thought Ticket Stub should take at look at the best on screen queens in honour of Mirren's most celebrated role.

Can you think of anymore worthy performances? Let me know in the comments or tweet @TicketStubBlog.

Queen of Hearts in Alice in Wonderland (1951)

A butch, short tempered lady, the Queen of Hearts is one of the most frightening rulers. She blames Alice for all her misfortunes so it is no wonder Alice calls her a "fat, pompous, bad tempered old tyrant".

Dame Julie Andrews as Queen Clarisse Renaldi in 
The Princess Diaries (2001)

After Dame Helen Mirren, Julie Andrews is the second Dame on the list who has graced the screen as a lovable royal. She played Queen Clarisse in The Princess Diaries alongside Anne Hathaway as she guides her granddaughter, Mia, to become Princess of Genovia. She may be authoritative but Queen Clarisse is the coolest Grandma. She even sings in the sequel!

Image: birminghampost.co.uk

and as the Queen in 
Shrek 2, Shrek The Third and Shrek Forever After

In another royal role, Andrews lent her distinctive voice to the Dreamworks sequels of Shrek. With her on-screen King, John Cleese, the pair make a great team as the parents of Princess Fiona.

Image: entertainment.malaysia.msn.com

Dame Judi Dench as Queen Elizabeth I in 
Shakespeare in Love (1998)

The third Dame on the list - the phenomenal, Dame Judi Dench. Her portrayal of Elizabeth I earned her the Oscar for Best Supporting Actress. However, she was only on film for a total of six minutes making it the second shortest performance to win the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress. The shortest performance ever to win was by Beatrice Straight for Network (1976).

Image: zimbio.com

and as Queen Victoria in Mrs Brown (1997)

Dench plays the longest reigning monarch in Mrs Brown. The film sees Queen Victoria escaping to Balmoral Castle, still mourning the loss of her beloved husband, Albert. There she befriends servant Mr Brown, played by Billy Connolly. He helps the Queen regain her life back and comforts her during this dark period of her life. Dame Judi won the BAFTA and Golden Globe for her performance in the film.

Image: solosomosatomos.blogspot.com

Angel in Rent (2005)

The next couple of queens on the list side track from the typical royals. Angel in Rent is a drag queen. She has an awesome zest for life despite being diagnosed with AIDs. She has the coolest outfits too including the Christmas themed one below whilst she performs Today 4 U.

Image: collegefashion.net

Regina George in

Mean Girls (2004)

Regina George is the Queen Bee. She is the most popular yet most feared girl in school. She befriends Cady, played by Lindsay Lohan, who soon becomes one of 'The Plastics' in Regina's clique. "Teen Royalty" as Damien calls the group. Regina is the ultimate high school bitch - stirring things up for her own personal gain.

Image: vodkaandcupcakes.com

Kirstin Dunst as the title role in 
Marie Antoinette (2006)

Back to the royals, and here is Kirstin Dunst as Marie Antoinette. The young queen of indulgence, fashion and scandal. Dunst brings charisma and charm to the role. The costumes and set design are stunning in this movie too, winning the Academy Award for Best Costume Design.

Image: architecturebehindmovies.wordpress.com

Evil Queen in Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs (1937)

Featured on the Top Ten Disney Animated Villains last month, the Evil Queen returns! As one of the most menacing and first animated royals, she has to make this list.

Image: disney.wikia.com

Elizabeth Taylor as the title role in 
Cleopatra (1963)

Elizabeth Taylor is breathtakingly beautiful as the Queen of the Nile. She had 65 costume changes in the movie! This was also one of the most expensive films ever made and nearly bankrupted 20th Century Fox. Despite the controversies, it is certainly Taylor's most memorable role.

Image: venturegalleries.com

Which on-screen Queens have I missed?

Let me know in the comments below or 
tweet @TicketStubBlog 
with the most memorable performances, films or characters.

Quote of the Day #18

"You best start believing in ghost stories, Miss Turner... you're in one."

Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl (2003)

Happy Birthday Geoffrey Rush!

What is your favourite film starring the Aussie actor?

Comment below or tweet @TicketStubBlog

Quote of the Day #17

"I have to get out of here! I have to find my son! I have to tell him how old sea turtles are!"

Finding Nemo (2003)

Image: disneypicture.net

Happy Father's Day!

Who is your favourite movie dad?

Comment below or tweet @TicketStubBlog

Top Ten Disney Animated Villains

Clockwise from top left: Aladdin (1992), Sleeping Beauty (1959), The Little Mermaid (1989), Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs (1937), The Hunchback of Notre Dame (1996), 101 Dalmatians (1961), and centre Pocahontas (1995)

Inspired by Maleficent's release last week, I thought it was time to look at some of the best Disney animated villains. My Top Ten lists have no particular ranking, but who do you think should be on top? 

Comment below or tweet @TicketStubBlog.

1. Maleficent in Sleeping Beauty (1959)

"Now you shall deal with me, O Prince - and all the powers of Hell!"

Putting a curse on a royal baby just because you weren't invited to her christening is pretty extreme. But despite her menacing and evil actions, Maleficent is one of the best loved villains in Disney's history. She is elegant and authoritative making her one of the most intimidating characters.
Take a look at her best bits in the video below:

2. Governor Ratcliffe in Pocahontas (1995)

"This is MY land and I make the laws here! And I say anyone who so much as looks at an Indian without killing him on sight, will be tried for treason and hanged!"

A greedy governor searching for gold in the New World, Ratcliffe is a selfish leader. The song 'Mine, Mine, Mine' sums this up nicely. Although he has two comical sidekicks - his pug Percy and the ever-so camp Wiggins (who is actually voiced by David Ogden Stiers who plays Ratcliffe) - the Governor is incredibly serious and violent in his claim for land and gold.
Check out Savages below:

3. Cruella De Vil in 101 Dalmatians (1961)


"My only true love, darling. I live for furs. I worship furs! After all, is there a woman in all this wretched world who doesn't?"

Cruella has got to be one of the best dressed villains on the list. Fashion is key to her evil traits as she becomes obsessed with getting the dalmatians' spots for her designs. Her hair and outfit has become iconic - a great fancy dress idea for your next party.
I loved Glenn Close's version of Cruella in the live action movie - a great family film recommendation.

4. Claude Frollo in The Hunchback of Notre Dame (1996)

"And look what else I've caught in my net. Captain Phoebus, back from the dead. Another 'miracle', no doubt. I shall remedy that."

Frollo has got to be up there with the best worst Disney villains. I never quite realised how creepy and desperate Frollo's desire for Esmeralda is until re-watching the song Hell Fire below.
Seriously messed up stuff. 

5. Jafar in Aladdin (1992)

"You're speechless, I see. A fine quality in a wife"

I love Jafar's sarcastic comments in the film but he is most menacing when he transforms into an almighty power and giant snake. Check out the climax to the film below (here be spoilers):

6. Ursula in The Little Mermaid (1989)

"Now I am the ruler of all the ocean! The waves obey my every whim!"

Poor unfortunate Ariel...she signs Ursula's deal to be human but at a price - for her enchanting voice which originally seduces the prince, Eric. Ursula transforms herself into a human too - only to take Eric away from Ariel using her stolen vocals with the aim of ruling the sea. What a bitch. 

7. Evil Queen in Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs (1937)

"Magic Mirror on the wall, who is the fairest one of all?"

This is the original Disney animated villain. Sometimes known as Queen Grimhilde, the Evil Queen set the mark for villains in the first full length animation Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs. I was pretty petrified of the Evil Queen as a kid. Especially with her transformation scene into the wicked hag: 

8. Gaston in Beauty and the Beast (1991)

"We're not safe 'til his head is mounted on my wall! I say we kill the Beast!"

Gaston seems like the leading man, but he is far from it. The arrogant bachelor not only fails at getting Belle to accept his awful proposals, he tries to send Maurice into the asylum and attempts to kill the Beast with an angry mob behind him.
We'll be having none of that, thank you!

9. Wicked Stepmother in Cinderella (1950)

"After all, we did make a bargain, didn't we, Cinderella? And I never go back on my word."

Another bitchy villain to add to the list. Lady Tremaine, otherwise known as the Wicked Stepmother, will do anything to make Cinderella unhappy. Eleanor Audley, who voiced the Wicked Stepmother, went on to voice one of the previous villains on this list - Maleficent in Sleeping Beauty.

Image: disney.wikia.com

10. Scar in The Lion King (1994)

"Out of the ashes of this tragedy, we shall rise to greet the dawning of a new era...in which lion and hyena come together, in a great and glorious future!"

Possibly the most evil character on the list? Scar murders his own brother to take the throne. That's rather villainous if you ask me. Jeremy Irons has the powerfully dark voice to match Scar's scheming nature. Be Prepared is the best example of this. Especially with the striking image, reminiscent of Nazi propaganda, of the marching hyenas obeying to Scar on top of the cliff.
For me, he is the best evil Disney villain. 

Who did I miss? 

Who is your favourite?
What makes a good evil villain?

Let Ticket Stub know in the comments and on Twitter @TicketStubBlog

May Film of the Month

May is over and another Film of the Month is due! This month I saw an all time Tarantino classic, a bunch of superheros fighting it out and one very evil queen seeking revenge. Who will be on top for May Film of the Month? Find out below, but first - here is the usual rating system:

* = Poor. Why did I even bother?!

** = OK. Could have done better.

*** = Good. Recommended though don’t feel bad you don’t get to see this one.

**** = Excellent. Not quite perfect but highly recommended.

***** = Masterpiece. You’d be a fool not to see this film.

Do you agree with my ratings? Let me know in the comments below or tweet @TicketStubBlog

Click on the film titles to be directed to their respective IMDB page.

X-Men: Days of Future Past

My friend, Emma, and I had intended on seeing Godzilla this particular evening but it was sold out. Therefore, we chose to see X Men: Days of Future Past and we were not disappointed - mainly because Hugh Jackman started the film completely starkers, (yes that is getting an extra star). Jokes aside, the story was tense and thrilling - just what you want from an action movie. The effects are awesome, especially the scene involving Quicksilver - you'll know it when you see it - a completely memorizing and memorable moment. Michael Fassbender was splendid in this too and I was very happy to see my favourite Game of Thrones star Peter Dinklage with a spiffing 1970s mustache. Highly recommended.

Rating: ****

Maleficent

Angelina Jolie was made for this role. She has the presence, authority and looks that make Maleficent one of the most menacing characters. Similarly, the film itself is visually gorgeous. Stunning set design pieces, especially with the castle and thorny forest, make it a very lush and magical land. But is it style over substance? There are twists to the Sleeping Beauty (1959) story which I liked - particularly with the true love's kiss which reminded me of Frozen (2013). I did enjoy the film but it was not a complete knockout. The fairies were rather annoying and unfunny and I would have liked Maleficent to be a little bit more dark. Having said that, it certainly has made me want to re-watch the original Sleeping Beauty. A good solid film which will be popular with Disney fans.


Rating: ***




Pulp Fiction (1994) - 20th Anniversary Screening

Unfortunately, I will not be including this film in the Film of the Month choice as Pulp Fiction has been out for 20 years now! My brother and I headed to our local cinema to see the Tarantino classic in its 20th anniversary year. I hadn't seen the movie for over 5 years and it made the world of difference seeing it on the big screen with the soundtrack on full blast.

I'm going to keep an eye out for these old films in cinemas because it is great to see them exactly how they were intended to be seen - surround sound, a giant screen and a dedicated audience to watch.

Of course, I am going to give the film a very high rating as I love it. No doubt I'll be recommending it as a Sunday Classic and Soundtrack Saturday on Ticket Stub in the future.

Rating: *****

So Ticket Stub's May Film of the Month is...

X Men: Days of Future Past

Do you agree?

What films have you seen this month?

Let me know in the comments or tweet @TicketStubBlog

Trailer Tuesday: Maleficent (2014)

Disney released this glorious new poster today for Maleficent (2014)
Image: metro.co.uk

Trailer Tuesday is back and this time with Disney's widely anticipated Maleficent.

Starring Angelina Jolie in the title role, the film is a live action remake of the classic Sleeping Beauty tale, however this time we follow Maleficent's perspective of the story. 

This is Robert Stromberg's directorial debut. He has previously worked as production designer on pictures such as Alice in Wonderland (2010) and Oz the Great and Powerful (2013). 

His magical and fantastical vision should therefore bode well for Maleficent. 

Other actors to look out for include: Peter Capaldi, Imelda Staunton, Miranda Richardson and Juno Temple. The special effects look spell-binding and, looking from the trailer and new poster released today (see above), Jolie fits the aesthetically beautiful yet pure evil nature of Disney's most iconic villain. 

I absolutely love Lana Del Rey's haunting version of Once Upon A Dream in this trailer. 

Hopefully there will be more soundtrack gems and Maleficent will live up to the hype when it is released in the UK on 30th May 2014.

What do you make of this trailer?

What films are you excited about for the rest of 2014?

Comment below or tweet @TicketStubBlog

Top Ten Film Romances

From top left: When Harry Met Sally, Brief Encounter, Dirty Dancing, Beauty and the Beast, Brokeback Mountain, Casablanca and centre, Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind

With it being Valentine's Day, Ticket Stub is all loved up this week! To mark this occasion, I have picked my Top Ten Film Romances.

What are your favourites? Comment below or tweet @TicketStubBlog. 

1. Casablanca (1942) - Rick and Ilsa

"Here's looking at you, kid" 

One of the most iconic Hollywood romances starring Humphrey Bogart and Ingrid Bergman. 

2. Beauty and the Beast (1991) - Belle and Beast

"Tale as old as time..."

This animated love story is enchanting and wonderfully romantic, showing the importance of inner beauty and not judging by appearances.

3. Dirty Dancing (1987) - Baby and Johnny

"Nobody puts Baby in the corner"

Starring Patrick Swayze and Jennifer Grey, the sexy dancing and cute scenes between the two characters make this one of the best coming of age romances.

4. Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind (2004) - Joel and Clementine 

"Why do I fall in love with every woman I see who shows me the least bit of attention?"

Erasing the memory of their relationship, we see the sweet yet destructive romance between Joel and Clementine. One of my top favourite films of all time.

5. When Harry Met Sally - Harry and Sally

"You say things like that and you make it impossible for me to hate you. And I hate you, Harry. I really hate you"

What can I say? I had to include it! If you read Ticket Stub often, you know I adore this rom-com. Harry and Sally test out the theory whether men and women can just be friends. 

6. Titanic (1997) - Jack and Rose

"I'll never let go"

I grew up with this movie and loved the Romeo and Juliet nature of Jack and Rose's relationship. Not only are they confronted with objections from society, they have to survive a sinking ship. 

Certainly one of the top film romances.

7. Brokeback Mountain (2005) - Ennis and Jack

"I wish I knew how to quit you"

Ennis and Jack fall in love in a tragic romance based on Annie Proulx's short story which I highly recommend reading.

8. Brief Encounter (1945) -  Laura and Alec

"If you'd die, you'd forget me. I want to be remembered"

A classic black and white cinematic romance. Laura and Alec meet at a railway station and begin a romantic love affair.

9. Annie Hall (1977) - Annie and Alvy

"Love is too weak a word for what I feel  - I luuurve you, you know, I loave you, I luff you"

Another favourite on Ticket Stub, Annie Hall may not end in the perfect romantic fashion but it is one of the best takes on romantic relationships.

10. Sleepless in Seattle (1993) - Annie and Sam

"I don't want to be someone that anyone settles for"

Showing in cinema screens tonight, this is a cheesy rom-com with the glorious Tom Hanks and Meg Ryan. The film also references the wonderful An Affair to Remember (1957).

I have missed LOADS of movie romances off this list. 

What are your favourites?

Tweet @TicketStubBlog or comment below!

Happy Valentine's Day <3

Trailer Tuesday: Frozen (2013)

Image: freefever.com

With the lead up to Christmas in its final week, Ticket Stub has gone all festive to celebrate. So wrap up warm, grab those mince pies, get a glass of mulled wine and enjoy all of Ticket Stub's recommended holiday films.

The first feature this week is Trailer Tuesday. Although this film has been out since the 6^th December, I wanted to pick a wonderfully wintery movie to get us all in the mood for Christmas. 

Therefore, the Trailer Tuesday choice is Frozen.

The new Disney movie, tells the story of princess sisters Elsa and Anna. After their parents die, Elsa becomes queen yet her frosty magical powers hold her back from bonding with her sister and interacting with the people in the kingdom. As Elsa accidentally sparks an eternal freeze across the kingdom, Anna has to persuade her sister to stop the bitter winter so Elsa can return as queen. With help from a hilarious snowman, Olaf, an adventerous hero named Kristoff and his trusty reindeer, Sven, Anna has a big quest on her hands.

I saw the film just over a week ago and loved it. The songs are brilliant, particularly the comical In Summer and Let It Go – which has been nominated for a Golden Globe. The film stars one of my favourite musical theatre actresses, Idina Menzel – who you may also recognise from Disney’s 2009 film Enchanted. Kristen Bell voices Elsa and Glee's Jonathan Groff also stars. 

Another thing I loved is the portrayal of the two sisters. They are both quirky and awkward which I certainly related to and it reminded me of my relationship with my siblings – particularly with the song Do You Want To Build a Snowman? However, I do wish there was at least some variation in the appearance of the recent Disney princesses. Both have a very similar aesthetic to Rapunzel in Tangled (2010). A recent article in the Guardian also picked up on this issue and mentions a marketing campaign after Brave's release which had an illustration of Merida conforming to the typical Disney princess look: big eyes and thin as a stick figure.

This is only one set back. I was thoroughly entertained and I liked the way in which Disney mocks itself.

Not only is the film magical, but the short film beforehand is a treat in itself with a 1920s Mickey and his friends bursting through the cinema screen.

Frozen is out NOW.

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Top Ten Animals in Film

Clockwise from top: Babe (1995), Free Willy (1993), Bambi (1942), Jaws (1975), War Horse (2011), Life of Pi (2012), Finding Nemo (2003) & 101 Dalmatians (1996) 

Animals in film often provide comedy and comfort but also danger and destruction to characters and cinema audiences. With the epic trailer for the new Godzilla (2014) featured as this week's Trailer Thursday, I want to ask: who stands out as your favourite on screen animal?

From sweet little Bambi to the terrifying Jaws, there are tonnes that I have missed out in my Top Ten (including some in the picture above) so tweet me your favourites @TicketStubBlog and YOU could be featured in my next post. 

1. Baloo in The Jungle Book (1967)

Baloo is the lovable bear who becomes Mowgli's guide and adoptive parent through the depths of the jungle as Mowgli returns to the man-village.

Best Moment? Baloo singing Bare Necessities

2. King Kong in King Kong (1933)

From a lovable bear to a frightening giant gorilla: King Kong. The stop animation and effects in this film are remarkable for 1933 and King Kong is still rather scary - made even more so by Fay Wray's shrill scream in the scene above.

Did You Know? Kong's roar was in fact a lion and a tiger's roar combined together and run backwards at a low speed.

3. Dory in Finding Nemo (2003)

The forgetful fish, Dory, who helps Marlin try and find his son Nemo is one of the most comical animal characters on screen. The adorably optimistic regal blue tang fish, voiced by the hilarious Ellen DeGeneres, will return in Pixar's 2016 sequel: Finding Dory.

Best Dory Quote? "Just keep swimming, swimming, swimming. What do we do? We swim, swim!"

4. The Birds in The Birds (1963)

Another scary choice, this time a collective mass of birds. The Hitchcock film sees the birds descend on Bodega Bay and attack all those who live there. The other day, a mass of black birds gathered, as they do in the scene above, when I left for work. Needless to say, I was quite on edge!

The birds gather outside my house!

Did You Know? When audiences left the premiere at Leicester Square's Odeon cinema, they were scared even further by the sound of screeching and flapping birds from loudspeakers hidden in the trees.


5. Dug in Up (2009)

You wouldn't expect a golden retriever in the tropical landscape of South America. And I guess you wouldn't expect to hear its thoughts either. Well, this is what happens in Pixar's Up. Though he may not be the most intelligent dog, and is often distracted by squirrels, Dug has a big heart and is a comforting pet to Russell and eventually Carl.

Want to Know More? I wrote a blog post on ZooScope about all the animals in the film and how they are represented. If you fancy reading, just click here.

6. Jack the Dog in The Artist (2011)

The Artist is a modern take on the silent black and white films of the 1920s. Jack the Dog provides great visual comedy, particularly in the scene with Oscar winner Jean Dujardin at the breakfast table.

Did You Know? Jack the Dog was played by three Jack Russell Terriers: Uggie, Dash and Dude

7. Richard Parker in Life of Pi (2012)

An unlikely environment for a tiger - on a lifeboat in the middle of the ocean with a boy named Pi. The ferocious tiger is beautifully digitally animated and a real tiger was used in some scenes. However, recent stories have emerged that the tiger 'nearly drowned' on set.

Did you know? The film won for Best Director, Visual Effects, Score and Best Cinematography at last year's Oscars and is adapted from the best selling novel by Yann Martel.

8. Mr. Fox in Fantastic Mr. Fox (2009)

George Clooney plays the title role in Wes Anderson's adaptation of Roald Dahl's book. The sly and wild yet urbane fox steals food from three farmers every night. Fed up with Mr. Fox, the farmers seek revenge in destroying the fox's home. Mr. Fox leads the escape for his family and woodland creature friends.

Did you know? It took seven months to complete the very first Mr. Fox puppet

9. Kermit the Frog in The Muppets (2011)

He may be made of felt but he is still an animal - clue is in the name Kermit the Frog. The TV and film star will return in the sequel Muppets Most Wanted (2014) which was featured as a Trailer Tuesday last month.

Did You Know? Kermit the Frog has his own star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

10. Timon and Pumbaa in The Lion King (1994)

I cannot pick one - they come as a pair! Timon, the clever meerkat, and his smelly warthog friend, Pumbaa, take care of Simba as he grows up in the jungle after Scar tells the lion cub to 'run away and never return'. The two animals even had their own TV series.

Best Timon and Pumbaa Quote? 
Timon: Gee, he looks blue
Pumbaa: I'd say brownish-gold
Timon: No, no, no. I mean he's depressed
Pumbaa: Oh.


Who is your favourite animal in film?

Comment below or tweet your suggestions to
 @TicketStubBlog

Soundtrack Saturday: Mary Poppins (1964)

Image: sun.co.uk

With yesterday's release of Saving Mr. Banks, I thought it would be appropriate to listen back to the wonderful Mary Poppins soundtrack.

If you do not know the story, WHERE HAVE YOU BEEN? Go watch it now! 

But if you are otherwise engaged, Mary Poppins is about the magical nanny who ends up working for the Banks family, looking after the children Jane and Michael. Combining live action and animation, Mary (Julie Andrews) opens the eyes of the Banks family and brings them closer together. Chimney sweep, Bert (Dick Van Dyke), adds plenty of comedy, least because of Van Dyke's infamous 'cockney' accent but we will ignore this! 

How can you not love these songs? Listening to the orchestral overture immediately captures the charm and magic of the film. If you grew up watching Mary Poppins, a grand wave of nostalgia comes with listening to this soundtrack. 

Remember these tunes?

A Spoonful of Sugar

Jolly Holiday

Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious

And what about these musical gems?

Stay Awake

Chim Chim Cher-Ee

Let's Go Fly a Kite

There are so many highlights, nearly every song is a treat. The Step In Time sequence has been featured several times on Ticket Stub - for the dance sequence and for the fireworks effects. However, my personal favourite song has to be Feed the Birds:

The Sherman Brothers certainly created one of the best loved motion picture soundtracks. I urge you to listen again to truly appreciate their genius. 

It is practically perfect in every way! 

Best Track? How could I possibly pick? Let's go for the Overture - it captures every favourite tune.

 (See below)

Available on Spotify? Yes

What's your Soundtrack Saturday? 

Tweet @TicketStubBlog or comment below

Top Ten Firework Scenes

Remember, remember the 5th of November...but what movie scenes can you remember with fireworks? 

I've picked my Top Ten but I'm sure there are plenty I've missed. 

Feel free to tell Ticket Stub your favourites by tweeting @TicketStubBlog and you could be featured in the next post!

1. The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring (2001)

Merry and Pippin are the two cheeky chappies in this first film of the epic trilogy. They attempt to steal one of Gandalf's magical fireworks, however, the two hobbits get into a little spot of bother...

2. Toy Story (1995)

Buzz is strapped to a rocket and it's about to blow up in the sky. How will Woody and Buzz escape?

Woody: "Hey, Buzz you're flying!" 

Buzz: "This isn't flying. This is falling, with style!"

3. Manhattan (1979)

Woody Allen's black and white classic is one of the best ever film openings. Along with Allen and his character Isaac, we as the audience begin to romanticise New York "all out of proportion". With George Gershwin's masterpiece Rhapsody in Blue and the fireworks exploding over the Manhattan skyline, how could you not fall in love with this city?

4. Mary Poppins (1964)

The fireworks during Step In Time cause all the chimney sweeps to rush down Mr Banks' chimney and take over proceedings in his town house. The effects are rather impressive for the time too.

5. Mulan (1998)

Fighting Shan Yu on the rooftops of China's Imperial City, Mulan is running out of ideas...cue the little dragon, Mushu, who fires a huge firework rocket on Mulan's command which instantly kills the villain, but also sets off a great display!

6. Brokeback Mountain (2005)

There is no video available on YouTube, but I have inserted a picture here. This scene shows Ennis (Heath Ledger) beating up two guys who insult him with homophobic remarks during the July 4th celebrations. 

Image: theatlantic.com

7. The Little Mermaid (1989)

This is where Ariel first sees Prince Eric. His world is made even more mesmerizing by the fireworks display from the ship. Ariel just has to see more, much to the dismay of Sebastian. 

"Jumping jellyfish!"

8. To Catch a Thief (1955)

Fireworks and sparks fly between Grace Kelly and Cary Grant as they look across at the display on the French Riviera. And we all know what those flashes of fireworks symbolise, Mr Hitchcock...

9. Titanic (1997)

(Again, there is no video on YouTube - I will get the actual screen-grab soon.) For me, this has always been a memorable scene. All alone out in the cold Atlantic, it is the extreme over-head wide shot of the ship releasing the firework that shows how fatally doomed the Titanic and its passengers truly are. 

Image: thetruthaboutguns.com

10. A Bug's Life (1998)

You can always count on Pixar to be clever - here the "harvester salute" sees the harvested plants collide together in the air to create the insects' very own fireworks display as the 'warrior' bugs return to their home.

I hope you all have a wonderful Bonfire Night! Wrap up warm, enjoy the fireworks - and if you can't go to a display, be sure to take a look at these movies instead!