Damond Nollan

Val was a good movie. It was sad with repeated reflections of loneliness and loss. The pace of the film felt relaxed and constant. Not unbearably slow where you would feel compelled to skip ahead, but consistent with the evenness of the narrator's voice, who happens to be his son, Jack. The producers organized Val's life chronologically with shots of related video from various moments sewn in. It felt much like the scrapbook we see created on screen. In the end, I watched it because I like Val Kilmer. Additionally, I wanted to learn more about his life and the cause of his recent illness. The documentary is worth a watch for the tale told in Val's own words, but also for the self-reflection it caused.

Tonight's Family Movie and Pizza Night features Mary Poppins Returns on Netflix. I know, it's not Julie Andrews and Dick Van Dyck but we're all still pretty excited. UPDATE: The family and I started watching but didn't finish. About halfway through, the kids were falling asleep one-by-one. At the time I stopped it, I could see the strong similarities between it and the original version. It is still a light-hearted musical with a cast of characters dropping songs at different points throughout the story. Although, none of the songs have yet to find a memorable home with me. Like its predecessor, Mary, the kids, and her male companion visit a diverse set of personalities both real and in the cartoon world. I was pleased to see Meryl Streep as a colorful character on their journey to save the family house from the cold-hearted bank. Watching Emily Blunt play the leading lady, I was more than happy to experience her take on the part. So, I have no complaints there and she has a wonderful singing voice to boot. My intention is to continue watching the movie as I have yet to see Dick Van Dyck's character. Would I recommend it? Even though I haven't seen it through to the end, I would have to say "Yes." It's Mary Poppins and the kiddies should get to know her much as I did. I'll be back soon. FINAL UPDATE: So, I just finished the movie but the kids couldn't hang. Instead, they'd much rather watch slime videos or family vloggers on YouTube while they waste the day away playing video games. Aye, aye, aye. What is becoming of this generation when you skip out on Mary Poppins? (Laughing) Anywho, now that it's over, I agree that it is a wonderful movie. Whimsical for sure but that's what makes it so special. For me, it reminded me of what it felt like to be a kid all over again. To believe in the Disney magic and leave the theater (or cozy couch) feeling happy and hopeful for a better tomorrow. Like my sister, who finished the movie before me, seeing Dick Van Dyck dancing and singing at 93 years of age totally made my day. I found myself Googling the question, "Did Dick Van Dyck just dance on Mary Poppins Returns?" According to my cursory search, he did...and quite fluidly I might add. All in all, this was a delightful movie that I'd be happy to watch again. Maybe this time I can keep the kiddies still long enough to enjoy it too.