Forever Strong

A

This was a great feel good movie about sports, character, and becoming a man. Forever Strong tells a story from the Highland High rugby team, the winningest high school rugby team in the country. The story, based on true events, is heartfelt, the action is thrilling, and the the moral lessons are needed.

The story centers around Rich Penning (Sean Faris), a troubled teen whose father coaches rugby in Arizona. AS a consequence of another DUI, Penning is sent to a juvenile detention center in Salt Lake City, UT. Eventually, he finds himself on the on the Highland High rugby team, rivals to his father's AZ team. Coach Gelwix (Gary Cole) teaches his players how to be champions in life, not just in rugby.

If you enjoyed Remember the Titans, Miracle, and Rudy, then you will also love Forever Strong. Maybe I am biased, because I am also a high school coach with a very similar coaching philosophy as Gelwix (although I think he executes it better than I do). It was great. The movie is PG-13 for some thematic elements including drug abuse and alcohol.

UP

A

Wow. I've said it before and I'll say it again, When is Pixar gong to throw up a stinker? It seems that all they know how to make are winners. Up is no different. The animation quality was astounding (as we've come to expect from Pixar) and the story was great. Although somewhat "grounded" in reality, Up is definitely a fantasy adventure story. It has it all, unforgettable characters, genuine laughs, action, suspense, and truly tender emotions that we can all relate to.

Carl Fredricksen, a 78-year-old balloon salesman, is about to fulfill a lifelong dream. He ties thousands of balloons to his house and flies it to South America. He is surprised to find that a little boy named Russell has accidentally stowed away on his trip. Hilarity and action ensue.

As you watch the film, notice the attention to detail. For example, as the movie progresses Carl's facial hair slowly grows from clean-shaven to stubble. I was a little concerned that maybe the villain's mean dogs might scare my 4 year old, but she handled it just fine. And by the end, the dogs had become quite endearing. It is another phenomenal film that I highly recommend to all viewers. It is rated PG for action, some peril, and some frightening chase scenes.