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Critical Thinking
The true story of the Miami Jackson High School chess team which was the first inner city team to win the U.S. National Chess Championship. The true story of the Miami Jackson High School chess team which was the first inner city team to win the U.S. National Chess Championship. The true story of the Miami Jackson High School chess team which was the first inner city team to win the U.S. National Chess Championship.
- John Leguizamo
- Dito Montiel
- Rachel Bay Jones
- Michael Kenneth Williams
- 31 User reviews
- 20 Critic reviews
- 65 Metascore
- Mr. Martinez
- Principal Kestel
- Mr. Roundtree
- Sedrick Roundtree
- Oelmy 'Ito' Paniagua
- (as Jorge Lendeborg)
- Rodelay Medina
- (as Angel Bismark Curiel)
- Marcel Martinez
- Detective Ransone
- Detective Vargas
- Michael Rivera
- Jitney Driver
- All cast & crew
- Production, box office & more at IMDbPro
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Did you know
- Trivia Martinez started the after-school chess club in 1992 after his teacher's lounge rounds of chess with another teacher sparked student interest. His playing partner left the school that year and students began challenging him to matches so the club was born.
- Goofs During Ito's game at the regional tournament, both Ito and Martinez say that he is in "Zugzwang". However, in a real "Zugzwang" situation, a player loses only because he is forced to make a move, while Ito lose the same way even if it was his opponent's time to move, as he could take the pawn on d3 with the queen.
Mr. Martinez : All right, now, people, this is gonna be very basic for some of you, but for the fish, or the newbies as I like to call you, this is gonna be eye opening because what you've got is 64 squares, 32 pieces, it doesn't matter how rich or poor you are, what Ivy League school you may go or you may not go to, what prison you hopefully never set foot in, because chess is the great equalizer.
- Crazy credits Over the credits, there are interviews with the real people who the movie is based on.
- Soundtracks What Would You Do Written by Timothy McNealy Performed by Timothy McNealy Published by Afrika Kuruvilla Kurian, BMI
User reviews 31
- nouyrigatantoine
- May 10, 2021
- How long is Critical Thinking? Powered by Alexa
- September 4, 2020 (United States)
- United States
- Eleştirel Düşünme
- Miami, Florida, USA
- Critical thinking
- Cinema Veritas
- Hialeah Park Studios
- See more company credits at IMDbPro
- $3,000,000 (estimated)
Technical specs
- Runtime 1 hour 57 minutes
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Critical Thinking
2020, Drama, 1h 57m
What to know
Critics Consensus
Strategic in delivering all the feels, Critical Thinking is a good old-fashioned underdog story that marks a winning directorial debut for John Leguizamo. Read critic reviews
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Miami -- 1998. Poverty, broken families, and a prejudiced system push underprivileged youth to the fringes of society. But for a magnetic group of teens, there's a reprieve. A game where it's not about where you come from, but how you play. That equalizer is chess. Mr. "T" Martinez, a chess militant and passionate coach, leads them to a completely foreign field of battle.
Genre: Drama
Original Language: English
Director: John Leguizamo
Producer: Jason Mandl , Scott M. Rosenfelt
Writer: Dito Montiel
Release Date (Theaters): Sep 4, 2020 limited
Release Date (Streaming): Sep 4, 2020
Runtime: 1h 57m
Distributor: Vertical Entertainment
Production Co: Perfect Balance, Cinema Veritas, NRSP, Hialeah Park Studios
Aspect Ratio: Scope (2.35:1)
Cast & Crew
John Leguizamo
Mario Martinez
Rachel Bay Jones
Principal Kestel
Michael Kenneth Williams
Mr. Roundtree
Corwin C. Tuggles
Sedrick Roundtree
Jorge Lendeborg
Ito Paniagua
Angel Bismark Curiel
Rodelay Medina
Will Hochman
Zora Casebere
Jeffry Batista
Marcel Martinez
Dito Montiel
Screenwriter
Jason Mandl
Scott M. Rosenfelt
Carla Berkowitz
Executive Producer
Harvey Chaplin
Emilio Estefan
Zachary Zamboni
Cinematographer
Jamie Kirkpatrick
Film Editing
Chris Hajian
Original Music
J. Mark Harrington
Production Design
Lewis Zucker
Art Director
Set Decoration
Danny Santiago
Costume Design
Avy Kaufman
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Critical Thinking (2020) Stream and Watch Online
Watch 'Critical Thinking' Online
Looking to watch ' Critical Thinking ' on your TV, phone, or tablet? Finding a streaming service to buy, rent, download, or watch the John Leguizamo-directed movie via subscription can be difficult, so we here at Moviefone want to take the pressure off. Below, you'll find a number of top-tier streaming and cable services - including rental, purchase, and subscription alternatives - along with the availability of 'Critical Thinking' on each platform when they are available. Now, before we get into all the details of how you can watch 'Critical Thinking' right now, here are some particulars about the Cinema Veritas NRSP Perfect Balance drama flick. Released September 4th, 2020, 'Critical Thinking' stars John Leguizamo , Rachel Bay Jones , Michael Kenneth Williams , Corwin C. Tuggles The movie has a runtime of about 1 hr 57 min, and received a user score of 66 (out of 100) on TMDb, which collated reviews from 39 respected users. Curious to know what the movie's about? Here's the plot: "Based on a true story from 1998 five Latino and Black teenagers from the toughest underserved ghetto in Miami fight their way into the National Chess Championship under the guidance of their unconventional but inspirational teacher" 'Critical Thinking' is currently available to rent, purchase, or stream via subscription on Netflix , Apple iTunes, Google Play Movies, Vudu, Amazon Video, YouTube, and Kanopy .
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Where to Stream Critical Thinking?
‘Critical Thinking’ is a biographical drama that takes us back to 1998. It is based on a true story and tells the inspiring tale of Mario Martinez, the Cuban-American teacher, and his chess team at the Miami Jackson High School. Just as Mario contributed to the victory, we learn about the individual struggles of the members as they fight to win the national championship. The film highlights the efforts and eventual sweetness of success spectacularly. Curious to know where to stream ‘Critical Thinking’? We have got you covered, but first, let us tell you a little more about the movie.
What is Critical Thinking About?
Real stories about sports victories are perhaps even more uplifting since they encapsulate the fighting spirit, which is an undeniable human characteristic. We see five children from the toughest ghetto in Miami fighting to make their way into the National Chess Championship. Their unconventional teacher guides them. As people of color, they have to face an uphill battle when it comes to acceptance. Moreover, their poverty-stricken background is enough to keep any of these children down – and yet, they rise above adversities to try to win the chess tournament. It shows how grit and determination can overcome almost any odds.
Is Critical Thinking on Netflix?
Netflix has a stellar collection of films and shows, which makes the platform a fan-favorite among various viewers. While ‘Critical Thinking’ is not on the site, you can check out ‘ Million Dollar Baby ,’ which tells the story of a trainer who is dejected throughout the estrangement with his daughter. When a spirited girl enters his life and convinces him and his crew to help her – the trainer finds new hope in the fighter’s determination.
Is Critical Thinking on Hulu?
Hulu keeps making smart additions to the platform to stay ahead of competitors. ‘Critical Thinking’ is not available for subscribers at the moment, but you should check out ‘ I, Tonya .’ It traces the rise of the competitive ice skater, Tonya Harding. She gains acclaim in the U. S. Figure Skating Championships, but her ex-husband’s intervention throws Tonya’s dreams into a state of flux.
Is Critical Thinking on Amazon Prime?
Amazon Prime sources content from all around the world. Thus, their collection of films and shows can satisfy a global base of viewers. ‘Critical Thinking’ is not available for Prime subscribers as is, but you can buy or rent and watch the movie. Check it out here .
Where to Watch Critical Thinking Online?
If you don’t have an Amazon Prime subscription, you can still watch ‘Critical Thinking.’ Just head to Vudu , iTunes , DirecTV , Microsoft Store , or FandangoNow to rent or buy and watch the movie. It is available in SD and HD versions.
Where to Stream Critical Thinking For Free?
Sorry, but you cannot stream ‘Critical Thinking’ for free at the moment. You have to wait for it to arrive on a platform with a trial period. However, we urge readers to pay for the art they consume.
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In the press materials for “Critical Thinking,” producer Carla Berkowitz drops this line about her reaction to reading the true story that inspired the film: “The image and story was haunting and I felt like I had a quantum shift in my perception of chess and who plays it.” The who in question are five Miami-area Black and Latino men who, along with their teacher, Mr. Martinez, brought back to their underprivileged Florida neighborhood the U.S. National Chess Championship. This happened in 1998. The film chronicles the loving camaraderie of the players and the events leading up to their victory.
In that same press release, acclaimed writer and actor John Leguizamo , who plays Martinez and also directs, states that he wanted to make this film because there were very few representations of Latin people on-screen when he was growing up. He also mentioned that the book The Bell Curve harmfully depicted people of color as being mentally inferior due to our genetics. I wondered if, like me, Leguizamo grew up in an environment where the Black and brown people he knew played chess, so that it wouldn’t seem unusual nor an anomaly that they did. Because Berkowitz’s statement really made me consider what exactly the standard issue chess player was supposed to look like.
Chess has appeared in a lot of movies, from Boaz Yakin ’s “ Fresh ” to Steven Zaillian ’s “Searching for Bobby Fisher” to 2016’s superb Mira Nair film, “ Queen of Katwe .” I even remember it being prevalent in a crappy Gary Coleman TV movie about a smart Black kid. The game always carries the same symbolic qualifier: the person who plays it has a mental capacity for strategy and is intelligent. Chess is often employed to teach life lessons in these movies, to the point where it has become a cliché that just so happens to be used differently depending on who’s playing it. This difference is something that I admit often sticks in my craw, so I found myself wrestling a bit with this movie even though it seemed to be addressing my concern.
Unlike Zaillian’s film, which I guess answers my question of what a “standard issue” chess player is supposed to look like, the protagonists in the other films I’ve mentioned, and in “Critical Thinking,” are people of color whose economical circumstances are far from ideal. This tends to be the model when minorities are seen playing chess in films, which bends the cinematic chess player cliché toward making the ability to play the game the audience’s reason to offer empathy. Sure, they’re broke, probably in crime-ridden areas and may even do a crime or two, but see, they’re smart, so it’s OK to feel for them! This line of thinking has to do with who stereotypically plays chess and who does not.
Leguizamo’s Mr. Martinez speaks to this early in “Critical Thinking” by asking why chess is never associated with brown people despite a Latin man playing a major role in its evolution. “Why don’t you think we know about him?” he asks the students in his critical thinking class before delivering a great, pointed monologue that speaks about how history is taught in schools. The script by Dito Montiel has some sharp commentary about the education system, from what gets funded to the over-reliance on test scores to the differences between Martinez’s inner city school and the posh preppy institutions who fall victim to our heroes on the tournament circuit. There’s a bit more bite than you may be expecting, and the writing is just prickly enough to balance out the moments when the film dives headfirst into its tropes. And there are numerous tropes to swim in; not only is this a sports movie, it’s also an entry in the “Beloved Teacher” genre.
Our chess champion team is comprised of Sedrick Roundtree ( Corwin C. Tuggles ), Ito Paniagua (Jorge Lendeborg Jr.), Gil Luna ( Will Hochman ), Rodelay Medina (Angel Curiel) and later, Marcel Martinez ( Jeffry Batista ) who joins the team after dispensing a hustler’s ass-whipping in a speed chess match. Their dialogue is peppered with the language the PG-13 won’t allow but realism will. Martinez is often telling them “watch your mouth” in his class, even if, in his less guarded moments, he’s prone to occasional profanity. Leguizamo gets good performances from each of them, especially in moments where you really feel the bond between teammates, both in the tournaments and in the streets. When they tell each other that they’ve got each other’s backs, there’s a real emotional pull that emanates straight from the actors.
Though this is an inspirational movie, Leguizamo and Montiel never sugarcoat the dangers of the environment their characters inhabit. The potential for violence, temporary homelessness, crime, and police harassment are always hovering in the margins, sometimes even invading the safe space of Martinez’s class or the school. An early sequence that shockingly ends in violence shows how good Leguizamo is at quickly establishing the audience’s tie to a character. When Rivera (Dre C) is thrown into critical thinking class after a disciplinary problem (“my class is not detention!” Martinez yells at frenemy Principal Kesler [ Rachel Bay Jones ]), he immediately runs afoul of Ito. Rivera’s lack of response is due to Spanish being his primary language, which may also have something to do with the infraction that got him sent to this class. Martinez talks to him in Spanish, lectures Ito and all seems well.
Rivera is then brutally assassinated in broad daylight after accidentally bumping into another person on the street. The film is barely 15 minutes old when this happens, but it immediately establishes that “Critical Thinking” has no plans of abandoning reality for its feel-good message. That sense of realism extends to the way the characters bond with, rib, and defend each other. Additionally, Leguizamo plays Martinez as someone who understands the temptations and frustrations of his students’ world. He challenges them to do for themselves because he knows all too well that the system has no intention of lending a helping hand.
Like Nair does in “Queen of Katwe,” Leguizamo also blatantly refuses to impose on poverty any notions of shame or requests for pity. “Chess is the great equalizer,” Martinez tells his team as they navigate snooty tournament heads and appearances against challengers from much posher ‘hoods. Even when things get expectedly dire for some of the characters, “Critical Thinking” remains focused on the characters’ response to the situation, never once stripping them of their dignity for cheap emotional manipulation.
Of all the team members, Sedrick has the most detailed arc. He has a girlfriend, Chanayah ( Zora Casebere ), who is supportive and tougher than she looks, and a father ( Michael Kenneth Williams ) whose sole job here is to fill that chess movie trope of the angry guy who uses chess as a means of brutal domination. Williams is an always welcome presence, but I could have done without him. Still, there is one very good moment where he shows some growth, and his son makes a snide comment that he silently acknowledges as being right.
The chess scenes are good even if you know nothing about chess. I’ve been playing since I was five, so of course I wanted more detailed representations than Leguizamo provides. I found his classroom lessons and the team’s banter about moves fascinating, and every time I was given a good look at a chessboard, I got closer to the screen to investigate. And yet, despite its acknowledgement of my aforementioned issues, I still felt a little itchy watching “Critical Thinking.” I am always game for a movie that makes me reckon with my personal feelings and biases, and I’m glad this one exists because representation will always speak volumes. If nothing else, “Critical Thinking” reminds you what a chess player can look like.
Odie Henderson
Odie "Odienator" Henderson has spent over 33 years working in Information Technology. He runs the blogs Big Media Vandalism and Tales of Odienary Madness. Read his answers to our Movie Love Questionnaire here .
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Film credits.
Critical Thinking (2020)
117 minutes
John Leguizamo as Mario Martinez
Rachel Bay Jones as Principal Kestel
Michael Kenneth Williams as Mr. Roundtree
Corwin C. Tuggles as Sedrick Roundtree
Jorge Lendeborg Jr. as Ito Paniagua
Angel Bismark Curiel as Rodelay Medina
Will Hochman as Gil Luna
Jeffry Batista as Marcel Martinez
Zora Casebere as Chanayah
- John Leguizamo
- Dito Montiel
Cinematographer
- Zach Zamboni
- Jamie Kirkpatrick
- Chris Hajian
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‘Critical Thinking’ Review: All the Right Moves
John Leguizamo directs and stars in this warmhearted drama about underprivileged teenagers who enter a national chess championship.
- Share full article
By Jeannette Catsoulis
Whether championing math, poetry, or just how to be a decent human being , the inspirational teacher is as familiar to movie audiences as the class stoner. “Critical Thinking” does little to detach itself from genre cliché; yet this heartfelt drama about a rough-and-tumble group of high-schoolers who claw their way to a national chess tournament has a sweetness that softens its flaws.
Based on a true story and set in an underserved Miami neighborhood in 1998, the movie drops us into the boisterous classroom of Mr. Martinez (played by the director, John Leguizamo).
“Chess is the great equalizer,” he tells his multiethnic students, using the game to teach his critical thinking elective — with a side of racial history discouraged by his school board. The principal (Rachel Bay Jones) might treat his classroom like a dumping ground for miscreants, but Martinez, assisted by wigs and funny accents, explains complicated chess moves with a deftness that cuts through their indifference.
With goals as modest as the lives of its characters, “Critical Thinking” follows the predictable arc of the underdog drama as the chess team overcomes troubled home situations and other setbacks on the road to a Beverly Hills-set finale. Slow and straightforward, the movie knows that a chess match is hardly a barnburner; but its lively young performers and their eventual triumph are easy to warm to. Drugs and gangs might beckon — and immigration officers hover just outside the frame — but they’re no match for the values of sportsmanship and teamwork. And Mr. Martinez’s pep talks.
Critical Thinking Not rated. Running time: 1 hour 57 minutes. Watch through virtual cinemas, or rent or buy on iTunes , Google Play and other streaming platforms and pay TV operators.
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Watch Critical Thinking
- 1 hr 58 min
- 6.5 (2,697)
The movie Critical Thinking from 2020 is a captivating and inspiring drama based on a true story. The film is directed by John Leguizamo, who also stars in the lead role, along with Rachel Bay Jones and Michael Kenneth Williams. Set in Miami in the late 1990s, the movie follows the journey of five teenage students from an underprivileged neighborhood who are part of a high school chess team. Led by their dedicated and passionate teacher, Mr. Martinez (John Leguizamo), the team starts winning local championships and eventually earns a spot to compete in the National Chess Championship in California.
However, the journey to the championship is not an easy one. The students face numerous challenges, including poverty, gang violence, racism, and the prejudices of the elite chess community. Mr. Martinez also faces resistance from the school administration, who see the chess program as a waste of resources and not a priority.
Despite these obstacles, Mr. Martinez and the students persevere, using their critical thinking skills, strategizing, and teamwork to overcome their competitors. Along the way, they also learn valuable life lessons about leadership, discipline, and education.
The acting in the movie is superb, with John Leguizamo delivering a powerful and emotional performance as the tough but caring teacher. The supporting cast of teenage actors, including Jorge Lendeborg Jr., Angel Bismark Curiel, Corwin Tuggles, and Will Hochman, are equally impressive, portraying a range of emotions and struggles that feel genuine and heartfelt.
The film's cinematography also captures the vibrant and colorful setting of Miami, with its diverse and eclectic communities that form the backdrop to the students' lives. The sound and music in the movie are also noteworthy, creating a dynamic and energetic atmosphere that heightens the tension and drama.
Overall, Critical Thinking is a thought-provoking and uplifting film that celebrates the power of education and perseverance. It shows that with the right guidance and support, even those who come from disadvantaged backgrounds can achieve great things. The movie is a tribute to the transformative power of critical thinking and the human spirit.
Critical Thinking is a 2020 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 58 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.5 and a MetaScore of 65.
- Genres Drama Family
- Cast John Leguizamo Rachel Bay Jones Michael Kenneth Williams
- Director John Leguizamo
- Release Date 2020
- MPAA Rating NR
- Runtime 1 hr 58 min
- Language English
- IMDB Rating 6.5 (2,697)
- Metascore 65
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Critical thinking.
2020 Directed by John Leguizamo
Chess is the great equalizer
Based on a true story from 1998, five Latino and Black teenagers from the toughest underserved ghetto in Miami fight their way into the National Chess Championship under the guidance of their unconventional but inspirational teacher.
John Leguizamo Rachel Bay Jones Michael Kenneth Williams Corwin C. Tuggles Jorge Lendeborg Jr. Angel Bismark Curiel Will Hochman Jeffry Batista Zora Casebere Ramses Jimenez Todd Allen Durkin Brandon Somers Isaac Beverly Ruben E. A. Brown Sydney Arroyo Carlos Guerrero Michele Lepe Tatum Price
Director Director
John Leguizamo
Producers Producers
Scott M. Rosenfelt Elayne Schneiderman Schmidt Jason Mandl Joseph Krutel John J. Brunetti Jr.
Executive Producers Exec. Producers
John Leguizamo Emilio Estefan Jr. Carla Berkowitz Harvey Chaplin
Writer Writer
Dito Montiel
Casting Casting
Avy Kaufman
Editor Editor
Jamie Kirkpatrick
Cinematography Cinematography
Zach Zamboni
Production Design Production Design
J. Mark Harrington
Art Direction Art Direction
Lewis Zucker
Set Decoration Set Decoration
Composer composer.
Chris Hajian
Costume Design Costume Design
Danny Santiago
Hairstyling Hairstyling
Carol Raskin
Cinema Veritas NRSP Perfect Balance
Primary Language
Spoken languages.
English Spanish
Releases by Date
18 dec 2020, 21 jan 2021, 04 sep 2020, 05 may 2021, releases by country, russian federation.
- Theatrical 18+
- Theatrical 輔12級
117 mins More at IMDb TMDb Report this page
Popular reviews
Review by Dave Taylor ★★½ 5
I know nothing about chess, but based on the overview given in this movie, it is the most random game in the whole world.
I think therein lies the problem for casual viewers checking this out. I watch hockey about as much as I play chess, but I know if the puck goes in the net, the team that put the puck in the net gets a point. They try to film the chess matches in a similar fashion to your standard sports movies, but I didn’t feel any tension mount (except for the last match) because there didn’t seem to be any rhyme or reason to what pieces were being moved. I only knew the good guys won after…
Review by JBird ★★★
Leguizamo wants his students to Critical Think, Like how to draw or come back from the brink. Although no one planned it, The year of the Gambit, With two chess submissions that don't stink.
Review by Joshua Arispe ★★★ 4
I should probably start off by mentioning that I’m an avid chess player. Chess is the greatest game ever invented and I play it quite often. Some friends of mine also worked on this movie, which I think is pretty cool. So I had many reasons to give Critical Thinking a watch.
It clicked with me right away. Not as inspiring as it tries to be (thanks to some lame subplots and side characters) but I enjoyed the in-depth look at chess and John Leguizamo as the instantly likeable teacher. Reminded me a lot of Edward James Olmos’ Jaime Escalante from Stand and Deliver . He nails the role and made me wish I had a teacher like him. Hell, I…
Review by Karl ★★★
The true story of a chess team from an underfunded, underserved Florida public high school. Fortunately they have a passionate teacher, Mr. Martinez, who will do whatever it takes to get them to the chess finals in Beverly Hills. Sure it's cliche and you've seen variations of this underdog can-do spirit/inspirational story before, but when it's done right it can be among the most rewarding of viewings.
It's the kind of film that feels great while watching it, but won't likely stay with you, preventing from transcending the formula. The young actors make things worthwhile, particularly Jorge Lendeborg Jr., who has it the roughest of the five players. Also on hand is the late Michael Kenneth Williams. John Leguizamo, who…
Review by Luke Robertson ★★★½
I love this genre of movie. Underdog sports team come together to completely overcome the odds. It’s not my favourite in the genre but it is still a good movie. The cast are decent as well. If you are a fan of high school dramas then I think you’ll enjoy this.
Review by danielle ⚡ ★★ 1
movies can't be formulaic and long like pick a struggle
Review by Tim McClelland ★★★½ 1
There are many films of this type. We've seen the inspirational teacher with the underdog students fighting for their time to shine. When you start watching a film that follows that formula, it will need something special to help it stand out. This movie has cliched elements, but it also has heart and it had me on edge even though I knew the outcome. It took a little time to get me invested, but once I was, I was all in on the movie. It is a great true story so to see it made into a pretty decent film is awesome. I really enjoyed watching this. There is a great story here that has some wonderful characters and it will leave you feeling good. If a movie like this leaves me with a smile on my face, I'd say it did its job just fine.
Review by Justin Decloux ★★★½
I am a sucker for an 'Based on a True Story' underdog sports movie, and the fact that this is about chess (a game I have no interest in playing, but I love due to ti's simple complexity), and stars (and was directed by) John Leguizamo makes this even more my kind of thing. It hits all the expected beats, kind of muddles it's finale (Oh, that's it?), and is directed in a workman like fashion, but I still found it a thrill.
I will continue to not play chess.
Watched for The Bay Street Video Podcast :https://soundcloud.com/thebaystreetvideopodcast
Review by Nicholas Faron ★★★½
I've never understood chess, but hot damn is it exciting to watch (on screen that is).
Review by Jacob Knight ★★★
This review may contain spoilers. I can handle the truth.
John Leguizamo’s feature directorial debut is an R-rated, Dito Montiel scripted after school special about inner city Miami kids winning the US National Chess Championship in ‘98. It hits every beat you expect it to, including Leguizamo (who plays the boys’ coach/teacher/mentor) reading poetry to his class, and even has one of the would-be champs return to the streets to sell drugs for a local assassin after he loses his job. And you know what? That’s fine, because even though Leguizamo isn’t a born filmmaker (the direction here is the very definition of “workmanlike”) he injects street smarts and a POV that, when combined with the troupe young/non-actors, makes it all feel lived-in as opposed to schmaltzy (which, I mean, it still totally is). Maybe I’m just a sucker for this sort of thing, but the amount of screen time devoted to the strategic history of chess alone made the dorkier parts of my brain light up.
Review by waz ★★★½ 2
Coach Carter meets Fresh meets The Queen’s Gambit . There’s truly nothing more exhilarating than seeing two individuals duke it out on one of the most ancient boardgames in history.
With the release of The Queens Gambit as well as the sudden surge by many popular Twitch streamers, 2020 was a great year for chess that brought hundreds of newcomers to the game. Although this film in particular may have slipped under the radar during the chess boom, it has plenty of heart to it and finishes on a strong, inspirational note. There’s a bit of something for all chess players to be able to relate to or enjoy here whether it’s seeing the camaraderie within a tight-knit team or the familiar intrigue of…
Review by Jeremy Kremser ★★★
My dad didn’t make a single racially charged comment during this whole movie it’s a Christmas miracle
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Critical Thinking (2020)
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Where does Critical Thinking rank today? The JustWatch Daily Streaming Charts are calculated by user activity within the last 24 hours. This includes clicking on a streaming offer, adding a title to a watchlist, and marking a title as 'seen'. This includes data from ~1.3 million movie & TV show fans per day.
Streaming charts last updated: 5:15:45 am, 16/03/2024
Critical Thinking is 8020 on the JustWatch Daily Streaming Charts today. The movie has moved up the charts by 8943 places since yesterday. In Australia, it is currently more popular than Fallout but less popular than LEGO Jurassic World: The Indominus Escape.
Based on a true story from 1998, five Latino and Black teenagers from the toughest underserved ghetto in Miami fight their way into the National Chess Championship under the guidance of their unconventional but inspirational teacher.
Streaming Charts The JustWatch Daily Streaming Charts are calculated by user activity within the last 24 hours. This includes clicking on a streaming offer, adding a title to a watchlist, and marking a title as 'seen'. This includes data from ~1.3 million movie & TV show fans per day.
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Best Movies for Critical Thinking: Top Picks to Challenge Your Mind
In today’s fast-paced world, movies have become an essential source of entertainment and learning, providing viewers with thought-provoking stories that challenge their intellect. One of the many subgenres of films that cater to this need is the category of movies for critical thinking. These films captivate audiences by presenting complex narratives that delve into unique philosophical concepts, moral dilemmas, and intricate character developments. A compelling critical thinking movie will often challenge perception and reality, encouraging viewers to reflect on the nature of humanity and the universe.
Such movies encompass a range of genres, from mind-bending dramas to thrilling science fiction. Critical thinking films often explore multi-layered philosophical themes and beliefs, offering distinct perspectives on the human condition and providing valuable insights into how we perceive the world around us. Ultimately, these movies aim to inspire audiences to think critically and question their pre-existing assumptions about life, society, and existence.
Key Takeaways
- Critical thinking movies span various genres, offering complex narratives that promote intellectual engagement.
- These films often explore philosophical themes and beliefs while challenging common perceptions of reality.
- Through captivating stories, critical thinking movies encourage viewers to reflect on their own understanding of humanity and the universe.
Understanding Critical Thinking
Definition and importance.
Critical thinking refers to the ability to analyze information objectively and make a reasoned judgment. It involves evaluating the validity of arguments, identifying biases, and considering different perspectives to make informed decisions. Critical thinking is essential in various areas of life, as it helps individuals to solve problems, make better choices, and foster deeper understanding.
The importance of critical thinking cannot be overstated. It enables critical thinkers to navigate complex situations, think creatively, and approach new challenges with confidence. It equips individuals to discern truth from falsehood, judge the credibility of sources, and differentiate between reliable and misleading information. By fostering critical thinking skills, people become more adept at reasoning, problem solving, and effective communication.
Relation with Movies
Movies can be a potent tool for promoting critical thinking. They offer diverse settings, complex characters, and intricate storylines that stimulate the mind and encourage viewers to engage with thought-provoking content. Many movies drive viewers to analyze the narrative, events, and character motivations, pushing them to exercise their critical thinking abilities.
Films like Inception and A Beautiful Mind challenge viewers to employ critical thinking by exploring complicated storylines and themes. These movies encourage audiences to deconstruct the elements of the plot, evaluate the motivations and actions of characters, and critically assess the impact of choices made within the story. By engaging with complex narratives, viewers develop a deeper understanding of the world portrayed in the film and enhance their own critical thinking skills as they explore various perspectives and theories.
Critical Thinking in Dramas
Forrest gump.
Forrest Gump is a captivating drama that takes viewers on an emotional journey through the life of its titular character, played by Tom Hanks. Set in America, the movie follows Forrest Gump, a man with a low IQ, as he navigates various real-life historical events and situations. Through his innocent yet profound perspective, the film encourages viewers to critically examine themes such as acceptance, loyalty, and appreciation.
The character of Forrest Gump teaches us invaluable lessons about resilience, empathy, and determination, challenging the audience’s critical thinking abilities while presenting a heartfelt story. This thought-provoking movie serves as a right of passage for those seeking a deeper understanding of life’s complexities.
Good Will Hunting
Good Will Hunting is another remarkable drama that fosters critical thinking. The film revolves around a young, self-taught mathematics prodigy, Will Hunting, portrayed by Matt Damon, who faces the challenges of living in a tough, working-class environment in America. The movie delves into real-life issues of identity, relationships, and personal growth while presenting an enthralling story of brilliance, vulnerability, and human connection.
As the protagonist navigates through the intricacies of life and academia, the audience is encouraged to examine their own understanding of success, potential, and self-worth. Through Will’s journey to confront his past and pursue his extraordinary talent, Good Will Hunting provides an excellent opportunity for viewers to reflect and engage their critical thinking skills.
Exploring Philosophy and Beliefs through Movies
The Matrix is a groundbreaking science fiction film that invites audiences to question their beliefs about reality. The movie centers on the character of Neo, played by Keanu Reeves, who discovers that his entire world is actually a simulated reality called the Matrix. Throughout the film, themes of fate, free will, and the nature of reality are explored in a compelling narrative. As it portrays a world where nothing is what it seems, The Matrix challenges viewers to critically examine their own beliefs and assumptions about the world around them.
The Truman Show
Another film that delves into the world of illusions is The Truman Show . This unique story captures the life of Truman, an unwitting participant in a reality TV show that is, unbeknownst to him, centered around his every move. As Truman starts to unravel the truth about his artificial world, the film delves into philosophical questions about the nature of existence, the role of the media in shaping our perceptions, and the importance of personal freedom. With its thought-provoking concepts, The Truman Show encourages critical thinking in the exploration of reality and the human experience.
Cloud Atlas
Cloud Atlas is an ambitious film that takes viewers on a whirlwind journey through multiple time periods, exploring the interconnectedness of human lives across time and space. With its complex narrative structure and a wide range of characters, the film delves into themes of reincarnation, interconnectedness, and the impact of individual actions on the greater world. By weaving together seemingly disparate storylines, Cloud Atlas prompts viewers to contemplate the deeper connections that bind humanity together, inviting them to reflect on their own beliefs and philosophies about the nature of existence and the impact of individual choices on the world.
Movies that Challenge Perception and Reality
Inception is a groundbreaking film that delves into the world of dreams and the manipulation of the human mind. Directed by Christopher Nolan, this psychological thriller introduces us to the concept of dream-sharing and dives deep into the complexities of the subconscious. The film follows a group of skilled professionals, led by Dom Cobb (played by Leonardo DiCaprio), who specialize in extracting ideas from people’s minds through shared dreaming. Inception challenges our perception of reality in unique ways, pushing the boundaries of film storytelling and leaving viewers questioning the nature of their own dreams and realities.
Being John Malkovich
Being John Malkovich is a quirky, surreal, and thought-provoking film directed by Spike Jonze. The story centers on a puppeteer, Craig Schwartz (played by John Cusack), who discovers a mysterious portal in his office that allows people to enter the mind of actor John Malkovich. This bizarre premise raises intriguing philosophical questions about identity, ego, and the nature of reality. As the film unfolds, the lines between the real world, the fantasy world, and the life of John Malkovich blur together, challenging our preconceived notions of perception and self-awareness.
Shutter Island
Shutter Island is a suspenseful psychological thriller directed by Martin Scorsese, based on the novel by Dennis Lehane. The film revolves around two U.S. Marshals, Teddy Daniels (played by Leonardo DiCaprio) and Chuck Aule (played by Mark Ruffalo), who are sent to investigate the disappearance of a prisoner from an isolated mental institution on Shutter Island. As they delve deeper into the case, they uncover disturbing truths and confront the terrifying reality that their own sanity is at stake. The film is filled with twists and turns, constantly shifting the viewer’s perception of what is real and what isn’t, while exploring the complexity of human consciousness and the power of the mind.
These movies provide audiences with engaging and fascinating narratives that challenge our grasp on reality and perception. Through their thought-provoking storylines and inventive filmmaking techniques, Inception, Being John Malkovich, and Shutter Island inspire critical thinking and ignite our curiosity about the world around us.
Critical Thinking in Time and Space Movies
Predestination.
Predestination is a fascinating take on time travel, centered on the concept of a temporal agent who tries to prevent crimes before they happen. The movie keeps viewers on their toes, exploring themes of fate, free will, and identity. The protagonist’s journey through various time periods challenges the audience to think critically about the nature of time and the consequences of attempting to control it.
Interstellar
Directed by Christopher Nolan, Interstellar is a thought-provoking space odyssey that plays with complex theories of time, space, and the future of humanity. The plot follows a team of astronauts who travel through a wormhole in search of a new home for humanity as Earth is on the verge of collapse. The movie stretches the boundaries of science fiction with ideas about black holes, time dilation, and artificial intelligence. The viewer is encouraged to think critically about humanity’s role in the cosmos and the potential consequences of tampering with the fabric of time and space.
2001: A Space Odyssey
Regarded as a masterpiece of science fiction, 2001: A Space Odyssey delves deep into themes of human evolution, artificial intelligence, and the search for extraterrestrial life. The movie’s enigmatic presentation of past, present, and future leaves viewers questioning the true nature of reality and human existence. The audience is introduced to HAL 9000, an artificial intelligence system that develops a malfunction with disastrous consequences. This storyline provokes questions about the ethical development and application of AI technology, pushing the viewer to think critically about the relationship between humans and advanced technology.
Movies Encouraging Reflection on Self and Humanity
Eternal sunshine of the spotless mind.
Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind is a thought-provoking film that delves into the concept of human memory and emotions. Starring Jim Carrey, this movie portrays the desire to erase painful memories in order to move on from a failed relationship. As the story unfolds, it offers a profound look into the soul, highlighting how memories define who we are and help us grow. Viewers are encouraged to reflect on their own experiences and evaluate the importance of embracing both joyful and sorrowful moments in life.
Life of Pi is a visually stunning and deeply contemplative film that centers around a young man named Pi, who finds himself stranded on a lifeboat with a Bengal tiger following a shipwreck. As he navigates the challenges of survival, the movie delves into themes of spirituality, faith, and the human will to live. The story provides an opportunity for viewers to examine their beliefs, question reality, and consider the role of storytelling in the perception of truth. Through Pi’s journey, Life of Pi offers insights into the complexities of human nature and encourages reflection on the evolution of our convictions and values.
Contagion is a gripping thriller that depicts the spread of a highly contagious and deadly virus. While the primary focus of the movie is on the epidemic and the race to find a cure, it offers a sobering exploration of human behavior in the face of a global crisis. The fear and panic exhibited by characters serve as a reminder of the fragility of society and the importance of cooperation and compassion in times of adversity. Examining the responses of individuals, government agencies, and the media, Contagion triggers discussions on ethics, social responsibility, and the resilience of the human spirit in the midst of chaos.
Critical Thinking in Thriller Movies
Primer is a mind-bending science fiction thriller that leaves viewers questioning the nature of time and the consequences of playing with it. The movie’s complex narrative structure and attention to scientific detail encourage critical thinking in the audience. Directed by Shane Carruth, Primer tells the story of two engineers who accidentally discover time travel and grapple with the ethical implications of their newfound power. The film challenges viewers to think critically about the role that technology plays in our lives, as well as the potential dangers and moral dilemmas associated with scientific advancement.
Memento is another example of a psychological thriller that inspires critical thinking. Directed by Christopher Nolan, the film follows the story of Leonard, a man suffering from short-term memory loss, as he tries to unravel the truth about his wife’s murder. The movie is structured in such a way that it mimics Leonard’s disjointed memory, with scenes unfolding in reverse order. This unique storytelling technique engages viewers on a deeper level and promotes critical thinking by forcing them to piece together the narrative on their own. Memento also raises questions about the reliability of memory and the lengths people will go to create a sense of meaning in their lives.
V for Vendetta
V for Vendetta is a thought-provoking thriller that explores themes of political oppression, resistance, and personal freedom. Set in a dystopian future where Britain is ruled by a totalitarian regime, the film follows the mysterious anarchist ‘V’ and his quest to dismantle the fascist government. Directed by James McTeigue and featuring performances from Hugo Weaving and Natalie Portman, this movie challenges viewers to critically assess the role of government, the importance of individual liberties, and the true meaning of freedom.
Throughout these thriller films, notable actors such as Hugh Jackman and Brad Pitt have portrayed characters experiencing paranoia and the consequences of difficult choices. Directors like Darren Aronofsky have also contributed to the genre, crafting narratives that leave audiences questioning their understanding of reality and the human psyche. These movies prompt viewers to engage in critical thinking as they navigate intricate plotlines, consider ethical dilemmas, and grapple with philosophical questions.
Appreciating Movies as Art and Stories
Cinema has long been revered as both an art form and a means of storytelling. It provides a unique platform that combines visuals, sound, and narrative to convey powerful messages and evoke emotions. Throughout time, different genres and styles have emerged to challenge audiences’ perspectives, offering thought-provoking experiences.
One exceptional example of artistic storytelling is the film The Lion King . This animated classic transcends its medium by delivering a rich, thought-provoking tale that delves into themes like family, leadership, and the circle of life. The film’s visually stunning animation and evocative score also demonstrate how the art of cinema can elevate a story to new heights.
In recent years, the exploration of artificial intelligence in movies has sparked critical thinking and raised ethical questions. For instance, Ex Machina is a visually captivating and intelligent science fiction film that delves into the complexities of human-like AI. The movie invites viewers to ponder the implications of creating and interacting with such technology, as well as the potential consequences that may arise.
When it comes to appreciating movies as art, the attention to detail in cinematography, sound design, and character development is vital. These elements work cohesively to create an immersive experience that allows the viewer to engage with the story. For instance, beautifully shot landscapes and meticulously curated sets often transport audiences to different worlds, while carefully crafted characters elicit empathy and spark debate.
Moreover, understanding the theme or underlying message of a film further enhances the appreciation of movies as both art and story. These themes can range from societal issues such as poverty or discrimination to existential topics like the value of memories or the nature of time. By paying attention to the intent and vision of the filmmakers, viewers can gain a deeper understanding of the artwork and its significance.
In conclusion, the art of cinema offers a unique platform for telling thought-provoking stories that challenge and inspire the audience. By appreciating the artistic elements and themes present in movies, viewers can engage in critical thinking and find meaning in the stories shared on the big screen. [url=” https://www.theodysseyonline.com/movies-for-critical-thinkers “]
Educational and inspirational movies play a significant role in fostering critical thinking skills among audiences. These films challenge the viewer’s perspectives and encourage them to analyze complex situations or ideas. By stimulating intellectual curiosity, these movies serve as a valuable addition to educational resources.
Inception, for example, is a well-known critical thinking movie that involves puzzling concepts and intricate storytelling. It pushes the viewers to delve deep into their thought process and keep up with the movie’s intricate plot. Another great example is Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind, a romantic science-fiction film that utilizes a nonlinear storyline to promote critical thinking by constantly challenging the viewers’ beliefs.
Empowering movies such as Good Will Hunting and Forrest Gump also instigate critical thinking while evoking themes of acceptance, loyalty, and appreciation. These must-watch critical thinking movies demonstrate the power of human resilience in overcoming personal and societal obstacles.
Finally, the benefits of critical thinking are not restricted to fictional movies alone. Films like Queen of Katwe, based on true stories of perseverance, showcase the value of strategic thinking and problem-solving skills through engaging chess games .
In summary, the captivating world of movies offers a vast array of films that foster critical thinking while providing audiences with thought-provoking and gratifying experiences. Whether they are fictional stories, biographical dramas, or even documentaries, these movies effectively serve as both educational and inspirational resources in today’s world.
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Critical Thinking
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- AARP Movies for Grownups Tim Appelo It's the kind of movie that gives you hope for America.
- Deadline Hollywood Daily Pete Hammond Director and Star John Leguizamo makes all the right moves in bringing story of underdog high school chess team to the screen.
- RogerEbert.com Odie Henderson If nothing else, Critical Thinking reminds you what a chess player can look like.
- jackiekcooper.com Jackie K. Cooper John Leguizamo managed to make chess interesting while telling this true story of a Miami, Florida teacher. He inspired his students and to a degree the movie inspires us all.
- Austin Chronicle Matthew Monagle [It] captures the appeal of chess without defaulting to a white perspective of these students. It may be overly familiar at times, but just like the game of chess itself, sometimes it's the smallest moves that end up making the biggest difference.
- FilmWeek (KPCC - NPR Los Angeles) Tim Cogshell When John Leguizamo is just flowing with those kids... this movie is as good as any other [classroom drama].
- New York Times Jeannette Catsoulis This heartfelt drama about a rough-and-tumble group of high-schoolers who claw their way to a national chess tournament has a sweetness that softens its flaws.
- Salon.com Gary M. Kramer This may be a textbook case of an inspirational teacher/underdog sports drama, but it surehandedly delivers the feels.
- Variety Owen Gleiberman It's still, in the end, a bit of a connect-the-inspirational-dots movie, but that doesn't mean you won't be inspired.
- North Shore Movies Sean Burns You won't find a lot of surprises in this story, but then the reason these formulas are so familiar is because they work.
- Film Legacy Daniel Eagan Modest but effective drama with a worthy message from director and actor John Leguizamo.
- Elements of Madness Douglas Davidson ... in Leguizamo's hands, Critical Thinking is a prime example of how stories should be when celebrating victories from students. It's their story, their victory. Everyone has a role to play, a move to make.
- San Francisco Examiner Anita Katz Leguizamo's storytelling, while conventional, features lively interactions, embraceable characters and credibly depicted struggles. The tournament scenes contain sports-movie adrenaline.
- Movies and Shakers Linda and Al Lerner Leguizamo, as director, creates a chess game within a chess-game film. He manages to keep multiple story threads in play as he allows us to see the challenges each member of his team faces away from the chess table and then ties them all together
- We Live Entertainment Aaron Neuwirth I've always found John Leguizamo to be a truly versatile talent.
- Tribune News Service Roger Moore Cluttered, cliched and ungainly.
- The Hollywood Outsider Amanda Sink A chronicle about surviving despite the odds and in face of the consequences, Critical Thinking reminds us all the importance of planning our next move.
- But Why Tho? A Geek Community Kate Sánchez Critical Thinking is a phenomenal film that pushes past the tropes of the genre and showcases the reality of life for those of us who grew up and are growing up "bad neighborhoods"...But there is a triumph in this film too...
- Mark Reviews Movies Mark Dujsik The story of Critical Thinking may be familiar and seem clichéd, but there's a specificity to its storytelling that's anything but those qualities.
- The Movie Minute Joanna Langfield John Leguizamo's salute to the high school chess team that could (and did) is the kind of compact, inspirational and entertaining film that used to find an audience. I hope it still can.
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10 must watch movies for critical thinkers, movies challenge and improve people's intellect..
Every now and then, a powerful movie comes along and challenges our thoughts and beliefs. Some movies grow up with us, and help us face the real world. People learn from films and, often, they bring awareness to viewers. Here are seven powerful movies that will definitely have an impact on your life.
1. Girl Rising
Girl Rising profiles 9 young girls who dare to dream of getting an education. It depicts the incredible influence education has on girls and the unstoppable human perseverance. Although these girls face educational barriers their male counterparts do not, this film examines how educating girls can help end poverty, forced marriage, domestic slavery, lack of access to healthcare, discrimination, and gender discrimination and violence. Girls are the future.
2. The Boy In The Striped Pajamas
I highly recommend you read the book first, but if you go into this movie cold then prepare to cry. This movie tells a story of the holocaust from the perspective of two 8-year-old boys for a friendship. This movie will make you realize the importance of history and learning from the past. Although your heart will rip apart, the movie
3. Forrest Gump
This is another movie that will pull at your heart strings, but in a good way. Forrest Gump is a complex movie, which ties in themes of acceptance, loyalty, and appreciation. Watching this movie is essentially a right of passage before maturity.
4. Good Will Hunting
Ah, if young Matt Damon isn't reason enough to change your life then I don't know what is. However, this movie is about breaking down your own barriers and fighting your inner demons. If you need inspiration for motivation then look no further than the floppy haired, young, misguided Matt Damon.
5. The Great Gatsby
Redford or Leo? Who is the true Gatsby? I'll let you decide which movie is better, but personally, I'm a fan of the original (I still love you, Leo). If you ever took a high school English class then your teacher probably forced "The Great Gatsby " on you, but when you watch this movie, after reading the book, it can be oddly relatable. Sure, not everyone is a mysteriously wealthy man who throws parties, but unrequited love? Well anyone can relate to that feeling. "The Great Gatsby" takes you on a fantastical journey and yet is somehow also quite sobering. In the real world, there isn't always a happy ending.
6. Lee Daniels' The Butler
Cecil works as a butler in the White House, as the title implies, and he gets a front row seat to see the presidents change America. This movie gives you a glimpse into history, and shows you what America is built on.
7. Silver Linings Playbook
Silver Linings Playbook brings mental health awareness to the foreground. This breakthrough movie teaches about redemption. Although you may not have experience with mental illness in your own life, this movie has themes about dealing with dysfunctional situations and the art of perseverance. Plus, Jennifer Lawrence and Bradley Cooper are everywhere , so why not see them some more?
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Waitlisted for a college class here's what to do, dealing with the inevitable realities of college life..
Course registration at college can be a big hassle and is almost never talked about. Classes you want to take fill up before you get a chance to register. You might change your mind about a class you want to take and must struggle to find another class to fit in the same time period. You also have to make sure no classes clash by time. Like I said, it's a big hassle.
This semester, I was waitlisted for two classes. Most people in this situation, especially first years, freak out because they don't know what to do. Here is what you should do when this happens.
Don't freak out
This is a rule you should continue to follow no matter what you do in life, but is especially helpful in this situation.
Email the professor
Around this time, professors are getting flooded with requests from students wanting to get into full classes. This doesn't mean you shouldn't burden them with your email; it means they are expecting interested students to email them. Send a short, concise message telling them that you are interested in the class and ask if there would be any chance for you to get in.
Attend the first class
Often, the advice professors will give you when they reply to your email is to attend the first class. The first class isn't the most important class in terms of what will be taught. However, attending the first class means you are serious about taking the course and aren't going to give up on it.
Keep attending class
Every student is in the same position as you are. They registered for more classes than they want to take and are "shopping." For the first couple of weeks, you can drop or add classes as you please, which means that classes that were once full will have spaces. If you keep attending class and keep up with assignments, odds are that you will have priority. Professors give preference to people who need the class for a major and then from higher to lower class year (senior to freshman).
Have a backup plan
For two weeks, or until I find out whether I get into my waitlisted class, I will be attending more than the usual number of classes. This is so that if I don't get into my waitlisted class, I won't have a credit shortage and I won't have to fall back in my backup class. Chances are that enough people will drop the class, especially if it is very difficult like computer science, and you will have a chance. In popular classes like art and psychology, odds are you probably won't get in, so prepare for that.
Remember that everything works out at the end
Life is full of surprises. So what if you didn't get into the class you wanted? Your life obviously has something else in store for you. It's your job to make sure you make the best out of what you have.
Navigating the Talking Stage: 21 Essential Questions to Ask for Connection
It's mandatory to have these conversations..
Whether you met your new love interest online , through mutual friends, or another way entirely, you'll definitely want to know what you're getting into. I mean, really, what's the point in entering a relationship with someone if you don't know whether or not you're compatible on a very basic level?
Consider these 21 questions to ask in the talking stage when getting to know that new guy or girl you just started talking to:
1. What do you do for a living?
What someone does for a living can tell a lot about who they are and what they're interested in! Their career reveals a lot more about them than just where they spend their time to make some money.
2. What's your favorite color?
OK, I get it, this seems like something you would ask a Kindergarten class, but I feel like it's always good to know someone's favorite color . You could always send them that Snapchat featuring you in that cute shirt you have that just so happens to be in their favorite color!
3. Do you have any siblings?
This one is actually super important because it's totally true that people grow up with different roles and responsibilities based on where they fall in the order. You can tell a lot about someone just based on this seemingly simple question.
4. What's your favorite television show?
OK, maybe this isn't a super important question, but you have to know ASAP if you can quote Michael Scott or not. If not, he probably isn't the one. Sorry, girl.
5. When is your birthday?
You can then proceed to do the thing that every girl does without admitting it and see how compatible your zodiacs are.
6. What's your biggest goal in life?
If you're like me, you have big goals that you want to reach someday, and you want a man behind you who also has big goals and understands what it's like to chase after a dream. If his biggest goal is to see how quickly he can binge-watch " Grey's Anatomy " on Netflix , you may want to move on.
7. If you had three wishes granted to you by a genie, what would they be?
This is a go-to for an insight into their personality. Based on how they answer, you can tell if they're goofy, serious, or somewhere in between.
8. What's your favorite childhood memory?
For some, this may be a hard question if it involves a family member or friend who has since passed away . For others, it may revolve around a tradition that no longer happens. The answers to this question are almost endless!
9. If you could change one thing about your life, what would it be?
We all have parts of our lives and stories that we wish we could change. It's human nature to make mistakes. This question is a little bit more personal but can really build up the trust level.
10. Are you a cat or a dog person?
I mean, duh! If you're a dog person, and he is a cat person, it's not going to work out.
11. Do you believe in a religion or any sort of spiritual power?
Personally, I am a Christian, and as a result, I want to be with someone who shares those same values. I know some people will argue that this question is too much in the talking stage , but why go beyond the talking stage if your personal values will never line up?
12. If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would it be?
Even homebodies have a must visit place on their bucket list !
13. What is your ideal date night?
Hey, if you're going to go for it... go for it!
14. Who was/is your celebrity crush?
For me, it was hands-down Nick Jonas . This is always a fun question to ask!
15. What's a good way to cheer you up if you're having a bad day?
Let's be real, if you put a label on it, you're not going to see your significant other at their best 24/7.
16. Do you have any tattoos?
This can lead to some really good conversations, especially if they have a tattoo that has a lot of meaning to them!
17. Can you describe yourself in three words?
It's always interesting to see if how the person you're talking to views their personal traits lines ups with the vibes you're getting.
18. What makes you the most nervous in life?
This question can go multiple different directions, and it could also be a launching pad for other conversations.
19. What's the best gift you have ever received?
Admittedly, I have asked this question to friends as well, but it's neat to see what people value.
20. What do you do to relax/have fun?
Work hard, play hard, right?
21. What are your priorities at this phase of your life?
This is always interesting because no matter how compatible your personalities may be, if one of you wants to be serious and the other is looking for something casual, it's just not going to work.
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Challah vs. Easter Bread: A Delicious Dilemma
Is there really such a difference in challah bread or easter bread.
Ever since I could remember, it was a treat to receive Easter Bread made by my grandmother. We would only have it once a year and the wait was excruciating. Now that my grandmother has gotten older, she has stopped baking a lot of her recipes that require a lot of hand usage--her traditional Italian baking means no machines. So for the past few years, I have missed enjoying my Easter Bread.
A few weeks ago, I was given a loaf of bread called Challah (pronounced like holla), and upon my first bite, I realized it tasted just like Easter Bread. It was so delicious that I just had to make some of my own, which I did.
The recipe is as follows:
Ingredients
2 tsp active dry or instant yeast 1 cup lukewarm water 4 to 4 1/2 cups all-purpose flour 1/2 cup white granulated sugar 2 tsp salt 2 large eggs 1 large egg yolk (reserve the white for the egg wash) 1/4 cup neutral-flavored vegetable oil
Instructions
- Combine yeast and a pinch of sugar in small bowl with the water and stir until you see a frothy layer across the top.
- Whisk together 4 cups of the flour, sugar, and salt in a large bowl.
- Make a well in the center of the flour and add in eggs, egg yolk, and oil. Whisk these together to form a slurry, pulling in a little flour from the sides of the bowl.
- Pour the yeast mixture over the egg slurry and mix until difficult to move.
- Turn out the dough onto a floured work surface and knead by hand for about 10 minutes. If the dough seems very sticky, add flour a teaspoon at a time until it feels tacky, but no longer like bubblegum. The dough has finished kneading when it is soft, smooth, and holds a ball-shape.
- Place the dough in an oiled bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and place somewhere warm. Let the dough rise 1 1/2 to 2 hours.
- Separate the dough into four pieces. Roll each piece of dough into a long rope roughly 1-inch thick and 16 inches long.
- Gather the ropes and squeeze them together at the very top. Braid the pieces in the pattern of over, under, and over again. Pinch the pieces together again at the bottom.
- Line a baking sheet with parchment and lift the loaf on top. Sprinkle the loaf with a little flour and drape it with a clean dishcloth. Place the pan somewhere warm and away from drafts and let it rise until puffed and pillowy, about an hour.
- Heat the oven to 350°F. Whisk the reserved egg white with a tablespoon of water and brush it all over the challah. Be sure to get in the cracks and down the sides of the loaf.
- Slide the challah on its baking sheet into the oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, rotating the pan halfway through cooking. The challah is done when it is deeply browned.
I kept wondering how these two breads could be so similar in taste. So I decided to look up a recipe for Easter Bread to make a comparison. The two are almost exactly the same! These recipes are similar because they come from religious backgrounds. The Jewish Challah bread is based on kosher dietary laws. The Christian Easter Bread comes from the Jewish tradition but was modified over time because they did not follow kosher dietary laws.
A recipe for Easter bread is as follows:
2 tsp active dry or instant yeast 2/3 cup milk 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour 1/4 cup white granulated sugar 2 tbs butter 2 large eggs 2 tbs melted butter 1 tsp salt
- In a large bowl, combine 1 cup flour, sugar, salt, and yeast; stir well. Combine milk and butter in a small saucepan; heat until milk is warm and butter is softened but not melted.
- Gradually add the milk and butter to the flour mixture; stirring constantly. Add two eggs and 1/2 cup flour; beat well. Add the remaining flour, 1/2 cup at a time, stirring well after each addition. When the dough has pulled together, turn it out onto a lightly floured surface and knead until smooth and elastic, about 8 minutes.
- Lightly oil a large bowl, place the dough in the bowl and turn to coat with oil. Cover with a damp cloth and let rise in a warm place until doubled in volume, about 1 hour.
- Deflate the dough and turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Divide the dough into two equal size rounds; cover and let rest for 10 minutes. Roll each round into a long roll about 36 inches long and 1 1/2 inches thick. Using the two long pieces of dough, form a loosely braided ring, leaving spaces for the five colored eggs. Seal the ends of the ring together and use your fingers to slide the eggs between the braids of dough.
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Place loaf on a buttered baking sheet and cover loosely with a damp towel. Place loaf in a warm place and let rise until doubled in bulk, about 45 minutes. Brush risen loaf with melted butter.
- Bake in the preheated oven until golden brown, about 30 minutes.
Both of these recipes are really easy to make. While you might need to have a day set aside for this activity, you can do things while the dough is rising or in the oven. After only a few hours, you have a delicious loaf of bread that you made from scratch, so the time and effort is really worth it!
Unlocking Lake People's Secrets: 15 Must-Knows!
There's no other place you'd rather be in the summer..
The people that spend their summers at the lake are a unique group of people.
Whether you grew up going to the lake , have only recently started going, or have only been once or twice, you know it takes a certain kind of person to be a lake person. To the long-time lake people, the lake holds a special place in your heart , no matter how dirty the water may look.
Every year when summer rolls back around, you can't wait to fire up the boat and get back out there. Here is a list of things you can probably identify with as a fellow lake-goer.
A bad day at the lake is still better than a good day not at the lake.
It's your place of escape, where you can leave everything else behind and just enjoy the beautiful summer day. No matter what kind of week you had, being able to come and relax without having to worry about anything else is the best therapy there is. After all, there's nothing better than a day of hanging out in the hot sun, telling old funny stories and listening to your favorite music.
You know the best beaches and coves to go to.
Whether you want to just hang out and float or go walk around on a beach, you know the best spots. These often have to be based on the people you're with, given that some "party coves" can get a little too crazy for little kids on board. I still have vivid memories from when I was six that scared me when I saw the things drunk girls would do for beads.
You have no patience for the guy who can't back his trailer into the water right.
When there's a long line of trucks waiting to dump their boats in the water, there's always that one clueless guy who can't get it right, and takes 5 attempts and holds up the line. No one likes that guy. One time my dad got so fed up with a guy who was taking too long that he actually got out of the car and asked this guy if he could just do it for him. So he got into the guy's car, threw it in reverse, and got it backed in on the first try. True story.
Doing the friendly wave to every boat you pass.
Similar to the "jeep wave," almost everyone waves to other boats passing by. It's just what you do, and is seen as a normal thing by everyone.
The cooler is always packed, mostly with beer.
Alcohol seems to be a big part of the lake experience, but other drinks are squeezed into the room remaining in the cooler for the kids, not to mention the wide assortment of chips and other foods in the snack bag.
Giving the idiot who goes 30 in a "No Wake Zone" a piece of your mind.
There's nothing worse than floating in the water, all settled in and minding your business, when some idiot barrels through. Now your anchor is loose, and you're left jostled by the waves when it was nice and perfectly still before. This annoyance is typically answered by someone yelling some choice words to them that are probably accompanied by a middle finger in the air.
You have no problem with peeing in the water.
It's the lake, and some social expectations are a little different here, if not lowered quite a bit. When you have to go, you just go, and it's no big deal to anyone because they do it too.
You know the frustration of getting your anchor stuck.
The number of anchors you go through as a boat owner is likely a number that can be counted on two hands. Every once in a while, it gets stuck on something on the bottom of the lake, and the only way to fix the problem is to cut the rope, and you have to replace it.
Watching in awe at the bigger, better boats that pass by.
If you're the typical lake-goer, you likely might have an average-sized boat that you're perfectly happy with. However, that doesn't mean you don't stop and stare at the fast boats that loudly speed by, or at the obnoxiously huge yachts that pass.
Knowing any swimsuit that you own with white in it is best left for the pool or the ocean.
You've learned this the hard way, coming back from a day in the water and seeing the flowers on your bathing suit that were once white, are now a nice brownish hue.
The momentary fear for your life as you get launched from the tube.
If the driver knows how to give you a good ride, or just wants to specifically throw you off, you know you're done when you're speeding up and heading straight for a big wave. Suddenly you're airborne, knowing you're about to completely wipe out, and you eat pure wake. Then you get back on and do it all again.
You're able to go to the restaurants by the water wearing minimal clothing.
One of the many nice things about the life at the lake is that everybody cares about everything a little less. Rolling up to the place wearing only your swimsuit, a cover-up, and flip flops, you fit right in. After a long day when you're sunburned, a little buzzed, and hungry, you're served without any hesitation.
Having unexpected problems with your boat.
Every once in a while you're hit with technical difficulties, no matter what type of watercraft you have. This is one of the most annoying setbacks when you're looking forward to just having a carefree day on the water, but it's bound to happen. This is just one of the joys that come along with being a boat owner.
Having a name for your boat unique to you and your life.
One of the many interesting things that make up the lake culture is the fact that many people name their boats. They can range from basic to funny, but they are unique to each and every owner, and often have interesting and clever meanings behind them.
There's no better place you'd rather be in the summer.
Summer is your all-time favorite season, mostly because it's spent at the lake. Whether you're floating in the cool water under the sun, or taking a boat ride as the sun sets, you don't have a care in the world at that moment . The people that don't understand have probably never experienced it, but it's what keeps you coming back every year.
Top 10 Reasons My School Rocks!
Why i chose a small school over a big university..
I was asked so many times why I wanted to go to a small school when a big university is so much better. Don't get me wrong, I'm sure a big university is great but I absolutely love going to a small school. I know that I miss out on big sporting events and having people actually know where it is. I can't even count how many times I've been asked where it is and I know they won't know so I just say "somewhere in the middle of Wisconsin ." But, I get to know most people at my school and I know my professors very well. Not to mention, being able to walk to the other side of campus in 5 minutes at a casual walking pace. I am so happy I made the decision to go to school where I did. I love my school and these are just a few reasons why.
1. My school is incredibly unique.
There are so many different kinds of people that each bring something really special to contribute to the school which makes it so unique.
2. I am not just a number at my school.
I am a student that my professors know about and I like knowing that my professors can watch my progress.
3. I feel like I am contributing something to the community.
I like feeling like I can make a difference on my campus.
4. I really do feel like it is my home away from home.
It isn't just my school. It is absolutely my home away from home. I feel so comfortable there and it was as hard of an adjustment as I had thought it would be.
5. My professors know me and I feel that I can easily communicate with them.
I feel like they will do anything to help students succeed. I can always go to my professors. I like knowing that I have someone looking out for me.
6. The incredible people I've met
The people I have met at my school, even after my first year, have made such a huge impact on me. I know that these are people that I will stay friends with long after college is done.
7. Opportunities
My school offers so many different opportunities to get involved in things around campus. Even writing for the Odyssey was an opportunity offered to me by my school and I decided to challenge myself by writing an article. Turns out, I really enjoy writing. I might not have had this opportunity at a bigger school.
8. Students want to learn
I feel as though I am not just learning inside the classroom at my school. I am learning outside the classroom to from my fellow classmates who want to engage about the things we have learned.
9. Ability to join a sorority and have a house full of people I know I can talk to anytime I need to
I wasn't sure if being in a sorority was something I was interested in but when I met the amazing people in the sorority and how inclusive it was, I knew that it was going to be a good thing for me. The people I've met in my sorority have been so amazing.
10. I have figured out how I learn best because my school offers so many different ways of learning.
Because of the smaller class sizes, there is more flexibility in the way the class is taught. This was helpful because I was able to try out different ways of learning and figure out which way I learn best.
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‘The Uninvited’ Review: A Starry Cast Attends a Hollywood Soirée That Can Feel a Little Too Exclusive
A Hollywood party becomes a critical look at who the industry excludes over time in Nadia Conners' savvy if insidery drama featuring Walton Goggins, Elizabeth Reaser and Pedro Pascal.
By Stephen Saito
Stephen Saito
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As its title suggests, there’s a limited guest list in “ The Uninvited ,” a keen critique of Hollywood that will play best to the insider set that Rose (Elizabeth Reaser) and Sammy Wright (Walton Goggins) welcome into their gated villa in the hills.
The small soirée ostensibly serves to welcome Gerald back from a film he directed abroad, but there’s a lot more on the line. Sammy is planning to break away from his current agency and start his own firm and beyond the hope that Gerald sticks with him, he’s interested in seducing the Italian ingenue Delia (Eva De Dominici) his client recently worked with. He also can’t be too angry that his wife’s ex Lucien (Pablo Pascal) will be making his way over, since the guy became a big movie star since their breakup and his commission could be huge.
What Sammy couldn’t possibly have counted on is the arrival of Helen (Lois Smith), a nonagenarian who claims the Wrights’ house was once hers. She’s clearly lost, mistaking Sammy for her late husband at first. While Rose thinks nothing of letting Helen in to use the restroom, Sammy wants no part of it, the first of many doors that Conners envisions as closed to women of a certain age.
Although Conners isn’t shy about tucking exposition into conversations no matter how awkward the fit — and leavened somewhat by the fine ensemble on hand, the film’s grand design is more subtle. Antiquated attitudes toward age and gender have clearly hurt Rose, but they are a symptom of a system that Sammy is a slave to as well. As the two go through the motions of a party neither wants to be at, there’s as much to be gained from having to ask themselves why they put themselves through it as much who they are really doing it for.
That question still nags, however, when considering “The Uninvited” for a broader audience than just those who work in the film and TV business. Wasteful extravagances such as a party photographer hired to take pictures of people’s auras and $200 shots of whiskey could amuse people outside of Los Angeles, but the film’s cultural hyper-specificity can feel insular. Still, when there may be no better industry to consider issues around ageism, surely others will see themselves when Rose dares to look upon her personal life as a consolation prize for her stymied professional ambitions. As a filmmaker of confidence, one can be glad that’s a choice Conners now doesn’t have to make for herself.
Reviewed at SXSW (Narrative Spotlight), March 11, 2024. Running Time: 98 MIN.
- Production: A Foton Pictures, Rosebud Pictures production. (World sales: WME, Los Angeles.) Producers: Rosie Fellner, Carlos Enrique Cuscó, Ari Taboada. Executive producers: Naomi Despres, Cassian Elwes, Ilan Numhauser, Alistair Audsley, Bjorne Larson, Fernanda Sancho, Alejandro Ravazzola.
- Crew: Director, writer: Nadia Conners. Camera: Robert Leitzell. Editors: Patrick Walsh, Todd Zelin. Music: Eric Avery.
- With: Elizabeth Reaser, Walton Goggins, Lois Smith, Eva De Dominici, Rufus Sewell, Pedro Pascal.
- Music By: Eric Avery
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'The Idea of You' soundtrack producer says he wasn't thinking about One Direction while writing music for August Moon
- Savan Kotecha is the lead songwriter and producer behind "The Idea of You" soundtrack.
- The movie features a fictional boy band called August Moon and its dreamy front man Hayes Campbell.
- Kotecha spoke to BI about the comparisons to One Direction, who he also worked with in the past.
August Moon might be the hottest boy band in the world . The five-piece group incited a surge of curious headlines and feverish tweets when their infectious new single, "Dance Before We Walk," was released earlier this month.
The only catch? August Moon isn't real.
The faux-famous band plays a key role in "The Idea of You," premiering at SXSW this weekend. The film stars Nicholas Galitzine as Hayes Campbell, August Moon's dreamy front man, while Anne Hathaway plays Solène, the older woman he falls for.
Their love story begins at Coachella , where Campbell is booked to perform on the main stage. In this fictional world, August Moon is a sensation, able to attract throngs of screaming fans at the world's biggest music festival — and even charm the mature single mom in the crowd, who's only there to supervise her teen daughter.
But the entire premise falls apart if the music isn't good.
Enter Savan Kotecha, a renowned producer and songwriter who knows the recipe for boy band success.
Kotecha has worked with stars like Ariana Grande ("God Is a Woman"), The Weeknd ("Can't Feel My Face"), Demi Lovato ("Cool for the Summer"), and, crucially, One Direction . He served as the band's vocal coach on "The X Factor" and helped write a slew of their early hits.
When he met with director Michael Showalter and producer Cathy Schulman, Kotecha shared stories from two decades of experience with "various boy bands." It was an easy sell. "Luckily, they agreed to let me play in their sandbox," he told Business Insider.
And so Kotecha was tasked with making real music for a fake band.
"The Idea of You" is based on a buzzy novel by Robinne Lee, but in terms of the soundtrack, Kotecha was given extensive creative freedom. He read the script and immediately began hearing songs in his head.
"I know these guys," he said. "Through different acts I've worked with, collectively, I've seen that experience. I connected with the experience that the Hayes character goes through."
Among other collaborators, Kotecha reunited with Carl Falk, with whom he cowrote One Direction's iconic debut "What Makes You Beautiful." Their efforts resulted in a dynamic collection of pop bangers that hint at themes like vulnerability, youth, and self-discovery — guaranteed to make any Directioner swoon, whether current or retired.
Indeed, fans have been gleefully documenting the similarities between August Moon and One Direction ever since "Dance Before We Walk" dropped alongside the movie's juicy trailer .
Given Kotecha's history with the band, it's tempting to assume that August Moon is based on One Direction. But Kotecha said he was more preoccupied with creating an authentic musical identity for the band that was detached from any real-life influences. He said he brought August Moon to life by asking practical questions: How much do these guys dance? How far along are they in their career?
"It might sound like I'm not telling the truth," Kotecha said. "Not once did we bring up or think One Direction. So in our minds, this was just 'boy band.' This was just 'great pop songs,' or what we thought were great pop songs."
Still, he understands why fans have made the comparison. "That's just my melody language," he said, "Carl's and mine. When we get together, that's what we do."
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Kotecha said they drew inspiration from several groups, including One Direction, Westlife (another Simon Cowell brainchild), and a few others that "didn't quite go all the way."
Throughout his career, Kotecha has observed many iterations of the boy band blueprint: the bonds forged under pressure; the clashes in the studio; the hunger to be taken seriously as musicians; the member who yearns to follow his own path.
"If you think about the manufactured act experience, it is a machine," he explained. "There's a red thread between a lot of those experiences, so I felt like I had a grasp of that."
He approached the soundtrack with that thread in mind. "I Got You" was written to be younger and "cheesier," like an early-days hit, designed to please the label execs. "Guard Down" is a bombastic second-album single, a bid for radio domination.
By contrast, "Dance Before We Walk" is meant to represent August Moon's evolution and foreshadow Campbell's solo career. ("I'm off the moon and I'm hitting the ground like a rocket," he sings. The symbolism is intentional.)
"You'll see throughout the movie that he's writing 'Dance Before We Walk' and toying with the idea," Kotecha explains. "This is when he's sort of branching out and going, 'Wait, I can do this as a musician. I'm actually not just a manufactured boy band guy, I'm actually a musician and I want to be taken seriously.'"
A few songs on the soundtrack, including the one that shares the movie's title, credit Hayes Campbell as the performer instead of August Moon.
These songs are focused on his growth and perspective as an artist, rather than sticky pop hooks. "For the boy band songs," Kotecha explained, "you don't sacrifice the melody for the lyric."
Again, One Direction fans are sure to draw a connection between Campbell's character arc and Harry Styles, the breakout star of One Direction who managed to become a critical darling as a solo artist .
While the original novel isn't Wattpad-style fan fiction like the "After" series , the author did say Campbell is an amalgam of muses — including Styles. "I made him into my dream guy," she told Vogue .
But maybe it's the actor, not the character, who most deserves the Styles analogy.
Of course, the movie's wardrobe and marketing departments help to emphasize the resemblance, but Galitzine's vocal performance isn't fake. He's a real singer; in fact, he recorded lead vocals for all nine original tracks, several of which are performed in the movie's elaborate concert scenes.
Galitzine is charismatic onstage, comfortably commanding a sea of enraptured concertgoers. Watching through a screen, you'll start to wish you were one of them.
Even after spending more than two decades in the pop world, Kotecha is rhapsodic about the genre's power to inspire passion, to connect people, to transcend language — and the unique power of boy bands in particular.
"I remember when we did One Direction, we had these discussions about what the style should be. And some people wanted it to sound very current at the time, which was like that Rihanna dance-pop ," he said.
But Kotecha pushed back. To his ear, boy bands — from the Jackson 5 to New Kids on the Block to The Backstreet Boys — have never sounded like other stuff on the radio. They sound resolutely like boy bands: optimistic, approachable, always slightly to the left of what's considered "cool."
"That's what makes fans feel like they own it. If the older sibling loves it, thinks it's too cool, it's not good. The younger sister's not going to protect it," he explained. "I was in high school back when *NSYNC came out, remember? That wasn't cool. Guys didn't like that, and it was almost like that made the girls want it more."
Nearly 10 years after One Direction broke up , there seems to be a new wave of appreciation for this subgenre.
BTS hysteria has barely ebbed since the group went on hiatus, *NSYNC just reunited , and 4*Town from Pixar's "Turning Red" was nominated for a Grammy . Come springtime, when "The Idea of You" will be streamable on Amazon Prime, August Moon is poised to pick up the torch. Why now?
"Nostalgia may be kicking in, but I also feel like it's time for another boy band," Kotecha said. "This is more than just songs or music. This is community."
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Critical Thinking. 2020 | Maturity Rating: TV-MA | 1h 57m | Drama. An unwavering teacher and his students must overcome the perils in their underserved community as they compete in a national chess tournament. Starring: John Leguizamo, Corwin C. Tuggles, Angel Bismark Curiel.
Critical Thinking. Based on the true story of the 1998 Miami Jackson Senior High School chess team that defied the odds and overcame incredible adversity to become the first urban high school to win the U.S. Chess National Championship. 4,704 IMDb 6.5 1 h 57 min 2020. X-Ray 18+.
Show all movies in the JustWatch Streaming Charts. Streaming charts last updated: 5:15:45 AM, 03/16/2024 . Critical Thinking is 7420 on the JustWatch Daily Streaming Charts today. The movie has moved up the charts by 3762 places since yesterday. In the United States, it is currently more popular than The Florist but less popular than Evolution.
Check out the official Critical Thinking Trailer starring John Leguizamo! Let us know what you think in the comments below. Watch on FandangoNOW: https://ww...
Critical Thinking: Directed by John Leguizamo. With John Leguizamo, Rachel Bay Jones, Michael Kenneth Williams, Corwin C. Tuggles. The true story of the Miami Jackson High School chess team which was the first inner city team to win the U.S. National Chess Championship.
Movie Info. Miami -- 1998. Poverty, broken families, and a prejudiced system push underprivileged youth to the fringes of society. But for a magnetic group of teens, there's a reprieve. A game ...
Released September 4th, 2020, 'Critical Thinking' stars John Leguizamo, Rachel Bay Jones, Michael Kenneth Williams, Corwin C. Tuggles The movie has a runtime of about 1 hr 57 min, and received a ...
September 5, 2020. 'Critical Thinking' is a biographical drama that takes us back to 1998. It is based on a true story and tells the inspiring tale of Mario Martinez, the Cuban-American teacher, and his chess team at the Miami Jackson High School. Just as Mario contributed to the victory, we learn about the individual struggles of the ...
Critical Thinking - watch online: streaming, buy or rent. Currently you are able to watch "Critical Thinking" streaming on ShowMax. It is also possible to buy "Critical Thinking" on Apple TV, Google Play Movies as download or rent it on Apple TV, BoxOffice, Google Play Movies online.
Critical Thinking is a 2020 American biographical drama film based on the true story of the 1998 Miami Jackson High School chess team, the first inner-city team to win the U.S. National Chess Championship.. Critical Thinking was directed by John Leguizamo (in his directorial debut), written by Dito Montiel, and stars Leguizamo alongside Jorge Lendeborg Jr., Angel Bismark Curiel, Will Hochman ...
The film is barely 15 minutes old when this happens, but it immediately establishes that "Critical Thinking" has no plans of abandoning reality for its feel-good message. That sense of realism extends to the way the characters bond with, rib, and defend each other. Additionally, Leguizamo plays Martinez as someone who understands the ...
Critical Thinking Not rated. Running time: 1 hour 57 minutes. Running time: 1 hour 57 minutes. Watch through virtual cinemas, or rent or buy on iTunes , Google Play and other streaming platforms ...
Based on a true story from 1998, five LatinX and Black teenagers from the toughest underserved ghetto in Miami fight their way into the National Chess Champi...
CRITICAL THINKING Trailer (2020) John Leguizamo, Michael Kenneth Williams, Chess Drama Movie© 2020 - Vertical Entertainment
Critical Thinking. 2020 | Maturity Rating: 16+ | 1h 57m | Drama. An unwavering teacher and his students must overcome the perils in their underserved community as they compete in a national chess tournament. Starring: John Leguizamo, Corwin C. Tuggles, Angel Bismark Curiel.
Watch Critical Thinking. NR. 2020. 1 hr 58 min. 6.5 (2,581) 65. The movie Critical Thinking from 2020 is a captivating and inspiring drama based on a true story. The film is directed by John Leguizamo, who also stars in the lead role, along with Rachel Bay Jones and Michael Kenneth Williams. Set in Miami in the late 1990s, the movie follows the ...
John Leguizamo Rachel Bay Jones Michael Kenneth Williams Corwin C. Tuggles Jorge Lendeborg Jr. Angel Bismark Curiel Will Hochman Jeffry Batista Zora Casebere Ramses Jimenez Todd Allen Durkin Brandon Somers Isaac Beverly Ruben E. A. Brown Sydney Arroyo Carlos Guerrero Michele Lepe Tatum Price. 117 mins More at IMDb TMDb.
New. Show all movies in the JustWatch Streaming Charts. Streaming charts last updated: 1:19:19 am, 01/02/2024. Critical Thinking is 7958 on the JustWatch Daily Streaming Charts today. The movie has moved up the charts by 8428 places since yesterday. In Australia, it is currently more popular than Pinocchio but less popular than Space Cowboys.
5 Movies that Challenge Perception and Reality. 5.1 Inception. 5.2 Being John Malkovich. 5.3 Shutter Island. 6 Critical Thinking in Time and Space Movies. 6.1 Predestination. 6.2 Interstellar. 6.3 2001: A Space Odyssey. 7 Movies Encouraging Reflection on Self and Humanity.
Miami - 1998. Poverty, broken families, and a prejudiced system push underprivileged youth to the fringes of society. But for a magnetic group of teens, there's a reprieve. A game where it's not about where you come from, but how you play. That equalizer is chess. Mr. "T" Martinez, a chess militant and passionate coach, leads them to a completely foreign field of battle.
Critical Thinking. 2020 | Maturity Rating: TV-MA | 1h 57m | Drama. An unwavering teacher and his students must overcome the perils in their underserved community as they compete in a national chess tournament. Starring: John Leguizamo, Corwin C. Tuggles, Angel Bismark Curiel.
3. Forrest Gump. This is another movie that will pull at your heart strings, but in a good way. Forrest Gump is a complex movie, which ties in themes of acceptance, loyalty, and appreciation. Watching this movie is essentially a right of passage before maturity. 4.
Reception Critical response. On the review aggregator website Rotten Tomatoes, 42% of 12 critics' reviews are positive, with an average rating of 5.1/10.. Bollywood Hungama gave 4/5 stars and wrote "Shaitaan is a nail-biting thriller laced with superlative performances and clapworthy climax that keeps you engaged." Dhaval Roy of The Times of India gave the film 3.5/5 and wrote "Even though ...
A Hollywood party becomes a critical look at who the industry excludes over time in Nadia Conners' savvy if insidery drama featuring Walton Goggins, Elizabeth Reaser and Pedro Pascal. As its title ...
Based on a true story from 1998, five LatinX and Black teenagers from the toughest underserved ghetto in Miami fight their way into the National Chess Champi...
Mar 16, 2024, 2:32 AM PDT. Paul Bergen/Redferns, Alisha Wetherill/Prime, Dave Pedley/Getty, Tyler Le/BI. Savan Kotecha is the lead songwriter and producer behind "The Idea of You" soundtrack. The ...