CIV ACTSH

A CIVIL ACTION. AN IN YOUR FACE, NAIL BITTING, EDGE OF YOUR SEAT DRAMA THAT WILL KEEP YOU GUESSING. If I was a movie critic, that’s what I would probably say. Even though I am not, I still think that A Civil Action was a movie that was extremely engaging and interesting. The film was a story about a big shot personal injury lawyer named Jan Schlichtmann (played by John Travolta). He is approached by a gang of angered parents with a problem. They feel that a local tannery is dumping chemicals into their water, which in turn made numerous children sick, and eventually killed them. He is unappeased by this case until he witnesses the dumpage first hand. After millions of dollars of spending and strenuous courtroom battles, Jan become emotional attached to the case. It was a very effective movie, and showed that people can have changes of heart and start actually caring.
I feel that the creators as a whole made terrific choices on actors. The three I will discuss are John Travolta, William H. Macy, and John Lithgow. Mr. Travolta was a SLAM DUNK in this film. He was chosen because of his wit and intelligence. His characters displayed a range of emotions from cocky, to concerned. William H. Macy’s character was the team’s manager of funds. He was at times uptight and frustrated. From other films, I know that Macy can always play such a role. Finally, John Lithgow was the case’s judge. He was large, and in charge. He is an actor who can take a scene with his superiority and personality. I believe that he was an excellent choice.
The cinematic aspects were above par in my opinion. One thing I liked was that throughout debates and arguments, there was a medium or eye level shot. This made it possible to imagine yourself right next to Jan himself. The film also contained lots of short and choppy shots. If there was a dispute, the camera would alternate from speakers. This gave me a sense that I could see the opinions of both sides. The editing was stupendous. I feel that if music was appropriate, it set a mood and added to the story. My last observation was the wardrobe and props. With things like suits, briefcases, and snazzy law offices, the movie sucked me into thinking that I was watching a documentary.
This film was similar to the play write All My Sons. Both had questions that had not been answered, and a problem that was haunting everyone around it. In both stories, a negative outcome was unsolved and grieved upon by society. In A.C.A. children were dead and all fingers were pointed towards the tannery. In A.M.S. twenty-some pilots were dead, and people were seeking the root of the problem. Both are similar that in the end, no true justice was served. The tannery was eventually shut down but the parents never really got what they wanted. Joe Keller finally confessed, but took the cowards way out instead of facing the law.
I did enjoy this film. I would probably not go out and rent it, let alone right a paper about it, but it was a great way to spend a couple class periods. The story was well constructed, and the actors gave the movie that extra boost. I would recommend this movie to fans of the courtroom scene. The people who go home and watch re-runs of Law and Order on TNT. Myself, not so much, but I did have fun watching and dissecting A Civil Action.

Week 2 Post

ironclad (133)- very rigid or exacting; inflexible

innuendo (138)- an indirect intimation about a person or thing, esp. of a disparaging or a derogatory nature

insidious (141)- intended to entrap or beguile

Figurative Language

"... I never got the opportunity to 'name names.' And I would have named enough names to fill the Moscow phone book (138)." This is a metaphor, because Stevo is saying that is he got to squeeling people names, he could've named thousands (hence the filling the notebook thing).

"Hey celebrities! Just because 20 million people went to see yout movie, doesn't mean 20 million people care about your opinions! (142)"
This is ironic, because he makes a good point. Nowwadays actors are simple there to increase our entertainment and nothing more. I've seen too many public service announcements from Seth Green. Just stop already.

":..instead of rotting my mind with the mindless violence of a video game like 'Grand Theft Auto'... (145)" Hes comparing GTA to something worse, like maybe drugs, of John Kerry. This is a simile.

Quote
"I tell this story to illistrate the issues we all face as American adults. I call them four Ss and one M of Maturity: Socioeconomics, Segregation, Science, Sombreros, and the Media (149)." This quote is signiv because it shows that Stephen can be a resonable and intelligent man, while make you want to pee your wants at the same time.
Dear Stephen,
I continue to read your book, and continue to laugh. Although recently I often get upset and depressed when I read your book........ They say that your show might be off until.... 2008! I can't live without it! I'll be forced to read this single book over and over again! You'd agree with me when I say that but I cannot stand to read. Every page I pass is one I want back. I know that somewhere... On the other side of the U.S..... that you can fix this, and you will return to your glory! Until then I'll keep reading, its really funny.
Well see ya later,
Charlie Lavin

All My Sons Ending

It’s now one year later. Joe is gone, and Chris continues to live with the guilt of his father’s death, seeing it as his fault. The scene takes place in a dark, dripping alley, inside an urban neighborhood. There are dumpsters s lining the walls, and a cardboard box with a hobo resting inside. Two shady men approach eachother. One of the figures is hooded, smoking a cigarette.

Stranger: You got the money?
Response: I don’t know… You got the goods. (A hooded face is revealed to be Chris)
Stranger: Of course I do essay, you know I’m good. (The stranger then produces a tightly rapped bag of Heroine)
Chris, menacingly looks around and produces a revolver
Stranger: Wohh man your loco! It doesn’t have to be like this! (Staring down the barrel of the gun)
(Flicking the cig into a nearby puddle) Chris: Life’s unfair… Amigo.
THE LOUD CRACK OF THE REVOLVER MAKES THE ENTIRE ALLEY RING, SENDING THE STRANGER LIMP TO THE GROUND
The hobo is awaken, and Chris heads for the street.

It’s now the next morning. Chris is inside a shabby apartment, lying on his bed. He gets up and heads for the bathroom. Sitting on the sink is a neatly organized heroine kit. He looks into the mirror, and then proceeds to inject himself into the right arm. He then stumbles around, back into the bedroom.
The phone rings
Chris: W-What!
(On the phone) Mother: Chris? Chris honey is that you!?
Chris: Who is this?
Mother: Chris… It’s your Mother. (Chris sits motionless, holding the phone)
Mother: Chris are you there?
Chris: Y-Yeah. I’m here.
Mother: I miss you so much Chris, I miss you so much…
(Strung out and confused, Chris fumbles for words over the telephone)
Chris: W-Why are you calling me.
Mother: Chris there isn’t any time, they only let me make one phone call!
Chris: Who’s they?
Mother: Oh God Chris! You have to rescue me! Help me! (Mother screams, as there is a sign of struggle on the other end of the call) Chris help!
Chris: Where are you mom! What’s going on!?
Mother: (Rustling of the phone, shouts of voices in backround) Chris, I’ve been captured by Pirates! I need you to rescue me!
Chris: Mom! MOM! (The screaming stops, and the dial tone fills Chris’ ear.)
He then drops the phone, not knowing what to think.
Chris stands and shakes his head in confusion.
Chris: Oh my God. My mom has been captured. I-I’ve got to save her. (Chris’ fists then tighten, as he turns and approaches his closet.)
As the door slowly creaks open, the walls are filled with row upon row of artillery. Machine guns, shotguns, RPG’s, Samurai swords, anything one could possibly imagine. Chris then reaches to pick up a grenade, and squeezes it tightly in his hand.
Chris: I know what I have to do (To himself) I’ve got to rescue my mom…
Curtain

Week 1 Brought to you By Colbert Nation http://www.colbertnation.com/

VOCAB
enlightenment (47)- the state of being enlightened: to live in spiritual enlightenment.
merit (79)- claim to respect and praise; excellence; worth.
succumbing (80)- To submit to an overpowering force or yield to an overwhelming desire; give up or give in
Figurative Language
"Worst of all, neutering is birth control, plain and simple. Instead of the wholesale de-****ing of these creatures, we should be promoting abstinence education for our pets." This is KIND OF a simile. He doesn't use like or as, but is comparing the neutering of our pets like birth control, a controversial subject today.
"Items you must lift to be the World's Strongest Man:
A mule
.....
A train car packed with hobos
.....
Former Speaker of the House Dennis Hastert
St. Paul, Minnesota"
This is ironic, because even if Colbert knew (and I would never question his authority) Minnesota was voted one of the healiest states, while he imposes that we're all fat.
(Letters in bold, large font) "NEWS FLASH: DID YOU NOTICE HOW BIG THE WORD 'NEWS' WAS AT THE BEGINNING OF THIS PARAGRAPH? I CONSIDERED MAKING ALL THE WORDS IN THIS CHAPTER BIG. AND NOT JUST CAUSE I CAN'T THINK OF A QUICKER WAY TO FILL 240 PAGES. THAT WAS A JOKE, but point is, I'm writing about seniors here, and old folks can't read anything that's not printed in a 30-point font or above...
This is a metaphor, saying that the elderly have trouble reading small print. This statement is sad, yetr humerously true at the same time.
Quote
"News Flash: Athletes perform for our enjoyment. So 'performance-enhancing drugs' are reall 'enjoyment-enhancing drugs' (73)."
This quote is significant because this accurately describes Colbert's book in one sentence. He isn't affraid of brutal and in your face honesty on many sensative subjects. I love this book.
POST B
Dear Stephen,
I have been reading your book, and I must say that it is among the ranks of the best book ever written (behing the bible of coure ;). When I read from this glorious book its almost as so I can hear your voice reading to me. This book is filled with honesty, truthiness, and humor. My personal favorite subject you've touched apon is the "G" word. I would love to continue and discuss but really, I'd probably get suspended. My final thought of the week is to keep up the magnificent work, and let you know that I am a proud member of the Colbert Nation. http://youtube.com/watch?v=DJvY_RftA4I

Major Threats to the Environment

I just finished reading Jimmy Carter's chapter on the threats to our environment. First off, that was really long and I think I fell asleep 12 times. But anyways, I am defanetly agreeing with his side of the story. In one instance, President Carter mention the Alaskan National Forests and the protection they have been recieving for multiple years. In 2000 when G-Dubs was running for President, he said that one of his main focuses was going to be adding and contributing to the number of nationally protected forests. He did follow through with his job, but then apparently forgot about what that job was. Soon after he became large and in charge, he ordered drilling for oil to commence on a protected piece of Alaskan beauty. This in particular made Carter pissed. There would now be loud, animal killing, oil sucking machines in an area where he and his wife shared a strangely romantic moment, when a group of "musk oxen circled around their young to protect them."

Week 2 Post Old School

Vocab
Whitewash (41)- a composition, as of lime and water or of whiting, size, and water, used for whitening walls, woodwork, etc.
orthodox (49)- of, pertaining to, or conforming to the approved form of any doctrine, philosophy, ideology, etc.
shell-shocked (59)- aftermath from war/war related traumas
Quote
"For years I thought a girl might get pregnant if you touched her breast." This quote is more funny than significant, but shows Walters innocence and how he was just a curious little boy growing up.
Appeals
Emotional
"...Mrs. Conway said that she had had quite enough of me and that I wouldn't be allowed to participate in any class activities until I brought my mama to school. I knew that that meant a beating."
After reading this, many people would become often negative at the thought of Walter, or any child, being beaten while growing up.
Factual
A number of unexpected people entered my life that summer. The first was George Myers, my biological father.
This can be proven by fact and DNA
Dear Walter,
You were a fighter, like litterally. You would fight anyone. It seems like if you were ever to get in a dispute, you would end up punching some kid out. I do have a question, was your appendix problems caused by all of the freeze-pops you ate, or from your various smackdowns? What ever the case is, you had a tough childhood, and were raised not to take any B.S. from no body. I'm just really glad that I didn't grow up as a child around you... or I'd probobly be dead right now.

Week 1? Old School

Week 1 Blog Week 1 Blog Post Vocab bustling (1)- to move w/ a great show of energy mindlessly (8)- w/out inteligence - needlessAppeals"I had taught myself a little dance that I called "the boogie"(9). THis is an emotional appeal - It leaves us questioning and want more about this dance."Florence Dean's mother emigrated from Germany in the late 1800's" (3). This is logical because it can be proven by facts and gives information on family ties."Aunt Nancy was as FAT as she was tall"(12). Fat is a loaded word because it could easily affend some.Quote"Harlem is the first place called 'home' that I can remember"(7). This quote is significant because Harlem is a very important aspect of the story when talking about growing up, aswell as the events that shaped his life.Theme So far this books central theme is family and the importance they play in a persons life. Dear Walter, I just started reading your book and I am surprised and impressed. Your writing style is smooth and allows me to play out the scenes in my head. Every time I read, a colorful picture is playing out in my mind. I love readingabout your childhood and the various adventures you've taken place in. I wish to hear more exciting stories and humorous tales from growing up.

Final Post

vocab
admonition (143)- a warning or reproof given by an eccleslastical authority
immerse (126)- to plunge into
ethereal (97)- light, airy, or tenuous
Appeals
Emotional
"I was fifteen, starting my Junior year at Stuyvesant, and I was lost (114)."
This is emotional because Walter is now relating more to my situation in life, and makes me want to learn more of his struggles and how he got through them.
Factual
"On the 17th of May the Supreme Court announced the decision to condemn the 'seperate but equal' philosophy of education (185)."
This is factual because this certain excert can be proven by factual information.
Quote
"As a child I wrote, but I never considered writing as a job or career."
This quote is significant because Walter has always been a book worm, and one day that thought became a reality. All he did was read, write, read, then write some more. He soon realized that writing was his passion, and that he would pursue that passion until it became what he made a living from.
Dear Walter,
Bad Boy was one "bad" book. I'm of course meaning "bad" in the cool hip-hop positive way of "bad". From reading about your childhood growing up hooked on comic books, to your mothers drinking problems, you skipping class, it was extremely entertaining. Our lives sound kind of the same, besides the gang violence, an alcoholic mother, and every other terrible thing that has happened to you. My life is pretty good, but I feel like I am in you shoes that you once were in. I'm at a point in school were I feel "lost," kind of like a zombie going to and fro from class to class. What you did to help yourself escape from that was do the things your passionate for. I put some thought into that and I now enjoy the conditioning at Football practice, or puking in the weight room because, well I love sports. Your book was great. I hope to get my hands on more of your material later on in life.
Peace, Charlie Lavin

Sea Inside Response

In my opinion, The Sea Inside was a fantastic film- in every aspect. Aside from the countless cinematic aspect, the acting helped you become part of the story. In the beginning, it seemed slow. The more you learned about the characters and who they were sucked you in. This film was effective on different levels. To some people it could be life changing, for me it was a little bit less. This helped me realize my countless blessing I have in my life, and how much I cherish them. After experiencing The Sea Inside, I don’t think I’ll jokingly say “I’m gonna kill myself” ever again.
The film took place in rural Spain, as well as in the city of Boiro in the mid 1990’s. There were countless characters including Ramon (accompanied by his brother and family), Julia, Rosa, and Gene. In the earlier part of Ramon’s life, he became a quadriplegic in a tragic accident involving the ocean. For 28 years he has been limited to his house, particularly his bed. These characters are developed throughout Ramon’s wish to take his own life, and the controversies that follow this wish. The ocean played a very symbolic role. As Ramon put it, “The Ocean gave me life, yet took that life from me.” Ramon eventually fulfilled his wish, but this film’s theme to me was that there are countless reasons for living, sometimes you just have to find them.
The Sea Inside utilized cinematic aspects to its favor. Many times shots were taken at “eye level,” making it seem like you were inside the room yourself. They also took advantage of the tracking feature, in particular, enabling Ramon to “fly.” The editing was spectacular, especially for flashbacks. Another aspect they mastered was music. For every mood created, the music went along with it perfectly. If there was sadness or grief, the music was slow and dramatic. If there was a sense of joy, the music was upbeat and fast. This film was put together beautifully.
The Sea Inside can closely relate to The Diving Bell and the Butterfly by Jean Dominique Bauby. In both stories, the men are left stranded in useless bodies, preventing them to live their lives fully. I’m sure anyone would agree that Bauby’s situation was far worse. Ramon had the ability to eat, speak, and even write. After experiencing both of these stories, I’ll try to think of these men the next I break a bone (and stop complaining).
I would recommend this film to anyone. In my opinion, it was easily the greatest movie I’ve watched in school. I did mention that the entire thing is in subtitles? Regardless, it’s completely worth the read, I mean watch.
The past week of Language Arts has been indulging and suspenseful. This movie made me forget that I was in school, and that I must leap past the door in order to obtain sustenance for that given day. With flawless cinematic aspects and a plot that will suck you in, I’m glad that our class watched The Sea Inside.

week 4 post

vocab
sputtered (62)- to make explosive popping or sizzling sounds.
vice (52) - an immoral or evil habit or practice.
incoherent (70) -without logical or meaningful connection; disjointed; rambling.
Appeals
For this appeal I found it emotional and factual...
"I was awakened early in the morning by my mother.
'Walter, get up,' she said. 'I've got bad news. Your Uncle Lee was killed last night.'"
I considered this both because 1. It was documented that his uncle died that day, which could be proven by fact. Also, in this previously happy go lucky book, it strikes a chord that are unfamiliar to this book. The rest of the chapter is full of remorse and depression.
Quote
"The following Sunday morning, when I came out of my room and started talking, Dad put his fingers to his lips. 'This is Sunday, the Lord's Day'"
This is significant because now, Walters dad has been effected beyond words to his brothers death. From this point on, not only does his dad become depressed, but an extremely close follower of Christ.
POST B
Dear Walter,
I have loved reading this book. It is not any kind of boring book at all. The tales you tell seem like strait out of a movie. I just recently read about your Uncle's passing. I know this didn't really affect you directly, but more your father. How long was he depressed? Did it ever end? And how did this affect your relationship with him. I know your life continued, like you said, but I would love to know more of the story. Once again, you are brilliant, and never stop writing.
From,
Charlie Lavin

Week 3 Posts (still going to do the first two...)

Vocab
trolley (51)- to convey or go by
lynched (39)- been put to death via hanging
intergrated (35)- to bring together or incorporate (parts) into a whole.
Appeals
Factual- "The summer of 1947 was one of eager anticipation for black people across the country. Jackie Robinson and Larry Doby, two black players from all-black Negro Leagues, had finally been accepted into major-leage baseball (35)." Can be proven by FACT.
Emotional- "We need more smart Negro boys," he said. "We don't need tough Negro boys (58)." This statement can leave readers angered or upset.
Qoute- "I firmly believed that God saw everything and duly noted all transgressions, big and small. It was never my intention to do wrong, and so generally I thought I was in good stead with the Almighty. But as spring rolled around last year, I found myself barely hanging on to that side of the ledger." This is significant because it shows how as Walter grew up he became further away from his faith, and confused more.
So far the book has been PRETTY TIGHT. I still enjoy hearing stories of Walter's brush-ups with 'Crazy Johhny,' the shellshocked war vet. Right now it would seem that the entire book is all his childhood, in fact, I'm pretty convinced it is. The way he writes makes a perfect image in your head. For example....
"What's wrong with you, boy?" My father's voice again, deeper, more resolute.
"My legs hurt," I said.
"Take your pants down."
Right there at the dinner table. I had changed pants and now undid my belt and gingerly let the changed pants down. My mother gasped when she saw my legs-a mass of bruises, swelling, and dried blood.
"What happened to you?"
After reading this I had the clear thought of the adolscent Walter presenting his beat-up legs in front of the entire family. Descriptions like this make it easy to read.
http://youtube.com/watch?v=LRvEsonVXWA

DBBF Reflection

I just finished reading The Diving Bell and the Butterfly. Right now I have mixed thoughts partly because the Packers are blowing their lead as we speak. In my opinion the ending wasn't as interesting compared to the majority of the book. Our class knew he died, but the finale didn't say much about Jean's passing.
One thing that really confused me was "The Mythmaker" chapter. Jean talked about his friend Olivier from school. He stated that Olivier would entertain them constantly with stories about London. Then he goes on talking about all these different activities he "forged in his head." I didn't see the point of this chapter, but I'm sure Jean knew exactly what he was doing. Can I just add that I hate the Chicago Bears.
As a whole, I enjoyed this book alot more than I thought I would. The thing about DBBF was that it was easy to read, but at the same time made you want to read more. After seeing what a day in the life was like for him, I was oddly fascinated. He described everything with great detail- allowing me to paint a mental picture in my head. Overall I would give The Diving Bell and the Butterfly a 7.9