Old Movies Are The Best Kind Of Movies

Old Movies Are The Best Kind Of Movies

Old movies, what is it that makes them so appealing? In saying that, it's not merely movies which draw many back to their childhood or teenage years, television shows and music also have this strong pull. A television series you watched through your childhood almost becomes a comfort in later years. I read somewhere once, that re-watching your favourite TV show repeatedly can have a calming effect on you, as you know the outcome of the story. 

The development of film over the years since it's creation is a phenomenal one. Actors and actresses from their own era have individually changed the face of film through the centuries. Throughout this time various individuals stood out in their own individual way. From Charlie Chaplin who's considered one of the most important figures in film history to Leonardo de Caprio of the current era. In terms of actresses, these women have fought for the recognition of the female role in the film industry since the start of cinema. Ladies like Audrey Hepurn, Marilyn Monroe, Meryl Streep and Helena Bohen Carter have all empowered women throughout time. Hepburn and Monroe became iconic symbols for women around the world during their era, inspiring women through their glamour and sophistication. However, society chose to concentrate on their image rather than the inspirational words they had to share.

Getting back to the topic of old movies... (let's not turn this into a post about empowering women) Movies draw individuals into a new world in unique ways. Our generation is repeatedly drawn back to movies from the 80's and 90's. While our parent's generation is generally drawn back to movies from the 50's and 60's. Why is this? Is it a nostalgia for the past? Or is it curiosity towards times gone by? 

The youth of the current generation are drawn to the 'high-concept' films of the 80's. These films can be explained by one or two sentences and as a result it was easily marketable and understandable as a result. Although less experimental and original as films from the 70's, films from the 80's were more formulaic and explored new special effects newly available to them. 80's teen movies held definitive scenes; (1) a cool kid gives a geek advice (2) a moment of bottled rebellion (3) at least one surreal WTF moment (4) the ultimate happy ending (10 scenes that define 80's teen movies) These films include:

  

Looking at this short list of movies (all of which I love) they each fit into the short description of 80's movies. While the story lines were simple to each of these movies, they each managed to capture their audience. Despite the many love films that followed, Dirty Dancing will undoubtedly remain my favourite. There's something about a dance film that makes you want to get up and 'attempt' to copy their moves. 

Jumping foreward to the 90's (you know that period only 90's kids remember...) and cinema attendance had largely increased and with that the cost of film production increased significantly. At this time there was an increase of high-cost demanding actors and the introduction of home viewing allowed the audience to expand. Independent film productions were introduced which expanded the scale of film production. In reality, our generation is strongly drawn to these films due to the fact that we were born in that era. A few of these films include 

                          

Comparing the two short lists of films, it is obvious that in the 90s a stronger diversity of genres emerged. As well as this, Disney films exploded during this era establishing a strong place in the lives of children (and of course 19 year old girls of 2016). Actors and actresses gained a prominent role in society, idolised and worshipped by many, as they are today.  

Movies have captured audiences since the beginning of their creation. Old movies draw in a new audience through each generation. There's no denying my love for old movies. They allow us to compare and contrast to current films, taking both the strong and weak elements of each era. The appeal of a movie created before I was born tends to draw me in, and gives me a snapshot of times gone by. So while the movies of today will eventually become 'old movies', they will not have the same appeal as the 80s and 90s movies do for our generation. Movies transport us into a new world, allowing us to expand our knowledge and explore a new universe. Movies are and will always be an escape from reality, but also shows us the beauty of our own reality. 

24hr Broadcast 2015

After weeks of preparation and hard work I can safely say the broadcast was a huge success! It wouldn't have been possible without the relentless work done by everyone and especially the committee. I mean raising €6,000 is not a simple task! I must say we did it with an impressive amount of skill (despite the sleep deprivation)

Everything kicked off at 9pm - opening with the Guinness World Records. Which I was (un)fortunate to get roped into. Eating cream crackers under a time limit with no water isn't exactly easy... To the guys who ate an entire raw onion, I applaud you - I wouldn't do that if someone paid me!

Let's not forget the 'behind the scenes' antics. Participating in the 'Oscars' a troupe of five, we ventured off in an attempt to recreate 'The Godfather', 'The Shining' and 'Zoolander'. I have to hand it to the other groups too, I mean the videos produced were so creative and hilarious. 'Ghostbusters' would be a personal favourite of mine - definitely worth the watch!

The Oscars weren't the only behind the scenes madness. Throughout the 24hours there was an unbelievable buzz on the second floor of the Henry Grattan. At any moment a group of people could crash through the doors followed closely by a camera. Lest we forget the Go Pro Wheelie Chair Races when we almost got ran over in the middle of the corridor. Who doesn't enjoy a good wheelie chair race...

5am came and the long awaited Lego Competition went live on air. Presenting with my good friend we embarked on half an hour of lego making! 2 teams of 3 battled it out to become the ultimate lego champions. Creating a car, telling the other team what to create and finally creating their own master pieces. I humbly thank our competitors who managed to stay awake long enough to compete in our competition!

9am hit - the half way mark, and let's just say the exhaustion started to hit. Numbers began to drop and as we attempted to film another video we found ourselves collapsed in a corridor. The world was waking and we were dropping like flies. With very little energy left I decided to adventure around the corridors and rooms filming the sleep deprived students who were 'Half Way There' - I must say that was the moment that I started to wake up again.

Sitting around a table for about 2 hours eating our healthy breakfast which mainly consisted of crisp sandwiches, a box of coco rocks between us and a muffin, we eventually decided it was time to get our act together again and start filming more content. This came in the form of a Make-up Tutorial, which I must say left us all in stitches. When a lad attempts to put on a girl's make-up, it never fails to entertain! I have to admit I've re-watched it myself quite a few times!

Lunch time came and we were re-joined by many who had left to get a few hours of sleep. With that we returned to filming and a group of us joined together to make the 'Broadcast Biggest Fails', or as we liked to see it 'When Jordan Asks for more Content'! This video basically consisted of us acting the fool for a few hours. This video led to the 'Broadcast Dancing King' who caught some of the MPS committee by surprise...

With 3 hours to go we were almost €2,000 off our target of €5,000. With 21hours down, the sleep deprived and delirious students put in the last bit of effort to reach our target. With 1 hour to go we reached our target, and what a feeling that was - the hard work had paid off and this never would have been achieved without the unbelievable team work that was created in the previous weeks and the 24hrs of the broadcast itself.

On Air!

BACK WITH A   BOOM!!

PODCAST

So, today myself and my good pal Caoimhe McGowan decided to adventure into DCUfm. As it is Reading Week our own assigned shows for this week are not running, so we figured exploring the studio while it was quiet would be the best option for us.

After a crash course (no.100 at this stage) around the studio we (nervously) set off. We managed to blab on for about an hour (unfortunately for those listening) about various topics including Irish Traditions, Travel, Events and Movies. 

Myself and Caoimhe both agree that it was an hour well spent! Here's to many more shows with my bubbly companion and sidekick! 

Happy Listening!!!

That Oval Ball Competition Yoke...

Please raise your hand if you’ve spent the past 3 weekends on your sofa watching every rugby match of the world cup so far... Lunch and dinner roll into one as you attempt to throw a quick meal together in-between each match. Starting at midday, you keep track of time as you watch the clock count up 80 minutes throughout each match. It's a marathon, a sofa marathon, a marathon of who can keep their words discreet the longest (even when the referee heads to the TMO for the 100th time). It's a trek of endurance, but in fairness a pretty enjoyable one at that.

There is no doubt that The Rugby World Cup 2015 has been one of the most interesting in recent years. With Japan making history beating South Africa 34-32, Whales beating England, and Australia killing England's chance of making it out of the pool stages. The first time in the history of the rugby world cup the home team didn’t make it out of the pool stages - which cost the English economy 3 billion pounds. (Twitter reaction) All in all it's been quite a shocking turn of events for many teams. Personally, I wouldn't have it any other way! It brings the passion back into the game of rugby. The last 2 minutes of the Japan vs. South Africa match were unbelievable, I watched it on repeat a few times basking in the indescribable emotion displayed by the Japanese. We can't forget to mention the videos that made the rounds online capturing the Irish reaction to the win, you'd almost think Ireland had won the entire World Cup! (Irish Reaction)

As an Irish fan, I've quite enjoyed the matches so far. Under the incredible skill and talent of Joe Schmidt, there is no doubt that the Irish team have excelled in every shape and form over the past year. Despite losing two of their warm-up matches against Whales and England, very little was uttered against Schmidt. O'Driscoll reassured the public at the time, revealing a conversation with Schmidt "He didn't want to show their hand," he said, "He wasn't concerned at all about the results... Any time there was an open session, they would do defensive sets or fitness. They were showing nothing at all." (Interview) In spite of this reassurance, O'Driscoll is still convinced the All Blacks will beat the Irish in the final... Not quite sure how I feel about that one... 

The Irish team embarking on the world cup this year are a strong mixture of young and old, with the legendary Paul O'Connell captaining the squad. As his last journey with Ireland, there's no doubt he will want to go out on a high. Various players with the likes of Tommy Bowe, Simon Zebo and Jared Payne battle it out to make it onto the team each week. However, there's no doubt Bowe and Zebo showed their talent against Romania last week assisting and scoring 2 tries for Ireland. An undeniable trust is evident throughout the country for Schmidt. It seems the consensus is, that if anyone can take the Irish team to the final, it's going to be the legendary man himself. 

Paulie Scrum Surfing

There's something quite satisfying about watching the underdogs mess up the predictions of the entire world. Japan shook up the odds of the outcome but despite the wealth of talent across the world of rugby, the bets are still high on the All Blacks. I mean, it's like watching Kilkenny win the Hurling every year, it just gets boring!  

So, get ready for another day of sofa surfing tomorrow and here's to hoping there will be a few more shocking events along the way! It's not over yet lads! (Although maybe it is for England...)

You Know You're A Lifeguard When...

Summer months; those endless carefree days of adventure and exploration... Or that's how it is for some people. For others, the summer is simply those 3 months when the kids are outside 'til all hours' and it might not rain as much as it does for the other 9 months of the year (although this year it rained more than it does in January if you ask me) This summer I decided to actually make myself useful and get a job. Adventuring into the world of 'responsibility' took it's toll when getting up at 7am for work destroyed your sleep-till-10am-in-the-summer policy. Don't get me wrong! It wasn't all bad, I mean I was getting paid. 

So, I hear you ask, what is this job she refers to? Well, I spent my days sitting in 35 degree heat, beside a pool, watching people break every pool rule in existence - lifeguarding. You'd be surprised how many times you have to tell somebody to stop diving in a pool so they don't crack their head off the bottom! 

I got the job at the start of the crazy summer months, a goal I had been working towards for many years. Swimming has always been my great escape to the deep blue, leaving behind any niggling fears or worries. However, when I realised that lifeguarding was the complete opposite, it was quite a shocking discovery. Sitting on a high chair for hours on end with only your thoughts for company, leads you to lose any sort of critical thinking. I personally resort to playing long piano pieces repeatedly in my mind while my fingers tap out the melody. While others prefer to pack their suitcases for their upcoming trip abroad, going through each individual sock in their mind, and some prefer to sing songs out loud despite the odd stares from the bathers. While cleaning isn't my favourite past-time, when boredom sets in after 5 hours, anything will be attempted to pass the time and prevent the inevitable insanity that would ensue.

For years, lifeguarding has been presented to the population as a glamorous job (I blame Baywatch). The job title is met with "Ohhhh that sounds so cool" or "Do you get to wear a swimsuit all day?" Just to clear up the second question, no. No I don't walk around a swimming pool all day in a red swimsuit carrying a torpedo buoy. (not everything is like the movies) People view a lifeguard from the outside, watching them staring at the water or pacing up and down the deck, constantly watching. However, what they don't see is the strong unity among the team. Working together constantly, recognising any unusual actions or gestures. As cheesy as it may sound, I've made some great friendships along the way.

Honestly, you would be surprised by the crazy things people attempt to do in a swimming pool. I mean, half of these stunts don't even exist on the 'Swimming Pool Rules' sign. For example, when you attempt to clarify why someone can't do a backflip into a pool 1m in depth full of children, you're usually met with a round of 'why not's?' and 'I'll be careful'. At times I'm often attempted to reply with a simple "I will kill you if you don't kill someone else first", but we all know that would breech the boundary between worker and customer. Let's not forget about all those people who like to 'play dead', if you could all just do that somewhere else that would be great thanks. I've lost count of the hours I've spent shouting at kids to stop running, only to watch them slip and slide along the deck with a look of utter horror on their faces as if they had no idea such a thing was possible. And as for the kids who shout 'help' for the craic... don't even get me started on those. But, the best kids are the ones who look around to see if you're watching them, right before they attempt to do something they know is against the rules.

The truth about it is this; being a lifeguard is not easy. There's no other way about it. Despite the amount of crazy people we have to deal with on a regular day, there are also some lovely people who reduce the boredom levels for a while. You might even meet the odd toddler who decides you're their new best friend! Sure you could say everyday is the same, sitting in the same seat, watching the same pool, rotating at the same time... but everyday you'll be met with different people and various challenges. 

So below are a list of ways on how to survive as a lifeguard;

1. Try not to get too angry at someone - even if you've blown the whistle at them 100 times

2. NEVER forget your water bottle

3. Find an air vent, it's your new best friend

4. Watch out for those people who like 'playing dead' - they're sneaky 

5. Don't twirl your whistle despite absolute boredom, there's a strong chance it'll fly into the pool or onto a bather's head             

6. Slides are the bane of a lifeguard's job - enough said

7. Don't have a shower before shift, it's a waste of time

8. Sometimes you won't recognise people outside the pool fully dressed, believe me, it happens...

Add these to your Bucket List!

Freedom!

Nothing is sweeter than the freedom after the wonderful journey of the Leaving Cert! However, it seems with all this freedom, I seem to have absolutely no idea what to do! I spend my days off from work imagining all the wonderful things I could be doing... Yet, it seems I continue to spend my days watching movies and dancing around my house to music so loud the floor vibrates!

Transfixed by the slow slippery raindrops as they slide down my window, I'm instantly transported to the basking heat of foreign lands. Some places I've journeyed to and some I've yet to discover...


FLORENCE
Florence is without a doubt one of the most beautiful places I've ever been. The true heart of Italien art, the narrow streets and beautiful sights, are wonders to everyone who adventures through the city. A small city bursting with life, both fresh and historic. The essence of the historic city, lies in the deep roots established by the Romans and the endless stories surrounding the wealthy Medici family. The beauty of Florence is endless and the short time I spent there proved that.

PISA
A small quaint city, which is well known for the famous 'Leaning Tower of Pisa', Pisa lies only a few kilometres from the seaside. The main shopping street which leads to the tower is a constant buzz of life, both tourists and residents of the city. Although it seems the main attraction lies in the tower alone, and therefore the city lacks any other tourist spots.








ROME

When in Rome, do what the Romans do! The wealth of history and attractions in Rome are simply endless. A short visit is simply not enough to explore the beauty that Rome has to offer, however a lot can be done in 4 days if you're prepared to do a lot of walking! The Colosseum is a must see, along with The Vatican City (however, be prepared for some crazy tour guides!) The masterpieces that are spread across the entire city are simply stunning; Raphael, Michelangelo, Leonardo da Vinci.... A return trip will be taken in the future!





PARIS

The city of love... Or so it is said! Although quite young when I ventured to Paris, it is an unforgettable city! I have always loved the musical language of the French people. (However, if you wish to practise your french, perhaps somewhere with less tourists would be advised) I spent much of my childhood travelling this beautiful country and while Paris is a destination on most people's bucket list, I have always preferred exploring the true depths of the country. It is only in the small areas that you truly experience the rich culture of the french. La vie est belle!



PRAGUE

At a young age I had the wonderful experience of travelling to Prague to visit my aunt and uncle who live there. My uncle 'the lego man' as we've always referred to him as, has a high position in the Lego company  which allowed us to take a V.I.P tour of the Lego factory. A thrill my brother and I will never forget. Aside from that we walked over the Charles Bridge, the well known bridge that goes over the River Vltava and viewed the famous 'Child of Prague'. A trip down the river in a boat and an exploration through the markets is a must-do when visiting Prague. It is a city I would really love to return to.



SWITZERLAND
The Winter Wonderland. Skiing down the slopes of the Alps was one of the best trips of my life without a doubt! Staying in Leysin a small resort one hour from Geneva, I spent a week skiing (and falling) down the snowy slopes. A quaint little town bursting with life despite the icy conditions. The town revolves around the ski resort which dominates the enterprise of the town. Staying in a hotel only a 5minutes walk from the Ski lifts it was the perfect spot. Spending the day skiing down the Alps is a true wonder. However, a warning, be prepared to spend money as Switzerland is not a cheap country!




SANTIAGO DE COMPESTELA

The final destination of the Camino de Santiago, this city in northern Spain is flowing with a constant buzz of pilgrims who arrive into the city after their journey along the Camino. I had the honour of venturing to this city last year after walking 130km of the Camino. Spotting the city from a few kilometres outside the city I remember my dad saying "I've never been so happy to see a church in my life". At this point we had walked for many days to reach our destination. Although a constant flow of tourists (pilgrims) move through the city, the Spanish culture is still strong. However, by the time these pilgrims from around the world have reached Santiago after 800km of walking, they have been integrated into the Spanish culture already!

LONDON
What a city. The wealth of museums and historical sites are simply endless in this city. However in my opinion the true gem are the various theatres that litter the city. A trip to a musical or ballet is a must when venturing to London. Of course don't forget to bring some cash for fine dinning and a wild shopping trip! However, advice to all, don't get lost on Bond Street, I'm pretty sure the only item of clothing you'll be able to afford is a pair of socks!

While I've travelled to many places I still have many more to explore. The above cities are only a taster of the many places I've been in my life so far. I owe this wonderful exploration to my parents who have given my brother and I the priceless gift of exploration.

Florence - An Unforgettable Trip

From a young age, our parents brought us travelling. We were never the type of family who sat by the pool or beach all day, instead we liked to explore the area and often needed rest on our return home from holidays after the adventures we embarked on! At this point, I have travelled the length and breath of France, explored many cities, Island hopped, skied through the Alps, walked the Camino de Santiago and this coming summer hope to jet off again on a new adventure. 

So... Why am i telling you this? Well, I have caught the travelling bug and I completely blame my parents!
When the opportunity arose a few months ago to embark on an Art Trip to Florence, Italy, I didn't hesitate. A small city bursting with life, both fresh and historic, it wasn't long before I felt at home among the artists who inhabit the city. The essence of the historic city, lies in the deep roots established by the Romans and the endless stories surrounding the wealthy Medici family. The beauty of Florence is endless and the short time I spent there proved that.

On arrival, a night walk around the city is definitely in order! Florence at night is a spectacle never to be missed. The moonlight and stars light up the buildings. The city comes alive and dances under the moonlight. The end of our walk brought us to The Dumo, Santa Maria del Fiore Cathedral in the centre of the city. The view is incredible and is sure to take your breath away...

The art which floods this city, is the main attraction that draws thousands of people to it's doorstep. Works  As enthusiastic art students, we were eager to view as much art that we could. We were lucky, five days was the perfect amount of time to fit everything into our schedule. In my opinion, the top 5 places to see while in Florence would have to be:
by Michelangelo, Massacio, Botticelli, Donatello, Brunelleschi and Raphael dominate the galleries and streets of Florence.

1. The Duomo, Santa Maria del Fiore Cathedral

2. The Uffizi Gallery

3. The Ponte Vecchio

4. The Accademia

5. The Medicci Palace

You can't travel to Italy and not experience the real Italian Gelato (although in our case it became an addiction) As we are teenagers (with no money) we spent time searching for the largest quantity ice-creams for the cheapest price. Something, I may say, we became quite talented at. So, if you're looking for some delicious gelato at a reasonable price I recommend:

1. Gelateria La Carraia, Florence 

2. Gelateria Perché No!

While we're on the topic of food, pizza is a must have at least one night (well, there's no escaping it anyway) Try something different! Don't go for the typical Margarita that can be found anywhere in the world. Looking for something 'Typically Italian", we found a fabulous little restaurant called MaMMa Mia Pizzeria. This restaurant served a range of gorgeous Italian food and only a five minute walk from The Duomo. I can't forget to mention the service, or I would be disowned by my friends. As only Irish girls can be, the seven of us spent our time trying to catch the eye of the lovely (really hot) waiter who worked there. So, if you're looking for some delicious food and eye candy, MaMMa Mia is the place to go.

Firenze or Florence, is one of the most picturesque places you'll ever visit. It's an Art lovers paradise with endless opportunities to view some Renaissance art. If you've never shown any interest in art before your visit, be prepared to fall in love with the statue of David by Michelangelo... So, if you're wondering where to visit this year, Firenze is a city worth taking some selfies in!