A Reel Birthday

This month marks Reel Speak’s 12^th anniversary. 

 

The number twelve has a significant place in our culture. There are 12 numbers on a clock, 12 months in a year, and 12 signs of the zodiac (Western and Chinese). The number has a place in ancient storytelling, with the 12 Olympians as the principal gods of the pantheon, along with the 12 labors of Hercules. In cinema, the number appears in significant films such as 12 ANGRY MEN (1957), THE DIRTY DOZEN (1967), 12 MONKEYS (1995), and 12 YEARS A SLAVE (2013). And as of this writing, there have been 12 STAR WARS films released in theatres. 

 

And it was with STAR WARS where this Blog has its roots. It was in the Spring or Summer of 1977 when This Blogger’s young mind was changed forever when he saw the magic of big-screen cinema. Fast-forward to 2010 when This Blogger had an idea; to share his love and knowledge (or lack of), with friends, family, and anyone else who would listen. 

 

After doing this for a dozen years, it is natural to wonder just how much longer this little Blog can go on. Especially after the last two years, where a mishandled pandemic and annoying streaming services have nearly wrecked movie theatres, and made it nearly impossible to keep up on new releases. It’s hard to maintain that love of the big screen when the big screen isn’t what it used to be. 

 

But, every year, to celebrate Reel Speak’s birthday, this Blogger looks back on the top reasons why I fell in love with cinema in the first place. This was always a way to share, and to perhaps inspire others to look back and remember what they love about the movies too, but here in Year 12, it has reminded this Blogger that there is always magic to be found when the lights dim and the screen lights up. 

 

Why do I love the movies? Let me count the ways: 

 

20. Because the trick is not minding that it hurts. 

19. Because if they catch you, they will kill you. But first, they must catch you. 

18. Because a Jaguar Shark ate my best friend. 

17. Because we will not walk in fear of one another. 

16. Because of John Williams.

15. Because I have been, and always shall be your friend. 

14. Because what we do in life echoes in eternity. 

13. Because Red October was hunted.

12. Because the only Virtue is Vengeance. A Vendetta. 

11. Because Crom laughs at your four winds! 

10. Because it’s a wonderful night for Oscar.

9. Because they made me an offer I couldn’t refuse.

8. Because “I love you”, and “I know”.

7. Because if someone asks me if I’m a god, I say yes.

6. Because I will drink your milkshake.

5. Because every man dies, not every man really lives. 

4. Because they needed a bigger boat.

3. Because there had to be snakes.

2. Because the Fellowship will not fail. 

1. Because the Force will be with you, always.