As the most populous and one of the largest states, California is home to incredible diversity. Scenes from the southern section include great beaches, perfect for spending sunny days and surfing, while the north boasts towering redwood forests and stunning natural beauty. Quite a few films, many made in HD, have captured the allure and attraction of 'The Golden State.' For satellite TV viewers in search of CA classics, these five great movies all stand the test of time.
'American Graffiti' (1973). George Lucas wrote and directed this coming-of-age tale that takes place in Modesto. It captures the rock and roll culture of the early 1960s and features young actors who went on to have great success including Harrison Ford and Ron Howard. It was initially successful and has gained a greater audience over the years. Low production costs and box office success have thus made this picture one of the most profitable ever, and it was even added to the National Film Registry's list of cultural significant movies.
'Of Mice and Men' (1992). The third version to be adapted from the 1937 John Steinbeck book, this film stars Gary Sinise and John Malkovich. The former was even nominated for his work in the Cannes Film Festival of that year. Profits were quite low due to a poor performance in theatres. But despite this, it has garnered very favorable reviews from critics and from online review sites such as Rotten Tomatoes.
'The Sandlot' (1993). A timeless tale, this comedy-drama follows the story of a group of young boys during one of the summers of their childhood. Set in a suburb of Los Angeles, in 1962, it will take you back to your childhood where gaining acceptance from your peers is everything. The sports dimension is important, but it is not just a baseball film. The narration captures the era and also some of the aspects of friendship when you are just twelve. Two sequels were made, but neither begins to rival the original.
'Sideways' (2004). Another comedy-drama to check out on satellite TV, this time set in Santa Barbara; the movie revolves around two middle-aged men who take a trip into wine country. One is divorced while another is engaged, about to be married. They were college roommates and could not be less alike as the overly-cautious Miles tries to temper the crazy ideas of Jack. They set off with the intention of making the most of the trip. Romance, of course, develops along the way, as they visit bodegas and enjoy top CA wines.
'Little Miss Sunshine' (2006). With a good section set in California and the rest in Arizona, the film focus on the road trip of a family trying to support the daughter's dreams of winning a beauty pageant. The young girl is clearly different from the typical beauty pageant queen, but the parents are great sports and nonetheless encourage her to follow her dreams. Nominated for four, 'Little Miss Sunshine' captured two Academy Awards. The often hilarious scenes might even end up moving you to tears, as it truly captures the importance of love and family bonds.
'American Graffiti' (1973). George Lucas wrote and directed this coming-of-age tale that takes place in Modesto. It captures the rock and roll culture of the early 1960s and features young actors who went on to have great success including Harrison Ford and Ron Howard. It was initially successful and has gained a greater audience over the years. Low production costs and box office success have thus made this picture one of the most profitable ever, and it was even added to the National Film Registry's list of cultural significant movies.
'Of Mice and Men' (1992). The third version to be adapted from the 1937 John Steinbeck book, this film stars Gary Sinise and John Malkovich. The former was even nominated for his work in the Cannes Film Festival of that year. Profits were quite low due to a poor performance in theatres. But despite this, it has garnered very favorable reviews from critics and from online review sites such as Rotten Tomatoes.
'The Sandlot' (1993). A timeless tale, this comedy-drama follows the story of a group of young boys during one of the summers of their childhood. Set in a suburb of Los Angeles, in 1962, it will take you back to your childhood where gaining acceptance from your peers is everything. The sports dimension is important, but it is not just a baseball film. The narration captures the era and also some of the aspects of friendship when you are just twelve. Two sequels were made, but neither begins to rival the original.
'Sideways' (2004). Another comedy-drama to check out on satellite TV, this time set in Santa Barbara; the movie revolves around two middle-aged men who take a trip into wine country. One is divorced while another is engaged, about to be married. They were college roommates and could not be less alike as the overly-cautious Miles tries to temper the crazy ideas of Jack. They set off with the intention of making the most of the trip. Romance, of course, develops along the way, as they visit bodegas and enjoy top CA wines.
'Little Miss Sunshine' (2006). With a good section set in California and the rest in Arizona, the film focus on the road trip of a family trying to support the daughter's dreams of winning a beauty pageant. The young girl is clearly different from the typical beauty pageant queen, but the parents are great sports and nonetheless encourage her to follow her dreams. Nominated for four, 'Little Miss Sunshine' captured two Academy Awards. The often hilarious scenes might even end up moving you to tears, as it truly captures the importance of love and family bonds.
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