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Category: Movies

Quickshot Reviews: Jurassic Park

Despite the themes of evolution and primacy of nature over man, Jurassic Park stands as one of the iconic defining films of a generation. As it happens, it also has some oddly prescient discussion of animal theme parks and the ethics of genetic modification. Both a rollicking story with tons of action and an incredible soundtrack, AND a story that quietly and unashamedly faces deeper questions and concepts.

Concerns to be aware of include a complete adoption of evolution as confirmed fact along with the millions of years dialogue and terrifying dinosaurs. Multiple characters are killed and children are in danger at a number of points. Minor language, no sexual content warnings.

9.5/10 stars, masterful production that easily stands up to the test of time. Fantastic themes of family and responsibility, with insightful discussion on topics like ethics of animal theme parks, extinction, cloning, and genetic modification.  Not for the faint of heart, dinosaurs are rightfully terrifying.

The soundtrack is honestly beyond incredible in my eyes. There is a brilliant repetition of the main theme of wonder and joy, but shaded by the moods and thoughts of the story. The soundtrack themes are definitely in my top 5 soundtracks of all time.

Story-wise Jurassic Park ties together a fairly cohesive story that deals with dinosaurs at every turn, and yet the story is not a Dino story. I would argue that the story just happens to be set in this Dinosaur Theme Park, the real tale is a story of humans facing the unknown on several levels including family and children, nature both archaic and modern, and finally greed and human ego.


For more information and discussion, listen to the podcast episode below.

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Nature Finds a Way: Jurassic Park – Episode 36 – The Polymath Roundtable

When the soundtrack makes a film with iconic dinosaurs and Jeff Goldblum take second billing, you have to sit up and take notice. Today we discuss one of my favorite films, Jurassic Park. Incredible composing and iconic musical themes set the stage for a thrilling tale that actually beats the odds to create a film better than the original book. 

9.5/10 stars, masterful production that easily stands up to the test of time. Fantastic themes of family and responsibility, with insightful discussion on topics like ethics of animal theme parks, extinction, cloning, and genetic modification.  Not for the faint of heart, dinosaurs are rightfully terrifying.

Published June 17th, 2020

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Memorial Day Tribute – War Films and Kipling – Episode 35

“Gung to work, Ho in Harmony.” With these words, the fictional Lt. Col. Thorvald sets forth his vision for the Makin Island Marine Raiders. Based on a true story with minimal propaganda movie machinations, Randolph Scott leads a star studded cast in the 1943 war film Gung Ho!

I rate this very highly, the story is remarkably free from historical shenanigans and presents a simple tale of war and derringdo. No content issues to be aware of, only a minor romance sub plot, but does depict the death and loss in war.

On memorial day we remember all those who have died for their country, good or bad, black hats or white steeds. Even in the face of great evil and righteous war, humans are still made in the image of God and death should be mourned. We thank those who have made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedoms.

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And consider supporting the continued production of this podcast: https://anchor.fm/polymathroundtable/support

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Retro Movie Rewind: The Bells of San Angelo – The Polymath Roundtable Episode 33

ROY ROGERS!!!! In today’s episode of the Retro Movie Rewind, I’m going to talk about the singing cowboys and The Bells of San Angelo. This was the absolute first cowboy film I ever watched as a kid, and what helped kick-off a lifelong love of the classic singing cowboys.

10/10, simple plots but clean and completely wrapped up. Appropriate for all ages.

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Abominable or Not: You Decide! – Episode 32 – The Polymath Roundtable

A welcome reprieve after watching Onward last month and being disappointed deeply, Abominable is up for discussion today! Great music and hugely artistic visuals, stunning on that aspect. I never guessed that I would pan a Pixar film so hard until Onward, but Dreamworks brought a fantastic movie to replace that in my heart.

Abominable rates a solid 8.5 for me! Minor philisophical issues, but overall a fantastic film. Happily recommended.

Published May 11th, 2020

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Retro Movie Rewind #2: The Rescuers (1977) – The Polymath Roundtable – Episode 31

In today’s Retro Movie Rewind we are looking at…..The Rescuers (1977)! Gorgeous hand drawn animation, feel good spirituality, and a Cruella De Vil archetype Villianess. A lovely and highly enjoyable cast and world with fantastic voices.

9/10, be ready to discuss orphans and the truth about where we find our Faith.

Published May 7th, 2020

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Retro Movie Rewind – The Love Bug – Episode 29

I grew up watching classic movies, and starting today we are diving into the glorious world of classic films every Thursday! Our first Retro Movie Rewind is…..The Love Bug featuring the iconic Herbie! Its like Steve McQueen starring in It’s A Wonderful Life, Now with 50% more Car! Pseudo-spirituality, and glorious classic cars make this an odd duck of a heart warming film.

8/10 rating, minor spiritual confusion issues.

Published April 30th, 2020

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Episode 26 – Onward and Upward or Down and Out?

Today we tackle the controversial subject of the new highly acclaimed Pixar film, Onward. My rating: 1 star out of 5, NOT FOR KIDS. The first 3 minutes of the episode are spoiler free, But the verdict is grim. This is one Pixar film that tugs on many heart strings and then twists them in knots. I will definitely NOT be showing this one to my little siblings.

Published April 9th, 2020

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