2021 English speaking films

During the Covid-19 Pandemic most of us probably watched more films more often in a streaming format.  There has been some criticism over movie production going ahead while many had to stay at home.  I am lucky, retired I am not losing any money staying home, but like many others I suffer from cabin fever and am grateful that there are a lot of archive films and new ones available.  A trend for me, shared by many others is to mini series perhaps accelerated by the pandemic.  I was fortunate to have a conversation with Lawrence Hill, successful author negotiating a mini series.  He felt there was more room for character development.  http://www.therealjohndavidson.com/2020/09/the-book-of-negroes.html 

 "Nomadland" (2020)  A movie more about character than plot.  Frances McDormand is displaced due to a plant shutdown and limited financial resources takes off in her van.  She meets a lot of displaced people who develop strategies for coping.  Won Oscars for Frances McDormand (first to win for both acting and producing), and Chloe Zhao.

 

 

 

 

 

 "Promising Young Woman" (2020) had a good plot focused on sexual consent and the unfairness of women's treatment.  It had bits of humor, suspense and twist (of course).

"The White Tiger" (2021) has a lot of Bollywood connections, but is 90% English.  Priyanka Chopra Jonas is one of the three main stars and is also an executive producer.  Rao Rajkumar, a popular Bollywood star played probably the second star.  The real star is Adarsh Gourav who plays a poor man who eventually becomes rich.  Corruption, crime and caste all play a role.  Based on a Booker Mann literary award.   http://www.therealjohndavidson.com/2021/01/the-white-tiger.html

 

 "One Night in Miami" (2021) perhaps inspired by an actual meeting between Cassius Clay, Jim Brown, Sam Cooke and Malcolm X.  Underlying theme is what blacks need to do to empower themselves.  Malcolm X seems to feel that Jim Brown and Sam Cooke are catering to the white man while they point out that is where they can gain wealth and power.  One interesting example was with Sam Cooke gaining enough wealth and power to form his own music company that allowed him to hire black musicians and composers.   One of the composers had a rhythm and blues song reach number 94 on billboard, but Sam was able to sell rights to the Rolling Stones and they turned "It's All over Now" into a number one hit that eventually gave the original composer a huge residual.

 "Jojo Rabbit" (2019) doesn't glorify Nazism and in fact brilliantly satirizes it.  From the talented Taika Waititi of New Zealand 

 "The Dig" (2021) was a movie about recognition.  Before WW II a wealthy woman hired an "excavator" to explore some mounds.  Basil Brown uncovered an ancient ship used for a burial, but museum people took over. 

"Judy" (2019) about an icon and one who seemed so innocent when we first became aware of her.  Renee Zellweger deservedly won an Oscar.  Tragic story.

"Dark Waters" (2019) based on true story concerning misleading practices of DuPont.  Some of the actual participants consulted and had bit parts in the movie.

"Bombshell" (2019) included because it uncovers Roger Ailes, but done much better  (more detail) with "The Loudest Voice"  A good short version.

"Let him Go" (2020) starred Kevin Costner and Diane Lane in a conflict about parenting styles.  A son has died and his parents visit their grand son and feel he is being abused.

"News of the World" (2020) Tom Hanks and Helena Zengel who stole a lot of the show without speaking hardly any English

"Top End Wedding" (2019) is in some ways a typical romance comedy, but it is noteworthy having been co-written by a well known aboriginal actress Miranda Tapsell and set in aboriginal territory of Australia.

 "Our Friend" (2019)  a tear jerker based on a true story.

 "Fatherhood" (2021)  Father loses his wife after a child birth and decides to tackle bringing up his daughter on his own.  The big surprise was how good Kevin Hart could be.  

"The Mauritanian" (2021) Guantonamo detainee for 15 years.  You would think he would be discouraged and bitter.  A charming man in real life--sings along with Bob Dylan song.  Rule of law affects everyone.  Tahir Rahim and Jodie Foster were excellent.  http://www.therealjohndavidson.com/2021/07/the-mauritanian.html 

 

 

 

 "Words of Bathroom Walls" (2020) is a story about a young man with schizophrenia who tries to hide it.  With Charlie Plummer and Taylor Russell.

"Judas and the Black Messiah" (2021)  won two Oscars, one for Danial Kaluuya and one for music.  It pitted the Black Panthers against FBI who had an inside spy.

 

 

 

 

 "Grand Unified Theory" (2016) is a semi typical family angst movie, but has a redeeming feature.  One of the characters is an astro physicist who brings up provocative questions such as how do we get something from nothing.

"tick, tick...BOOM" (2021) musical on Jonathan Larson who wrote "Rent" I had watched the movie only because my cousin Linda who doesn't like musicals, commented that she did like Rent.  Good music

 

 

 

 

"The Power of the Dog" (2021) is a modern Western with Benedict Cumberbatch.

"Pig" (2021) shows Nicolas Cage in a very different role.  He has a pig he uses to find truffles and someone steals it.  We learn that his character had been a greatly respected restaurant owner, but dropped out many years ago to live by himself chasing after truffles.  He was very attached to the pig.  The DVD comes with a special feature showing Nicolas Cage cooking on two videos under the guidance of a master chef with some interesting recipes. 

 

"The Unforgivable" (2021) A de glamorized Sandra Bullock, also a producer.  We all make judgments based on superficial information and sometimes we are terribly wrong and unfair to others.   A story based on British series created by Sally Wainwright who also contributed to some of my favorites such as  "Happy Valley" (2014-2022), "Last Tango in Halifax" (2012-2020) and "Scott and Bailey" (2011-2016).

 

Older flims (before 2011)

"The Magnificent Seven" (1960) Mexico was upset over "Vera Cruz"(1954) that they felt insulted Mexicans.  Some censorship and even plot change--asked for guns first rather than gunmen, clean clothes (1960)    http://www.therealjohndavidson.com/2021/02/steve-mcqueen-mr-cool.html

"The Elephant Man" (1980) made me feel something like a voyeur, somewhat repulsed, but very curious.  We like to picture ourselves as very open minded, but we are have fairly set ideas of normalcy and beauty. I remember actually hiring someone who had a distorted face that I at first felt repulsive, but gradually accepted and found him to be helpful whereas I also felt protective.  Some of those feelings were evoked by this film.  We do have prejudice against appearances and don't always realize there is a person there.  Mel Brooks, noted for comedy was the deliberately uncredited executive  producer who was very involved with decisions.  

I watched the revival "The Producers" (2005) to remind what Mel Brooks usually specializing in.  In poor taste, but hard not to laugh at points.

"The Aviator" (2004) was a blockbuster I missed when it came out.  Leo DiCaprio was phenomenal.   Howard Hughes stood up against Hollywood censors and the United States Senate.  A very innovative man, but with some devastating faults.

"Seven Years in Tibet" (1997) had been seen many years before, but not really appreciated at the time.  Since then I have come to admire the Dalai Lama who is depicted as an inquisitive 14 year old boy.  Magnificent scenery.  I have also come to enjoy music of Yo Yo Ma, here composed by John Williams. 

"Holiday" (1938) with Cary Grant, Katherine Hepburn and Lew Ayres.  Directed by George Cukor. 

"Erin Brockovich" (2000) won an Oscar for Julia Roberts in an out of character role.  

"Jezebel" (1938)." Now, Voyager" (1942), "Dead Ringer" (1942)," The Little Foxes" (1941) were seen as part of my Bette Davis study.  http://www.therealjohndavidson.com/2021/08/bette-davis.html

"Sweet Bird of Youth" (1962) had been censored from the original Broadway production written by Tennessee Williams.  Paul Newman had a clause that allowed him to take on Broadway shows that he liked and so he opted for this one and then brought it to the screen along with Geraldine Page and Rip Thorn.

"2001:  A Space Odyssey" (1968) Amazing concepts of the near future.  Most perceptive would a danger of artificial intelligence.   

 

 

 

 

 "Limitless" (2011) depicted Bradley Cooper as a man given a pill that opened one's whole intelligence enabling him to make an immense fortune.  But life is not that simple.

"Ordinary People" (1980) An excellent movie on human relations.  A big shock for me was Mary Tyler Moore who been a favorite on tv.  Donald Sutherland showed his versatility.  Surprised to learn it was directed by Robert Redford.   

 

 

 

"Midnight Cowboy" (1969) regret I consciously avoided.  An excellent story of two men who come to support one another.. 

"Kramer vs. Kramer" (1979) Dustin Hoffman, Meryl Streep  After a divorce the mother decides she wants her son back.

"Stranger than Fiction" (2006) Will Ferrell--a new opinion  Dustin Hoffman and Emma Thompson

"A Beautiful Mind" (2001) A contrast to previous Russell Crowe movie, "Gladiator"  (2000).  Game theory, Ron Howard, director and writer conveyed mental illness in way that at first caught one off guard, but increased our understanding of the disease.

"Groundhog Day" (1993)  Everyone would like a second chance.  Bill Murray classic.

"White Dog" (1982) a film that had been shelved, partly as one authority declared it to be racist.  Actually it is anti-racist demonstrating racism exists.  Heard about as had been a book by Romain Gary.  http://www.therealjohndavidson.com/2021/10/white-dog.html

"The Importance of Being Earnest" (1952)  An Oscar Wilde play.  Manners of English upper class.

"In the Heat of the Night" (1966) with the impressive duo of Rod Steiger and Sidney Poitier.  Displays the racial animosities of the time with slight melting with a very long way to go.  Big well deserved Oscar winner.  Racial tension had Sidney Poitier requesting all filming north of the Mason Dixon line.

 

 

 

 

"Chicago" (2003) winner of 6 Oscar Awards.   Who knew Richard Gere could tap dance?  Murder and music and especially dancing with Catherine Zeta-Jones, Renee Zellweger and Chita Rivera,

"Beat the Devil" (1953) Despite a stellar cast and crew this film is only included  because of a side issue.  Humphrey Bogart had a serious auto accident while filming and was not able to speak clearly so the studio found a man gifted for voices--Peter Sellers.

"Seconds" (1966) was a rare movie for glamor superstar Rock Hudson, but he proves a better actor than credited.  It is sort of science fiction where a man dissatisfied for life accepts an opportunity with plastic surgery, rehabilitation and coaching to restart life.  Satisfaction in life is hard to define.  From the supplements appreciated the cinematography of James Wong Howe.  Not a box office success, but has since achieved cult status.

"The Fallen Idol" (1948) is a British masterpiece inspired by a Graham Greene story, directed by Carol Reed with Ralph Richardson and Jack Hawkins playing a role.  About an eight year old boy who doesn't understand deceptions of adults and gets involved in police investigation.  Innocent and not so innocent lies play a role.

"Sunrise" (1927) A silent film, but including some music and street sounds.  Won 3 Oscars.  An early cinematographic model.

"Fried Green Tomatoes" (1991).  A fine cast led by Jessica Tandy gives a view of the South in the twentieth century.

Mini Series

"John Adams" (2008) of course had a lot of history involving critical people and their decisions that carry on to today.  A tremendous effort to convey the atmosphere of the times.  Abigail Adams was given almost equal coverage and demonstrated that women did deserve the vote.

"Six Feet Under" (2001- 2005)had been seen in part years ago, but decided to watch total series.  The ending was unique in that it truly projected an ending.  Ernest Hemingway once said in paraphrase that if there is no death it is not a true story.  Fictional stories are more credible that end in death.  Some in the writing end seemed to favor natural burials.

"Chernobyl" (2019) a horror film, although it is true.  A phrase to remember: "Every lie we tell incurs a debt to the truth.  sooner or later that debt is paid."

"I, Claudius" (1976)  A classic starring favorite Derek Jacobi.  http://www.therealjohndavidson.com/2021/09/i-claudius.html 

 

 

 

 

 "William and Mary" (2004-2007) was a series I had seen partially on tv many years ago, but enjoyed even more when able to see full set on DVD.  Julie Graham is a favorite and Martin Clunes (a favorite of Helen Rigby) was not at all obnoxious.  He plays an undertaker and she is a midwife, covering the circle of life.

"United Shades of America"  (2018- 2021) such a mind opener.  Racism is obvious, but the unconscious part is also dangerous.  Education is so critical and when everyone has the same opportunity we all benefit.  W. Kamau Bell and his crew are excellent at uncovering basic problems.  Sexual orientation, refugees, blacks and minority.  How racial factors interact with establishment.

"Startup" (2016- 2018) about a trio that uses their skills to set up their own organized crime syndicate. 

"Wire in the Blood" (2002) Watched as part of Robson Green blog.  A bit gory.  Robson played a police affiliated psychologist who liked to get inside the mind of serial killers and their victims.  Robson was very good at that.  See more on the series and Robson Green at http://www.therealjohndavidson.com/2021/11/robson-green.html

 

  "Castle and Castle" (2018)is from Nigeria which is slowly gaining international recognition and English is fairly common.  They have money and have built up some expertise.  This is about a legal firm which is one way of connecting to power.  They try to copy American and European high end people, but do have a few unique angles--Muslims with more than one wife, colonial laws, extradition to the U.S.  tribal loyalties.  They do have inventive relationship entanglements.  Lagos is a very large modern city which impacts the rest of the world.   Nollywood is making progress:  http://www.therealjohndavidson.com/2020/07/nollywood-upcoming-force-in-global-films.html

 Documentaries

"Inside Einstein's Mind" (2015) using graphics and animation demonstrated Einstein's theories.  Hadn't realized the scope of his thinking.  

"The True Cost" (2015) uncovers the cost of fashion.  It starts at farming where genetic engineering, fertilizers, pesticide spraying are intended to increase profits at the expense of famrers and labourers.  Creates financial stress that has resulted in farmer suicides.  A profit driven society stresses that consumption will solve problems.  Trash increases as we dispose of used up products.  The real bottom line is unbridled capitalism.

"The Secret Mind of Slime" (2020) follows experiments with slime and discover that brainless entities are able to duplicate some laboratory results obtained by such animals as mice.  One of the thoughts is that this is a step in evolution.  The slime is able to distinguish light and chemical that it either wants to eat or avoid.  One experiment demonstrated that over time it is able to get around a substance they do not like such as salt to reach the food that had been blocked.

"Lincoln: Divided We Stand" (2021)  Six part CNN series points out that Lincoln was a complicated man who didn't set out to free black slaves, but evolved in his thinking.  He was open minded and practical.

"In Defense of Food" (2015) processed foods, cheaper--Govt finds itself attacked by interest groups when trying to regulate such things as sugar--French are healthier--French serve smaller portions--food meant to be enjoyed--eating is an event--eat slowly.

"The Whale Detective" (2019) following a whale breaching on top of producer Tom Mustill.  Awesome

"The Hunt" (2015) is a mini series narrated by David Attenborough.  The most basic story of life.  The inter play between predator and prey.  Very wide reaching.  The effort to kill more often fails, but persistence and ingenuity pay off.   Balance of nature, ignored at our peril.    Too many survivors result in starvation and/or depravity.  http://www.therealjohndavidson.com/2021/05/the-hunt-is-what-life-is-all-about.html     

"Cowspiracy" (2015)  Climate change is fueled significantly with meat eating.  The cattle industry is well entrenched.  http://www.therealjohndavidson.com/2021/05/cowspiracy-points-out-major-premier.html.

"Raise Hell:  The Life and Times of Molly Ivins" (2019)  Very astute political observer with a excellent  irreverent sense of  humor.  Brings up important point that politics should not be boring, it affects everyone every day with their decisions.

"I am Not Your Negro" (2016) James Baldwin, articulate spokesman wrote the script many years ago and film adapted to his words.

"Control Room" (2004) focused on the Iraqi invasion as covered by Al Jazeera and referencing American media and state--Donald Rumsfeld (who lied about justification) said Al Jazeera was pounding flat out lies all day--realize edited to make points, but my experience with Al Jazeera is they make an honest attempt to be objective--they offend many Mid East governments--one of American military spokesman came to realize Al Jazeera is trying to do a job

"Putin Interviews" (2017) U.S supported Taliban against Russia  U.S. initiated Turkish missile sites that provoked Russia to put missiles in Cuba.  NATO supposedly not needed after collapse of Soviet Union, but missiles surround Russia.  Has sense of humor.  Ukraine, Georgia, Chechen  Snowden, Trump--denials and dubious justifications

"Escape from Extinction" (2020) focuses on the increasing animal extinctions.  It also attempts to shift criticisms of previous zoo practices to their efforts to curb extinctions.   It eased my guilty conscience a little bit.  http://www.therealjohndavidson.com/2021/10/escape-from-extinction.html

 

"Haida Modern" (2019)  Have been fascinated with the Haida nation since a news announcement from Pierre Trudeau.  Have a few prints on hand.  Robert Davidson was the focus (no relation). 

 

 

 

 

"The Game Changers"(2019) This film will tip me closer to veganism.  Athletes demonstrate that being a vegan can be a boost.  Doctors and scientists and archaeologists provide rational proof.  http://www.therealjohndavidson.com/2021/12/the-game-changers.html    

 

 

 For subtitled movies from around the world check out:   http://www.therealjohndavidson.com/2021/12/enjoyable-subtitled-movies-seen-in-2021.html   Why should you bother with "foreign" films?  A different perspective--help you understand and appreciate.  Best of all because creativity is everywhere.they are enjoyable.  After awhile you will notice a lot of borrowing between cultures.  This year my top ones come from that list.

The Book of Negroes

When The Book of Negroes won Canada Reads I was able to buy a copy.  I read it as an entertaining story, but confess much of it was not properly understood.  I was conscious of story that stretched from African kidnappings to American slavery to the War of Independence to Nova Scotia settlement and over to Sierra Leone with some legislative impact in England.

I had met Lawrence Hill at a Human Library event held at the Hamilton Public Library.  He caught me with one of my prejudices; a black subgroup.  He did discuss this mini series which was in progress at the time, but we mostly talked of his personal history and marketing strategies which in part involved book clubs.  He felt a two hour movie would not convey enough.  The mini series was a first as none of his earlier books had generated film interest.  The mini-series seemed the most practical way to convey a complicated book.

Special features of the DVD proved to be a treasure chest.  A female actress commented how she was impressed that the author could get inside a female mind.  Lawrence Hill had written a few books previously mostly told from a male perspective.  He explained that he had been surrounded by strong women and he enjoyed listening to them and felt a woman's perspective would be a better way to tell the story.

Visiting his parents Lawrence picked up a book "The Black Loyalists" that had been written by a family friend.   The Book of Negroes was an actual document organized by the British Admiralty to record negroes eligible to move to Nova Scotia.  Lawrence felt Canadians although aware of slavery in the United States were unaware that it also existed in Canada.  The first slaves go back to 1628 in French Canada and did include indigenous people.  Lawrence's father, Daniel Hill, a black man had married a white woman and consequently moved to Canada.  Eventually he became the first director of the Ontario Human Rights Commission. 

Part of the movie was shot in Cape Town, South Africa just after Mandela had died.  Giulio Biccari, born in Johannesburg was responsible for the cinematography.  His films include  "Forgiveness" (2004),  "The No. 1 Ladies Detective Agency" (2009) and "Black Butterflies" (2011)" and "The Heineken Kidnapping" (2011).    More on the No 1 Ladies Detective Agency which was set in Botswana:  http://www.therealjohndavidson.com/2017/01/the-minor-adjustment-beauty-salon.html

Many authors find it difficult to deal with criticism and the changes to their original idea.  Lawrence recognized the story had to be cut down and he had been used to criticism from his journalism career  where it was common for editors to twist his written words.  Putting his novel into a mini series meant that the message would reach more people.  The word "negro" is an awkward one that Lawrence does not use much himself, but he wanted it included in the primary title.  A secondary title "Someone Knows my Name" was used in several English speaking countries, Australia, New Zealand and the United States.  It came from something said by one of the slaves who was pleased that someone called him by his proper name.

George Washington was a slave owner and felt strongly that blacks were American property.  Guy Carleton used Book of Negroes to justify what the taking meant.  This scene was cut from the novel, but written in the series script by Lawrence.

Lawrence had written a number of fiction and non fiction books, grabbing national attention by winning the Canada Reads contest with "The Book of Negroes."  After meeting Lawrence I read his memoir, "Black Berry, Sweet Juice" which told of how he felt growing up as a racially mixed child, his education at Laval University in Quebec City and Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore, Maryland.  Had done volunteer work in French speaking Africa and done journalism in Toronto and Winnipeg.  A new work of fiction, "The Illegal" combined his interest in running and involvement with diabetes and a concern for migrants.  He became the first author to win a second Canada Reads contest.   Read more about "Black Berry, Sweet Juice'  http://www.therealjohndavidson.com/2020/02/black-berry-sweet-juice.html

Clement Virgo was the director, co-writer and producer and thus worked very closely with Lawrence.  Born in Jamaica and educated in Toronto, Clement had a long history with films as a writer, director and producer.  Reflecting a personal interest one of his award winning films was "Poor Man's Game" (2007).  He directed two episodes of "The Wire" (2002). 

Aunjanue Ellis was chosen to play the lead, Aminata Diallo  who played virtually in every scene.  Some of her films included  "Men of Honor" (2000 with Cuba Gooding Jr.) "The Help" (2011) and "Designated Survivor" (6 episodes 2018-19).

Lyriq Bent played Chekura Tiano, the lover of Aminata.  They had met while he was assisting slavers marching some captured to a port.  Meeting at several intervals personifying how slave owners kept lovers separate from one another.  Born in Jamaica and educated in Toronto he achieved much of his success on American tv. series.

Ben Chaplin plays Captain John Clarkson, the English naval leader who befriends Aminata and helps her out at several points in the series.  The British born actor made an American breakthrough with "The Truth About Cats and Dogs" (1996).  Another of his films was "London Boulevard" (2010).

Allan Hawco plays Soloman Lindo, a Jewish businessman who plays a critical role in Aminata's (and other family members) movements.  Born and raised in Newfoundland is most famous for "Republic of Doyle" as the lead actor, writer and producer and is set in St. John's where he lives.

Louis Gossett Jr. played Daddy Moses a religious and community leader. for two episodes  He was the first African American to win a Oscar for best supporting actor with "An Officer and a Gentleman" (1982).  He also won a Primetime Emmy Award for an appearance in "Roots" (1977).  Played Anwar Sadat in tv mini-series, "Sadat" (1983,   Remember him in one episode with "The Good Fight" (2017).

Cuba Gooding Jr. played a close friend to Aminata in two episodes  He also won an Oscar for best supporting actor with "Jerry McGuire" (1996) as an obnoxious football player.  Another notable movie he appeared in was "Selma" (2013).  First drew attention as a break dancer.  

The book and the series are well worth your time.  Books generally give a fuller picture of what the author is trying to convey.  There must have been some interesting negotiations to set up a mini series.  The notion of a two hour film must have been rejected fairly early, but a mini series is a big step.  The advantage of the series is that it is a type of summary of the book and also has the benefit of further thought and collaborative thinking.  Assembling a cast and crew and organizing locations, costumes is a mammoth undertaking.  The message comes through.

Titles that have been bolded are ones that I have seen or read.

BLACK BERRY, SWEET JUICE

This is my fourth book by Lawrence Hill and the first non fiction.  I had read  "The Book of Negroes" before I actually met him.  It was in a library setting giving me a chance to ask questions and have him catch me out on a prejudice of mine (regarding a specific subset of blacks).   I remember learning some of what he had planned for the near future and some of his writing background.

I had read many books about the black experience and was aware of mixed races, but not thought about it.  As Hill explains each person has an identity concern.  I grew up white, not conscious even of white privilege as there were no blacks to compare myself to.  As I grew up I encountered more blacks and other races including mixed.  It was easy to be self righteous about prejudiced people, especially when they were distant and not real.

Lawrence grew up with a white mother and a black father who had moved to Toronto and lived in a white neighborhood .  His father's family, even though mostly in the States had kept up relations, but his mother's family had mostly disowned her and after awhile there were visits, but they lived further away.  Because he lived in a white neighbouhood and attended white schools he naturally developed "white" interests  One of them was squash which upset a cousin who described  it as a "white sport" but Lawrence really enjoyed it.

An element that escapes most people is that it is difficult for a mixed race person to be fully accepted by either race.  Barrack Obama labored under the fact that many whites would never accept a black president and that many blacks felt he was not black enough.  Part of his problem was that his father was born in Africa and had no history of slavery.  Interviewing dozens of mixed race people  Lawrence found that in many situations (following a one drop rule) they were discriminated against by some whites while seeming like outsiders among blacks.

Lawrence's father was a prominent human rights government officer and was able to provide lots of opportunities.  Lawrence has lived in many Canadian cities, partly to learn French.  From Quebec he got involved with a student group in Niger where he met Africans some of whom were surprised he considered himself black. 

Hair was an issue almost as serious as skin colour.   Long straight hair was considered a mark of beauty and many blacks tried to adapt with often frustrating results.  When I made it to university one of my  proctors (residential room supervisor) often talked of black pride and I believe hair was part of the movement.  Don't try to be something you are not, but take pride in who you are.  White mothers of black daughters are sometimes criticized for lack of mothering skill regarding hair care.  After reading the chapter on hair I was able to pick up "Embracing Da Kink" DVD from the library to get a better idea of how important hair was to personal identity. 

Black men dating and marrying white women cause resentment and at one time fear.   Black men  have been taught to think white women were more beautiful.   Realizing this fact some black mothers encouraged their sons to ask black girls to dance reminding me of mothers of tall boys have been known to advise their sons to date taller women as they lose out to male prejudices against taller women.  In some circles mulatto women were favored as mistresses of prominent white men.

Many black women are better educated and have better career paths than black men meaning that such  women are competing for the more desirable men.  At the same time they often find the men are pursuing white women.  The author really didn't know any suitable black women to date when in high school, but when reached university still date almost exclusively white women.

 The N word  When I was in high school my Latin teacher took a popular verse and rendered it in Latin.  Like many I was familiar with the "eeni meeni maini mo"  little ditty often used to decide between two options.   The n word used, "nigrum"wasn't as offensive as the more common version, but it helped perpetuate the slurring.  I think my teacher who otherwise seemed a fair minded person was just trying to get our attention for what was a declining academic choice.  "Huckleberry Finn" was a book that impressed me and in some ways didn't notice the n word as any more than an old, quaint way of talking that indicated lesser educated people.  Mark Twain portrayed blacks as humans. 

There were virtually no blacks in my world in my first two decades, but I was very conscious of derogatory words, many of which I learned from the subjects of these terms.  They are all meant to downgrade the "other."  The n word  has probably more impact than any other term.  Another term  "wop' had an impact on my life.  I once used it sitting between my half Italian wife and an Italian co-worker against another Italian who in my opinion put down somebody who didn't deserve it.  I ended up apologizing for it but my wife and co worker thought it was merited.  I realize that it offended my boss, a man I greatly admire.

Lawrence was aware of racial discrimination and brought up Indians.  Until recently if an Indian woman married a non Indian she lost her Indian status, but if a non Indian women married an Indian she gained Indian status.   Indians were not allowed to vote either federally or provincially until recently.

One chapter was devoted to an event in Oakville, Ontario in the 1930's regarding a marriage between a black man and a white woman.  Eventually they were able to get married, but not until after a Ku Klux Klan contingent from Hamilton intervened.  My embarrassment is that I once worked for the main Oakville paper, known as the Journal Record and although not identified as such undoubtedly was involved in supporting the efforts against the marriage.  We have all been guilty of associating with questionable entities.

Race is a nebulous term.  Blood types are found globally as are most body parts.  Of those born mixed race, many find themselves identifying with the minority race.  Lawrence found some examples of people who self-identified as black, even though they had a white parent as well.  A famous example is Barrack Obama.  Lawrence also self identifies as a black, but clearly his mother was an important part of his life.

Homegoing

Yaa Gyasi has written a book partly based on her own background as an immigrant from Ghana.  She must have speculated at the different ways Africans arrived in America and opted to show two parallel lines that reflected different aspects of both living a colonial existence and a slave experience.

One of the characters, a teacher in the Gold Coast in an elaborate anecdote expresses a perspective of history, I suspect shared by the author.  History is stories told by the powerful.  We, the listeners should wonder and investigate about the missing stories.

Naively taking history as a young boy and watching the odd movie one got the idea that slaves were pulled at random from their natural habitat and shipped to America, a trip many did not survive.  Yaa demonstrates that the British, Dutch and other Europeans had many local accomplices.  One line picks up from local accomplices which required capturing other tribes further from the coast, often losers in tribal fights.  One British officer marries a local woman through her parents.  For him it is a second marriage while away from his native England.   A mulatto son is sent to England and after coming back helps the slavery business.  The author carries on with a series of vignettes illustrating different aspects of the evolving history illustrating to me how precarious any ancestral line really is.

"The Book of Negroes" by Lawrence Hill has a chapter devoted to natives being captured inland and walked several days to the coast.  I can imagine that it made more sense to have a business relationship with coastal tribes.  Hill carries on with a story of one individual who endures history through to the American Revolution and the emigration of British Empire Loyalists to Nova Scotia.

The other line starts out from the same location and involves a captured women who ends up in America.  The generations progress through history from pre Civil War until contemporary times.  One part that struck me was where southerners had forced a law by 1850 that required northerners to return runaway slaves.  Freed Africans (many really escapees) felt some tension after assuming they were safe.  Future generations were depicted under Jim Crow, moving north encountering racial discrimination.

Known as Gold Coast by British colonizers we become aware of different tribes, Fante, Assante, Twi, etc.  Eventually it become  independent as Ghana  As students in a European system (mine happened to be in Canada, but with only minor differences in other European tradition countries) we see a map of Africa with over 50 countries and assume they are homogenous entities.  Our own tribal backgrounds have amalgamated and we forget the literally thousands of years of shaping what we have become.  As the world becomes more globalized, tribalizing ebbs and flows and the shaping continues.

Shades of color is a role in both parallel stories.  The British officer with his 2nd wife eventually is able to use his mulatto son in the slave trade.  Others are not so fortunate.  When we get to America it turns out mulatto slaves are slightly more privileged and as we move beyond the Civil War we learn some are white enough to try to pass.  One character does succeed, but when whites see him in contact with darker people, turn against him.  There is a fear of getting caught.  Another character wants to be a singer, but is told she is too dark to be accepted in a particular Harlem club, implying that lighter skinned entertainment is accepted.  I once read a science fiction book by Robert J. Sawyer, "Hominids"  where apparently the Neanderthals have integrated to be be one universal color, but find themselves amongst modern humans with distinct races.

George Will, a noted conservative commentator is noted for saying any group that doesn't take responsibility for births shouldn't expect to succeed in life.  Yaa doesn't shy away from this and has one of her characters participate, generating 3 children with different mothers.  Immaturity and racial prejudice play a role.  She points out drugs are part of the culture and can become a vicious circle with blacks being jailed disproportionately.

"Half the Story Has Never been Told" by Edward E Baptist gives some much needed scholarly account of the role of slavery and the rise of American capitalism.  Read more:  http://www.therealjohndavidson.com/2016/12/the-half-has-never-been-told.html

Nearing the end of the book a couple from Ghana with a young daughter emigrate to Hunstville, Alabama as the author's family did .  Fictional characters can be manipulated to cross paths for dramatic effect and the author carries forth this tradition which helps to close the circle.  Symbols from both sides, fire and water with deep meaning are confronted at the end.  In my sixty odd years I have been struck how we are all inter-related without being conscious of it.  I like poetic endings and hope the readers aren't put off with coincidences that are really part of life.  This is an enjoyable read, making one aware of how different aspects of our current world fell into place.

Color shades still play a role in society.  My interest in Bollywood led me to realize that attitudes towards skin colour are still ingrained.  http://www.therealjohndavidson.com/2013/08/bollywood-and-skin-colour.html

BOOKS I AM GLAD I READ IN 2016

Books are alive and well.  In fact there are far more than we have time to read.  The following are some books I enjoyed.  The impulse came from many different sources including just browsing around library shelves and carts, listening to or watching suggestions on tv, radio or newspapers.  A few were pointed out to me on social media.  My opinion is limited because my scope is limited, but I hope that maybe a spark of interest might direct you to something worthy of your time.  I did read others, but these are the ones I would suggest for your consideration.

I am not picking a best choice for non-fiction as the ones listed all had something valuable to offer.

"The Meaning of Human Existence" and "Half Earth" by E. O. Wilson.  You cannot get much more profound than this.  The author sees religion as trying to provide supernatural explanations for life as we experience it while science is uncovering natural explanations.  Diminising bio diversity should concern us all.  More at http://www.therealjohndavidson.com/2016/11/edward-o-wilson-tackles-meaning-of.html

"The Right Way to Lose a War" by Domenic Tierney took a different view of winning a war--it is not necessarily all victory or all defeat.  http://www.therealjohndavidson.com/2016/03/the-right-way-to-lose-war.html

Diet books seem to endlessly offer new options which are really variations on old themes. "The Joy of Half a Cookie" is really dealing with the psychology of eating.  One reads a book with good advice then forgets about it.  I am finding some books with good points and am sometimes able to adopt some of the good points at least some or the time.  http://www.therealjohndavidson.com/2016/03/the-joy-of-half-cookie.html

"Riding Home," pre titled "The Power of Horses to Heal" was first heard about at a trade show I attended.  Most urbanized people dismiss horses as historical or as pets for the rich.  Tim Hayes who did not ride a horse until he reached age 47 found that horses offered people a lot more.  Some examples of the impact of horses were with hardened prisoners and PTSD victims.  http://www.therealjohndavidson.com/2016/05/the-power-of-horses-to-heal-riding-home.html

"Decisivie" by Chip Heath and Dan Heath contend that with decisions, process is more critical than analysis.  Whenever I was faced with a conscious decision I would try to analyze it often using the Ben Franklin method.  The authors develop a more effective strategy.   We all have made millions of decisions to arrive at our current status and if you would like to make decisions that improve your situation this book is a very good place to start. http://www.therealjohndavidson.com/2016/08/decisions-are-path-to-success.html

"Focus" by Daniel Goleman who brought us the concept of Emotional Intelligence.  In this book he writes about how the brain is always focused on something, but we can with some effort choose what to focus on.  A bigger point he makes is that it is very easy to focus on some small thing, but we would do better to see the bigger picture and how the one small thing fits in.  More at:  http://www.therealjohndavidson.com/2016/09/focus-is-crucial-for-work-and-play.html

A Rage for Order"  recommended by Fareed Zakaria dealt with the Arab Spring which has had different results in different countries.  There was a lot agreement that conditions were very poor for most of the people, but little agreement on how best to handle.   Religious differences are key with fundamentalism.  Tunisia represents a fragile hope.

"The Ottoman End Game" reminds us that there were other empires in the world and they have influenced today's politics.  More details at: http://www.therealjohndavidson.com/2016/05/the-ottoman-endgame.html

"Lights Out" delivered another danger to be afraid of:   http://www.therealjohndavidson.com/2016/02/lights-out-another-unthought-of-danger.html  The acknowledgments is interesting in itself.

"The Reason You Walk" by Wab Kinew native concerns, but universal in dealing with his father's death.

"Dark Money"  there have always been suspicions  If you are concrrned about the recent American election this book suggests the power of money, especially when it can be kept secret.  There are many wealthy people who want to change the rules.  The Koch brothers figure prominently in this book and although they did not take a liking to Mr Trump they apparently now feel they can use him to achieve their ends.  Money is not just used for putting out your message it is used for analyzing how to deal with different targets.  http://www.therealjohndavidson.com/2016/07/dark-money-by-jane-mayer.html

"The Half has Never Been Told" by Edward E. Baptist--slavery is history and we have moved on, but the truth is slavery has impact today.  Even on the recent American election.  http://www.therealjohndavidson.com/2016/12/the-half-has-never-been-told.html

"Misbehaving"  by Richard H Thaler- disproves the contention that economics is the most rational of the social sciences.  Economic decisions are very much influenced by psychological and social factors.  If you get a chance to watch "The Big Short" you can see a clip of Richard Thaler explaining the 2008 financial crisis to Selena Gomez.  http://www.therealjohndavidson.com/2016/08/misbehaving-making-of-behavioural.html

"Makers and Takers"  by Rana Foroohar shows how finances developed historically up to the Great Recession of 2008.  Read more at:  http://www.therealjohndavidson.com/2016/10/makers-and-takers.html

"The Wisest One in the Room" hits one of my aspirations.  The wisest man is not quick with answers.  Modern society seems to put a premium on quick answers, but the authors point out that it is not that right answers are so difficult, but that wrong answers are often too easy.  http://www.therealjohndavidson.com/2016/10/the-wisest-one-in-room.html

"Pandemic"  by Sonia Shah more interesting and easy to read than anticipated.  Modern life gives pandemics more opportunities, however co-operation can make a difference.  a lot of political interference.  An interesting link between sex and immunity.  The blog post on this one is the most read of all my book blogs: http://www.therealjohndavidson.com/2016/11/pandemic.html

Despite the relative dearth of fiction books on my list, the truth is well written ones are too engrossing for me.  I am so distracted that the rest of my life including business and household chores are neglected.  E O Wilson pointed out that telling lies is often the best way to express the truth.

"The Illegal" by Lawrence Hill was the author's second winner at Canada Reads.  I also read "Bone and Bread  another selection, but preferred"A Hero's Walk"  by Anita Rau Badami, but they were all enjoyable.  I watched parts of the selection process which is exciting as you see advocates supporting their selection and often analyzing the competition.

I chose to read two library selections; "The Day the Falls Stood Still" and "The Illegal" Both books were selected to focus a whole city's reading, one from Burlington and the other from Hamilton.  Both were enjoyable with opportunities to understand them better.
http://www.therealjohndavidson.com/2016/08/burlington-and-hamilton-libraries.html

"Fifteen Dogs" by André Alexis won the Scotiabank Giller prize.  I actually bought this for my daughter who is a discerning reader who shares ownership of a four legged visitor to my home.  If you are a dog lover you will notice some keen observations.  If you are not you can delve into philosophical questions.  If you are like me you might even know some of the geography.

"Quantum Night" by Robert J Sawyer is as usual full of science, but also philosophy and more than ever politics.  Set mostly in western Canada.

One habit is to read a book by Jane Urquhart and this year, the selection was "Sanctuary Line" which was set in a part of Ontario I have some limited experience in.  Driving through Kingsville and Leamington I was struck by a number of Mexican retailers and eateries and this book helped put that in context.  As usual human relations are her strong point with a few unexpected twists that show we don't always understand how everyone ticks.

"Big Little Lies," by Liane Moriarty first brought to my attention by Vijayakumar MK Nair, a Facebook friend.   Inner dialogue helps to understand the characters better.  Well constructed.  The first chapter lets you know there is a problem and then the book goes back several months to explain how a group of people were intertwined, then the problem is explained and then a very short followup.  The reader is taken inside the mind of several characters and keeps you guessing as more details fall into place.  This was the most enjoyable fictional read for me of the year .

I felt that many of the non fiction books gave me a useful insight, but do not want to select a best.  For fiction I would have to say the most enjoyable book has been 'Big Little Lies."

Each of us who enjoy reading are confronted by an enormous mountain of books.  I welcome suggestions to help narrow down the choices.   There always has to be a book close at hand.  Right now have started "Homegoing" and also a book on mindfulness and sleep.  "The Vegetarian" is also on list.

To check out the books I enjoyed in 2015 go here:  http://www.therealjohndavidson.com/2015/12/my-best-reads-during-2015.html

BURLINGTON AND HAMILTON LIBRARIES CHOSE ONE BOOK ONE COMMUNITY SELECTIONS

I am fortunate to be a member of two libraries--in Hamilton where I live and in Burlington where I work.  This blog is not intended to compare two books so much as to celebrate one concept.  There are far more worthy books to read than any one has time for.  When a library committee sorts through  multitudes of books with a theme (usually local) it gives a focus that helps select something to read.  You are also sharing an experience with others in your community,

Reading is mostly an individual experience.  We can really get wrapped up in a good book and often will tell friends about our favourites.  The Library can help make this a true communal experience.

Over the years each library has selected one book they encourage all their members to read.   I have read many of their selections--once devoting a blog to a selection from Burlington.   The book I had not heard of before was "The Beauty of Humanity Movement." You can read about it here:  http://www.therealjohndavidson.com/2012/07/beauty-of-humanity-movement-book-review.html Another year I had bought the Hamilton selection, "Beach Strip" written by John Lawrence Reynolds who had done some work with the company I work with.  I was able to attend a talk with him.  The book was about things I knew including one place about six blocks from where I live.

This year the Hamilton Library chose "The Illegal"  by Lawrence Hill as their One Book One Community selection which also won the Canada Reads contest.  I had read two other books by the author including previous Canada Reads winner, "The Book of Negroes."  "The Illegal" was set on two mythical islands in the Indian Ocean  symbolizing US and Mexico (or maybe not) and focuses on undocumented refugees.  There were a few references to Canada such as Tim Horton's.  The author is a runner and made his main character a long distance runner. who had diabetes.  There was cast of characters including a wheelchair bound black lesbian reporter, young genius reporter, a few hookers, politicians, crooked and otherwise  One island is poor and authoritarian so there are attempts to escape.  A little mystery, a little romance and lots of satire.

Burlington chose "The Day the Falls Stood Still." published in 2009 as their One Book One Burlington selection.  A friend of my daughter's from King's College in Halifax came to visit us and of course was driven to Niagara Falls which she said was "disappointing." On the way home from Kings College I had dragged my daughter on a trip to Grand Falls, New Brunswick to show her something I had found moderately impressive, only it wasn't impressive at all, just a mere trickle compared to what I had seen on earlier trips.  The explanation for both disappointments boils down to human priorities.  In Grand Falls I learned that water had been diverted for agricultural purposes.  I always thought Niagara Falls was impressive, but have learned that in fact water had been diverted for hydro.  Cathy raised in Niagara Falls researched history including stunts, floaters and electric power development..  There is a focus on environmental concerns comparing coal with hydro power.  Another aspect of the book is with fashion and dressmaking.  I have not only visited Niagara Falls as a tourist, but more often as a salesman and recognized some of the scenery.  The time period is around World War I with references to some Canadian battles as well as the conscription issue (with a francopone tilt).

As part of the process you have a chance to meet the author and ask questions.  Discussions with other readers can help you understand and appreciate the book.   Each library stocks up on the old fashioned books and the catching on e books.  There are usually book kits aimed at book clubs.  With so many copies available you'll be able to discuss it with other patrons--it likely will have some local relevance.  A great concept.  Your library may well have a similar program and if not I suggest you encourage the idea.

Brushes With Celebrities

We live in a celebrity worshipping society.  Most of the time it is from a distance, but whenever we get a little closer it can be quite an ego booster.  I am not immune.

Bobby Orr is still considered one of the greatest hockey players ever.  I had two advantages over others.  I lived in Oshawa when he played for the Oshawa Generals and I lived in Haliburton when he trained young hockey players at a local hockey summer camp.  In Oshawa looking back I believe a friend was just trying to impress me and literally introduced me to Bobby Orr while we were both in a long jump competition.  I remember that I jumped 17 feet 11 3/4 inches and that Bobby jumped something like 18 feet 3 inches.  He just missed the cut and I was ranked just below him.  A few years later I was in the local Haliburton hockey arena and another fellow also trying to impress me introduced me to Bobby again.  Unlike my image of most hockey heroes Bobby was very shy and modest, but obviously had a strong competitive spirit.

Gordie Howe was a hero from an earlier era, a time when I watched the NHL religiously but mostly cheered for the Boston Bruins and mostly watched the Toronto Maple Leafs.  It happened that he was an endorser for a product that my employer, OKD Marketing handled the marketing for.  He visited our office with his wife and for some reason I just barged into a small meeting and shook his hand.  I remembered a story I had read about how he met his wife at a bowling alley and asked her if it was true.  She said that in reality he had "stalked" her.

Someone, probably Len Olynyk suggested I might get Gordie involved in some sort of fund raising event.  Eventually I teamed up with a Canadian manager and talking to Bill Tufts, Jr a member of the Rotary Club got quite excited about the opportunity.  Eventually an agreement was made for Gordie Howe to come to Hamilton, make a speech and sign autographed books for which a part went to the Rotary Club.  One of my jobs was to book his hotel room and was amazed at how easy it was to get a free room for a celebrity.  I worked with the Canadian agent and learned that Gordie's wife was the key person and a lot of adjustments were made to suit her.  One person who impressed me was Steve Ruddick, the CHCH sports reporter who understood the situation perfectly and got a great interview with Gord and Colleen Howe.  A lot of enthusiasm and I ended up buying two books, one for my father and one for my wife's step father.  Afterwards my job was to escort Gord and Colleen to their hotel room.  My father in law had been born in Saskatchewan and that was one of our topics of conversation.

I had an indirect connection to Wayne Gretzsky.  It took me awhile to realize that Rheta Cornish who was a secretary for the circulation department where I worked had  been a legal guardian for Wayne Gretzsky when he played minor league hockey in Toronto.   Even as my interest in sports shifted to basketball I was a great admirer of Wayne, not only for his skills, but also for his broadcasted comments which always seemed thoughtful and diplomatic.  Rheta with her husband Bill attended Wayne's wedding, talked about his previous girl friend and also housed Wayne's sister when she attended a local college.  Rheta had a strong influence on me, some of which I am sure was shared by Wayne.  Read one of my more popular blogs http://www.therealjohndavidson.com/2011/06/why-i-love-opera-wayne-gretzky.html

Coming back from a Florida vacation met and talked with Murray Dryden who had made a connection from Haiti where he was involved in a program to give poor children beds to sleep in.  For those who don't recognize the name, Murray is father to Dave Dryden, an NHL goal keeper and Ken Dryden, NHL goalie, author and politician.  As it happens I was delivering newspapers in Etobicoke for routes without a regular carrier and had met Murray while making collections, but didn't know of any connections at the time.

I also had a sort of indirect contact with a man who combined sports excellence and a strong political path.  When I was researching a book on basketball I had read that Bill Bradley had spent some time in Canada and on impulse wrote to him.  He responded with a thoughtful letter.  His New York Knicks played in Toronto against the Buffalo Braves, but it was an inopportune time for me to follow up.

Not on such a big scale, but also while researching my basketball book I got to interview Jack Donohue, Bill Robinson and Garney Henley amongst many who I greatly admired.   They were all happy to share their experience and joy of basketball.

The University of Guelph with a very strong agricultural (and veterinarian) base was trying to  boost its academic credentials.  I was lured by the tri semester system and the enthusiasm of a spokesperson at my high school.  My friends who went elsewhere laughed that I was going to a cow college, but when they visited they all asked to be taken to see the cows.  I ended up at Lambton Hall and unknown to me one the residence rooms on my floor had been set aside for the student president.  It happened that they were able to persuade a famous Canadian poet, Irving Layton (a common guest on tv shows for his provocative views and art).  One of the first events was for the residents on my floor to meet him.  What I remember is that he didn't believe in censorship and he was provocative.  As a college student his ideas weren't radical for me, but pointed the way to a better future.  In many ways he would not seem so outrageous today. but we  enjoyed the notoriety.

Not too many literary contacts, but I enjoyed talking with John Lawrence Reynolds who had done some writing work for my employer, OKD Marketing and I encountered him a number of times and have read most of his books.  I was also thrilled to get a signed copy of book I had bought from James A Michener whose book had been read.  I had also met Lawrence Hill (winner of two Canada Reads contests) at a Human Library put on in Hamilton.

Perhaps the most impactful celebrity I met was Ziauddin Yousafzai who is best known as the father of Malala, his daughter who had been shot in the head by a Taliban.  She attributes her character to her father who taught both girls and boys in Pakistan where it attracted violence.

It seems everyone has had an encounter with some one of celebrity status and they seem to remember  them in more detail than most of their other contacts.  How about you?

Screen Bingeing

When I was growing up television was dominated by weekly shows.  We all looked forward to our favourite comedy, drama, variety (Ed Sullivan) and western shows.  Popular movies would be on tv a year or so after they had played in the theatre.  Late shows were older movies.  Drive-ins were common with my parents taking me and my siblings to them.  Although hour long dramas were common enough, they didn't have the status later claimed by made for tv movies.  You could say the goal of tv shows was to be continuous; to find the formula that stimulated habit forming viewing.

It all boils down to the fact that we humans love stories.  Dramatic tension, humorous relief.  Sex, violence, mystery, romance.  Living vicariously.

My favourite form was the mini series, often based on a lengthy book.   "Roots" was a weekly show that got the attention of millions of North Americans painting a picture of black heritage that was largely unknown. I was also  a fan of James A Michener having read most of his books and watched  many of the adaptations of his lengthy multi generational stories.

 "Rich Man, Poor Man" was another I remember with pleasure.  There is always a trade off between doing something in depth or getting to the point quickly.  My job made it difficult to watch prime time tv, but as the mini series had a limited run I tried to make an exception.

I like the BBC approach.  Choosing a book or series of books and instead of rushing production they opted for fewer shows with more emphasis on quality.  One example for me was "The Jewell in the Crown."  The "Wallander" series has only been three shows per year, but all excellent.  Now many of these shows are available in DVD format and/or streaming.

At one point copying tv shows became a solution.  I remember reading a bit about the legal battles as copyright holders were concerned it would cheapen their products and allow viewers to bypass commercials.  The first rationale to justify it was that it allowed people with inconvenient schedules to see movies and tv shows at a more convenient time and termed this practice time shifting.   But many people did in fact  build a  library of films for those times when the options were relatively boring and loaned them out to friends. In fact often they would watch one show while taping another.

As you get older you get used to some things, but the younger generation is constantly learning new technology that adds to enjoyment.  Our two kids gave us a big flat screen tv and a Netflix subscription.   Many, maybe too many, hours of enjoyment have resulted.  I realize that electronic entertainment is more portable than ever.

Netflix made it possible to watch a whole series in quick succession.  Streaming is still a new concept for me, but the technology is having an effect on millions of us.  Missing an episode because of work or family obligations was occasionally annoying and waiting for the next episode frustrating for many.  Binging was now possible and desirable because many of your friends and acquaintances had already seen the series and maybe there was still more episodes to watch.   Many were movies and tv series that had already appeared in America or Europe and some were created for the network.

Breaking Bad" was the first series for us and we had to catch up to a lot of friends and co-workers.  We were hooked.  I could not imagine being caught up in the life of drug dealers in a mid sized  New Mexico town and all the dramatic twists and turns, but it held a grip on us.

Soon after that I heard about "Suits" and before long we were following the exploits of a fraudulent young lawyer and those surrounding him.  Other series that were usually recommended included
"The Killing" set in perpetually rainy Seattle;  "Homeland" about a returning prisoner of war who had been converted to extremist Islam.   "The Good Wife" about the wife of a politician disgraced with a sex scandal.  "House of Cards" got as much attention as "Breaking Bad" and painted a picture of contemporary corruption at the White House level  "The Bridge," set between Malmo, Sweden and Copenhagen, Denmark was the first sub-titled series and I learned that the two lead characters, one Swede and one Dane only spoke their native language to each other and were well understood.  Three with a British tinge got our attention  "Wallander," "Scott and Bailey,"and  "Last Tango in Halifax"

The streaming service prepped us for more binge watching using DVDs.  Our daughter loaned us a DVD set of "Orphan Black" which was way-out in left field for us, but we soon got hooked and will try to catch the new season on tv.  Borrowing from the library meant even more binging; a whole season compressed into one week.  We saw a season or two of "Downton Abbey" before doing the more casual pace of the tv program.  We got in the habit of watching an episode starting with dinner which varied a little in time and often watched an extra one.

Just as television and DVD's have proved to be markets for movies, the streaming networks are markets for television and movies.  We are swimming in streams of media choices.  Recently I wanted to watch "Book of Negroes" based on a book by Lawrence Hill.  I had actually had a chat with the author who admitted that he was working on the tv script to become a mini series.  I had loved the book (prompted by Canada Reads) years ago, but work and other conflicts meant I could only see parts of it--hopefully it will either be streamed or come out in a DVD format so I can watch it all in sequence.

What is the right length for a story?  It can get boring seeing the same characters with similar plots so variety is a factor. You would like to think you are selective, but part of the process is listening to what your friends and co-workers liked and reading or listening to trusted reviewers.   And let's face it we can all become addicted to the idea of finding an engrossing series.  What would you suggest should be binged on?