Confession: Sometimes I need a good cry. A sobbing, runny-nose, eyes-swollen, whole-box-of-tissue cry. I’m not sure why or what brings on this sudden urge. I’m never aware of this feeling approaching. It’s not like I can say to myself, “Self, I think you’ll feel like crying tomorrow so you better go buy a new pair of shoes today in hopes of warding it off.” Nope, it never happens like that. All of sudden, it just hits me and there it is – I need to cry. Not just one or two tears, but the open-the-flood-gates kind of cry.

Best Television-Inspired Movies:

Television shows often end too early or not early enough. Movies based on television shows can be retreads of old materials or new spins on old classic themes. When thinking about movies based on television shows, there are many more groan-inducing experiences and a lesser amount of engrossing experiments. There are a few movies that extend or breathe new air in their universe and here is a list of some of my favorites.

As I look back at 2012, there are many films that were enjoyable, but only a few stood above the rest. Interesting performances and genre-bending styles made these movies capture my attention. While you gear up for new releases in 2013, consider checking out one of the following films, even if it may not be in one of your favorite genres. Click on the title for availability at your local Anythink. 

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Samurai films show different codes and ethics than what you see in many other films. A sense of honor and duty, along with the portrayal of Japanese culture and other eras, make these enthralling films. Try the following as first forays into the samurai genre.