25th Hour & Gargoyles

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Welcome back to Bad Dads Film Review! In today’s episode, we’re exploring the iconic New York City landscape as captured through the lens of cinema. We’ll highlight the top 5 New York landmarks featured in movies, then delve into Spike Lee’s powerful drama 25th Hour (2002), followed by a nostalgic look at the animated series Gargoyles.

Top 5 New York Landmarks in Movies:

1. Statue of Liberty - Featured in countless films, the Statue of Liberty is perhaps most memorably portrayed in Planet of the Apes (1968), where it delivers one of cinema's most iconic final shots.
2. Empire State Building - A symbol of New York’s skyline, this building stars in King Kong (1933) where the giant ape climbs it, creating one of the most enduring images in film history.
3. Central Park - Central Park is a versatile backdrop in films like When Harry Met Sally (1989), offering a slice of nature amidst the urban environment, perfect for pivotal scenes.
4. Times Square - Captured vibrantly in Vanilla Sky (2001), Times Square is depicted in its full, chaotic glory, often symbolizing the energy and pulse of the city.
5. Brooklyn Bridge - This landmark is crucial in films like Once Upon a Time in America (1984), where it not only serves as a scenic backdrop but also as a symbol of transition and connection.

Directed by Spike Lee, 25th Hour follows the last day of freedom for Montgomery Brogan (Edward Norton) before he starts a seven-year prison sentence. Set against the post-9/11 New York backdrop, the film not only explores personal redemption and despair but also captures the mood of a city in trauma. It's a poignant examination of choices, consequences, and the human capacity for adaptation.

Switching gears to a lighter, yet still poignant narrative, Gargoyles is an animated series that beautifully blends mythical elements with modern settings. Set in New York City, the show features ancient creatures adapting to the 20th century and protecting the city that mirrors their castle of old. It's renowned for its dark tone and complex storylines, unusual for a children’s cartoon.

Whether you're a fan of dramatic tales of personal reckoning or animated adventures that blend history with fantasy, today’s episode offers a rich exploration of New York City’s iconic presence in cinema and television. Tune in as we traverse from real city streets to animated skylines, uncovering the stories that make New York a perennial favorite in storytelling. 🎬🗽👨‍👧‍👦🍿

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