Michael Coleman’s 3 Favourite Films
Award-winning actor, writer and director, Michael Coleman is well known for his versatility and authenticity as a filmmaker and a performer. Michael has secured formative roles in leading productions like Supernatural, Smallville, Stargate and Once Upon a Time.
Michael is a devoted Vancouver Canucks fan and does what he can to be involved in the community. When he isn’t spending time with family, working on a film project or at the rink perfecting his slap shot, he is often found enjoying a movie night in. An avid cinema buff, Michael’s favourite films include: The Princess Bride, Newsies, and A Knight’s Tale.
The Princess Bride is a timeless classic and an original ‘rom-com’. It followed the tale of a rough-around-the-edges farmhand named Westley, along with a few bumbling companions he meets on his journey, rescue Westley’s true love, Princess Buttercup, from the awful Prince Humperdink. The film is presented to the viewers as a novel being read by a grandfather to his ill grandson, played by Fred Savage. The 1987 classic was filmed throughout the United Kingdom, showcasing the beauty of the countryside. The Princess Bride received critical acclaim and currently boasts an outstanding 97% “Certified Fresh” rating on Rotten Tomatoes. With a rating of 97% it is easy to see why Michael Coleman loves this film.
Newsies is the 1992 Walt Disney Pictures musical comedy directed by Kenny Ortega, based on the New York City Newsboys’ Strike of 1899. It is the first of many live-action musicals produced by Disney, and despite having starred several big-name actors, such as Bill Pullman, Robert Duval, and Christian Bale, Newsies was a box office flop, with critics and movie-goers giving negative reviews. However, the film grew into a cult classic after it was released for home video. Newsies has since been adapted into a hugely successful Broadway musical and has been nominated for eight Tony Awards.
A Knight’s Tale is an adventure-comedy that takes place during medieval times, although there are several modern references throughout the film. It stars Heath Ledger, as a peasant named William who pretends to be a knight and takes part in prominent tournaments, winning recognition and becoming friends with noble figures such as Geoffrey Chaucer and Edward the Black Prince.
The soundtrack of the film (which included rock hits like Queen’s We Will Rock You and David Bowie’s Golden Years) prompted complaints from critics who found it to be anachronistic on 14th century England, and not consistent with the plot line. However, Roger Ebert argued that these inconsistencies made no difference, since as the director had previously pointed out, any music would have been anachronistic since orchestras hadn’t yet been invented during the time period the film was set in.
Michael Coleman has enjoyed a rewarding career in writing, acting, directing and running a school for aspiring actors but he credits his greatest success as being a husband to his wife, Michelle, and a father to their two daughters, Belle Charisma and Maeve Grace. His three leading ladies are what inspires and motivates him to continue to chase his passions.
