#mikes kayaking

[kayakingtours]

Kayak Camping: A Comprehensive Guide to Multi-Day Expeditions

Kayak camping offers a unique blend of adventure, tranquility, and connection with nature that is unmatched by any other outdoor experience. For those who love to paddle and explore, embarking on a multi-day kayak camping expedition can be the ultimate adventure. Whether you're a seasoned paddler or a beginner looking to immerse yourself in the wilderness, planning is key to ensuring a safe and enjoyable journey. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore everything you need to know to embark on your own multi-day kayak camping adventure.

As a kayaking lover living in Florida, you're in the perfect location to explore some of the most picturesque landscapes the state has to offer. From the serene waterways of Naples to the stunning beauty of Bonita Springs, there's no shortage of incredible destinations to discover. And when it comes to guided kayak tours, Mike's Coastal Expeditions stands out as your premier destination for unforgettable adventures.

At Mike's Coastal Expeditions, we are passionate about kayaking and dedicated to providing our guests with top-notch experiences rooted in strong family values. As a family-owned kayak tour agency specializing in kayaking Naples, we take pride in offering 5-star excursions that cater to adventurers of all skill levels. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced paddler, our knowledgeable guides are here to ensure you have a safe and memorable journey.

Now, let's dive into the essential components of planning a multi-day kayak camping expedition:

Choose Your Destination: Research potential kayak camping destinations and consider factors such as distance, difficulty, and natural beauty. Look for areas with designated campsites accessible by water and check for any permits or regulations required.

Gear Up: Invest in high-quality kayak camping gear, including a sturdy kayak, waterproof dry bags, camping equipment, navigation tools, and safety gear such as a PFD (personal flotation device) and a first aid kit. Pack light but ensure you have all the essentials for a comfortable trip.

Plan Your Route: Plot your route carefully, considering factors such as distance, water conditions, and potential camping spots along the way. Be prepared to adjust your itinerary based on weather forecasts and unforeseen circumstances.

Food and Water: Plan your meals and pack lightweight, non-perishable food items that are easy to prepare. Bring plenty of drinking water or a water filtration system to ensure you stay hydrated throughout your journey.

Safety First: Familiarize yourself with basic kayak safety techniques, including how to paddle efficiently, navigate currents, and perform self-rescue maneuvers. Always wear your PFD and stay alert to changing weather conditions and potential hazards.

Leave No Trace: Practice Leave No Trace principles to minimize your impact on the environment and preserve the natural beauty of your surroundings. Pack out all trash, avoid disturbing wildlife, and follow any specific regulations for camping in your chosen area.

Enjoy the Journey: Above all, remember to savor the experience and enjoy the beauty of nature as you paddle through stunning landscapes, camp under the stars, and connect with fellow adventurers along the way.

By following these essential tips and guidelines, you'll be well-prepared to embark on your own multi-day kayak camping expedition. Whether you're exploring the tranquil waterways of Naples or venturing into the wilderness of Bonita Springs, the adventure of a lifetime awaits. And when you're ready to embark on your next kayak adventure, remember that Mike's Coastal Expeditions is here to make your dreams a reality.

As fellow kayakers and lovers of the outdoors, we understand the thrill of exploration and the joy of connecting with nature. That's why we're committed to providing unparalleled experiences that showcase the natural beauty of Florida's coastal regions. So pack your bags, grab your paddle, and join us for an unforgettable journey into the heart of paradise.

[lighthouseas]

rb w your thoughts plspls

[mikescoastalexpeditions]

Hobie Kayaks Coastal Tours in Naples

Naples, Florida, with its calm waters, pristine coastline, and vibrant marine life, is a dream destination for outdoor enthusiasts. One of the most popular ways to explore its coastal beauty is through kayak tours. Among the various options available, Hobie Kayaks coastal tours offer a unique and exciting experience that combines ease, adventure, and an up-close look at the natural wonders of the area. With Mike's Coastal Expeditions leading the way, you can enjoy a top-notch kayak tour in this picturesque environment.

Why Choose Hobie Kayaks?

Hobie Kayaks are known for their innovative design, particularly the MirageDrive pedal system, which allows paddlers to power the kayak with their legs rather than traditional paddles. This hands-free propulsion system offers numerous advantages. First, it allows you to move faster and more efficiently, covering greater distances with less effort. Second, with your hands free, you can focus on other activities such as taking photographs, spotting wildlife, or even fishing.

Hobie Kayaks are also renowned for their stability and comfort. Whether you’re new to kayaking or a seasoned paddler, these kayaks are easy to maneuver and offer a smooth ride, even in choppier waters. Their design makes them perfect for coastal tours, allowing you to focus on the beauty around you rather than the effort of paddling.

Explore Naples’ Coastal Wonders

Naples boasts a variety of stunning coastal areas that are perfect for kayak tours. Each location offers its own unique experience, from mangrove tunnels to wide-open bays, all teeming with wildlife. Here are a few top spots to explore during a Hobie Kayak coastal tour:

Rookery Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve: This vast reserve is one of the most pristine and diverse ecosystems in Florida. A Hobie Kayak tour through Rookery Bay takes you deep into mangrove forests where you can see a variety of wildlife, including dolphins, manatees, and countless bird species. The calm, shallow waters of the reserve make it an ideal location for a relaxed yet immersive kayaking experience.

Clam Pass Park: Known for its winding waterway that leads to the Gulf of Mexico, Clam Pass Park is a favorite spot for kayak tours. Paddle through the lush mangroves and enjoy the peace of this natural oasis before reaching the sandy shores of the Gulf. With Hobie Kayaks, you can easily navigate the waterway, keeping your hands free to snap photos or simply enjoy the view.

Gordon River Greenway: For those who want to explore a blend of urban and natural environments, the Gordon River Greenway is a perfect choice. This scenic waterway runs through downtown Naples and into the Gulf, offering an opportunity to paddle through nature while still being close to the city. It’s a great location for families or beginners looking for a gentle introduction to coastal kayaking.

Estero Bay: A bit farther north, Estero Bay offers a more expansive paddling experience. This body of water is part of Florida's first aquatic preserve and is home to dolphins, manatees, and a variety of fish and bird species. The wide-open waters of Estero Bay are ideal for Hobie Kayaks, as the MirageDrive system allows you to cover more ground effortlessly.

Mike’s Coastal Expeditions: The Ultimate Kayak Tour Experience

Mike’s Coastal Expeditions is one of the top providers of kayak tours in Naples, offering a range of options that cater to different skill levels and interests. Their Hobie Kayak tours are particularly popular, as they allow paddlers to explore the coastline in comfort and style.

With years of experience and a deep knowledge of the local environment, the guides at Mike’s Coastal Expeditions ensure that every tour is both educational and enjoyable. They take the time to explain the unique aspects of the area’s ecosystems, point out wildlife along the way, and ensure that paddlers feel safe and confident on the water.

One of the standout features of Mike’s Coastal Expeditions is their commitment to customer service. From helping you select the right tour to providing all the necessary equipment, including life jackets and safety gear, they make sure that everything is taken care of so you can focus on enjoying your time on the water. Their Hobie Kayak tours also include tips on using the MirageDrive system, ensuring that even first-timers feel comfortable and capable during the tour.

What to Expect on a Hobie Kayak Coastal Tour

A typical Hobie Kayak coastal tour with Mike’s Coastal Expeditions lasts about two to four hours, depending on the route and your interests. Tours are usually scheduled in the morning or late afternoon when the waters are calm, and the weather is pleasant. Expect to see plenty of wildlife, from playful dolphins to graceful wading birds and, if you're lucky, a gentle manatee.

Because Hobie Kayaks offer hands-free paddling, you can bring along a camera or binoculars to capture the incredible sights you’ll encounter. The tours are designed to be relaxing and informative, making them a great way to unwind while learning about the local environment.

Conclusion

Hobie Kayaks coastal tours in Naples offer an exceptional way to explore the area’s natural beauty. With the innovative design of Hobie Kayaks and the expert guidance of Mike’s Coastal Expeditions, you can enjoy a unique, hands-free kayaking experience that brings you closer to the water and the wildlife that inhabits it. Whether you’re gliding through mangrove forests or paddling along the coast, these tours provide an unforgettable adventure that showcases the best of what Naples has to offer.

[gayeldritchgod]

I just had a memory of how they mads 11 year old me bench press like 40 kilograms

[maydaytrippe]

I just watched the first cinematic masterpiece of 2024, Hundreds of Beavers, chronicling the life of American trapper Jean Kayak, from visionary director Mike Chetnik. 

Available for rent on AppleTV and Prime Video, but you can watch it free with a one week trial of indie film streaming service Fandor. The less you know going in, the better, imo, so just start the movie already. 

PS - Eat your flipping heart out, The Revenant. 🦫🦫🦫

[magnapinna-sp-a]

List of people/things i need in protocol

-Tim

-Sasha

-Trevor Herbert and his lesbian granddaughter Julia Montuak living happily

-Agnes and Gertrude making out violently

-Agnes

-Og Elias being stoned out of his mind somewhere on a floatie in a pool with his boyfriend Allan Schrieber

-Maybe Elias being the minister that's mentioned to be having a visit to the oiar soon that would be so fucking funny

-Red canary as jonah body hop instead of Elias

-Maybe get Martin a spooky form, the others in the computer are at it anyway, he should join the fun

-Tim as an kayaking instructor

-Danny being alive:((((

-Actually everyone lives

-I want this to be a happy coffee shop AU, everyone lives, NO ANGST for the tma crew

-Speaking of

-Mike crew

-Mike crew and Oliver banks violently making out

All i need is like 5 checks on the list and i'll be ecstatic, elated even possibly

[justdippers]

Just discovered! Mike is a Kayak dippin musician

Reblog JustDippers - new dippers every week!

[kevinsreviewcatalogue]

Review: Hundreds of Beavers (2022)

Hundreds of Beavers (2022)

Not rated

<Originally posted at https://kevinsreviewcatalogue.blogspot.com/2024/04/review-hundreds-of-beavers-2022.html>

Score: 5 out of 5

Hundreds of Beavers is one of the funniest damn movies I've seen in a long time. A mix of Looney Tunes cartoons, wilderness epics, video games, and old-time silent comedy, it's 108 minutes of non-stop, rapid-fire slapstick with barely any dialogue that gets going in the first five minutes and never lets up until the very end, constantly escalating its jokes into the ridiculous in ways that never failed to put a smile on my face. It's the kind of movie where, at nearly two hours, I should've gotten bored given my distaste for comedies that run overly long, but just as John Wick: Chapter 4 managed to pull off the feat of maintaining non-stop action movie energy for nearly three hours, this movie had me laughing out of my seat constantly. If this movie is playing anywhere near you, be it in theaters or on VOD, you owe it to yourself to seek it out.

The plot is simple. In the rugged forests of 19th century northern North America, applejack maker Jean Kayak loses his farm in a comic mishap and now has to survive in the winter wilderness with his limited wits, whereupon he eventually crosses paths with an army of beavers building... something a bit more elaborate than a dam. The only outpost of civilization for miles around is a fur trading post, where Jean both trades pelts for equipment and sets out to win the heart of the owner's beautiful daughter, who's also the trading post's furrier who skins all the beavers he brings them. From that setup, we get a constantly escalating series of comic mishaps and set pieces as Jean sets out to trap rabbits, beavers, and other woodland critters while they in turn try to outwit him -- not a difficult feat, as it turns out. This is a film that runs on cartoon logic where realism takes a backseat, with holes in the ground serving almost as a portal network in the forest and both Jean and the beavers building increasingly outlandish contraptions to kill each other with. This film doesn't have an MPAA rating, but if I had to give it one, I'd probably give it a PG-13, with some light sex jokes (specifically one involving the trader's daughter) but nothing explicit and all the beaver death presented in an extremely slapstick manner that's more Wile E. Coyote than Red Dead Redemption.

Ryland Brickson Cole Tews, the film's co-writer alongside its director Mike Cheslik, plays Jean, and he is an immediately larger-than-life figure, a parody of a 19th-century outdoorsman and hunter-trapper who starts the film cocky and dimwitted and eventually turns into a cackling madman as it goes on. Working entirely without dialogue, he delivers a phenomenal comic performance purely through his expressions as Jean is subjected to every indignity under the sun in his quest. The entire cast understood the assignment, but this was the guy who had to carry the whole film on his shoulders, and after this, I'd happily pay to see him in other films. No less important, however, were the titular beavers, all of them, together with most of the other animals in the film, played by humans in furry animal suits. If Jean is like Wile E. Coyote or Elmer Fudd in live-action, then they're like Bugs Bunny or the Roadrunner, their obviously human proportions adding to the sense of these creatures as mischievous little critters who seem to be enjoying the torment they put Jean through. The overall aesthetic of the film, shot in black and white with gleeful disregard for realism in its special effects, not only makes the painful slapstick that Jean is constantly subjected to feel, well, more slapstick even as it touched on some surprisingly dark areas (including the funniest scene of an animal getting skinned you'll ever see), it also creates the feel of watching a live-action video game, specifically a mix of an open-world RPG with Jean's quest and accumulation of gear and a Super Nintendo side-scroller with the fantastical environments he goes through in that quest. This was a longer-than-usual comedy, but it was one that, between its non-stop onslaught of jokes and the constant progression of its story, never got old or felt like it was spinning its wheels.

The Bottom Line

Great comedies are hard for me to review without giving away the best parts, and this was a great one. I expect everyone involved with this movie to get a lot of attention going forward, such was the great time I had watching it. This is probably gonna be on my personal "best of 2024" list when the year is up, and I'm telling you now: go see it.

[ask-mike-crew]

hey mikey mike mikearoo i Need To Prank Jon before april is over. i need him to not expect it. i need your help. if you help me i will. buy you coffee sometime. this is Immensely important.

love,

formal kayaking timothy f stoker

this was terrifying to receive thank you. anything that may spite the archivist is a worthy cause in my books. and i’m more of a tea person.

[ao3feed-jonmartin]

Werent we the stars in heaven?

read it on AO3 at https://ift.tt/lMB8srQ by RottenTomatoChild Jon hadn’t asked to be archivist. He hadn’t asked for any of this. He certainly hadn’t asked for Gerry to die. And now he had to take over the position of the woman to failed to notify anyone of his illness until his last moments. He hadn’t asked to be sitting next to his soon to be husbands dead body in a hospital two years ago. He hadn’t asked to have his only mother figure betray him and Gerry like that. He hadn’t asked for Gertude to die either, no matter how much he hoped he did. He hadn’t asked to be the one to send more innocent people into this mess, yet here he was. —— In other words: What if Jon knew about the fears before season one? What if he knew all the avatars? What if he had a near parent/child bond with Gertude, and therefore met Gerry, who started working with Gertude way earlier, and then started dating Gerry? What if he got so caught up in his grief (and anger over being appointed archivist) that he forgot to tell his assistant anything? And still somehow got with Martin. (For my wonderful girlfriend) Words: 1063, Chapters: 1/?, Language: English Fandoms: The Magnus Archives (Podcast) Rating: Not Rated Warnings: Creator Chose Not To Use Archive Warnings Characters: Jonathan "Jon" Sims | The Archivist, Martin Blackwood, Gerard Keay, Tim Stoker (The Magnus Archives), Sasha James, Elias Bouchard | Jonah Magnus, Peter Lukas, Gertrude Robinson, Fear Entity Avatar Ensemble (The Magnus Archives), Georgie Barker, Melanie King, Basira Hussain, Alice "Daisy" Tonner, Michael Shelley, Michael | The Distortion (The Magnus Archives), The Admiral (The Magnus Archives) Relationships: Martin Blackwood/Jonathan "Jon" Sims | The Archivist, Jonathan "Jon" Sims | The Archivist & Tim Stoker, Sasha James & Jonathan "Jon" Sims | The Archivist, Oliver Banks/Michael "Mike" Crew, Agnes Montague/Gertrude Robinson, Elias Bouchard | Jonah Magnus/Peter Lukas, Oliver Banks & Jonathan "Jon" Sims | The Archivist, Gerard Keay/Michael Shelley, Georgie Barker & Jonathan "Jon" Sims | The Archivist, Gerard Keay & Jonathan "Jon" Sims | The Archivist, Michael Shelley & Jonathan "Jon" Sims | The Archivist, Fear Entity Avatar Ensemble & Jonathan "Jon" Sims | The Archivist, Basira Hussain/Alice "Daisy" Tonner, Jonathan "Jon" Sims | The Archivist & Alice "Daisy" Tonner Additional Tags: Jonathan "Jon" Sims | The Archivist Needs a Hug, Trans Jonathan "Jon" Sims | The Archivist, Martin Blackwood Has a Crush on Jonathan "Jon" Sims | The Archivist, Jonathan "Jon" Sims | The Archivist Being an Asshole, previous Jonathan “Jon” Sims | The Archivist/Gerard Keay, Gerard Keay Lives, Kinda, not really - Freeform, hes still dead, but not in the book way, in the Oliver Banks way, accutally you know what, End Avatar Gerard Keay, just read the damn summary ill explain it there, Everyone Is Gay, Everyone Needs A Hug, Author Is Sleep Deprived, Not beta read we kayak like Tim, Alternate Universe - Canon Divergence read it on AO3 at https://ift.tt/lMB8srQ

[ancmalous]

closed.

Something was in the air, like a warning, and it left him feeling uneasy, restless even. He spent a good portion of summer avoiding his ex, sticking to the sidelines, teaching kids how to hop on and off kayaks without flipping them over and getting him stuck on puke duty. Mike was truly spent, and after a long day of lined-up chores and preparations for tonights party, he needed a moment alone. A moment to study the ink on paper left for him to find. It must've been a prank, someone toying with him, but he had strange anxiety about it. When she approached, he crushed up the paper into his fist, shoving it deep into his pocket as he pulled out a smile. "Were you -- did you follow me?" @cultsplush

[kayakingtours]

Mike's Coastal Expeditions: Unforgettable Kayak Tours in Naples

Welcome to Mike's Coastal Expeditions, your top choice for unforgettable kayak tours in the picturesque landscapes of Naples and Bonita Springs. As a family-owned kayak tour agency, we pride ourselves on delivering 5-star experiences rooted in strong family values and a passion for adventure.

Experience the Best with Our State-of-the-Art Hobie Kayaks

Our tours feature Hobie Kayaks, known for their superior performance and design. With the innovative MirageDrive pedal system, you can enjoy hands-free propulsion, making it easier to explore serene waterways and mangrove forests. Our eco-tours often include encounters with dolphins and manatees, providing a unique and personalized guided kayaking experience suitable for all abilities.

Why Choose Mike's Coastal Expeditions?

At Mike's Coastal Expeditions, we offer a family-oriented adventure through breathtaking scenery. Discover the joy of kayaking, witness wildlife up close, and explore some of the best kayaking spots in Florida. Our tours in Naples and Bonita Springs, including the renowned Big Hickory, offer clear waters and exceptional paddling routes perfect for exploration.

Our Premier Services Include:

Pedal vs. Paddle: Enjoy easier and more efficient kayaking with Hobie Kayaks' pedal system.

Free High-Resolution Photos: Capture memories with complimentary high-res photos.

5-Star Eco Kayak Tours: Join our highly-rated eco-tours for an immersive experience.

Inclusive Amenities: Free ice-cold water, coolers, dry bags, and comfortable life jackets designed for kayaking.

Private and Custom Tours: Opt for private custom tours, evening fishing tours with LED lights, or guided sunset kayak tours.

Family-Friendly: Our tours are great for all ages and abilities, making them perfect for family outings.

Explore the Magic of Coastal Kayaking

Book your coastal tour today with Mike's Coastal Expeditions and enjoy an unparalleled kayaking experience in Naples and Bonita Springs, Florida. Paddle through stunning locations, keep an eye out for manatees and dolphins, and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of southwest Florida. Experience the thrill of adventure and the joy of kayaking with us!

Discover the Wonders of Big Hickory

Big Hickory in Bonita Springs is one of southwest Florida's prime destinations for coastal kayak adventures. Known for its crystal-clear waters and exceptional paddling routes, it provides an ideal spot for exploration. With our premier Hobie kayak rentals, you can fully immerse yourself in the natural beauty and tranquil atmosphere of this stunning location. Navigate through meandering waterways and keep an eye out for manatees, dolphins, coastal birds, and other marine wonders that make this area so special.

Tailored Adventures for Every Enthusiast

At Mike's Coastal Expeditions, we believe that every kayak tour should be a unique adventure tailored to your interests and abilities. Whether you are a seasoned kayaker or a first-timer, our knowledgeable guides are dedicated to providing a safe, enjoyable, and educational experience. Our custom tours can be adapted to include fishing, wildlife photography, or simply enjoying the serene sunset over the water. We are committed to making your kayaking adventure as memorable and enjoyable as possible.

Eco-Friendly and Sustainable Tours

We are passionate about preserving the natural beauty of our coastal environments. Our eco-tours are designed to minimize impact on the local ecosystem while maximizing your enjoyment of the natural surroundings. We educate our guests on the importance of conservation and responsible wildlife viewing. By choosing Mike's Coastal Expeditions, you are supporting sustainable tourism practices that help protect the incredible marine life and habitats we all cherish.

Book Your Adventure Today

Don't miss out on the opportunity to explore the stunning coastal landscapes of Naples and Bonita Springs with Mike's Coastal Expeditions. Our tours are in high demand, so be sure to book early to secure your spot. Whether you are looking for a peaceful paddle through mangroves, an exciting wildlife encounter, or a relaxing evening on the water, we have the perfect adventure waiting for you. Join us for an experience that combines the thrill of kayaking with the beauty of nature, all under the guidance of our expert team.

Join Our Coastal Community

Becoming part of Mike's Coastal Expeditions means joining a community of nature lovers and adventure seekers. We love sharing our passion for kayaking and the coastal environment with our guests. Follow us on social media to stay updated on our latest tours, wildlife sightings, and special events. We invite you to share your own kayaking experiences and photos with us as well. Together, we can celebrate and protect the natural beauty of southwest Florida.

Book your tour today and start your journey with Mike's Coastal Expeditions – where adventure and nature meet!

[randomrichards]

TOP 10 MOVIES OF 2024 (SO FAR)

Honourable Mentions:

SOMEONE LIVES HERE

This one’s only an hour long but it delivers a powerful and frustrating documentary of a man trying to create homes for the unhoused.

Carpenter Khaleel Seivwright devotes his time to making small mobile shacks for the unhoused to live in, but he’s constantly undermined by Toronto city council that couldn’t care less about providing affordable housing.

It is maddening portrayal of shallow politicians that punishes those who try to help while offering no real solutions. There’s also hope in seeing a man go out of his way to help those in need.

10) ORIGIN

Real-life non-fiction author Isabel Wilkerson (Anjanae Ellis-Taylor) examines how social hierarchies are enforced in Origin, a compelling biopic about the making of Wilkerson’s acclaimed book Caste.

Drawing from the tragic killing of Trayvon Martin, both Wilkerson and writer/director Ava DuVernay introduces us to a series of real-life stories of oppression and defiance to showcase how systems are used to oppress marginalized groups. Among these stories are a German (Finn Wittrock) who refused to salute Hitler after falling for a Jewish girl, revelation of how America’s Jim Crow Laws inspired the holocaust and Dr. Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar (Gaurav J. Pathania) who defied his status as an “untouchable to draft India’s constitution. There are many uncomfortable scenes of innocent people being denied their basic humanity, especially one where a black boy is denied the use of the same pool as his teammates.

Origin is also a love story of Isabel grieving the loss of her husband (Jon Bernthal playing against type) as she continues her project. Bernthal shows his sweeter, sensitive side through flashbacks scenes with Ellis-Taylor. Ellis-Taylor also breaks your heart as Isabel mourns her loss.

This film a compelling drama that calls for recognizing other people’s humanity.

9) ROBOT DREAMS

Robot Dreams is one film nominated last year for Best Animated Feature hardly anyone got a chance to see. Now that it was release in select theatres, audience can see a beautiful tale of loneliness, friendship and drifting apart.

Based on the graphic novel by Sara Varon, Robot Dreams takes us into a 1980s New York full of anthropomorphic animals. A lonely Dog builds a robot friend, and they form a quick bond. It cultivates in an iconic early scene where they roller skate to the tune of Earth Wind and Fire’s “September”.

Writer/Director Pablo Berger makes us happy to see Robot and Dog together without one line of dialogue. It makes it more heartbreaking when Robot is left immobile and stranded on a closed beach and Dog is forced to wait half a year. Robot is left to dream about returning home to his only friend.

Writer/Director Pablo Berger proves himself a Master of Visual storytelling, getting a lot across without a single line of dialogue. It helps he has some top-notch animators communicate character’s thoughts and feelings through facial expressions. That animation also makes the background environment look beautiful, even though it’s portraying a grainy side of New York.

Berger balances style and substance for a visually pleasing but heartbreaking journey.

8) HUNDREDS OF BEAVERS

There are so many elements of this film that shouldn’t work. The film is a series of segments with very little connection between them. The special effects are extremely unconvincing with fake looking set pieces and awkward physics. All the animals are people in mascot costumes. These should be a put off for the average moviegoer. And yet director Mike Cheslik makes all those work to his advantage with Hundreds of Beavers, a cartoonish tribute to silent films and Looney Tunes.

Set in a winter wonderland of fur traders and gold prospectors, we follow Jean Kayak (Ryland Brickson Cole Tews), an alcoholic Applejack farmer who finds himself out of the job thanks to beavers. Now he finds himself trying to survive in the wilderness with many disastrous results. But he learns to survive with the guidance of a veteran fur trader (Wes Tank) and an Indigenous trapper (Luis Rico). But to earn the hand of a Furrier (Olivia Graves), he must get hundreds of furs for her merchant father (Doug Mancheski). This leads him to a one-man war with the titular beavers.

Cheslick delivers one side-splitting scene after another of Kayak’s disastrous attempts to trap prey, which often leaves him falling through rabbit holes. The fake looking special effects only add to the cartoonish tone, especially in one scene involving him in a log rolling war against a beaver. He also makes jokes that couldn’t get away with in the silent era including a reoccurring gag with trappers using very cartoon looking poo as beaver bait or Jean trying to trap rabbits with a female snow bunny only for it to be revealed the rabbits are gay.

The film doesn’t flow as much without a clear plot and the jokes don’t always knock it out of the park. But for most part, Hundreds of Beavers is a laugh riot.

7) FURIOSA: A MAD MAX SAGA

It’s a shame George Miller’s prequel Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga bombed at the box office because it has the kind of grand set pieces and thrilling car chases that deserve to be seen in a theatre. this compelling post-apocalyptic flick about the titular warrior (Alyla Browne as a child, Anya Taylor-Joy as an adult) seeking vengeance on the chaotic Dr. Dementus (Chris Hemsworth) compliments its predecessor Mad Max: Fury Road with the mind-blowing action scenes, creative visuals and social commentary that made the earlier film such a modern classic.

Both Furiosa and Fury Road should be uses as examples on how tell story through action scenes. Except for the franchises’ trademark opening and closing voice over monologues, Miller avoids exposition in favour of using the extended action scenes to reveal character, show the world’s rules and further the plot. This demonstrates a lot of trust in the audience to figure out the world through image alone, especially when he has only one short scene to show us the green world Furiosa grew up in. Then again, he’s such a master filmmaker that he can reveal so much information just from a single shot.

It’s worth noting that Furiosa’s more story oriented than Fury Road, focusing on the tragedy of the life Furiosa’s lost, especially her mother. Also, you must admire Miller for daring to spend an hour on Furiosa as a child. Of course, it helps that he has Hemsworth having a blast hamming up every scene.

It doesn’t quite reach the level of Fury Road and the CGI isn’t quite as convincing as the original movie. But Miller still delivers an exciting thrill ride worthy of the iconic franchise.

6) AMERICAN FICTION

Frustrated with his work not getting published, surly literary professor Thelonius “Monk” Ellison (Jeffery Wright) decides to make a racially stereotypical “memoir” under the guise of gangster “Stagg R. Lee” in the scathing satire American Fiction.

Cord Jefferson deserves his Oscar win for his screenplay. From the opening scene of Monk arguing with a white student over him writing the N-word on a whiteboard (referring to the title of a short story), He delivers an amusing commentary about modern racism. At the film’s core, Jefferson goes after the media representation that puts Black America in a box of Black Oppression Porn under the guise of “being real.” While Monk can’t get his books on Greek mythology published but much to his chagrin, author Sinatrara Golden (Issa Rae) writes a bestselling novel “We’s Lives in Da Ghetto” full of racially stereotypical dialogue. Monk’s publishing agent sums it up when he states “White people think they want the truth, but they don’t. They want to be absolved.” In one funny scene, he berates a bookstore for putting his book in “African American Studies” when it’s about Greek Mythology (“The blackest thing in this book is the ink”)

American Fiction is also dramedy about Monk being forced to return to his family home and confront his complicated relationship with his family when his sister (Tracee Ellis Ross) passes away and he’s forced to care for their mother (Leslie Uggams). It’s here that he’s reconciles with his chaotic brother Clifford (scene-stealing Sterling K. Brown) and finds love with a new resident Coraline (Erika Alexander). Jefferson proves just as effective with family dramedy as he is with satire, balancing the comedic moments of Clifford berating a local for interrupting his sister’s memorial with the heavy moments of their mother’s struggles with Alzheimer’s.

Jefferson also deserves kudos for creating complex characters. While his frustrations with the popularity of oppression porn is understandable, Monk often comes off as a judgmental snob. He remains likeable thanks to Wright’s charismatic performance. Clifford seems high on life (and cocaine), but he hides the hurt of his mother not accepting his homosexuality. Brown gets to shine in a monologue about Clifford’s dad not knowing his true self.

Jefferson is a filmmaker worth looking into.

5) CHALLENGERS

Luca Guadagnino brings us another entry to a unique subgenre of erotic films about a love triangle between two male best friends and a woman. This time, it’s between three up and coming tennis players.

The film starts years later with former tennis star Tashi (Zendaya) serving as coach for her husband Art (Mike Faist) who’s struggling to break out of a losing streak. Meanwhile, their ex-friend Patrick (Josh O’Connor) is sleeping in his van while awaiting the upcoming tournament. It’s this tournament that this trio is forced to confront their relationships.

Through flashbacks, Guadagnino and writer Justin Kuritzkes reveal how they got here her from being a trio of promising players. They introduce little details like a scar on Tashi’s knee and a tennis pose Art and Patrick use to indicate who had sex with Tashi. From these details, Guadagnion and Kuritzkes reminds us of the curveballs life can throw at us and how the characters adapt to them (or don’t).

Zendaya, Faist and O’Connor have excellent chemistry, seductively bouncing off each other. They also masterfully handle the complicated turns their characters take in reconciling their feelings for each other.

Challengers delivers a sensual character study of three athletes with feelings for each other.

4) CIVIL WAR

Civil War follows disillusioned photojournalist Lee (Kirsten Dunst) as she joins 2 journalists (Wagner Moura and Stephen McKinley-Henderson) and an enthusiastic young up and coming photographer (Cailee Spaeny) on a road trip across the United States as a rebel militia battles the president of the United States.

Writer/Director Alex Garland keeps the audience hooked from beginning to end as he puts our heroes in one dangerous scenario after another from a sniper battle at a Santa Village to the climactic battle at the White House. The most iconic is an intense standoff with the scene stealing Jesse Plemons as a sociopathic militia.

Garland makes the bold move of not revealing what caused the war in the first place. You can figure it out through the subtle hints including the President being on his 4th term the fact Texas and California have seceded from the country. This choice works to put the audience in the perspective of a photojournalist, who are expected to be an inactive witness so they can present events factually. But the film shows how challenging that is when it involves witnessing horrifying moments of a man being set on fire and putting their lives in danger. You see this in Dunst’s performance, who conveys her character’s exhausted weariness through her face.

Alex Garland gives us an action-packed thriller cultivating with an exciting shootout.

3) PERFECT DAYS

It’s one hell of challenge to create an engaging film with no conflict. That’s what makes Wim Wenders’ Perfect Days such a miracle. The beloved director defies basic film convention to create a meditative look in the life of Hirayama (Koji Yakusho), a custodian who cleans publish washroom in Tokyo.

Perfect Days has no true storyline. The closest thing to a plot happens when Hirayama’s niece shows up out of nowhere to stay with him but that happens way late in the film and gets resolved quickly. For the most part, Wenders focuses on the Hirayama’s routine days both at work and his personal life. It sounds like a boring movie, but Wenders uses those routines to create a sense of rhythm. It’s strange how reassuring to see Hirayama drinking a can of coffee every morning, sitting at a park bench for lunch and listen to his cassettes. That makes the breaks from routines more engaging, especially when Hirayama plays tic tac toe with a stranger.

At the core is Hirayama’s appreciation of the little things in life. You can appreciate how director of photography Franz Lustig makes Tokyo look so beautiful, even while Hirayama is cleaning toilets. Lustig also gets to shine in the brief black and white dreams that concludes each day. Wenders creates a meditative flick that makes you investigate the beauty within your everyday life.

2) THE TASTE OF THINGS

Vietnamese filmmaker Anh Hung Tran puts the viewer under a culinary spell in his French romance The Taste of Things. He adapts Marcel Rouff’s novel “La Vie Et La Passion De Bodin-Bouffant” about a beloved gourmet chef (Benoit Magimel) who decides to cook a special meal for his home cook (Juliette Binoche) when she falls ill. Tran and his director of photography Jonathan Ricquebourg leave audiences’ ravenous with long, beautiful scenes of cooking a variety of exquisite dishes. It’s best to eat before you watch.

The Taste of Things could also be regarded as a celebration of veteran French actors Magimel and Binoche who both delivered dignified yet loving chemistry, making us feel the unrequited love these two have for each other. It’s made more fascinating when it’s revealed he’s been proposing to her for 20 years to no avail. So, the climatic works both as an expression of his love and a show of appreciation for all she has done for her. There’s also a bit of tragedy given that she might not have much time left. You want them to get together.

It’s a perfect film for date night.

1) DUNE: PART 2

Denis Villeneuve creates one of those rare sequels that stands as a masterpiece that compliments the first film (and in some opinions, surpasses the original). It maintains the mind-blowing visuals, Game of thrones-like political intrigue and excellent performances that made its predecessor a hit.

The sequel has hero Paul Atredies (Timothee Chalamet) assimilating himself into the Fremen tribes to bring down the ruthless Baron Harkonnen (Stellan Skarskgard) and the emperor (Christopher Walken) while his mother Lady Jessica (Rebecca Ferguson) works behind the scenes to convince the tribesmen that her son is the prophesized messiah.

Dune: Part 2 puts the audience under its spell with Greg Fraser’s mind-blowing cinematography making the desert and the emperor’s kingdom dazzlingly real. They get to shine in the scenes in the Harroken kingdom, a cold world where the outside drains the world of all colour.

The film introduces us to new characters including The Emperor and his strategic daughter Princess Irulan (Florence Pugh). But it’s Austin Butler who stands out as the Baron’s sociopathic nephew Feyd-Rautha. Butler oozes menace with his cold stare, hairless figure, and raspy voice, especially when he mutilates a mistress just to test his knives.

What truly makes both Frank Herbert’s book and Villeneuve’s adaptations so special is how they deconstruct both the Chosen One archetype and white savior storyline. Throughout the film, Lady Jessica manipulates the Fremen people into thinking her son’s a prophet, a role Paul doesn’t want. Meanwhile, Chani (Zendaya) remains skeptical of the prophesy and calls out her father (Javier Bardem) for blindly believing it. Apparently, Herbert takes this deconstruction a step further in Dune: Messiah which will conclude the trilogy.

Villeneuve again proves himself truly cinematic storyteller with a uniquely epic style that elevates complex stories.

[mikescoastalexpeditions]

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[marvistamike2]

Sunday was our big day. We planned a hike to Riomaggiore and an afternoon kayak trip, a hike back, and a late dinner. Unfortunately we were greeted with an early morning cancellation notice due to rough seas. As we tried to replan our day Mary kept advocating for a slow day and Mike wanted to get out on the trails. Eventually saner minds prevailed and we gave our bodies a rest day. Mary was happy to wander the shops!

[agentnico]

Hundreds of Beavers (2024) review

This is cinema.

Plot: A drunken applejack salesman must go from zero to hero and become North America's greatest fur trapper by defeating hundreds of beavers.

Can we just take a moment to appreciate the greatness that is this film’s poster! Very reminiscent of the poster for the 1963 epic comedy It’s a Mad, Mad, Mad, Mad World, it truly encompasses the full scale cartoonish madness of the movie, and honestly is a piece of art in itself. As for the movie itself? Yeah, it’s fricking awesome!

This comes to us from director Mike Cheslik and co-writer Ryland Brickson Cole Tews (by the way holy Moses what a cool name that is!), the pair who gave us the Tews-directed Lake Michigan Monster, a bonkers little indie film that’s a mix of Life Aquatic and The Lighthouse and is immensely entertaining and stupid. What I like about these guys is how they fill their micro-budget productions with so much creativity, humour and visual inventiveness, and it really puts a lot of modern day Hollywood pictures to shame. These guys are great and so when Hundreds of Beavers popped up on my Letterboxd recommendations, it was a no brainer - I had to seek out this movie!

Hundreds of Beavers echoes the structure of video games, especially RPGs. The central character starts out as an absolutely numpty loser, and then as the film progresses he by trial and error improves his craft to become a skilful and talented trapper. This is reminiscent of how in a video game when your first start you’re essentially useless and crap at everything, but as you level up you become an utter boss. Take Resident Evil for example. In the beginning you struggle to defeat a single zombie. Chances are on your first few playthroughs you’ll die like a little b**ch. Talking from experience here, I remember that first village fight in Resident Evil 4! Then by the end you’re drilling through hordes with unlimited ammo and rocket launchers with super high HP and literally nothing can stop you. With Hundreds of Beavers it’s the same. The first part of the film the poor chap can’t even kill a single animal, let alone a beaver. By the end though he’s engaging in an impressive battle of fisticuffs with crowds upon crowds of beavers. I mean, not really a spoiler to say that there are loads of beavers in this film. Not just a hundred, we’re talking thousands!

That brings me to one of the biggest surprises of this film - there’s actually a fully fledged story here. Like yes the narrative exists entirely for the purpose of throwing as many ridiculously nuts slapstick gags in our faces at a rapid speed of a joke every second, but they are held together by a cohesive narrative. The main character Jean Kayak (brought to life by a superbly committed performance from Ryland Brickson Cole Tews, again, love the name) goes through a significant growth throughout the movie, and his mission to get the girl is as timely and charming as ever. I must say it took me about 20 minutes to properly get into the movie, but once I got to the level of whackiness it was going for I was engaged throughout.

So the visuals. Filtered throughout with a surreal black-and-white grainy filter, this plays out like a live-action cartoon in the vain of Looney Tunes or Tom & Jerry. The stylistic choice that really makes this movie so unique is that the overwhelming majority of animals that Jean comes across are played by actors in full sizes costumes. Yep, it’s a bunch furries alright. Smaller animals such as birds and fish appear as little puppets, but all the larger animals are indeed played by actors in suits. You’d expect a gimmick like this to lose steam after a while, however the funny thing about Hundreds of Beavers is that it manages to consistently stay hilarious throughout, and in fact gets progressively crazier as it goes on. The final 20 minutes are truly fantastic, with the creators throwing every creative idea and visual gag they could possibly whip out of their books in your face. This movie could have easily ended up feeling like a stretched out SNL sketch, but luckily the creators share so much ambition to allow this movie to flourish in its endless creativity. Charlie Chaplin would be proud.

Hundreds of Beavers is one of the most creative, inventive and entertaining comedies of the last decade, and I had a smile on my face from start to finish. From the punchy editing, funny music cues, well-timed cutaway gags, goofy costumes or the endlessly creative deaths, this thing has so much unhinged energy it’s unreal. I can see this not being for everyone, but then again silent slapstick comedy nowadays can be definitely classed as an acquired taste, but I truly believe that everyone would find at least some part of this film amusing. In my eyes, this is a comedic marvel. Yeah, f*** those beavers!

Overall score: 9/10