Arthouse Hotel

What Did the Best High School Movies of All Time Teach Us (If Anything)?

Posted on by Laura Bowery

For some, high school (or secondary school as it’s known this side of the pond) is a terrifying prospect but, watching some of the best high school movies of all time can make it seem like a super exciting adventure.

But what, if anything, did these movies actually teach us?

We take a look at the top high school movies of our time, to see if they set us up for disappointment or actually delivered any worthwhile life lessons.

Grease

As we look forward to the prequel of Grease, a short four decades down the line from the first movie premiere, we wonder exactly what did the pupils and teachers of Rydell High teach us?

First, we learn that you can be 28 and still play an eighteen-year-old in American high school movies!

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Olivia Newton-John was closer to thirty than twenty when filming began, but she certainly wasn’t the oldest. In fact, it was the actor that played Rizzo, Stockard Channing, who was 33 when filming began.

Secondly, Grease taught us that high school can change a person. Rather controversially telling us that giving in to peer pressure is the best and most fun way of getting through high school.

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Sandy’s transformation from the wholesome, clean-cut Sandra Dee into a lycra, leather-clad vixen makes us think that good girls never get what they want.

A far cry from the messages we want to instil in the young women of today.

American Pie

A few valuable life lessons came out of this one, but the three most important are;

#1 Never get frisky with fruit pies or any baked good for that matter

#2 Webcams are a bad idea!

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#3 Highschool boys have only one thing on their mind

This high school movie is certainly one that shows us many social traps that the modern student can fall into.

At the end of the day, if we take anything from American Pie, it’s that your friends will always encourage you to do the stupidest things you will ever do in your life.

Mean Girls

An amazing high school movie that helped shape pop culture as we know it, Mean Girls paints a horrifying picture of what high school can be like if you don’t fit in with the “in” crowd.

But what did Mean Girls actually teach us?

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Well, aside from that we certainly get a glimpse of what to expect when it comes to high school hierarchy. Through this, we are shown how easy it is to manipulate those around you, enter three-way phone calls and well-placed candy canes.

But, the most important message that comes out of all those first-year social tortures is that it’s only a year and you have another few years in school to find out where you fit in.

Clueless

A true ode to the 90s, Clueless gave us mere mortals an idea of what it was like to grow up Beverly Hills.

This modern high school movie classic was actually loosely based on Jane Austen’s Emma and shows us that even the best intentions can end with ghastly consequences.

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Cher sees herself as a gifted matchmaker, who only has other’s best intentions at heart, but being forever focused on self-promotion, she loses sight of what real friendship and kindness is.

Clueless makes us understand that, whilst we all would like a friend like Cher, we need to follow our own judgement and not let others choose our paths for us.

The Breakfast Club

One of the greatest lessons ever taught in a high school movie can be learned by watching The Breakfast Club.

Set in day-long detention, a group of five are flung together, all from different social groups. A jock, a geek, a preppy girl, an outcast and a rebel begin to bond and share their experiences both at home and in school.

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The group learn that no matter which group you fit into, or where you came from, your life problems are usually similar.

So far ahead of its time, the message of equality is powerful in The Breakfast Club and certainly shows us what it would be like if we all let go of our prejudice.

High School Musical

A phenomenon that swept the globe back in 2006, High School Musical gave young people everywhere the hope that they could simply sing their way through school.

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The biggest high school movie of the year raked 7.7 million views at its premiere and the soundtrack quickly climbed the charts too.

Thankfully, there was an important message underneath all the white teeth and wholesomeness that encouraged viewers to embrace their dreams and look after their friend’s wishes.

Ferris Bueller’s Day Off

“Life moves pretty fast. If you don’t stop and look around once in a while, you could miss it.”

It may not seem like it to many a high school student, but school is only a small portion of life, and believe it or not, probably the best bit.

Although not a great scholastic lesson, Ferris Bueller’s Day Off shows us that sometimes taking a risk will pay off.

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Playing truant by faking illness, Ferris has the time of his life, driving a fancy sports car and becoming a temporary rock star.

The message that this high school movie delivers is to seize the day, an important one that we all forget from time to time.

Never Been Kissed

Proof that life usually doesn’t get much better after high school, Never Been Kissed is a fantastic example of how unimportant social acceptance is in school when it comes to finding happiness and success in later life.

The story of Josie Grossy is heartbreaking and her high school experiences go on to shape and restrict her adult life.

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Despite becoming a success, Josie never gets over how she was treated in high school and when she goes back to school as an undercover reporter, she’s determined not to make the same mistakes again.

Never Been Kissed teaches us that life at the top isn’t always so rosy and in order to get there, you have to sacrifice your morals and integrity.

In short, this high school movie lets us know everything will work out okay in the end, if we are true to who we are.

Carrie

A seriously terrifying high school movie that warns us all of the effects bullying can have, Carrie is a chilling film adaption of Stephen King’s first ever published novel.

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Taking us along on the high school journey of a sheltered young girl, who faces serious issues at home as well as in school, Carrie gives us an understanding of a bully victim’s world and the hardships they face. When poor Carrie falls victim to a bully’s revenge, things take a turn for the worse and the whole town pays.

Carrie might be overkill, literally, but the message is simple, bullies are horrible human beings who always get their just desserts.

Bring It On

On a lighter and much cheerier note, Bring It On is one of those high school movies that helps celebrate the underdog and makes us want to be a cheerleader along the way.

At its heart, Bring It On celebrates honesty, integrity and a determination to do the right thing.

When lead character, Torrance, inherits the captainship of her school’s award-winning cheer squad, she realises her entire cheer-career has been a lie.

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To change it she needs to alter her approach to life and, with the help of LA transfer student Missy, Torrance embarks on a journey of self-discovery and personal improvement.

A real feel-good high school movie, with an amazing soundtrack, Bring It On is certainly one of our favourites.

Superbad

The best and super-baddest of all our high school movies, Superbad teaches us many life lessons. All of which are brought to us through a hilarious and unlikely set of coincidental scenarios.

At the end of the movie we know that cops are people too, you should always look both ways before crossing the road, and good decisions are never made under the influence of alcohol.

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Superbad is one of the greatest high school movies ever made, despite mainly being set outside of school grounds.

At Arthouse Hotel we’re mad about movies and enjoy schooling our audiences about some of the best out there.

So, if you love movies as much as we do, check out some of our fun film facts based on some of our most popular movie-themed hotel suites.

Read all about the Weird and Frightening Facts About the Wizard of Oz or the Unknown and Bizarre Mary Poppins Facts we unearthed. 

Call now and book your stay at Arthouse Hotel on 0151 236 0166 or check out some of our amazing accommodation offers for group and weekend breaks in Liverpool.

25 Marilyn Monroe Facts About Her Life and Career

Posted on by Jessica Grini

Our Marilyn Monroe themed hotel room is one of our most popular rooms at Arthouse Hotel. A true 1950s icon, fans are still enamored today by Marilyn Monroe’s timeless beauty and charisma.

Monroe was a pinup icon and went on to become one of Hollywood’s most famous actresses. Long before the days of social media, the press were fixated on unraveling who she was and fans followed her every move.

But behind the scenes, Norma Jeane Mortenson was humble, shy and longed to start a family of her own. Though she’s best-remembered for her looks, Marilyn was also kind-hearted and politically engaged before her time.

So to celebrate the fascinating life of the world’s best-loved blonde bombshell, we’ve compiled a collection of our favourite ‘Marilyn moments’…

1) Marilyn loved to read literature

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Marilyn Monroe owned an extensive library of literature and was an avid reader. Often photographed enjoying a good book, some of Monroe’s favourites included The Fall by Albert Camus and Ernest Hemingway’s The Sun Also Rises. 

2) Marilyn Monroe was just a stage name

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Source: Wiki Commons

Marilyn’s real name was Norma Jaeane Mortenson, as documented on her birth certificate. Ben Lyon, Head of New Talent at Fox Studios helped a young and ambitious Norma Jeane to create a stage name.

Lyon told her “you are to me a Marilyn” in reference to Marilyn Miller, a woman who starred in musicals in New York. When it came to choosing a last name, Norma opted for her grandmother’s last name, Monroe. And the rest is history!

3) Monroe loved to wear Chanel No.5

If you’ve ever wondered what Marilyn Monroe’s scent of choice was, look no further than Chanel’s first and most timeless perfume. In an interview in 1952, Marilyn Monroe said that she wore “five drops of Chanel No. 5” and nothing else in bed. “I don’t want to say nude,” she said, “but it’s the truth.”

4) She married her first husband at 16

Before the bright lights of Hollywood swept up a young Norma Jean and Marilyn Monroe was born, James Dougherty married the pretty teenager when she was just 16.

“We decided to get married to prevent her from going back to a foster home,” Dougherty later said, “but we were in love. I never knew Marilyn Monroe, and I don’t claim to have any insights to her to this day,” Dougherty told United Press International in 1990. “I knew and loved Norma Jean.”

5) Marilyn was underpaid for her work

In comparison to her fellow leading ladies of the era, Marilyn Monroe was overworked and underpaid. Elizabeth Taylor was paid one million dollars for Cleopatra, while Monroe earned just $100,000 for Something’s Gotta Give. Jane Russell, Marilyn’s co-star in Gentleman Prefer Blondes was also paid over ten times the amount that Marilyn earned.

6) Marilyn married playwright Arthur Miller

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Source: Wiki Commons

In 1956, Marilyn married playwright, author and screenwriter, Arthur Miller.  The turbulent relationship proved controversial once in the public eye and many speculated that Miller was simply using Marilyn as his muse.

Though their relationship ended in heartache, Miller went on to write:

“She was a whirling light to me then, all paradox and enticing mystery, street-tough one moment, then lifted by a lyrical and poetic sensitivity that few retain past early adolescence.”

7) Marilyn opposed segregation laws

In the 1950s, segregation laws were still very much in force. This meant American jazz singer Ella Fitzgerald struggled to reach the audience she needed to really launch her career.

Marilyn used her platform to help Ella land gigs around Los Angeles, promising management that she would sit in the front row of Ella’s shows for a week!

8) Monroe was definitely a dog person

Throughout her life, Marilyn owned several dogs. As a child, she had a dog called Tippy, and her last four-legged friend was Maf, a Maletese terrier gifted to her by none other than Frank Sinatra!

9) She entertained army troops

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In the February of 1954, thousands of troops gazed up at Marilyn Monroe, who illuminated the stage with ten shows during her visit to Korea. Ted Sherman, who served in the Navy during World War II and Korea, recalled: ‘The movie star was at her glamorous best when she performed ten USO shows in four days for U.S. soldiers, airmen, Marines and sailors during the Korean War in early 1954.”

Sherman added:

“It was a great evening for all the homesick guys who were dazzled by the movie star’s performance. The sight and sounds of Marilyn singing “Diamonds Are a Girl’s Best Friend” is a memory I still cherish.”

10) Marilyn married Joe DiMaggio

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Source: Wiki Commons

Marilyn Monroe and “Yankee Clipper” Joe DiMaggio shared a whirlwind romance, marrying in 1954 and splitting just nine months later. DiMaggio’s love for Monroe lasted far longer than their marriage survived. Remaining friends until the end, DiMaggio had roses delivered to Marilyn’s crypt three times a week for 20 years.

11) She was notorious for always being late

Nobody’s perfect…and when it came to time keeping, Marilyn’s was certainly an issue. The star was often known to be running late!

12) Marilyn was involved with the Kennedys

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Source: Wiki Commons

Though the topic has been debated over the years, many believe that Marilyn Monroe had been romantically involved with both President John. F. Kennedy and his brother, Robert Kennedy.

One of Marilyn’s biographers, James Spada told People magazine, “it was clear Marilyn had sexual relations with both Bobby and Jack. ”

13) Marilyn longed to have children

Sadly, Marilyn suffered several miscarriages during the life. But the star longed for children of her own. This was clear from the close relationships she maintained with her stepchildren from her marriages to Arthur Miller and Joe DiMaggio.

14) And she was very intelligent

Though the “blonde bombshell” stereotype seemed to coincide with being a “dumb blonde”, this was far from the case. Marilyn had an IQ of 168.

15) Hugh Hefner is buried next to her

Somewhat bizarrely, Playboy‘s founder Hugh Hefner bought the burial spot next to Marilyn Monroe in 1992. Starring on the cover of the first issue in 1953, Marilyn helped to shape Playboy into the publication that it became.

16) She struggled with her weight

Though her hourglass shape continues to inspire ladies to embrace their natural body shape, Marilyn’s weight fluctuated throughout her career. Her weight changed so dramatically during the filming of The Prince and the Showgirl that Beatrice Dawson, the costume designer for the film said: “I have two ulcers from this film, and they’re both monogrammed MM.”

17) Marilyn was close to Frank Sinatra

Hollywood duo Marilyn Monroe and crooning legend Frank Sinatra maintained a friendship over a number of years, with many stories detailing a close romance between the pair. Supposedly in 1961, Marilyn and Sinatra embarked on an intimate relationship, lasting several months.

James Kaplan’s account of their relationship claims that Sinatra asked Monroe to stay with him at his Lake Tahoe resort, in a final attempt to win over the actress and protect her from the darker sides to fame. It’s also thought that Sinatra expressed his desires to marry Marilyn, but she declined his proposal.

Following Marilyn’s death, Joe DiMaggio turned Sinatra away from her funeral. The former friends had become rivals, and many believe that Marilyn and Joe had rekindled their romance prior to her passing away.

18) She shared out her estate

Marilyn’s estate was valued at $1.6 million when she died in 1962. She left 75% of that estate to her acting coach, Lee Strasberg and 25% to her psychoanalyst, Dr. Marianne Kris. Marilyn also left a trust fun for her mother that was worth $5,000 a year.

19) Happy Birthday, Mr President

Need we say more? This iconic occasion saw Marilyn perform a breathy rendition of ‘Happy Birthday’ for President John F Kennedy. Her controversial delivery and dazzling rhinestone dress sent the press into a frenzy!

Of course, this performance fuelled more rumours that Marilyn and JFK were having an affair. It was reported that Jack had told her he would leave his family, and Marilyn had said to her friend Jeanne Carmen, “Can’t you just see me as first lady?”.

20) Marilyn was a fan of yoga

Decades before doing yoga became an Instagram necessity, Monroe was a fan of doing yoga. She was taught by Bollywood film star Indra Devi, who also taught Greta Garbo and Gloria Swanson.

21) She also enjoyed lifting weights!

Marilyn began to lift weights while she was on Catalina Island with her first husband. It’s said that she studied weightlifting with Howard Corrington, a former Olympic champion.

In 1952, Pageant magazine published a feature on Marilyn’s exercise routine and famous figure. Marilyn shared:

“I spend at least 10 minutes each morning working out with small weights. I have evolved my own exercises, for the muscles I wish to keep firm, and I know they are right for me because I can feel them putting the proper muscles into play as I exercise.”

22) Candle in the Wind is about Marilyn

Elton John’s 1973 hit Candle in the Wind was inspired by Marilyn, and even references her birth name, Norma Jeane. The song empathises with Marilyn’s struggles, particularly the way in which the press harrassed her.

23) Marilyn’s house had been bugged

Following Marilyn’s death, actress Veronica Hamel bought Monroe’s former home. Supposedly, when Hamel was renovating the house she found a system of wire-taps. It was later confirmed by PI Fred Otash that Marilyn’s house had been bugged by the FBI and CIA…scary stuff indeed!

24) Britney Spears has Marilyn’s jeans

The original pop princess was given Marilyn Monroe’s jeans from River of No Return by Tommy Hilfiger, who purchased them for $37,000!

25) Lastly, the ‘Marilyn Monroe Moment’….

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Arguably the most famous ‘Marilyn Monroe Moment’ is this scene from The Seven Year Inch. The famous fluttering dress saw the phrase ‘Marilyn Monroe Moment’ become an iconic phrase through the decades!

We hope you’ve enjoyed our collection of the best Marilyn Monroe facts and moments from over the years. We’d love to have you come and stay in our Marilyn Monroe room at Arthouse Hotel.

Our Marilyn Monroe Room


We always have a wide range of special offers available to make your stay truly unforgettable! To enquire further or to book your stay in the heart of Liverpool, simply give our team a call on 0151 236 0166.

Book the Best Weekend Breaks in Liverpool at Arthouse Hotel

Posted on by Laura Bowery

Time for a holiday? Why not book one of the best weekend breaks you’ve ever had in Liverpool using one of Arthouse Hotel’s latest offers.

Stay in the centre of the city, close to all the top bars and restaurants and really enjoy a group getaway in style, for a little less than expected.

Take a look at the best weekend breaks available to book now at Arthouse Hotel.

The Show Must Go On

A popular saying in show business and the perfect name for our latest Arthouse Hotel offer, The Show Must Go On.

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Check into your movie-themed hotel suite to a welcome party package of themed balloons, banners and bubbly.

Enjoy a fabulous two-course meal in Alma de Cuba on one evening of your stay, and your choice of wine tasting or cocktail masterclass.

Then to round things off and keep you all entertained, a professional dance class has been arranged, provided by a talented dance instructor.

The best weekend breaks in Liverpool involve tasty food, plenty of drinks and a fun activity or two to keep you busy.

Better still this superb two-night stay is just £230 per person based on 6 or more sharing.

She’s All That

You may or may not have seen the movie She’s All That, but the basic breakdown is a pretty girl who’s “in need of a makeover”gets one then gets the guy.

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Our She’s All That Offer is the best weekend break in Liverpool for the girls. The offer includes a welcome party package of Prosecco, balloons, banners and cupcakes, two fabulous evening meals and an invite to a private cocktail masterclass.

Better still our team at The Salon will come to give you and the girls that all-important makeover. Styling your hair and applying professional makeup, making you look your very best for an unforgettable girl’s night out in Liverpool.

Book this sensational two-night break in Liverpool for just £260 per person based on 6 or more sharing.

The Star Treatment

Check out how the other half live by booking yourselves one of the best weekend breaks in Liverpool using our Star Treatment package.

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This all-inclusive offer basically gives you your own personal PA for the stay, as we pre-arrange afternoon tea and meal reservations at your choice of Signature Living restaurant and a private cocktail masterclass.

Your luxury hotel room will be pre-decorated with themed balloons and banners, we’ll even provide a little hired help to be on hand and serve you and your guests chilled Prosecco on arrival.

What more could you ask for on your VIP weekend away in Liverpool than this exclusive Star Treatment offer? Only £245 per person, based on 6 or more sharing.

The Full Monty Package

Taking care of everything so you don’t have to The Full Monty delivers all you could want or need on a short break in Liverpool.


Enjoy a two night stay in a large and luxurious city centre hotel room, including evening meals or breakfast on both days.

Your room will be decorated with a themed party package including delicious cupcakes and chilled bubbly. Plus a handy Butler will be ready to wait on you and your guests for the evening.

This is the perfect offer for groups of guests who’ve come to Liverpool to sample the amazing nightlife and famous culture, or even partake in some retail therapy.

The Full Monty offer makes sure you have all you need during your stay, so you can spend time enjoying the stunning city of Liverpool. Book The Full Monty offer for just £205 per person.

At Arthouse Hotel

A wonderfully whimsical hotel experience in the thriving heart of the city’s best nightlife district, Arthouse Hotel provides guests with easy access to everything Liverpool is famous for.

Movie themed hen party

The best bars and clubs are all within short walking distance, with Liverpool ONE and Bold Street nearby for shopping and all the top places to eat in the city.

Book yourself and your friends one of the best weekends away in Liverpool, using one of our latest hotel offers by calling 0151 236 0166 or email info@signatureliving.co.uk today.

Memorable Mom Movie Moments from the Best Movie Mothers

Posted on by Laura Bowery

Get snuggled up with mum on the couch this Mother’s Day and make your way through these classic mom movies with a bucket of tasty treats and a bottle of mum’s favourite plonk.

We’ve gathered all the greatest movie moments, from the cute and heartwarming to the scary and downright disturbing.

Here, in no particular order are the greatest mom movie moments of all time.

Mrs George

Aka: Regina’s Mum

Movie: Mean Girls

Mrs George makes it very clear from the get-go she’s not like a regular mom, she’s a cool Mom. Her velour tracksuit, blonde tresses and rocking bod certainly go a long way to confirm this.

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Our favourite mom movie moment:

Mrs George: Happy Hour is from 4-6!

Cady: Is there alcohol in this?

Mrs George: Oh god, no, honey, what kind of mother do you think I am? Why, do you want a little bit? Because if you’re gonna drink, I’d rather you do it in the house.

Amy Mitchell

Aka: The original Bad Mom

Movie: Bad Moms

The ultimate struggling mother trying to balance work, social life, love life and the dreaded PTA, Amy Mitchell is the most relatable movie mother we’ve encountered yet. She tells it like it is, lets loose and has a little fun with her newly found mummy mates.

Our favourite mom movie moment:

Arriving late to a PTA meeting, Amy decides to quit and starts a revolt against the PTA chairwoman eventually overthrowing the whole system.

Morticia Adams

Aka: Wednesday, Pugsley and Pubert’s mum

Movie: Adams Family and Adams Family Values

Although she may have a dark side, Morticia Adams is a devoted mother to her three unique children. She indulges their macabre games and encourages them to explore and celebrate the Adams’ individuality.

What more could you want from a mum?

Our favourite mom movie moment:

In Adams Family Values, when a curse falls upon Morticia’s family, and she’s reading to Pubert from The Cat in the Hat exclaiming when she reaches the end of the story

“Oh, no . . . he lives”

Celeste

Aka: Jessie’s alien stepmother

Movie: My Stepmother is an Alien

Who wouldn’t love a mother like Celeste whose alien bag can produce everything from fist-sized diamonds to designer clothes? She even makes Jessie fly at one point. Too cool.

Our favourite mom movie moment:

To fulfil the typical earth mom role, Celeste whips up every dish on the menu from the corner restaurant for breakfast. Even giving the dog, Dave, a selection of desserts and chicken wings in his bowl.

Bella Swan

Aka: Renesmee’s Mum

Movie: Twilight Breaking Dawn Part II

Bella Swan and Renesmee - mom movie moments

Of course, there’s no movie mother quite like Bella Swan. Giving birth to a half vampire half human baby, dying in the process only to be reborn as a vampire herself then taking on a legion of vampire lords to protect her newborn daughter.

That’s motherhood right there.

Our favourite mom movie moment:

After Bella wakes up and realises Jacob has imprinted on Renesmee and furiously throws him against a tree demonstrating her newborn vampire strength and her protective instincts.

Marge Simpson

Aka: Bart, Lisa and Maggie’s Mum

Movie: The Simpsons Movie

Over the decades Marge Simpson became everyone’s favourite cartoon mum, stuck forever with a teenage son, a genius daughter and an Alien baby.

When The Simpsons Movie was made, Marge resumed her role as the sane one in the group, continuing to keep the family together through thick and thin.

Our favourite mom movie moment:

Whilst cleaning and listening intently to Lisa describe her new boyfriend, Marge gives Lisa some sage advice about how important it is to find a man who listens to her. She is then cut off mid-sentence when she notices pig tracks on the ceiling and wonders how they got there.

Mrs Gump

Aka: Forrest’s mum

Movie: Forrest Gump

The most touching mother-son relationship of all movie time is the bond between Mrs Gump and Forrest. Throughout the film, her strength to give Forrest confidence in life makes her one of the greatest movie moms ever.

Our favourite mom movie moment:

My momma always said, “Life is like a box of chocolates, you never know what you’re gonna get.”

Molly Weasley

Aka: Ginny, Ron, Fred, George, Percy and Charlie’s mum

Movie: The Harry Potter Series

The greatest mum in the wizarding world award goes to Molly Weasley. Even though her kind welcoming presence is a reassurance that things will be okay throughout the film, Molly Weasley is not a mum to be trifled with and will not hesitate to blow up anyone who threatens her family.

Our favourite mom movie moment:

Sarah Connor

Aka: John Connor’s mum

Movie: Terminator 2

Sarah Connor is one of the most amazing movie mothers whose existence is tantamount to the entire Terminator franchise. From being hunted to becoming the hunter, Sarah Connor is a fierce warrior mother who battles for her and her son’s survival in a variety of time zones.

Our favourite mom movie moment:

When the T-1000 jabs Sarah in the shoulder with his finger that turns into a knife and tries to torture her for information. She just casually uses her one good arm to try and reload her big ass shotgun, blowing his non-existent nuts off then getting away to save her kid. Tough as nails!

Helen Parr

Aka: Dash and Violet’s mum

Movie: The Incredibles 1 & 2

Another cartoon mother we simply have to give snaps to. Helen Parr, the once great Elastigirl, now a mother of three amazing children gave up her excellent crime-stopping lifestyle to form a family.

In both Incredibles 1 & 2, Helen Parr shows she can still whip butt with the best of them, helping to defeat both Syndrome and the Screenslaver.

Our favourite mom movie moment:

After being shot out of the sky, Helen Parr transforms into a parachute to safely deliver herself and her kids into the sea, after which she threatens to ground both the kids unless they calm down before morphing into a dingy to get them safely to land.

Talk about multi-tasking skills!

Mrs Edna Turnblad

Aka: Tracy’s mum

Movie: Hairspray

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Big, bold and beautiful Edna Turnblad is the mum we’re all rooting for as her life turns from shut-in to show off in the movie Hairspray. Always played in Drag, Edna Turnblad is one yummy mummy we just love to love.

Our favourite mom movie moment:

The Mr Pinky’s Hefty Hideaway makeover of course. In both the original and the 2007 movie version these scenes are pure mummy magic.

Lilly Potter

Aka: Harry’s mum

Movie: Harry Potter

When it comes to giving it all up for your kids, Lilly Potter wins hands down. Not only did she stand up to he-who-must-not-be-named to save her son, but she also armed him with everything he’d need to take Voldemort down in the end, including making Harry the last Horcrux by default.

Our favourite mom movie moment:

When Lily cast herself in front of the Avada Kedavra curse meant to kill Harry, deflecting it back on him and permanently weakening him forever.

Jeanine Stifler

Aka: Stifler’s Mum

Aka: MILF

Movie: American Pie Series

Only a son like Steve Stifler could come from a mum like Jeanine. A no-nonsense hottie whose presence in the movie serves only to give Finch a hold over her own son.

When Stifler’s mum seduces Finch, she gives him the night of his life and sets the standard to which he’ll hold all future encounters to measure.

Our favourite mom movie moment:

Stifler Mom Are You Trying To Seduce Me GIF from Stiflermom GIFs

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Karen

Aka: Daisy and Bernie’s mum

Movie: Love Actually

The woman who made other women across the world temporarily despise Alan Rickman, Karen is the perfect mother, who lives for her children and sacrifices her own dreams for a happy family home.

Our favourite mom movie moment:

Karen: The trouble with being the Prime Minister’s sister is, it does put your life into rather harsh perspective. What did my brother do today? He stood up and fought for his country. And what did I do? I made a papier maché lobster head.

Andy’s Mum

Aka: Emily (fan theory)

Movie: The Toy Story Series

If there’s one mum whose shown she can handle it all its Andy’s mum. As any mother knows the loss or breakage of a favourite toy can be catastrophic and yet she brushes it off pulling out other distractions like Pizza Planet and puppies.

Only once did we see her lose her cool when Andy . . . sob. . . left for college. Andy’s mum is one tough cookie.

Our favourite mom movie moment:

A fan theory that makes Andy’s Mum Jessie’s original owner, Emily.

Minds blown!

Mrs McAllister

Aka: Kevin’s mum

Movie: Home Alone 1 & 2

Every mum’s worst nightmare is leaving something important at home on route to the airport for a family getaway. Leaving a child behind, unthinkable. Twice, unforgivable.

But of course, we know that what ensues are two of the greatest family movies ever made.

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What we love about Mrs McAllister is in both movies she will stop at nothing to get back to her boy, including traversing the country in the back of a van and wandering the scary streets of New York City alone.

Our favourite mom movie moment:

In the second movie when Mrs McAllister realises she knows exactly where Kevin will be, and they are reunited under the huge Christmas tree. Weep.

Norma Bates

Aka: Norman’s mum

Movie: Psycho

The mother of all mother movies is Alfred Hitchcock’s Psycho. The twisted relationship between Norma and Norman is one that is still referenced today in many psychological thrillers. Psycho’s Norma Bates takes the overbearing mother figure to a whole new level.

Our favourite mom movie moment:

When Mrs Bates’ corpse is found in the cellar and Norman appears dressed as her wielding a knife, one of the greatest cinematic reveals of all time.

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Ellen Ripley

Aka: The Mother of the Alien Queen

Movie: Alien 3 & Alien Resurrection

Before Khalissi, Mother of Dragons there was Ripley mother of Aliens. After birthing a creature that only a mother could love, this kick-ass mum is forced to kill her offspring in not one but two Alien movies

Our favourite mom movie moment:

Trapped on the fleeing ship in Alien Resurrection, Ripley’s half human, half alien offspring has killed a few more cast members.

Ripley gets all maternal, cuddling the creature before using her own blood to melt a hole in the glass window and then watches her alien child get sucked out into space!

The Other Mother

Aka: Coraline’s other mum

Movie: Coraline

Sometimes our own mothers can seem a little boring or too busy to pay us attention, that’s where the other mothers come in. But of course, no mother is better than the one you’ve already got, as Coraline found out the hard way.

Our favourite mom movie moment:

When Coraline’s mum buys her the gloves she asked for in the early scenes and shows she was listening all along.

Donna Sheridan

Aka: Sophie’s mum

Movie: Mamma Mia

The coolest movie mum ever has to be Donna Sheridan, who single-handedly raised her daughter on a stunning Greek island after leaving her friends, bandmates and musical career behind.

Our favourite mom movie moment:

When Donna is helping Sophie get ready for her wedding, recounting all the fun times she had to the song “Slipping through my fingers” by ABBA.

Evelyn O’Connell

Aka: Alex’s mum

Movie: The Mummy Returns

Not only did Evelyn O’Connell battle an undead Mummy, but she also took on a reincarnated Egyptian warrior Princess to save her son and husband from the clutches of the Scorpion King and came back from the dead to do it.

That’s dedication.

Our favourite mom movie moment:

When battling a soldier from the army of Anaksunamun, Evelyn’s son Alex asks his mum “Wow mum where did you learn that?”, to which she replies I have no idea.

Then, throwing out a powerful right hook knocking a soldier out, she tells Alex “That I learned from your father.”

Elizabeth James

Aka: Annie and Hallie’s mum

Movie: The Parent Trap

Parent Trap

The effortlessly stylish and successful Elizabeth James seems like the perfect role model for little Annie and her estranged twin sister Hallie. She also has a clumsy endearing quality which makes us love her all the more.

Our favourite mom movie moment:

When Elizabeth is packing to swap Annie and Hallie back, pacing her room smoking a cigarette, with a roller in her hair and sunglasses on have a mini meltdown. Relatable.

Maria Von Trapp

Aka: Gretl, Marta, Kurt, Brigitta, Louisa, Frederich and Leisl’s mum

Movie: The Sound of Music

A woman who would never become a nun instead became the mother of 7 children in war-torn Austria, saving them all from Nazi rule with the Sound of Music and a good healthy hike into the hills.

Our favourite mom movie moment:

When all the Von Trapp kids huddle up in Maria’s bed during the thunderstorm and sing about their favourite things to feel better.

Mama Fratelli

Aka: Mikey, Jake and Sloth’s mum

Movie: The Goonies

One of the worst mums on the list, Mama Fratelli was a mum you would never mess with. She kept her two of her sons in check with frequent beatings and kept the other locked in chains his whole life!

Our favourite mom movie moment:

Mama Fratelli: You remember that song I used to sing to you?

Sloth: Yeah!

Mama Fratelli: You were little back then?

Mama Fratelli: Rock-a-bye baby on the tree top. When the wind blows the cradle will rock. When the bough breaks the cradle will fall…

Sloth: Break! Fall!

Mama Fratelli: No! I only dropped once.

Sloth: Ahh!

Mama Fratelli: Well, maybe twice. No Sloth! Put me down!

Beverly Sutphin

Aka: Misty and Chip’s mum

Movie: Serial Mom

As far as mad movie mums go, Beverly Sutphin takes the cake. Why do we love her? Because she’ll do anything to keep her kids happy, including murder their teachers.

Our favourite mum movie moment:

Chip: So happy I could s**t.

Beverly: Chip! You know how I hate the brown word.

Maureen Prescott

Aka: Sydney’s mum

Movie: Scream Series

It’s well known that if it weren’t for Sydney’s mum, the Scream franchise would never have happened. So, even though Sydney might not thank her mum for years of dodging psychotic serial killers, we certainly do.

Our favourite mom movie moment:

When the ghost of Maureen comes to haunt Sydney in her dreams. As if she hasn’t caused her enough trouble already. Gorsh!

What a wonderful array of mom movie moments, from the magical and heartwarming to the terrifying and slightly disturbing.

Mother’s Day at Arthouse Hotel

If you are hoping to spoil your mum this Mother’s Day, why not treat to a night at Arthouse Hotel? Here she can enjoy an overnight stay in utter luxury surrounded by movie inspired decor and indulgent facilities.

Hitchcock Arthouse Hotel - mom movie moments

What’s more, Sunday’s in Mulholland Singing Diner, are filled with pure Disney magic and classic show tune entertainment provided by our live singing waiters. If your mum loves her musicals Mulholland and Arthouse Hotel are the place for you this Mother’s Day in Liverpool.

Take a dip in the double jacuzzi baths, enjoy a meal at the nearby Alma de Cuba or explore the nearby nightlife with your very own “cool mom”. Call on 0151 236 0166 or email info@signatureliving.co.uk to arrange your Mother’s Day visit.

“Shut UP!” There’s Going to be a Princess Diaries 3?

Posted on by Olivia

We were today-years-old when we found out (well, remembered) that the last Princess Diaries film came out in 2004. Yep, FIFTEEN years ago. It’s been too long since we spent some quality time with our fave royal babes Miss Mia Thermopolis and Queen Clarisse Renaldi.

However, if recent reports – and Anne Hathaway herself – are to be believed, we may be reuniting with the Princess Diaries franchise sooner than we thought. Whilst a lot of buzz surrounding a Princess Diaries 3 arose back in 2017, a 2019 appearance on US talk show ‘Watch What Happens Live’ saw Anne confirm that “there is a script for the third movie…I want to do it. Julie [Andrews] wants to do it.”

OMG.

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Inspired by this recent news, we wanted to revisit all the best movie prins that have ever graced our screens. Cue the nostalgia.

1. Mia (The Princess Diaries)

Obviously. We saw Amelia Mignonette Grimaldi Thermopolis Renaldo transform right before our eyes with one of the best makeover montages ever.

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Buena Vista Pictures

Despite the new look, she proved that being true to yourself is the best way to achieve your dreams. Even if those dreams don’t come close to becoming an integral part of the Genovian royal family, we could all benefit from channelling a bit of that trademark Mia sass.

2. Asana (The Princess Diaries 2)

Now we cannot mention Princess Diaries without giving a special mention to Princess Asana. Who else could we have wanted to duet with Julie Andrews on iconic RnB banger ‘Your Crowning Glory’?

Who else forgot that this was a thing that happened?

Regardless, we’re here to remind the world of the genius that is Raven Symone poppin’ and lockin’ around a visibly uncomfortable Julie A. She also committed to an extremely enthusiastic mattress surfing cameo.

3. Fa Mulan (Mulan)

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Saving an entire kingdom and your father’s life through some very convincing identity fraud? Just a day in the life for our Fa Mulan. Cutting her hair off (into a lovely blunt bob, may we add, very on-trend) with a giant sword to some incredibly dramatic music? Climbing to the top of that giant wooden pole when no other man in an army of hundreds could? Stopping a sword with a god damn FAN? Ugh, Mulan girl, we love you.

4. Sarah (A Little Princess)

Okay, theoretically she’s not a real princess. But technicalities aside, we needed to recognise miss Sarah Crewe in this list since she reminded us that we are all princesses. All girls – and boys, if they feel so inclined – are. She was an inspiration to all of us, showing that kindness, empathy and generosity reign over all.

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Warner

Looking back, she was also the queen of shade. Take that, Lavinia.

5. Anya (Anastasia)

A young orphan with no memory of her past, this mega-babe is a prime example of how confidence, bravery and a lil’ bit of sass can get you out of dodge. Despite some bad amnesia caused by a particularly intense bout of childhood trauma, Anya manages to come through the other side of her struggle as one of the most badass women in movie ‘herstory’.

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Sure, con-man Dimitri initially tries to use her to make a few quid, but she’s that much of a gem inside and out that he soon drops the act and falls in love with her. Even that weirdo Rasputin can’t get enough of her, though that’s mainly ‘cos she’s getting in the way of him fulfilling his curse on the entire Romanov family. Against all the odds – and all the men getting in her way – Anastasia is finally reunited with her gran and all is well in the world.

6. Leia (Star Wars)

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Tenor

Yes, she worked that cinnamon-roll-on-each-ear hairdo like nobody else could, and yes, she’s a dab hand at firing blasters and one-liners. Ultimately though, Leia is a leader and a bloody great one at that. She’s creative, courageous and out-smarts pretty much every male counterpart the Empire manages to throw at her. RIP Carrie, you were an absolute queen.

P.S. We particularly love the moment she chokes Jabba to death after he enslaves and forces her to dance around in that godforsaken bikini. G’wed.

7. Tiana (Princess and the Frog)

A humble and grounded gal, Tiana is one of our all-time favourite movie princesses. With a love for good food and grafting hard to achieve her dreams, she’s a girl after our own hearts.

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She goes through hell and back, with being turned into a frog by a voodoo master and having to spend a prolonged amount of time with Prince Naveen (the human equivalent to headbutting a cheese grater) being just a few of her notable feats. She always remains focused, self-assured and reminds us that a girl never needs to be saved; she can bloody well sort herself out AND open her own restaurant without any local authorities questioning if an amphibious stint in the local swamp goes against sanitary regulations.

Also, shout out to Mama Odie. She might not be a princess, but she is a kween.

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Arthouse Hotel

You’ve probably guessed by now that we’re not ashamed to admit that we’re a big fan of iconic films, particularly ones of the princess variety. Well, we’d love for you to join us here at the hotel and live like a prin for a day (or two!) at Arthouse in 2019. Make your reservation to stay at The Arthouse Hotel today. We can’t wait!

If you’re in the mood for a rom-com, then why not check out this guide to the best wedding movies of all time? 

11 True Crime Documentaries You Need to Watch Now

Posted on by Jack Connor

Why are we so obsessed with true crime documentaries? Is it because we’re somewhat strange or that we love to fear what monsters hide in the shadows or beneath our beds? Or is it simply because these documentaries are just so captivatingly good. But, what we’ve learnt from watching so many of these true crime documentaries is that nothing is ever simple; oh, and that you should never open your mouth without a lawyer present.

So, with this in mind, we thought we’d count down eleven true crime documentaries that you need to watch now.

Making a Murderer (2015)

true crime documentaries

Laura Ricciardi and Moria Demos’ Making a Murderer is the granddaddy, the forerunner of today’s true crime obsession. The docuseries narrates the story of Steven Avery, a man from Wisconsin who served 18 years in prison for a crime he (supposedly) did not commit.

The jewel in televisions true crime crown, Making a Murderer is enchantingly good to say the least.

The Staircase (2018)

The Staircase, a docuseries by filmmaker Jean-Xavier de Lestrade, is often held up as one of the best true crime documentaries ever made. Lestrade never tries to solve the case, but rather examines how the criminal justice system treats the protagonist – Michael Peterson.

This noir masterpiece epitomises everything we love about true crime documentaries.

Mindhunter (2017)

We know that Mindhunter isn’t a true crime documentary. What it is, however, is one of the most intense, accurately portrayed crime dramas ever created.

Based on the book: Mindhunter: Inside the Federal Bureau’s Special Crime Unit, Mindhunter (2017) revolves around the creation of the behavioural science unit.

The interviews’ with infamous “serial murderers” yield what can only be described as one of the most intense scenes ever between Holden Ford and Edmund Kemper.

The Confession Tapes (2017)

Sarah Loudenberg’s The Confession Tapes is an indictment of America’s criminal justice system, the trust we put in law enforcement, and the reasons why people confess to crimes they didn’t commit.

This isn’t similar to any of the other true crime documentaries on our countdown as most of the criminals aren’t even criminals, some of them weren’t even in the country when their crimes were committed.

What makes The Confession Tapes so hard to watch is exactly why you should watch it; we did warn you that nothing is ever simple in the world of true crime documentaries.

The Seven Five (2014)

Former NYPD policeman Michael Dowd recounts how he and his partner ran their own cocaine cartel while working in New York during the 1980s and early 90s. Dowd’s conviction in 1992 led to one of the largest police corruption scandals in NYPD history.

The Seven Five is 104 minutes of jaw-dropping action and deserving of high praise indeed.

Louis Theroux: Miami Mega Jail (2011)

Louis Theroux is the godfather of documentary making. And, as always, he shows everyone how it’s done in this true crime documentary.

Louis tackles this sensitive subject, and the interviewees and inmates he meets, with his usual concoction of empathy, genuine interest and awkwardness that makes him the best at what he does.

Theroux’s readiness to report on the dark underside of American culture makes Miami Mega Jail stick out above not only the spew of Louis Theroux documentaries, but also the numerous true crime documentaries that run aground when endeavouring to imitate his unique style.

Conversations with a Killer: The Ted Bundy Tapes (2019)

The Ted Bundy Tapes take a look inside the mind of murderer Ted Bundy, featuring interviews with him on death row.

One of the newest and best true crime documentaries on our countdown, Jon Doran’s docuseries coincides with the announcement of Extremely Wicked, shockingly Evil, and Vile – a Zac Efron biopic that didn’t feature on our countdown of the most anticipated movies of 2019, but we’re starting to think it should have done.

You almost certainly won’t be sleeping much once you’ve watched this formidable docuseries.

Manhunt: Unabomber (2017)

As with Mindhunter, Manhunt: Unabomber shouldn’t be on our countdown of the best true crime documentaries, however, as with Mindhunter, it’s too good not to include.

Andrew Sodroski’s drama miniseries depicts a fictionalised account of the FBI’s hunt for the Unabomber and is true crime at its captivating peak.

Team Foxcatcher (2016)

Recounting the downward spiral of John Du Pont, Team Foxcatcher is absolutely astonishing and extremely fearsome in equal measure.

With the grace and panache of a murder mystery novel, Team Foxcatcher is a must watch for those who love true crime documentaries.

The Witness (2015)

James D. Solomon’s directorial debut is outstanding and superb, shocking and alarming, and therefore making it a must watch.

The Witness pioneered a new wave of true crime documentaries – recounting a murder from the perspective of 38 witnesses.

The Witness, therefore, is the epitome of bingeworthy.

The Keepers (2017)

In mood, theme, tone, and content, The Keepers is everything you’d expect from a true crime documentary. That’s it: watch, tremble and bask in the true crime seesaw of emotion that is The Keepers.

Get everyone together and binge watch one of the amazing true crime documentaries above in some our awesome movie-themed rooms. Come and join us, we’d love to hear from you today to organise a superb stay at Arthouse in 2019.

You can contact us on 0151 601 8801. Also, check out both our Facebook page and some of our amazing deals now.

The 13 Best, Worst and Weirdest Oscars Moments

Posted on by Olivia

The Oscars is an incredibly prestigious evening which plays host to the crème de la crème and who’s who of the film industry. Each year, in the lead up to the star-studded event, we all wait with anticipation to see who’s nominated, what will be worn on the red carpet, whether we will see another ‘envelopegate’ and this year, how the night unfolds without a host.

Most importantly though, will Fiji water girl be there?

Whilst we’re all looking forward to this year’s awards ceremony, let’s look back at some of the best – and quite frankly, the weirdest – moments in Oscars history.

1. The Time That Fella Streaked Across the Stage Wearing Nothin’ but a Moustache

The 13 Best, Worst and Weirdest Oscars Moments

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In 1974, host David Niven was in the middle of introducing Elizabeth Taylor to present an award when suddenly artist and activist Robert Opel ran across the stage butt naked. He flashed the audience a peace sign and, well, quite a lot more.

2. Rob Lowe’s Bizarre Opening Number

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Let’s just say that the last time the Oscars went without a host, things got weird. Dead weird. In 1989, Rob Lowe and Snow White sang “Proud Mary” as an odd duet. Disney sued, and the likes of Julie Andrews and Paul Newman co-signed a letter describing as an “embarrassment.”

3. Meryl Streep Looking Like the Fairy Godmother from Shrek

The 13 Best, Worst and Weirdest Oscars Moments

source: Twitter

Need we say more?

4. Leo Finally Winning an Oscar

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After jokes surrounding his lack of wins snowballing year after year, our Leo finally got his hands on an Oscar in 2016 for his performance in The Revenant. Apparently, all it really takes is eating a bison liver and getting attacked by a massive bear.

5. Nicole Kidman Clapping

The 13 Best, Worst and Weirdest Oscars Moments

source: Giphy

Is it the Grinch? Is it a Seal? No! It’s Nicole Kidman clapping! She later explained her unique celebratory technique was to protect a very expensive diamond ring she was wearing.

6. John Travolta Being John Travolta

THE 13 BEST, WORST AND WEIRDEST OSCARS MOMENTS

source: Giphy

When introducing Tony-award winning Broadway star Idina Menzel in 2015, Mr Travolta decided instead to utilise his platform to shed light on a new, undiscovered talent. Her name? Adela Dazeem.

Not really. He just couldn’t pronounce her name properly. She did get her own back the next year when she returned to introduce her “dear friend, Glom Gazingo.” John then proceeded to weirdly cup her chin.

7. Jennifer Lawrence Falling Over

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We love a relatable queen! Stumbling up the stairs live on air during one of the biggest events of your career? Eh, no biggie.

8. Jennifer Lawrence Climbing Over Seats Equipped with Wine

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Because this is all of us.

9. The Entire Time Maya Rudolph and Tiffany Haddish Were on Stage

The 13 Best, Worst and Weirdest Oscars Moments

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These two amazing women stole the show in 2018. Maya Rudolph told us all that her pinkie toe had fallen off and Tiffany told Meryl Streep she wanted her to be her mum. It was great.

10. That Selfie

The 13 Best, Worst and Weirdest Oscars Moments

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Ellen managed to break Twitter – and our hearts – with the celeb-filled selfie of 2014. It became the most re-tweeted photograph ever that year and even surpassed the original record held by Obama.

11. When Chrissy Teigen Fell Asleep

The 13 Best, Worst and Weirdest Oscars Moments

source: YouTube

It was either a genuine power nap or some meticulously timed Casey Affleck shade, but seeing Chrissy in the crowd snoozing on John Legend’s shoulder in 2017 was everything.

12. Bjork Laying an Egg

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We’re so happy this is a real-life thing that happened. Bjork’s 2001 feathered swan dress became one of the most iconic Oscars fashion moments in history – it’s now honoured in the MoMA – but what really stole the show was her then ‘laying’ a massive swan egg, right in the middle of the red carpet.

13. Angelina Jolie’s Right Leg

The 13 Best, Worst and Weirdest Oscars Moments

source: KnowYourMeme

The guest of honour at the 2012 Oscars? A leg. Angelina’s right one, to be exact. Angie’s leg gave us a full dose of that Oscars realness. She served knee. She served us up a hot plate of red-carpet glamour. She didn’t come to play – she came to slay. She even got her own Twitter account.

The 13 Best, Worst and Weirdest Oscars Moments

source: KnowYourMeme

If you’re anything like us, then you’ll be a film-lover who looks forward to awards season every year. This year, why not plan an Oscar’s viewing party & stay in a movie-inspired room at Arthouse? Make your reservation to stay at The Arthouse Hotel today to get you and your mates booked in! 

Feel-Good Movies for the January Blues

Posted on by Jack Connor

Despite our endeavors, January is probably not the most exciting month of the year; although it is the darkest, coldest and grimmest. Christmas is over, the decorations are down and everyone is drudging back into work one miserable step at a time. The January blues are certainly upon us in 2019.

Having said that, we thought we’d share with you our pick of the best feel-good movies to get you out of the post-Christmas slump.

The Pursuit of Happyness | 2006

The Pursuit of Happyness is feel-good personified. I mean, it even has the word ‘happyness’ in the title – although it is spelt wrong.

Directed by Gabriele Muccino, The Pursuit of Happyness is a must for those who are devoid of motivation in January. This feel-good movie is about a young man who, in the throes of homelessness, is trying to raise his son.

Armed with a slew of instagramable motivational quotes, ideal for helping you out of bed in the morning – the foremost being: “if you want something go get it” – The Pursuit of Happyness is as feel-good as it is heartwarming.

Grease | 1978

Memorable showtunes and magnificent dance moves: two of the reasons why Grease is the ideal feel-good movie for banishing the January blues. The most dubious ‘teenagers’ ever go a long way to have you dancing the gloom away.

Featuring on our pick of the greatest teen movies that changed pop culture forever, Grease is guaranteed to have you popping your hood like Travolta as the rain crashes down on your way to work in January.

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Paramount Pictures

Another sure way to banish the blues this January is by staying in our stunning, Grease-themed room at the amazing Arthouse Hotel. You can guarantee you’re in for an exciting stay, as our room has been furnished to celebrate the hit 1978 musical.

Shape yourself up this January, you wont regret it.

500 Days of Summer | 2009

Now we know that 500 Days of Summer isn’t the happiest of happy movies, however, we believe it echoes everyone’s mood in January; not wanting to get out bed in the morning being one of them.

Indeed, this bubbling volcano of romance, comedy and everything inbetween is worthy of any January viewing on the bluest of blue days.

La La Land | 2016

La La Land is a technicolour behemoth of choreographed dance routines and musical numbers that are bound to banish the January blues.

The movie opens on a dreary overpass, and – in one swooping take – we find ourselves in the midst of a feel-good movie bursting with charm.

Ryan Gosling and Emma Stone are awesome in La La Land as it is preposterous, ludicrous – and exactly the movie we need in January.

Mrs. Doubtfire | 1993

Released in 1993, Mrs. Doubtfire is a transvestic cauldron of madness about a man impersonating a nanny from Scotland and therefore ideal for January, when everyone could do with a laugh.

This feel-good movie is sure to have you laughing one minute and weeping the next, but don’t fear, it is wrapped up in a heartwarming bow at the end.

Mrs. Doubtfire, like The Pursuit of Happyness – and each and every one of our movies – is feel-good personified.

Arthouse Hotel

feel-good movie

As you’ve probably already guessed, we love the movies here at Arthouse Hotel.

So, why don’t you bring the entire family together and take advantage of our awesome hotel and movie-inspired rooms that wouldn’t look out of place in some of the marvelous movies listed above.

Come and join us! We’d love to hear from you today to organise a magical stay at Arthouse in 2019.

You can contact us on 0151 601 8801

The Oscars 2019: Who Should Have Hosted

Posted on by Olivia

For the Oscars 2019, The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences is doing something that they haven’t done in 30 years. Yep, that’s right – the 91st Annual Academy Awards will have no host at all after Kevin Hart stepped down from the role when homophobic statements resurfaced on Twitter. Rightly so, the Academy delivered an ultimatum asking for him to apologise, but Hart has since completely pulled out of the job.

It seems the Academy has given up on the search for a new celeb to fill the post entirely and instead it is reported that the organisation will bring in various stars to pepper throughout the evening at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood. Producers have six weeks to compile a star-studded show of laughs, celebrations and awards – but we reckon we’ve got that no-host-conundrum covered. Kind of.

John Legend and Chrissy Teigen

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Instagram/John Legend

One of Hollywood’s most beloved couples, John and Chrissy have somehow remained down to earth, hilarious and downright lovable despite them residing in the basically parallel universe that is La La Land.

Chrissy would probably just end up stealing the show, and if her Twitter feed is anything to go by she’d have no fear in dishing the dirt on her beloved as well as her fellow A-listers.

Will Smith

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Why didn’t this happen sooner? We want answers! Will is endearing, radiates charisma and he’s so charming that it kind of hurts a bit. We’ve never met someone who wasn’t a fan. The Fresh Prince can sing, dance and act – he’s got it all.

Someone should probably look into the fact that it’s biologically impossible to dislike Will Smith.

Rihanna

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To be honest she might as well considering she’s basically doing everything but giving us an album release.

Seriously though. Rihanna would be a great contender to host the Oscars 2019 and she’s no stranger to Hollywood especially after her role in Ocean’s 8.

Cher

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Because, well, it’s Cher.

Idris Elba

Idris Elba & Daniel Craig

Twitter/Idris Elba

After sending James Bond fans into a bit of a frenzy after taking his Golden Globes selfie with Daniel Craig, Idris made very little effort to try and quash rumours that he was to be the next 007.

Not only is he a great actor, but he’s very clearly a bit of a joker. Sigh, we love you Idris. The Oscars needs some of that smooth talking, funny, talented handsome-ness.

He’s also a DJ, so they’d be sorted for the afterparty. It’s a no brainer.

Sandra Bullock

Bird Box Netflix Meme

Sandra’s had a bit of a second wind and unwittingly has become a bit of a meme-queen after the success of Netflix hit Bird Box.

So, we’re basically saying if she could do the whole thing blindfolded that would be great. A huge health and safety issue but we’re pretty sure they’ll figure something out.

Maya Rudolph and Kristen Wiig

These two make up one of the most iconic best-bud duos in Hollywood. Kristen and Maya are goofy, sharp, witty and an all-around lovable pair. Their irreverence and mischievous nature are infectious – and when they break into fits of laughter mid-bit it’s even better.

We think these two would bring welcome relief from some of the more serious (and sometimes laborious) tones of the evening.

RuPaul & Co.

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Imagine this. Michelle Visage tells Ian McKellen he needs to cinch his waist, otherwise, he’s just resting on pretty. Margot Robbie dressed as Queen Elizabeth serves us some “ooh ah sensation” as she death drops on her way to accepting her Oscar. Ru has made a decision. Olivia Coleman and Helen Mirren are to lip-sync for their lives.

This is the Oscars we deserve.

Have your own suggestions or predictions for the Oscars 2019? Come and chat with us about all things film over on our Facebook page!

If you’re a cinephile just like we are, then why not have your own Oscars-themed celebrations and book yourself into a movie-inspired room at Arthouse. Make your reservation to stay at The Arthouse Hotel today.

Cinema | What to Look Out for in 2019

Posted on by Jack Connor

Excellence abounded at the movie theater in what was a remarkable year for cinema in 2018. From a mustachioed frontman to an opulent au pair, 2018 had something for everyone. But don’t be alarmed, 2019 is already looking like a rousing year for cinema.

So, whether you’re a would-be action hero or you go to the cinema for a bit more Hollywood glamour, 2019 has got you covered.

With this in mind, we thought we’d share with you what we’re looking forward to watching in 2019.

Once Upon a Time in Hollywood | 7 June 2019

Cinema

Source: Twitter.com/OnceinHollywood

A washed-up actor and his longtime stunt double; the former played by Leonardo DiCaprio, embark upon a crusade to make a name for themselves in Charles Manson tortured Los Angeles in what is also Quentin Tarantino’s most ambitious movie for some time.

A chic-looking premise set in the context of a murderous cult and gruesome violence: it is easy to see how Once Upon a Time in Hollywood points towards a Tarantino triumph.

Brace yourselves for the comeback of the 1960s as we expect Once Upon a Time in Hollywood to not only be a cinematic success, but it could also secure DiCaprio his second Oscar.

Star Wars: Episode IX | 20 December 2019

“An emotionally resonant finale” is what J.J Abrams has promised Star Wars: Episode IX will be. Nonetheless, the final piece of the intergalactic jigsaw is sure to both wow and enrage die-hard Star Wars fans.

Naomi Ackie and Richard E. Grant are to join anew while Joonas Suotamo, John Boyega – now the darling of the chat show – Anthony Hamill and Oscar Isaac are set to make their noble returns.

This being the newest big-screen cosmic adventure, Star Wars: Episode IX is sure to be both an uproarious quest and financial smash.

Rocketman | 31 May 2019

As was Bohemian Rhapsody, Rocketman is directed by Dexter Fletcher and, like its contemporary, it is sure to be a sensational smash in 2019.

This long-awaited biopic – which was announced back in 2012 – is a foot-stomping, uncensored, completely human account of Sir Elton John’s breakthrough years.

The movie chronicles the years preceding the frontman’s meteoric move upwards when John, played by Taron Egerton – who replaced Tom Hardy in 2017 – united with iconic songwriter Bernard Taupin.

We’re certain that Egerton’s performance as Sir Elton John will be deserving of acclaim and award; however, it’ll be Lee’s absorbing screenplay and Fletcher’s spectacular directorship that’ll empower this movie.

The Irishman | TBA 2019

Martin Scorsese’s newest gangster movie is to be released sometime in 2019 on numerous platforms. The Irishman follows self-confessed hitman Frank Sheeran (Robert De Niro) as he recalls his possible involvement in the assassination of union leader Jimmy Hoffa (Al Pacino).

We think The Irishman will be a huge success in 2019 for two reasons: one being it’s enormous £110m budget and two being its stellar cast, which includes Joe Pesci, Harvey Keitel and scouser Stephen Graham.

This being Scorsese, we can only imagine how good this movie will be.

The Lion King | 19 July 2019

From Disney Live Action, director Jon Favreau’s remake of The Lion King (1994) is guaranteed to amaze and excite audiences both young and old.

If the wondrous trailer is anything to go by, then The Lion King is sure to be one of the most celebrated and talked about movies of 2019 due to both its stellar cast, which includes Donald Glover, James Earl Jones – who will be reprising his role as Mufasa – Seth Rogan and Beyoncé, and it being a visual treat.

So ready yourself for what is guaranteed to be an even more heart wrenching conclusion than back in 1994.

Us | 15 March 2019

From the remarkable mind of Academy Award winning author and director Jordan Peele comes Us, an even more nightmarish sequel to his directorial debut triumph Get Out (2017).

Adelaide Wilson, played by Academy Award winner Lupita Nyong’o and Gabe Wilson, played by Winston Duke, take their children to their beach house expecting to unwind. But as darkness descends, their serenity turns to tension and chaos when some hideous doppelganger’s appear uninvited.

Due to the longing for a sequel created by the success of Get Out, Us is certain to shock and excite cinema goers in 2019.

Arthouse Hotel

cinema

As you’ve probably already guessed, we adore the cinema here at Arthouse Hotel.

So, why don’t you bring the entire family together and take advantage of our excellent facilities and movie-inspired rooms that wouldn’t look out of place in some of the marvelous movies listed above.

Come and join us! We’d love to hear from you today to organise a magical stay at Arthouse in 2019.

You can contact us on 0151 601 8801