Thursday, March 18, 2010

The Flyboys


Tuesdays afternoons are when I spend time with my teenage son, Derek. We love to go to Krazy Subs for Dinner and then catch a movie. This week, there was nothing worth seeing or we'd already seen it. That's when I came across the listing for The Flyboys.

I read the synopsis and figured it'd be okay. What we discovered was a terrific Indie film that held our attention the entire way. My son left the theater saying he now has a favorite new film.

I was impressed by the surprises. I am the guy who can tell what the characters are going to do and say before they do. It drives my wife nuts! But this film took me to some unexpected places that were plausible but not predictable. I loved that.

I was also impressed with the camera work and the music. The score was well-done. So much so, I thought I was watching a blockbuster movie.

The acting was excellent and the characters were well received. They became so endearing that there were vocal gasps as unexpected things happened to them.

Go see this movie. You will laugh and cry. You will stand up and applaud at a little movie that makes a big impression. It made such an impression on me, that I took the rest of my family to see it again today. They all loved it. I enjoyed it more the second go around.

Monday, April 20, 2009

Megan Elizabeth Johnson - 18 years old


It's hard to believe that 18 years ago today, I was holding my first-born child, Megan. Until then, I didn't know what to expect. I was always good with children (because I'm one of them - ask my wife!) but having my own - changed my world.

I can honestly say, I didn't know the meaning of the word "love" until Megan came into my life. I finally understood the circle of life. I understood how God must love his children. I understood that love meant giving yourself over to the happiness of another. I understood that love is a power that grows exponential as you give it to others. I learned that serving another human being brings more joy into your life that the person you're serving.

I don't think a man can fully be a man without having a child and stepping up to that responsibility. It would be very easy to become self-absorbed. I can imagine someone looking a lifetime to fill the void that not being a father would bring.

I'm very happy that Megan is in my life. I can't believe she is an adult now! She has been the most excellent daughter anyone could have asked for. I know that her future is bright and I look forward to the journey with her.

www.DeValJohnson.com is Up!

I've been working hard for the last couple of weeks trying to get as much info about me online. Late last night (around 1:30 p.m.) I got my website up and running at www.devaljohnson.com.

Please go to the site and let me know what you think. I'm planning on networking as much as I can through this site so you should be able to keep up with my comings and goings.

I've started my lifelong quest this year. I'm gonna give it all I got. It's great to have the support of family and friends, even though secretly I know they think I'm crazy!!!

I believe everyone should strive to be the best they can be - for me, that's letting the creative juices flow and see where they take me. They say it's the journey. I believe them - whoever they are. Shoot for the stars and land on the moon. I'm sure there's a great view of the world from there.

Wednesday, April 15, 2009

Dragonball: Evolution

I just went to see Dragonball: Evolution with my son. I'm not a follower of the animated series so I had no expectations for the film. I did, however, read the synopsis and reviews that left me... nervous. I've learned that each person sees things differently so I went with an open mind.

It wasn't horrible. It could have passed for a made-for-tv movie on the sci-fi channel and done just fine. So I think it qualifies as a "b" movie but it was entertaining. My son, who follows the series, really enjoyed it. He could point out the similarities and the differences.

It was an enjoyable time. If you have a pre/early teen son and have an hour and a half to kill, this is a great time. It was fun to see my son excited to fill me in on the show.

If you like martial arts and good vs evil sci-fi stuff, this movie is fun.

Friday, April 10, 2009

April Showers

This month I focus on the renewal that Spring brings. I face life with a renewed passion for the things that are important to me - the things that drive me.

My main objection in life is to provide a safe and loving environment for my family. Ya, I know - sappy - but true! I've got a great wife who supports me and a bunch of kids that rely on me.

I've always been able to provide by working and making a living. THIS YEAR I've made up my mind to do the crazy thing and following the little voice in my head that has been telling me, since I was a kid, that I should be an entertainer. Actor, Singer, Songwriter, Playwriter, Performer.

I spent the month of February taking an Actor's Bootcamp in Hollywood. It only helped to solidify the notion that I've got what it takes to make it in the business.

I recently read a book called, "The War of Art" and it really rang true for me. It hit the nail on the head concerning how I feel as a person and helped me to face the fears I've placed on myself. I'm taking that leap of faith. Nothing venture, nothing gained.

So... It's April. I'm getting my house in order. Shortly, I'll be returning to L.A. to hit the pavement and become a working actor. Wish me luck. Support me in my cause. Follow my story as I post it here and elsewhere on the net. I'm working on my website http://www.devaljohnson.com/ . Go there often and tell 2 friends and so on and so on...

If not now.... when!

Wednesday, June 4, 2008

Ironman movie 2008

Iron Man is a lot of fun and lives up to expectations. I highly recommend it for ages 10+. . This was the first Marvel movie made by Marvel and they did a great job. It's probably the most believable because the superhero is a smart guy with smart toys.

Robert Downey Jr. (my favorite actor) did a great job. It was funny, when we went to see the show, I took my whole family. During the movie, my wife leaned over and said, "that Stark character reminds me of you!) As the movie ended and all my kids were exiting the theater they said, "Dad that guy was just like you!" I was hoping they meant brilliant, wealthy and a superhero but I fear they meant childish, sarcastic and self-absorbed!

The movie had everything to offer. Action, humor, moral, romance. Every member of my family, 8 years and up enjoyed it. Some of the scenes were a little intense for my youngest viewers but I think the years in therapy will be worth it!

Go see the show. When available, buy the movie and take it home. We sure will! It's definetly a fun show and we look forward to the next episode.