The Departed - 4 Stars (Excellent)
Let me get to the most important thing first: Director Martin Scorsese won an Oscar for "The Departed".
Scorsese, one of the most accomplished directors of our era, has been nominated for 7 Oscars-5 for Best Director and 2 for Best Screenplay-before winning with The Departed.
He had also received 7 Golden Globe nominations-6 for Best Director and 1 for Best Screenplay-and won for Gangs of New York before winning again for The Departed this year (2007).
The Departed is simply the best mob film since Mario Puzo's original Godfather in 1972.
Besides Scorsese, The Departed won for Best Picture, Best Screenplay (William Monahan) and Best Editing (Thelma Schoonmaker), giving The Departed 4 Oscar wins to The Godfather's 3 (Marlon Brando for Best Actor, Best Picture and Best Screenplay by Mario Puzo and Francis Ford Coppola).
Mark Wahlberg was also nominated for Best Supporting Actor as Sgt. Sean Dignam.
The Departed also picked up 45 more wins and another 45 nominations, including another win for Scorsese (Best Director) and nominations for Best Picture, Best Screenplay, Best Actor (Leonardo DiCaprio) and Best Supporting Actor (Jack Nicholson and Mark Wahlberg) at the Golden Globes.
In short, The Departed brought home more hardware than a Home Depot shopping spree.
The icing on the cake for Scorsese was his best box-office opening ever ($26 million), his highest grossing film ever with $132 million nationally and $288 million worldwide through March 2007, and $48 million more in VHS rentals. The film's budget was $90 million.
The all-star cast of DiCaprio (Billy Costigan), Matt Damon (Sgt. Colin Sullivan), Jack Nicholson (Frank Costello), Wahlberg (Sgt. Sean Dignam), Martin Sheen (Capt. Oliver Queenan) and Alec Baldwin (Capt. George Ellerby) did not hurt a lick.
The story takes place in Boston where Irish Mob boss Frank Costello (Nicholson) embeds Colin Sullivan (Damon) as an informant with the Massachusetts State Police. Simultaneously, the State Police assign Billy Costigan (DiCaprio) to infiltrate Costello's crew.
When both sides figure out the situation, it is left to Sullivan and Costigan to discover each other's identity.
Along the way, 22 people get whacked (this is a Mob flick), the "f" word is used 237 times (about 235 times too many), and we get a study in relationship psychology as the only real love interest-Madolyn Madden-is a criminal psychiatrist who is wooed by both rivals.
The Departed kept my attention riveted for 151 minutes. The three main characters (Costello, Sullivan and Costigan) all show their anguish in balancing survival, winning and conquering the moment.
There are apparently two versions of this film. I saw the longer version that is rated R for strong brutal violence, pervasive language, and some strong sexual content and drug material.
This film is not for children or young adults, not that young adults do not hear the same "f" word dozens a time a day at high schools all over the country, but who needs the "f" word 237 times in 2.5 hours? Nobody.
I managed to tune out the cussing and concentrate on the story, acting and presentation that were excellent for an action flick with Mob presence.
Copyright © 2007 Ed Bagley
Sep 19, 2007
Shawshank Redemption DVD Review
Weighing in with three different versions, the Shawshank Redemption DVD is one that seeks to do the movie proper justice by delivering the same quality in the extras provided as was the quality delivered by the movie itself. Shawshank Redemption can be purchased as a standard, Deluxe Limited, and as a Special Edition. Although the Deluxe Limited and Special Edition's offer notable extra features, each delivers the powerful movie as it was intended.
Morgan Freeman and Tim Robbins deliver powerful roles in this prison film. Tim Robbins plays Andy Dufresne, a man convicted of killing his wife and her lover. He is sent to prison on a life term and there meets up with Red, played by Morgan Freeman. The chemistry between the two characters is simply unmatched by most other prison films and the movie delivers a powerful performance fueled by the superb acting jobs of these two fine actors.
The DVD's deliver the movie in great clarity and quality. The film has been sharpened and refined when transferred to DVD version and this results in a very high quality film with bright, vibrant colors, great detail, and proper light and shadow settings. Although the movie contains no option for fullscreen viewing, the widescreen presentation was done wonderfully and really delivers the movie superbly.
The sound is delivered in crisp, clear Dolby 5.1. Although the movie was never really epic in terms of its audio component, the music matches the film but doesn't really leave any lasting impressions, the dialogue is delivered very clearly and the interaction between the two stars is brought even more to life.
In terms of extras, the standard version is pretty light and contains almost nothing in terms of actual package extras. However, the other edition's are packaged with a lot of extras that are worth a look for fans of Shawshank Redemption. Commentaries, interviews, documentaries, and other special features are all smartly done and worth watching.
The Shawshank Redemption DVD's present the movie with high quality and the transfer over to DVD format was done very well. Although the standard DVD doesn't contain many extras, all versions are worth a look and each delivers its own money's worth. The Shawshank Redemption is an epic film and the DVD's capture that very well and deliver the movie as it should be seen.
Morgan Freeman and Tim Robbins deliver powerful roles in this prison film. Tim Robbins plays Andy Dufresne, a man convicted of killing his wife and her lover. He is sent to prison on a life term and there meets up with Red, played by Morgan Freeman. The chemistry between the two characters is simply unmatched by most other prison films and the movie delivers a powerful performance fueled by the superb acting jobs of these two fine actors.
The DVD's deliver the movie in great clarity and quality. The film has been sharpened and refined when transferred to DVD version and this results in a very high quality film with bright, vibrant colors, great detail, and proper light and shadow settings. Although the movie contains no option for fullscreen viewing, the widescreen presentation was done wonderfully and really delivers the movie superbly.
The sound is delivered in crisp, clear Dolby 5.1. Although the movie was never really epic in terms of its audio component, the music matches the film but doesn't really leave any lasting impressions, the dialogue is delivered very clearly and the interaction between the two stars is brought even more to life.
In terms of extras, the standard version is pretty light and contains almost nothing in terms of actual package extras. However, the other edition's are packaged with a lot of extras that are worth a look for fans of Shawshank Redemption. Commentaries, interviews, documentaries, and other special features are all smartly done and worth watching.
The Shawshank Redemption DVD's present the movie with high quality and the transfer over to DVD format was done very well. Although the standard DVD doesn't contain many extras, all versions are worth a look and each delivers its own money's worth. The Shawshank Redemption is an epic film and the DVD's capture that very well and deliver the movie as it should be seen.
This Movie Reviews
Hot Rod - Stuntman Forever
If there's one thing we can rely on every summer, it's the release of some fun movies. A great example is the zany offering "Hot Rod". This film builds on the premise that Rod Kimble's step-father (Frank) is a bully and Rod needs to take him down a notch or two. The problem we soon see is that Daddy Dearest has major health problems. Rod plans to raise money to save Frank by performing a never-before-completed stunt jump.
In the meantime we learn that Frank has a biological son named Kevin Powell, who turns out to be a supportive step-brother for Rod. To learn more about how Rod trains for his mission and to donate money for Frank, be sure to visit Kevin's site.
This Paramount Pictures, Michaels/Goldwyn Production "Hot Rod" will come to theaters on August 3, 2007. Many familiar names compose the cast as well as some on their way to sure stardom. They include Andy Samberg of Saturday Night Live (SNL) fame; Isla Fisher noted for her role as the sex-crazed sister in the equally zany "Wedding Crashers"; Ian Mc Shane television and film star (Deadwood (for which he won a Golden Globe, Lovejoy, and "Sexy Beast" among a multitude of others; and Sissy Spacek, another award winner who's career spans over 35 years. You may remember her from "Carrie" or "Coal Miner's Daughter". Pam Brady ("South Park: Bigger, Longer and Uncut) wrote the hilarious script, and Akiva Shaffer directed. He currently writes for SNL as well directs their Digital Shorts and music videos. This film is not yet rated.
You'll find short videos, photos, and more information on "Hot Rod" as well as "Stuntman Forever" on My Space as well as their individual websites.
Movie Plot
Rod Kimble fancies himself a talented stuntman and spends hours perfecting his art. In the meantime Frank, his step-dad can't seem to harass him enough. During their sparring sessions Frank throws Rod around, humiliating him at every turn. When Frank becomes so ill he needs major surgery, it's a mixed blessing for Rod. He gets the chance to showcase his biggest stunt ever and if he pulls it off he'll not only become famous, he'll also be able to pound the daylights out of Frank. If he fails he faces the ultimate debasement because if Frank lives he'll have the last laugh and Rod's audience will quickly disappear.
Rod idolizes the now aging and retired Evel Knievel, who ultimately jumped over 13 double-decker and 14 Greyhound buses while perched on his motorcycle. Rod sets a goal of soaring over a total of 15 buses. With the money raised from ticket sales he'll become famous and be able to pay for Frank's operation.
Andy Samberg
Whether or not you've seen Andy on SNL, you'll fall in love with this loveable goofball. His and Chris Parnell's hysterically funny short video "Lazy Sunday: Chronicles of Narnia", released in December 2005, broke viewing records for My Space and NBC. He and all the talent in and behind the scenes of "Hot Rod" and "Stuntman Forever" provide some rollicking good fun that you'll want to see over and over.
In the meantime we learn that Frank has a biological son named Kevin Powell, who turns out to be a supportive step-brother for Rod. To learn more about how Rod trains for his mission and to donate money for Frank, be sure to visit Kevin's site.
This Paramount Pictures, Michaels/Goldwyn Production "Hot Rod" will come to theaters on August 3, 2007. Many familiar names compose the cast as well as some on their way to sure stardom. They include Andy Samberg of Saturday Night Live (SNL) fame; Isla Fisher noted for her role as the sex-crazed sister in the equally zany "Wedding Crashers"; Ian Mc Shane television and film star (Deadwood (for which he won a Golden Globe, Lovejoy, and "Sexy Beast" among a multitude of others; and Sissy Spacek, another award winner who's career spans over 35 years. You may remember her from "Carrie" or "Coal Miner's Daughter". Pam Brady ("South Park: Bigger, Longer and Uncut) wrote the hilarious script, and Akiva Shaffer directed. He currently writes for SNL as well directs their Digital Shorts and music videos. This film is not yet rated.
You'll find short videos, photos, and more information on "Hot Rod" as well as "Stuntman Forever" on My Space as well as their individual websites.
Movie Plot
Rod Kimble fancies himself a talented stuntman and spends hours perfecting his art. In the meantime Frank, his step-dad can't seem to harass him enough. During their sparring sessions Frank throws Rod around, humiliating him at every turn. When Frank becomes so ill he needs major surgery, it's a mixed blessing for Rod. He gets the chance to showcase his biggest stunt ever and if he pulls it off he'll not only become famous, he'll also be able to pound the daylights out of Frank. If he fails he faces the ultimate debasement because if Frank lives he'll have the last laugh and Rod's audience will quickly disappear.
Rod idolizes the now aging and retired Evel Knievel, who ultimately jumped over 13 double-decker and 14 Greyhound buses while perched on his motorcycle. Rod sets a goal of soaring over a total of 15 buses. With the money raised from ticket sales he'll become famous and be able to pay for Frank's operation.
Andy Samberg
Whether or not you've seen Andy on SNL, you'll fall in love with this loveable goofball. His and Chris Parnell's hysterically funny short video "Lazy Sunday: Chronicles of Narnia", released in December 2005, broke viewing records for My Space and NBC. He and all the talent in and behind the scenes of "Hot Rod" and "Stuntman Forever" provide some rollicking good fun that you'll want to see over and over.
Just Friends DVD Review
A romantic comedy starring Amy Smart and Ryan Reynolds, Just Friends is a funny story about a friendship attempting to be taken to the next step. The movie uses a real life situation that tends to plague many people, the challenge of just being friends. While there are criticisms of the movies character development, the movie does deliver in its ability to consistently provide a good chuckle.
Amy Smart and Ryan Reynolds carry the average script fairly well. Although the movie isn't written overly well, the actors do a good job of using their own talents to deliver lines that can consistently bring out a laugh out of viewers. The plot is fairly unoriginal and uninspired but it is still interesting enough for many viewers. However, the character development is very poor. The characters seem to switch personalities mid-scene and fail to develop properly. There is no consistently in personality.
However, the storyline itself can't be attacked too much. Truly, it is not meant to be in such a movie. The movie is an average romantic comedy, it doesn't attempt to bring anything new or original to the scene. Rather, it takes a situation that many people have found themselves in and can relate to and uses them to create funny scenes that are played out well by the solid acting of the two stars. The movie can be uninspired but it still is successful and getting a rise out of viewers.
Overall, Just Friends is a decent romantic comedy that is bound to find a match in somebody's DVD collection. It won't win any awards, but the movie creates scenes that everyone can relate to and capitalizes on them by making them funny without trying too hard. The actors show good talent and have good chemistry on screen. The DVD offers a few deleted scenes and bonus features but is not packed with anything else notable to speak of. Just Friends is an average offering that is successful and doing what it intended to do.
Amy Smart and Ryan Reynolds carry the average script fairly well. Although the movie isn't written overly well, the actors do a good job of using their own talents to deliver lines that can consistently bring out a laugh out of viewers. The plot is fairly unoriginal and uninspired but it is still interesting enough for many viewers. However, the character development is very poor. The characters seem to switch personalities mid-scene and fail to develop properly. There is no consistently in personality.
However, the storyline itself can't be attacked too much. Truly, it is not meant to be in such a movie. The movie is an average romantic comedy, it doesn't attempt to bring anything new or original to the scene. Rather, it takes a situation that many people have found themselves in and can relate to and uses them to create funny scenes that are played out well by the solid acting of the two stars. The movie can be uninspired but it still is successful and getting a rise out of viewers.
Overall, Just Friends is a decent romantic comedy that is bound to find a match in somebody's DVD collection. It won't win any awards, but the movie creates scenes that everyone can relate to and capitalizes on them by making them funny without trying too hard. The actors show good talent and have good chemistry on screen. The DVD offers a few deleted scenes and bonus features but is not packed with anything else notable to speak of. Just Friends is an average offering that is successful and doing what it intended to do.
This Movie Reviews
Movie Reviews Honest Movie Reviews to Help You Pick Better and Save Time
Honest movie reviews help the average movie-goers make good decisions and spend their time and money wisely on movies that they will thoroughly enjoy. Today there are an abundance of movie reviews appearing in regular magazines, newspaper supplements, specialty magazines, and websites. There are hundreds of movie reviews sites that offer movie reviews on films of all genres.
Movie reviews will be based on the opinionated and personal preferences of the reviewer. There are also passionate movie-goers who review movies. Reviews by these people detail the emotion that they experience while they were watching the movie. Readers of movie reviews, who share the passion of the reviewers, get a clear idea of what they can expect from the movie. Such reviews will not narrate the story line, but tell the readers what they want to hear about the movie. These passionate reviews are often the best movie reviews.
Movie going is mainly about the experience. A movie review must portray the exact feeling experienced while seeing the movie. The review must also make the reader feel enthused about watching the movie, but only if it is worthwhile. If the movie is not worth it, the reviewer must communicate this.
Ratings, usually on a five-star or a ten-star scale, appear beside all movie reviews. This rating is fairly useful, but it is only a number. It does not account for the experience that the reviewer had while watching the movie. Then again, this rating system is unavoidable when looking for movie reviews.
There are also other recommendations like 'Watch today', 'Wait until video is out' and 'Not worth the trouble'. Self-describing recommendations are often the best one-line movie reviews. Movie reviews don't just tell about the USCCB or MPAA ratings or the story line. They capture the imagination of the reader without revealing too much of the story line and make him or her feel like actually seeing the movie.
Read passionate reviews, including the opinion of reviewers, solely from the angle of a movie-goer. If these are the type of movie reviews that you are looking for, you've come to the right place. We also always list details such as the director, cast, and MPAA ratings. Our movie reviews are always based on a personal opinion of what is attractive in a movie or why it may not be worth your time.
Unlike movie reviews in specialty magazines, there is no cost involved other than spending the time to read it. We have an extensive list of new first-run movies and the movies that are now available for purchase.
Movie reviews are also best when not confined into checklists like the quality of acting, sound, visual effects, camera, and direction. The reviewer has to convey his or her feelings to the audience. It is quite easy to give ratings on a five or ten-star scale. Actually conveying your feel on the movie is another thing. Movie reviews should be the communication of the opinion of the movie-goer to fellow movie-goers. Only then shall the write-up qualify as a movie review.
When writing movie reviews, the reviewers never forget to include vital information like the title, director, cast, and rating (MPAA) in a list or box format.
Movie reviewers too are as diverse as the movie genres. Some reviewers are hardcore science fiction fans, while others enjoy musical comedies more. Movie-goers need to know which movies to take their children to and which movies are best avoided.
Movie reviews will be based on the opinionated and personal preferences of the reviewer. There are also passionate movie-goers who review movies. Reviews by these people detail the emotion that they experience while they were watching the movie. Readers of movie reviews, who share the passion of the reviewers, get a clear idea of what they can expect from the movie. Such reviews will not narrate the story line, but tell the readers what they want to hear about the movie. These passionate reviews are often the best movie reviews.
Movie going is mainly about the experience. A movie review must portray the exact feeling experienced while seeing the movie. The review must also make the reader feel enthused about watching the movie, but only if it is worthwhile. If the movie is not worth it, the reviewer must communicate this.
Ratings, usually on a five-star or a ten-star scale, appear beside all movie reviews. This rating is fairly useful, but it is only a number. It does not account for the experience that the reviewer had while watching the movie. Then again, this rating system is unavoidable when looking for movie reviews.
There are also other recommendations like 'Watch today', 'Wait until video is out' and 'Not worth the trouble'. Self-describing recommendations are often the best one-line movie reviews. Movie reviews don't just tell about the USCCB or MPAA ratings or the story line. They capture the imagination of the reader without revealing too much of the story line and make him or her feel like actually seeing the movie.
Read passionate reviews, including the opinion of reviewers, solely from the angle of a movie-goer. If these are the type of movie reviews that you are looking for, you've come to the right place. We also always list details such as the director, cast, and MPAA ratings. Our movie reviews are always based on a personal opinion of what is attractive in a movie or why it may not be worth your time.
Unlike movie reviews in specialty magazines, there is no cost involved other than spending the time to read it. We have an extensive list of new first-run movies and the movies that are now available for purchase.
Movie reviews are also best when not confined into checklists like the quality of acting, sound, visual effects, camera, and direction. The reviewer has to convey his or her feelings to the audience. It is quite easy to give ratings on a five or ten-star scale. Actually conveying your feel on the movie is another thing. Movie reviews should be the communication of the opinion of the movie-goer to fellow movie-goers. Only then shall the write-up qualify as a movie review.
When writing movie reviews, the reviewers never forget to include vital information like the title, director, cast, and rating (MPAA) in a list or box format.
Movie reviewers too are as diverse as the movie genres. Some reviewers are hardcore science fiction fans, while others enjoy musical comedies more. Movie-goers need to know which movies to take their children to and which movies are best avoided.
Sep 17, 2007
DVD Releases for Tuesday September 11, 2007
Another week, another not so shining release week, unless you’re into The Starter Wife kinda thing.
Here there are, folks, the DVD releases for Tuesday September 11, 2007:
Away From Her
Bones: Season Two
Bury My Heart At Wounded Knee
Charmed: The Final Season
Even Money
Foster’s Home For Imaginary Friends: Season 2
Fraggle Rock: Complete Third Season
Grey’s Anatomy: Season 3
I Dream of Jeannie: The Complete Fourth Season
Invasion Of The Body Snatchers
Las Vegas: Season Four
Snoop Dogg’s Hood Of Horror
The Starter Wife
Supernatural: The Complete Second Season
Two and a Half Men: The Complete First Season
Sep 16, 2007
D-War: Dragon Wars - Review
?Dragon Wars? is a peculiar animal. When I saw the first TV spot I figured it was for another Sci-Fi Channel Original Movie like ?Mansquito? or ?Boa vs. Python?. I had no idea that this thing was actually going to get a national theatrical release when it looked, felt and smelled like something brewed for the straight-to-video market. To my surprise, the movie was still bad, but it wasn?t Sci-Fi Channel bad. It was cheesy and stupid with poor effects and even poorer acting, but there was something about it that was just kind of cool.
Oh yeah, it was the dragons.
According to an ancient Korean legend, two dragons (one good and one evil, naturally) will wage a war every five hundred years for the soul of a special human which will grant them passage to the heavens to be reborn as a Celestial Dragon. Baraki, the evil dragon, has summoned his army of demonic followers to hunt down Sarah (Amanda Brooks), the bearer of the ancient power. Her reincarnated guardian, Ethan (Jason Behr), has made it his job to protect her?from gigantic eighty story-tall serpents that eat helicopters. Good luck with that.
The story for the movie is so thin, empty and obvious that one would think it was originally conceived as a Saturday Morning Cartoon geared to sell a ?D-War? toyline. Indeed, the characters and monsters all seem like they stepped out of a two-dimensional toy commercial/cartoon from the 80?s and don?t really try to get any deeper than that. Even if writer/Director Hyung-rae Shim had received a bigger budget, this movie would have only been marginally improved.
Still, the effects surprised me. They?re better than most of the CG debacles that the Sci-Fi Channel pumps out on a monthly basis, but a far cry from anything that deserves to be shown in a movie theater. The dragons all look pretty fake, but what manages to make the scenes involving them watchable isn?t so much the special effects as it is Shim?s cinematography. It?s very dynamic, exciting and thankfully doesn?t imploy ?shakey cam? techniques too often. So even when the monsters look like they stepped out of a Playstation 2 game, the camera work during the action sequences and the epic scale of a few of the shots makes them?acceptable.
Obviously, no one is going to see this movie for the sappy love story or any of the cardboard humans. When you?re lead human villain looks so much like Steve Martin that it distracts you from giant screaming behemoths, then you know there must be a casting problem. The action in ?Dragon War? is honestly kind of satisfying if you can get past the sub-standard special effects. My various Godzilla reviews on this site should give you a hint that I?m partial to movies where giant monsters plow through cities, so I was rather pleased with what I got. The final battle between the good and evil dragons at the film?s climax was admittedly pretty sweet.
I can?t recommend that you pay $10 bucks to see this in the theater. Under normal circumstances, giant monster movies are always better on the big screen, but ?D-War? reeks of a straight-to-video flick that somehow got lucky. So wait to rent it if you really want to watch it.
Grade: D+
Sep 15, 2007
Mr. Woodcock - Review
While it?s been a fairly good year for blockbuster films, 2007 has been absolutely abysmal in the comedy department. I?ve run the gamut of nearly all genres these past nine months and of all the films I?ve watched, I think I?ve seen maybe two or three okay comedies, and even fewer good ones. ?Mr. Woodcock? ranks among the very poor, which leaves me even more resentful, considering the New Line Cinema marketing department decided to pimp the ever living crap out of this movie, welding the trailer onto practically every film I?ve gone to see for the past three months.
John Farley (Seann William Scott) used to be a pudgy nobody in high school, ruthlessly humiliated by his sadistic gym teacher, Mr. Woodcock (Billy Bob Thornton). Thirteen years later, John has grown into a successful young man thanks to his self-help novel about releasing painful memories. When he returns home, though, he discovers he?s up for the ultimate test, as his mom (Susan Sarandon) is dating his arch nemesis, Mr. Woodcock. Woodcock hasn?t changed at all in thirteen years and continues to make John?s life a living nightmare even as an adult.
Although I try to go into movies with as unbiased a perspective as humanly possible, I can?t deny that the marketing onslaught for this thing made me go into the theater with a rather nasty chip on my shoulder. Still, even if I hadn?t been bitter and cross toward the flick beforehand, I highly doubt I would have enjoyed ?Mr. Woodcock? anyway. It is a very light comedy, with the jokes either being stale and boring or just not really jokes at all. It plods along with its story but feels entirely bland all the way through.
I have nothing against Seann William Scott, Billy Bob Thornton or Susan Sarandon. I think they?re all capable of being funny or endearing depending on the script and the crew?but ?Mr. Woodcock? was not a good showcase for their talents. I suppose Thornton?s portrayal of the title character got the most laughs out of the audience and he certainly is the film?s highlight, pale though it is. Scott, on the other hand, plays little more than your typical comedy straight-man thrown into a wacky predicament leaving you to predict his every move or reaction. Meanwhile, Sarandon?s mother character is entirely forgettable.
If you?re looking for a good comedy, you honestly aren?t going to find it in ?Mr. Woodcock?. Also, a message for New Line Cinema: Please, please, please show some variety with your trailers. Just because you attach the damn trailer to every movie seeing release for a span of two months that does not guarantee people are going to like it.
Grade: F
Sep 14, 2007
3:10 to Yuma (2007) - Review
Aside from possibly Romance, I can?t think of a single genre that bores me quite as much as Western. Cowboys on horseback, grimy saloons, sun-bleached deserts?pretty much everything that makes the Western genre unique and romantic simply puts me to sleep. However, after watching ?3:10 to Yuma? I have decided to completely rethink my opinion on Westerns. ?3:10 to Yuma? was hands down one of the most outstanding pictures I?ve seen all year and a real surprise to me, someone who admittedly avoids the Western genre like the plague.
Life isn?t easy for homesteaders out in the Old West. No one knows this better than Dan Evans (Christian Bale) and his family, who are about to be kicked off their land if they can?t pay their debts. Then in rides Ben Wade (Russell Crowe) and his gang of outlaws who, after a stagecoach robbery, wind up fleeing the town and leaving their boss behind. Wade is to be taken a few towns over to ride the 3:10 to Yuma prison and Evans takes the job escorting him there in order to save his land. The trek won?t be easy, with obstacles such as Wade?s gang, Indians and Ben Wade-himself getting in the way.
I wasn?t originally planning to see this movie this month, but the choice came down to either ?3:10 to Yuma? or ?Dragon Wars? and so I chose what I figured to be the lesser of two evils. I am extremely pleased with my choice, as ?3:10 to Yuma? proved to be one of the more exciting, well-scripted and well-cast films I?ve sat through all year, Western be damned. As I found out only recently, it?s actually a remake of a 1957 film that I?d never heard of, so I won?t be able to draw any comparisons between the two for you or say which one is ?better?. All I can tell you is that this is a fantastic flick which you?d be wise to check out, whether you enjoy Westerns or not.
Christian Bale has really been hitting a string of bullseyes for the past few years, with this movie just being his next direct hit. He makes Dan Evans out to be a truly complex and endearing hero that compliments Russell Crowe?s ?lovable villain? quite nicely. Crowe, as we already know, is a fine actor and delivers another stellar performance as Ben Wade. I?m the kind of guy who typically prefers villains over heroes since they?re always more fun. Crowe?s Wade really makes the movie, as he both helps and hinders his captors all throughout the film, doing devilish things but in such a charming manner you just can?t hate him for it.
I may not be an expert on Westerns, but from my experience I?ve come to understand that what the audience is really waiting for is the ?showdown? at the end. Evans and Wade?s run for the train at the end is mesmerizing, keeping you with that ?are they gonna make it?? voice yammering on in your head the whole way. And the ending is absolutely perfect.
As someone who unashamedly dislikes Westerns, even I can?t pretend for a second that this wasn?t a fantastic movie. It?s got a great cast (I only mentioned the two headliners, but there are plenty more in here to impress you) and an enthralling story. I have a good feeling you?ll want to see this movie even if you don?t want to see this movie.
Grade: A
Ghostrider with Nicholas Cage
I’m a big fan of movies based on comics, especially the Marvel stuff nowadays, as it tends to be pretty good.
I’m also familiar with the Ghostrider comic, although I never read more than a couple of issues, so I waslooking forward to seeing the movie…
The special effects are pretty cool, but the whole thing was let down for me because there never really seemed any doubt that the Ghostrider was going to win, so the movie never really “grabbed me”.
It’s not one of Nicholas Cages best performances, but then the plot, scenes and dialogue he had to work with were unlikely to stretch him, at all.
If you’re just looking for a Marvel super hero action movie that’s not going to tax you’re brain (at all), then I guess it’s ok, but don’t expect much.
Sep 13, 2007
Lionsgate Releases ‘Saw 4′ Teaser Movie Trailer
I have to admit I stopped watching the Saw movies after the first one, but this one’s for all you true fans out there.
Lionsgate has just released a new teaser movie trailer for the upcoming Saw 4 & man is it gory. Consider yourself warned is all I am trying to say.
Catch the teaser here.
Sep 12, 2007
‘John Rambo’ Movie To Be Released January 25, 2008
Well, we finally have an official date on the upcoming release of Sylvester Stallone’s John Rambo.
January 25, 2008 is the date to save for this Lionsgate film, which is rather interesting since January isn’t such a hot month for movies. Wishing the best of luck to this kiss of death movie all the same though.
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my favorite TV shows
The TV rcording boxes (Tivo, Sky Plus etc.) have changed the way I watch TV, as I can now just watch my favorite programs when I feel like it and not worry about missing anything, unless my wife has set something new up that causes a “clash”…
I’ve actually found I end up watching less TV, as I’ve always got a backlog of my favorite shows, I’ve become a lot fussier about what I spend time watching, so what do I take the time to sit down and relax with….?
Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip - This is pretty damn good, it’s not just funny, but topical and quite clever, with an ongoing plot that’s actually got a little depth to it.
Boston Legal - This has been a fav of mine since I caught the first series, and it’s managed to make it through to season four without loosing to much of it’s “freshness” and humor. It’s probably the best acting I’ve ever seen William Shatner do and James Spader has always been a favorite of mine. The collection of other “oddball” and classic stereo type characters and storylines add to the humor, as well as delivering a message. Well worth watching.
Heros - I’ve only recently got in to this series since it’s come to terestrial TV, as I missed the first season on satelite, and I find myself eagerly awaiting the next step in the plot. It’s good that it’s more about the story than the “powers”, as it could easily have gone the way of many “sci-fi” series and turned in to just a “cult” show.
Top Gear - as a bit of a “petrol head” this has always been a favorite, and Clarkson, “hamster” & Captain slow continue to deliver a program about cars that is so much more. Their weekly races and “tasks” are just hilarious!
Las Vegas - this is another show that I missed the first couple of series and am now playing catch up with, but it’s move Vegas several places up my list of “places to visit”. No, that doesn’t mean I’m expecting Vegas to be like the show, but I am looking forward to soaking up the atmosphere of a real Casino one day.
Two & a Half Men - This show makes me laugh evertime I watch it. The interplay between the characters is simply wicked.
It seems comedy shows are still my favorite, but then laughter is good for you right…
Sep 11, 2007
Guy X
I picked up this DVD as a birthday present for myself as it looked to be a bit of an “off the wall” comedy that could be quite good.
Jason Briggs plays a US Army private who ends up at a top secret miltary base in Greenland thanks to a mess up.
The camp turns out to be a pretty mad place with all sorts of “characters” that spark some fairly amusing moments, but there’s no real big laughs to be seen.
The “secret” that the base is hiding, and apparently no-one other than the “top brass” knows about, is never really explained, and apart from some funny moments with Puffin’s, the plot never really gathers pace.
This is another movie that I feel didn’t quite hit the mark, I couldn’t say where it went wrong, but it never seems to really get going.
Not one I’ll bother watching again or recommending to friends…
Sep 10, 2007
The Prestige
In one of those strange Hollywood coincidences that looked like a game of chicken both sides were determined to not to lose and so both went over the cliff still in the car, two movies about magicians and their loves came out within weeks of each other last fall. One was The Illusionist, which I wrote up a month ago, starring Edward Norton and Joaquin Phoenix fighting over Jessica Biel.
In The Prestige Robert Angier (Hugh Jackman) and Alfred Borden (Christian Bale) fight each other over their magic, not their women (Piper Perabo and Rebecca Hall), but the women get involved in their unfriendly competition nonetheless. Michael Caine has the lead supporting role as a man who creates tricks for magicians and is somewhat of a confidant to Angier and Borden who, early on, meet while working under the tutelage of the same star.
David Bowie is delightful as Nikola Tesla, a real person who was Thomas Edison’s employee, vitcim and primary competitor in the commercial development of electricity. The Prestige is set later in Tesla’s life, after Edison has won the corporate battle; though we never see the Wizard of Menlo Park onscreen, his agents are shown hounding Tesla, forcing him to be constantly on the defensive and on the move, though willing to assist Angier when he travels to wintry Colorado Springs in quest of a copy of a device he believes Tesla built for Borden.
Director Christopher Nolan (Batman Begins, Insomnia, Memento), who co-wrote the snappy, intelligent script with his brother Jonathan from Christopher Priest’s novel, points out right at the beginning that in the world of magic nothing is ever what it seems to be, that the show must be watched carefully and that the performers will go to great lengths to create illusions. This is very useful advice, so I pass it along to you.
recommended
Sep 9, 2007
Lithium Springs
I was asked to review an independently made movie called Lithium Springs but have nothing positive at all to say, so I will just leave my comment as this note.
Sep 8, 2007
Shoot ‘em Up - Review
You know what the difference between films like ?Shoot ?em Up? and “War? is? ?Shoot ?em Up? is a good bad movie, while ?War? is just a plain ole bad movie. To elaborate, while films such as ?War? sincerely believe they are God?s gift to the action genre and legitimately artistic and inspiring pieces of celluloid, ?Shoot ?em Up? is completely self-aware that it?s an over-the-top, leave-your-brain-at-the-door bulletfest and only aspires to have a good time and never takes itself more seriously than it ought to. And that?s why I can in good conscience give a thumbs down to stupid cliché-ridden films like ?War? while simultaneously enjoying goofy brainless films like ?Shoot ?em Up?.
Smith (Clive Owen) is just your average Brit living in America with a chip on his shoulder and carrot-fueled super eyesight. He inadvertently becomes the protector of a newborn infant who has become the target of the pudgy hitman Hertz (Paul Giamatti) and his legion of dispensable cannon-fodder assassins. Smith?s only ally in this crazy ordeal is a Eurotrash hooker named Donna (Monica Bellucci), whom he needs to feed the baby breast milk while he deals with all the psychos out to get them.
As previously stated, ?Shoot ?em Up? is entirely self-aware that it is insane and ridiculous and not a movie to be taken seriously for a split second. So as such, it ignores the requirements of physics or character depth or coherent plotting all for the sake of having some fun at whatever the cost. The action scenes in this movie are intentionally as crazy and impossible as you can imagine, but they all have a sense of humor to them so you know you should be smiling instead of sneering. If you can get past the fact that the physics are complete nonsense, you shouldn?t have any trouble going along for the ride.
And that?s what makes ?Shoot ?em Up? a fun movie. The gun battles are completely outrageous and will have the audience laughing and cheering at the preposterous ?improve? on the part of Smith and the ludicrous situations going on around him. I also enjoyed the film?s soundtrack, featuring the likes of Motorhead, Motley Crue and AC/DC, but I?m a sucker for oldie metal.
While the fight scenes are fun, the characters aren?t all winners. Clive Owen is hilarious as Smith, with his constant carrot-chewing and hair-trigger temper winning the audience over mighty quick. His one-liners weren?t all gold, but I think they were supposed to be intentionally cheesy and stupid at times. Paul Giamatti managed a particularly memorable villain, who never seems all that threatening, but then that?s kind of the point. Like everything else in the movie, the villain has a sense of humor about him which makes him almost as likable as the hero. Now, outside of fun character quirks and inspired casting, the main characters don?t come across particularly deep. They try to throw in a thin and watery backstory for Smith, but it seems more like an afterthought than anything necessary for the character, and in all honesty, they pretty much ripped it from “The Punisher?, anyway.
?Shoot ?em Up? is a fun little goofball movie, and when I look at my to-see list for this month, well, it looks to be about the best action flick that?ll be out for the next four weeks. Anyhow, if you can lighten up, then I?m sure you?ll enjoy ?Shoot ?em Up?.
Grade: B-
Sep 6, 2007
Aeon Flux
Less than a decade from now, a lab-created virus is unleashed and decimates the human population; only a few million of us survive, all of whom live in a single city governed by the sons of Dr. Goodchild, the scientist who found the cure for the virus. After 400 years, though, not all the citizens are satisfied with the state of things and the most disaffected have formed an underground rebel group called the Mohicans. The group’s leadership have decided that direct action is required to make a change in the status quo and dispatch an assassin.
Based loosely on the MTV animated series from the mid 1990s, 2005’s Aeon Flux stars Charlize Theron as the titular character, the Mohican assassin, Martin Csokas as Trevor Goodchild, the current governor, and Jonny Lee Miller as Trevor’s younger brother Oren. Frances McDormand and Pete Postlethwaite have supporting roles as Aeon’s Mohican handler and the ancient Keeper of genetic records.
The script by Phil Hay and Matt Manfreddi (the pair also collaborated on Jacky Chan’s The Tuxedo and Crazy/Beautiful) has to account for the practical differences between live action and animation, and between a continuing series and a 90 minute movie as well, though I think most fans of the original were disappointed in this film. I’ve not seen the old series except for bits and pieces so the comparison wasn’t too important for me yet I felt the writers could’ve done better in keeping all the various aspects more consistent with each other.
This is the movie Karyn Kusama chose as the followup to her critically acclaimed 2000 indie drama Girlfight. I can understand the attraction for her, the chance to develop a similar theme on a much broader canvas, but have to wonder how constrained Kusama was by the studio production execs. They were probably a lot more interested in having as many cool fight scenes and big action sequences as could be stuffed in, and far less emphasis on Flux’s inner turmoil and the philosophical conflict between the Goodchild brothers.
recommended
The Good Shepherd
I’m always a sucker for a movie that Angelina’s in, but she doesn’t play much of a roll in this one, it’s mostly Matt Damon and it’s mostly very confusing…
I did enjoy it, and I think I got most of what was going on, but I’m going to have to watch it again to really get it all!
My wife on the other hand gave up after just 15 mins.
This is not an “easy watch” movie, but if you enjoy a movie full of intrigue, twists and turns, then this should be right up your street!
Just be prepared to give it your full attention, or you’ll probably be lost before tyou get half way through.
The Three Stooges-Classic Comedy Icons
Ahhhh...The Three Stooges...Classic slapstick comedy and an American tradition. Who hasn't seen a Stooge classic film short? But, who were these men who brought their caustic brand of physical comedy into our living rooms and theaters?
We all know them as Curly, Larry and Moe, but when they first started in1922 they were with a vaudeville act called Ted Healy and his Stooges (which was originally called Ted Healy and his Southern Gentlemen).
The ensemble consisted of Ted Healy, brothers Harry Moses Howard (Moe), Samuel Howard (Shemp) and Larry Fine (Larry). In 1931, Shemp left the group for a career in feature films, and needing a third stooge, Moe suggested his brother Jerome. Ted, not enamored with his long hair and facial hair, stated he (Jerome) was not a character like Moe and Larry. Jerome left the room and quickly returned with a shaved head and face and Curly, as we know him, was born.
In his autobiography, Moe Howard and The Three Stooges, The Stooges and Ted Healy parted company in 1934 because, as Moe recalled, of Healy's abrasiveness and alcoholism. This is when they began their Columbia Pictures film career and the Three Stooges, as most of us know them, started their long journey into comedy history.
From 1934 until 1959, the Three Stooges starred in 190 film shorts; the longest such series in film history. They also appeared in a dozen movies and entertained millions throughout the world with their catch phrases, physical routines and masterful comedy.
In 1946, Curly suffered a stroke and Shemp was asked to rejoin the group. Knowing that Moe and Larry careers and the Stooges would be finished, he reluctantly agreed to rejoin the group, but only on a temporary basis. Unfortunately, Curly never recovered and died in January of 1952.
The Stooges, with Shemp as Curly's replacement, went on to appear in 77 more short films and a feature film called Gold Raiders (1951). Additionally, in 1949, Moe, Larry and Shemp made a pilot for a Three Stooges television show called "Jerks of All Trades". The show was never picked up, but the pilot is public domain and is available on home video.
The Three Stooges dynasty took another hit when Shemp Howard died of a sudden heart attack in November of 1955 at age 60. Joe Besser replaced Shemp in 1956-57, appearing in 16 short films. Interestingly, Joe had a clause in his contract specifically prohibiting him from being hit too hard, although it was lifted as time passed. Unfortunately, the market for short films and for the Stooges had passed. Columbia Pictures, the last studio still producing short films fired the Three Stooges in 1957. (Because of contractual obligations and backlogs, final Stooge shorts weren't released until 1959). A new medium, television, had taken over.
The Stooges weren't down for long as the "rebirth" of the Stooges came rather quickly. In 1959, Columbia Pictures syndicated the entire Three Stooges film library to television and the Stooges were rediscovered by the baby boomers.
Stoogemania quickly swept across the country and Moe and Larry found themselves back in the spotlight again. But Joe Besser's wife had a heart attack and he withdrew from the act, so Moe quickly signed Joe DeRita as his replacement. DeRita shaved his head and became Curly-Joe, because he looked like the original Curly.
This version of the Three Stooges went on to make 39 short films and a few full-length movies in the late 1950's and through the 1960's. In 1969 they filmed a pilot for a new TV series called "Kook's Tour", which would have been a show about the "retired" Stooges traveling the world, with episodes filmed on location. Alas, during production, Larry suffered a stroke that ended his acting career as well as the TV series. Larry suffered another stroke in December 1974 and another month later suffered a fatal stroke and died in January 1975.
It was thought that they could carry on, several movie ideas were considered, however Moe Howard passed away in May 1975. Although Curly-Joe (Joe DeRita) did some live work with a new group of "Stooges" in the early 1970's, the Three Stooges, as we knew them, we gone.
This has been a synopsis of the lengthy careers and the phenomenon that was and still is the Three Stooges. With the advent of cable television, home video, dvds and with a loyal army of loyal fans, the Three Stooges are still entertaining the masses and will be for years to come.
We all know them as Curly, Larry and Moe, but when they first started in1922 they were with a vaudeville act called Ted Healy and his Stooges (which was originally called Ted Healy and his Southern Gentlemen).
The ensemble consisted of Ted Healy, brothers Harry Moses Howard (Moe), Samuel Howard (Shemp) and Larry Fine (Larry). In 1931, Shemp left the group for a career in feature films, and needing a third stooge, Moe suggested his brother Jerome. Ted, not enamored with his long hair and facial hair, stated he (Jerome) was not a character like Moe and Larry. Jerome left the room and quickly returned with a shaved head and face and Curly, as we know him, was born.
In his autobiography, Moe Howard and The Three Stooges, The Stooges and Ted Healy parted company in 1934 because, as Moe recalled, of Healy's abrasiveness and alcoholism. This is when they began their Columbia Pictures film career and the Three Stooges, as most of us know them, started their long journey into comedy history.
From 1934 until 1959, the Three Stooges starred in 190 film shorts; the longest such series in film history. They also appeared in a dozen movies and entertained millions throughout the world with their catch phrases, physical routines and masterful comedy.
In 1946, Curly suffered a stroke and Shemp was asked to rejoin the group. Knowing that Moe and Larry careers and the Stooges would be finished, he reluctantly agreed to rejoin the group, but only on a temporary basis. Unfortunately, Curly never recovered and died in January of 1952.
The Stooges, with Shemp as Curly's replacement, went on to appear in 77 more short films and a feature film called Gold Raiders (1951). Additionally, in 1949, Moe, Larry and Shemp made a pilot for a Three Stooges television show called "Jerks of All Trades". The show was never picked up, but the pilot is public domain and is available on home video.
The Three Stooges dynasty took another hit when Shemp Howard died of a sudden heart attack in November of 1955 at age 60. Joe Besser replaced Shemp in 1956-57, appearing in 16 short films. Interestingly, Joe had a clause in his contract specifically prohibiting him from being hit too hard, although it was lifted as time passed. Unfortunately, the market for short films and for the Stooges had passed. Columbia Pictures, the last studio still producing short films fired the Three Stooges in 1957. (Because of contractual obligations and backlogs, final Stooge shorts weren't released until 1959). A new medium, television, had taken over.
The Stooges weren't down for long as the "rebirth" of the Stooges came rather quickly. In 1959, Columbia Pictures syndicated the entire Three Stooges film library to television and the Stooges were rediscovered by the baby boomers.
Stoogemania quickly swept across the country and Moe and Larry found themselves back in the spotlight again. But Joe Besser's wife had a heart attack and he withdrew from the act, so Moe quickly signed Joe DeRita as his replacement. DeRita shaved his head and became Curly-Joe, because he looked like the original Curly.
This version of the Three Stooges went on to make 39 short films and a few full-length movies in the late 1950's and through the 1960's. In 1969 they filmed a pilot for a new TV series called "Kook's Tour", which would have been a show about the "retired" Stooges traveling the world, with episodes filmed on location. Alas, during production, Larry suffered a stroke that ended his acting career as well as the TV series. Larry suffered another stroke in December 1974 and another month later suffered a fatal stroke and died in January 1975.
It was thought that they could carry on, several movie ideas were considered, however Moe Howard passed away in May 1975. Although Curly-Joe (Joe DeRita) did some live work with a new group of "Stooges" in the early 1970's, the Three Stooges, as we knew them, we gone.
This has been a synopsis of the lengthy careers and the phenomenon that was and still is the Three Stooges. With the advent of cable television, home video, dvds and with a loyal army of loyal fans, the Three Stooges are still entertaining the masses and will be for years to come.
Article Source: http://www.marketingarticlebank.com
Hot Rod - Stuntman Forever
If there's one thing we can rely on every summer, it's the release of some fun movies. A great example is the zany offering "Hot Rod". This film builds on the premise that Rod Kimble's step-father (Frank) is a bully and Rod needs to take him down a notch or two. The problem we soon see is that Daddy Dearest has major health problems. Rod plans to raise money to save Frank by performing a never-before-completed stunt jump.
In the meantime we learn that Frank has a biological son named Kevin Powell, who turns out to be a supportive step-brother for Rod. To learn more about how Rod trains for his mission and to donate money for Frank, be sure to visit Kevin's site.
This Paramount Pictures, Michaels/Goldwyn Production "Hot Rod" will come to theaters on August 3, 2007. Many familiar names compose the cast as well as some on their way to sure stardom. They include Andy Samberg of Saturday Night Live (SNL) fame; Isla Fisher noted for her role as the sex-crazed sister in the equally zany "Wedding Crashers"; Ian Mc Shane television and film star (Deadwood (for which he won a Golden Globe, Lovejoy, and "Sexy Beast" among a multitude of others; and Sissy Spacek, another award winner who's career spans over 35 years. You may remember her from "Carrie" or "Coal Miner's Daughter". Pam Brady ("South Park: Bigger, Longer and Uncut) wrote the hilarious script, and Akiva Shaffer directed. He currently writes for SNL as well directs their Digital Shorts and music videos. This film is not yet rated.
You'll find short videos, photos, and more information on "Hot Rod" as well as "Stuntman Forever" on My Space as well as their individual websites.
Movie Plot
Rod Kimble fancies himself a talented stuntman and spends hours perfecting his art. In the meantime Frank, his step-dad can't seem to harass him enough. During their sparring sessions Frank throws Rod around, humiliating him at every turn. When Frank becomes so ill he needs major surgery, it's a mixed blessing for Rod. He gets the chance to showcase his biggest stunt ever and if he pulls it off he'll not only become famous, he'll also be able to pound the daylights out of Frank. If he fails he faces the ultimate debasement because if Frank lives he'll have the last laugh and Rod's audience will quickly disappear.
Rod idolizes the now aging and retired Evel Knievel, who ultimately jumped over 13 double-decker and 14 Greyhound buses while perched on his motorcycle. Rod sets a goal of soaring over a total of 15 buses. With the money raised from ticket sales he'll become famous and be able to pay for Frank's operation.
Andy Samberg
Whether or not you've seen Andy on SNL, you'll fall in love with this loveable goofball. His and Chris Parnell's hysterically funny short video "Lazy Sunday: Chronicles of Narnia", released in December 2005, broke viewing records for My Space and NBC. He and all the talent in and behind the scenes of "Hot Rod" and "Stuntman Forever" provide some rollicking good fun that you'll want to see over and over.
In the meantime we learn that Frank has a biological son named Kevin Powell, who turns out to be a supportive step-brother for Rod. To learn more about how Rod trains for his mission and to donate money for Frank, be sure to visit Kevin's site.
This Paramount Pictures, Michaels/Goldwyn Production "Hot Rod" will come to theaters on August 3, 2007. Many familiar names compose the cast as well as some on their way to sure stardom. They include Andy Samberg of Saturday Night Live (SNL) fame; Isla Fisher noted for her role as the sex-crazed sister in the equally zany "Wedding Crashers"; Ian Mc Shane television and film star (Deadwood (for which he won a Golden Globe, Lovejoy, and "Sexy Beast" among a multitude of others; and Sissy Spacek, another award winner who's career spans over 35 years. You may remember her from "Carrie" or "Coal Miner's Daughter". Pam Brady ("South Park: Bigger, Longer and Uncut) wrote the hilarious script, and Akiva Shaffer directed. He currently writes for SNL as well directs their Digital Shorts and music videos. This film is not yet rated.
You'll find short videos, photos, and more information on "Hot Rod" as well as "Stuntman Forever" on My Space as well as their individual websites.
Movie Plot
Rod Kimble fancies himself a talented stuntman and spends hours perfecting his art. In the meantime Frank, his step-dad can't seem to harass him enough. During their sparring sessions Frank throws Rod around, humiliating him at every turn. When Frank becomes so ill he needs major surgery, it's a mixed blessing for Rod. He gets the chance to showcase his biggest stunt ever and if he pulls it off he'll not only become famous, he'll also be able to pound the daylights out of Frank. If he fails he faces the ultimate debasement because if Frank lives he'll have the last laugh and Rod's audience will quickly disappear.
Rod idolizes the now aging and retired Evel Knievel, who ultimately jumped over 13 double-decker and 14 Greyhound buses while perched on his motorcycle. Rod sets a goal of soaring over a total of 15 buses. With the money raised from ticket sales he'll become famous and be able to pay for Frank's operation.
Andy Samberg
Whether or not you've seen Andy on SNL, you'll fall in love with this loveable goofball. His and Chris Parnell's hysterically funny short video "Lazy Sunday: Chronicles of Narnia", released in December 2005, broke viewing records for My Space and NBC. He and all the talent in and behind the scenes of "Hot Rod" and "Stuntman Forever" provide some rollicking good fun that you'll want to see over and over.
The Godfather (DVD) Review
Winner of three Academy Awards including Best Picture, The Godfather was nominated for an additional eight Oscars. The brainchild of celebrated author Mario Puzo, the film is considered the crowning achievement of Francis Ford Coppola's directing career. With intriguing depth, it provides audiences with a glimpse into the notorious underworld of warring New York crime families. As a result, The Godfather transformed a number of relatively unknown actors into Hollywood legends, among them being James Caan, Al Pacino, and Robert Duvall (all three of whom were nominated for Best Supporting Actor). In addition, Marlon Brando turns in, arguably, the most memorable performance of his career. Certainly among the top five films of all time, an excellent case could be made that The Godfather is the most perfect movie ever produced...
The film opens as "Don" Vito Corleone (Marlon Brando) hosts his daughter's wedding, where he actively entertains his friends and business associates. Vito's favorite son Michael (Al Pacino) has come home from the war (World War II), and he's determined to do something different with his life, and his ambitious plans don't include joining the family business. An idealist at heart, the young Michael seduces his girlfriend Kay (Diane Keaton) with inspiring tales of the fine and upstanding things he will do with his life. Through the eyes of Michael, the audience learns of the family's various business methods and the hierarchy of its system. Vito's eldest son Sonny (James Caan) is the heir apparent to his father's empire. Middle son Fredo (John Cazale) performs his part in the business, but few consider him a possible successor. Providing legal council to the family is Tom Hagen (Robert Duvall), a long-time friend of the family who Michael treats as a brother.
Life is good for the Corleone family until the day Vito is approached by an opportunistic newcomer named Virgil "The Turk" Sollozzo (Al Lettieri), an ambitious leader who aspires to become the number one distributor of illegal narcotics in New York. He asks for the Don's blessing so he can expand his operations. But Vito sees a big difference between the traditional mafia activities of gambling and prostitution and the less-than-noble profession of selling drugs in schoolyards and family neighborhoods. The Don's preference for placing family above all else creates a direct conflict with the changing landscape of his business world.
When competing crime families are more accommodating to Sollozzo's business proposal, the enterprise sparks a deadly conflict between the crime families which quickly escalates into all-out war. Despite Vito's attempts to put an end to the conflict in its early stages, his beloved firstborn, Sonny, becomes the target of gangland assassination. When an attempt is made on Vito's life, Michael is drawn into the family business despite his reservations, and the overriding theme of "family first" comes to dominant his life in much the same way it's dominated that of his father...
A dramatic story of family and change, of youthful idealism and the pragmatism of adulthood, The Godfather is the greatest mafia film ever produced, and perhaps as the best drama in all of cinema history. Al Pacino would soon follow up his masterful performance with The Godfather II, and countless other films in the decades since, forever cementing his place among the immortals Hollywood. As such, The Godfather is a film all movie lovers should see at least one. Widely heralded as one of the best written films in existence, it's a definite "must-see" for any serious cinema aficionado...
The film opens as "Don" Vito Corleone (Marlon Brando) hosts his daughter's wedding, where he actively entertains his friends and business associates. Vito's favorite son Michael (Al Pacino) has come home from the war (World War II), and he's determined to do something different with his life, and his ambitious plans don't include joining the family business. An idealist at heart, the young Michael seduces his girlfriend Kay (Diane Keaton) with inspiring tales of the fine and upstanding things he will do with his life. Through the eyes of Michael, the audience learns of the family's various business methods and the hierarchy of its system. Vito's eldest son Sonny (James Caan) is the heir apparent to his father's empire. Middle son Fredo (John Cazale) performs his part in the business, but few consider him a possible successor. Providing legal council to the family is Tom Hagen (Robert Duvall), a long-time friend of the family who Michael treats as a brother.
Life is good for the Corleone family until the day Vito is approached by an opportunistic newcomer named Virgil "The Turk" Sollozzo (Al Lettieri), an ambitious leader who aspires to become the number one distributor of illegal narcotics in New York. He asks for the Don's blessing so he can expand his operations. But Vito sees a big difference between the traditional mafia activities of gambling and prostitution and the less-than-noble profession of selling drugs in schoolyards and family neighborhoods. The Don's preference for placing family above all else creates a direct conflict with the changing landscape of his business world.
When competing crime families are more accommodating to Sollozzo's business proposal, the enterprise sparks a deadly conflict between the crime families which quickly escalates into all-out war. Despite Vito's attempts to put an end to the conflict in its early stages, his beloved firstborn, Sonny, becomes the target of gangland assassination. When an attempt is made on Vito's life, Michael is drawn into the family business despite his reservations, and the overriding theme of "family first" comes to dominant his life in much the same way it's dominated that of his father...
A dramatic story of family and change, of youthful idealism and the pragmatism of adulthood, The Godfather is the greatest mafia film ever produced, and perhaps as the best drama in all of cinema history. Al Pacino would soon follow up his masterful performance with The Godfather II, and countless other films in the decades since, forever cementing his place among the immortals Hollywood. As such, The Godfather is a film all movie lovers should see at least one. Widely heralded as one of the best written films in existence, it's a definite "must-see" for any serious cinema aficionado...
The 6th Day
After 20 years, his producers seemed to be having trouble coming up with new big action thrillers for Arnold Schwarzenegger; this 2000 release was the next to last one he made except for the third Terminator, which I don’t count because it was a sequel. At least the producers gave us a villain who was neither a terrorist nor a machine this time, eh?
In The 6th Day, set a few years in our future, the Governator plays Adam Gibson, partners with Hank Morgan (Michael Rappaport) in a leading edge helicopter taxi service. One beautiful day the two are hired to fly multi-billionaire Michael Drucker (Tony Goldwyn) up to a nearby mountain for some skiing. Actually Gibson is hired but he and Morgan switch without telling Drucker’s people as Adam needs to run an errand.
There’s a big surprise when he gets home to his lovely wife (Wendy Crewson) and daughter and it isn’t just the surprise birthday party for him: he’s already inside celebrating. Then, after four hard cases come along and try to kill him, Ah-nold is off and running. We already know who’s chasing him: Drucker is sponsoring cloning research by superscientist Griffin Weir (Robert Duvall), and while the research has pretty much succeeded cloning humans is still against the law. No one outside Drucker’s inner circle can be allowed to know about the active program.
6th Day was written by the husband and wife team of Carmac and Marianne Wibberly and directed by veteran Roger Spottiswoode; it’s the first big production for the writers, who went on to write the I Spy movie, the Charlie’s Angels and Bad Boys sequels, Tim Allen’s Shaggy Dog remake and Nic Cage’s National Treasure, while Spottiswoode previously gave us the Bond movie Tomorrow Never Dies, the Robin Williams/Kurt Russell The Best of Times and Sly Stallone Stop! Or My Mother Will Shoot comedies and the AIDs docudrama And the Band Played On.
Here the first half is entertaining because we know what’s happening but Schwarzenegger’s character is struggling to figure it out for himself and then the movie kicks into top gear after the two Adams connect and work together to take down Drucker. Dr. Weir gives a major assist after finally growing himself a conscience.
Of the big guys post-True Lies action flicks, The 6th Day is my favorite though it doesn’t really reach the same heights as that one, Last Action Hero or the first Terminator.
recommended
Sep 4, 2007
DVD Releases For Tuesday September 4, 2007
Man, is anyone else surprised that we’re already doing posts on DVD releases for September? I mean, 2007 has just flown by without a second’s notice, I tell you.
Well, another Tuesday, another Lindsay Lohan movie release. I know you can’t wait to go out there & grab the Georgia Rule DVD, so don’t lie.
Here they are folks, the DVD releases for Tuesday September 4, 2007:
30 Rock: Season 1
The Astronaut Farmer
The Black Donnellys: The Complete Series
Bobby Z
Chill Out Scooby-Doo!
Delta Farce
Desperate Housewives: Season 3
Georgia Rule
It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia: Seasons 1 & 2
Nip/Tuck: The Complete Fourth Season
The Office: Season Three
Princess Enchanted Tales: Follow Your Dreams
Prison Break: Season Two
Robot Chicken: Season Two Uncensored
Rules of Engagement: The Complete First Season
Spongebob Squarepants: Fifth Season, Vol. 1
Wind Chill
Source: http://www.filmsy.com/dvd-releases/dvd-releases-for-tuesday-september-4-2007/
The Spy Who Came in from the Cold
Based on the classic John Le Carre novel, The Spy Who Came in from the Cold strikes me as perhaps the first major feature film taking an overtly cynical posture on the way intelligence agencies on both sides of the iron curtain did business. In 1965, released amidst the massive success of the first James Bond movies and just before the anti-war movement went mainstream, the film’s attitude and low tech approach–it was one of the last major releases shot in black and white–didn’t go over well and the film pretty much sank from sight.
Source: http://billsaysthis.com/movies/2007/09/the-spy-who-came-in-from-the-cold
Forty years later those are no longer obstacles to appreciating the quality of the acting, direction and screenplay. Richard Burton has one of his best outings as the title character, a spy called Alec Leamas returned from a decade of service running the Berlin station, though one wonders just how difficult playing a burned out drunk was for the former Mr. Elizabeth Taylor.
Some fine supporting performances by Claire Bloom as a beautiful, naive young English communist, Cyril Cusack as Leamas’ MI-6 controller, Oskar Werner as a Jewish East German spy boss at war with Peter van Eyck, his anti-semitic boss, and Beatrix Lehmann as the stern chief of the tribunal where Leamas and the two East German spies face off.
Martin Ritt, who also directed such classics as Woody Allen’s The Front, Sounder, a couple of Paul Newman hits (Hud and The Long, Hot Summer) and Norma Rae, has his A game on Cold, using lighting as a powerful tool to convey emotions and framing shots precisely to help viewers see beneath the dialog. The script by Guy Trosper (Jailhouse Rock and Birdman of Alcatraz) and Paul Dehn (Goldfinger, the second Bond movie), who came on to finish it when Trosper passed away, does very well in getting the meat of Le Carre’s novel on screen with some very crisp dialog and plot construction.
Le Carre is the pen name of David Cornwell, a real life an MI-6 spy. He was still active when this movie was made but shortly thereafter left the agency as one of the dozens of western agents betrayed to the Soviets by Kim Philby; one expects he’d have not stayed much longer in any case as his literary star bloomed. Many Le Carre novels have been made into acclaimed films and mini-series, including his best known work Tinker, Tailor, Solder, Spy starring Alec Guinness, The Little Drummer Girl with Diane Keaton and ex-Bond Pierce Brosnan starrer The Tailor of Panama as well as the 2005 critical favorite Constant Gardener.
recommended
Source: http://billsaysthis.com/movies/2007/09/the-spy-who-came-in-from-the-cold
Film Academy Sues to Stop Sale of Oscars
LOS ANGELES -- The Motion Picture Academy of Arts & Sciences is suing to stop the public sale of two Academy Awards given to silent film star Mary Pickford.
In the lawsuit filed Wednesday, the academy claims it has the right to buy the historic statuettes and one owned by her late husband for $10 each.
The academy contends an heir to the Oscars demanded $500,000 for one statuette alone in July — an offer the academy refused.
Pickford won the Academy Award for best actress in 1930 and was given an honorary Oscar in 1975.
When she died in 1979, they went to her one-time husband, Charles "Buddy" Rogers, the lawsuit said.
In 1986, Rogers won the academy's Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award, and when he died all three awards went to his second wife, Beverly.
She died in January, leaving the statuettes to her heirs, who are co-executors of her estate.
The lawsuit names three of the heirs, in their roles as co-executors. It alleges anticipatory breach of contract.
The suit claims that academy bylaws dating from 1950 and agreements signed by Oscar winners give the academy the first chance to buy Oscars for $10 each if they ever go on the market.
"If the public believes that any multimillionaire can buy an Oscar, then it becomes cheapened," David W. Quinto, an attorney representing the academy, said Friday. "It becomes an article of commerce rather than a very prestigious award."
Quinto said Pickford was a founder of the academy and helped approve the Oscar design.
"From the academy's point of view it's just unthinkable that Mary Pickford ...
would ever consent to do anything that would ever cheapen it in the eyes of the public," he said.
A call to John Shevlin, an attorney representing Beverly Rogers' estate, was not immediately returned.
In the lawsuit filed Wednesday, the academy claims it has the right to buy the historic statuettes and one owned by her late husband for $10 each.
The academy contends an heir to the Oscars demanded $500,000 for one statuette alone in July — an offer the academy refused.
Pickford won the Academy Award for best actress in 1930 and was given an honorary Oscar in 1975.
When she died in 1979, they went to her one-time husband, Charles "Buddy" Rogers, the lawsuit said.
In 1986, Rogers won the academy's Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award, and when he died all three awards went to his second wife, Beverly.
She died in January, leaving the statuettes to her heirs, who are co-executors of her estate.
The lawsuit names three of the heirs, in their roles as co-executors. It alleges anticipatory breach of contract.
The suit claims that academy bylaws dating from 1950 and agreements signed by Oscar winners give the academy the first chance to buy Oscars for $10 each if they ever go on the market.
"If the public believes that any multimillionaire can buy an Oscar, then it becomes cheapened," David W. Quinto, an attorney representing the academy, said Friday. "It becomes an article of commerce rather than a very prestigious award."
Quinto said Pickford was a founder of the academy and helped approve the Oscar design.
"From the academy's point of view it's just unthinkable that Mary Pickford ...
would ever consent to do anything that would ever cheapen it in the eyes of the public," he said.
A call to John Shevlin, an attorney representing Beverly Rogers' estate, was not immediately returned.
X-Men - The Last Stand
info10:01 pmAdd comment
Source: http://www.bestfilms.info/2006/10/21/x-men-the-last-stand/
I am an advid fan of both the x-men comic books and the movies. I have been a fan of Marvel Comics for over twenty years. I feel that the characters depths were reached in the first two movies but were not carried on to the third, yet they seemed to add many more to the mix, and the special features were a travisty. These things lead to my actual review being closer to 2.5 stars.
I feel that the addition of new characters enhanced the movie and hindered it at the same time. Beast, played by Kelsey Grammar was very well done, to the point of him saying “Oh my stars and garters.” The Kitty Pryde character seemed one dimensional with no depth at all. She is shown to be a bit intelligent in the class room discussing Plato’s view of ethics, but then used as a third wheel of a love triangle dissolves the hope of any furhter depth. Colossus’s use of the “fastball special”, at the beginning the movie, was awesome to the point of ingenious, but that is where his character loses his appeal. He has next to no lines and begins to blend into the background in many scenes.
The plot is based very losely on the story arc “The Dark Pheonix Saga” and when I say losely, I truly mean losely. The comic story involved a much greater deal of internal conflict within Jean, in which Jean solves by comitting suicide. In this movie, her death only comes by the hand, or claws of, yup you guessed it, Wolverine. The depths of emotional conflict in Jean is never brought to the screen, except for her saying thank you to Wolverine at the end of her life. I felt no pythos or pain, that her life needed to be forfeited. I was unimpressed and unmoved by the representation of the pheonix/Jean saga.
Extras/Special features? These were all things picked up off of the floor of the editing room and pasted, any way they could, back into the movie.
3 Alternate endings that have no rationale behind them or connection to the movie. The world of Marvel, this section is a cheap way for Marvel to exploit the viewer into purchasing some of the lesser quality superhero movies. They show the trailers for Daredevil, Electra and FF. Ther is no in depth look into the world of Marvel Comics at all. For those who really want to be cheated out of their hard earned cash, buy the colectors edition of the DVD, it has different packaging and a comic that stars San Lee. Yeah!!!
The whole presentation from the coverr of the actual DVD to the Special Features seem as thrown together as the actual Movie. I as a viewer feel a bit let down by the conclusion of the trilogy. Marvel, does not seem to shy away from the open handed, gimmie your money approach to commerece, just look at the Civil War Strory in stores now, so I would have to say wait a few months and you will probally see a new release of the DVD that does not seem so thrown together.
Source: http://www.bestfilms.info/2006/10/21/x-men-the-last-stand/
Tobruk
In 1942 the German army in North Africa led by Field Marshall Rommel was kicking Allied booty, to say the least, and so the Western powers decided to try a sleight of hand approach to cutting Rommel’s attack capability by destroying his fuel depot. The storage tanks were deep in German territory, in the heavily defended Libyan port city of Tobruk, and so previous direct assaults failed.
Source: http://billsaysthis.com/movies/2007/09/tobruk
Tobruck is the story of the mission that worked. A force that combined British ground troops with a special squad of German Jews who escaped Hitler, along with an American oil engineer with deep knowledge of the territory, were tasked with driving overland across the desert and bluffing through to the heavy guns defending the coast. The Jewish troops were all native German speakers, of course, and by wearing Nazi uniforms expected little interference.
If the mission went strictly as planned there’d hardly be material for a movie and there are several episodes that come up. Bunkering down for the first or second night in a wadi, they’re able to hide from an Italian patrol and then trick the Italians into thinking they’ve been attacked by a German squad coming from the other direction. And vice versa and so on.
Then the company takes possession of two German spies, an apparently English father and daughter, who think they’ve found safety as the Jewish troops play their parts as real German troops in their presence. Those heroes harbor a double agent, who sends the spies off to a hidden phone, though the ruse is uncovered and the pair found before any harm’s done to the mission.
Finally, after nearly an hour of screen time, the surviving troops reach Tobruk and make their way to the big guns. The mole has done the necessary, unfortunately, and the Germans inflict heavy casualties, averting the ground invasion planned to coincide with their effort. The Jews die valiantly and the American destroys the fuel dumps, and is the only one (along with his two Brit support troops) to get out alive.
Rock Hudson is the American, George Peppard, affecting a ridiculous accent, is the leader of the Jewish squad and the two key English soliders are played by stereotypical Brit actors, Nigel Green and Jack Watson. I don’t use the term derogatively but that if you thought of a WWII British colonel and sergeant major these two are exactly who you’d picture.
Arthur Hiller directed from Leo Gordon’s script (Gordon also plays Peppard’s sergeant) and mainly I’d say Tobruk is a serviceable war picture. Good, keeps the tension increasing, okay acting yet never gets all that exciting. As one of the IMDB commentors wrote, the movie seems to be stuck trying to create a parallel theme comparing the explicit antisemitism of the British officers with the Nazi’s extermination program.
recommended
Source: http://billsaysthis.com/movies/2007/09/tobruk
Sep 3, 2007
Balls of Fury - Review
I love these goofy sports comedy flicks: ?Dodgeball?, “Beerfest? and now ?Balls of Fury?. At first glance, I gave ?Balls of Fury? a resounding beh, but then Christopher Walken appeared on the screen and I exclaimed a resounding eh?, followed by a far more resounding zeh! Okay, so ?zeh? isn?t really something people scream with joy, but I don?t think I use the letter ?z? on my keyboard enough and I want to get my money?s worth. As silly as it is, ?Balls of Fury? is one of the better comedies I?ve seen this year and made all the better with an additional helping of sweet ping pong action to keep things fast and fun.
Randy Daytona (Dan Fogler) is a washed-up pro ping pong champ hired by FBI agent Ernie Rodriguez (George Lopez) to enter an exclusive table tennis tournament run by Triad crime lord Feng (Christopher Walken). Daytona is way off his game, however, and seeks tutelage from one of the greatest ping pong players in the world, Master Wong (James Hong). With help from Hong?s adopted daughter, Maggie (Maggie Q), Daytona gets in shape just in time to enter the tournament?where he discovers that losing a game means losing his life.
There?s a lot of good comedy talent assembled for this flick, though they may fly over some people?s radar. James Hong stole a lot of the show in this movie as the blind ping pong master. If you haven?t seen any of the man?s movies then there?s a better chance you?ve heard some of his voice-over work (he was the Mandarin in ?Super Robot Monkey Team Hyper Force Go? and Delong Wong in ?Jackie Chan Adventures?) and he?s just an all-around funny guy. Diedrich Bader manages a small supporting role as ?Gary?, but I won?t spoil it for you. He?s another talented comic both on screen and doing voice over roles (he?s Oswald from ?the Drew Carrey Show? and Hoss Delgado on ?Billy & Mandy?). Robert Patrick also manages a brief cameo at the beginning and he?s always funny because, hey, he?s Robert Patrick.
I don?t think I?ve ever seen anything Dan Fogler has ever been in, but the man plays a pretty good heroic slob character. Christopher Walken is of course funny in everything he does because he?s freakin? Christopher Walken. I?ve never been a huge fan of George Lopez but he plays a pretty funny supporting character. The bit in the hotel room between him and Fogler was comic gold. Thomas Lennon (“Reno 911?) shows up as Fogler?s arch nemesis, Karl Wolfschtagg, and while I?m not a big ?Reno 911? fan I can?t deny the guy was a riot.
?Balls of Fury? has a very wacky sense of humor and not so much in a ?Naked Gun? sort of way but more in a ?what the hell are they doing that for? sort of way. It hits its mark mostly with false alarm humor, where it leads you into a joke you think you see coming and then blindsides you with an even better one right when you least suspect it. And it does this frequently. I felt this was both its strongest point and its weakest. Toward the end of the movie you start to grasp the ?false alarm? strategy which makes them a little predictable at times. I also felt they bypassed a good opportunity with the showdown between Daytona and Wolfschtagg, but I won?t go any further in-depth on that.
The film has a great cast, some very well-timed and well-conceived jokes and a plot that works in its all-out craziness. And even when the movie isn?t funny, the ping pong tricks (fake though they are) can be really cool to look at. Definitely a good way to end the Summer movie season.
Grade: B
The Da Vinci Code
info10:18 pmAdd comment
I am going to start out by noting that Ron Howard is one of the best directors of our modern generation. That is why that I thought, going into the theatre that this film (staring one of the best actors ever). It would have at least a sliver of a chance of being good, maybe not as good as the book but nonetheless still good. Making a film of such a loved as well as heated topic always draws a lot of attention, there are always the people that love, and most of the time … that same number of people that hate.
It was a very smart summer blockbuster that will attract a lot of the general American public. Think about it. Tom Hanks (one of the best actors we have ever had AND it’s based on one of the most read books since well holy the BIBLE and the DICTIONARY. Ron Howard’s adaptation of the Da Vinci Code, in my opinion not only falls sort of the book, but also tacks on a completley new and UN-improved boring ending. I honestly was somewhat enjoying this film right up until the final 30 minutes, it was pointless, uncalled for and just all around sloppy and bad.
Now getting all of those negative statements out of the way, I very much enjoyed the way that they adapted the screenplay (other than the end, obviously), and I loved the acting all around as a whole. That said Tom Hanks, obviously wasn’t exactly the most convincing Robert Langdon but still his natural acting skills made up for it. Ian McKellen’s performance of Sir Leigh Teabing is jut about as good as it could have been and the French actress Audrey Tautou’s performace as Sophie was well done. Even the little performances such as Jean eno’s performance as the police chief was good just as the rest of eno’s performances. Also the cinamotography and camera shots were very well done and were definately pleasing to watch and keep an eye on.
The “Da Vinci Code” has it’s shining moments but fails, overall to really impress not only non-readers of the novel but also the devoted fans, but i’m not too shocked.
War
Teaming up for the second time, Jet Li and Jason Stathem are the opponents in a movie that matches the latest trends in extreme violence. FBI agent Hank Crawford (Stathem) gets in the middle of a war between a Triad gang lead by Chang (John Lone) and a Yakuza family run by Shiro (Ryo Ishibashi), but he really wants Rogue (Li), a Chinese hitman who used to work for the CIA and now does the business for Chang. He also murdered Crawford’s partner and his partner’s wife and young daughter just moments before Crawford arrived with his own wife (Andrea Roth, Dennis Leary’s wife on Rescue Me) and son.
War is pretty much what one expects for a late summer action flick: plenty of action with guns and martial arts smackdowns, cops versus robbers and a bevy of gorgeous babes. In the latter group are Devon Aoki as Shiro’s daughter and number two, Nadine Velasquez (Catalina on My Name is Earl) as Chang’s wife and an uncredited, tall and very well endowed beauty as a hooker who delivers Li’s first payday.
The real hottie in War, though, is the car Jet Li drives throughout: the Spyker C8 Spyder. A Dutch marque not widely seen in the US despite being around since 1914 and having a Formula One entry, you can check them out in person at Spyker of Silicon Valley. However, you better go loaded since the car lists for over $250,000.
The director is Phillip Atwell, moving up to features after making his mark with some high profile rap videos for 50 Cent, DMX, NWA and Xhibit. Atwell does okay, never letting the action slow down and adding flash and movement even in what could otherwise be very talky scenes. The script, from Lee Smith and Greg Bradley, is less exciting though there are a couple of pretty decent twists in the third act; not terrible for the first produced script for either.
recommended
Sep 1, 2007
A “Work Print” of Rob Zombie’s Halloween Leaks Online
A “work print” of Rob Zombie’s Halloween has leaked online a full 4 days before the release of the film. The print is said to be near DVD quality…but it IS NOT the version of the film that you will see in theaters on Friday.
This is, instead, reported to be the work print of the film that was screened to test audiences. This print was not well received, and the feedback from it is what lead to massive reshoots on the film.
I don’t think it’s fair to just this “re-imagining” of Halloween based on this print, and if you’re a fan of the series, I don’t recommend downloading it (beyond the obvious fact that it’s illegal - it’s also not the theatrical version of the film).
No doubt, though, if this film does poorly, piracy will be blamed - regardless of the actual effect this had on the film.
Edward Scissorhands
info01:31 pmAdd comment
This wonderful fantasy tale stars Johnny Depp as a not-quite-real teenager who was built by an eccentric inventor. The old man died before he could finish him, so Edward has knife blades where his fingers would be. A well-meaning Avon lady (Diane Wiest) finds him living alone in his crumbling castle, and brings him home to live with her family, which includes daughter Kim (Winona Ryder). Edward is naive and timid, but so sweet and helpful that he soon becomes the darling of the neighborhood. He is smitten with Kim, which angers her bully of a boyfriend (Anthony Michael Hall).
Diane Wiest is perfect as the ditsy and always-cheerful mom. Ryder is convincing as a selfish and spoiled teen. Hall is the villian you love to hate. The star, of course, is Johnny Depp. As Edward, he is painfully shy and lovelorn; his performance is so heart-wrenchingly delicate that you ache for him in every scene. Covered with white make-up and with only a few words of dialogue, Depp proves he is a very talented actor. The wonderful and quite frail Vincent Price, as Edward’s loving creator, will surely bring a tear to your eye.
This completely unique film blends comedy, fantasy, and romance to make a sentimental fairy tale that both teens and adults will enjoy. It is a heart-breaker; bring your hankie.
Dirty Work
I only watched this movie because there was nothing else even remotely interesting and Lance Reddick is so good on The Wire. Reddick is a dirty cop but we’re supposed to think that’s only due to some bad luck and too much gambling, which got him under the thumb of Julian, a weird local crime boss played by Austin Pembleton.
Dirty Work picks up when Assistant State Attorney Frank Sullivan (Mike McGlore), running for his boss’s job, comes home late one night. During a fight he gets physical with his alcoholic wife and strangles her; he and his campaign manager smuggle the body out and stage her to appear as if she was another victim of a rapist/murderer. The other plot is that Reddick decides he’s not going to let Julian ruin a young Polish hotel maid, after she overheard the real killer, Julian’s top goon, admit that fact to his boss.
In the end, this movie is too simple and formulaic. Writer/director Bruce Terris, in his first feature-length production, leans too heavily on dark visuals, bad Chicago winter weather and some pretty decent acting to overcome poor material with too few surprises for a thriller.
not recommended
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