The Poseidon Adventure
Just minutes into the New Year, the S.S. Poseidon gets capsized by a tidal wave that was caused by an earthquake on the ocean floor. Now it's up to radical preacher Gene Hackman to lead his small flock to safety.
This has always been one of my favorite Gene Hackman roles as well as a favorite Irwin Allen film. Check it out and enjoy.
Rocky
Here's where it all started. On January 1, 1976 Apollo Creed offered a long shot fighter, Rocky Balboa, a chance at the title. Of course, those of you who made it through Christmas know where he ended up but it's still fun to go back to the beginning. Enjoy.
War Of The Planets
You spent Christmas with him, now Franco Nero is back to help you ring in the New Year. It's New Years Eve in the 21st century and mysterious green lights have taken two of Earths space stations and transported them to Mars.
Their goal is to brainwash the crews of the stations and conquer the Earth unless a small assault force can put an end to their evil plan.
This is Italian sci-fi from 1966. While the plot loses a little in translation, the special effects are pretty cool. Remember when they used to take the time to build miniature sets? You know, before computers came along and made it look worse cheaper and faster. Worth a look if you're a fan.
Friday, December 30, 2011
Deadline
Alice (Brittany Murphy) is a screenwriter who has suffered a psychological breakdown but is trying to get back to work now that she's better. Secluded in an old house where days go by but it's perpetually night time and she never seems to work or sleep, she finds a box of mini dv tapes. As fate and the script would have it, she happens to have a mini dv camera so she starts watching and sees the relationship between Lucy and David fall apart. Luckily, they taped everything.
This movie reminds me of several others I've seen and I didn't like them either. However, it also makes me think of a really good Danish film called Everything Will Be Fine. See that one and leave Deadline alone. I've run out of bad things to say about it.
This movie reminds me of several others I've seen and I didn't like them either. However, it also makes me think of a really good Danish film called Everything Will Be Fine. See that one and leave Deadline alone. I've run out of bad things to say about it.
Dr. Kildare
Young Dr. Kildare
Somewhere between Andy Hardy and Gregory House is James Kildare. Lew Ayres introduces audiences to Dr. Kildare in this 1938 classic about a young man who graduates medical school and gets a gig with a leading New York hospital.
While there, he meets Dr. Gillespie (Lionel Barrymore, who played the original Judge Hardy the previous year. Irony?), a grouchy diagnostician who encourages Kildare to look beyond what's in the medical record when treating a patient.
This was the first in a series of 15 films that went on to inspire two TV movies as well as two series. I really dug it, you should give it a chance.
Calling Dr. Kildare
This was the first follow up to Young Dr. Kildare, released in 1939. The gang's all here as Kildare is assigned to a street clinic to gain some real world experience.
While he's there he treats a gun shot victim only to discover later that he's wanted by the police. Kildare believes the man is innocent and sets out to discover the truth.
The return of the same cast and crew plus the addition of Lana Turner make this movie worth a look if you liked the first one.
Somewhere between Andy Hardy and Gregory House is James Kildare. Lew Ayres introduces audiences to Dr. Kildare in this 1938 classic about a young man who graduates medical school and gets a gig with a leading New York hospital.
While there, he meets Dr. Gillespie (Lionel Barrymore, who played the original Judge Hardy the previous year. Irony?), a grouchy diagnostician who encourages Kildare to look beyond what's in the medical record when treating a patient.
This was the first in a series of 15 films that went on to inspire two TV movies as well as two series. I really dug it, you should give it a chance.
Calling Dr. Kildare
This was the first follow up to Young Dr. Kildare, released in 1939. The gang's all here as Kildare is assigned to a street clinic to gain some real world experience.
While he's there he treats a gun shot victim only to discover later that he's wanted by the police. Kildare believes the man is innocent and sets out to discover the truth.
The return of the same cast and crew plus the addition of Lana Turner make this movie worth a look if you liked the first one.
Spirits Of The Dead
Whatever happened to artistic film makers? Today everything is made according to a formula. If it's not a re-make then it's a sequel or worse, a prequel. Why can't a good film (or a bad one) just stand alone? Do we need four Mission: Impossible movies? How about seven Saw's? Does anybody really care about how the aliens killed off the crew before Ripley and company came across their distress signal? Of course not.
As a crusader for the original and creative, I'm not exactly a fan of adaptations however, 1968's Spirits Of The Dead is an exception, not a rule. Edgar Allan Poe and William Shakespeare have always been the go to guys for movie producers. Both are extremely well known and open for many different interpretations.
Roger Vadim, Louis Malle and Frederico Fellini each took a different Poe story and put their own spin on it. Vadim cast his then wife, Jane Fonda, in the title role of Metzengerstein. Her brother, Peter, played her cousin, her lover (confused? You wont be after this episode of...).
Alain Delon plays a double role in Louis Malle's William Wilson. Brigitte Bardot plays the woman who gives him a run for his money, literally.
Finally, Terrance Stamp brilliantly plays the title role in Toby Dammit, Frederico Fellini's "very loose interpretation" of Never Bet The Devil Your Head.
If you want to see something really good, check this out. If not, don't worry, mediocrity is being released on a weekly basis.
As a crusader for the original and creative, I'm not exactly a fan of adaptations however, 1968's Spirits Of The Dead is an exception, not a rule. Edgar Allan Poe and William Shakespeare have always been the go to guys for movie producers. Both are extremely well known and open for many different interpretations.
Roger Vadim, Louis Malle and Frederico Fellini each took a different Poe story and put their own spin on it. Vadim cast his then wife, Jane Fonda, in the title role of Metzengerstein. Her brother, Peter, played her cousin, her lover (confused? You wont be after this episode of...).
Alain Delon plays a double role in Louis Malle's William Wilson. Brigitte Bardot plays the woman who gives him a run for his money, literally.
Finally, Terrance Stamp brilliantly plays the title role in Toby Dammit, Frederico Fellini's "very loose interpretation" of Never Bet The Devil Your Head.
If you want to see something really good, check this out. If not, don't worry, mediocrity is being released on a weekly basis.
The Front
This 1976 comedy stars Woody Allen as the title character. Set in the early 1950's during the height of McCarthyism, Allen plays a diner cashier who agrees to help out a writer friend who's been blacklisted. The friend will still submit scripts to television networks, They'll just have Woody's name on them. The networks like the scripts and Allen finds himself in the spotlight.
Success starts going to his head and he realizes that he can pay off his debts faster if he fronts for more than one person.He eventually ends up fronting for three people but the F.B.I. starts becoming curious about his activities when his girlfriend starts a radical newsletter.
One of the interesting things about this movie is that director Martin Ritt, screenwriter Walter Bernstein, and actors Zero Mostel, Herschel Bernardi, Lloyd Gough and Joshua Shelley were all blacklisted during the '50's. It's a light movie about a dark time in American history.
Success starts going to his head and he realizes that he can pay off his debts faster if he fronts for more than one person.He eventually ends up fronting for three people but the F.B.I. starts becoming curious about his activities when his girlfriend starts a radical newsletter.
One of the interesting things about this movie is that director Martin Ritt, screenwriter Walter Bernstein, and actors Zero Mostel, Herschel Bernardi, Lloyd Gough and Joshua Shelley were all blacklisted during the '50's. It's a light movie about a dark time in American history.
Wednesday, December 28, 2011
Children Of The Frost by Jack London
Children Of The Frost is a collection of short stories written by Jack London and published in 1902. There are ten stories that deal with various aspects of life in the Yukon territory. Each one is interesting and the book overall is pretty good. Winter is the perfect time to catch up on some London.
In The Forests Of The North- A small group of geologists stumble upon a white man who has been presumed dead but has actually been living in a remote native village where he serves as a consultant to the village. Things turn violent when they try to take him with them.
The Law Of Life- An old man reflects back on his life as he waits for it to end.
Nam-Bok the Unveracious- A man returns to his village after being gone for a couple of years. Believing he was lost at sea, the villagers now think he's a ghost.
The Master of Mystery- Several blankets have gone missing in a small village. Believing it to be the work of evil spirits, the villagers call in a medicine man from the next village feeling that theirs has lost his mojo but he old man may yet have a trick or two up his sleeve.
The Sunlanders- White men come to a remote village in search of mining potential but the villagers don't want them there. Will progress march on or will the village remain true to it's heritage?
The Sickness of Lone Chief- A white man listens to two old natives recount a story from the past.
Keesh, the Son of Keesh- A young native man finds himself at a crossroads when he must decide if he will follow the traditions of his ancestors or the ways of the white missionaries who have educated him.
The Death of Ligoun- Though infected with the ways of the white man, there are some traditions the natives will not give up.
Li Wan, the Fair- Li Wan wanders the wilderness with the man she was traded to.
The League of the Old Men- An old man comes to town and confesses to the murders of many white people.
In The Forests Of The North- A small group of geologists stumble upon a white man who has been presumed dead but has actually been living in a remote native village where he serves as a consultant to the village. Things turn violent when they try to take him with them.
The Law Of Life- An old man reflects back on his life as he waits for it to end.
Nam-Bok the Unveracious- A man returns to his village after being gone for a couple of years. Believing he was lost at sea, the villagers now think he's a ghost.
The Master of Mystery- Several blankets have gone missing in a small village. Believing it to be the work of evil spirits, the villagers call in a medicine man from the next village feeling that theirs has lost his mojo but he old man may yet have a trick or two up his sleeve.
The Sunlanders- White men come to a remote village in search of mining potential but the villagers don't want them there. Will progress march on or will the village remain true to it's heritage?
The Sickness of Lone Chief- A white man listens to two old natives recount a story from the past.
Keesh, the Son of Keesh- A young native man finds himself at a crossroads when he must decide if he will follow the traditions of his ancestors or the ways of the white missionaries who have educated him.
The Death of Ligoun- Though infected with the ways of the white man, there are some traditions the natives will not give up.
Li Wan, the Fair- Li Wan wanders the wilderness with the man she was traded to.
The League of the Old Men- An old man comes to town and confesses to the murders of many white people.
Tuesday, December 27, 2011
The Sound Of Music at The Englewood Theatre
So now I can officially say that I've seen The Sound Of Music all the way through in one sitting. The best part is that I saw it on the big screen. If you live in the Kansas City area, it's time to rejoice, The Englewood is open again. Classic films on the fifty foot screen, it doesn't get any better than that.
I've seen bits and pieces of this movie for years. My high school did it my freshman year but since I'm not a hard core musical fan, I've never bothered to watch it. I've always preferred The Man Of LaMancha and Camelot to just about any other musical. As a projectionist, I've played The Sound Of Music on a few occasions but never watched it except to see where the intermission and ending was.
I have to admit, seeing it on the big screen really impressed me. The opening and closing shots filmed with MCS-70 are incredible! Visual style wise (pardon the pun) though, I thought director Robert Wise did a much better job with West Side Story. I appreciate that as a musical it has functional music. There are only a couple of times that people randomly burst into song and even then it fits the scene. The weirdest part is watching icons that I grew up with (Nicholas Hammond-Spider-Man; Angela Cartwright-Penny Robinson; Heather Menzies-Maggie a.k.a. the dumb chick who released the Piranha) sing and dance.
Ironically, the last movie musical I saw at The Englewood was The King and I. It's odd how much The Sound Of Music parallels that through the first half, but then considering they were both written by Ernest Lehman, I guess it's not so odd.
The print, admittedly, is not in the greatest condition but it just reminds you that you're watching film. You owe it to yourself to go out to The Englewood and see the remodel work that they've done. It's like improving upon perfection. Show times available at fineartsgroup.com
I've seen bits and pieces of this movie for years. My high school did it my freshman year but since I'm not a hard core musical fan, I've never bothered to watch it. I've always preferred The Man Of LaMancha and Camelot to just about any other musical. As a projectionist, I've played The Sound Of Music on a few occasions but never watched it except to see where the intermission and ending was.
I have to admit, seeing it on the big screen really impressed me. The opening and closing shots filmed with MCS-70 are incredible! Visual style wise (pardon the pun) though, I thought director Robert Wise did a much better job with West Side Story. I appreciate that as a musical it has functional music. There are only a couple of times that people randomly burst into song and even then it fits the scene. The weirdest part is watching icons that I grew up with (Nicholas Hammond-Spider-Man; Angela Cartwright-Penny Robinson; Heather Menzies-Maggie a.k.a. the dumb chick who released the Piranha) sing and dance.
Ironically, the last movie musical I saw at The Englewood was The King and I. It's odd how much The Sound Of Music parallels that through the first half, but then considering they were both written by Ernest Lehman, I guess it's not so odd.
The print, admittedly, is not in the greatest condition but it just reminds you that you're watching film. You owe it to yourself to go out to The Englewood and see the remodel work that they've done. It's like improving upon perfection. Show times available at fineartsgroup.com
Monday, December 26, 2011
The Adventures Of Tintin
Steven Spielberg has been a busy guy as of late. He has two films being released within four days of each other and is currently working on another to be released this time next year.
I watched The Adventures Of Tintin over the weekend and have to admit that it's a pretty enjoyable film. I've never read any of the Herge graphic novels and I didn't see the t.v. series so admittedly, I was going in a little blind with regards to the subject matter. I can say though that this was the first Spielberg film I've liked since 1998.
Tintin is a journalist who gets involved in a mystery after purchasing a model ship. There are sinister forces at work gathering clues to a hidden treasure. One of those clues is in Tintin's latest acquisition. I'll stop there for those of you who haven't read the book.
I was put off initially by the image motion capture animation but it doesn't look as creepy and distorted in this movie. The one thing I can fault the movie for are a (very) few Loony Toons moments thrown into a movie that treats animation as a medium to tell a story instead of a cartoon with a license to be absurd.
Having seen the enjoyment of the Tintin fans I saw the movie with, I'm going to say that if you're a fan or a novice you'll probably enjoy the movie. Check it out after The Artist.
I watched The Adventures Of Tintin over the weekend and have to admit that it's a pretty enjoyable film. I've never read any of the Herge graphic novels and I didn't see the t.v. series so admittedly, I was going in a little blind with regards to the subject matter. I can say though that this was the first Spielberg film I've liked since 1998.
Tintin is a journalist who gets involved in a mystery after purchasing a model ship. There are sinister forces at work gathering clues to a hidden treasure. One of those clues is in Tintin's latest acquisition. I'll stop there for those of you who haven't read the book.
I was put off initially by the image motion capture animation but it doesn't look as creepy and distorted in this movie. The one thing I can fault the movie for are a (very) few Loony Toons moments thrown into a movie that treats animation as a medium to tell a story instead of a cartoon with a license to be absurd.
Having seen the enjoyment of the Tintin fans I saw the movie with, I'm going to say that if you're a fan or a novice you'll probably enjoy the movie. Check it out after The Artist.
The Artist
The characters in The Artist are fictional but the storyline was a harsh reality for a number of actors when films starting using a dialogue track. Suddenly, it wasn't just enough to be a physical presence on screen, you had to deliver lines. If you had a thick accent or a stutter or you couldn't read you suddenly found yourself out of work.
Clara Bow was Hollywood's "It" girl in every sense of the word but when "talkies" came into being and audiences got an earful of her thick Brooklyn accent, the flourish faded. Charlie Chaplin's career ended much too soon because he didn't want his iconic "Little Tramp" to speak. Greta Garbo was one of the few success stories. Despite her heavy Swedish accent, she remained a constant with audiences everywhere. She retired in the 1940's because she felt the world had changed after the war.
The movie, The Artist, deals with an actor who's on top of the world but then the wheels of progress role over his career as sound becomes the next big thing and his studio finds a new crop of talent to go with it. Part of the new wave of talent is a young woman he "discovered" at the premiere of one of his movies. The two continually cross paths as her star is on the rise and his is falling.
Michel Hazanavicius wrote and directed the film. He made his bones through the '90's on French television but American audiences probably know him best for his 2006 comedy, OSS 117: Cairo, Nest Of Spies. The Artist stars Jean Dujardin and Berenice Bejo who were also in OSS 117.
On a personal note, I can't say enough good things about this movie. I think it's brilliant. This is one of the most entertaining movies I've seen in a long time. Run, do not walk to a theater near you and see it!
Clara Bow was Hollywood's "It" girl in every sense of the word but when "talkies" came into being and audiences got an earful of her thick Brooklyn accent, the flourish faded. Charlie Chaplin's career ended much too soon because he didn't want his iconic "Little Tramp" to speak. Greta Garbo was one of the few success stories. Despite her heavy Swedish accent, she remained a constant with audiences everywhere. She retired in the 1940's because she felt the world had changed after the war.
The movie, The Artist, deals with an actor who's on top of the world but then the wheels of progress role over his career as sound becomes the next big thing and his studio finds a new crop of talent to go with it. Part of the new wave of talent is a young woman he "discovered" at the premiere of one of his movies. The two continually cross paths as her star is on the rise and his is falling.
Michel Hazanavicius wrote and directed the film. He made his bones through the '90's on French television but American audiences probably know him best for his 2006 comedy, OSS 117: Cairo, Nest Of Spies. The Artist stars Jean Dujardin and Berenice Bejo who were also in OSS 117.
On a personal note, I can't say enough good things about this movie. I think it's brilliant. This is one of the most entertaining movies I've seen in a long time. Run, do not walk to a theater near you and see it!
Saturday, December 24, 2011
Twelve Days Of Christmas Day 12
Silent Night, Deadly Night
Yes folks, it's Christmas and what better way to celebrate than with the best killer Santa movie of them all. Back in 1984, parents and school boards tried to stop this movie, I guess they didn't like Christmas. Now, thanks to Anchor Bay, you can see the full cut of this movie the way it was intended to be seen.
Billy has a problem with Santa. As a child his grandfather told him that Santa punished naughty children and on their way home his family was killed by a guy in a Santa suit. When he wound up in a Catholic orphanage, the Mother Superior had a very strict policy about discipline because sometimes punishment is necessary. Now that Billy has grown older, he's fine 11 months out of the year but like when the circus comes through town and the clown phobias start acting up, there's a problem.
When the owner of the toy store he's working at asks him to play Santa, he does it because he has to. Later, at the party, things get out of control and he starts to take his role to heart and starts running around town punishing the naughty folks. Now it's up to Sister Margaret and the local sheriff to put the cork back in Billy's emotional bottle before he punishes the whole town. Put your feet up and have some more egg nog as you enjoy the 12th day of Christmas. I hope your holidays were happy.
Yes folks, it's Christmas and what better way to celebrate than with the best killer Santa movie of them all. Back in 1984, parents and school boards tried to stop this movie, I guess they didn't like Christmas. Now, thanks to Anchor Bay, you can see the full cut of this movie the way it was intended to be seen.
Billy has a problem with Santa. As a child his grandfather told him that Santa punished naughty children and on their way home his family was killed by a guy in a Santa suit. When he wound up in a Catholic orphanage, the Mother Superior had a very strict policy about discipline because sometimes punishment is necessary. Now that Billy has grown older, he's fine 11 months out of the year but like when the circus comes through town and the clown phobias start acting up, there's a problem.
When the owner of the toy store he's working at asks him to play Santa, he does it because he has to. Later, at the party, things get out of control and he starts to take his role to heart and starts running around town punishing the naughty folks. Now it's up to Sister Margaret and the local sheriff to put the cork back in Billy's emotional bottle before he punishes the whole town. Put your feet up and have some more egg nog as you enjoy the 12th day of Christmas. I hope your holidays were happy.
Twelve Days Of Christmas Day 11
Scrooged
Richard Donner makes another appearance on the list with this 1988 Christmas Eve classic. It's great to see Bill Murray being Bill Murray again. Murray plays a t.v. executive who gets the Dickens scared out of him on Christmas Eve as he's visited by four ghosts while trying to do a live broadcast of A Christmas Carol. Go see it and put a little love in your heart.
Richard Donner makes another appearance on the list with this 1988 Christmas Eve classic. It's great to see Bill Murray being Bill Murray again. Murray plays a t.v. executive who gets the Dickens scared out of him on Christmas Eve as he's visited by four ghosts while trying to do a live broadcast of A Christmas Carol. Go see it and put a little love in your heart.
Twelve Days Of Christmas Day 10
Santa's Slay
In 1005, an angel challenged the son of Satan, Santa Claus, to a wager. If the angel could slide a rock closer than Santa to a hole in the ice, then Santa had to be nice for 1000 years. If the angel lost, his soul would be damned in Hell for eternity. The angel won and the rest is history. Until now...
1000 years later, the deal is over and Santa is spreading some holiday fear. Santa is back with a vengeance, killing everyone in sight. Will the townspeople be able to stop him or will the angel return again to save the world? Check out Santa's Slay for all of these answers and more.
Packed with familiar faces and more fun than a barrel of monkeys, if you don't enjoy this movie then check your pulse.
In 1005, an angel challenged the son of Satan, Santa Claus, to a wager. If the angel could slide a rock closer than Santa to a hole in the ice, then Santa had to be nice for 1000 years. If the angel lost, his soul would be damned in Hell for eternity. The angel won and the rest is history. Until now...
1000 years later, the deal is over and Santa is spreading some holiday fear. Santa is back with a vengeance, killing everyone in sight. Will the townspeople be able to stop him or will the angel return again to save the world? Check out Santa's Slay for all of these answers and more.
Packed with familiar faces and more fun than a barrel of monkeys, if you don't enjoy this movie then check your pulse.
Friday, December 23, 2011
Twelve Days Of Christmas Day 9
Santa Claus Conquers The Martians
Kimar (Leonard Hicks), the supreme leader of Mars, is perplexed when he discovers that all of the children of his planet are unhappy, even his own, Bomar (Chris Month) and Girmar (Pia Zadora).
He consults with the great sage, Chochem (Carl Don), who tells him of a man on Earth who makes their children happy on the twelfth calendar month.
Kimar devises Operation: Santa Claus and together with his crew, sets forth to Earth to capture Santa (John Call) and bring him to Mars.
Voldar (Vincent Beck) however, has other plans. He is against bringing the jolly old fat man back to the red planet. Who cares if the children are unhappy? Mars has grown soft under the current administration and he wants to see it restored to a planet of warriors.
Will Voldar succeed in his attempt to return to the old ways or will Kimar and Santa spread good will to men and Martians? These and other questions will be answered when you see Santa Claus Conquers The Martians. Featuring the holiday favorite Hooray For Santy Claus!
Kimar (Leonard Hicks), the supreme leader of Mars, is perplexed when he discovers that all of the children of his planet are unhappy, even his own, Bomar (Chris Month) and Girmar (Pia Zadora).
He consults with the great sage, Chochem (Carl Don), who tells him of a man on Earth who makes their children happy on the twelfth calendar month.
Kimar devises Operation: Santa Claus and together with his crew, sets forth to Earth to capture Santa (John Call) and bring him to Mars.
Voldar (Vincent Beck) however, has other plans. He is against bringing the jolly old fat man back to the red planet. Who cares if the children are unhappy? Mars has grown soft under the current administration and he wants to see it restored to a planet of warriors.
Will Voldar succeed in his attempt to return to the old ways or will Kimar and Santa spread good will to men and Martians? These and other questions will be answered when you see Santa Claus Conquers The Martians. Featuring the holiday favorite Hooray For Santy Claus!
Wednesday, December 21, 2011
Twelve Days Of Christmas Day 8
Rocky V
Sometimes I wonder if this was a contractual obligation. The same cast, the same director, the same locations, even Rocky's opponent has the same issues, it's just from the American press instead of the Soviet government. Welcome to Rocky in the 90's as portrayed as a Shakespearean tragedy. Beware of deception, Rocky.
It's 1986 (I know, the kid's three years older and apparently Adrian changed houses before going to Russia, just go with it) and Rocky is just getting back after fighting Ivan Drago. While he was gone, his accountant lost all of his money on shady business dealings. Luckily, Paulie kept the old house so now we can get nostalgic and go back to where it all started. Hounding him through his riches to rags fall from grace is a shameless promoter looking at Rocky as the golden ticket. The only problem is that Rocky is now retired because when you get punched in the head repeatedly by a steroid induced Soviet Superman, it tends to cause brain damage.
It can be argued that this was the worse film in the series (believe me, I know, I've had this argument) and having Elton John's The Measure Of A Man play over the end credits only supports that argument but 'tis the season to say yo, yo, yo, merry x-mas.
Sometimes I wonder if this was a contractual obligation. The same cast, the same director, the same locations, even Rocky's opponent has the same issues, it's just from the American press instead of the Soviet government. Welcome to Rocky in the 90's as portrayed as a Shakespearean tragedy. Beware of deception, Rocky.
It's 1986 (I know, the kid's three years older and apparently Adrian changed houses before going to Russia, just go with it) and Rocky is just getting back after fighting Ivan Drago. While he was gone, his accountant lost all of his money on shady business dealings. Luckily, Paulie kept the old house so now we can get nostalgic and go back to where it all started. Hounding him through his riches to rags fall from grace is a shameless promoter looking at Rocky as the golden ticket. The only problem is that Rocky is now retired because when you get punched in the head repeatedly by a steroid induced Soviet Superman, it tends to cause brain damage.
It can be argued that this was the worse film in the series (believe me, I know, I've had this argument) and having Elton John's The Measure Of A Man play over the end credits only supports that argument but 'tis the season to say yo, yo, yo, merry x-mas.
Tuesday, December 20, 2011
Twelve Days Of Christmas Day 7
Rocky IV
In 1985, Rocky Balboa joined The Cold War. After winning his title back from Clubber Lang, Rocky is enjoying life at the top. Apollo Creed, however, can only focus on the "former" part of former world champion. When it's announced that the Russians are entering the world of professional boxing in the form of amateur golden boy Ivan Drago, Apollo decides it's time to come out of retirement.
After Apollo's crushing defeat, Rocky feels a sense of responsibility to take on The Siberian Express and so he renounces his title and goes to Russia for the big match on Christmas Day.
This film is interesting as a time capsule. You look back at the way America was portrayed during The Cold War and how we looked at the Soviets and you realize just how much everything has changed. Also, you see the influence that music videos had on our culture at that time. Apollo has a block of dialogue that's interrupted just so they can put Double Or Nothing by Kenny Loggins and Gladys Knight on the soundtrack. Let's not forget the driving/montage scene with Robert Tepper singing No Easy Way Out that seemed to be a staple in every movie and T.V. show in the '80's. Back in the '80's a man would get in his car and drive around and think about what to do next. Now a man gets in his car and thinks damn, I hope I don't have to drive too far, gas is expensive.
It's also cool to see the movie that made Dolph Lundgren a star.
In 1985, Rocky Balboa joined The Cold War. After winning his title back from Clubber Lang, Rocky is enjoying life at the top. Apollo Creed, however, can only focus on the "former" part of former world champion. When it's announced that the Russians are entering the world of professional boxing in the form of amateur golden boy Ivan Drago, Apollo decides it's time to come out of retirement.
After Apollo's crushing defeat, Rocky feels a sense of responsibility to take on The Siberian Express and so he renounces his title and goes to Russia for the big match on Christmas Day.
This film is interesting as a time capsule. You look back at the way America was portrayed during The Cold War and how we looked at the Soviets and you realize just how much everything has changed. Also, you see the influence that music videos had on our culture at that time. Apollo has a block of dialogue that's interrupted just so they can put Double Or Nothing by Kenny Loggins and Gladys Knight on the soundtrack. Let's not forget the driving/montage scene with Robert Tepper singing No Easy Way Out that seemed to be a staple in every movie and T.V. show in the '80's. Back in the '80's a man would get in his car and drive around and think about what to do next. Now a man gets in his car and thinks damn, I hope I don't have to drive too far, gas is expensive.
It's also cool to see the movie that made Dolph Lundgren a star.
Twelve Days Of Christmas Day 6
Lethal Weapon Director's Cut
The one that started it all. This was Shane Black's first movie, it rejuvenated the buddy-cop genre and turned Mel Gibson from an actor to a movie star.
When a prostitutes death becomes linked with drugs, a homicide detective becomes partnered with a vice squad detective in a joint investigation. As the two follow the clues, they uncover a drug smuggling ring run by a mercenary army.
This has always been one of my favorite Christmas movies and since they released the director's cut back in 1998 (the best thing to come out of Lethal Weapon 4) it's only improved.
Film flubs aside (there are a few) the only real fault I can find with this movie is the kitchen scene between Darlene Love and Danny Glover. I'm not sure if it's been re-edited or just placed out of context to make up for the editing of another scene but it just feels forced. It almost feels like the audition scene they would have made to test for chemistry.
While doing some research I learned that the preceding, New Years Eve dress scene, was edited which explains the odd sound of Rianne's lines. If you find out about the kitchen scene, let me know. In the meantime, Merry Christmas.
The one that started it all. This was Shane Black's first movie, it rejuvenated the buddy-cop genre and turned Mel Gibson from an actor to a movie star.
When a prostitutes death becomes linked with drugs, a homicide detective becomes partnered with a vice squad detective in a joint investigation. As the two follow the clues, they uncover a drug smuggling ring run by a mercenary army.
This has always been one of my favorite Christmas movies and since they released the director's cut back in 1998 (the best thing to come out of Lethal Weapon 4) it's only improved.
Film flubs aside (there are a few) the only real fault I can find with this movie is the kitchen scene between Darlene Love and Danny Glover. I'm not sure if it's been re-edited or just placed out of context to make up for the editing of another scene but it just feels forced. It almost feels like the audition scene they would have made to test for chemistry.
While doing some research I learned that the preceding, New Years Eve dress scene, was edited which explains the odd sound of Rianne's lines. If you find out about the kitchen scene, let me know. In the meantime, Merry Christmas.
Twelve Days Of Christmas Day 5
Day 5 sees the return of some familiar faces with The Last Boy Scout. Shane Black wrote a great script and Bruce Willis gets a partner this time around with Damon Wayans.
The murder of an exotic dancer leads a private investigator and a former quarter back down a trail that leads to government corruption.
This 1991 release was directed by Tony Scott. It has everything you could want in a Christmas movie, p.i.'s, strippers, political corruption and of course Satan Claus, who's out there and just getting stronger. Be prepared, son.
The murder of an exotic dancer leads a private investigator and a former quarter back down a trail that leads to government corruption.
This 1991 release was directed by Tony Scott. It has everything you could want in a Christmas movie, p.i.'s, strippers, political corruption and of course Satan Claus, who's out there and just getting stronger. Be prepared, son.
Young Adult
Self delusion seems to be the theme of this movie. Mavis (Charlize Theron) is a ghost writer of a young adult book series. She seems well suited for the gig because despite being in her thirties, Mavis still acts like a high school kid, rash and irresponsible.
Upon hearing that her old flame is a new father, she decides it's up to her to return to her home town and rescue him from a fate worse than death. With her lap dog in tow, she hits the road on a mission to break up a marriage and rekindle a spark.
Diablo Cody wrote the screenplay and was also one of the producers. While I'm still not a fan of hers, I do have to admit that this was not the six reel headache I was expecting. In fact, after Jennifer's Body, I honestly can't tell you how I wound up seeing this movie.
I thought Juno was entertaining but that was all. The rest of the world went ape shit and seemed to think it was the greatest thing to happen to American cinema since the invention of film. I guess they saw a different version of the movie than I did. The "unrated directors cut" of Jennifer's Body just made me nostalgic for all of the grass that I could have watched grow.
If you're in the mood for something off the beaten path then sure, give Young Adult a chance. Charlize Theron is everything and more that you would expect. While it may not be the best film you've ever seen, you will have to admit that you haven't seen something like this in a long, long time.
Upon hearing that her old flame is a new father, she decides it's up to her to return to her home town and rescue him from a fate worse than death. With her lap dog in tow, she hits the road on a mission to break up a marriage and rekindle a spark.
Diablo Cody wrote the screenplay and was also one of the producers. While I'm still not a fan of hers, I do have to admit that this was not the six reel headache I was expecting. In fact, after Jennifer's Body, I honestly can't tell you how I wound up seeing this movie.
I thought Juno was entertaining but that was all. The rest of the world went ape shit and seemed to think it was the greatest thing to happen to American cinema since the invention of film. I guess they saw a different version of the movie than I did. The "unrated directors cut" of Jennifer's Body just made me nostalgic for all of the grass that I could have watched grow.
If you're in the mood for something off the beaten path then sure, give Young Adult a chance. Charlize Theron is everything and more that you would expect. While it may not be the best film you've ever seen, you will have to admit that you haven't seen something like this in a long, long time.
Saturday, December 17, 2011
Twelve Days Of Christmas Day 4
Kiss Kiss Bang Bang
Robert Downey Jr. plays a petty thief who hides from the cops in a movie audition and ends up getting the part. He winds up in Hollywood and is teamed up with a real private investigator (Val Kilmer) to help him with the role. While researching his role, he meets an old friend (Michelle Monaghan) and winds up hip deep in trouble. Now he has to solve a murder, save a friend and try to keep everyone from finding out about his prior life.
This 2005 release was Shane Blacks directorial debut. He also wrote the screenplay which is based from a Brett Halliday novel. It's an interesting mystery as well as being very funny. Pour yourself some egg nog and enjoy day 4.
Robert Downey Jr. plays a petty thief who hides from the cops in a movie audition and ends up getting the part. He winds up in Hollywood and is teamed up with a real private investigator (Val Kilmer) to help him with the role. While researching his role, he meets an old friend (Michelle Monaghan) and winds up hip deep in trouble. Now he has to solve a murder, save a friend and try to keep everyone from finding out about his prior life.
This 2005 release was Shane Blacks directorial debut. He also wrote the screenplay which is based from a Brett Halliday novel. It's an interesting mystery as well as being very funny. Pour yourself some egg nog and enjoy day 4.
The Twelve Days Of Christmas Day 3
Invasion U.S.A.
In 1985, Chuck Norris made his third movie with Cannon films. They were a relatively new company, just starting to make a splash in the pond that was the '80's action genre. His prior films, the first two installments in the Missing In Action trilogy, were successful and it seemed like the sky was the limit. Invasion U.S.A. would be no different.
Directed by Joseph Zito, a contributor to the other genre experiencing it's Golden Age in the '80's, the slasher film. He did The Prowler and (the prematurely titled) Friday The 13th:The Final Chapter. This was his second action film, having directed Missing In Action the previous year.
The film was written by Chuck and his brother Aaron along with James Bruner who was also involved with Missing In Action. Cannon usually had scripts that worked within their budgets but this was an exception. The scale of the story and the intricacies of the plot would have required several locations and would have put the running time well over two hours. If you get the chance, read the novelization by Jason Frost and you'll gain a whole new appreciation for this film.
So what happens when a rogue Soviet agent tries to topple America from within? America responds with Chuck Norris. Former government agent Matt Hunter (Norris) is brought out of retirement and given carte blanch to stop Mikhail Rostov (played by the great Richard Lynch) and his terrorist army from spreading fear instead of cheer during the holidays.
In 1985, Chuck Norris made his third movie with Cannon films. They were a relatively new company, just starting to make a splash in the pond that was the '80's action genre. His prior films, the first two installments in the Missing In Action trilogy, were successful and it seemed like the sky was the limit. Invasion U.S.A. would be no different.
Directed by Joseph Zito, a contributor to the other genre experiencing it's Golden Age in the '80's, the slasher film. He did The Prowler and (the prematurely titled) Friday The 13th:The Final Chapter. This was his second action film, having directed Missing In Action the previous year.
The film was written by Chuck and his brother Aaron along with James Bruner who was also involved with Missing In Action. Cannon usually had scripts that worked within their budgets but this was an exception. The scale of the story and the intricacies of the plot would have required several locations and would have put the running time well over two hours. If you get the chance, read the novelization by Jason Frost and you'll gain a whole new appreciation for this film.
So what happens when a rogue Soviet agent tries to topple America from within? America responds with Chuck Norris. Former government agent Matt Hunter (Norris) is brought out of retirement and given carte blanch to stop Mikhail Rostov (played by the great Richard Lynch) and his terrorist army from spreading fear instead of cheer during the holidays.
Sherlock Holmes- A Game Of Shadows
The master detective is back and just as good as ever. I know most people were unhappy with 2009's Sherlock Holmes with regards to Guy Ritchie but one of the things I've really enjoyed about both of these movies is that they're not "Guy Ritchie films". I enjoyed Lock, Stock And Two Smoking Barrels and I think Snatch is great but I like the Holmes films because "Ritchie" takes a backseat to the story.
When I first heard that Robert Downey Jr. was playing the lead, you had me at hello. The guy is an amazing actor and I thought he really brought a lot to the role. Jude Law's Watson I was aprehensive about until I saw the movie. He just improves himself and the character in A Game Of Shadows.
I was a little disappointed to see that Ed Tolpurt was replaced by Jared Harris as Professor Moriarty. Not that Harris doesn't do a good job, quite the opposite. He's believably evil, in fact, evil is probably too strong a word. He is simply the ideal villain. It just bothers me when they recast roles for sequels.
The rest of the cast returns and there are some new additions. I'll try not to give too much away. Probably the only thing I didn't like about this movie was...well...those of you who read The Final Problem will understand my disappointment if they do a third movie. Go and enjoy. This will be the most fun you've had eating Goobers in a long time.
When I first heard that Robert Downey Jr. was playing the lead, you had me at hello. The guy is an amazing actor and I thought he really brought a lot to the role. Jude Law's Watson I was aprehensive about until I saw the movie. He just improves himself and the character in A Game Of Shadows.
I was a little disappointed to see that Ed Tolpurt was replaced by Jared Harris as Professor Moriarty. Not that Harris doesn't do a good job, quite the opposite. He's believably evil, in fact, evil is probably too strong a word. He is simply the ideal villain. It just bothers me when they recast roles for sequels.
The rest of the cast returns and there are some new additions. I'll try not to give too much away. Probably the only thing I didn't like about this movie was...well...those of you who read The Final Problem will understand my disappointment if they do a third movie. Go and enjoy. This will be the most fun you've had eating Goobers in a long time.
Twelve Days Of Christmas Day 2
First Blood
For you first time readers, I apologize. For you regular readers, I'll keep this short as you've all heard me geek out over this movie several times. This whole series is one of my guiltiest pleasures but once a year around Christmas time I always pull this one out.
The script, based off of David Morrell's novel, bounced around Hollywood for years before finally being made. In the '70's nobody wanted to touch it because we were trying to put Viet Nam behind us. Later, different studios could never get their ducks in a row. There was either a problem with casting or the script or financing so it just got shelved. Ironically enough, considering how successful the franchise was, no major studio ever put out a movie until Lionsgate released Rambo back in '08.
When First Blood was released in 1982, it only did a modest box office. It came out in the down time between summer and the holidays and home video was just getting to the masses. It wasn't until the movie hit HBO that everybody got on board. It would be another two years before any thought of a sequel came around.
Nothing says Happy Holidays like a war veteran with post traumatic stress. Enjoy!
For you first time readers, I apologize. For you regular readers, I'll keep this short as you've all heard me geek out over this movie several times. This whole series is one of my guiltiest pleasures but once a year around Christmas time I always pull this one out.
The script, based off of David Morrell's novel, bounced around Hollywood for years before finally being made. In the '70's nobody wanted to touch it because we were trying to put Viet Nam behind us. Later, different studios could never get their ducks in a row. There was either a problem with casting or the script or financing so it just got shelved. Ironically enough, considering how successful the franchise was, no major studio ever put out a movie until Lionsgate released Rambo back in '08.
When First Blood was released in 1982, it only did a modest box office. It came out in the down time between summer and the holidays and home video was just getting to the masses. It wasn't until the movie hit HBO that everybody got on board. It would be another two years before any thought of a sequel came around.
Nothing says Happy Holidays like a war veteran with post traumatic stress. Enjoy!
Twelve Days Of Christmas Day 1
On the first day of Christmas Hollywood gave to me a double feature. For the next twelve days I'll be posting about some of my favorite holiday flicks. Maybe some of these will make it under your tree if they're not there already. Stock up on spiced rum, egg nog and nutmeg and throw another log on the fire. We'll be going over the river, through the woods and a few other places you never thought you'd be for the holidays. Enjoy.
Die Hard
By the summer of 1988, moviegoers were familiar with the lobby standee of a film due out in July. You couldn't help but roll your eyes at it because it showed a popular comedy actor in a t-shirt and holding a gun like he was supposed to be Charles Bronson. "I'm supposed to take this seriously?" people asked themselves, "they named the movie after a car battery." After July, the reaction went from "you expect me to watch this?" to "Have you seen this?!". Die Hard was a hit and Bruce Willis became an action hero.
Most people write this off as a mindless action movie. I'm not saying it's perfect (36 shots out of a pistol that holds 16 bullets, hell, John Wayne never even did that) but it's a lot of fun. It also takes place on Christmas Eve which is why it's in my 12 Days Of Christmas Film Festival. Anybody can be visited by three ghosts and have a cheerier outlook on the holidays, John McClane took on twelve terrorists. God bless us, everyone.
Die Hard 2: Die Harder
"Oh man, I can't fuckin' believe this. Another basement, another elevator. How does the same shit happen to the same guy twice?"
It's two years later and John McClane is ass deep in terrorists...again. This time it's Renny Harlin who's trying to blow you out of the back of the theater and make you die harder. Quick side note: Harlin may be one of the few directors who's ever competed with himself for your summer dollar since Die Harder and The Adventures Of Ford Fairlane were released a week and half apart.
Bruce Willis is in an airport full of terrorists as he's trying to pick up his wife. The terrorists are there for Franco Nero but Willis is fighting a single handed battle to put a lump of coal in their stocking and spoil their Christmas. The explosions are louder, the action is bigger, you will die harder.
Die Hard
By the summer of 1988, moviegoers were familiar with the lobby standee of a film due out in July. You couldn't help but roll your eyes at it because it showed a popular comedy actor in a t-shirt and holding a gun like he was supposed to be Charles Bronson. "I'm supposed to take this seriously?" people asked themselves, "they named the movie after a car battery." After July, the reaction went from "you expect me to watch this?" to "Have you seen this?!". Die Hard was a hit and Bruce Willis became an action hero.
Most people write this off as a mindless action movie. I'm not saying it's perfect (36 shots out of a pistol that holds 16 bullets, hell, John Wayne never even did that) but it's a lot of fun. It also takes place on Christmas Eve which is why it's in my 12 Days Of Christmas Film Festival. Anybody can be visited by three ghosts and have a cheerier outlook on the holidays, John McClane took on twelve terrorists. God bless us, everyone.
Die Hard 2: Die Harder
"Oh man, I can't fuckin' believe this. Another basement, another elevator. How does the same shit happen to the same guy twice?"
It's two years later and John McClane is ass deep in terrorists...again. This time it's Renny Harlin who's trying to blow you out of the back of the theater and make you die harder. Quick side note: Harlin may be one of the few directors who's ever competed with himself for your summer dollar since Die Harder and The Adventures Of Ford Fairlane were released a week and half apart.
Bruce Willis is in an airport full of terrorists as he's trying to pick up his wife. The terrorists are there for Franco Nero but Willis is fighting a single handed battle to put a lump of coal in their stocking and spoil their Christmas. The explosions are louder, the action is bigger, you will die harder.
The Bourne Identity (2002), George A. Romero's Survival Of The Dead
The Bourne Identity (2002)
The first of three movies based on a series of Robert Ludlum novels, this was also the first movie that actually made me respect Matt Damon a little. After all of the Kevin Smith movies and tainting his name with Ben Affleck, I really didn't think he'd ever be much more than a pretty boy comic actor.
While The Bourne Identity is not exactly high art, it is kind of fun. There is a very interesting supporting cast and the plot unfolds with just enough pacing to hold your attention. It manages to avoid a lot of oh-that's-convenient moments and builds the action around making the characters work for it.
It was a risky move on the part of the producers to hire Doug Liman to direct considering that he made his bones on the new wave of indie "hip-teen" comedies but, as the credits roll, you have to tip your hat to the guy. I'm probably in the minority in this line of thought considering he didn't go on to direct the other two although he did executive produce them.
George A. Romero's Survival Of The Dead
The latest (but probably not the last) in Romero's film series. While this is better than Diary Of The Dead, I can't help but ask myself if George is even trying anymore. He's cast a bunch of T.V. actors (probably because they know how to work fast), the special effects are 95% computerized and the whole thing just feels rushed and thrown together. Hell, the ending is even somewhat optimistic which is out of character for the master of zombie cinema.
The action takes place on a remote island off the east coast. There are two families that have been feuding for generations that are torn even farther apart by their dealings with the undead. On one side, they want to destroy all of the recently rejuvenated and on the other, they look at them as more living impaired. Convinced that they're still their loved ones, this family tries to find an alternate food source besides living people. If they can only convince them that livestock is just as good as people, maybe they wont have to keep them in the barn anymore.
Things come to a head when the pro-lifers capture an undead member of the pro-death family. Caught in the middle of all of this is a small unit of soldiers who deserted figuring they'd be better off by themselves.
If you've seen the other five then it's worth a look for the morbidly curious, otherwise it just stands as a testament that Romero needs to let sleeping corpses lie.
The first of three movies based on a series of Robert Ludlum novels, this was also the first movie that actually made me respect Matt Damon a little. After all of the Kevin Smith movies and tainting his name with Ben Affleck, I really didn't think he'd ever be much more than a pretty boy comic actor.
While The Bourne Identity is not exactly high art, it is kind of fun. There is a very interesting supporting cast and the plot unfolds with just enough pacing to hold your attention. It manages to avoid a lot of oh-that's-convenient moments and builds the action around making the characters work for it.
It was a risky move on the part of the producers to hire Doug Liman to direct considering that he made his bones on the new wave of indie "hip-teen" comedies but, as the credits roll, you have to tip your hat to the guy. I'm probably in the minority in this line of thought considering he didn't go on to direct the other two although he did executive produce them.
George A. Romero's Survival Of The Dead
The latest (but probably not the last) in Romero's film series. While this is better than Diary Of The Dead, I can't help but ask myself if George is even trying anymore. He's cast a bunch of T.V. actors (probably because they know how to work fast), the special effects are 95% computerized and the whole thing just feels rushed and thrown together. Hell, the ending is even somewhat optimistic which is out of character for the master of zombie cinema.
The action takes place on a remote island off the east coast. There are two families that have been feuding for generations that are torn even farther apart by their dealings with the undead. On one side, they want to destroy all of the recently rejuvenated and on the other, they look at them as more living impaired. Convinced that they're still their loved ones, this family tries to find an alternate food source besides living people. If they can only convince them that livestock is just as good as people, maybe they wont have to keep them in the barn anymore.
Things come to a head when the pro-lifers capture an undead member of the pro-death family. Caught in the middle of all of this is a small unit of soldiers who deserted figuring they'd be better off by themselves.
If you've seen the other five then it's worth a look for the morbidly curious, otherwise it just stands as a testament that Romero needs to let sleeping corpses lie.
Beautiful Girls
Every so often lightning strikes at just the right time. Beautiful Girls is a movie you couldn't make today on purpose. Directed by Ted Demme, who had made his bones on MTV (back when the M stood for music), this was his third feature film. Who's The Man? and The Ref (a holiday classic) were both respectable films. Writer Scott Rosenberg was fresh off Things To Do In Denver When You're Dead. It was 1996 and the Indie Film movement was in full swing.
At the time, there were only a few known names (Matt Dillon, Timothy Hutton, Mira Sorvino, Uma Thurman, Annabeth Gish) to give it marquee value. There were a few familiar faces (Noah Emmerich, Rosie O'Donnell, Max Perlich, Martha Plimpton, Michael Rapaport, Pruitt Taylor Vince, David Arquette) and the soon to be familiar (Natalie Portman). Not since The Adventures Of Buckaroo Banzai Across The Eighth Dimension had there been such serendipitous casting.
With a great script and great performances it became a hit on its own merits and not because of the soundtrack or "that one scene" that a lot of movies suffered.
The storyline follows a musician who returns to his hometown, that he left for the big city, for his high school reunion. While he's there, he reconnects with his old friends and questions his current life. Should he stay a struggling musician or settle for the stable life of being a salesman and marry his girlfriend? Sometimes you have to visit the past to decide what to do about the future.
At the time, there were only a few known names (Matt Dillon, Timothy Hutton, Mira Sorvino, Uma Thurman, Annabeth Gish) to give it marquee value. There were a few familiar faces (Noah Emmerich, Rosie O'Donnell, Max Perlich, Martha Plimpton, Michael Rapaport, Pruitt Taylor Vince, David Arquette) and the soon to be familiar (Natalie Portman). Not since The Adventures Of Buckaroo Banzai Across The Eighth Dimension had there been such serendipitous casting.
With a great script and great performances it became a hit on its own merits and not because of the soundtrack or "that one scene" that a lot of movies suffered.
The storyline follows a musician who returns to his hometown, that he left for the big city, for his high school reunion. While he's there, he reconnects with his old friends and questions his current life. Should he stay a struggling musician or settle for the stable life of being a salesman and marry his girlfriend? Sometimes you have to visit the past to decide what to do about the future.
Welcome
Greetings all,
My name is Alex and this is my corner of the web. After several suggestions from friends, I'm finally here. I'll be writing about a variety of things since I don't like to pigeon hole myself. My main topics of interest are movies, music, roller derby, literature, coffee, and of course jello wrestling. If you happen to find this amusing or educational, please tell your friends. If you don't, contact me. Let's get started, shall we?
My name is Alex and this is my corner of the web. After several suggestions from friends, I'm finally here. I'll be writing about a variety of things since I don't like to pigeon hole myself. My main topics of interest are movies, music, roller derby, literature, coffee, and of course jello wrestling. If you happen to find this amusing or educational, please tell your friends. If you don't, contact me. Let's get started, shall we?
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