There are a few movies coming out this week that have caught my attention. I can’t believe how quickly these weeks have been flying by and all these new movies that are already out on DD that I feel like were just in theaters. The turnover time on these movies seems like its getting shorter and shorter. This week This weeks releases include: Bride Wars, Hotel for Dogs, The Uninvited, What Doesn’t Kill You, JCVD, Hearts of War, Nothing but the Truth, and While She Was Out.
Bride Wars stars Kate Hudson and Anne Hathaway. The film is about two best friends since they were little girls have gotten engaged and now are planning their weddings at the same time. When they both book their weddings as the same Plaza for the same date it comes down to the wire who can beat the other and have their dream wedding.
Hotel for Dogs stars Jake T. Austin and Emma Roberts as two kids who have been living in foster care with people who care more abut their jobs than the children they have taken into their home. The two are prone for trouble and when they come upon a stray dog they can’t help but secretly adopt its just the first of many. They stumble upon a hotel that has been housing stray dogs and the kids take it upon themselves to make this hotel a fun hotel for dogs. Don Cheadle teams up with the kids to keep social workers and the local pound off their back. The film is based on a book by Lois Duncan with the same title.
The Uninvited stars Kevin McNulty, David Strathairn, Emily Browning, Elizabeth Banks, and Arielle Kebbe
What Doesn’t Kill You stars Ethan Hawke, Mark Ruffalo, Amanda Peet, Donnie Wahlberg, and Brian Goodman
JCVD stars Jean-Claude Van Damme
Hearts of War stars Jonathan Scarfe, Nina Dobrev, Zachary Bennett, Kim Coastes, and Colm Feore
Nothing But the Truth stars Kate Beckinsale and Vera Farmiga
While She was Out stars Kim Basinger, Lukas Haas, Craig Sheffer, Jamie Starr, and Leonard Wu
Sunday, April 26, 2009
Monday, April 20, 2009
Adventureland
Adventureland opened April 3, 2009 and as soon as I saw the previews for the movie I was really excited. I like a lot of the actors in the movie and the humor is right up my alley. I love those coming-of-age, romantic, comedy movies like this. Napoleon Dynamite and Superbad are what this movie reminds me of kind of a Pinapple Express too but on a much more low key level.
The movie has some very big comedic names in it:
Jessie Eisenberg - The Village
Kristen Stewart – Twilight, Panic Room, Into the Wild, The Messengers
Martin Starr – Superbad, Knocked Up, Revelations
Kristen Wiig – Saturday Night Live, Knocked Up
Bill Hader – Saturday Night Live, Tropic Thunder, Pineapple Express
Margarita Levieva – Noise, The Invisible, Spread
Ryan Reynolds – X-Men Origins: Wolverine, Paper Man, Definitely, Maybe, Smokin’ Aces, Just Friends, Waiting…, The Amityville Horror
My favorite part of the movie is when Eisenberg and Stewart decide to blow off some steam from work and head to the bar. Eisenberg has a tendancey to reveal too much too soon and decides his relationship with Stewart is at the level where he needs to share his sexual experience with her. His track record with this subject isn’t great but he feels he needs to tell her, and every other girl he might be the slightest bit interested in. I also thought the opening scene for the movie was perfect and really set the style for the movie. Very good directing and actor selection.
I’m a big fan of Kristen Wiig from Saturday Night Live and think that she did a great job in her role. I cannot get over how funny she is and how she looks so serious while being a complete goof ball.
It's a good date movie both guys and girls will enjoy it.
The movie has some very big comedic names in it:
Jessie Eisenberg - The Village
Kristen Stewart – Twilight, Panic Room, Into the Wild, The Messengers
Martin Starr – Superbad, Knocked Up, Revelations
Kristen Wiig – Saturday Night Live, Knocked Up
Bill Hader – Saturday Night Live, Tropic Thunder, Pineapple Express
Margarita Levieva – Noise, The Invisible, Spread
Ryan Reynolds – X-Men Origins: Wolverine, Paper Man, Definitely, Maybe, Smokin’ Aces, Just Friends, Waiting…, The Amityville Horror
My favorite part of the movie is when Eisenberg and Stewart decide to blow off some steam from work and head to the bar. Eisenberg has a tendancey to reveal too much too soon and decides his relationship with Stewart is at the level where he needs to share his sexual experience with her. His track record with this subject isn’t great but he feels he needs to tell her, and every other girl he might be the slightest bit interested in. I also thought the opening scene for the movie was perfect and really set the style for the movie. Very good directing and actor selection.
I’m a big fan of Kristen Wiig from Saturday Night Live and think that she did a great job in her role. I cannot get over how funny she is and how she looks so serious while being a complete goof ball.
It's a good date movie both guys and girls will enjoy it.
The Boy in the Striped Pajamas
The Boy in the Striped Pajamas drew my attention one day as I was browsing through new movies. I hadn’t really heard of it but I remembered seeing something with two little boys who make friends through the fence of a Nazi camp. I decided to rend it and though it was a pretty good movie.
Some specifics about the movie are it opened November 7, 2008. It is rated PG-13 for mature thematic material involving the Holocaust. The movie is about an hour and a half. Personally it seemed a little longer than that but that may be because it is a slow tempo film. The film stars Asa Butterfield, Jack Scanlon, Amber Beattie, David Thewlis, and Vera Farminga.
The Boy in the Striped Pajamas has a unique view of the Holocaust from the point of view of a young boy. He knows little about the war being fought other than his family is being uprooted and his father, a soldier in the Nazi army, is moving his family out to the country. With nothing to do on his land he finds his way to the backyard leading him right up to the neighboring ‘farm’ or so he thinks. This is where, unbeknownst to him, he comes face to face with a Jewish boy whose family was recently brought to the camp. Their friendship keeps them but entertained while leaving the Nazi son still naive to the on goings of the camp and his father’s role in the war. His mother discovers the curiosity the boy has for the ‘farm’ and is concerned for his safety. His sister however is becoming a bigger Nazi soldier fan everyday.
The movie was very touching and sad. I don’t want to give anything away but like any other Holocaust movie there is always that chance of it being sad.
Some specifics about the movie are it opened November 7, 2008. It is rated PG-13 for mature thematic material involving the Holocaust. The movie is about an hour and a half. Personally it seemed a little longer than that but that may be because it is a slow tempo film. The film stars Asa Butterfield, Jack Scanlon, Amber Beattie, David Thewlis, and Vera Farminga.
The Boy in the Striped Pajamas has a unique view of the Holocaust from the point of view of a young boy. He knows little about the war being fought other than his family is being uprooted and his father, a soldier in the Nazi army, is moving his family out to the country. With nothing to do on his land he finds his way to the backyard leading him right up to the neighboring ‘farm’ or so he thinks. This is where, unbeknownst to him, he comes face to face with a Jewish boy whose family was recently brought to the camp. Their friendship keeps them but entertained while leaving the Nazi son still naive to the on goings of the camp and his father’s role in the war. His mother discovers the curiosity the boy has for the ‘farm’ and is concerned for his safety. His sister however is becoming a bigger Nazi soldier fan everyday.
The movie was very touching and sad. I don’t want to give anything away but like any other Holocaust movie there is always that chance of it being sad.
Coming out 4.21
There are a couple Oscar nominated films hitting the shelves this Tuesday including Frost/Nixon and The Wrestler. Other movies coming to DVD are Notorious, Hellraiser: Bozed Set, The Last Word, and The Poker Club. Not too many big titles this week but that gives you a chance to catch up on watching these. My plan this week, well after I catch up on everything I need to do here. Sit down make dinner and rent The Wrestler. Ever since it got all the hype at the Oscars I’ve really wanted to see Mickey Rourke in this role. He received a lot of praise for his work in the film and I’m really hoping its as good as they say it is.
The Wrester stars Mickey Rourke, Marisa Tomei, and Evan Rachel Wood.
Frost/Nixon stars Frank Lengella, Michael Sheen, Sam Rockwell, Kevin Back, and Matthew Macfadyen. Ron Howard directs this film about the untold story behind one of United States’ most historical moments. President Richard Nixon agrees to an interview on television with David Frost. Nixon was hoping to untarnished his ruined name but had little chance of that when Frost engaged Nixon in a charged battle of wits that changed the face of politics forever.
Notorious stars Angela Basset, John Ventimiglia, Charles Malik Whitfield, and Marc John Jefferies. The film follows Brooklyn’s Christopher “Biggie Smalls” Wallace and Oakland’s Tupac Shakur as they fight out their rivalry in the music industry.
The Last Word is about a poet, Wes Bentley, and his life writing suicide notes for those soon-to-be departed. Bentley meets Winona Ryder after her writes the suicide not for her brother but has to keep the relationship he had with her brother a secret. Bentley is faced with the difference between right and wrong throughout the film. The film also stars Ray Romano.
The Wrester stars Mickey Rourke, Marisa Tomei, and Evan Rachel Wood.
Frost/Nixon stars Frank Lengella, Michael Sheen, Sam Rockwell, Kevin Back, and Matthew Macfadyen. Ron Howard directs this film about the untold story behind one of United States’ most historical moments. President Richard Nixon agrees to an interview on television with David Frost. Nixon was hoping to untarnished his ruined name but had little chance of that when Frost engaged Nixon in a charged battle of wits that changed the face of politics forever.
Notorious stars Angela Basset, John Ventimiglia, Charles Malik Whitfield, and Marc John Jefferies. The film follows Brooklyn’s Christopher “Biggie Smalls” Wallace and Oakland’s Tupac Shakur as they fight out their rivalry in the music industry.
The Last Word is about a poet, Wes Bentley, and his life writing suicide notes for those soon-to-be departed. Bentley meets Winona Ryder after her writes the suicide not for her brother but has to keep the relationship he had with her brother a secret. Bentley is faced with the difference between right and wrong throughout the film. The film also stars Ray Romano.
Thursday, April 16, 2009
Slumdog Millionaire
I was a little skeptical when I first heard about the movie Slumdog Millionaire. None of my family really seemed to be talking about it or anything. Then when it won just about every award it was nominated for beating out some of the most incredible movies I knew I wanted to see, or at least had to. So I rented it.
It’s filmed in India and tells the story of a young man who grew up in the slums of Mumbai. He is in the present appearing on the Indian version of Who Wants to Be a Millionaire? When he surpases the point where most contentestants normally fail he crabs attentions of India’s viewers and becomes a hit. Everyone tunes in to see how this boy is going to do. He has flashbacks during his time in the hot seat and each flashback seems to bring him the answer he needs for the question. This innovative way of holding the suspense and inform the audience of the main characters pasts is a great technique.
Slumdog Millionaire was nominated for ten Academy Awards and won eight of them. Including Best Picture, Best Director, Best Adapted Screenplay, Best Film Editing, Best Sound Mixing, Best Cinematography, Best Original Score, and Best Origional Song. It also won four Golden Globes, seven BAFTA Awardss, five Critics’ Choice Awards.
I really enjoyed watching the movie and thought that all the actors did a fantastic job. The kids at the beginning of the movie were great and very funny. I would recommend seeing it.
It’s filmed in India and tells the story of a young man who grew up in the slums of Mumbai. He is in the present appearing on the Indian version of Who Wants to Be a Millionaire? When he surpases the point where most contentestants normally fail he crabs attentions of India’s viewers and becomes a hit. Everyone tunes in to see how this boy is going to do. He has flashbacks during his time in the hot seat and each flashback seems to bring him the answer he needs for the question. This innovative way of holding the suspense and inform the audience of the main characters pasts is a great technique.
Slumdog Millionaire was nominated for ten Academy Awards and won eight of them. Including Best Picture, Best Director, Best Adapted Screenplay, Best Film Editing, Best Sound Mixing, Best Cinematography, Best Original Score, and Best Origional Song. It also won four Golden Globes, seven BAFTA Awardss, five Critics’ Choice Awards.
I really enjoyed watching the movie and thought that all the actors did a fantastic job. The kids at the beginning of the movie were great and very funny. I would recommend seeing it.
Tuesday, April 14, 2009
New Releases 4.14
Another Tuesday means another set of new movies coming out to DVD. I must say this week I’m pretty excited because The Reader starring Kate Winslet and Ralph Fiennes is coming out and Kate Winslet is my favorite actress. I’m not too familiar with what the movie is about but I’m pretty much a fan of anything Kate Winslet does. The Spirit is also coming out to DVD as a two-disc special edition and The Caller starring Frank Langella who was nominated for an Academy Award. Also, Dark Matter with Meryl Streep and Aiden Quinn, as well as, Splinter.
The Reader is set recently after World War II in Germany where a teenager enters into a secret love affair with an older woman (Winslet). Several years after the older woman disappears they become in contact again when it becomes public she is being held for a Nazi war crime trial. Winslet won an Academy Award and a Golden Globe for her performance in the film.
The Spirit has several big names in it Gabriel Macht, Eva Mendes, Scarlett Johansson, and Samuel L. Jackson. Gabriel Macht plays a masked avenger who plans to alleviate the crime ridden streets of Central City. Once a fine cop his life was ended by a bullet and has been brought back as a Spirit to face those criminals he didn’t defeat during his life.
The Caller stars Frank Lengella who was nominated for an Academy Award for best actor in Frost/Nixon. Lengella plays a senior VP for a corporation who set up his own assassination after sending an anonymous email alluding to his death. By bringing his company into the picture because before his disappearance Langella’s character sending an email showing the companies deflated sales and two members of the company spring into action to find the culprit behind the leak.
The Reader is set recently after World War II in Germany where a teenager enters into a secret love affair with an older woman (Winslet). Several years after the older woman disappears they become in contact again when it becomes public she is being held for a Nazi war crime trial. Winslet won an Academy Award and a Golden Globe for her performance in the film.
The Spirit has several big names in it Gabriel Macht, Eva Mendes, Scarlett Johansson, and Samuel L. Jackson. Gabriel Macht plays a masked avenger who plans to alleviate the crime ridden streets of Central City. Once a fine cop his life was ended by a bullet and has been brought back as a Spirit to face those criminals he didn’t defeat during his life.
The Caller stars Frank Lengella who was nominated for an Academy Award for best actor in Frost/Nixon. Lengella plays a senior VP for a corporation who set up his own assassination after sending an anonymous email alluding to his death. By bringing his company into the picture because before his disappearance Langella’s character sending an email showing the companies deflated sales and two members of the company spring into action to find the culprit behind the leak.
Saw IV and Saw V
My sister and I can rarely agree on a movie to watch since we have quite different tastes in movies. She’s more of a girlie movie kind of girl where I’m just about everything but a girlie movie girl. When we were down in the town my mom grew up in we were stranded, ok not stranded, but left to find some way to entertain ourselves when everyone there decided to go to bed at 930. We’re college girls and had another couple hours of life in us before going to bed. Since the only redbox in town was in their McDonalds which closed at 10. So we went to the local Family Video with is luckily open till midnight, opened an account, and began our search for a movie we could agree upon. Little did we know the search was going to be much shorter than we thought. After doing a lap through all the movies we decided on Saw IV and Saw V. She’d never seen either of them and I’d only seen IV so it worked out well. The movies were dirt cheap and we got back to the house in enough time to get through IV before passing out.
Now don’t get me wrong my grandma has a nice house but her basement room we sleep in we’ve convince ourselves its haunted. There is a small closet tucked under the staircase, some may call it a Harry Potter closet, which is only locked by a small hook on the outside of the door. Well usually this closet, which houses all of our blankets we use when we’re there, is locked all the time. It takes convincing to get someone to open it and get us blankets out. Well this time right before getting into bed to turn on the movie we discover the closet is open. There was no way either one of us was jumping out of bed to close it so we sat there. Staring. Frozen. Looking at the creepy haunted closet unlocked wide open… finally we closed it but it made the movie that much creepier.
Now don’t get me wrong my grandma has a nice house but her basement room we sleep in we’ve convince ourselves its haunted. There is a small closet tucked under the staircase, some may call it a Harry Potter closet, which is only locked by a small hook on the outside of the door. Well usually this closet, which houses all of our blankets we use when we’re there, is locked all the time. It takes convincing to get someone to open it and get us blankets out. Well this time right before getting into bed to turn on the movie we discover the closet is open. There was no way either one of us was jumping out of bed to close it so we sat there. Staring. Frozen. Looking at the creepy haunted closet unlocked wide open… finally we closed it but it made the movie that much creepier.
Coming out 4.14
Another Tuesday means another set of new movies coming out to DVD. I must say this week I’m pretty excited because The Reader starring Kate Winslet and Ralph Fiennes is coming out and Kate Winslet is my favorite actress. I’m not too familiar with what the movie is about but I’m pretty much a fan of anything Kate Winslet does. The Spirit is also coming out to DVD as a two-disc special edition and The Caller starring Frank Langella who was nominated for an Academy Award. Also, Dark Matter with Meryl Streep and Aiden Quinn, as well as, Splinter.
The Reader is set recently after World War II in Germany where a teenager enters into a secret love affair with an older woman (Winslet). Several years after the older woman disappears they become in contact again when it becomes public she is being held for a Nazi war crime trial. Winslet won an Academy Award and a Golden Globe for her performance in the film.
The Spirit has several big names in it Gabriel Macht, Eva Mendes, Scarlett Johansson, and Samuel L. Jackson. Gabriel Macht plays a masked avenger who plans to alleviate the crime ridden streets of Central City. Once a fine cop his life was ended by a bullet and has been brought back as a Spirit to face those criminals he didn’t defeat during his life.
The Caller stars Frank Lengella who was nominated for an Academy Award for best actor in Frost/Nixon. Lengella plays a senior VP for a corporation who set up his own assassination after sending an anonymous email alluding to his death. By bringing his company into the picture because before his disappearance Langella’s character sending an email showing the companies deflated sales and two members of the company spring into action to find the culprit behind the leak.
The Reader is set recently after World War II in Germany where a teenager enters into a secret love affair with an older woman (Winslet). Several years after the older woman disappears they become in contact again when it becomes public she is being held for a Nazi war crime trial. Winslet won an Academy Award and a Golden Globe for her performance in the film.
The Spirit has several big names in it Gabriel Macht, Eva Mendes, Scarlett Johansson, and Samuel L. Jackson. Gabriel Macht plays a masked avenger who plans to alleviate the crime ridden streets of Central City. Once a fine cop his life was ended by a bullet and has been brought back as a Spirit to face those criminals he didn’t defeat during his life.
The Caller stars Frank Lengella who was nominated for an Academy Award for best actor in Frost/Nixon. Lengella plays a senior VP for a corporation who set up his own assassination after sending an anonymous email alluding to his death. By bringing his company into the picture because before his disappearance Langella’s character sending an email showing the companies deflated sales and two members of the company spring into action to find the culprit behind the leak.
Sunday, April 12, 2009
New Releases 4.7
A little late on this one guys sorry I didn’t get these releases to you sooner. But here’s what came out this past Tuesday on DVD. This week there are several movies that were in theaters contrary to what we’ve been seeing lately. Bedtime stories starring Adam Sandler and Keri Russell, Day the Earth Stood Still with Keanu Reeves, Jennifer Connelly, and Kathy Bates, The Tale of Despereaux with the voice of Matthew Brooderick and Emma Watson, Donkey Punch, Doubt starring Maryl Streep and Philip Seymour Hoffman, No Country for Old Men’s 3-disc collectors edition, and Yes Man (Two-disc special edition) starring Jim Carrey.
Where to even start the majority of these titles star big actors who were nominated for Oscars and other awards for their roles in these films. Doubt was nominated for numerous awards and stars three big names. Meryl Streep, Philip Seymour Hoffman, Amy Adams and Viola Davis star in a suspenseful drama about a priest accused of wrong doing by a nun at the church looking out for the interest of a student at the school. It was one of the most honored motion pictures of the year.
Yes Man starring Jim Carrey and Zooey Deschanel is a comedy about a man who doesn’t say yes to anything and is forced to change his emotionally distant character which attracts the attention of Zooey Deschanel. I haven’t seen this one but I think it should be pretty good.
Bedtime Stories stars Adam Sandler and Keri Russell in a movie by Walt Disney Pictures’. When Sandler is asked to watch his sister’s kids he’s in for a big surprise when the night time stories he tells them begin to come true. The movie leads you on a fairy tale reality that we can only hope leads to a happy ending.
Where to even start the majority of these titles star big actors who were nominated for Oscars and other awards for their roles in these films. Doubt was nominated for numerous awards and stars three big names. Meryl Streep, Philip Seymour Hoffman, Amy Adams and Viola Davis star in a suspenseful drama about a priest accused of wrong doing by a nun at the church looking out for the interest of a student at the school. It was one of the most honored motion pictures of the year.
Yes Man starring Jim Carrey and Zooey Deschanel is a comedy about a man who doesn’t say yes to anything and is forced to change his emotionally distant character which attracts the attention of Zooey Deschanel. I haven’t seen this one but I think it should be pretty good.
Bedtime Stories stars Adam Sandler and Keri Russell in a movie by Walt Disney Pictures’. When Sandler is asked to watch his sister’s kids he’s in for a big surprise when the night time stories he tells them begin to come true. The movie leads you on a fairy tale reality that we can only hope leads to a happy ending.
Thursday, April 9, 2009
Mirrors, Funny Games, My Best Friends Girl
With my new membership to Family Video I have been able to rent so many movies I didn’t even know how to choose. The other day I get up to the counter with Changeling and Boy in the Striped Pajamas. They asked me if I wanted to redeem my two free movies that are 2 for $1. I was like WOW great now I get to make more decisions. After roaming the aisles of the movies store I was able to pick out Funny Games and Before the Devil Knows you’re Dead. Unfortunately I didn’t have time to watch the later before it was due. Funny Games however, I was able to watch and actually enjoyed it. I didn’t know anything about it before I watched it other than the golf club on the cover of the white box. It was most definitely not what I was expecting. A good movie though, crazy, but good. I also rented Mirrors starring Keaffer Sutherland, Jack from 24. He plays his typical role of always being the hero who needs to discover what is haunting the old shopping mall he’s just been appointed security guard for. When the mystery soon involves his family it’s a race to solve the mystery before his family is taken from him. Although I don’t know how I feel about the movie overall there are a few good parts to it. Also that time at the store I rented My Best Friends Girl. I thought it was really funny but every time I watch Dane Cook in a movie I realize how much I appreciate Ryan Reynolds acting. I know sounds crazy but I always get these two guys confused and with their filmographies expanding I’m starting to be able to tell the difference. Ryan Reynolds can act.
Wednesday, April 8, 2009
Browsing Best Buy
The other day to eat up some time after dinner and before catching Adventureland at the theater I decided to browse through Best Buy to see what was going on there. Just walking the aisles of the movies is one of the best things. I’m not too interested in any of the other things there, well the big screen tv’s of course, movies pretty much keep me entertained. We did however just get a Wii system at my house and have yet to get a new game other than the Wii sports it comes with. Anyway I was walking through the aisles and stumbled upon the Disney section. I have never been so excited to see Disney movies in my life. There were so many of them, right there, all together. I was overwhelmed. Too overwhelmed to even look at the price tag I knew it would only disappoint me that I wouldn’t be able to afford all of them and I couldn’t get just one when all of the were so appealing. What else did I see? Oh yeah from what I could tell they had the entire Matrix set for super cheap. Like under $20. For all the Matrix movies? Yeah… I mean I wish I had some disposable income that I could spend on all the movies I want. Looks like these are all just going to be added to my list of movie I ask for… for the next eight years of my life as gifts. Haha. Easter is coming up and one of the things I can hopefully count on is a surprise DVD! Cross your fingers!
Looking for something to do that doesn’t have to cost money, even though you might be tempted to spend some. Go walk around Best Buy and start/add to a list of movies you’ve just got to have but won’t buy for yourself.
Looking for something to do that doesn’t have to cost money, even though you might be tempted to spend some. Go walk around Best Buy and start/add to a list of movies you’ve just got to have but won’t buy for yourself.
New Articles I'm Working On
I’m working on some new articles for my website this month. Have you been to my website lately? It’s really coming along. Ok time for a quick tour! My website includes links to several different movies websites I frequent to find out the latest and greatest movie information. There is also a page that has links from amazon.com and some of the movies I have recommended on my blog. For all the different movies, there are some pretty cheap ones on there, give it a look. Under the articles tab there are currently seven articles I have written and three that I am working on right now I’ll describe those in a bit. There are also links to the three articles I’ve submitted to article databases. If you click on the link for donate there is an option to donate money. About me includes a brief description of myself and a privacy policy for my website. Finally there is a new part a merchandising section that has links to my cafepress.com store and three products that I have designed with my logo and website. There are three products I have designed a trucker hat, license plate holder, and sticker. These products are reasonably priced and decked out with a simple logo that goes with anything. I may not be the most creative person but I think the logo with the simplicity it can go with anything and doesn’t particularly pertain just to my website.
There are three new articles I’m working on writing. The first of the three is Paramount Pictures. An in depth description of the company and the films they have made. The second article is on the SAG Lifetime Achievement awards and the recipients of the award. Finally there will be an article on the famous director Stephen Spielberg and his fantastic works as a director and the stars he’s worked with.
There are three new articles I’m working on writing. The first of the three is Paramount Pictures. An in depth description of the company and the films they have made. The second article is on the SAG Lifetime Achievement awards and the recipients of the award. Finally there will be an article on the famous director Stephen Spielberg and his fantastic works as a director and the stars he’s worked with.
Tuesday, April 7, 2009
Updated Movies I Want to See
Wow I cannot believe how many good movies there are out on DVD that I haven’t caught up on yet. The other day I made a list and I’m slowing but surely putting a dent in it. My list mainly includes the movies that were up for Oscars in February but there are a few others that I remember wanting to see really badly.
Rachel Getting Married starring Anne Hathaway is one that I mentioned on my blog earlier. I really want to see it I just don’t know when to. I usually rent movies with another person and I don’t know if that’s really the best movie to watch with someone. It seems like it’s going to be kind of dark and depressing and those movies I usually like to watch on my own. That might be one that I have to wait till I’m done with school and rent on week night.
Milk with Sean Penn is another one I want to see. I really like Sean Penn and when he plays diverse rolls such as this I like to show my appreciation for his acting talent and rent them.
Cadillac Records starring Beyonce and Adrien Brody. I really like Brody and his work. I also really like works that involve lots of big names, which Cadillac Records does. I like to see the way all the great actors work together.
Australia starring Nicole Kidman and Hugh Jackman. I think that these two actors are fantastic. Although the movie didn’t get great reviews I’m interested to see how well they work together. They’re both also natives of Australia and I’ve always wanted to go there. Hopefully there are some scenes that give me a good idea of what the country is like scenic wise.
Other movies I want to see induce: Benjamin Button and The Wrestler
Recently scratched off my list: Funny Games (random), Slumdog Millionaire, Changeling
Rachel Getting Married starring Anne Hathaway is one that I mentioned on my blog earlier. I really want to see it I just don’t know when to. I usually rent movies with another person and I don’t know if that’s really the best movie to watch with someone. It seems like it’s going to be kind of dark and depressing and those movies I usually like to watch on my own. That might be one that I have to wait till I’m done with school and rent on week night.
Milk with Sean Penn is another one I want to see. I really like Sean Penn and when he plays diverse rolls such as this I like to show my appreciation for his acting talent and rent them.
Cadillac Records starring Beyonce and Adrien Brody. I really like Brody and his work. I also really like works that involve lots of big names, which Cadillac Records does. I like to see the way all the great actors work together.
Australia starring Nicole Kidman and Hugh Jackman. I think that these two actors are fantastic. Although the movie didn’t get great reviews I’m interested to see how well they work together. They’re both also natives of Australia and I’ve always wanted to go there. Hopefully there are some scenes that give me a good idea of what the country is like scenic wise.
Other movies I want to see induce: Benjamin Button and The Wrestler
Recently scratched off my list: Funny Games (random), Slumdog Millionaire, Changeling
Monday, March 23, 2009
What Lies Beneath
One movie I know I love but can never remember the specific details from the movie is What Lies Beneath. The movie opened in July of 2000 making it over eight years old but still one of the movies I could watch over and over again. The film stars Harrison Ford and Michelle Pfeiffer. Both actors have been in several movies but this one taps into Michelle Pfeiffer’s rather dark side. Her eyes I’ve noticed give her the ability to be very suspenseful. Movies.com lists the movie in several genres: Haunted House film, Supernatural Thriller, and thriller.
What Lies Beneath follows a family of Dr. Normal Spencer, played by Harrison Ford, and his wife Claire Spencer, played by Michelle Pfeiffer. A year ago Claire was in a horrible car accident where she hit a tree going eighty. Though it is said to have looked like she deliberately drove her car into the tree she could think of no reason why this would be. After living in their new home for over a year its time for their daughter to move to college; everyone is worried about Claire’s psyche as her daughter leaves because they have always been so close. Within days she is seeing things and convinced that their house is haunted but Norman doesn’t believe her escapades. As they become more frequent he beings to believe her. Little does she know that he might have something to do with the spirits lingering in the house. As the movie plays out we being to see what who may be haunting Claire and trying to exert their revenge on Norman after a year of his secret keeping.
Haven’t seen this movie? Check it! Seen it and liked it try watching The Haunting or Poltergeist they are similar. You might like them!
What Lies Beneath follows a family of Dr. Normal Spencer, played by Harrison Ford, and his wife Claire Spencer, played by Michelle Pfeiffer. A year ago Claire was in a horrible car accident where she hit a tree going eighty. Though it is said to have looked like she deliberately drove her car into the tree she could think of no reason why this would be. After living in their new home for over a year its time for their daughter to move to college; everyone is worried about Claire’s psyche as her daughter leaves because they have always been so close. Within days she is seeing things and convinced that their house is haunted but Norman doesn’t believe her escapades. As they become more frequent he beings to believe her. Little does she know that he might have something to do with the spirits lingering in the house. As the movie plays out we being to see what who may be haunting Claire and trying to exert their revenge on Norman after a year of his secret keeping.
Haven’t seen this movie? Check it! Seen it and liked it try watching The Haunting or Poltergeist they are similar. You might like them!
Sunday, March 22, 2009
Baby Mama
I have a soft spot in my heart for Saturday Night Live. I’ll admit I don’t think it’s anywhere near as funny as it used to be but I have watched the show whenever I can over the past couple of years. Tina Fey and Amy Poehler are HILARIOUS! The combo together is unstoppable and apart they are still just as funny. I cannot get over how funny I think the two of them are. In April 2008 they starred in Baby Mama together. This movie apparently wasn’t as funny to most as it was to me but I think it’s great.
It’s an hour and half of funny. I promise if you give it a chance it has great parts in it that are just hilarious. The plot follows Kate Holbrook, Tiny Fey, as she decides to have a baby but cannot conceive through any of the many methods she has tried. She is single and successful working woman so she seeks out surrogacy. Amy Poehler plays Angie the South Philadelphia woman chosen to be the surrogate mother. Kate’s a planner and needs to keep track of Angie through the pregnancy but she didn’t think she’d have Angie show up at her door after breaking up with her boyfriend.
The two live together for several months through Angie’s pregnancy sharing many comedic moments including birthing class, night out on the town, and sharing Kate’s pristine apartment. Of course there is a turn at the end of the movie no one is ready for but what movie isn’t going to have a twist at the end.
A great part of the movie is the door man played by Romany Malco who has been in movies such as Blades of Glory, The Love Guru, and starred in the show Weeds. He adds more comedic relief to the already funny cast.
If you are looking for a funny movie to watch with the girls or a good lighthearted comedy for a date night try this one out!
It’s an hour and half of funny. I promise if you give it a chance it has great parts in it that are just hilarious. The plot follows Kate Holbrook, Tiny Fey, as she decides to have a baby but cannot conceive through any of the many methods she has tried. She is single and successful working woman so she seeks out surrogacy. Amy Poehler plays Angie the South Philadelphia woman chosen to be the surrogate mother. Kate’s a planner and needs to keep track of Angie through the pregnancy but she didn’t think she’d have Angie show up at her door after breaking up with her boyfriend.
The two live together for several months through Angie’s pregnancy sharing many comedic moments including birthing class, night out on the town, and sharing Kate’s pristine apartment. Of course there is a turn at the end of the movie no one is ready for but what movie isn’t going to have a twist at the end.
A great part of the movie is the door man played by Romany Malco who has been in movies such as Blades of Glory, The Love Guru, and starred in the show Weeds. He adds more comedic relief to the already funny cast.
If you are looking for a funny movie to watch with the girls or a good lighthearted comedy for a date night try this one out!
Taken
Last night I went to see Taken with my younger sister. Okay well she’s only two years younger than me so it’s not that much. But can I say the movie is absolutely amazing!! Who knew Liam Neeson could look so innocent and kick butt so well at the same time?
The movie begins with Neeson’s character Bryan Mills trying to be more involved in his 17-year-old daughter’s life. After being absent for most of her childhood because of his secret government job which she couldn’t understand at the time he makes a point of trying to be more involved in her life. He divorced from his wife while their daughter was young and she has since remarried a very wealthy man who can give Kim, Mills’ daughter anything she wants.
When Kim approaches Mills to have his permission to head to Paris for her break he’s very apprehensive about letting her go because of his knowledge on the world. Kim and her mother, Lenore, live a sheltered life surrounded by money and Mills has a strong head on his shoulders knowing more than they do about the threats beyond their sheltered life. With motive to please his daughter and taking precautions he thinks will help her on her trip and keep her safe he agrees to let her go. Amanda, Kim’s friend she’s traveling with, has family in Paris they intend to stay with. When they get to Paris Amanda informs Kim that her family is out of town and they have the place all to themselves. After making friends with a boy at the airport the girls are taken. Luckily Kim is on the phone with her father when this happens and he tries to get as much information as he can out of her before they are disconnected. The rest of the film follows Mill’s knowledge and expertise as he makes his way to Paris to find his daughter.
Neeson is great and the whole film is entertaining. I would definitely recommend watching this movie. It’s probably going to leave theaters soon so make sure to check it out when it comes out on DVD.
The movie begins with Neeson’s character Bryan Mills trying to be more involved in his 17-year-old daughter’s life. After being absent for most of her childhood because of his secret government job which she couldn’t understand at the time he makes a point of trying to be more involved in her life. He divorced from his wife while their daughter was young and she has since remarried a very wealthy man who can give Kim, Mills’ daughter anything she wants.
When Kim approaches Mills to have his permission to head to Paris for her break he’s very apprehensive about letting her go because of his knowledge on the world. Kim and her mother, Lenore, live a sheltered life surrounded by money and Mills has a strong head on his shoulders knowing more than they do about the threats beyond their sheltered life. With motive to please his daughter and taking precautions he thinks will help her on her trip and keep her safe he agrees to let her go. Amanda, Kim’s friend she’s traveling with, has family in Paris they intend to stay with. When they get to Paris Amanda informs Kim that her family is out of town and they have the place all to themselves. After making friends with a boy at the airport the girls are taken. Luckily Kim is on the phone with her father when this happens and he tries to get as much information as he can out of her before they are disconnected. The rest of the film follows Mill’s knowledge and expertise as he makes his way to Paris to find his daughter.
Neeson is great and the whole film is entertaining. I would definitely recommend watching this movie. It’s probably going to leave theaters soon so make sure to check it out when it comes out on DVD.
Movies Coming Out 3.24
This week there are several movies coming to DVD including the most recent installment of the James Bond films. As usual there are those movies we heard of that were in theaters and there are those that didn’t quite make it any further than straight to DVD. Don’t count these movies out there are plenty that go straight to DVD that are overlooked. There are only four movies coming to DVD this week: Quantum of Solace, Ready? OK!, Gardens of the Night, and A Mighty Heart.
A Mighty Heart is not a new release it is now being released on Blu-ray. The film stars Angelina Jolie and Dan Futterman. A journalist is killed and the process that his wife, played by Anglina Jolie, goes through to try to find him. Amazon.com’s readers rated the movie 3.5/5 stars.
Gardens of the Night is about the kidnapping of two eight year old children by two men. After seven years of captivity they are abandoned and must navigate their way through the streets of San Diego with no one but each other and constant reminders of their terrible pasts.
Ready? OK! Is a movie about a young boy obsessed with dresses and dolls is convinced by his mother to join the school’s wresting team when all he really wants to do is be a cheerleader. Seeking the help of her gay neighbor the single mother works to find a good role model for her son.
Yes another great installment of the James Bond films. Daniel Craig stars again as the infamous James Bond. Quantum of Solace is a follow up from the previous Casino Royale since bond is trying to gain revenge from the previous movie. Loyal Bond fans seem to be torn over how much they like the series and how this movie fell short of the previous marks.
A Mighty Heart is not a new release it is now being released on Blu-ray. The film stars Angelina Jolie and Dan Futterman. A journalist is killed and the process that his wife, played by Anglina Jolie, goes through to try to find him. Amazon.com’s readers rated the movie 3.5/5 stars.
Gardens of the Night is about the kidnapping of two eight year old children by two men. After seven years of captivity they are abandoned and must navigate their way through the streets of San Diego with no one but each other and constant reminders of their terrible pasts.
Ready? OK! Is a movie about a young boy obsessed with dresses and dolls is convinced by his mother to join the school’s wresting team when all he really wants to do is be a cheerleader. Seeking the help of her gay neighbor the single mother works to find a good role model for her son.
Yes another great installment of the James Bond films. Daniel Craig stars again as the infamous James Bond. Quantum of Solace is a follow up from the previous Casino Royale since bond is trying to gain revenge from the previous movie. Loyal Bond fans seem to be torn over how much they like the series and how this movie fell short of the previous marks.
Thursday, March 19, 2009
Runaway Jury and Just Married
After getting back from spring break in Florida this year I was surprised when I got in the car by a nice little gift from my parents. 2 DVD’s!! What great parents, I mean they come pick me up from the airport and while killing time before they had to come get me they pick me up some DVD’s. Best Buy has been doing a good job marking down their movies pretty quickly and their $5 movie section keeps on growing! Love it! My parents picked up Runaway Jury which stars Nicholas Cage and Just Married which stars Ashton Kutcher and Brittany Murphy.
I think that Runaway Jury is such a great movie. It gives the audience an inside look into how a jury deliberates and the process of going through jury selection. At the same time they introduce the element of Jury for Sale and how one person can influence the thoughts of other jury members. It makes you think do people really do this? Especially on such big cases like the one in the movie; a man was killed by a shooter at his office in the city. His wife then brings the gun company who manufactured the gun to court. Although Cage and his costar have a vendetta they are pursuing throughout the movie they prove to the audience that nothing is impossible and with a simple slide of hand… or persuasive speech people should be willing to hear everyone else. It’s amazing to watch Cage as his character uses his persuasion techniques to influence his fellow jury members while remaining under the radar. Definitely rent this one if you haven’t seen it!
Although I’m not a huge fan of comedies they are always good to have in your movie collection. Just Married is light hearted and a great no thought movie when I’m looking to just relax.
Monday, March 16, 2009
DVD Releases This Week
This week there are several movies coming out to DVD. They are pretty big titles that did well at the box office. These movies include: Twilight, Bolt, Punisher: War Zone, Goal 2, A History of Violence (New Line Platinum Series), Elegy, The Robe, Walled In, and My Zinc Bed.
Twilight is based on the book on the #1 New York Times best-selling novel by Stephenie Meyer. The book was popular among her young readers but after the new of release of a movie the series became very popular for many across all ages. The movie follows the life of Bella Swan played by Kristen Stewart, who acted along side Jodie Foster in Panic Room, who moves to the small town of Forks, Washington to live with her father. She unexpectedly falls for a handsome classmate Edward Cullen, played by Robert Patterson from Harry Potter. Once secrets are revealed everything is against their relationship and they must fight to have one another. Twilight is only the first installment of the series, there are going to four in all.
Bolt is an animated film from Disney starring voices such as John Travolta, Miley Cyrus, Mark Walton, and Susie Essman. Bolt is the star of the biggest show in Hollywood but is convinced its real life. Due to certain circumstances Bolt is left on his won and must find his way back to Hollywood from New York City. His adventures on the streets making his way home prove to him that he doesn’t need super powers to be a hero. All he needs is a little help from his new found friends.
Another movie that came out this week is Walled In a relatively unknown movie about an engineer supervising the demolition of a mysterious building. She soon finds out the secrets about bodies entombed in the walls during the construction of the building. As she gets closer to determining the motives behind these murders she gets to close and potentially become the next victim.
Twilight is based on the book on the #1 New York Times best-selling novel by Stephenie Meyer. The book was popular among her young readers but after the new of release of a movie the series became very popular for many across all ages. The movie follows the life of Bella Swan played by Kristen Stewart, who acted along side Jodie Foster in Panic Room, who moves to the small town of Forks, Washington to live with her father. She unexpectedly falls for a handsome classmate Edward Cullen, played by Robert Patterson from Harry Potter. Once secrets are revealed everything is against their relationship and they must fight to have one another. Twilight is only the first installment of the series, there are going to four in all.
Bolt is an animated film from Disney starring voices such as John Travolta, Miley Cyrus, Mark Walton, and Susie Essman. Bolt is the star of the biggest show in Hollywood but is convinced its real life. Due to certain circumstances Bolt is left on his won and must find his way back to Hollywood from New York City. His adventures on the streets making his way home prove to him that he doesn’t need super powers to be a hero. All he needs is a little help from his new found friends.
Another movie that came out this week is Walled In a relatively unknown movie about an engineer supervising the demolition of a mysterious building. She soon finds out the secrets about bodies entombed in the walls during the construction of the building. As she gets closer to determining the motives behind these murders she gets to close and potentially become the next victim.
DVD Releases This Past Week
I missed this past weeks releases because of vacation but I hope you didn’t miss the new releases coming out because there some good ones! The week of March 10th several DVDs hit the shelves: Rachel Getting Married, Let The Right One In, Role Models, Transporter 3, Cadillac Records, Milk, The Boy in the Striped Pajamas, Battle in Seattle, and A Secret. I cannot believe how many good movies came out this week. I haven’t seen any of them but Role Models but I want to see so many of them!
Rachel Getting Married stars Anne Hathaway, known for her role in Princess Diaries. In this role Hathaway drops her comedic persona for a more serious role. She was nominated for a Golden Globe for Best Actress in a Motion Picture. Hathaway plays Kym a woman battling tragedy in her past heads out of town for a wedding bringing drama with her to what should be a joyful weekend. Although she didn’t win the Golden Globe critics rave about her performance in the film.
Role Models is the only of these films I’ve seen so far. The movie is hilarious and sometimes completely out of line. Two coworkers faced with the choice of 150 hours of community service or jail after their stint with a tow truck while at work choose to enter into a mentorship program. Their work with the two boys they are placed with proves the audience with an hour and a half or entertainment.
Cadillac Records stars Adrien Brody, Beyonce Knowles, Mos Def, Tim Bellow, and Tony Bently about the record company in the 1950’s. Milk was nominated and won many awards. The film stars Sean Penn, Emile Hirsch, James Franco, Alison Pill, and Diego Luna. One of the movies that really peaks my interest is The Boy in the Striped Pajamas stars Sheila Hancock, David Thewlis, David Hayman, Jim Norton, and Vera Farmiga. The movie follows two eight year old boys who become friends one on each side of the walls of a Nazi Concentration Camp.
Rachel Getting Married stars Anne Hathaway, known for her role in Princess Diaries. In this role Hathaway drops her comedic persona for a more serious role. She was nominated for a Golden Globe for Best Actress in a Motion Picture. Hathaway plays Kym a woman battling tragedy in her past heads out of town for a wedding bringing drama with her to what should be a joyful weekend. Although she didn’t win the Golden Globe critics rave about her performance in the film.
Role Models is the only of these films I’ve seen so far. The movie is hilarious and sometimes completely out of line. Two coworkers faced with the choice of 150 hours of community service or jail after their stint with a tow truck while at work choose to enter into a mentorship program. Their work with the two boys they are placed with proves the audience with an hour and a half or entertainment.
Cadillac Records stars Adrien Brody, Beyonce Knowles, Mos Def, Tim Bellow, and Tony Bently about the record company in the 1950’s. Milk was nominated and won many awards. The film stars Sean Penn, Emile Hirsch, James Franco, Alison Pill, and Diego Luna. One of the movies that really peaks my interest is The Boy in the Striped Pajamas stars Sheila Hancock, David Thewlis, David Hayman, Jim Norton, and Vera Farmiga. The movie follows two eight year old boys who become friends one on each side of the walls of a Nazi Concentration Camp.
Wednesday, March 4, 2009
Finding Movies On TV
As I’ve said before whenever I work on homework if I’m not listening to music I’m watching movies. Movies more often than music but sometimes I like to switch it up. although I could watch my movies over and over again sometimes I want to see something I’ve never seen before, something I would never even think about watching. That is why I’m obsessed with tvguide.com. I must say I probably check it about four or five times a day. They usually have at least one good movie on. The best channels to check for movies are FX, TBS, AMC, TBN, TNT, and USA. Sporadically there are movies on the other channels but these are the ones I usually find a good movie on.
FX is one of the best channels to find something good on. I believe every week they have a different cycle of movies that they play. This week they have: X-Men: The Last Stand, My Super Ex-Girlfriend, The Marine, Zoom, Click, Superman Returns, and Anger Management. The thing I like about this channel is that they play many different genres of movies rather than just sticking to movies that are all the same.
TBS usually has good comedies on. They are known to be a channel revolving around comedy but they do occasionally have other films on too. They have two programs on that feature movies, they have dinner & a movie and also movie & a makeover. Every weekend they have weekend extra which includes a movie and a riotous romp stampeding through current events and pop culture. That’s according to their website about the show.
AMC (American Movie Channel) usually features old movies I haven’t seen which give me the opportunity to catch up on movies I wouldn’t think of renting. TNT and USA are also very good channels for finding movies of different genres.
Check out tvguide.com to find a movie you might be interested in!
FX is one of the best channels to find something good on. I believe every week they have a different cycle of movies that they play. This week they have: X-Men: The Last Stand, My Super Ex-Girlfriend, The Marine, Zoom, Click, Superman Returns, and Anger Management. The thing I like about this channel is that they play many different genres of movies rather than just sticking to movies that are all the same.
TBS usually has good comedies on. They are known to be a channel revolving around comedy but they do occasionally have other films on too. They have two programs on that feature movies, they have dinner & a movie and also movie & a makeover. Every weekend they have weekend extra which includes a movie and a riotous romp stampeding through current events and pop culture. That’s according to their website about the show.
AMC (American Movie Channel) usually features old movies I haven’t seen which give me the opportunity to catch up on movies I wouldn’t think of renting. TNT and USA are also very good channels for finding movies of different genres.
Check out tvguide.com to find a movie you might be interested in!
Tuesday, March 3, 2009
New releases for March 3rd
It’s Tuesday! Another Tuesday another list of movies out to DVD today. One you might have seen previews for since they are allllll over and I don’t really know why. Honeslty I cannot believe the people in this movie but Beverly Hills Chihuahua hits the shelves tomorrow. Other releases today are: Lake City (2009), Things We Lost in the Fire (2008), Awake (2008), Australia (2009), In the Electric Mist (2009), Take: The Extended Harder Cut (2009), True Confessions of a Hollywood Starlet (2009), Exit Speed (2009), Real Time (2009), and False Face (2009).
Let’s take a look at the movies we might have heard of.
Beverly Hills Chihuahua: Honestly I’ve never really been a fan of movies that mix animated animals (talking) with actual human actors. The movie features the voices of Drew Barrymore as the main Chihuahua Chloe. George Lopez is the voice over for Papi a Chihuahua crazy about Chloe who takes it upon himself to find Chloe when she gets lost in Mexico. Some of the stars that are actually seen in the movie are Jaime Lee Curtis and Piper Perado.
Personally this movie does not seem like something that Jaime Lee Curtis would be in.
Australia: This one I’d really like to see. It stars Nicole Kidman and Hugh Jackman.
Awake: Awake stars Hayden Christensen, Jessica Alba, and Terrance Howard. It’s a psychological thriller that follows Christensen’s time experiencing “anesthetic awareness. This phenomenon is when the anesthesia on a patient fails and they are conscious but physically paralyzed. With a shocking twist leaving you in awe at the end of the movie.
Lake City: Sissy Spacek, Troy Garity, and Dave Matthews all star in a film about a mother and a son who are forced to come together to save their families home. Matthews plays a drug dealer looking to get revenge on Garity after his wife stole cocaine from him. While dealing with this life threatening drug issue he is trying to rebuild a relationship with his mother who he went separate ways from years ago following a family tragedy.
Let’s take a look at the movies we might have heard of.
Beverly Hills Chihuahua: Honestly I’ve never really been a fan of movies that mix animated animals (talking) with actual human actors. The movie features the voices of Drew Barrymore as the main Chihuahua Chloe. George Lopez is the voice over for Papi a Chihuahua crazy about Chloe who takes it upon himself to find Chloe when she gets lost in Mexico. Some of the stars that are actually seen in the movie are Jaime Lee Curtis and Piper Perado.
Personally this movie does not seem like something that Jaime Lee Curtis would be in.
Australia: This one I’d really like to see. It stars Nicole Kidman and Hugh Jackman.
Awake: Awake stars Hayden Christensen, Jessica Alba, and Terrance Howard. It’s a psychological thriller that follows Christensen’s time experiencing “anesthetic awareness. This phenomenon is when the anesthesia on a patient fails and they are conscious but physically paralyzed. With a shocking twist leaving you in awe at the end of the movie.
Lake City: Sissy Spacek, Troy Garity, and Dave Matthews all star in a film about a mother and a son who are forced to come together to save their families home. Matthews plays a drug dealer looking to get revenge on Garity after his wife stole cocaine from him. While dealing with this life threatening drug issue he is trying to rebuild a relationship with his mother who he went separate ways from years ago following a family tragedy.
Sunday, March 1, 2009
My Articles
I’m writing more articles of my website for movie lovers. I’ve been working on putting together a variety of articles that you might be interested in. This month I’ll be writing three: Audrey Hepburn and Marilyn Monroe, Pixar, and Jaws.
Audrey Hepburn and Marilyn Monroe: This article will be about the effect these two great actresses has on the industry during their time and how their success has helped shaped the industry into what it is today. Their role in history and film making has made them stars. Men loved to look at them and women wanted to be them their style was popular among women they continue to be figures of inspiration among women all over the world.
Pixar: Their merger in the early twenty first century opened new doors for animation and its popularity among children. Pixar has won many awards for their films they have produced together. Films Pixar are known for include: Toy Story in 1995, A Bug's Life in 1998, Toy Story 2 in 1999, Monsters, Inc. in 2001, Finding Nemo in 2003, which is, to date, the most commercially successful Pixar film ,grossing over $800 million worldwide, The Incredibles in 2004, Cars in 2006, Ratatouille in 2007 and WALL-E in 2008.
Jaws: The Jaws movies which started with the release of the original in 1975 have been very popular for many decades now. The innovation and technology they introduced in the films was a first of its time Steven Spielberg had great visions for the movies. Unfortunately, this past year Roy Scheider, famous for his role as Martin Brody in the films passed away. His face is recognizable from his work over the years with Jaws as Amity’s newest police chief. The Jaws movies have had many remakes and additions to the original trilogy but none can compete with these classic movies.
Audrey Hepburn and Marilyn Monroe: This article will be about the effect these two great actresses has on the industry during their time and how their success has helped shaped the industry into what it is today. Their role in history and film making has made them stars. Men loved to look at them and women wanted to be them their style was popular among women they continue to be figures of inspiration among women all over the world.
Pixar: Their merger in the early twenty first century opened new doors for animation and its popularity among children. Pixar has won many awards for their films they have produced together. Films Pixar are known for include: Toy Story in 1995, A Bug's Life in 1998, Toy Story 2 in 1999, Monsters, Inc. in 2001, Finding Nemo in 2003, which is, to date, the most commercially successful Pixar film ,grossing over $800 million worldwide, The Incredibles in 2004, Cars in 2006, Ratatouille in 2007 and WALL-E in 2008.
Jaws: The Jaws movies which started with the release of the original in 1975 have been very popular for many decades now. The innovation and technology they introduced in the films was a first of its time Steven Spielberg had great visions for the movies. Unfortunately, this past year Roy Scheider, famous for his role as Martin Brody in the films passed away. His face is recognizable from his work over the years with Jaws as Amity’s newest police chief. The Jaws movies have had many remakes and additions to the original trilogy but none can compete with these classic movies.
Waterworld and Speed
There is a list published of movies that are ‘the worst movies ever made’ which did terrible in the box office and never became too popular with audiences. On this list is Waterworld starring Kevin Costner. I’ve seen it a couple times I have to say it’s not the best movie ever but its originality seems like it doesn’t belong on the worst movies ever list either. The reason I bring this up is that one of my good friends is utterly obsessed with the movie. Every time someone is like oh what should be watch, his first response is always Waterworld. You may think he’s being sarcastic or just saying that to be funny. However, that’s not the case. He’s being serious, he loves the movie and could watch it everyday, and in fact I’m sure if we agreed to watch it with him he would watch it everyday.
K this one is not as bad as Waterworld but the Waterworld guy’s roommate is obsessed with Speed. Just the original he’s not a fan of the sequel. Just like his roommate if you ever ask what movie he wants to put in it’s always Speed. Now Speed is a relatively good movie and has some pretty good quotable moments and a few big names in it. He was disappointed with the sequel and even pretends it never happened. He’s a pretty big movie buff and doesn’t appreciate when a cast is changed in a second installment. Replacing Keeanu Reeves in the sequel crushed him.
If you’re looking for a movie that wouldn’t normally come to mind when you’re thinking of what to watch check out one of these. I don’t mind watching either of them but not everyday as these boys suggest. Waterworld is relatively entertaining but can drag on a little bit, it’s pretty original with a few big names in it also.
K this one is not as bad as Waterworld but the Waterworld guy’s roommate is obsessed with Speed. Just the original he’s not a fan of the sequel. Just like his roommate if you ever ask what movie he wants to put in it’s always Speed. Now Speed is a relatively good movie and has some pretty good quotable moments and a few big names in it. He was disappointed with the sequel and even pretends it never happened. He’s a pretty big movie buff and doesn’t appreciate when a cast is changed in a second installment. Replacing Keeanu Reeves in the sequel crushed him.
If you’re looking for a movie that wouldn’t normally come to mind when you’re thinking of what to watch check out one of these. I don’t mind watching either of them but not everyday as these boys suggest. Waterworld is relatively entertaining but can drag on a little bit, it’s pretty original with a few big names in it also.
Thursday, February 26, 2009
Trilogy Sunday
Over the past couple of weekends my group of friends and I have started a new think we like to call Trilogy Sunday. I mean sure we're still in school so some of us feel the need to actually get work done during the weekends but doesn't mean you have to sacrifice trilogy Sunday. Since so much time and devotion go into a trilogy Sunday but I myself make sure to take advantage of this potential time for multitasking. Let’s say the average of a trilogy movie and the time to change the movies plus the bathroom breaks is about an hour and forty-five minutes to two hours. this means the total time spent relaxing/"homeworking" is about five and a half to sixe hours of movies! Love it!
So far we've done trilogy Sunday with the Bourne movies, Lord of the Rings, Star Wars (IV, V, VI due to great dislike among many of the viewers for the new installments), and the Blades. Talk about a long day the Lord of the Rings Sunday involved lots and lots of bathroom breaks, two means, and a lot of homework. The meals however made the day that much better. One of my friends offered to cook us a fantastic breakfast of eggs and sausage followed by an intermission of burgers during the break between the second and this film. Very good combination for an excellent day of movies.
Lounging around eight of us all together in one room was very nice and Sundays are a great time for all of us to unwind from the weekend. If three movies in one day is too much though try breaking it up do one movie a weekend and that will give you the next installment the upcoming weekend to look forward to. Give it a try! Enjoy!
So far we've done trilogy Sunday with the Bourne movies, Lord of the Rings, Star Wars (IV, V, VI due to great dislike among many of the viewers for the new installments), and the Blades. Talk about a long day the Lord of the Rings Sunday involved lots and lots of bathroom breaks, two means, and a lot of homework. The meals however made the day that much better. One of my friends offered to cook us a fantastic breakfast of eggs and sausage followed by an intermission of burgers during the break between the second and this film. Very good combination for an excellent day of movies.
Lounging around eight of us all together in one room was very nice and Sundays are a great time for all of us to unwind from the weekend. If three movies in one day is too much though try breaking it up do one movie a weekend and that will give you the next installment the upcoming weekend to look forward to. Give it a try! Enjoy!
Tuesday, February 24, 2009
The Strategies of a Sequel
Today in my management class we were talking about how the movie industry loves to make sequels, prequels, etc, etc.. And I guess I never really thought about the business point of view on why they do that. I naively just thought they wanted to keep us watching and happy and continue the story for our enjoyment. Turns out the keep us watching part is what it’s all about.
Once a movie is made its kind of up in the air if its going to be as popular as the producers and everyone involved in the filming think its going to be. Once it hits the box office and the numbers start coming in they can tell. Then from there if the movie wins a lot of awards and gets a lot of good recognition sometimes there are talks of a sequel. Why would they do this from a strategic side? They already have a niche in the population that loved the movie won’t these people want to see another installment of it so they can make even more money off of it. The second time around they tend to spend more money and really live up whatever made the movie popular in the first place. If it’s the action scenes they throw in a few more of those, if it’s the romance they throw in a few more of that, etc.
They are hoping the niche they captured with the first film along with the publicity from winning all the awards and having great reviews and media coverage will intrigue even more people to come see the second movie. The trick is they have to leave an ending so that there can be a second movie. Take for instance, Titanic, won movie of the year and tons and tons of awards back in the 90’s. Unfortunately they didn’t leave an ending that would allow for them to make a sequel. Bet they’re kicking themselves now because had they not had Jack fall to the bottom of the ocean again a sequel most likely would have also been a hit. I think in this case though its good they left the name Titanic untarnished, if you will, from being followed by potentially bad sequels or prequels.
Once a movie is made its kind of up in the air if its going to be as popular as the producers and everyone involved in the filming think its going to be. Once it hits the box office and the numbers start coming in they can tell. Then from there if the movie wins a lot of awards and gets a lot of good recognition sometimes there are talks of a sequel. Why would they do this from a strategic side? They already have a niche in the population that loved the movie won’t these people want to see another installment of it so they can make even more money off of it. The second time around they tend to spend more money and really live up whatever made the movie popular in the first place. If it’s the action scenes they throw in a few more of those, if it’s the romance they throw in a few more of that, etc.
They are hoping the niche they captured with the first film along with the publicity from winning all the awards and having great reviews and media coverage will intrigue even more people to come see the second movie. The trick is they have to leave an ending so that there can be a second movie. Take for instance, Titanic, won movie of the year and tons and tons of awards back in the 90’s. Unfortunately they didn’t leave an ending that would allow for them to make a sequel. Bet they’re kicking themselves now because had they not had Jack fall to the bottom of the ocean again a sequel most likely would have also been a hit. I think in this case though its good they left the name Titanic untarnished, if you will, from being followed by potentially bad sequels or prequels.
It's Tuesday AGAIN!
It’s Tuesday again which of course means new movies are coming to DVD. This week there aren’t too many coming out and none of which I’ve really heard of. Let’s see there is Mr. Average (2009), The Librarian: Curse of the Judas Chalice (2009), Vanishing Point [Blu-ray] (2009), Take (2009), Broken Windows (2009), Freezer Burn: The Invasion of Laxdale (2009), Summer Heights High (2009), and Sex Drive (2009). I have only heard of Take because of Minnie Drivers nomination for an Academy Award for her role in the film.
Vantage Point stars Barry Newman who appeared in 40 Days and 40 Nights in 2002 as Walter Sullivan a rather small role in the film. In Vanishing Point however he plays a driver who bets he can drive a Dodge Challenger from Denver to San Francisco in 15 hours. Amazon.com’s review points out that the movie doesn’t make much sense but the car chases and stunt work are stunningly set against the American west. Just from looking at reviews it seems like Vantage Point is probably the best watch for the movies coming out this week.
Take is directed by Charles Oliver starring Minnie Driver as Ana, a mother struggling to raise a sever year old child with special needs. Ana teams up with Saul a gambling addict without a future trying to escape dire consequences any way he can.
There is not very much credible information about these movies. Hopefully next month there will be some bigger titles coming out. Check back in a couple days for updates on what to look for coming out in March!
Vantage Point stars Barry Newman who appeared in 40 Days and 40 Nights in 2002 as Walter Sullivan a rather small role in the film. In Vanishing Point however he plays a driver who bets he can drive a Dodge Challenger from Denver to San Francisco in 15 hours. Amazon.com’s review points out that the movie doesn’t make much sense but the car chases and stunt work are stunningly set against the American west. Just from looking at reviews it seems like Vantage Point is probably the best watch for the movies coming out this week.
Take is directed by Charles Oliver starring Minnie Driver as Ana, a mother struggling to raise a sever year old child with special needs. Ana teams up with Saul a gambling addict without a future trying to escape dire consequences any way he can.
There is not very much credible information about these movies. Hopefully next month there will be some bigger titles coming out. Check back in a couple days for updates on what to look for coming out in March!
Monday, February 23, 2009
The Greatest Game Ever Played
I don’t know if I’ve mentioned this before but I’m a huge fan of Shia LaBeouf! He’s a great actor and I cannot wait to watch what else he has in store for future roles. One of the Walt Disney movies he’s done is The Greatest Game Ever Played made in 2005. A light hearted film about golf and following your dreams set back in 1913.
Shia plays a boy named Francis Ouimet, the son of a poor man who doesn’t believe that Francis’ obsession with golf will ever lead to anything but disappointment. As a caddy at the local golf course he becomes known for his amateur skills but promises his father that he will get a real job, work hard, and bring home the money. In 1913 however when the U.S. Open comes into town he is offered an amateur players spot and against his fathers wishes he decides to take this once in a lifetime offer. His opponents in the U.S. Open are British champions Harry Vardon and Ted Ray who are considered to be the world’s best golfers. His mother cannot help but support him in his quest to beat two known men but has to do so at a distance as to not disrespect the wishes of her husband.
Along with Shia LaBeouf the cast includes Stephen Dillane as Harry Vardon. Dillane most recently played Thomas Jefferson in 2008’s John Adams. Josh Flitter plays Eddie Lowery, Ouimet’s young caddy during the open. Lowery was most recently heard in Horton Hears A Who alongside Jim Carrey and Steve Carell.
The film is based on the true story of the amateur golf caddy Ouimet who took on two household names golfers at the 1913 U. S. Open and showed them what he’s made of. Rent it, Enjoy it!
Shia plays a boy named Francis Ouimet, the son of a poor man who doesn’t believe that Francis’ obsession with golf will ever lead to anything but disappointment. As a caddy at the local golf course he becomes known for his amateur skills but promises his father that he will get a real job, work hard, and bring home the money. In 1913 however when the U.S. Open comes into town he is offered an amateur players spot and against his fathers wishes he decides to take this once in a lifetime offer. His opponents in the U.S. Open are British champions Harry Vardon and Ted Ray who are considered to be the world’s best golfers. His mother cannot help but support him in his quest to beat two known men but has to do so at a distance as to not disrespect the wishes of her husband.
Along with Shia LaBeouf the cast includes Stephen Dillane as Harry Vardon. Dillane most recently played Thomas Jefferson in 2008’s John Adams. Josh Flitter plays Eddie Lowery, Ouimet’s young caddy during the open. Lowery was most recently heard in Horton Hears A Who alongside Jim Carrey and Steve Carell.
The film is based on the true story of the amateur golf caddy Ouimet who took on two household names golfers at the 1913 U. S. Open and showed them what he’s made of. Rent it, Enjoy it!
Oscars
Wow! So last night was the Oscars and Slumdog Millionaire really came out on top. They won 8 awards, although it is not the record it is pretty impressive. The record is shared by three movies who have won the highest number of Oscars for one movie: Ben-Hur (1952), Titanic (1997), and Lord of the Rings Return of the King (2003). The anticipation of Titanic’s wins at the Oscars made 1998’s Oscars the most viewed showing.
Heath Ledger won last night for best supporting actor for his role as the Joker in The Dark Knight. His Oscar was accepted by his mother, father, and sister who were accepting on behalf of his daughter Matilda. It was not a surprise that Ledger won his work as the Joker was unmatched and will remain a great role to look up to in the industry.
Other winners include:
Best Picture: Slumdog Millionaire
Best Director: Danny Boyle Slumdog Millionaire
Best Actor: Sean Penn Milk
Best Actress: Kate Winslet The Reader
Best Supporting Actor: Heath Ledger The Dark Knight
Best Supporting Actress: Vicky Christina Barcelona
Best Animated Feature: Wall-E
Best Foreign Film: Departures – Japan
Best Original Screenplay: Milk Dustin Lance Black
Best Adapted Screenplay: Slumdog Millionaire Simon Beaufov
Best Documentary Feature: Man on Wire
Best Original Score: Slumdog Millionaire
Best Original Song: Slumdog Millionaire
Best Film Editing: Slumdog Millionaire
Best Documentary – Short Subject: Smile Pinki
Best Cinematography: Slumdog Millionaire Anthony Dod Mantle
Best Costume Design: The Duchess Michael O’Connor
Best Sound Mixing: Slumdog Millionaire
Best Sound Editing: The Dark Knight Richard King
Best Live Action Short Film: Spielzeugland (Toyland)
Best Animated Short Film: La Maison de Petits Cubes
Best Makeup: The Curious Case of Benjamin Button
Best Art Direction: The Curious Case of Benjamin Button
Best Visual Effects: The Curious Case of Benjamin Button
The set of the production was incredible. It has the bandstand 50’s feel to it and great music. The crystal screen they had that framed the stage was phenomenally beautiful giving the stage a very elegant feel. Hugh Jackman hosted, who I’m a huge fan of, I did however think he was trying a bit too much to be humorous but it takes a lot for the humor to come natural to a more serious actor. The presenters were kept a secret until airtime which I honestly hadn’t noticed until I heard they had a new way of presenting the awards. For categories such as best actor, best actress, and best supporting for each they had five previous winners introduce each of the nominees. What an honor it would be to have an actress or actor respected greatly for their work introduce you as a current nominee. It added to the elegance and the beauty of the night to see all the actors appreciate the work of one another. I have great respect for the academy and all the cast and crew that goes into putting together an event such as the Oscars for the 81st time.
Heath Ledger won last night for best supporting actor for his role as the Joker in The Dark Knight. His Oscar was accepted by his mother, father, and sister who were accepting on behalf of his daughter Matilda. It was not a surprise that Ledger won his work as the Joker was unmatched and will remain a great role to look up to in the industry.
Other winners include:
Best Picture: Slumdog Millionaire
Best Director: Danny Boyle Slumdog Millionaire
Best Actor: Sean Penn Milk
Best Actress: Kate Winslet The Reader
Best Supporting Actor: Heath Ledger The Dark Knight
Best Supporting Actress: Vicky Christina Barcelona
Best Animated Feature: Wall-E
Best Foreign Film: Departures – Japan
Best Original Screenplay: Milk Dustin Lance Black
Best Adapted Screenplay: Slumdog Millionaire Simon Beaufov
Best Documentary Feature: Man on Wire
Best Original Score: Slumdog Millionaire
Best Original Song: Slumdog Millionaire
Best Film Editing: Slumdog Millionaire
Best Documentary – Short Subject: Smile Pinki
Best Cinematography: Slumdog Millionaire Anthony Dod Mantle
Best Costume Design: The Duchess Michael O’Connor
Best Sound Mixing: Slumdog Millionaire
Best Sound Editing: The Dark Knight Richard King
Best Live Action Short Film: Spielzeugland (Toyland)
Best Animated Short Film: La Maison de Petits Cubes
Best Makeup: The Curious Case of Benjamin Button
Best Art Direction: The Curious Case of Benjamin Button
Best Visual Effects: The Curious Case of Benjamin Button
The set of the production was incredible. It has the bandstand 50’s feel to it and great music. The crystal screen they had that framed the stage was phenomenally beautiful giving the stage a very elegant feel. Hugh Jackman hosted, who I’m a huge fan of, I did however think he was trying a bit too much to be humorous but it takes a lot for the humor to come natural to a more serious actor. The presenters were kept a secret until airtime which I honestly hadn’t noticed until I heard they had a new way of presenting the awards. For categories such as best actor, best actress, and best supporting for each they had five previous winners introduce each of the nominees. What an honor it would be to have an actress or actor respected greatly for their work introduce you as a current nominee. It added to the elegance and the beauty of the night to see all the actors appreciate the work of one another. I have great respect for the academy and all the cast and crew that goes into putting together an event such as the Oscars for the 81st time.
Sunday, February 22, 2009
He's Just Not That into You
He’s Just Not That into You, a self improvement book written by Greg Behrendt and Liz Tuccillo published in 2004 came to the silver screen early in 2009. The book was named a New York Times best seller and has been very popular among women of all ages. Over the weekend my mom, sister, and I went to the see movie since we had heard nothing but good reviews about it from all of our friends. Even some guy friends suggested we saw it after they were dragged there over Valentines Day weekend to see it with their girlfriends, it even made the guys laugh at how true it was.
He’s Just Not That into You was stacked with famous actors. At every new introduction of a character it was like oh my gosh I didn’t know they were in this! The film follows the lives of a handful of girls who each need a wake-up call on reading signals from guys. The cast included: Jennifer Aniston, Drew Barrymore, Ben Affleck, Ginnifer Goodwin, Jennifer Connelly, Scarlett Johansson, Justin Long, Bradley Cooper, Kevin Connolly, and Leonardo Nam. Each of whom although you may not know them by name were easily recognizable from their roles in other films. The cast did a phenomenal job and were incredible to watch as they worked together.
The funniest part about the movie wasn’t just the humor scattered throughout the dialog it was how true everything they were saying was. A few of my favorite quotes was from Justin Long’s character explaining to Ginnifer Goodwin, who played an over the top over analytical boy crazy looking for love in every guy kind-of-girl. Long pointed out a few things every girl should keep in mind:
1. If a guy treats you like he doesn’t give a sh*t, it’s because he doesn’t give a sh*t.
2. An excuse is a polite rejection. Men are not afraid of ‘ruining the friendship.’
3. If you can find him, then he can find you. If he wants to find you, he will.
4. Men don’t forget how much they like you, so put down the phone.
All of these points make the movie that much funnier because girls know they have all been in this position once or twice. All girls should see it, its great!
He’s Just Not That into You was stacked with famous actors. At every new introduction of a character it was like oh my gosh I didn’t know they were in this! The film follows the lives of a handful of girls who each need a wake-up call on reading signals from guys. The cast included: Jennifer Aniston, Drew Barrymore, Ben Affleck, Ginnifer Goodwin, Jennifer Connelly, Scarlett Johansson, Justin Long, Bradley Cooper, Kevin Connolly, and Leonardo Nam. Each of whom although you may not know them by name were easily recognizable from their roles in other films. The cast did a phenomenal job and were incredible to watch as they worked together.
The funniest part about the movie wasn’t just the humor scattered throughout the dialog it was how true everything they were saying was. A few of my favorite quotes was from Justin Long’s character explaining to Ginnifer Goodwin, who played an over the top over analytical boy crazy looking for love in every guy kind-of-girl. Long pointed out a few things every girl should keep in mind:
1. If a guy treats you like he doesn’t give a sh*t, it’s because he doesn’t give a sh*t.
2. An excuse is a polite rejection. Men are not afraid of ‘ruining the friendship.’
3. If you can find him, then he can find you. If he wants to find you, he will.
4. Men don’t forget how much they like you, so put down the phone.
All of these points make the movie that much funnier because girls know they have all been in this position once or twice. All girls should see it, its great!
Confessions of a Shopaholic
Over the weekend some of my girl friends and I finally went to see Confessions of a Shopaholic. The lighthearted film stars Isla Fisher, playing Rebecca Bloomwood, a shopaholic unable to tame her love for spending money on high fashion. Fisher is known for her role in Definitely, Maybe, Hot Rod, Wedding Crashers, and Horton Hears a Who. In the film Bloomwood’s boss turned love interest Luke Brandon played by Hugh Dancy. Dancy has been acting since about 2000 in roles that include Blood and Chocolate, The Jane Austen Book Club, Basic Instinct 2, Ella Enchanted, Black Hawk Down, and many others.
Set in New York City the film is about Rebecca Bloomwood, a twenty something girl unable to control her urge to spend money. Like many people she has numerous credit cards (12 to be exact) and alternates spending on each as to not reach their limits. Faced with losing her job and numerous bills to pay she sets out hunt for a job. Miraculously and ironically she lands a job with a finance magazine as a columnist on how to save money. Her wit and charm grab the attention of her young boss who cannot be happier to have found such a rare talent as Bloomwood.
While trying to keep her spending habits somewhat under control and continue to move up to being a fashion magazine columnist Bloomwood is encounters many issues. The film follows her as she attempts to keep balance between her passion to pursue her career, keep her best friend, date her boss, and keep her financial trouble a secret. While making a point about keeping priorities straight and doing what is best for you the movie keeps the audience entertained and laughing throughout most of the scenes. I thought it was funny and would recommend seeing it on a girl’s night out when you’re looking for a few laughs.
Set in New York City the film is about Rebecca Bloomwood, a twenty something girl unable to control her urge to spend money. Like many people she has numerous credit cards (12 to be exact) and alternates spending on each as to not reach their limits. Faced with losing her job and numerous bills to pay she sets out hunt for a job. Miraculously and ironically she lands a job with a finance magazine as a columnist on how to save money. Her wit and charm grab the attention of her young boss who cannot be happier to have found such a rare talent as Bloomwood.
While trying to keep her spending habits somewhat under control and continue to move up to being a fashion magazine columnist Bloomwood is encounters many issues. The film follows her as she attempts to keep balance between her passion to pursue her career, keep her best friend, date her boss, and keep her financial trouble a secret. While making a point about keeping priorities straight and doing what is best for you the movie keeps the audience entertained and laughing throughout most of the scenes. I thought it was funny and would recommend seeing it on a girl’s night out when you’re looking for a few laughs.
Tuesday, February 17, 2009
It's Tuesday!
It’s Tuesday! You know what that means??? DVD releases come out today. This week there are some big names hitting the shelves. Just in time for the awards coming up on Sunday too. If you have time you should run out and rent some of these before Sunday to see what all the hype is about at the awards. Let’s take a look at these releases.
CHANGELING: Starring Angelina Jolie and directed by Clint Eastwood
Angelina Jolie is nominated for best actress in a leading role for her part as a mother whose child goes missing and is getting the run around from the police. Set in the 1920’s the police were known for being corrupt and rather than tarnish their reputation for not being able to find the missing child insist that another child fits the description. When no one else will help only one detective steps forward for Jolie’s cause and shows genuine concern for the missing child.
Changeling looks to be an interesting movie with fun 1920’s costumes and settings.
BODY OF LIES: Starring Leonardo DiCaprio and Russell Crowe directed by Ridley Scott
The movie follows CIA agent Ferris, Leonardo DiCaprio, as he moves from location to location trying to get the terrorist behind a wave of recent attacks. He is directed by Ed Hoffman, Russell Crowe, making calls from miles away. Ferris is torn between trusting Hoffman and following his own survival knowledge.
QUARENTINE: Directed by John Erick Dowdle
The movie follows a new documenting a fire-fighting team that responds to a call in an apartment complex. Upon entering the complex they are sealed off by the government. They soon find out the residents are infected with a deadly mutant virus and they have no way to escape.
Other movies coming today include: The Midnight Meat Train, Still Waiting, One Long Night, Your Mileage May Vary, Too Saved, Choke, How to Lose Friends and Alienate People, Flash of Genius, Religulous, and Hounddog (starring Dakota Fanning).
CHANGELING: Starring Angelina Jolie and directed by Clint Eastwood
Angelina Jolie is nominated for best actress in a leading role for her part as a mother whose child goes missing and is getting the run around from the police. Set in the 1920’s the police were known for being corrupt and rather than tarnish their reputation for not being able to find the missing child insist that another child fits the description. When no one else will help only one detective steps forward for Jolie’s cause and shows genuine concern for the missing child.
Changeling looks to be an interesting movie with fun 1920’s costumes and settings.
BODY OF LIES: Starring Leonardo DiCaprio and Russell Crowe directed by Ridley Scott
The movie follows CIA agent Ferris, Leonardo DiCaprio, as he moves from location to location trying to get the terrorist behind a wave of recent attacks. He is directed by Ed Hoffman, Russell Crowe, making calls from miles away. Ferris is torn between trusting Hoffman and following his own survival knowledge.
QUARENTINE: Directed by John Erick Dowdle
The movie follows a new documenting a fire-fighting team that responds to a call in an apartment complex. Upon entering the complex they are sealed off by the government. They soon find out the residents are infected with a deadly mutant virus and they have no way to escape.
Other movies coming today include: The Midnight Meat Train, Still Waiting, One Long Night, Your Mileage May Vary, Too Saved, Choke, How to Lose Friends and Alienate People, Flash of Genius, Religulous, and Hounddog (starring Dakota Fanning).
Monday, February 16, 2009
The Oscars
Coming up on Sunday (February 22nd) are the 81st annual Academy Awards, aka the Oscars. As usual the greatest of the great are nominated and there is great competition for each of the categories. There are tons and tons of categories (24 to be exact) but here’s preview of the top categories and their nominees.
ACTOR IN A LEADING ROLE
Richard Jenkins – The Visitor
Frank Lengella – Frost/Nixon
Sean Penn – Milk
Brad Pitt – The Curious Case of Benjamin Button
Mickey Rourke – The Wrestler
ACTOR IN A SUPPORTING ROLE
Josh Brolin – Milk
Robert Downey Jr. – Tropic Thunder
Philip Seymour Hoffman – Doubt
Heath Ledger – The Dark Knight
Michael Shannon – Revolutionary Road
ACTRESS IN A LEADING ROLE
Anne Hathaway – Rachel Getting Married
Angelina Jolie – Changeling
Melissa Leo – Frozen River
Meryl Streep – Doubt
Kate Winslet – The Reader
ACTRESS IN A SUPPORTING ROLE
Amy Adams – Doubt
Penelope Cruz – Vicky Cristina Barcelona
Viola Davis – Doubt
Taraji P. Henson – The Curious Case of Benjamin Button
Marisa Tomei – The Wrestler
ANIMATED FEATURE FILM
Bolt
Kung Fu Panda
Wall-E
ART DIRECTION
Changeling
The Curious Case of Benjamin Button
The Dark Knight
The Duchess
Revolutionary Road
CINEMATOGRAPHY
Changeling
The Curious Case of Benjamin Button
The Dark Knight
The Reader
Slumdog Millionaire
DIRECTING
The Curious Case of Benjamin Button
Frost/Nixon
Milk
The Reader
Slumdog Millionaire
MUSIC (SCORE)
The Curious Case of Benjamin Button
Defiance
Milk
Slumdog Millionaire
Wall-E
BEST PICTURE
The Curious Case of Benjamin Button
Frost/Nixon
Milk
The Reader
Slumdog Millionaire
VISUAL EFFECTS
The Curious Case of Benjamin Button
The Dark Knight
Iron Man
Wow just looking over those lists makes me realize how many movies I have to see. These movies don’t come out on DVD until after the awards shows but I definitely need to make time for them when the all hit the shelves. It always seems like the good movies I want to see all come out at the same time, of course!
ACTOR IN A LEADING ROLE
Richard Jenkins – The Visitor
Frank Lengella – Frost/Nixon
Sean Penn – Milk
Brad Pitt – The Curious Case of Benjamin Button
Mickey Rourke – The Wrestler
ACTOR IN A SUPPORTING ROLE
Josh Brolin – Milk
Robert Downey Jr. – Tropic Thunder
Philip Seymour Hoffman – Doubt
Heath Ledger – The Dark Knight
Michael Shannon – Revolutionary Road
ACTRESS IN A LEADING ROLE
Anne Hathaway – Rachel Getting Married
Angelina Jolie – Changeling
Melissa Leo – Frozen River
Meryl Streep – Doubt
Kate Winslet – The Reader
ACTRESS IN A SUPPORTING ROLE
Amy Adams – Doubt
Penelope Cruz – Vicky Cristina Barcelona
Viola Davis – Doubt
Taraji P. Henson – The Curious Case of Benjamin Button
Marisa Tomei – The Wrestler
ANIMATED FEATURE FILM
Bolt
Kung Fu Panda
Wall-E
ART DIRECTION
Changeling
The Curious Case of Benjamin Button
The Dark Knight
The Duchess
Revolutionary Road
CINEMATOGRAPHY
Changeling
The Curious Case of Benjamin Button
The Dark Knight
The Reader
Slumdog Millionaire
DIRECTING
The Curious Case of Benjamin Button
Frost/Nixon
Milk
The Reader
Slumdog Millionaire
MUSIC (SCORE)
The Curious Case of Benjamin Button
Defiance
Milk
Slumdog Millionaire
Wall-E
BEST PICTURE
The Curious Case of Benjamin Button
Frost/Nixon
Milk
The Reader
Slumdog Millionaire
VISUAL EFFECTS
The Curious Case of Benjamin Button
The Dark Knight
Iron Man
Wow just looking over those lists makes me realize how many movies I have to see. These movies don’t come out on DVD until after the awards shows but I definitely need to make time for them when the all hit the shelves. It always seems like the good movies I want to see all come out at the same time, of course!
Max Payne, Nick and Nora's, 88 Minutes
I usually try to use Sundays for getting homework done and being really productive. I’ve become pretty good at being able to turn on a movie, listen to the dialog, and be able to work on other things at the same time. I can tell when I should look up and watch what’s going on but this way I get to watch movies and do work. Yesterday, I decided to rent three movies from Redbox that I had not seen: Max Payne, Nick and Nora’s Infinite Playlist, and 88 Minutes. When I saw the previews for Max Payne I knew instantly that it probably wasn’t a movie I was going to see in theaters. However, the previews for Nick and Nora’s Infinite Playlist and 88 Minutes caught my interest and I intended to see them in theaters but never had the time.
I was pretty impressed with Nick and Nora’s Infinite Playlist. I thought the casting was fantastic. Michael Cera plays, Nick a typical goofy awkward teenager starring who by chance meets up with who unbeknown to him is his perfect girl. Nora, played by Kat Dennings, has been in films such as Raise Your Voice and The 40 Year-Old Virgin. The pair is entertaining, awkward, and goofy all at the same time. Check it out it’s a fun watch!
Max Payne, an action film based on the video game that game out in 2001 stars Mark Wahlberg and Mila Kunis. Kunis plays Jackie in the hit television show That 70s Show. The movie has a lot of action and is non stop. It takes some imagination to follow the plot and keep up with Payne on his quest for revenge on his family’s murderers.
88 Minutes starring Al Pacino and numerous other recognizable faces from television and films is an action suspense film following Pacino’s character as his life is threatened with only 88 minutes to live. Overall I liked the movie I just thought that the movie was a bit predictable. Check it out though!
I was pretty impressed with Nick and Nora’s Infinite Playlist. I thought the casting was fantastic. Michael Cera plays, Nick a typical goofy awkward teenager starring who by chance meets up with who unbeknown to him is his perfect girl. Nora, played by Kat Dennings, has been in films such as Raise Your Voice and The 40 Year-Old Virgin. The pair is entertaining, awkward, and goofy all at the same time. Check it out it’s a fun watch!
Max Payne, an action film based on the video game that game out in 2001 stars Mark Wahlberg and Mila Kunis. Kunis plays Jackie in the hit television show That 70s Show. The movie has a lot of action and is non stop. It takes some imagination to follow the plot and keep up with Payne on his quest for revenge on his family’s murderers.
88 Minutes starring Al Pacino and numerous other recognizable faces from television and films is an action suspense film following Pacino’s character as his life is threatened with only 88 minutes to live. Overall I liked the movie I just thought that the movie was a bit predictable. Check it out though!
Sunday, February 15, 2009
More Articles I'm Writing
I’m working on some more articles for my website this month. I already have the article about Movie Genres, I also mentioned it in one of my posts in January. There are three that are works in progress right now but you should check them out. Here’s a preview of what I’m working on.
Silent Films: Silent films have long since been made and I’m willing to bet few people have thought of watching these old classics lately. They were successful in their time and deserve another look. The article will include information about silent films and a list of some films I think you should check out.
Tim Burton: Director of movies such as The Nightmare Before Christmas, Sleepy Hallow, and Sweeney Todd. Burton has been directing, screenwriting, and producing films since the beginning of the 1980’s developing a unique sense of style.
Morgan Freeman: A famous actor known for his outstanding talents on screen, as well as, a voice over in films and documentaries. He’s played many memorable roles in all different genres. Unlike some actors he does not have a ‘typical’ role that he plays but rather a great collection of many roles. He’s played just about every role you can imagine good guys, bad guys, and everything in between.
As I mentioned these pieces are works in progress and will be finished sometime before the end of February. I’ve also added some movies of Tim Burtons and Morgan Freemans I recommend you check out at the above links with the articles! Enjoy checking out th work of these great men!
Silent Films: Silent films have long since been made and I’m willing to bet few people have thought of watching these old classics lately. They were successful in their time and deserve another look. The article will include information about silent films and a list of some films I think you should check out.
Tim Burton: Director of movies such as The Nightmare Before Christmas, Sleepy Hallow, and Sweeney Todd. Burton has been directing, screenwriting, and producing films since the beginning of the 1980’s developing a unique sense of style.
Morgan Freeman: A famous actor known for his outstanding talents on screen, as well as, a voice over in films and documentaries. He’s played many memorable roles in all different genres. Unlike some actors he does not have a ‘typical’ role that he plays but rather a great collection of many roles. He’s played just about every role you can imagine good guys, bad guys, and everything in between.
As I mentioned these pieces are works in progress and will be finished sometime before the end of February. I’ve also added some movies of Tim Burtons and Morgan Freemans I recommend you check out at the above links with the articles! Enjoy checking out th work of these great men!
Previews
I love previews I really do, I absolutely love them. Sounds crazy I know people are always like ‘Oh its okay if we are a few minutes late to the movie, we’ll just miss the previews.’ Ha just missing the previews is not cool! They mesmerize me, I used to want to move to Hollywood and have a career with a studio making previews. The people who make them have the potential to make or break a movie, to draw the attention of views and help make the movie a hit. The talent it takes to choose the most captivating parts of the movie, remain discrete about the ending of the movie, peak the interest of the potential viewers, adding enough suspense, and choosing the right music. The profession is overrated and rarely gets any attention in movies themselves. The only movie that comes to mind that actually features the profession is The Holiday starring Cameron Diaz, a producer of movie previews.
Even on DVDs I don’t just skip right to the menu, unless of course it’s a movie I own and I’ve seen the outdated previews numerous times, I actually watch the previews. They are an effective way of getting me to run right back to the movie store, return the movies I’ve just watched, and get one of the ones I just saw the previews for. They’re a nice reminder of movies you may have forgotten you wanted to see.
For instance, I’m an on again off again fan of Keanu Reeves. I just put Max Payne into my DVD player and first preview is for Reeves movie The Day the Earth Stood Still. It didn’t get too much attention in the papers or online but because I saw the previews it peaked my interest in the movie. I remember thinking about how I once had interest in seeing it but forgot about it, until now.
Even on DVDs I don’t just skip right to the menu, unless of course it’s a movie I own and I’ve seen the outdated previews numerous times, I actually watch the previews. They are an effective way of getting me to run right back to the movie store, return the movies I’ve just watched, and get one of the ones I just saw the previews for. They’re a nice reminder of movies you may have forgotten you wanted to see.
For instance, I’m an on again off again fan of Keanu Reeves. I just put Max Payne into my DVD player and first preview is for Reeves movie The Day the Earth Stood Still. It didn’t get too much attention in the papers or online but because I saw the previews it peaked my interest in the movie. I remember thinking about how I once had interest in seeing it but forgot about it, until now.
Friday, February 13, 2009
Redbox
In one of my previous posts I mentioned Redbox. It’s a great company that has been becoming more and more popular. The premise behind their company is allowing customers to rent movies, mainly new releases, at a cheap price for however long they’d like. To rent a DVD for one night it only costs $1 and the movie is due back the next day by 9pm. The company now has over 12, 000 locations throughout the United States. A great feature of the company is that the DVD’s can be returned at any of these 12,000 locations. Very convenient.
Another great feature of Redbox is that you can create an account online and use this account connected with our credit card number to reserve movies online and pick them up at the location nearest to you. If after 25 days without returning the movie the movie is yours to keep for that $25 paid $1 each day for the movie.
Redbox has an option for companies that serve over 15,000 customers a week are eligible for having a Redbox at their location. Redbox has a blog on their website with topics featured such as: award shows, behind the scenes, box office blabber, DVD Reviews, for your consideration, from the critic, Hollywood chatter, hum along, in my humble opinion, in theaters, news, other bits, shiny objects, tease me, the Rocchi files, and threes.
Redbox is a great idea for anytime you’ve wanted to see a movie and don’t feel like paying a lot of money to see it once. It’s easy to find, easy to rend, very cheap, and available to anyone with a credit card. They offer credit card protection and security for their machines and their online purchases. Definitely should check out the website and visit a location near you!
Another great feature of Redbox is that you can create an account online and use this account connected with our credit card number to reserve movies online and pick them up at the location nearest to you. If after 25 days without returning the movie the movie is yours to keep for that $25 paid $1 each day for the movie.
Redbox has an option for companies that serve over 15,000 customers a week are eligible for having a Redbox at their location. Redbox has a blog on their website with topics featured such as: award shows, behind the scenes, box office blabber, DVD Reviews, for your consideration, from the critic, Hollywood chatter, hum along, in my humble opinion, in theaters, news, other bits, shiny objects, tease me, the Rocchi files, and threes.
Redbox is a great idea for anytime you’ve wanted to see a movie and don’t feel like paying a lot of money to see it once. It’s easy to find, easy to rend, very cheap, and available to anyone with a credit card. They offer credit card protection and security for their machines and their online purchases. Definitely should check out the website and visit a location near you!
Thursday, January 29, 2009
February New To DVD
Movies release to DVD on every Tuesday of each month. For February those dates are the 3rd, 10th, 17th, and 24th. A site I like to go to for the latest updates on the movies being released is movies.com.
On February 3rd there are a bunch of movies coming to DVD however, not all of them are big titles. The big titles being released though include Nick & Norah’s Infinite Playlist, The Secret Life of Bees, Zack and Miri Make a Porno, and Madagascar – Escape to Africa [Blu-ray]. I have seen previews for Space Buddies on TV recently which never went to theaters but is coming to DVD is one in the collection of the Air Bud and Buddies movies. This looks cute for kids in love with dogs.
On February 10th two movies from theaters are hitting the shelves: W. and Nights in Rodanthe. Also, Back to the Future, noted as one of the top trilogies in one of my previous posts is coming to DVD!
The other two Tuesdays, the 17th and the 24th, do not have big movies coming out unfortunately but that means its time to save up money for when some big titles hit the shelves in March.
My most recent great movie buys were over winter break. I bought about 8 movies in the span of a month. The Dark Knight ($14.99 at Target), Wanted ($14.99 at Target), Eagle Eye ($16.99 at Target), Jarhead, A Knights Tale, City of Angels, Michael, and XMen. I got great deals on all of these check out my website for great deals on them from Amazon.com.
On February 3rd there are a bunch of movies coming to DVD however, not all of them are big titles. The big titles being released though include Nick & Norah’s Infinite Playlist, The Secret Life of Bees, Zack and Miri Make a Porno, and Madagascar – Escape to Africa [Blu-ray]. I have seen previews for Space Buddies on TV recently which never went to theaters but is coming to DVD is one in the collection of the Air Bud and Buddies movies. This looks cute for kids in love with dogs.
On February 10th two movies from theaters are hitting the shelves: W. and Nights in Rodanthe. Also, Back to the Future, noted as one of the top trilogies in one of my previous posts is coming to DVD!
The other two Tuesdays, the 17th and the 24th, do not have big movies coming out unfortunately but that means its time to save up money for when some big titles hit the shelves in March.
My most recent great movie buys were over winter break. I bought about 8 movies in the span of a month. The Dark Knight ($14.99 at Target), Wanted ($14.99 at Target), Eagle Eye ($16.99 at Target), Jarhead, A Knights Tale, City of Angels, Michael, and XMen. I got great deals on all of these check out my website for great deals on them from Amazon.com.
Movie Genres
One of the articles I was contemplating writing in my post titled “15 Pillar Articles” was an informative piece on the different movie genres. The full article is displayed on my website: http://silverscreentipster.webs.com/articles.htm . Enjoy!
When Harry Met Sally
When Harry Met Sally is a timeless romantic comedy that both men and women can relate to. Harry, played by Billy Crystal, plans to move to New York when Sally, played by Meg Ryan, joins him in Chicago to catch a ride. Over the next eleven years they become close friends forming a relationship that begins to test the question they asked themselves the first day they met in the car. “Will sex ruin a perfect relationship between a man and a woman?”
Over the years the pair enters into relationships with others. When these relationships eventually fail and they come back to one another for a shoulder to lean on. The comedic interaction between Crystal and Ryan is undeniable. Both are willing to go as far as it takes to make the film the quirky comedy it ends up being. Things get tough for the pair when they decide to sleep together and realize that things do change when sex enters the relationship. Their perceptions on what the night together meant causes an awkward interaction between the two pushing them apart. While everyone on the outside of their relationship can see that they belong together, a familiar plot point to romantic films, they continue to deny the attraction.
I’m not going to spoil the ending but this one is a classic. Check out my site and see how you can get it for cheap on Amazon.com. Also, check out this article I found online about how a chance encounter through a roommate can spark a love romance that, although it takes years to realize, is true love. http://thegoodbadanduglyofroommates.webs.com/whenharrymetsally.htm
Over the years the pair enters into relationships with others. When these relationships eventually fail and they come back to one another for a shoulder to lean on. The comedic interaction between Crystal and Ryan is undeniable. Both are willing to go as far as it takes to make the film the quirky comedy it ends up being. Things get tough for the pair when they decide to sleep together and realize that things do change when sex enters the relationship. Their perceptions on what the night together meant causes an awkward interaction between the two pushing them apart. While everyone on the outside of their relationship can see that they belong together, a familiar plot point to romantic films, they continue to deny the attraction.
I’m not going to spoil the ending but this one is a classic. Check out my site and see how you can get it for cheap on Amazon.com. Also, check out this article I found online about how a chance encounter through a roommate can spark a love romance that, although it takes years to realize, is true love. http://thegoodbadanduglyofroommates.webs.com/whenharrymetsally.htm
The Movie Fan
Some college towns have little movie resources accessible to students who live on campus with little means of transportation. At the university where I go to school we have a very convenient reasonably priced movie rental store just down the street from the quad. The Movie Fan. It has been around since 1995 and offers over 15,000 different movies to their customers. Conveniently located downtown just a block from the nearest dormitory The Movie Fan offers thousands of hours of entertainment to students and community members.
The store is up to date on the new releases and prides their collection on having most any movie you could think of. They recently added an option to rent online, making them even more convenient. The website has a streaming blog updating viewers on new releases and recommending staff favorites. Naturally The Movie Fan also has a myspace page.
The prices of the Movie Fan are comparable to any other movie store the only difference is because of the high demand movies can only be rented for one night or two which are due back by 7pm. New releases are $3.25 for one day and $3.75 for two. If you rent an old release it’s a great deal: $1.50 a days and $2.00 for two days. Every Monday and Wednesday its buy one get one for new releases and Tuesday and Thursdays are rent to get one free for new releases. Everyday old movies are buy one get one free, which is a great deal!
Check out www.themoviefan.com for more information on this little movie shop serving my university’s viewing needs. You won’t regret it the service is great and the knowledge of the staff is very helpful. Hope you enjoy it!
The store is up to date on the new releases and prides their collection on having most any movie you could think of. They recently added an option to rent online, making them even more convenient. The website has a streaming blog updating viewers on new releases and recommending staff favorites. Naturally The Movie Fan also has a myspace page.
The prices of the Movie Fan are comparable to any other movie store the only difference is because of the high demand movies can only be rented for one night or two which are due back by 7pm. New releases are $3.25 for one day and $3.75 for two. If you rent an old release it’s a great deal: $1.50 a days and $2.00 for two days. Every Monday and Wednesday its buy one get one for new releases and Tuesday and Thursdays are rent to get one free for new releases. Everyday old movies are buy one get one free, which is a great deal!
Check out www.themoviefan.com for more information on this little movie shop serving my university’s viewing needs. You won’t regret it the service is great and the knowledge of the staff is very helpful. Hope you enjoy it!
Piller Ideas
I’ve been brainstorming ideas for articles I can write about on my website. These are first fifteen I’ve come up with.
1. A biography and filmography of Stephen Speilberg. One of the greatest directors a biography is timeless.
2. A write up of all the Screen Actors Guild Lifetime Achievement Award winners. This list is only added to but the past will never change.
3. All about the Oscars. A whole nights schedule and the process of the Oscars.
4. A biography and filmography of Micheal Bay, director. This information about his work so far will never change.
5. A write up about Paramount Pictures. The lifetime of the company and what movies have made then famous.
6. An article about Disney Pixar and their merger. How their merger has helped both of the companies.
7. A biography and filmography about Heath Ledger. He was an actor in the prime of his life who died too early.
8. An article on Tim Burton and his films. How they are origional and what draws people to them.
9. The movies of the 1920's. The roaring 20's and how movies played a part.
10. A biography and filmography on Morgan Freeman. His roles in film and other media.
11. This past year Jaws actor Roy Scheider passed away. A write up about the Jaws trilogy.
12. An informative article on all the genres of movies and their differences from one another.
13. A biography and filmography on Meryl Streep. She just won best actress at the SAG awards.
14. A write up about Silent Films. What made them great.
15. How the fashion in movies has changed throughout the years. Compare todays actresses such as Demi Moore and Cameron Diaz compared to Audrey Hepburn and Marilyn Monroe.
These articles are meant to be both informative and timeless. No matter when someone reads about these topics the information will be relevant and not change. For the biographies and filmographies the only way they will change is when the star adds more movies to their resume.
1. A biography and filmography of Stephen Speilberg. One of the greatest directors a biography is timeless.
2. A write up of all the Screen Actors Guild Lifetime Achievement Award winners. This list is only added to but the past will never change.
3. All about the Oscars. A whole nights schedule and the process of the Oscars.
4. A biography and filmography of Micheal Bay, director. This information about his work so far will never change.
5. A write up about Paramount Pictures. The lifetime of the company and what movies have made then famous.
6. An article about Disney Pixar and their merger. How their merger has helped both of the companies.
7. A biography and filmography about Heath Ledger. He was an actor in the prime of his life who died too early.
8. An article on Tim Burton and his films. How they are origional and what draws people to them.
9. The movies of the 1920's. The roaring 20's and how movies played a part.
10. A biography and filmography on Morgan Freeman. His roles in film and other media.
11. This past year Jaws actor Roy Scheider passed away. A write up about the Jaws trilogy.
12. An informative article on all the genres of movies and their differences from one another.
13. A biography and filmography on Meryl Streep. She just won best actress at the SAG awards.
14. A write up about Silent Films. What made them great.
15. How the fashion in movies has changed throughout the years. Compare todays actresses such as Demi Moore and Cameron Diaz compared to Audrey Hepburn and Marilyn Monroe.
These articles are meant to be both informative and timeless. No matter when someone reads about these topics the information will be relevant and not change. For the biographies and filmographies the only way they will change is when the star adds more movies to their resume.
Wednesday, January 28, 2009
Pride and Prejudice
Jane Austen has been known as one of the greatest romance authors of her time. Writing classics including Pride and Prejudice, Sense and Sensibility, Emma and many others gave her this recognition. Her novel First Impressions, which later became Pride and Prejudice has been made into a number of films. The most recent adaptation from Focus Features starred Keira Knightley. This is my favorite ‘girlie’ movie.
Knightley plays Elizabeth Bennet whose love interest Mr. Darcy is played by Matthew Macfadyen. Throughout the movie both characters are convinced they do not belong together and cannot stand one another. It’s in Elizabeth’s character not to let people in and this barrier puts a great deal of strain on their potential relationship. After much turmoil Darcy confesses his love to Ms. Bennet only to be rejected and left to walk alone in the rain. Elizabeth finally figures out that the pair belongs together and searches out Mr. Darcy.
There are two great points in this movie. First, the high hopes the audience has when Mr. Darcy is finally professing his love to Ms. Bennet. As an outsider you cannot help but cheer for the pair to end up happy together. At this point both characters know it too but miscommunication on both parts has led them to walk away from one another alone. The greatest part of the movie is the end. Spoiler alert! After the air has been cleared and Elizabeth realizes her love for Mr. Darcy she is walking through the meadow one morning unable to sleep. When she looks up from where she is walking her eyes meet a figure walking across the same meadow in her direction. Mr. Darcy. Who also cannot sleep. It’s at that point any girl in love with romance in the audience is awe struck by happy Elizabeth and Darcy are to finally be together. Definitely a must see for any girl in love with romance movies.
Knightley plays Elizabeth Bennet whose love interest Mr. Darcy is played by Matthew Macfadyen. Throughout the movie both characters are convinced they do not belong together and cannot stand one another. It’s in Elizabeth’s character not to let people in and this barrier puts a great deal of strain on their potential relationship. After much turmoil Darcy confesses his love to Ms. Bennet only to be rejected and left to walk alone in the rain. Elizabeth finally figures out that the pair belongs together and searches out Mr. Darcy.
There are two great points in this movie. First, the high hopes the audience has when Mr. Darcy is finally professing his love to Ms. Bennet. As an outsider you cannot help but cheer for the pair to end up happy together. At this point both characters know it too but miscommunication on both parts has led them to walk away from one another alone. The greatest part of the movie is the end. Spoiler alert! After the air has been cleared and Elizabeth realizes her love for Mr. Darcy she is walking through the meadow one morning unable to sleep. When she looks up from where she is walking her eyes meet a figure walking across the same meadow in her direction. Mr. Darcy. Who also cannot sleep. It’s at that point any girl in love with romance in the audience is awe struck by happy Elizabeth and Darcy are to finally be together. Definitely a must see for any girl in love with romance movies.
What Just Happened??
You know those movies that get to the credits and all of a sudden you think to yourself, "What just happened??" Yeah, sometimes those can be the best ones. Your so wrapped up in trying to figure out the topsy turvy plot line and all of a sudden its over and immediately you press the menu button and start the movie all over. Sometimes those are the best!
For instance, the movie STAY starring Ewan McGregor, Naomi Watts, and Ryan Gosling is definitely one of those movies. Ryan Gosling plays a suicidal college student who informs his psychologist Ewan McGregor that he plans on killing himself in three days. Determined not to let this happen McGregor spends the next three days figuring out Goslings secrets. With help from his girlfriend, Watts, McGregor is on a race against the clock straddling the line between life and death. The movie moves so fast and so twisting that it keeps your attention throughout the whole 99 minutes and begs you to watch it again immediately following the credits. I would definitely recommend this movie if you are looking for a good mind bending watch!
The Jacket staring Adrien Brody and Keira Knightley made in 2005 has the same effect after watching it. It stars Adrien Brody as Jack Starks, a man who knows little about himself other than the fact that he is being treated in a psychiatric facility. Jack is a Gulf War Veteran who is undergoing treatments that provide him with the information that although he is being treated in 2007 he really died in 1993. Keira Knightley provides the timeline appearing as a child in Starks 1993 images and a teen in his 2007 images. The plot takes the audience through ‘eerie events that reach beyond time, beyond fantasy, beyond life itself. Sounds confusing? Try keeping up with the movie, it’s quite a thriller!
For instance, the movie STAY starring Ewan McGregor, Naomi Watts, and Ryan Gosling is definitely one of those movies. Ryan Gosling plays a suicidal college student who informs his psychologist Ewan McGregor that he plans on killing himself in three days. Determined not to let this happen McGregor spends the next three days figuring out Goslings secrets. With help from his girlfriend, Watts, McGregor is on a race against the clock straddling the line between life and death. The movie moves so fast and so twisting that it keeps your attention throughout the whole 99 minutes and begs you to watch it again immediately following the credits. I would definitely recommend this movie if you are looking for a good mind bending watch!
The Jacket staring Adrien Brody and Keira Knightley made in 2005 has the same effect after watching it. It stars Adrien Brody as Jack Starks, a man who knows little about himself other than the fact that he is being treated in a psychiatric facility. Jack is a Gulf War Veteran who is undergoing treatments that provide him with the information that although he is being treated in 2007 he really died in 1993. Keira Knightley provides the timeline appearing as a child in Starks 1993 images and a teen in his 2007 images. The plot takes the audience through ‘eerie events that reach beyond time, beyond fantasy, beyond life itself. Sounds confusing? Try keeping up with the movie, it’s quite a thriller!
Monday, January 26, 2009
The SAG Awards
Last night was the Screen Actors Guild Awards honoring the best actors and actresses from both film and television. Although I haven’t seen all the movies that were nominated for awards I’m familiar with the actors and their abilities. Sean Penn, a phenomenal actor in everything he does, won best actor for his role as Charlie Milk in Milk. I have yet to see the movie but from all the work Penn has done over the years and the recognition he has received for the part live little doubt that he deserves it. Meryl Streep won best actress for her role as a catholic school principal in Doubt.
Other winners included:
Best supporting actor - Heath Ledger (The Dark Knight)
Best supporting actress - Kate Winslet (The Reader)
Best ensemble cast - Slumdog Millionaire
Best stunt ensemble - The Dark Knight
Best actor (drama) - Hugh Laurie (House)
Best actress (drama) - Sally Field (Brothers & Sisters)
Best actor (comedy) - Alec Baldwin (30 Rock)
Best actress (comedy) - Tina Fey (30 Rock)
Best actor (TV movie or mini-series) - Paul Giamatti (John Adams)
Best actress (TV movie or mini-series) - Laura Linney (John Adams)
Best drama ensemble - Mad Men
Best comedy ensemble - 30 Rock
Best stunt ensemble - Heroes
James Earl Jones, known for his recognizable voice as Mufasa in Disney’s the Lion King, received the Lifetime achievement award.
The amazing thing about The SAG Awards is the actors are voting for the actors. It’s not the fans, the writers, the directors, or anyone else. The actors are being recognized by their peers for the great work they do.
Meryl Streep last night said, “There is no such thing as the best actress. There is no such thing as the greatest living actress. I’m in the position where I have secret information where I know this to be true. I’m so in awe for the work of the women this year. Nominated, not nominates. The work of us girls. And everybody wins when we get parts like this.” Watching Streeps acceptance gives a little insight into how much the actors appreciate one another and truly admire eachother.
Other winners included:
Best supporting actor - Heath Ledger (The Dark Knight)
Best supporting actress - Kate Winslet (The Reader)
Best ensemble cast - Slumdog Millionaire
Best stunt ensemble - The Dark Knight
Best actor (drama) - Hugh Laurie (House)
Best actress (drama) - Sally Field (Brothers & Sisters)
Best actor (comedy) - Alec Baldwin (30 Rock)
Best actress (comedy) - Tina Fey (30 Rock)
Best actor (TV movie or mini-series) - Paul Giamatti (John Adams)
Best actress (TV movie or mini-series) - Laura Linney (John Adams)
Best drama ensemble - Mad Men
Best comedy ensemble - 30 Rock
Best stunt ensemble - Heroes
James Earl Jones, known for his recognizable voice as Mufasa in Disney’s the Lion King, received the Lifetime achievement award.
The amazing thing about The SAG Awards is the actors are voting for the actors. It’s not the fans, the writers, the directors, or anyone else. The actors are being recognized by their peers for the great work they do.
Meryl Streep last night said, “There is no such thing as the best actress. There is no such thing as the greatest living actress. I’m in the position where I have secret information where I know this to be true. I’m so in awe for the work of the women this year. Nominated, not nominates. The work of us girls. And everybody wins when we get parts like this.” Watching Streeps acceptance gives a little insight into how much the actors appreciate one another and truly admire eachother.
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