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!
Thursday, February 26, 2009
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!
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