The only film I have high expectations for is Wendy and Lucy, even though I didn't much care for Old Joy. The only other thing worth seeing in a theater here appears to be The Wrestler. I'm not watching Revolutionary Road until I re-read the book, and who knows when that'll be.
I liked Old Joy but Wendy and Lucy kinda looks like if Juno got an abortion, ran away from home, was robbed of her powers of snark and left for dead.
Anyone seen any good ones so far? I saw Arnaud Desplechin's A Christmas Tale and really liked it, and Milk and loved it.
I'll go ahead and answer the question nobody asked:
1) Milk-E
2) Knight Getting Married
3) Man on Rachel
4) Dark Wire Wall
5) The
Wendy and Lucy was great. Michelle Williams is very good.
I liked A Christmas Tale fine, but I can't say that I loved it. Solid performances. Didn't care for the odd visuals. And what, really, is Desplechin saying about the chaotic, neurotic family during the holidays that we haven't seen a million times before? If anything, the depiction of the home, the colorful characters etc, is more like a middleclass fantasy of the bourgeoisie.
Wendy and Lucy was great. Michelle Williams is very good.
I liked A Christmas Tale fine, but I can't say that I loved it. Solid performances. Didn't care for the odd visuals. And what, really, is Desplechin saying about the chaotic, neurotic family during the holidays that we haven't seen a million times before? If anything, the depiction of the home, the colorful characters etc, is more like a middleclass fantasy of the bourgeoisie.
Yeah, that's true, it was pretty much Fanny and Alexander with some visual references to Hitchcock and Godard and probably some other stuff I'm too much of a cinedummy to have picked up on. Kings & Queen was unequivocally a better movie. Still, I get a little jumpy around the "this story's been told a million times before" argument, because the same can be said about any story. Though I have also said this about family dramas, and had it said about the one family drama I've ever written (or probably will ever write).
I just found out about Coraline (http://www.coraline.com/). It's directed by Henry Selick, the director of a Nightmare before Christmas. Ka-razy flash website but the film looks good.
...and it's got Hodgman in it.
I'm curious about both Frost/Nixon and Milk but I also have my reservations. Milk, in particular, is a tough decision. On the plus side, I'm interested in the subject matter and I loved the Harvey Milk documentary from the 80s, but on the other side are the facts that I don't generally like biopics, I don't generally like Gus Van Sant films, and the fact that Penn (who I generally like as an actor) seems to be unnecessarily "gaying it up" (for lack of a better term) based on the clips in the previews.
Speaking of winter movies, I watched My Winnipeg today. Nothing but ice and snow. Predictably, I loved it (but it took about 20 minutes to really kick into gear).
I'm curious about both Frost/Nixon and Milk but I also have my reservations. Milk, in particular, is a tough decision. On the plus side, I'm interested in the subject matter and I loved the Harvey Milk documentary from the 80s, but on the other side are the facts that I don't generally like biopics, I don't generally like Gus Van Sant films, and the fact that Penn (who I generally like as an actor) seems to be unnecessarily "gaying it up" (for lack of a better term) based on the clips in the previews.
"Sean Penn’s performance in Milk managed to totally reverse my seething contempt for him after he directed that movie about how brave it is to cut up your credit cards and demonize your parents and the college education they paid for in order to be an amateur camper and accidentally poison yourself. His star turn in Milk was humanely dorky, affecting and egoless, and the whole movie made me blubber like a fat girl on prom night." -- J. Klausner (http://julieklausner.blogspot.com/2008/12/heroes-villains-2008.html)
...about a year ago i watched the harvey milk documentary from decades long gone and enjoyed it.
http://www.hulu.com/watch/49577/the-times-of-harvey-milk(Sorry about the code link. It tries to embed that which can't be embedded.)
Can anyone who's also seen the documentary comment on how close Penn came to Milk's real character in terms of the voice and mannerisms?
I saw Marley & Me. Not so bad!
Really enjoyed Slumdog Millionaire. It's a lot of fun, although it's kind of minor, I think. I loved Old Joy and am looking forward to Wendy and Lucy. I liked The Wrestler a lot. I've got a weakness for Mickey Rourke, pro wrestling and Todd Barry, so it was a natural fit. There's some schmaltzy stuff in it, but it's played pretty well. And Marisa Tomei! So persistently (and pleasingly) naked!
Can anyone who's also seen the documentary comment on how close Penn came to Milk's real character in terms of the voice and mannerisms?
I've seen the documentary and, based on the clips presented the Milk trailer, Penn doesn't seem to be very close to the real man in terms of voice and mannerisms (hence my original comment). Penn's voice seems a lot more like an impersonation of a stereotypically gay man than Milk's real voice.
What was that movie that came out a year or two or three ago that took place entirely within an airport? I never saw it, and wondering if it sucked like I suspect it did.
Anyway, my thoughts turned to that movie since I have had so much drama and bullshit in conjunction with air travel during the last week. I won't bore anyone with it now, even though you could probably wind me up and listen to me bitch for the next day and a half if you so desired. I'm biting my tongue for now, but thinking of selling UAL short. I'll just say that I'm now thinking about airports as places where psychodramas unfold. I'm thinking it's an untapped area.
My Bloody Valentine 3D. I hear Debbie Bass thrusts her googe at the camera just like Dr. Tongue.
(sorry)
My Bloody Valentine 3D.
Seven Pounds
I saw Marley & Me. Not so bad!
Recommedations on where to start with Ingmar Bergman? I've never seen any of his work and feel a little daunted by scope of his body of work.
Recommedations on where to start with Ingmar Bergman? I've never seen any of his work and feel a little daunted by scope of his body of work.
Wild Strawberries is good and fairly accessible. I've only ever seen that and The Seventh Seal, which kinda stunk.
am i crazy finding the dramatizations in man on wire terrible?
The subject was fascinating, but at times it felt like I was watching Unsolved Mysteries.
Isis attorney Jack Smith of Denver's Holland and Hart said: "Svensk's willingness to let this resource go is very difficult to understand. We believe that these films will be of interest to distributors and the general film audience. This is without a doubt an unprecedented event in the history of cinema, and the level of arrogance and indifference it took on the part of Svensk to get here is astonishing."
Shame is an underrated (?) one I highly recommend. It also might be his only film with a notable action sequence.
Just in general. It just seems that docs have become more sophisticated with footage, or rather using animation or after effects to get around a lack of footage that you don't see live action dramatizations in high profile documentaries anymore. The subject was fascinating, but at times it felt like I was watching Unsolved Mysteries.
Shame is an underrated (?) one I highly recommend. It also might be his only film with a notable action sequence.
Is this available on DVD? I've heard great things but can't seem to track down a copy.
I'm fairly certain Frost/Nixon and The Interesting Case of Benjamin Button are going to meet/exceed expectations.Hahaha. I blew it on all counts. Never again will I make public my anticipation of a movie I haven't seen.
I've seen Taken. It's horrible and racist and ridiculous, but almost in a Steven Seagal kind of way. Basically it's Liam Neeson going to Paris and murdering everybody in sight. He looks pretty bored throughout. Not a whole lot of gadgets though. I wouldn't pay to go see it.
(I did find the depiction of the "Easterners" quite troubling and, unfortunately, very in line with France today. (That most Frenchmen in the film are also portrayed as assholes redeems it somewhat, but not completely.))
Just saw The Wrestler. Touching!
has anyone seen Notorious yet?
Even with The Onion equating it to a vh1 movie I'm still intrigued. I'm a huge Biggie fan so I'm hoping that will make up for any stupid shit.
plus I have free AMC tickets I want to use.
has anyone seen Notorious yet?
has anyone seen Notorious yet?
Ingrid Bergman, Cary Grant, and Claude Rains? Darn tootin'! It was swell.
Just saw The Wrestler. Touching!
I give "Paul Blart: Mall Cop" an "A."
has anyone seen Notorious yet?
Even with The Onion equating it to a vh1 movie I'm still intrigued. I'm a huge Biggie fan so I'm hoping that will make up for any stupid shit.
plus I have free AMC tickets I want to use.
I give "Paul Blart: Mall Cop" an "A."
I haven't seen it, but you have got to be fucking kidding me. Don't make me see this movie!
I give "Paul Blart: Mall Cop" an "A."
I haven't seen it, but you have got to be fucking kidding me. Don't make me see this movie!
According to Rotten Tomatoes, I am very much in the minority on this one. Keep that in mind.
Paul Blart emerges as a hero, and something else: Kevin James illustrates how lighting and camera angles can affect our perception of an actor. In the early scenes, he's a fat schlub, but after he goes into action, the camera lowers subtly, the lighting changes, and suddenly he's a good-looking action hero, ready for business. He demonstrates what fat men have been secretly believed for a long time. Should Daniel Craig someday retire, I am supporting Kevin James for the next James Bond.
I give "Paul Blart: Mall Cop" an "A."
I haven't seen it, but you have got to be fucking kidding me. Don't make me see this movie!
According to Rotten Tomatoes, I am very much in the minority on this one. Keep that in mind.
Ebert seems to like it a lotQuotePaul Blart emerges as a hero, and something else: Kevin James illustrates how lighting and camera angles can affect our perception of an actor. In the early scenes, he's a fat schlub, but after he goes into action, the camera lowers subtly, the lighting changes, and suddenly he's a good-looking action hero, ready for business. He demonstrates what fat men have been secretly believed for a long time. Should Daniel Craig someday retire, I am supporting Kevin James for the next James Bond.
PS: If this movie was just called Mall Cop I wouldn't feel quite the same horror, I think.
hardly any movie that follows that formula of [name] : [title] is worth any time. in fact, i cant even think of one.
hardly any movie that follows that formula of [name] : [title] is worth any time. in fact, i cant even think of one.
Oh yeah? What about McCabe: and Mrs. Miller?
hardly any movie that follows that formula of [name] : [title] is worth any time. in fact, i cant even think of one.
Oh yeah? What about McCabe: and Mrs. Miller?
Crimes: and Misdemeanors
hardly any movie that follows that formula of [name] : [title] is worth any time. in fact, i cant even think of one.
Oh yeah? What about McCabe: and Mrs. Miller?
Crimes: and Misdemeanors
I think it was actually Judah Rosenthal: Crimes and Misdemeanors. Good example, though!
hardly any movie that follows that formula of [name] : [title] is worth any time. in fact, i cant even think of one.
Oh yeah? What about McCabe: and Mrs. Miller?
Crimes: and Misdemeanors
I think it was actually Judah Rosenthal: Crimes and Misdemeanors. Good example, though!
I like this new direction.....Charles Foster: Citizen Kane
Babe: Pig in the City
and of course
3:10 to Yuma
Babe: Pig in the City
samir, you win.
3:10 to Yuma
Also, Tristram Shandy: A Cock and Bull Story, and biggest film of last yearBatman 2Dark Knight: Straight Up!
I'm disappointed that all this colon talk originated with iAm: BaronVonTito.
I'm disappointed that all this colon talk originated with iAm: BaronVonTito.
...?
I'm disappointed that all this colon talk originated with iAm: BaronVonTito.
...?
Look closer at what he's saying: iAm: BaronVonTito
...(I almost wrote "noms" in some insane attempt to seem insiderish)...
I'm glad you're keeping an eye on the Hungarian Warner's website, Stupornaut.
Can we at least agree that Sally Hawkins wuz robbed?
Samir, can I get a witness?
Can we at least agree that Sally Hawkins wuz robbed?
Samir, can I get a witness?
Testify!
She was capital-g Great in that film.
En-Ra-Hah.
I just saw (Canadian director) Bruce MacDonald's new horror movie Pontypool, and it is fantastic. I wasn't a fan of his previous work but he really nailed it this time. Please see it if it comes your way.
It's set in a small town Ontario talk radio station and follows the outbreak of a zombie virus as the morning host and his producers learn of events bit by bit, mainly through call-ins... the device sounds stale, but pretty much everything about the movie is fresh and surprising. It has a great live-wire energy, it's beautifully shot in a very tight space, and has an amazing central performance by Stephen McHattie (a.k.a. Nite Owl I). I really can't say enough good things about it. Best Canadian film I've seen in a very long time.
Trailer for Armando Iannucci's In the Loop, based on his TV show In the Thick of It.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dQrqMkCuHqA
I can't wait for this, even if the trailer makes it seem more slapsticky than it probably/hopefully is.
I am about to watch the movie Eraserhead. I had never heard of it till it surfaced in our library's dvd collection. Has anyone seen it? Care to comment before I take the plunge?
I am about to watch the movie Eraserhead. I had never heard of it till it surfaced in our library's dvd collection. Has anyone seen it? Care to comment before I take the plunge?
I am about to watch the movie Eraserhead. I had never heard of it till it surfaced in our library's dvd collection. Has anyone seen it? Care to comment before I take the plunge?
i like eraserhead, but its not for everyone.
its not something you just sit down to watch casually if you have no idea what you're gonna watch.
then again, maybe watching fresh without any preconceived notions is a good thing.
(http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/6/62/Eraserheadposter.jpg)
I saw Tokyo! last night. It's a combination of three films with common themes that all take place in Tokyo. Kind of like Paris, je t'aime. The contributing directors are Michel Gondry, Leos Carax, and Bong Joon-ho.
Carax's Merde, the second film of the three, was particularly great. It's about "an unkempt, gibberish-spewing subterranean creature of the Tokyo sewers, played by Denis Lavant [who I think is great], who rises from the underground lair where he dwells to attack unsuspecting locals in increasingly brazen and terrifying ways." Really cool stuff.
Has anyone else seen this?
Here is the trailer:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z1qzGPOXjQk
The trailer (http://www.apple.com/trailers/wb/wherethewildthingsare/) for the Spike Jonze directed "Where the Wild Things Are" is up.
I watched the big version and I was moved. By a trailer. I will see this.
There's currently a lot of doubt as to whether this incompetent-looking movie (http://www.afterlastseason.com/) is real. I'd say one look at the "MRI scanner" and the ceiling fan above it would indicate... noooo. Here's an alleged interview (http://www.knoxroad.com/2009/03/27/knox-road-exclusive-writerdirector-mark-region-talks-about-after-last-season/) with the writer/director where he claims the budget was $5 million.
chairs that move to the movie: http://www.yourwestvalley.com/articles/action_5638___article.html/seat_minute.html
I just watched JFK for the 100th time. It is still one of the funniest movies I have ever seen.
Seen it. Underwhelming. Yes, even with that cast.
The DVD subtitles are different from the US theatrical version. The DVD has a more terse, literal translation, and some of the humor and nuance is lost.
The DVD subtitles are different from the US theatrical version. The DVD has a more terse, literal translation, and some of the humor and nuance is lost.
Some dialogue is also randomly translated as "bork bork bork," which is just offensive.
The DVD subtitles are different from the US theatrical version. The DVD has a more terse, literal translation, and some of the humor and nuance is lost.
The DVD subtitles are different from the US theatrical version. The DVD has a more terse, literal translation, and some of the humor and nuance is lost.
Some dialogue is also randomly translated as "bork bork bork," which is just offensive.
Whoa! 8 full-length Herzog films streaming for free on youtube (http://www.youtube.com/profile?user=starzmedia&view=videos&query=Herzog)!
Spellbound is so-so, as Hitchcock goes. The other two are really awesome. Good picks! The Battle of Algiers was the one that everyone was talking about at the start of the Iraq war, for reasons that will be obvious when you watch it.
God help me, I think I'm going to rent Q: The Winged Serpent.
It was during that project that I learned that Noam Chomsky is a pill to those who dare to edit him (he wrote the foreword and considered even his commas to be at least semisacred).
Oh, now I've upset you. I'd better not start talking about Santa Claus, I guess.
Oh, now I've upset you. I'd better not start talking about Santa Claus, I guess.
Oh, Sarah, I was quietly hoping to revisit the 20-post Chomsky sucks-Chomsky rules debacle. That was so enjoyable for everybody that I wanted to bring it back into their lives.
Oh, now I've upset you. I'd better not start talking about Santa Claus, I guess.
Oh, Sarah, I was quietly hoping to revisit the 20-post Chomsky sucks-Chomsky rules debacle. That was so enjoyable for everybody that I wanted to bring it back into their lives.
I feel certain that whether you think Chomsky sucks OR rules, we can all agree that it's simply shocking that a dude like him would be uptight about the editing of his writing.
Safe is pretty good, Julianne Moore is great in it.
The Battle of Algiers is fantastic.
Agree with all the Algiers praise; I was totally blown away.
Safe, especially Moore, bugged the shit out of me. Can't for the life of me figure out why so many like it.
QuoteAgree with all the Algiers praise; I was totally blown away.
Safe, especially Moore, bugged the shit out of me. Can't for the life of me figure out why so many like it.
Julianne Moore bugs me in any movie; I think it is because she has a half-formed nose. Has anyone else noticed her doughy nose? Not that she can help it.
QuoteAgree with all the Algiers praise; I was totally blown away.
Safe, especially Moore, bugged the shit out of me. Can't for the life of me figure out why so many like it.
Julianne Moore bugs me in any movie; I think it is because she has a half-formed nose. Has anyone else noticed her doughy nose? Not that she can help it.
I remember her being in "Short Cuts," and there was something noticeable. I don't think it was her nose, but I can't remember what it was.
QuoteAgree with all the Algiers praise; I was totally blown away.
Safe, especially Moore, bugged the shit out of me. Can't for the life of me figure out why so many like it.
Julianne Moore bugs me in any movie; I think it is because she has a half-formed nose. Has anyone else noticed her doughy nose? Not that she can help it.
I remember her being in "Short Cuts," and there was something noticeable. I don't think it was her nose, but I can't remember what it was.
I think it was her red... painting.
;)
No, it was definitely her vagina.
Yes, I loved Synecdoche, NY, too. A masterpiece, maybe. One of the things that I love the most about Kaufman is how he manages to be really funny, even in the context of a very serious film.
QuoteAgree with all the Algiers praise; I was totally blown away.
Safe, especially Moore, bugged the shit out of me. Can't for the life of me figure out why so many like it.
Julianne Moore bugs me in any movie; I think it is because she has a half-formed nose. Has anyone else noticed her doughy nose? Not that she can help it.
I remember her being in "Short Cuts," and there was something noticeable. I don't think it was her nose, but I can't remember what it was.
I think it was her red... painting.
;)
No, it was definitely her vagina.
As always, "Chris L, Master of Subtlety."
That, and Huey Lewis peeing have been burned into my retinas from that film. Thanks for reminding me everyone.
That, and Huey Lewis peeing have been burned into my retinas from that film. Thanks for reminding me everyone.
Prosthetic, I think. It was before the dick craze in current U.S. films.
Maybe it started the craze?
God help me, I think I'm going to rent Q: The Winged Serpent.
Do it! Classic Larry Cohen.
Yes, Michael Moriarty's finest moment, in a career full of (2 of) them!
Saw Adventureland last night and enjoyed myself thoroughly. I also thought it was weird that there was a lesser-known VU song in an old-fashioned jukebox in a Pittsburgh dive bar, but that's a minor quibble.
What is weird to me, though, is that less than 20 years ago that would have been a firmly mainstream movie - young love, comic bits and obstacles, and so on. But now it's indie, or art-house, or whatever. What the fuck is happening to our culture?
Whether this is a bad, good or great film is entirely beside the point. It is an audacious spit in the eye of society. It says we harbor an undreamed-of capacity for evil. It transforms a psychological treatment into torture undreamed of in the dungeons of history. Torturers might have been capable of such actions, but they would have lacked the imagination. Von Trier is not so much making a film about violence as making a film to inflict violence upon us, perhaps as a salutary experience. It's been reported that he suffered from depression during and after the film. You can tell. This is the most despairing film I've ever have seen.
If there isn't a special Mike Show devoted to Lars Von Trier's new film Antichrist I'll be gravely disappointed. From Ebert's spoiler-y, hyperbolic report (http://blogs.suntimes.com/ebert/2009/05/for_even_now_already_is_it_in.html) from Cannes:QuoteWhether this is a bad, good or great film is entirely beside the point. It is an audacious spit in the eye of society. It says we harbor an undreamed-of capacity for evil. It transforms a psychological treatment into torture undreamed of in the dungeons of history. Torturers might have been capable of such actions, but they would have lacked the imagination. Von Trier is not so much making a film about violence as making a film to inflict violence upon us, perhaps as a salutary experience. It's been reported that he suffered from depression during and after the film. You can tell. This is the most despairing film I've ever have seen.
Well, I guess I could have spent a Sunday afternoon watching worse things.Now you need to see this!
(http://infodome.sdsu.edu/about/depts/spcollections/exhibits/1202/images/BeachParty.jpg)
I had forgotten what a hero Byrd was
I had forgotten what a hero Byrd was
Really? Does his opposition to authorize the war really make him a hero? Who amongst us could have the past that he had and still have a second life as as someone speaking truth to power?
It's just a bit difficult for me to hold a former Klansman in high esteem.
Just watched this film. Wish I could un-watch it.If there isn't a special Mike Show devoted to Lars Von Trier's new film Antichrist I'll be gravely disappointed. From Ebert's spoiler-y, hyperbolic report (http://blogs.suntimes.com/ebert/2009/05/for_even_now_already_is_it_in.html) from Cannes:QuoteWhether this is a bad, good or great film is entirely beside the point. It is an audacious spit in the eye of society. It says we harbor an undreamed-of capacity for evil. It transforms a psychological treatment into torture undreamed of in the dungeons of history. Torturers might have been capable of such actions, but they would have lacked the imagination. Von Trier is not so much making a film about violence as making a film to inflict violence upon us, perhaps as a salutary experience. It's been reported that he suffered from depression during and after the film. You can tell. This is the most despairing film I've ever have seen.
I know I should probably be more excited about this film, but I just can't muster up any energy whatsoever - to be outraged, excited, whatever. OK, one thing: perhaps bored. And the reactions are so predictable - von Trier really knows what buttons to push, and Cannes is always craving a scandal.
Woohoo! Only works if you're in America!! Yaaaay!
There's currently a lot of doubt as to whether this incompetent-looking movie (http://www.afterlastseason.com/) is real. I'd say one look at the "MRI scanner" and the ceiling fan above it would indicate... noooo. Here's an alleged interview (http://www.knoxroad.com/2009/03/27/knox-road-exclusive-writerdirector-mark-region-talks-about-after-last-season/) with the writer/director where he claims the budget was $5 million.
I saw DRAG ME TO HELL last night and had a BLAST. Everyone should go see it. The best American horror film in at least a decade? I think so!
David Carradine was just found dead. :-\ That's too bad.
Just watched the Townes Van Zandt doc "Be Here To Love Me."
I am sitting here with misty eyes. Beautiful.
There's currently a lot of doubt as to whether this incompetent-looking movie (http://www.afterlastseason.com/) is real. I'd say one look at the "MRI scanner" and the ceiling fan above it would indicate... noooo. Here's an alleged interview (http://www.knoxroad.com/2009/03/27/knox-road-exclusive-writerdirector-mark-region-talks-about-after-last-season/) with the writer/director where he claims the budget was $5 million.
A big update on After Last Season (http://www.afterlastseason.com/)! It's playing in real cinemas starting this Friday.
Austin TX, Rochester NY, North Aurora IL, and Lancaster CA FOT, please check it out and report back! I don't remember the last movie that seemed this mysterious.
THE HANGOVER was funny too.
THE HANGOVER was funny too.
God, was it ever! So stupid and fun and FULL of Zach. I need to see it again... I keep thinking of it today and laughing out loud inappropriately. Like I said, it was full of low-brow humor but I laughed the whole time.
Watched THE MAGNIFICENT SEVEN today. Never seen it before! SPOILER ALERT: not that magnificent.
Watched THE MAGNIFICENT SEVEN today. Never seen it before! SPOILER ALERT: not that magnificent.
***FILMADUMMY CONFESSION (TEXT HIDDEN TO PREVENT FURTHER SHAME):***
I prefer The Magnificent Seven to The Seven Samurai
Red Bears is on TCM this week, with no commercial interruption.
Rewatched "Road To Wellville" recently. I think that is a grossly underrated comedy.
Or perhaps it is a mediocre comedy about a naturally hilarious true topic? John Harvey Kellogg was a loon.
Just watched the Townes Van Zandt doc "Be Here To Love Me."
I am sitting here with misty eyes. Beautiful.
Red Bears is on TCM this week, with no commercial interruption.
Is that the Bad New Bears sequel set in Communist Russia? The one where Walter Matthau wakes up from an epic bender in the middle of the USSR with no knowledge of how he got there and promptly encounters a group of lovable urchins who just want to play little-league baseball but can't for fear of retribution from the KGB? SPOILER ALERT! By the movie's end, they two have helped each other - Matthau has helped the kids organize a team and they've pointed him to the only bar in Moscow where you can get Budweiser and pickled pigs' feet.
Just watched the Townes Van Zandt doc "Be Here To Love Me."
I am sitting here with misty eyes. Beautiful.
Hey crybaby, which song did they use during the hat scene again?
Rewatched "Road To Wellville" recently. I think that is a grossly underrated comedy.
Or perhaps it is a mediocre comedy about a naturally hilarious true topic? John Harvey Kellogg was a loon.
That's good to hear. I'd always avoided it, but I enjoyed the book - mostly for the naturally hilarious subject matter (I always wanted to like T.C. Boyle more than I actually liked him) - and have always been curious about it.
Just watched the Townes Van Zandt doc "Be Here To Love Me."
I am sitting here with misty eyes. Beautiful.
Hey crybaby, which song did they use during the hat scene again?
I think it was called "Hugman's Insecurity Blues."
Just watched the Townes Van Zandt doc "Be Here To Love Me."
I am sitting here with misty eyes. Beautiful.
Hey crybaby, which song did they use during the hat scene again?
I think it was called "Hugman's Insecurity Blues."
aw, i was just funnin', Jon. It really has been eating at me trying to remember what song they used in that part, though. Do you remember? When he was puttin' on all nem hats?
Just watched the Townes Van Zandt doc "Be Here To Love Me."
I am sitting here with misty eyes. Beautiful.
Hey crybaby, which song did they use during the hat scene again?
I think it was called "Hugman's Insecurity Blues."
aw, i was just funnin', Jon. It really has been eating at me trying to remember what song they used in that part, though. Do you remember? When he was puttin' on all nem hats?
Just funnin' back. I can't recall what song it was and i cannot find the clip on YouTube (tried searching "townes van zandt hats" and "Be here to love me end credits").
I am so mad the Wheelers in Revolutionary Road didn't just take a vacation to France.
I'm excited! Got this email today.
For Sat: Paul Blart: Mall Cop
Speaking of mall cops, was there ever a discussion of Observe and Report on here? After seeing it, I think that Jody Hill is a perfect cross between Adam McKay and Todd Solondz.
Speaking of mall cops, was there ever a discussion of Observe and Report on here? After seeing it, I think that Jody Hill is a perfect cross between Adam McKay and Todd Solondz.
Speaking of mall cops, was there ever a discussion of Observe and Report on here? After seeing it, I think that Jody Hill is a perfect cross between Adam McKay and Todd Solondz.
I'd consider myself a Jody Hill fan, but this description makes me like him a little less.
Just watched the Townes Van Zandt doc "Be Here To Love Me."
I am sitting here with misty eyes. Beautiful.
Hey crybaby, which song did they use during the hat scene again?
Finally saw The Hangover, and it was great. I only really knew Zach G. from the Best Show and this board, and I'm glad he's a mega-star now -- super well-deserved.
Jan Troell's Everlasting Moments. Man oh man, see this one if you have the chance. Maybe the most beautifully shot film I've ever had the pleasure of seeing in a cinema. So many unforgettable images.
Great acting and a heartbreaking story which teeters on the edge of schmaltz, but the director has such a light touch he never lets it go there.
I'd love to hear Martin's take on this one as it takes place primarily in Malmo.
Only critique: I hate when they say the name of the movie in the movie (at least when it seems a little forced). I really wish one of the characters had not patted the other on the back and said "Divided we fall. " That made me cringe. But given that the other 99.9% of the film was gorgeous, I'll let that one slide.
I saw Food Inc. Holy s-hit. Now I have to quit doing commercials for food companies. As I've stated on my facebook page, if you don't see this movie you don't deserve to live.
Watched Elephant Man earlier and cried like a big baby.
and hilarious with how racially insensitive he is.
and hilarious with how racially insensitive he is.
Your friend, or Clint?
The original, I trust?
Anyone saw Observe and Report? I saw it when it first came out then once again last weekend when it was playing at the dollar theater. Funny as it was the first time, I found myself laughing harder and more often the second time. I'd say it's one of the funniest new movies I've seen in a while.
(http://www.wired.com/images_blogs/photos/uncategorized/2009/04/09/observe_and_report_escalator_660.jpg)
I'm excited! Got this email today.
For Sat: Paul Blart: Mall Cop
Speaking of mall cops, was there ever a discussion of Observe and Report on here? After seeing it, I think that Jody Hill is a perfect cross between Adam McKay and Todd Solondz.
PS-Couldn't get past the fifteen minute mark of Paul Blart. Thing is, I would have found it funny if KJ had played it straight like Seth Rogan in O&E rather than mugging it up.
PS-Couldn't get past the fifteen minute mark of Paul Blart. Thing is, I would have found it funny if KJ had played it straight like Seth Rogan in O&E rather than mugging it up.
By the way, I experienced Paul Blart: Mall Cop in real life this weekend. I went to the Short Hills Mall and asked the security guard if there was a book store. He said that it was gone as was the CD store. We got into a conversation about collecting vinyl (he was a big collector and paid $4000 on the tone arm of his turntable alone). Anyway, a guy walked by with his daughters. The daughters were wearing heelies and rolling on them. The security guard said "Excuse me sir but they can't be rolling on..." The dad totally interrupted him and said "Yeah okay," continued on like the guard had said nothing, and the daughters kept rolling with no comment from the dad.
The security guard, obviously flustered, just said "I'll get 'em on the way back."
Hangover director Todd Phillips' touching documentary about a musician who passed on a few years ago called Hated: GG Allin and the Murder Junkies is streaming online this week at pitchfork.tv.
Hangover director Todd Phillips' touching documentary about a musician who passed on a few years ago called Hated: GG Allin and the Murder Junkies is streaming online this week at pitchfork.tv.
Don't know if this was mentioned but Happy Go Lucky is very good!Agreed, my nana had it play at her retirement home. Apparently, everyone bailed when they saw marijuana use(which I hadn't noticed/remembered.
[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cMwD7Zy6Vno[/youtube]
Did anyone see Moon?
I just can't help disliking Michael Mann movies. I always come in hoping this will be the one that turns me around on him and I always walk away disappointed.
I just can't help disliking Michael Mann movies. I always come in hoping this will be the one that turns me around on him and I always walk away disappointed.
I think his best years are behind him for sure -- his last four movies have been stinkers. (I remember reading an interview wih Quentin Tarantino somewhere in which he said he would quit after twenty years of directing, because in his extensive study of directors' careers he'd never found one who had more than that many great years in him/her. For all the bullshit that guy spouts I thought he was pretty much right-on [though I can think of maybe two or three exceptions].)
I like The Informant a lot, and Manhunter and Heat both have some wonderful sequences.
Yeah, it looked really good. I had no idea it was digital until afterward, when I went online to look something up about it.
And has Tarantino cracked a late-period Bergman movie much?
Did anyone see Moon?
I'm pretty sure it's the director's first feature, and you can tell. He draws way too much attention to his plundering of bits and pieces from other sci-fi films, especially 2001. To be fair, a lot of this comes from of the script, and you can excuse it as homage, but I think he also lacks a strong visual sensibility of his own, compounding the problem.
Yeah, it looked really good. I had no idea it was digital until afterward, when I went online to look something up about it.
And has Tarantino cracked a late-period Bergman movie much?
I think so. I read an interview where he said his next movie will be a "re-imagining of Fanny & Alexander in the style of Cannibal Holocaust." I wish I was making this up.*
* - I am.
Yeah, it looked really good. I had no idea it was digital until afterward, when I went online to look something up about it.
And has Tarantino cracked a late-periodBergmanTrent L Strauss movie much?
Yet another extensively researched Tarantino opinion that I completely discount. Admittedly many directors lose their drive or fall by the wayside but a lot more than 3 have had great 30-year + careers.
Yet another extensively researched Tarantino opinion that I completely discount. Admittedly many directors lose their drive or fall by the wayside but a lot more than 3 have had great 30-year + careers.
Fair enough, I was pretty rash in my declaration, and there are certainly more than three such careers. Mann could be on his way to greater things, but the odds seem pretty low. What I got from QT's statement and agreed with was that the vast majority of the best directors have their great period pretty early in their career, and then set off on a long and slow decline. In general with my favourites I end up spending a ridiculous amount of time combing through the late period chaff looking for the wheat (I think that's how the analogy goes), and ending up wishing they'd quit while they were ahead.
The problem with Tarantino saying it might be that 20 years is giving him too much time.
Yeah, exactly, it is all pointless because it's just a matter of opinion and Quentin Tarantino's opinion is just as valid as anyone else's. By the way, could any of you putting Tarantino down pull off a Kill Bill. Just wondering.
By the way, could any of you putting Tarantino down pull off a Kill Bill.
Once it was possible to assume that Tarantino's pop culture references were an ironic critique on the barrenness of media-age culture, but there's no mistaking it now: Tarantino's work is not a commentary on the barrenness. It is the barrenness.
I just saw Lars and the Real Girl, and was pleasantly amazed at the tone of respect for basic human frailty on display in a film I had assumed would be a sequence of stupid sex jokes.
I didn't see the second Kill Bill, but the first one was boring as fuck. Except for the flashback with the Pussy Magnet truck or whatever it was, the whole thing was like watching someone else play a video game.
And if by "pull off a Kill Bill" you mean participate in the creation of a shitty movie, the answer is yes, I can and have.
I didn't see the second Kill Bill, but the first one was boring as fuck. Except for the flashback with the Pussy Magnet truck or whatever it was, the whole thing was like watching someone else play a video game.
And if by "pull off a Kill Bill" you mean participate in the creation of a shitty movie, the answer is yes, I can and have.
I thought Kill Bill 1 and 2 were mesmerizing. I loved every second of each of them. But hey, whatever, let's bash Korine.
Are you saying that if a person sees a burning building, he should be able to yell fire, even if he's not a fireman?By the way, could any of you putting Tarantino down pull off a Kill Bill.
an ever further pointless question. albeit, im sure ive thrown that out there in the heat of the moment myself, but in hindsight i realize what an idiot i sound like.*
the fact of the matter is, you're comparing apples to oranges. sure, i can be a real loud mouth when im criticizing someone else's work, but it doesnt change when someone challenges me to put my money where my mouth is. im obviously not going to turn around a run myself into the ground with debt in order to prove anyone wrong out of spite.
anyway, im not attacking you, im attacking that stupid argument.
*not implying you sound like an idiot.
Are you saying that if a person sees a burning building, he should be able to yell fire, even if he's not a fireman?By the way, could any of you putting Tarantino down pull off a Kill Bill.
an ever further pointless question. albeit, im sure ive thrown that out there in the heat of the moment myself, but in hindsight i realize what an idiot i sound like.*
the fact of the matter is, you're comparing apples to oranges. sure, i can be a real loud mouth when im criticizing someone else's work, but it doesnt change when someone challenges me to put my money where my mouth is. im obviously not going to turn around a run myself into the ground with debt in order to prove anyone wrong out of spite.
anyway, im not attacking you, im attacking that stupid argument.
*not implying you sound like an idiot.
If not, I don't think I really understood your post, but have a nice evening.
I didn't see the second Kill Bill, but the first one was boring as fuck. Except for the flashback with the Pussy Magnet truck or whatever it was, the whole thing was like watching someone else play a video game.
And if by "pull off a Kill Bill" you mean participate in the creation of a shitty movie, the answer is yes, I can and have.
I thought Kill Bill 1 and 2 were mesmerizing. I loved every second of each of them. But hey, whatever, let's bash Korine.
Let's bash Diablo Cody, that was always fun. And Poster Children, while we're at it.
I didn't see the second Kill Bill, but the first one was boring as fuck. Except for the flashback with the Pussy Magnet truck or whatever it was, the whole thing was like watching someone else play a video game.
And if by "pull off a Kill Bill" you mean participate in the creation of a shitty movie, the answer is yes, I can and have.
I thought Kill Bill 1 and 2 were mesmerizing. I loved every second of each of them. But hey, whatever, let's bash Korine.
Let's bash Diablo Cody, that was always fun. And Poster Children, while we're at it.
At least you remembered to leave out "The" when discussing Poster Children.
Just watched Basquiat after planning to watch it for 13 years.
Meh.
I didn't love Kids.
Actually, I did like Kids, but that was because I went to the movies incredibly high for two whole years and everything seemed good. I even liked Mallrats and Natural Born Killers. But no amount of weed was enough to make me like Forrest Gump.
I didn't love Kids.
Actually, I did like Kids, but that was because I went to the movies incredibly high for two whole years and everything seemed good. I even liked Mallrats and Natural Born Killers. But no amount of weed was enough to make me like Forrest Gump.
i was young when all of those movies came out (im still young) and i enjoyed them only briefly. Kids i enjoyed the first time and havent really enjoyed it since. ive seen 30 minutes of forrest gump accumulatively and i dont like it.
i still enjoy mallrats when it's on network television.
I don't get why everyone loves to hate Forrest Gump. It's entertaining, at least I thought so.I would pay to see Forest Gummo if it existed.
I don't get why everyone loves to hate Forrest Gump. It's entertaining, at least I thought so.
I don't get why everyone loves to hate Forrest Gump. It's entertaining, at least I thought so.i love it. and i almost always weep during it.
It just seems like recently (in the past few years) I've noticed this trend of people hating on Forrest Gump. There are so many terrible movies out there to hate, why this one? It's harmless and fun. My grandmother kind of became obsessed with it (which was quite odd if you knew her) which maybe gives the movie sentimental value for me. But still.
It just seems like recently (in the past few years) I've noticed this trend of people hating on Forrest Gump. There are so many terrible movies out there to hate, why this one? It's harmless and fun. My grandmother kind of became obsessed with it (which was quite odd if you knew her) which maybe gives the movie sentimental value for me. But still.
This post basically sums up how I feel about Forrest Gump (minus the part about your grandmother).
It's not meant to be high art. And, of course, there are a multitude of films better than Forrest Gump. But it's not a bad film by any stretch.
This is three minutes of amazing test footage from Henri-Georges Clouzot's aborted 1964 version of L'enfer (which was ultimately filmed in 1994 by Claude Chabrol, from Clouzot's script). The footage features Romy Schneider, who was set to star in the film, and it's just dreamy.stunning. so this must be footage included in the new doc ... hope it's on DVD soon.
This is three minutes of amazing test footage from Henri-Georges Clouzot's aborted 1964 version of L'enfer (which was ultimately filmed in 1994 by Claude Chabrol, from Clouzot's script). The footage features Romy Schneider, who was set to star in the film, and it's just dreamy.stunning. so this must be footage included in the new doc ... hope it's on DVD soon.
The talk about Knowing reminded me of this:
[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZW2qxFkcLM0&feature=player_embedded[/youtube]
I think the usage of the Incredible Bongo Band really seals the deal.
The talk about Knowing reminded me of this:
[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZW2qxFkcLM0&feature=player_embedded[/youtube]
I think the usage of the Incredible Bongo Band really seals the deal.
Has anyone seen Robo-geisha?
The talk about Knowing reminded me of this:
[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZW2qxFkcLM0&feature=player_embedded[/youtube]
I think the usage of the Incredible Bongo Band really seals the deal.
Did anyone else spend the afternoon watching Get Bruce, the doc on Bruce Vilanch? ... no? Anyone? Just me?
Anyway, on that second try I realized how truly evil the movie was.
Did anyone else spend the afternoon watching Get Bruce, the doc on Bruce Vilanch? ... no? Anyone? Just me?
The net result of this was when all those same friends said Titanic was actually really good, I was like nuh-uh, no fucking way, not on your life.
Anyway, on that second try I realized how truly evil the movie was. Not just more tiresome baby-boomer nostalgia, but extreme 90s backlash, accompanied by the desire to piss all over everyone else's fun because the creators feel bad about all the shit they did in the 60s. The underlying message of that film is to go through life like a retarded person and do everything that people in authority tell you. You will become a multi-millionaire while your decadent hippie wife will get slapped by an angry black guy and get AIDS.
The net result of this was when all those same friends said Titanic was actually really good, I was like nuh-uh, no fucking way, not on your life.
Anyway, on that second try I realized how truly evil the movie was. Not just more tiresome baby-boomer nostalgia, but extreme 90s backlash, accompanied by the desire to piss all over everyone else's fun because the creators feel bad about all the shit they did in the 60s. The underlying message of that film is to go through life like a retarded person and do everything that people in authority tell you. You will become a multi-millionaire while your decadent hippie wife will get slapped by an angry black guy and get AIDS.
The net result of this was when all those same friends said Titanic was actually really good, I was like nuh-uh, no fucking way, not on your life.
1. WTF is "extreme 90s backlash?"
2. How does Forrest Gump piss all over your fun? Examples please.
3. "The underlying message of that film is to go through life like a retarded person and do everything that people in authority tell you. You will become a multi-millionaire while your decadent hippie wife will get slapped by an angry black guy and get AIDS." ...
...Huh?? If you really believe that every movie is a message saying "live your life like the characters in my movie please," then you are wrong, to say the least. And how does the character (this is a work of fiction, I hope you realize that) only do what "people in authority" tell him?
I get it, it's the contrarian thing. If too many people like something, you feel the need to hate it.
Titanic is another example of a harmless movie that's meant to be purely entertaining. Obviously you can't be entertained if while you're watching it, you're wound up tight as a spring, just waiting for any opportunity to hate it. Like me trying to watch Monday Night Raw.
Anyway, I guess my point is, why are people still hating on Forrest Gump, and why expend energy hating something that's, to me, so innocuous.
F Gump was just boring, and people that like one thing I find boring tend to like other things I find boring.
That said, Tom Hanks seems like a super kind of guy, like a reverse Klaus Kinski.
F Gump was just boring, and people that like one thing I find boring tend to like other things I find boring.
That said, Tom Hanks seems like a super kind of guy, like a reverse Klaus Kinski.
Agreed! But I hated Forrest Gump, too; his one-note gimmicky performance was about as deserving of an Oscar as Ben Stiller's in Meet the Parents. And it wasn't a contrarian thing, I went in wanting to like it, but couldn't do it.
wow. forest gump. hot-button topic.
Just saw The Hangover last night. That flick is made out of funny.
(http://img16.imageshack.us/img16/6/snooze1ui.jpg)
Just saw The Hangover last night. That flick is made out of funny.
every time i try to see this movie, someone else tries to get me to see transformers instead.
Even my mom recommends The Hangover.
Belatedly, I chime in to say I loathed Forrest Gump both for its sentimental candy coating and its reactionary, poisonous center.
Yeah, of course I hated it too. I think most of the controversy on this topic can be explained by whether or not people were children when it was released. Kids bought it, and have their opinions of the movie colored by nostalgia.
Tom Hanks does seem like a pretty nice guy, but also the dullest actor around. His presence in anything makes it almost 100% certain that I won't see it. Anytime I diverge from this policy ('The Ladykillers'!) I regret it.
Yeah, of course I hated it too. I think most of the controversy on this topic can be explained by whether or not people were children when it was released. Kids bought it, and have their opinions of the movie colored by nostalgia.
Good to know about The Hurt Locker. I've heard amazing things but I was ignoring it for awhile, possibly because of the dumb title. It sounds like I may need to see it.
Tossed-off summations of things I've seen lately:
THE HURT LOCKER – I’ve been trying to decide whether I prefer this to GENERATION KILL (surprised I haven’t seen the two compared more thus far) and overall I’d probably say yes. GK had stronger characterization and more detail but the set pieces here are far more taut and suspenseful. Kathryn Bigelow will likely be a no-brainer for a best director nod and even factoring out politics it’ll be deserved.
The best thing about GK is that it's funny. Is Hurt Locker funny? I've been staying away because it looks sad.
Tossed-off summations of things I've seen lately:
THE HURT LOCKER – I’ve been trying to decide whether I prefer this to GENERATION KILL (surprised I haven’t seen the two compared more thus far) and overall I’d probably say yes. GK had stronger characterization and more detail but the set pieces here are far more taut and suspenseful. Kathryn Bigelow will likely be a no-brainer for a best director nod and even factoring out politics it’ll be deserved.
I thought it was good, too, but a little repetitious at times (which may have been the point) and a little long.
The best thing about GK is that it's funny. Is Hurt Locker funny? I've been staying away because it looks sad.
Tossed-off summations of things I've seen lately:
THE HURT LOCKER – I’ve been trying to decide whether I prefer this to GENERATION KILL (surprised I haven’t seen the two compared more thus far) and overall I’d probably say yes. GK had stronger characterization and more detail but the set pieces here are far more taut and suspenseful. Kathryn Bigelow will likely be a no-brainer for a best director nod and even factoring out politics it’ll be deserved.
I thought it was good, too, but a little repetitious at times (which may have been the point) and a little long.
Yeah, I've read some interviews where she basically said that was the point; these guys do this 8-10 times a day and she wanted to capture that sense of repitition. Despite the repitition, the stakes always felt high (though there were certain moments when I knew exactly what was going to happen, ie. the doctor tagging along). I actually thought the weakest parts were the moments away from the action, they didn't really add too much to the characters. Hopefully Jeremy Renner gets some awards notice because it's easily the best performance I've seen this year.
Tom Hanks does seem like a pretty nice guy, but also the dullest actor around.
Allow me to join Martin and Samir and what will eventually be a whole slew of you praising IN THE LOOP. It's pretty much a given that this is the comedy of the year. The joke frequency is as high as a particularly enjoyable silly comedy while the satire manages to rise above the usual smug choir-preaching and get some pointed shots in (like those at Gandolfini's Colin Powell-esque general). That's no surprise coming from Iannucci, I know, but I think a lot of people inured to Hollywood hacks like John Cusack and Barry Levinson fumbling with this stuff will find it refreshing and this film will generate a sizable following over time.
It's appropriate in a way that this is coming out alongside The Hurt Locker (and not just because they're both hilarious). That film is more effectively anti-war from an audience perspective than any of the other Iraq movies precisely because it's seemingly so apolitical. Meanwhile, ITL cleverly and humanely illustrates the farcial nature of the war buildup by focusing more on flailing mid-level types rather than subconsciously trying to get Cheney, Blair, et al indicted for war crimes. It's also a testament to Iannucci's talent that he was able not only to reconfigure The Thick of It and now the film around such a demonic character as Malcolm Tucker, but that he successfully threw ANOTHER scene-stealing, hyper-agressive Scotsman into the mix as well, just for the hell of it.
jump ship on the natural state; the volunteer state welcomes you.
And there are still other ways...
In the Loop was so good that I BLASTED through all the episodes and specials of The Thick of It. I caught the British political humour bug and am now onto The New Statesman.
P.S: How long do you think before Entertainment Weekly does an interview with Kathryn Bigelow and entitles the article "Lady Hurt Locker?"
I just did a little quick internetting and it seems that at least two of the most egregious scenes in Andrei Rublev were not faked (i.e. the animals were maimed and/or killed). I guess there was no such thing as the SPCA in the mid-60s Soviet Union.
I should've stopped watching after the monk beat his dog to death for no reason. The scene was shot in such a way that it's obvious the dog was not harmed, but it happened early in the film and it made me uneasy. I should've listened to my gut, but I kept watching because this movie is so highly regarded as an important classic.
Now I'm going to be upset for the rest of the day. Great.
and movies starring Chevy Chase and Eddie Murphy (National Lampoon's Harlem Vacation).
i watched penelope this weekend and i dont understand the concept of using england as a location but have all the characters speak with american accents (including the guy(s) who are actuaklly from the u.k.!).
I had forgotten just how great Glengarry Glen Ross was until I watched it last night (for the first time in about five years). It's a confluence of superb acting and masterful writing by David Mamet. The highlight of the film for me is the conversation between Moss and Aaronow at the restaurant.
Just watched Robert Aldrich's Emperor of the North (Pole) and if the premise alone doesn't prompt a rental there's probably no hope for you. Lee Marvin plays "A-No. 1" the king of the hobos during the Great Depression and most likely an American hero to a young Dick Whitman. He's determined to do the impossible and hop the train of the sadistic Shack (Ernest Borgnine), who likes nothing more than to kill hobos with a hammer... or chain... or other trainhold objects, rather than give them a free ride. Keith Carradine tags along as Marvin's unwanted sidekick, following a first meeting where Marvin whacks him with a live chicken (sorry, masterofsparks). The final Marvin/Borgnine brawl is immortal. Probably soon to be remade with the guy from Twilight and a Jonas Brother to be named later
I had forgotten just how great Glengarry Glen Ross was until I watched it last night (for the first time in about five years). It's a confluence of superb acting and masterful writing by David Mamet. The highlight of the film for me is the conversation between Moss and Aaronow at the restaurant.
I just watched the MST3K version of Boggy Creek 2 last night, and it has a couple scenes of a live deer swimming and then they show its decapitated head floating in the water, and some moron in an apesuit dragging its headless body around.
It pissed me off. I mean, killing an animal for a movie is pretty crappy anyway, but for such a shitty movie and for all of two stupid scenes, that's even worse.
Just watched Robert Aldrich's Emperor of the North (Pole) and if the premise alone doesn't prompt a rental there's probably no hope for you. Lee Marvin plays "A-No. 1" the king of the hobos during the Great Depression and most likely an American hero to a young Dick Whitman. He's determined to do the impossible and hop the train of the sadistic Shack (Ernest Borgnine), who likes nothing more than to kill hobos with a hammer... or chain... or other trainhold objects, rather than give them a free ride. Keith Carradine tags along as Marvin's unwanted sidekick, following a first meeting where Marvin whacks him with a live chicken (sorry, masterofsparks). The final Marvin/Borgnine brawl is immortal. Probably soon to be remade with the guy from Twilight and a Jonas Brother to be named later
That descriptions sounds so good I fear that watching it executed can only disappoint me. I hope that's not the case.
Just watched Robert Aldrich's Emperor of the North (Pole) and if the premise alone doesn't prompt a rental there's probably no hope for you. Lee Marvin plays "A-No. 1" the king of the hobos during the Great Depression and most likely an American hero to a young Dick Whitman. He's determined to do the impossible and hop the train of the sadistic Shack (Ernest Borgnine), who likes nothing more than to kill hobos with a hammer... or chain... or other trainhold objects, rather than give them a free ride. Keith Carradine tags along as Marvin's unwanted sidekick, following a first meeting where Marvin whacks him with a live chicken (sorry, masterofsparks). The final Marvin/Borgnine brawl is immortal. Probably soon to be remade with the guy from Twilight and a Jonas Brother to be named later
That descriptions sounds so good I fear that watching it executed can only disappoint me. I hope that's not the case.
Just watched Robert Aldrich's Emperor of the North (Pole) and if the premise alone doesn't prompt a rental there's probably no hope for you. Lee Marvin plays "A-No. 1" the king of the hobos during the Great Depression and most likely an American hero to a young Dick Whitman. He's determined to do the impossible and hop the train of the sadistic Shack (Ernest Borgnine), who likes nothing more than to kill hobos with a hammer... or chain... or other trainhold objects, rather than give them a free ride. Keith Carradine tags along as Marvin's unwanted sidekick, following a first meeting where Marvin whacks him with a live chicken (sorry, masterofsparks). The final Marvin/Borgnine brawl is immortal. Probably soon to be remade with the guy from Twilight and a Jonas Brother to be named later
That descriptions sounds so good I fear that watching it executed can only disappoint me. I hope that's not the case.
Except for some harmless schlockiness it pretty much delivers, especially the very rough and mean fight at the end. I think Sam Peckinpah wrote the original script but took his name off the film when he didn't like the final result. It's not the most in-depth portrait of the depression and you could see how it could've been as surreal as something like Bring Me the Head of Alfredo Garcia, but oh well. It's entertaining, it's got Lee Marvin as a hobo and the testosterone is at Murder Ape-levels.
I mentioned Into Great Silence in the Best of the 2000s thread and I mean it! It's about 3 hours of footage of some Carthusian monks. I love it. It's up there with Fog of War, recent documentary-wise. You might hate it, though.
I should say that it's not so much the footage so much as the ambient sounds that really make it great. Wood creaking, robes rustling around, raindrops.
Just watched Robert Aldrich's Emperor of the North (Pole) and if the premise alone doesn't prompt a rental there's probably no hope for you. Lee Marvin plays "A-No. 1" the king of the hobos during the Great Depression and most likely an American hero to a young Dick Whitman. He's determined to do the impossible and hop the train of the sadistic Shack (Ernest Borgnine), who likes nothing more than to kill hobos with a hammer... or chain... or other trainhold objects, rather than give them a free ride. Keith Carradine tags along as Marvin's unwanted sidekick, following a first meeting where Marvin whacks him with a live chicken (sorry, masterofsparks). The final Marvin/Borgnine brawl is immortal. Probably soon to be remade with the guy from Twilight and a Jonas Brother to be named later
That descriptions sounds so good I fear that watching it executed can only disappoint me. I hope that's not the case.
Except for some harmless schlockiness it pretty much delivers, especially the very rough and mean fight at the end. I think Sam Peckinpah wrote the original script but took his name off the film when he didn't like the final result. It's not the most in-depth portrait of the depression and you could see how it could've been as surreal as something like Bring Me the Head of Alfredo Garcia, but oh well. It's entertaining, it's got Lee Marvin as a hobo and the testosterone is at Murder Ape-levels.
So District 9 is awesome.
The Hurt Locker has some of the best suspense scenes I've seen in a long time.
I just caught To Catch A Thief at BAM and realized that it was actually the first time I'd seen a Hitchcock movie in an actual theater. Holy moley, was it great. Watching them on TV doesn't compare at all.
I just caught To Catch A Thief at BAM and realized that it was actually the first time I'd seen a Hitchcock movie in an actual theater. Holy moley, was it great. Watching them on TV doesn't compare at all.
I saw Rear Window when they re-released it to theaters several years ago (in connection with a restoration, if I recall correctly) and, I agree, it's a completely different experience.
I just got my advance tix for a screening of Blue, which I can't WAIT to see in a theater. Q&A with Juliette Binoche afterward.
I just got my advance tix for a screening of Blue, which I can't WAIT to see in a theater. Q&A with Juliette Binoche afterward.
I hate you so much right now. So much.
I just got my advance tix for a screening of Blue, which I can't WAIT to see in a theater. Q&A with Juliette Binoche afterward.
I hate you so much right now. So much.
Dude, that flick is like fifteen years old.
She's great, I agree. Hope she doesn't go off on her conspiracy theories during the Q&A though - that could be awkward.
Most disturbing part is when she tries to seduce the father.
Most disturbing part is when she tries to seduce the father.
Ew.
Most disturbing part is when she tries to seduce the father.
Ew.
Most disturbing part is when she tries to seduce the father.
Ew.
I assume you've never seen/read Lolita ;)
Most disturbing part is when she tries to seduce the father.
Ew.
I assume you've never seen/read Lolita ;)
Just finished it today!
Most disturbing part is when she tries to seduce the father.
Ew.
I assume you've never seen/read Lolita ;)
Jbissell, I guess you're not in NY? I think there are still plenty of tix available.
Also going to see the Rifftrax Live event tomorrow night -- anyone else? It's MST3K under a different name and is happening nationally at various theaters. They're doing Plan 9 From Outer Space.
I rather enjoyed this, though it's hard to avoid comparing it to the book, from which it's very different.
(http://www.jessicaloddo.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/06/the_damned_united_poster1.jpg)
Here's something that exists, and may require a one man show.
(http://www.blogcdn.com/www.moviefone.com/insidemovies/media/2009/08/road-house-2.jpg)
The faces on those girls look exactly the same. Twins? Photoshop? Something worse?
Soccer movies tend to go over my head.
oooo! I love all the guys in this movie, but i know absolutely nothing about soccer. Soccer movies tend to go over my head.
Well, except for Victory, of course. I think you'd have to be dead not to be into that movie.
Avatar looks awful, based on the trailer. A bunch of hippy jive. Cool airplanes, though.
Soccer movies tend to go over my head.
even...the big green?
Avatar looks awful, based on the trailer. A bunch of hippy jive. Cool airplanes, though.
Or Fever Pitch (the original)?
Avatar looks awful, based on the trailer. A bunch of hippy jive. Cool airplanes, though.
Awful or not, it's going to be this generation's Star Wars. I haven't heard the word "Avatar" without the words "ground-breaking" or "revolutionary" in the same sentence. The nerds have already decided.
Avatar looks awful, based on the trailer. A bunch of hippy jive. Cool airplanes, though.
Awful or not, it's going to be this generation's Star Wars. I haven't heard the word "Avatar" without the words "ground-breaking" or "revolutionary" in the same sentence. The nerds have already decided.
I am going on the record: this will be a huge flop.
Avatar looks awful, based on the trailer. A bunch of hippy jive. Cool airplanes, though.
Awful or not, it's going to be this generation's Star Wars. I haven't heard the word "Avatar" without the words "ground-breaking" or "revolutionary" in the same sentence. The nerds have already decided.
I am going on the record: this will be a huge flop.
I don't know. I have a friend that went to comicon and said that Avatar was the biggest thing there. You are cool Yesno but I'm going to have to take the opposing side on this one. It's a December release, John Cameron, first full digital 3D flick ever, it's going to be huge.
James, John, whatever. The movie that I do think will be a flop is Thw Wolfman with Benicio Del Toro.
(http://www.tlavideo.com/images/z/cg/0/7/253870_aa.jpg)
http://redwithoutblue.com/ (http://redwithoutblue.com/)
Wow. This has been out for a couple of years but I just now saw it and was FLOORED. Best documentary I've seen in a long time.
If anyone's interested, it can be streamed on Netflix or also viewed here. (http://www.snagfilms.com/films/title/red_without_blue/)
Avatar looks awful, based on the trailer. A bunch of hippy jive. Cool airplanes, though.
Awful or not, it's going to be this generation's Star Wars. I haven't heard the word "Avatar" without the words "ground-breaking" or "revolutionary" in the same sentence. The nerds have already decided.
just watched Jesus Son again last night. That is one damn fine movie.
A friend convinced me to go see 500 Days of Summer yesterday.
What kind of karaoke bar has Here Comes Your Man but not Born To Run?
Just saw District 9. Good stuff! Ditto on Jesus' Son. I love that movie.
Jesus' Son, the book, is fantastic.
I saw Hirokazu Kore-eda's film Distance at BAM yesterday. It was OK.I'm thinking of going to see Air Doll.
I don't know if anyone has posted anything about this movie, but while bored at work today I found this...
http://www.foxsearchlight.com/gentlemenbroncos/
I don't know if anyone has posted anything about this movie, but while bored at work today I found this...
http://www.foxsearchlight.com/gentlemenbroncos/
I saw that too. I'm not that into the Napoleon Dynamite style of cinematogrphy but the Sci-Fi stuff looks hilarious.
Watched Richard Kelly's THE BOX last night. It's either a very multi-layered, creepy lo-fi sci-fi, or an enigmatic, overlong, overwritten, pretentious piece of shit. Not really sure.
Watched Richard Kelly's THE BOX last night. It's either a very multi-layered, creepy lo-fi sci-fi, or an enigmatic, overlong, overwritten, pretentious piece of shit. Not really sure.
So just the same as Donnie Darko, basically.
A friend convinced me to go see 500 Days of Summer yesterday.
What kind of karaoke bar has Here Comes Your Man but not Born To Run?
A friend convinced me to go see 500 Days of Summer yesterday.
What kind of karaoke bar has Here Comes Your Man but not Born To Run?
You read my mind! I turned to my friend and said the same thing.
A friend convinced me to go see 500 Days of Summer yesterday.
What kind of karaoke bar has Here Comes Your Man but not Born To Run?
You read my mind! I turned to my friend and said the same thing.
Maybe the same person from the Adventureland creative staff who decided that putting "Pale Blue Eyes" on the jukebox of a working-class Pittsburgh bar in 1987 was believable.
A friend convinced me to go see 500 Days of Summer yesterday.
What kind of karaoke bar has Here Comes Your Man but not Born To Run?
You read my mind! I turned to my friend and said the same thing.
Maybe the same person from the Adventureland creative staff who decided that putting "Pale Blue Eyes" on the jukebox of a working-class Pittsburgh bar in 1987 was believable.
Ha! My personal favorite Unbelievable Movie Jukebox Scene is in Goodfellas, when you have DeNiro and a bunch of old school wiseguys sitting around a bar in like 1975 listening to "Sunshine of Your Love". Not so sure about that one.
It would be funny to see a list of other ridiculously unbelievable karaoke/jukebox scenes like that from movies.
A friend convinced me to go see 500 Days of Summer yesterday.
What kind of karaoke bar has Here Comes Your Man but not Born To Run?
You read my mind! I turned to my friend and said the same thing.
Maybe the same person from the Adventureland creative staff who decided that putting "Pale Blue Eyes" on the jukebox of a working-class Pittsburgh bar in 1987 was believable.
Ha! My personal favorite Unbelievable Movie Jukebox Scene is in Goodfellas, when you have DeNiro and a bunch of old school wiseguys sitting around a bar in like 1975 listening to "Sunshine of Your Love". Not so sure about that one.
It would be funny to see a list of other ridiculously unbelievable karaoke/jukebox scenes like that from movies.
A shot was set to that song, it wasn't playing on a jukebox.
It would be funny to see a list of other ridiculously unbelievable karaoke/jukebox scenes like that from movies.
I'm looking forward to hearing what you think of Julie and Julia, Martin.
When will there be a Mr. Rogers biopic?
I was just thinking about him last night - don't ask how he came up, I just don't know - and realized that he never, to my knowledge, licensed ANYTHING to sell to kids. Forget the movie, he should be sainted or something.
When will there be a Mr. Rogers biopic?
I was just thinking about him last night - don't ask how he came up, I just don't know - and realized that he never, to my knowledge, licensed ANYTHING to sell to kids. Forget the movie, he should be sainted or something.
[ The lessons and wisdom that he imparted to his viewers should be his ultimate legacy, not some lousy biopic.
I'm looking forward to hearing what you think of Julie and Julia, Martin.
I kind of loved it! I found Streep and Tucci absolutely irresistable, and the food porn was great.
Not to be a jerk, but I, too, had that thought. And Train in Vain!A friend convinced me to go see 500 Days of Summer yesterday.
What kind of karaoke bar has Here Comes Your Man but not Born To Run?
You read my mind! I turned to my friend and said the same thing.
When will there be a Mr. Rogers biopic?
I was just thinking about him last night - don't ask how he came up, I just don't know - and realized that he never, to my knowledge, licensed ANYTHING to sell to kids. Forget the movie, he should be sainted or something.
I remember seeing him get pranked on some sort of Candid Camera type show years and years ago. It was in a nice hotel, and they were secretly filming people getting shown their rooms by the hotel clerk or whoever, who was actually with the show. The gag was that the room had all these problems with it, like none of the lights worked, the TV was broken, the sink was screwed up, etc, and they would film people getting angry about this and losing their cool. (I never said it was a funny show.)
Well unbeknownst to the show, by chance Mr Rogers happens to be one of the guests. But the funny thing was that he was totally nice and polite and unflappable, and shrugged off all of the deficiencies with this totally genial "oh, I'll make do, that's fine" attitude. As hard as they tried, they could not get him to get upset whatsoever. It was hilarious and completely sweet and heartwarming at the same time.
A friend convinced me to go see 500 Days of Summer yesterday.
What kind of karaoke bar has Here Comes Your Man but not Born To Run?
You read my mind! I turned to my friend and said the same thing.
Maybe the same person from the Adventureland creative staff who decided that putting "Pale Blue Eyes" on the jukebox of a working-class Pittsburgh bar in 1987 was believable.
Ha! My personal favorite Unbelievable Movie Jukebox Scene is in Goodfellas, when you have DeNiro and a bunch of old school wiseguys sitting around a bar in like 1975 listening to "Sunshine of Your Love". Not so sure about that one.
It would be funny to see a list of other ridiculously unbelievable karaoke/jukebox scenes like that from movies.
A friend convinced me to go see 500 Days of Summer yesterday.
What kind of karaoke bar has Here Comes Your Man but not Born To Run?
You read my mind! I turned to my friend and said the same thing.
Maybe the same person from the Adventureland creative staff who decided that putting "Pale Blue Eyes" on the jukebox of a working-class Pittsburgh bar in 1987 was believable.
Ha! My personal favorite Unbelievable Movie Jukebox Scene is in Goodfellas, when you have DeNiro and a bunch of old school wiseguys sitting around a bar in like 1975 listening to "Sunshine of Your Love". Not so sure about that one.
It would be funny to see a list of other ridiculously unbelievable karaoke/jukebox scenes like that from movies.
I always questioned (but enjoyed) the idea of a bunch of rough and tumble baltimore cops getting drunk to the Pogues in The Wire.
A friend convinced me to go see 500 Days of Summer yesterday.
What kind of karaoke bar has Here Comes Your Man but not Born To Run?
You read my mind! I turned to my friend and said the same thing.
Maybe the same person from the Adventureland creative staff who decided that putting "Pale Blue Eyes" on the jukebox of a working-class Pittsburgh bar in 1987 was believable.
Ha! My personal favorite Unbelievable Movie Jukebox Scene is in Goodfellas, when you have DeNiro and a bunch of old school wiseguys sitting around a bar in like 1975 listening to "Sunshine of Your Love". Not so sure about that one.
It would be funny to see a list of other ridiculously unbelievable karaoke/jukebox scenes like that from movies.
I always questioned (but enjoyed) the idea of a bunch of rough and tumble baltimore cops getting drunk to the Pogues in The Wire.
The biggest headscratcher for me was Nick Sobotka's Palace Music poster.
Saw District 9 the other night. It was fairly original and mostly awesome.
Saw District 9 the other night. It was fairly original and mostly awesome.
I would agree with this. It was almost completely different from any movie I've seen in the past 10 years - the bullshit that was in it was different from the bullshit in other movies.
It was hard to get used to the name "Wikus."
Saw District 9 the other night. It was fairly original and mostly awesome.
I would agree with this. It was almost completely different from any movie I've seen in the past 10 years - the bullshit that was in it was different from the bullshit in other movies.
It was hard to get used to the name "Wikus."
Yeah and it was weird to call an alien Christopher Johnson when he clearly looked like a Solomon Tidelbaum.
What's Ozu?
What's your favorite, or maybe something good for a beginner, of this most kickass and extreme director?
[...]according to critic Todd McCarthy, of Variety, the movie lacked the depth and resonance of the original. "The film is offbeat, silly, disarming and loopy all at the same time," he wrote.
Herzog proudly took the credit for most of this loopiness, eagerly pointing out that the eccentric fantasy scenes featuring a pair of live iguanas were his own invention. "I always like to cast animals in my films, and iguanas are so stupid and bizarre I just love them," he said. "I don't know why I did it. But they are the best moments in the film."
Oh hiiiii, I'm Martin. Just for that, Setsuko Hara is going to cheerfully smash several teapots over my head.
(http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3325/3286138785_021d7d636d_m.jpg)
Just like Ozu (apparently), I've never seen Make Way For Tomorrow, although it is on youtube. But yes, Tokyo Story frequently lands in the top 5 or top 10 on greatest film lists. It's not like it's his only film to deal w/ rifts between parents and children either. Late Spring is very nearly as good.
This is also the first Criterion release I’ve ever seen with a gag reel (!). Long overdue, if you ask me. Surely there must have been some funny mishaps on those samurai films.
This is also the first Criterion release I’ve ever seen with a gag reel (!). Long overdue, if you ask me. Surely there must have been some funny mishaps on those samurai films.
I don't even want to think about a Salo gag reel.
Recently watched David Mamet’s HOMICIDE, which find him just about in House of Games form and follows Joe Mantegna as a weary detective who falls in with a militant Zionist group. I gather this strain of Mamet’s work is none too popular but this is a case where you don’t have to sign on to his ideas to find the movie compelling. Besides Mantegna, William H. Macy and Ricky Jay are on hand, although so is Rebecca Pidgeon (seeming freaky to me, as usual)
This is also the first Criterion release I’ve ever seen with a gag reel (!). Long overdue, if you ask me. Surely there must have been some funny mishaps on those samurai films.
I saw SOUL POWER today. It was great. It's the kind of movie that could save the world.
I saw Zombieland today. Very enjoyable and funny, though I wish I hadn't had the cameo ruined.
I've heard really excellent review of Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs from reputable critics. Based on the trailers, I had no interest in seeing this, but after hearing glowing review after glowing review, I'm now interested.
I've only heard great things about CWACOM. Really want to see it.
Where the Wild Things Are was pretty depressing but I still liked it a lot. The design of the wild things was absolutely wonderful. There were a couple parts that dragged but there were plenty of lovely moments that made it well worth it.
Where the Wild Things Are was pretty depressing but I still liked it a lot. The design of the wild things was absolutely wonderful. There were a couple parts that dragged but there were plenty of lovely moments that made it well worth it.
Just saw it. Agreed. Not what I would call "fun." But certainly lovely.
Where the Wild Things Are was pretty depressing but I still liked it a lot. The design of the wild things was absolutely wonderful. There were a couple parts that dragged but there were plenty of lovely moments that made it well worth it.
Just saw it. Agreed. Not what I would call "fun." But certainly lovely.
I have heard a lot of people say they found it depressing; it has moments of real sadness, but I am confused that people feel depressed about it. I was so excited to have a child-based movie (at least ostensibly) not end with a trite happy resolution, and I thought the last scene was absolutely perfect. I felt like I could walk on air when it finished.
Also loved Karen O's contribution to the perfect soundtrack.
Where the Wild Things Are was pretty depressing but I still liked it a lot. The design of the wild things was absolutely wonderful. There were a couple parts that dragged but there were plenty of lovely moments that made it well worth it.
Just saw it. Agreed. Not what I would call "fun." But certainly lovely.
I have heard a lot of people say they found it depressing; it has moments of real sadness, but I am confused that people feel depressed about it. I was so excited to have a child-based movie (at least ostensibly) not end with a trite happy resolution, and I thought the last scene was absolutely perfect. I felt like I could walk on air when it finished.
Also loved Karen O's contribution to the perfect soundtrack.
Where the Wild Things Are was pretty depressing but I still liked it a lot. The design of the wild things was absolutely wonderful. There were a couple parts that dragged but there were plenty of lovely moments that made it well worth it.
Just saw it. Agreed. Not what I would call "fun." But certainly lovely.
I have heard a lot of people say they found it depressing; it has moments of real sadness, but I am confused that people feel depressed about it. I was so excited to have a child-based movie (at least ostensibly) not end with a trite happy resolution, and I thought the last scene was absolutely perfect. I felt like I could walk on air when it finished.
Where the Wild Things Are was pretty depressing but I still liked it a lot. The design of the wild things was absolutely wonderful. There were a couple parts that dragged but there were plenty of lovely moments that made it well worth it.
Just saw it. Agreed. Not what I would call "fun." But certainly lovely.
I have heard a lot of people say they found it depressing; it has moments of real sadness, but I am confused that people feel depressed about it. I was so excited to have a child-based movie (at least ostensibly) not end with a trite happy resolution, and I thought the last scene was absolutely perfect. I felt like I could walk on air when it finished.
I agree with most of what you're saying here. Re: the ending, I loved it but I guess I saw it as a little more ambiguous, like things are better for now, but how long will it last?
Where the Wild Things Are was pretty depressing but I still liked it a lot. The design of the wild things was absolutely wonderful. There were a couple parts that dragged but there were plenty of lovely moments that made it well worth it.
Just saw it. Agreed. Not what I would call "fun." But certainly lovely.
I have heard a lot of people say they found it depressing; it has moments of real sadness, but I am confused that people feel depressed about it. I was so excited to have a child-based movie (at least ostensibly) not end with a trite happy resolution, and I thought the last scene was absolutely perfect. I felt like I could walk on air when it finished.
I agree with most of what you're saying here. Re: the ending, I loved it but I guess I saw it as a little more ambiguous, like things are better for now, but how long will it last?
YES! EXACTLY! Life's never perfect; hang on to the little moments that are! That's one of the important messages of the entire film for me; you can't keep the bad stuff out, but that's no excuse to overlook joyful moments. And it delivers this notion in as maudlin-free non-sentimental way as it can be truthfully delivered. How false would it ring if you were left with the idea that everything's been resolved and from now on all will be well? THAT would have pissed me off.
Sorry, guess I sound like an evangelist.
Where the Wild Things Are was pretty depressing but I still liked it a lot. The design of the wild things was absolutely wonderful. There were a couple parts that dragged but there were plenty of lovely moments that made it well worth it.
Just saw it. Agreed. Not what I would call "fun." But certainly lovely.
I have heard a lot of people say they found it depressing; it has moments of real sadness, but I am confused that people feel depressed about it. I was so excited to have a child-based movie (at least ostensibly) not end with a trite happy resolution, and I thought the last scene was absolutely perfect. I felt like I could walk on air when it finished.
I agree with most of what you're saying here. Re: the ending, I loved it but I guess I saw it as a little more ambiguous, like things are better for now, but how long will it last?
YES! EXACTLY! Life's never perfect; hang on to the little moments that are! That's one of the important messages of the entire film for me; you can't keep the bad stuff out, but that's no excuse to overlook joyful moments. And it delivers this notion in as maudlin-free non-sentimental way as it can be truthfully delivered. How false would it ring if you were left with the idea that everything's been resolved and from now on all will be well? THAT would have pissed me off.
Sorry, guess I sound like an evangelist.
It's ok, we're on the same page here.
Where the Wild Things Are was pretty depressing but I still liked it a lot. The design of the wild things was absolutely wonderful. There were a couple parts that dragged but there were plenty of lovely moments that made it well worth it.
Just saw it. Agreed. Not what I would call "fun." But certainly lovely.
I have heard a lot of people say they found it depressing; it has moments of real sadness, but I am confused that people feel depressed about it. I was so excited to have a child-based movie (at least ostensibly) not end with a trite happy resolution, and I thought the last scene was absolutely perfect. I felt like I could walk on air when it finished.
I agree with most of what you're saying here. Re: the ending, I loved it but I guess I saw it as a little more ambiguous, like things are better for now, but how long will it last?
YES! EXACTLY! Life's never perfect; hang on to the little moments that are! That's one of the important messages of the entire film for me; you can't keep the bad stuff out, but that's no excuse to overlook joyful moments. And it delivers this notion in as maudlin-free non-sentimental way as it can be truthfully delivered. How false would it ring if you were left with the idea that everything's been resolved and from now on all will be well? THAT would have pissed me off.
Sorry, guess I sound like an evangelist.
It's ok, we're on the same page here.
Saw it with my 4.5 year old this weekend. I loved it; he was more "meh." Agree with DFK and jbissell - perfect ending. The filmmakers could have done a lot wrong there but I thought they nailed it so well. What I particularly loved was that the communication was non-verbal.
I like that the movie had its sad and complicated parts. The little guy wanted things more black and white. "Was Carol a good guy?" "Well, yes, and no..."
He's young. He'll learn. So will I.
Where the Wild Things Are was pretty depressing but I still liked it a lot. The design of the wild things was absolutely wonderful. There were a couple parts that dragged but there were plenty of lovely moments that made it well worth it.
Just saw it. Agreed. Not what I would call "fun." But certainly lovely.
I have heard a lot of people say they found it depressing; it has moments of real sadness, but I am confused that people feel depressed about it. I was so excited to have a child-based movie (at least ostensibly) not end with a trite happy resolution, and I thought the last scene was absolutely perfect. I felt like I could walk on air when it finished.
Also loved Karen O's contribution to the perfect soundtrack.
I agree with you Dave. I loved it. This was not a book that was read to me as a nighttime story, but I have read it many times over the years and, after working with children for so many years, it spoke to me a lot. Loved it from opening credits on.
Where the Wild Things Are was pretty depressing but I still liked it a lot. The design of the wild things was absolutely wonderful. There were a couple parts that dragged but there were plenty of lovely moments that made it well worth it.
Just saw it. Agreed. Not what I would call "fun." But certainly lovely.
I have heard a lot of people say they found it depressing; it has moments of real sadness, but I am confused that people feel depressed about it. I was so excited to have a child-based movie (at least ostensibly) not end with a trite happy resolution, and I thought the last scene was absolutely perfect. I felt like I could walk on air when it finished.
Also loved Karen O's contribution to the perfect soundtrack.
I agree with you Dave. I loved it. This was not a book that was read to me as a nighttime story, but I have read it many times over the years and, after working with children for so many years, it spoke to me a lot. Loved it from opening credits on.
I thought it was great. A little melancholy, but not depressing. My 4 year-old liked it too. I remember finding the monsters in the book both appealing and a little scary as a small kid, and the movie nailed that aspect of it. I also left thinking it might be the most realistic interpretation of being a small boy I've seen in a film. Max's random, hyper-ambitious plan for the fort was a perfect example of the behavior I see in my own kid, and my friend's kids, all the time. And when Max was playing alone throughout the first part of the movie, the mood felt very familiar. Something like what I remember experiencing myself as a kid. I thought it was pretty amazing.
Phil, either you or Steve in North Hollywood needs to change your avatar. TOO CONFUSING.
Phil, either you or Steve in North Hollywood needs to change your avatar. TOO CONFUSING.
Better?
Midnight showing of 'Paranormal Activity' on Saturday. For me it lived up to the hype; it scared the bejeezus out of me and the whole crowd was genuinely into it (real fear, none of the usual midnight movie hooting/ironic screams). It is so simple and stripped down it almost feels more like a piece of conceptual art at times, and so obvious in a sense you wonder how no one has done this before. I predict this thing will rake it in on word of mouth.
Midnight showing of 'Paranormal Activity' on Saturday. For me it lived up to the hype; it scared the bejeezus out of me and the whole crowd was genuinely into it (real fear, none of the usual midnight movie hooting/ironic screams). It is so simple and stripped down it almost feels more like a piece of conceptual art at times, and so obvious in a sense you wonder how no one has done this before. I predict this thing will rake it in on word of mouth.
I feel like I'm really alone here feeling disappointed with Paranormal Activity. I'd say it was entertaining enough, but it just wasn't scary and we'll all end up forgetting it. The first-person digital camera scary movies just don't do anything for me.
(http://i231.photobucket.com/albums/ee183/gaughin/arts-amelia-584.jpg)
If you liked him as Buddy Holly, you will LOVE him as.....AMELIA
*Despite the fact that I have never seen a Hilary Swank movie.
I watched 'Anvil! The Story of Anvil' the other day. If you've ever been a frustrated musician, as I have, it will strike a deep chord.Been meaning to watch this. Thanks for the reminder.
I will definitely be seeing The Christmas Carol in Imax 3D.
Somebody mentioned Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs- I got the chance to see it in Imax 3D and that was the best theater experience I've ever had. 3D has sure come a long way and it's way more than a gimmick, it's a whole new way to watch movies.
It's a totally different ballgame when the movie is made for 3D. Go see Cloudy W/ a Chance of Meatballs in Imax 3D and you'll have a different opinion of 3D movies- The whole movie is literally right in front of your face.
Yeah, Anvil is a little on the depressing side. It's like if Spinal Tap was remade into an indie drama. There's even a 'Robb Reiner'!
I just saw Moon. It was far from perfect, but at least it was a *real* science fiction movie and not just an outer space adventure.
I can't get over the fact that the Pop Will Eat Itself guy is now a respected soundtrack composer. I keep expecting him to bust in and start rapping about comic books and McDonald's.
I just saw Moon. It was far from perfect, but at least it was a *real* science fiction movie and not just an outer space adventure.
I can't get over the fact that the Pop Will Eat Itself guy is now a respected soundtrack composer. I keep expecting him to bust in and start rapping about comic books and McDonald's.
M-O-O-N spells moon.
Yeah, Anvil is a little on the depressing side. It's like if Spinal Tap was remade into an indie drama. There's even a 'Robb Reiner'!
When I went on opening night in Toronto (as opposed to the 'official' premiere which had happened a few weeks earlier) the director, the band and a lot of their friends were there. We came to the late show when most of those people were leaving, but Lips and Robb and a few of their pals stuck around for the whole second show and answered questions and posed for photos afterwards. They were exactly as presented in the film (right down to Robb's leather fannypack). Seeing those guys in person and how genuinely enthusiastic and open-hearted they are changed my reaction to the movie from mild depression to puzzled admiration.
I will definitely be seeing The Christmas Carol in Imax 3D.
I dunno about that one. From the team that brought you Polar Express? I didn't see it in 3D, but I did see it, and it was loooong and boring.
A Serious Man just opened here, so I saw that. I'm still digesting it, but I think I liked it. LOVED the ending.
And can we go ahead and give Roger Deakins the Presidential Medal of Freedom already? That dude is as good as it gets, straight up.
That final shot of the sky is pretty amazing.
Tried watching Army of Shadows on DVD last night. After all the praise I'd heard, I expected to love it, but found it strangely unsatisfying. It seemed to waver between being plot-driven and anecdotal, as if it couldn't make up its mind which it wanted to be. I have NO problem with movies that move slow or take their time getting to wherever it is they need to be, but this was just boring. I started checking the time about an hour in and finally turned it off after 90 minutes.
can anyone ID any of these stills?
C might be Aguirre, Wrath of God?
Saw A Serious Man last night. The Coen Brothers can do no wrong for me. Their batting average for funny/weird/complicated movies is pretty exceptional.
Did anyone see The Box or Gentleman Broncos last night?
can anyone ID any of these stills?
C might be Aguirre, Wrath of God?
I think the answers are:
the original Payback
28 Days Later
Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian
The Box is terrible.
The Box is terrible.
Not surprised, I guess. Ebert's review had given me hope.
Saw A Serious Man last night. The Coen Brothers can do no wrong for me. Their batting average for funny/weird/complicated movies is pretty exceptional.
Did anyone see The Box or Gentleman Broncos last night?
Heading out to see Gentlemen Broncos tonight. I really, really didn't like Napolean Dynamite, and found Nacho Libre mediocre, but something tells me this one has potential. At the very least Jemaine Clement looks funny in the previews.
By the way: Is it just coincidence that the drummer's name is Robb Reiner?
I watched Anvil over the weekend as well. For me the saddest moment was when Lips was doing his vocal take during the recording of This Is Thirteen and he was belting out some of the stupidest lyrics I think I've ever heard. I know people don't go to heavy metal for the lyrics, but as long as that's where they're setting the bar, heavy metal will never be popular again.
the stupidest lyrics
Idiotic post.
Most of the major cast and crew of Stalker including Tarkovsky were dead from cancer within ten years after shooting, and then re-shooting it from scratch, in that toxic waste dump of a location.
The Box is terrible.
Did anybody see The Girlfriend Experience? I have my doubts about watching it and it's not something I can just pick up at the Redbox for a buck.
Did anybody see The Girlfriend Experience? I have my doubts about watching it and it's not something I can just pick up at the Redbox for a buck.
I've been on a big Soderbergh kick lately, I just saw it. I liked it, but it is what it is. Plot-wise, it's fairly simple, just a few days in the life of the main character, but the narrative timeline gets totally deconstructed in the editing room, so you're piecing a lot of the drama together after the fact. There's no big laughs or bravura sequences or anything, but it's just another one of his neat little minor movies. If you're expecting any more than that, you might be disappointed.
Did anybody see The Girlfriend Experience? I have my doubts about watching it and it's not something I can just pick up at the Redbox for a buck.
I've been on a big Soderbergh kick lately, I just saw it. I liked it, but it is what it is. Plot-wise, it's fairly simple, just a few days in the life of the main character, but the narrative timeline gets totally deconstructed in the editing room, so you're piecing a lot of the drama together after the fact. There's no big laughs or bravura sequences or anything, but it's just another one of his neat little minor movies. If you're expecting any more than that, you might be disappointed.
Sounds kinda like The Limey.
Except The Limey is a masterpiece, while The Girlfriend Exp is just good.
Oh I believe it. They do seem like great guys, so you're rooting for them the whole time. I really admired and liked them throughout the film and I loved that it ended on a bit of a bright note for them. I've gone through some of my own struggles in the music world so I related somewhat. What they've gone through over the years...damn. But things ultimately seemed to end up well for them, so that's cool.Yeah, Anvil is a little on the depressing side. It's like if Spinal Tap was remade into an indie drama. There's even a 'Robb Reiner'!
When I went on opening night in Toronto (as opposed to the 'official' premiere which had happened a few weeks earlier) the director, the band and a lot of their friends were there. We came to the late show when most of those people were leaving, but Lips and Robb and a few of their pals stuck around for the whole second show and answered questions and posed for photos afterwards. They were exactly as presented in the film (right down to Robb's leather fannypack). Seeing those guys in person and how genuinely enthusiastic and open-hearted they are changed my reaction to the movie from mild depression to puzzled admiration.
His T-Shirt "I'M BORED, You must be talking"
http://www.traileraddict.com/trailer/ballast/trailer
I watched Ballast last night. One of the best movies Ive seen in years.
I watched Michael Keaton's "The Merry Gentleman" this weekend and wanted to pass along that the film contains a scene where the main characters burn a Christmas tree. The burning Christmas tree scene is also featured as the background for the film's Special Features menu.
Do you think that's what Messrs Orr and Ocasek were thinking when they penned that chestnut so long ago?The Cars did a song called "Tooth Fairy"?
THE TOOTH FAIRY.
I'm very sad to learn that Dwayne Johnson did not do his own skating for this. My fondness for him would have grown tenfold had I found out he knows his way around a rink. As it is, I can't help thinking a little less of him. Unfair, I know.
THE TOOTH FAIRY.
I'm very sad to learn that Dwayne Johnson did not do his own skating for this. My fondness for him would have grown tenfold had I found out he knows his way around a rink. As it is, I can't help thinking a little less of him. Unfair, I know.
I find it interesting that Stephen Merchant featured so much in the trailer, yet didn't get to say a word.
Of course I love Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson. Never as a wrestler (I preferred Goldberg, who was in a different league, I believe), but from the first moment I saw him make fun of himself (on an episode of That 70s Show). It's just that if it had turned out he could skate, too, my adoration would have been complete, and I feel a little cheated knowing that he faked it.
I don't think I've seen much pro wrestling.
I don't think I've seen much pro wrestling.
Lucky you.
I don't think I've seen much pro wrestling.
Lucky you.
Haw! My bro watched it a lot in the 80s during the Hulk Hogan/ Rowdy Roddy Piper / Macho Man Randy Savage era so I watched plenty of those guys ... not so much the current crop, tho.
Same here - I don't think I've seen much pro wrestling so I have no idea what that was like, but I just like his whole thing and I like how cartoony he is and how he sort of revels in his cartooniness. I see how you feel let down! He doesn't seem human.
I don't think I've seen much pro wrestling.
Lucky you.
Haw! My bro watched it a lot in the 80s during the Hulk Hogan/ Rowdy Roddy Piper / Macho Man Randy Savage era so I watched plenty of those guys ... not so much the current crop, tho.
I'm going to see Fantastic Mr. Fox tonight with my family! The first Wes Anderson movie they're interested in seeing.
(http://caffeine-headache.net/blog3/BoatThatRockedPoster325.jpg)
Saw this last night. Fully expected to hate it, but there were a good few laughs and chuckles. Story, as you'd expect from Richard 'Love Actually' Curtis, was a bit crap and full of holes and mental-ness. And the final third was all a bit blarg. And one of the characters is called "Twat". Ugh. Despite it all, enough funny people are involved to make it very okay indeed.
(http://caffeine-headache.net/blog3/BoatThatRockedPoster325.jpg)
(http://caffeine-headache.net/blog3/BoatThatRockedPoster325.jpg)
A lot of rock movies like Music & Lyrics are too in-your-face for me, but this looks more my speed.
David gets it!
Not depressing enough in my book. It sentimentalized and prettified abject poverty much the way Schindler's List did the Holocaust.
Not depressing enough in my book. It sentimentalized and prettified abject poverty much the way Schindler's List did the Holocaust.Sarah, I've seen many films depicting abject poverty. My comment about it being depressing had more to do with the marketing of it as being a "feel good" movie.
NEWSFLASH! I just watched Slumdog Millionaire and don't understand what the fuss was all about.
Hear hear!
Hear hear!
Yep.
Not depressing enough in my book. It sentimentalized and prettified abject poverty much the way Schindler's List did the Holocaust.
Good Lord, woman!
NEWSFLASH! I just watched Slumdog Millionaire and don't understand what the fuss was all about.
Saw it last night and thought it was really fun. Reminded me of those Penny bits from Pee Wees Playhouse. I thought it was much better than Were The Wild Things Are and i usually go for depressing.
Has anyone mentioned Fantastic Mr. Fox on here?
I liked it.
Slumdog Millionaire wasn't Best Picture worthy, but it was an entertaining little confection. I need to find out more about this "India" place, it seems charming.I'd like to go to india
Is it just me, or does Alfred Molina look like Mr. Creasote after a couple of trips to the gym?
Saw it last night and thought it was really fun. Reminded me of those Penny bits from Pee Wees Playhouse. I thought it was much better than Were The Wild Things Are and i usually go for depressing.
Anyone seen Bad Lieutenant Port of Call New Orleans yet? In fact, I know many of you did, so let's debate: was it (1) awesome, or (2) really awesome?
Or does it have its own thread, I forget.
Saw THE BAD LIEUTENANT: PORT OF CALL NEW ORLEANS (the "the" really does add something to the title) last night and liked it quite a bit. First, it seems no one here has had a good word for the original yet. I haven't seen it in years but I thought it and Keitel's performance were riveting. I can't think of another director that makes sleaze and depravity look as authentically disgusting and unsexy as Abel Ferrara. His movies are skeevy like none other, and I mean that as a compliment. On that level, the Herzog version with its cartoonier lead actor can't compete.
That said, this movie was about as fun as I'd hoped, not because watching Cage indulge his many vices is a hoot, but because of the personal stamp he and Herzog put on what must have been a terribly boring script. A lot of movies are odd or idiosyncratic by design, but rarer is one that's modestly conceived as one thing and then triumphantly turned on its head by a visionary weirdo and his iguanas.
The positive comments I'm hearing are making me consider seeing Fantastic Mr. Fox in spite of the fact that I absolutely loathed the two Wes Anderson movies I've seen (Rushmore and Royal Tennenbaums). Is the movie good enough to overcome that level of animosity?To me, it's just like all the other Wes Anderson movies except 1. it was way more lighthearted 2. more fun 3. less depressing 4. did I say fun already? 5. the animation and dialogue is really awesome!
The positive comments I'm hearing are making me consider seeing Fantastic Mr. Fox in spite of the fact that I absolutely loathed the two Wes Anderson movies I've seen (Rushmore and Royal Tennenbaums). Is the movie good enough to overcome that level of animosity?To me, it's just like all the other Wes Anderson movies except 1. it was way more lighthearted 2. more fun 3. less depressing 4. did I say fun already? 5. the animation and dialogue is really awesome!
The thing that bothers me the most about the Anderson movies I've seen is the "HEY! EVERYBODY LOOKING AT ME, OVER HERE, BEING QUIRKY!" quality. How much of that is here?
Did anybody see The Girlfriend Experience? I have my doubts about watching it and it's not something I can just pick up at the Redbox for a buck.
I've been on a big Soderbergh kick lately, I just saw it. I liked it, but it is what it is. Plot-wise, it's fairly simple, just a few days in the life of the main character, but the narrative timeline gets totally deconstructed in the editing room, so you're piecing a lot of the drama together after the fact. There's no big laughs or bravura sequences or anything, but it's just another one of his neat little minor movies. If you're expecting any more than that, you might be disappointed.
Sounds kinda like The Limey.
Yeah, imagine what The Limey would have been like if instead of unraveling a murder mystery and kicking the shit out of gangsters, Terence Stamp just occassionally had sex with lonely rich dudes.
I second that recommendation. Dear Zachary is a completely heartbreaking experience. But somehow it's worth it. And I would like to add that the less you know about it going in, the better. I mean that literally - any synopsis will give away some of the gut-wrenching drama that unfolds.
I went to a theatrical screening of Bela Tarr's "Werckmeister Harmonies" last night. I was pretty excited for it, mostly because a close friend with impeccable taste has been hyping it to me for about two years. And just generally, I've been in the mood for apocalyptic Eastern European weirdness lately, so I figured this would really scratch my itch.
Unfortunately, I unwisely put myself into an, er, altered state before the screening, and the result turned out to be a super-intense, disorienting, horrifying nightmare. Which I guess is what Bela Tarr was going for with that one, but still, mmmaybe not the smartest thing I've ever done. What little of it I can remember that I don't think was purely in my mind seems pretty interesting, though. I'll have to rent it soon and watch it with nothing stronger than herbal tea in my system.
So I guess the point of all this is: kids, make sure to keep it straight edge when you're dealing with ultra-minimalist, apocalyptic, Eastern Bloc dread-fests. I'm going to try to go see "Fantastic Mr Fox" this week - hopefully that can undo most of the lingering psychic damage.
FINALLY a film directed solely at me.
FINALLY a film directed solely at me.
The thing that surprised me most about this is that it isn't from the Friedberg/Seltzer team or a Wayans.
FINALLY a film directed solely at me.
The thing that surprised me most about this is that it isn't from the Friedberg/Seltzer team or a Wayans.
They must be kicking themselves.
I went to a theatrical screening of Bela Tarr's "Werckmeister Harmonies" last night. I was pretty excited for it, mostly because a close friend with impeccable taste has been hyping it to me for about two years. And just generally, I've been in the mood for apocalyptic Eastern European weirdness lately, so I figured this would really scratch my itch.
Unfortunately, I unwisely put myself into an, er, altered state before the screening, and the result turned out to be a super-intense, disorienting, horrifying nightmare. Which I guess is what Bela Tarr was going for with that one, but still, mmmaybe not the smartest thing I've ever done. What little of it I can remember that I don't think was purely in my mind seems pretty interesting, though. I'll have to rent it soon and watch it with nothing stronger than herbal tea in my system.
So I guess the point of all this is: kids, make sure to keep it straight edge when you're dealing with ultra-minimalist, apocalyptic, Eastern Bloc dread-fests. I'm going to try to go see "Fantastic Mr Fox" this week - hopefully that can undo most of the lingering psychic damage.
I recently watched an odd-ish 50's b-movie called MURDER BY CONTRACT, which just came out as part of a new Film Noir boxset. Vince Edwards plays a fledgling New York hitman and sociopath who really loosens up when he's flown out to Los Angeles to kill a female nightclub singer in witness protection (similar, I guess, to how Dexter seemed to really like Miami in the one episode I saw). There's a weird psychology behind the whole movie and Edwards' obnoxious character in particular. When he finds out his target is a woman he tries to charge his "contractor" double because women are "unreliable," and "never stand in one place." He regales the two goons assigned to tail him with precious insights ("women are descended from the monkey, and the monkey is a very curious animal..."), and there's a scene where he chews out a room service waiter at length and basically acts like a total cock after the guy brings him a smudged coffee cup. The film's most memorable feature though is the moody electric guitar score, which sounds like a cross between The Third Man and Twin Peaks-like 50's licks. There's also a brief dvd intro from Martin Scorsese, who talks about how foreign cinema was starting to influence movies like this and how the early scenes of Edwards compulsively exercising in his tiny apartment influenced similar moments in Taxi Driver.
Except for the opening scene and the riot in the hospital I didn't care for Werckmeister Harmonies. I don't think watching a character walk from the foreground ALL THE WAY into the distance constitutes much of an idea. I REALLY liked Tarr's 7-hour SATANTANGO though. The walking in that movie felt more important.
Watching Blue Velvet. Right now.
This is a really great movie, full of disturbingness, and I doubt I will ever watch it ever again after tonight.
the mother-in-law invited me over for a movie last sunday. she rented Whatever Works, which she didnt know was a Woody Allen film starring Larry David as the phoned in Woody Allen character.
i definitely chuckled, but hated the southern female character (and her mother!) the most.
the mother-in-law invited me over for a movie last sunday. she rented Whatever Works, which she didnt know was a Woody Allen film starring Larry David as the phoned in Woody Allen character.
i definitely chuckled, but hated the southern female character (and her mother!) the most.
I watched Celebrity a couple of weeks ago, as I work my way through his lesser films. Not great, not terrible. The underappreciated film in the Allen Oeuvre is still Stardust Memories. A Midsummer Night's Sex Comedy is all right, too.
Stardust Memories is great! And definitely not regarded as one of the Woodster's lesser movies.
Stardust Memories is great! And definitely not regarded as one of the Woodster's lesser movies.
Tell that to the people of IMDB!
Which isn’t to say that Knowles’s motivations are entirely pure—or that he doesn’t also seem to be wearing fanboy blinders. For one thing, there appears to be no such thing as a bad geek movie in his universe, only failures of marketing. (The Quentin Tarantino/Robert Rodriguez collaboration Grindhouse, for instance, would have worked had the Weinstein Company listened to him and advertised the film primarily online instead of on television.) For another, Knowles speaks of geek culture almost as a political or social movement. He will use any means necessary to win the unconverted to his side—and he won’t stop until everyone goes geek.
“We’re hovering near a renaissance of geek filmmaking that we haven’t seen since the late seventies and early eighties, when Spielberg and Lucas and Carpenter were at their prime,” he told me. “We’re bringing people who were indie darlings, like Steven Soderbergh, into a medium of geek that we’ve never seen before. Look at Woody Allen, who has been into suspense films recently, like Match Point and Cassandra’s Dream. That’s not Woody Allen territory, but he’s started to make it his territory. Look at David Cronenberg. He was doing the genre stuff, but then he went arty. Now he’s decided to remake The Fly. It’s like we’re managing to pull Cronenberg back to what I really want Cronenberg to be doing.”
But how does Knowles respond to those moviegoers who don’t want any part of this culture—who yearn for comedies that aren’t filtered through the arch hipsterspeak of Diablo Cody (Juno) and Wes Anderson (Fantastic Mr. Fox); who first got hooked on Soderbergh courtesy of a soft-spoken, character-driven film called sex, lies, and videotape; who prefer Woody Allen in his Manhattan mode to anything he’s made featuring Scarlett Johansson; who thought Cronenberg’s über-arty Spider was the most mature, complex, and daring work of his career? Which is to say, how does he respond to an old-school movie buff like me?
“Eat it,” he told me, breaking into giggles. “I win.”
“Eat it,” he told me, breaking into giggles. “I win.”
I prefer this fan critic site:
http://rateyourmusic.com/films/chart (http://rateyourmusic.com/films/chart)
Avatar is five days away!
(http://www.quietmoment.org/photos/picture_stream/avatar-linda-hamilton.jpg)
I made my own poster based on the previews.
Avatar is five days away!
(http://www.quietmoment.org/photos/picture_stream/avatar-linda-hamilton.jpg)
I made my own poster based on the previews.
Man, that is solid work.
I'm going to post this here, and I'm sorry for that maybe. But it is a very thorough undressing.
Give it a chance...
[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FxKtZmQgxrI&feature=player_embedded[/youtube]
Caveat: I like human suffering as much as the next guy, but the "woman-locked-in-the-basement" scenes weren't really, you know, funny, so much as disturbing.
I have a question: does it bother you guys as much as it bothers me when two characters in a film are talking in a moving car, and the character who's driving keeps turning to look at the other character for inordinately long amounts of time instead of watching the road? I understand the mechanics of how these scenes are shot, and that the actors are generally not thinking about mimicking the act of driving so much as connecting with each other in the moment, but usually I'm sitting there thinking WATCH THE ROAD! YOU'RE GOING TO CRASH!!! Once you've noticed it once it seems to happen all the time.
They do crash... about a third of the time. It's a terrible convention, very manipulative and stupid.
This review of The Phantom Menace is just about perfect. What a terrible movie, what a disappointment, what a testament to the fact that ridiculous amounts of money and soft living and surrounding yourself at all times with a network of Yes Men is completely destructive to a once-great storyteller.
I'm watching Ladies of Leisure (dir. Frank Capra, 1930), Barbara Stanwyck's breakout role. She's only twenty-three in it, and she's quite the charmer.
I'm watching Ladies of Leisure (dir. Frank Capra, 1930), Barbara Stanwyck's breakout role. She's only twenty-three in it, and she's quite the charmer.
Coincidentally, we just saw Christmas in Connecticut last night, in which she was equally charming.
I'm watching Ladies of Leisure (dir. Frank Capra, 1930), Barbara Stanwyck's breakout role. She's only twenty-three in it, and she's quite the charmer.
Coincidentally, we just saw Christmas in Connecticut last night, in which she was equally charming.
Yes, that is a great one. Another of my favorites of hers is Ball of Fire, a movie prompted the inclusion of the phrase "on account of because" in my family's private lexicon.
I've heard people defending the film on the grounds of it being Mamet-does-genre cheeky, but I don't buy it - Mamet is way too serious about his ART, and is simply not able to keep a distance to what he does.
Saw Sherlock Holmes today. Entertaining. NOT canon, so if you're going as a Holmes fanboy/girl you should skip it. But they put enough Dolye-ian touches in to make it fun, and there's a lot of period stuff that makes it visually great.
Also, if you hate Guy Ritchie movies you should probably skip it as well.
I like Robert Downey, Jr. and Jude Law, and I like the few things I've seen with Rachel McAdams. They're all good.
I recorded Once Upon a Time in America a few weeks ago. It's been staring at me, all 3:50 of it, ever since. It gets three stars from the movie reviewing people who determine these things for cable.
My question is, is it worth that much time? That's a really long movie. I like Leone's Westerns and have seen the other two in this trilogy - Once Upon a Time in the West and Giu la Testa/Duck, You Sucker, but I have to admit I'm hesitant to invest this much time in a movie that doesn't get a lot of buzz or spark many conversations.
Your input is very welcome.
I recorded Once Upon a Time in America a few weeks ago. It's been staring at me, all 3:50 of it, ever since. It gets three stars from the movie reviewing people who determine these things for cable.
My question is, is it worth that much time? That's a really long movie. I like Leone's Westerns and have seen the other two in this trilogy - Once Upon a Time in the West and Giu la Testa/Duck, You Sucker, but I have to admit I'm hesitant to invest this much time in a movie that doesn't get a lot of buzz or spark many conversations.
Your input is very welcome.
One of the most boring gangster movies ever made, in my opinion. I think The Good, The Bad, And The Ugly is one of the greatest movies ever made and a lot of other Leone flicks are close to my heart, but Once Upon A Time In America is nothing but a chore to sit through for me. Makes Stranger Than Paradise seem like Goodfellas by comparison. Also features the most egregious, schmaltzy overuse of the song "Yesterday" in film history.
I recorded Once Upon a Time in America a few weeks ago. It's been staring at me, all 3:50 of it, ever since. It gets three stars from the movie reviewing people who determine these things for cable.
My question is, is it worth that much time? That's a really long movie. I like Leone's Westerns and have seen the other two in this trilogy - Once Upon a Time in the West and Giu la Testa/Duck, You Sucker, but I have to admit I'm hesitant to invest this much time in a movie that doesn't get a lot of buzz or spark many conversations.
Your input is very welcome.
One of the most boring gangster movies ever made, in my opinion. I think The Good, The Bad, And The Ugly is one of the greatest movies ever made and a lot of other Leone flicks are close to my heart, but Once Upon A Time In America is nothing but a chore to sit through for me. Makes Stranger Than Paradise seem like Goodfellas by comparison. Also features the most egregious, schmaltzy overuse of the song "Yesterday" in film history.
Yeah, I kept hearing about how amazing it was and I thought it was boring as hell. I've loved every other Leone movie I've seen.
I thought REDBELT was terrible. Proposed alt title would be THE KARATE GUY. Only redeeming thing is Eijofor, who turns in a predictably solid perf. But he's stuck in a sea of mediocrity. I've heard people defending the film on the grounds of it being Mamet-does-genre cheeky, but I don't buy it - Mamet is way too serious about his ART, and is simply not able to keep a distance to what he does. To me Redbelt read more like a boring by-the-numbers exercise by a middleaged geezer who's become FASCINATED by MMA and jiu-jitsu and probably got his own personal trainer as one of the exec producers of this. And of course there's Rebecca Pidgeon. The comparison with Ghost Dog is apt, Chris L, but only shames Redbelt further.
That CD looks wonderful though.
I recorded Once Upon a Time in America a few weeks ago. It's been staring at me, all 3:50 of it, ever since. It gets three stars from the movie reviewing people who determine these things for cable.
My question is, is it worth that much time? That's a really long movie. I like Leone's Westerns and have seen the other two in this trilogy - Once Upon a Time in the West and Giu la Testa/Duck, You Sucker, but I have to admit I'm hesitant to invest this much time in a movie that doesn't get a lot of buzz or spark many conversations.
Your input is very welcome.
One of the most boring gangster movies ever made, in my opinion. I think The Good, The Bad, And The Ugly is one of the greatest movies ever made and a lot of other Leone flicks are close to my heart, but Once Upon A Time In America is nothing but a chore to sit through for me. Makes Stranger Than Paradise seem like Goodfellas by comparison. Also features the most egregious, schmaltzy overuse of the song "Yesterday" in film history.
Yeah, I kept hearing about how amazing it was and I thought it was boring as hell. I've loved every other Leone movie I've seen.
I'll third this. I watched it a long time ago and have managed to blot this movie out, but I remember being pretty bored w/it.
I've heard people defending the film on the grounds of it being Mamet-does-genre cheeky, but I don't buy it - Mamet is way too serious about his ART, and is simply not able to keep a distance to what he does.
Yeah, that would pretty much be my argument for it. Mamet's interest in this stuff is very fly-by-night and the main plot is really thrown together, but I liked how melodramatically fallen and corrupt everything was, and the stuff about not wanting to "shame the academy" and the cop who shows such fierce loyalty to his karate instructor. Again though, Eijofar really sells this shit and without someone like him it probably would have been embarassing.
Thanks, everyone - I think I'll watch a little of it just to get the feel, but if I start getting bored, and it sounds like I will, I will feel fine in deleting.
Saw Up In The Air a few weeks ago -- it was, as our Dear Leader might say, a pile of garbage. Jason Reitman might seems to have a way with actors and that is the only thing that makes his movies watchable because all three of them have had AWFUL scripts. This one is so disingenuous it made my head spin.
Thanks, everyone - I think I'll watch a little of it just to get the feel, but if I start getting bored, and it sounds like I will, I will feel fine in deleting.
Ain't it weird, how your DVR/Tivo queue seems to own you? Like, why should I feel guilty about deleting things if I haven't watched them?
Hello everyone. This question goes out to, in no particular order...Sarah, Martin, Chris L, Yesno, Auntie C, Buffcoat and anyone else who wants to weigh in. Avatar? I need to know what to think about that film. Perhaps those who love film will dismiss it. Thoughts, comments, concerns. Thank you in advance for any insight.
Sincerely, Steve.
Hey, I've been called out, but with Avatar we have a situation where (1) Every critic says it's great, (2) Everyone I know who's seen it hates it, and (3) I am simultaneously predisposed to hate overhyped crap but also to come out in favor of pop culture heavyweights (e.g. I support Speilberg, Hanks, Cruise). So I'm so torn on this one, and in the same situation as SJK. I was really expecting it to be a flop based on the video game-looking trailer, but it looks I was wrong on that.
I guess I just have to see it. Cameron wins.
Hello everyone. This question goes out to, in no particular order...Sarah, Martin, Chris L, Yesno, Auntie C, Buffcoat and anyone else who wants to weigh in. Avatar? I need to know what to think about that film. Perhaps those who love film will dismiss it. Thoughts, comments, concerns. Thank you in advance for any insight.
Sincerely, Steve.
The Smithsonian runs the IMAX theaters here and they suspiciously claim they tried to book it but were turned down by the studio.
And anyway, if I want space marines, I'll watch Starship Troopers so that I can also enjoy gratuitous blood and nudity. (Human nudity, that is.)
The Smithsonian runs the IMAX theaters here and they suspiciously claim they tried to book it but were turned down by the studio.
WTF? That's hilarious. What, are they worried about the movie getting overexposed or something? It's not like they're rolling it out city by city to build word of mouth.
And anyway, if I want space marines, I'll watch Starship Troopers so that I can also enjoy gratuitous blood and nudity. (Human nudity, that is.)
Ah, that takes me back to a simpler time on the internet when you fought on usenet instead of bulletin boards.
This movie made people so mad! it was awesome.
And anyway, if I want space marines, I'll watch Starship Troopers so that I can also enjoy gratuitous blood and nudity. (Human nudity, that is.)
Ah, that takes me back to a simpler time on the internet when you fought on usenet instead of bulletin boards.
This movie made people so mad! it was awesome.
Yeah, people hated that movie. For me, since it came out it's been sort of my acid test. Like, if you're not going to be more ridiculous, crazy, and absurd than Starship Troopers, why should I be interested?
I've thought of this movie very recently when I got into a scuffle about Inglourious Baistriangeasdftghards. Yes, I do understand what QT was doing, and I do know how to take things not-so-seriously, and I don't need movies to make sense all the time etc etc.
I GET IT. I JUST DONT THINK HE DID A GOOD JOB DOING IT.
Now, a guy like Verhoeven, did he not pick up that football and run like a crazy man to the end zone on Starship?
Such a good point of comparison with those 2 flicks. He did indeed run with that shit like a crazy man. Then he spiked the ball directly into someone's face. Then he tackled somebody so hard they were ripped in half.
Harry Knowles' dopey review of Avatar -
http://www.aintitcool.com/node/43430
Mr. Beaks totally on-point pan of Avatar -
http://www.aintitcool.com/node/43400
Why Starship Troopers make people so angry? I remember it as good, clean fun.
Oh, and why does anyone take Harry Knowles seriously?
How dare you, you swine. I'm going to quit now.
How dare you, you swine. I'm going to quit now.
I'm going to make an error of my own, or already have
You think you haenI'm going to make an error of my own, or already have
"Or"?
I saw Avatar and Sherlock Holmes in Indiana. I went in thinking both were going to be dumb and fun, and I wasn't disappointed. Avatar was in Imax 3-D, which is the only way I'd even consider seeing it. And yes, it was clearly sentimental, new-agey, crypto-racist Hollywood liberal nonsense, but it was a pretty awesome example of it.
I saw Avatar and Sherlock Holmes in Indiana. I went in thinking both were going to be dumb and fun, and I wasn't disappointed. Avatar was in Imax 3-D, which is the only way I'd even consider seeing it. And yes, it was clearly sentimental, new-agey, crypto-racist Hollywood liberal nonsense, but it was a pretty awesome example of it.
I'm glad there are some intelligent people out there who feel this way... I was starting to think I was siding with the dummies by enjoying it so much. Because of all the Dances With Wolves crud, though, I don't think it's really a movie built to last. Ten years from now very few people will be going back to watch it again.
This guys was upset because he thought I wasn't getting the powerful anti-war message. Ugh.That hippie guy needs a lesson in minding his own business.
Tonight I was at a coffeeshop telling a friend how dopey I thought Avatar was. A hippie guy moved his chair down the bar just to interrupt and tell me how off-base I was. It reminded me so much of the Tom Waits argument on the Best Show where anyone who didn't like Waits just 'didn't get it'. This guys was upset because he thought I wasn't getting the powerful anti-war message. Ugh.
I don't remember the last time I've seen people so opinionated about a movie.
Someone posted this on Facebook. It's about people who get depressed after Avatar is over because they wish Pandora is real.
http://www.cnn.com/2010/SHOWBIZ/Movies/01/11/avatar.movie.blues/index.html
In The Loop, sweet merciful s**t!! that was funny. That film title had been on the back burner since I had seen it mentioned here in this very thread?! I'll check on that. Samir from Florida mentioned it I think.
Well I went into the movie yesterday thinking I was just going to see a sci-fi romp. Little did I know it would change my life forever. I sat in the theater after it was over just stunned, and then I began to cry. I was ripped apart with feelings I had never had before, hate for myself and my species, hate for my capitalistic and worthless society, and a feeling of such despair that I would never be able to know the Na’vi or their superior culture and way of life. I was there just thinking and crying for about 15 minutes before an usher asked me to leave. I told him I never wanted to leave and he was confused for a second. Then he said I had to go and if I wanted to see this “crappy movie” again I’d have to pay for another ticket. Well to cut to the chase it got a bit heated at that point and we ended up in a shoving match. The police officer who took me out of there didn’t seem to care either. When I told him he was a tool of an oppressive society that is destroying the world he laughed at me. Now I’ve got a charge against me for public disturbance but I don’t care. Hopefully that jerk usher got fired.
The next day I saw it at a different theater in 3d. All of a sudden the world was as real as my own. At the end I stood up and started telling the people that they were the bad guys and were killing the Na’vi everyday with their western society. I said look at Afghanistan! I got cussed out and had a soda thrown on me but I wore those like a badge of honor, I felt like a Na’vi standing against human oppression and sickness. I just wished I had a weapon at that point and could have fought like Jake did. Jake was so strong. I began to wish that I could be like a new Hitler, only instead of exterminating one race I’d do the whole human race then shoot myself at the end. My mom always said I get too wrapped up in this stuff but she is an idiot who is just as much part of the problem as every other American. I told her when I got home and she cried but I don’t care anymore, I’m 35 and I can do what I want in my room and don’t have to take any “medicine” if I don’t want to. Did the Na’vi take pills to “get better” Did the Indians? Nope.
http://www.avatar-forums.com/general-avatar-forum/43-ways-cope-depression-dream-pandora-being-intangible-51.html#post22067QuoteWell I went into the movie yesterday thinking I was just going to see a sci-fi romp. Little did I know it would change my life forever. I sat in the theater after it was over just stunned, and then I began to cry. I was ripped apart with feelings I had never had before, hate for myself and my species, hate for my capitalistic and worthless society, and a feeling of such despair that I would never be able to know the Na’vi or their superior culture and way of life. I was there just thinking and crying for about 15 minutes before an usher asked me to leave. I told him I never wanted to leave and he was confused for a second. Then he said I had to go and if I wanted to see this “crappy movie” again I’d have to pay for another ticket. Well to cut to the chase it got a bit heated at that point and we ended up in a shoving match. The police officer who took me out of there didn’t seem to care either. When I told him he was a tool of an oppressive society that is destroying the world he laughed at me. Now I’ve got a charge against me for public disturbance but I don’t care. Hopefully that jerk usher got fired.
The next day I saw it at a different theater in 3d. All of a sudden the world was as real as my own. At the end I stood up and started telling the people that they were the bad guys and were killing the Na’vi everyday with their western society. I said look at Afghanistan! I got cussed out and had a soda thrown on me but I wore those like a badge of honor, I felt like a Na’vi standing against human oppression and sickness. I just wished I had a weapon at that point and could have fought like Jake did. Jake was so strong. I began to wish that I could be like a new Hitler, only instead of exterminating one race I’d do the whole human race then shoot myself at the end. My mom always said I get too wrapped up in this stuff but she is an idiot who is just as much part of the problem as every other American. I told her when I got home and she cried but I don’t care anymore, I’m 35 and I can do what I want in my room and don’t have to take any “medicine” if I don’t want to. Did the Na’vi take pills to “get better” Did the Indians? Nope.
http://www.avatar-forums.com/general-avatar-forum/43-ways-cope-depression-dream-pandora-being-intangible-51.html#post22067QuoteWell I went into the movie yesterday thinking I was just going to see a sci-fi romp. Little did I know it would change my life forever. I sat in the theater after it was over just stunned, and then I began to cry. I was ripped apart with feelings I had never had before, hate for myself and my species, hate for my capitalistic and worthless society, and a feeling of such despair that I would never be able to know the Na’vi or their superior culture and way of life. I was there just thinking and crying for about 15 minutes before an usher asked me to leave. I told him I never wanted to leave and he was confused for a second. Then he said I had to go and if I wanted to see this “crappy movie” again I’d have to pay for another ticket. Well to cut to the chase it got a bit heated at that point and we ended up in a shoving match. The police officer who took me out of there didn’t seem to care either. When I told him he was a tool of an oppressive society that is destroying the world he laughed at me. Now I’ve got a charge against me for public disturbance but I don’t care. Hopefully that jerk usher got fired.
The next day I saw it at a different theater in 3d. All of a sudden the world was as real as my own. At the end I stood up and started telling the people that they were the bad guys and were killing the Na’vi everyday with their western society. I said look at Afghanistan! I got cussed out and had a soda thrown on me but I wore those like a badge of honor, I felt like a Na’vi standing against human oppression and sickness. I just wished I had a weapon at that point and could have fought like Jake did. Jake was so strong. I began to wish that I could be like a new Hitler, only instead of exterminating one race I’d do the whole human race then shoot myself at the end. My mom always said I get too wrapped up in this stuff but she is an idiot who is just as much part of the problem as every other American. I told her when I got home and she cried but I don’t care anymore, I’m 35 and I can do what I want in my room and don’t have to take any “medicine” if I don’t want to. Did the Na’vi take pills to “get better” Did the Indians? Nope.
Fake.
This is pretty funny:
http://autotelic.com/avatar_-_the_metacontextual_edition
A co-worker recommended "Across The Universe." I just watched it and unequivocally disliked it.
A co-worker recommended "Across The Universe." I just watched it and unequivocally disliked it.
It's a horrible, horrible trainwreck.
A co-worker recommended "Across The Universe." I just watched it and unequivocally disliked it.
It's a horrible, horrible trainwreck.
One of the worst movies of the last five years or so.
I like to think he wrote it in real time, during the actual movie.
I just watched Anvil: The Story of Anvil. Oh, man, totally heartbreaking. I hope it gets nominated for best documentary or something and they play at the Oscars.
Thanks, guys. I think I'm going to watch Scoop, Matchpoint, then move on to the cream list.
A co-worker recommended "Across The Universe." I just watched it and unequivocally disliked it.
It's a horrible, horrible trainwreck.
Thanks, guys. I think I'm going to watch Scoop, Matchpoint, then move on to the cream list.
Fair warning, but you may not be in the mood for any more Woody Allen after those two.
Thanks, guys. I think I'm going to watch Scoop, Matchpoint, then move on to the cream list.
Fair warning, but you may not be in the mood for any more Woody Allen after those two.
Now, be fair. I give "Match Point" a 7 on the Woodmeter (not THAT Woodmeter). Scoop is not so good.
Thanks, guys. I think I'm going to watch Scoop, Matchpoint, then move on to the cream list.
Fair warning, but you may not be in the mood for any more Woody Allen after those two.
Now, be fair. I give "Match Point" a 7 on the Woodmeter (not THAT Woodmeter). Scoop is not so good.
I really disliked Match Point. I couldn't even make it through to the end. I would re-watch Scoop or Melinda and Melinda (which I also did not finish) before I would try to re-watch Match Point. This could've been a case of outsized expectations since the word was that Match Point was his big comeback, his masterpiece, his best film, blah blah blah.
Thanks, guys. I think I'm going to watch Scoop, Matchpoint, then move on to the cream list.
Fair warning, but you may not be in the mood for any more Woody Allen after those two.
Now, be fair. I give "Match Point" a 7 on the Woodmeter (not THAT Woodmeter). Scoop is not so good.
I really disliked Match Point. I couldn't even make it through to the end. I would re-watch Scoop or Melinda and Melinda (which I also did not finish) before I would try to re-watch Match Point. This could've been a case of outsized expectations since the word was that Match Point was his big comeback, his masterpiece, his best film, blah blah blah.
What were your problems with it? It didn't quite live up to the hype for me either, but I thought it was pretty solid.
Thanks, guys. I think I'm going to watch Scoop, Matchpoint, then move on to the cream list.
Fair warning, but you may not be in the mood for any more Woody Allen after those two.
Now, be fair. I give "Match Point" a 7 on the Woodmeter (not THAT Woodmeter). Scoop is not so good.
I really disliked Match Point. I couldn't even make it through to the end. I would re-watch Scoop or Melinda and Melinda (which I also did not finish) before I would try to re-watch Match Point. This could've been a case of outsized expectations since the word was that Match Point was his big comeback, his masterpiece, his best film, blah blah blah.
What were your problems with it? It didn't quite live up to the hype for me either, but I thought it was pretty solid.
Thematically it seemed to cover nearly the same ground as Crimes & Misdemeanors, except less skillfully and with characters that I hated.
The cream: Annie Hall, Manhattan, Broadway Danny Rose, Radio Days, Crimes & Misdemeanors, Take the Money and Run, Zelig, Hannah and Her Sisters...
Also: Manhattan Murder Mystery, Bulletts Over Broadway, Stardust Memories, Bananas, Mighty Aphrodite, Shadows and Fog, Play It Again Sam (not director)...
Some prefer his 'earlier, funny' films (there's a distinct change of tone, and a move away from silliness, from Annie Hall and onward) and don't like serious Woody, but I think he's great doing both.
I didn't bother with Match Point, actually, since as has been pointed out it sounded like a watered-down Crimes & Misdemeanors retread.
I watched Public Enemies, which was kinda bleh. As usual, Mann is a wizard with digital video and shoot-outs, not so much w/ character or drama this time.
I basically agree with everyone's appraisal - I totally follow conventional wisdom when it comes to Woody. I like his "early, funny" movies, and he was reliably great right up to Husbands & Wives.
I will throw in a recommendation for "Deconstructing Harry", in my opinion his last movie that's actually funny. I checked out after "Curse of the Jade Scorpion." Haven't seen any of his recent spate of "he's still got it"/"not as bad as usual" movies.
The Woody Allen drama's like Husbands and Wives, Hannah and her Sister, Interiors, Crimes and Misdomeaners, Manhattan and Stardust Memories are all really good films but they tend to all blend together in my memory, which is an irritating problem.
I'll take Vicki Christina and Match Point over some of the later films Woody starred in like Mighty Aphrodite or Small Time Crooks. His acting kills a lot of his movies for me. Bullets Over Broadway may be my favorite -- "Don't speak!"
I watched "Crank" for the first time in a couple years. Crank 2 was solid, but the first movie really shines. I've done a bit of video editing and shoot since my first viewing and I was really blown away with some of the shots they were able to get. Crank 2 is even more impressive in this respect.
It's hard to go wrong with Jason Statham. He may be in some awful movies but he almost always turns in an entertaining performance and really seems to enjoy what he does.
Just watched the Crying Game again, good movie. Forrest Whittaker is solid, the whole story moves along at a nice clip. I forgot about the funny bits.
Did people really not know that was a dude right away back then? I feel like today we'd know right off.
The again I forgot how soon in the story it was revealed so its not like the director thought he could string us along for the whole thing.
I like Irish accents esp on chicks (no offense).
Finally watched Un prophète today. Very impressive. Powerhouse performances. Rich, multilayered, never over-explanatory but always accessible, clever but not too slick. Open to a variety of readings: prison-as-society/France/Europe, religious parable, straight-up criminal-rise-to-power genre film, etc. Also, on a purely visceral level, it contains some seriously intense scenes that almost had me cover my eyes.
Straight into my top 10 of 2009.
I believe you're referring to Indigènes (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0444182) (aka Days of Glory), which is the work of French-Algerian director Rachid Bouchareb. Bouchareb most recently directed a film called London River (2009), a pretty interesting take on the aftermath of the 2005 terror attacks in London. Well worth seeking out.
They couldn't have picked a better year to go back to 10 best picture nominees.
They couldn't have picked a better year to go back to 10 best picture nominees.
They couldn't have picked a better year to go back to 10 best picture nominees.
I'm going to be so in the flesh if Avatar wins Best Picture.
They couldn't have picked a better year to go back to 10 best picture nominees.
I'm going to be so in the flesh if Avatar wins Best Picture.
Even though I didn't like it, I can't get too worked up if it wins since I'm expecting it to. I hope Bigelow can at least win director so we don't have to listen to a Cameron speech.
I watched The Night Porter (1974) tonight.
I watched The Night Porter (1974) tonight.
I love Charlotte Rampling ...starting with those early swinging London movies through all her crazy cuckoo roles up to this day.
I watched The Night Porter (1974) tonight.
I love Charlotte Rampling ...starting with those early swinging London movies through all her crazy cuckoo roles up to this day.
I do this blog, very irregularly. It's got like, maybe 7 readers, at least 2 of whom are related to me, and one of whom works for me.
It frequently has to do with career achievement in film for actors, based on the strength of the films they have clawed their ways into and their prominence in those films.
FOT Lisa Jane Persky, the most important film actor in MY life, read part of it, and didn't hate it.
If you are interested, here's a recent post.
http://gaughin.edublogs.org/2010/03/06/bernie-mac-rip/ (http://gaughin.edublogs.org/2010/03/06/bernie-mac-rip/)
Thank you for your consideration.
I haven't seen Alice in Wonderland yet, but there was a noticeable difference in quality between Charlie and the Chocolate Factory (not a remake of Willy Wonka, despite the Oompa Loompa, though it had its problems) and Planet of the Apes (just dumb and bad). Putting them side-by-side seems wrong to me.
Sidenote: This morning, as my sister was reporting to me that for the first time a woman had won the "Best Director" Oscar, she told me Bigelow had directed a movie called "The Footlocker." Figured I'd share the laugh.
I believe it was either Wes or Chris L who, on Twitter during the Oscars, cracked-wise something about "Lady Hurt Locker".
I believe it was probably pretty much everybody who, on Twitter during the Oscars, cracked-wise something about "Lady Hurt Locker".
I think what I like best about Twitter is that, when something notable is on TV, it temporarily makes everybody become as unbearable as I am.
I think what I like best about Twitter is that, when something notable is on TV, it temporarily makes everybody become as unbearable as I am.
Aw, Wesley, give yourself more credit than that!
11) Tony Leung
5) Catherine Deneuve
Good? Bad? Indifferent? Random pluckings? I am enjoying CD in A Christmas Tale at this very moment. Are you happy? Outraged? A bot?11) Tony Leung
5) Catherine Deneuve
Good? Bad? Indifferent? Random pluckings? I am enjoying CD in A Christmas Tale at this very moment. Are you happy? Outraged? A bot?11) Tony Leung
5) Catherine Deneuve
Just watched Gentlemen Broncos and it was so bad I almost renounced movies altogether and pawned my DVD player.
I saw Date Night and it was a great movie to see with a group of friends. I think if I had been watching it alone it still would have been funny but I would have been more bothered by the less quality parts.
I saw Date Night and it was a great movie to see with a group of friends. I think if I had been watching it alone it still would have been funny but I would have been more bothered by the less quality parts.
That movie saddened me because somewhere in there is a decent domestic comedy about a marriage about two people who obviously love each other but it's just okay. Occasionally the movie has flashes of that better movie. Then Mark Wahlberg shows up shirtless and starts using Tony Stark's computer.
I saw Clash of the Titans in 3D this weekend. Nice 'n' stupid. Pretty much like the one I watched on cable constantly as a kid, but with everything turned up several notches.
This was also the first 3D movie I have seen, too. I mean, this current technology ... not the kind where you have one red lens and one blue lens type of 3D.
Also saw Kick-Ass, and it stunk to high heaven. Tom if you happen to read this, you are correct to avoid it. Stick to your guns!
I just saw I love you man on cable
pretty fun
why doesn't Tom like Rush again?
they have some wicked tunes.
Just saw Iron Man 2. It was exactly as enjoyable as the first one. The first Iron Man may have effected me a bit more because I wasn't expecting much.
Robert Downey Jr. plays Tony Stark so well. I probably enjoyed his civilian scenes more than his armored up parts.
My only complaint would have to be the cookie-cutter soundtrack. (a problem with every big budget blockbuster) I could go my entire life without hearing another AC/DC song.
Just saw Iron Man 2. It was exactly as enjoyable as the first one. The first Iron Man may have effected me a bit more because I wasn't expecting much.
Robert Downey Jr. plays Tony Stark so well. I probably enjoyed his civilian scenes more than his armored up parts.
My only complaint would have to be the cookie-cutter soundtrack. (a problem with every big budget blockbuster) I could go my entire life without hearing another AC/DC song.
...I could go my entire life without hearing another AC/DC song.
I fully understand your opinion, but I think there's just something in the water of my hometown that turned us all into AC/DC fans for life. May God have mercy on us.
I fully understand your opinion, but I think there's just something in the water of my hometown that turned us all into AC/DC fans for life. May God have mercy on us.
AC/DC music in the city of Buffalo is like romantic accordion music in bad movies set in Paris... even though you never see anyone playing it, it seems to drift from every window and waft through the air, omnipresent. It's like white noise here. It's possible that I could even be hearing AC/DC right now without realizing it, as I'm typing this.
I'm still not seeing the problem. I understand Auntie Christina's situation, as both Bob Marley and the Grateful Dead are horrible.
I'm still not seeing the problem. I understand Auntie Christina's situation, as both Bob Marley and the Grateful Dead are horrible.
I will say this about Bob Marley and the Grateful Dead: neither one of them wrote "Big Balls".
Let me ask this: Is the eschewing of story something to be praised?
Let me ask this: Is the eschewing of story something to be praised?
Not in and of itself. But I think there ought to be room for non-narrative film in our cinemas. Though, admittedly, I have less patience for much of that stuff than I did when I was a little younger. Is it a common thing to move away from more challenging movies/books/art as you get older?
So you didn't like Trash Humpers, I guess? Is it funny, at least?
Thanks for that, Jon. I've been curious about this movie, and reviews for this kind of thing are often tough to get a bead on. I am a half-hearted fan of Korine's audacity and self-mythologizing, but I think it might be time for him to try a little harder.
Jeepers - I was looking up Korine's filmography on the IMDB, cause I haven't been super aware of his stuff the last few years, and I found this in the trivia section:
Named his top ten favorite films of all time in a December 1999 issue of Dazed & Confused: Pixote: A Lei do Mais Fraco (1981), Badlands (1973), Days of Heaven (1978), Fat City (1972), Stroszek (1977), The Killing of a Chinese Bookie (1976), A Woman Under the Influence (1974), McCabe & Mrs. Miller (1971), Out of the Blue (1980) and 'Je vous salue, Marie' (1985).
This explains a lot.
Is it a common thing to move away from more challenging movies/books/art as you get older?
Korine does have excellent taste. I remember reading years ago he's a huge Flannery O'Connor fan too.
Korine does have excellent taste. I remember reading years ago he's a huge Flannery O'Connor fan too.
Yabbut it's a weird taste, I think is what I meant, you know? Those are all good movies, but collected together as his top ten (& his O'Connor worship), well, that's quite a statement. I love O'Connor too, though, so there you have it.
BTW I actually have Fat City in my netflix queue - haven't seen it. Do youse like it?
Sure is true for me. I've given up on trying to improve myself or impress others; now I just want to be entertained.
Is it a common thing to move away from more challenging movies/books/art as you get older?
There's currently a lot of doubt as to whether this incompetent-looking movie (http://www.afterlastseason.com/) is real. I'd say one look at the "MRI scanner" and the ceiling fan above it would indicate... noooo. Here's an alleged interview (http://www.knoxroad.com/2009/03/27/knox-road-exclusive-writerdirector-mark-region-talks-about-after-last-season/) with the writer/director where he claims the budget was $5 million.
A big update on After Last Season (http://www.afterlastseason.com/)! It's playing in real cinemas starting this Friday.
Austin TX, Rochester NY, North Aurora IL, and Lancaster CA FOT, please check it out and report back! I don't remember the last movie that seemed this mysterious.
Here's a review (http://twitchfilm.net/site/view/film-review-after-last-season). It sounds for all the world like someone trying to engender a Tommy Wiseau-esque cult following. I too have Wiseau-esque ambitions, but they're pretty much limited to putting my feet up on things all the time.
I thought Blindness was pretty universally panned.
No point, I just found it interesting that two people I respect thought highly of it - most other people I've talked to didn't care for it at all. I might see it now.
"Highly"? That's way too enthusiastic. As I said, I found it interesting enough to want to see how it worked as a book (almost certainly better than as a movie).
As it is, the plot includes at least 4 looong sequences of characters doing "research", which are presented on film as montages of them shuffling through papers, typing things into computers, and squinting at photographs while making scowling, exaggerrated "hmmmmm" expressions. It seriously feels like these scenes take up at least 15-20 minutes of the running time. Not my idea of compelling cinema.
I caught The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo this weekend and found it way, way overhyped, with an utterly chemistry-free leading couple and many glaring plot holes that I'm guessing were explained in the book. If you ask me (which you all did, right?), any comparisons to Silence of the Lambs are crazytalk.
For once I'm welcoming the inevitable American remake, if only to see the story get tightened up and made more exciting. As it is, the plot includes at least 4 looong sequences of characters doing "research", which are presented on film as montages of them shuffling through papers, typing things into computers, and squinting at photographs while making scowling, exaggerrated "hmmmmm" expressions. It seriously feels like these scenes take up at least 15-20 minutes of the running time. Not my idea of compelling cinema.
I caught The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo this weekend and found it way, way overhyped, with an utterly chemistry-free leading couple and many glaring plot holes that I'm guessing were explained in the book. If you ask me (which you all did, right?), any comparisons to Silence of the Lambs are crazytalk.
For once I'm welcoming the inevitable American remake, if only to see the story get tightened up and made more exciting. As it is, the plot includes at least 4 looong sequences of characters doing "research", which are presented on film as montages of them shuffling through papers, typing things into computers, and squinting at photographs while making scowling, exaggerrated "hmmmmm" expressions. It seriously feels like these scenes take up at least 15-20 minutes of the running time. Not my idea of compelling cinema.
I think I liked it a little more than you but it definitely could've been shorter. It's weird, all of those research shots are pretty atypical these days, especially in the amount of detail they covered. I thought the girl was very good, though their relationship did seem forced.
Korine does have excellent taste. I remember reading years ago he's a huge Flannery O'Connor fan too.
Yabbut it's a weird taste, I think is what I meant, you know? Those are all good movies, but collected together as his top ten (& his O'Connor worship), well, that's quite a statement. I love O'Connor too, though, so there you have it.
BTW I actually have Fat City in my netflix queue - haven't seen it. Do youse like it?
Oh, I'm sure to some extent that kind of namechecking is calculated to boost the cachet of his trash humping experiments and what not. I don't recall reading any of his actual thoughts on any filmmakers.
Fat City is pretty damn great. I should watch it again sometime if it's on instant, actually.
There's a Korine interview on The AV Club. I guess he doesn't come across as quite as much of a jerk as I would've imagined, but reading the interview really confirms just how much I don't ever need to see one of his movies.
The only film of his I've seen is Mister Lonely, and while it was pretty flawed and boring in parts, Richard Strange dressed up as Lincoln maniacally reciting the Gettysburg Address in front of strobe lights while spinning a basketball on his finger was one of my favorite cinematic images from 2008.
I've heard good things about Gummo but the cat drowning stuff has scared me away. I really have no tolerance for animal cruelty in movies. How graphic is it?
Wow, me too ... the second I heard about it I knew I couldn't watch it.
QuoteWow, me too ... the second I heard about it I knew I couldn't watch it.
Yeah, this. I remember hearing this (in Dealey Plaza--no, just kidding, Andy!) and instantly thinking that, no matter what Werner Herzog might have to say about him, the dude is a piece of shit and I would never, ever have anything but contempt for him. I haven't wavered yet.
You guys realize that all that stuff in Gummo is all fake and done under the supervision of the Humane Association (http://www.ahafilm.info/movies/moviereviews.phtml?fid=6146), right?
uhh... I'm against animal cruelty.)
You guys realize that all that stuff in Gummo is all fake and done under the supervision of the Humane Association (http://www.ahafilm.info/movies/moviereviews.phtml?fid=6146), right?
You guys realize that all that stuff in Gummo is all fake and done under the supervision of the Humane Association (http://www.ahafilm.info/movies/moviereviews.phtml?fid=6146), right?
Yes, I realize it. No, it doesn't matter. It's obviously better if it's faked than if you're talking about an Andrei Rublev/Cockfighter/Werner Herzog situation where the cruelty is real, but it bothers me either way.
You guys realize that all that stuff in Gummo is all fake and done under the supervision of the Humane Association (http://www.ahafilm.info/movies/moviereviews.phtml?fid=6146), right?
Yes, I realize it. No, it doesn't matter. It's obviously better if it's faked than if you're talking about an Andrei Rublev/Cockfighter/Werner Herzog situation where the cruelty is real, but it bothers me either way.
That's fair. I didn't want to sound like a dick. Like I said upthread, I have no interest in seeing that movie either.
You guys realize that all that stuff in Gummo is all fake and done under the supervision of the Humane Association (http://www.ahafilm.info/movies/moviereviews.phtml?fid=6146), right?
Herzog's Bad Lieutenant for me tomorrow, I reckon.
Finally saw Death Wish 3 last night. What a triumph! Every Best Show-endorsed movie so far has been a winner.
I watched the German film "North Face" on Netflix instant watch last night and I really liked it but jeez...After watching I felt like I had been beaten with a lead pipe.
Just as a heads-up, Kent McKenzie's THE EXILES is on TCM @ 9:15 tonight. It's a low-budget look at 24 hrs in the aimless lives of young Native Americans in Los Angeles' long-gone Bunker Hill neighborhood of the early 60's. It's a fascinating document of a side of the city that Hollywood was never much interested in (as cited repeatedly in the doc LOS ANGELES PLAYS ITSELF), and that now no longer exists.
Not sure why it took me so long, but I finally saw the Roky Erickson doc "Your Gonna Miss Me". I loved it.
The footage of him blanking out on stage totally ripped the heart right out of me.
Newsweek on Trash Humpers: "You will want to shower afterwards." So it's just like Transformers 2.
Newsweek on Trash Humpers: "You will want to shower afterwards." So it's just like Transformers 2.
Looking at some of the other movie options near my hotel in San Francisco Friday night - your Shreks, your Princes of Persias, your Sexes and the Cities 2's - Trash Humpers started to look pretty good.
I watched "The Battle of Algiers" for the very first time last night. Holy shit. Why am I just finding this 41 years into my life?
Without exaggeration, I can safely say that it is one of the best films I have ever seen.
Gillo Pontecorvo was personally clearly on the side of the resistance, however.
The Big Lebowski was the film that, when I first saw it when I was about 14, made me realise how good the Cohens were, and I've been a fan ever since. Watching it in fairly close proximity to Fargo or No Country and it doesn't stand up quite so well, but it's a great comedy.
I saw A Serious Man again a few weeks ago and found it a lot funnier than when I first saw it, when I found it all reasonably depressing and moving. Loved it both times I saw it, just had two completely different experiences.
Maybe I found it so funny this time because Sy Abelman reminded me of a slightly larger Andy Breckman.
In America is such a good movie. Last night was my second time watching it. Samantha Morton is a favorite of mine. Anyone who's seen Mr. Lonely or Longford should agree with me that she is phenomenal as far as acting chops go.
In America is such a good movie. Last night was my second time watching it. Samantha Morton is a favorite of mine. Anyone who's seen Mr. Lonely or Longford should agree with me that she is phenomenal as far as acting chops go.
She's good in The Messenger. The movie isn't great but it's very emotional, I warn you.
Winter's Bone - loved it. It's a really, really dark and ruthless murder mystery set in the Ozarks. John Hawkes (the dude from Eastbound and Down, Deadwood and You And Me And Everyone You Know) is especially great. It's one of those roles where you suddenly see that an actor has way more in him than you realized.
Did I say this already? Me and afk loved Inception.
Hump Day (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1334537/)
Did I say this already? Me and afk loved Inception.
Did I say this already? Me and afk loved Inception.
A lot of the psychobabble dialogue was rubbing me wrong for a lot of it, but a day later I'm realizing that it was pretty ambitious and definitely an adventure of a film.
I am surprised this film, set in ancient Alexandria, has not occasioned more controversy. It is the most pro-science, pro-rationalist, anti-Christian movie I have seen -- ever. -- and it does not disguise the message in the slightest. The director and scriptwriter is Spanish and Chilean, namely Alejandro Amenábar. It offers a Voltairean portrait of Judaism, as an oppressed rabble, most of all responsible for the crime of having birthed Christianity. There are some not-so-subtle parallels shown between the early Christians and current Muslim terrorists.
Agora is an excellent movie. Tyler Cowen described (http://www.marginalrevolution.com/marginalrevolution/2010/07/agora.html) it today thus:QuoteI am surprised this film, set in ancient Alexandria, has not occasioned more controversy. It is the most pro-science, pro-rationalist, anti-Christian movie I have seen -- ever. -- and it does not disguise the message in the slightest. The director and scriptwriter is Spanish and Chilean, namely Alejandro Amenábar. It offers a Voltairean portrait of Judaism, as an oppressed rabble, most of all responsible for the crime of having birthed Christianity. There are some not-so-subtle parallels shown between the early Christians and current Muslim terrorists.
I like the movie because it doesn't even try to be fair or accurate.
Hump Day (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1334537/)
Yes! Thanks. It wasn't 5-star or anything but I really liked the dialogue and how natural the characters all seemed despite how absurd it was.
Salt doesn't make a lick of sense, but it was a nonsensical way to pleasantly pass two hours in air conditioned splendor.
Salt doesn't make a lick of sense, but it was a nonsensical way to pleasantly pass two hours in air conditioned splendor.
Love the salt-lick trick, Dave.
Salt doesn't make a lick of sense, but it was a nonsensical way to pleasantly pass two hours in air conditioned splendor.Love the salt-lick trick, Dave.
I liked Guy Maddin's wildly imaginative MY WINNIPEG much more than I expected, having not really been on his wavelength before. Fans of Herzog or F For Fake-style pseudo-docs should appreciate how he infuses local legend with his early cinema-inspired style. It's now on Netflix instant.
Wanna see Scott Pilgrim, I've heard good things. Three movies I recommend are Porco Rosso, Castle in the Sky Laputa, and Grave of the fireflies. Check 'em out- they're pretty funky.
Nonetheless, it is a great movie. I know it's sad, especially the ending, is that what you mean?Wanna see Scott Pilgrim, I've heard good things. Three movies I recommend are Porco Rosso, Castle in the Sky Laputa, and Grave of the fireflies. Check 'em out- they're pretty funky.
If you receommended Grave of the Fireflies to me, I would hunt you down and injure you slowly, with maybe strategically placed plutonium pellets.
New Jack City is terrible.
New Jack City is terrible.
Just like Al Capone it took tax evasion to bring Nino Brown down.
I don't know how effectively the novel delves into the themes of sexual violence, but those graphic scenes in the movie often felt simply lurid to me. It's also a little hard to reconcile a feminist viewpoint with the "schlubby guy effortlessly beds hot bisexual chick" fantasy.
THE GIRL WITH THE DRAGON TATTOO - I mainly recommend it if you must find out what the all the hype is about and don't want to read the book. I don't know how effectively the novel delves into the themes of sexual violence, but those graphic scenes in the movie often felt simply lurid to me. It's also a little hard to reconcile a feminist viewpoint with the "schlubby guy effortlessly beds hot bisexual chick" fantasy. Hard to say how David Fincher will handle the upcoming Hollywood version.
Well I'll own up to having seen it.
Post-viewing Command of The English Language rankings in the main cast of The Expendables (best to worst): Terry Crews, Randy Couture, Bruce Willis, Stone Cold Steve Austin, Jason Statham, Eric Roberts, Mickey Rourke, Arnold Schwarzenegger, Dolph Lundgren, Sylvester Stallone, Jet Li
Post-viewing update on the cast of The Expendables in a Glengarry Glen Ross remake:
Stone Cold Steve Austin - Ricky Roma
Terry Crews - Shelly "The Machine" Levene
Arnold Schwarzenegger - Blake
Sylvester Stallone - George Aaronow
Jason Statham - Dave Moss
Jet Li - John Williamson
Dolph Lundgren - James Lingk
Mickey Rourke - Larry Spannel
Randy Couture - The Cop
Bruce Willis - The Guy Who Fixes Roma's Telephone
Eric Roberts - Bartender at Restaurant
Terry Crews is cool and all but how did President Comancho/Chris Rock's dad end up in this bunch?
Terry Crews is cool and all but how did President Comancho/Chris Rock's dad end up in this bunch?
I believe a combination of being really huge for an actor/having appeared in a Schwarzenegger movie/Snipes, Forrest Whitaker and 50 Cent dropping out led to his casting. Also, Stallone was a huge fan of Battle Dome.
I thank you for not questioning his being awarded the Machine role in the Glengarry remake. His TV work has proven that he has the goods to make that store-bought crumb cake scene work.
Jan Troell's Everlasting Moments. Man oh man, see this one if you have the chance. Maybe the most beautifully shot film I've ever had the pleasure of seeing in a cinema. So many unforgettable images.
Great acting and a heartbreaking story which teeters on the edge of schmaltz, but the director has such a light touch he never lets it go there.
I'd love to hear Martin's take on this one as it takes place primarily in Malmo.
I had some problems with it, nothing major - the best/worst thing I can say about it is that it's "worthy"; serene and beautiful, but also sometimes dull, overlong and kind of repetetive (how many times do we need to see the father of the family come home drunk and beat up a random member of the family?). That said, Troell is a master, and his attention to detail is superb, he really has an eye for catching the everlasting moments, as it were (he shot the film too).
Definitely "CINEMA" of the old school variety - need to be seen in a theatre, for sure. Too bad he didn't have a bigger budget, you can definitely see the restrictions he had to put on the production, as far as sets and so on is concerned. Because of this we almost never get to see (for example) crane shots of an entire neighborhood - there just wasn't enough money to dress up an entire street to make it look like the early 1900's.
Malmö is well-presented in the film, although ironically, most of the working class hoods in the film are long gone - demolished in a big clean-up of the city in the 60s - so most of it had to be shot in other cities.
Piranha 3D was a lot of fun (except Steve McQueen's grandkid is dull).
However, bummed that Paul Scheer's character inexplicably disappears from the film.
Piranha 3D was a lot of fun (except Steve McQueen's grandkid is dull).
Agreed. Lots of fun. Good laughs, and Elizabeth Shue (from Maplewood btw) was in it!
However, bummed that Paul Scheer's character inexplicably disappears from the film.
I just watched Nightmare Alley this weekend. Amazing! It's a portrait of a man working his way up through a carnival sideshow, and has lots of nice details about grifts and scams - especially mentalist acts.
Did you take into consideration the fact that Lynch exec-produced it (though he apparently had a very hands-off approach)? I haven't seen it myself.
I still haven't seen The Muse, which I've heard nothing but bad things about. Anyone have anything to say?
the people making the movie "Get him to the Greek" obviously thought that success was an increasing function of jonah hill throwing up
I love LOOKING FOR COMEDY IN THE MUSLIM WORLD. Definitely Brooks' best since DEFENDING YOUR LIFE. The scene where he bombs at stand-up is unbelievably great. "Burn me!"
Looking For Comedy In The Muslim World - Albert Brooks Improvisation (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DHWU6nyJSgU#ws)
"If it starts to detract us from the one whose birthday we're supposed to be celebrating."
Now that they managed to get production values this good, I'm going to start flipping off anyone who wishes me a Merry Christmas.
I really cannot think of anything less interesting than a movie about the guys who invented facebook.
I really cannot think of anything less interesting than a movie about the guys who invented facebook. What am I missing?
I really cannot think of anything less interesting than a movie about the guys who invented facebook. What am I missing?
I really cannot think of anything less interesting than a movie about the guys who invented facebook. What am I missing?
I had no idea Carpenter's remake was a religious icon. Regardless, this one looks like it's going to be fun; I will enjoy watching it in a year or two.
There's no way a prequel can hold up to the Carpenter film for one simple reason: No Wilford Brimley sticking his hand into another man's face.
I don't know if there's been a less likable cast of characters in a movie since Smokin' Aces.
I don't know if there's been a less likable cast of characters in a movie since Smokin' Aces.
YOU TAKE THAT BACK!!!
Oh hang on a sec, I read that as Stroker Ace. Never mind.
(http://www.dreamagic.com/vivianrose/strokerAce.gif)
When did movies start needing to have a swerve? I just watched Rear Window and it was boring. I've admitted in the past that I know nothing about movies, but it just seemed like every step was obvious and there was nothing shocking through the whole thing. I don't need someone's head punched off, but the big climax was a guy getting flashbulbs flashed in his face?
When did movies start needing to have a swerve? I just watched Rear Window and it was boring. I've admitted in the past that I know nothing about movies, but it just seemed like every step was obvious and there was nothing shocking through the whole thing. I don't need someone's head punched off, but the big climax was a guy getting flashbulbs flashed in his face?
Perfect response. You just made my day. Thanks AC!When did movies start needing to have a swerve? I just watched Rear Window and it was boring. I've admitted in the past that I know nothing about movies, but it just seemed like every step was obvious and there was nothing shocking through the whole thing. I don't need someone's head punched off, but the big climax was a guy getting flashbulbs flashed in his face?
You missed the whole point of the movie, you goon. The point is that Alfred Hitchcock wanted to fuck Grace Kelly.
Not a problem. I should have been more clear. But I AM mad at Christina.
Not a problem. I should have been more clear. But I AM mad at Christina.
Oh, please - everyone should be mad at YOU, since you've gone and doomed the movies.
Now in that one, Alfred Hitchcock shows why, if you want to fuck Kim Novak, you'd be way better off going with Barbara Bel Geddes instead.Auntie C, you're killing me! Barbara Bel Geddes was way better then Kim Novak. IMHO. You should consider doing capsule reviews of movies. I find it very entertaining. Thank you.
Doesn't it have to do with perspective? And the fact that all the breakthrough stuff that Hitchcock did has been covered and re-covered by so many lesser directors over the years that you have been acclimated to his "tricks" that were original when he did them? Jesus, Andy, you sound like a damn Tea Partier.
Doesn't it have to do with perspective? And the fact that all the breakthrough stuff that Hitchcock did has been covered and re-covered by so many lesser directors over the years that you have been acclimated to his "tricks" that were original when he did them? Jesus, Andy, you sound like a damn Tea Partier.The first two sentences are very accurate, I agree completely.
I stand by the 1st 2 sentences though.
I feel vindicated by the fact that no one has said "this is why I liked it" or "this is why it's good"
Are there any The Birds fans up for defending it? It's been a long time since I've seen it, but I remember it not being one of my favorites. I want to know where you guys are coming from.
I haven't seen enough of his filmography to list definitive favorites, but I do love North by Northwest.
I saw Rear Window at an impressionable age(I was 12-13? in the mid 1980s) that made me think about what elements make a good movie other then car chase scenes, imperial storm troopers or massive explosions. I was young and my exposure to films was limited to family friendly blockbusters. Watching Rear Window, I could feel my brain expand. The whole story takes place in some guys apartment?! No special effects, straight story. I was amazed that I could be captivated by a film in such a deceptively plain setting. The next Hitchcock film I saw not too long after, The Birds. Again, it is the story keeping me glued to my seat. Tippi Hendren is a bit much to take in some scenes. The story upstages everyone which allows me to forgive the imperfections of the film. Hitchcock confines your understanding of why the birds are attacking, limits the information from outside the small town to almost nothing. He uses fear of the unknown adding panic and terror...mix with water=a fun film to watch. The ending leaves everything open. No neatly wrapped up conclusion, all the loose ends left to the imagination. Twenty+ years later I can see it is not his strongest film, I still love watching it.
[
I could add more about the atmosphere and style of Rear Window, the art direction and color grading are very good, the lighting is very ok for the time is was made. Technicolor! The restoration alone was quite an achievement considering the original negative(s) were in rough shape. If restoration had been left any longer, it might have not been possible to have such a good looking version available. I like watching Jimmy Stewart become obsessed with his neighbors and how he changes almost everyone's orbit around him regarding his obsession. The ethical choices being made by Stewart, sticking his nose in other peoples private lives. A slow burn that builds to a lame attempt at self defense, light bulbs as you pointed out. Grace Kelly, stunning creature..that close up of her is one of my favorite shots in movie making history. I have to admit to some level of nostalgia, more then I would like to. I love the look and feel of the film, the time it was shot informs most of that.It is a slow film, best viewed on the big screen. Is it the best film ever made? No. It entertains me, I can't ask for more.
As long as you mention what actress (or actor, don't judge) the director wants to fuck, obviously.
That is disturbing.As long as you mention what actress (or actor, don't judge) the director wants to fuck, obviously.
The whole point of DISTURBIA is that DJ Caruso wants to fuck Sleepy LaBeef!
Nice regurgitation.
Is it just me or did The Social Network kind of stink? On the one hand I can appreciate David Fincher's ability to give just about any subject enough style and sheen to make it lots of fun to watch, and the acting was very good across the board. But I thought the script was hamfisted, with Zuckerberg in particular turned into a cipher and a monster, some kind of straw man stand in for everything Sorkin apparently loathes and doesn't understand about the internet.
Also, having seen very little of his TV work I can only conclude his reputation as a great writer of dialogue is overstated. His main trick -- having characters suddenly switch back and forth between topics mid-conversation, confusing each other and the audience -- got old fast for me. That opening scene patter was truly painful.
Maybe I'm just overreacting to all the hype. I did enjoy most of the film in the moment.
So, a less dick way of saying what I said in my last post:
There is no way that someone could come up with all of that by simply watching the film. If that's what it takes to enjoy/appreciate film, then film is doomed. But it's not because of the people who don't understand it. It's because of the snobbery and self-importance of the people who do.
Well, that's still pretty dick. I'll grant a couple of instances of critical jargon in my first sentence and then posit that anyone of passing filmgoing intelligence could see for themselves the other things I mentioned.
But hey, you're right! Hitchcock is very highbrow, far beyond the comprehension of most people. That's why his films have always been a cultivated taste, unpopular with mass audiences. Cinema can only thrive by producing films that are easier to understand and enjoy than those of Alfred Hitchcock.
Do you really think any of us who've seen RW must've been so woefully unprepared & poorly educated to take in all the shit you so helpfully pointed out?
I agree with Sarah.
Actually, I think the dickishness began with "What did I miss?,"
Is this thing on?
Imagine if every autumn you posted a Facebook update mentioning who you most want to fuck.
Imagine if every autumn you posted a Facebook update mentioning who you most want to fuck.
You just gave me a GREAT idea!
Fuckbook.gov?
Imagine if every autumn you posted a Facebook update mentioning who you most want to fuck.
You just gave me a GREAT idea!
Just warning you, I have the rights to the word Fuckbook as well as the domain name fuckbook.com
I'm pretty sure you just called me a hillbilly.
wow. Bad Lieutenant: Port of Call New Orleans.
wow. Bad Lieutenant: Port of Call New Orleans.
So you don't need anyone to explain this one to you?
wow. Bad Lieutenant: Port of Call New Orleans.
wow. Bad Lieutenant: Port of Call New Orleans.
There's really not much more that can be said about that movie.
Saw it in the movie theater. When Cage assaults that old lady, my (embarassingly drunk) friend yelled out "OSCAR!"
There's another director I don't love so much. Not that I dislike his movies or anything. I've just never understood the respect verging on worship some people I have known have shown for both him (and Hitchcock, for that matter). Whether I am missing something or others see something that isn't there doesn't really matter to me: I'm lukewarm about both, and that's okay. I don't need to love everything. Hell, loving anything is an achievement.
Watched "Crazy Heart" last night out of curiosity. First 80% gets a thumbs up from me. The last 20% gets five thumbs down from me.
Watching Jamie Kennedy's movie Heckler. Was happy to see appearances by PFT and Patton Oswalt. Was confused to see appearances by Larry Flynt, John Salley and Chingy.
Watched "Crazy Heart" last night out of curiosity. First 80% gets a thumbs up from me. The last 20% gets five thumbs down from me.
Jon, have you seen Tender Mercies? A vastly superior film in my opinion, which deals with a lot of the same themes as Crazy Heart, but is so much gentler and sweeter and more genuine. It's impossible not to compare the two - Robert Duvall plays a drunk country singer who's past his prime and down on his luck, etc...
Hollywood doesn't want us to see this one.
tiptoes_s (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ukRdEVthmWM#)
Hollywood doesn't want us to see this one.
tiptoes_s (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ukRdEVthmWM#)
Hollywood doesn't want us to see this one.
tiptoes_s (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ukRdEVthmWM#)
Joaquin Phoenix is like an unpleasant, unfunny and dirty Zach Galifianakis.
Watching: "I'm Still Here"
What a heap of dung. Joaquin Phoenix is like an unpleasant, unfunny and dirty Zach Galifianakis.
Pure untertainment!
Joaquin Phoenix is like an unpleasant, unfunny and dirty Zach Galifianakis.
although you are correct on comparing their similar physical aspects (kind of), it still feels wrong comparing the great ZG to that dope.
Like you, "I am also not a fan of prostitution AND defecation upon humans." But, you know, one or the other might be OK in moderation.I see you are finding your inner Kevin Allin. That's healthy.
Like you, "I am also not a fan of prostitution AND defecation upon humans." But, you know, one or the other might be OK in moderation.I see you are finding your inner Kevin Allin. That's healthy.
Hollywood doesn't want us to see this one.
tiptoes_s (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ukRdEVthmWM#)
"That's what I like about these midgets. I keep growing, they stay the same height."
The Hangover was really fun. I loved the structure and realistic absurdity.
Cabin Boy is the most underrated movie of all time.
Cabin Boy is the most underrated movie of all time.
I've got to revisit that one. I recently had the chance to watch all of Get A Life - holy cow, is it amazing!
2) I have a quibble with a couple of the ploy points.
Why is the sword in that particular pond? Why does Harry seem able to speak and understand the snake language? What are the rules of teleportation?
I'm going to check out Two-Lane Blacktop. Dennis Wilson and James Taylor as leads intrigues me very much.
I'm going to check out Two-Lane Blacktop. Dennis Wilson and James Taylor as leads intrigues me very much.
The brilliance of Warren Oates quickly leaves those two mannequins in the dust.
Kinda conflicted about Black Swan. Portman is really good, but it never feels crazy enough; or trashy, sexy, gross, or original enough. Or surprising at all. Yet I would still say it's worth seeing.
I just watched a movie called Below. It had Zach Galifianakis in it. It's about a haunted submarine in WWII. It was written by Darren Aronofsky.
This movie was surprisingly good, I must say. I'm not a huge ghost story fan but this one had some good tension and at least "haunted submarine" is sort of original.
Any opinions on good baseball documentaries? Maybe something the equivalent of Hoop Dreams for basketball?
Kinda conflicted about Black Swan. Portman is really good, but it never feels crazy enough; or trashy, sexy, gross, or original enough. Or surprising at all. Yet I would still say it's worth seeing.
I'm okay with Portman but alot of people I know just despise her. I do really want to see this because the Wrestler was so good. Can't make much of the film from the trailer, which I like. Metamorphosis?
Somewhere looks promising, if you like Sofia Coppola.
and
WHEN THE F IS TREE OF LIFE COMING? I want IMAX! It's been a year since last year's predicted Christmas release.
Any opinions on good baseball documentaries? Maybe something the equivalent of Hoop Dreams for basketball?
Any opinions on good baseball documentaries? Maybe something the equivalent of Hoop Dreams for basketball?
Ever hear of Ken Burns?
Kinda conflicted about Black Swan. Portman is really good, but it never feels crazy enough; or trashy, sexy, gross, or original enough. Or surprising at all. Yet I would still say it's worth seeing.
I just watched Exit Through The Gift Shop. I feel like I'm opening myself up for ridicule by admitting how much I loved it, and that I think Banksy is a fucking genius, but holy moley, I loved it. The real significance of it didn't hit me until about ten minutes after it ended but now I can't stop thinking about it.
I just watched Withnail & I on Netflix instant streaming. What an awesome movie. After finding pop culture artifacts like this completely on my own, it makes me jealous of people who had cool parents or older siblings/cousins that could lead them to that stuff. Damn it, all the cool shit I've seen or heard, I've earned!
In the last 48 hours i have seen:
Outrage(Takeshi Kitano)
Somewhere(Sofia Cobbler)
Black Swan(Darren Aronovsky)
Winter's Bone(Debra Granik)
Trashbleepers(Hermione Korine)
only two of these movies were bad
I just watched Exit Through The Gift Shop. I feel like I'm opening myself up for ridicule by admitting how much I loved it, and that I think Banksy is a fucking genius, but holy moley, I loved it. The real significance of it didn't hit me until about ten minutes after it ended but now I can't stop thinking about it.
Saw Tron: Legacy.
IT WAS AWESOME.
LIKE, LOONIE TUNES CRAZY AWESOME.
True Grit ended with Iris Dement singing a hymn. You can't get much better than that.
I felt like the Doctor with the bear head was a very Coen Brothers moment. That and the gallows scene: 'before I'm hanged I'd like to say.....'
I felt like the Doctor with the bear head was a very Coen Brothers moment. That and the gallows scene: 'before I'm hanged I'd like to say.....'
Even though the dialogue is straight from the book (as far as I can remember), the negotiation between Mattie and the merchant felt very Coen Brothers. I suppose this, and other similarities, are because Charles Portis was probably a big influence on their writing. Therefore, my saying that the movie doesn't feel like their other stuff is probably not entirely accurate. I said that because I can see how closely the movie follows the book, but that's probably because the book and the author played such a big part in who Joel and Ethan Coen are.
It does make sense because it's very un-Coensy. Their devotion to the source material is such that, of all their movies, it felt like the one anyone could've made.
It does make sense because it's very un-Coensy. Their devotion to the source material is such that, of all their movies, it felt like the one anyone could've made.
It does make sense because it's very un-Coensy. Their devotion to the source material is such that, of all their movies, it felt like the one anyone could've made.
The problem with this is: I haven't read the Portis book, but I have read No Country for Old Men, and the movie definitely follows it very closely, and no one says "anyone" could have made that.
It does make sense because it's very un-Coensy. Their devotion to the source material is such that, of all their movies, it felt like the one anyone could've made.
Wait til you see MY take on it.
It does make sense because it's very un-Coensy. Their devotion to the source material is such that, of all their movies, it felt like the one anyone could've made.
Wait til you see MY take on it.
...?
What is it?
I felt like True Grit kind of just...ended. You know? I liked seeing Maddie when she was grown up and still just as awesome but that whole coda just kind of felt like padding. I don't know exactly what I mean.[possible SPOILERS below...]
It's been awhile since I saw the original True Grit movie, but I don't remember the final race to the doctor by Mattie and Rooster being quite so grim - I'm trying to be circumspect for those who haven't seen the movie, but I'm talking about the thing with the horse carrying them. Can anyone remember?
Yes. It is grim in the original as well. My daughter is a horse lover and was none too pleased with this portion of the 1969 version. After the triple-hanging, it was the roughest part of the film for her.
I liked The King's Speech very much.
I loved just about everything about The King's Speech.
What exactly is the deal with Merchant Ivory films? They have this aura of respectability but this isn't the first place I've seen discussing them in a dismissive way. Also, on the Darjeeling Limited Criterion DVD, Wes Anderson was slobbering all over James Ivory. So what's the verdict on these? Are there any worth watching?
I couldnt get past the trailer it looked to me like a notch above an Merchant Ivory film, it also looked really Oscar baity.
What exactly is the deal with Merchant Ivory films? They have this aura of respectability but this isn't the first place I've seen discussing them in a dismissive way. Also, on the Darjeeling Limited Criterion DVD, Wes Anderson was slobbering all over James Ivory. So what's the verdict on these? Are there any worth watching?
What exactly is the deal with Merchant Ivory films? They have this aura of respectability but this isn't the first place I've seen discussing them in a dismissive way. Also, on the Darjeeling Limited Criterion DVD, Wes Anderson was slobbering all over James Ivory. So what's the verdict on these? Are there any worth watching?
YES!! I go daffy for Howards End, and Remains of the Day is top notch. TOP NOTCH.
What exactly is the deal with Merchant Ivory films? They have this aura of respectability but this isn't the first place I've seen discussing them in a dismissive way. Also, on the Darjeeling Limited Criterion DVD, Wes Anderson was slobbering all over James Ivory. So what's the verdict on these? Are there any worth watching?
YES!! I go daffy for Howards End, and Remains of the Day is top notch. TOP NOTCH.
Remains of the Day is almost certainly in my top ten of all time.
I watched The Kids Are All Right last night. Did not like it one bit. Winter's Bone, on the other hand, was aces.
I watched The Kids Are All Right last night. Did not like it one bit. Winter's Bone, on the other hand, was aces.
I watched The Kids Are All Right last night. Did not like it one bit. Winter's Bone, on the other hand, was aces.
I thought it was ok, but what didn't you like about it?
I watched The Kids Are All Right last night. Did not like it one bit. Winter's Bone, on the other hand, was aces.
I thought it was ok, but what didn't you like about it?
It bugged me as well, but for much less interesting reasons than Sarah's (which were posted as I was writing this). Something about watching these very comfortable LA liberals having self-consciously openminded discussions over locavore cuisine and discussing landscaping and taking scented baths just pushed my buttons. Maybe I'm just jealous of Mark Ruffalo and his chest hair. I'm not saying it's a reasonable or logical response.
Great acting, though.
Jesse Eisenberg did a great job, although he looked and sounded so much like Michael Cera that the kid should get royalties.
Jesse Eisenberg did a great job, although he looked and sounded so much like Michael Cera that the kid should get royalties.
It's true they resemble one another, but I can't see Michael Cera carrying off Jesse Eisenberg's role in The Squid and the Whale.
It's true they resemble one another, but I can't see Michael Cera carrying off Jesse Eisenberg's role in The Squid and the Whale.
Was that movie worth seeing?
It's true they resemble one another, but I can't see Michael Cera carrying off Jesse Eisenberg's role in The Squid and the Whale.
Was that movie worth seeing?
I'd say yes.
It's true they resemble one another, but I can't see Michael Cera carrying off Jesse Eisenberg's role in The Squid and the Whale.
Was that movie worth seeing?
I'd say yes.
I'd say hell's yes, fucking assman!
It's true they resemble one another, but I can't see Michael Cera carrying off Jesse Eisenberg's role in The Squid and the Whale.
Was that movie worth seeing?
I'd say yes.
I found it entertaining enough and enjoyed loathing the husband (not that I admire anyone else much).
The reason I said I couldn't imagine Michael Cera doing as well as Jesse Eisenberg in that role is that Cera seems to specialize in bumbling bunnies. I have a vague memory of him playing a creep once and doing it well, but I can't find anything on IMdB, so my brain might be playing tricks on me. Eisenberg, on the other hand, is always good at playing a certain kind of jerk (the kind who would have glommed on to me in high school because I felt sorry for them).
2. I understand the writer/director is herself gay, but that didn't stop her from seeming to endorse one of the more annoying stereotypes about lesbians: that they really they all just need a good, hard seeing-to. The male homosexual porn? Julianne Moore's sudden, uncontrollable lust for the contents of Mark Ruffalo's pants? (I mean, come on--that "hello" at the first sight of his penis, as though she were welcoming her first meal after a long spell of starvation?) I was insulted, and I can't imagine many in the lesbian community weren't as well.Yeah, that part of the trailer is why I never saw it. Sad to have my suspicions confirmed.
Anybody seen Blue Valentine? I thought it was pretty good.Yes and yes! I thought it was pretty devastating. I've always been mad at Closer because of all the hype around it being such an authentic portrayal of relationships, but I thought Blue Valentine actually came pretty close to that.
. . . they really they . . .
It's true they resemble one another, but I can't see Michael Cera carrying off Jesse Eisenberg's role in The Squid and the Whale.
Was that movie worth seeing?
I'd say yes.
It's true they resemble one another, but I can't see Michael Cera carrying off Jesse Eisenberg's role in The Squid and the Whale.
Was that movie worth seeing?
I'd say yes.
2yes
It's true they resemble one another, but I can't see Michael Cera carrying off Jesse Eisenberg's role in The Squid and the Whale.
Was that movie worth seeing?
I'd say yes.
2yes
I mean 5yes
A movie I really liked from last year was Cyrus. There wasn't really much to it, but it was surprisingly entertaining. I think the fact that I nearly had the theater to myself boosted my opinion a little.I was really pleasantly surprised by Cyrus too, which is not at all the movie it was sold as, or a movie you would expect to find Jonah Hill in.
A movie I really liked from last year was Cyrus. There wasn't really much to it, but it was surprisingly entertaining. I think the fact that I nearly had the theater to myself boosted my opinion a little.I was really pleasantly surprised by Cyrus too, which is not at all the movie it was sold as, or a movie you would expect to find Jonah Hill in.
The Squid and the Whale is one of my favourites, no lie.
A movie I really liked from last year was Cyrus. There wasn't really much to it, but it was surprisingly entertaining. I think the fact that I nearly had the theater to myself boosted my opinion a little.I was really pleasantly surprised by Cyrus too, which is not at all the movie it was sold as, or a movie you would expect to find Jonah Hill in.
The Squid and the Whale is one of my favourites, no lie.
In my world, you wouldn't expect to find Jonah Hill in any movie.
A movie I really liked from last year was Cyrus. There wasn't really much to it, but it was surprisingly entertaining. I think the fact that I nearly had the theater to myself boosted my opinion a little.I was really pleasantly surprised by Cyrus too, which is not at all the movie it was sold as, or a movie you would expect to find Jonah Hill in.
The Squid and the Whale is one of my favourites, no lie.
In my world, you wouldn't expect to find Jonah Hill in any movie.
A movie I really liked from last year was Cyrus. There wasn't really much to it, but it was surprisingly entertaining. I think the fact that I nearly had the theater to myself boosted my opinion a little.I was really pleasantly surprised by Cyrus too, which is not at all the movie it was sold as, or a movie you would expect to find Jonah Hill in.
The Squid and the Whale is one of my favourites, no lie.
In my world, you wouldn't expect to find Jonah Hill in any movie.
Really, Dave? No Jonah Hill for you? Have you see Superbad? To me- one of the funniest movies, ever. I can watch it over and over. Both Michael Cera and Jonah Hill were great in it. Their playing off each other is the heart of the movie and hilarious.
Just watched Le Corbeau.
That's some good stuff; so nasty and psychologically brutal. Makes me wish American movies of the same time period didn't feel so antiseptic most of the time.
Just watched Le Corbeau.
That's some good stuff; so nasty and psychologically brutal. Makes me wish American movies of the same time period didn't feel so antiseptic most of the time.
Just watched Le Corbeau.
That's some good stuff; so nasty and psychologically brutal. Makes me wish American movies of the same time period didn't feel so antiseptic most of the time.
There's noir stuff from around that era that's pretty damn septic!
Just watched Le Corbeau.
That's some good stuff; so nasty and psychologically brutal. Makes me wish American movies of the same time period didn't feel so antiseptic most of the time.
There's noir stuff from around that era that's pretty damn septic!
Yes. Crack a Humphrey Bogart catalog much?
A movie I really liked from last year was Cyrus. There wasn't really much to it, but it was surprisingly entertaining. I think the fact that I nearly had the theater to myself boosted my opinion a little.I was really pleasantly surprised by Cyrus too, which is not at all the movie it was sold as, or a movie you would expect to find Jonah Hill in.
The Squid and the Whale is one of my favourites, no lie.
In my world, you wouldn't expect to find Jonah Hill in any movie.
Really, Dave? No Jonah Hill for you? Have you see Superbad? To me- one of the funniest movies, ever. I can watch it over and over. Both Michael Cera and Jonah Hill were great in it. Their playing off each other is the heart of the movie and hilarious.
I'm a big fan of Le corbeau and Clouzot in general. If you like Clouzot you should all check out L'Enfer d'Henri-Georges Clouzot, the documentary about Clouzot's damned movie project L'Enfer from 1964 starring Romy Schneider. The documentary recounts the story of the obsessive director who lost all control - interesting interviews etc - but the real coup is all the supposedly lost footage that's been found by the filmmakers. Sublime stuff.
I wrote about the documentary on my Swedish blog, but you should click this link anyway just to check out the screenshots:
http://degrell.blogspot.com/2011/01/filmaret-2011-2-lenfer-dhenri-georges.html (http://degrell.blogspot.com/2011/01/filmaret-2011-2-lenfer-dhenri-georges.html)
The Wages of Fear is great. Diabolique is pretty damn good, too.
Wages Of Fear is great.
OK, wait. I was in Greg's corner, but I have to reconsider whether to support someone who thinks "funniest movie of all time" is a tossup between Superbad and Spinal Tap.
OK, wait. I was in Greg's corner, but I have to reconsider whether to support someone who thinks "funniest movie of all time" is a tossup between Superbad and Spinal Tap.
OK, wait. I was in Greg's corner, but I have to reconsider whether to support someone who thinks "funniest movie of all time" is a tossup between Superbad and Spinal Tap.
Spinal Tap is great.
OK, wait. I was in Greg's corner, but I have to reconsider whether to support someone who thinks "funniest movie of all time" is a tossup between Superbad and Spinal Tap.
Spinal Tap is great.
It's good. but contender for FMOAT--don't think so.
Sorceror is good but certainly no better (it's been so long since I've seen either, I can't remember whether I thought it as good), and Wages came first, so it wins.
I don't mind Spinal Tap. I do mind the Spinal Tap hysteria.
I don't mind Spinal Tap. I do mind the Spinal Tap hysteria.
Is there really a lot of hysteria about a 30-year old movie?
I don't mind Spinal Tap. I do mind the Spinal Tap hysteria.
Is there really a lot of hysteria about a 30-year old movie?
I don't mind Spinal Tap. I do mind the Spinal Tap hysteria.
Is there really a lot of hysteria about a 30-year old movie?
Tom's talked about it on the show before, basically saying "okay, let's give it a rest, let's move on ..."
I'm a huge fan of the movie. But I can somewhat understand where Tom is coming from. It's not too hard to run across tool-ish nerds who like to parrot "these go to 11" and other lines that have been run into the ground.
But if you check out some of the bonus material/deleted scenes on the various versions of "Spinal Tap" DVDs ... there's just a TON of great & hilarious material that didn't even make it into the movie.
What's interesting to me is that Messr's Shearer, Guest, and McKean don't really seem to have any affection at all for metal. Yet the movie seems to be pretty well embraced by metalheads. So I figure they must have been doing something right.
I'm sure glad I didn't bring my girlfriend though. The cat scene would have done her in.
Dogtooth is great. I had heard it compared to Haneke and Von Trier, so I was a bit apprehensive that it would amount to a beat-you-over-the-head moral lesson. In the end I didn't find that to be the case -- although the ideas about the nature of family are spelled out pretty clearly it felt more open-ended and less caustic than their works.
I'm sure glad I didn't bring my girlfriend though. The cat scene would have done her in.
Is anyone here a fan of Abbas Kiarostami? I really enjoyed Where Is the Friend's Home? and Taste of Cherry.
I'm sure glad I didn't bring my girlfriend though. The cat scene would have done her in.
Bingo, that's why I ain't goin.'
Is anyone here a fan of Abbas Kiarostami? I really enjoyed Where Is the Friend's Home? and Taste of Cherry.
Taste of Cherry and The Wind Will Carry Us are masterful. Talk about the beauty of pacing. Haven't seen anything else by him.
Any fans of Ramin Bahrani? He's one of the best filmmakers out there right now. Chop Shop, Man Push Cart, Goodbye Solo.
Here is a short he did, featuring narration by Werner Herzog: http://www.futurestates.tv/episodes/plastic-bag (http://www.futurestates.tv/episodes/plastic-bag)
Any fans of Ramin Bahrani? He's one of the best filmmakers out there right now. Chop Shop, Man Push Cart, Goodbye Solo.
Any fans of Ramin Bahrani? He's one of the best filmmakers out there right now. Chop Shop, Man Push Cart, Goodbye Solo.
I agree. I really like all 3, wish MPC being my favorite.
Any fans of Ramin Bahrani? He's one of the best filmmakers out there right now. Chop Shop, Man Push Cart, Goodbye Solo.
I agree. I really like all 3, wish MPC being my favorite.
Good to hear. Goodbye Solo is my favorite. All the stories are moving but I'd say that one is the most original and heartbreaking.
Shane Black might write/direct Iron Man 3? OMG. (http://bit.ly/eTPy74)
Shane Black might write/direct Iron Man 3? OMG. (http://bit.ly/eTPy74)
I really love his Kiss Kiss Bang Bang.
Shane Black might write/direct Iron Man 3? OMG. (http://bit.ly/eTPy74)
I really love his Kiss Kiss Bang Bang.
Yeah, that movie is really great.
I saw The King's Speech today and really loved it.
I saw The King's Speech today and really loved it.
I saw it earlier this week and agree - also tons of "oh my god, it's ______" moments - like every British actor who isn't doing Harry Potter is in this thing.
I saw The King's Speech today and really loved it.
I saw it earlier this week and agree - also tons of "oh my god, it's ______" moments - like every British actor who isn't doing Harry Potter is in this thing.
As well as some who are! It was strange when I recognized the guy who played Churchill from his role in the Harry Potter movies.
And how great was Derek Jacobi?
Due Date: really wanted to like this, but it left me kinda flat. That said, there was one little scene that absolutely killed me. I laughed so hard I woke up jr. from his nap.
Due Date: really wanted to like this, but it left me kinda flat. That said, there was one little scene that absolutely killed me. I laughed so hard I woke up jr. from his nap.
Which one? I had no such experience.
I just caught up with Animal Kingdom, which was excellent. The theme -- criminal underworld as a savage, tribal, Darwinian battle -- is spelled out right in the opening shot and title (not to mention the final words spoken), but that idea turns out to have major legs. I've never seen a crime movie quite like it before.
My only quibble is with the protagonist kid, who's made out to be a bit too much of a mute lunkhead. When he finally takes action you never get a sense of whether he's thinking things through or just going on instinct.
I liked that movie a bit, and wanted to like it a lot, but it really bothers me that the hero is never called on his casual homophobia. Sure, there's lots of implicit stuff about subverting hollywood action 'types etc., but I don't think an explicit "fuck bigotry" would have been amiss. Not when you know a large section of the audience are gonna be "people" who think homosexuality is hilarious/objectionable.Shane Black might write/direct Iron Man 3? OMG. (http://bit.ly/eTPy74)
I really love his Kiss Kiss Bang Bang.
Yeah, that movie is really great.
That made me smile, PdP. The truck scene, however, made me cringe, hardweek: all I could do was think about was how dangerous that would be in real life, esp to the poor dog.
Mainly, I think I was unwowed by this movie because it reminded me of so many others, all of which include a conceit that doesn't appeal to me: so-called normal person is forced to spend time with weirdo and learns something about himself (it's always a guy, isn't it?)--and how to like the weirdo--in the process. The thing is, the weirdos in question are usually so unpleasant and out of control that their modest charms are not enough to make me find them tolerable, so the movies can never entirely work for me.
I guess I need a weirdo to make me loosen up, eh?
Not even among the best And there was so much fiddling with history, it was distracting.
I did like that Edward was played by an Australian.
Yes, I enjoyed that a lot. I like Steven Moffat: Coupling was often funny, Jekyll was a kick, and his Whos are among my favorites.
Did you see the single episode of Dirk Gently? Though it strayed from the original more than many purists could stomach, I thought it was good, clean fun.
See? I can like stuff. I just haven't been bowled over by the movies I've seen lately. Of the last four, only Le Corbeau measured up.
Oh, wait, that should be five. I forgot I also watched Faster, Pussycat! Kill! Kill! It was a fine example of the type of movie it wanted to be.
I don't remember what it was. Doesn't everyone get blowed up real good one way or the other?
Any thoughts on Samuel Fuller? Shock Corridor had a promising plot summary, but it was ultimately disappointing. There were too many contrivances to forgive, and the random bursts of extended shrieking were just annoying. I like the idea of using an asylum to do social commentary, but the bad writing, overblown acting, and tepid "mystery" left little in the film to enjoy.
I remember someone praising EASY A earlier in this thread (Martin, maybe?), and I want to echo that sentiment. I thoroughly enjoyed it. Emma Stone was a delight, as were Stanley Tucci and Patricia Clarkson as her parents.I didn't like how she told the kid to pretend to be straight, and the movie seemed okay with it? Also how it never committed to the meta thing. And I like Tucci and Clarkson just fine, but found their characters to be execrable.
Any thoughts on Samuel Fuller? Shock Corridor had a promising plot summary, but it was ultimately disappointing. There were too many contrivances to forgive, and the random bursts of extended shrieking were just annoying. I like the idea of using an asylum to do social commentary, but the bad writing, overblown acting, and tepid "mystery" left little in the film to enjoy.
I remember someone praising EASY A earlier in this thread (Martin, maybe?), and I want to echo that sentiment. I thoroughly enjoyed it. Emma Stone was a delight, as were Stanley Tucci and Patricia Clarkson as her parents.
Thanks for the feedback guys, I'll have to give him another chance.
I had a cool reaction to Kiss Me Deadly as well ... again the writing was lazier than I'd like. It begins like a great noir but quickly loses that guise. If the main character isn't falling ass backwards into favorable situations, he's beating information out of any sap in his path. Although, I guess the ridiculousness became entertaining after a point.
Down Terrace is on netflix streaming now so there's no excuse not to see this awesome little movie. Let me know what you think.
Down Terrace is on netflix streaming now so there's no excuse not to see this awesome little movie. Let me know what you think.
Isn't that the one where Sam Jackson is a prejudice against interracial couples.
I needed to get out of the house and spend some time alone so I went to the movies. I'm on line and on an impulse I surprised myself by buying a ticket to- get this- The Green Hornet. In 3D no less. Maybe I was feeling a little self-destructive. I gotta say, it didn't disappoint. That's only because my expectations were so low. What a piece of crap? What were they thinking? Seth Rogen, as the hero was about as unlikable as possible. It's hard to enjoy a story when the guy you're supposed to be rooting fro is a total douchebag. Also, Kato was basically superman and would be much better off without him.
So I leave this reeking pile of a movie but don't feel like going home. Looky here! The fighter is playing in the next theater and I've only missed 10 minutes- so I slink in and sit down. What a great movie. Interesting story. Every character was interesting. The casting was great. The acting was great across the board. I could've sat there and immediately watched it again.
Michael Gondry- you've earned yourself a lifetime boycott by me. Was 3D referring to an extra dimension of deplorable? Mr. Rogen- I will not see anything you've made for a full 18 months. I'm going easy on you because I've liked a lot of your older stuff.
Anyone else see Cedar Rapids? I found it very mediocre and I think I'm tired of John C. Reilly humor.
Anyone else see Cedar Rapids? I found it very mediocre and I think I'm tired of John C. Reilly humor.
I didn't see it but im really excited about the two films hes doing that come out this year.ing year.
Anyone else see Cedar Rapids? I found it very mediocre and I think I'm tired of John C. Reilly humor.
Anyone else see Cedar Rapids? I found it very mediocre and I think I'm tired of John C. Reilly humor.
I found John C's parts the only enjoyable parts of this movie. (Hope you still like the cut of my jib).
I needed to get out of the house and spend some time alone so I went to the movies. I'm on line and on an impulse I surprised myself by buying a ticket to- get this- The Green Hornet. In 3D no less. Maybe I was feeling a little self-destructive. I gotta say, it didn't disappoint. That's only because my expectations were so low. What a piece of crap? What were they thinking? Seth Rogen, as the hero was about as unlikable as possible. It's hard to enjoy a story when the guy you're supposed to be rooting fro is a total douchebag. Also, Kato was basically superman and would be much better off without him.
So I leave this reeking pile of a movie but don't feel like going home. Looky here! The fighter is playing in the next theater and I've only missed 10 minutes- so I slink in and sit down. What a great movie. Interesting story. Every character was interesting. The casting was great. The acting was great across the board. I could've sat there and immediately watched it again.
Michael Gondry- you've earned yourself a lifetime boycott by me. Was 3D referring to an extra dimension of deplorable? Mr. Rogen- I will not see anything you've made for a full 18 months. I'm going easy on you because I've liked a lot of your older stuff.
Sounds like that movie was effin terrible, and a waste of your effin time.
Anyone else see Cedar Rapids? I found it very mediocre and I think I'm tired of John C. Reilly humor.
I didn't see it but im really excited about the two films hes doing that come out this year.ing year.
Wow, Ramsaye and Polanski. Impressive.
If you're able to, track down and watch the Danish documentary Armadillo. It's about a team of Danish soliders at an outpost in Afghanistan, and covers pretty much the same bases as Restrepo in an equally involving fashion. I watched Armadillo first, so Restrepo had somewhat of a lesser impact on me (though I found it engaging and certainly worthy of the praise it's gotten). But if you want to see another good documentary about the war, albeit from a slightly different angle (young Danish soldiers going off to war), I'd recommend it.
The final minutes of the Academy Awards show must have enraged Spike. Doubly.
Just finished watching 127 Hours. Danny Boyle unquestionably churns out a slick product: it was very handsome. I was, however, very annoyed by the lack of change in James Franco's facial hair over the course of the ordeal, and I thought he was implausibly energetic once he freed himself. A big fall and grave injury, just over five days with little water and food, and then a brutal amputation with a dull knife, and he's walking briskly? I know he was a fit young fellow, but come on.
I have seen four of the nominees for best picture, which is amazing (it's been years and years since I've seen even one). Maybe I'll even watch the Oscars tomorrow in celebration. I think I'll eschew Twitter just in case: it would be tragic to have the results spoiled for me the first time I've watched the Academy Awards in more than a decade.
P.S. I wonder what it would have been like watching 127 Hours not knowing at the outset how it ended.
P.P.S. Non sequitur: I just heard a fox scream.
P.P.P.S. Maybe I can work through The Social Network and Inception tonight and tomorrow and up my total to a stunning five. A fine goal.
Just watched Black Swan. Dumbdeedumbdumbdumb.
The reviews of the movie are revealing. The ones I've read are all by men, and all share the misguided notion that attractive women must by definition welcome the attentions their beauty draws. This quote from a 1965 NYT review says it all: "the weird and agitating mystery here is why a girl of such fascinating beauty should be as hostile as she is toward men." Reviewers also consistently characterize the first victim as an innocent and mostly view the second victim as comic relief. And more than one claim that Deneuve's character is opaque: she does mad things, but the reason is obscure--unless it's just that she needs to get laid.
I'm experiencing a little repulsion myself now.
I just watched Samuel Fuller's White Dog. There were moments of greatness, however, the movie had a weird TV-movie look and vibe that kind of keeps it from being a great movie.
Watched LITTLE MURDERS for the first time tonight and LOVED IT. I'd heard it was pitch-black, but it was way more anarchic than I expected. Brilliant work from Jules Feiffer and Alan Arkin, and Elliott Gould is at least as good here as in The Long Goodbye. The Donald Sutherland scene was great too.
I subsequently learned that Jean-Luc Godard was strongly interested in directing it, but that fell apart (luckily, in my opinion) when he refused to attend any meetings about the film. Gould quoted him as saying "If my wife and child wanted me to say I loved them, I'd tell them to go fuck themselves."
Just watched Sylvain Chomet's The Illusionist, and I'm pretty sure it's some kind of masterpiece.
Watched LITTLE MURDERS for the first time tonight and LOVED IT. I'd heard it was pitch-black, but it was way more anarchic than I expected. Brilliant work from Jules Feiffer and Alan Arkin, and Elliott Gould is at least as good here as in The Long Goodbye. The Donald Sutherland scene was great too.
I subsequently learned that Jean-Luc Godard was strongly interested in directing it, but that fell apart (luckily, in my opinion) when he refused to attend any meetings about the film. Gould quoted him as saying "If my wife and child wanted me to say I loved them, I'd tell them to go fuck themselves."
Moon was good, although I was disappointed by the total lack of David Bowie.
Speaking of which, I had kind of a Kevin-Spacey-in-"American-Beauty" moment last night. I'd been doing the respectable thing for too long! The Man can't keep me down any more! Still a rebel!
I went to see Drive Angry Shot in 3D.
Let me put it this way: There is one very good reason to see this movie. For the rest of your life, every movie you see will seem like a masterpiece.
Speaking of which, I had kind of a Kevin-Spacey-in-"American-Beauty" moment last night. I'd been doing the respectable thing for too long! The Man can't keep me down any more! Still a rebel!
I went to see Drive Angry Shot in 3D.
Let me put it this way: There is one very good reason to see this movie. For the rest of your life, every movie you see will seem like a masterpiece.
I wasn't that interested in Drive Angry 3D at first, but am I to understand that Nic Cage literally breaks out of hell in this?I was also surprised to learn about this after seeing it mentioned casually in a write-up of the movie, and was/am baffled that it wasn't a part of the ads. How do you leave that detail out? I also continue to think that the movie should have been called That Cult Kidnapped My Daughter.
Speaking of which, I had kind of a Kevin-Spacey-in-"American-Beauty" moment last night. I'd been doing the respectable thing for too long! The Man can't keep me down any more! Still a rebel!
I went to see Drive Angry Shot in 3D.
Let me put it this way: There is one very good reason to see this movie. For the rest of your life, every movie you see will seem like a masterpiece.
It always bothered me about 'American Beauty' that the story is 'he rebels, then HE DIES!' (spoiler alert). It implies an extra level of hopelessness as to one's ability to change their life, when actually people do manage to do that sometimes. That wasn't the story they were trying to tell, though, I know.
I wasn't that interested in Drive Angry 3D at first, but am I to understand that Nic Cage literally breaks out of hell in this?
I wasn't that interested in Drive Angry 3D at first, but am I to understand that Nic Cage literally breaks out of hell in this?
Yeah, I'm with you on this. I've only read bad things about it, but they've all managed to make it sound like the most awesome movie ever made.
But it's no fun, huh?
Finally saw Social Network last night. Did I miss something?
Finally saw Social Network last night. Did I miss something?
I was all set to hate it after that obnoxious opening scene, but it was pretty good after that.
I was all set to hate it after that obnoxious opening scene, but it was pretty good after that.
I loved the opening 15 minutes, then thought it lost momentum
Finally saw Social Network last night. Did I miss something?
I liked it more the second time. It took me a little while to get used to the rapidspeak. There were times when I felt like an editor actually took out spaces in between words.
I didn't hate it by any means, I'm just really surprised that it got such effusive praise and an Oscar nomination.
Critics like both of those things, as do a lot of us critics manqués.
Didn't think that Melissa Leo or Christian Bale was so amazing
Korine no longer makes "movies": http://www.vbs.tv/watch/umshini-wam--2# (http://www.vbs.tv/watch/umshini-wam--2#)
Korine no longer makes "movies": http://www.vbs.tv/watch/umshini-wam--2# (http://www.vbs.tv/watch/umshini-wam--2#)
Got The Fighter under my belt. It was a nice fairy tale, based on a true story though it may have been. Didn't think that Melissa Leo or Christian Bale was so amazing (I'd rather have seen Amy Adams get the Best Supporting Actress Oscar, and John Hawkes the Best Supporting Actor award [or perhaps two of the other nominees--I haven't seen all the performances]), but both did a good job. The terrible sisters were appropriately terrible, and Amy Adams did very well indeed.
So, Wild at Heart...I have watched that movie four times.
This thing was insane. It actually reminds me a lot of Tim & Eric.
So, Wild at Heart...I have watched that movie four times.
This thing was insane. It actually reminds me a lot of Tim & Eric.
There are only two movies have I seen more times Brazil and Return of the Attack of the Killer Tomatoes.
And Repo Man
Oh, and the Supersuckers movie...but it's a concert.
Just re-watched The Verdict. I loved it, but I will watch Paul Newman in anything (even Fort Apache, The Bronx, which makes Death Wish 3 look like The Wire).
Saw Winter's Bone last night. I guess I'm past the age where I feel the need to say, "Yes, a very fine film" about movies that are well-acted and well-crafted when they basically bore the daylights out of me.
So, Wild at Heart...I have watched that movie four times.
This thing was insane. It actually reminds me a lot of Tim & Eric.
There are only two movies have I seen more times Brazil and Return of the Attack of the Killer Tomatoes.
And Repo Man
Oh, and the Supersuckers movie...but it's a concert.
I saw "Creepy Jackalope Eye" on that one Beavis and Butt-head about 50 times. Is that the same thing?
That boat scene was the opposite of boring. And I didn't find the rest boring either.
I dunno. The boat scene was gross and potentially-violent enough to be unboring, but I still didn't give a damn. I'm clearly odd man out here, so to help restore balance to the universe I will posit that I was bored enough for fifty people throughout.
I dunno. The boat scene was gross and potentially-violent enough to be unboring, but I still didn't give a damn. I'm clearly odd man out here, so to help restore balance to the universe I will posit that I was bored enough for fifty people throughout.
For the record, I removed the Winter's Bone DVD after about 45 minutes and returned it to Netflix Headquarters. The Granik/Reichardt/"slowcore" stuff is a no-go for me.
Uncle Boonmee Who Can Recall His Past Lives - or "Uncle Boonman" as the woman introducing it said at one point. Have to admit I was perplexed at the last 15 minutes, and generally wish I knew more about specific Thai cultural references in "Joe's" films; but man, I can't think of anyone else even close to making films this unpredicatable. I don't think many people who are interested are going to miss this if it plays near them, but see it in a theater for the dark natural lighting if you can. Also, there's a sequence that should make every person on this board think of Andy from Lake Newbridge.
The Fighter - not much more than a diversion, in my opinion. Bale was good but I didn't think he deserved to win anything over John Hawkes for Winter's Bone.
Carlos - The first 3 1/2 hours are as well-made as you may have heard, but the last two can really wear you down. It seems to me that kind of meticulous approach is the right one for a biopic of this sort though. By the end there's no mistaking him for a glamorous figure.
I dunno. The boat scene was gross and potentially-violent enough to be unboring, but I still didn't give a damn. I'm clearly odd man out here, so to help restore balance to the universe I will posit that I was bored enough for fifty people throughout.
For the record, I removed the Winter's Bone DVD after about 45 minutes and returned it to Netflix Headquarters. The Granik/Reichardt/"slowcore" stuff is a no-go for me.
I saw Paul last night. The trailers are very misleading, as reported. Paul, the character, mostly avoids Poochie-style annoyingness. It is a worthy gap filler between true Edgar Wright/Simon Pegg written masterpieces.
I saw Paul last night.
I saw Paul last night.
Well why didn't you say hi? ;)
I saw Paul last night. The trailers are very misleading, as reported. Paul, the character, mostly avoids Poochie-style annoyingness. It is a worthy gap filler between true Edgar Wright/Simon Pegg written masterpieces.
Winter's Bore?
I thought F for Fake did a great job documenting the last days of the kind of coolness that Welles represented.
The film received a PG-13 rating. To avoid an R rating, a love scene was cut. Browning said, "I had a very tame and mild love scene with Jon Hamm... I think it's great for this young girl to actually take control of her own sexuality." She added, "[The MPAA] got Zack to edit the scene and make it look less like she's into it. Zack said he edited it down to the point where it looked like he was taking advantage of her. That's the only way he could get a PG-13 [rating] and he said, 'I don't want to send that message.'"(from Wikipedia)
QuoteThe film received a PG-13 rating. To avoid an R rating, a love scene was cut. Browning said, "I had a very tame and mild love scene with Jon Hamm... I think it's great for this young girl to actually take control of her own sexuality." She added, "[The MPAA] got Zack to edit the scene and make it look less like she's into it. Zack said he edited it down to the point where it looked like he was taking advantage of her. That's the only way he could get a PG-13 [rating] and he said, 'I don't want to send that message.'"(from Wikipedia)
Apparently, Snyder isn't as big of a creep as the MPAA.
I saw PAUL on Sunday. What a disaster. I didn't laugh once, although Jeffrey Tambor killed it, as usual.
I'm watching Sam Seder's comedy time capsule Who's The Caboose. It's actually pretty funny and super interesting to see so many great comedians 15 years ago. Jon Benjamin is particularly good.
Edit- Oh, and it's available on Netflix streaming. Cheapos unite!
I'm watching Sam Seder's comedy time capsule Who's The Caboose. It's actually pretty funny and super interesting to see so many great comedians 15 years ago. Jon Benjamin is particularly good.
Edit- Oh, and it's available on Netflix streaming. Cheapos unite!
weird, I just watched that tonight, but i had to take a break in the middle because it was bumming me out. not that i live in that version of Los Angeles at all but knowing it's out there gives me the creeps
All work and no play makes this guy a freaking psycho.
http://www.mstrmnd.com/log/802 (http://www.mstrmnd.com/log/802)
All work and no play makes this guy a freaking psycho.
http://www.mstrmnd.com/log/802 (http://www.mstrmnd.com/log/802)
First the Illuminati/EYES WIDE SHUT nonsense, and now this. What is it about Kubrick that attracts such complete wackaloons?
Finally got around to watching The Girlfriend Experience last night. I was not a fan while I was watching it, and found myself really annoyed with the stunt casting of a porn star in the central role, but the long-term impact was positive. I was obsessing about it on my commute to work today, trying to figure out what on earth Soderbergh was trying to communicate with the final shot of the film (I do not want to spoil it, but to those who have seen it, a reminder is that it involves Sasha Grey and a jeweler who is a little "quick on the draw"). Was he just saying "Hey, this is awkward reality behind the fanstasy?"
Anyway, I am not steeped in film history or film crit, but FWIW, I thought it was worth a watch. I would love to hear the thoughts of those with more refined palates.
Finally got around to watching The Girlfriend Experience last night. I was not a fan while I was watching it, and found myself really annoyed with the stunt casting of a porn star in the central role, but the long-term impact was positive. I was obsessing about it on my commute to work today, trying to figure out what on earth Soderbergh was trying to communicate with the final shot of the film (I do not want to spoil it, but to those who have seen it, a reminder is that it involves Sasha Grey and a jeweler who is a little "quick on the draw"). Was he just saying "Hey, this is awkward reality behind the fanstasy?"
Anyway, I am not steeped in film history or film crit, but FWIW, I thought it was worth a watch. I would love to hear the thoughts of those with more refined palates.
At the very least, The Girlfriend Experience is a fairly vivid time capsule of September 2008. I'm sure there's a significant point to the jeweler in the last scene being staunchly pro-Israel and pro-McCain, but I'm not quite sure what Soderbergh was getting at either.
BTW, that was film critic Glenn Kenny as "The Erotic Connoisseur." I believe after watching himself in this film he decided to lose a lot of weight.
Finally got around to watching The Girlfriend Experience last night. I was not a fan while I was watching it, and found myself really annoyed with the stunt casting of a porn star in the central role, but the long-term impact was positive. I was obsessing about it on my commute to work today, trying to figure out what on earth Soderbergh was trying to communicate with the final shot of the film (I do not want to spoil it, but to those who have seen it, a reminder is that it involves Sasha Grey and a jeweler who is a little "quick on the draw"). Was he just saying "Hey, this is awkward reality behind the fanstasy?"
Anyway, I am not steeped in film history or film crit, but FWIW, I thought it was worth a watch. I would love to hear the thoughts of those with more refined palates.
At the very least, The Girlfriend Experience is a fairly vivid time capsule of September 2008. I'm sure there's a significant point to the jeweler in the last scene being staunchly pro-Israel and pro-McCain, but I'm not quite sure what Soderbergh was getting at either.
BTW, that was film critic Glenn Kenny as "The Erotic Connoisseur." I believe after watching himself in this film he decided to lose a lot of weight.
"The Erotic Connoisseur" may have been the single most unpleasant character ever created in film.
My daughter watched 'Beverly Hills Chihuahua II', and I caught some of that.
Saw CERTIFIED COPY last weekend and was absolutely mesmerized by it. A genuine masterpiece. Another viewing is in order, since I was so emotionally wrapped up in what was going on that I neglected to fully engage with the movie's more intellectual qualities, which are considerable. As it stands, it's easily the best movie I've seen so far this year.
According to the annoyed sighs and verbal criticisms at the roling of the credits, I was apparently the only one in the theater who liked Meek's Cutoff. I'm a big fan of Reichardt and this change of format made me nervous, but it worked out well. It is one of those movies that grows on you. I saw it on Friday and it's still resonating with me. It was refreshing to see one of these modern western films that didn't set out to capitalize on the beautiful cinematography.
According to the annoyed sighs and verbal criticisms at the roling of the credits, I was apparently the only one in the theater who liked Meek's Cutoff. I'm a big fan of Reichardt and this change of format made me nervous, but it worked out well. It is one of those movies that grows on you. I saw it on Friday and it's still resonating with me. It was refreshing to see one of these modern western films that didn't set out to capitalize on the beautiful cinematography.
According to the annoyed sighs and verbal criticisms at the roling of the credits, I was apparently the only one in the theater who liked Meek's Cutoff. I'm a big fan of Reichardt and this change of format made me nervous, but it worked out well. It is one of those movies that grows on you. I saw it on Friday and it's still resonating with me. It was refreshing to see one of these modern western films that didn't set out to capitalize on the beautiful cinematography.
The reaction in my theater was similar. I liked it a lot, though I'm still not sure how I feel about the ending.
According to the annoyed sighs and verbal criticisms at the roling of the credits, I was apparently the only one in the theater who liked Meek's Cutoff. I'm a big fan of Reichardt and this change of format made me nervous, but it worked out well. It is one of those movies that grows on you. I saw it on Friday and it's still resonating with me. It was refreshing to see one of these modern western films that didn't set out to capitalize on the beautiful cinematography.
Story is not usually the focus of any Cassevetes movie. Killing of a Chinese Bookie is probably the most story-centric, but in general, if you're looking for a compelling story, I'd steer clear of further Cassavetes stuff.
Story is not usually the focus of any Cassevetes movie. Killing of a Chinese Bookie is probably the most story-centric, but in general, if you're looking for a compelling story, I'd steer clear of further Cassavetes stuff.
I'm not looking for story per se. I'm quite happy in character study stuff. However, I thought this particular movie the characters just kept doing the same stuff.
Story is not usually the focus of any Cassevetes movie. Killing of a Chinese Bookie is probably the most story-centric, but in general, if you're looking for a compelling story, I'd steer clear of further Cassavetes stuff.
I saw The Tree of Life yesterday, and I do indeed think it's a masterpiece, which is not to say it isn't also flawed. While most of the effects of the creation sequence were impressive enough (the volcanic explosions looked amazing, the dinosaurs more serviceable), I admired the boundless ambition of that section more than I really loved it. What resonated for me was the family plotline set in 50's Waco that dominates the vast majority of the running time. I can't say my childhood resembled the nuclear family dynamics and idyllic weather patterns depicted here, yet I can't think of too many other films that nail how we remember childhood like this one does, starting from when we are most vulnerable, to the rambunctiousness of boyhood, to when we first learn important lessons about compassion, death, sex, violence, etc. Malick's frequently ground-level camera captures a child's fascination with both these harsh and gentle snapshots of life (keeping things from getting maudlin), as well as fantastic shots like the low-angle one of the kids throwing a baseball sky high (maybe subconsciously aiming for heaven, for all they know at the time). The film feels more like a series of these impressions rather than a progression of scenes, but the dramatic conflict between the young Sean Penn character and his parents and younger brother hardly suffers for it. Brad Pitt gives his best performance that I've seen here, successfully embodying the larger-than-life father figure while scrubbed of any movie star aura; and the kid who plays the young Jack proves fully up to the challenge.
I can't say I was as impressed by the modern-day scenes with Sean Penn, even though Malick makes the skyscrapers of Houston look almost mythical. Mostly Penn just walks around looking bummed, and we could stand to learn more about how he changes from the child we see at the end of the 50s to the depressed adult, even considering the traumatic event he's dealing with. Like plenty of others, I will also apparently never not cringe at some of Malick’s post-Thin Red Line voiceovers (I wish they were still as idiosyncratic as those in Badlands and Days of Heaven). Then there’s the ending, which I’m still unsure about, but which I suspect will be even more misread by those already suspicious of the film’s “Christian” overtones. Still, for all the flaws this mostly lived up to the overwhelming experience it was hyped as, and is filled with an uncommon amount of images and themes that will stick with me. The comparatively paltry obsessions and ambitions of the current “indie” cinema (the preceding trailer for THE ART OF GETTING BY being exhibit A) look almost disgraceful in comparison.
I find this positive review all the more persuasive because I know you were seated in a less than ideal spot.
Just watched Meeks Cutoff and have one question. How is Bonnie Prince not in this?
Everyone else is going to leave me hanging about Suspiria? There's got to be at least one other FOT who likes that movie...
I've ended up seeing Suspiria 3 or 4 times (mostly trying to see it "the right way")
I've ended up seeing Suspiria 3 or 4 times (mostly trying to see it "the right way")
what's that?
I saw The Tree of Life yesterday, and I do indeed think it's a masterpiece, which is not to say it isn't also flawed. While most of the effects of the creation sequence were impressive enough (the volcanic explosions looked amazing, the dinosaurs more serviceable), I admired the boundless ambition of that section more than I really loved it. What resonated for me was the family plotline set in 50's Waco that dominates the vast majority of the running time. I can't say my childhood resembled the nuclear family dynamics and idyllic weather patterns depicted here, yet I can't think of too many other films that nail how we remember childhood like this one does, starting from when we are most vulnerable, to the rambunctiousness of boyhood, to when we first learn important lessons about compassion, death, sex, violence, etc. Malick's frequently ground-level camera captures a child's fascination with both these harsh and gentle snapshots of life (keeping things from getting maudlin), as well as fantastic shots like the low-angle one of the kids throwing a baseball sky high (maybe subconsciously aiming for heaven, for all they know at the time). The film feels more like a series of these impressions rather than a progression of scenes, but the dramatic conflict between the young Sean Penn character and his parents and younger brother hardly suffers for it. Brad Pitt gives his best performance that I've seen here, successfully embodying the larger-than-life father figure while scrubbed of any movie star aura; and the kid who plays the young Jack proves fully up to the challenge.
I can't say I was as impressed by the modern-day scenes with Sean Penn, even though Malick makes the skyscrapers of Houston look almost mythical. Mostly Penn just walks around looking bummed, and we could stand to learn more about how he changes from the child we see at the end of the 50s to the depressed adult, even considering the traumatic event he's dealing with. Like plenty of others, I will also apparently never not cringe at some of Malick’s post-Thin Red Line voiceovers (I wish they were still as idiosyncratic as those in Badlands and Days of Heaven). Then there’s the ending, which I’m still unsure about, but which I suspect will be even more misread by those already suspicious of the film’s “Christian” overtones. Still, for all the flaws this mostly lived up to the overwhelming experience it was hyped as, and is filled with an uncommon amount of images and themes that will stick with me. The comparatively paltry obsessions and ambitions of the current “indie” cinema (the preceding trailer for THE ART OF GETTING BY being exhibit A) look almost disgraceful in comparison.
Anyone here a fan of Jim Jarmusch's "Dead Man"? I love it. One of my all-time favorites.
Just saw that it's available streaming on Netflix. Hoping to re-watch it tonight for the first time in years.
Anyone here a fan of Jim Jarmusch's "Dead Man"? I love it. One of my all-time favorites.
Just saw that it's available streaming on Netflix. Hoping to re-watch it tonight for the first time in years.
Me. I was huge into Jarmusch during my college years and I've found as I've rewatched that they don't hold up at all. Except Dead Man.
Anyone here a fan of Jim Jarmusch's "Dead Man"? I love it. One of my all-time favorites.
Just saw that it's available streaming on Netflix. Hoping to re-watch it tonight for the first time in years.
Me. I was huge into Jarmusch during my college years and I've found as I've rewatched that they don't hold up at all. Except Dead Man.
They've all held up for me. In fact I used to hate Stranger Than Paradise til I rewatched it two years ago.
Finished Badlands today.
I hear good things about that The New World, but his other stuff is junk, right?
Finished Badlands today.
I hear good things about that The New World, but his other stuff is junk, right?
Days of Heaven's a marvel.
Finished Badlands today.
I hear good things about that The New World, but his other stuff is junk, right?
Days of Heaven's a marvel.
Anyone here a fan of Jim Jarmusch's "Dead Man"? I love it. One of my all-time favorites.
Just saw that it's available streaming on Netflix. Hoping to re-watch it tonight for the first time in years.
Me. I was huge into Jarmusch during my college years and I've found as I've rewatched that they don't hold up at all. Except Dead Man.
They've all held up for me. In fact I used to hate Stranger Than Paradise til I rewatched it two years ago.
I'm with you Paul, I rewatched Mystery Train for the first time in years recently and loved it again. Though, the first time I watched it I didn't realize there were subtitles for the scenes with the Japanese couple so I had to try to figure out what they were saying from the context of the scene. I like it better that way.
I still love Down By Law the best though.
I realize taste is subjective and all that, but I defy anyone to enjoy the LA section of Night on Earth. Most of that movie is pretty boring (I only really enjoy the NY section), but that LA section is AWFUL, and it's mostly Winona Ryder's fault.
I realize taste is subjective and all that, but I defy anyone to enjoy the LA section of Night on Earth. Most of that movie is pretty boring (I only really enjoy the NY section), but that LA section is AWFUL, and it's mostly Winona Ryder's fault.
I realize taste is subjective and all that, but I defy anyone to enjoy the LA section of Night on Earth. Most of that movie is pretty boring (I only really enjoy the NY section), but that LA section is AWFUL, and it's mostly Winona Ryder's fault.
And Days of Heaven is wonderful.I'm gonna have to hand over my paycheck to itunes because of you people. I love and hate apple at the same time. Hopefully if I get to move back to my hometown on a more permanent basis, I can hand over my money to the small independent business that keeps good movies in stock. That would make me much happier.
I saw Tree of Life today. I enjoyed it, though my enjoyment was somewhat marred by the elderly couple who chose to sit next to me in a non-crowded theater and, clearly having no idea what kind of movie they'd chosen, spent the entire running time loudly asking each other questions and generally trying to explain the film to each other.You didn't include the part of your story where you took a fake call from work on your cell phone to excuse yourself from watching the movie because of the old people talking. Did Tom actually get a refund for Synecdoche New York?! That's how the story went, right?! :)
I saw Tree of Life today. I enjoyed it, though my enjoyment was somewhat marred by the elderly couple who chose to sit next to me in a non-crowded theater and, clearly having no idea what kind of movie they'd chosen, spent the entire running time loudly asking each other questions and generally trying to explain the film to each other.
And Days of Heaven is wonderful.I'm gonna have to hand over my paycheck to itunes because of you people. I love and hate apple at the same time. Hopefully if I get to move back to my hometown on a more permanent basis, I can hand over my money to the small independent business that keeps good movies in stock. That would make me much happier.
Yes. I am living far away from home. A lot of films that I might like to see are not available, itunes turns out to be the best source for watching films. Renting or in some cases buying them is the only option. It's the controlled experience of buying films through apple, you can only watch them on your computer or you have to buy apple tv. I should have been clearer. Also, I love getting movie recommendations from the people that post on this forum/thread. I guess that was the main point.And Days of Heaven is wonderful.I'm gonna have to hand over my paycheck to itunes because of you people. I love and hate apple at the same time. Hopefully if I get to move back to my hometown on a more permanent basis, I can hand over my money to the small independent business that keeps good movies in stock. That would make me much happier.
Do you say this because you buy movies from Itunes? I don't get it.
Also saw Midnight in Paris. It was fine, but perfectly forgettable. I don't get all the glowing reviews it seems to be getting.
Also saw Midnight in Paris. It was fine, but perfectly forgettable. I don't get all the glowing reviews it seems to be getting.
It's because it is pitched perfectly at reviewers' most flattering self-perceptions. It's designed to make you feel smart and tasteful for liking it, even if you haven't cracked a book written during the 1920's since college. (Not that I've seen it, I can just tell. That's what Woody Allen does.)
I saw Tree of Life today. I enjoyed it, though my enjoyment was somewhat marred by the elderly couple who chose to sit next to me in a non-crowded theater and, clearly having no idea what kind of movie they'd chosen, spent the entire running time loudly asking each other questions and generally trying to explain the film to each other.
Advice: stay away from those Sunday features. My viewing of Another Year came with the added feature of an old man saying "Eh I can't understand 'em!" every five minutes. One of the signs of aging is going into all the movies you see knowing nothing but the title.
In other words, he writes his age and background. I am thankful he's not writing films about what's the matter with kids today. One of my favorite Tom quotes: it's not FOR you.
There's a certain theater here where I get those old people every screening. When I saw Black Swan there was a guy near me who, during the scene where the old man is leering at Portman on the subway, loudly announced "That's me!" to be hilarious. Then the old man on-screen started fiddling with himself and the guy lamely clarified "that's not me."
In other words, he writes his age and background. I am thankful he's not writing films about what's the matter with kids today. One of my favorite Tom quotes: it's not FOR you.
Well, but it kinda is. When Tom says that, he doesn't mean "You don't LIKE it;" he means there's no reason to expect to like something pitched at a demographic radically different from your own. I'm a New Yorker in my 50s with some graduate education and as much nostalgia for past bohemias as anyone; Add "Jewish" into the mix and I could hardly be more perfect for Allen's target audience. Unfortunately, I think all his films are, on some level, about what's the matter with everyone who isn't like him. And I'm not sure which is worse: writing films about what's the matter with kids today, or writing films about how kids like Scarlett Johanson or Evan Rachel Wood are right on his sexual wavelength.
Forget the Zookeeper has anybody seen this?
(http://media.avclub.com/images/articles/article/57740/cruise_jpg_627x325_crop_upscale_q85.jpg)
Forget the Zookeeper has anybody seen this?
(http://media.avclub.com/images/articles/article/57740/cruise_jpg_627x325_crop_upscale_q85.jpg)
The thing that got under my skin was the way it played to the middlebrow pretensions of the audience so hard
I thought Midnight In Paris stunk, but I am finding it hard to separate my reaction to the people in the theater with me from my reaction to the movie itself. Whenever I enter a cinema to find it crammed full of people who I suspect don't go to the movies more than once or twice a year, but are somehow all out at once, I know I'm in trouble.
I found it lightly amusing, but actually laughed perhaps twice. The thing that got under my skin was the way it played to the middlebrow pretensions of the audience so hard -- i.e. having some basic knowledge of the artists portrayed, and 'getting' the lame jokes such as Hemingway speaking like a poor parody of one of his novels.
And I'm aware that saying all this probably makes me seem pretentious myself.
I thought Midnight In Paris stunk, but I am finding it hard to separate my reaction to the people in the theater with me from my reaction to the movie itself. Whenever I enter a cinema to find it crammed full of people who I suspect don't go to the movies more than once or twice a year, but are somehow all out at once, I know I'm in trouble.
I found it lightly amusing, but actually laughed perhaps twice. The thing that got under my skin was the way it played to the middlebrow pretensions of the audience so hard -- i.e. having some basic knowledge of the artists portrayed, and 'getting' the lame jokes such as Hemingway speaking like a poor parody of one of his novels.
And I'm aware that saying all this probably makes me seem pretentious myself.
I have an internal war about middlebrow culture. When I was younger, I disdained it all. Now I guess I pick and choose. I tell myself, "at least some people in this town aren't watching Transformers 3."
I liked Midnight in Paris fine. I thought Corey Law and Order: LA was funny as Hemingway. I got more 20s references than the average audience member but I still missed several of them.
Other middlebrow stuff that I hate: Andrew Lloyd Webber. Garrison Keillor. Bluegrass.
I thought Midnight In Paris stunk, but I am finding it hard to separate my reaction to the people in the theater with me from my reaction to the movie itself. Whenever I enter a cinema to find it crammed full of people who I suspect don't go to the movies more than once or twice a year, but are somehow all out at once, I know I'm in trouble.
I found it lightly amusing, but actually laughed perhaps twice. The thing that got under my skin was the way it played to the middlebrow pretensions of the audience so hard -- i.e. having some basic knowledge of the artists portrayed, and 'getting' the lame jokes such as Hemingway speaking like a poor parody of one of his novels.
And I'm aware that saying all this probably makes me seem pretentious myself.
I have an internal war about middlebrow culture. When I was younger, I disdained it all. Now I guess I pick and choose. I tell myself, "at least some people in this town aren't watching Transformers 3."
I liked Midnight in Paris fine. I thought Corey Law and Order: LA was funny as Hemingway. I got more 20s references than the average audience member but I still missed several of them.
Other middlebrow stuff that I hate: Andrew Lloyd Webber. Garrison Keillor. Bluegrass.
Bluegrass? If you live in the south that's not middlebrow.
Just watched Source Code. It was a lot better than the name would suggest.
According to the annoyed sighs and verbal criticisms at the roling of the credits, I was apparently the only one in the theater who liked Meek's Cutoff. I'm a big fan of Reichardt and this change of format made me nervous, but it worked out well. It is one of those movies that grows on you. I saw it on Friday and it's still resonating with me. It was refreshing to see one of these modern western films that didn't set out to capitalize on the beautiful cinematography.
The reaction in my theater was similar. I liked it a lot, though I'm still not sure how I feel about the ending.
I never want to see another movie about the origin of a superhero, his backstory, and so on. If you can't make a movie that is just about a superhero's continuing adventures, maybe the character is shit to begin with.
When I was a younger man, I secretly developed an affinity for a movie called "Class of 1999". You know where this is going...many years later, I was aghast to discover that not only was this favorite bad film from my youth a sequel, but is, in fact, the sequel to one of Tom's childhood favorites ("Class of 1984").
For a time, I believed that I had imagined the film until my suspicions got the best of me and I started asking around. Sure enough, my nerdiest friend had seen it too and also possessed an equally secretive love for the movie.
Who else out there has seen "Class of 1999"? Or maybe I did imagine it...and maybe I even imagined the friend!
When I was a younger man, I secretly developed an affinity for a movie called "Class of 1999". You know where this is going...many years later, I was aghast to discover that not only was this favorite bad film from my youth a sequel, but is, in fact, the sequel to one of Tom's childhood favorites ("Class of 1984").
For a time, I believed that I had imagined the film until my suspicions got the best of me and I started asking around. Sure enough, my nerdiest friend had seen it too and also possessed an equally secretive love for the movie.
Who else out there has seen "Class of 1999"? Or maybe I did imagine it...and maybe I even imagined the friend!
I liked Moneyball. I especially liked it because Aaron Sorkin dialed down the dialogue a notch, giving the movie some much needed silences and a chance for the characters to be human.
Tonight I plan to watch Marwencol.
I liked Moneyball. I especially liked it because Aaron Sorkin dialed down the dialogue a notch, giving the movie some much needed silences and a chance for the characters to be human.
Tonight I plan to watch Marwencol.
He did a Q&A after the film when I saw it a few weeks ago and casually talked about how he is both dyslexic and colorblind and how he mostly just films things he wants to see, like Gosling in a satin jacket. I thought he was fun.
Moneyball is great. As for the screenplay, Steven Zaillian's draft was fantastic. I was a fan of the book...
He did a Q&A after the film when I saw it a few weeks ago and casually talked about how he is both dyslexic and colorblind and how he mostly just films things he wants to see, like Gosling in a satin jacket. I thought he was fun.
Yea, who am I to criticize? Forgot that I try not to shoot my mouth off about people that are actually doing good stuff for things I interpret as annoying at one particular moment. I'll probably really eat crow when I see Drive and love it.
When I was a younger man, I secretly developed an affinity for a movie called "Class of 1999". You know where this is going...many years later, I was aghast to discover that not only was this favorite bad film from my youth a sequel, but is, in fact, the sequel to one of Tom's childhood favorites ("Class of 1984").
For a time, I believed that I had imagined the film until my suspicions got the best of me and I started asking around. Sure enough, my nerdiest friend had seen it too and also possessed an equally secretive love for the movie.
Who else out there has seen "Class of 1999"? Or maybe I did imagine it...and maybe I even imagined the friend!
There is indeed. And Class of 1999 also had a sequel: "Class of 1999 2: The Substitute", starring Step by Step's Sasha Mitchell as an evil cyborg substitute teacher.
It was quite brutal at times and pretty sad and had some neat, creepy imagery.
This is what I watched during the week I was computerless (in order):
Requiem
Duplicity
Terminator Salvation
Adam's Apples
Nick and Norah's Infinite Playlist
Pan's Labyrinth
The Band Visits
The Visitor
X-Men Origins: Wolverine
Boys and Girl from County Clare
Day Watch
Days of Darkness
Naturally Native
The Boy in the Striped Pajamas
Joe's Palace
Capturing Mary
Roadkill
Whatever Happened to Harold Smith?
Schultze Gets the Blues
The Memory of a Killer
The Best of Youth
Confetti
Volver
Hot Fuzz
Yes, almost all my time is spare.
BLAH
The Visitor (well-intentioned and -acted but somehow tiresome)
BLAH
The Visitor (well-intentioned and -acted but somehow tiresome)
I agree with you on this one. Many REALLY loved it but boy was I luke-warm on it.
And, I know there many people on here who do not like Del Toro but I too liked Pan's Labyrinth.
Question: Why do people think Kat Dennings is a good actress?
Just watched Source Code. It was a lot better than the name would suggest.
Question: Why do people think Kat Dennings is a good actress?
BEST BY A WIDE MARGIN
The Best of Youth
Just watched Source Code. It was a lot better than the name would suggest.
I don't know if you listen to the Doug Loves Movies podcast, but Paul F. Tompkins did a thing about Jeffrey Wright's performance in the movie that ruined both the movie and Jeffrey Wright for me forever (both are things I like, BTW).
As a HUGE fan of You Can Count On Me, I'm very disappointed that Kenneth Lonnergan's followup Margaret sat on the shelf for five + years, stars Anna Paquin, and doesn't sound like it's very good.That's sad to hear. I really love You Can Count On Me too. I'll still try to watch it if it plays anywhere near.
As a HUGE fan of You Can Count On Me, I'm very disappointed that Kenneth Lonnergan's followup Margaret sat on the shelf for five + years, stars Anna Paquin, and doesn't sound like it's very good.That's sad to hear. I really love You Can Count On Me too. I'll still try to watch it if it plays anywhere near.
As a HUGE fan of You Can Count On Me, I'm very disappointed that Kenneth Lonnergan's followup Margaret sat on the shelf for five + years, stars Anna Paquin, and doesn't sound like it's very good.That's sad to hear. I really love You Can Count On Me too. I'll still try to watch it if it plays anywhere near.
I was disappointed to read some of the negative reviews, but critic Mike D'Angelo (http://www.panix.com/~dangelo/)'s recent capsule has me excited for Margaret (I'm also a huge fan of YCCOM):
Margaret (2011, Kenneth Lonergan): 80
So sad that this became such a post-production nightmare -- not just because we probably lost the three-hour masterpiece Lonergan intended, but because now people are having trouble distinguishing (or are just not bothering to distinguish) the ways in which the film is kind of a mess from the ways in which it deliberately employs messiness as a worldview. Practically every scene has half a dozen things happening at once, some of them irrelevant; entire conversations exist solely to demonstrate the difficulty of navigating competing agendas. At the center of it all is one of the least romantic or sentimental portraits of adolescence ever filmed, embodied by Paquin in a courageously off-putting performance that never once flinches from Lisa's misdirected self-absorption. Some folks have complained about the various shouting matches (between Lisa and her mom, during classroom discussions), but one of the things Lonergan so expertly depicts here is people not listening, too focused on their own narrow perspective to pay attention to anything else (which is of course what causes the accident in the first place). He's made great strides as a filmmaker, too -- nothing theatrical about the dazzling cut from Joan having her entire life summarily dismissed by a pissy Lisa to Joan having to hold her opening line until the audience stops applauding her entrance (and then a brisk cut elsewhere before she speaks). I could go on forever citing things I adored: Janney snapping at the bystanders struggling to apply a tourniquet to her severed leg ("Are they doctors? Then get them the fuck away from me!"); an awkward ritual deflowering straight out of Breillat ("You sound insane"); then-unknown Rosemarie DeWitt's epic struggle between suspicion and solicitousness; Lisa firing off a blunt exit line and then having the moment killed when not one but two deadbolts prevent her from swiftly exiting; etc. etc. etc. Only in the last 20 minutes or so does the movie really kind of lose its way -- partly because of the scenes involving Matt Damon, whose character never really works as intended (he seems weirdly lost); partly because Lonergan does what I was praying he wouldn't do and actually has Lisa state aloud her true reason for persecuting the bus driver, which was already abundantly clear to any viewer with an ounce of perception and is the kind of Grand Underlying Behavioral Dysfunction that needs to remain unspoken, lest it seem too tidy. Also, the final scene, though apropos, didn't quite wallop me -- I wanted to be crying with them, and wasn't. But maybe next time. What worries me about Margaret's troubled path is whether or not there'll be a next time for Lonergan. He's too brilliant to lose.
Also, a friend of mine e-mailed me today to say that while he's a bit less enthused about the film than D'Angelo, he still considers it to be one of the best films of "2011."
Just watched Source Code. It was a lot better than the name would suggest.
I don't know if you listen to the Doug Loves Movies podcast, but Paul F. Tompkins did a thing about Jeffrey Wright's performance in the movie that ruined both the movie and Jeffrey Wright for me forever (both are things I like, BTW).
Uh oh. I need to listen to that! I don't think Jeffrey Wright deserves an Oscar or anything. I thought his performance was over-the-top in a comic book villain kind of way and I liked that they did it that way. But lord knows that PFT is one convincing guy, so I suspect he's going to ruin the movie for me too!
Margaret (2011, Kenneth Lonergan): 80
What worries me about Margaret's troubled path is whether or not there'll be a next time for Lonergan. He's too brilliant to lose.
I saw Moneyball today and loved it. I kept thinking throughout it, "I think I owe Dave From Knoxville an apology."
I saw Moneyball today and loved it. I kept thinking throughout it, "I think I owe Dave From Knoxville an apology."
Ouch! Did I sell it so hard you backed off of it? Apologies. I will even take back all the "damn yous" I have been dropping on you on Facebook. GO CARDS
I enjoyed Unguarded (2011, Jonathan Hock) on ESPN last night. I was familiar with Herren (mainly from his presence in that highly touted Big East class with Iverson and Felipe Lopez), but I didn't know that much about his story. It's powerful stuff.
Quite a change of pace from last week's Leave Home-style Jeff Feuerzeig effort.
I saw Martha Marcy May Marlene this past weekend.
The Olsen sister is very good and will be a fine actress. John Hawkes is great in it as well. (You may remember him from Winter's Bone, which you FOT went gaga for.)
I thought the movie overall was just OK, though it was shot well. It sort of seem undecided about whether it was a run-of-the-mill thriller or a deeper movie contrasting a cult and a modern American family.
My verdict: save your dough and wait for it on the small screen.
I watched the trailer for Tyrannosaur the other day and cried. AT THE TRAILER. This is a first. I'm off to the Denver Starz film fest today where I intend to see Like Crazy, Martha Marcy May Marlene, the aforementioned Tyrannosaur, Sandman (I have a short film paired with this one), Green, and Outrage (a Japanese gangster movie that looks pretty intense), and The Descendants.
I finally got around to seeing Bridesmaids. Overall I think I liked it but man, I felt like the movie moved at a glacial pace.
I finally got around to seeing Bridesmaids. Overall I think I liked it but man, I felt like the movie moved at a glacial pace.Certainly: very funny, but (like most of the feature-length ApatowCo product) in dire need of editing. Although, going by some of the promos, there were whole plotlines excised. Imagine!
...
Edited: Also, more Tim Heidecker would have been great.
I finally got around to seeing Bridesmaids. Overall I think I liked it but man, I felt like the movie moved at a glacial pace.Certainly: very funny, but (like most of the feature-length ApatowCo product) in dire need of editing. Although, going by some of the promos, there were whole plotlines excised. Imagine!
...
Edited: Also, more Tim Heidecker would have been great.
But MAN Danny McBride is a whole lotta suck.
I saw Martha Marcy May Marlene this past weekend.
The Olsen sister is very good and will be a fine actress. John Hawkes is great in it as well. (You may remember him from Winter's Bone, which you FOT went gaga for.)
I watched the trailer for Tyrannosaur the other day and cried. AT THE TRAILER. This is a first.
But MAN Danny McBride is a whole lotta suck.
Rarely has such truth been typed...
Was 2 for 2 with new movies yesterday.
Le Havre, the new Aki Kaurismaki fillm - This is an entertaining, warm and funny film made by a cynic (if interviews are to be believed), which is not to say it's dishonest. Rather, both Kaurismaki and the audience know full well that's it's not a "realistic" depiction of immigration, as (mostly) everyone in this film tries to do the right thing, but that knowledge is freeing rather than distracting. Might be the best comedy of the year.
Melancholia - At different times I've admired, laughed at, laughed with, been disgusted by, bored by, transfixed by parts of every Lars Von Trier movie I've ever seen... but THIS. It's never come together like this before. Von Trier takes the premise of a clinically depressed person finding peace with the destruction of Earth to its hilt, turning it into a grand cosmic reckoning. I rented this in HD from Amazon but I think I need to see it in the theater, even an average one, for the final 2 minutes alone.
To be sure, most people will probably complain about and mock this film same as they do every Von Trier film, ESPECIALLY the wedding sequence, which you'll no doubt hear is boring and unrealistic. Another faction will be quick to remind you how personally superior they are to the walking public relations disaster that is Von Trier himself. But in my opinion, this is one of the greatest cinematic achievements in some time. It reminds me of Synecdoche, New York in that tries to vividly depict a mental state that many are aggressively unwilling to understand (the Kiefer Sutherland character might as well be a surrogate for them). I think Kirsten Dunst pretty much nailed the role but I suspect won't win too many awards to reflect it. It was also surprisingly jarring seeing Keifer in a non-Jack Bauer context again, particularly since his voice sounds like he's been swallowing whiskey-coated swords.
I thought Foot Fist Way was a great film.But MAN Danny McBride is a whole lotta suck.
Rarely has such truth been typed...
I could not disagree more, but then I haven't seen 30 Minutes or Less. Eastbound and Down makes me laugh more than almost anything else.
McBride does really well in smaller sidekick type roles like in Hot Rod and Pineapple Express.
I watched the trailer for Tyrannosaur the other day and cried. AT THE TRAILER. This is a first.
Tyrannosaur is very good. It's incredibly dark and miserable, just unrelenting -- but very good if you can deal with that. Reminded me a lot of Nil by Mouth. The performances are top, top, top notch. (I will say this: if you're a person that can't stand watching animals getting harmed, you might not go for this. That's not really a spoiler, just a warning.)
The Killing is great. Sterling Hayden and Elisha Cook Jr. in the same movie = automatic win for me.
I wish they'd either left out the narration or gotten someone less Dragnet-sounding to do it, though.
Have you seen Paths of Glory? It's Kubrick's next movie, and the one where you really see him start to turn into Stanley Kubrick.
I saw The Descendants tonight. It was great and heartbreaking. I haven't seen such an emotionally draining movie since Diving Bell and the Butterfly. Much recommended though, Payne is a master.
Just watched Martha Marcy I think the thing I walked away with was never listen to jam bands. Creepiest moment: John Hawes writes love song for girl he just raped.
Just watched Martha Marcy I think the thing I walked away with was never listen to jam bands. Creepiest moment: John Hawes writes love song for girl he just raped.
Hey dumdum, it's Hawkes, and we generally do a SPOILERS warning before talking about shit that transpires in movies.
Fair enough. My apologies.
Question: Was Animal more based on Keith Moon or Dino from the Murder Junkies?
The Muppets was great and everything I hoped it would be. It was really true to the original style of the movie and they did a great job of adjusting their tone to our current cynical pop culture. I will admit to bawling during Rainbow Connection. The only thing it was missing was a Steve Martin cameo. I hope it catches on with youngsters of today bcause the Muppets were such a great thing to have as your introduction into pop culture.
Question: Was Animal more based on Keith Moon or Dino from the Murder Junkies?
I could have done without the Sid character though.
I could have done without the Sid character though.
Yeh overall I didn't care for him much either but I think the scene with him and Clooney was very necessary. I thought the whole thing was done really well. I didn't feel like I was being taken advantage of like I sometimes do in movies that are overtly sad.
Fair enough. My apologies.
Sorry if i spoiled anything for you, but its really not a bad movie.
Does anyone know why the name Marlene is at the end of the title? I mentioned if it was mentioned in the movie.
Does anyone know why the name Marlene is at the end of the title? I mentioned if it was mentioned in the movie.
"Marlene Lewis" and "Michael Lewis" were the names they were told to give when they answer the phone. You can see the instructions written on the wall above the phone in one scene.
Anyone else see We Need To Talk About Kevin? I didn't like it at all. It contains the most pussy young terrorist ever.
Tomboy was really good. Some of the cutest little French kids you'll ever see.That movie was one of the only bright spots of a generally awful contemporary French cinema class I took last year.
Last night I watched Carroll Ballard's The Black Stallion.
Just watched Melancholia. I liked the movie, but that damn kid was implausibly calm.
13 Assassins was fantastic. Takashi Miike is a very talented man.
The movie starts out like a Kurosawa historical samurai epic and then by the end, it goes over the top but not in an out of control way. The last 5 minutes kind of drug on, but oh well.
The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo is overrated junk. Don't see it.
The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo is overrated junk. Don't see it.
The dealbreaker was when I found out it was 2 hr, 50 min. I don't know what Fincher did with the material, but I have no desire to devote that much time to another reiteration of this mediocre story.
I saw the Swedish version. Not particularly interested in revisiting that in either book or American re-make form.
Last night I watched Carroll Ballard's The Black Stallion.
Wow, haven't thought about that movie in years. Saw it in the theater as a kid.
Just watched Melancholia. I liked the movie, but that damn kid was implausibly calm.
Just watched Melancholia. I liked the movie, but that damn kid was implausibly calm.
Maybe he was depressed.
I'm kinda curious about this. I've only seen two movies by Lars VonTrier: "Dancer in the Dark" (which I recall rather liking) and "Zentropa" (which I found to visually gimicky)...
BTW, where did you see Kill List?
BAD
Duplicity
Terminator Salvation
The Boy in the Striped Pajamas (manipulative tripe)
BLAH
Nick and Norah's Infinite Playlist (not awful but so twee)
The Visitor (well-intentioned and -acted but somehow tiresome)
Naturally Native (points for good intentions but heavy-handed, cluttered, and badly acted)
Joe's Palace (some charm and lovely Michael Gambon but tedious)
Capturing Mary (some decent acting but even more tedious than the last, to which it is the sequel)
FAVORITES (which is not to say without flaw)
Adam's Apples
Pan's Labyrinth
The Band Visits
Day Watch
Days of Darkness
Roadkill
Schultze Gets the Blues
The Memory of a Killer
BEST BY A WIDE MARGIN
The Best of Youth
ALL RIGHT/PLEASANT ENOUGH/ENTERTAINING
Requiem
X-Men Origins: Wolverine (it hit the spot at the moment; I might have found it too dumb in another mood)
Boys and Girl from County Clare
Whatever Happened to Harold Smith?
Confetti
Volver
Hot Fuzz
About to sit down and finish Margin Call in a minute. I got half way through and started nodding off. Not because I didn't like the movie, I thought it was really good, but I was simply too tired to finish it.
(http://img696.imageshack.us/img696/508/boxerposter.jpg)
Recently saw Boxer's Omen, I loved it! Plenty of WTF moments with similarities to Hausau and The Holy Mountain.
(http://img198.imageshack.us/img198/6089/omen3.jpg)
I started out kind of iffy on "The Hobbit" trailer, and then when they all started singing "Gonna go see Liza, gonna go to Mississippi" together, I couldn't finish it.
I saw Pina this afternoon and was wowed. I know almost nothing about dance, but this is about the most operatically expressive interaction between the motion picture camera and the human body I've ever seen. Spellbinding.
Watched this based on your recommendation. Rocky 2 meets Evil Dead 2 meets Siddhartha 1. I can't go as far as to say that I loved it, but it certainly had "plenty of WTF moments" as you suggested.
P.S. The second screen shot you provided was visually my favorite part of the film.
I saw Pina this afternoon and was wowed. I know almost nothing about dance, but this is about the most operatically expressive interaction between the motion picture camera and the human body I've ever seen. Spellbinding.
Watched this based on your recommendation. Rocky 2 meets Evil Dead 2 meets Siddhartha 1. I can't go as far as to say that I loved it, but it certainly had "plenty of WTF moments" as you suggested.
P.S. The second screen shot you provided was visually my favorite part of the film.
I saw Pina this afternoon and was wowed. I know almost nothing about dance, but this is about the most operatically expressive interaction between the motion picture camera and the human body I've ever seen. Spellbinding.
I've read about this and am in your situation when it comes to knowledge of dance. Still, I'm really curious about it. As I recall reading, it's being shown in 3-d, right? If so would you recommend seeing it in tat format? Some movies really do require it, for example I cannot immagine seeing "Cavoe of Forgotten Dreams" without 3-D...
It will take some time for me to wrap my head around the concept of a new Wim Wenders movie that's actually good.
Also, the movie is a recording of a live performance before an audiance, right? If so does it break from the action to show enraptured viewers or cut to some commentary? THat kind of bullshit always takes me out of these types of movies...
Also, the movie is a recording of a live performance before an audiance, right? If so does it break from the action to show enraptured viewers or cut to some commentary? THat kind of bullshit always takes me out of these types of movies...
No, it's not done in front of an audience. Some scenes are on a stage set and others are out in real-life locations. The only commentary is by dancers in Bausch's troupe and as I've said these are brief and not too intrusive.
If you remember the dance sequence that opened Almodovar's Talk to Her, that was Pina Bausch & company, if that gives you any idea what to expect.
Watched this based on your recommendation. Rocky 2 meets Evil Dead 2 meets Siddhartha 1. I can't go as far as to say that I loved it, but it certainly had "plenty of WTF moments" as you suggested.
P.S. The second screen shot you provided was visually my favorite part of the film.
Wow, that is quite a description. IS it available via Netflix?
I saw Young Adult
pretty good
I almost wanted it to end just a little bit darker. I feel bad for complaining though compared to some of the stuff that gets praised as entertainment these days this is a masterpiece.
Could someone please explain to me what's so great about Blade Runner? Because I'm not seeing it.
Is there something I'm missing?
Could someone please explain to me what's so great about Blade Runner? Because I'm not seeing it.
Is there something I'm missing?
Could someone please explain to me what's so great about Blade Runner? Because I'm not seeing it.
Is there something I'm missing?
I don't think it's anything special either. I think there's something weird with the pacing because it feels like it's about 5 hours long while you're watching it.
They remastered this movie recently...it looks fantastic, supervised by Ridley ScotchTM Superego. It was one of the last movies where all of the effects are basically "in" camera. Looks great, sounds great...of course none of this automatically equals a good movie. I was young kid when I saw it way back in the 80's. My feelings for this film are more nostalgic/saccharine then anything else.Could someone please explain to me what's so great about Blade Runner? Because I'm not seeing it.
Is there something I'm missing?
I don't think it's anything special either. I think there's something weird with the pacing because it feels like it's about 5 hours long while you're watching it.
It's a highly influential masterpiece of production design; I would say that, as well as Rutger Hauer's death scene (which should be overwrought but is handled beautifully), and the Vangelis score are what it has going for it. Agreed that the story is weak/lousy... I saw it maybe three times and nothing ever sticks out, other than some gymnastic fighting and someone getting shot and falling through a window.
Is there something I'm missing?
Daryl Hannah somersault attack.
Is there something I'm missing?
Daryl Hannah somersault attack.
Oh FFS, Netflix pulled 'Man On Wire' from streaming before I could finish it....
Someone on my Facebook feed is actually surprised that the last Harry Potter movie didn't get a nomination for Best Picture. He just graduated from Penn State's film program.
Someone on my Facebook feed is actually surprised that the last Harry Potter movie didn't get a nomination for Best Picture. He just graduated from Penn State's film program.
The Oscars are pretty stupid. Last year Piranha 3D was NOT ONLY snubbed from a Best Picture nomination, but it was blacklisted from the whole event. I don't know how/why this one didn't win Best Picture. Maybe people just didn't see it?
What is everyone's opinion on The State-related movies like Wet Hot American Summer, The Ten and The Baxter? I think the latter are BAD and WHAS is only okay at times. But Children's Hospital is awesome. I remember liking Stella and The State and always having high hopes for these movies and ultimately being dissappointed. Should I look forward to Wanderlust or do you think the same thing is going to happen again. I haven't seen the trailer yet but judging from the cover it looks like Paul Rudd is playing that dumb character again. The thing with these guys is whenever I watch one of their movies I feel like I am at a talent show where a bunch of friends are on stage doing things that they all laugh at together while the audience is totally silent.
Tim and Eric's Billion Dollar Movie is an absolute piece of garbage. Shockingly unfunny. I pledge to never watch it again!
Tim and Eric's Billion Dollar Movie is an absolute piece of garbage. Shockingly unfunny. I pledge to never watch it again!
Did you enjoy their tv shows?
I look for more out of comedy than audacity.
comedy that is simultaneously inaccessibly dumb and highbrow.
I watched 'Rubber' a couple of days ago. I was hoping for absurdism and surrealism, and I got it, but it seemed they were trying too hard to be weird, which is the hazard with movies of this nature.Cool, I just watched SteaK and I'm planning to see Rubber eventually.
The Innkeepers (Ti West) - Yes!
The Innkeepers (Ti West) - Yes!
Has Ti West changed his approach?
I watched 'Rubber' a couple of days ago. I was hoping for absurdism and surrealism, and I got it, but it seemed they were trying too hard to be weird, which is the hazard with movies of this nature.
I started watching 'Star Wars Uncut'. There are enough clever submissions and interesting animation to make up for all the bits where somebody puts on a dark blanket to play Darth Vader.
I think I might have asked this before but here goes again:
Do any of you read a magazine about movies that you enjoy? I'm looking for something in the middle of the spectrum; between Entertainment Weekly and Film Comment. Something that covers all film but also delves in a little deeper than sycophantic babble like EW. Also, the problem with Film Comment is that about 80% of the movies it talks about are foreign films that rarely get distribution in the US either in theaters or home video.
I tend to visit a variety of film websites, such as Indiewire’s The Playlist blog, Some Came Running by ex-Premiere editor Glenn Kenny, the hilarious and occasional insane Hollywood Elsewhere, and Mike D’Angelo’s The Man Who Viewed Too Much, a site I’ve been following for 15 years.
http://www.panix.com/~dangelo/ (http://www.panix.com/~dangelo/)
I saw Henry Fool a loooong time ago and remember kind of liking it.
I keep coming across the sequel - Fay Grim - on IMDB. Is that any good? It looks like a completely different movie from the first one, and all anybody can talk about is how annoying the Dutch angles are.
I saw Henry Fool a loooong time ago and remember kind of liking it.
I keep coming across the sequel - Fay Grim - on IMDB. Is that any good? It looks like a completely different movie from the first one, and all anybody can talk about is how annoying the Dutch angles are.
It's completely different, yes. But I like it. Parker Posey!
If you see only one movie about Sean Penn as a retired goth superstar who leaves his new home in Dublin to go find himself and nazis in a trip around the continental US this year, make it something other than This Must Be The Place as it is a load of old cobblers.
If you see only one movie about Sean Penn as a retired goth superstar who leaves his new home in Dublin to go find himself and nazis in a trip around the continental US this year, make it something other than This Must Be The Place as it is a load of old cobblers.
I still want to see it based on the fantastic trailer.
If you see only one movie about Sean Penn as a retired goth superstar who leaves his new home in Dublin to go find himself and nazis in a trip around the continental US this year, make it something other than This Must Be The Place as it is a load of old cobblers.
Tonight I watched Young Adult which I didn't like. Theron's character was despicable start to finish.
Tonight I watched Young Adult which I didn't like. Theron's character was despicable start to finish.
I thought it was an interesting choice. She started shitty and there wasn't a real redemption, in fact her character is probably a little bit worse at the end. I still say it's worth watching for Patton.
Tonight I watched Young Adult which I didn't like. Theron's character was despicable start to finish.
I thought it was an interesting choice. She started shitty and there wasn't a real redemption, in fact her character is probably a little bit worse at the end. I still say it's worth watching for Patton.
I enjoyed it. I didn't know much about it going into it so my expectations were neither high nor low.
I 'm still not sold on Jason Reitman as a good director (liked "Thank You For Smoking"; disliked "Up In The Air"; liked "Juno" the first time...subsequent viewings have left me meh).
I watched Young Adult. Not good. NOT GOOD. Charlize Theron and Patton are very fine actors and it didn't bother me that Theron's character was unsympathetic; I like plenty of movies with monsters at their core. What bothered me is that I found the whole story phony and unbelievable from start to finish. I didn't believe Mavis would become so fixated on her ex or that she would be so oblivious to reality unless she was supposed to be literally psychopathic, which I don't believe was intended. I didn't believe that she would take Patton's character into her confidence, much less that she would, er, mumble mumble spoiler alert. Even though her book series was at the end of its line and she was disaffected from the job, I didn't believe based on the horrible manuscript excerpts that she read in voice-overs that she had ever been capable of writing a popular book for teen-agers. I do believe Diablo Cody felt this was a meaningful story for herself with deep truths important to tell, which doesn't speak well for her development as a human.
Patton's performance is great and his character is affecting, but otherwise... burn it.
The Cabin in the Woods is fantastic. If you're even a little bit interested, avoid all information and head immediately to the theater. It's so much fun I didn't even mind the three old ladies chatting who sat directly behind me despite the entire theater being empty and ultimately they grew audibly to hate the movie!
It's a very love/hate kind of movie. I loved it.
I recently watched the documentary on Townes Van Zandt, "Be Here To Love Me." It's very well done, although a bit depressing. Highly recommended if you're at all a fan of his work.
I saw Tree of Life three seats away from an elderly couple who were confused almost immediately and spent the entire movie loudly trying to explain the movie to one another. I was certain they'd leave, but they stayed for the whole thing.
It also meant I spent the entire running order seething with barely repressed rage, which was probably not the best frame of mind for watching that movie.
Hey, I started this thread almost four years ago, alone in a theater with an old person loudly eating chips he brought himself. Full circle!
My favorite old-people-in-a-movie-theater story comes from seeing the Prairie Home Companion movie in Bloomington, Indiana. They had a preview for Ghost Rider, and when a title card came up reading "this film is not yet rated," one of the old ladies yelled, "I rate it stinky!"
The Cabin in the Woods is fantastic. If you're even a little bit interested, avoid all information and head immediately to the theater. It's so much fun I didn't even mind the three old ladies chatting who sat directly behind me despite the entire theater being empty and ultimately they grew audibly to hate the movie!
It's a very love/hate kind of movie. I loved it.
GO SEE THIS ONE!!!
The Cabin in the Woods is fantastic. If you're even a little bit interested, avoid all information and head immediately to the theater. It's so much fun I didn't even mind the three old ladies chatting who sat directly behind me despite the entire theater being empty and ultimately they grew audibly to hate the movie!Cabin in the Woods was incredible. I've been calling it a MASTERPIECE (though MONSTERPIECE is maybe more appropriate) and will probably see it again in theaters. Hilarious and frightening in equal measure, with great tunes to tie it all together. GO SEE THIS ONE!!!
It's a very love/hate kind of movie. I loved it.
The Cabin in the Woods is fantastic. If you're even a little bit interested, avoid all information and head immediately to the theater. It's so much fun I didn't even mind the three old ladies chatting who sat directly behind me despite the entire theater being empty and ultimately they grew audibly to hate the movie!Cabin in the Woods was incredible. I've been calling it a MASTERPIECE (though MONSTERPIECE is maybe more appropriate) and will probably see it again in theaters. Hilarious and frightening in equal measure, with great tunes to tie it all together. GO SEE THIS ONE!!!
It's a very love/hate kind of movie. I loved it.
I'm with the three old ladies on this one, man. Not on board the Joss Whedon Express. Inside jokes, genre references, and special guest appearances alone do not a story make. It started off promising and had a fantastic ending, I'll give it that.
Taken 2 So I didn't work for a few months and had a depressive episode. I went up to stay with my parents for a weekend for a change of scenery. When you're 34 and unemployed and your parents ask if you want to see Taken 2, you don't say no. This is ESPECIALLY true if you get to go to a movie like this with my father, whose favorite genre of film is "Rage-fuled revenge." My dad owns something like 300 DVDs and almost all of them (I think he owns Meet The Fockers) contain revenge as a major thematic component.
I was a little worried going into the movie that I wouldn't get the subtle nuances since I didn't see Taken. However, by the time a teenage girl was tossing grenades around Istanbul without any penalty, I was sold. Taken 2 was really great and dumb. It also had one of the strangest little scenes ever in any movie. SPOILERS! -- At the end of the movie, Liam Nesson and his family are getting ice cream. They are joined late by the daughter's new boyfriend. The family all ordered chocolate ice cream but got the boyfriend strawberry. WHAT IS THE FILMMAKER TRYING TO SAY WITH THIS CHOICE?
Best film of 2012:
http://imposterfilm.com/ (http://imposterfilm.com/)
Best film of 2012:
http://imposterfilm.com/ (http://imposterfilm.com/)
Is this a sincere recommendation, Omar?
Best film of 2012:
http://imposterfilm.com/ (http://imposterfilm.com/)
Is this a sincere recommendation, Omar?
All of my recommendations are sincere, Sir. The Imposter is essential viewing.
Best film of 2012:
http://imposterfilm.com/ (http://imposterfilm.com/)
Is this a sincere recommendation, Omar?
All of my recommendations are sincere, Sir. The Imposter is essential viewing.
The Hobbit is pretty good - sort of like a pointless detour where you get to see your old friends again. Even after seeing it, I can't believe they decided to stretch it out to three movies.
My date and I laughed openly throughout. I was sure the critics would hate it.
But I felt stupid when I got home and saw the rave reviews for it. Then I saw the IMDB forums where teenagers were saying it was the most meaningful movie they'd ever seen, much in the same way I might have after seeing The Breakfast Club way back when.
But even though it wasn't for me, I thought the dialogue and acting were conspicuously bad. Has anyone else seen it?
My pet theory is that mainstream movie critics tend to like the sorts of things that make their jobs seem important: middlebrow issue movies, historical dramas, literary adaptations. And likewise, they resent any movie that makes their jobs seem silly, like comedies, which almost never get good reviews. In the era of internet reviewers this has changed a little bit, but you still see it in reviews by the lamestream media.
My pet theory is that mainstream movie critics tend to like the sorts of things that make their jobs seem important: middlebrow issue movies, historical dramas, literary adaptations.
Also likely is the fact that critics want to differentiate themselves from the pack; thus, you get the guy who'll go out on a limb and say "Luck" was a work of brilliance, just to get you to keep reading.
My pet theory is that mainstream movie critics tend to like the sorts of things that make their jobs seem important: middlebrow issue movies, historical dramas, literary adaptations. And likewise, they resent any movie that makes their jobs seem silly, like comedies, which almost never get good reviews. In the era of internet reviewers this has changed a little bit, but you still see it in reviews by the lamestream media.
And they can't resist movies that the majority of their audience can't make head or tail of, unless the audience member in question wishes to seem culturally enlightened. This year's example is The Master.
My pet theory is that mainstream movie critics tend to like the sorts of things that make their jobs seem important: middlebrow issue movies, historical dramas, literary adaptations. And likewise, they resent any movie that makes their jobs seem silly, like comedies, which almost never get good reviews. In the era of internet reviewers this has changed a little bit, but you still see it in reviews by the lamestream media.
And they can't resist movies that the majority of their audience can't make head or tail of, unless the audience member in question wishes to seem culturally enlightened. This year's example is The Master.
Or the entirety of Jean-Luc Godard's output post-1967.
Although, truth be told, I don't care much for his pre-1967 output either.
My date and I laughed openly throughout. I was sure the critics would hate it.
But I felt stupid when I got home and saw the rave reviews for it. Then I saw the IMDB forums where teenagers were saying it was the most meaningful movie they'd ever seen, much in the same way I might have after seeing The Breakfast Club way back when.
But even though it wasn't for me, I thought the dialogue and acting were conspicuously bad. Has anyone else seen it?
Critics are ridiculous. See: overwhelmingly positive reviews of pieces of trash We Need To Talk About Kevin, Avatar, and The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo. There has to be some payola involved in the making of these reviews, right?
Has anyone here seen Looper? I'm a fan of Rian Johnson's work, but despite all the plaudits the film seemed to receive, I came away somewhat disappointed.I loved all of Brick and the first half of Brothers Bloom.
Has anyone here seen Looper? I'm a fan of Rian Johnson's work, but despite all the plaudits the film seemed to receive, I came away somewhat disappointed.I loved all of Brick and the first half of Brothers Bloom.
Looper was a fun, well-constructed summer movie, but lacked the spark that made those other two films interesting. It was cool to see JGL working with Johnson again, although I was freaked out by his makeup for pretty much the entire film. It was really distracting.
In 3D?
It was the first 3D movie that I've seen that was really worth it. I thought that the interview scenes, strangely enough, were the most interesting use of 3D. I'd never seen anything like that before.
Has anyone here seen Looper? I'm a fan of Rian Johnson's work, but despite all the plaudits the film seemed to receive, I came away somewhat disappointed.
I liked Looper well enough. I found I could see where things were going pretty early on, though. It delivered as an entertaining sci-fi film, I thought.In terms of seeing things early on, I have to say that I appreciated a few of the things they managed to disguise. None of the trailers or pre-release discussion hinted at the other major sci-fi element in the movie, and it was mentioned kind of casually early enough and then moved to the background that just as I was starting to question if there was going to be a point to it, it came back full force and had me genuinely wondering if the time travel element was the feint and Johnson had secretly been doing a stealth Akira update all along or something crazy like that.
I saw This Is 40 when it seemed like everyone I knew was talking about it positively. Upon leaving the theater I wanted to make a Nixon-style enemies list (or at least a useless recommendation list.)
"This Was Fifty"I saw This Is 40 when it seemed like everyone I knew was talking about it positively. Upon leaving the theater I wanted to make a Nixon-style enemies list (or at least a useless recommendation list.)
I'm waiting for "This Is Desperately Hanging On to 54".
I finally got around to seeing "The Master." What an incredibly strange film. The acting was superb, I honestly can't say enough good things about Joaquin Phoenix and Philip Seymour Hoffman's performances. But on the whole, I felt like the film was a bit too ponderous and opaque for my tastes. That's the thing about Paul Thomas Anderson films, they don't offer easy answers or interpretations. "The Master" is no different.
Comedy movies need to stop being 2 hours long. It's not podcasting.
For instance they did that thing where a character decides to use a clean word instead of swearing and uses it throughout the movie like it's supposed to supply this ongoing supply of charming humor.
Anybody ever seen any of the "__ Up" films? They just released 56 Up and they sound somewhat interesting. Those cats are (with luck) enough older than me that I'll get to see the last one - maybe I'll powerwatch them on the DVR of the Future.
Watched "Compliance" over the weekend on netflix. Definitely the most disturbing movie I've seen in a while, particularly since you know going in it's based on a true story. Heartbreaking.
Watched "Compliance" over the weekend on netflix. Definitely the most disturbing movie I've seen in a while, particularly since you know going in it's based on a true story. Heartbreaking.
I watched it over the weekend and I thought it was pretty good. I really hope they gave that girl free chicken sandwiches for life.
Who loses?
I have always disliked Superman.
I have always disliked Superman.
Inside Llewyn Davis. Hoo boy. I am a rare instance of someone who doesn't expect much from the Coen brothers, so I wasn't exactly surprised by what an empty shell of a movie this is, but I at least expected it to be a fairly lively picture of a time and place. Pretty much a dud in that regard--the Greenwich Village scenes in I'm Not There were vastly more evocative. I have no idea what made the Coens think they had a movie here. They didn't have a story. They didn't have an interesting point-of-view character. It turns out that even if they did have feelings for the locale and period, they didn't have a way to put them on screen. And if they had a feeling for the best of the music that emerged from that scene, they did themselves a disservice by getting T-Bone "NPR-Ready" Burnett to orchestrate their simulacra, because the Dylan and Van Ronk songs that play over the end credits put to shame the pretty, anodyne tunelets that dominate the soundtrack. Can anyone explain to me why anyone would like this movie, or why it has a 95% score from critics on Rotten Tomatoes?--Oh, wait, I know the answer to that last one: it's because it's the Coen brothers. No other answer is possible.
(Fairness Update: The best thing about the movie is the Olds. This is one thing the Coens are pretty good at: Gnarled, hard-boiled old fucks with no time for bullshit, played by weatherbeaten old character actors. John Goodman, F. Murray Abraham, and the cranky old maritime union guys are just about the only signs of life onscreen--in fact, any of 'em would have made a more compelling central character than what we got.)
I'm interested in seeing Inside Llewyn Davis, but I won't do it until I can find out whether the cat dies. Seriously.What if the cat dies humorously?
I'm interested in seeing Inside Llewyn Davis, but I won't do it until I can find out whether the cat dies. Seriously.
I'm interested in seeing Inside Llewyn Davis, but I won't do it until I can find out whether the cat dies. Seriously.
I'm interested in seeing Inside Llewyn Davis, but I won't do it until I can find out whether the cat dies. Seriously.