Shia Labeouf is one lucky bastard. The studios chose a perfect week to premier Disturbia, because three weeks later he's still at #1 with $9 mil to a sum total of $52 mil. I really did think everybody would fall for Nicholas Cage and Jessica Biel's crappy new action flick and flood the box office, but it came in at #3 with $7.2 mil after The Invisible ($7.6 mil). Perhaps it's the season for mysteries and thrillers, cause I'm sure no one could've predicted these two films would be in the top 2. Suprisingly, The Condemned, that ridiculous attempt at social commentary of the extremes of reality TV and rampant voyeurism, came in at #9 with $4 mil.
No worries. The world will reset itself the moment Spider-Man 3 comes out on Friday. Watching the evil Venom in action will make Disturbia look like a fairytale.
Sunday, April 29, 2007
FILM: Harry Potter Cuts
Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix
comes out in theaters in July. If you read the book, you know that if translated word for word it would probably be 4 hours long. The problem with Potter adaptations is that they always cut out plot points and you never know if it'll be one of your favorite tidbits. I kind of hated Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban, because they removed the part where you got to see Harry's father as a young boy and the reasoning behind Snape's hatred. So I thought you might want to know a couple of story lines that were axed:
"...all that stuff about Ron Weasley becoming a Quidditch king? Cut. Mrs. Weasley's pestilent boggart? Nixed. Dobby the house elf? Poof--gone. Young wizard Neville Longbottom's poor, mad parents in St. Mungo's hospital? Snipped."--Entertainment Weekly, April 6, 2007
I don't really remember, but I think Longbottom's parents are integral to the whole he-might-be-the-chosen-one-instead-of-Harry theory. So, if it is, that would be an unforunate cut. The rest doesn't seem that crucial.
What do you think?
FILM: The Goonies Musical...You read that right.
According to April 6th's Entertainment Weekly issue, Richard Donner, the director of The Goonies, plans on adapting the film for a musical. I LOVE adventure movies that involve people looking for treasure: Indiana Jones, The Mummy, National Treasure, etc. But The Goonies was different. It was more like an initiation for anyone who's ever felt like a misfit. And as much as I loved it, there's no way in hell I'd watch the musical. What could they possibly sing about? Will there be dancing...besides the Truffle Shuffle? The article said that it was an alternative to a sequel, because they couldn't hammer out a good enough script. But a musical is completely plausible. Morons.
Saturday, April 28, 2007
MUSIC: Beyonce's effort to look hispanic
So I came across Beyonce and Shakira's Beautiful Liar video, and it totally freaked me out. Before I go on, check it out:
I love Shakira and I'm not crazy about Beyonce, so when I heard this song on the radio I was quick to say I didn't like it. The two artists are polar opposites in my opinion, which is why it so great that they were made to look alike in the video. I'm still not digging the song, but trying to figure out who's who in the video is enough to keep me watching it.
I love Shakira and I'm not crazy about Beyonce, so when I heard this song on the radio I was quick to say I didn't like it. The two artists are polar opposites in my opinion, which is why it so great that they were made to look alike in the video. I'm still not digging the song, but trying to figure out who's who in the video is enough to keep me watching it.
Friday, April 27, 2007
FILM: Keep a lookout for...
GRACIE
I know you've probably seen your share of underdog sports films from Rudy to Radio, but just give this one a chance. Amanda Bynes had a similar story in She's the Man, which I thought was hilarious. But, this is a true tale about a girl who takes her brother's place on a soccer team after he dies in a car accident. She's not only grieving for the loss of her best friend, but battling naysayers who are stuck in the dark ages with the notion that women are deficient in all things athletic. I'm sorry, have you ever heard the names Mia Hamm, Serena Williams, or Laila Ali? The lead, Carly Schroeder (Mean Creek), is an up and coming actress with a lot of promise. She'll have you screaming at the misogynists on the screen and mentally pinpointing the nearest Modell's for a soccer ball.
Release Date: June 1
EAGLE vs. SHARK
Alright, now if you're into ridiculous films like Borat and Napoleon Dynamite and you have thing for awkward bumbling idiots, you might like this film. It's about a guy who plans on killing his childhood bully and simultaneously gets his first girlfriend. But the murder plot takes a major back seat to the romance, and since he's so "special" it's all equally fun to watch.
Release Date: June 15
I know you've probably seen your share of underdog sports films from Rudy to Radio, but just give this one a chance. Amanda Bynes had a similar story in She's the Man, which I thought was hilarious. But, this is a true tale about a girl who takes her brother's place on a soccer team after he dies in a car accident. She's not only grieving for the loss of her best friend, but battling naysayers who are stuck in the dark ages with the notion that women are deficient in all things athletic. I'm sorry, have you ever heard the names Mia Hamm, Serena Williams, or Laila Ali? The lead, Carly Schroeder (Mean Creek), is an up and coming actress with a lot of promise. She'll have you screaming at the misogynists on the screen and mentally pinpointing the nearest Modell's for a soccer ball.
Release Date: June 1
EAGLE vs. SHARK
Alright, now if you're into ridiculous films like Borat and Napoleon Dynamite and you have thing for awkward bumbling idiots, you might like this film. It's about a guy who plans on killing his childhood bully and simultaneously gets his first girlfriend. But the murder plot takes a major back seat to the romance, and since he's so "special" it's all equally fun to watch.
Release Date: June 15
Thursday, April 26, 2007
NEW MOVIES: 4/27
This week Disturbia and Fracture's best competition is Next and The Invisible.
NEXT
Nicholas Cage keeps shelling out the man-with-a-mission roles. In this action packed movie, he can see the future. Naturally, the government, represented by the bad ass Julianne Moore (Children of Men), wants to take advantage of his gift to prevent a terrorist attack. But he's not so keen on being their slave, even if it means the world could come to an end. He's actually more interested in saving his girlfriend, Jessica Biel, from an inevitable fate. I just can't stop staring at his hair.
THE INVISIBLE
Justin Chatwin (War of the Worlds, Chumscrubber) hasn't had much experience being the lead in a film, but then again neither did Shia Labeouf. This mystery/thriller proposes the theory that when a person is unconscious and literally between life and death, they have to find a way to communicate with the living in order to survive. Chatwin plays a teen attacked by undoubtedly the popular kids and left for dead in the woods. The only one who can hear him and help him is the creepy old dead guy also stuck in limbo and his living girlfriend. Surely, you're wondering how plausible it is that any girl would talk to her semi-dead boyfriend, which would mean that you haven't seen Ghost. So if you're up for a little mystery this week stop overflowing Labeouf's pockets and throw Chatwin a little chump change.
Kickin it old school
Jamie Kennedy brings us this harrowing tale of a preteen break dancer who falls into a 20-year coma. When he wakes up with the same mindset and an older body, he's forced to grow up and acclimate quick. So basically it's the male 13 Going on 30. It's bound to have a few laughs, even if they're juvenile. Sometimes I think Kennedy is like the little step brother the frat pack (Stiller, Ferrell, Vaughn, Black, Wilson, etc.) ditches on a regular basis. Poor kid.
WIND CHILL [limited]
In this horror flick, Emily Blunt (Devil Wears Prada) experiments with an American accent as a college student who hitches a ride through a snow storm with one of her fellow classmates, newcomer Ashton Holmes, who--by the trailer--seems to have a borderline stalker crush on her. But Senor Creepy takes a short cut, and she freaks out and causes them to crash. And while they bicker about his true intentions and her hostile demeanor in the cold, dark night, they start to see ghosts and learn about the road's mystical fatality rate. The only thing that bugs me about the film is that the tagline is: "They say when you freeze to death, it's just like going to sleep." I think with the stalker in the car and the dead people trying to kill you, the last thing you should be worrying about is staying warm.
DIGGERS [limited]
Paul Rudd leads a bunch of poor schlubs dealing with his father's death and life in general. It's an interesting look at realistic characters trudging through romance and life decisions with a little comedy thrown in.
NEXT
Nicholas Cage keeps shelling out the man-with-a-mission roles. In this action packed movie, he can see the future. Naturally, the government, represented by the bad ass Julianne Moore (Children of Men), wants to take advantage of his gift to prevent a terrorist attack. But he's not so keen on being their slave, even if it means the world could come to an end. He's actually more interested in saving his girlfriend, Jessica Biel, from an inevitable fate. I just can't stop staring at his hair.
THE INVISIBLE
Justin Chatwin (War of the Worlds, Chumscrubber) hasn't had much experience being the lead in a film, but then again neither did Shia Labeouf. This mystery/thriller proposes the theory that when a person is unconscious and literally between life and death, they have to find a way to communicate with the living in order to survive. Chatwin plays a teen attacked by undoubtedly the popular kids and left for dead in the woods. The only one who can hear him and help him is the creepy old dead guy also stuck in limbo and his living girlfriend. Surely, you're wondering how plausible it is that any girl would talk to her semi-dead boyfriend, which would mean that you haven't seen Ghost. So if you're up for a little mystery this week stop overflowing Labeouf's pockets and throw Chatwin a little chump change.
Kickin it old school
Jamie Kennedy brings us this harrowing tale of a preteen break dancer who falls into a 20-year coma. When he wakes up with the same mindset and an older body, he's forced to grow up and acclimate quick. So basically it's the male 13 Going on 30. It's bound to have a few laughs, even if they're juvenile. Sometimes I think Kennedy is like the little step brother the frat pack (Stiller, Ferrell, Vaughn, Black, Wilson, etc.) ditches on a regular basis. Poor kid.
WIND CHILL [limited]
In this horror flick, Emily Blunt (Devil Wears Prada) experiments with an American accent as a college student who hitches a ride through a snow storm with one of her fellow classmates, newcomer Ashton Holmes, who--by the trailer--seems to have a borderline stalker crush on her. But Senor Creepy takes a short cut, and she freaks out and causes them to crash. And while they bicker about his true intentions and her hostile demeanor in the cold, dark night, they start to see ghosts and learn about the road's mystical fatality rate. The only thing that bugs me about the film is that the tagline is: "They say when you freeze to death, it's just like going to sleep." I think with the stalker in the car and the dead people trying to kill you, the last thing you should be worrying about is staying warm.
DIGGERS [limited]
Paul Rudd leads a bunch of poor schlubs dealing with his father's death and life in general. It's an interesting look at realistic characters trudging through romance and life decisions with a little comedy thrown in.
Monday, April 23, 2007
FILM: Box office outcome - 3/26/07
Alright, so I'm not going to blow this out of proportion. Disturbia is #1 yet again. It's a good thing it was released in April, because I don't think it would have made such a big splash if it came out this summer with all of the sequels on the way. Rounding out the top 10 are:
2. Ryan Gosling's recommended thriller Fracture that pulled in $11 mil
3. Blades of Glory is still holding strong with $7 mil
4. Vacancy some how scared its way in with $7.6 mil
5. Meet the Robinsons has a steady kid fan base with $7 mil
6. Hot Fuzz, which I've been told is hilarious, didn't seem to appeal to all Americans--those fuddy duddies--and only made $5.8 mil
7. Are We Done Yet? is still holding strong for some inexplicable reason, bringing in $5.2 mil
8. In the Land of Women, Adam Brody's first film since the demise of "The O.C.," made almost $5 mil; however, it did have a limited release.
9. Perfect Stranger is still floundering with $4 mil
10. Wild Hogs is STILL raking in the dough with $2.8 mil this week, making it around $156 mil in total.
This weekend we'll find out if Nicholas Cage can tear everyone away from Shia Labeouf's suspense thriller with his film Next. The only other real competition is the teen thriller Invisible. Hopefully audiences won't go see a rehashed version of Deja Vu, word will spread of Fracture and Hot Fuzz, and they'll get the recognition they deserve.
2. Ryan Gosling's recommended thriller Fracture that pulled in $11 mil
3. Blades of Glory is still holding strong with $7 mil
4. Vacancy some how scared its way in with $7.6 mil
5. Meet the Robinsons has a steady kid fan base with $7 mil
6. Hot Fuzz, which I've been told is hilarious, didn't seem to appeal to all Americans--those fuddy duddies--and only made $5.8 mil
7. Are We Done Yet? is still holding strong for some inexplicable reason, bringing in $5.2 mil
8. In the Land of Women, Adam Brody's first film since the demise of "The O.C.," made almost $5 mil; however, it did have a limited release.
9. Perfect Stranger is still floundering with $4 mil
10. Wild Hogs is STILL raking in the dough with $2.8 mil this week, making it around $156 mil in total.
This weekend we'll find out if Nicholas Cage can tear everyone away from Shia Labeouf's suspense thriller with his film Next. The only other real competition is the teen thriller Invisible. Hopefully audiences won't go see a rehashed version of Deja Vu, word will spread of Fracture and Hot Fuzz, and they'll get the recognition they deserve.
Sunday, April 22, 2007
FILM: 2007 Tribeca Film Festival (April 25th - May 6th)
Here are descriptions and links to trailers of the films I think will be interesting at the festival this year organized by genre. Ticket prices range fromr $15-25, so start skimping on lunch...and rent.
ACTION
Rise: Blood Hunter
Director: Sebastian Gutierrez
Cast: Lucy Lui, Michael Chiklis (Fantastic Four)
"Reporter Sadie Blake awakens in a morgue and realizes she is no longer human. Trying to resist the thirst for blood, she vows to hunt down the sect responsible for her situation, and kill the vampire that changed her." Watch a sneak peek. I just love seeing Lucy Lui kick ass.
Unearthed
Director: Matthew Leutwyler
Cast: Emmanuelle Vaugier, Luke Goss, Beau Garrett
"When an archeologist obsessed with the mysterious disappearance of an ancient Native American people uncovers a subterranean lair in the New Mexico desert, a blood-thirsty creature is unleashed on a small town. In the wake of the carnage, the people's only hopes are a quick-thinking rogue sheriff and the ritual medicine of the lost tribe." It sounds like it'll be filled with campy horror fun.
West 32nd [foreign]
Director: Michael Kang
Cast: John Cho (Harold and Kumar), Jun Sung Kim, Grace Park ("Battlestar Gallactica")
"After hustling his way onto a homicide case, an ambitious young lawyer infiltrates the gritty Korean underworld of New York, searching for clues. When he meets his match in the syndicate, they'll both do anything to get to the top." Cho's been taking steps away from comedy gradually and if this film gets rave reviews, maybe his bong-wielding fan base will see his real potential through the haze.
COMEDY/ROMANTIC COMEDY
2 Days in Paris
Director: Julie Delpy
Stars: Adam Goldberg (Deja Vu) and Julie Delpy (Before Sunrise)
It's a film about an American who goes to Paris with his French girlfriend and realizes their cultural differences. The concept itself is bound to inspire a few laughs--and the fact that it's U.S. vs. France doens't hurt either.
Blue State
Director: Marshall Lewy
Stars: Breckin Meyer (Garfield) and Anna Paquin (X-Men: The Last Stand)
An American decides to marry a Candian girl to get away from our much-loved reelected Prez. When Bush was reelected, I overheard many bizarre schemes--including one where some chick wanted to move to Switzerland for free healthcare and rainbows or some shit--but this one is pretty amusing. I mean, nobody likes Canadians. The film is set on a road trip so its really dependent on its dialogue. I'm sure Lewy will squeeze in a couple jabs at our president.
The Grand
Director: Zak Penn
Cast: Woody Harrelson, Ray Romano, David Cross ("Arrested Development"), Jason Alexander
"An improvisational comedy centered around a handful of actors involved in an actual poker tournament." After "Thank God You're Here" premiered on NBC, it's become obvious that comedians are trying to get back into the swing of actually being funny. The top comedies on TV right now are headlined by women (Tina Fey and Julia Louis-Dreyfuss) and guys need a new gimic to stay in the spotlight. So, if you want to watch them improvise their way out of a buttload of money, go watch the film.
In Search of a Midnight Kiss
Director: Alex Holdrige
Star: Scoot McNairy and Sara Simmonds
A guy who’s had a horrible year is convinced by his friend to place a personal ad and meets a girl who's searching for the perfect guy to spend New Years with. It's a brash realistic view of what a Craiglist arranged date would be like with two cynics grasping at hope. It's also about trying to feel fulfilled during a holiday that's all about accomplishments.
Numb
Diretor: Harris Goldberg
Star: Matthew Perry and Lynn Collins (The Number 23)
"When Hudson, a chronically depressed love-struck screenwriter, falls for the girl of his dreams, he must put himself through every therapy imaginable to win her love." I'm not sure why, but Perry plays crazy very well. For once he's not playing a bumbling idiot, but he's still really pathetic and comes off as endearing rather than pitiful.
Purple Violets
Director: Edward Burns
Stars: Selma Blair, Patrick Wilson (Little Children), Edward Burns (Saving Private Ryan), Debra Messing
Patti Petalson (Blair) struggles with the pressure of becoming the next important American writer, when she bumps into her ex Brian (Wilson) and he sends her on a tailspin. Burns and Messing round-out the foursome of college friends reuniting after years of estrangement. I just want to see if Blair can lead a movie practically on her own. Plus, Wilson is having a good run and might steal the show.
Suburban Girl
Director: Marc Klein (directorial debut)
Stars: Sarah Michelle Gellar, Alec Baldwin
"Determined to rise through Manhattan's cutthroat literary ranks on her own, an ambitious young book editor hesitates to become involved with a high-powered publishing playboy many years her senior." I'm excited to see Gellar without creepy dead people present. And maybe if she plays her cards right, she could be on her way to being the next Reese Witherspoon or Kate Hudson. Plus, needless to say--if "30 Rock" is any proof--Baldwin will deliver.
Watching the Detectives
Director: Paul Soter (directorial debut)
Stars: Cillian Murphy, Lucy Lui
"Neil (Murphy) is a quirky cinephile who wishes his life were more like his favorite film noirs. Enter Violet (Lui), a real-life femme fatale who really does turn life into the movies. Sometimes love is stranger than fiction, and Neil is about to discover just how strange it can be." It's a bit of a weird match, but Murphy's a weird guy. He's never really amused me much, so I'm interested in seeing his comedic side. Plus, Lui has impressed me in a mystery (Lucky Number Slevin) before, so I'm almost positive she will again.
DARK COMEDY/DRAMEDY
Gardener of Eden
Director: Kevin Connolly
Cast: Lukas Haas (Material Girls), Giovanni Ribisi, Erika Christensen, Jon Abrahams (Prime)
A film produced by Leonardo DiCaprio. "In this dark comedy, Adam Harris (Lukas Haas) has an aimless life. He finds new purpose when he accidentally captures a serial rapist." This isn't something I would expect from a guy who was engaged to Nicky Hilton. But I'll give a guy involved with "The Entourage" the benefit of the doubt. He's rangled some good actors here and the concept is sure to crack a few smiles.
Live!
Director: Bill Guttentag
Cast: Eva Mendes, David Krumholtz ("Numb3rs"), Jeffrey Dean Morgan ("Grey's Anatomy"), Jay Hernandez ("Six Degrees")
"A mockumentary following an ambitious TV network executive trying to produce a controversial reality show where contestants play Russian Roulette." This kind of reminds me of David Duchovny's TV Set that's out right now. The main attraction for some ladies will be Morgan, but I'm more interested in seeing if Mendes can get passed the whole Hot Latina slot she's been filling since the beginning of her career.
Nobel Son
Director: Randall Miller
Cast: Bryan Greenberg ("October Road"), Alan Rickman, Eliza Dushku ("Tru Calling"), Danny DeVito, Ted Danson
"In this taut thriller spiked with droll humor, Ph.D. candidate Barkley is kidnapped the night before his father Eli will receive the Nobel Prize. When Eli refuses to pay a ransom equal to the $2 million prize, secrets, betrayal and revenge collide." I'm simply clocking the upward road that Greenberg's been going on since his first 30-second spot on "One Tree Hill."
Normal Adolescent Behavior
Director: Beth Schacter (directorial debut)
Cast: Amber Tamblyn
"A darkly comic look at precocious teens grappling with sex, excess and alienation. Avoiding the high school party scene and random hookups, Wendy and her friends form a clique that claims a more fluid sexuality." Tamblyn usually cracks me up.
This is England
Director: Shane Meadows
Cast: Thomas Turgoose, Stephen Graham, Joseph Gilgun, Perry Benson, Frank Harper, Jo Hartley
"It's the summer of 1983 in northern England. Punks, mods and skinheads are on the rise, but employment is not. Eleven-year-old Shaun has lost his father but seems to find a surrogate family in a band of friendly skinheads. When they're joined by the older, overtly racist Con, who's just out of prison, the tale takes a much darker turn." This is a political statement about Britain's society, but also the story of a young boy finding his mirror image in a skinhead ex-con.
You Kill Me
Director: John Dahl (Joy Ride)
Cast: Ben Kingsley, Tea Leoni, Luke Wilson
"In this smart, darkly funny drama by John Dahl about addiction and recovery, Ben Kingsley delivers a bravura performance as Frank, an alcoholic contract killer forced to go through a twelve-step program and become a funeral home assistant." This "hit-man has made some terrible mistakes and his mob needs to get him back on track. " Wilson in a mob dramedy. Gotta see it to believe it.
DRAMA
The Air I Breathe
Director: Jieho Lee
Stars: Sarah Michelle Gellar, Forest Whitaker, Brendan Fraser, Andy Garcia, Kevin Bacon, John Cho
"A drama based on an ancient Chinese proverb that breaks life down into four emotional cornerstones: happiness, pleasure, sorrow and love. A businessman (Whitaker) bets his life on a horse race; a gangster (Fraser) sees the future; a pop star (Gellar) falls prey to a crime boss (Garcia); a doctor (Bacon) must save the love of his life." I like ensemble casts and how you get to pick your favorite story line and how they all merge into a lesson that needs to be learned.
Blackout
Director: Jerry LaMothe
Stars: Zoe Saldana (Guess Who), Jeffrey Wright (Syriana)
"In summer 2003, America experienced the largest blackout in its history--widely reported as peaceful. But in Brooklyn's forgotten East Flatbush neighborhood, mayhem unfolded when the power shut down." Hey, I'm never usually up on current events, being in the movie theater all the time, but I had no idea anything crazy went down that summer. This should be an eye opener.
Black Butterfly [foreign]
Director: Francisco Lombardi
Stars: Melania Urbina, Magdyel Ugaz
"A Peruvian schoolteacher conspires with a journalist to assassinate the official responsible for her fiancé's murder." I'm still on the Pedro Almodovar/Volver high, so watching another Spaniard film with an insane plot would suit me just fine.
The Cake Eaters
Director: Mary Stuart Masterson (film directorial debut)
Cast: Kristin Stewart (The Messengers), Aaron Stanford (X-Men: The Last Stand)
"A prodigal son's return conjures up old ghosts for three generations of two different families in a small, quiet town." It sounds like it'll be bubbling over with emotion. Plus, Stewart is vying for those dramatic Lindsay Lohan leftovers and if this film does well, she'll have cinched them all and hopefully erased that wretched horror film, The Messengers, from everyone's memory.
Day Zero
Director: Bryan Gunner Cole (film directorial debut)
Cast: Elijah Wood, Chris Klein (Election), Jon Bernthal ("The Class"), Ginnifer Goodwin ("Big Love"), Ally Sheedy (Breakfast Club)
"The military draft is back. Three best friends are drafted and given 30 days to report for duty. In that time they're forced to confront everything they believe about courage, duty, love, friendship and honor." This is definitely topical and Wood knows his drama. This is really a chance for Klein and Bernthal to step it up.
Fiesta Patria [foreign]
Director: Luis R. Vera
Cast: Adela Secall, Nelson Brodt
"As two families celebrate the engagement of their children, one of the betrothed discovers the family's dark secret." Frankly, I just want to know what the secret it is.
Good Time Max
Director: James Franco
Cast: James Franco and Vince Jolivette
In Franco's 3rd round as a director, he presents "two genius brothers [who] grow up and grow apart, as one becomes a successful surgeon and the other pursues a drug-fueled high life." The burning question: Is the third time a charm? You love Franco as the villain in Spider-Man 3, but is he just as lovable as a director and screenwriter?
Take
Director: Charles Oliver (directorial debut)
Cast: Minnie Driver
"The lives of two strangers-a struggling mother and a gambling addict-converge in unspeakable tragedy. Years later, they must come to terms with themselves and one another. In a non-linear mosaic, Take offers a powerful reflection on redemption and forgiveness." Driver's been bowling me over with her new show "The Riches," so I thought I'd give her a cinematic shot.
Take the Bridge [foreign]
Director: Sergio M. Castilla
Cast: Adrian Castilla, Francisco Delgado, Ruth Sullivan, Angelica Rodriguez
"Four young strangers meet after their failed suicide attempts land each of them in the hospital on the same day. United by circumstance, they may yet discover a reason to live. This fresh, original take on city life pays tribute to the vitality and energy of the Dominican community in Washington Heights." It'll be interesting to see why they wanted to commit suicide.
Two Embraces [foreign]
Director: Enrique Begne (directorial debut)
Cast: Giovanni Florido, Alan Andree, Carmen Beato, Alan Sanchez, Emilio Caballero, Maya Zapata
"Four people forced to fend for themselves in life -- a burdened twelve-year-old boy, the cashier he has a crush on, an angry taxi driver and the estranged daughter of one of his passengers -- come together in two embraces." It's an interesting concept, worth taking a look at.
Where God Left His Shoes
Director: Salvatore Stabile
Cast: John Leguizamo, Jerry Ferrara ("The Entourage")
"Frank Diaz and his family have been living in a homeless shelter for months. But on Christmas Eve, they receive the best gift possible-the chance for an apartment. To get it, Frank needs a job, so he and his stepson go on the hunt for employment. This heartwarming tale shows the compassion of a family that comes together when all else feels lost." It kind of reminds me of Will Smith in Pursuit of Happyness. Maybe from the Hispanic perspective, it'll make more of a splash. Then again, Leguizamo never really seems to wow the critics.
Zolykha’s Secret
Director: Horace Shansab (directorial debut)
"A deeply moving account of a rural Afghan family struggling to eke out an existence during the brutal final years of Taliban rule - and the beginning of the new war that still rages." After having been attacked by the Taliban, they've become this semi-mysterious group of tyrants. We know what they've done to us; it'll be interesting to see what they've done to other people.
COMING OF AGE
Charlie Bartlett
Director: Jon Poll
Cast: Anton Yelchin (Alpha Dog), Robert Downey, Jr., Tyler Hilton ("One Tree Hill"), Hope Davis ("Six Degrees"), Kat Dennings (Big Momma's House 2)
This film is from a director who hasn't made a film in over 25 years. It's about a teenager who gets kicked out of every prestigious academy his mom could get him into and is forced to go to public school. Worried about her troubled child, she gets him his own personal psychiatrist. Charlie, that sneaky little bastard, pretends to be afflicted with countless emotional problems in order to medicate his entire high school and become the popular kid. This sounds just plain hilarious.
Chasing 3000
Director: Gregory J. Lanesey
Cast: Rory Culkin, Ray Liotta, Trevor Morgan
Two teens with learner’s permits decide to drive to Pittsburg to see Roberto Clemente get his 3,000th hit. I like baseball. It could be interesting to see that affection through younger eyes.
The Education of Charlie Banks
Director: Fred Durst (directorial debut)
Cast: Jesse Eisenberg (Cursed), Chris Marquette (Just Friends), Jason Ritter ("The Class")
A Vassar College student gets a surprise visit from the scariest kid from his old neighborhood. We've seen the bully concept a million times. But we've never seen it through the eyes of Limp Bizkit's front man and even if you're not a fan the cast will surely keep your ribs aching throughout the film.
The Final Season
Director: David M. Evans
Cast: Sean Astin (Lord of the Rings), Rachel Leigh Cook (She's All That), Michael Angarano (The Lords of Dogtown)
The government removes the only high school in the entire town and a coach is inspired to lead the school’s baseball team to its final victory. It's an inspirational tale made for baseball lovers.
Palo Alto
Director: Brad Leong
Cast: Aaron Ashmore ("Veronica Mars"), Johnny Lewis ("The O.C."), Autumn Reeser ("The O.C."), Ben Savage, Tom Arnold
"It's a bittersweet homecoming when 4 college freshmen return to their quiet northern California town for Thanksgiving." It's said to be done in the tradition of American Graffiti or even Garden State. With a usually overlooked cast it could send a minor ripple through the festival.
The Road to St. Diego
Director: Carlos Sorin
Cast: Ignacio Benitez, Carlos Wagner Messerlian La Bella
"A young Argentine backwoodsman learns that soccer star Diego Maradona is ailing in a Buenos Aires hospital, and resolves to bring him a tree root he's uncovered -- which he's certain looks just like his idol." Once again the inspirational sports drama catches my attention.
Vitus
Director: Fredi M. Murer
Cast: Bruno Ganz, Teo Gheorghiu, Fabrizio Borsani, Julika Jenkins, Urs Jucker, Eleni Haupt
"A child prodigy yearns for a 'normal' life with his parents and eccentric grandfather in this charming family drama, starring the great German actor Bruno Ganz. While his parents plan a future of piano competitions, Vitus would rather learn to fly. He just needs to find an adult who'll let him." You gotta feel sorry for the kid and be interested in seeing him climb out of oppression.
KIDS
Brave Story [animation/foreign]
Director: Kôichi Chigira
"When eleven-year-old Wataru is told he can change his destiny by entering a magic gateway into another world, he jumps at the chance. But on his quest to find the Tower of Fortune and be granted any wish, he must conjure up all his bravery to battle a world of demons, his own friends and ultimately himself." I haven't been into anime since Dragon Ball-Z, but this could hook me again.
DOCUMENTARY
Chávez [foreign]
Director: Diego Luna (directorial debut)
Luna makes his directorial debut with this boxing documentary "about the life and career of his countryman, Mexican boxer Julio César Chávez, considered one of the sport's--and Mexico's--all-time greats. Luna follows Chávez through the final bouts of his career, even as he proudly passes the torch of boxing to his son." Luna's been keeping audience's attention arrested for a while now, and it's cool to see him be passionate about something other than acting. Let's hope it translates.
Doubletime
Director: Stephanie Johnes
"If seeing is believing, watching these kids Double Dutch elicits double-takes and disbelief. Chronicling the world of competitive jump roping, this energetic documentary follows two teenage teams that combine dance and gymnastics to breathtaking effect, as they prepare and contend for the world championship at the Apollo Theater in Harlem." I've always wanted to master double dutch.
Heckler
Director: Michael Addis
Jamie Kennedy examines the relationship between the person in the spotlight and the heckler. It'll be interesting to hear Kennedy's comebacks.
Hellfighters
Director: Jon Frankel (directorial debut)
The Hellfighters are Harlem's only high school football team in this sport documentary. "The bleachers are empty, practice space scarce and the Board of Education ruthless, but under the perseverance of coach Duke Ferguson, the Hellfighters are playing their way out of the ghetto, one touchdown at a time." Oppression is an easy selling point.
I Have Never Forgotten You: The Life & Legacy of Simon Wiesenthal [foreign]
Director: Richard Trank
A documentary, narrated by Nicole Kidman, about a Nazi hunter with the mere training of an architect. That just sounds impossible.
The Man of Two Havanas
Director: Vivien Lesnik Weisman (directorial debut)
Growing up in Miami, the director witnessed drive-by shootings and death threats directed toward her father, a former friend of Fidel Castro and opponent of the embargo. It includes never-before-heard CIA audiotapes and fascinating interviews with her father. Come on. Don't tell me you won't be ordering tickets the moment you finish reading this. Excited about all that confidentiality.
Planet B-Boy
Director: Benson Lee
The documentary "looks at the history of breakdancing and its vibrant resurgence in urban cultures around the world." Watch the trailer. Trust me you'll be mesmerized by how easily break dancing translates to every culture.
The Power of the Game
Director: Michael Apted
"Six stories intertwine in this dramatic and moving examination of the social impact of soccer across the world. Juxtaposing thrilling footage from games leading to and throughout the 2006 World Cup, Apted highlights stories of triumph over adversity from around the globe and skillfully conveys the remarkable transformative power of this sport." Soccer? I'm in.
Shame
Director: Mohammed Naqvi
"In 2002, Mukhtaran Mai, a woman living in a remote Pakistani village, was publicly gang raped to atone for a crime her brother allegedly committed. Instead of killing herself, as she was expected to do, she raised an outcry that became an international cause." Powerful message.
Taxi to the Dark Side
Director: Alex Gibney
"This documentary/murder mystery examines the death of an Afghan taxi driver at Bagram Air Base from injuries inflicted by U.S. soldiers. In an unflinching look at the Bush administration's policy on torture." Could be pretty revealing.
ACTION
Rise: Blood Hunter
Director: Sebastian Gutierrez
Cast: Lucy Lui, Michael Chiklis (Fantastic Four)
"Reporter Sadie Blake awakens in a morgue and realizes she is no longer human. Trying to resist the thirst for blood, she vows to hunt down the sect responsible for her situation, and kill the vampire that changed her." Watch a sneak peek. I just love seeing Lucy Lui kick ass.
Unearthed
Director: Matthew Leutwyler
Cast: Emmanuelle Vaugier, Luke Goss, Beau Garrett
"When an archeologist obsessed with the mysterious disappearance of an ancient Native American people uncovers a subterranean lair in the New Mexico desert, a blood-thirsty creature is unleashed on a small town. In the wake of the carnage, the people's only hopes are a quick-thinking rogue sheriff and the ritual medicine of the lost tribe." It sounds like it'll be filled with campy horror fun.
West 32nd [foreign]
Director: Michael Kang
Cast: John Cho (Harold and Kumar), Jun Sung Kim, Grace Park ("Battlestar Gallactica")
"After hustling his way onto a homicide case, an ambitious young lawyer infiltrates the gritty Korean underworld of New York, searching for clues. When he meets his match in the syndicate, they'll both do anything to get to the top." Cho's been taking steps away from comedy gradually and if this film gets rave reviews, maybe his bong-wielding fan base will see his real potential through the haze.
COMEDY/ROMANTIC COMEDY
2 Days in Paris
Director: Julie Delpy
Stars: Adam Goldberg (Deja Vu) and Julie Delpy (Before Sunrise)
It's a film about an American who goes to Paris with his French girlfriend and realizes their cultural differences. The concept itself is bound to inspire a few laughs--and the fact that it's U.S. vs. France doens't hurt either.
Blue State
Director: Marshall Lewy
Stars: Breckin Meyer (Garfield) and Anna Paquin (X-Men: The Last Stand)
An American decides to marry a Candian girl to get away from our much-loved reelected Prez. When Bush was reelected, I overheard many bizarre schemes--including one where some chick wanted to move to Switzerland for free healthcare and rainbows or some shit--but this one is pretty amusing. I mean, nobody likes Canadians. The film is set on a road trip so its really dependent on its dialogue. I'm sure Lewy will squeeze in a couple jabs at our president.
The Grand
Director: Zak Penn
Cast: Woody Harrelson, Ray Romano, David Cross ("Arrested Development"), Jason Alexander
"An improvisational comedy centered around a handful of actors involved in an actual poker tournament." After "Thank God You're Here" premiered on NBC, it's become obvious that comedians are trying to get back into the swing of actually being funny. The top comedies on TV right now are headlined by women (Tina Fey and Julia Louis-Dreyfuss) and guys need a new gimic to stay in the spotlight. So, if you want to watch them improvise their way out of a buttload of money, go watch the film.
In Search of a Midnight Kiss
Director: Alex Holdrige
Star: Scoot McNairy and Sara Simmonds
A guy who’s had a horrible year is convinced by his friend to place a personal ad and meets a girl who's searching for the perfect guy to spend New Years with. It's a brash realistic view of what a Craiglist arranged date would be like with two cynics grasping at hope. It's also about trying to feel fulfilled during a holiday that's all about accomplishments.
Numb
Diretor: Harris Goldberg
Star: Matthew Perry and Lynn Collins (The Number 23)
"When Hudson, a chronically depressed love-struck screenwriter, falls for the girl of his dreams, he must put himself through every therapy imaginable to win her love." I'm not sure why, but Perry plays crazy very well. For once he's not playing a bumbling idiot, but he's still really pathetic and comes off as endearing rather than pitiful.
Purple Violets
Director: Edward Burns
Stars: Selma Blair, Patrick Wilson (Little Children), Edward Burns (Saving Private Ryan), Debra Messing
Patti Petalson (Blair) struggles with the pressure of becoming the next important American writer, when she bumps into her ex Brian (Wilson) and he sends her on a tailspin. Burns and Messing round-out the foursome of college friends reuniting after years of estrangement. I just want to see if Blair can lead a movie practically on her own. Plus, Wilson is having a good run and might steal the show.
Suburban Girl
Director: Marc Klein (directorial debut)
Stars: Sarah Michelle Gellar, Alec Baldwin
"Determined to rise through Manhattan's cutthroat literary ranks on her own, an ambitious young book editor hesitates to become involved with a high-powered publishing playboy many years her senior." I'm excited to see Gellar without creepy dead people present. And maybe if she plays her cards right, she could be on her way to being the next Reese Witherspoon or Kate Hudson. Plus, needless to say--if "30 Rock" is any proof--Baldwin will deliver.
Watching the Detectives
Director: Paul Soter (directorial debut)
Stars: Cillian Murphy, Lucy Lui
"Neil (Murphy) is a quirky cinephile who wishes his life were more like his favorite film noirs. Enter Violet (Lui), a real-life femme fatale who really does turn life into the movies. Sometimes love is stranger than fiction, and Neil is about to discover just how strange it can be." It's a bit of a weird match, but Murphy's a weird guy. He's never really amused me much, so I'm interested in seeing his comedic side. Plus, Lui has impressed me in a mystery (Lucky Number Slevin) before, so I'm almost positive she will again.
DARK COMEDY/DRAMEDY
Gardener of Eden
Director: Kevin Connolly
Cast: Lukas Haas (Material Girls), Giovanni Ribisi, Erika Christensen, Jon Abrahams (Prime)
A film produced by Leonardo DiCaprio. "In this dark comedy, Adam Harris (Lukas Haas) has an aimless life. He finds new purpose when he accidentally captures a serial rapist." This isn't something I would expect from a guy who was engaged to Nicky Hilton. But I'll give a guy involved with "The Entourage" the benefit of the doubt. He's rangled some good actors here and the concept is sure to crack a few smiles.
Live!
Director: Bill Guttentag
Cast: Eva Mendes, David Krumholtz ("Numb3rs"), Jeffrey Dean Morgan ("Grey's Anatomy"), Jay Hernandez ("Six Degrees")
"A mockumentary following an ambitious TV network executive trying to produce a controversial reality show where contestants play Russian Roulette." This kind of reminds me of David Duchovny's TV Set that's out right now. The main attraction for some ladies will be Morgan, but I'm more interested in seeing if Mendes can get passed the whole Hot Latina slot she's been filling since the beginning of her career.
Nobel Son
Director: Randall Miller
Cast: Bryan Greenberg ("October Road"), Alan Rickman, Eliza Dushku ("Tru Calling"), Danny DeVito, Ted Danson
"In this taut thriller spiked with droll humor, Ph.D. candidate Barkley is kidnapped the night before his father Eli will receive the Nobel Prize. When Eli refuses to pay a ransom equal to the $2 million prize, secrets, betrayal and revenge collide." I'm simply clocking the upward road that Greenberg's been going on since his first 30-second spot on "One Tree Hill."
Normal Adolescent Behavior
Director: Beth Schacter (directorial debut)
Cast: Amber Tamblyn
"A darkly comic look at precocious teens grappling with sex, excess and alienation. Avoiding the high school party scene and random hookups, Wendy and her friends form a clique that claims a more fluid sexuality." Tamblyn usually cracks me up.
This is England
Director: Shane Meadows
Cast: Thomas Turgoose, Stephen Graham, Joseph Gilgun, Perry Benson, Frank Harper, Jo Hartley
"It's the summer of 1983 in northern England. Punks, mods and skinheads are on the rise, but employment is not. Eleven-year-old Shaun has lost his father but seems to find a surrogate family in a band of friendly skinheads. When they're joined by the older, overtly racist Con, who's just out of prison, the tale takes a much darker turn." This is a political statement about Britain's society, but also the story of a young boy finding his mirror image in a skinhead ex-con.
You Kill Me
Director: John Dahl (Joy Ride)
Cast: Ben Kingsley, Tea Leoni, Luke Wilson
"In this smart, darkly funny drama by John Dahl about addiction and recovery, Ben Kingsley delivers a bravura performance as Frank, an alcoholic contract killer forced to go through a twelve-step program and become a funeral home assistant." This "hit-man has made some terrible mistakes and his mob needs to get him back on track. " Wilson in a mob dramedy. Gotta see it to believe it.
DRAMA
The Air I Breathe
Director: Jieho Lee
Stars: Sarah Michelle Gellar, Forest Whitaker, Brendan Fraser, Andy Garcia, Kevin Bacon, John Cho
"A drama based on an ancient Chinese proverb that breaks life down into four emotional cornerstones: happiness, pleasure, sorrow and love. A businessman (Whitaker) bets his life on a horse race; a gangster (Fraser) sees the future; a pop star (Gellar) falls prey to a crime boss (Garcia); a doctor (Bacon) must save the love of his life." I like ensemble casts and how you get to pick your favorite story line and how they all merge into a lesson that needs to be learned.
Blackout
Director: Jerry LaMothe
Stars: Zoe Saldana (Guess Who), Jeffrey Wright (Syriana)
"In summer 2003, America experienced the largest blackout in its history--widely reported as peaceful. But in Brooklyn's forgotten East Flatbush neighborhood, mayhem unfolded when the power shut down." Hey, I'm never usually up on current events, being in the movie theater all the time, but I had no idea anything crazy went down that summer. This should be an eye opener.
Black Butterfly [foreign]
Director: Francisco Lombardi
Stars: Melania Urbina, Magdyel Ugaz
"A Peruvian schoolteacher conspires with a journalist to assassinate the official responsible for her fiancé's murder." I'm still on the Pedro Almodovar/Volver high, so watching another Spaniard film with an insane plot would suit me just fine.
The Cake Eaters
Director: Mary Stuart Masterson (film directorial debut)
Cast: Kristin Stewart (The Messengers), Aaron Stanford (X-Men: The Last Stand)
"A prodigal son's return conjures up old ghosts for three generations of two different families in a small, quiet town." It sounds like it'll be bubbling over with emotion. Plus, Stewart is vying for those dramatic Lindsay Lohan leftovers and if this film does well, she'll have cinched them all and hopefully erased that wretched horror film, The Messengers, from everyone's memory.
Day Zero
Director: Bryan Gunner Cole (film directorial debut)
Cast: Elijah Wood, Chris Klein (Election), Jon Bernthal ("The Class"), Ginnifer Goodwin ("Big Love"), Ally Sheedy (Breakfast Club)
"The military draft is back. Three best friends are drafted and given 30 days to report for duty. In that time they're forced to confront everything they believe about courage, duty, love, friendship and honor." This is definitely topical and Wood knows his drama. This is really a chance for Klein and Bernthal to step it up.
Fiesta Patria [foreign]
Director: Luis R. Vera
Cast: Adela Secall, Nelson Brodt
"As two families celebrate the engagement of their children, one of the betrothed discovers the family's dark secret." Frankly, I just want to know what the secret it is.
Good Time Max
Director: James Franco
Cast: James Franco and Vince Jolivette
In Franco's 3rd round as a director, he presents "two genius brothers [who] grow up and grow apart, as one becomes a successful surgeon and the other pursues a drug-fueled high life." The burning question: Is the third time a charm? You love Franco as the villain in Spider-Man 3, but is he just as lovable as a director and screenwriter?
Take
Director: Charles Oliver (directorial debut)
Cast: Minnie Driver
"The lives of two strangers-a struggling mother and a gambling addict-converge in unspeakable tragedy. Years later, they must come to terms with themselves and one another. In a non-linear mosaic, Take offers a powerful reflection on redemption and forgiveness." Driver's been bowling me over with her new show "The Riches," so I thought I'd give her a cinematic shot.
Take the Bridge [foreign]
Director: Sergio M. Castilla
Cast: Adrian Castilla, Francisco Delgado, Ruth Sullivan, Angelica Rodriguez
"Four young strangers meet after their failed suicide attempts land each of them in the hospital on the same day. United by circumstance, they may yet discover a reason to live. This fresh, original take on city life pays tribute to the vitality and energy of the Dominican community in Washington Heights." It'll be interesting to see why they wanted to commit suicide.
Two Embraces [foreign]
Director: Enrique Begne (directorial debut)
Cast: Giovanni Florido, Alan Andree, Carmen Beato, Alan Sanchez, Emilio Caballero, Maya Zapata
"Four people forced to fend for themselves in life -- a burdened twelve-year-old boy, the cashier he has a crush on, an angry taxi driver and the estranged daughter of one of his passengers -- come together in two embraces." It's an interesting concept, worth taking a look at.
Where God Left His Shoes
Director: Salvatore Stabile
Cast: John Leguizamo, Jerry Ferrara ("The Entourage")
"Frank Diaz and his family have been living in a homeless shelter for months. But on Christmas Eve, they receive the best gift possible-the chance for an apartment. To get it, Frank needs a job, so he and his stepson go on the hunt for employment. This heartwarming tale shows the compassion of a family that comes together when all else feels lost." It kind of reminds me of Will Smith in Pursuit of Happyness. Maybe from the Hispanic perspective, it'll make more of a splash. Then again, Leguizamo never really seems to wow the critics.
Zolykha’s Secret
Director: Horace Shansab (directorial debut)
"A deeply moving account of a rural Afghan family struggling to eke out an existence during the brutal final years of Taliban rule - and the beginning of the new war that still rages." After having been attacked by the Taliban, they've become this semi-mysterious group of tyrants. We know what they've done to us; it'll be interesting to see what they've done to other people.
COMING OF AGE
Charlie Bartlett
Director: Jon Poll
Cast: Anton Yelchin (Alpha Dog), Robert Downey, Jr., Tyler Hilton ("One Tree Hill"), Hope Davis ("Six Degrees"), Kat Dennings (Big Momma's House 2)
This film is from a director who hasn't made a film in over 25 years. It's about a teenager who gets kicked out of every prestigious academy his mom could get him into and is forced to go to public school. Worried about her troubled child, she gets him his own personal psychiatrist. Charlie, that sneaky little bastard, pretends to be afflicted with countless emotional problems in order to medicate his entire high school and become the popular kid. This sounds just plain hilarious.
Chasing 3000
Director: Gregory J. Lanesey
Cast: Rory Culkin, Ray Liotta, Trevor Morgan
Two teens with learner’s permits decide to drive to Pittsburg to see Roberto Clemente get his 3,000th hit. I like baseball. It could be interesting to see that affection through younger eyes.
The Education of Charlie Banks
Director: Fred Durst (directorial debut)
Cast: Jesse Eisenberg (Cursed), Chris Marquette (Just Friends), Jason Ritter ("The Class")
A Vassar College student gets a surprise visit from the scariest kid from his old neighborhood. We've seen the bully concept a million times. But we've never seen it through the eyes of Limp Bizkit's front man and even if you're not a fan the cast will surely keep your ribs aching throughout the film.
The Final Season
Director: David M. Evans
Cast: Sean Astin (Lord of the Rings), Rachel Leigh Cook (She's All That), Michael Angarano (The Lords of Dogtown)
The government removes the only high school in the entire town and a coach is inspired to lead the school’s baseball team to its final victory. It's an inspirational tale made for baseball lovers.
Palo Alto
Director: Brad Leong
Cast: Aaron Ashmore ("Veronica Mars"), Johnny Lewis ("The O.C."), Autumn Reeser ("The O.C."), Ben Savage, Tom Arnold
"It's a bittersweet homecoming when 4 college freshmen return to their quiet northern California town for Thanksgiving." It's said to be done in the tradition of American Graffiti or even Garden State. With a usually overlooked cast it could send a minor ripple through the festival.
The Road to St. Diego
Director: Carlos Sorin
Cast: Ignacio Benitez, Carlos Wagner Messerlian La Bella
"A young Argentine backwoodsman learns that soccer star Diego Maradona is ailing in a Buenos Aires hospital, and resolves to bring him a tree root he's uncovered -- which he's certain looks just like his idol." Once again the inspirational sports drama catches my attention.
Vitus
Director: Fredi M. Murer
Cast: Bruno Ganz, Teo Gheorghiu, Fabrizio Borsani, Julika Jenkins, Urs Jucker, Eleni Haupt
"A child prodigy yearns for a 'normal' life with his parents and eccentric grandfather in this charming family drama, starring the great German actor Bruno Ganz. While his parents plan a future of piano competitions, Vitus would rather learn to fly. He just needs to find an adult who'll let him." You gotta feel sorry for the kid and be interested in seeing him climb out of oppression.
KIDS
Brave Story [animation/foreign]
Director: Kôichi Chigira
"When eleven-year-old Wataru is told he can change his destiny by entering a magic gateway into another world, he jumps at the chance. But on his quest to find the Tower of Fortune and be granted any wish, he must conjure up all his bravery to battle a world of demons, his own friends and ultimately himself." I haven't been into anime since Dragon Ball-Z, but this could hook me again.
DOCUMENTARY
Chávez [foreign]
Director: Diego Luna (directorial debut)
Luna makes his directorial debut with this boxing documentary "about the life and career of his countryman, Mexican boxer Julio César Chávez, considered one of the sport's--and Mexico's--all-time greats. Luna follows Chávez through the final bouts of his career, even as he proudly passes the torch of boxing to his son." Luna's been keeping audience's attention arrested for a while now, and it's cool to see him be passionate about something other than acting. Let's hope it translates.
Doubletime
Director: Stephanie Johnes
"If seeing is believing, watching these kids Double Dutch elicits double-takes and disbelief. Chronicling the world of competitive jump roping, this energetic documentary follows two teenage teams that combine dance and gymnastics to breathtaking effect, as they prepare and contend for the world championship at the Apollo Theater in Harlem." I've always wanted to master double dutch.
Heckler
Director: Michael Addis
Jamie Kennedy examines the relationship between the person in the spotlight and the heckler. It'll be interesting to hear Kennedy's comebacks.
Hellfighters
Director: Jon Frankel (directorial debut)
The Hellfighters are Harlem's only high school football team in this sport documentary. "The bleachers are empty, practice space scarce and the Board of Education ruthless, but under the perseverance of coach Duke Ferguson, the Hellfighters are playing their way out of the ghetto, one touchdown at a time." Oppression is an easy selling point.
I Have Never Forgotten You: The Life & Legacy of Simon Wiesenthal [foreign]
Director: Richard Trank
A documentary, narrated by Nicole Kidman, about a Nazi hunter with the mere training of an architect. That just sounds impossible.
The Man of Two Havanas
Director: Vivien Lesnik Weisman (directorial debut)
Growing up in Miami, the director witnessed drive-by shootings and death threats directed toward her father, a former friend of Fidel Castro and opponent of the embargo. It includes never-before-heard CIA audiotapes and fascinating interviews with her father. Come on. Don't tell me you won't be ordering tickets the moment you finish reading this. Excited about all that confidentiality.
Planet B-Boy
Director: Benson Lee
The documentary "looks at the history of breakdancing and its vibrant resurgence in urban cultures around the world." Watch the trailer. Trust me you'll be mesmerized by how easily break dancing translates to every culture.
The Power of the Game
Director: Michael Apted
"Six stories intertwine in this dramatic and moving examination of the social impact of soccer across the world. Juxtaposing thrilling footage from games leading to and throughout the 2006 World Cup, Apted highlights stories of triumph over adversity from around the globe and skillfully conveys the remarkable transformative power of this sport." Soccer? I'm in.
Shame
Director: Mohammed Naqvi
"In 2002, Mukhtaran Mai, a woman living in a remote Pakistani village, was publicly gang raped to atone for a crime her brother allegedly committed. Instead of killing herself, as she was expected to do, she raised an outcry that became an international cause." Powerful message.
Taxi to the Dark Side
Director: Alex Gibney
"This documentary/murder mystery examines the death of an Afghan taxi driver at Bagram Air Base from injuries inflicted by U.S. soldiers. In an unflinching look at the Bush administration's policy on torture." Could be pretty revealing.
Friday, April 20, 2007
NEW MOVIES: 4/20
Last week Disturbia surprised everyone taking the top spot. But it's almost guaranteed that after this weekend's box office releases, the Brits will be laughing all the way to the bank.
HOT FUZZ
Simon Pegg and Nick Frost, the geniuses behind the horrifyingly hilarious Shaun of the Dead (a parody of Dawn of the Dead), are releasing a cop-action film this week. Pegg plays the best cop in his precinct who gets transferred to a small town that files all of its crimes as accidents. Unfortunately, he'll have to investigate with the help of his new idiotic partner played by Frost--hilarity ensues.
FRACTURE
If you're in the mood for more serious fare and have The Notebook permanently paused on Ryan Gosling's face in your DVD player, then you should check out Fracture this weekend. It's a perfect date movie--the guys can watch the suspense build and the ladies can watch Gosling with the hopes that those Rachel McAdams-break up stories are true. In this thriller, Anthony Hopkins plays a man being tried for the murder of his wife. And even though the police found him at the scene with the gun in his hand, there is absolutely no proof. Gosling's character is a Southern prosecutor who spends the entire movie jumping through hoops to nail this old bastard and Hopkins just bares his creepy Hannibal Lecter grin, toying with his psyche. He even defends himself sans lawyer and goes toe to toe with Gosling on his own playing field. The significance of the title is that all cases have weak spots that could either lead to the prosecution or the defense winning, and all people have weak spots that if identified could lead to their destruction. In theory, it sounds pretty damn good.
VACANCY
Disappointed in what the year has offered in the way of horror flicks? Maybe you'd like to give the genre just one more shot. Vacancy is starring Luke Wilson and Kate Beckinsale, who if I'm not mistaken are new to the genre. The story is basically about a couple who are having relationship problems and have to learn how to depend and trust each other when they stop at a hotel with peculiar practices. It's one thing to record your customers having sex, but it's quite another to record them being tortured and murdered. It brings the snuff film to a new level as the hotel owners persistently chase them around the property and try to murder them. Frank Whaley, the ring leader, is so convincingly cryptic, sitting in his control center, five surveillance TVs fired up, that you start to wonder if he's watching you. It'll have you forking over loads of cash for the Hilton and the Four Seasons for sure.
IN THE LAND OF WOMEN
Ah, Adam Brody. You've finally been freed from the career-killing dramedy that was "The O.C." And now you start your film career full-force with...a teen dramedy. Way to show range! Alright fine, you don't want to startle your fan base away with something raw and true like Rachel Bilson (The Last Kiss) or Benjamin McKenzie (Junebug) did. That's understandable. But in this film you are mourning the demise of your relationship and rebounding with a high school twit (Kristen Stewart) who disrespects her dying mother (Meg Ryan) because she couldn't keep her husband from cheating on her. She's quite the catch. This film has so much drama in it, it makes Marissa look sedated. Meg Ryan makes a comeback after a 3-yr hiatus caring for her very own foreign adopted tot, playing the physically and emotionally ailing mother. You'd be moved if you weren't so distracted by her inflated face. As for Stewart, it seems Hollywood has found itself a cheaper and more controllable replacement for Lindsay Lohan. In spite of all that, it's a really beautiful story about a girl who's being given the Spark notes lesson on growing up so she can learn to love her mom, flaws and all.
HOT FUZZ
Simon Pegg and Nick Frost, the geniuses behind the horrifyingly hilarious Shaun of the Dead (a parody of Dawn of the Dead), are releasing a cop-action film this week. Pegg plays the best cop in his precinct who gets transferred to a small town that files all of its crimes as accidents. Unfortunately, he'll have to investigate with the help of his new idiotic partner played by Frost--hilarity ensues.
FRACTURE
If you're in the mood for more serious fare and have The Notebook permanently paused on Ryan Gosling's face in your DVD player, then you should check out Fracture this weekend. It's a perfect date movie--the guys can watch the suspense build and the ladies can watch Gosling with the hopes that those Rachel McAdams-break up stories are true. In this thriller, Anthony Hopkins plays a man being tried for the murder of his wife. And even though the police found him at the scene with the gun in his hand, there is absolutely no proof. Gosling's character is a Southern prosecutor who spends the entire movie jumping through hoops to nail this old bastard and Hopkins just bares his creepy Hannibal Lecter grin, toying with his psyche. He even defends himself sans lawyer and goes toe to toe with Gosling on his own playing field. The significance of the title is that all cases have weak spots that could either lead to the prosecution or the defense winning, and all people have weak spots that if identified could lead to their destruction. In theory, it sounds pretty damn good.
VACANCY
Disappointed in what the year has offered in the way of horror flicks? Maybe you'd like to give the genre just one more shot. Vacancy is starring Luke Wilson and Kate Beckinsale, who if I'm not mistaken are new to the genre. The story is basically about a couple who are having relationship problems and have to learn how to depend and trust each other when they stop at a hotel with peculiar practices. It's one thing to record your customers having sex, but it's quite another to record them being tortured and murdered. It brings the snuff film to a new level as the hotel owners persistently chase them around the property and try to murder them. Frank Whaley, the ring leader, is so convincingly cryptic, sitting in his control center, five surveillance TVs fired up, that you start to wonder if he's watching you. It'll have you forking over loads of cash for the Hilton and the Four Seasons for sure.
IN THE LAND OF WOMEN
Ah, Adam Brody. You've finally been freed from the career-killing dramedy that was "The O.C." And now you start your film career full-force with...a teen dramedy. Way to show range! Alright fine, you don't want to startle your fan base away with something raw and true like Rachel Bilson (The Last Kiss) or Benjamin McKenzie (Junebug) did. That's understandable. But in this film you are mourning the demise of your relationship and rebounding with a high school twit (Kristen Stewart) who disrespects her dying mother (Meg Ryan) because she couldn't keep her husband from cheating on her. She's quite the catch. This film has so much drama in it, it makes Marissa look sedated. Meg Ryan makes a comeback after a 3-yr hiatus caring for her very own foreign adopted tot, playing the physically and emotionally ailing mother. You'd be moved if you weren't so distracted by her inflated face. As for Stewart, it seems Hollywood has found itself a cheaper and more controllable replacement for Lindsay Lohan. In spite of all that, it's a really beautiful story about a girl who's being given the Spark notes lesson on growing up so she can learn to love her mom, flaws and all.
Tuesday, April 17, 2007
Rolling Stone, desperate for attention
Rolling Stone magazine plans on taking a page
out of MySpace's handbook by creating a social network for music lovers. Back in the 90s, Rolling Stone was THE music bible. These days its MTV reality show could barely get noticed. MySpace, on the other hand, rapidly obtained the reputation for showcasing "the next big thing" from Fall Out Boy to Cassie. So, it's only natural that they'd clone their appeal, creating a website that'll allow users to create profiles and a "Best of" list—the so called "American Idol version of lists." They also plan on web-archiving all 1,000 back issues of Rolling Stone and making it available in a DVD set by the end of the year.
TV: MTV's getting Remodeled
If you still watch "Road Rules" or "Real World" or their much hyped death matches, and you tune in every week to see how L.C. and the Laguna-tards are doing, then you might be interested in the changes MTV plans on implementing during the summer.
"TRL" is going through some much needed puberty. I literally record it just to fastforward through the 20-sec videos and watch the interviews and premieres. If the show were just that, I'd watch it. Not only is it getting a new title, but they plan on making it more interactive and personalized. Viewers will have their "thumbprints" on the videos played outside of the show as well. [Whatever that means.]
Good New Shows:
"24 Before" will be executive produced by Jeremy Piven. It's a reality show that'll follow a person during the 24 hours before a life-changing event. The pilot tails a young soldier the day before he's deployed to Iraq. I only wonder how many events in ones life can be considered life changing. Once they reach "the day before I get my colored Wii" they should probably give up.
Stupid New Shows:
"Hardin High": is an animated series in which viewer photos will stand in for the heads of the main characters. "You have to watch to see if you're on the day's episode," said Lois Curren, president of series entertainment for MTV. The only thing that would make it interesting is if it were hilarious.
Shows with Potential:
"Worst Day of My Life": the creator of "Gilmore Girls," Amy Sherman-Palladino, plans on using letters that fans have written to her about their low points to create a scripted drama. Depending on the actors, characters, and overall plot, it could do well. It is Palladino after all.
"TRL" is going through some much needed puberty. I literally record it just to fastforward through the 20-sec videos and watch the interviews and premieres. If the show were just that, I'd watch it. Not only is it getting a new title, but they plan on making it more interactive and personalized. Viewers will have their "thumbprints" on the videos played outside of the show as well. [Whatever that means.]
Good New Shows:
"24 Before" will be executive produced by Jeremy Piven. It's a reality show that'll follow a person during the 24 hours before a life-changing event. The pilot tails a young soldier the day before he's deployed to Iraq. I only wonder how many events in ones life can be considered life changing. Once they reach "the day before I get my colored Wii" they should probably give up.
Stupid New Shows:
"Hardin High": is an animated series in which viewer photos will stand in for the heads of the main characters. "You have to watch to see if you're on the day's episode," said Lois Curren, president of series entertainment for MTV. The only thing that would make it interesting is if it were hilarious.
Shows with Potential:
"Worst Day of My Life": the creator of "Gilmore Girls," Amy Sherman-Palladino, plans on using letters that fans have written to her about their low points to create a scripted drama. Depending on the actors, characters, and overall plot, it could do well. It is Palladino after all.
"Jack My School": Ryan Seacrest is executive producing a reality show where students request the services of the show's host, an unknown so far, to negotiate with their principals for changes to their schools. It could be interesting at first, but not many adolescents are gun-ho activists.
"Kaya": a scripted musical series about the challenges of a young Avril Lavigne-esque singer. Not sure if that'll be scripted or reality-based. Either way, it could bomb as badly as much as Cheyenne and Ashley Angel Parker's did. I know what you're thinking. Who are those people?
Monday, April 16, 2007
MAY 2007 magazine covers
COSMOGIRL: Hilary Duff
In this issue, Duff promotes her album "Dignity" and talks about her upcoming indie War, Inc. She also reveals her new old man crush. Read an excerpt:WHAT IS ONE OF THE BIGGEST DECISIONS YOU MADE USING THIS NEW WAY OF THINKING?
I just filmed this indie movie with John Cusack. It is so crazy and out there--so it was a big step taking on a project that was so different than anything I have done. And, it was in Bulgaria. I went all by myself and without knowing anyone. But it was all worth it and life-changing in so many ways.
HOW WAS IS IT WORKING WITH JOHN CUSACK?
Oh, I love him--I have the biggest crush on him! He's so cute, sweet, and smart. He gave me all these books to read before I left for Bulgaria. I love that he is just thinking all the time. And he is very nurturing--whenever I had a tough scene he was there for me.
Last week on "Ellen," she said she wasn't interested in being in another relationship for a while, but it looks like she's got her eye out for some middle aged action.
DETAILS: Orlando Bloom
In this issue, Bloom promotes Pirates of the Caribbean: At the World's End. He talks about the obstacles in his life that have helped him do roles better, like falling 3 stories and being told he'll never walk again--a story you may have heard a million times already. But it also gets into a family bombshell he wasn't quite ready for at the tender age of 13:
...he learned that his dad, anti-apartheid lawyer and activist Harry Bloom, was not his biological father. His actual father was a friend of the family named Colin Stone. “Think about that,” he says. “Think about finding out when you’re 13 that your dad is not your dad. It’s like, okay, take it on the chin and keep going. No choice, really.”Read more of this excerpt to see a sarcastic side of Bloom you're not too familiar with.
ESQUIRE: Halle Berry
In this issue, Berry takes a mini-course in journalism, forgoing the $40,000 a year tuition, and interviews an Esquire staff writer. But what you miss out in verbal full disclosure, she makes up for visually.
GLAMOUR: Kate Beckinsale
In this issue, Beckinsale shows her comedic side, a turn away from the usual vampy vixen she portrays. Trust me, after reading this you'll be in love with her:
Read the rest of the Q&A. She gets real with little anecdotes of the tough parts of her life from her father's death to being airbrushed to death to her teenage anorexia.
GLAMOUR: Would you promote a film you hated?
KB: It happens. But what’s really lovely is when you’re proud of a movie you’ve done and look forward to doing the press. Obviously I’ve had great experiences with people I’ve worked with on films—I’ve married half of them! I should come with a warning sign that says, “Don’t worry, I’m not going to try to marry you. I’m done.” [Laughs.]
GLAMOUR: Will you work [with your husband] again?
KB: I hope so. He tried to get me cast as John McClane [the role played by Bruce Willis] in his current project, but they didn’t go for it. [Laughs.]
GLAMOUR: Is there anything about living in L.A. you’ll never get used to?
KB: This is what’s sick about living in L.A. My eight-year-old daughter will point to a woman and say, “Look! That woman’s had too much Botox.” She spots them because they all look a bit like Lord Voldemort from Harry Potter.
GLAMOUR: Has anything surprised you about being married to an American?
KB: I do find it extraordinary that men are so prepared to pay for your dinner here. That simply never happens in England. When I first got together with Len, I couldn’t understand why it seemed like he was always trying to get into my side of the car. He was holding the door open for me! I don’t know what you teach American men in school here, but you have to keep it up, because it’s extremely charming.
MARIE CLAIRE: Salma Hayek
In this issue, Hayek gets pretty political, waving the feminist flag on war issues, domestic violence, and even the Bible:
"Men have been running the world and - I'm sorry - but they have not taken us to a good place. We are in crisis. "What would happen if women were in power? What decisions would we make? "If women are going to have the self-respect they need to go out and make a change in society, it has to start with how they're treated in their homes." Pregnant Hayek admits she was introduced to domestic violence at a young age - when her father attempted to stop a man from beating up his wife in the street. She recalls, "Instead of being grateful, she (the beaten woman) turned and started beating him (father) for defending her. "Some people might say, 'Well, then it's her fault,' but it made me realize she needed much more help than someone breaking up a fight."
VANITY FAIR: Leonardo DiCaprioIn this issue, Leo expresses his concerns about the Earth. I'm not sure if the feature is the same as the website article, but if it is they basically print excerpts from his eco-film The 11th Hour where Leo and several activists voice their concerns.
W: America FerraraIn this issue, Ferrara talks about her Disney movie days and her brush with the law:
"For a time I thought I could be a lawyer," she says. "As a kid I even went to law camp at UCLA. They had us watch My Cousin Vinny, which was great. But then we went to the courthouse, and we had to do these mock trials, and once I saw what it really meant to be a lawyer, I realized that it wasn't for me. I thought it was like in the movies, like, 'You can't handle the truth!' That kind of thing."She talks about Salma Hayek's hustling ways:
"But not going to college was not an option. I think it probably helped me as an actress as well, because actresses need real-life experiences to draw from."
"Honestly I never saw myself doing TV," says Ferrera, "but Salma was so convincing. Salma is the kind of person who could sell you, like, a used stereo. She promised me that it would be done in the right way, and I just trusted her."She addresses her weight:
"...several Internet gossip sites have criticized her for looking less zaftig in recent months, implying that the actress lauded for promoting realistic body images had officially gone Hollywood. 'I mean, of course I want to be at a weight where I'm happy,' says Ferrera...'And honestly, even if I wanted to be anorexic, I just don't have what it takes. After four hours of being anorexic, I'd be like, "It's been four whole hours! Feed me!"'"She criticizes Hollywood's close-mindedness:
"When it comes to envisioning an actor in a role that they haven't seen them in, people in this business can be a little uncreative," she says. "No one is willing to take a gamble."Read more to learn about her family, her boyfriend, her plans for the future both career-wise and personal.
Box office outcome - 4/16/07
Shia LaBeouf has officially secured a spot in Indiana Jones IV this weekend by kicking Blades of Glory out of the #1 spot. Disturbia grossed a cool $23 mil, while Blades came in #2 with $14 mil. Meet the Robinsons is still holding strong in the top 5 with $12 mil at #3, and Are We Done Yet?, another kid flick, dropped to #5 with $9 mil. The Halle Berry-Bruce Willis thriller, Perfect Stranger, nabbed the #4 spot with $11.5 mil. Not such a great box office gross for one of the sexiest women in Hollywood.
Understandably, due to only a 7-theater release, indie Year of the Dog only made $112,000. But Lonely Hearts faired far worse. Granted, it was only released in 23 theaters, but $92,000 in comparison to Year of the Dog's proceeds, is pathetic. Maybe Salma Hayek's recent scheme to get a baby minus the soulmate has hurt her appeal. Or maybe Jared Leto's antics has the power to destroy a film's credibility. I think the greatest surprise was actually Redline's debut with $4 mil in the 11th spot. Who the hell watched that crapfest? I'm telling you the youth of today are wasting their brain cells. Now, if you'll excuse me I have to go wax my cane.
Sunday, April 15, 2007
MUSIC: Lily Allen Video
If you have a little brother or just a brother who's a slacker, this video is pretty funny. Lily Allen wrote a song called "Alfie" about her little bro, who was charged with assaulting their mother. Check out this cutesy, funny video.
REACTION: Pursuit of Happyness Review
It's not that Asian people can't spell Laura. English-illiterate elderly immigrants can't spell...most of the time. Touchyyyy. You had to be the only one to make a movie about African American prejudice to be about Asian prejudice. You're hilarious.
I liked your observation of how the film title emphasizes on the "pursuit" of happiness. It's something I didn't catch when I first saw it back in December. My mom was eager to see this heartwarming tale and I was eager to please. I don't usually go for tear-inducing films, but I thought this one had genuine emotion and stripped poverty down to its bare bones—it's not just a failure to succeed, it's the feeling that one has failed oneself. It's like an identity crisis and Will Smith's character had to have one while caring for a child and being abandoned by his wife. The whole world was shoving him into a category and he refused to be pegged as homeless or hopeless.
My favorite scene is when he's trying to fix the light bulb on the machine he's always trying to sell ,and he's doing it on the stairway of the homeless shelter in the middle of the night. The lights go out and he's forced to climb higher on the staircase to search for more light. It seems symbolic of his determination to not be kept in the shadows, to not feel ashamed of who he is. He's relentless. It's the perfect film to show anyone who feels like there is no hope and they have no future. It's the reason why films should be made—to inspire.
I liked your observation of how the film title emphasizes on the "pursuit" of happiness. It's something I didn't catch when I first saw it back in December. My mom was eager to see this heartwarming tale and I was eager to please. I don't usually go for tear-inducing films, but I thought this one had genuine emotion and stripped poverty down to its bare bones—it's not just a failure to succeed, it's the feeling that one has failed oneself. It's like an identity crisis and Will Smith's character had to have one while caring for a child and being abandoned by his wife. The whole world was shoving him into a category and he refused to be pegged as homeless or hopeless.
My favorite scene is when he's trying to fix the light bulb on the machine he's always trying to sell ,and he's doing it on the stairway of the homeless shelter in the middle of the night. The lights go out and he's forced to climb higher on the staircase to search for more light. It seems symbolic of his determination to not be kept in the shadows, to not feel ashamed of who he is. He's relentless. It's the perfect film to show anyone who feels like there is no hope and they have no future. It's the reason why films should be made—to inspire.
FILM REVIEW: Disturbia
****
Know that I’m just coming off the high that was Disturbia, so this might be a tad over exaggerated. Whatevers. So, I nearly killed my best friend grabbing her arm and shaking her around every time I got scared by that pasty, scary son of a bitch David Morse, who was terrorizing Shia Labeouf and his friends in some burb out in bumble fuck. Shia’s character, Kale, lives in this quintessential suburban town, the kind that "Desperate Housewives" spoofs. One neighbor is screwing the maid; another is oblivious to her four horny preteens; another finds solace on her rooftop away from her soon-to-be divorced parents; and then there’s the crusty lothario luring party girls back to his white picket fence to get tagged and bagged and shoved into the walls of his basement. How very Texas Chainsaw Massacre of him. So who’s the head of the neighborhood watch? Well, Kale suffered a family tragedy that he accidentally causes and some asshole Spanish teacher decides it would be kosher to rub his face in it. So, Kale returns the favor with his fist. I think that’s fitting. So, from the get-go you—and the rebellious angst-ridden teenager within you—are rooting for this poor house-arrested bastard. When his mom takes away the X-box, iTunes, and the TV, you are practically bleeding for him. Although the transition from him finding extracurricular activities to do to spying on his neighbors isn’t well scripted, you do get into it once the pieces of the mystery start making sense. The friendship between Kale and his best bud Ronnie (Aaron Yoo) is genuine, and his semi-sleazy obsession with the girl next door (Sarah Roemer)—who looks nothing like any girl who lives next door to you—is played out as realistic as a movie can get. The ultimate profession of love was kind of weak, but then again he isn’t a poet. This film is equal parts comedy and suspense. When it doesn’t have you embedding nail marks in your arm rest—or your friend’s arm in my case—it’ll have you laughing at its accurate portrayal of the teenage psyche. I most certainly recommend this for both genders—it really isn’t that scary ladies—and for all ages 12 and up. Oh, and if you decide to pick up a pair of binoculars and stare out your window for a couple of hours after watching this movie…try not to get caught.
Side note: Yes, I know the movie was based on Alfred Hitchcock's Rear Window. Nobody can beat out Jimmy Stewart's comic timing or dramatic acting, but that's the point of a remake; not everything is supposed to be the same.
Saturday, April 14, 2007
FILM: The pursuit and the happyness
I thought the writers were just being cute when they spelled "happyness" the way that they did, but as it turns out, this is actually explained in the movie. Will Smith's son attends a day care center in a San Franciscan Chinatown and on the outside is the word "happyness" on it. The day care center also happens to be owned by Asian people, as if to suggest Asian people can't spell English words? I have to say I was a little insulted by this.
The good news is I have very few other criticisms of the movie. Set in 1981, Will Smith plays Chris Gardner, a man who aspires to be rich and whose only income comes from selling bone density scanners (more commonly recognized as weird boxes with handles that Smith is carrying for 95 percent of the movie). The struggle to sell these scanners leaves Smith struggling to make rent. Smith's wife (Thandie Newton) eventually leaves him. Smith is left wifeless, moneyless, and soon homeless. What he does have is an adorable son played by, none other than, Smith's son, Jaden Smith.
As expected, the movie is ridiculously depressing at times. Smith is an intern for Dean Witter (the now Morgan Stanley Group). Holding an unpaid position, Smith hopes to be one of 20 chosen to be hired at the end of the program. For the duration of the program, the audience follows Smith and his son to nights in subway cars, bathrooms, and shelters. Redundant at times, this is the "pursuit". After all, this movie is not called "Happiness" (or "Happyness").
What keeps this movie from being overly sappy, predictable, and unconvincing, is the reality that it is based on a true story. It actually makes for an inspirational feel while bringing to light issues of poverty and the value of hard work. I'd say everyone should take a break from 300 and Grindhouse, and rent this one. Expect a lot of running and scenes of San Francisco's subway system.
The good news is I have very few other criticisms of the movie. Set in 1981, Will Smith plays Chris Gardner, a man who aspires to be rich and whose only income comes from selling bone density scanners (more commonly recognized as weird boxes with handles that Smith is carrying for 95 percent of the movie). The struggle to sell these scanners leaves Smith struggling to make rent. Smith's wife (Thandie Newton) eventually leaves him. Smith is left wifeless, moneyless, and soon homeless. What he does have is an adorable son played by, none other than, Smith's son, Jaden Smith.
As expected, the movie is ridiculously depressing at times. Smith is an intern for Dean Witter (the now Morgan Stanley Group). Holding an unpaid position, Smith hopes to be one of 20 chosen to be hired at the end of the program. For the duration of the program, the audience follows Smith and his son to nights in subway cars, bathrooms, and shelters. Redundant at times, this is the "pursuit". After all, this movie is not called "Happiness" (or "Happyness").
What keeps this movie from being overly sappy, predictable, and unconvincing, is the reality that it is based on a true story. It actually makes for an inspirational feel while bringing to light issues of poverty and the value of hard work. I'd say everyone should take a break from 300 and Grindhouse, and rent this one. Expect a lot of running and scenes of San Francisco's subway system.
Thursday, April 12, 2007
NEW MOVIES: 4/13
PERFECT STRANGER
Taking a break from comic book films (X-Men & Catwoman), Halle Berry will be playing a journalist trying to find her best friend's killer, who she suspects to be a businessman played by Bruce Willis. Her character tries to seduce him by being his secretary and sending him sexy notes through the web. You can almost buy the Berry-Willis connection—much more than the Hugh Grant-Drew Barrymore "chemistry." It'll be fun to see Willis play the bad guy. It isn't often that he gets to be loathed by the masses. But he has the creepy grin to pull it off. I would mostly watch it to catch a glimpse of the ruggedly handsome (and sometimes creepy) Giovanni Ribisi *sigh* who plays Berry's back up (I suppose).
DISTURBIA
I think I've ranted about Shia Labeouf enough for a century. The basic plot is that Shia is under house arrest and spends most of his days spying on his surrounding neighbors—hot girl who sunbathes often, businessman who sleeps with the maid while his wife is at work, and a murderer. Normal teenage felons would either tell the police or stop using their binoculars to spy on people. He, on the other hand, has some sort of moral fiber that only perks up when he isn't the one doing something wrong, and feels the need to bring this guy down with the help of his doofy friend and slutty neighbor. It's the modern teenage version of Rear Window, which you must see. Forget that Alfred Hitchcock is a critically acclaimed director or that James Stewart is hilarious and endearing, the story really makes you feel like it could happen to you.
YEAR OF THE DOG
Mike White, the writer, is toning his humor down after doing Nacho Libre and The School of Rock. In this quirky, adorable, off beat romantic comedy starring Molly Shannon, Peter Saarsgard, and John C. Reilly, Shannon plays this woman who has had deeper relationships with animals than she's had with men. It takes the death of her dog to get her back into the dating game. And once she gets a new one she also finds the perfect guy. Reilly is of course there for pure amusement and Saarsgard is there to explain why Maggie Gyllenhaal married him, showing his loveable side. awwww This is basically the 40-year-old Virgin minus the testosterone and the hilarity, plus a lot of dogs.
LONELY HEARTS
Brian de Palma tried to amaze us with his noir, Chinatown-wannabe The Black Dahlia. No cigar. This movie, however, has potential. First of all, it's big names for little money, which is always a good sign. It hasn't had much buzz and probably won't get much profit, but it definitely has a story worth seeing. Jared Leto (forget his lunatic behavior for one second) plays a gold digging con-artist who swindles poor middle aged women out of their hard earned savings, until one day he meets his match, Salma Hayek, a voluptuous vamp. He's in deep before he even notices the quicksand. She figures out his game and they partner up to swindle these defenseless women together. But they start to attract police when a few of their marks show up dead. I can't really tell from the trailer whether Hayek in a jealous rage kills them or if Leto does. But with John Travolta and James Gandolfini on their trail it won't be long before they're caught. In the mean time, Leto's frantic character has to appease his psychotic, jealous lover, played so perfectly by Hayek. It should really blow Perfect Stranger out of the box office. Even if no one believes Leto could EVER snag Hayek in a billion years, their individual performances in this noir setting is what really needs to be raved about.
REDLINE
Oh my god! Who wants to see another Fast and the Furious? So basically two brothers, one more conniving than the other, get into some trouble involving gambling, Las Vegas, and racing. The blond brother dies in a car race and the brunette brother has to seek revenge. The only interesting part of the film is the "hot girl" played by Nadia Bjorlin (Chloe from "Days of our Lives") is a bad ass race car driver. Seriously, if you have some free time and a billion dollars, waste your money on this. Otherwise, just rent Fast and the Furious. It's the same thing, just with better actors.
Taking a break from comic book films (X-Men & Catwoman), Halle Berry will be playing a journalist trying to find her best friend's killer, who she suspects to be a businessman played by Bruce Willis. Her character tries to seduce him by being his secretary and sending him sexy notes through the web. You can almost buy the Berry-Willis connection—much more than the Hugh Grant-Drew Barrymore "chemistry." It'll be fun to see Willis play the bad guy. It isn't often that he gets to be loathed by the masses. But he has the creepy grin to pull it off. I would mostly watch it to catch a glimpse of the ruggedly handsome (and sometimes creepy) Giovanni Ribisi *sigh* who plays Berry's back up (I suppose).
DISTURBIA
I think I've ranted about Shia Labeouf enough for a century. The basic plot is that Shia is under house arrest and spends most of his days spying on his surrounding neighbors—hot girl who sunbathes often, businessman who sleeps with the maid while his wife is at work, and a murderer. Normal teenage felons would either tell the police or stop using their binoculars to spy on people. He, on the other hand, has some sort of moral fiber that only perks up when he isn't the one doing something wrong, and feels the need to bring this guy down with the help of his doofy friend and slutty neighbor. It's the modern teenage version of Rear Window, which you must see. Forget that Alfred Hitchcock is a critically acclaimed director or that James Stewart is hilarious and endearing, the story really makes you feel like it could happen to you.
YEAR OF THE DOG
Mike White, the writer, is toning his humor down after doing Nacho Libre and The School of Rock. In this quirky, adorable, off beat romantic comedy starring Molly Shannon, Peter Saarsgard, and John C. Reilly, Shannon plays this woman who has had deeper relationships with animals than she's had with men. It takes the death of her dog to get her back into the dating game. And once she gets a new one she also finds the perfect guy. Reilly is of course there for pure amusement and Saarsgard is there to explain why Maggie Gyllenhaal married him, showing his loveable side. awwww This is basically the 40-year-old Virgin minus the testosterone and the hilarity, plus a lot of dogs.
LONELY HEARTS
Brian de Palma tried to amaze us with his noir, Chinatown-wannabe The Black Dahlia. No cigar. This movie, however, has potential. First of all, it's big names for little money, which is always a good sign. It hasn't had much buzz and probably won't get much profit, but it definitely has a story worth seeing. Jared Leto (forget his lunatic behavior for one second) plays a gold digging con-artist who swindles poor middle aged women out of their hard earned savings, until one day he meets his match, Salma Hayek, a voluptuous vamp. He's in deep before he even notices the quicksand. She figures out his game and they partner up to swindle these defenseless women together. But they start to attract police when a few of their marks show up dead. I can't really tell from the trailer whether Hayek in a jealous rage kills them or if Leto does. But with John Travolta and James Gandolfini on their trail it won't be long before they're caught. In the mean time, Leto's frantic character has to appease his psychotic, jealous lover, played so perfectly by Hayek. It should really blow Perfect Stranger out of the box office. Even if no one believes Leto could EVER snag Hayek in a billion years, their individual performances in this noir setting is what really needs to be raved about.
REDLINE
Oh my god! Who wants to see another Fast and the Furious? So basically two brothers, one more conniving than the other, get into some trouble involving gambling, Las Vegas, and racing. The blond brother dies in a car race and the brunette brother has to seek revenge. The only interesting part of the film is the "hot girl" played by Nadia Bjorlin (Chloe from "Days of our Lives") is a bad ass race car driver. Seriously, if you have some free time and a billion dollars, waste your money on this. Otherwise, just rent Fast and the Furious. It's the same thing, just with better actors.
ALBUM REVIEW: Hilary Duff's "Dignity"
Last year Jessica Simpson tried a fun-filled album with 80s beats. It sold 101,000 in the first week and debuted at #5, and after 9 months it's only gone Gold (selling 500,000 units). Hilary Duff's "Dignity" also features 80s music. It sold 140,000 copies in the first week and debuted at #4. [Timbaland followed at #5]. Rolling Stone gave it 3 stars and Entertainment Weekly gave it a B+.Duff is usually pegged as a pop star with goody-two-shoes songs about love and heartbreak, friendship and betrayal, etc., with lyrics preteens think are really deep. People her own age thought the songs were cheesy and immature. I'm not saying that her latest album is the stuff of a music prodigy, but she is taking a step in the right direction. There are still cheesy lines like in the track "Dignity" the chorus is:
"where's your/where's your/where's your dignity?/i think you lost it in the Hollywood hills/where's your/where's your/where's your dignity?/can't buy respect/but you can pick up the bill/pick it up/pick it up/that's all you got/that's all you got/pick it up/pick it up/cause money makes your world go 'round"
Most of the lyrics in this song are juvenile, but then there are some like
"run into your friend's ex/he's happy to be your next/she won't mind/tomorrow's papers coming out/so kiss him fast/watch the cameras flash"
which references all of those celebutards who steal their "best friends" boyfriends or reuse their exes like kleenex. They are just fun to listen to because how true it is. "Dreamer" is also about the Hollywood hype. She talks about how normal she really is in an non-obnoxious way and how nothing she does is that interesting. She talks directly to the paparazzi about their efforts to capture her on film: "don't you have better things to do with your life/than hang around/and stare at me/and complicate mine," but the lyrics could also pass for being about a guy who likes her.
The most impressive aspect of the album is the music composition. It's the way Simpson's 80s beats should've sounded—contemporary and relatable. Like Simpson, she tried different genres. In the slow carefree, r&b based "No Work, All Play", the hip hop/dj mixed "Burned", and the rock-inspired, 15-sec-riff-having "I Wish," she reflects the more mature Duff.
Looking for beach/driving-down-the-highway-on-a-sunny-day/cleaning-your-house music? Then listen to these tracks:
"Never Stop"
"Between You and Me"
"Dreamer"
"Outside of You": it's my favorite carefree song, even though it's about your lover never opening up to you.
My favorite track is called "Gypsy Woman," which is about another girl seducing her boyfriend. The beat is pop with touches of hip hop. It should be her next single. I also like "Happy", which mixes slow beats and fast 80s/techno. She talks about getting out of a bad relationship to be happy. But she doesn't sound like a hater and doesn't bash the guy:
"I'm finally getting over you/all the bitterness has passed/and I only wish you someone who/can do what I can't"
which is a pretty mature response after being dumped.
"Stranger" will be her next single. It kind of sounds like The Pussycat Dolls' "Buttons", except it's about finding out someone you love isn't who they say they are.
A lot of the critics are saying that her album sounds Gwen Stefani inspired, but I'm hearing more Paula Abdul [but not horrible] and Janet Jackson [except white]. It's a better album than the other three she released.
***
Monday, April 09, 2007
Box office outcome - 4/9/07
Alas, I was wrong. It turns out Will Ferrell is so hilarious he can even humiliate Quentin Tarantino and Robert Rodriguez, proverbially pantsing them at the box office this weekend. Blades of Glory came in at #1, in its 2nd week, grossing $23 mil, while Grindhouse pathetically scrounged up $11.6 mil at the #4 spot. It could have been the bad press surrounding Rodriguez's divorce supposedly caused by Rose McGowan or maybe their fans just weren't into the half-assed storylines. Critics however loved it. Rottentomatoes.com's score on their Tomatometer (votes from critics all over the U.S.) was 83%. Perhaps, after Ferrell's had his fun on the ice, Grindhouse will crawl out of its slump.
Two kiddie flicks are also dominating the top 5. It seems the tots are fans of Meet the Robinsons keeping it at #2 with $17 mil and seating Are We Done Yet? comfortably at #3 with $15 mil, only $3 mil less than Are We There Yet?'s box office opening. Meanwhile, the only horror movie left in the top 10 is The Reaping, coming in at #5 with $10 mil. But after seeing only an 8% grade on the Tomatometer, I think it's pretty obvious it'll barely make the list next week. As for the indie, The TV Set, having only been released in select theaters in N.Y. and L.A., it's only natural that it made $40,000. However, it received an unsettling 46% on the Tomatometer.
This weekend there's a slew of indies starring everyone from Molly Shannon (Year of the Dog) to Salma Hayek (Lonely Hearts) to LL Cool J (Slow Burn). The preteens have yet another film to add to their spring movie list that spurred from one of their favorite TV shows, Aqua teen hunger force. I have no idea what it's about, but it sounds elaborate and capable of sustaining their attention for an hour or so. Pushing aside the spectacle theater of zombies and professional ice skaters are two suspense thrillers with Halle Berry (Perfect Stranger) and Shia Labeouf (Disturbia) at the helm. I know I'll be watching the last, but that's just because of my unnatural obsession with Shia. Hopefully he won't disappoint like Levitt.
Two kiddie flicks are also dominating the top 5. It seems the tots are fans of Meet the Robinsons keeping it at #2 with $17 mil and seating Are We Done Yet? comfortably at #3 with $15 mil, only $3 mil less than Are We There Yet?'s box office opening. Meanwhile, the only horror movie left in the top 10 is The Reaping, coming in at #5 with $10 mil. But after seeing only an 8% grade on the Tomatometer, I think it's pretty obvious it'll barely make the list next week. As for the indie, The TV Set, having only been released in select theaters in N.Y. and L.A., it's only natural that it made $40,000. However, it received an unsettling 46% on the Tomatometer.
This weekend there's a slew of indies starring everyone from Molly Shannon (Year of the Dog) to Salma Hayek (Lonely Hearts) to LL Cool J (Slow Burn). The preteens have yet another film to add to their spring movie list that spurred from one of their favorite TV shows, Aqua teen hunger force. I have no idea what it's about, but it sounds elaborate and capable of sustaining their attention for an hour or so. Pushing aside the spectacle theater of zombies and professional ice skaters are two suspense thrillers with Halle Berry (Perfect Stranger) and Shia Labeouf (Disturbia) at the helm. I know I'll be watching the last, but that's just because of my unnatural obsession with Shia. Hopefully he won't disappoint like Levitt.
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