7. One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest (1975)
Directed by Milos Forman
Starring Jack Nicholson and Louise Fletcher
Winner of the 5 Major Academy Awards (Picture, Actor, Actress, Director and Screenplay). Nominated for 9.
One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest is one of the best films of all time. Duh. The performance by Louise Fletcher alone makes this a classic. The fact that it had a great performance by Jack Nicholson, great direction and, above all, outstanding writing, didn't hurt either...
Saturday, March 31, 2007
Friday, March 30, 2007
Today I Saw Blades of Glory...
And I have to say, I enjoyed myself. It was exactly what I wanted to see. Jon Heder and Will Ferrell were quite funny. It's gotten generally positive reviews, but some have deemed it "homophobic." It's really not. It actually condemns homophobia in a way because the people that are so afraid of looking gay are total idiots, like in Blazing Saddles (with racism in that situation). So, the movies of 2007 I've seen so far are...
1. Norbit-C-
2. The Messengers-D+
3. Epic Movie-F
4. Music and Lyrics-B
5. Blades of Glory-B
The Seven Best Comedies: #1
1. Annie Hall (1977)
Directed by Woody Allen
Starring Woody Allen and Diane Keaton
Winner of 4 Academy Awards, Including Best Picture. Nominated for 5.
Sorry, but I just love this movie. Love, love, love, love, love, love this movie. You can laugh at just about every frame of it. I can't quite describe what I like about it, but I guess one of the things is that it's almost like a serial. Every scene there's a new situation, and the viewer is eagerly awaiting to see what will happen next. They are and aren't connected. If only movies today were daring enough to do things like that. Well, la dee da.
Directed by Woody Allen
Starring Woody Allen and Diane Keaton
Winner of 4 Academy Awards, Including Best Picture. Nominated for 5.
Sorry, but I just love this movie. Love, love, love, love, love, love this movie. You can laugh at just about every frame of it. I can't quite describe what I like about it, but I guess one of the things is that it's almost like a serial. Every scene there's a new situation, and the viewer is eagerly awaiting to see what will happen next. They are and aren't connected. If only movies today were daring enough to do things like that. Well, la dee da.
Thursday, March 29, 2007
The Seven Best Comedies: #2
2. Some Like it Hot (1959)
Directed by Billy Wilder
Starring Jack Lemmon and Marilyn Monroe
Winner of the Best Costume Design Academy Award. Nominated for 6, Including Best Director.
Unless you are both blind and deaf, this film alone should prove that Billy Wilder is the greatest director of all time. And screenwriter. The writing in this is so sharp. It is complex, yet it is simple. It is funny, yet it is affectionate. I've seen this movie about ten times, methinks. And there's still more to go...
Directed by Billy Wilder
Starring Jack Lemmon and Marilyn Monroe
Winner of the Best Costume Design Academy Award. Nominated for 6, Including Best Director.
Unless you are both blind and deaf, this film alone should prove that Billy Wilder is the greatest director of all time. And screenwriter. The writing in this is so sharp. It is complex, yet it is simple. It is funny, yet it is affectionate. I've seen this movie about ten times, methinks. And there's still more to go...
Wednesday, March 28, 2007
The Seven Best Comedies: #3
3. Singin' in the Rain (1952)
Directed by Stanley Donen and Gene Kelly
Starring Gene Kelly and Debbie Reynolds
Nominated for 2 Oscars, Including Best Supporting Actress-Jean Hagen
I have a lifetime worth of studying to do tonight, so I'll keep it brief. Jean Hagen made this hysterical. It works on so many levels, it's impossible to count.
Directed by Stanley Donen and Gene Kelly
Starring Gene Kelly and Debbie Reynolds
Nominated for 2 Oscars, Including Best Supporting Actress-Jean Hagen
I have a lifetime worth of studying to do tonight, so I'll keep it brief. Jean Hagen made this hysterical. It works on so many levels, it's impossible to count.
Tuesday, March 27, 2007
The Seven Best Comedies: #4
4. Tootsie (1981)
Directed by Syndey Pollack
Starring Dustin Hoffman and Jessica Lange
Winner of the Best Supporting Actress (Lange) Oscar. Nominated for 10, Including Best Picture.
Ahh, yes. Tootsie. The comedy of a thousand rip-offs. This is one of the few drag movies that is actually smart, story-oriented and, above all, funny. Dustin Hoffman, Teri Garr and Jessica Lange are all so lovable in this film. In fact, the movie itself is lovable. And the songs...classic.
Directed by Syndey Pollack
Starring Dustin Hoffman and Jessica Lange
Winner of the Best Supporting Actress (Lange) Oscar. Nominated for 10, Including Best Picture.
Ahh, yes. Tootsie. The comedy of a thousand rip-offs. This is one of the few drag movies that is actually smart, story-oriented and, above all, funny. Dustin Hoffman, Teri Garr and Jessica Lange are all so lovable in this film. In fact, the movie itself is lovable. And the songs...classic.
The First Simpsons Movie Review...
My least favorite movie site, movies.com, has proven to be useful in providing this early look at "The Simpsons Movie", which, in case you haven't read any of my posts, is my most anticipated movie ever. Yes, I really am that geeky.
"So, is the The Simpsons Movie just another TV episode that goes on for too long? An early Ain't It Cool News reviewer, Biker-Boy, reports that, in its current state, it runs a very short 75 minutes, with the first half being "hysterical genius." His rave continues: "It's classic. It's old school. It's violent. It's slapstick. It's clever. It's everything you could ever want it to be … I haven't laughed so hard in ages." The second half hour? Not so much. It just drags on, Biker Boy reports — though, he adds, "It definitely ends well … It all wraps up pretty neatly, and the animation here is superb, mixing high quality 2-D and 3-D to outstanding effect." He also praises an "inspired" Bart Simpson sequence in the otherwise slow middle half hour. Final verdict? It has, he says, "the potential to become 'an all-time classic … which, sadly, the version I saw falls ever so slightly short of.'"
Well, there's still time to fix most of that. And that's positive, right? Right. Very reasurring.
"So, is the The Simpsons Movie just another TV episode that goes on for too long? An early Ain't It Cool News reviewer, Biker-Boy, reports that, in its current state, it runs a very short 75 minutes, with the first half being "hysterical genius." His rave continues: "It's classic. It's old school. It's violent. It's slapstick. It's clever. It's everything you could ever want it to be … I haven't laughed so hard in ages." The second half hour? Not so much. It just drags on, Biker Boy reports — though, he adds, "It definitely ends well … It all wraps up pretty neatly, and the animation here is superb, mixing high quality 2-D and 3-D to outstanding effect." He also praises an "inspired" Bart Simpson sequence in the otherwise slow middle half hour. Final verdict? It has, he says, "the potential to become 'an all-time classic … which, sadly, the version I saw falls ever so slightly short of.'"
Well, there's still time to fix most of that. And that's positive, right? Right. Very reasurring.
Forum!
I, being addicted to TheOscarIgloo and its forums, decided that it would fun to have some forums of our own! Of course, we have very few readers, but nonetheless, hopefully this will help us get some. :-) The link is:
http://www.network54.com/Forum/561296/
Have fun!
http://www.network54.com/Forum/561296/
Have fun!
Sweeney is Here!
The first picture of Depp as Sweeney Todd has finally been released. He certainly looks the part, so that concern was settled. Now how about the singing...
Monday, March 26, 2007
The Seven Best Comedies: #5
5. The Graduate (1967)
Directed by Mike Nichols
Starring Dustin Hoffman and Anne Bancroft
Winner of the Best Director Academy Award. Nominated for 7, Including Best Picture.
Before I write this, let me just say that The Graduate is one of the best movies of all time. The reason it's on here is not because the four movies that will come after this are BETTER than this, it's just that they work better as comedies than The Graduate, which is a dramadey. Now, onto the film. The performances in this are simply breathtaking. Dustin Hoffman, Anne Bancroft and Katharine Ross are simply divine. And so is the film. This is one of the few films that works so incredibly well as both a drama and a comedy. Most films fail at acheiving such a goal, but The Graudate meets it and excells.
Directed by Mike Nichols
Starring Dustin Hoffman and Anne Bancroft
Winner of the Best Director Academy Award. Nominated for 7, Including Best Picture.
Before I write this, let me just say that The Graduate is one of the best movies of all time. The reason it's on here is not because the four movies that will come after this are BETTER than this, it's just that they work better as comedies than The Graduate, which is a dramadey. Now, onto the film. The performances in this are simply breathtaking. Dustin Hoffman, Anne Bancroft and Katharine Ross are simply divine. And so is the film. This is one of the few films that works so incredibly well as both a drama and a comedy. Most films fail at acheiving such a goal, but The Graudate meets it and excells.
Sunday, March 25, 2007
Current Frontrunners
BEST PICTURE
Because there is no Dreamgirls or Memoirs of a Geshia this year, picking a frontrunner for Best Picture is difficult. I certainly don't think that ANY of these will win, but buzz has favored Sweeney Todd. Sorta. There's also lots of talk about American Gangster and The Kite Runner. I guess that when it comes right down to it, you have to see which one has less potential to suck. Recently, films based on popular novels have not been very good, which hurts Kite Runner. And recently, Russell Crowe, Denzel Washington and Ridley Scott have been in a slump, which hurts American Gangster. But, Johnny Depp, Tim Burton and Helena Bonham Carter have been on top of their game. I guess that's what's helping Sweeney Todd. I just don't think it can do it because it's a very difficult show to adapt.
BEST ACTOR
I understand where the buzz is coming from. Depp is one of the finest actors in Hollywood, and, if done correctly, Sweeney Todd can be a very meaty role. Joaquin Phoenix in Reservation Road started out with all the buzz, but it has already shifted to Depp. Of course, the question one everyone's mind is: can he sing? Well, he has to have SOME chops if Burton is having him do his own singing. And, did anyone else hear that Toni Collette and Annette Bening lobbied for the part of Mrs. Lovett? They'd be perfect! But, of course, Burton gave it to his long-time girlfriend Helena Bonham Carter. She's a great actress, and not a bad pick, but there's no denying that Tim Burton is hardcore neptetist (the casting of best friend Depp isn't very encouraging either).
BEST ACTOR
I understand where the buzz is coming from. Depp is one of the finest actors in Hollywood, and, if done correctly, Sweeney Todd can be a very meaty role. Joaquin Phoenix in Reservation Road started out with all the buzz, but it has already shifted to Depp. Of course, the question one everyone's mind is: can he sing? Well, he has to have SOME chops if Burton is having him do his own singing. And, did anyone else hear that Toni Collette and Annette Bening lobbied for the part of Mrs. Lovett? They'd be perfect! But, of course, Burton gave it to his long-time girlfriend Helena Bonham Carter. She's a great actress, and not a bad pick, but there's no denying that Tim Burton is hardcore neptetist (the casting of best friend Depp isn't very encouraging either).BEST ACTRESS
Reprising her role as Queen Elizabeth I, Cate Blanchett has been buzzed as the frontrunner for Best Actress. While I personally think that Best Actress will go to someone from an out-of-the-blue film (*cough* Snow Cake *cough*), this has everything it takes to pull off a win. But will having won just a few years ago for "The Aviator" effect her? I mean, she's been doing highly acclaimed movies recently, but she didn't do anything in 2005 because of her newborn baby. If you're going to have two wins over 3 years, you should really be on top of your game all three of those years. But 2007 is looking impressive...Weekend Rentals: Tokyo Story and One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest
Just about every weekend, I rent a movie or two. I decided that I might as well blog about it. Genius, huh?
This weekend, I rented the classic "One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest" and the Japanese film "Tokyo Story." Here are some mini-reviews of them...
ONE FLEW OVER THE CUCKOO'S NEST-I am still dumbfounded. This is in my top 10 now. Louise Fletcher and Jack Nicholson are absolutely jaw-dropping in this, especially Fletcher (although she should have won Supporting Actress rather than Leading). The story is superb, and every character is developed amazingly. A+
TOKYO STORY-Many critics believe Tokyo Story is the greatest film of all time. They must have seen a different movie. I mean, it's well made and realistic, but it is EXTREMELY slow and, I hate to use this word, occasionally boring. But, to avoid claims of tact, and because it was a valiant effort, it is worth seeing, if for nothing else then out of curiousity. Maybe I just didn't know what I was supposed to expect. B
This weekend, I rented the classic "One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest" and the Japanese film "Tokyo Story." Here are some mini-reviews of them...
ONE FLEW OVER THE CUCKOO'S NEST-I am still dumbfounded. This is in my top 10 now. Louise Fletcher and Jack Nicholson are absolutely jaw-dropping in this, especially Fletcher (although she should have won Supporting Actress rather than Leading). The story is superb, and every character is developed amazingly. A+
TOKYO STORY-Many critics believe Tokyo Story is the greatest film of all time. They must have seen a different movie. I mean, it's well made and realistic, but it is EXTREMELY slow and, I hate to use this word, occasionally boring. But, to avoid claims of tact, and because it was a valiant effort, it is worth seeing, if for nothing else then out of curiousity. Maybe I just didn't know what I was supposed to expect. B
The Seven Best Comedies: #6
6. Airplane! (1980)
Directed by Jim Abrahams, David Zucker and Jerry Zucker
Starring Robert Hays and Julie Hagerty
Nominated for the Best Picture (Musical/Comedy) Golden Globe
Everyone in the world that is over the age of 8 has seen Airplane! That's a fact. And everyone has loved every single frame of it. That's also a fact. My motto is: when in doubt, talk about Airplane! Everyone knows exactly what gag you're talking about and will continue the conversation. No matter what. And for good reason. It is, beyond question, THE funniest movie ever made.
Directed by Jim Abrahams, David Zucker and Jerry Zucker
Starring Robert Hays and Julie Hagerty
Nominated for the Best Picture (Musical/Comedy) Golden Globe
Everyone in the world that is over the age of 8 has seen Airplane! That's a fact. And everyone has loved every single frame of it. That's also a fact. My motto is: when in doubt, talk about Airplane! Everyone knows exactly what gag you're talking about and will continue the conversation. No matter what. And for good reason. It is, beyond question, THE funniest movie ever made.
Saturday, March 24, 2007
The Seven Best Comedies: #7
7. Dr. Strangelove; or How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love the Bomb
Directed by Stanley Kubrick
Starring Peter Sellers and George C. Scott
Nominated for 4 Academy Awards, Including Best Picture.
Dr. Strangelove isn't a black comedy. It is the definition of black comedy. It is not at all dated, and still as offensive and hysterical as it was 40 years ago. Everything about this movie is just glorious to watch. And, I believe that this is the only movie I've ever that ended with the apocalypse that I was actually able to laugh at. Well, except for Armageddon. But that's a different story, isn't it?
Directed by Stanley Kubrick
Starring Peter Sellers and George C. Scott
Nominated for 4 Academy Awards, Including Best Picture.
Dr. Strangelove isn't a black comedy. It is the definition of black comedy. It is not at all dated, and still as offensive and hysterical as it was 40 years ago. Everything about this movie is just glorious to watch. And, I believe that this is the only movie I've ever that ended with the apocalypse that I was actually able to laugh at. Well, except for Armageddon. But that's a different story, isn't it?
Friday, March 23, 2007
The Seven Best Thrillers: #1
1. Psycho (1960)
Directed by Alfred Hitchcock
Starring Anthony Perkins and Janet Leigh
Nominated for 4 Academy Awards, Including Best Director. Winner of the Golden Globe for Best Supporting Actress (Janet Leigh)
Before I write this, let me explain. Hitchcock is my second favorite filmmaker (trailing only to Billy Wilder). Even though this is his only film on the list, he would hold 2 more (for Rear Window and North by Northwest would be there, along with Carrie [1976]) on my top 10 thrillers of all time. Psycho is one of those movies that you just want to scream at, even at parts that aren't intentionally frightening. Hitchcock yet again proves why he has the reputation he does for making great suspense films. An absolutely perfect thriller.
Directed by Alfred Hitchcock
Starring Anthony Perkins and Janet Leigh
Nominated for 4 Academy Awards, Including Best Director. Winner of the Golden Globe for Best Supporting Actress (Janet Leigh)
Before I write this, let me explain. Hitchcock is my second favorite filmmaker (trailing only to Billy Wilder). Even though this is his only film on the list, he would hold 2 more (for Rear Window and North by Northwest would be there, along with Carrie [1976]) on my top 10 thrillers of all time. Psycho is one of those movies that you just want to scream at, even at parts that aren't intentionally frightening. Hitchcock yet again proves why he has the reputation he does for making great suspense films. An absolutely perfect thriller.
Thursday, March 22, 2007
Period Piece Updates
A comment from "16-Year-Old Blogger" on everythingoscar.blogspot.com has said that The Golden Age has received a PG-13 rating, as opposed to its predecessor's R, and will now be released on October 12, one week after its original release date, October 5. The Other Boleyn Girl, my wacko prediction of the year, has had its release date pulled until future notice. Maybe it won't be until 2008. Ugh.
Dates Set for 2008!
AMPAS has released its scheduling for the 2008 Academy Awards. It is (according to IMDb)...
DECEMBER 26-Ballots Mailed Out
JANUARY 22-Nominations Announced
JANUARY 30-Final Ballots Mailed Out
FEBRUARY 19-Final Ballots Due
FEBRUARY 24-The 80th Annual Academy Awards are Telecasted on ABC
DECEMBER 26-Ballots Mailed Out
JANUARY 22-Nominations Announced
JANUARY 30-Final Ballots Mailed Out
FEBRUARY 19-Final Ballots Due
FEBRUARY 24-The 80th Annual Academy Awards are Telecasted on ABC
The Seven Best Thrillers: #3 and #2
Sorry for not posting yesterday, but I had a truckload of studying to do, and I have even more tonight, and there's a post I really, really need to get to. So, unfortunately, I can't really do these justice with a synopsis and what-not because my parents will more than likely murder me if they see me on the computer. But here we go...
3. North by Northwest (1959)
2. The Exoricist (1973)
3. North by Northwest (1959)
2. The Exoricist (1973)
Tuesday, March 20, 2007
2007 Predictions: The First Batch (Best Supporting Actor/Actress, Best Original/Adapted Screenplay)
I'm only going to do analaysises for the top 4 categories for most of the early predix, because they're really a bottleneck to write in these categories because they're so unclear.
BEST SUPPORTING ACTOR
Philip Seymour Hoffman-Charlie Wilson's War
Clive Owen-The Golden Age
Alan Rickman-Sweeney Todd
Russell Crowe-American Gangster
Michael Peña-Lions for Lambs
BEST SUPPORTING ACTRESS
Toni Collette-Evening
Cheryl Hines-Waitress
Claire Danes-Evening
Miranda Richardson-Spinning Into Butter
Julia Roberts-Charlie Wilson's War (this is supporting, right?)
BEST ORIGINAL SCREENPLAY
Waitress
Snow Cake
Lions for Lambs
The Golden Age
Eastern Promises
BEST ADAPTED SCREENPLAY
Sweeney Todd
The Other Boleyn Girl
American Gangster
Charlie Wilson's War
The Kite Runner
Philip Seymour Hoffman-Charlie Wilson's War
Clive Owen-The Golden Age
Alan Rickman-Sweeney Todd
Russell Crowe-American Gangster
Michael Peña-Lions for Lambs
BEST SUPPORTING ACTRESS
Toni Collette-Evening
Cheryl Hines-Waitress
Claire Danes-Evening
Miranda Richardson-Spinning Into Butter
Julia Roberts-Charlie Wilson's War (this is supporting, right?)
BEST ORIGINAL SCREENPLAY
Waitress
Snow Cake
Lions for Lambs
The Golden Age
Eastern Promises
BEST ADAPTED SCREENPLAY
Sweeney Todd
The Other Boleyn Girl
American Gangster
Charlie Wilson's War
The Kite Runner
Well, that completes the first batch. New predix will be posted...soon, I guess. And have you noticed how slow most sites are publishing their predix? Probably because there isn't a clean cut frontrunner, i.e. Memoirs of a Geshia or Dreamgirls.
The Seven Best Thrillers: #4
4. Alien (1979)
Directed by Ridley Scott
Starring Sigourney Weaver and Tom Skerritt
Winner of the Best Visual Effects Oscar. Also Nominated for Best Art Direction.
"Alien" is one of those movies where, no matter how advanced special effects become, it will never ware out. Ridley Scott's timeless direction is visible in every frame of this movie. And, no matter how many times it's criticized, parodied or otherwise butchered, nothing beats that scene when the alien pops out of the crew members' stomach. Absolutely priceless.
Directed by Ridley Scott
Starring Sigourney Weaver and Tom Skerritt
Winner of the Best Visual Effects Oscar. Also Nominated for Best Art Direction.
"Alien" is one of those movies where, no matter how advanced special effects become, it will never ware out. Ridley Scott's timeless direction is visible in every frame of this movie. And, no matter how many times it's criticized, parodied or otherwise butchered, nothing beats that scene when the alien pops out of the crew members' stomach. Absolutely priceless.
Little Miss Sunshine/Sideways of 2007?
Waitress. Here's the trailer.
http://www.apple.com/trailers/fox_searchlight/waitress/trailer/
I'll be optimistic and say this is a future Best Actress (Russell) and Best Supporting Actress (Hines) nominee and a win for Best Original Screenplay(?). My prediction for Cheryl Hines is more because I love her on Curb Your Enthusiasm. Anyway, I think this has a serious chance of pulling off a surprise BP nomination if it campaigns correctly.
http://www.apple.com/trailers/fox_searchlight/waitress/trailer/
I'll be optimistic and say this is a future Best Actress (Russell) and Best Supporting Actress (Hines) nominee and a win for Best Original Screenplay(?). My prediction for Cheryl Hines is more because I love her on Curb Your Enthusiasm. Anyway, I think this has a serious chance of pulling off a surprise BP nomination if it campaigns correctly.
Monday, March 19, 2007
The Seven Best Thrillers: #5
5. Jaws (1975)
Directed by Steven Spielberg
Starring Roy Scheider and Richard Dreyfuss
Winner of 3 Academy Awards. Nominated for 4, Including Best Picture.
Jaws is one of the most popular movies of all time. It was the highest grossing movie of all time for a little while. And for good reason. This is a pure pocorn movie. Scary, but not too scary, heavy, but not too heavy, and something that everyone would be rushing to see during the summer.
Directed by Steven Spielberg
Starring Roy Scheider and Richard Dreyfuss
Winner of 3 Academy Awards. Nominated for 4, Including Best Picture.
Jaws is one of the most popular movies of all time. It was the highest grossing movie of all time for a little while. And for good reason. This is a pure pocorn movie. Scary, but not too scary, heavy, but not too heavy, and something that everyone would be rushing to see during the summer.
An NC-17 for Grindhouse?
I'm sure you've heard already, but I feel like I should post something about the possibility about one of the most anticipated movies of the year, Grindhouse, a gritty double feature from Quentin Tarintino and Robert Rodriguez, is looking at the kiss-of-death NC-17 rating if it is not seriously cut. Honestly, do you think that the target audience of this movie (or should I say movies?) want LESS sex and violence? Didn't think so.
For the record, I could care less about this movie. I love Tarintino (who doesn't?), but this will almost surely be a tribute to his hardcore fans, who only care about the way he captures violence and sex rather than the way he captures story and characters. The trailers looked, at the very best, average. But I'm probably the only one that thinks that.
The Reviews Are In...
The independent film I've been following this year, "Snow Cake", was released in the UK and at festivals earlier last year. Reviews can be found here. I'm even more excited for this now! Let's hope it does as well here. Oh, and apparently, Sigourney Weaver was nominated for a Genie Award for her performance in it, as were Carrie Ann Moss and Emily Hampshire for theirs. If I knew what the hell that was, I would be off the walls.
Sunday, March 18, 2007
The Seven Best Thrillers: #6
6. Raiders of the Lost Ark (1981)
Directed by Steven Spielberg
Starring Harrison Ford and Karen Allen
Winner of 4 Academy Awards. Nominated for 8, Including Best Picture. It also received a Best Sound Effects Editing Honorary Award.
"Raiders of the Lost Ark" is, beyond any reasonable doubt, one of the most exciting movies ever made. Harrison Ford is so incredibly fun to watch, and this film is home to a countless number of memorable scenes. I reccomend this movie to anyone who hasn't seen it more than any other movie I talk about. Not because it's the best one, but so that you'll know what everyone's been spoofing for the past 25 years.
Directed by Steven Spielberg
Starring Harrison Ford and Karen Allen
Winner of 4 Academy Awards. Nominated for 8, Including Best Picture. It also received a Best Sound Effects Editing Honorary Award.
"Raiders of the Lost Ark" is, beyond any reasonable doubt, one of the most exciting movies ever made. Harrison Ford is so incredibly fun to watch, and this film is home to a countless number of memorable scenes. I reccomend this movie to anyone who hasn't seen it more than any other movie I talk about. Not because it's the best one, but so that you'll know what everyone's been spoofing for the past 25 years.
10 Most Anticipated Films of 2007
As I'll be rushing into theatres this year, here's a list of the top 10 films I want to see this year. I'm listing them here by their release date, and I suggest you go see every one of them. Here we go... (if you wish to see the trailers, follow the links if they're available)
1. Grindhouse (April 6)
http://www.apple.com/trailers/weinstein/grindhouse/
2. Spider-Man 3 (May 4)
http://www.apple.com/trailers/sony_pictures/spider-man_3/
3. Shrek the Third (May 18)
http://www.apple.com/trailers/paramount/shrekthethird/
4. Live Free or Die Hard (June 29)
http://www.apple.com/trailers/fox/livefreeordiehard/
5. The Bourne Ultimatum (August 3)
(no trailer available)
6. Shoot 'Em Up (September 7)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0dXdjlKv6oo
7. Eastern Promises (September 14)
(no trailer available)
8. Gone, Baby, Gone (October 5)
(no trailer available)
9. The Kite Runner (November 2)
(no trailer available)
10. Reservation Road (November 9)
(no trailer available)
1. Grindhouse (April 6)
http://www.apple.com/trailers/weinstein/grindhouse/
2. Spider-Man 3 (May 4)
http://www.apple.com/trailers/sony_pictures/spider-man_3/
3. Shrek the Third (May 18)
http://www.apple.com/trailers/paramount/shrekthethird/
4. Live Free or Die Hard (June 29)
http://www.apple.com/trailers/fox/livefreeordiehard/
5. The Bourne Ultimatum (August 3)
(no trailer available)
6. Shoot 'Em Up (September 7)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0dXdjlKv6oo
7. Eastern Promises (September 14)
(no trailer available)
8. Gone, Baby, Gone (October 5)
(no trailer available)
9. The Kite Runner (November 2)
(no trailer available)
10. Reservation Road (November 9)
(no trailer available)
Saturday, March 17, 2007
The Seven Best Thrillers: #7
7. The Sixth Sense (1999)
Directed by M. Night Shyamalan
Starring Haley Joel Osment and Bruce Willis
Nominated for 6 Academy Awards, Including Best Picture.
"The Sixth Sense" is one word: fun. Okay, it's two words: fun and frightening. That's three. Well, same effect. Any way you put it, I can watch "The Sixth Sense" over and over again and again. The writing is so original and captivating, you wonder why there aren't more movies like this. And I still get surprised every time I see the twist ending.
Directed by M. Night Shyamalan
Starring Haley Joel Osment and Bruce Willis
Nominated for 6 Academy Awards, Including Best Picture.
"The Sixth Sense" is one word: fun. Okay, it's two words: fun and frightening. That's three. Well, same effect. Any way you put it, I can watch "The Sixth Sense" over and over again and again. The writing is so original and captivating, you wonder why there aren't more movies like this. And I still get surprised every time I see the twist ending.
Jennifer Hudson as Aretha Franklin?
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/17600795/
Will Jennifer Hudson play Aretha Franklin? There's a good chance she will. The R&B sensation said that she is ready for a movie to be made about her life, and that Jennifer Hudson was one of the names discussed. And, unless you're Katharine McPhee in "Wonder Woman", if people publically release that you MIGHT be playing a role, then you probably WILL be playing that role. And if she gets it and does a good job with it, she could easily get another nomination. And if she gets another nomination, then she'll be able to have a career without being referred to as "Effie" for the rest of her life (Jennifer Holliday, you had your chance!). Hudson really is a good choice. I hope they go through with this.
Will Jennifer Hudson play Aretha Franklin? There's a good chance she will. The R&B sensation said that she is ready for a movie to be made about her life, and that Jennifer Hudson was one of the names discussed. And, unless you're Katharine McPhee in "Wonder Woman", if people publically release that you MIGHT be playing a role, then you probably WILL be playing that role. And if she gets it and does a good job with it, she could easily get another nomination. And if she gets another nomination, then she'll be able to have a career without being referred to as "Effie" for the rest of her life (Jennifer Holliday, you had your chance!). Hudson really is a good choice. I hope they go through with this.
Friday, March 16, 2007
Sweeney Todd in Review
Just got back from "Sweeney Todd," and I have to say I'm dumbfounded. Not because the production was great, but because one, the high school has a lot of guts for taking on such a tricky play, two, for reminding me how great this play is, and three, for giving me hope. This really is Tim Burton stuff. Johnny Depp and Helena Bonham Carter will have a lot to prove, but I think they can do it (Sacha Baron Cohen is a stretch, though). This just got bumped up two spots on my "Most Anticipated" list (sorry, but I'm a teenager. The Simpsons Movie is still #1).
The Seven Best Romance Movies: #1
1. Gone With the Wind (1939)
Directed by Victor Fleming
Starring Clark Gable and Vivien Leigh
Winner of 10 Academy Awards, Including Best Picture and an Honorary Oscar. Nominated for 14 (not including Honorary)
"Gone With the Wind" is, beyond any reasonable doubt, the greatest love story ever told on film. Clark Gable and Vivien Leigh have unbeatable chemistry, and each scene is simply a masterpiece. It has been called dated, it has been called boring and it has been called horrible. I am here to tell you that it is NONE of those things. The greatest movie epic ever, hands down.
Directed by Victor Fleming
Starring Clark Gable and Vivien Leigh
Winner of 10 Academy Awards, Including Best Picture and an Honorary Oscar. Nominated for 14 (not including Honorary)
"Gone With the Wind" is, beyond any reasonable doubt, the greatest love story ever told on film. Clark Gable and Vivien Leigh have unbeatable chemistry, and each scene is simply a masterpiece. It has been called dated, it has been called boring and it has been called horrible. I am here to tell you that it is NONE of those things. The greatest movie epic ever, hands down.
Tonight...
Tonight I will be seeing a stage production of "Sweeney Todd" at my brother's school. They've got some amazing talent there, so I think they could pull it off. I'll report back late tonight or tomorrow to tell you how it was, but I'll mostly focus on speculation of the film. I've only seen one production before, and it was a while ago, so this should refresh my memory until the film comes out in December.
Thursday, March 15, 2007
The Seven Best Romance Movies: #2
2. Casablanca (1942)
Directed by Michael Curtiz
Starring Humphrey Bogart and Ingrid Bergman
Winner of 3 Academy Awards, Including Best Picture. Nominated for 8.
"Casablanca" is often called one of the best movies of all time. And every time I see it, I understand why. Anyone who has (or hasn't) lost love will be able to enjoy this film. The performances, direction and writing speak for themselves. Full of memorable lines, moments and scenes, "Casablanca" really is as good as people say.
Directed by Michael Curtiz
Starring Humphrey Bogart and Ingrid Bergman
Winner of 3 Academy Awards, Including Best Picture. Nominated for 8.
"Casablanca" is often called one of the best movies of all time. And every time I see it, I understand why. Anyone who has (or hasn't) lost love will be able to enjoy this film. The performances, direction and writing speak for themselves. Full of memorable lines, moments and scenes, "Casablanca" really is as good as people say.
Wednesday, March 14, 2007
The Seven Best Romance Movies: #3
3. Annie Hall (1977)
Directed by Woody Allen
Starring Woody Allen and Diane Keaton
Winner of 4 Academy Awards, Including Best Picture. Nominated for 5
I've seen this movie 36 times. And each time, it gets better. I have not laughed at a film more in my life (a precursor for my Seven Best Comedies series). I mean, seriously. Diane Keaton, Woody Allen and a "large vibrating egg"? Does it get any better?
Directed by Woody Allen
Starring Woody Allen and Diane Keaton
Winner of 4 Academy Awards, Including Best Picture. Nominated for 5
I've seen this movie 36 times. And each time, it gets better. I have not laughed at a film more in my life (a precursor for my Seven Best Comedies series). I mean, seriously. Diane Keaton, Woody Allen and a "large vibrating egg"? Does it get any better?
Tuesday, March 13, 2007
2007 Predictions: The First Batch (Best Director)
BEST DIRECTOR
Ridley Scott-American Gangster-I have a horrible feeling about this, but if it pulls off, Scott could easily obtain another Oscar win. But, when you get right down to it, this film has every potential to fail miserably.
Marc Forster-The Kite Runner-After being brutally snubbed for his brilliant work with 2004's "Finding Neverland", Forster could easily get a nomination, even if the Academy passes on the film itself.
Tim Burton-Sweeney Todd-Every day, my opinion on this switches. One day I think Burton will pull it off, the next day I think he'll make it a one-man show for his direction, and forget to keep the dark, gritty and ironic tone of the musical. Not that he can't do dark, gritty, ironic things, it's just that this isn't really his type. Well, it sorta is. I just don't know what to think of this. But at least if this fails, when I look back on it I'll be able to see where I was coming from. But the Academy has never acknowledged Burton's previous work. But what else has he done that was nomination worthy. And...ahh, let's move on. This is giving me a headache.
Robert Redford-Lions for Lambs-Or so I hope. I love Robert Redford as both a filmmaker and an actor, and he should have gotten at least SOME attention for his outstanding work with "An Unfinished Life." Besides, he's due for a nomination. And when Streep is on board, the movie can only be so bad.
Mike Nichols-Charlie Wilson's War-I have a better feeling about this now that I realize the project is in the hands of Mike Nichols. And, as with Meryl Streep in "Lions for Lambs" above, Tom Hanks usually picks good projects. I'd say that these last two probably have the best shot at being nominated. Scott and Burton have the least.
Marc Forster-The Kite Runner-After being brutally snubbed for his brilliant work with 2004's "Finding Neverland", Forster could easily get a nomination, even if the Academy passes on the film itself.
Tim Burton-Sweeney Todd-Every day, my opinion on this switches. One day I think Burton will pull it off, the next day I think he'll make it a one-man show for his direction, and forget to keep the dark, gritty and ironic tone of the musical. Not that he can't do dark, gritty, ironic things, it's just that this isn't really his type. Well, it sorta is. I just don't know what to think of this. But at least if this fails, when I look back on it I'll be able to see where I was coming from. But the Academy has never acknowledged Burton's previous work. But what else has he done that was nomination worthy. And...ahh, let's move on. This is giving me a headache.
Robert Redford-Lions for Lambs-Or so I hope. I love Robert Redford as both a filmmaker and an actor, and he should have gotten at least SOME attention for his outstanding work with "An Unfinished Life." Besides, he's due for a nomination. And when Streep is on board, the movie can only be so bad.
Mike Nichols-Charlie Wilson's War-I have a better feeling about this now that I realize the project is in the hands of Mike Nichols. And, as with Meryl Streep in "Lions for Lambs" above, Tom Hanks usually picks good projects. I'd say that these last two probably have the best shot at being nominated. Scott and Burton have the least.
IN THE RUNNING
(In No Order)
(In No Order)
James Mangold-3:10 to Yuma-Umm, no. And I'm sick of people predicting remakes to sweep the Oscars. The Departed was an EXCEPTION to the "all remakes suck" rule, people! Jeez.
Francis Ford Coppola-Youth Without Youth-Hmm. I coulda sworn Coppola went crazy. Well, either way, I don't think he'll get the nod. While this is a veteran's year (or so it seems), the above five have a much better chance.
David Cronenberg-Eastern Promises-I just heard about this, and I think it could easily do well. But I don't have any guarentees. Of course, I don't for anything yet. But I'll wait for reviews on this. And, after being 100% shut out for "A History of Violence", it'll take a lot. Or maybe they'll give it to him to make up for shutting him out. Either way, we'll wait and see.
Justin Chadwick-The Other Boelyn Girl-If, in fact, this does get a BP nomination, it probably won't get one for its director. This is a year for the veteran/overdue directors.
Julie Taymor-Across the Universe-I'm shooting myself in the foot for not putting this on my most anticipated list. The Beatles! Musical! Eddie Izzard! Julie Taymor! The early release is troubling for the movie, and likewise for Taymor, but I'm still dying to see this.
Francis Ford Coppola-Youth Without Youth-Hmm. I coulda sworn Coppola went crazy. Well, either way, I don't think he'll get the nod. While this is a veteran's year (or so it seems), the above five have a much better chance.
David Cronenberg-Eastern Promises-I just heard about this, and I think it could easily do well. But I don't have any guarentees. Of course, I don't for anything yet. But I'll wait for reviews on this. And, after being 100% shut out for "A History of Violence", it'll take a lot. Or maybe they'll give it to him to make up for shutting him out. Either way, we'll wait and see.
Justin Chadwick-The Other Boelyn Girl-If, in fact, this does get a BP nomination, it probably won't get one for its director. This is a year for the veteran/overdue directors.
Julie Taymor-Across the Universe-I'm shooting myself in the foot for not putting this on my most anticipated list. The Beatles! Musical! Eddie Izzard! Julie Taymor! The early release is troubling for the movie, and likewise for Taymor, but I'm still dying to see this.
The Seven Best Romance Movies: #4
4. King Kong (1933)
Directed by Merian C. Cooper and Ernest B. Schoedsack
Starring Fay Wray and Robert Armstrong
No Major Award Nominations, but Received a #43 Spot on the American Film Institute's List of the 100 Greatest American Movies
Before I write this, look at the release date of this film. 1933. Not 2005 (what a horrid remake that was. How did it get on all those top 10 lists?). Most people will read this and think I'm insane. King Kong isn't a romance! Wrong. The story in "King Kong" is one of the greatest, most unique love stories of all time. If you don't believe me, watch this one again. Not the 2005 botched remake, but the original. You'll understand what I mean...
Directed by Merian C. Cooper and Ernest B. Schoedsack
Starring Fay Wray and Robert Armstrong
No Major Award Nominations, but Received a #43 Spot on the American Film Institute's List of the 100 Greatest American Movies
Before I write this, look at the release date of this film. 1933. Not 2005 (what a horrid remake that was. How did it get on all those top 10 lists?). Most people will read this and think I'm insane. King Kong isn't a romance! Wrong. The story in "King Kong" is one of the greatest, most unique love stories of all time. If you don't believe me, watch this one again. Not the 2005 botched remake, but the original. You'll understand what I mean...
Monday, March 12, 2007
2007 Predictions: The First Batch (Best Actress)
BEST ACTRESS
Cate Blanchett-The Golden Age-I have a strangely good feeling about this, but I really want to see some reviews first. But, like Dreamgirls for Best Picture last year, I can't and won't deny the buzz.
Sigourney Weaver-Snow Cake-I'm really hoping that this is the indie of the year that I'm predicting it to be, and as the trailer indicates it will be. If not, I will look really stupid when this movie makes a total box office of $7 and plays in 1 theater.
Meryl Streep-Lions for Lambs-Meryl Streep is in more than one movie this year. They might not suck. She'll be nominated. It's as simple as that. It'll either be for this or for "Evening" in Supp. Actress, but now I'm being naive and predicting her in both. I mean, she is Meryl. And she's way overdue for a third win (how many actors can say THAT?).
Sarah Jessica Parker-Spinning Into Butter-A very, very, baity role. If she pulls it off, she could easily win. Of course, they might have trouble taking the Sex in the City star seriously on the big screen.
Norah Jones-My Blueberry Nights-I was very unsure if I should predict her, as this could easily be a crash-and-burn performance, but she's in some very good hands. If she does a good job (and I mean a REALLY good job), the rewards will be literally endless.
Sigourney Weaver-Snow Cake-I'm really hoping that this is the indie of the year that I'm predicting it to be, and as the trailer indicates it will be. If not, I will look really stupid when this movie makes a total box office of $7 and plays in 1 theater.
Meryl Streep-Lions for Lambs-Meryl Streep is in more than one movie this year. They might not suck. She'll be nominated. It's as simple as that. It'll either be for this or for "Evening" in Supp. Actress, but now I'm being naive and predicting her in both. I mean, she is Meryl. And she's way overdue for a third win (how many actors can say THAT?).
Sarah Jessica Parker-Spinning Into Butter-A very, very, baity role. If she pulls it off, she could easily win. Of course, they might have trouble taking the Sex in the City star seriously on the big screen.
Norah Jones-My Blueberry Nights-I was very unsure if I should predict her, as this could easily be a crash-and-burn performance, but she's in some very good hands. If she does a good job (and I mean a REALLY good job), the rewards will be literally endless.
In The Running
(In No Order)
(In No Order)
Scarlett Johansson/Natalie Portman-The Other Boleyn Girl-It seems ironic of me to be predicting The Other Boelyn Girl to be nominated for Best Picture when I'm not predicting either of the two leading ladies for awards, but, unless one of them takes supporting, the vote splitting will keep both of them from getting a nod.
Anne Hathaway-Becoming Jane-She's gotten raves in the UK, but the August release date is troublesome. I can see her getting a GG nod in a second, but the precursors will have the final word on her Oscar chances.
Vanessa Redgrave-Evening-Eh, I should probably be predicting her, but I'm not sure. I really hope she does do well (but then again, this is Vanessa Redgrave. How can she NOT do well?), because I can easily see her winning a second Oscar. Quite overdue.
Jodie Foster-The Brave One-An Oscar favorite, but after slumping behind recently, it'll take a lot for her to get the nod. The fact that it's being released in September doesn't help either. Besides, the plot doesn't sound very baity.
Helena Bonham Carter-Sweeney Todd-She's too young! She could pull it off, but I have my doubts. And even if she does, an Oscar nomination is far from her grasp. It seems like none of the people who are predicting a "Sweeney Todd" sweep really know the show. It's not baity at all. It's just weird (in a very, very good way).
Anne Hathaway-Becoming Jane-She's gotten raves in the UK, but the August release date is troublesome. I can see her getting a GG nod in a second, but the precursors will have the final word on her Oscar chances.
Vanessa Redgrave-Evening-Eh, I should probably be predicting her, but I'm not sure. I really hope she does do well (but then again, this is Vanessa Redgrave. How can she NOT do well?), because I can easily see her winning a second Oscar. Quite overdue.
Jodie Foster-The Brave One-An Oscar favorite, but after slumping behind recently, it'll take a lot for her to get the nod. The fact that it's being released in September doesn't help either. Besides, the plot doesn't sound very baity.
Helena Bonham Carter-Sweeney Todd-She's too young! She could pull it off, but I have my doubts. And even if she does, an Oscar nomination is far from her grasp. It seems like none of the people who are predicting a "Sweeney Todd" sweep really know the show. It's not baity at all. It's just weird (in a very, very good way).
The Seven Best Romance Movies: #5
Before we continue, let me just say that I haven't seen "Brokeback Mountain." That's why it isn't on the list.
5. It Happened One Night (1934)
Directed by Frank Capra
Starring Clark Gable and Claudette Colbert
Winner of 5 out of 5 Academy Awards. One of the only films to win the biggest 5 categories-Best Picture, Best Director, Best Screenplay, Best Actor and Best Actress. The only other films to do this are The Silence of the Lambs (1991) and One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest (1975).
Years and years ahead of this time, this quick, smart and, for the time, extremely raunchy comedy is pure genius. It is delightfully dated ("the seat of my pants!"), but still so relevant and fun to watch. Even the humor hasn't wared off (okay, some of it has, but not all). Claudette Colbert and Clark Gable have outstanding chemistry. This is a film that, whenever you hear someone mention it, you smile and say "oh yes, that one."
5. It Happened One Night (1934)
Directed by Frank Capra
Starring Clark Gable and Claudette Colbert
Winner of 5 out of 5 Academy Awards. One of the only films to win the biggest 5 categories-Best Picture, Best Director, Best Screenplay, Best Actor and Best Actress. The only other films to do this are The Silence of the Lambs (1991) and One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest (1975).
Years and years ahead of this time, this quick, smart and, for the time, extremely raunchy comedy is pure genius. It is delightfully dated ("the seat of my pants!"), but still so relevant and fun to watch. Even the humor hasn't wared off (okay, some of it has, but not all). Claudette Colbert and Clark Gable have outstanding chemistry. This is a film that, whenever you hear someone mention it, you smile and say "oh yes, that one."
Sunday, March 11, 2007
My Review of "Norbit" & Grades for 2007 So Far
I've been meaning to post this for a while, but better late than never I guess. My debut review of "Norbit" on OscarAddict.com can be seen here.
I also wanted to keep track of what movies I've seen in 2007, so here are the four that I have, along with their letter grade...
I also wanted to keep track of what movies I've seen in 2007, so here are the four that I have, along with their letter grade...
1. Norbit-C-
The Seven Best Romance Movies: #6
6. The Apartment (1960)
Directed by Billy Wilder
Starring Jack Lemmon and Shirley MacLaine
Winner of 5 Academy Awards, Including Best Picture. Nominated for 10.
If I ever had any doubt that Billy Wilder is my favorite director, then The Apartment (along with just about every other one of his films) proved me wrong. Often, films that make the viewer think end up to be boring by the end ("Babel" is a great example), but Billy Wilder actually makes such films incredibly entertaining to watch. His screenwriting talents are immeasurable. Now if only we had someone like that today...
Directed by Billy Wilder
Starring Jack Lemmon and Shirley MacLaine
Winner of 5 Academy Awards, Including Best Picture. Nominated for 10.
If I ever had any doubt that Billy Wilder is my favorite director, then The Apartment (along with just about every other one of his films) proved me wrong. Often, films that make the viewer think end up to be boring by the end ("Babel" is a great example), but Billy Wilder actually makes such films incredibly entertaining to watch. His screenwriting talents are immeasurable. Now if only we had someone like that today...
Saturday, March 10, 2007
The Seven Best Romance Movies: #7
7. Shakespeare in Love (1998)
Directed by John Madden
Starring Joeseph Fiennes and Gwyneth Paltrow
Winner of 7 Academy Awards, Including Best Picture. Nominated for 13.
Set in the late 1500's when William Shakespeare was writing his timeless masterpiece "Romeo and Juliet", "Shakespeare in Love" has cleverness popping out everywhere. There are two things about this film I found most remarkable. The first was the writing, which was intentionally set up as a five-act play (in the style of Shakespeare himself). The dialogue in this film simply cannot be beat. The second was Judi Dench. She is often criticized for having won an Oscar when she is only onscreen for five minutes, but those are some of the best five minutes I can imagine. Overall, this is a smart, funny and very sexy romance.
Directed by John Madden
Starring Joeseph Fiennes and Gwyneth Paltrow
Winner of 7 Academy Awards, Including Best Picture. Nominated for 13.
Set in the late 1500's when William Shakespeare was writing his timeless masterpiece "Romeo and Juliet", "Shakespeare in Love" has cleverness popping out everywhere. There are two things about this film I found most remarkable. The first was the writing, which was intentionally set up as a five-act play (in the style of Shakespeare himself). The dialogue in this film simply cannot be beat. The second was Judi Dench. She is often criticized for having won an Oscar when she is only onscreen for five minutes, but those are some of the best five minutes I can imagine. Overall, this is a smart, funny and very sexy romance.
Friday, March 9, 2007
The Seven Best Movie Musicals: #1
1. Singin' in the Rain (1952)
Directed by Stanley Donen and Gene Kelly
Starring Gene Kelly and Debbie Reynolds
Nominated for 2 Oscars, Including Best Supporting Actress-Jean Hagen
If I were to end my countdown of the best movie musicals with anything other than the flawless "Singin' in the Rain", it would be anti-climatic. The cast has talent to burn, from Gene Kelly's 10-minute dance eye feast, to Donald O'Connor's unforgettable rendition of "Make 'Em Laugh", to Debbie Reynolds' "Good Morning" and Jean Hagen's stealing of every single scene. I would be hard pressed to find a movie that made me smile more. Hmm. Well I'll start next week's "Seven Best Romance Movies" next week. Meantime, I'm going to go rent this (why does this happen every time I think of this movie??).
Directed by Stanley Donen and Gene Kelly
Starring Gene Kelly and Debbie Reynolds
Nominated for 2 Oscars, Including Best Supporting Actress-Jean Hagen
If I were to end my countdown of the best movie musicals with anything other than the flawless "Singin' in the Rain", it would be anti-climatic. The cast has talent to burn, from Gene Kelly's 10-minute dance eye feast, to Donald O'Connor's unforgettable rendition of "Make 'Em Laugh", to Debbie Reynolds' "Good Morning" and Jean Hagen's stealing of every single scene. I would be hard pressed to find a movie that made me smile more. Hmm. Well I'll start next week's "Seven Best Romance Movies" next week. Meantime, I'm going to go rent this (why does this happen every time I think of this movie??).
Movie Review : 300
Well, as I barely found a seat for the first representation of this film in the biggest theatre in town (spring break!) I watched the first true blockbuster of the new season (Wild Hogs? = yeah, right) and if you are a Tarantino and Sin City fan, your money will be well spent.
A warning for the faint of heart : if you can't stand to watch bloody sequences or limbs flying around, you will not enjoy watching this movie, for it is filled with sequences worthy of the tradition of graphic novels, this one from Frank Miller who gave us the delicious Sin City. Indeed, we are taken in a world where men are trained from childhood to become soldiers, who are taught to defend their land and never surrender nor run away from battle. In the land of Sparta, men have their place and so do the women, who stand by their men and breed the most terrifying warriors in Greece. If a newborn doesn't seem fit to live the life of a Spartan, he or she is outcast (a horrible sequence at the beginning of the film shows it clearly).
The film shows us one of the most violent battles of ancient time : the battle of Thermopylae, where only 300 Spartans took on the Persian empire, led by Lord Xerxes who sought to invade Greece. The Spartan soldiers were led by King Leonidas, played brilliantly by a very buff Gerard Butler, who always has his people's freedom to lead him on the front lines to fight off their enemy. Another great performance is that of Lena Headey, who plays Queen Gorgo, who knows what's at stake for her people and isn't afraid to stand up to men who have the higher place in society. It is fun to watch her quarrel with a sneaky politician played by Dominic West to try to send her husband reinforcements for battle.
Once the battle starts, we are in for the ride, and it is wonderful to watch. We see the force of these Spartans is truly to be feared, and they must show no weakness and no mercy. Of course, when you are outnumbered by about a million, you can't afford to take prisoners. This film portrays stylish battle sequences, well diversified fabulously gory and realistic way better than the efforts of Troy and Alexander in recent years (of course, The Lord Of The Rings does not compare with the film, but 300 is surprisingly excellent).
For those of you who read the novel or is familiar with Greek history know the outcome of the story, but for those of you who'd rather wait to know by seeing the film, you will enjoy watching the Spartan people who survived the test of time by showing great bravery and skill by fighting against the Persian army, and there is a wonderful narrative from David Wenham (Lord Of The Rings) to guide us through the story and you will love every step of the way. Of course, this film will not be nominated for Best Picture, but I expect it to pick up a few technical nominations, notably for costumes, makeup and visual effects. The film presents a haunting score from Tyler Bates that I absolutely adored, but I think it's a long way from January to be mentioned in the top 5.
Directed by Zack Snyder, this film is a wonder to watch, and if you want to feel like you're in the battle of Thermopylae, then go see it!
300 : directed by Zack Snyder
Produced by Mark Canton, Bernie Goldmann, Gianni Nunnari and Jeffrey Silver
Written by Zack Snyder, Kurt Johnstad and Michael Gordon based on the graphic novel by Frank Miller and Lynn Varley.
Starring Gerard Butler, Lena Headey, David Wenham and Dominic West.
Running Time : approx. 116 minutes.
Grade : ****/****
A warning for the faint of heart : if you can't stand to watch bloody sequences or limbs flying around, you will not enjoy watching this movie, for it is filled with sequences worthy of the tradition of graphic novels, this one from Frank Miller who gave us the delicious Sin City. Indeed, we are taken in a world where men are trained from childhood to become soldiers, who are taught to defend their land and never surrender nor run away from battle. In the land of Sparta, men have their place and so do the women, who stand by their men and breed the most terrifying warriors in Greece. If a newborn doesn't seem fit to live the life of a Spartan, he or she is outcast (a horrible sequence at the beginning of the film shows it clearly).
The film shows us one of the most violent battles of ancient time : the battle of Thermopylae, where only 300 Spartans took on the Persian empire, led by Lord Xerxes who sought to invade Greece. The Spartan soldiers were led by King Leonidas, played brilliantly by a very buff Gerard Butler, who always has his people's freedom to lead him on the front lines to fight off their enemy. Another great performance is that of Lena Headey, who plays Queen Gorgo, who knows what's at stake for her people and isn't afraid to stand up to men who have the higher place in society. It is fun to watch her quarrel with a sneaky politician played by Dominic West to try to send her husband reinforcements for battle.
Once the battle starts, we are in for the ride, and it is wonderful to watch. We see the force of these Spartans is truly to be feared, and they must show no weakness and no mercy. Of course, when you are outnumbered by about a million, you can't afford to take prisoners. This film portrays stylish battle sequences, well diversified fabulously gory and realistic way better than the efforts of Troy and Alexander in recent years (of course, The Lord Of The Rings does not compare with the film, but 300 is surprisingly excellent).
For those of you who read the novel or is familiar with Greek history know the outcome of the story, but for those of you who'd rather wait to know by seeing the film, you will enjoy watching the Spartan people who survived the test of time by showing great bravery and skill by fighting against the Persian army, and there is a wonderful narrative from David Wenham (Lord Of The Rings) to guide us through the story and you will love every step of the way. Of course, this film will not be nominated for Best Picture, but I expect it to pick up a few technical nominations, notably for costumes, makeup and visual effects. The film presents a haunting score from Tyler Bates that I absolutely adored, but I think it's a long way from January to be mentioned in the top 5.
Directed by Zack Snyder, this film is a wonder to watch, and if you want to feel like you're in the battle of Thermopylae, then go see it!
300 : directed by Zack Snyder
Produced by Mark Canton, Bernie Goldmann, Gianni Nunnari and Jeffrey Silver
Written by Zack Snyder, Kurt Johnstad and Michael Gordon based on the graphic novel by Frank Miller and Lynn Varley.
Starring Gerard Butler, Lena Headey, David Wenham and Dominic West.
Running Time : approx. 116 minutes.
Grade : ****/****
Thursday, March 8, 2007
The Seven Best Movie Musicals: #2
.2. The Music Man (1962)
Directed by Morton DaCosta
Starring Robert Preston and Shirley Jones
Winner of the Best Adapted Score Academy Award. Nominated for 6, including Best Picture.
One of the most easy to like films of all time, Morton DaCosta's "The Music Man" is one of the few musicals where the story is actually better than the music. And, with a soundtrack this enjoyable, that's saying something. Shirley Jones steals every scene in the film as the tongue-in-cheek librarian Marian Paroo. When she sings, the world suddenly stops (yes, her performance is worthy of these kinds of buzz phrases). Simply suberb.
Directed by Morton DaCosta
Starring Robert Preston and Shirley Jones
Winner of the Best Adapted Score Academy Award. Nominated for 6, including Best Picture.
One of the most easy to like films of all time, Morton DaCosta's "The Music Man" is one of the few musicals where the story is actually better than the music. And, with a soundtrack this enjoyable, that's saying something. Shirley Jones steals every scene in the film as the tongue-in-cheek librarian Marian Paroo. When she sings, the world suddenly stops (yes, her performance is worthy of these kinds of buzz phrases). Simply suberb.
Wednesday, March 7, 2007
The Seven Best Movie Musicals: #3
3. West Side Story (1961)
Directed by Jerome Robbins and Robert Wise
Starring Natalie Wood and Richard Beymer
Winner of 10 Academy Awards, Including Best Picture. Nominated for 11.
Okay, so I want to make a musical based on Romeo and Juliet, only it takes place in New York City. If someone came in with that pitch, I would have laughed them out. But it seems like they didn't do so; and thank God for that. What a thoroughly enjoyable film this was. It is one of the only films out there that really will make you laugh and cry. The only thing that would have made this better is if Richard Beymer was dubbed like Natalie Wood was. He really doesn't have the pipes to play Tony. But, nonetheless, this is a very faithful adaptation of one of the greatest musicals ever made.
Directed by Jerome Robbins and Robert Wise
Starring Natalie Wood and Richard Beymer
Winner of 10 Academy Awards, Including Best Picture. Nominated for 11.
Okay, so I want to make a musical based on Romeo and Juliet, only it takes place in New York City. If someone came in with that pitch, I would have laughed them out. But it seems like they didn't do so; and thank God for that. What a thoroughly enjoyable film this was. It is one of the only films out there that really will make you laugh and cry. The only thing that would have made this better is if Richard Beymer was dubbed like Natalie Wood was. He really doesn't have the pipes to play Tony. But, nonetheless, this is a very faithful adaptation of one of the greatest musicals ever made.
Early Best Picture Predictions
There is a long way to go before next year's Oscars, but here's a look of the potential candidates for the top prize for the 80th Academy Award Ceremony:
1) American Gangster
After a commercially disastrous flop for Ridley Scott (the fabulously boring A Good Year), he comes in this year joining Denzel Washington and Russell Crowe again with an early favorite based on the true story of Frank 'Superfly' Lucas. And with a script from one of Hollywood's best, Steven Zaillian, this will rack up a lot of nominations, especially in the big 8.
2) Charlie Wilson's War
Another early favorite, this new film from Oscar darling Mike Nichols will be very much anticipated, directing a big cast for this production. Even though it will have a lot of competition with two other productions on Afghanistan, a lot of great performances are expected, notably from Tom Hanks and Phillip Seymour Hoffman (even Amy Adams could pull off a nom). Even though the Academy might favor other actors due to the number of Academy winners in the acting categories (Hanks, Hoffman and Julia Roberts), you can expect it to be one of the top contenders.
3) The Kite Runner
With Marc Forster at the helm, this film could be the next Crash or Babel. This film contains the kind of story that the Academy has favoured over the last few years. Of course, the actors are relatively unknown, but this screenplay should be one of the most powerful of the year.
4) There Will Be Blood
Paul Thomas Anderson, maybe the most underrated filmmaker in Hollywood, brings us his first historical film and it should be a winner. With Daniel Day-Lewis starring, it revolves around a lot of topics that will interest the Academy, including family and greed. The one thing that might hurt this film is it's box-office that is expected to be low, but don't let that fool you (Letters from Iwo Jima!)
5) I'm Not There
This truly original idea of the story of Bob Dylan should be an interesting one, since the Academy is looking to repair it's error of not nominating Walk The Line for Best Picture. With a big cast to choose from, director Todd Haynes may pick up a couple of nominations come next year.
Others to consider
Sweeney Todd
A big production from Tim Burton (only nominated once for Corpse Bride), this new collaboration with Johnny Depp and Burton's wife Helena Bonham Carter will be one of the favorites to enter this category, with a script from John Logan and a strong supporting cast including Alan Rickman and Sacha Baron Cohen (can't wait to see his performance). Of course, since it's an adaptation from a Broadway play, the public's reaction will influence the decision, so hopefully it will be faithful to it's legacy.
Lions For Lambs
With Redford behind the camera, this film will mark the comeback for Tom Cruise who needs some Oscar glory to shake off last year's gossip-filled 'events'. Since this is another Afghanistan located film, it will be hard to enter the top category, but if the acting is great, it will have a chance.
Reservation Road
Like In The Bedroom and unlike Little Children, this quiet small-town drama adapted from the novel by John Burnham Schwartz could make it in the top 5 if it can pull off a lot of nominations in the big 8. With a very strong cast (Joaquin Phoenix, Jennifer Connelly and Mark Ruffalo are favored to be nominated) and a good director in Terry George, this film will turn some heads around.
The Other Boleyn Girl
This film has all the ingredients to rack up a lot of nominations; based on a controversial novel with strong feminine characters, a lot of technical nominations are expected since this film takes place in 16th Century England. Natalie Portman will likely be nominated for this project, as well as Peter Morgan, but it will depend on the flow of the story to see if it will impress the Academy, who left Marie Antoinette and Memoirs of a Geisha unrewarded in this category.
The Golden Age
Normally, sequels have no chance of making the top 5, but Elizabeth was one of the most interesting films of 1998, far better in my opinion than Shakespeare in Love. Cate Blanchett was robbed of the Oscar last time around, but this film will mark another strong performance, as Shehkar Kapur returns to direct the film. Clive Owen will be interesting to watch as Sir Walter Raleigh, and it will pick up a lot of nominations, even possibly for Best Picture.
For my next post, I shall address my early predictions in the acting categories as well as my top 10 anticipated films of 2007.
1) American Gangster
After a commercially disastrous flop for Ridley Scott (the fabulously boring A Good Year), he comes in this year joining Denzel Washington and Russell Crowe again with an early favorite based on the true story of Frank 'Superfly' Lucas. And with a script from one of Hollywood's best, Steven Zaillian, this will rack up a lot of nominations, especially in the big 8.
2) Charlie Wilson's War
Another early favorite, this new film from Oscar darling Mike Nichols will be very much anticipated, directing a big cast for this production. Even though it will have a lot of competition with two other productions on Afghanistan, a lot of great performances are expected, notably from Tom Hanks and Phillip Seymour Hoffman (even Amy Adams could pull off a nom). Even though the Academy might favor other actors due to the number of Academy winners in the acting categories (Hanks, Hoffman and Julia Roberts), you can expect it to be one of the top contenders.
3) The Kite Runner
With Marc Forster at the helm, this film could be the next Crash or Babel. This film contains the kind of story that the Academy has favoured over the last few years. Of course, the actors are relatively unknown, but this screenplay should be one of the most powerful of the year.
4) There Will Be Blood
Paul Thomas Anderson, maybe the most underrated filmmaker in Hollywood, brings us his first historical film and it should be a winner. With Daniel Day-Lewis starring, it revolves around a lot of topics that will interest the Academy, including family and greed. The one thing that might hurt this film is it's box-office that is expected to be low, but don't let that fool you (Letters from Iwo Jima!)
5) I'm Not There
This truly original idea of the story of Bob Dylan should be an interesting one, since the Academy is looking to repair it's error of not nominating Walk The Line for Best Picture. With a big cast to choose from, director Todd Haynes may pick up a couple of nominations come next year.
Others to consider
Sweeney Todd
A big production from Tim Burton (only nominated once for Corpse Bride), this new collaboration with Johnny Depp and Burton's wife Helena Bonham Carter will be one of the favorites to enter this category, with a script from John Logan and a strong supporting cast including Alan Rickman and Sacha Baron Cohen (can't wait to see his performance). Of course, since it's an adaptation from a Broadway play, the public's reaction will influence the decision, so hopefully it will be faithful to it's legacy.
Lions For Lambs
With Redford behind the camera, this film will mark the comeback for Tom Cruise who needs some Oscar glory to shake off last year's gossip-filled 'events'. Since this is another Afghanistan located film, it will be hard to enter the top category, but if the acting is great, it will have a chance.
Reservation Road
Like In The Bedroom and unlike Little Children, this quiet small-town drama adapted from the novel by John Burnham Schwartz could make it in the top 5 if it can pull off a lot of nominations in the big 8. With a very strong cast (Joaquin Phoenix, Jennifer Connelly and Mark Ruffalo are favored to be nominated) and a good director in Terry George, this film will turn some heads around.
The Other Boleyn Girl
This film has all the ingredients to rack up a lot of nominations; based on a controversial novel with strong feminine characters, a lot of technical nominations are expected since this film takes place in 16th Century England. Natalie Portman will likely be nominated for this project, as well as Peter Morgan, but it will depend on the flow of the story to see if it will impress the Academy, who left Marie Antoinette and Memoirs of a Geisha unrewarded in this category.
The Golden Age
Normally, sequels have no chance of making the top 5, but Elizabeth was one of the most interesting films of 1998, far better in my opinion than Shakespeare in Love. Cate Blanchett was robbed of the Oscar last time around, but this film will mark another strong performance, as Shehkar Kapur returns to direct the film. Clive Owen will be interesting to watch as Sir Walter Raleigh, and it will pick up a lot of nominations, even possibly for Best Picture.
For my next post, I shall address my early predictions in the acting categories as well as my top 10 anticipated films of 2007.
Tuesday, March 6, 2007
My 10 Most Anticipated Films of 2007
Here are my most anticipated films of 2007, along with their trailers (if available). Please keep in mind that these are NOT necessarily awards contenders (my top two are Hairspray and The Simpsons Movie, for God's sake), just movies I want to see. Let's begin...
1. The Simpsons Movie
2. Hairspray
3. Sweeney Todd
(There isn't a trailer for this one yet, so I just put footage of the opening number)
4. Spider-Man 3
5. The Other Boleyn Girl
(No Trailer Available)
6. Evening
(No Trailer Available)
7. American Gangster
(No Trailer Available)
8. Snow Cake
9. Shrek the Third
10. Goya's Ghost
2. Hairspray
3. Sweeney Todd
(There isn't a trailer for this one yet, so I just put footage of the opening number)
4. Spider-Man 3
5. The Other Boleyn Girl
(No Trailer Available)
6. Evening
(No Trailer Available)
7. American Gangster
(No Trailer Available)
8. Snow Cake
9. Shrek the Third
10. Goya's Ghost
The Seven Best Movie Musicals: #4
4. My Fair Lady (1964)
Directed by George Cukor
Starring Audrey Hepburn and Rex Harrison
Winner of 8 Academy Awards, Including Best Picture. Nominated for 12.
An adaptation years in the making, George Cukor's "My Fair Lady" really did keep the spirit, tone and overall mood of the hit Broadway show of the same name. Of course, it would have been perfect if Julie Andrews were playing Eliza, but still, it's delightful to watch every time. And tell me you haven't hit the rewind button after songs like "I Could Have Danced All Night" and "Wouldn't it Be Loverly?"
Directed by George Cukor
Starring Audrey Hepburn and Rex Harrison
Winner of 8 Academy Awards, Including Best Picture. Nominated for 12.
An adaptation years in the making, George Cukor's "My Fair Lady" really did keep the spirit, tone and overall mood of the hit Broadway show of the same name. Of course, it would have been perfect if Julie Andrews were playing Eliza, but still, it's delightful to watch every time. And tell me you haven't hit the rewind button after songs like "I Could Have Danced All Night" and "Wouldn't it Be Loverly?"
Monday, March 5, 2007
The Seven Best Movie Musicals: #5
5. The Wizard of Oz (1939)
Directed by Victor Fleming
Starring Judy Garland and Ray Bolger
Winner of Two Academy Awards, Including Best Original Song for "Somewhere Over the Rainbow." Nominated for 6.
Victor Fleming's masterpiece "The Wizard of Oz" didn't only create a starlet in Judy Garland, it also created a fantastic movie. Incredibly original, amazing visual effects (even by today's standards) and years ahead of its time. I was fortunate enough to be able to see this on the big screen, which made all the difference (even though I was only three). And the songs in this movie simply can't be beaten.
Directed by Victor Fleming
Starring Judy Garland and Ray Bolger
Winner of Two Academy Awards, Including Best Original Song for "Somewhere Over the Rainbow." Nominated for 6.
Victor Fleming's masterpiece "The Wizard of Oz" didn't only create a starlet in Judy Garland, it also created a fantastic movie. Incredibly original, amazing visual effects (even by today's standards) and years ahead of its time. I was fortunate enough to be able to see this on the big screen, which made all the difference (even though I was only three). And the songs in this movie simply can't be beaten.
Sunday, March 4, 2007
2007 Predictions: The First Batch (Best Actor)
Back to the first round of predix...
BEST ACTOR
Johnny Depp-Sweeney Todd-This will definitely be a hit-or-miss thing, as all Tim Burton films are. I was really, really apprehensive when I heard that Johnny would be playing the Demon Barber of Fleet Street, but I've kinda cozied up to the idea now. A Golden Globe nod is assured, but I'm on the fence about this one. But if it's a hit, Johnny Depp will get his Oscar at last...
Joaquin Phoenix-Reservation Road-This one seems a LOT more likely. The Academy proved they loved Joaquin when they gave him a totally undeserved nod for Gladiator, and this, if it gets the right reviews, could easily gain him a win.
Denzel Washington-American Gangster-Assuming this is in fact a leading performance, Denzel will probably be nominated if the film is successful. Oscar loves to give recent winners nominations to prove that they didn't award a lightning-in-a-bottle performance, and he hasn't been nominated since he won for the second time in 2001. Sigh. Such a good actor. I wish he would make good movies again.
Tom Hanks-Charlie Wilson's War-Even if the film doesn't get a Best Picture nod, Tom will be able to get a nomination if the film and his performance do well with critics. After all, he is an Academy favorite.
Alan Rickman-Snow Cake-I was introduced to this film by someone who found the trailer on YouTube. Gosh, I love that website. Just look at it.
Assuming it doesn't get an NC-17 rating (and I highly, highly doubt it will), it's pure Oscar bait for acting categories.
Joaquin Phoenix-Reservation Road-This one seems a LOT more likely. The Academy proved they loved Joaquin when they gave him a totally undeserved nod for Gladiator, and this, if it gets the right reviews, could easily gain him a win.
Denzel Washington-American Gangster-Assuming this is in fact a leading performance, Denzel will probably be nominated if the film is successful. Oscar loves to give recent winners nominations to prove that they didn't award a lightning-in-a-bottle performance, and he hasn't been nominated since he won for the second time in 2001. Sigh. Such a good actor. I wish he would make good movies again.
Tom Hanks-Charlie Wilson's War-Even if the film doesn't get a Best Picture nod, Tom will be able to get a nomination if the film and his performance do well with critics. After all, he is an Academy favorite.
Alan Rickman-Snow Cake-I was introduced to this film by someone who found the trailer on YouTube. Gosh, I love that website. Just look at it.
Assuming it doesn't get an NC-17 rating (and I highly, highly doubt it will), it's pure Oscar bait for acting categories.
IN THE RUNNING
(In No Order)
(In No Order)
James McAvoy-Atonement-The breakout star of 2006, McAvoy has to get a nomination somewhere, right? Not really. This movie looks really bad, frankly, and he'll probably sign onto something in the last minute that could give him a nod. Or not. There's always next year. Besides, I think this is a supporting performance anyways.
Chris Cooper-Breach-It's been called the first great performance of the year, but so was Aaron Eckhart in "Thank You for Smoking." If he campaigns a LOT, he could be nominated and even win, but the fact that we can see it now-in early March-is never a good sign for an Oscar contender.
George Clooney-Michael Clayton-Eh, maybe. I need geniune reviews first. Yes, Oscar loves rewarding past winners, but this really, really, really, really, really isn't the right film for it to happen in.
Chris Cooper-Breach-It's been called the first great performance of the year, but so was Aaron Eckhart in "Thank You for Smoking." If he campaigns a LOT, he could be nominated and even win, but the fact that we can see it now-in early March-is never a good sign for an Oscar contender.
George Clooney-Michael Clayton-Eh, maybe. I need geniune reviews first. Yes, Oscar loves rewarding past winners, but this really, really, really, really, really isn't the right film for it to happen in.
The Seven Best Movie Musicals: #6
6. The Lion King (1994)
Directed by Roger Allers and Rob Minkoff
Starring the Voice Talents of Matthew Broderick and Jeremy Irons
Winner of 2 Academy Awards. Nominated for 4, Including 3 Nominations in the Best Original Song category
This will make it hard to do my best family films list next week, because Mary Poppins and The Lion King are two of the best movies in that category. This really should have been nominated for Best Picture, joining Beatuy and the Beast as the only animated film to be given such a title. The animation in this film is breathtaking, the songs are classic, the story is outstanding and everything about this makes you want to stand up and cheer. The same can be said about the Broadway show.
Directed by Roger Allers and Rob Minkoff
Starring the Voice Talents of Matthew Broderick and Jeremy Irons
Winner of 2 Academy Awards. Nominated for 4, Including 3 Nominations in the Best Original Song category
This will make it hard to do my best family films list next week, because Mary Poppins and The Lion King are two of the best movies in that category. This really should have been nominated for Best Picture, joining Beatuy and the Beast as the only animated film to be given such a title. The animation in this film is breathtaking, the songs are classic, the story is outstanding and everything about this makes you want to stand up and cheer. The same can be said about the Broadway show.
Saturday, March 3, 2007
The Seven Best Movie Musicals: #7
We've got an awfully long way to go until we get back at the Kodak, so, to eat up time, I'm going to do a 5-week project of the 7 best (insert genre here)s. The categories are Musical, Romance, Thriller, Comedy and Drama. The same film CAN be used twice. This week we're doing Movie Musicals, starting with #7. In case you haven't read my biography, I am a HUGE, HUGE, HUGE, HUGE, HUGE musical fan, so this ought to be fun. Here we go...
7. Mary Poppins (1964)
Directed by Robert Stevenson
Starring Julie Andrews & Dick Van Dyke
Winner of 5 Academy Awards Including Best Actress-Julie Andrews. Nominated for 13.
Marking the film breakthrough and Academy Award Winning performance of the amazing Julie Andrews, this supercalifragilisticexpialidocious (sorry, I couldn't resist) musical is one for the history books. It is imaginative, family friendly and incredibly entertianing. If only we could have movie musicals today.
7. Mary Poppins (1964)
Directed by Robert Stevenson
Starring Julie Andrews & Dick Van Dyke
Winner of 5 Academy Awards Including Best Actress-Julie Andrews. Nominated for 13.
Marking the film breakthrough and Academy Award Winning performance of the amazing Julie Andrews, this supercalifragilisticexpialidocious (sorry, I couldn't resist) musical is one for the history books. It is imaginative, family friendly and incredibly entertianing. If only we could have movie musicals today.
Friday, March 2, 2007
The Formula to a Box Office Hit
Now that the Oscars are completely out of everyone's mind (which is a good thing. I'm tired of people thinking they're a "movie buff" when they can't even name one Best Picture winner other than The Departed), we can focus on film as a whole. Also, on an unrelated note, I become a full time contributor for Oscar Addict in a matter of days. Anyways, when focusing on film as a whole, it's hard to ignore the box office factor. Below is a foolproof way to receive a box office hit. Listen up, Tara Reid!
Wow, I feel powerful now.
- Get movie stars that haven't done any other particularly good movies, but are all respected. That way, their part in this film will be remembered as their "career defining" role (aren't you tired of how at EVERY award show there's always an "exclusive Titanic reunion between Leo and Kate!" Well they brought that upon themselves.)
- If you can't do the above, then be a sequel to a surprisingly successful film of a few years ago (Shrek 2 and Pirates of the Caribbean come to mind).
- Make a moderately good movie. MODERATELY good. Don't make it so good that it would fend off a popular audience, but make it good enough that it can get a little Oscar attention (or a lot)
- If necessary, be animated. Animated films rarely fail at the box office (provided that they don't suck.)
- Most importantly, ADVERTISE! Everyone likes to say that advertising doesn't effect them, but it does. It effects everyone. Promote promote promote promote!
Wow, I feel powerful now.
Thursday, March 1, 2007
2007 : Box Office Records?
Plenty of sequels are scheduled to be released this summer. Many of the franchises involved have had a lot of success at the box-office, including three of them in the top 10 of the North American all-time box-office (not adjusted to inflation, of course, but you get the point). Could this be the year movie studios have been waiting for to collect their share of gold? Here's an early prediction of what I think will be the top 10 grossing films of 2007, not in any particular order, to which I'll include films that might make this list and those which could make over 100 million dollars.
1) 3o0
Scheduled to be released next week, the story of the 300 Spartans at the battle of Thermopylae has received a lot of online buzz since last year's Comic Con. With a lot of promising battle sequences and stylish filmmaking, this will definitely one of the best popcorn experiences of the year that could surprise with a few Oscar nominations.
What may hurt it's box-office : since it's a March release, it will not attract audiences in huge numbers in it's opening weeks, so it will need to carry through a while to attract people on the weekends since most kids are still in school and won't see it on weekdays.
2) Spider-Man 3
The return of Peter Parker already has a lot of people talking. The second film was an improvement on it's predecessor, and it's looking like the third installment will be even greater, with more baddies who will try to take out our friendly neighbourhood. A love triangle will take place, with Bryce Dallas Howard who will try to make a success out of her role, Oscar nominee Thomas Haden Church who will make a brilliant Sandman, I'm sure, and the arrival of Venom, my favorite villain from the comic books.
What may hurt it's box-office : nothing really, except maybe that two other bombs will be released in the same month, but it will be the most successful chapter of the franchise.
3) Shrek
The most successful animated franchise in history is back for a third adventure with the gang. Yes, they're all back, as Shrek, Donkey and Puss travel to find a lost prince who will take Shrek's place as the heir to the kingdom of Far Far Away, whilst Fiona recruits her princess friends to fight off Prince Charming back home. A family film always helps to bring in a big box-office, and this one shall be no different.
What may hurt it's box-office : with Justin Timberlake voicing a new character in this film, will his performance be satisfying enough for both kid and adult audiences alike?
4) Pirates of the Caribbean: At World's End
Well, moviefans' favorite pirate is back, as Will Turner and Elizabeth Swann set to find Jack Sparrow with the help of an old foe (do I really have to tell you who?), try to kill Davey Jones and a bunch of Chinese pirates who have a hand in this story. Box-office gold? You betcha, coming off a sequel bringing in over a billion dollars worldwide, Johnny Depp will have moviegoers chucklin' once again, and Keith Richards will be interesting to watch.
What may hurt it's box-office : leaving us at a halt with the last film, just as Matrix Reloaded did, will the story for the third film be good enough for people to encourage their entourage to see it? We'll find out.
5) Ratatouille
Pixar has had enormous success at the box-office in recent years, and this film will continue the streak. With the return of Brad Bird (who gave us the Incredibles) directing, this film will take us in France where a rat tries to learn cuisine in order to become a top chef. This adventure will get plenty of laughs from both young and adult audiences alike, but will it live up to the tradition of Finding Nemo and Toy Story?
What may hurt it's box-office : the film relies on it's level of humor and a fine tradition of films to live up to, so early buzz will be important for it's success.
6) Live Free or Die Hard
YES! Bruce Willis is back, playing the character that defined his career. One of the best action franchises of the late 80's and 90's, moviegoers are definitely awaiting the return of John McClane, as he takes on another group of terrorists. It will be interesting for him to look at the relationship developed between John and his son, played by Justin Long. It will be the kick-a** movie of the summer, and young audiences will have the chance to see him in movie theatres (nice move for him going for his natural bald, because a wig would've not been good for this one)
What may hurt it's box-office : the critics' view on the film will have a big impact on this one, so hopefully it will be fun for them too.
7) Transformers
Michael Bay is back with another visual effects extravaganza, taking on a very popular franchise from television. A lot of fans from the show are awaiting this film, and it has all the ingredients to make it a summer hit with action sequences that should be visually stunning.
What may hurt it's box-office : with a young cast trying to stay alive in the war on these robots from outer space, and a director known for concentrating more on the visual aspect than the acting and storyline, it will be difficult for the film to attract positive reviews, but then again, we'll see.
8) Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix
Harry Potter is back again, with a darker chapter of the franchise as Harry prepares once again to fight Voldemort with the help of his friends and pupils. Of course, the success of the other films will help much here, but the buzz will help a lot in opening weeks, since this is the longest of the Harry Potter novels, and we'll see how David Yates takes on the wizard world with a big order to impress.
What may hurt it's box-office : Daniel Radcliffe's new turn of the theatre might put off some audience members, but it will be funny to see him for his first on-screen kiss. It will also be tough to impress audiences if too much of the storyline is cut, or the film is too long, so it's up to the editing team to find the perfect compromise.
9) The Simpsons Movie
Well, after only 18 years on the air, the world's favorite family finally get their shot at the big screen. Of course, people will go see this movie out of pure principle, but it will be interesting to see if Homer, Marge, Bart, Lisa, Maggie and all the countless other characters can keep us in our seats for an hour and a half or two hours. One thing is for sure, it's fan base will be lining up for this film way in advance.
What may hurt it's box-office : The story has to be interesting, otherwise people who don't watch the show will not go see the film in theatres.
10) The Bourne Ultimatum
One of the best action franchises in recent years, here's another example where the sequel was better than the first film, and a lot of buzz surrounds the third one. With Academy Award nominee Paul Greengrass returning for this film (I was so glad he got the nom for United 93: a fine achievement), Matt Damon is back as Jason Bourne, as he will travel the world once again to find the secrets of his past whilst being chased by smart villains who'll want to kill him. This will be a great summer adventure and I can't wait for another chase sequence.
What may hurt it's box-office : The filmmakers were not able to sign Gael Garcia Bernal for this film, which might upset fans of the franchise. Otherwise, this should be one great ride.
Other films that might get a big box-office :
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles
Grindhouse
Knocked Up
Ocean's 13
Surf's Up
Fantastic Four: Rise Of The Silver Surfer
Evan Almighty
I Now Pronounce You Chuck And Larry
Rush Hour 3
Resident Evil: Extinction
Saw IV (pending if it will still be an October release)
His Dark Materials: The Golden Compass
I Am Legend
National Treasure: The Book of Secrets
Alien vs Predator: AVP 2
Well, I hope I gave you some interesting ideas of this year's biggest blockbusters, and next time, I shall post my early predictions for 2007 Best Picture nominees for next year's ceremony.
1) 3o0
Scheduled to be released next week, the story of the 300 Spartans at the battle of Thermopylae has received a lot of online buzz since last year's Comic Con. With a lot of promising battle sequences and stylish filmmaking, this will definitely one of the best popcorn experiences of the year that could surprise with a few Oscar nominations.
What may hurt it's box-office : since it's a March release, it will not attract audiences in huge numbers in it's opening weeks, so it will need to carry through a while to attract people on the weekends since most kids are still in school and won't see it on weekdays.
2) Spider-Man 3
The return of Peter Parker already has a lot of people talking. The second film was an improvement on it's predecessor, and it's looking like the third installment will be even greater, with more baddies who will try to take out our friendly neighbourhood. A love triangle will take place, with Bryce Dallas Howard who will try to make a success out of her role, Oscar nominee Thomas Haden Church who will make a brilliant Sandman, I'm sure, and the arrival of Venom, my favorite villain from the comic books.
What may hurt it's box-office : nothing really, except maybe that two other bombs will be released in the same month, but it will be the most successful chapter of the franchise.
3) Shrek
The most successful animated franchise in history is back for a third adventure with the gang. Yes, they're all back, as Shrek, Donkey and Puss travel to find a lost prince who will take Shrek's place as the heir to the kingdom of Far Far Away, whilst Fiona recruits her princess friends to fight off Prince Charming back home. A family film always helps to bring in a big box-office, and this one shall be no different.
What may hurt it's box-office : with Justin Timberlake voicing a new character in this film, will his performance be satisfying enough for both kid and adult audiences alike?
4) Pirates of the Caribbean: At World's End
Well, moviefans' favorite pirate is back, as Will Turner and Elizabeth Swann set to find Jack Sparrow with the help of an old foe (do I really have to tell you who?), try to kill Davey Jones and a bunch of Chinese pirates who have a hand in this story. Box-office gold? You betcha, coming off a sequel bringing in over a billion dollars worldwide, Johnny Depp will have moviegoers chucklin' once again, and Keith Richards will be interesting to watch.
What may hurt it's box-office : leaving us at a halt with the last film, just as Matrix Reloaded did, will the story for the third film be good enough for people to encourage their entourage to see it? We'll find out.
5) Ratatouille
Pixar has had enormous success at the box-office in recent years, and this film will continue the streak. With the return of Brad Bird (who gave us the Incredibles) directing, this film will take us in France where a rat tries to learn cuisine in order to become a top chef. This adventure will get plenty of laughs from both young and adult audiences alike, but will it live up to the tradition of Finding Nemo and Toy Story?
What may hurt it's box-office : the film relies on it's level of humor and a fine tradition of films to live up to, so early buzz will be important for it's success.
6) Live Free or Die Hard
YES! Bruce Willis is back, playing the character that defined his career. One of the best action franchises of the late 80's and 90's, moviegoers are definitely awaiting the return of John McClane, as he takes on another group of terrorists. It will be interesting for him to look at the relationship developed between John and his son, played by Justin Long. It will be the kick-a** movie of the summer, and young audiences will have the chance to see him in movie theatres (nice move for him going for his natural bald, because a wig would've not been good for this one)
What may hurt it's box-office : the critics' view on the film will have a big impact on this one, so hopefully it will be fun for them too.
7) Transformers
Michael Bay is back with another visual effects extravaganza, taking on a very popular franchise from television. A lot of fans from the show are awaiting this film, and it has all the ingredients to make it a summer hit with action sequences that should be visually stunning.
What may hurt it's box-office : with a young cast trying to stay alive in the war on these robots from outer space, and a director known for concentrating more on the visual aspect than the acting and storyline, it will be difficult for the film to attract positive reviews, but then again, we'll see.
8) Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix
Harry Potter is back again, with a darker chapter of the franchise as Harry prepares once again to fight Voldemort with the help of his friends and pupils. Of course, the success of the other films will help much here, but the buzz will help a lot in opening weeks, since this is the longest of the Harry Potter novels, and we'll see how David Yates takes on the wizard world with a big order to impress.
What may hurt it's box-office : Daniel Radcliffe's new turn of the theatre might put off some audience members, but it will be funny to see him for his first on-screen kiss. It will also be tough to impress audiences if too much of the storyline is cut, or the film is too long, so it's up to the editing team to find the perfect compromise.
9) The Simpsons Movie
Well, after only 18 years on the air, the world's favorite family finally get their shot at the big screen. Of course, people will go see this movie out of pure principle, but it will be interesting to see if Homer, Marge, Bart, Lisa, Maggie and all the countless other characters can keep us in our seats for an hour and a half or two hours. One thing is for sure, it's fan base will be lining up for this film way in advance.
What may hurt it's box-office : The story has to be interesting, otherwise people who don't watch the show will not go see the film in theatres.
10) The Bourne Ultimatum
One of the best action franchises in recent years, here's another example where the sequel was better than the first film, and a lot of buzz surrounds the third one. With Academy Award nominee Paul Greengrass returning for this film (I was so glad he got the nom for United 93: a fine achievement), Matt Damon is back as Jason Bourne, as he will travel the world once again to find the secrets of his past whilst being chased by smart villains who'll want to kill him. This will be a great summer adventure and I can't wait for another chase sequence.
What may hurt it's box-office : The filmmakers were not able to sign Gael Garcia Bernal for this film, which might upset fans of the franchise. Otherwise, this should be one great ride.
Other films that might get a big box-office :
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles
Grindhouse
Knocked Up
Ocean's 13
Surf's Up
Fantastic Four: Rise Of The Silver Surfer
Evan Almighty
I Now Pronounce You Chuck And Larry
Rush Hour 3
Resident Evil: Extinction
Saw IV (pending if it will still be an October release)
His Dark Materials: The Golden Compass
I Am Legend
National Treasure: The Book of Secrets
Alien vs Predator: AVP 2
Well, I hope I gave you some interesting ideas of this year's biggest blockbusters, and next time, I shall post my early predictions for 2007 Best Picture nominees for next year's ceremony.
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