With barely two weeks remaining until the big day arrives, there is tons of talk about what we will be doing that day before doing the walking and the vowing and the drinking. One of the things brought up was that I wasn't allowed to see my future wife that day until the wedding march played, and she walked, all dramatic-like towards me, with her wedding dress on. I found it odd that I was forbidden from my bride that entire day, not just lunchtime, or the time leading up, or snack time, but the whole day. I couldn't even wake up with her.
A friend of mine was talking about this the other day, thinking that it may have had something to do with arranged marriages back in the day, not unveiling the bride until the last moment. She had also said that it was about the big reveal. I'm all for the whole thing, and I can't wait to see the woman I love, looking like the most beautiful woman on the planet, coming towards me to vow to marry me, but does that mean we can't even share an egg McMuffin? I've lived with my future wife for about eight months now, so, waking up without her will be a different experience, one I'm glad is reserved for one day only.
I'm not into superstitions, although I occasionally knock on wood, or cross my fingers, I don't believe stepping on cracks would break my mothers back, or that black cats are bad luck, or breaking a mirror is the holiest of all bad-luck things, with a seven-year sentence. I also don't believe that seeing my bride before the wedding is a big deal, and will affect the outcome of the soon to be married us. That being said, I guess, what could it hurt? It'll just make me yearn for her company that much more, it'll make me want to be with her more than I do of every second of every day, and if it's even possible, the wait will make me appreciate her stunning beauty even more. And if she wants a big reveal, it's her day, she can have it, and she can see the stunned look on my face as she walks towards me, ready to vow.
I guess I'll have to eat that egg McMuffin on my own.
This is your fiancée hacking into your blogs and I just want to say that I love you very much and I am so glad I met you. You have brought nothing but sunshine into my life after all the rain and thunderstorms. Thank you for that and I promise to make you the happiest man alive!
Peeps Mr. Hopp's blog rock. Thanks for reading them all!
Welcome to Kevin's Korner! This week, we have some goodies, so buckle your seatbelts... ok, I guess that doesn't really make sense, given you don't have seatbelts in the office chairs you're sitting in. Anywho, there are some cool things that happened this week, and I'm going to break them all down for you.
I'm in the news business, and business is a boomin...
Doesn't that blow your mind?! - Over at Blastr.com, there was a post talking about Christopher Nolan and his seeming lack of ability to cover up the latest shooting of The Dark Knight Rises. The post talks about how in all the previous films filmed by Nolan, you never saw any leaks of any kind, in fact, his movies were extremely lock and key. Now, you are seeing all this footage right out in the open, with no attempt to hide anything, in fact, you see these tumblers driving down the street with loud exhaust, in an almost parade. The author says it all as to do with a movie called The Prestige. In the movie, Michael Cain's character talks about how a magic trick is broken into three parts, the Pledge, the turn, and finally the Prestige. The author is wondering if all these leaks are the turn, and come next year, we will see the Prestige. It's a pretty cool idea, right, the idea that all we are seeing is totally B.S., and we have no idea what to expect? I have a feeling it's not quite magic. My opinion would be that things could change slightly, but given the popularity and anticipation of the film, there would be no way to hide certain shots, but I have a feeling what we are seeing is a very small amount of what will be in the actual film. It would be a pretty good trick, to hide the filming of a huge blockbuster film in this day and age, but I don't think Nolan is even capable of that.
Maybe Batman isn't that clever - Alright, so after this anticipation for a new film, we get another video showing us the interrogation of the joker. Or, joker-ish. Yeah, it's another video mocking the Christian Bale growl, but I still find it funny.
One more Batman rumor... - There was another rumor about the film ending in a complete FX scene, which could add all kinds of speculation to the end of the film. Now, the ending of Batman Begins ends with an FX shot, but this could lead to all kinds of speculation. What do you think, a Harry Potter-esque epilogue, or maybe a dead Batman? Leave your idea for the ending in the comments, but in the spirit of Waynes' World, I want the mega-happy ending. Batman gets a girl, Bane gets his own exercise video, Catwoman gets a catnip farm, and everyone learns a lesson.
Netflix trying to un-piss off people - After jacking up the price, then apologizing about it, then saying Netflix is now two different websites, not able to connect with eachother, Netflix is trying to figure out how to make it up to its once happy customers. The CEO said this week that while coupons and temporary price decreases are not out of the question, he said a temporary fix isn't what he is looking for. He also said that the streaming service is still their main focus. Yeah, thanks for the help, Netflix, but we're on a break, and I don't want to talk to you right now.
Steve Martin gives some advice to Eddie Murphy - It was announced that Eddie Murphy would host the Oscars, and previous Oscar host Steve Martin gave the future announcer some helpful tips.
Monster director possibly helming Thor 2 - In another interesting director announcement, Patty Jenkins, the director of the Charlize Theron film Monster is rumored to helm Thor 2. It's an interesting idea, given how well Monster was perceived. Do you think this is a good idea?
Michelle Rodriguez returning to Resident Evil - You're thinking what I'm thinkg, but she's de....umm, wow, that's a really interesting bit of news. I have no idea how they're going to work this in after the results of the first film, but it sounds like the film is coming full circle. I don't know if this means this will be the final film, but I'm interested in the idea of the film returning to its roots.
Mass Effect to be an original story - It was announced this week that the story for the proposed Mass Effect film, based on the video game series will be an original story set in the pre-established universe. I'm assuming Commander Shephard will be the hero, but it isn't clear. What is clear is that Seth Green wasn't set to reprise his role as Joker in the video games. The universe is so big, that is not an issue, but if Green doesn't come back, I would have a hard time taking the film seriously.
Blockbuster rolls out Movie Pass - If you have ever been a fan of the Block, you may be excited about this, or, you could be like me and think it's once again, too little too late. Blockbuster announced this week that they would unleash a streaming service of their own called Movie Pass. No, it has nothing to do with the previously released unlimited movie theater program of the same name, or the unlimited movie rental program Blockbuster had of the same name...it's safe to say Blockbuster has the naming originality of a three year old. It sounds like it could be good, given Blockbuster gets movies before Netflix or Redbox, but the program will currently only be available on the Dish Network.
I have a long, passionate history with the Block, and its reactionary effect is so frustrating. Instead of being innovative, they ride their success until they no longer are and then try to figure out what to do next, while companies like Netflix are trying to be innovative, even though both companies need some serious customer loyalty help. I think with Blockbuster, it's a last-ditch effort by a dead company.
Doctor Who, series 7 pushed back to Autumn, 2012 - A few months ago, it was rumored we would get a highly abbreviated series 7 in anticipation of series 8, the 50th anniversary of Doctor Who. The good news is that isn't true, we are getting a full 13 episode season, the bad news is we have to wait until autumn of next year before we get a full season. We are getting a Christmas show this year, which is promised to be very Christmas-ey, and we also get an Easter episode next year, before the series gets 6 episodes in 2012, with the remaining coming in the beginning of 2013, making 2013 a huge year, with a full 13 episodes in the year. I, for one, am kinda bummed. I want instant gratification, and waiting for a full season until next year is rough, considering the high quality of the series currently on its way out, especially with Matt Smith in an incredible groove.
So, speaking of which, who is your favorite Doctor? I have to admit, I haven't seen all of the classic episodes, watching a few stories here and there, but I am a big fan of Matt Smith. There is something about his ability to be young and spry and filled with clever energy, while also having the look of a wise old man. It's brilliant, and I can't think of another actor that can top it.
Riddick 3 concept art - If you haven't heard, they are making a third Chronicles of Riddick film, after Pitch Black and Chronicles of Riddick. The film was have the reprisal of Vin Diesel's role of Riddick, and according to the rumors, will go for a "Hard R" rating, after a very tame second film.
DVD's hitting the shelves today
Carlos Transformers: Dark of the Moon (September 30th) Army Wives: Season 5 How I met Your Mother: Season 6
Box Office Breakdown -Lion King wins... AGAIN!
Lion Kings re-release took first place again this week, with $22 million, beating Moneyball, which came in second place with a respectable $20 million. Dolphin Tale, the story of a dolphin who got a prosthetic tale came in third place with a fantastic $20 million. I'm from the bay area, and with the story happening a half-hour south of here, the entire area is extremely excited to have such an amazing story in our backyard. Killer Elite bombed pretty badly, bringing in $9.5 million. It's a shame, it looks pretty good.
1. The Lion King 3D - $22.1 million ($390.2 million total) 2. Moneyball - $20.6 million ($20.6 million total) Read the review! 3. Dolphin Tale - $20.3 million ($20.3 million total) 4. Abduction - $11.2 million ($11.2 million total) 5. Killer Elite - $9.5 million ($9.5 million total) 6. Contagion - $8.6 million ($57.1 million total) 7. Drive - $5.8 million ($21.4 million total) 8. The Help - $4.4 million ($154.4 million total) 9. Straw Dogs - $2.1 million ($8.9 million total) 10. I Don't Know How She Does It - $2.1 million ($8.0 million total)
With a little over a month before the big wedding, we had finally decided to make that huge step in our relationship. You know the one I’m talking about, right? No, not that one! Geez… they don’t allow monkeys in city limits anyway, you sicko. No, I’m talking about having her parents and my parents meet. It’s a big, dangerous, crazy, wacky step, but it must be done. With the wedding looming, making sure her family and my family meet ahead of time is not only crucial, it will ease some of the stress.
It’s been a bit difficult on my beautiful fiancée because her parents and nearly her entire family live down in Miami. It’s about a four to five hour drive from our house, one we don’t make that often due to it taking up 3 days out of a 2 day weekend, and because we’ve been pretty busy, and gas isn’t as cheap as it used to be. Either way, I should overcome those excuses and get down more to see my future in-laws, and her parents, especially given the fact so many things are going on, I know my future wife wants to share them with my future mother-in-law.
So, that being said, I haven’t gotten down as much as I should, and my parents and her parents have never met. I had a few good things going on my side, though. First off, my parents are slightly above the ‘amazing’ category, which puts them just below ‘covered in fairy dust.’ They have been incredible through this wedding planning process, and I’m very lucky. Also, her parents are amazing. They have been so kind and warm and welcoming, it’s impossible, just like their daughter, to not love them. The final thing is that my future wife is Cuban, and in my experience, Cuban people are very friendly (is it stereotyping? Maybe, but shut up, I’m being nice!).
So, her parents were riding into town, along with her uncle and aunt for the bridal shower (similar to a baby shower, only way more alcohol). Both my fiancée and I were nervous, near terrified at everyone meeting. The night before, my parents met my future mother-in-law, and believe it or not, my future wife and I were silent for well over an hour as the three talked like they had been friends for years. It was a relieving sign, whether they were working at it to be nice to us or whether it flowed freely, everyone had a big smile on their face, including us. The day of the shower came, and her parents and my parents met at our place for the single, greatest Cuban meal of all time. My parents, her parents, some good friends and her uncle and aunt talked, and drank and laughed, and ate and had a great time, all the while, my future wife and I just soaked it all in. This is what we were hoping for; one big, happy, loud, full family, under one roof, enjoying each other’s company.
So, we all lived, no one was cut on, and no one was injured, no wacky shenanigans to talk about, just anticipation on when it will happen again. Now, old friends, and soon to be family, things were really looking up. Of course, I wasn’t worried. I knew it would be easy from the beginning. I did! I was just joking about being nervous before.
It’s a big step towards the future family my gorgeous bride and I have in mind, and it was so smooth. Was that a good sign of things to come or what? No, seriously…I wasn’t nervous at all!
We’re down to 23 days until the biggest day of my life hits me. To say I’m excited would be like saying the Niagara Falls is a little wet, or Shaquile O’Neal is kinda tall. I’m excited for all sorts of reasons, but mostly because it’s the day I get to profess my love for my beautiful fiancée in front of everyone. Interestingly, that point is also the reason why I’m nervous, but that’s normal. I’m also excited because it’s going to be one heck of a party, spent with family and friends, where we can drink, have some good food, and celebrate. It’s also been something we’ve been planning since January, and I’ve been thinking about since last October. It’s a lot to live up to, but I am crazy excited.
Today, I came across several marriage advice columns. Every once in awhile, I will see one, but today, I came across three. They were all really good reads that offered loads of advice. I enjoy reading them, because, as someone who isn’t even married yet, forever is a long time, and I figured I could use any advice someone is willing to give. It also always makes me feel good because everything these authors say you are supposed to do, things like communicate, never blame, be supportive, things like that, we do. The best part is it’s affirming something I already know; that I’m one stupidly lucky guy, because I found the one person that will make me happy forever.
One particular question made me the most happy out of everything I read today. After all the ‘don’t blame’ or ‘don’t think of owing your significant other for anything’ I read this, and this made me feel happier than ever. The question is
“Imagine marriage didn't even exist as a thing. Like imagine you didn't live in a society where marriage is expected and where you continually get shit from people for not "tying the knot." Imagine all of those social pressures were gone, nobody was nagging you about it. Would you still make the promise to stay with this person forever? Are you getting married because you want to be married? Or just because that's what people do?”
This is a very valid question, and apparently, sometimes people don’t always answer the way I do. My answer was simple. I can tell you that when I got down on one knee, I wasn’t thinking about what my parents would say, or what my coworkers or my friends thought; I wasn’t thinking about the people standing behind me clapping; I didn’t even consider what my relatives were thinking; I was only thinking about one thing, and one person, and how happy I would be if she said yes. After she said yes, all those thoughts (and one about how long the ride on the rocking roller coaster would be) came flying into my head, but for that moment, there was only one thought.
So, there you have it! The one thing I learned after planning a wedding, and reading countless advice pieces on weddings, it’s ‘did you really want to marry her, or was it because it was the right thing to do?’ And the answer is obvious. I love her that much. That’s what this whole walking down the isle thing is, it’s not about centerpieces, or dresses, or caterers or cakes, it’s about the fact that I would give anything I have and more (I’ve already been informed everything I have is now hers anyway) to be with this woman forever. I trust her, and she trusts me, and together, this adventure we’re going on is going to be amazing.
What’s that? It took me long enough? Really? That’s your response? Don’t be a dick, if you knew the meaning of it all, why didn’t you tell me?
Incidentally, the other piece of advice I thought was really good for any relationship is this: think of your relationship like your legs, if you break a toe on one leg, you just adjust the way you walk and keep walking because together, you get where you are going, separately, you are just that pathetic guy sitting outside of Publix in a wheelchair begging for loose change. (I may have added that last part, but whatever).
Welcome to another week in Kevin’s Korner. I’m starting to get a feel for this whole news thing, finally. I’m hitting my stride, and I like it! There is tons of news this week, with so many good things going on. I’m still a little hungover from the weekend. I stayed up way too late watching the Emmy’s, and playing with my new Ipad 2, and I am finding it way too hard getting going.
I finally saw Rise of the Planet of the Apes this past week. I really liked it actually. The emotions of Caesar was incredible, and the CGI in the beginning of the movie was great, along with John Lithgow’s performance. I also really liked the little hints and references to the original Planet of the Apes movie. There were a few things that threw me off of the film, towards the end, mainly one of the characters speaking, and James Franco’s lack of emotion, but for the most part, I found it to be a very good movie. I also think the underlying themes of animal abuse weren’t so underlying in this movie, bringing the similar points of the original film to light in a different way (my fiancée was crying through the first two thirds of the film). So, if you haven’t seen it, and you liked the original Planet of the Apes, not that really bad Tim Burton remake, then you’ll probably enjoy it.
Alright, that’s enough of that, now off to the news…
J.J. is back, baby – J.J. Abrams, the director of the updated Star Trek movie has made it official, he will be back in the directors chair for the sequel, originally set for release in June, 2012, but will be pushed back to Christmas, 2012. Abrams, the master of the mystery box helmed the highest grossing Star Trek film in franchise history, and with him, the script writers and actors are all back, which makes for a promising film if you are a fan of the original. Sure, there were lens flares, but I think, scaled back, it's a fine directors signature.
Harlan Ellison trying to block 'In Time' - Sci Fi author Harlan Ellison is fighting to not only block, but destroy all copies of In Time, a movie starring Cillian Murphy, Amanda Seyfriend and Justin Timberlake. Ellison is claiming copyright infringement for a story of his. I am totally against the idea of destroying a film, but who really thinks this is anything but a way to make some cash?
Who you gonna call? - If you are a fan of '80s comedy Ghostbusters, than you have good taste. If you don't, well, you're just wrong. As a result of the crazy fandom, Ghostbusters is returning to theaters for the first time in over 25 years. The film will hit theaters in October for a limited run. It sounds like a way for studios to gauge enthusiasm for the franchise, in hopes of a third film.
Ever want to know how the rating system works? - If you ever wanted to know how the Nielsen rating system works, take from these, uhh... these... well, these puppets. This video explains the basics of the rating system for TV's, DVR's, and such. It's pretty interesting, and creatively done. Check it out:
Netflix apologizes for bad communication, and then splits - In the category of mind-boggeling decisions, Netflix issues a letter apologizing to its customers after stories were everywhere earlier in the week that Netflix has lost nearly a million customers after its massive price increase, which is considerably more than predicted (the number they figured was closer to 30,000). So, after apologizing, and not really doing anything about the issue, Netflix unleashed something big, called 'Qwikster.' Qwikster is what Netflix used to be, essentially the direct-mail service that ships DVDs to your house. The pricing package for that is still the same it got adjusted to, but now, you will be going to "www.qwikster.com" for your DVD queue. The streaming side, however, will be something seperate, and if you have that, then you will go to Netflix.com. The downside is the two websites will have nothing to do with each other, so credit card numbers, account information, and movie reviews will be completely independent.
The good news is that Netflix, err, Qwikster, or whatever, which, by the way, is a dumb ass name, will offer video game rentals. Soon, you will be able to rent Wii, PS3 or XBox 360 games, similar to the Blu-Ray rentals now. Despite that small bit of good news, it's just another reason for me to walk away from the company for a bit. Yes, I was one of those million customers. It's not the price, mind you, it's the fact they just jacked up the price by 60% in a recession because they figured they were untouchable. Well, the stock price shows that Netflix is not as untouchable as it thought it was. Will they get the customers back? Possibly, but it could take some clever marketing....maybe they should try flowers, I heard that works.
No Ash? Blasphemy! - According to /Film, the Evil Dead remake will not contain the character of Ash, made famous by Bruce Campbell. While Campbell will most likely have a cameo, the character will not make an appearance. So, it's a remake, but with a different character? It seems kinda silly to me. The more I hear about this remake, the more it seems like a completely different movie. It isn't to say that is a bad thing, but at the moment, I haven't heard anything good.
Batman video explodes - There hasn't been too many Batman videos lately, after weeks of crazy amounts of leaks, but this week, we have something explosive. The video may contain mild spoilers, but it looks like the batwing, or whatever Nolan's latest vehicle is will be going head to head against something else, and shit is going to blow.
John Barrowman thinks the next Doctor should be a female - John Barrowman, famous for playing Who character Captain Jack Harkness, which later spun off to Torchwood thinks the next regeneration of the Doctor should have him regenerate into the female persuasion. It would make things extremely different, given the fact the show has never had a female Doctor before.
So, would you like the see a female Doctor? Do you think Sci Fi is ready for a female Doctor? Sure, you have plenty of other shows that have a female lead, that seems to work just fine, but can she handle the weight of a character nearly 50 years in the making? If so, can you think of anyone who could handle it? I don't think it would hurt the show in viewership, and it could reinvent the show, but I have no problem with the show the way it is now, and I really hope current Doctor Matt Smith doesn't go anywhere anytime soon.
Emmy's was the Mad Men show - I liked the Emmy's last night. I am always excited for the awards shows, but feel let down by how incredibly boring they become. It's always the same formula; actors come out, attempt to make a witty joke, announce the winner, the winner comes up, thanks, God, their cast mates and director and babble a bit, rinse and repeat. This show wasn't much different. There does seem to be a bit of talk about how Mad Men won mostly everything, and whether or not they deserved it. I think it's a fine show, with great actors, but there were some other talents I felt deserved it more. You can check out the full list of winners HERE.
Box Office Breakdown - Audiences feel nostalgic, and rock the circle of life.
The 3D version of Disney's Lion King won the weekend with nearly $30 million total. The film benefited from more expensive tickets, sure, but it's pretty amazing for an older film. For the record, I'm pretty sure The Lion King is one of my favorite Disney films ever. Contagion did really good, and dropped a small amount to take second place. Drive didn't seem to do very well, the action movie came in third with $11 million.
1. The Lion King 3D - $29.3 million ($357.8 million total)
2. Contagion - $14.5 million ($44.2 million total)
3. Drive - $11.0 million ($11.0 million total)
4. The Help - $6.4 million ($147.4 million total)
5. Straw Dogs - $5.0 million ($5.0 million total)
6. I Don't Know How She Does It - $4.5 million ($4.5 million total)
7. The Debt - $2.9 million ($26.5 million total)
8. Warrior - $2.8 million ($9.9 million total)
9. Rise of the Planet of the Apes - $2.6 million ($171.6 million total)
10. Colombiana - $2.3 million ($33.3 million total)
DVD's on Shelves this week
Castle: Season 3
Dead Heat
Invisible Sign of My Own
Bride Flight
Bridesmaids
Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides
We are the Night
Trailer of the week - The Muppets - A Parody Trailer
This trailer really says it all, they haven't had a parody trailer in awhile, and, well, now that we have one, all is right with the world. If you haven't seen this yet, you are welcome, and if you have, you want to see it again. One thing is for sure, this film is doing some really good marketing. Do you think the film will live up to they hype? I honestly do.
Inception blows my mind http://blastr.com/2011/09/image-of-the-day-inceptio.php
WHO catbox http://www.tampabay.com/blogs/80s/content/just-what-doctor-ordered-tardis-kitty-condo
Trailer – Twilight: Breaking Dawn http://www.411mania.com/movies/news/201651
Welcome to Kevin’s Korner, your one stop for all that is geeky.
I am your host, Kevin Hopp. It’s been a busy few weeks as I get ready for the wedding. We have gotten a lot done, and I spent the weekend with the future in-laws, which was awesome. When everyone is warm and welcoming, it makes everything way easier. My future bride also had her bridal shower, which means we got all kinds of gifts and I got to spend the afternoon eating wings and drinking beer, far away from a crazy amount of women. So, all is right with the universe.
Before we get started, we had two losses in the Hollywood community, Cliff Robertson, probably most famous for ‘Charley,’ in which he received an Oscar (yes, he also played Uncle Ben in Spiderman) passed, along with Spartacus: Blood and Sand actor Andy Whitfield, who was only 36. My sympathies go out to the two guys families and friends.
I’m in the news business and business is a boomin…
3 Stooges could be a joke – Some of my fondest memories of my childhood include getting up at 6 am, and enjoying some early morning TV with my father. It was good times that included Three Stooges and then Doctor Paul Barrer’s Creature Feature. So, you would think I would be excited at the news of a movie bringing back Larry, Mo and Curley. You would think wrong, however. I simply don’t think the style of comedy will work now, and the chemistry of the original characters would be tough to match. The film stars Sean Hayes as Larry, Chris Diamantopoulos as Moe, and Will Sasso as Curly. The Farrelly brothers directed the film and it’s coming out April of 2012. It’s not the Stooges movie I was expecting with rumors of another film being filmed starring Jim Carrey and Sean Penn. Apparently, that film is completely dead now.
Danger Zone goes 3D – Tom Cruise’s hit Top Gun is going to be launched in 3D. A four minute preview of the Tony Scott film was made available earlier this week at a film festival. The film is scheduled to premiere early in 2012. Legend 3D has said the film is perfect for 3D due to the aeriel aspects and hopes to have the dog-fighting scenes jump off the screen. Personally, I have no desire to see the film in 3D. I can’t imagine it will make the film any better.
“Noooo” makes so many films better, right? – Check out this video that takes some very famous moments and adds the Darth Vader “nooo” that was recently added to Return of the Jedi as a comedic way of showing adding shit doesn’t always make things better. Check it out, and let me know your favorite. Mine has to be Casablanca.
Beetlejuice, Beetlejuice, Beetlejuice – There is talks of the famous Tim Burton film creating a sequel. If you read this past week’s 411 Fact or Fiction, you already know my opinion, but it seems like opinions are extremely varied on the purposed sequel. There is still no word on whether Michael Keaton would come back, and there is still no script, but it’s fun to dream.
Netflix continues to make its customers oh so happy – After the already extremely popular 60% price increase from last month, customers are already removing Netflix from their Christmas card list. Now, they are having issues with their streaming service. First off, it started as unlimited amounts of streaming at the same time. Then, a few weeks ago, Netflix had said they are limiting it to one, unless you upgrade your streaming service, doubling the streaming price. Now, after there was crazy amounts of outcry, they are claiming they are merely cracking down on people abusing the privledge, and that they aren’t saying you must pay for more than one stream. It seems like Netflix may have tried something and bailed out, in an attempt to avoid more bad publicity.
How it should have ended – Captain America – The group over at Howitshouldhaveneded.com have done it again with their latest video with Captain America. If you haven’t seen the film yet, you shouldn’t watch the video, but if you have, you need to see this.
28 Weeks Later director to helm Highlander remake – There can be only one…again. Apparently, Juan Carlos Fresnadillo is in talks to direct a remake of the Christopher Lambert hit. There is no word on who will be cast as Quentin McCloud, but I just better not hear anyone from Twilight picking up the sword. Anyone have a fantasy pick? My pick is Nathan Fillion…ok, just kidding, it’s just that he is usually my pick for everything. I’m going to have to go with Ewan McGregor. I know it could be weird, but he could do the accent, and he has plenty of sword-fighting experience. Honestly, it’s not easy coming up with a good pick.
Empire Strikes Back leaks unseen footage – If you haven’t seen the quick clip from Empire Strikes Back that just leaked online, you need to go HERE. There was talk about why this scene wasn’t used, and some said it made Han Solo sound sexist. Do you think it makes good ol’ Han sound sexist? I think, besides the silly dialogue, it just makes him sound like a scoundrel, maybe a bit of a nerf herder.
Power Laces still 4 years away – It was an up and down week for Back to the Future fans, or for that matter, fans of amazing sneakers. It was leaked that sneakers from Back to the Future 2 would be released. I was all kinds of excited over the possibility of power laces, but when it was announced the shoes were coming out, two problems came up; first off, no power laces, and second off, only 1500 are being made, and they are being auctioned off, with proceeds going to Parkinson’s research. Now, I’m all for donations to Parkinson’s research, but with an estimated average going price of $4,500, I’m pretty sure 411mania’s paycheck won’t cover it. Maybe a sneakers zone for the site? Free samples?
It’s time to meet the Muppets – If you are as excited as I am for the upcoming Muppet movie, then I have some links for you. The first is 20 facts about the Muppets you didn’t know HERE. My favorite talks about how difficult it was to shoot the scene with Kermit playing the banjo in the swamp. It’s pretty amazing! The other link HERE. goes over all the characters and plot in the film. I can’t wait for this film. The link also has some great bits of trivia, like how Miss Piggy has 12 costume changes, more than any other character. It’s good to know that wacky pig is up to her old shenanigans.
2011 Box Office sets a record – The summer box office showed a 1% increase, bringing in $4.4 billion from May through Labor Day. Considering the downturn in the economy, the box office increase is pretty special. I’m sure it’s about the increase of 3D films that include higher ticket prices, but it’s still a pretty good sign for Hollywood.
Box Office Breakdown – Contagion takes out The Help.
Contagion takes the top spot, opening with $23 million, bumping the Help to second with $8.7 million. Colombiana dropped big time, dropping to sixth, and Bucky Larson: Born to be a star coming in a bomb-tastic 15th, with $1.5 million, averaging only $967 a theater. On top of the terrible reviews, this news will hopefully mean less terrible movies like this.
1. Contagion - $23.1 million ($23.1 million total) 2. The Help - $8.7 million ($137.1 million total) 3. Warrior - $5.6 million ($5.6 million total) 4. The Debt - $4.9 million ($22.0 million total) 5. Colombiana - $4.0 million ($29.8 million total) 6. Rise of the Planet of the Apes - $3.9 million ($167.8 million total) 7. Shark Night 3D - $3.5 million ($14.8 million total) 8. Apollo 18 - $2.9 million ($15.0 million total) 9. Our Idiot Brother - $2.8 million ($21.4 million total) 10. Spy Kids: All the Time in the World - $2.5 million ($34.2 million total)
DVDs out this week
Doctor Who: Day of the Daleks Glee: Season 2 Goose Bumps: Attack of the Mutants It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia: Season 6 Me and Orson Wells Rescue Me: Season 6
Trailer of the Week:Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Spy
Even if you don’t see the trailer, the cast alone will make you want to see it, with Gary Oldman, Tom Hardy and Colin Firth starring in this film, it looks like a must see. Fortunetly, the trailer looks pretty amazing. What do you think?
Welcome to Kevin's Korner! Everything geeky, all the time.
As we finish the holiday weekend, we nurse hangovers and bruises and we look forward to the fall season. Before the fall season, there is plenty to talk about. There are Oscar rumors, there is some serious talk about Star Wars, and there are plenty of Avengers rumors. It sure does seem 2012 will be an amazing year for movies, between the third Batman film and what I think is the most anticipated movie for me, Avengers, on top of Spiderman and quite a few others.
It makes me wonder what is your most anticipated movie?
I'm in the news business, and business is a boomin' ...
Darth Vader gets more lines - The most annoying news of last week is the latest edition of Star Wars being released. Last week, I had mentioned they fixed some technical issues, along with making some sound and graphic tweaks. I was pretty happy with those adjustments. Now, however, we hear about one of the new surprises Lucas had mentioned. Apparently, George Lucas thought it would add to the continuity by having Darth Vader scream "noooooo" twice before throwing the Emperor into the neverending pit conveniently in the Death Star. It will match the horrifically cheesy line at the end of Star Wars Ep. III: Revenge of the Sith, where we first meet Darth Vader and he screams the now famous line.
So, in recap, we get this incredibly dramatic moment now tainted with a stupidly cheesy line that ruins the moment. My friends have talked about this all week, and while the movie is technically the property of George Lucas (saying otherwise will create an instant lawsuit, magically from Lucas Entertainment). That being said, after a certain time, a movie gets so ingrained into popculture that the movie becomes property of the audience. In this case, several generations have bonded and talked about this movie and they have gained ownership of these films.
It wouldn't be an issue if the original films that I grew up with were still available to buy (legally). They aren't, in fact Lucas wants the originals destroyed in place of the new ones, leaving us with versions that are quite different from the original. I'm not one of those angry fanboys that likes to scream to the intewebs that Lucas should die, but for the love of God, make him stop messing with my movie.
Captain America 2 villain to be MODOK? - There is talk over the next villain the first Avenger, Captain America could face, and that would be MODOK. Anyone familiar with the comic would be happy over the idea, but you have to wonder how it would be done. It seems to me like it would have to be CGI, similar to Green Lantern. I still have to wonder how these characters will walk away from the Avengers movie and just deal on their own. Do the Avengers go on a break, all Ross and Rachael like or do they just go their seperate ways similar to the end of Oceans 11.
Captain Planet Mother F*ckers - Check out this Funny Or Die video starring Don Cheadle as Captain Planet. I thought this was hilarious, turning everyone into trees. I always felt sorry for the poor loser that got stuck with the "heart" ring. Short end of the stick, indeed.
Pluto Nash to host the Oscars - There has been talk about the Oscar host for this years Oscars, and there have been plenty of rumors after this past years less than succesful attempt by James Franco and Ann Hathaway. For the record, I liked Hathaway, she showed a genuine enthusiasm, and pride for being there, among Hollywood's elite, while Franco played the straight man way too straight, and came off stoned and boring. I consider it one of the few bad performances by Franco.
New rumors include people talking to Billy Crystal to return, and Eddie Murphy. The reason people want Murphy is that he is a "movie geek, and would bring that experience to the Oscars." I am all for a movie geek hosting the Oscars, I always find it annoying when someone hosts an awards show and has nothing to do with the awards. That being said, I would take Billy Crystal as Oscar host any day of the week. Sure, he hasn't done the amount of movies Murphy has, but there is something about Crystal's ability to manage a show that few can equal.
Moviepass is back - After a shutdown, Moviepass, the all you can watch movie service that allows you to watch as many movies as you want a month for $50 is making its return. It's sounding a little iffey so far, because the service has not built a good relationship with major theaters. While the service pays the ticket fee directly to the movie theater, if it gets too popular, the theater can deny those tickets. It's a great deal, though, for movie buffs, since in my area, at least, it's $10 for a ticket.
Every teaser trailer EVER - Over at Cracked.com, they have a teaser trailer that talks about every teaser trailer ever. It's kind of sad, actually, because teasers have become so cookie-cutter. There are plenty of good teaser trailers out there, but way too many have gone this route, lately.
Avengers are assembling - There are so many shots of the Avengers filming, it's making my inner geeks head spin. There are plenty of pictures that are pointing to a confirmation of Skrulls being the main badguy, and there are some great interviews with Loki, talking about how he has way more screentime than in Thor. There are also some casting rumors that show casting of a Skrull princess. You can't really deny anything anymore. Now, it's all about seeing what the Skrulls will look like. I can't wait for this film, and I think the actors look pretty amazing.
Check out the latest poster for the film. It's pretty underwhelming:
Also, check out the video, in case you were wondering why you should be excited...
Box Office Breakdown - The Help...again?
For a third week in a row, The Help takes the third spot. Sure, there hasn't been too many great movies, but who would've thought The Help would dominate for so long? Shark Night 3D and Apollo 18 seemed to bomb pretty hard. Apollo 18 seems to break the streak of the "found footage" films destroying the box office. What did you see this week?
1. The Help - $14.2 million ($118.6 million total)
2. The Debt - $9.7 million ($11.6 million total)
3. Apollo 18 - $8.7 million ($8.7 million total)
4. Shark Night 3D - $8.6 million ($8.6 million total)
5. Rise of the Planet of the Apes - $7.8 million ($160.0 million total)
6. Colombiana - $7.4 million ($22.0 million total)
7. Our Idiot Brother - $5.2 million ($15.4 million total)
8. Don't Be Afraid of the Dark - $4.9 million ($16.4 million total)
9. Spy Kids: All the Time in the World - $4.6 million ($29.0 million total)
10. The Smurfs - $4.0 million ($132.0 million total)
DVD's hitting shelves
Community: Season 2
The Office: Season 7
Return to Horror High
Trailer of the Week - Killer Elite
Check out this pretty sweet trailer with Jason Statham, Robert DeNiro and Clive Owen. Honestly, the cast pretty much had me, that and Owen's porn mustache, but this film could be pretty good. What do you think?
Dushku writes letter regarding Hayden Panetierri charging for autographs at a con
http://blastr.com/2011/08/eliza-dushku-slams-newspa.php
http://themovieblog.com/2011/09/road-to-avengers
Romancing the Stone remake a tv show?
http://www.slashfilm.com/romancing-stone-remake-tv-series/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+slashfilm+%28%2FFilm%29&utm_content=FaceBook
