Stark Trek 2: II

With 37 days and counting before the J.J. Abrams reboot of Star Trek comes out, the studio has already signed J.J. Abrams and a co-writer of Lost and Fringe to work on an additional script, apparently green lighting a sequel. If that is not optimism, I don't know what is!
Abrams has said they won't really work on the script until they see how the reception for the movie and certain story lines are perceived, giving the impression they really want to make a movie for the fans of their movie, which is always a good sign.
That seems to be a trend in Hollywood, approving sequels before the first movie is even aired, essentially a gamble on the profitability of a movie. Do you think this is a smart idea?
I would say betting on this movie at least making the budget back is a sure thing, but I am not sure if it will be a huge blockbuster or not, I'm gonna go out on a limb, here and say it ought to be big, by far the biggest Star Trek movie out, and blowing the 'whale one' out of the water.
Thoughts, praise, criticism?

Happy Birthday Chris!

I did not print the story about Natasha Richardson's death because I'm tired of hearing about dead people. I have an immense sympathy for the family...and this is where I move on.
Today is a special day, it's CHRISTOPHER WALKIN'S Birthday! That's right, a day that should be a national holiday. Christopher Walkin's mannerisms are known by many, and his on and off screen antics are the stuff of legend. He is 66 today, so, probably the best birthday wish for him....Kevin's Movie Blog says "Happy Birthday!"
So, was that as nerdy as it sounded? .... .... .... thought so....ok...

New Star Trek Poster

This is an interesting poster, the final one for the upcoming J.J. Abrams reboot-ish of Star Trek. The new poster resembles the original Star Trek: The Motion Picture poster, except, like the movie itself, it's a bit of a blurred version, and a bit more modern. I believe this poster was made just for the trekkies, and is brilliant, in my opinion.

Trailer of the week!

Here's the second trailer of the week! I'm doing it today, because I think I'm gonna get murdered at work tomorrow, so I won't have a ton of time. So, this weeks trailer is Where the Wild Things Are. This is a movie that seems like it has been coming out for 20 years, it's based off of a popular childrens book. It had an animated adaptation about 15 years ago, but it was kinda cheap, this looks....well, not cheap. I dunno, it kinda has a neverending story feel to it, except for the fact the big monster-things (I never read the book) look incredible, and most definitely not animatronic. This just feels like something Jim Henson Productions should have done back in the day, they could have done justice to it. As for this, I've heard they are not very faithful to the book, which is usually bad, but this trailer makes it look amazing. What do you think?

Dinner with Johnny Depp, huh?

Apparently, Johnny Depp is the guy most women would want to go on a dinner date with. He beat out Ocean's 11 star George Clooney in a poll done for WWF (the World Wildlife Foundation, this has not to do with Vince McMahon) also surveyed some males, who said Jennifer Anniston is the lucky woman.
So, this got me thinking, who would you want to go to dinner with? I mean, you can't just have someone who is really good looking, because, what would you talk about for 2 hours. You can't have someone who is dead, or someone who is just annoying, so, who would you choose?
As far as my choice is concerned, Jennifer Anniston is nowhere near the top of the list...not even close. I'm a big FRIENDS fan, but NO. Maybe Natalie Portman would be a top choice. I mean, she clearly has the smarts and the looks, and would be someone interesting. I'm sure I can think of others, but that's all I got right now.

Apparently party animals don't always win

Tabloid queen Lindsey Lohan has shown that her movie career truly has it rock bottom. The last movie she did was last year's dud, I know who killed me. The only movie she has done since is a movie called Labor Pains, and movie, announced today will go straight to DVD. You know what that means, she has joined the likes of Jean Claude Van Damne and Steve Segal and the lowest step in the movie-making ladder. I guess the next stop for her will be a WE special on Hollywood's most promising dud. I wish no one harm, but that girl just hasn't shown any maturity, doesn't hide from the spotlight at all, and is paying for it. Some would call it Karma, I say its a shame, she had some talent, and now, everyone can see every spec of that talent every time she poses nude to keep her name on the tabloid cover.

Three Stooges announced?!?

Slash Film is reporting annoucment of casting news regarding the new Three Stooges movie. We have talked about who you would cast as the wacky three stooges. One of the three I agree with, but the other two, I'm scratching my head on. I have been proven wrong before, most recently with Heath Ledger as the Joker, and I could be wrong here, but we'll see.
Jim Carrey is set to play Curley, which is, in my opinion, a wise choice. The other two, puzzle me. Sean Penn is to play Larry, and Benecio Del Toro is to play Moe. Both actors give 110% in all roles they portray, but I don't see them in such a role.....we'll see.
What do you think, good casting or nightmare in the works?

Have you seen the new Empire cover?

Alright, I have to post this. Let me talk about why....wait...eyes...HERE! First off, I choose not to do what other movie blogs do and just splash hot movie stars all over the place. It's not that I don't enjoy some of the pictures, but it's cheap, and there is no discussion, outside the casual, approving male grunt (of which I'm guilty). On top of that, it's not news, and, most of the time, they are skeletons with glitter that are shallow, horrible people. One of my favorite movie blogs said "I usually don't go crazy over a woman that weighs less than my DVD collection, but Ms. Fox is an exception." I say good for Ms. Fox, who seems to have embraced her inner geek, and made a million movie geeks freak out, showing there are women who can have a geeky side, and be hot (for example, the Autobots tattoo on her shoulder). Ms. Fox has signed up for a third Transformers movie and two comic book movies. This woman is everywhere, which, from where I am standing isn't that bad of a thing. And, yes, I know what you are thinking....you can renew your subscription to Empire magazine on their website.

100 movies you have to see before you die...

According to Yahoo! there are 100 movies you have to see before you die. There are some stunning movies that are not on the list, and there is clearly some French people on the voting board, but it does have some good ones. I dunno, the fact they left out Jurassic Park, Airplane, Fight Club, North by Northwest and quite a few others is terrible, and, on top of that, Back to the Future is nowhere to be found....I know!
So, what do you think of the list...what would be a movie you want to see on the revision?

12 Angry Men (1957)
2001: A Space Odyssey (1968)
The 400 Blows (1959)
8 ½ (1963)
A Hard Day’s Night (1964)
The African Queen (1952)
Alien (1979)
All About Eve (1950)
Annie Hall (1977)
Apocalypse Now (1979)
The Battle of Algiers (1967)
The Bicycle Thief (1948)
Blade Runner (1982)
Blazing Saddles (1974)
Blow Up (1966)
Blue Velvet (1986)
Bonnie and Clyde (1967)
Breathless (1960)
The Bridge on the River Kwai (1957)
Bringing Up Baby (1938)
Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid (1969)
Casablanca (1942)
Chinatown (1974)
Citizen Kane (1941)
Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon (2000)
Die Hard (1988)
Do the Right Thing (1989)
Double Indemnity (1944)
Dr. Strangelove or: How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love the Bomb (1964)
Duck Soup (1933)
E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial (1982)
Enter the Dragon (1973)
The Exorcist (1973)
Fast Times At Ridgemont High (1982)
The French Connection (1971)
The Godfather (1972)
The Godfather, Part II (1974)
Goldfinger (1964)
The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly (1968)
Goodfellas (1990)
The Graduate (1967)
Grand Illusion (1938)
Groundhog Day (1993)
In the Mood For Love (2001)
It Happened One Night (1934)
It’s a Wonderful Life (1946)
Jaws (1975)King Kong (1933)
The Lady Eve (1941)
Lawrence of Arabia (1962)
The Lord of the Rings (2001,2002,2003)
M (1931)
M*A*S*H (1970)
The Maltese Falcon (1941)
The Matrix (1999)
Modern Times (1936)
Monty Python and the Holy Grail (1975)
National Lampoon’s Animal House (1978)
Network (1976)
Nosferatu (1922)
On the Waterfront (1954)
One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest (1975)
Paths of Glory (1958)
Princess Mononoke (1999)
Psycho (1960)
Pulp Fiction (1994)
Raging Bull (1980)
Raiders of the Lost Ark (1981)
Raise the Red Lantern (1992)
Rashomon (1951)
Rear Window (1954)
Rebel Without a Cause (1955)
Rocky (1976)
Roman Holiday (1953)
Saving Private Ryan (1998)
Schindler’s List (1993)
The Searchers (1956)
Seven Samurai (1954)
The Shawshank Redemption (1994)
The Silence of the Lambs (1991)
Singin’ in the Rain (1952)
Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs (1937)
Some Like It Hot (1959)
The Sound of Music (1965)
Star Wars (1977)
Sunset Blvd. (1950)
Terminator 2: Judgment Day (1991)
The Third Man (1949)
This is Spinal Tap (1984)
Titanic (1997)
To Kill a Mockingbird (1962)
Toy Story (1995)
The Usual Suspects (1995)
Vertigo (1958)
When Harry Met Sally… (1989)
Wild Strawberries (1957)
Wings of Desire (1988)
The Wizard of Oz (1939)
Women on the Verge of a Nervous Breakdown (1988)
The World of Apu (1959)

A new Muppet movie by Jason Segal!?!

There has been some talk about Jason Segal of Forgetting Sara Marshall fame to pen a script for a new Muppet Movie. Clearly, after seeing Forgetting Sara Marshall, he is into muppets, and after seeing his interview with Jimmy Fallon last night, he seems to have a real passion for the Muppets, and he has the ability to write funny scripts, so I see this as nothing but positive, even though it will be weird not having a Henson at the helm of a Muppet movie, I think this reinvention could be what the franchise needs to get back on its feet.
I used to love the Muppets as a kid, and still do, in fact. I mean, Muppet Treasure Island has to be one of the best movies EVER....well, maybe not quite, but it's one of my favorites, so it will be interesting to see what Segal can do with it....I mean, there is comedic gold there!
They just have to bring back Waldorf and Astoria, the two old guys in the balcony....if you have them, you've got a winner!

WB following Marvel, saying no more R

Warner Brothers have announced they are going to follow Marvel's method and not allow any R rated comic book movies. Marvel has made a pretty penny off of Spiderman, Iron Man, the Hulk, with upcoming sequels set to explode the box office. Warner Brothers has recognized what seems to be a good idea, not allowing an R rating to attract a bigger audience.
While I understand where they are coming from, I don't agree with a policy like this. As a company, you need to make the movie the way the movie needs to be made in accordance with the directors and producers and the movie itself and let the ratings lie where they fall. It is a much better idea to say no R rating for Spiderman and Iron Man, but let's say a Watchmen script, or a Batman script has a killer story, but is scrapped because it could get an R rating, now we are trimming stories to fit in the policy which, I think, will result in watered-down stories coming out. I hope I'm wrong.
What do you think, does such a policy put too many constraints on a movie, or is sticking with a PG or PG-13 rating a good requirement?

Twilight one of highest selling DVD's EVER!

That's right, movie geeks. Twilight came out on Saturday and smashed all kinds of records with over 3 million DVD's sold on Saturday alone, placing the obit safely in the top 5 of all time. Critics are saying the unusual Saturday release date allowed for some release parties, and allowed kids to wait in line at midnight to be among the first to grab their copy.
I have a feeling Harry Potter, amongst many other movies geared at the teen audience will follow suit and break the Tuesday release tradition. I guess we'll see, but it's just another record on the juggernaut that is Twilight.

Eagle Eye Review

Ever since Apple came out with a personal computer, society has been terrified about that computer taking over and completely screwing up your life. Back in the day, no one was all that worried because the computer couldn't even use a color screen, but nowadays with IPhones, a nosey government, and technology that most people 20 years ago couldn't even imagine, that terror is well founded, and no longer in the realm of Sci-fi, but in the realm of 'when....fi'. Yes, I am copyrighting that as we speak, it'll go in next year's Webster, along with 'strategery.'

Eagle Eye is one of the hundreds upon hundreds of movies to try and capitalize on that fear, using technology that is current, with a movie set in todays society, so did it seem real, was the movie more than a lot of cars blowing up? Well, it had Shiah Labeuf and Michelle Monaghan, so, it wasn't just stuff blowing it, it had car chases and people running too....but mainly stuff blowing up.

The movie starts off with Lebeuf's character being a smooth talking loser who works at their version of Kinko's. You find out Jerry's brother worked for the government and kicked the bucket. At that point, he gets a phone call from a mysterious women who seems to know everything about him, and what he's doing at every second of the day. This women gives him an assignment that he really doesn't have much of a choice in accomplishing. At the same time, Monaghan's character is given a similar phone call, threatening the death of her young son if she doesn't comply. The two meat and are driven to follow the mysterious voices orders to find out who, or what is behind this, and get out alive, or at least some reasonable facsimile.

The movie is, more or less one big chase scene, with some great footage and some average stunts. Both actors were good, but I really think, once again Shiah has shown he is a top notch action actor, despite playing his usual part, he has shown he can do it well. Michelle did an ok job, nothing to write home about, but she was there more for eye-candy than anything else, and she accomplished that goal. The main plot, however, is what got me. Once you find out what is chasing them, the whole movie seems very cliched, it's hard to take anything seriously. The movie tries to be clever, and has a lot of "oh, it's that guy" moments, but, for the most part, is drawn down by the mediocre plot.

I enjoyed this movie as a popcorn flick, but it is something I don't think I would ever watch again. I might feel ripped off if I had spent $10 to go see this in theaters, though.

I'm gonna give this a 6 out of 10 for some really cliched ideas, and a story that comes across has 'been there, done that.' If you like the idea of this movie, check out Enemy of the State, and if your just watching this for Shiah, check out The Battle of Shaker Heights, and if your like me, watching it for Michelle, check out Mission Impossible III.

FUN FACT: Aria is voiced by Julianne Moore, who chose to go uncredited.

Trailer of the week!

This week, I'm starting a new Friday feature, mainly because I didn't think of it on Thursday. Trailer of the week will involve me picking a trailer for an upcoming movie, and posting it, along with my thoughts on what the movie will actually be about (cough, cough Village cough cough) and what my thoughts are on the trailer and the movie.
This week's trailer is Year One. This movie has Michael Cera (Juno) and Jack Black (School of Rock) along with a plethora of other stars. According to the trailer, it looks to be a really goofy movie about cavemen who don't belong in their tribe, and move off to find another tribe, all Ice Age style. There is a bit of a hint in the trailer, but I think it will be a prominent theme in the movie, is that of the love interest to Cera's character. So, with tons of goofy innuendos and slapstick humor, it will turn out to be a romantic comedy in the end. Still looks good, but, based on the trailer, it will be on TBS in under a year. Check it out, let me know what ya think!

Forrest Gump in 1 minute, 1 take

Same as before, one minute, one take, and all of the plot points. This is great!

Kill Bill in 1 minute, and 1 take

This video is priceless, it sums up the 4 plus hours of Kill Bill into one minute, and does a great job of it, too. On top of that, it's all in one take! Any fans of Kill Bill will enjoy this video. I loved it!

A true sign of the times

I found this on Slash Film's website, it's sad when even Darth Vader can't find work. I mean, what has this world come to when a Clone War Veteran can't find work.

What if Willy Wonka was a horror movie?

Here is a trailer for a fake movie that raises a great question, what if Willy Wonka was a horror movie, and it's creator Doc Bro...uhh, a mass murderer? What a great idea, this trailer cracks me up, and leaves me wondering why no one has actually done this?
Take a look, and enjoy!

Gobstopper Trailer - watch more funny videos

Trailer Mashup

This is a must see! This trailer is a combination of Wall-E and the Watchmen, two movies I love. This mashup was expertly done, taking the themes of Watchmen and using Wall-E footage. Both of these movies had very iconic trailers, and this shows how something as small as someone flying out a glass window, or even just the music can be so iconic in trailers. Absolutely brilliant!

Bone-headed marketing move of the week

In a dumb marketing move, Sci-Fi Channel is looking to adjust its image. So, unfortunately, Sci-Fi is no longer Sci-Fi, it is now SyFy, and their motto is "Imagine Greater."
The move is to distance people, according to the head of the network is to distance itself from "antisocial geeks, and nerds, and, in general the male populace." Apparently, the network is trying to go more mainstream, and go further away from movies like Raptor 4, and Carnosaur, and more to .... I don't even know, something WE would air. I am just too upset to even get this out, Sci-Fi was one of my favorite networks, it's something I could always turn to, and now they are saying they are trying to run away from me... and call me antisocial. I can't believe it, is this some cruel joke? I don't know, but I don't see how this will make a difference, I mean, the programming is what people tune in for, not because of the name of the network, so now, you just alienated the people that watch the network.....great move, bonehead!

Fantasy Casting, Ep. 3.....McGyver

So, it's news today they are finally rebooting McGyver into a blockbuster movie. It's about time, after they have rebooted mediocre franchises, it's about time they use a great idea and a wonderful, if not slightly cheesy show like McGyver. The interesting part is, there doesn't seem to be any plans to bring Richard Dean Anderson back in the titular role. Do you think that's a good idea, or do you think they should stick with a 60 year old McGyver? I kinda like the idea, although it would be great if Anderson made a cameo, or something along those lines, or what could be really interesting is the son of McGyver assumes the role of the inventive spy, where Anderson's McGyver is now behind a desk in the role Pete, from the original series. There could be comedy, and drama in that idea....don't worry, I'll contact writers about this immediately.
So, who would you choose for Angus McGyver, huh? I mean, I think Jeffrey Donovan can do no wrong, and given Burn Notice not coming on, would be a great call, but now, he already is a modern McGyver in Burn Notice, so my choice would maybe NPH, or even Matt Damon. I couldn't really think of anyone else, but either of those could do a good job, it just depends on the direction, if you want to ensure an action comedy, my choice would be NPH, if you want to focus on the drama a bit more, it's Matt Damon. What do you think?

Clearly an effort to make a great movie into a better sequel...

There have been many announcements over the past few months concerning casting on Iron Man 2. Don't worry, Robert Downey Jr. is back, along with Gwenyth Paltrow, and Jon Favreu as the director, but the speculation is in the remaining parts. Let's look at who is locked down, and who just recently got added. If you need to IMDB any of these, please mail your movie geek card, your Blockbuster membership card, and Netflix packets to me for proper disposal.
Locked down:
Samuel L. Jackson as Nick Fury. You had to watch the credits for his appearance in the last film, but apparently, his role is much more significant this time, and will be even bigger in the Avengers movie, which he has also been locked down for.
Don Cheadle as War Machine/Rhody. Don Cheadle is set to replace Terrance Howard, after apparently Howard being difficult to work with during the last movie, so, similar to T.O., this should be a good move, and having Don Cheadle in anything is a good thing, as the man simply has an abundance of talent.
Just added:
Scarlett Johannson as the Black Widow. Replacing Emily Blunt as a sexy villaness, this is a very good move. Johanson is not only a recognizable name, but a great talent, who is also incredibly hot...all good things.
Mickey Rourke as Russian Villain Whiplash. This one has gone back and forth, but apparently, after some fee compensation, he is officially signed, and will be playing an interesting badguy. This should be good, I mean, Iron Man is already responsible for one resurrection, who knows, between the Wrestler, and Iron Man 2, Mickey Rourke could be the main guy in Hollywood.
So, things are looking really good as principle filming starts next week, this is definitely one to keep an eye on.

Stephen King's IT is being remade?

That's right, that creepy clown movie starring the immortal Tim Curry as Pennywise, the weird, alien, monster, clown, thingy is being remade. Apparently casting is already begun, I wonder if everyone just has to go "they all float down here, Johnnie?"
Anyway, I have nothing against remakes, as a rule, but some movies make it really difficult to make a better movie than the original, especially with such an odd story as this. I think there has been plenty of time since the original, and watching the movie over again, something is lost in the translation with all the early '80's haircuts and the semi-pedophile acting done there. However, I don't know how you can recast Tim Curry, I mean the guy has to be one of the best badguy actors of all time, how do you touch that?
Does anyone have any ideas for a guy who can do a killer clown impression? My casting idea would be maybe Hugo Weaving, but I would worry it would sound too much like "Mr. Anderson, welcome back, they all float in the Matrix." What about Robin Williams, I mean, clearly the guy can do the voice, and he was kinda creepy in one hour photo, and death to smoochey, I dunno. I guess it's better to go with an unknown, but it's fun to speculate. So, what's your idea for Pennywise, is there some actor that creaped you out as a kid? (please leave all priest jokes out of this)

Public Enemies trailer

Well, here is the trailer I promised you! This movie looks amazing. Johnny Depp stars as famous bank robber John Dillinger, with Christian Bale as the guy who has to track him down. If you don't know some of the legends and stories behind the '20s gangster, I suggest you google that, it's really interesting, and this movie looks to take that way beyond just interesting.

Completely random post about some random thoughts

Well, as I sit at work, pondering the existence of man, I decided to make a post about some of the things I am thinking about. Don't worry, most of it is film related and appropriate for this blog.
Well, I saw Castle last night, a new TV show on ABC, starring one of my favorite actors, Nathan Fillion. I thought the show was quite good, very definitely worth a second look. The bad news is, given Fillion's track record, it will be off in about 4 weeks, despite good numbers.
I had this weird dream the other night I was fighting off zombies. If you ever have that problem, for me, the worst was when Hal Sparks zombie tried to eat me. It was rough but I got through it.
I just saw the Public Enemies trailer, starring Johnnie Depp and Christian Bale, that looks amazing, I'll post it shortly.
Final thing, apparently the live action Star Wars TV show has casting tryouts shortly, which means George Lucas didn't lie to us, its actually happening. Although, I read he hasn't even talked to any networks yet, he plans to film 35 episodes and then shop it around.....that would never work for anyone but Lucas.
Alright, movie geeks, stay cool!

What do these movies say about the U.S. ???

First off, this is a movie blog, not a political blog, so there will be not politics mentioned here. Having said that, I'm a big Obama fan, but after reading this article from /Film.com, it got me thinking of whether these movies say anything about America as a whole. The story stems from the traditional gift exchange of the U.K. Prime Minister and President Obama; Obama was given a pen holder from the wood of the anti-slave ship HMS Gannett, and Obama gave the Prime Minister a collection of 25 DVD's, ironically the same as AFI's top 25 movies of all time. However appropriate or inappropriate a gift, the post is about whether there is a meaning behind any of these movies, and if there is a message, is it a good message. Let's take a look at the movies:
Citizen Kane
The Godfather
Casablanca
Raging Bull
Singin’ in the Rain
Gone with the Wind
Lawrence of Arabia
Schindler’s List
Vertigo
The Wizard of Oz
City Lights
The Searchers
Star Wars: Episode IV
Psycho
2001: A Space Odyssey
Sunset Boulevard
The Graduate
The General
On the Waterfront
It’s a Wonderful Life
Chinatown
Some Like It Hot
The Grapes of Wrath
ET: The Extra-Terrestrial
To Kill a Mockingbird
Without a doubt, these are some great movies, but is there a movie that shouts "we are the U.S. damnit, and we kinda like you crazy Brits, despite the bad teeth stereotype?" I don't see one, maybe E.T. or Psycho, but nothing else.
What do you think? Any good messages in any of these movies, or did Obama just decide a $200 Bestbuy giftcard would seem a little trite?

More Watchmen news!

Watchmen grossed about $55 million in the box office this weekend, and somehow, people were complaining, hoping for more. Apparently, they projected about $62 mil, and as a result, are now crossing their fingers that it won't be a dud in its second week. What people fail to realize, however, is this is not a Superman, Spiderman or Batman movie, this is more of an unknown, with a very small established audience, as opposed to Batman, where it's hard to find someone who is not familiar with the material. I don't see why it's smart to compare the two movies, besides the audience sizes, we are talking about two very different movies.
I heard someone last night on Attack of the Show say that this movie would be a lot like Bladerunner, which bombed at theatres raked in the dough about 10 years down the line, and due to it's success, recently became one of the highest grossing DVD's of all time. I would say I agree, but I don't think the theater box office will be a bomb, per se. I do see this being a huge cult hit on DVD, but after about a year or two, not 10. And, for the record, I really don't like Blade Runner.
Have a great day, movie geeks!

Parents, pay attention!

So, after watching the blockbuster Watchmen, I have read at least 20 reviews, some good, some bad, all were interesting to read. There is a few stories, that are growing in number, that mirror my experience; one I found a bit alarming, and that's the amount of young kids watching this movie, something I don't seem to understand.
I loved Watchmen, as you can tell from my previous review, however, Watchmen is not a tame movie, it's a raw, brutal, gruesome tale with plenty of violence, language and nudity that is not suitable for children. I understand children today are subject to more of these things than in my day (holy crap, does that make me sound old, or what?!?) however, there is something to be said for at least making the attempt as parents. This does not mean taking your 9 year old to see a movie on the far side of R.
I'm not a parent, nor do I have any plans to be one soon, but no matter what, I would not take my soon-to-be niece or nephew to a movie like this until they are old enough to see it.

my Watchmen review is finally here!

The biggest movie of the year so far is out, and everyone has an opinion. The movie, based on the graphic novel (cough, cough comic book, cough) has finally been transferred to the big screen after 20 years, but the question is, is it something that can adapt well? I thought so, read on, and I’ll tell you why.
The movie starts off, setting the surrounding of an alternate 1985 (alternate to you, me, and Einstein, but reality to everyone else. Ha! –Back to the Future) where Richard Nixon is in his third term, and costume superheroes are a reality, but are now outlawed and the world is on the brink of destruction, with the Doomsday Clock now at 4 minutes to midnight, and tensions growing. The debate is whether America can be saved from Russia’s nukes by the world’s most powerful man, Dr. Manhattan. Meanwhile, one of the original superhero’s (a term said loosely) the comedian is killed, and the rest of the team has to put back on the mask and the sexy, sexy tights to find out why, and if their next.
There are so many good things in this movie. The first scene you see really sets the tone for the rest of the movie, and that’s the scene of the comedienne dyeing in all it’s glory. You really don’t know who either of these people are, but you find out through flashbacks, but during the brawl, the special effects are tremendous, the film style is refreshing, and the music, is really dynamic and odd. I thought the music just refused to stay in the background in this movie; the director picked some odd pieces for odd moments, but always was something that got your attention, and raised the experience. I thought the acting was top notch, for the most part. There was a few times I thought it could have been better, but, overall, the good highly outweighed the bad. The few bad parts of the movie, I thought was Carla Gugino as a 70 year old, which just didn’t work for me. The other part was the bad guy, which, I will not tell you who it was, which is part of the fun; but the bad guy just doesn’t seem to be built up as a bad guy. As I write this, I’m left to wonder if that’s just part of the plan; a movie refusing to conform to any superhero or comic book stereo types, as if to shout out ‘there is not guy with a black hat to lay the problems on.’
As I just mentioned, the characters are so rich and interesting, and easily the best part of a movie that will leave your eyes happy, and your brain working. First off, you have Dr. Manhattan, a man who, due to an accident is now able to control everything, and is given god-like powers. However, unlike Superman, Dr. Manhattan is left wondering why he should continue to save a race he couldn’t care less about. This is a perfect example for this movie, this character isn’t supporting the tights (unfortunately, cause there is a lot of wang-age from this character), he just doesn’t care, and is tired of caring, when he realizes he is above that. The next character, who is by far the coolest character, and often gives great dialogue, is Rorschach. His name is due to the inkblots on his mask continuously changing (I have no idea why or how) but they often show his mood, which is usually the only way to tell. This man is mistaken as crazy, but turns out to be the most noble, and sane person in the movie. When he finds out one of his own was murdered, he is the first to pound the pavement, and some faces to find out who did it, he is also the first to confront the bad guy with an uncompromising strength. Next is the Night Owl, in my opinion, a rip-off of Batman, at least in look. This guy is such a wimp without his costume, but when he puts on his costume, he makes it very clear, his purpose and destiny. Next you have The Silk Specter II, who is the shallowest character of all, simply a girl looking to be loved, and realizing putting on a mask to prove to her mother and the world that she should be loved. The comedienne, the first to be killed is the most interesting character. Mark my words, there will be countless philosophy papers written about this guy. He may be the smartest character, because he sees humanity as it truly is, and thinks it’s all a big joke. For this character, ‘anti-hero’ doesn’t even come close. The audience is not sure whether to love or hate the guy, but either way, he was really fun to watch. Finally, the world’s smartest man is simply that, the smartest man. Throughout the movie, you are not sure whether he truly is the smartest man and is two steps ahead of you, or if he is really stupid until the end. However, the interesting point about him, is, your not really sure of the answer, but you have to like the guy. Overall, this movie balanced these characters incredibly well. Most comic book movies have one character, or, for ones that have more, like X-men, they struggle to truly bring out the nature and soul of all the characters, something that Watchmen has no problem doing.
I was partly interested in seeing this movie because of the hype this movie has gotten lately, partly because of the reputation of the comic book, and partly because of the story behind the movie, something nearly as interesting as the movie, itself. After the first trailer had aired, it was made public the company making this movie was not supposed to; WB did not have the rights to it, Fox did. After threatening to not have this movie see the light of day, WB and Fox made nice and agreed to see this movie in a wrap up of one of the biggest screw ups in cinema history.
So, overall, I loved these characters, the music was jarring and the special effects and presentation were incredible, at 2 hours and 21 minutes, it seemed like about 45. I can’t wait for this movie to hit DVD, where I think this movie will truly excel. I give it a 9.5 out of 10. I’m taking half off for the fact I saw Dr. Manhattans wang like 50 times! Ok, fine, that’ not the main reason, but, whatever. GREAT MOVIE, worth seeing in theatres.
FUN FACT: Carla Gugino plays Sally Jupiter, mother of Laurie Juspeczyk, played by Malin Akerman. In real life, Gugino is only seven years older than Akerman.

Zack & Miri make a Porn review

From the writers of Clerks and Mallrats, from the guy who brought you Dogma comes Zack & Miri make a porno…that’s something how the commercial will probably go, ya know, with that voice over guy? Anyway, the voice is right, the newest movie from View Askew Productions and Kevin Smith is Zack & Miri, and if you’re a fan of Kevin Smith, well, then, you may or may not like this movie.
Zack & Miri (we’re calling it that from now on because most theatres dropped the “P word” because they found it offensive) is a movie about two friends (played by Seth Rogen and Elizabeth Banks) who have known each other since, well, sperm and are living together, only to find out they are too poor to live. After their power and water is turned off, they decide the only way to make any money, is to make a porno. After much deliberation, and an attempt at Star Whores, the team finally films in Zack’s coffee shop. The big problem, however, is Zack and Miri actually have to have sex in this porn, something that could tear their relationship apart. Will their relationship last; will something more come out of this; will you see Elizabeth Banks topless? You have to watch to find out.
This movie had the dialogue, and even some past friends from previous Smith movies, such as Jason Mewes, who played Jay, Jeff Anderson who played Randal. This movie also had a couple of new people in Banks and Rogen. Seth Rogen has kinda gotten tired with me, playing the same guy in every movie, I mean, we’ve got it, pot messes up your mind, and it’s funny, move on. Elizabeth Banks, however, was the bright part of this movie, she was adorable, sexy, and clearly the heart of the movie. The rest of the cast was ok, oh, and there was some porn and Mewes’s wang.
The thing is, it started off as a Smith movie, but ended as a Rom-com. The movie, to me had the “F-word” too many times to continue to be funny. The good side of the movie was the performance by Banks, and, with the exception of too many F-bombs, the usual great Kevin Smith dialogue. The scene where it comes down to whether Zack & Miri actually have to have sex was done perfectly, and the whole time, you are wondering what will happen, and how it will be handled. It was actually, the perfect scene, and the most important part of the movie (hence the title).
When it comes down to movies outside the Jay and Silent Bob universe, Kevin Smith has not excelled. This movie, while not perfect, is rough around the edges, but has a soft, sweet center. It’s entertaining, and sweet, but not worth the trip to the theatres.
It seems to be a trend, but I’m giving it a 7 out of 10.
FUN FACT: The film was edited twice, and rated NC-17 both times. The final cut was initially rated NC-17, but got an R on appeal.

New Star Trek Trailer...and it's good!

So, as you could tell, I am really excited about the movie release. From what I've read, and the previous trailers I've seen, I already had my ticket bought, despite the fact I wasn't the biggest Trek fan out there, especially as far as the movies are concerned. This trailer, however, has me geeking out all over the place! Check it out, and let me know where you will be the day it opens.
Stay cool, movie geeks!

Serenity lives...maybe

Before you get too outrageously happy, I have to tell you, there is no news of another movie. There is, however, a piece of that movie still alive. NASA is looking for a name for the third module of the international space station....something that will inspire people...something like "SERENITY." That's right, there is still a few days to vote, but Serenity is the number one choice by a large margin. So, basically, what I'm saying is there is enough fans to get an international space station segment named after the movie, but apparently, there is not enough attention to get a sequel....yeah, it doesn't make sense to me, either. But, hey, any attention to my beloved Serenity is good news!
Vote here until March 20th for Serenity: http://www.nasa.gov/externalflash/name_ISS//index.html
Just figured I would share, have a great day, movie geeks!

Fanboys a winner for other Fanboys

Do you know what a Nerfherder is; what about the planet Chewbacca is from; or Luke's call sign in Episode four? If you know any of these (yes, I'm a dork, I know them all) then Fanboys is a movie for you.

Fanboys is a movie that was supposed to come out over 2 years ago starring Kristen Bell, amongst others. The movie revolves around 5 friends who are huge Star Wars fans. When they find one of their own has terminal cancer, they decide they must go across country to see Episode one in the home of their Messiah, himself, Mr. George Lucas's Skywalker Ranch. Hilarity ensues, with a good message with a Star Wars twist ends the movie.

First thing, first, this movie would not be funny to those who are not movie geeks, or Star Wars geeks. There is, however, a lot of heart in this movie. They do a great job handling the storyline of their terminal friend, and his trip to the Ranch, and him facing death. I thought everyone did a good job, Kristen Bell is hot, and there were multiple cameos that were great throughout the movie. The one thing I thought they could have done without, however, is the Kristen Bell love story, but, that's ok.

The big drama was Harvey Weinstein, a guy, in my opinion, who ruins movies because he will cut and edit movies for what he wants, which is often not the view of the director, and possibly the audience. Unfortunately, here, he originally cut out the terminal storyline, making the fanboys look like retarded, overzealous geeks, instead of friends, trying to help one of their own. After numerous petitions and delays and re filming, the current version of the movie was replaced.

So, after 2 years, the movie is out in limited release. Go see it if you have a Star Wars poster on your wall, live in your mothers garage, debate whether Leiah and Luke were incestuous, or just want to see a silly, geeky movie.

For what it was, it was great! I give it a 7 out of 10

FUN FACT: The additional shots made in November and December 2007, weren't done by original director Kyle Newman but by Steven Brill.