The first time I saw this trailer, I thought, "Fuck, that Harry Potter kid is making shitty movies now." The second time I saw this trailer, I thought, "Holy shit, this movie looks amazing!" I'll be honest, the last few Harry Potter films have looked pretty decent, but I've never watched any of them. However, The Woman in Black looks like it could be a really solid horror film. Or, it could be a fucking abomination. But I guess we'll see. And I'll probably see it either way.
Sunday, October 30, 2011
Saturday, October 29, 2011
The Ring Two (2005)
The Ring Two (2005)Directed by: Hideo Nakata
Screenplay by: Ehren Kruger
Genre: Drama | Horror | Mystery | Thriller
Running Time: 128 Minutes (Unrated Cut)
MPAA Rating: Unrated
Viewed: Owned DVD
Fear comes full circle.
[IMDb]
Comments: I'm a bit torn about The Ring Two. If I really think about the plot, I can't help but laugh. But director Hideo Nakata (director of the first two Ringu films) treats the material very seriously, which allowed me to look past everything that seems so silly. The film doesn't have the same great look as Verbinski's, and it runs a tad too long, but I otherwise found The Ring Two enjoyable.
It's a little weird trying to get into the Halloween spirit here. First, I'm on call this weekend, so there's been no costume party fun for me. To be honest, even if I wasn't on call, there probably wouldn't have been any parties I went to, because I have no life. Secondly, it just snowed like a bitch here yesterday, so it felt more apropros to watch something like A Christmas Story rather than The Texas Chain Saw Massacre. But even if I tried to get into that Halloween spirit, holidays stopped being awesome years ago, sadly.
I'm not your fucking Mommy.
It's a little weird trying to get into the Halloween spirit here. First, I'm on call this weekend, so there's been no costume party fun for me. To be honest, even if I wasn't on call, there probably wouldn't have been any parties I went to, because I have no life. Secondly, it just snowed like a bitch here yesterday, so it felt more apropros to watch something like A Christmas Story rather than The Texas Chain Saw Massacre. But even if I tried to get into that Halloween spirit, holidays stopped being awesome years ago, sadly.
I'm not your fucking Mommy.
The Ring (2002)
The Ring (2002)Directed by: Gore Verbinski
Screenplay by: Ehren Kruger
Genre: Horror | Mystery | Thriller
Running Time: 115 Minutes
MPAA Rating: PG-13
Viewed: Owned DVD
Before you die, you see the ring.
[IMDb]
Comments: Without a doubt, the best thing about The Ring is the direction of Gore Verbinski. The film looks stunning, and is just plain fun to watch. The color schemes, the dreariness - it all works. In fact, had it not been for Verbinski's approach and overall seriousness he took with The Ring, this film could easily have been awful. The core storyline (to me) is completely silly and ridiculous. There were a couple of times where I wondered if I was supposed to take this "scary" material seriously, yet somehow Verbinski made it all work (and wonderfully so). (Also, I haven't seen Ringu so I can't compare the films.) (Wow, how many parentheses can I use in one shitty review? That's the real mystery.) Anyway, The Ring is incredibly solid despite the storyline, and worth your time (although many have probably seen the film already). And now, it's what everyone's been looking forward to: sequel time!
Captain America: The First Avenger (2011)
Captain America: The First Avenger (2011)Directed by: Joe Johnston
Screenplay by: Christopher Markus and Stephen McFeely
Genre: Action | Adventure | Sci-Fi
Running Time: 124 Minutes
MPAA Rating: PG-13
Viewed: Owned Blu-ray
When patriots become heroes.
[IMDb]
Comments: In terms of movies, horror films are probably my favorite. Behind them (off the top of my head) are likely depressive dramas and superhero films. I love a good superhero movie. This year's best was definitely Thor and X-Men: First Class, but Captain America: The First Avenger isn't too far behind those two.
- This is Chris Evans' second stint as a superhero, as he was Johnny Storm in the Fantastic Four films. He's alright as the lead, but I tend to prefer him in a more supporting role (à la Sunshine or Street Kings). He's best in smaller doses.
- I really liked Tommy Lee Jones here. There's also some great supporting actors throughout: the under-used Neal McDonough, Toby Jones, and Stanley Tucci. Those are some great character actors right there.
- The film is at its peak in the first hour or so, culminating with Evans' one man rescue mission of the 400 soldiers at a HYDRA base. Once Evans becomes Captain America, the film tends to fizzle out and lose some of its appeal. It quickly becomes standard superhero fare.
- I won't lie, I'm simultaneously very excited and worried for The Avengers. It's going to be difficult to have a successful film that is able manage each distinctly defined character. However, I do have faith in Joss Whedon, so I think it may be completely awesome.
- Captain America: The First Avenger is a fun movie. Superheroes have been treated better in films, but there's also been a hell of a lot worse. If anything, you need to see this so you're completely prepared for The Avengers. And who doesn't want to see that?
- This is Chris Evans' second stint as a superhero, as he was Johnny Storm in the Fantastic Four films. He's alright as the lead, but I tend to prefer him in a more supporting role (à la Sunshine or Street Kings). He's best in smaller doses.
- I really liked Tommy Lee Jones here. There's also some great supporting actors throughout: the under-used Neal McDonough, Toby Jones, and Stanley Tucci. Those are some great character actors right there.
- The film is at its peak in the first hour or so, culminating with Evans' one man rescue mission of the 400 soldiers at a HYDRA base. Once Evans becomes Captain America, the film tends to fizzle out and lose some of its appeal. It quickly becomes standard superhero fare.
- I won't lie, I'm simultaneously very excited and worried for The Avengers. It's going to be difficult to have a successful film that is able manage each distinctly defined character. However, I do have faith in Joss Whedon, so I think it may be completely awesome.
- Captain America: The First Avenger is a fun movie. Superheroes have been treated better in films, but there's also been a hell of a lot worse. If anything, you need to see this so you're completely prepared for The Avengers. And who doesn't want to see that?
Friday, October 28, 2011
Rammbock: Berlin Undead (2010)
Rammbock: Berlin Undead (2010)Directed by: Marvin Kren
Screenplay by: Benjamin Hessler
Genre: Horror | Thriller
Running Time: 64 Minutes
MPAA Rating: R
Viewed: Owned DVD
You can run, but you can't hide.
[IMDb]
Comments: I had heard a few good things about Rammbock for some time now, so when I found it for $7 or so I jumped on the chance to pick it up. I appreciated the small sliver of originality found in the film in a genre that's been beaten to death over the last few years. There's not much I can say bad about the movie. You can tell it has a small budget, but for the most part, it's not a hindrance. The only thing that was truly odd was the short, short runtime. It feels like there was a little bit more that could have been explored with Michael and his German friends when the credits hit at the 58 minute mark. Anyway, Rammbock: Berlin Undead is a solid zombie film and one worth seeking out. It's fun, and won't take up much of your time.
Saturday, October 22, 2011
Paranormal Activity 3 (2011)
Paranormal Activity 3 (2011)Directed by: Henry Joost and Ariel Schulman
Screenplay by: Christopher B. Landon
Genre: Horror
Running Time: 85 Minutes
MPAA Rating: R
Viewed: Theater
It runs in the family.
[IMDb]
Comments: I read about movies fairly often, so when something comes out, I tend to know a bit about it. For Paranormal Activity 3, I didn't give a shit, and just assumed it was some random ass people like Oren Peli, who made the first film. Then, as I made this post before I left for the theaters, I listed the directors. Henry Joost. Ariel Schulman. Fuck, I know these names. Let me click over to their page and... Catfish?! The guys that made Catfish (a film I did enjoy, real of fake) were hired to direct Paranormal Activity 3? That just seems so weird.
Paranormal Activity 3 was a bit of a letdown. I didn't have high expectations, but I was hoping for something entertaining (which this was, to a degree). My main issue was with how the characters behaved and acted, as on many occasions they only served to further the plot. There's a shitload a visual evidence that would have me getting the fuck out of that house midway through the film, but these characters are content to just keep on chillin'. On thing that I tried to ignore in the first two films that annoyed me here, particularly during the finale, was the main character holding the camera when his family was in danger. Seriously? PUT THE FUCKING CAMERA DOWN AND SAVE YOUR FUCKING FAMILY. I was able to make excuses early on in the series; I'm starting to run out now. Also, the idea behind the ending itself was interesting; however, the execution left me less than impressed.
Paranormal Activity 3 is another one of my great "solid rental for a rainy Friday night" movies. The premise is wearing a bit thin, but it was enjoyable enough. The "scares" are generally well done but nothing I haven't seen before. I like that the writers have kept a continuity between the films, but it's definitely getting to the point where another movie based on the same people would be really pushing the boundaries of belief (look, I realize I'm talking about Paranormal Activity 3). But for what it is, PA3 is fun and a solid rental for a rainy weekend night.
Paranormal Activity 3 was a bit of a letdown. I didn't have high expectations, but I was hoping for something entertaining (which this was, to a degree). My main issue was with how the characters behaved and acted, as on many occasions they only served to further the plot. There's a shitload a visual evidence that would have me getting the fuck out of that house midway through the film, but these characters are content to just keep on chillin'. On thing that I tried to ignore in the first two films that annoyed me here, particularly during the finale, was the main character holding the camera when his family was in danger. Seriously? PUT THE FUCKING CAMERA DOWN AND SAVE YOUR FUCKING FAMILY. I was able to make excuses early on in the series; I'm starting to run out now. Also, the idea behind the ending itself was interesting; however, the execution left me less than impressed.
Paranormal Activity 3 is another one of my great "solid rental for a rainy Friday night" movies. The premise is wearing a bit thin, but it was enjoyable enough. The "scares" are generally well done but nothing I haven't seen before. I like that the writers have kept a continuity between the films, but it's definitely getting to the point where another movie based on the same people would be really pushing the boundaries of belief (look, I realize I'm talking about Paranormal Activity 3). But for what it is, PA3 is fun and a solid rental for a rainy weekend night.
Friday, October 21, 2011
Torso (1973)
Torso (1973)Directed by: Sergio Martino
Screenplay by: Ernesto Gastaldi and Sergio Martino
Genre: Horror | Mystery | Thriller
Running Time: 93 Minutes (Director's Cut)
MPAA Rating: Unrated
Viewed: Owned Blu-ray
Enter... if you dare the bizarre world of the psychosexual mind.
[IMDb]
Comments: I don't have the biggest love affair for the giallo genre. Films like Deep Red, Tenebre, and The New York Ripper are all good films, but I don't hold them in the highest regard like many horror fans do. Still, I've wanted to see Torso for quite some time, mainly for for sleaziness aspect rather than the the fact that it's a respected giallo film (Eli Roth even has an introduction on the Blu-ray). As it turned out, the film was rather tame. While there was certainly some violence and a few topless women, it never came across as over-the-top or exploitative to me (and that's a shame).
The film itself is solid. The last act is rather entertaining, but up until that point it's a bit muddled. There's entirely too many characters (many of which surely were included only to be red herrings), and it took me awhile to remember who was who. Without a doubt, my favorite aspect was the music that played while the killer did his business (it can be heard on the Blu-ray menu as well). I just wish it was played more throughout the film.
I did a quick search and found this "unofficial" trailer on Youtube. It uses the main them I was talking about. It's awesome! Be warned: there's nudity, a little violence, and some slight spoilers in it.
The film itself is solid. The last act is rather entertaining, but up until that point it's a bit muddled. There's entirely too many characters (many of which surely were included only to be red herrings), and it took me awhile to remember who was who. Without a doubt, my favorite aspect was the music that played while the killer did his business (it can be heard on the Blu-ray menu as well). I just wish it was played more throughout the film.
I did a quick search and found this "unofficial" trailer on Youtube. It uses the main them I was talking about. It's awesome! Be warned: there's nudity, a little violence, and some slight spoilers in it.
Also Known As: Carnal Violence, I Corpi Presentano Tracce di Violenza Carnale
Sunday, October 16, 2011
The Thing (1982)
The Thing (1982)Directed by: John Carpenter
Screenplay by: Bill Lancaster
Genre: Horror | Mystery | Sci-Fi | Thriller
Running Time: 109 Minutes
MPAA Rating: R
Viewed: Owned DVD
The ultimate in alien terror.
[IMDb]
Comments: Just a few quick thoughts this evening: I appreciated The Thing so much more the second time around. It's such a great piece of filmmaking; it appeals to horror fans along with those that just appreciate good cinema. The score, the atmosphere - everything just works. And yeah, fuck you too.
Mask Maker (2010)
Mask Maker (2010)Directed by: Griff Furst
Screenplay by: Eric Miller and Griff Furst
Genre: Horror
Running Time: 94 Minutes
MPAA Rating: R
Viewed: Rental DVD - Family Video
Meet your maker.
[IMDb]
Comments: I'll always grab one or two shitty horror titles when I rent a few movies, so for this weekend, it was Griff Furst's Mask Maker. The reason I picked this one over the huge stock of low-rent horror titles at Family Video was that I almost bought the film at Walmart a few weeks ago. I do that from time to time with cheap horror movies, and it's almost always a terrible idea. With Mask Maker, however, it wouldn't have been completely worthless.
Mask Maker is probably the best low budget horror film I've seen in awhile. The story is clichéd and has been done A MILLION times, but I liked the actors and thought they had great chemistry together. I also thought the dialogue was realistic, and the opening act felt like how a boyfriend and girlfriend would speak and act with each other. Essentially, it just wasn't a steaming pile of shit that was only there to set up the horror aspect. Because of this, I was interested in the characters and said clichéd story. It's amazing how writing a somewhat competent script and hiring believable actors will cause the audience to become invested in the story rather that just watching for the tits and gore (which is what I was doing originally).
Now, as the movie goes on, it does get more and more predictable, the characters start acting more stupid so they can get killed for our viewing pleasure, and I gradually lost interest in the film. I was a little disappointed with that, but overall Mask Maker far exceeded my expectations. For the $1 I spent to rent it, I felt that I got my money's worth. If you like these sort of shitty horror movies, feel free to give this one a chance.
Mask Maker is probably the best low budget horror film I've seen in awhile. The story is clichéd and has been done A MILLION times, but I liked the actors and thought they had great chemistry together. I also thought the dialogue was realistic, and the opening act felt like how a boyfriend and girlfriend would speak and act with each other. Essentially, it just wasn't a steaming pile of shit that was only there to set up the horror aspect. Because of this, I was interested in the characters and said clichéd story. It's amazing how writing a somewhat competent script and hiring believable actors will cause the audience to become invested in the story rather that just watching for the tits and gore (which is what I was doing originally).
Now, as the movie goes on, it does get more and more predictable, the characters start acting more stupid so they can get killed for our viewing pleasure, and I gradually lost interest in the film. I was a little disappointed with that, but overall Mask Maker far exceeded my expectations. For the $1 I spent to rent it, I felt that I got my money's worth. If you like these sort of shitty horror movies, feel free to give this one a chance.
Saturday, October 15, 2011
The Thing (2011)
The Thing (2011)Directed by: Matthijs van Heijningen Jr.
Screenplay by: Eric Heisserer
Genre: Horror | Mystery | Sci-Fi | Thriller
Running Time: 103 Minutes
MPAA Rating: R
Viewed: Theater
It's not human. Yet.
[IMDb]
Comments: I really wish I would have watched John Carpenter's classic film before taking in the prequel. It's been a few years since I've seen The Thing, so I really can't compare the two plotlines because I don't remember much. I can tell you that the end of this film syncs up perfectly with the beginning of Carpenter's, but that's about it. As for the film itself, The Thing was an entertaining Saturday evening excursion, but not much more. It lacks a lot of the suspense and atmosphere that made the original great. The effects were pretty cool, the acting was alright, but there's really nothing that stood out or made The Thing memorable. It'll make a good rental for a nice wintry night double-feature with Carpenter's version, but that's about as much of a recommendation as I can give.
EDIT: Apparently, I watched John Carpenter's The Thing about a year-and-a-half ago, but I'm also an idiot and forget things easily. I could've sworn it was longer than that, but whatever.
EDIT, Part Deux: After re-watching Carpenter's version, it's really neat how everything about the 2011 version tied into it. The ax in the wall that Kurt Russell looks at when exploring the Norwegian camp? It was put there toward the end of this film. Matthijs van Heijningen Jr.'s attention to detail is really cool, in an era where continuity doesn't always mean shit to writers and directors.
EDIT: Apparently, I watched John Carpenter's The Thing about a year-and-a-half ago, but I'm also an idiot and forget things easily. I could've sworn it was longer than that, but whatever.
EDIT, Part Deux: After re-watching Carpenter's version, it's really neat how everything about the 2011 version tied into it. The ax in the wall that Kurt Russell looks at when exploring the Norwegian camp? It was put there toward the end of this film. Matthijs van Heijningen Jr.'s attention to detail is really cool, in an era where continuity doesn't always mean shit to writers and directors.
The Ides of March (2011)
The Ides of March (2011)Directed by: George Clooney
Screenplay by: George Clooney, Grant Heslov, and Beau Willimon
Genre: Drama
Running Time: 101 Minutes
MPAA Rating: R
Viewed: Theater
Ambition seduces. Power corrupts.
[IMDb]
Comments: You'll notice that I tend to write less for films that I love. It's mainly because I like to try to be at least somewhat humorous, and that's so much easier when the movie is terrible. Plus, it's more fun that way. So for The Ides of March, all I really want to say is: Go see it. It's fucking awesome.
OK, I'll try to write a little more. Sure, the film becomes less realistic and more melodramatic as it goes along, but it reeled me right in and I was dying to see how it would conclude. What path would Ryan Gosling would choose? The performances are stellar (what an amazing cast!), the dialogue is terrific, and the storyline is both engaging and entertaining. None of the characters are particularly likeable or heroic, yet they are all interesting and captivating, and I was constantly interested by the angles they played and what their individual motives were. I think I've spewed enough praise toward George Clooney's The Ides of March, so I'll leave you with this: Go see it. It's fucking awesome.
OK, I'll try to write a little more. Sure, the film becomes less realistic and more melodramatic as it goes along, but it reeled me right in and I was dying to see how it would conclude. What path would Ryan Gosling would choose? The performances are stellar (what an amazing cast!), the dialogue is terrific, and the storyline is both engaging and entertaining. None of the characters are particularly likeable or heroic, yet they are all interesting and captivating, and I was constantly interested by the angles they played and what their individual motives were. I think I've spewed enough praise toward George Clooney's The Ides of March, so I'll leave you with this: Go see it. It's fucking awesome.
Friday, October 14, 2011
Hall Pass (2011)
Hall Pass (2011)Directed by: Bobby Farrelly and Peter Farrelly
Screenplay by: Pete Jones, Peter Farrelly, Kevin Barnett, and Bobby
Farrelly
Genre: Comedy | Romance
Running Time: 111 Minutes (Extended Cut)
MPAA Rating: Unrated
Viewed: Rental Blu-ray - Family Video
One week. No rules.
[IMDb]
Comments: I realize Hall Pass got pretty much destroyed by critics, but I tend to enjoy the male-camaraderie/incredibly juvenile genre of comedies (see: Time Machine, Hot Tub), so I figured I'd give the film a whirl. I'm glad I did, because while I can see film purists hating Hall Pass, I really enjoyed it for what it was.
- The absolute worst part of the film was the seemingly unending string of promotions. Listen, I realize that with product placements, you can help finance your movie. It's something I've been noticing more and more in television shows - it started with Subway in Chuck (which I didn't mind as much, because it seriously helped save the show), and then got worse in White Collar and The Glades (the Ford and Kia advertisements in the middle of the show made me want to gouge my eyes out; they were that bad). In Hall Pass, not only do we get to hear the wonders of the Honda Odyssey, but we also get to hear about how Applebee's has the best steaks and how you can fit a $5 footlong sub from Subway in a purse. It's fucking annoying, distracting, and a disservice to anyone that would consider themselves a true artist. Granted, Hall Pass isn't art, but the Farrelly Brothers shouldn't be proud anyway.
- Owen Wilson's nose freaks me the fuck out. It's the only thing I noticed in every scene that he's in.
- Nicky Whelan. Jesus titty-fucking Christ on a cross. I mean, wow. Just Google her and see her in all her glory. That is all.
- Jenna Fischer, cute as she is, feels out of place in the film. Perhaps I just know her all too well a Pam from The Office, or maybe she's just not good enough of an actress to distinguish herself from that character (because I have no problem seeing Rainn Wilson as characters other than Dwight). Either way, I guess I just like her playing quieter roles, like on The Office. She just didn't click for me.
- Joy Behar? Oh, Farrelly Brothers, go fuck yourselves. What an annoying waste of space to cast in your film.
- There's absolutely no hint of drama anywhere. It feels like there's a big scene coming at the end for both couples (Wilson and Fischer, along with Jason Sudeikis and Christina Applegate), but everything that occurred over the course of the film is mostly played for laughs. On one hand I'm fine with that, but I guess part of me has been conditioned by Judd Apatow over the years so I just tend to expect something a little more.
- Stephen Merchant FTW! It's like The Office coming full circle with him and Jenna Fischer in the film together.
- I know I'm mainly listing things I didn't like about Hall Pass (except for the goddess that is Nicky Whelan), but I did enjoy the film. It's funny and made me laugh out loud a few times, and that's pretty much all I hoped for (maybe a little drama and possibly a gigantic black cock - oh wait, we got that last one!). I can see people shitting on the film and I completely understand why, but it served its purpose for me, so I'm not complaining.
- The absolute worst part of the film was the seemingly unending string of promotions. Listen, I realize that with product placements, you can help finance your movie. It's something I've been noticing more and more in television shows - it started with Subway in Chuck (which I didn't mind as much, because it seriously helped save the show), and then got worse in White Collar and The Glades (the Ford and Kia advertisements in the middle of the show made me want to gouge my eyes out; they were that bad). In Hall Pass, not only do we get to hear the wonders of the Honda Odyssey, but we also get to hear about how Applebee's has the best steaks and how you can fit a $5 footlong sub from Subway in a purse. It's fucking annoying, distracting, and a disservice to anyone that would consider themselves a true artist. Granted, Hall Pass isn't art, but the Farrelly Brothers shouldn't be proud anyway.
- Owen Wilson's nose freaks me the fuck out. It's the only thing I noticed in every scene that he's in.
- Nicky Whelan. Jesus titty-fucking Christ on a cross. I mean, wow. Just Google her and see her in all her glory. That is all.
- Jenna Fischer, cute as she is, feels out of place in the film. Perhaps I just know her all too well a Pam from The Office, or maybe she's just not good enough of an actress to distinguish herself from that character (because I have no problem seeing Rainn Wilson as characters other than Dwight). Either way, I guess I just like her playing quieter roles, like on The Office. She just didn't click for me.
- Joy Behar? Oh, Farrelly Brothers, go fuck yourselves. What an annoying waste of space to cast in your film.
- There's absolutely no hint of drama anywhere. It feels like there's a big scene coming at the end for both couples (Wilson and Fischer, along with Jason Sudeikis and Christina Applegate), but everything that occurred over the course of the film is mostly played for laughs. On one hand I'm fine with that, but I guess part of me has been conditioned by Judd Apatow over the years so I just tend to expect something a little more.
- Stephen Merchant FTW! It's like The Office coming full circle with him and Jenna Fischer in the film together.
- I know I'm mainly listing things I didn't like about Hall Pass (except for the goddess that is Nicky Whelan), but I did enjoy the film. It's funny and made me laugh out loud a few times, and that's pretty much all I hoped for (maybe a little drama and possibly a gigantic black cock - oh wait, we got that last one!). I can see people shitting on the film and I completely understand why, but it served its purpose for me, so I'm not complaining.
Hesher (2010)
Hesher (2010)Directed by: Spencer Susser
Screenplay by: Spencer Susser and David Michôd
Genre: Drama
Running Time: 106 Minutes
MPAA Rating: R
Viewed: Rental DVD - Family Video
Sometimes life gives you the finger and sometimes it gives you...
[IMDb]
Comments: I had wanted to see Hesher for some time now, but the damn Blu-ray has been so expensive since it came out that I never got around to buying it. So tonight, I decided to rent the fucker, and I'm really glad I did. This is a great, albeit a little crazy, film.
- I was really worried I had figured Hesher out early on and not in a good way. Early on in the film, the way Hesher (played marvelously - as if there was any doubt - by Joseph Gordon-Levitt) interacts with the main character TJ, it's as if Hesher is a figment of his imagination to help him deal with the death of his mother. I really hoped this wasn't what was happening, because it would have made for a terrible film. Slowly, Hesher starts to interact more with the rest of the cast and I realized I was mistaken with my initial worries. That idea had nothing to do with the film, which is why I'm bringing it up. Maybe I'm not the only one who noticed that?
- I really, really like Rainn Wilson. Sure, everyone knows him as Dwight, but his roles lately in films like Hesher and Super have really piqued my interest in what he'll do once The Office ends. Sure, his only leading Hollywood vehicle The Rocker tanked pretty horribly, but if he builds up a resume of films like those, there's no telling what he'll go on to accomplish.
- Natalie Portman was solid as always in her supporting role. Her character is a little off, but it generally plays well in the overall bizarreness of Hesher. Plus, she's cute as hell even with those terrible glasses, so I didn't really give a fuck what her character was like.
- Hesher is a strange film, but goddammit if it doesn't work. It's pretty funny at times, really sad at others, and there's that great "what the fuck?" element with the random things Hesher does that help keeps the film fresh and interesting. Definitely recommended.
- I was really worried I had figured Hesher out early on and not in a good way. Early on in the film, the way Hesher (played marvelously - as if there was any doubt - by Joseph Gordon-Levitt) interacts with the main character TJ, it's as if Hesher is a figment of his imagination to help him deal with the death of his mother. I really hoped this wasn't what was happening, because it would have made for a terrible film. Slowly, Hesher starts to interact more with the rest of the cast and I realized I was mistaken with my initial worries. That idea had nothing to do with the film, which is why I'm bringing it up. Maybe I'm not the only one who noticed that?
- I really, really like Rainn Wilson. Sure, everyone knows him as Dwight, but his roles lately in films like Hesher and Super have really piqued my interest in what he'll do once The Office ends. Sure, his only leading Hollywood vehicle The Rocker tanked pretty horribly, but if he builds up a resume of films like those, there's no telling what he'll go on to accomplish.
- Natalie Portman was solid as always in her supporting role. Her character is a little off, but it generally plays well in the overall bizarreness of Hesher. Plus, she's cute as hell even with those terrible glasses, so I didn't really give a fuck what her character was like.
- Hesher is a strange film, but goddammit if it doesn't work. It's pretty funny at times, really sad at others, and there's that great "what the fuck?" element with the random things Hesher does that help keeps the film fresh and interesting. Definitely recommended.
Tuesday, October 11, 2011
The Avengers (2012) -- Trailer
This could be completely fucking awesome or a complete disaster. But since it's co-written and directed by Joss Whedon, I'm leaning toward the former.
Monday, October 10, 2011
Jason Goes to Hell: The Final Friday (1993)
Jason Goes to Hell: The Final Friday (1993)Directed by: Adam Marcus
Screenplay by: Dean Lorey and Jay Huguely
Genre: Horror | Thriller
Running Time: 91 Minutes (Unrated Cut)
MPAA Rating: R
Viewed: Owned DVD
Evil has finally found a home.
[IMDb]
Comments: The Friday the 13th series is always fun to watch. It's just too bad that just about all of them... are terrible. The only awesome scene was when Freddy's hand reached out and grabbed Jason's mask. That's it.
House of 1000 Corpses (2003)
House of 1000 Corpses (2003)Directed by: Rob Zombie
Screenplay by: Rob Zombie
Genre: Adventure | Comedy | Horror
Running Time: 89 Minutes
MPAA Rating: R
Viewed: Owned Blu-ray
The most shocking tale of carnage ever seen.
[IMDb]
Comments: I love House of 1000 Corpses (and pretty much everything Rob Zombie's made). It's by no means a great film, but it's fun and entertaining homage to some great horror films of yesteryear.
- This is the first time I've watched the film knowing who Rainn Wilson was. The last time I watched the film, I hadn't begun watching The Office, so I didn't realize how awesome Rainn was (not to mention the mind-bogglingly awesome film Super he starred in last year). Plus it has Chris Hardwick (he of Singled Out fame), who hosts The Nerdist Podcast, one of my favorites to listen to (he's had both Rob Zombie and Rainn Wilson on as guests before).
- Dear Jesus do I still love Sheri Moon Zombie. I had hoped when I saw Rob Zombie in concert last year that she'd be there. Alas, she wasn't (she may have, but she never made an appearance on stage). She's just so fucking sexy and psychotic. It's awesome.
- Walton Goggins FTW!
- I re-bought House of 1000 Corpses on Blu-ray a few weeks ago (a two-pack with The Devil's Rejects), and damn it looks good. I'd like to pick up both of Zombie's Halloween films as well, but the price hasn't been right yet (yes, I enjoyed those two films also).
- I guess Zombie's next film will be The Lords of Salem. Needless to say, I'm very excited for that.
- By now, I'm sure everyone that's seen House of 1000 Corpses either hates it or loves it. I fall into the latter camp, and that's pretty much all you need to know. Dr. Satan!
- This is the first time I've watched the film knowing who Rainn Wilson was. The last time I watched the film, I hadn't begun watching The Office, so I didn't realize how awesome Rainn was (not to mention the mind-bogglingly awesome film Super he starred in last year). Plus it has Chris Hardwick (he of Singled Out fame), who hosts The Nerdist Podcast, one of my favorites to listen to (he's had both Rob Zombie and Rainn Wilson on as guests before).
- Dear Jesus do I still love Sheri Moon Zombie. I had hoped when I saw Rob Zombie in concert last year that she'd be there. Alas, she wasn't (she may have, but she never made an appearance on stage). She's just so fucking sexy and psychotic. It's awesome.
- Walton Goggins FTW!
- I re-bought House of 1000 Corpses on Blu-ray a few weeks ago (a two-pack with The Devil's Rejects), and damn it looks good. I'd like to pick up both of Zombie's Halloween films as well, but the price hasn't been right yet (yes, I enjoyed those two films also).
- I guess Zombie's next film will be The Lords of Salem. Needless to say, I'm very excited for that.
- By now, I'm sure everyone that's seen House of 1000 Corpses either hates it or loves it. I fall into the latter camp, and that's pretty much all you need to know. Dr. Satan!
Sunday, October 9, 2011
Stake Land (2010)
Stake Land (2010)Directed by: Jim Mickle
Screenplay by: Nick Damici and Jim Mickle
Genre: Horror
Running Time: 98 Minutes
MPAA Rating: R
Viewed: Owned Blu-ray
The most dangerous thing is to be alive.
[IMDb]
Comments: Stake Land is a solid follow-up to Jim Mickle's equally-impressive debut Mulberry Street. Both movies are gorgeously filmed, making one believe Mickle is a much more seasoned auteur than he actually is. My one complaint was the lack of a truly interesting storyline, outside of the awesome post-apocalyptic world that Mickle and co-writer/star Nick Damici envisioned. There's just not any sort of arc that kept me invested in these characters. On the bright side, one of my favorite horror actresses popped up, the ever charming Danielle "The People's Eyebrow" Harris (of Halloween fame - both the old and the new series). Sure, her right eyebrow is permanently raised an inch higher than the left, but that doesn't mean she's not a cute little ball of awesomeness. Anyway, Stake Land is a fine film, and worth your time.
Saturday, October 8, 2011
Piranha (2010)
Piranha (2010)Directed by: Alexandre Aja
Screenplay by: Pete Goldfinger and Josh Stolberg
Genre: Action | Horror | Sci-Fi | Thriller
Running Time: 88 Minutes
MPAA Rating: R
Viewed: Owned Blu-ray
There's something in the water.
[IMDb]
Comments: It's been over a year since I originally watched Piranha, and while I enjoyed it a bit more this time, my thoughts remained generally the same. Because I'm a lazy shithead, and because I want to watch Stake Land, here's my original review:
So, quick side note: I made a few small grammatical changes to the original review. I'm a shitty writer, what can I say? Also, there will be a sequel out this year entitled Piranha 3DD, but Aja is not attached. The actors returning include Ving Rhames and Christopher Lloyd, and they're joined by... yes, Gary Busey and David Hasselhoff (playing himself). Odds that The Hoff gets eaten?
Alexandre Aja was a horror director on the rise. After his very highly-praised High Tension, Aja directed the solid Hills Have Eyes remake. But after the disappointing and very mediocre Mirrors, Aja decided on another remake, this time of Joe Dante's Piranha. The film's been received well and I was looking forward to it. But as it turns out, I wasn't that impressed. Sure, there's a lot of violence and nudity (which is always a plus!), but it just felt like Aja was trying too hard to make it a "B" movie. There were a few awesome moments (like when Ving Rhames took the propeller off of a boat and used it as a weapon against the piranha), but there were so many goofy moments as well (the entire end of the film made me dumber). There's a surprising amount of recognizable people in the film, but for the most part the acting's awful (the plethora of cheesy dialogue certainly didn't help). Piranha is a fun movie and I enjoyed myself, but Aja tries way too hard to make a cult classic out of a mostly Hollywood-esque horror film. Better luck next time, Alexandre (which will be next year, for Piranha 2).
So, quick side note: I made a few small grammatical changes to the original review. I'm a shitty writer, what can I say? Also, there will be a sequel out this year entitled Piranha 3DD, but Aja is not attached. The actors returning include Ving Rhames and Christopher Lloyd, and they're joined by... yes, Gary Busey and David Hasselhoff (playing himself). Odds that The Hoff gets eaten?
Dream House (2011)
Dream House (2011)Directed by: Jim Sheridan
Screenplay by: David Loucka
Genre: Drama | Mystery | Thriller
Running Time: 92 Minutes
MPAA Rating: PG-13
Viewed: Theater
Once upon a time, there were two little girls who lived in a house.
[IMDb]
Comments: I think I could write a book on Dream Home and what a complete waste of potential it is. Some parts of the film are engaging and I and couldn't wait to see what happened next; others are so mind-numbingly awful that I struggled to understand what the hell the people making the film were thinking.
- I think the first thing everyone should know is that Daniel Craig, Rachel Weisz, and director Jim Sheridan want nothing to do with Dream House. Apparently, the production company Morgan Creek made edits to the film without Sheridan's approval. While I don't know for sure if they are the work of Morgan Creek, there's definitely some questionable edits that are blatantly obvious. There's one scene early on, when Daniel Craig sees a man outside his house. Craig chases after him and slides down a hill deep in the backwoods of his house. Somehow, he speaks directly to Weisz, who's on the house's back porch, even though we've seen Craig venture far into the woods. It's pretty noticeable. There's also some obvious overdubbing of characters in the last part of the film that only serve to provide exposition to the audience. I notice this shit all the time in TV shows, but I understand that to an extent because they're on a tight deadline. It's just really bad here.
- The first half of Dream House is fucking terrible. It was so bad that I was debating calling it the worst film I've seen this year. It's incredibly choppy, bouncing around from scene to scene without ever giving us a clear image of what we're watching onscreen, what to expect from these characters, or who they are. After awhile, the film settles in to the core of its plot, and I can see what attracted such known actors to a film like Dream House. It's a shame that Sheridan, Morgan Creek, or who-the-fuck-ever made this film couldn't come up with some kind of cohesive first act.
- Craig and Weisz sound weird with whatever accent they're trying to go for. You'll notice I said the same thing about Craig in Cowboys & Aliens. Note to filmmakers: make Craig a British import in whatever film you're making. I don't care if he's playing Hitler in a movie. He's now Hitler that emigrated from Britain.
- Naomi Watts. Yes please.
- They showed the trailer for Brett Ratner's Tower Heist before Dream House. It features a cast of some of my least favorite actors: Ben Stiller (he's made some good movies, but he really gets on my nerves), post-1990 Eddie Murphy, and Téa Leoni (to be fair, it does have Casey Affleck and Alan Alda in it). Why I am mentioning it? Because they showed the trailer... twice. Ugh.
- Speaking of trailers, a word of warning: the main plot twist that comes halfway through the film is given away in the trailer. I watch trailers often, but somehow I avoided watching the one for Dream House so I was completely in the dark. If you've avoided the trailer so far, keep doing it. It's not an Oldboy-level twist or anything and it's certainly been done before, but it's what renewed my interest in the film after that terrible first act. Had I known what was coming, I definitely wouldn't have been as interested as I was during the last parts of the film.
- Once I saw the core of what Dream House was all about, I really wanted to like this film more than I did. While it would never have been an award winner, it really had the chance to be a solid mystery film instead of the muddled mess it became. I hesitate to even suggest a rental on such a clusterfuck, but I did really like parts of the movie... so I'll leave the decision up to you.
- I think the first thing everyone should know is that Daniel Craig, Rachel Weisz, and director Jim Sheridan want nothing to do with Dream House. Apparently, the production company Morgan Creek made edits to the film without Sheridan's approval. While I don't know for sure if they are the work of Morgan Creek, there's definitely some questionable edits that are blatantly obvious. There's one scene early on, when Daniel Craig sees a man outside his house. Craig chases after him and slides down a hill deep in the backwoods of his house. Somehow, he speaks directly to Weisz, who's on the house's back porch, even though we've seen Craig venture far into the woods. It's pretty noticeable. There's also some obvious overdubbing of characters in the last part of the film that only serve to provide exposition to the audience. I notice this shit all the time in TV shows, but I understand that to an extent because they're on a tight deadline. It's just really bad here.
- The first half of Dream House is fucking terrible. It was so bad that I was debating calling it the worst film I've seen this year. It's incredibly choppy, bouncing around from scene to scene without ever giving us a clear image of what we're watching onscreen, what to expect from these characters, or who they are. After awhile, the film settles in to the core of its plot, and I can see what attracted such known actors to a film like Dream House. It's a shame that Sheridan, Morgan Creek, or who-the-fuck-ever made this film couldn't come up with some kind of cohesive first act.
- Craig and Weisz sound weird with whatever accent they're trying to go for. You'll notice I said the same thing about Craig in Cowboys & Aliens. Note to filmmakers: make Craig a British import in whatever film you're making. I don't care if he's playing Hitler in a movie. He's now Hitler that emigrated from Britain.
- Naomi Watts. Yes please.
- They showed the trailer for Brett Ratner's Tower Heist before Dream House. It features a cast of some of my least favorite actors: Ben Stiller (he's made some good movies, but he really gets on my nerves), post-1990 Eddie Murphy, and Téa Leoni (to be fair, it does have Casey Affleck and Alan Alda in it). Why I am mentioning it? Because they showed the trailer... twice. Ugh.
- Speaking of trailers, a word of warning: the main plot twist that comes halfway through the film is given away in the trailer. I watch trailers often, but somehow I avoided watching the one for Dream House so I was completely in the dark. If you've avoided the trailer so far, keep doing it. It's not an Oldboy-level twist or anything and it's certainly been done before, but it's what renewed my interest in the film after that terrible first act. Had I known what was coming, I definitely wouldn't have been as interested as I was during the last parts of the film.
- Once I saw the core of what Dream House was all about, I really wanted to like this film more than I did. While it would never have been an award winner, it really had the chance to be a solid mystery film instead of the muddled mess it became. I hesitate to even suggest a rental on such a clusterfuck, but I did really like parts of the movie... so I'll leave the decision up to you.
Friday, October 7, 2011
Them (2006)
Them (2006)Directed by: David Moreau and Xavier Palud
Screenplay by: David Moreau and Xavier Palud
Genre: Horror | Thriller
Running Time: 77 Minutes
MPAA Rating: R
Viewed: Owned DVD
You'll never feel safe in your home again.
[IMDb]
Comments: I love the French. Seriously. How many awesome horror films have come out of that country lately? The list includes Martyrs, High Tension, Inside, and Frontier(s); now I can add Them to the list. Awesome.
- For the longest time I thought that The Strangers was a remake of Them, but after doing some research I found out the films aren't directly related. The two are almost completely different outside of the couple-in-a-deserted-area-being-attacked-by-some-incredibly-coordinated-and-quick-moving-people scenario.
- Plus Dennis Reynolds isn't in Them.
- I hated the stupid epilogue that tells you what happened after the movie ends. Only under certain circumstances do I want to know what happened after the final scene - usually in true stories and biographies. Horror movies? Not so much. It cheapens the final scenes.
- I really liked David Moreau and Xavier Palud's directing. It creates a tense and unnerving feeling throughout Them. The camerawork made me feel that I was right along with the main characters (especially during Clem's attic scene).
- 20 minutes after my last point: I totally started doing something else mid-review, and so now I've completely forgot what I was going to talk about. I'm out, bitches.
- For the longest time I thought that The Strangers was a remake of Them, but after doing some research I found out the films aren't directly related. The two are almost completely different outside of the couple-in-a-deserted-area-being-attacked-by-some-incredibly-coordinated-and-quick-moving-people scenario.
- Plus Dennis Reynolds isn't in Them.
- I hated the stupid epilogue that tells you what happened after the movie ends. Only under certain circumstances do I want to know what happened after the final scene - usually in true stories and biographies. Horror movies? Not so much. It cheapens the final scenes.
- I really liked David Moreau and Xavier Palud's directing. It creates a tense and unnerving feeling throughout Them. The camerawork made me feel that I was right along with the main characters (especially during Clem's attic scene).
- 20 minutes after my last point: I totally started doing something else mid-review, and so now I've completely forgot what I was going to talk about. I'm out, bitches.
Also Known As: Ils
Dead & Buried (1981)
Dead & Buried (1981)Directed by: Gary Sherman
Screenplay by: Ronald Shusett and Dan O'Bannon
Genre: Horror | Mystery
Running Time: 94 Minutes
MPAA Rating: R
Viewed: Owned DVD
It will take your breath away... all of it.
[IMDb]
Comments: Dead & Buried is a solid and very underrated film from the early '80s. The whole style and course the film takes is very reminiscent of 1973's The Wicker Man, where a man struggles to understand what's going on around him in a small town where seemingly everyone else is in on it. Dead & Buried is also played very straight; there's no humor or '80s cheesiness to be found - the latter of which is a certainly good thing. If you haven't seen the film (or even heard of it), I strongly suggest giving it a look. Blue Underground has a pretty snazzy two-disc edition out, although the picture quality isn't the greatest, especially during scenes at night. It appears to me that older DVDs tend to look much shittier on an HDTV than a good ol' CRT beast most of the time, but I'm no A/V junkie. Anyway, you should definitely go check out Dead & Buried.
Saturday, October 1, 2011
50/50 (2011)
50/50 (2011)Directed by: Jonathan Levine
Screenplay by: Will Reiser
Genre: Comedy | Drama
Running Time: 99 Minutes
MPAA Rating: R
Viewed: Theater
It takes a pair to beat the odds.
[IMDb]
Comments: Once October 1st rolls around, I normally dive into a month-long horror bender. It's one of my favorite times of the year. However, this year I'm in my hometown and busy, so the annual horror-fest is going to have to wait until next weekend. Instead, I got a chance to go see Joseph Gordon-Levitt and Seth Rogen in the new buddy-cancer-comedy (is that PC?), 50/50.
- This film is JGL's through-and-through. I know Rogen is featured in most of the ads (as he is the biggest star), but he doesn't play much of a role until the final act. JGL is great, and his character is so wonderfully executed, particularly during the dramatic moments.
- Anna Kendrick is slowly becoming one of my favorite actresses. I loved her in Up in the Air, and she continues to impress in 50/50. She may not be the most attractive woman in the world, but she definitely has this I-could-spend-the-rest-of-my-life-with-you-and-all-your-cuteness aspect about her. Or maybe that's just apparent to me. Either way, she's awesome.
- Seth Rogen was... Seth Rogen. His shtick is slowly wearing on me, and he's going to need to have a few different roles soon. Rogen has some great moments (I really enjoyed the scenes with him, JGL, and Bryce Dallas Howard), but he is the exact same character in every movie he's in.
- The last act of 50/50 was excellent. The pacing and fluidity was off at times early on, but the final act was worth the price of admission. I have no problem admitting that I cried like a bitch during JGL's scene in the Jeep. It was wonderful.
- If you're at all a fan of the Apatow-style of films, 50/50 will be right up your alley. It's a great film that successfully balances the funny and dramatic. I really wanted to see Dream House as well this weekend, but I'm so glad I spent my time here. It was totally worth it.
- This film is JGL's through-and-through. I know Rogen is featured in most of the ads (as he is the biggest star), but he doesn't play much of a role until the final act. JGL is great, and his character is so wonderfully executed, particularly during the dramatic moments.
- Anna Kendrick is slowly becoming one of my favorite actresses. I loved her in Up in the Air, and she continues to impress in 50/50. She may not be the most attractive woman in the world, but she definitely has this I-could-spend-the-rest-of-my-life-with-you-and-all-your-cuteness aspect about her. Or maybe that's just apparent to me. Either way, she's awesome.
- Seth Rogen was... Seth Rogen. His shtick is slowly wearing on me, and he's going to need to have a few different roles soon. Rogen has some great moments (I really enjoyed the scenes with him, JGL, and Bryce Dallas Howard), but he is the exact same character in every movie he's in.
- The last act of 50/50 was excellent. The pacing and fluidity was off at times early on, but the final act was worth the price of admission. I have no problem admitting that I cried like a bitch during JGL's scene in the Jeep. It was wonderful.
- If you're at all a fan of the Apatow-style of films, 50/50 will be right up your alley. It's a great film that successfully balances the funny and dramatic. I really wanted to see Dream House as well this weekend, but I'm so glad I spent my time here. It was totally worth it.
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