Several years ago NBC paid an exorbitant amount of money for the exclusive TV rights to the Olympic games. With its stable of cable channels and 24 hour Internet access NBC advertised that they would have 3600 hours of coverage. They failed to mention that it would be 3600 hours of awful coverage.
First of all I understand that NBC can't control a 15 hour time difference. What they can do is show me live events as they happen. They had the entire Olympics rescheduled just so they could televise gymnastics, swimming and other top sports live. Unfortunately, they meant only live on the east coast. For those of us on the west coast, we get a tape delay.
This is nothing new for us west coasters, we generally get everything on tape delay. Everything but top sporting events and the Oscars. If only the Olympics were important enough to equal the Oscars. They only happen every four years, that's not that special.
So while the rest of the country was enjoying Michael Phelps amazing feats live, I was watching ESPN waiting for an update about an event that I would have to wait three hours to see. By the way, NBC has the audacity to leave that "Live" marker in the corner to mock me. The only time anything is ever actually live is at 2 in the morning when they're showing women's handball.
I love the Olympics. I love the spectacle, the sports, and the stories. All I want is for NBC to consider allowing me the privilege of enjoying it live.
Monday, August 18, 2008
Wednesday, August 13, 2008
Alicia Sacramone, Olympic champion
Women's gymnastics has always been the headlining attraction during week one of the Olympics. In recent years the men's competition has gained more exposure, making it just as fascinating. At these games head to head battles with China have made gymnastics one of the most anticipated events of the games.
Monday night the US men won bronze paving the way for the women to defend their World Champion titles. The women were literally doing direct battle with China because they were competing on the same rotation. The US started off strong on vault and uneven bars, but then came the balance beam. At just four inches wide it is considered the make or break apparatus. The Chinese were up first and they were really shaky, leaving the door wide open for the US. Unfortunately, team captain Alicia Sacramone fell off the beam during her opening move. Just like that the US's hopes to strike back against the Chinese were gone. It should be noted here that even with all the mistakes they made the Chinese were still given remarkably high scores. While the host country always receives a bump, these scores were out of control. Nastia Liukin and Shawn Johnson recovered enough to keep the US in contention, but they would need a huge effort in the floor exercise.
This time the Americans would compete first and once again Alicia Sacramone would lead the way. She appeared ready to redeem herself until a disastrous second tumbling pass where she landed on her back closed the door on the gold. As she left the floor team coach Marta Karoly seemed unable or perhaps unwilling to comfort Sacramone who looked for a private moment that the cameras would not give her.
The US won the silver and the Chinese took gold, leaving Russia with the bronze. Many will call this a failure by the Americans, however I think it is an example in how to lose with class and grace. Sacramone, who at 20 is the oldest member of the team, took all the blame on herself and didn't fail to answer the questions of a rabid press ready to point out her every flaw. To me that is the measure of a true team captain and champion.
So while many will remember how Alicia Sacramone fell, I will remember how she stood up with her teammates as they won the silver medal.
Monday night the US men won bronze paving the way for the women to defend their World Champion titles. The women were literally doing direct battle with China because they were competing on the same rotation. The US started off strong on vault and uneven bars, but then came the balance beam. At just four inches wide it is considered the make or break apparatus. The Chinese were up first and they were really shaky, leaving the door wide open for the US. Unfortunately, team captain Alicia Sacramone fell off the beam during her opening move. Just like that the US's hopes to strike back against the Chinese were gone. It should be noted here that even with all the mistakes they made the Chinese were still given remarkably high scores. While the host country always receives a bump, these scores were out of control. Nastia Liukin and Shawn Johnson recovered enough to keep the US in contention, but they would need a huge effort in the floor exercise.
This time the Americans would compete first and once again Alicia Sacramone would lead the way. She appeared ready to redeem herself until a disastrous second tumbling pass where she landed on her back closed the door on the gold. As she left the floor team coach Marta Karoly seemed unable or perhaps unwilling to comfort Sacramone who looked for a private moment that the cameras would not give her.
The US won the silver and the Chinese took gold, leaving Russia with the bronze. Many will call this a failure by the Americans, however I think it is an example in how to lose with class and grace. Sacramone, who at 20 is the oldest member of the team, took all the blame on herself and didn't fail to answer the questions of a rabid press ready to point out her every flaw. To me that is the measure of a true team captain and champion.
So while many will remember how Alicia Sacramone fell, I will remember how she stood up with her teammates as they won the silver medal.
Tuesday, August 12, 2008
Michael Phelps Backlash
Michael Phelps is great. There's no denying it, the guy can swim. However, he's not single-handedly saving the world or anything. Don't get me wrong, I'm a big fan, but according to NBC he's the second coming.
After the US's amazing comeback in the 4x100 meter relay all anyone talked about was how his hopes for 8 gold medals were still alive. I felt like this was a slap in the face to the other swimmers on the team. They didn't even have a shot at gold until Jason Lesak's fantastic swim on the anchor leg. Sure Lesak got some press, but it was still all about Phelps. No one even mentioned Cullen Jones or Garret Weber-Gale. They were the other guys on the team in case you were wondering.
Phelps is already being called the greatest Olympian ever, which is ridiculous when you consider the complete history of the Olympics. For my money I don't think he'd make the top ten at this point.
At the moment NBC is like a 13 year old girl who just met The Jonas Brothers. They can't contain their love for Phelps. My question is where is the love for the US men's gymnastics team or Togo's Benjamin Boukpeti?
The gymnastics team was spot on last night when they won the bronze medal. Everyone nailed their routines and there was a real camaraderie evident. Boukpeti won Togo's first ever Summer Olympics medal by taking the bronze in men's single kayak slalom. However, these stories are overshadowed by Phelps quest for 8 gold medals. If NBC isn't careful they will be ground zero for an outbreak of Phelps backlash.
After the US's amazing comeback in the 4x100 meter relay all anyone talked about was how his hopes for 8 gold medals were still alive. I felt like this was a slap in the face to the other swimmers on the team. They didn't even have a shot at gold until Jason Lesak's fantastic swim on the anchor leg. Sure Lesak got some press, but it was still all about Phelps. No one even mentioned Cullen Jones or Garret Weber-Gale. They were the other guys on the team in case you were wondering.
Phelps is already being called the greatest Olympian ever, which is ridiculous when you consider the complete history of the Olympics. For my money I don't think he'd make the top ten at this point.
At the moment NBC is like a 13 year old girl who just met The Jonas Brothers. They can't contain their love for Phelps. My question is where is the love for the US men's gymnastics team or Togo's Benjamin Boukpeti?
The gymnastics team was spot on last night when they won the bronze medal. Everyone nailed their routines and there was a real camaraderie evident. Boukpeti won Togo's first ever Summer Olympics medal by taking the bronze in men's single kayak slalom. However, these stories are overshadowed by Phelps quest for 8 gold medals. If NBC isn't careful they will be ground zero for an outbreak of Phelps backlash.
Saturday, August 9, 2008
Are the Olympics still relevant?
There have been a lot of questions recently about whether the Olympics still matter in today's world. Last night's opening ceremonies answered those questions with a resounding yes. Between athletes carrying in their countries' flags with pride and million dollar superstars experiencing a pride they don't get from their day jobs, these ceremonies had a story for everyone.
Generally the opening ceremonies are a chance for the host country to showcase why it was awarded the honor of putting on the games. China chose to showcase the beauty of its history and its people. The artistry and precision of an ancient culture was displayed with a nod to the advancements of a modern society.
As the parade of nations began commentators wondered if the politics of the world would impact the recepetion of certain countries. The answer to that question was no, as all 11,000 athletes were welcomed with cheers. Even countries like Japan and Taiwan, who China has long and storied conflicts with, were greeted warmly. Athletes from Iraq, Afghanistan and Sudan marched proudly, momentarily forgetting the war zones they left behind.
Finally the moment came that 1.3 billion people had been waiting for when the Chinese delegation entered the stadium. They were led by flag bearer and basketball superstar Yao Ming. He was led by a 9 year old earthquake survivor who not only dug himself out of the rubble but returned to free two classmates. When asked why he went back, the young hero replied that he was a class leader and hall monitor and that it was his responsibility. Stories like that prove how relevant the Olympic games are to our world.
The cauldron was lit in breathtaking fashion as gymnastics champion Li Ning danced around the top of the stadium on a LED screen that revealed the torch's progress to that spectacular moment. The majesty of that moment proved that the Olympic games gives the world reason to hope that our similarities can outweigh our differences.
Generally the opening ceremonies are a chance for the host country to showcase why it was awarded the honor of putting on the games. China chose to showcase the beauty of its history and its people. The artistry and precision of an ancient culture was displayed with a nod to the advancements of a modern society.
As the parade of nations began commentators wondered if the politics of the world would impact the recepetion of certain countries. The answer to that question was no, as all 11,000 athletes were welcomed with cheers. Even countries like Japan and Taiwan, who China has long and storied conflicts with, were greeted warmly. Athletes from Iraq, Afghanistan and Sudan marched proudly, momentarily forgetting the war zones they left behind.
Finally the moment came that 1.3 billion people had been waiting for when the Chinese delegation entered the stadium. They were led by flag bearer and basketball superstar Yao Ming. He was led by a 9 year old earthquake survivor who not only dug himself out of the rubble but returned to free two classmates. When asked why he went back, the young hero replied that he was a class leader and hall monitor and that it was his responsibility. Stories like that prove how relevant the Olympic games are to our world.
The cauldron was lit in breathtaking fashion as gymnastics champion Li Ning danced around the top of the stadium on a LED screen that revealed the torch's progress to that spectacular moment. The majesty of that moment proved that the Olympic games gives the world reason to hope that our similarities can outweigh our differences.
Monday, May 19, 2008
Why TV executives are dumb
Recently the major networks held their upfronts. This is when they announce new shows and officially cancel failed shows from the previous season. With the invention of Tivo/DVR and the rise of original cable programming the networks have been in bad shape lately, and you can bet that writer's strike didn't help.
Of course all the hits are sure things, "Heroes," "Grey's Anatomy" and the various CSIs all get immediate pickups.
New shows with breakout stars or big numbers are also in. Shows like "Private Practice" and "Dirty Sexy Money," are also in.
There were a few high profile flops this season, among them "Bionic Woman" and "Cane." Upon first glance these shows seemed like sure things. They had casts full of big name talent and their respective networks were throwing tons of cash into them. Unfortunately, money can't buy success and they're both gone.
The most nerve wracking part of upfronts week is the wait to see whether your favorite show on the bubble will be renewed.
Because of the strike there was a lack of material and it was said that networks would be kinder to bubble shows. For fans of "Moonlight," "New Amsterdam" and "Jericho" this wasn't quite true.
Fox decided to axe "New Amsterdam" to make room for the future classic "The Moment of Truth." I suppose they have a one cult sci-fi show per season rule over there and this year "The Sarah Connor Chronicles" got the nod.
CBS canceled "Moonlight" and "Jericho" but kept "The Big Bang Theory." Are the inmates running the asylum over there? Oh and two more "Survivors" I can hardly wait. It's not like they've done the same show 16 times already. We get it they're in the jungle and there's backstabbing.
In a truly confounding move ABC is renewing "According to Jim." Has anyone ever heard another person say hey did you see "According to Jim" last night? I didn't think so. That makes me wonder who on this planet could possibly be watching that show. I don't think Jim Belushi is even watching.
NBC is trying to be different and claim that they have new programming all summer long. What they're really saying is that they're loading up on reality shows for three months until they can bring back "Heroes" and "The Office."
Another revelation discovered at the upfronts is that American TV producers have run out of ideas. Almost every network has at least one or two British shows being developed for America. British shows are great, BBC America is a fantastic channel. However, if I've already seen the original "Life on Mars" why do I need to watch ABC's copy.
The upfronts aren't all bad news. Some the new shows sound really interesting. FOX has the latest Joss Whedon project titled "Dollhouse." They also have J.J. Abrams's new show called "Fringe." The CW has already announced the return of a a little show called "90210."
The lesson of all this is to not get too attached because next year we may be talking about the failure of "90210," or how FOX pulled "Dollhouse" without airing the final six episodes.
I guess we could always turn off the TV and read a book, not likely though.
Of course all the hits are sure things, "Heroes," "Grey's Anatomy" and the various CSIs all get immediate pickups.
New shows with breakout stars or big numbers are also in. Shows like "Private Practice" and "Dirty Sexy Money," are also in.
There were a few high profile flops this season, among them "Bionic Woman" and "Cane." Upon first glance these shows seemed like sure things. They had casts full of big name talent and their respective networks were throwing tons of cash into them. Unfortunately, money can't buy success and they're both gone.
The most nerve wracking part of upfronts week is the wait to see whether your favorite show on the bubble will be renewed.
Because of the strike there was a lack of material and it was said that networks would be kinder to bubble shows. For fans of "Moonlight," "New Amsterdam" and "Jericho" this wasn't quite true.
Fox decided to axe "New Amsterdam" to make room for the future classic "The Moment of Truth." I suppose they have a one cult sci-fi show per season rule over there and this year "The Sarah Connor Chronicles" got the nod.
CBS canceled "Moonlight" and "Jericho" but kept "The Big Bang Theory." Are the inmates running the asylum over there? Oh and two more "Survivors" I can hardly wait. It's not like they've done the same show 16 times already. We get it they're in the jungle and there's backstabbing.
In a truly confounding move ABC is renewing "According to Jim." Has anyone ever heard another person say hey did you see "According to Jim" last night? I didn't think so. That makes me wonder who on this planet could possibly be watching that show. I don't think Jim Belushi is even watching.
NBC is trying to be different and claim that they have new programming all summer long. What they're really saying is that they're loading up on reality shows for three months until they can bring back "Heroes" and "The Office."
Another revelation discovered at the upfronts is that American TV producers have run out of ideas. Almost every network has at least one or two British shows being developed for America. British shows are great, BBC America is a fantastic channel. However, if I've already seen the original "Life on Mars" why do I need to watch ABC's copy.
The upfronts aren't all bad news. Some the new shows sound really interesting. FOX has the latest Joss Whedon project titled "Dollhouse." They also have J.J. Abrams's new show called "Fringe." The CW has already announced the return of a a little show called "90210."
The lesson of all this is to not get too attached because next year we may be talking about the failure of "90210," or how FOX pulled "Dollhouse" without airing the final six episodes.
I guess we could always turn off the TV and read a book, not likely though.
Wednesday, May 7, 2008
Saturday, April 26, 2008
Doctor Who: Partners In Crime
This was the first official episode of the new season and it felt great to see my old friend The Doctor back in action. After suffering some losses in the Christmas episode, it was time to lighten up. Cue Catherine Tate.
Last night's episode re-introduced Tate as The Doctor's new companion Donna Noble. Catherine Tate is very popular in England for her sketch comedy show and her comedic timing and sassy sensibility is a welcome addition to The Doctor's universe.
In the best scene last night, The Doctor and Donna get reacquainted from across a room using only hilarious sign language to communicate.
Based on this first outing and upcoming episodes Tate will bring a lot more comedy to The Doctor's world. She will also provide more balance as a companion because she will not be bogged down by hero worship like his previous companions.
I felt this was a great start to the new season, and with the surprise cameo at the end it appears we are in for a very interesting story arc.
Next week our heroes visit Pompeii and are faced with an impossible choice.
Last night's episode re-introduced Tate as The Doctor's new companion Donna Noble. Catherine Tate is very popular in England for her sketch comedy show and her comedic timing and sassy sensibility is a welcome addition to The Doctor's universe.
In the best scene last night, The Doctor and Donna get reacquainted from across a room using only hilarious sign language to communicate.
Based on this first outing and upcoming episodes Tate will bring a lot more comedy to The Doctor's world. She will also provide more balance as a companion because she will not be bogged down by hero worship like his previous companions.
I felt this was a great start to the new season, and with the surprise cameo at the end it appears we are in for a very interesting story arc.
Next week our heroes visit Pompeii and are faced with an impossible choice.
Monday, April 21, 2008
The Doctor is back
“I’m The Doctor, I’m a Time Lord, I’m from the planet Gallifrey, I’m 903 years old, I’m the man that’s going to save your lives and all 6 billion people on the planet below, do you have a problem with that?”
If you aren’t already watching the BBC’s “Doctor Who” that one statement tells you everything you need to know about The Doctor. Here in the States “Doctor Who” airs on SCI-FI channel and BBC America. In England it is a phenomenon that routinely sets viewing records and has turned its cast and crew into household names.
“Doctor Who” is a legendary television franchise that was regenerated in 2005. The Doctor is a Time Lord who travels through space and time in his TARDIS, a space ship disguised as a big blue police box. He often takes companions with him on these travels and he usually ends up saving Earth and the rest of the Universe from some evil alien threat.
Season four of “Doctor Who began in England on April 5 and then premiered in America on April 18. If you’re a patient, law abiding fan, you probably waited until April 18 for SCI-FI channel’s season premiere that started with the Christmas special “Voyage of the Damned.”
However, if you’re an impatient rule breaker like me, you’ve been online and have already seen “Voyage of the Damned” and the first three episodes of the new season.
This season promises to be the most exciting yet, as The Doctor will be joined by new full-time companion Donna Noble played by British comedienne Catherine Tate. In episode four Martha Jones rejoins the TARDIS crew, and later this season Billie Piper returns as Rose Tyler, the new Doctor’s first companion.
Also on board this season, the fabulous John Barrowman as Captain Jack Harkness. This means The Doctor will be accompanied by four companions in one season. The TARDIS is sure going to get crowded, good thing it’s bigger on the inside.
While I may dream of being The Doctor’s fifth companion, I am dismayed by the news that once season four finishes there will be a year long absence before season five starts production. The truly amazing David Tennant, who plays The Doctor, will be playing Hamlet in a Royal Shakespeare Company production. This means the TARDIS will be temporarily shelved.
That means I will have to go an entire year without seeing The Doctor, Martha, Donna and Jack.
I guess I better savor every moment of season four. Well thank god for “Torchwood.”
If you aren’t already watching the BBC’s “Doctor Who” that one statement tells you everything you need to know about The Doctor. Here in the States “Doctor Who” airs on SCI-FI channel and BBC America. In England it is a phenomenon that routinely sets viewing records and has turned its cast and crew into household names.
“Doctor Who” is a legendary television franchise that was regenerated in 2005. The Doctor is a Time Lord who travels through space and time in his TARDIS, a space ship disguised as a big blue police box. He often takes companions with him on these travels and he usually ends up saving Earth and the rest of the Universe from some evil alien threat.
Season four of “Doctor Who began in England on April 5 and then premiered in America on April 18. If you’re a patient, law abiding fan, you probably waited until April 18 for SCI-FI channel’s season premiere that started with the Christmas special “Voyage of the Damned.”
However, if you’re an impatient rule breaker like me, you’ve been online and have already seen “Voyage of the Damned” and the first three episodes of the new season.
This season promises to be the most exciting yet, as The Doctor will be joined by new full-time companion Donna Noble played by British comedienne Catherine Tate. In episode four Martha Jones rejoins the TARDIS crew, and later this season Billie Piper returns as Rose Tyler, the new Doctor’s first companion.
Also on board this season, the fabulous John Barrowman as Captain Jack Harkness. This means The Doctor will be accompanied by four companions in one season. The TARDIS is sure going to get crowded, good thing it’s bigger on the inside.
While I may dream of being The Doctor’s fifth companion, I am dismayed by the news that once season four finishes there will be a year long absence before season five starts production. The truly amazing David Tennant, who plays The Doctor, will be playing Hamlet in a Royal Shakespeare Company production. This means the TARDIS will be temporarily shelved.
That means I will have to go an entire year without seeing The Doctor, Martha, Donna and Jack.
I guess I better savor every moment of season four. Well thank god for “Torchwood.”
Friday, February 15, 2008
Tim's instant "Lost" reactions for episode 3
So, more questions again!
I feel like the Riddler at the end of "Batman Forever" when he is babbling about "too many questions..."
They did answer a question that no one ever asked before, that the island is somehow 31 minutes out of sync with everything else. Even though that mystery is itself a giant question...
I have a theory about Miles, but you'll have to watch the next episode of "Viewpoints on..." to find out.
The ending, won't spoil, was surprising. That was a good part.
I feel like the Riddler at the end of "Batman Forever" when he is babbling about "too many questions..."
They did answer a question that no one ever asked before, that the island is somehow 31 minutes out of sync with everything else. Even though that mystery is itself a giant question...
I have a theory about Miles, but you'll have to watch the next episode of "Viewpoints on..." to find out.
The ending, won't spoil, was surprising. That was a good part.
Saturday, February 9, 2008
Dan's Review of Three of the Best Picture nominees
Juno almost topped Across the Universe as the Worst Movie We As A Civilization Will Have To Experience. I wouldn't care that I sat through unrealistic situations, obscure reference after obscure reference (by a 16-year-old?!), a father who is surprisingly ok with his young daughter being "bored one day" and screwing some guy, and the fact that JENNIFER GARDNER SAVED THE MOVIE (??!!??!!), if it wasn't nominated for awards. Obviously they just didn't want to nominate too many movies that would be heavy contenders, so they pandered to a movie that seemed like it was written by a 13-year-old about a 16-year-old. It's not Knocked Up Lite because Knocked Up actually dealt with all of the mature issues in a funny way. In Knocked Up, the pregnant woman was miserable and terrified. Cut to Juno, where the girl is close to half her age, and the pregnant GIRL is wisecracking, not even really knowing she's pregnant until the middle ofthe second trimester, throws up once, throws one little tissy fit over prom. Who can greenlight something so blatantly horrible? And Jason Bateman plays Jennifer Garner's husband, a 30-omething jinglewriter who is stuck in a marriage. So what does he do to escape? He watches old horror movies and listens to eclectic music with Juno, and eventually puts the moves on her! What 30-something will put the moves on a pregnant 16-year-old to Mott the Hoople?! Did someone lose their mind writing this? Has the world gone insane? My only explanation is that a producer said "Wow, we could get a lot of sub-par names in thi and make a bundle. Let's have someone add some maturity at the end." So the older couple breaks up and Jennifer Garner gets the baby. Couple of good scenes in that. But then, it's right back to the stupid race: Juno and Michael Cera's character go back to being together, keep wasting away their days together, and act like it never happened. How is it some movies don't get greenlighted for insensitivity and moral issues, but Juno is made, which basically says that a 16-year-old can get pregnant, her dad will be fine with that, she can find a couple in the Pennysaver (I kid you not) to take it, she doesn't have to care enough about it to get updates on it wants it's gone, she'll barely feel any effects, and life will go back to normal after she has a child? Oh, and one last thing... the soundtrack. It was as irritating and forced as Juno's cynicism and witty taste was. You can only take so many folk songs about "wanting to be a bumble bee" and "you and me" and "things to be across the sea" before you want to go home and listen to Slayer for seven hours. Juno was the most tasteless, boring, forced, unrealistic, inhuman film I've had to see lately.
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Last year was a year to some real throwbacks, most notably westerns, and most notably "There Will Be Blood."
Paul Thomas Anderson took an Upton Sinclair novel about oil in general and worked it into a powerful story about an oil man, Daniel Plainview, who is dark, envious, proud, distrusting, and brutal.
Before I go into the actual plot at all, I want to note a few things Anderson did and didn't do that should get him a lot more credit.
Anderson didn't give us recycled characters. We didn't see Bill the Butcher from Gangs of New York (though Daniel Day Lewis did sport the same mustache for both characters). He also didn't give us the young brooding man Paul Dano played in "Little Miss Sunshine."
What we got was two characters who come to feel like wrecking balls. One swings around screen most of the time, and when the other hits, you're genuinely terrified of what the outcome will be.
Another thing Anderson has done brilliantly is shot a film in a way you don't expect or realize. Several major scenes are one continuous shot; no cutting from person to person, place to place. Anderson puts on an oil field and gives you only one set of eyes to understand the situation.
Another wholly satisfying and fresh tactic was when Plainview is at the dealing table trying to negotiate. How many times have we seen the camera fire back and forth while they cut deals?Not this time. We are fixed on Plainview, seeing his eyes twinkle as he ropes in land owners, and see the predator look slide across his face as they contemplate.
HOLD IT! It's not just filmMAKING that sets "There Will Be Blood above other standard movies. The acting is easiy the best of the year. With only two major actors (well, one for now) in the film, the casting was set perfectly to not overwhelm the audience and fish for awards, but to feel real.
The scene-stealer is easily Paul Dano, who plays the off-putting and down-right eerie Eli Sunday. YOu don't expect anyone to rival Plainviews drive, force and brute manly demeanor. But, out of the blinding daylight comes the sheepish, akward Sunday, seemingly unafraid of Plainview's power and stature.
Many scenes of the movie built around these two leave open-ended meanings that will start debates outside the theatre. In one scene, Sunday makes a bold move, leaving you abosolutely baffled as to what is going on in his head.
In the soon-to-be-famous church scene, Plainview atones for his sins (for purely capital reasons, of course), and Sunday drives an emotional stake through his heart, leading to the clip some of you may have seen on the Golden Globes of Plainview breaking down as he confesses he has abandonned his only son.
Another puzzling, open-ended moment is immediately after Plainview is "saved," when he whispers something to Sunday. It cannot be understood by us, but it leaves a myriad of feeling on Sunday's face, from horror, to nervousness, to faux satisfaction.
All of this leads to an unforseen ending sequence. Everyone's left wondering if the two men of different industries will ever have closure, and it comes in the most shocking, unforgiving, and sickly pleasurable ways.
Daniel Day Lewis, who rightfully won the Golden Globe for Best Actor, is still a scene stealer. I first saw him in "Gangs of New York," and was mesmerized by his commitment and honesty in a character. Where last time he was an evil man on the prowl in brutal times, Day Lewis became an evil man with glaring weakness and humanity for his role as Plainview.
While Day Lewis caps the movie with a one-line knock-out punch, it's just as good (and a whole lot less spoilerific) as his praise of Sunday's evangelical church service: "That was a Goddamn helluva show in there."
So, when Oscar time floats around, make sure you've sen this film. I can't promise that cheesey, recycled crap like Atonement will finally be snubbed for not reaching out of Jane Austen's back pocket, but perhaps Day Lewis will hold reign as the greatest actor of our time and Dano may get his Best Supporting award.
Overall, this movie is a low-key powerhouse. There are at least a handful of scenes you will miss the beginning of as you try to comprehend what had just previously happened. Unnerving tension and sometimes unpredictable, frightening characters make this movie an action film with only 30% action.
At times it can be slow, but there's always an underlying air to every scene that makes you wonder when the next bombs going to drop... and it always does, right up to the last line.
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I truly had accepted There Will Be Blood as the deserving film of the year. But then I saw No Country For Old Men, a pulse-pounding game of cat an mouse that can only be described as... boom.
There's been a lot of talk of Javier Bardem's scene-stealing role as Anton Chigurh, a quiet, cold killing machine armed with some not-so-traditional weapons. Though the film is based mostly around Llewelyn Moss (played perfectly by Josh Brolin), a Vietnam Veteran who finds a bag full of money in the midst of a blown drug deal he stumbled upon. The only problem is that in the bag with the money is also a tracking device, putting Anton hot on his trail.
So begins an edge-of-your-seat scare fest. If Javier Bardem is on screen, you know bad things are about to happen. The only thing that makes it worse in when he is losing his patience chasing someone. At all times, however, he keeps his character calm, cool, and unexpectedly deadly.
Tommy Lee Jones gives a great performance as Sheriff Ed Tom Bell, a man who has taken up his post just like every ma in his family has. The only problem is that he seems very hesitant, even afraid to get really involved in the situation. Though he doesn't do much other than offer a great deal of excuses not to go to the rescue and some very good dialouge with his comrades, Tommy Lee Jones, as well as every character, finds his place eventually.
This movie is steady, dark, loud, and frightening. While some may think that it's just another "The Departed," it's actually a much more realistic look at the kind of men in situations like this; they aren't all courageous, or smart, or sane. They are all just men. The violence is graphic, but only because it would be in that situation.
No Country For Old Men is easily my favorite to win. Javier Bardem will no doubt get his chance to give an acceptance speech. But for what my opinion's worth, I'd say the Coen brothers will round out the night's festivities.
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Last year was a year to some real throwbacks, most notably westerns, and most notably "There Will Be Blood."
Paul Thomas Anderson took an Upton Sinclair novel about oil in general and worked it into a powerful story about an oil man, Daniel Plainview, who is dark, envious, proud, distrusting, and brutal.
Before I go into the actual plot at all, I want to note a few things Anderson did and didn't do that should get him a lot more credit.
Anderson didn't give us recycled characters. We didn't see Bill the Butcher from Gangs of New York (though Daniel Day Lewis did sport the same mustache for both characters). He also didn't give us the young brooding man Paul Dano played in "Little Miss Sunshine."
What we got was two characters who come to feel like wrecking balls. One swings around screen most of the time, and when the other hits, you're genuinely terrified of what the outcome will be.
Another thing Anderson has done brilliantly is shot a film in a way you don't expect or realize. Several major scenes are one continuous shot; no cutting from person to person, place to place. Anderson puts on an oil field and gives you only one set of eyes to understand the situation.
Another wholly satisfying and fresh tactic was when Plainview is at the dealing table trying to negotiate. How many times have we seen the camera fire back and forth while they cut deals?Not this time. We are fixed on Plainview, seeing his eyes twinkle as he ropes in land owners, and see the predator look slide across his face as they contemplate.
HOLD IT! It's not just filmMAKING that sets "There Will Be Blood above other standard movies. The acting is easiy the best of the year. With only two major actors (well, one for now) in the film, the casting was set perfectly to not overwhelm the audience and fish for awards, but to feel real.
The scene-stealer is easily Paul Dano, who plays the off-putting and down-right eerie Eli Sunday. YOu don't expect anyone to rival Plainviews drive, force and brute manly demeanor. But, out of the blinding daylight comes the sheepish, akward Sunday, seemingly unafraid of Plainview's power and stature.
Many scenes of the movie built around these two leave open-ended meanings that will start debates outside the theatre. In one scene, Sunday makes a bold move, leaving you abosolutely baffled as to what is going on in his head.
In the soon-to-be-famous church scene, Plainview atones for his sins (for purely capital reasons, of course), and Sunday drives an emotional stake through his heart, leading to the clip some of you may have seen on the Golden Globes of Plainview breaking down as he confesses he has abandonned his only son.
Another puzzling, open-ended moment is immediately after Plainview is "saved," when he whispers something to Sunday. It cannot be understood by us, but it leaves a myriad of feeling on Sunday's face, from horror, to nervousness, to faux satisfaction.
All of this leads to an unforseen ending sequence. Everyone's left wondering if the two men of different industries will ever have closure, and it comes in the most shocking, unforgiving, and sickly pleasurable ways.
Daniel Day Lewis, who rightfully won the Golden Globe for Best Actor, is still a scene stealer. I first saw him in "Gangs of New York," and was mesmerized by his commitment and honesty in a character. Where last time he was an evil man on the prowl in brutal times, Day Lewis became an evil man with glaring weakness and humanity for his role as Plainview.
While Day Lewis caps the movie with a one-line knock-out punch, it's just as good (and a whole lot less spoilerific) as his praise of Sunday's evangelical church service: "That was a Goddamn helluva show in there."
So, when Oscar time floats around, make sure you've sen this film. I can't promise that cheesey, recycled crap like Atonement will finally be snubbed for not reaching out of Jane Austen's back pocket, but perhaps Day Lewis will hold reign as the greatest actor of our time and Dano may get his Best Supporting award.
Overall, this movie is a low-key powerhouse. There are at least a handful of scenes you will miss the beginning of as you try to comprehend what had just previously happened. Unnerving tension and sometimes unpredictable, frightening characters make this movie an action film with only 30% action.
At times it can be slow, but there's always an underlying air to every scene that makes you wonder when the next bombs going to drop... and it always does, right up to the last line.
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I truly had accepted There Will Be Blood as the deserving film of the year. But then I saw No Country For Old Men, a pulse-pounding game of cat an mouse that can only be described as... boom.
There's been a lot of talk of Javier Bardem's scene-stealing role as Anton Chigurh, a quiet, cold killing machine armed with some not-so-traditional weapons. Though the film is based mostly around Llewelyn Moss (played perfectly by Josh Brolin), a Vietnam Veteran who finds a bag full of money in the midst of a blown drug deal he stumbled upon. The only problem is that in the bag with the money is also a tracking device, putting Anton hot on his trail.
So begins an edge-of-your-seat scare fest. If Javier Bardem is on screen, you know bad things are about to happen. The only thing that makes it worse in when he is losing his patience chasing someone. At all times, however, he keeps his character calm, cool, and unexpectedly deadly.
Tommy Lee Jones gives a great performance as Sheriff Ed Tom Bell, a man who has taken up his post just like every ma in his family has. The only problem is that he seems very hesitant, even afraid to get really involved in the situation. Though he doesn't do much other than offer a great deal of excuses not to go to the rescue and some very good dialouge with his comrades, Tommy Lee Jones, as well as every character, finds his place eventually.
This movie is steady, dark, loud, and frightening. While some may think that it's just another "The Departed," it's actually a much more realistic look at the kind of men in situations like this; they aren't all courageous, or smart, or sane. They are all just men. The violence is graphic, but only because it would be in that situation.
No Country For Old Men is easily my favorite to win. Javier Bardem will no doubt get his chance to give an acceptance speech. But for what my opinion's worth, I'd say the Coen brothers will round out the night's festivities.
Friday, February 8, 2008
Tim's instant "Lost" reactions
More new people...
More new questions...
More new mysteries...
Seeing a pattern here?
At least the Smoke Monster was revealed as... wait... Ben doesn't know either!?!
Is it just me or does every place off the island look like Hawaii too? I've been to Inglewood and it doesn't look like that.
$10 says the girl Locke captured is Ben's "man on the boat." Why would an Anthropologist wear a bullet proof vest when the other members of the team didn't? Kind of convienent?
More new questions...
More new mysteries...
Seeing a pattern here?
At least the Smoke Monster was revealed as... wait... Ben doesn't know either!?!
Is it just me or does every place off the island look like Hawaii too? I've been to Inglewood and it doesn't look like that.
$10 says the girl Locke captured is Ben's "man on the boat." Why would an Anthropologist wear a bullet proof vest when the other members of the team didn't? Kind of convienent?
LOST, Episode 4.02 "Confirmed Dead" Recap/Reactions!!!
First off, kudos to ABC for airing last week's episode. Great idea to give people another chance to get into this season. Kind of like saying "Yeah, we've been gone, and we know you're sketchy about coming back, but we'll give you one more chance to think it over."
I'm really excited to see Jeremy Davies (playing Daniel Faraday) on tonight's episode. He's an interesting actor, definately the kind of guy who belongs on Lost.
So let's begin watching LOST, Episode 4.02, "Confirmed Dead"...
Oceanic Flight 815 is found!.... Underwater?! The online game eluded to this. Apparently it has something to do with Desmond's girlfriend's father. So there's some sort of decoy coverup going on. Is it just to stop Penny from looking? I doubt it. Maybe Ben did it to keep people from looking for the island. Is Ben and Penny's father in cahoots?
Daniel Faraday is flatout WEIRD. Something just isn't right there. Is he just some weird savant, or is he hiding something? He's obviously not a covert spy; he just let that A-bomb drop: "Rescuing you....not our primary objective."
DUH. I think we all pieced that together. How about you tell us what you're there for?
Another piece of the insanedom is dropped when Locke shows off his wicked-cool bullet scar. If he hadn't been used and abused by his dad (including having his father con him out of a kidney), Locke would now be dead.
And another random theory from me: If Walt's back and taller, that means he's older, and he's aged fast. If time really is an issue, and Richard (the Other that doesn't seem to age) is still his age, maybe people on the island are in a sort of slowed down time space. Maybe people coming to the island have gone through a year missing Flight 815, when it's only been a month to them. That explains Jack's dad being dead in the flashforward as well.
Then there's Miles. The dude from X3 (I can't recall his name) is pretty good. Nothing really big from him, except how did he know Naomi was dead?!
So...... Miles is a medium..... huh? Was that necessary? Unless he can go to the caves and "speak" to Adam and Eve, I don't see the importance. The survivors already have Desmond for psychic entertainment. And as far as that goes, they have Locke to be weird. I guess they're just upping the antie.
****TIM NOTE**** Miles+Jacob=Answers! $20 Segraves bucks for Tim!
THERE'S the big eyebrow raiser: "The light here... it just doesn't seem to scatter right."
Daniel Faraday either is running around the jungle on shrooms or gave us a brilliant little nugget of a clue. Maybe another one of Dharma's experiments? Maybe altertering light to hide the island? Am I reaching to far?
Granted, I think Miles is a cool character, but the situation that Miles and Jack are in, and how quickly it turned, really makes you want to be Jack's wingman: "Yeah, Miles! HOW STUPID ARE YOU, PUNK?"
Wow, chick with a horrible accent in the desert. Is she British? I don't know. I've heard twelve-year-olds do better accents.
POLAR BEAR?! How did it get there? WHAT? Dharma Bear! AHHH!
I'm guessing a rouge group of polar bears were in route to save the last Dharma polar bear when their chopper went down. I wonder if Sawyer killing the polar bear will have any ill effects between the Oceanic Six and the United Polar Bears union when they get off the island....
Anyways, back to the actual show. Team Locke catches Bad Actress and they have a sort of question and answer segment with a whole lot of akwardness. That is, until John let's her know that they are the survivors who DON'T want to leave.
As Team Jack marches their new "friends" through the forest, hillarity ensues. The love triangle between Jack, Kate and Juliet just got way better. I just laughed really hard at the whole exchange where Jack's kind of caught in the middle. He's bonded with both of these women through their struggle to survive, now he's caught in between. POOR JACK, two beautiful women after him...
Faraday and Sayid have a pleasant conversation with some funny attitude from Miles tossed in. Great scene!
Cool old man. Plus a nice cameo from Greg Grunberg. Guess he has nothing better to do since Dissapointment... I mean, Heroes... is off the air right now.
Oooh.... not his body? That means... Flight 815 is not in the water! GASP! Yeah, let's move it along, we're all aware that there's some kind of hoax going..... oh. Cool Old Man was supposed to fly the plane. That could lead to some very odd things in the future, especially if everyone was predestined to be on the island.
COW! HAHAHAHAHA!!! Sorry, I find that hillarious.
CHOPPER! That's more like it. Now things will start to get desperate. There's a viable way out, so now there's not really a way to further that plotline. So we can focus on the island, right?
Well, there's yet another twist! The strange dude that was after Hugo sent Naomi and the mod squad to the island. What the h---?!
Oh, crap! There's a hit out on Ben! For what though? For killing the Dharma Initiavtive? But then Oceanic is in this with Dharma. It seems there's a whole lot of corporate shenanigans going on.
So, Ben's in danger, he has someone on their boat (Dharma Bear?), and there's a chance for actual rescue.
I'm confused. This episode threw a whole bunch of twists and information at me. They need to start organizing it out or I may end up like Faraday.
I'm really excited to see Jeremy Davies (playing Daniel Faraday) on tonight's episode. He's an interesting actor, definately the kind of guy who belongs on Lost.
So let's begin watching LOST, Episode 4.02, "Confirmed Dead"...
Oceanic Flight 815 is found!.... Underwater?! The online game eluded to this. Apparently it has something to do with Desmond's girlfriend's father. So there's some sort of decoy coverup going on. Is it just to stop Penny from looking? I doubt it. Maybe Ben did it to keep people from looking for the island. Is Ben and Penny's father in cahoots?
Daniel Faraday is flatout WEIRD. Something just isn't right there. Is he just some weird savant, or is he hiding something? He's obviously not a covert spy; he just let that A-bomb drop: "Rescuing you....not our primary objective."
DUH. I think we all pieced that together. How about you tell us what you're there for?
Another piece of the insanedom is dropped when Locke shows off his wicked-cool bullet scar. If he hadn't been used and abused by his dad (including having his father con him out of a kidney), Locke would now be dead.
And another random theory from me: If Walt's back and taller, that means he's older, and he's aged fast. If time really is an issue, and Richard (the Other that doesn't seem to age) is still his age, maybe people on the island are in a sort of slowed down time space. Maybe people coming to the island have gone through a year missing Flight 815, when it's only been a month to them. That explains Jack's dad being dead in the flashforward as well.
Then there's Miles. The dude from X3 (I can't recall his name) is pretty good. Nothing really big from him, except how did he know Naomi was dead?!
So...... Miles is a medium..... huh? Was that necessary? Unless he can go to the caves and "speak" to Adam and Eve, I don't see the importance. The survivors already have Desmond for psychic entertainment. And as far as that goes, they have Locke to be weird. I guess they're just upping the antie.
****TIM NOTE**** Miles+Jacob=Answers! $20 Segraves bucks for Tim!
THERE'S the big eyebrow raiser: "The light here... it just doesn't seem to scatter right."
Daniel Faraday either is running around the jungle on shrooms or gave us a brilliant little nugget of a clue. Maybe another one of Dharma's experiments? Maybe altertering light to hide the island? Am I reaching to far?
Granted, I think Miles is a cool character, but the situation that Miles and Jack are in, and how quickly it turned, really makes you want to be Jack's wingman: "Yeah, Miles! HOW STUPID ARE YOU, PUNK?"
Wow, chick with a horrible accent in the desert. Is she British? I don't know. I've heard twelve-year-olds do better accents.
POLAR BEAR?! How did it get there? WHAT? Dharma Bear! AHHH!
I'm guessing a rouge group of polar bears were in route to save the last Dharma polar bear when their chopper went down. I wonder if Sawyer killing the polar bear will have any ill effects between the Oceanic Six and the United Polar Bears union when they get off the island....
Anyways, back to the actual show. Team Locke catches Bad Actress and they have a sort of question and answer segment with a whole lot of akwardness. That is, until John let's her know that they are the survivors who DON'T want to leave.
As Team Jack marches their new "friends" through the forest, hillarity ensues. The love triangle between Jack, Kate and Juliet just got way better. I just laughed really hard at the whole exchange where Jack's kind of caught in the middle. He's bonded with both of these women through their struggle to survive, now he's caught in between. POOR JACK, two beautiful women after him...
Faraday and Sayid have a pleasant conversation with some funny attitude from Miles tossed in. Great scene!
Cool old man. Plus a nice cameo from Greg Grunberg. Guess he has nothing better to do since Dissapointment... I mean, Heroes... is off the air right now.
Oooh.... not his body? That means... Flight 815 is not in the water! GASP! Yeah, let's move it along, we're all aware that there's some kind of hoax going..... oh. Cool Old Man was supposed to fly the plane. That could lead to some very odd things in the future, especially if everyone was predestined to be on the island.
COW! HAHAHAHAHA!!! Sorry, I find that hillarious.
CHOPPER! That's more like it. Now things will start to get desperate. There's a viable way out, so now there's not really a way to further that plotline. So we can focus on the island, right?
Well, there's yet another twist! The strange dude that was after Hugo sent Naomi and the mod squad to the island. What the h---?!
Oh, crap! There's a hit out on Ben! For what though? For killing the Dharma Initiavtive? But then Oceanic is in this with Dharma. It seems there's a whole lot of corporate shenanigans going on.
So, Ben's in danger, he has someone on their boat (Dharma Bear?), and there's a chance for actual rescue.
I'm confused. This episode threw a whole bunch of twists and information at me. They need to start organizing it out or I may end up like Faraday.
Friday, January 18, 2008
Will "Cloverfield" Change The Industry Or Start A Fad?
Fresh out of the theatre today, I was taken by surprise; "Cloverfield" knocked my socks off. Yet some actually were demanding their money back. Why? Because this is a controversial movie for all of the right reasons. Here are a few:
1. THE RETURN OF "SHAKEY-CAM"- The old (well, not really old) technique that gives film an amateur, onthe-spot realism that put "The Blair Witch Project" on the map. "Cloverfield is the triumphant return of this type of movie. The difference is that "Blair" made it a gimmick. "Cloverfield" commits on all levels.
Yes, the beginning was confusing, until you piece together that the movie is being filmed over footage of two of the characters earlier on. But as far as creativity and presence is concerned, this works. The idea of taping over another tape is realistic and makes for a genius way to do flashbacks.
As far as the shakey cam itself, it's just as legitimate and nessecary as a choreographer or color scheme in a movie; it's make the movie that much more believable. You'd be taken out of the scene if the characters were constantly stopping to get Scorcese-style panoramics.
2. UNKNOWN ACTORS HOLD SMALL BOX OFFICE DRAW- True, but with the name J.J. Abrams, who needs anything else? I wasn't a huge fan of Abrams until I started watching ABC's "Lost," but I will now give anything associated with Abrams a shot.
The actors aren't bad, either. If any second-year film student thinks about it, you would have to have unknowns. The closest actor to fame is Michael-Stahl David ("The Black Donnelys"), who plays Rob.
This is a "random" tape found after a disaster, and I doubt Tom Hanks chills with his friends in a swank Manhattan loft.
3. SHORT, POINTLESS EYE CANDY?!- Not... one... bit. The movie was a mere hour and a half, but as the credits roled, I felt like I had sat through two and a half hours of non-stop action. I was thrilled. Drew Goddard (writer) proved you don't need to write a saga, you just need to get the story out.
And "pointless" is the exact opposite description of this movie. I'll admit it right here: I teared up. Yeah. I, a 21-year-old male, almost cried in a monster movie. Why am I not ashamed? Despite not being macho, this movie was also not JUST a monster flick. It was a fast-paced story about how far a person will go for someone they love. The underlying story between main character Rob and his ex-girlfriend, damzel-in-distress Beth (played by Odette Yustman) really shone through.
So, which is it? Is "Cloverfield" an instant classic that will echo for generations or is it the first of a million knockoffs?
The answer is: BOTH. "Cloverfield" itself is a great film with the same shock value and fun of the monster movies of the golden age of film. It's also going to spawn absolutely disgusting followups from other companies, such as "The Poughkeepsie Tapes," a film made by a serial killer chronicalling his twisted work.
If you want to have a great time laughing, crying, screaming, jumping, and screaming, go see "Cloverfield." But be warned: this is only the beginning...
1. THE RETURN OF "SHAKEY-CAM"- The old (well, not really old) technique that gives film an amateur, onthe-spot realism that put "The Blair Witch Project" on the map. "Cloverfield is the triumphant return of this type of movie. The difference is that "Blair" made it a gimmick. "Cloverfield" commits on all levels.
Yes, the beginning was confusing, until you piece together that the movie is being filmed over footage of two of the characters earlier on. But as far as creativity and presence is concerned, this works. The idea of taping over another tape is realistic and makes for a genius way to do flashbacks.
As far as the shakey cam itself, it's just as legitimate and nessecary as a choreographer or color scheme in a movie; it's make the movie that much more believable. You'd be taken out of the scene if the characters were constantly stopping to get Scorcese-style panoramics.
2. UNKNOWN ACTORS HOLD SMALL BOX OFFICE DRAW- True, but with the name J.J. Abrams, who needs anything else? I wasn't a huge fan of Abrams until I started watching ABC's "Lost," but I will now give anything associated with Abrams a shot.
The actors aren't bad, either. If any second-year film student thinks about it, you would have to have unknowns. The closest actor to fame is Michael-Stahl David ("The Black Donnelys"), who plays Rob.
This is a "random" tape found after a disaster, and I doubt Tom Hanks chills with his friends in a swank Manhattan loft.
3. SHORT, POINTLESS EYE CANDY?!- Not... one... bit. The movie was a mere hour and a half, but as the credits roled, I felt like I had sat through two and a half hours of non-stop action. I was thrilled. Drew Goddard (writer) proved you don't need to write a saga, you just need to get the story out.
And "pointless" is the exact opposite description of this movie. I'll admit it right here: I teared up. Yeah. I, a 21-year-old male, almost cried in a monster movie. Why am I not ashamed? Despite not being macho, this movie was also not JUST a monster flick. It was a fast-paced story about how far a person will go for someone they love. The underlying story between main character Rob and his ex-girlfriend, damzel-in-distress Beth (played by Odette Yustman) really shone through.
So, which is it? Is "Cloverfield" an instant classic that will echo for generations or is it the first of a million knockoffs?
The answer is: BOTH. "Cloverfield" itself is a great film with the same shock value and fun of the monster movies of the golden age of film. It's also going to spawn absolutely disgusting followups from other companies, such as "The Poughkeepsie Tapes," a film made by a serial killer chronicalling his twisted work.
If you want to have a great time laughing, crying, screaming, jumping, and screaming, go see "Cloverfield." But be warned: this is only the beginning...
Tuesday, August 21, 2007
John Doe Has the Upper Hand!
With my "Fight Club" blog as my last entry, I decided to keep the Fincher-theme going and make what very well could be my last blog an entry on "SE7EN," a film that, without exaggerating, is one of the greatest films you will ever see, whether or not you're a horror fan.
This 1995 thriller sees a serial killer who cryptically calls himself John Doe take inspiration from the Seven Deadly Sins: Gluttony, Greed, Sloth, Lust, Pride, Envy, and Wrath. In thinking about what piece of cinema I could possibly call my favorite, I had a hell of a time, but finally came upon one scene (minor spoilers contained herein.)
I was also conflicted when it comes to revealing who plays Doe himself. While it's not exactly a secret, and if you really wanted to, you could find out yourself, I think the impact of the revelation would be tremendous if you didn't already know who the actor was. It is this actor's unparalelled skills that truly make this scene.
Following John Doe's fifth murder (that of pride, in which he slices off a model's nose..."to spite her face," as the old saying goes), he enters the police station and reveals himself to Detectives Mills & Somerset (Brad Pitt & Morgan Freeman, respectively.) Through his attorney, he then reveals that there are two extra bodies buried in the desert, and should Mills & Somerset accompany him to find those bodies, he will plead guilty to every murder he has committed.
What follows is most definitely one of the most compelling scenes in cinema, and it all takes place in a simple police car. From behind the mesh divider, Doe explains the reasoning behind his actions at length, defining it as a sort of "cleansing" process, when what he's done is written off as just "killing innocent people." "Innocent? Is that supposed to be funny?", snaps Doe at a smug Detective Mills.
I wouldn't want to risk diminishing the impact of the speech, so I won't transcribe it here word for word. I recommend buying "SE7EN," if you don't own it already, or at least renting it from your local video store, and witnessing great writing, directing, and acting coming together in a disturbing, yet unimaginably impressive picture.
Well, Inscapers...it's been fun. Not much more to say.
Stay classy, Riverside.
This 1995 thriller sees a serial killer who cryptically calls himself John Doe take inspiration from the Seven Deadly Sins: Gluttony, Greed, Sloth, Lust, Pride, Envy, and Wrath. In thinking about what piece of cinema I could possibly call my favorite, I had a hell of a time, but finally came upon one scene (minor spoilers contained herein.)
I was also conflicted when it comes to revealing who plays Doe himself. While it's not exactly a secret, and if you really wanted to, you could find out yourself, I think the impact of the revelation would be tremendous if you didn't already know who the actor was. It is this actor's unparalelled skills that truly make this scene.
Following John Doe's fifth murder (that of pride, in which he slices off a model's nose..."to spite her face," as the old saying goes), he enters the police station and reveals himself to Detectives Mills & Somerset (Brad Pitt & Morgan Freeman, respectively.) Through his attorney, he then reveals that there are two extra bodies buried in the desert, and should Mills & Somerset accompany him to find those bodies, he will plead guilty to every murder he has committed.
What follows is most definitely one of the most compelling scenes in cinema, and it all takes place in a simple police car. From behind the mesh divider, Doe explains the reasoning behind his actions at length, defining it as a sort of "cleansing" process, when what he's done is written off as just "killing innocent people." "Innocent? Is that supposed to be funny?", snaps Doe at a smug Detective Mills.
I wouldn't want to risk diminishing the impact of the speech, so I won't transcribe it here word for word. I recommend buying "SE7EN," if you don't own it already, or at least renting it from your local video store, and witnessing great writing, directing, and acting coming together in a disturbing, yet unimaginably impressive picture.
Well, Inscapers...it's been fun. Not much more to say.
Stay classy, Riverside.
Sunday, August 19, 2007
Perfect piece of cinema
As I stated last week, “Jurassic Park” is one of my favorite films of all time. It is only fitting that my favorite scene in a movie is from the film.
Back at the start of summer when we created a list of topics for us to blog about, I thought about how much I loved this particular part in “Jurassic Park” and suggested this topic.
The scene I am talking about is when the main characters arrive at Jurassic Park and are driving in the Jeeps. The scene really focuses on three characters; Dr. Alan Grant (Sam Nei1l), Dr. Ellie Sattler (Laura Dern) and Ian Malcolm (Jeff Goldblum.)
Sattler is looking at some plant life, which she says has been extinct for millions of years and all of a sudden Grant’s hand turns her head to look at the dinosaur (I believe it is a Brontosaurus).
The great thing about this movie is that the main characters see the dinosaurs the same time as the audience does, so there is a shared feeling of “WOW!”
Everything is perfect and dead-on with this scene. The directing hits all the right marks, the writing makes you feel like you are right there and the acting is as good as it gets. Neill’s performance in this scene was overlooked by many people. Here was a man who had studied fossils all his life and now he was looking at a living breathing dinosaur in front of him, he does what most people might do (well, other than run screaming…), have to sit down. The look on Grant’s face when he sees the dozens of other dinosaurs in the distance is also great and so full of emotion, especially when he comes to the realization that he was right in his work “They're moving in herds. They do move in herds.”
I challenge anyone to say that they hated this scene (must have a good arguement!).
On a sad note, this is my last blog for this site. Stay tuned for a new set of writers to take over. I promise they will at least try to be entertaining.
Thank you and goodnight.
Back at the start of summer when we created a list of topics for us to blog about, I thought about how much I loved this particular part in “Jurassic Park” and suggested this topic.
The scene I am talking about is when the main characters arrive at Jurassic Park and are driving in the Jeeps. The scene really focuses on three characters; Dr. Alan Grant (Sam Nei1l), Dr. Ellie Sattler (Laura Dern) and Ian Malcolm (Jeff Goldblum.)
Sattler is looking at some plant life, which she says has been extinct for millions of years and all of a sudden Grant’s hand turns her head to look at the dinosaur (I believe it is a Brontosaurus).
The great thing about this movie is that the main characters see the dinosaurs the same time as the audience does, so there is a shared feeling of “WOW!”
Everything is perfect and dead-on with this scene. The directing hits all the right marks, the writing makes you feel like you are right there and the acting is as good as it gets. Neill’s performance in this scene was overlooked by many people. Here was a man who had studied fossils all his life and now he was looking at a living breathing dinosaur in front of him, he does what most people might do (well, other than run screaming…), have to sit down. The look on Grant’s face when he sees the dozens of other dinosaurs in the distance is also great and so full of emotion, especially when he comes to the realization that he was right in his work “They're moving in herds. They do move in herds.”
I challenge anyone to say that they hated this scene (must have a good arguement!).
On a sad note, this is my last blog for this site. Stay tuned for a new set of writers to take over. I promise they will at least try to be entertaining.
Thank you and goodnight.
Tuesday, August 14, 2007
The first rule is...
As much as I'd love to say that I hate "Fight Club," I simply can't. As much of a cult hit as it has become, it'd be easy for me to sit here and say, "I don't see why everyone loves it so much," but I can't say that. Simply put, "Fight Club" is my favorite movie, bar none.
Between David Fincher's ("SE7EN, Panic Room") darker-than-dark directing, Jim Uhls' fantastic screenplay based on Chuck Palahniuk's book of the same name, and the jaw-droppingly skillful acting trio of Edward Norton, Brad Pitt, and Helena Bonham Carter, "Fight Club" is not a movie you can easily ignore.
Brad Pitt steals the show in this film, no questions asked. His portrayal of Tyler Durden has created a character that has become legendary in cinema, a smugly anarchistic man's man that is the embodiment of what the contemporary male longs to be.
Being a projectionist named Tyler D. myself, I feel a certain connection with the character. Pitt's delivery, his manner of speaking, makes the role, and one of the most unforgettable moments in the movie, albeit not a single line (although the first two rules are the most famous), is his recitation of "the rules," the fight club ethos. These are as follows:
"Gentlemen, welcome to fight club. The first rule of fight club is you do not talk about fight club. The second rule of fight club is...you do not talk about fight club. Third rule of fight club...someone yells "stop," goes limp, taps out, the fight is over. Fourth rule...only two guys to a fight. Fifth rule...one fight at a time, fellas. Sixth rule...no shirts, no shoes. Seventh rule...fights will go on as long as they have to. And the eighth, and final, rule...if this is your first night at fight club...you have to fight."
Of course, this is just a sample of the incredible dialogue that comes out of Tyler Durden's mouth, or anyone in the film's, for that matter. See more of it here.
Or, better yet, go out and buy the book by Chuck Palahniuk, definitely my favorite author and one of the best ones around today.
Between David Fincher's ("SE7EN, Panic Room") darker-than-dark directing, Jim Uhls' fantastic screenplay based on Chuck Palahniuk's book of the same name, and the jaw-droppingly skillful acting trio of Edward Norton, Brad Pitt, and Helena Bonham Carter, "Fight Club" is not a movie you can easily ignore.
Brad Pitt steals the show in this film, no questions asked. His portrayal of Tyler Durden has created a character that has become legendary in cinema, a smugly anarchistic man's man that is the embodiment of what the contemporary male longs to be.
Being a projectionist named Tyler D. myself, I feel a certain connection with the character. Pitt's delivery, his manner of speaking, makes the role, and one of the most unforgettable moments in the movie, albeit not a single line (although the first two rules are the most famous), is his recitation of "the rules," the fight club ethos. These are as follows:
"Gentlemen, welcome to fight club. The first rule of fight club is you do not talk about fight club. The second rule of fight club is...you do not talk about fight club. Third rule of fight club...someone yells "stop," goes limp, taps out, the fight is over. Fourth rule...only two guys to a fight. Fifth rule...one fight at a time, fellas. Sixth rule...no shirts, no shoes. Seventh rule...fights will go on as long as they have to. And the eighth, and final, rule...if this is your first night at fight club...you have to fight."
Of course, this is just a sample of the incredible dialogue that comes out of Tyler Durden's mouth, or anyone in the film's, for that matter. See more of it here.
Or, better yet, go out and buy the book by Chuck Palahniuk, definitely my favorite author and one of the best ones around today.
Monday, August 13, 2007
Jeff Goldblum gets all the good lines!
Over the next two weeks and two blogs you will notice something... that
“Jurassic Park” is one of my favorite films of all time.
One of my favorite things about the film is the dialogue, especially of the character Dr. Ian Malcolm, played by Jeff Goldblum. I think the fact that Michael Crichton, with David Koepp, had a hand in the screenplay, based on his book, was a determining factor in the dialogue being so well-written.
When it came to picking one quote from the film that I liked the best, it was a no-brainer.
John Hammond: All major theme parks have had delays. When they opened Disneyland in 1956, nothing worked, nothing.
Dr. Ian Malcolm: But, John. If the Pirates of the Caribbean breaks down, the pirates don't eat the tourists.
Malcolm also has some other great lines that I enjoyed.
Dr. Ian Malcolm: I'll tell you the problem with the scientific power that you're using here: it didn't require any discipline to attain it. You read what others had done and you took the next step. You didn't earn the knowledge for yourselves, so you don't take any responsibility for it. You stood on the shoulders of geniuses to accomplish something as fast as you could and before you even knew what you had you patented it and packaged it and slapped it on a plastic lunchbox, and now you're selling it, you want to sell it!
Dr. Ian Malcolm: But again, how do you know they're all female? Does someone go into the park and, uh... lift up the dinosaurs' skirts?
Dr. Ian Malcolm: [Ian Malcolm leans to face camera in electric tour car when the T-Rex doesn't appear] Now eventually you might have dinosaurs on your, on your dinosaur tour, right? Hello? yes? [he taps the camera lens and breathes on it]
Check out some other great lines from “Jurassic Park” here
“Jurassic Park” is one of my favorite films of all time.
One of my favorite things about the film is the dialogue, especially of the character Dr. Ian Malcolm, played by Jeff Goldblum. I think the fact that Michael Crichton, with David Koepp, had a hand in the screenplay, based on his book, was a determining factor in the dialogue being so well-written.
When it came to picking one quote from the film that I liked the best, it was a no-brainer.
John Hammond: All major theme parks have had delays. When they opened Disneyland in 1956, nothing worked, nothing.
Dr. Ian Malcolm: But, John. If the Pirates of the Caribbean breaks down, the pirates don't eat the tourists.
Malcolm also has some other great lines that I enjoyed.
Dr. Ian Malcolm: I'll tell you the problem with the scientific power that you're using here: it didn't require any discipline to attain it. You read what others had done and you took the next step. You didn't earn the knowledge for yourselves, so you don't take any responsibility for it. You stood on the shoulders of geniuses to accomplish something as fast as you could and before you even knew what you had you patented it and packaged it and slapped it on a plastic lunchbox, and now you're selling it, you want to sell it!
Dr. Ian Malcolm: But again, how do you know they're all female? Does someone go into the park and, uh... lift up the dinosaurs' skirts?
Dr. Ian Malcolm: [Ian Malcolm leans to face camera in electric tour car when the T-Rex doesn't appear] Now eventually you might have dinosaurs on your, on your dinosaur tour, right? Hello? yes? [he taps the camera lens and breathes on it]
Check out some other great lines from “Jurassic Park” here
Tuesday, August 7, 2007
The Best Kept Secret in Hollywood...
With the topic being "the actor that needs to be in more movies," my original pick was Chris Kattan. Between the comic relief he provides in 1999's "House on Haunted Hill" to his dimwitted but lovable portrayal of danceaholic Doug Butabi in 1998's "A Night At the Roxbury" (alongside a then fairly unknown Will Ferrell), Kattan is a much funnier personality than people give him credit for.
But, when thinking about the different Kattan movies that I enjoy, my focus quickly turned to one of his older brothers in 2001's "Corky Romano," Peter Berg (the other being another underrated talent, the late Chris Penn.)
Lately, Berg has been making a name for himself in the field of directing, helming such titles as 2003's "The Rundown," starring The Rock in one of his first starring roles, 2004's "Friday Night Lights," and the upcoming Jamie Foxx vehicle, "The Kingdom."
While his directing skills are quickly becoming some of the most sought-after in Hollywood, Berg's acting skills (and specifically, his comedic chops) are oft-overlooked.
One of his most hilarious performances is Berg's straight-laced portrayal of boxer-turned-rocker-turned-boxer-again, "Irish" Terry Conklin, in 1996's "The Great White Hype." Berg never cracks a smile while delivering some of the funniest lines in the movie opposite Damon Wayans' just-as-deadpan James "The Grim Reaper" Roper, not the least of which is an acoustic song entitled "Mr. Roper, Mr. Roper," in which Conklin enthusiastically promises to "open up a case of butt-whippin'" on Roper.
Also worth checking out is Berg's performance in the afore-mentioned "Corky Romano," playing the tough but illiterate older brother of the title character, as well as his brief role as "Pistol" Pete Deeks in this year's "Smokin' Aces."
Tyler's bottom line: as good of a director as he is, Peter Berg deserves to be on-screen just as much as behind the camera in the future.
But, when thinking about the different Kattan movies that I enjoy, my focus quickly turned to one of his older brothers in 2001's "Corky Romano," Peter Berg (the other being another underrated talent, the late Chris Penn.)
Lately, Berg has been making a name for himself in the field of directing, helming such titles as 2003's "The Rundown," starring The Rock in one of his first starring roles, 2004's "Friday Night Lights," and the upcoming Jamie Foxx vehicle, "The Kingdom."
While his directing skills are quickly becoming some of the most sought-after in Hollywood, Berg's acting skills (and specifically, his comedic chops) are oft-overlooked.
One of his most hilarious performances is Berg's straight-laced portrayal of boxer-turned-rocker-turned-boxer-again, "Irish" Terry Conklin, in 1996's "The Great White Hype." Berg never cracks a smile while delivering some of the funniest lines in the movie opposite Damon Wayans' just-as-deadpan James "The Grim Reaper" Roper, not the least of which is an acoustic song entitled "Mr. Roper, Mr. Roper," in which Conklin enthusiastically promises to "open up a case of butt-whippin'" on Roper.
Also worth checking out is Berg's performance in the afore-mentioned "Corky Romano," playing the tough but illiterate older brother of the title character, as well as his brief role as "Pistol" Pete Deeks in this year's "Smokin' Aces."
Tyler's bottom line: as good of a director as he is, Peter Berg deserves to be on-screen just as much as behind the camera in the future.
Monday, August 6, 2007
This actor needs to be working more!
Meet Alan Tudyk.
OK, the name might not be familiar, but chances are you have seen him in a few movies. In fact he was just in the movie “Knocked Up” as the E! boss of Katherine Heigl’s character. But, I think he needs to be in more movies… and not just in a minor role. He is a great character actor that deserves to be in a leading role.
Tudyk might be most well known for his role of Wash on the television show “Firefly” and its film version “Serenity.” He was the pilot of Serenity and was usually the comic relief, providing one of my favorite parts of the film:
Hoban 'Wash' Washburn: This landing is gonna get pretty interesting.
Capt. Malcolm Reynolds: Define "interesting".
Hoban 'Wash' Washburn: [deadpan] Oh God, oh God, we're all going to die?
Another comedic role he is known for is of Steve the pirate in “Dodgeball.”
One role he might not be well-known for is the robot Sonny in the film “I, Robot.” Sure he supplied the voice for the CGI robot, but many people might not know is the filmmakers took a page out of the “Lord of the Rings” playbook and had Tudyk provide the body movements of the character as well. That can’t be an easy job. His performance in the film is one of the reasons I love that film so much... yeah I love a Will Smith movie, sue me.
He took two different routes in playing a serious, dramatic role of a child molester on the television show “CSI.” Watching the episode and his performance makes you forget all about Steve the pirate.
Tudyk has two movies coming out soon. First the comedy “Death at a funeral” which, from the previews, looks to be a good sized role. He is also going to be sharing the screen with Christian Bale and Russell Crowe coming up in the western “3:10 to Yuma,” which is a dramatic turn.
Tudyk is extremely underrated in Hollywood and I really want to see him in more movies. He should be working more than people like Jack Black and Will Ferrell.
A list of his acting work to check out!
OK, the name might not be familiar, but chances are you have seen him in a few movies. In fact he was just in the movie “Knocked Up” as the E! boss of Katherine Heigl’s character. But, I think he needs to be in more movies… and not just in a minor role. He is a great character actor that deserves to be in a leading role.
Tudyk might be most well known for his role of Wash on the television show “Firefly” and its film version “Serenity.” He was the pilot of Serenity and was usually the comic relief, providing one of my favorite parts of the film:
Hoban 'Wash' Washburn: This landing is gonna get pretty interesting.
Capt. Malcolm Reynolds: Define "interesting".
Hoban 'Wash' Washburn: [deadpan] Oh God, oh God, we're all going to die?
Another comedic role he is known for is of Steve the pirate in “Dodgeball.”
One role he might not be well-known for is the robot Sonny in the film “I, Robot.” Sure he supplied the voice for the CGI robot, but many people might not know is the filmmakers took a page out of the “Lord of the Rings” playbook and had Tudyk provide the body movements of the character as well. That can’t be an easy job. His performance in the film is one of the reasons I love that film so much... yeah I love a Will Smith movie, sue me.
He took two different routes in playing a serious, dramatic role of a child molester on the television show “CSI.” Watching the episode and his performance makes you forget all about Steve the pirate.
Tudyk has two movies coming out soon. First the comedy “Death at a funeral” which, from the previews, looks to be a good sized role. He is also going to be sharing the screen with Christian Bale and Russell Crowe coming up in the western “3:10 to Yuma,” which is a dramatic turn.
Tudyk is extremely underrated in Hollywood and I really want to see him in more movies. He should be working more than people like Jack Black and Will Ferrell.
A list of his acting work to check out!
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