tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-71528494394298266972024-03-13T14:33:16.368-07:00From the Last Rowa passion for movies that must be shared!Take 5 for Techhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15808981358751787145noreply@blogger.comBlogger31125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7152849439429826697.post-29649497161256039102011-06-06T22:04:00.000-07:002011-06-06T22:04:23.740-07:00The King's SpeechIn case you hadn't noticed I skipped the Oscar Countdown for this past year. My lack of interest in movies kept me from seeing some fine pieces of work. And so with my change of heart, I am catching up on the Best Movie contenders. My first choice was the Best Movie, <em>The King's Speech</em>,<em> </em>starring Colin Firth, Geoffrey Rush, and Helena Bonham Carter.<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PVVChUg0qJI/Te2txx9EWiI/AAAAAAAAAFI/JLOiZ5ENudY/s1600/Kings+Speech.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PVVChUg0qJI/Te2txx9EWiI/AAAAAAAAAFI/JLOiZ5ENudY/s1600/Kings+Speech.jpg" /></a>I had heard so many mixed reviews that I stayed away from this wonderful gem - I'm so glad I watched it. It was a wonderful human story about a tragic time in history--the brink of WWII--and the monarchy of England. Specifically, following the death of King George V, his son ascends to the throne only to abdicate to marry Wallis Simpson, leaving the throne to his younger brother Albert. Afflicted with a terrible lifelong stammer, Albert must take the inner journey to find confidence in himself and overcome the impediment as the country joins the war against Germany. <br />
Wonderful performances by Colin Firth and Geoffrey Rush as King and irreverant speech therapist. Interesting history with poignant human interest and a dash of humor kept me engaged for the whole 118 minutes. SEE IT!Take 5 for Techhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15808981358751787145noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7152849439429826697.post-75753218846819124812011-06-05T16:12:00.000-07:002011-06-05T16:14:48.871-07:00Water for Elephants<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zHJnjV8RVbo/TewNJr77LRI/AAAAAAAAAFE/2hsMr2PU9qE/s1600/Water+for+Elephants.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zHJnjV8RVbo/TewNJr77LRI/AAAAAAAAAFE/2hsMr2PU9qE/s320/Water+for+Elephants.jpg" width="106" /></a>I like to read. I admit I don't own an E-reader and probably won't anytime soon. I like the feel of a book, turning the pages, hearing the spine crack as I move to the next fresh chapter. So I always approach a book-turned-movie with a bit of trepidation. I believe the story images in our minds are always better than anything that Hollywood could possibly produce. And sometimes the casting isn't what I thought of a particular character and I think that's the worst. And so I was really surprised with "<a href="http://waterforelephantsfilm.com/">Water for Elephants</a>" -- the wonderful novel by Sara Gruen about life in the circus during the 1930s Depression and Prohibition era. <br />
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The movie really stayed true to the book, the characters were well cast, and it moved along with no wasted frames. I didn't know how I would feel about Reese Witherspoon in the part of Marlena, but she did pull it off. Robert Pattinson was wonderful as the gentle animal vet, Jacob Jankowski, who loses his innocence about life during the 1930s depression. The best role was played by Christoph Waltz as August, the brutal circus owner and animal trainer. <br />
I admit watching the animal abuse was harder than reading about it (I studied my coffee cup a little too long) but the story was wonderful and interesting. Good choice - movie theater or DVD, which I assume won't be too long coming.Take 5 for Techhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15808981358751787145noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7152849439429826697.post-83172971380003047542011-06-05T15:28:00.000-07:002011-06-05T16:18:26.855-07:00X-Men - First Class<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GiMs3AkOAe8/Tevoslc1SFI/AAAAAAAAAFA/hTyJdPTNrZ8/s1600/XMen+First+class.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><br />
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GiMs3AkOAe8/Tevoslc1SFI/AAAAAAAAAFA/hTyJdPTNrZ8/s1600/XMen+First+class.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GiMs3AkOAe8/Tevoslc1SFI/AAAAAAAAAFA/hTyJdPTNrZ8/s200/XMen+First+class.jpg" width="175" /></a>It's really no surprise that I am a comic book fan and am truly enjoying the past few years' resurgence in Super Hero movies. The X-Men are one of my favorites in the Marvel world and I was very curious to see the "pre-quel" to the franchise, <a href="http://www.x-menfirstclassmovie.com/">X-Men First Class</a>. I was not disappointed. The movie explained the early years of the first characters, Professor Charles Xavier (Professor X) and Erik Lehnsherr (Magneto), the origins of the friendship and ultimate parting of ways. Other characters are also introduced, like Mystique and Beast. Kevin Bacon plays the wonderfully awful Sebastian Shaw. The special effects were awesome, but the cameos and one-liner references were even better. There were even some well-placed laughs. I didn't even mind being the only female in the theater.Take 5 for Techhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15808981358751787145noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7152849439429826697.post-24755761942574785752011-01-02T13:18:00.000-08:002011-01-02T13:31:04.335-08:00New Year - New Ideas<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_ecjql6fyz44/TSDsk6TP1qI/AAAAAAAAADg/VK7fkBRoeMI/s1600/al__1277115845_jlm-stars-hollywood-sign.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 200px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 160px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5557702059044624034" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_ecjql6fyz44/TSDsk6TP1qI/AAAAAAAAADg/VK7fkBRoeMI/s200/al__1277115845_jlm-stars-hollywood-sign.jpg" /></a><br /><div>Well, I know, I know, I have been away for quite a while, but I have a very good reason! The movies this past year have not been worthy of my hard earned dollars. How can a die hard movie watcher like myself feel that way, you ask? It's just that when I plan on seeing a movie, I usually have a few on the list. I weigh the general consensus, how badly I want to see it, and the cost & then come up with the theater vs. DVD factor (or TDF as I call it). Sadly, this past year has seen the list of 'wait for DVD' grow exponentially. I'm thinking I should just do DVD reviews? </div><div>One other item that is starting to gnaw at me is that the trend toward 3D is ridiculous. How bout it, Hollywood? Let's get back to good storylines, with earnest actors, and forget the big dollar productions? Save me some bucks at the theater and maybe you will see more lines at those hallowed big screen halls. (Used to be my kids could go for $5 plus snacks, now it $20 plus snacks! -- REALLY??)</div><div>I'll be back -- Your thoughts? </div><div> </div>Take 5 for Techhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15808981358751787145noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7152849439429826697.post-13385768773049656892010-04-07T20:23:00.000-07:002010-04-07T20:30:32.738-07:00I don't know bout this...<span style="color:#660000;"><strong>Katherine Heigl to pick up the Stephanie Plum mantle...</strong></span><br />According to the Ausiello Files Spoilers <a href="http://ausiellofiles.ew.com/2010/04/07/ask-ausiello-lost-glee-house/">http://ausiellofiles.ew.com/2010/04/07/ask-ausiello-lost-glee-house/</a> -- Katherine Heigl has signed on to play Janet Evanovich's Stephanie Plum! I am aan avid reader of the Sptehanie Plum mysteries and I'm not sure how I feel about this. I guess this will be the true test of Heigl's talents if she can pull this one off. I have always seen Plum as a tough little cookie - crazy yet self assured. I have not seen that in Heigl's repertois as yet.<br />Any thoughts on this my little Plum fans?Take 5 for Techhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15808981358751787145noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7152849439429826697.post-13446732617787762282010-03-08T20:33:00.000-08:002010-03-08T20:58:29.910-08:00Hooray for Sandra !<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_ecjql6fyz44/S5XU2CY1EXI/AAAAAAAAADA/euVb1l64pDw/s1600-h/sbullock.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5446493349193519474" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 96px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 139px" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_ecjql6fyz44/S5XU2CY1EXI/AAAAAAAAADA/euVb1l64pDw/s200/sbullock.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div><span style="color:#990000;"><strong>Congrats Sandra Bullock -- one of my favorites both as an actress and person! </strong></span></div><br /><div></div><div>I have long followed Sandra Bullock's movie career -- I just enjoy her honest, unpretentioius, girl next door beauty! (Not to mention the fact that we are the same age and she looks great for our age--no matter what she's wearing). She has a quick dry wit that I get. </div><div></div><br /><div>I laughed at her in <em>Demolition Man</em> (1993) with Sly Stallone, and marveled at her in her breakout role in <em>Speed</em> (1994) and admired her freshness ever since (good or bad movies). I have even watched <em>The Net</em> (1995) several times (it soothes my inner computer geek). She is generally the girl next door in her roles which I think is why <em>The Blind Side</em> finally let her shine with acting maturity.</div><div></div><br /><div>If you are looking for a popcorn and Bullock night, try <em>Speed, Hope Floats, </em>and <em>The Proposal</em> to enjoy her range. </div><div> </div><div>Kudos! </div>Take 5 for Techhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15808981358751787145noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7152849439429826697.post-85515872555076806742010-03-07T13:08:00.000-08:002010-03-07T13:36:51.338-08:00OSCAR NIGHT! The picks...<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_ecjql6fyz44/S5QXkx_IFlI/AAAAAAAAAC4/i-NCVMfMnh4/s1600-h/oscarz.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5446003770058610258" style="FLOAT: right; MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 128px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 78px" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_ecjql6fyz44/S5QXkx_IFlI/AAAAAAAAAC4/i-NCVMfMnh4/s200/oscarz.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><span style="color:#660000;">OoOkay, here go the picks for tonight... Please feel free to discuss</span><br /><p>Best Animated - Up </p><p>Best Supporting Actress - Mo'nique (Precious)</p><p>Best Supporting Actor - Christopher Waltz (Inglorious Basterds)</p><p>Best Actress - Meryl Streep (Julie/Julia) --sorry Sandra (I still love ya)</p><p>Best Actor - Jeff Bridges (Crazy Heart) </p><p>Best Director - Kathryn Bigelow (Hurt Locker) </p><p>Best Movie - Avatar (overall and everything considered) - sorry Hurt Locker</p><p>Makeup - Star Trek (I didn't even know that was Eric Bana)</p><p>Visual Effects - Avatar (wow)</p><p>Cinemotography - Hurt Locker</p><p> </p><p> </p><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><span style="color:#660000;"></span>Take 5 for Techhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15808981358751787145noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7152849439429826697.post-36895249806790724082010-03-07T11:36:00.000-08:002010-03-07T13:03:47.992-08:00AVATAR and Oscar<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_ecjql6fyz44/S5QRIc__brI/AAAAAAAAACw/OFXAeoC75Qo/s1600-h/avatar.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5445996686318988978" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 71px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 107px" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_ecjql6fyz44/S5QRIc__brI/AAAAAAAAACw/OFXAeoC75Qo/s200/avatar.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div><span style="color:#990000;"><strong>Avatar...a bit long but worth the wait.</strong></span></div><br /><div>Before the big night, I was determined to see the major nominee. (How could I not?) I was immediately taken with the fact that every seat was filled by the time the previews started -- for a movie that has been out for so long. And honestly, I admit, I went into this not wanting to like it -- I wanted to be completely neutral! </div><br /><div>In all neutrality, Disney and Cameron shone through on this... Okay, Pocahontas and Lion King meet Alien (and maybe a little Star Wars). I think it was the whole Sigourney Weaver and the giant human-robot contraptions. And it was a tad bit long....</div><br /><div>But, all that being said, it was a beautifully told story. I am a sucker for the good (nature) vs evil (corporate business) thing and this movie played it up BIG. And the world created by Cameron was awesome! I loved the creatures and the environement and the Pandorans and creatures and the special effects and did I mention the creatures. Pandora is quite a world. Seeing it in 3D certainly added to the magic. Kudos to the special effects people, the actors who pretty much acted against special green screens and animation cameras, and the imagination of Cameron for everything else. </div><div>It was certainly Best Movie worthy. </div>Take 5 for Techhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15808981358751787145noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7152849439429826697.post-74653135508038708432010-02-27T16:37:00.000-08:002010-02-27T16:54:15.309-08:00Alice in Wonderland<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_ecjql6fyz44/S4m-r3OIjYI/AAAAAAAAACo/A4yf8k1kZFk/s1600-h/johnny-depp-mad-hatter-alice-in-wonderland-220x150.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5443091285420838274" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 220px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_ecjql6fyz44/S4m-r3OIjYI/AAAAAAAAACo/A4yf8k1kZFk/s320/johnny-depp-mad-hatter-alice-in-wonderland-220x150.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div><span style="color:#990000;">Alice in Wonderland</span><br /><span style="color:#000000;">If Tim Burton and his 20-year partner in movies, Johnny Depp, are suited to anything it would be the remake of Alice in Wonderland...check out the preview from my fav movie Brits...</span><br /><span style="color:#000000;">Hey You Guys: </span><br /><a href="http://www.heyuguys.co.uk/2010/02/28/preview-alice-in-wonderland-2/">http://www.heyuguys.co.uk/2010/02/28/preview-alice-in-wonderland-2/</a></div>Take 5 for Techhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15808981358751787145noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7152849439429826697.post-89189006960946351152010-02-25T19:26:00.000-08:002010-02-25T20:08:23.756-08:00Been a Long Time ComingWOW ! I have really let this slide. But, I have to admit something -- I haven't been too happy parting with the dinero for the fall offerings... even with the Oscars coming up! I have resorted to DVD viewing to get my flick fix!<br /><br />I fed my Robert Downey Jr. fetish by seeing Sherlock Holmes, though I admit I am a Sherlock Holmes fan as well. While I enjoyed it on two levels, my comrades did not--at least not the way I did. I am looking forward to more if there is a series?<br /><br />I took my girls to see New Moon because we enjoyed the books together -- it did not give me the same feeling that Twilight did. I can only hope Eclipse will make it better. Though I do remember that the New Moon book was the saddest of the series for me.<br /><br />I generally skip Rom-Coms and only watch when there is nothing else to captivate me. These snowy weekends have left my dvd watching wide open. <br /><br />Avatar and The Hurt Locker are probably my picks for Best Picture, though I suspect Precious was just too much for audiences to bear with its heartbreaking story.<br /><br />I will try to see the contenders before the grand night, but I am a sucker for the alt-indie films that get little exposure.<br />We'll see... maybe just DVD reviews for awhile. What have you seen?Take 5 for Techhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15808981358751787145noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7152849439429826697.post-68195613017941484882009-08-25T09:22:00.000-07:002009-08-25T09:50:00.545-07:00REMAKES or MISTAKES? Responses?<strong><span style="color:#ff0000;">Remakes? Just Leave it Alone !</span></strong><br /><em>How do you feel about studios remaking the movies we loved?</em><br /><br />I remember when <strong><em>Charlie and Chocolate Factory</em></strong> was remade with Johnny Depp -- I was crushed! The only Willy Wonka was and is...<em>Gene Wilder</em>. Great lines, a factory worth getting a golden ticket for, scenery & characters with a far away look to them, and let's not forget the songs (all together...Oompa Loompa doompa-di-do...) ! Magic! All Tim Burton did was make it all so scary (Sweeny Todd swears off people for candy). Who would want to tour his factory -- and why spoil the myth of the man by telling his secret past? booooo!<br /><br />There are more: The Wolfman, Taking of Pelham 123, Rollerball, Halloween, Nightmare on Elm Street, Speed Racer, The day the Earth Stood Still, Meet Joe Black, Stepford Wives, Sabrina, ...more here (<a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_film_remakes">http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_film_remakes</a><br />And now in the planning stages: Dirty Dancing, Fame, The Thing, 1984, Escape From New York, Porkies, The Birds, And Faranheit 451...to name of few remakes in the making.<br /><br />Are there truly <strong>no</strong> new ideas? Are there no original thinkers in Hollywood anymore, or has the capitalistic movie making society turned recycling into the new art form? Thank God for the Idependent films!<br /><br />So what do you think? Maybe there were some worthwhile remakes OR some that were even better than the originals? Some comments ...Take 5 for Techhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15808981358751787145noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7152849439429826697.post-26156162372924247232009-08-21T22:30:00.000-07:002009-08-22T22:01:50.865-07:00DVD - The Wrestler<span style="color:#ff0000;"><strong>Rourke's Comeback</strong></span> (Rated R) 109 min<br /><br />I grew up watching Saturday wrestling - it usually signaled the end of the morning cartoons - and if my bowl of cereal was still full I hung around for either Roller Derby or Wrestling. Back then it was Andre the Giant and George "The Animal". Then in the 80s I watched Mickey Rourke (Diner, 9 1/2 Weeks, Pope of Greenwich Village). He was handsome and quietly sexy. And like the wrestlers, he followed some path that allowed my attention to wander to other things.<br />This movie shows us what happened after we looked away.<br />Mickey Rourke plays an aging wrestler looking for the personal connections in his life--first with Marissa Tomei as a stripper Cassidy/Pam who faces the same dilemma -- then with his estranged daughter, played by Evan Rachel Wood.<br />A poignant story of aging out of a profession and possibly, a life... <br />Check it out.Take 5 for Techhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15808981358751787145noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7152849439429826697.post-55404369948677743902009-08-17T10:56:00.000-07:002009-08-17T11:17:53.597-07:00Time travel has a new look -- bring tissues!<span style="color:#ff0000;"><strong>The Time Travelers Wife</strong></span> (rated PG-13) Run time 107 mins<br />Based on the 2003 novel by American author Audrey Niffenegger, the story of a young man (Eric Bana) with a genetic anomoly that causes him to time travel when he gets stressed. Though he often disappears from her life for long periods of time, he tries to build a romantic relationship with a young artist (Rachel McAdams). It feels a little disjointed at first, but it quickly settles into its groove.<br /><br />Eric Bana has also been very busy this past year with Star Trek and Funny People, and in each movie he plays a very different character -- I'm sure he will be very busy in the future as well. And I find Rachel McAdams (The Notebook, Mean Girls, and upcoming Sherlock Holmes) just a delight to watch.<br /><br />Do not try to analyze the science of time travel or how it works -- just go see this movie. True romance -- you can actually feel it. (and bring tissues)Take 5 for Techhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15808981358751787145noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7152849439429826697.post-81546915551990984382009-08-17T10:39:00.000-07:002009-08-17T10:52:26.749-07:00District 9 - new old story<span style="color:#ff0000;"><strong>District 9</strong></span> - Rated R (violence) Run time 112 mins<br />Produced by Peter Jackson (Lord of the Rings) and directed by Neill Blomkamp, the sci fi movie takes place in Johannesburg, South Africa and opens with an explanation of events that occurred twenty years prior when an alien ship settled above the area. The movie is said to be a reference to aparteid and its handling of relocation of "non-whites" from District Six in the 1960s.<br /><br /><br />Though I did have flashbacks to past alien movies (The Fly, Enemy Mine) I thought it was pretty original & very well done -- great use of hand held camera angles gave it a documentary feel. Lots of suspense and action -- without guessing what's going to happen next. Virtually unknown actors here in US also allow us to focus on actual story. The main character, Wikus van der Merwe (Sharlto Copley), is <em>expertly played</em> as a bit nerdy underling getting his shot at a top position in his company. As with all great sci-fi stories, the "who is the monster?" storyline is done well! A great flick -- and I'm sure an anticipated video game.<br /><a href="http://www.district9movie.com/">http://www.district9movie.com/</a><br /><br />Though I am a Star Trek fan, I will say this is probably one of the best Sci Fi movies in a long while that general audiences will like.Take 5 for Techhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15808981358751787145noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7152849439429826697.post-13179680864427893962009-08-08T09:21:00.000-07:002009-08-08T09:36:30.878-07:00John Hughes - RIP (1950 - Aug 6, 2009)John Hughes, the wonderful mastermind behind so many movies that defined my generation and offered a humorous look at our lives (not to mention highlighted one of my favorite comedic actors, John Candy), died this week.<br />In case you are not sure who he is...let me list:<br /><a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0099785/">Home Alone</a> (1990) (written by) <a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0097958/" name="writer1980">Christmas Vacation</a> (1989) (written by) <a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0098554/">Uncle Buck</a> (1989) (written by) <a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0095253/">The Great Outdoors</a> (1988) (written by) <a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0096094/">She's Having a Baby</a> (1988) (written by)<br /><a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0093748/">Planes, Trains & Automobiles</a> (1987) (written by) <a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0094006/">Some Kind of Wonderful</a> (1987) (written by)<br /><a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0091042/">Ferris Bueller's Day Off</a> (1986) (written by) <a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0091790/">Pretty in Pink</a> (1986) (written by)<br /><a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0090305/">Weird Science</a> (1985) (written by) <a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0089670/">European Vacation</a> (1985) (screenplay) (story) <a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0088847/">The Breakfast Club</a> (1985) (written by) <a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0088128/">Sixteen Candles</a> (1984) (written by) <a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0085995/">Vacation</a> (1983) (screenplay)<br /><a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0085970/">Mr. Mom</a> (1983) (written by)<br />to name a few!<br /><br />Today I came across what I believe is the most beautiful tribute I have ever seen. Please take a moment to check it out. (If you were part of the Brat Pack generation, it will be even more meaningful for you).<br />Titled <a href="http://wellknowwhenwegetthere.blogspot.com/2009/08/sincerely-john-hughes.html"> "We'll Know when we get there. Sincerely, John Hughes"</a><br /><a href="http://wellknowwhenwegetthere.blogspot.com/2009/08/sincerely-john-hughes.html">http://wellknowwhenwegetthere.blogspot.com/2009/08/sincerely-john-hughes.html</a>Take 5 for Techhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15808981358751787145noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7152849439429826697.post-43147243106155710642009-08-06T12:56:00.001-07:002009-08-06T12:59:52.036-07:00The Orphan -- should be left aloneThe Orphan - rated R<br />Demi checked out<strong> The Orphan</strong> while I was in <strong>Funny People</strong> -- as a teenager (who I assume is the target audience for these types of movies) she thought it was completely stupid, from premise to end.<br /><br />Such a disappointment when the price of the ticket is hardly worth the time and money of the viewer.Take 5 for Techhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15808981358751787145noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7152849439429826697.post-4684642861840731772009-08-05T20:40:00.000-07:002009-08-05T21:10:33.001-07:00NOT SO Funny People<span style="color:#ff0000;"><strong>Funny People</strong></span> - Rated R - 2hr 16 min (too long)<br />WOW - I think I went into this movie thinking it would be funny (based on those hysterical trailers) and lo and behold they were the funniest parts of the movie - and boy, do I hate that ! With so many funny people in this movie I guess my expectations were really high. What a drag! For the entire 2+ long hours, we were treated to more male genetalia references than I could bear. Do guys really talk like this when they're together? It came off like a movie made by a bunch of friends that only their friends would think was funny. hmmm.<br />Adam Sandler plays a comedian/actor (much like himself) who finds out he is possibly dying and goes back to stand up and the girl he did wrong. Seth Rogen is a part time stand up that Sandler hires to write jokes for him and act as his assistant. The lines blur between employee and only friend as Sandler tries to find the right path to his off-track life.<br />Too few funny one liners and a running time that could definitely do with some editing made this a hold out for free tv.<br /><br />Comments about the cast...<br />I admit that I have never been a great fan of Sandler's comedy movies, though I enjoyed the <em>Wedding Singer</em> and <em>Click</em>. I think it's always been up and down with his movies--liked it or hated it.<br />But, I have always maintained that comedians make the best dramatic actors (like Robin Williams). My favorite Sandler movie is 2007's "Reign Over Me" - catch it on DVD. In this one, he wasn't too funny or too dramatic.<br /><br />Seth Rogen reminds me of old school funny. Well, not too old school -- more along the lines of Albert Brooks (Broadcast News, Finding Nemo) -- that self depracating, emotionally invested, dead pan comedy, which I really enjoy. I like him.Take 5 for Techhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15808981358751787145noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7152849439429826697.post-68697886578852365632009-07-28T09:06:00.000-07:002009-07-28T09:30:49.620-07:00The Ugly Truth is Beautiful to Watch<span style="color:#ff0000;"><strong>The Ugly Truth</strong></span> (2009) 1hr 37 min Rated-R<br />I admit I do not usually go in for chick-flicks, but I gotta say this one was good. And more than that, I think the guys who get dragged along will enjoy the male perspective on it, too! Watching <strong>Katherine Heigel</strong> and <strong>Gerard Butler</strong> together was easy and the laughs were all there. The timing is perfect -- not drawn out -- just right. Light fare, funny, I recommend it. <br /><br /><br />Both of these actors are busy this summer... Heigel is back filiming <em><strong>Grey's Anatomy</strong></em> and Butler has another movie - <em><strong>Gamer</strong></em> - a futuristic world where humans control prisoners in a mass-scale gaming environment. Star player (Butler) looks for freedom from the games' twisted mastermind played by Michael C. Hall (<strong><em>Dexter</em></strong>) -- due out September 4th.<br /><a href="http://gamerthemovie.com/">http://gamerthemovie.com/</a>Take 5 for Techhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15808981358751787145noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7152849439429826697.post-78919302209588001472009-07-23T09:27:00.000-07:002009-07-23T09:40:06.188-07:00DVD -- Rachel Getting MarriedAnne Hathaway makes a 180 degree turn from her previous roles with <strong><em>Rachel Getting Married</em></strong> (2008) -- as Kym, a frequent guest of rehab, returning home after 10 years for her sister, Rachel's, wedding. Directed by Jonathan Demme with Sebastian Stan, Roslyn Ruff, Bill Irwin and Debra Winger. Though it received rave reviews, be aware it is not a light movie. I found myself reminded of Ordinary People as drama unfolded, but it visually seemed almost like a pseudo-documentary.<br />Great performances by its cast.Take 5 for Techhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15808981358751787145noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7152849439429826697.post-27253182417547271842009-07-16T21:19:00.000-07:002009-07-16T21:54:12.455-07:00Hmmm-Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince<span style="color:#ff0000;"><strong>Harry Potter -- It's been a lifetime...</strong></span><br /><br />Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince (2 hrs 33 min / PG)<br /><a href="http://harrypotter.warnerbros.com/harrypotterandthehalf-bloodprince/">http://harrypotter.warnerbros.com/harrypotterandthehalf-bloodprince/</a><br />I started reading the Harry Potter books when they first came out -- to my daughter every night before bed. I read in made up voices for each character and because of her age, sometimes edited as I read.<br /><br />We would attend the midnight book sales/parties and eventually the midnight movie premieres. I was so hooked on the story that even after she fell asleep, I would continue to read the book (sometimes through the night) until I was done. She'd be mad that I didn't wait for her, but I admit, I was addicted. It has therefore been our tradition to see each of the movies on the premier night--until this year. She is now 16 and we have long finished the books (or so it seems). We had to remind each other what this book was about, and even during the movie, some things were a bit fuzzy. I think at this point, we just want to see it through.<br /><br />We love the characters and they are near and dear to us -- as any good book does for its readers. I marvel at dazzling special effects and these movies never disappoint -- the magic, the Quidditch matches, the wizard world. But, I accept that the characters are growing up -- it's been 7 years in their world. And now we are immersed in the more serious story of Harry Potter -- what his whole life has been leading up to and the fluffy fun stuff is gone. I think this disappointed my mother most -- she missed the fun aspect of the story.<br /><br />The Hogwarts students are now experiencing teenage angst and emotions are truly emerging as life lessons are learned (laughs & broken hearts, too). If you are a fan of the series, the end is near. Enjoy yet another beautifully crafted visual of the story.<br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_ecjql6fyz44/SmAC3JHnCWI/AAAAAAAAACg/mKrSfaBwI7k/s1600-h/ticket.gif"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5359286702934788450" style="WIDTH: 67px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 35px" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_ecjql6fyz44/SmAC3JHnCWI/AAAAAAAAACg/mKrSfaBwI7k/s200/ticket.gif" border="0" /></a>5 out of 5 tixTake 5 for Techhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15808981358751787145noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7152849439429826697.post-12735595802611811042009-07-09T13:50:00.000-07:002009-07-09T14:33:44.382-07:00Chick Flicks Alert...<strong><span style="color:#ff0000;">Two for the Tissue Box</span></strong><br />Well, admittedly, I am selective about my chick flicks, but 2 upcoming movies have me curious enough to pay attention. <br /><br />The first is the The <strong>Ugly Truth</strong> (<a href="http://www.sonypictures.com/movies/theuglytruth/">http://www.sonypictures.com/movies/theuglytruth/</a>) a romantic comedy starring Katherine Heigl and Gerard Butler. Heigl plays a romantically challenged morning show producer who gets schooled in relationships by her chauvanistic correspondent (Butler). He believes men are only interested in one thing, she disagrees -- the games ensue...with unexpected results. <em>Opens July 24</em> <br />Admittedly, I will see this because of Butler, who had me at the <strong>300</strong>, and cinced it with <strong>PS-I Love You</strong>.<br /><br />Up next is a romantic drama <strong>The Time Traveler's Wife, </strong>(<a href="http://www.thetimetravelerswifemovie.com/">http://www.thetimetravelerswifemovie.com/</a>) starring Rachel McAdams (The Notebook, Mean Girls, Wedding Crashers) and Eric Bana (Star Trek, The Other Bolyen Girl) and based on the best selling novel by Audrey Neffenegger. A love story that "transcends time" -- Clare has been in love with Henry her whole life, despite the fact he suffers from a rare genetic anomoly that has him skipping through the span of his lfe without warning when he will come or go. <em>Opens August 14</em><br />I think Rachel McAdams is the cutest thing in movies right now. Somewhere in Time fans should sit up & take a look...reminiscent of the past classic with a fresh take.<br /><br />Check out my poll on Chick Flicks and cast a vote for your fav or leave a comment if it's not listed.Take 5 for Techhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15808981358751787145noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7152849439429826697.post-11801449276854966082009-07-08T17:39:00.000-07:002009-07-08T18:10:35.248-07:00Up & Coming -- A SciFi HolidayWell here's a look ahead, just in case you're craving your SciFi. There are a number of the genre's movies scheduled for the Aug & the fall. -- anyone a fan or maybe just curious?<br /><br />Peter Jackson (Lord of the Rings Trilogy) has <strong>District 9</strong> due out on August 14 == a fictional world with aliens (ETs) as refugees in South Africa. Looks <strong>War of World</strong>-ish. Watch the preview...<br /><a href="http://www.comingsoon.net/news/movienews.php?id=56974">http://www.comingsoon.net/news/movienews.php?id=56974</a><br /><br />Bruce Willis is back (with Radha Mitchell) as an FBI agents investigating a college murder in <strong>Surrogates</strong>, due Sept 25. People choose life like robots (surrogates) to live their lives. (hmmm)<br /><a href="http://chooseyoursurrogate.com/">http://chooseyoursurrogate.com/</a><br /><br />And if you want humor in your horror...how about <strong>Zombieland</strong>, starring Woody Harrelson and Jesse Eisenberg. An "on the road comedy" finds the duo on a cross country trek where zombies are the scenic fare. I still don't think anyone got humor in zombies quite like <strong>Sean of the Dead</strong>.<br /><br />Another disaster movie...but it sure looked cool in previews. Roland Emmerich's <a href="http://www.comingsoon.net/films.php?id=42194">2012</a> previews are now online. Not arriving in theaters until November 13, the flick has some notables: John Cusack, Chiwetel Ejiofor, Amanda Peet, Oliver Platt, Thandie Newton, Danny Glover and Woody Harrelson. Action/adventure about a global cataclysm that brings an end to the world and its heroic survivors.Take 5 for Techhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15808981358751787145noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7152849439429826697.post-52564735299893417722009-07-08T16:54:00.000-07:002009-07-08T17:25:19.326-07:00Odds & Ends - Dos & Don'ts<span style="color:#ff0000;"><strong>A quick summary or some quick thoughts...</strong></span><br />Demi checked in with an <strong>"UP"</strong> review for me. Though she is halfway through her teen years and still not too old for a Pixar movie (who is?), she felt that it was definitely not a children's movie. "It was very sad, I cried a lot," she complained. Even with a thumbs up vote, she cautioned that even the pre-movie Pixar short made her a bit sad as well. She felt bad for the dark cloud. I know my oldest does tend to the more sensitive of my children, but she did enjoy the movies overall and recommended the Pixar tale.<br />Anyone want to weigh in?<br /><br />I do not think there will be a review of either <strong>Pelham 123</strong> or <strong>Bruno</strong>. (<em>well, maybe,</em> <em><strong>Pelham 123</strong></em>) but I can assure you I probably won't see Bruno. I just don't think he's funny and choose to spend the precious movie money elsewhere. Sorry if I am disappointing anyone.<br />Did you enjoy the Borat movie?<br /><br />I am debating whether or not to see <strong>The Stoning of Soraya M </strong>as I find these types of movies very difficult to watch (Shindler's List, Kite Runner, etc.). I think they are very well done and add much cinematic value, but I generally see how I feel before buying the ticket. Luckily, I did stay through the beginning of Slumdog Millionaire, which turned out to be original and wonderful !<br /><br />Stay tuned for <strong>Public Enemy </strong><em>(Depp as Dillinger/Bale as Purvis)</em> and romcom <strong>The Ugly Truth </strong><em>(Katherine Heigl and Gerard Butler)</em><strong>. We also have the new GI Joe:The Rise of Cobra and of course, Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince. </strong><br /><br /><em><span style="color:#ff0000;">TV Commercial Break</span></em><br />Is anyone watching True Blood on HBO? I am suddenly hooked, like soap opera hooked, on this show. I watched the first season on DVD in about a week. Then read the first 4 books also in about a week... crazy the things we fall for week after week.Take 5 for Techhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15808981358751787145noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7152849439429826697.post-69002418472805285302009-06-29T18:52:00.000-07:002009-06-29T20:05:22.189-07:00Transformers -- Summer Blockbuster$$<span style="font-family:lucida grande;color:#ff0000;"><strong>Transformers - Revenge of the Fallen</strong></span> (PG-13, 2 1/2 hrs)<br />Let me preface the review with the admission that I am a fan of the Action/Adventure... the more explosions, car chases and special effects, the better. It is my brain candy -- my release from the normal drama or high brow classic. I did not grow up playing with or watching Transformers, but I really LOVED the first movie. Okay, now for Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen...<br /><br />It was chock full of great special effects! I marvel at the actual transformation from machine to robot. The transitions were good and I bought the story. I am mesmerized by Optimus Prime's voice. And I absolutely love Bumble Bee. As a local, I enjoyed spying Fairmount Park and Eastern State Pen. scenes. Overall, I enjoyed it immensely. That said;<br />when I am watching a movie, the essential quality of a great movie is that I don't notice anything...meaning everything seems to flow from one scene to the next and I am caught up in the fantasy of it all. If something happens to make me snap out of my revelrie and "notice" the movie, it's a mark against it.<br /><br />A few things about T:ROTF -- gratuitous sexual innuendo as well as some blatant sexual comments seemed to be put in the movie for the sake of the young male viewer, though I must say the young males in our party even thought it was stupid and demeaned the movie. (And I'm not talking about Megan Fox). It's a shame because the movie stands on its own and those scenes stood out and broke my trance. <br />I still liked it. 4 out of 5 (but just because I like the action/adventure)<br /><a href="http://www.transformersmovie.com/">http://www.transformersmovie.com/</a>Take 5 for Techhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15808981358751787145noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7152849439429826697.post-55410469783669361252009-06-22T18:27:00.000-07:002009-06-22T18:55:55.718-07:00DVD ALERT -- Miracle at St. Anna<div><strong>6/21/09 -- DVD ALERT</strong></div><br /><div><span style="color:#ff0000;"><strong><em>Miracle at St. Anna</em></strong></span> (2008) (Rated R, 160 min.) </div><br /><div>Spike Lee's controversial movie of the Buffalo Soldiers -- Set in 1944 Italy, the story of four black American soldiers who get trapped in a Tuscan village during WWII while fighting against the Nazis. As they make their way across lines with a shell-shocked and feverish little boy in tow, their story of prejudice and bravery unfolds while dealing with both German and American fire. </div><br /><div>This one, I fear, got mired in the controversary of its subject matter, instead of standing on its merits. I loved this movie -- though almost 2 1/2 hrs, I didn't notice. A captivating story told from a new and needed point of view. With a backdrop of prejudice, small village mythology and patriotism -- a miracle is found. A must see. </div><br /><div></div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_ecjql6fyz44/SkA1n01mBUI/AAAAAAAAAB4/RZNa4s6PgD4/s1600-h/ticket.gif"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5350335315630753090" style="WIDTH: 55px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 30px" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_ecjql6fyz44/SkA1n01mBUI/AAAAAAAAAB4/RZNa4s6PgD4/s200/ticket.gif" border="0" /></a>5 of 5 movie tixTake 5 for Techhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15808981358751787145noreply@blogger.com0