Post by: KinkyCyborg on May 25, 2010, 01:41:52 AM
A little about myself... I'm a married, father of two who is a trainer/auditor at a major automotive parts supplier in Ontario, Canada. I have been a movie buff for as long as I can remember. I had well over 1100 VHS tapes in my collection before I made the switch to DVD. I am now sitting at just over 6700 individual titles in my dvd collection. It takes up 2 large rooms in my downstairs living area (rec room and exercise room ) and just about every inch of wall is covered with dvds. I have pictures should anyone want to see them.
I use DVD Profiler to maintain my collection and use phpDVDProfiler to display my collection online. The link is here for anyone who would like to take a peek... --> http://www.kinkycyborg.com/phpdvdprofiler/
I also rip, encode and upload my own high quality trailers to my own Youtube Channel (http://www.youtube.com/user/2663KinkyCyborg) and link them back to the individual profiles on my online collection.
I spend an obscene amount of money on my collection pretty well every week and I keep the above list updated on a weekly basis as well. I have also started to collect Blurays, although I do not as of yet have a Bluray player... just being proactive! :thumbup: I have maybe 130 blurays titles to date.
I purchase my dvds from a multitude of places and also buy/trade them online. I used to be a member SwitchPlanet, which has since gone under. The site allowed members to list their unwanted dvds, blurays, video games, etc and exchange them with fellow members. It was sorely missed when it closed its doors and so myself, in conjunction with another user created Video Vault (http://www.videovault.kinkycyborg.com/). It is a simple blog and forum based meeting place for movie enthusiasts much like this one, but very small and simplistic. Our members consist of mostly former SwitchPlanet refugees and we have established a very simple forum based trading section for us to continue to swap our dvds/blurays and other media formats. My partner writes reviews on his blog for some of the major movie studios who in turn provide him with review copies and promotional giveaways that we offer to our members as contest prizes.
A little more about my collection and viewing habits. About 3000 of my dvds have now been watched and are filed alphabetically. The rest are my enormous 'to watch' pile that actually consists of several massive shelving units. Each shelf is numbered and I use an online random number generator to determine what I will watch next. I know it sounds eccentric, but the way I look at it, if I only watched what I wanted to watch then some movies would never get watched and I find that some of the best movies I have seen have been ones I had very little expectations from. However, to ensure I do get to watch something I really want to see right away I make every 10th movie I watch my pick. :yahoo:
I look forward to reading many of your reviews and comparing your thoughts to mine on certain movies. I am not the best writer, and you'll find some of my comments to be short and sweet, especially if the movie was a turkey. :yucky:
But oh how I love my movies! :clap:
KC
Post by: Najemikon on May 25, 2010, 01:45:11 AM
Post by: addicted2dvd on May 25, 2010, 01:49:13 AM
Post by: KinkyCyborg on May 25, 2010, 02:07:04 AM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/05/057373144749f.jpg)
Title:New Blood (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 1999
Director: Michael Hurst
Rating: R
Length: 92 Min.
Video: Widescreen 1.85:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo
Subtitles: English
Stars:
John Hurt
Nick Moran
Carrie-Anne Moss
Shawn Wayans
Joe Pantoliano
Plot:
After a kidnapping results in an unexpected death, a wannabe gangster with a fatal gunshot wound solicits the help of his estranged father (John Hurt - Contact), and so begins the most terrifying night of their lives.
Extras:
Scene Access
Production Notes
My Thoughts:
Very good for a straight to dvd flick. John Hurt gives a strong performance and Joe Pantoliano is always great in the psychotic roles. I thought that Carrie-Anne Moss's character would have lent more to the storyline but as it turns out her role was little more than an afterthought.
I'd recommend it! :)
KC
Rating:
Post by: Jimmy on May 25, 2010, 02:08:42 AM
I look forward to reading many of your reviews and comparing your thoughts to mine on certain movies. I am not the best writer, and you'll find some of my comments to be short and sweet, especially if the movie was a turkey.God you make me feel like writing a new review here, but since I have started my blog I have watch more film for it than for here. Maybe I will try to check some "bikers" movie this week (since I have a set of this genre I haven't check yet). Don't worry I ain't the greatest writer either :laugh:
Post by: addicted2dvd on May 25, 2010, 02:11:43 AM
Post by: Critter on May 25, 2010, 02:34:24 AM
It takes up 2 large rooms in my downstairs living area (rec room and exercise room ) and just about every inch of wall is covered with dvds. I have pictures should anyone want to see them.
I would love to see pictures of your collection! I am a big fan of photos of collections. Also if you want, we do have a 'photo' thread in the general area that people often post their photos on.
Glad to see you are writing reviews now too :thumbup:
Post by: Dragonfire on May 25, 2010, 02:37:10 AM
Post by: KinkyCyborg on May 25, 2010, 02:59:02 AM
Post by: KinkyCyborg on May 25, 2010, 05:12:45 AM
Title:Master Spy: The Robert Hanssen Story (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 2003
Director: Lawrence Schiller
Rating: R
Length: 122 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 1.78:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround, Commentary: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo
Subtitles: English, Spanish
Stars:
William Hurt
Mary-Louise Parker
David Strathairn
Ron Silver
Hilit Pace
Plot:
Journey into the world of high-stakes espionage with the gripping true-life tale of Robert Hanssen, the respected FBI agent who betrayed his family, his religion and his country. William Hurt captivates as the daring traitor who sells America nuclear secrets to the KGB - entering into a dangerous game of cat-and-mouse that could cost him his life.
Extras:
Scene Access
Audio Commentary
Deleted Scenes
Featurettes
Closed Captioned
My Thoughts:
I didn't clue in right away when I put in Master Spy : The Robert Hanssen Story that it was another retelling of the same story found in the movie Breach with Chris Cooper and Ryan Phillipe. This movie focused on the man himself and the demons he was battling while Breach was all about the attempts to capture the spy and traitor to his country.
William Hurt perfectly plays the role of Robert Hanssen, a man who lives a double life of a devout Christian husband, father and also his secret life of informant to the Russian KGB coupled with deviant sexual behavior. It was amazing to watch how this man so deftly flew under the radar for more than 15 years, delivering some of America's most sensitive secrets to the Russians with no one even coming close to suspecting him. It finally took the collapse of the Russian state and the dismantling of the former KGB to finally point a finger in his direction.
While I found this movie to drag at times it provided a much more insightful look into the man's life. It certainly lacked the high octane thrills of Breach but I'd still recommend it as a good watch.
Rating:
Post by: KinkyCyborg on May 26, 2010, 03:03:29 AM
Title:The Hunting Party (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 2007
Director: Richard Shepard
Rating: R
Length: 103 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 2.35:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 5.1
Subtitles: English, Spanish
Stars:
Plot:
Inspired by true events, ‘The Hunting Party’ stars Richard Gere and Terrence Howard as vacationing journalists who try to track down a missing war criminal in one of Eastern Europe’s deadliest regions. What begins as an impulsive reporting adventure immediately turns dangerous, as hostile locals, shady underworld figures and a case of mistaken identity put them squarely in their target’s crosshairs. Amid the bullets and bombs, they discover that getting the scoop is one thing - getting out alive is something else entirely.
Extras:
Scene Access
Audio Commentary
Feature Trailers
Deleted Scenes
Featurettes
My Thoughts:
A look into the life of kamikaze journalism in war torn countries. Bosnia sets the scene for this semi-true telling of a small group of journalists who decided they are going to track down and capture the country's most wanted genocidal war criminal.
Richard Gere plays the all balls and no brains Simon Hunt... a burnt out journalist with one last shot at glory with Terence Howard as his loyal if not more sensible cameraman. Jesse Eisenberg plays the young tag along who provides some comic relief.
It was good to see Richard Gere playing a harder role than the usual pretty boy romances he's best known for and I thought the role suited him well. Terence Howard was solid as usual.
It was a decent movie with some great thrills but I think some other movies have portrayed the horrors of war through the journalistic eye far better.... Salvador with James Woods comes to mind, one of my favorites.
Still worth a watch.
KC
Rating:
Post by: samuelrichardscott on May 26, 2010, 09:19:10 AM
Post by: KinkyCyborg on May 26, 2010, 10:54:52 PM
Post by: KinkyCyborg on May 26, 2010, 11:59:48 PM
Title:Nights in Rodanthe (http://www.invelos.com/images/BluRayLogo.png)(http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 2008
Director: George C. Wolfe, Nancy Ventura
Rating: PG-13
Length: 97 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 2.35:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 5.1
Subtitles:
Stars:
Richard Gere
Diane Lane
Christopher Meloni
Viola Davis
Becky Ann Baker
Plot:
The stars of Unfaithful rekindle their screen chemistry in this rich tale of hearts awakenings based on a bestseller by Nicholas Sparks (The Notebook, Message In A Bottle). Richard Gere is Paul, a surgeon who long ago unwittingly traded family for career. Diane Lane is Adrienne, a devoted mother trying to move on after her husbands infidelity and struggling with his desire to return to their marriage. At a remote inn on the Outer Banks, Paul and Adrienne expect to do some serious soul-searching. But an approaching storm forces each to turn to the other for strength, setting the stage for a life-resonating romance.
Extras:
Scene Access
My Thoughts:
I use a random number generator at http://www.random.org/integers/ to choose which movie I will watch next and fate would have it that I would watch a second Richard Gere movie in a row.
First off....... yes, I watch chick flicks. :-[ The purchase of the 2% of these movies makes it easier to justify the purchase of the other 98% to my wife. 8)
This genre is Gere's bread and butter and once again he delivers. My wife was all agush during and well after the movie ended. The story was good even if the ending was predictable. Fortunately for me Diane Lane is still very much eye candy even as she enters middle age and I could think of worse things than watching her for 90 minutes. I rather enjoyed this movie but it left me asking one question. When did Scott Glenn, who has a bit part in this movie, get so old??!
KC
Rating:
Post by: KinkyCyborg on May 28, 2010, 04:35:52 AM
Title:Crossroads (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 2002
Director: Tamra Davis
Rating: PG-13
Length: 93 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 1.85:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, English: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround, French: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround, Commentary: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround
Subtitles: English
Stars:
Britney Spears
Anson Mount
Zoe Saldana
Taryn Manning
Dan Aykroyd
Plot:
Starring Superstar Britney Spears, Crossroads is an inspired, fun-filled adventure about taking risks, pursuing dreams, and making friendships that last. Shawn Edwards of FOX-TV says, "Crossroads ia a perfect teen dream. It has everything that makes a movie totally cool: laughs, adventure, spirit, hot music, drama, and of course: BRITNEY!" Watch Lucy (Spears) ash she and two childhood friends embark on a cross-country adventure that is sure to change their lives forever.
Extras:
Scene Access
Audio Commentary
Feature Trailers
Deleted Scenes
Featurettes
Production Notes
Music Videos
My Thoughts:
Again, keep in mind I'm at the whim of a random number generator...
Like most musicians who have hit it big and take a turn at movies, here a pre-trainwreck Britney Spears throws her hat into the ring at a time when she was at the height of her popularity.
This movie was like a thousand other teenage girl movies... nothing original or terribly inspiring. Britney does a credible job... so much so that you almost forget about the shaved-head, lunatic, delinquent mother that she would become. Early role for Zoe Saldana, long before she would turn blue and start talking funny. :laugh:
Every actor is allowed a mulligan or two in their acting career and this was definitely one for Dan Aykroyd who played Brit's nazi, porker father. Dan... sometimes you just have to say no. :slaphead:
KC
Rating:
Post by: Dragonfire on May 28, 2010, 04:49:38 AM
Post by: KinkyCyborg on May 28, 2010, 04:54:49 AM
KC
Post by: Dragonfire on May 28, 2010, 05:05:35 AM
Post by: KinkyCyborg on May 28, 2010, 05:12:02 AM
Post by: Dragonfire on May 28, 2010, 05:13:12 AM
Post by: Jimmy on May 28, 2010, 06:16:16 AM
I'm sure everyone has movies like that in their collections.Of course, I'm the guy who bought (for almost nothing) all the Friedberg and Seltzer's movies to do a stupid marathon here.
I'm surprise that no one else didn't try this experience after me :laugh:
Post by: Dragonfire on May 28, 2010, 06:23:53 AM
I've tried to block out those movies. At least I saw them on cable and didn't pay specifically for them.
Post by: Achim on May 28, 2010, 06:38:16 AM
I'm sure everyone has movies like that in their collections.I have more than I'd be willing to admit :weep:
I'm surprise that no one else didn't try this experience after me :laugh:After you posted your reviews there is no chance in hell we'd go for that :P
Post by: Jimmy on May 28, 2010, 06:42:13 AM
Are Friedber and Seltzer the ones responsible for Date Movie and those stinking messes?Yes they are
After you posted your reviews there is no chance in hell we'd go for that :PBut I can be completly wrong in my opinions and maybe those films are awesome :hmmmm:
Post by: Dragonfire on May 28, 2010, 06:49:09 AM
Post by: Achim on May 28, 2010, 07:06:57 AM
But I can be completly wrong in my opinions and maybe those films are awesome :hmmmm:Hmmm, yeah, maybe having a whole in my knee is a good idea too...? No chance, Jimmy, I'll trust your initial judgement. :P
Post by: Jimmy on May 28, 2010, 07:36:13 AM
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Post by: Achim on May 28, 2010, 07:37:46 AM
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Post by: addicted2dvd on May 28, 2010, 01:54:26 PM
What can I say... I'm a collector. :-[ Sometimes there is no rhyme nor reason for my purchases but for this particular exercise I'll say it's because I'm a fan of Dan Aykroyd and want to collect his movies. Yeah, that's it!! :whistle:
KC
I have this same movie... bought it when the video store I managed went out of business... so I blind bought it without even barely looking at the cover. I didn't even take note of who it was on the cover. It was the last day of the going out of business sale and was one of the last movies left in the store... and the owner said I had my pick of what was left at like rental price (a dollar or two)... so I just grabbed several without barely looking at the cases. When I got home... checking out what I had in my bags... I pulled out Crossroads and realized that one of the girls was Britney Spears... and put it on my shelf.... I still haven't watched it. That was like 5 years ago.
Post by: RossRoy on May 28, 2010, 02:11:44 PM
What can I say... I'm a collector. :-[ Sometimes there is no rhyme nor reason for my purchases
Oh how familiar that sounds. I through a few year where I would browse bargain DVD and pretty much anything with an interesting cover (i.e. a pretty face)..
Some turned out to be gems (The Quiet (http://www.dvdcollectorsonline.com/index.php/topic,741.msg107184.html#msg107184)).. others.. well.. :laugh:
Post by: Kathy on May 28, 2010, 02:13:00 PM
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Post by: KinkyCyborg on May 28, 2010, 10:09:35 PM
Post by: KinkyCyborg on May 28, 2010, 11:42:34 PM
Title:Tootsie (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 1982
Director: Sydney Pollack
Rating: PG
Length: 116 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 2.35:1, Pan & Scan 1.33:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, English: Dolby Digital: Mono, French: Dolby Digital: Mono
Subtitles: Chinese, English, French, Korean, Portuguese, Spanish, Thai
Stars:
Dustin Hoffman
Jessica Lange
Teri Garr
Dabney Coleman
Charles Durning
Plot:
Michael Dorsey is a talented actor, but his demanding nature and stubborn temperament have antagonized every producer in New York. Now his agent insists no one will hire him. But Michael needs money -- eight thousand dollars to be exact -- and to earn it, he's willing to play the role of a lifetime.
Dustin Hoffman stars with Jessica Lange, Teri Garr, Dabney Coleman, Charles Durning, Bill Murray and Geena Davis in director Sydney Pollack's heart-filled classic that heralded a new era of Hollywood wig-flipping, and set a new standard for unpredictable laugh-out-loud comedy.
Extras:
Scene Access
Feature Trailers
Production Notes
Closed Captioned
My Thoughts:
Can you believe this is the first time I ever watched this movie?
Dustin Hoffman shows you why he has won Oscars... He has the ability to truly envelope himself in his role. At times you forget he is only pretending to be a woman!
The movie is a bit dated but it has truly great and funny moments. I don't think I've ever seen Bill Murray so subdued in ANY movie. Geena Davis is smokin' hot! :o
Two thumbs up!
KC
Rating:
Post by: Critter on May 29, 2010, 12:58:24 AM
Post by: Dragonfire on May 29, 2010, 01:31:41 AM
Post by: Tom on May 29, 2010, 01:36:46 AM
Post by: Najemikon on May 29, 2010, 02:03:44 AM
Post by: KinkyCyborg on May 30, 2010, 12:33:03 AM
Title:To Kill a Mockingbird (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 1962
Director: Robert Mulligan
Rating: NR
Length: 130 Min.
Video: Widescreen 1.85:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo, French: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo, Commentary: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo, Other: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround
Subtitles: English, Spanish
Stars:
Gregory Peck
Mary Badham
Phillip Alford
Robert Duvall
John Megna
Plot:
Gregory Peck won an Oscar for his brilliant performance as the Southern lawyer who defends a black man accused of rape in this film version of the Pulitzer Prize winning novel. The setting is a dusty Southern town during the Depression. A white woman accuses a black man of rape. Though he is obviously innocent, the outcome of his trial is such a foregone conclusion that no lawyer will step forward to defend him - except Peck, the town's most distinguished citizen. His compassionate defense costs him many friendships but earns him the respect and admiration of his two motherless children.
Extras:
Scene Access
Audio Commentary
Feature Trailers
Featurettes
Production Notes
Closed Captioned
Documentary - Fearful Symmetry 90 min
My Thoughts:
I've watched this movie more times than I can remember and it still captivates every time. Gregory Peck's finest performance out of many great roles over the years. Outstanding portrayal of a man standing up for what is right despite an overwhelming atmosphere of prejudice. Very heavy subject matter for that era in film making.
The characters of Atticus, Scout, Jem and Boo Radley are synonymous with classic cinema.
#52 on IMDB's Top 250 Movies of all time.... should be higher.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0056592/
Rating:
Post by: KinkyCyborg on May 31, 2010, 02:50:59 AM
Title:Saturday Night Live: The Best Of Phil Hartman (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 2004
Director: Beth McCarthy, Paul Miller, Dave Wilson, James Signorelli, Tom Schiller
Rating: NR
Length: 84 Min.
Video: Full Frame 1.33:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo
Subtitles:
Stars:
Phil Hartman
Dana Carvey
Jan Hooks
Sting
Chris Rock
Plot:
They called him "the glue" of Saturday Night Live - the man who held it all together. Phil Hartman was one of the most respected performers ever in SNL history. See why in this hilarious look at his eight memorable years on the show. You'll see the best of Frank Sinatra, Bill Clinton, Anal Retentive Chef, Unfrozen Caveman Lawyer and many more. Plus there's extra material, including scenes that were cut after Dress Rehearsal and never seen until now.
Sketches Included:
Perot And Stiockdale Driving
The Sinatra Group (Featuring Sting)
Compulsion Commerical
Bill Clinton At McDonald's (Featuring Tom Arnold)
Donahue
Discover With Peter Graves
Nancy Reagan And Barbara Bush
Reagan In The White House
Sketch Montage # 1
Unfrozen Cave Man Lawyer
Weekend Update: All-Drug Olympics
Acting Class
Hollywood 1947
Cooking With The Anal-Retentive Chef
Succinctly Speaking With Tonto, Tarzan, and Frankenstein
Sketch Montage # 2
On Broadway
Robot Repair
Anne Boleyn (Featuring Candice Bergen)
"Love Is A Dream"
Bonus Sketch
Uncle John Redcording Session
Extras:
Scene Access
Deleted Scenes
Featurettes
Gallery
Closed Captioned
My Thoughts:
His Bill Clinton bits were the funniest. A home grown Canadian boy, it's a shame he had to die before his time, especially under such tragic circumstances. :weep: Beyond his SNL work I enjoyed him in Jingle All the Way, Coneheads and his voice-over work in The Simpsons. I have a bunch more of these SNL dvds to watch so expect some more reviews down the road.
KC
Rating:
Post by: Jimmy on May 31, 2010, 05:59:44 AM
A home grown Canadian boy, it's a shame he had to die before his time, especially under such tragic circumstances. :weep:Even more when we know that an idiot like Andy Dick was responsible for this. He was the one who restarted the drug problem of Brynn Hartman after many years of withdrawal by giving her cocaine. The worst he had brag about this very often to the point that John Lovitz gave him the beating of his life.
Post by: Dragonfire on May 31, 2010, 06:46:24 AM
A home grown Canadian boy, it's a shame he had to die before his time, especially under such tragic circumstances. :weep:Even more when we know that an idiot like Andy Dick was responsible for this. He was the one who restarted the drug problem of Brynn Hartman after many years of withdrawal by giving her cocaine. The worst he had brag about this very often to the point that John Lovitz gave him the beating of his life.
Andy Dick got her back on drugs? I don't remember hearing that..or that Lovitz beat him up. Though if Dick was actually bragging about it, he deserved it. He is such a ass...and a dick. His name fits perfectly.
Post by: Jimmy on May 31, 2010, 06:54:37 AM
Post by: Dragonfire on May 31, 2010, 07:09:18 AM
Post by: KinkyCyborg on June 01, 2010, 12:27:40 AM
A home grown Canadian boy, it's a shame he had to die before his time, especially under such tragic circumstances. :weep:Even more when we know that an idiot like Andy Dick was responsible for this. He was the one who restarted the drug problem of Brynn Hartman after many years of withdrawal by giving her cocaine. The worst he had brag about this very often to the point that John Lovitz gave him the beating of his life.
While I did know that it was a drug addiction that led to the murder-suicide I didn't know the circumstances leading up to it. Andy Dick has always been a despicable person so I'm really not surprised by this. Kudos to Jon Lovitz for giving him a whack or three... I didn't think Jon would have it in him, mind you it wouldn't take much to throw Andy Dick around.
KC
Post by: KinkyCyborg on June 01, 2010, 12:35:39 AM
Title:Slow Burn (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 2005
Director: Wayne Beach
Rating: R
Length: 93 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 1.78:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, English: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo
Subtitles: English, Spanish
Stars:
Ray Liotta
LL Cool J [James Todd Smith]
Mekhi Phifer
Jolene Blalock
Guy Torry
Plot:
Ray Liotta stars as Ford Cole, a big-city district attorney with his eye on the mayor's office and a big problem on his hands. One of his deputies has just confessed to killing a man in what she claims was self-defense. A bad situation gets worse when an enigmatic stranger named Luther Pinks (LL Cool J) turns up at the police station to contradict her story. With his career and perhaps his life on the line, Ford has a mere handful of hours to sort the truth from the lies.
Extras:
Scene Access
Audio Commentary
Feature Trailers
Deleted Scenes
Featurettes
Closed Captioned
Trivia Track
My Thoughts:
More twists and turns than a game of snakes and ladders, but in this case it does little to add to the suspense... just leaves the person watching rather bewildered. Watching LL Cool J trying to play cool is laughable. :hysterical: Not great, but worth a watch if not just to see Jolene Blalock who is one gorgeous looking woman! :drooling:
KC
Rating:
Post by: samuelrichardscott on June 01, 2010, 12:42:49 AM
Post by: KinkyCyborg on June 01, 2010, 01:24:05 AM
I enjoyed it a little more than you KC. A great cast let down by an uninspired but still capable script. Average thriller, I gave it a 3/5.
I certainly expected more from that cast too but I guess they did the best they could with what they had to work with. I still though LL Cool J's performance was rather pathetic. :thumbdown:
Post by: KinkyCyborg on June 02, 2010, 02:15:54 AM
Title:The Man from Elysian Fields (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 2001
Director: George Hickenlooper
Rating: 14A
Length: 105 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 1.85:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, English: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo, French: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround
Subtitles:
Stars:
Andy Garcia
Mick Jagger
Julianna Margulies
Olivia Williams
James Coburn
Plot:
Byron Tiller (Andy Garcia) is a happily-married writer, struggling to make ends meet. Desperate for money, he meets and elegant Englishman (Mick Jagger) who runs a male escort service known as 'Elysian Fields'. Byron reluctantly agrees to become an escort. When his top client - a wealthy, attractive woman - learns of his writing, she convinces Byron to help her dying, Pulitzer Prize-winning husband (James Coburn) finish his final novel. Suddenly, Byron is immersed in a world he finds impossible to believe and even harder to explain.
Extras:
Scene Access
Feature Trailers
Interviews
My Thoughts:
I rather enjoyed this. In a movie fraught with betrayals, Andy Garcia as the reluctant gigolo is perfectly cast. Mick Jagger, when he stands still and isn't posturing for the camera, is actually a very credible actor who gives a solid performance as the man-pimp. James Coburn as the crusty curmudgeon is a hoot!
I highly recommend this one.
KC
Rating:
Post by: KinkyCyborg on June 03, 2010, 12:33:01 AM
Title:88 Minutes (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 2007
Director: Jon Avnet
Rating: R
Length: 107 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 2.35:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, French: Dolby Digital: 5.1
Subtitles: English, French
Stars:
Al Pacino
Alicia Witt
Leelee Sobieski
Amy Brenneman
William Forsythe
Plot:
Al Pacino stars in this riveting thriller about a forensic psychologist who receives a phone call threatening that he has only 88 minutes to live. As the clock ticks away, tension mounts, suspicions rise and blood flows. With a serial killer he helped convict awaiting execution and a copycat killer on the loose, Jack Gramm has 88 minutes to solve the biggest murder of his career: his own.
Extras:
Scene Access
Audio Commentary
Feature Trailers
Deleted Scenes
Featurettes
My Thoughts:
It actually took 107 minutes :P
Pacino movies have started to become a bit tiresome for me as they almost always turn out to be an hour and a half to 2 hours of him shouting his dialogue. Surprisingly that wasn't the case this movie. His performance was decent but he so badly needed a haircut that it was literally a distraction to me.
I love whodunnits that keep you guessing to the end but not when they provide 40 possible suspects with motive to achieve that goal. Hell the key grip and two executive producers were suspects in this one! ::)
It was just ok.
KC
Rating:
Post by: Dragonfire on June 03, 2010, 05:01:13 AM
Post by: Alien Redrum on June 03, 2010, 05:57:50 AM
I saw this one in the theater and wasn't impressed.
Me, too. I love Pacino, but, man, this was just bad.
Not as bad as that recent one he did with DeNiro, though. Wow. That there was a suckfest of epic proportions.
Post by: Dragonfire on June 03, 2010, 06:20:04 AM
I saw this one in the theater and wasn't impressed.
Me, too. I love Pacino, but, man, this was just bad.
Not as bad as that recent one he did with DeNiro, though. Wow. That there was a suckfest of epic proportions.
Oh I saw that mess too. Horrible. Suckfest is a good description for that horrible mess of a movie.
Post by: KinkyCyborg on June 04, 2010, 05:16:54 AM
Title:Village of the Damned (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 1995
Director: John Carpenter (1948)
Rating: R
Length: 98 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 2.35:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, French: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround
Subtitles: English, Spanish
Stars:
Christopher Reeve
Kirstie Alley
Linda Kozlowski
Michael Paré
Meredith Salenger
Plot:
From the master of suspense, John Carpenter, comes a chilling new version of the sci-fi classic. Something is terribly wrong in the tiny village of Midwich. After an unseen force invades a quiet coastal town, ten women mysteriously find themselves pregnant. Local physician Dr. Alan Chaffee and government scientist Dr. Susan Verner join forces when the women simultaneously give birth...and the reign of terror begins. In what the New York Times calls "one scarifying trip," the people of Midwich must try and find a way to stop the children in the "Village of the Damned".
Extras:
Scene Access
Feature Trailers
Production Notes
DVD-ROM Content
My Thoughts:
I've never seen the original but I would have to imagine it is better than this. ???
Christopher Reeve, in his last role before the accident that paralyzed him, gives a standup performance... (pardon the pun) but his was the only decent effort put into this movie. Mark Hamill overacts so much I was actually embarrassed for him and Kirstie Alley, 15 years younger and half the size, begins her evolution from Bad Actress to Fat Actress.
The premise of the movie was good and the kids were spooky enough but overall it was a bit of a yawner. Looking forward to watching the original.
KC
Rating:
Post by: Rogmeister on June 05, 2010, 07:31:19 AM
Post by: KinkyCyborg on June 05, 2010, 01:26:50 PM
This 2-pack has been floating around out there for awhile now but I have yet to come across it. I'll certainly be grabbing it when I do see it.
You didn't miss anything Rog by not watching your VHS copy of the remake. ???
KC
Post by: KinkyCyborg on June 05, 2010, 01:34:20 PM
Title:Burn! (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 1969
Director: Gillo Pontecorvo
Rating: R
Length: 112 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 1.66:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: Mono
Subtitles: English, French
Stars:
Marlon Brando
Evaristo Márquez
Norman Hill
Renato Salvatori
Dana Ghia
Plot:
In this riveting and powerful story, Marlon Brando is sent to an 1800s Caribbean Island for a three-part mission: trick the slaves into revolt, grab the sugar trade for England...then return the slaves to servitude.
A Caribbean island in the mid-1800's. Nature has made it a paradise; man has made it a hell. Slaves on vast Portuguese sugar plantations are ready to turn their misery into rebellion - and the British are ready to provide the spark. They send agent William Walker (Marlon Brando) on a devious three-part mission: trick the slaves into revolt, grab the sugar trade for England...then return the slaves to servitude. Gillo Pontecorvo, the acclaimed director of The Battle of Algiers, explores colonialism and insurrection in the searing epic Burn!. Both visually and narratively stunning, Burn! glows with the fires of Pontecorvo's unique filmmaking genius. Genius is also evident in Brando's complex, intelligent portrayal of a man who is both gentleman and scoundrel, revolutionary and colonialist. And Ennio Morricone's (The Untouchables, The Mission) haunting music memorably underscores the almost overwhelmingly powerful story.
Extras:
Scene Access
My Thoughts:
Such wicked manipulation and beautiful chaos! How nations can rise and fall with a few well placed words. A classic example of how sometimes in order to preserve something you have to destroy it.
Marlon Brando is quite the slick talking scoundrel in this movie and he showed me a side of him I've never seen before. His demise, while expected, was still so shocking in it's simplicity.
For a movie I had never heard of before I was thoroughly impressed. After some discussions about this movie I've had Gillo Pontecorvo's The Battle Of Algiers highly recommended to me and it's now on my wish list. If you have never seen Burn! before and you have the opportunity... Watch it!
KC
Rating:
Post by: KinkyCyborg on June 06, 2010, 05:12:10 PM
Title:Where the Truth Lies (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 2005
Director: Atom Egoyan
Rating: NR
Length: 107 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 2.35:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, French: Dolby Digital: 5.1
Subtitles: English, French
Stars:
Kevin Bacon
Colin Firth
Alison Lohman
David Hayman
Rachel Blanchard
Plot:
Kevin Bacon (Mystic River), Colin Firth (Love Actually) and Alison Lohman (Big Fish) scorch the screen in director Atom Egoyan's (The Sweet Hereafter) powertful erotic thriller.
The acclaimed comedy team of Lanny Morris (Bacon) and Vince Collins (Firth) are at the top of their game when a beautiful woman is found dead in their hotel suite. Though both stars have airtight alibis, the resulting scandal forces the duo to terminate the act. Now, years after the breakup, journalist Karen O'Connor (Lohman) resolves to uncover the truth that lies beneath the mysterious incident.
Extras:
Scene Access
Deleted Scenes
Featurettes
Closed Captioned
My Thoughts:
Decent. Plenty of gratuitous nudity and sex for all. Kevin Bacon plays seedy characters quite well and he doesn't disappoint with this one either. Colin Firth surprised me as I'm used to him playing a puff in most films but he had a bit of a hard edge in this one which is ironic as his character was a closeted homosexual. The worst thing about this movie is that the pair were supposed to be portraying a comedy duo that rivaled Martin & Lewis but there was absolutely nothing funny about their stand-up bits. I'm sure that was meant to be secondary to the murder mystery but it was SO bad it was hard not to notice.
KC
Rating:
Post by: Dragonfire on June 06, 2010, 09:58:06 PM
Post by: KinkyCyborg on June 08, 2010, 05:18:27 AM
Title:Police Academy 2: Their First Assignment (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 1985
Director: Jerry Paris
Rating: PG-13
Length: 87 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 1.85:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: Mono, French: Dolby Digital: Mono
Subtitles: English, French, Spanish
Stars:
Steve Guttenberg
Bubba Smith
David Graf
Michael Winslow
Bruce Mahler
Plot:
To Protect, Serve...and entertain. The comic crimebusters are back!
An anti-social nut job and his leathered band of pranksters are on the prowl, spray-painting the town red and emptying the pockets of anyone sharing the sidewalk. In the wake of this crime wave, you might wonder where the educational system went wrong. But then again, consider the Police Academy.
For when the newly graduated misfits in blue tangle with these pinheaded punkers in 'Police Academy 2: Their First Assignment,' the result is an open-and-shut case of nonstop hilarity. Steve Guttenberg, George Gaynes and other Police Academy originals return to the roll call, facing the formidable Bobcat Goldthwait in the tailor-made role of the wacked-out gangleader. It's a riot - a laugh-riot - in the streets!
Extras:
Scene Access
Feature Trailers
Featurettes
Closed Captioned
My Thoughts:
Other than for a few isolated laughs, mostly coming from Bobcat Goldthwait as gang leader Zed, this has few redeeming qualities. Most of the franchise's regulars achieved very little outside of these silly movies.
Performers who let themselves go #1 : Colleen Camp.
She used to be a gorgeous woman... now she is the token livestock in any movie she appears in. :yucky:
KC
Rating:
Post by: Jimmy on June 08, 2010, 07:40:39 AM
Performers who let themselves go #1 : Colleen Camp.:voodoo:
She used to be a gorgeous woman... now she is the token livestock in any movie she appears in. :yucky:
She's 57 years old for christ sake KC :redcard:
She had aged in a normal way without plastic surgery or anything like that like every normal human do. She is always a beautifull woman at her age, normal people don't have a permanent smile in their faces or the shape of a stripping pole...
Post by: KinkyCyborg on June 08, 2010, 12:32:21 PM
KC
Post by: Jimmy on June 08, 2010, 01:17:47 PM
It's the way I wrote, any long time members or people knowing me in real life would told you so.
No offense intended in what I wrote and off course you are entitled to an opinion ;)
Post by: KinkyCyborg on June 08, 2010, 09:54:04 PM
Post by: KinkyCyborg on June 09, 2010, 12:49:57 AM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/06/065935815273.19f.jpg)
Title:The Mist (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 2007
Director: Frank Darabont
Rating: 16+
Length: 126 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 1.85:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, Finnish: Dolby Digital: 5.1, Commentary: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo
Subtitles: English, French, Spanish
Stars:
Thomas Jane
Marcia Gay Harden
Laurie Holden
Andre Braugher
Toby Jones
Plot:
'FROM LEGENDARY FRIGHTMASTER STEPHEN KING' and Academy Award® nominated director Frank Darabont* ('The Shawshank Redemption', 'The Green Mile') comes one of the most tense and terrifying films since 'The Shining'. After a mysterious mist envelops a small New England town, a group of locals trapped in a supermarket must battle a siege of otherworldly creatures...and the fears that threaten to tear them apart. Starring Thomas Jane ('The Punisher') and Oscar® winner Marcia Gay Harden** ('Mystic River') in one of the year's most talked-about performances, 'The Mist' "is not only one of the best movies of 2007, it's one of the best horror movies ever made. Period." (Maryann Johanson, 'The Flick Filosopher')
*2000 Best Picture and Best Writing, Screenplay Based on Material Previously Produced or Published, 'The Green Mile.' 1995 Best Writing, Screenplay Based on Material from Another Medium, 'The Shawshank Redemption'.
**2001 Best Actress in a Supporting Role, 'Pollock'.
Extras:
Scene Access
Audio Commentary
Feature Trailers
Deleted Scenes
Featurettes
My Thoughts:
Very enjoyable. Some people at work blabbed the ending quite some time ago so the ending wasn't a shock... but it would have been. It was also a different, and better IMO, ending than the book.
Marcia Gay Harden's brilliant performance as the doomsday zealot made this movie worth watching alone. Her character was far scarier than the nasties outside.
The anguish at the end was very real.... choosing wrong can cost so much.
KC
Rating:
Post by: Najemikon on June 09, 2010, 01:14:42 AM
I agree with you, KC, but I know someone who doesn't. Look up the other reviews and you'll see what I mean... :laugh:
Post by: Achim on June 09, 2010, 06:30:29 AM
Post by: Jimmy on June 09, 2010, 08:39:07 AM
I agree with you, KC, but I know someone who doesn't. Look up the other reviews and you'll see what I mean... :laugh::P
I let it pass this time :laugh:
Post by: Dragonfire on June 09, 2010, 08:43:31 AM
Post by: Najemikon on June 09, 2010, 09:45:12 PM
Post by: addicted2dvd on June 09, 2010, 11:17:04 PM
Post by: Najemikon on June 09, 2010, 11:25:52 PM
Post by: Antares on June 09, 2010, 11:27:29 PM
Have you been reading the second Hitchcock thread I started, Pete? We went off at a slight tangent on James Stewart and Antares suggested you would like Harvey. Have you seen it? I think it would be up your street.
Definitely a film you would enjoy Pete.
Post by: Dragonfire on June 09, 2010, 11:31:08 PM
Marie! Shush! He said he'd let it pass! Don't tug on the tigers tail... :fingerchew:
:laugh:
I barely said anything about it. :p
Post by: addicted2dvd on June 09, 2010, 11:31:51 PM
Post by: Jimmy on June 10, 2010, 12:49:23 AM
Marie! Shush! He said he'd let it pass! Don't tug on the tigers tail... :fingerchew:Should I intervene? :hmmmm:
No, not this time :laugh:
Post by: KinkyCyborg on June 10, 2010, 03:23:03 AM
Oh... dear. He mentioned the bloody ending. Here we go again! :training:
I agree with you, KC, but I know someone who doesn't. Look up the other reviews and you'll see what I mean... :laugh:
So after going through the other reviews...
(click to show/hide)
Post by: KinkyCyborg on June 10, 2010, 04:17:35 AM
Title:Pan's Labrynth (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 2006
Director: Guillermo Del Toro
Rating: R
Length: 112 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 1.85:1
Audio: Spanish: DTS ES: 6.1 (Discrete), Spanish: Dolby Digital EX: 5.1 (Matrixed 6.1), Spanish: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround, Commentary: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround
Subtitles: English, Spanish
Stars:
Ivana Baquero
Sergi López
Maribel Verdú
Doug Jones
Ariadna Gil
Plot:
From acclaimed director Guillermo del Toro '(Blade II, Hellboy)' comes "one of the most exciting and visually impressive adult-audience fables since 'The Lord of the Rings' movies" (Richard Roeper, 'Ebert & Roeper'). Following a bloody civil war, young Ofelia enters a world of unimaginable cruelty when she moves in with her new stepfather, a tyrannical military officer. Armed only with her imagination, Ofelia discovers a mysterious labyrinth and meets a faun who sets her on a path to saving herself and her ailing mother. Soon, the line between fantasy and reality begins to blur, and before Ofelia can turn back, she finds herself at the center of the ferocious battle between Good and Evil.
Extras:
Scene Access
Audio Commentary
Feature Trailers
Featurettes
Gallery
Closed Captioned
My Thoughts:
While I knew this wasn't a kid's fairy tale I wasn't prepared for the brutality of this movie.... (great use of a wine flask when the Captain bashed in that kid's face!!)
Wonderful imagination and a bizarre cast of curious creatures! The integration of fantasy and war was nicely done although I was left somewhat bewildered at the end. Was it real? Or was it a world she created to escape the horrors around her? Leaving it for the viewer to decide is what makes this movie great.
KC
Rating:
Post by: KinkyCyborg on June 12, 2010, 07:39:52 PM
Title:Doubt (http://www.invelos.com/images/BluRayLogo.png)(http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 2008
Director: John Patrick Shanley
Rating: PG-13
Length: 103 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 2.35:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, French: Dolby Digital: 5.1, Commentary: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo
Subtitles: English, Spanish
Stars:
Meryl Streep
Philip Seymour Hoffman
Amy Adams
Viola Davis
Alice Drummond
Plot:
From Miramax Films comes one of the most honored and acclaimed motion pictures of the year, Doubt. Based on the Pulitzer Prize- and Tony Award-winning play, Doubt is a mesmerizing, suspense-filled drama with riveting performances from Meryl Streep, Philip Seymour Hoffman, Amy Adams and Viola Davis that will have you pinned to the edge of your seat.
Sister Aloysius Beauvier (Streep), the rigid and fear-inspiring principal of the Saint Nicholas Church School, suffers an extreme dislike for the progressive and popular parish priest Father Flynn (Hoffman). Looking for wrongdoing in every corner, Sister Aloysius believes she's uncovered the ultimate sin when she hears Father Flynn has taken a special interest in a troubled boy. But without proof, the only thing certain is doubt.
Nominated for 5 Academy Awards® and 6 Critics' Choice Awards, there is no Doubt it is "One of The Best Pictures of the Year."*
*USA Today, Rolling Stone, New York Post
Extras:
Scene Access
Audio Commentary
Featurettes
Closed Captioned
My Thoughts:
A scandal hitting a church... who'd of thought! Another fine example of how one person's speculations can snowball into an avalanche of accusations. I particularly enjoyed Father Flynn's sermon on rumors. This can be a bit slow at times and it does leave you asking some questions when it is over but it is fascinating to watch how a few slips of the tongue can cause events to spiral out of control. Meryl Streep and Phillip Seymour Hoffman give excellent performances. I wonder if Amy Adams is wearing anything under that habit... ;)
KC
Rating:
Post by: snowcat on June 12, 2010, 07:50:28 PM
Post by: KinkyCyborg on June 14, 2010, 02:48:51 AM
Title:Ladyhawke (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 1985
Director: Richard Donner
Rating: PG-13
Length: 121 Min.
Video: Widescreen 2.35:1, Full Frame 1.33:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, French: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround, Spanish: Dolby Digital: Mono
Subtitles: English, French, Spanish
Stars:
Matthew Broderick
Rutger Hauer
Michelle Pfeiffer
Leo McKern
John Wood
Plot:
'Ladyhawke' is the enchanting tale of a beauty, a knight and a pickpocket known as the Mouse. Once the knight and the lady were lovers. Now the curse of an evil Bishop keeps them "always together, eternally apart." By day she is a hawk, by night he is a wolf. To end the evil spell, the knight vows to break into the Bishop's stronghold. With help from The Mouse.
Directed by RIchard Donner and photographed by three-time Academy Award® winner Vittorio Storaro, 'Lawdyhawke' "is the most congenial spot for happy ever-aftering since 'Camelot' " (Rita Kempley, 'The Washington Post').
Extras:
Scene Access
Feature Trailers
Production Notes
My Thoughts:
Great movie. Pure medievil fantasy. Must have watched this a dozen times now. :tv: Rutger Hauer had a stretch of movies in the mid-80s (Blade Runner, Ladyhawke, The Hitcher, Wanted : Dead Or Alive) where I thought he was the coolest actor. The quality of his movies seemed to have tailed off once the 90's rolled around but for that particular era he was one of the best.
Michelle Pfeiffer never looked more gorgeous than she did in this movie. Matthew Broderick was rather pedestrian this time around, looking like the goofy kid he's portrayed in so many other movies, this time in peasant garb. Always a sucker for a love story with a twist. ;)
KC
Rating:
Post by: Jimmy on June 14, 2010, 03:01:07 AM
Post by: KinkyCyborg on June 14, 2010, 03:17:04 AM
KC if you like Rutger Hauer try to watch Nighthawks (http://www.dvdcollectorsonline.com/index.php/topic,5062.msg83040.html#msg83040) one day, He is great in this also as usual.
I've never seen Nighthawks and it has been on my wish list for awhile now. Past Midnight is another one I'd like to get my hands on. :drooling:
Post by: KinkyCyborg on June 15, 2010, 01:39:59 AM
Title:Joe Versus the Volcano (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 1990
Director: John Patrick Shanley
Rating: PG
Length: 102 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 2.35:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, English: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround, French: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround, Japanese: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround
Subtitles: English, French, Japanese, Portuguese, Spanish, Other
Stars:
Tom Hanks
Meg Ryan
Lloyd Bridges
Robert Stack
Abe Vigoda
Plot:
Laughs erupt when Tom Hanks and Meg Ryan fall in love and fall in lava - in 'Joe Versus the Volcano', a stylish laughquake written and directed by 'Moonstruck' Academy Award® winner John Patrick Shanley.
This first teaming of the peerless stars of 'Sleepless in Seattle' and 'You've Got Mail' follows the follies of a stressed-out guy (Hanks) in a dead-end job who is told he has a terminal "brain cloud." A zany jillionaire (Lloyd Bridges) then makes him an offer that gives him a fleeting taste of the good life. In exchange, he must journey to a Pacific island and leap into a volcano. Is Joe doomed to be the last of the red hot lovers? Not if the forces of imagination, romantic comedy and the charm of Ryan in 'three' roles as the women in Joe's life have their way.
Extras:
Scene Access
Feature Trailers
Featurettes
Production Notes
Music Videos
Closed Captioned
My Thoughts:
The first of many pairings for Tom Hanks and Meg Ryan. Silly nonsense with a few chuckles. Abe Vigoda as the Waponi Chief was quite humorous. Hard to believe these kind of movies were Tom Hanks' bread and butter for many years. This was just ok.
KC
Rating:
Post by: KinkyCyborg on June 16, 2010, 05:48:46 AM
Title:The Brood (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 1979
Director: David Cronenberg
Rating: R
Length: 92 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 1.85:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: Mono
Subtitles: English, French, Spanish
Stars:
Oliver Reed
Samantha Eggar
Art Hindle
Henry Beckman
Nuala Fitzgerald
Plot:
From famed writer-director David Cronenberg ('The Dead Zone', 'The Fly') comes a chillingly twisted masterpiece of psychological horror. Oliver Reed ('Gladiator') and Samantha Eggar ('The Astronaut's Wife') star in this shocking, intense thriller about how misdirected rage can literally take on a life of its own.
Behind the walls of his secluded Somafree Institute, Dr. Hal Raglan (Reed) experiments with "Psychoplasmics," a controversial therapy designed to help release pent-up emotions in his patients. He keeps his star patient Nola (Eggar) in isolation, but as she vents her fury during their sessions, brutal murders befall the people she's angry with outside the institute. What is the connection between Raglan's methods and these monstrous killings? The answer will unleash a whole new breed of terror!
Extras:
Scene Access
Feature Trailers
Closed Captioned
My Thoughts:
David Cronenberg is one sick puppy... and we are the beneficiaries!
Quite the freakshow... and what a collection of characters. The little girl was spookier than the brood-kiddies, Samantha Eggar is downright horrific... exterior placenta and all! Oliver Reed has the biggest head of anyone I've ever seen. You could fit cantaloupes in those nostrils! If you watch closely the kids faces when the brood are beating the teacher to death you get the feeling that some of them didn't realize that they were only pretending. They looked horrified!! :fingerchew:
Only Cronenberg could throw together such disturbing chaos and make it work. As long as you don't try to make too much sense of what you are watching it's quite entertaining!
KC
Rating:
Post by: Achim on June 16, 2010, 06:32:43 AM
Post by: KinkyCyborg on June 17, 2010, 04:23:26 AM
Ah, the "New Flesh" day s of Cronenberg. They are missed... Then again, there is only so many times you can introduce "new flesh" to the audience. On the other hand, one might argue that he did it as late as Crash.
I never did see the New Flesh documentary about Cronenberg. Maybe I can track it down on Youtube. I think Crash qualified as New Flesh... I certainly had seen nothing like it before! He certainly knew how to raise the bar in terms of what would be considered controversy in film. :clap:
KC
Post by: KinkyCyborg on June 17, 2010, 04:30:23 AM
Title:Hot Rod (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 2007
Director: Akiva Schaffer
Rating: PG-13
Length: 88 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 2.35:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, French: Dolby Digital: 5.1, Spanish: Dolby Digital: 5.1, Commentary: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo
Subtitles: English, French, Spanish
Stars:
Andy Samberg
Jorma Taccone
Bill Hader
Danny McBride
Isla Fisher
Plot:
Andy Samberg '(Saturday Night Live)' stars as Rod Kimble, a stuntman with a fake mustache and a dream, in this outrageous comedy so unpredictable you won't know what hit you! Rod has never landed a jump without wiping out. His family and friends think he's a joke. And, to top it off, his stepfather Frank uses him as his own personal punching bag. But he's not going to let a few minor problems keep him from the biggest stunt of his life!
Co-starring Isla Fisher '(Wedding Crashers)' and Ian McShane '(Shrek The Third), Hot Rod' is "very, very funny from start to finish" and scales the heights of hilarity as Rod defies death to win the money, win the girl and, ultimately, win some respect.
Extras:
Scene Access
Audio Commentary
Feature Trailers
Deleted Scenes
Featurettes
Outtakes/Bloopers
Closed Captioned
My Thoughts:
Quite possibly the dumbest movie I've ever watched. Took me almost all week to watch it as I could only stomach it in 20 minute doses. Sissy Spacek and Ian McShane should be ashamed for signing on for this one. Lorne Michaels needs to learn that not every SNL character or alumni will work on the big screen. I'm actually quite stunned that this received 6.5/10 on IMDB.
The only 2 positive things I can say about it are it had good 80's music and Isla Fisher is gorgeous.
:thumbdown:
KC
Rating:
Post by: snowcat on June 17, 2010, 11:32:19 AM
I haven't watched it since but it was alright. :p
It was originally written as a Will Ferrel film ;p
Post by: Najemikon on June 17, 2010, 02:46:29 PM
Post by: KinkyCyborg on June 18, 2010, 05:03:38 AM
Post by: KinkyCyborg on June 18, 2010, 05:09:14 AM
Title:D.E.B.S. (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 2004
Director: Angela Robinson
Rating: PG-13
Length: 92 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 2.35:1, Full Frame 1.33:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, French: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo
Subtitles: English, French
Stars:
Sara Foster
Jordana Brewster
Meagan Good
Devon Aoki
Jill Ritchie
Plot:
Hidden within the S.A.T. is a secret test that studies not a girl's reading or mathematics skill, but her potential to perform duties within the realm of espionage, like deception, physical combat and if needed, murder. Those who score high enough on this secret scale are recruited to join a secret academy where they will be trained to become spies in a paramilitary group they call... D.E.B.S. This film focuses on four of these plaid skirted debutantes as they're recruited and engage in their first mission, which is an effort to rescue one of their cohorts who has been kidnapped by the D.E.B.S. lesbian nemesis who calls herself Lucy in the Sky...
Extras:
Audio Commentary
Deleted Scenes
Featurettes
Gallery
Music Videos
My Thoughts:
Silly, comic book type action that's about as far fetched as it can get, and yet I find sexy, debutante and, as it turns out for some of them, lesbian spies very appealing. Amidst all the gadgets and stunts there is an offbeat romance that is fun to watch develop.
Jordana Brewster alone makes this worth watching. She's on my VERY short list of hot actresses.
(http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3660/3587293871_d3b798415f.jpg)
Sexiest smile in Hollywood. :o
KC
Rating:
Post by: Critter on June 18, 2010, 08:21:51 AM
I once read an interview with the director (or was it the writer?) who had fully planned out a sequel, and it sounded awesome! Only problem is they can't get funded for a sequel :(
Also, that Russian woman at the start makes me laugh every single time :laugh:
Post by: Tom on June 18, 2010, 05:16:11 PM
When I recently watched Chuck: Season 2, I finally could understand why Chuck is still obsessing about his ex-girlfriend. She showed up on the series for the first time and was played by Jordana Brewster :drooling:, who is just very sweet and beautiful in DEBS as Lucy.
Post by: Critter on June 19, 2010, 01:57:30 AM
Post by: Tom on June 19, 2010, 02:05:29 AM
Thanks for the tip Tom. I would like to see more with Jordana in it but she seems to be in hardly anything aside from Fast and the Furious movies and then horror films. I might have to start watching this 'Chuck'.
Yes, it is too bad that she does appear in hardly anything I am interested in. I have never watched the "Fast and the Furious" movies as they do not seem like something I would enjoy. Jordana would be the only reason for me to watch them. Besides D.E.B.S. I never saw her in anything. So I was psyched when she showed up on Chuck (also besides her appearance I can recommend this series).
Post by: KinkyCyborg on June 19, 2010, 02:19:44 AM
Title:3 Godfathers (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 1948
Director: John Ford
Rating: NR
Length: 106 Min.
Video: Full Frame 1.33:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: Mono, French: Dolby Digital: Mono
Subtitles: English, French, Spanish
Stars:
John Wayne
Pedro Armendariz
Harry Carey, Jr.
Ward Bond
Mae Marsh
Plot:
Fugitive bank robbers Robert (John Wayne), William (Harry Carey Jr.) and Pedro (Pedro Armendariz) stand at a desert grave. Caring for the newborn infant of the woman they just buried will ruin any chance of escape. But they won't go back on their promise to her. They won't abandon little Robert William Pedro.
Director John Ford's Western retelling of the Biblical Three Wise Men tale remains a scenic and thematic masterpiece. Ford adds color to his feature-film palette, capturing stunning vistas via cinematographer Winton Hoch, who would win two of his three Academy Awards® for Ford films. Again, populist-minded Ford asserts that even men of dissolute character can follow that inner star of Bethlehem to their own redemption.
Extras:
Scene Access
Feature Trailers
Closed Captioned
My Thoughts:
Watching this brought back some memories as I had sat down and watched this with my father years ago as a young boy. My dad is still a huge John Wayne fan and I've been fortunate enough to replace most of his old VHS tapes with dvds for his collection.
This movie was done in 1948, before Wayne became 'The Duke' and really came into his own. While he was the headliner of this movie, his acting was almost tentative, lacking the confidence and swagger he would acquire later when he knew he was the bonafide western movie star. That would happen in '56 when he did The Searchers which would cement his legacy.
It was a good movie watching it the second time around although the take on the story of the three wise men didn't quite fit as much John Ford would have liked you think it did.
Nowhere close to being one of my favorite John Wayne movies but still solid.
KC
Rating:
Post by: Achim on June 19, 2010, 04:55:45 PM
Isn't she in The Faculty as well...? it's a horror, but since it's by Robert Rodriguez not quite the standard fare.Thanks for the tip Tom. I would like to see more with Jordana in it but she seems to be in hardly anything aside from Fast and the Furious movies and then horror films. I might have to start watching this 'Chuck'.
Yes, it is too bad that she does appear in hardly anything I am interested in. I have never watched the "Fast and the Furious" movies as they do not seem like something I would enjoy. Jordana would be the only reason for me to watch them. Besides D.E.B.S. I never saw her in anything. So I was psyched when she showed up on Chuck (also besides her appearance I can recommend this series).
Post by: addicted2dvd on June 19, 2010, 05:20:57 PM
Post by: Critter on June 19, 2010, 06:13:10 PM
Post by: KinkyCyborg on June 20, 2010, 02:10:31 AM
Title:P.S. I Love You (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 2007
Director: Richard LaGravenese
Rating: PG-13
Length: 126 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 1.85:1, Full Frame 1.33:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 5.1
Subtitles: English, French, Spanish
Stars:
Hilary Swank
Gerard Butler
Lisa Kudrow
Gina Gershon
James Marsters
Plot:
Buy a new outfit. Be a disco diva. Learn to fish. Take a chance. Travel. Laugh. Love. Sometimes all you need to start 'really' living is a little shove in the right direction – and that's just what Holly Kennedy gets. From the handsome, big-hearted love of her life. From a series of mysterious letters. And from gal pals who know that a friend in need is a friend in need of some laughs!
Based on Cecelia Ahern's joyful bestseller and boasting a top cast led by two-time Academy Award® winner* Hilary Swank and Gerard Butler ('300') 'P.S. I Love You' is your very own message full of fun, love, triumph and romance. Open it now. (P.S. You'll Love it!)
Extras:
Scene Access
Deleted Scenes
Featurettes
Music Videos
My Thoughts:
A good movie that stirred up some emotions in me. A novel story about a woman who after the recent death of her beloved, discovers life again through a series of letters giving her some gentle (and not so gentle!) nudges from beyond the grave. Good performances all around.... I particularly liked Harry Connick Jr. as the goofy would-be suitor who is constantly kept at arms length throughout the movie. I thought I had the ending all figured out and was surprised to find I was not only wrong but it was a hilarious result!
Hilary Swank bewilders me. I find her beautiful and ugly at the same time. One second she is sexy and angelic and then she makes one of those faces of hers and suddenly she looks like a rat who wants to chew on your ankle. Her set of teeth seem too big for her mouth and it's distracting. Just like Julia Roberts smile seems abnormally big and wide... reminds me of Pennywise the clown. <shudder> :fingerchew:
Rating:
Post by: Tom on June 20, 2010, 02:16:57 AM
Post by: KinkyCyborg on June 20, 2010, 02:20:59 AM
KC
Post by: Tom on June 20, 2010, 02:28:00 AM
Post by: Sanuye on June 20, 2010, 10:56:17 AM
Buy a new outfit. Be a disco diva. Learn to fish. Take a chance. Travel. Laugh. Love...
I bought lots of new outfits, I learnt to dance salsa and boogie, and to scuba dive. I travel and laugh. But I don't know what chance I should take and I definitely need a love before I purchase this movie!
Post by: Najemikon on June 20, 2010, 01:47:27 PM
Post by: KinkyCyborg on June 21, 2010, 12:01:57 AM
Title:Little Fish (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 2005
Director: Rowan Woods
Rating: R
Length: 114 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 1.85:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, English: DTS: 5.1, English: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo, Commentary: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo
Subtitles: English, Spanish
Stars:
Cate Blanchett
Sam Neill
Hugo Weaving
Martin Henderson
Noni Hazlehurst
Plot:
After years of treading water in her career and redeeming herself after a troubled past, Tracy Heart (Blanchett) sets a goal of owning her own business. But the return of her ex-boyfriend and the criminal intentions of her brother threaten to tear apart her goals and test her relationship to her mother. Will her dreams be enough to start a new life?
Extras:
Scene Access
Feature Trailers
Deleted Scenes
Featurettes
Closed Captioned
My Thoughts:
Long, drawn out Aussie flick that has you spending the first hour and a half trying to figure out what the point is. On the back of the dvd box artwork it declares itself a 'psychological thriller' but it's actually a 'life beating you down' type of story that never grabbed my interest at any point. The was a brain numbing bore that even Cate Blanchett can't save. :(
KC
Rating:
Post by: Dragonfire on June 21, 2010, 12:12:30 AM
Post by: KinkyCyborg on June 21, 2010, 12:15:47 AM
I haven't heard of this one..doesn't sound like I missed much.
Neither had I when I ran across it in a hock shop used for a couple of bucks so I thought was worth a blind buy for a movie with Cate Blanchett and Sam Neill. Turned out to be a dud but I have found some real gems in exactly the same manner too. :D You just never know...
Post by: samuelrichardscott on June 21, 2010, 12:36:07 AM
Post by: KinkyCyborg on June 23, 2010, 03:13:05 AM
Title:Saving Private Ryan (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 1998
Director: Steven Spielberg
Rating: R
Length: 169 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 1.85:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, English: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo
Subtitles: English
Stars:
Tom Hanks
Tom Sizemore
Edward Burns
Barry Pepper
Adam Goldberg
Plot:
June 6, 1944. D-Day. The Allies launch the biggest invasion in military history as millions in war-ravaged Europe wait and hope. But even as vast armies storm the beaches, a crack unit of troops is ordered to find and retrieve one man: Private James Ryan.
From Academy Award-winning director Steven Spielberg comes the World War II drama Saving Private Ryan, a co-production of DreamWorks Pictures and Paramount Pictures.
Saving Private Ryan is a story of heroism and sacrifice set in France during and just after the D-Day invasion of World War II. On the beaches of Normandy, great military forces are converging for the battle that would decide the course of the war. But behind enemy lines, a squad of U.S. Army soldiers, led by Captain John Miller (Tom Hanks), are putting their lives on the line on a perilous mission to find paratrooper James Ryan (Matt Damon).
As the soldiers push deep into enemy territory, moving from one danger to the next, Captain Miller and his men find themselves questioning their orders. Why is one man worth risking eight...why is the life of this private worth more than their own?
Extras:
Scene Access
Feature Trailers
Featurettes
Production Notes
Closed Captioned
Exclusive message from Steven Spielberg
My Thoughts:
So I deviated from my normal method of selecting a movie to watch and instead grabbed Saving Private Ryan to watch again, one on my top 3 favorite war movies. The occasion? Just the arrival of my brand spanking new 50' Panasonic plasma tv. :D
I swore to myself a long time ago that the day I got myself a kick-ass tv and surround sound that SPR would be the first movie I watched.... and man, it sure didn't disappoint!
The whole house shook with every explosion, I could hear the bullets whipping by my ears and the visuals were stunning, even with just an upconverting dvd player. My wife was completely disgusted with all the noise she was hearing upstairs which made it all the more satisfying. :laugh:
The movie itself has among the greatest rewatchability of any in my collection and I like to revisit it every year or so. While the battle scenes were epic, this goes well beyond a war story as it asks the question... What is one mans life worth? Often brutal in it's depiction of war, it offsets that with brilliant, thought provoking moments where the expectations of duty are questioned. An outstanding cast, well done stories within the story and a final touching moment of closure. This takes a spot in my Top 10 favorite movies to date.
I somehow missed Paul Giamatti's role during my earlier viewings. :headscratch:
All in all it's been a fantastic day!! :yahoo:
KC
Rating:
Post by: Antares on June 23, 2010, 03:20:15 AM
If you want to see a truly great war film then watch Das Boot or Come and See. Both great films without the clichés.
Post by: Achim on June 23, 2010, 03:22:21 AM
The worst moment in the film was the knifing scene. It only got worse by understanding what the german guy days, as he recommends to stop struggling as the American has no more chance anyway.
Powerful film making, with the first 20(?) minutes being awesomely cinematic stuff.
I'm glad you love your new TV, but I have to disagree with you on SPR being a great war film. It is for the first 23 minutes, but after that it is one the biggest cliché driven screenplays ever.While maybe not a "goos film", due to an abundance of clichés and such, it sure is a powerful film, at least when watched in a darkened theater.
No argument from me on Das Boot though.
Post by: KinkyCyborg on June 23, 2010, 04:02:13 AM
I'm glad you love your new TV, but I have to disagree with you on SPR being a great war film. It is for the first 23 minutes, but after that it is one the biggest cliché driven screenplays ever.
If you want to see a truly great war film then watch Das Boot or Come and See. Both great films without the clichés.
I have Das Boot but have yet to watch it. Will have to check out Come And See. Your constant good recommendations are going to keep me poor! :surrender:
I'm not saying that Saving Private Ryan is perfect by any stretch... it has it's warts and flaws but it still manages to captivate. The first time I watched this I don't think I moved or took my eyes off the screen throughout... and not just the demonstrative D-Day landing. Having read your Schindler's List review I think you might be inclined to attribute the success of the film to the masses of 'Spielberg groupies' who whip up the public into a frenzy by heaping praise on his films simply because of who is manning the helm. Perhaps... to a certain degree. Spielberg needs not to make any apologies for banking on his past successes to help convey the messages he wants to with his films, much like he did with Schindler's List... and I can assure you he won't! Good for him! If I had that chip in reserve to play you can bet your ass I would use it... most people would. That being said, I personally think it should be obligatory that all films are viewed without knowing who the director is so as to avoid a jaundiced eye when expressing feelings about the film... both pro and con.
When dozens of old war veterans were asked to screen the film they were deeply moved, remarking on the accuracy and realism depicted in not only the battle scenes but also the moral dilemmas that soldiers faced during the horrors of war. It's interesting to note that many of those revered soldiers had never even heard of Steven Spielberg. ;)
Until I have watched more war movies and I am presented with more options this will continue to rank high with me. :clapcheer:
Post by: Antares on June 23, 2010, 04:10:42 AM
Post by: KinkyCyborg on June 23, 2010, 04:12:08 AM
I watched Saving Proivat eRyan at the cinema when it came out (in Singapore, actually). It upset mesomuch (not in a bad way, mind you) that I have not been able to rewatch it since then.
The worst moment in the film was the knifing scene. It only got worse by understanding what the german guy days, as he recommends to stop struggling as the American has no more chance anyway.
That certainly was a gruesome moment. Despite the horror in the American's eyes, the moment the knife slipped in I think you can see a moment of understanding wash over his face, realizing that even though he was about to die, he never really expected mercy from the German... and had the roles been reversed he would have just as easily thrust his blade into the others belly. Even more amazing was when the German walked down the stairs, right past the young American Corporal without even giving him a second thought having already pegged him as a spineless coward. That issue would later be resolved as well.
Post by: KinkyCyborg on June 23, 2010, 04:12:47 AM
Which version of Das Boot do you own?
I have the 209 minute Director's Cut.
Post by: Antares on June 23, 2010, 04:14:37 AM
Post by: KinkyCyborg on June 23, 2010, 04:19:45 AM
Post by: Antares on June 23, 2010, 04:21:22 AM
293?! This 209 minute version states to have an additional 60 more minutes of footage! Drives me nuts when they insist on multiple 'cuts' and 'editions'. :wacko:
The 293 minute version was the one Petersen made for German television after the film's release. Even at 293 minutes, the screenplay shines. Best war film ever. :thumbup:
Post by: KinkyCyborg on June 23, 2010, 04:25:05 AM
Post by: Tom on June 23, 2010, 07:18:04 AM
Added it to my want list. If I can replace my existing copy with a complete version I'd sooner just wait to watch it in all it's glory. :)
Don't replace it! These two versions are two different entities altogether. I think for the first time it would be better to watch the movie version, not the TV cut. Both versions are an intended version. At the time of filming both a movie and a TV mini series were planned. These two have different pacing and different focus.
Post by: Achim on June 23, 2010, 03:44:56 PM
Don't replace it! These two versions are two different entities altogether. I think for the first time it would be better to watch the movie version, not the TV cut. Both versions are an intended version. At the time of filming both a movie and a TV mini series were planned. These two have different pacing and different focus.This is what I remember as well (I saw both during their original release). So, the Director's Cut is really the odd one out here.
Post by: KinkyCyborg on June 27, 2010, 04:42:59 AM
Title:Fandango (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 1985
Director: Kevin Reynolds
Rating: PG
Length: 91 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 1.85:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, French: Dolby Digital: Mono
Subtitles: English, French, Spanish
Stars:
Kevin Costner
Judd Nelson (1959)
Sam Robards
Chuck Bush
Brian Cesak
Plot:
College is over, real life can start. Well, not yet. The Groovers, five college roommates in Texas, class of '71, find breaking up is hard to do. So Gardner, the group's official "Groover and Shaker", decides that he and his buddies should chuck their worries about an imminent wedding, the Vietnam draft and crashing the working world to take off in Phil's Caddy for a final footloose tear across the Lone Star State.
Join their far-flung post-graduation fandango. A top cast, including rising stars Kevin Costner as party guy Gardner and Judd Nelson as straight-arrow Phil, and the clever script and direction of first-timer Kevin Reynolds ('Robin Hood Prince of Thieves') make it a rip-roaring ride in the tradition of 'American Graffiti' and 'Breaking Away'.
Extras:
Scene Access
Feature Trailers
Closed Captioned
My Thoughts:
Animal House meets Road Trip meets Day Zero.
This movie is pretty good with more than a few laugh out loud moments. Chaining the car to the train and the parachute full of dirty laundry were priceless. Kevin Costner had very few good comedic turns but this was one of them.
Judd Nelson had a stretch of some really great movies, including this one, the brat packs flicks, From The Hip, Relentless and New Jack City. Now if he's in anything at all it's some cheesy straight-to-video movie. ??? I fully expect to see him on either The Surreal Life or Dancing With The Stars any day now which will officially mark the end. :-\
KC
Rating:
Post by: KinkyCyborg on June 28, 2010, 02:02:37 AM
Title:In Cold Blood (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 1996
Director: Jonathan Kaplan
Rating: PG
Length: 179 Min.
Video: Full Frame 1.33:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 5.1
Subtitles:
Stars:
Anthony Edwards
Eric Roberts
Sam Neill
Kevin Tighe
Gillian Barber
Plot:
Taken from actual events,this hauntingly detailed and psychologically riveting film is based on a book by Truman Capote.
In 1959 two ex-cons slaughter the Clutter family,They flee to mexico as one of the largest manhunts in history ensues.
Extras:
Scene Access
My Thoughts:
Based on a book by Truman Capote, this telling was a made for TV mini-series. Almost 3 hours in length, it lacked mystery as you are made aware up front of what crime will be committed and even who commits the murders, and yet there is still an incredible amount of suspense that builds up to the time the murders are committed.
I found it interesting that Anthony Edwards was cast as a heavy in this one and while he was ok in the role I felt he didn't quite pull it off. Eric Roberts on the other hand was masterful in his portrayal as the haunted, unwilling partner in crime who, as it turns out, was the real man of substance. Sam Neill was solid as the lawman tracking them down and look for a very young Ryan Reynolds in this one.
While this was obviously watered down for a cable TV audience, it more than made up for it with excellent story telling and real heart felt angst for the gentle Methodist family that was killed. I'd recommend it and am now interested in reading Capote's book
KC
Rating:
Post by: Antares on June 28, 2010, 02:16:26 AM
Post by: KinkyCyborg on June 28, 2010, 02:37:11 AM
Post by: KinkyCyborg on June 29, 2010, 04:31:40 AM
Title:The Murders in the Rue Morgue (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 1986
Director: Jeannot Szwarc
Rating: PG-13
Length: 92 Min.
Video: Full Frame 1.33:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround
Subtitles:
Stars:
George C. Scott
Rebecca De Mornay
Ian McShane
Neil Dickson
Val Kilmer
Plot:
Poe's classic chiller of inhuman crime, shrill suspense, and dazzling detective work in Paris at the turn of the 19th Century.
PARIS 1899. The quiet of the still, misty night is pierced by a series of screams coming from a four-story house on the corner of the Rue Morgue. Inside, two women are found dead, and the Prefect of Police is baffled. There is no apparent motive for the crimes and only two obvious clues: judging from the state of the victims, the murders were committed by someone of immense power, and the killer is seemingly capable of disappearing into thin air, for the only possible means of escape is through a fourth-story window.
Claire (Rebecca De Mornay) hopes that the case will pique her father's interest, for Auguste Dupin (George C. Scott), once France's finest detective, has lost his sense of purpose since his enforced retirement from the police force. But though the mysterious killings would have intrigued him in the old days, Dupin is at first indifferent to the case. He is galvanized into action, however, when Claire's fiancé, Dolph, is arrested for the murders on the grounds that he was the last person to see the two women alive. All of Dupin's old instincts resurface as he determines to solve the mystery of the murders in the Rue Morgue.
Extras:
Scene Access
My Thoughts:
I have little good to say about this one. A great cast with George C. Scott, Rebecca DeMornay, Ian MacShane and Val Kilmer.... all completely wasted on a total bore of a movie.
Made in the vein of an Agatha Christie or Sherlock Holmes mystery, it fails miserably with it's shoe string budget and total lack of excitement. The only thing that kept me going was wondering who the murderer was and when it was finally revealed it was so ridiculous I was shaking my head in disgust.
Don't waste your time with this one.
KC
Rating:
Post by: KinkyCyborg on June 29, 2010, 11:56:31 PM
Title:The Shaggy Dog (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 1959
Director: Charles Barton
Rating: G
Length: 101 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 1.75:1, Full Frame 1.33:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: Mono, French: Dolby Digital: Mono, Commentary: Dolby Digital: Mono
Subtitles: English, French, Spanish
Stars:
Fred MacMurray
Jean Hagen
Tommy Kirk
Annette Funicello
Tim Considine
Plot:
The first live action movie ever produced by Walt Disney is on DVD for the first time ever! Fred MacMurray heads an all-star cast that includes Jean Hagen, Tim Considine, Kevin Corcoran, and Annette Funicello in her big screen debut.
After years of on-the-job clashes with cranky canines, mail carrier Wilson Daniels (MacMurray) sees man's best friend as his worst enemy. This makes for one hairy situation when a magical ring accidentally transforms his teenage son, Wilby (Kirk), into a lumbering sheepdog! Can Wilby break the spell and foil a team of international spies, or will both he 'and' his dad wind up in the doghouse? Packed with sidesplitting antics, slapstick chases, and hilarious sight gags, this madcap adventure will tickle the funny bone of every two- (and four-) footed member of your family!
Extras:
Scene Access
Audio Commentary
Featurettes
My Thoughts:
The original telling of this Disney movie. I've not seen the remake with Tim Allen but I'm willing to bet this version is better. Typical family fare for the era with some very amusing moments. The younger brother who desperately wanted a dog was a scene stealer. This was Annette Funicello's film debut... looking sweet and innocent, completely unaware of the busty beach beauty she would later become.
What made watching this special for me was my 4 year old daughter, who usually has ZERO attention span walked in shortly after I started watching this, plopped herself down on my lap and watched the entire movie with me. It was the first time we watched a movie together in it's entirety after many other failed attempts.... and I loved every minute of it. :) For that alone, I'll never forget this movie.
KC
Rating:
Post by: Kathy on June 30, 2010, 12:25:27 PM
Post by: KinkyCyborg on July 01, 2010, 02:45:27 AM
Post by: KinkyCyborg on July 01, 2010, 02:47:42 AM
Title:Hud (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 1963
Director: Martin Ritt
Rating: NR
Length: 112 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 2.35:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, English: Dolby Digital: Mono, French: Dolby Digital: Mono
Subtitles: English
Stars:
Paul Newman
Melvyn Douglas
Patricia Neal
Brandon De Wilde
Whit Bissell
Plot:
Seven Oscar® nominations were the result as celebrated director Martin Ritt ('The Front', 'Sounder', 'Norma Rae') guided Paul Newman to an Academy Award®-nominated performance as Hud Bannon, the rebellious son of a respectable rancher who's continually at odds with his aging father. Patricia Neal ('The Fountainhead', 'Breakfast at Tiffany's') and Melvyn Douglas ('Ninotchka', 'Being There') co-star, in their Oscar®- winning roles.
Extras:
Scene Access
Closed Captioned
My Thoughts:
One of Paul Newman's finest performances. He plays a real miserable cur in this one. He has the whole world and nothing at all both at the same time. The tension between him and his father, excellently played by Melvyn Douglas, sets the tone throughout leading to a sorrowful conclusion.
The slaughter scene of all the diseased cattle was fascinating and a real exclamation point to the tragedy of circumstance.
Patricia Neal is a real saucy firecracker! She gave a great performance and now I want to see more of her films.
The only thing that bothered me about Hud was how abruptly it ends.... but I guess that was the point. The viewer and even Hud himself knows he will never change, even as he watches everything important to him disappear... nothing further to explain.
KC
Rating:
Post by: KinkyCyborg on July 02, 2010, 04:51:48 PM
Title:Dumb And Dumberer: When Harry Met Lloyd (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 2003
Director: Troy Miller
Rating: PG
Length: 86 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 1.85:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, English: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo, French: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo
Subtitles: English, French
Stars:
Eric Christian Olsen
Derek Richardson
Rachel Nichols
Cheri Oteri
Luis Guzmán
Plot:
Before the first movie, there was high school. They missed the bus.
Dumb at first sight.
Go back to school with everybody's favorite dimwits in this hilarious prequel to the hit comedy that rocketed Jim Carrey to superstardom.
It’s a historic meeting of the mindless when Harry and Lloyd (Derek Richardson and Eric Christian Olsen) bump heads for the first time in high school. But when the school's principal (Eugene Levy) and head lunch-lady (Cheri Oteri) hatch a scheme to cheat the school out of $100,000, it's up to the moronic duo to come to the rescue.
Will Harry and Lloyd save the day - or destroy it? Can Harry win the heart of the beautiful teen reporter? Will Lloyd make out with Harry's mom? To find out all the stupid answers, you'll have to watch the movie.
Extras:
Scene Access
Audio Commentary
Feature Trailers
Deleted Scenes
Featurettes
DVD-ROM Content
Outtakes
My Thoughts:
I was not a big fan of the original with Jim Carrey & Jeff Daniels so I had little hope that this prequel with no name lead actors was going to endear me to the franchise. To my surprise I found this much more funny than the original with some laugh out loud moments. Today's 'stupid-funny' comedies don't compare to the ones of yesteryear, i.e. Airplane, Naked Gun series, even the first couple of Scary Movie installments. This one I felt held it's own and it even brought out some names I had not seen in a while in Mimi Rogers and Bob Saget.
While this will never make any kind of Top 10 list I think it's worth a watch.
KC
Rating:
Post by: KinkyCyborg on July 03, 2010, 07:59:07 PM
Title:Good Will Hunting (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 1997
Director: Gus Van Sant
Rating: R
Length: 126 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 1.85:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, French: Dolby Digital: 5.1, Commentary: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo
Subtitles: English, French
Stars:
Robin Williams (1951)
Matt Damon
Ben Affleck
Stellan Skarsgård
Minnie Driver
Plot:
From highly acclaimed director, Gus Van Sant this triumphant story was nominated for 9 Academy Awards winning Oscars for Robin Williams and hot new comers Matt Damon (Rounders) and Ben Affleck (Armageddon) and featuring Academy Award nominee Minnie Driver. Will Hunting (Damon) is a head strong working-class genius. After one too many run ins with the law, Will's last chance is a psychology professor (Williams). Experience this powerful and unforgettable movie.
Extras:
Scene Access
Audio Commentary
Feature Trailers
Deleted Scenes
Featurettes
Production Notes
Music Videos
My Thoughts:
This is my 3rd or 4th time watching this and it's still a great movie. Matt Damon was good as the troubled young math prodigy who hides behind his mundane jobs and simple friends. No one can get through to him until he encounters a likable psychology professor played by Robin Williams in an Oscar winning performance. His was a powerful performance and even more admirable as it must have been quite the effort on his part to act in such a subdued manner.
This was a really compelling story... I can still not fathom how a couple of schmucks like Matt Damon & Ben Affleck could have wrote this Oscar winning screenplay. This will trump anything they will ever accomplish as actors and just goes to show that the sun shines on a dog's ass every now and then. :shrug:
KC
Rating:
Post by: Najemikon on July 03, 2010, 08:25:24 PM
I can still not fathom how a couple of schmucks like Matt Damon & Ben Affleck could have wrote this Oscar winning screenplay. This will trump anything they will ever accomplish as actors and just goes to show that the sun shines on a dog's ass every now and then. :shrug:
I think that's unfair! Damon is a very good actor, in a movie star sort of way, and while Affleck is only passable in comparison, he shows a great deal of talent as a director. See my review of Gone Baby Gone (http://www.dvdcollectorsonline.com/index.php/topic,5202.msg85223.html#msg85223).
In any case, they have never showed any signs of taking it half as seriously as people seem to take them. ;)
Post by: KinkyCyborg on July 03, 2010, 08:42:53 PM
I can still not fathom how a couple of schmucks like Matt Damon & Ben Affleck could have wrote this Oscar winning screenplay. This will trump anything they will ever accomplish as actors and just goes to show that the sun shines on a dog's ass every now and then. :shrug:
I think that's unfair! Damon is a very good actor, in a movie star sort of way, and while Affleck is only passable in comparison, he shows a great deal of talent as a director. See my review of Gone Baby Gone (http://www.dvdcollectorsonline.com/index.php/topic,5202.msg85223.html#msg85223).
In any case, they have never showed any signs of taking it half as seriously as people seem to take them. ;)
Gone Baby Gone is still in my massive 'to watch' pile so perhaps my opinion will change. I will concede there has been a certain level of maturing for these two guys in recent years but then all I have to do is throw in a Kevin Smith movie or something like Stuck On You and I begin to find it difficult to give them much credit.
As far as them taking things seriously themselves? Oh I believe that. I'm sure there were no two people more surprised when their names were announced as winners of the Screenplay Oscar than they were.
KC
Post by: Najemikon on July 03, 2010, 11:18:09 PM
Gone Baby Gone is still in my massive 'to watch' pile so perhaps my opinion will change. I will concede there has been a certain level of maturing for these two guys in recent years but then all I have to do is throw in a Kevin Smith movie or something like Stuck On You and I begin to find it difficult to give them much credit.
As far as them taking things seriously themselves? Oh I believe that. I'm sure there were no two people more surprised when their names were announced as winners of the Screenplay Oscar than they were.
KC
See, I don't believe they've changed. Good Will Hunting was no one-off; they've always been capable of what they've done, but they have fun with it too. Kevin Smith is a perfect example... do you like those films? :hmmmm:
Post by: Tom on July 03, 2010, 11:32:04 PM
Post by: Najemikon on July 03, 2010, 11:33:16 PM
Post by: KinkyCyborg on July 04, 2010, 12:03:09 AM
Gone Baby Gone is still in my massive 'to watch' pile so perhaps my opinion will change. I will concede there has been a certain level of maturing for these two guys in recent years but then all I have to do is throw in a Kevin Smith movie or something like Stuck On You and I begin to find it difficult to give them much credit.
As far as them taking things seriously themselves? Oh I believe that. I'm sure there were no two people more surprised when their names were announced as winners of the Screenplay Oscar than they were.
KC
See, I don't believe they've changed. Good Will Hunting was no one-off; they've always been capable of what they've done, but they have fun with it too. Kevin Smith is a perfect example... do you like those films? :hmmmm:
I have yet to watch Dogma or Chasing Amy yet, both of which have achieved some acclaim, although I do own them. I don't mind Kevin Smith movies but I'm not a huge fan.
That's the problem when I have so many unwatched movies I can only form opinions based on what I have already seen. Dogma should be an interesting watch as I'm curious to see how Alan Rickman fits into that brand of comedy.
Post by: Tom on July 04, 2010, 12:08:50 AM
I will concede there has been a certain level of maturing for these two guys in recent years but then all I have to do is throw in a Kevin Smith movie or something like Stuck On You and I begin to find it difficult to give them much credit.
I have yet to watch Dogma or Chasing Amy yet, both of which have achieved some acclaim, although I do own them.
I think it's not fair to dismiss Ben Affleck and Matt Damon for appearing in Kevin Smith movies without having watched Dogma and Chasing Amy ;)
Post by: KinkyCyborg on July 04, 2010, 12:26:12 AM
Post by: KinkyCyborg on July 04, 2010, 05:43:30 PM
Title:X-15 (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 1962
Director: Richard D. Donner
Rating: NR
Length: 107 Min.
Video: Widescreen 2.35:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: Mono
Subtitles: English, French, Spanish
Stars:
Charles Bronson
Brad Dexter
James Gregory
Lisabeth Hush
David McLean
Plot:
Before Top Gun, Apollo 13 or The Right Stuff, this breathtaking, jet-fueled journey of high-altitude filmmaking blasted audiences from zero-G to 4,000 miles per hour with its thrilling tale of America's victory in the space race. Starring David Mclean, Charles Bronson and Mary Tyler Moore, X-15 sets the sky as the limit - for excitement!
The courageous pilots of the Air Force's X-15 program are determined to take an experimental rocket 100 miles above the earth... at four times the speed of sound! At stake is American air supremacy and proof that space travel is possible. but also at stake are their lives... and the lives of the terrified wives they've left behind.
Extras:
Scene Access
Closed Captioned
My Thoughts:
I generally enjoy movies of historical significance but this one was a bit of a bore. About early experimental rockets that would eventually lead to the shuttle program, I found it repetitive and lacking any excitement. The special effects used for the scenes when the rocket exits the earths atmosphere were very campy, even by 1962's standards.
Charles Bronson, whom I'm used to doling out vigilante justice or squinting from beneath a cowboy hat was quite out of place in this one as a test pilot. Mary Tyler Moore's head of hair looked more like a helmet than the ones used by the pilots. James Stewart narrates.
If you are really into planes the monstrous, modified B-52's are quite impressive.
KC
Rating:
Post by: Achim on July 05, 2010, 04:33:28 AM
Post by: KinkyCyborg on July 05, 2010, 06:27:45 AM
I knew Donner was older than he looks, but he made movies in 1962 already...? Wow.
Looking at his IMDB resume it looks like this was his feature film debut as a director having only done TV prior to it. Some interesting shows he worked on included Wanted : Dead Or Alive, Zane Grey Theatre, The Rifleman and Have Gun Will Travel... who knew!? :D
Post by: KinkyCyborg on July 06, 2010, 06:36:25 AM
Title:Better Than Sex (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 2000
Director: Jonathan Teplitzky
Rating: R
Length: 83 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 1.85:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 5.1
Subtitles: English
Stars:
David Wenham
Susie Porter
Kris McQuade
Simon Bossell
Catherine McClements
Plot:
A one-night stand turns into three days of bonding and exploring what men and women want from life – and from each other – in this sexy and provocative romantic comedy.
When Josh (David Wenham, The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers) and Cin (Susie Porter, Paradise Road) meet at a party, they are not initially attracted to each other. But when they share a taxi home, they decide to take advantage of an opportunity to have easy sex. Much to their surprise, their night of casual sex turns into something more than either of them expected, and as night turns to day and into night again, Josh and Cynthia realize they might have made a bigger mess of their lives than they could ever have imagined...their night of lust just might be the start of a beautiful relationship, and no matter how hard they both try to fight it and flee, fate keeps stepping in to bring them back together. When it comes time for Josh to leave, there is only one question left to answer: will they walk away or will they surrender?
Extras:
Scene Access
Feature Trailers
Closed Captioned
My Thoughts:
Aussie flick about a one night stand that turns into much more. There's actually a cute little love story behind all the constant sex. I think the use of no name actors actually help this work.
I got this movie from Phoenix back on SwitchPlanet basically as a throw in to help even off a trade and I'm glad I did as it was an entertaining, sometimes erotic watch. Much better than the last Australian made movie I watched (Little Fish).
KC
Rating:
Post by: KinkyCyborg on July 07, 2010, 06:17:51 AM
Title:Inglourious Basterds (http://www.invelos.com/images/BluRayLogo.png)(http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 2009
Director: Quentin Tarantino
Rating: R
Length: 153 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 2.40:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, French: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo, Spanish: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo
Subtitles: English, French, Spanish
Stars:
Brad Pitt
Mélanie Laurent
Christoph Waltz
Eli Roth
Michael Fassbender
Plot:
Brad Pitt takes no prisoners in Quentin Tarentino's high-octane WWII revenge fantasy Inglourious Basterds. As war rages in Europe, a Nazi-scalping squad of American soldiers, known to their enemy as "The Basterds," is on a daring mission to take down the leaders of the Third Reich. Bursting with "action, hair-trigger suspense and a machine-gun spray of killer dialogue" (Peter Travers, Rolling Stone), Inglourious Basterds is "another Tarantino masterpiece" (Jake hamilton, CBS TV)!
Extras:
My Thoughts:
Oh me, oh my!
I resolved to deviate slightly from my method of selecting movies to watch by making every 10th movie one I get to choose without the assistance of a random number generator in an effort to get in some movies I really want to see without having to wait on chance to choose it for me. There was no indecision or debate... I went straight for Inglourious Basterds. :)
Before I begin my review, let me preface it by saying this was the third movie I had watched today, a fact made quite obvious by the dirty looks my wife was giving me for residing on my hump for almost the entire day. I started to feel bad and guilty about it... until about 10 minutes into Basterds and then those feelings quickly went away! :laugh:
I've had mixed reactions to Tarantino's previous movies... I liked Reservoir Dogs, REALLY liked Pulp Fiction :dance: but was somewhat lukewarm to the Kill Bill movies. I've yet to watch Jackie Brown or his Grindhouse entry. I admit to buying into the hype of Basterds and given the WWII theme I was wired up to watch it and was hoping it lived up to the hype.
What a movie! Even though I expected it would be great it still exceeded all my expectations. Leave it to Tarantino to rewrite history! You expect all the shocks and surprises from one of Quentin's films and yet when they happen they still reach up and grab you by the balls (if you have them). Sure there was sheer moments of complete implausibility born out of convenience to the plot but who gives a shit. Nobody was ever going to confuse this with a WWII documentary or think it was based on 'true events'.
Christoph Waltz... where did this guy come from?!?! Like most people I had never heard of him till now but seemingly everyone knows him! Hans Landa was scary at first but as the movie progresses you begin to respect and admire his evil style and coy manipulations. Well done! I also liked Til Schweiger in his limited screen time as German turncoat Hugo Stiglitz. Such a cool name... Stiglitz! Kind of rolls off the tongue... :P I actually thought Brad Pitt was the weak link in this movie. Some mustard with that ham? ::) Yeeesh! Entirely too over the top. The scene where he is trying to pass himself off as an Italian at the movie premiere was completely absurd and even if it was meant to be it was still too much.
Some scenes and moments in this film will never be forgotten. The branding to the German soldiers who were lucky enough to survive the Basterds... the Jew Bear hitting a home run... the clever wordplay of Landa in the opening scene which revealed the hidden Jews without his men having to so much as lift a finger to search for them. All terrific!
If you haven't watched this already, do yourself a favor... go buy it, or at the very least pay the couple of bucks to rent it. ;)
I can't confirm this as I didn't see his name in the credits, but when Landa handed the radio back to Raine the OSS Commander who was giving Raine his instructions sure as hell sounds like Harvey Kietel. I played it back 3 times and I'll eat my hat if that's not him. ;) I did catch the Samuel L. Jackson narration and I'm sure upon subsequent viewings there are more Tarantino alumni and references to be found.
Rating:
Post by: Jimmy on July 07, 2010, 06:23:13 AM
If you haven't watched this already, do yourself a favor... go buy it, or at the very least pay the couple of bucks to rent it. ;)Thanks but no thanks, this isn't a favor for me :laugh:
Post by: KinkyCyborg on July 07, 2010, 06:27:44 AM
If you haven't watched this already, do yourself a favor... go buy it, or at the very least pay the couple of bucks to rent it. ;)Thanks but no thanks, this isn't a favor for me :laugh:
lol I admit, he's not everyone's cup of tea. I have a friend of mine who refuses to watch any of his films simply because of how ugly he is! ::)
Post by: Dragonfire on July 07, 2010, 07:11:23 AM
Bleck.
Post by: KinkyCyborg on July 07, 2010, 07:24:38 AM
Ack. Someone else likes Inglurious Basterds.
Bleck.
Someone had to do it. :D
Post by: Critter on July 07, 2010, 07:29:05 AM
Post by: KinkyCyborg on July 07, 2010, 07:38:45 AM
Post by: Jimmy on July 07, 2010, 07:51:13 AM
he's a bit overrated.It isn't the fact he is overated (wich of course he is), but the fact that he is incapable to do something original and stole other people works calling that hommage when he is caught. That pass with many cinema goers since most of them don't know the original materials he stole from, but since he stole from the movies I watch and like it doesn't work with me. What can I say for me a thief is a thief not a genius...
Post by: Dragonfire on July 07, 2010, 08:24:39 AM
Tarantino is one of those directors who is going to have as many detractors as he does fans. While I loved this movie and Pulp Fiction his others were just ok which leads me to think he's a bit overrated.
A bit overrated? Umm no. Vastly overrated is more like it.
I don't flat out hate him or anything, but I have yet to really be impressed by any of his movies I've seen. I have been willing to give some of his movies a chance and I still might in the future, but I'm not going to worship at the alter of Tarantino and think that everything he does is wondrous because of his involvement. Nothing he has done that I've seen has been that great and I don't feel all the praise people lavish on him is warranted.
I haven't seen all of his movies, but I've only sort of liked the Kill Bill movies and I haven't wanted to see them again. Inglourious Basterds had a few moments, but it wasn't enough to make the movie bearable for me. I don't know as much about him pulling stuff from other movies like Jimmy does, but I still don't care for his stories. The stories are weak at the core because he spends too much time focused on the extreme, graphic violence with blood gushing everywhere every two minutes.
Ok..I'm done now. I think. :)
Post by: Achim on July 07, 2010, 10:07:50 AM
I don't know as much about him pulling stuff from other movies like Jimmy does, but I still don't care for his stories.That pulling from other films mainly comes from reservoir Dogs, where it it is painfully obvious he took more than a few cues from the Hong Kong film City on Fire. Supposedly, when asked about it at first, he tried to play it down or something (I don't know the details).
Later in his career he found out that that is one thing people like about his films. That he mixes and matches elements from other films tro create something knew, making it his own (not to be confused with "original"!) along the way. If you were to watch (which I am sure you won't :laugh:) watch the making of for Kill Bill, he himself points out a lot of the references he makes.
Obviously, as this forum so clearly shows time and again, people see this in two ways:
1. Quentin has no ideas and steals everywhere putting it together randomly. They hate him for that.
2. Quentin uses his sources to create something new, mixing genres and styles. They enjoy it for what it is.
I'll leave it at that, we will not agree here.
Quote
The stories are weak at the core because he spends too much time focused on the extreme, graphic violence with blood gushing everywhere every two minutes.There is not much I can about your opinion. But, while blood gushing is certainly a big part in (some of) his films, but certainly not that much. But hey, you don't like him, that is fine by me.
You know, I almost think Jimmy doesn't like him either.
Post by: Jimmy on July 07, 2010, 10:19:11 AM
You know, I almost think Jimmy doesn't like him either.The funny think is that I like True Romance and Natural Born Killers that he wrote but didn't direct. :shrug:
Post by: Dragonfire on July 07, 2010, 10:21:46 AM
The gushing blood has been a big part of his movies that I've seen..though like I said before, I haven't seen all of them. Some of the stories have potential...but I don't think he met the potential. It seems like he is more focused on violence than anything..again based on his movies that I've seen.
I liked True Romance ok...but again, not one I want to see again. I didn't care for Natural Born Killers.
Post by: Critter on July 07, 2010, 11:00:13 AM
Post by: KinkyCyborg on July 07, 2010, 04:04:28 PM
Kill Bill on the other hand, especially the first one did have the gushing blood in sustained scenes from countless severed heads and limbs and it's one of the reasons I wasn't so fond of the movie. Not that I'm squeamish or anything... it just seemed like Quentin was trying to over-compensate for something and ended up unnecessarily saturating the film with gore. IMDB is showing Kill Bill 3 in development so I guess we'll see if he continues that trend or not.
Post by: Achim on July 07, 2010, 04:46:44 PM
I did not respond to the blood comments as that can a rather subjective impression. While someone may find a certain film mild on gore, another person might feel it's over the top. Even Pulp Fiction has one rather graphic scene in it which might trigger a repulsed reaction for some.
Post by: KinkyCyborg on July 07, 2010, 05:19:06 PM
Especially the tea house scene was a reference to certain Japanese films, which tends to have the blood gushing in that style. His choice was not made to compensate for something but to emulate that style.
I did not respond to the blood comments as that can a rather subjective impression. While someone may find a certain film mild on gore, another person might feel it's over the top. Even Pulp Fiction has one rather graphic scene in it which might trigger a repulsed reaction for some.
Unfortunately I haven't seen many of the films or styles that he is trying to emulate or pay homage to otherwise I might pick up on that as well. Graphic or gory scenes do not bother me and if done well I give kudos. For me it just seems that excess is the problem. He achieves that shock or WOW factor with the initial scene of blood or gore but accomplishes nothing with constant, repetitive renderings of the same kind of scene, except perhaps he begins to dull the senses of the viewer. :stars:
Post by: Najemikon on July 07, 2010, 05:41:07 PM
Post by: KinkyCyborg on July 07, 2010, 05:45:10 PM
Post by: Antares on July 07, 2010, 05:51:43 PM
Unfortunately I haven't seen many of the films or styles that he is trying to emulate or pay homage to otherwise I might pick up on that as well.
Over at the BPR forum we had a member who was a devout Tarantino fanboy. He and I would go back and forth over the value of the great plagiarist.
Then one day, in a post about Criterion DVD's and Godard he posted this...
Quote
Quote from: kikujirobillI just read the accompanying booklet, which reaffirmed and added to my respect for this movie. Seriously, at this point, Tarantino can suck it. I still love him for Kill Bill, but Godard can make a movie about movies without a hint of self reference or irony.
To which I replied this...
Quote
Quote from: AntaresQuote from: kikujirobillSeriously, at this point, Tarantino can suck it.
Do I believe my eyes!!! ;) :laugh: :P
His reply...
Quote
Quote from: kikujirobillI'm glad someone finally commented on that.
Kill Bill is still one of my favorite movies, but his other works are so... unextraordinary when put up next to the movies he emulates. Seeing a Tarantino movie as a person new to real cinema is amazing. But they still don't hold a candle to the originals.
I will still see, enjoy and buy on blu-ray any movies he makes. I still enjoy them immensely, however, I am much less inclined to defend him as a legitimate auteur at this point.
Back to me...
Quote
Quote from: AntaresQuote from: kikujirobillSeeing a Tarantino movie as a person new to real cinema is amazing. But they still don't hold a candle to the originals.
Now you're beginning to see the light! :thumbsup:
This has been my argument for years. Once you see the films he's ripped off, you realize that he's all style and no substance.
And finally from him...
Quote
Quote from: kikujirobillQuote from: AntaresQuote from: kikujirobillSeeing a Tarantino movie as a person new to real cinema is amazing. But they still don't hold a candle to the originals.
Now you're beginning to see the light! :thumbsup:
This has been my argument for years. Once you see the films he's ripped off, you realize that he's all style and no substance.
Every fanboy bone in my body aches right now, but I have to agree. :'(
Someday, KC when you start to see some of the films he's plagiarizing, you too will probably have the same kind of epiphany.
Post by: KinkyCyborg on July 07, 2010, 06:13:53 PM
Quote
Someday, KC when you start to see some of the films he's plagiarizing, you too will probably have the same kind of epiphany.
You could very well be right. :D Still, I'd like to think I can go into watching a movie without any pre-conceived notions or formed opinions from past history. I've done that with certain actors/actresses and then been pleasantly surprised by a performance that I was in no way expecting. As far as QT goes, as long as he chooses to be controversial in his films and his method he'll always be a hot-button topic of discussion.... which I'm sure is exactly what he wants. What better way to promote your next film than by having thousands, millions of people speculating on boards like these... 'What's he gonna do next?'
Hype is the golden elixir for film makers these days. That's really a shame too because success is now often measured by box office revenues rather than the relative merits of the film itself. :thumbdown:
Post by: Najemikon on July 07, 2010, 06:37:26 PM
Someday, KC when you start to see some of the films he's plagiarizing, you too will probably have the same kind of epiphany.
The guy you were talking to clearly was an immature fan-boy, running from one poster boy hero to the next drooling "I WUV YOU! NO. me no likey. NOW... I WUV YOU INSTEAD!". That argument is absurd. Remember Tarantino has been the critics darling, especially in Europe where film theory is at it's deepest. Are they all blinkered fan-boys? Am I?
The thing that always fascinates me is the passion of those trying to prove his weakness, yet we, the supposed "fan boys" to blame for the destruction of modern cinema, simply watch his movies, nod, high-five and say "Awesome". Then we move onto something else, leaving behind zombie-fied banshees wailing about how wrong we are.
Chill pill for table 2. It's only a movie. :tease:
Post by: Antares on July 07, 2010, 06:43:36 PM
Someday, KC when you start to see some of the films he's plagiarizing, you too will probably have the same kind of epiphany.
The guy you were talking to clearly was an immature fan-boy, running from one poster boy hero to the next drooling "I WUV YOU! NO. me no likey. NOW... I WUV YOU INSTEAD!". That argument is absurd. Remember Tarantino has been the critics darling, especially in Europe where film theory is at it's deepest. Are they all blinkered fan-boys? Am I?
The thing that always fascinates me is the passion of those trying to prove his weakness, yet we, the supposed "fan boys" to blame for the destruction of modern cinema, simply watch his movies, nod, high-five and say "Awesome". Then we move onto something else, leaving behind zombie-fied banshees wailing about how wrong we are.
Chill pill for table 2. It's only a movie. :tease:
Wow, must have struck a nerve. ;)
Post by: Dragonfire on July 07, 2010, 09:38:14 PM
Also..it doesn't mean shit to me if anyone - Tarantino or whoever - is a darling of critics. I may read or hear what they say, but I ultimately decide for myself what I like or don't like. And for me, Tarantino sucks more often than not.
Post by: Jimmy on July 07, 2010, 10:20:37 PM
It's almost like he's using it as a way to get attention. LIie..hey look at what at me and what I did...eyeballs are pulled out and limbs cut off..aren't I cool? Didn't I make the coolest movie ever? Again..It's funny how we can say the same thing about Eli Roth or Nick Palumbo, 2 others full of themselves type of director :laugh:
But at least Palumbo can be since he had done a great movie.
Post by: KinkyCyborg on July 07, 2010, 10:43:17 PM
Title:After Sundown (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 2005
Director: Christopher Abram
Rating: R
Length: 88 Min.
Video: Widescreen :1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo
Subtitles: English, Spanish
Stars:
Susana Gibb
Reece Rios
Natali Jones
Michael W. Brown
J. Christopher
Plot:
The Wild West is about to rise again in this horrifying and gory tale of the walking undead. When a strange body is exhumed from a forgotten graveyard, a vampire from the Old West is re awakened, and she's had a long time to be hungry. Now, it's up to the unfortunate souls who found her to send the creature back to Hell before their town is overrun by bloodthirsty evil.
Extras:
Scene Access
Audio Commentary
Feature Trailers
Deleted Scenes
Featurettes
Closed Captioned
My Thoughts:
Cowboys and vampires!
It was a good idea, and their hearts were in it but this is about as amateur as you can get. I'd hardly call this a movie... more like a high school visual arts project, and I've seen better of those. I find it absolutely miraculous that a studio and distribution company, let alone Lionsgate, would actually put their name to this fiasco.
Avoid at all costs.
KC
Rating:
Post by: Najemikon on July 08, 2010, 12:34:54 AM
I haven't minded violence in a lot of movies, but it has bothered me in other movies. I just haven't cared for the way Tarentino has used violence in the movies I've seen. It's almost like he's using it as a way to get attention. LIie..hey look at what at me and what I did...eyeballs are pulled out and limbs cut off..aren't I cool? Didn't I make the coolest movie ever? Again..this is how it comes across to me. Others may - and obviously do - feel differently.
Also..it doesn't mean shit to me if anyone - Tarantino or whoever - is a darling of critics. I may read or hear what they say, but I ultimately decide for myself what I like or don't like. And for me, Tarantino sucks more often than not.
Of course you make your own mind up, but I only said that because the fanboy argument gets on my nerves. It's disrespectful to genuine people like myself or in the case of this thread, KC, who have decided they do like his films. When you run out of arguments against the artist, start attacking his supporters... a method of "debating" I hope I never stoop to and if I do, please tell me. :-X
Also, I've always been fascinated by directors who can use violence properly and the famous scene in Reservoir Dogs is an excellent example. But you must realise, the excess in the Kill Bills was for a specific reason: that's the kind of film popular in Hong Kong and Anime. When a vein is cut in one of those movies, bring an umbrella!
Again, you might not like it, I'm not saying you should, but he did not do it simply because it was cool. That was only half the reason! He did it because that's the kind of thing the Japanese like to see and the sort of film normally a Western cinema wouldn't go near. He was challenging convention. Erm... word to the wise? Don't watch Machine Girl.
Really. Don't. :whistle:
Anyway, KC... After Sundown sounded awesome! So glad I continued reading your review. Shame, I've read a few comic stories that use that sort of premise and it always works. Well, almost always it seems. ;)
Post by: addicted2dvd on July 08, 2010, 12:40:38 AM
Title:After Sundown
Avoid at all costs.
KC
Rating:
Ohhh a vampire movie I never seen or even heard of before! Thanks for the warning... I just hope I am strong enough. I have a hell of a weakness for Vampire Movies!
Post by: Antares on July 08, 2010, 12:51:43 AM
Of course you make your own mind up, but I only said that because the fanboy argument gets on my nerves. It's disrespectful to genuine people like myself or in the case of this thread, KC, who have decided they do like his films. When you run out of arguments against the artist, start attacking his supporters... a method of "debating" I hope I never stoop to and if I do, please tell me. :-X
:redcard: I'm going to be honest here Jon, I take umbrage to that final statement.
KC stated that he had never seen any of the purported films that QT lifted from. My post was directed at that post, showing someone else who also had never seen any of the films in question. I never once insinuated that KC was a QT fanboy. My point was that when he does get around to seeing some of those films, then maybe a little bloom will be off the Tarantino rose for him.
You say you hope you never 'stoop' (believe me, a very poor choice of a word) to this method. But by misinterpreting my posting and disparaging those who don't agree with you, with your blanket assessment, is akin to the pot calling the kettle black in this instance.
Post by: KinkyCyborg on July 08, 2010, 12:52:46 AM
Title:After Sundown
Avoid at all costs.
KC
Rating:
Ohhh a vampire movie I never seen or even heard of before! Thanks for the warning... I just hope I am strong enough. I have a hell of a weakness for Vampire Movies!
It's kind of a hybrid vampire/zombie flick with the vampire using his powers to raise a small army of dead. The fill-ins for the zombies are laughable. Comprised mostly of what looks to be drunk college students who can barely contain their giggling as they shamble around the set.... lol ::)
Post by: Jimmy on July 08, 2010, 12:53:49 AM
I just hope I am strong enough. I have a hell of a weakness for Vampire Movies!It can't be worst than Vampires Sucks (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1666186/) and I will buying it at its release day :laugh:
Post by: KinkyCyborg on July 08, 2010, 01:07:53 AM
Of course you make your own mind up, but I only said that because the fanboy argument gets on my nerves. It's disrespectful to genuine people like myself or in the case of this thread, KC, who have decided they do like his films. When you run out of arguments against the artist, start attacking his supporters... a method of "debating" I hope I never stoop to and if I do, please tell me. :-X
:redcard: I'm going to be honest here Jon, I take umbrage to that final statement.
KC stated that he had never seen any of the purported films that QT lifted from. My post was directed at that post, showing someone else who also had never seen any of the films in question. I never once insinuated that KC was a QT fanboy. My point was that when he does get around to seeing some of those films, then maybe a little bloom will be off the Tarantino rose for him.
You say you hope you never 'stoop' (believe me, a very poor choice of a word) to this method. But by misinterpreting my posting and disparaging those who don't agree with you, with your blanket assessment, is akin to the pot calling the kettle black in this instance.
Just for the record, at no point have I felt like I have been attacked or labeled a QT fanboy by Antares or anyone else for that matter. He merely made a prediction that my opinion of QT will change upon viewing the films that inspire his work and I'm cool with that. Whether he's right or not remains to be seen. ;)
I'm quite accustomed to lively banter about films from a very diverse and wide ranging base of opinions. Opposing views are great and make for great dialogue providing it stays cordial. That's the thing about movies... beauty is in the eye of the beholder. Nobody has to be right or wrong. ;)
Lets move on shall we? That way I can get on to my Pulp Fiction review....
JUST KIDDING! :hysterical:
KC
Post by: Antares on July 08, 2010, 02:25:20 AM
Just for the record, at no point have I felt like I have been attacked or labeled a QT fanboy by Antares or anyone else for that matter. He merely made a prediction that my opinion of QT will change upon viewing the films that inspire his work and I'm cool with that. Whether he's right or not remains to be seen. ;)
Thanks KC for understanding my intention. :thumbup:
Post by: Dragonfire on July 08, 2010, 03:56:35 AM
Of course you make your own mind up, but I only said that because the fanboy argument gets on my nerves. It's disrespectful to genuine people like myself or in the case of this thread, KC, who have decided they do like his films. When you run out of arguments against the artist, start attacking his supporters... a method of "debating" I hope I never stoop to and if I do, please tell me. :-X
I have something else to add and then I'll shut up about Tarantino.
I wasn't attacking anyone for liking him or calling anyone a fanboy. If people like his movies, fine. I don't understand it fully because I just don't like his movies overall, but I don't get worked up about it or think people are....delusional or rabid fanboys or whatever for liking his movie. I don't attack people for liking any sort of movie.
Post by: KinkyCyborg on July 08, 2010, 04:24:56 AM
I just hope I am strong enough. I have a hell of a weakness for Vampire Movies!It can't be worst than Vampires Sucks (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1666186/) and I will buying it at its release day :laugh:
I just watched the trailer for Vampires Suck... I'll be buying it too just like I do every other spoof movie. :thumbup:
Post by: Najemikon on July 08, 2010, 07:35:26 AM
Of course you make your own mind up, but I only said that because the fanboy argument gets on my nerves. It's disrespectful to genuine people like myself or in the case of this thread, KC, who have decided they do like his films. When you run out of arguments against the artist, start attacking his supporters... a method of "debating" I hope I never stoop to and if I do, please tell me. :-X
:redcard: I'm going to be honest here Jon, I take umbrage to that final statement.
KC stated that he had never seen any of the purported films that QT lifted from. My post was directed at that post, showing someone else who also had never seen any of the films in question. I never once insinuated that KC was a QT fanboy. My point was that when he does get around to seeing some of those films, then maybe a little bloom will be off the Tarantino rose for him.
You say you hope you never 'stoop' (believe me, a very poor choice of a word) to this method. But by misinterpreting my posting and disparaging those who don't agree with you, with your blanket assessment, is akin to the pot calling the kettle black in this instance.
Just for the record, at no point have I felt like I have been attacked or labeled a QT fanboy by Antares or anyone else for that matter. He merely made a prediction that my opinion of QT will change upon viewing the films that inspire his work and I'm cool with that. Whether he's right or not remains to be seen. ;)
I'm quite accustomed to lively banter about films from a very diverse and wide ranging base of opinions. Opposing views are great and make for great dialogue providing it stays cordial. That's the thing about movies... beauty is in the eye of the beholder. Nobody has to be right or wrong. ;)
Lets move on shall we? That way I can get on to my Pulp Fiction review....
JUST KIDDING! :hysterical:
KC
Thank you, KC. :thumbup:
I think the problem is the Tarantino argument has now been thrashed to death on this forum and unfortunately you came late. Looking at last nights situation, Antares, Jimmy and I across three threads kind of assumed all the points we'd said before and carried on regardless. Sorry you got caught in the middle. Previous debates have been just that and I got annoyed because I felt your review was kind of skimmed over in the process of jumping to conclusions.
Post by: Jimmy on July 08, 2010, 07:46:36 AM
Post by: KinkyCyborg on July 08, 2010, 03:13:46 PM
Post by: KinkyCyborg on July 09, 2010, 05:16:43 PM
Title:The Naked Gun: From the Files of Police Squad! (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 1988
Director: David Zucker
Rating: PG-13
Length: 84 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 1.85:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, French: Dolby Digital: Mono, Commentary: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo
Subtitles: English
Stars:
Leslie Nielsen
Priscilla Presley
Ricardo Montalban
George Kennedy
O. J. Simpson
Plot:
Those screw-loose 'Airplane!' creators have done it again! Leslie Nielsen stars as Police Squad's own granite-jawed, rock brained cop Frank Drebin, who bumbles across a mind control scheme to assassinate Queen Elizabeth. Priscilla Presley, O.J. Simpson, a stuffed beaver, two baseball teams and an odd assortment of others join the wacko goings-on and blow the laugh-o-meter to smithereens.
Extras:
Scene Access
Audio Commentary
Feature Trailers
Closed Captioned
My Thoughts:
Now this is more like it! Some classic lines from this movie and still hilarious even after 22 years. The Airplane movies and this series made Leslie Neilsen's career. Unfortunately they went a little too far, overusing him and typecasting him in these types of movies. Spy Hard, Wrongfully Accused, Dracula Dead And Loving It were never as funny as the Naked Gun series.
It's funny how no matter how many times you watch a movie (must be at least a dozen times for this one) you still pick up on things you didn't notice before. This time I noticed that the Mayor was played by Nancy Marchand, a.k.a. Tony Soprano's mother! Who knew!? ???
KC
Rating:
Post by: KinkyCyborg on July 10, 2010, 01:16:14 AM
Title:The Detective (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 1968
Director: Gordon Douglas
Rating: NR
Length: 114 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 2.35:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo, English: Dolby Digital: Mono, Spanish: Dolby Digital: Mono, French: Dolby Digital: Mono
Subtitles: English, Spanish
Stars:
Frank Sinatra
Lee Remick
Ralph Meeker
Jack Klugman
Horace McMahon
Plot:
When the son of a politically influential man is brutally murdered, thick-skinned detective Joe Leland (Frank Sinatra) is assigned to the case. His job becomes even more challenging when he must convince the entire police department to see past the victim's sexuality. After the dead man's roommate is convicted, and Leland moves on to his next case, it appears as though the two cases are linked and the wrong man may have been penalized. With an all-star cast that includes Lee Remick, Tony Musante and Jack Klugman, THE DETECTIVE is one of Sinatra's most gritty and powerful films.
Extras:
Scene Access
Feature Trailers
Closed Captioned
My Thoughts:
I've never particularly liked Frank Sinatra.... his music or his acting, with perhaps one exception, Von Ryan's Express which I really enjoyed him in. Ocean's 11 I liked but not because of anything to do with his performance. Everything I've ever seen or read about the man leads me to believe he was the most arrogant celebrity of his time.
Surprising subject matter for The Detective considering the year this was made which made it an interesting watch, although it painfully dragged at times. Sinatra looked bored throughout the film and showed absolutely no range of emotion at all. Jacqueline Bisset is stunning... never seen her with short cropped hair before and daddy likes! ;) Lee Remick on the other hand looked like a creepy Stepford Wife... not my cup of tea. Bit parts for Robert Duvall and Jack Klugman.
Was ok, but one watch is enough.
KC
Rating:
Post by: Achim on July 10, 2010, 07:07:10 AM
Now this is more like it! Some classic lines from this movie and still hilarious even after 22 years. The Airplane movies and this series made Leslie Neilsen's career. Unfortunately they went a little too far, overusing him and typecasting him in these types of movies. Spy Hard, Wrongfully Accused, Dracula Dead And Loving It were never as funny as the Naked Gun series.I may be remember them wrong, but I think it's all about how you handle the actor. What I mean is, like with Tommy Lee Jones in Men in Black. If the otherwise serious actor takes everything in the film for serious and you only have funny stuff happen around him, that will make it funnier. If you ask the serious actor to be funny, you are likely to fail.
Post by: Najemikon on July 10, 2010, 01:07:24 PM
Post by: KinkyCyborg on July 10, 2010, 03:18:25 PM
It's also the gags. I watched Airplane! only the other night myself for what must be the hundredth time. You can feel they have a relentless enthusiasm for the jokes that they come easy. Once you're past the Naked Gun films, they are struggling and doing spoofs for the sake of spoofs. I know everyone seems to like Scary Movie, but it was shit and so obvious compared to Airplane!.
I liked the first two Scary Movie installments especially part 2... the opening spoofs on The Exorcist with James Woods as the priest and the dinner scene with Chris Elliot as Hanson serving the food were priceless. :laugh: After those ones the franchise went quickly downhill. Epic, Disaster, Date, Superhero.... all crap. :yucky:
Post by: Jimmy on July 10, 2010, 03:49:59 PM
I know everyone seems to like Scary Movie, but it was shit and so obvious compared to Airplane!.I don't like them, but of course I ain't everyone ;D
I like Top Secret more than Airplane, I just can't stop laughing watching it (even if I've seen this more than 100 times since it's original released) wich is something that very few films succeed to do with me.
Post by: Najemikon on July 10, 2010, 03:51:30 PM
Post by: KinkyCyborg on July 10, 2010, 06:22:21 PM
Title:Unknown (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 2006
Director: Simon Brand
Rating: 14A
Length: 85 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 2.35:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, French: Dolby Digital: 5.1
Subtitles: Spanish
Stars:
Jim Caviezel
Greg Kinnear
Bridget Moynahan
Joe Pantoliano
Barry Pepper
Plot:
Academy Award nominee Greg Kinnear (Little Miss Sunshine, The Matador) and Jim Caviezel (The Passion of the Christ) head an all-star casr in this riveting psychological thriller in the vein of The Usual Suspects and Memento.
Five Strangers wake up in a locked warehouse with no memory of who they are or how they got there. As secrets are revealed and clues unravelled, they must race against time to figure out who is good and who is evil in order to stay alive.
Also starring Bridget Moynahan (I, Robot), Joe Pantoliano (The Sopranos), Barry Pepper (Saving Private Ryan), Jeremy Sisto (Six Feet Under) and Peter Stormare (Prison Break).
Extras:
Scene Access
Deleted Scenes
Closed Captioned
My Thoughts:
Another one of those films with more twists than a giant pretzel. Excellent cast and decent action even if some (most!) of the story was quite implausible. I would have liked to have seen Jeremy Sisto with a more meaningful role in this one...he just hangs there, chained with handcuffs throughout the duration of the movie. Always felt he was an underrated actor who doesn't get enough big screen time. Very much enjoyed him in Six Feet Under. Greg Kinnear was a bit over the top in this one, which I didn't mind as you don't normally see his characters so wild and out of control.
Not bad at all. :)
KC
Rating:
Post by: Achim on July 11, 2010, 05:02:34 AM
Jeremy Sisto was quite creepy in Six Feet Under...
Post by: KinkyCyborg on July 11, 2010, 05:19:00 AM
Jeremy Sisto was quite creepy in Six Feet Under...
Indeed, his character was quite screwed up. :stars: I thought he was quite compelling to watch though, always wondering what he was going to do next. I think his demeanor lends well to those type of unbalanced characters.
Post by: Achim on July 11, 2010, 05:22:05 AM
Indeed, his character was quite screwed up. :stars: I thought he was quite compelling to watch though, always wondering what he was going to do next. I think his demeanor lends well to those type of unbalanced characters.Yes and yes.
First time I saw him was in Hideaway (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0113303/), where he, you guessed it, played another unhinged guy.
Post by: KinkyCyborg on July 11, 2010, 05:26:31 AM
Indeed, his character was quite screwed up. :stars: I thought he was quite compelling to watch though, always wondering what he was going to do next. I think his demeanor lends well to those type of unbalanced characters.Yes and yes.
First time I saw him was in Hideaway (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0113303/), where he, you guessed it, played another unhinged guy.
Haven't seen that one but it's now on my wish list as I've always been an admirer of Christine Lahti... :thumbup: :thanks: for the recommendation!
Post by: KinkyCyborg on July 11, 2010, 06:52:46 AM
Title:The White Countess (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 2005
Director: James Ivory
Rating: PG-13
Length: 138 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 1.85:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, Commentary: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround
Subtitles: English, French
Stars:
Ralph Fiennes
Natasha Richardson
Vanessa Redgrave
Hiroyuki Sanada
Lynn Redgrave
Plot:
In this final collaboration between legendary producer Ismail Merchant and director James Ivory, three time Oscar® nominees for best picture and best director (A Room With A View, 1986; Howard's End, 1993; The Remains Of The Day, 1994) China provides the backdrop for this drama of exile, longing and love's triumph over adversity, written by the prize winning author Kazuo Ishiguro (The Remains Of The Day).
The White Countess takes place in the glamorous, corrupt and boomtown atmosphere of 30s Shanghai that is soon to be swept away by advancing Japanese armies and civil war. At its center is the blind American diplomat Todd Jackson played by Ralph Fiennes, two time Oscar® nominee (Best Actor, The English Patient, 1997; Best Supporting Actor, Schindler's List, 1994) and Sofia Belinskaya played by Natasha Richardson (Patty Hearst, Maid In Manhattan), a refugee Russian aristocrat making a living in a taxi dancehall and as an occasional prostitute. Jackson, aided by his mysterious Japanese friend, the spy Matsuda (Hiroyuki Sanada: Twilight Samurai; The Last Samurai), opens a successful nightclub and installs the countess Sofia as its centerpiece.
In the spectacular mass exodus from the city which is the climax of the film, Sofia is abandoned by her in laws, played by the Redgrave sisters, multiple nominee Vanessa (Vera Belinskaya, Oscar® winner, Julia, Best Supporting Actress, 1978) and Lynn (aunt Olga, two time Oscar® nominee, Best Actress, George Girl, 1967; Best Supporting Actress, Gods & Monsters, 1999), who secretly try to flee with Sofia's small daughter, Katya.
In the end mother and daughter are reunited, as Sofia and Jackson, realizing their growing love for each other escape with Katya to the safety of Macao.
Extras:
Scene Access
Audio Commentary
Featurettes
My Thoughts:
Had another one of those hectic weeks and it took me most of it to watch this movie... partly because I only could find 15 or 20 minute snippets of time to sit and watch TV and partly because the movie was largely a bore.
It was a time piece set in 30's China during risings tensions with Japan. That premise piqued my interest before I started watching it but that aspect of the film didn't manifest until it was almost over. The focus was of a blind American whose dream was to own and run a nightclub with the help of an exiled Russian countess.
Ralph Fiennes, whom I admire as an actor, played said blind man but he somewhat overplayed the role, often looking like a child fumbling about while pretending to be blind. With all due respect to the late Natasha Richardson, I have never thought of her as a leading lady and this movie did not change that opinion.
This could have had potential but the storytelling was delivered with about as much panache as reading the instructions for my dishwasher. :(
KC
Rating:
Post by: KinkyCyborg on July 12, 2010, 02:54:25 AM
Title:Light Sleeper (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 1991
Director: Paul Schrader
Rating: R
Length: 103 Min.
Video: Full Frame 1.33:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo
Subtitles:
Stars:
Willem Dafoe
Susan Sarandon
Dana Delany
David Clennon
Mary Beth Hurt
Plot:
John LeTour (Willem Dafoe) is a good man in a bad business working for Ann (Susan Sarandon) on the wrong side of the law. When Ann decides to close up shop, LeTour has to go straight and come up with a future. But time is running out on him as he must dodge the cops, confront a killer, and find his heart before he can leave his past behind.
Extras:
Scene Access
My Thoughts:
I remember when I first picked this movie up thinking to myself how come a movie with this kind of star power be one I have never heard of? Willem Dafoe and Susan Sarandon in a movie written by Paul Schrader of Taxi Driver fame should be of major significance and yet it seems to have flown under the radar.
While not in the same league as Taxi Driver it is quite good. You quickly pick up on some of the similarities between the films, particularly the sleazy, cesspool of a city as a backdrop. Willem Dafoe was stellar and Sarandon solid. Look for both Sam Rockwell and David Spade in minor roles early in their careers. Dana Delaney is a tasty treat who makes you want more. :drooling:
Two thumbs up!
KC
Rating:
Post by: KinkyCyborg on July 13, 2010, 05:28:38 AM
Title:Dr. Strangelove or: How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love the Bomb (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 1964
Director: Stanley Kubrick
Rating: PG
Length: 93 Min.
Video: Widescreen 1.66:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo, Spanish: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo, French: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo
Subtitles: Spanish
Stars:
Peter Sellers
George C. Scott
Sterling Hayden
Keenan Wynn
James Earl Jones
Plot:
U.S. Air Force General Jack Ripper goes completely and utterly mad, and sends his bomber wing to destroy the U.S.S.R. He suspects that the communists are conspiring to pollute the "precious bodily fluids" of the American people. The U.S. president meets with his advisors, where the Soviet ambassador tells him that if the U.S.S.R. is hit by nuclear weapons, it will trigger a "Doomsday Device" which will destroy all plant and animal life on Earth.
Peter Sellers portrays the three men who might avert this tragedy: British Group Captain Lionel Mandrake, the only person with access to the demented Gen. Ripper; U.S. President Merkin Muffley, whose best attempts to divert disaster depend on placating a drunken Soviet Permier; and the former Nazi genious Dr. Strangelove, who concludes that "such a device would not be a practical deterrent for reasons which at this moment must be all too obvious". Will the bombers be stopped in time, or will General Jack Ripper succeed in destroying the world ?
Extras:
Scene Access
Closed Captioned
My Thoughts:
Kubrick's brilliant comic take on nuclear Armageddon. First time watching it and it was great. George C. Scott's performance as the bubble gum chewing Buck Turgidson is a revelation.
Long before Eddie Murphy and his broken record comedy flicks, Peter Sellers was plying the art of multiple roles in film and each of his three characters in Strangelove were hilarious!
Slim Pickens riding the ICBM to the ground like a rodeo bull is one of the classic cinema scenes of all time. A young James Earl Jones plays the bombardier.
What is funny about this movie is that through about the first 30 to 40 minutes, before the slapstick elements appear, it plays out like a serious and accurate depiction of military procedure and protocol.
A must have in anyone's collection.
KC
Rating:
Post by: Achim on July 13, 2010, 06:32:06 AM
Long before Eddie Murphy and his broken record comedy flicks, Peter Sellers was plying the art of multiple roles in film and each of his three characters in Strangelove were hilarious!My favorite is him as the officer with Sterling Hayden as his nutcase superior, talking about bodily fluids and such. :laugh:
Post by: Antares on July 13, 2010, 07:43:26 AM
Long before Eddie Murphy and his broken record comedy flicks, Peter Sellers was plying the art of multiple roles in film and each of his three characters in Strangelove were hilarious!
And before Sellers, there was Alec Guinness (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0041546/).
Kind Hearts and Coronets (http://www.dvdcollectorsonline.com/index.php/topic,5877.0.html)
You should check this film out.
Post by: KinkyCyborg on July 13, 2010, 12:38:57 PM
Long before Eddie Murphy and his broken record comedy flicks, Peter Sellers was plying the art of multiple roles in film and each of his three characters in Strangelove were hilarious!
And before Sellers, there was Alec Guinness (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0041546/).
Kind Hearts and Coronets (http://www.dvdcollectorsonline.com/index.php/topic,5877.0.html)
You should check this film out.
Alec Guinness (1914) as The Duke / The Banker / The Parson / The General / The Admiral / Young Ascoyne / Young Henry / Lady Agatha..... that's hilarious! I will have to check that one out for sure. I've always liked Guinness too. Thanks!
Post by: Achim on July 13, 2010, 03:06:14 PM
Post by: Rogmeister on July 13, 2010, 04:12:38 PM
Post by: KinkyCyborg on July 14, 2010, 03:14:40 AM
Title:National Lampoon's Pledge This! (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 2006
Director: William Heins
Rating: NR
Length: 91 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 1.85:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo, English: Dolby Digital: 5.1
Subtitles: English
Stars:
Paris Hilton
Paula Garcés
Sarah Carter
Kerri Kenney
Simon Rex
Plot:
Get ready for National Lampoon's WILD and OUTRAGEOUS, UNRATED college comedy; Pledge This! - the version that couldn't be shown in theaters.
School's starting and the boys are hot and ready for the new crop of girls. At South Beach University, Gloria ('PAULA GARCES', 'Harold & Kumar Go to White Castle') and her naïve freshmen friends join a whirlwind tour where anything goes - free love, girl-on-girl action and much more. Life becomes a series of hilarious adventures from condom roundups to naked parties. But when Victoria ('PARIS HILTON', "The Simple Life"), the queen of mean, declares war on the freshmen, things really get hot!
Pledge This! is a hilarious comedy in the over-the-top tradition of National Lampoon comedies like 'Animal House' and 'Van Wilder'.
Extras:
Scene Access
Feature Trailers
Featurettes
My Thoughts:
There have been some bad entries in the Lampoon series but this has got to be the worst. I'm all for lots of boobies but to think a movie will be funny and liked by flashing a pair of tits every 3 minutes is beyond stupid. You expect at least a laugh or two from a Lampoon flick but there wasn't anything even remotely funny about this.
This played more like a vehicle strictly to promote Paris Hilton who is truly detestable and as far as I am concerned completely unattractive. :voodoo:
Should've been called Skip This! :thumbdown:
KC
Rating:
Post by: KinkyCyborg on July 14, 2010, 05:47:09 AM
Title:Demonic (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 2005
Director: Johannes Roberts
Rating: R
Length: 83 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 1.78:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo
Subtitles:
Stars:
Tom Savini
Daniel Maclagan
Nicole Petty
Sophie Holland
Richard Cambridge
Plot:
Tom Savini (Land of the Dead) leads a terrifying trip into the darkness of desire...when five teens become stranded in a forest roamed by beautiful and deadly creatures who seduce unsuspecting victims to their death.
Extras:
Scene Access
Audio Commentary
Bonus Trailers
Deleted Scenes
Audition Tapes
My Thoughts:
Ultra low budget British horror flick... and another movie that apparently measures success by how many naked bodies it can parade in front of the camera.
Terrible acting, huge gaps in the plot and only one decent scene of gore throughout the whole movie.
This one is a dog with fleas. :thumbdown:
KC
Rating:
Post by: Najemikon on July 14, 2010, 07:46:05 PM
Post by: KinkyCyborg on July 14, 2010, 10:34:21 PM
Title:Wanted (http://www.invelos.com/images/BluRayLogo.png)(http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 2008
Director: Timur Bekmambetov
Rating: R
Length: 110 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 2.35:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, Spanish: Dolby Digital: 5.1, French: Dolby Digital: 5.1, Audio Descriptive: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo
Subtitles: English, French, Spanish
Stars:
James McAvoy
Morgan Freeman (1937)
Angelina Jolie
Terence Stamp
Thomas Kretschmann
Plot:
Wesley's (James McAvoy) life is over – his pathetic, old one, anyway... Fortunately, it is all because of a girl. Enter sizzling-hot Fox (Angelina Jolie), who crashes into his life and introduces him to the Fraternity, a secret society of assassins, led by the enigmatic Sloan (Morgan Freeman). Seems Wes's long-lost father was killed while working for the Fraternity and Wes has been selected to target the rogue member who murdered him. But before he can complete his assignment, Wes must first uncover the dark secrets behind the Fraternity in order to determine his own destiny.
Extras:
Scene Access
My Thoughts:
Movie #10 means I get to pick and I picked Wanted.
About as far fetched as a movie can get and yet it's still a slam-bang, grabastic, thrill ride of epic proportions. Death served up with a sense of humor and moments of pure comic book action.... this rates high for originality and creative kills.
Angelina Jolie, in my mind, is the only sustainable female action star out there right now. I might have thrown Uma Thurman in there too had she done more action beyond the Kill Bill movies. Any other actress I can think of have only basically done one-offs and don't really qualify. Jolie delivers a knockout punch in this movie and I suspect she will in her upcoming spy flick Salt which I hear had Tom Cruise originally cast in the lead role and they decided to (thankfully) go in a different direction. I've seen the trailer and it looks great.
James McAvoy seemed an odd choice at first as the would-be assassin as I've found him to be rather docile in his other roles but he surprised me with a good performance that I think he can sustain in upcoming sequels that I'm sure are coming.
I just bought the bluray of this so I'm looking forward to a re-watch down the road. Wanted has franchise written all over it. :clap:
KC
Rating:
Post by: KinkyCyborg on July 14, 2010, 10:56:43 PM
Post by: Achim on July 15, 2010, 06:19:32 AM
Post by: KinkyCyborg on July 16, 2010, 03:32:08 AM
Have you seen the two Russian films by Timur Bekmambetov, Night Watch and Day Watch...? I guess you could bascially call them vampire flicks, but his style already showed and they are of epic proportions.
I've watched Day Watch and liked it. I'm sure it was quite groundbreaking for Russian film making with it's spectacular effects and certainly had a Hollywood feel to it. Haven't seen Night Watch yet... which is unfortunate as I appear to have watched them out of order. It's on my wish list.
Post by: Achim on July 16, 2010, 04:23:12 AM
So you know already how the story wrapped up. At the time there was rumor they would make a thrid film (Dusk or Twilight Watch), then based in a Western country and filmed in English. Personally I feel it's not needed and they should leave it as is. Anyway, Timur seems to busy otherwise.
Post by: dfmorgan on July 16, 2010, 12:28:44 PM
There is a DVD with floating around with a special set of subtitles, which almost add to the film (like one time, the subtitles are red and then dissolve within an underwater shot which also shows blood). You can find samples on YouTube. Unfortunately not all releases have them, especially the Blu-ray omitted them.
IIRC the special subtitles were part of what was known as theatrical cut but most versions available now are the international cut. I agree that Night Watch was the better film. I think I currently have 3 editions of it, the Russian DVD Nochnoi Dozor, the Fox DVD 2 disc SE with theatrical and international cuts and the Fox Blu-ray which is the international cut.
Quote
At the time there was rumor they would make a thrid film (Dusk or Twilight Watch), then based in a Western country and filmed in English. Personally I feel it's not needed and they should leave it as is. Anyway, Timur seems to busy otherwise.
Yes a third part was always meant to happen. The strange thing is that the books that these are based on, by Sergei Lukyanenko, is currently up to 4 parts but the films Night Watch and Day Watch together are based purely on the first book "The Night Watch".
Dave
Post by: KinkyCyborg on July 17, 2010, 04:16:51 PM
Title:Way of War (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 2008
Director: John Carter
Rating: R
Length: 87 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 2.35:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 5.1
Subtitles: English, Spanish
Stars:
Cuba Gooding, Jr.
Clarence Williams III
John Terry
Jaclyn DeSantis
Lance Reddick
Plot:
Paramilitary operative David Wolfe (Cuba Gooding Jr.) is a highly trained and deadly assassin assigned to kill a notorious terrorist in the Middle East. During his mission, he stumbles upon a US government conspiracy involving the top members of the administration. Now on the run, David is determined to expose the truth before it's too late.
Extras:
Scene Access
Feature Trailers
My Thoughts:
I don't want to say this was a bad movie but it was very confusing. I sort of got the point at the end but the movie was all over the place and hard to follow at times. The writer of this film must have been a philosopher as all the key characters were spouting metaphors and quoting proverbs throughout. Weird :wacko:
J.K. Simmons (is there a movie this guy hasn't been in?!) was solid and has always been a favorite. Cuba Gooding Jr. was good too... I just find it a shame that this seems to be the type of movie he has been relegated to now. That would be those straight to video, second tier action flicks that are sometimes good but mostly bad.
If you watch this, pay close attention or you will be hopelessly lost.
KC
Rating:
Post by: KinkyCyborg on July 18, 2010, 07:30:57 AM
Title:Boiling Point (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 1992
Director: James B. Harris
Rating: R
Length: 92 Min.
Video: Pan & Scan 1.33:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround
Subtitles:
Stars:
Wesley Snipes
Dennis Hopper
Lolita Davidovich
Viggo Mortensen
Seymour Cassel
Plot:
They've got guns and a deadly plan. They're killing cops and hitting the mob. A smooth-talking crime sleaze and his quick-fingered accomplice are not afraid of anyone. But they should be. They've crossed paths with Treasury Agent Jimmy Mercer (Wesley Snipes), a cop at his Boiling Point.
Snipes and Dennis Hopper turn up the heat in this tightly wound police-action manhunt. Mercer is tough, proud, married to his job...and not above stretching the law to smoke out his partner's killers. Hopper is Red, a scam artist looking for a last big score and running out of options. He'll play those options to the max. He could be playing into Mercer's hands.
Extras:
Scene Access
Closed Captioned
My Thoughts:
Wesley Snipes cop flick from when he was still relevant. Now he seems to be in the same boat as Cuba Gooding Jr.... even worse actually.
Good story, great action and an amazing cast that includes the late Dennis Hopper, Lolita Davidovich (schwing!), Viggo Mortensen, Dan Hedaya, Seymour Cassell and even a pre-Jigsaw Tobin Bell.
Looks like Snipes finally had a meaningful role once again in the recent Brooklyn's Finest with Richard Gere, Don Cheadle and Ethan Hawke. New Jack City remains one of my most favorite gang movies of all time and for that reason alone I hope that this might be the beginning of a rebound for him, similar to Mickey Rourke's recent resurrection. After he finishes serving his jail sentence that is... :bag:
KC
Rating:
Post by: KinkyCyborg on July 18, 2010, 06:06:05 PM
Title:Mulan (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 1998
Director: Barry Cook, Tony Bancroft
Rating: G
Length: 88 Min.
Video: Widescreen 1.85:1, Pan & Scan 1.33:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, French: Dolby Digital: 5.1, Spanish: Dolby Digital: 5.1
Subtitles: English
Stars:
Miguel Ferrer
Harvey Fierstein
Freda Foh Shen
June Foray
James Hong
Plot:
Honored with legions of critical acclaim, Disney's 36th animated masterpiece magically transforms an ancient Chinese legend into unparalleled fun and adventure that comes along but once every dynasty!
Embraced for her lovable, spirited nature, Mulan is a young girl who doesn't quite fit into her tradition-bound society. When the invading Hun army comes charging over China's Great Wall, Mulan's aging father is ordered to battle! To spare him from harm, Mulan disguises herself as a soldier with a comical, ragtag troop, led by the courageous Captain Shang. Never far away are Mulan's hilarious guardian dragon, Mushu, and lucky cricket, Cri-Kee. But Mulan will need more than razor-sharp wit to defeat the ruthless Hun leader, Shan-Yu. Only by staying true to herself will she bring victory to her country and honor to her family!
Triumphant across all fronts, including unforgettable, chart-topping music and rich Disney animation featuring a spectacular fireworks display, Mulan is in the finest tradition "a total delight!" (Time)
Extras:
Scene Access
Feature Trailers
Music Videos
Closed Captioned
THX
My Thoughts:
Another movie my daughter sat and watched with me although I looked over at her with about 20 minutes to go in the movie and she was sound asleep. :)
Has there ever been a bad Disney animated film? Such great story telling and excellent historical depiction. It's meant for kids but most adults who sit down and watch a Disney movie find themselves completely engrossed in the film. Rather surprising to see that war was the central theme in this Disney outing but it was done with children in mind and does not cross any lines. The hilarity factor is provided by Mushu the pip-squeak dragon, aka Eddie Murphy. He keeps things light and fun.
All in all another well rounded success for Disney.
Loved it!
KC
Rating:
Post by: addicted2dvd on July 18, 2010, 07:58:00 PM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/08/085391297628f.jpg)
Title:Boiling Point (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 1992
Director: James B. Harris
Rating: R
Length: 92 Min.
Video: Pan & Scan 1.33:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround
Subtitles:
Stars:
Wesley Snipes
Dennis Hopper
Lolita Davidovich
Viggo Mortensen
Seymour Cassel
Plot:
They've got guns and a deadly plan. They're killing cops and hitting the mob. A smooth-talking crime sleaze and his quick-fingered accomplice are not afraid of anyone. But they should be. They've crossed paths with Treasury Agent Jimmy Mercer (Wesley Snipes), a cop at his Boiling Point.
Snipes and Dennis Hopper turn up the heat in this tightly wound police-action manhunt. Mercer is tough, proud, married to his job...and not above stretching the law to smoke out his partner's killers. Hopper is Red, a scam artist looking for a last big score and running out of options. He'll play those options to the max. He could be playing into Mercer's hands.
Extras:
Scene Access
Closed CaptionedMy Thoughts:
Wesley Snipes cop flick from when he was still relevant. Now he seems to be in the same boat as Cuba Gooding Jr.... even worse actually.
Good story, great action and an amazing cast that includes the late Dennis Hopper, Lolita Davidovich (schwing!), Viggo Mortensen, Dan Hedaya, Seymour Cassell and even a pre-Jigsaw Tobin Bell.
Looks like Snipes finally had a meaningful role once again in the recent Brooklyn's Finest with Richard Gere, Don Cheadle and Ethan Hawke. New Jack City remains one of my most favorite gang movies of all time and for that reason alone I hope that this might be the beginning of a rebound for him, similar to Mickey Rourke's recent resurrection. After he finishes serving his jail sentence that is... :bag:
KC
Rating:
I have this one in my unwatched collection. I may have to check this one out before too long.
Post by: KinkyCyborg on July 21, 2010, 01:40:25 AM
Title:Fair Game (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 1995
Director: Andrew Sipes
Rating: R
Length: 91 Min.
Video: Pan & Scan 1.33:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, French: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround
Subtitles:
Stars:
William Baldwin
Cindy Crawford
Steven Berkoff
Christopher McDonald
Miguel Sandoval
Plot:
If Kate and Max itch, the killers after them know where to scratch. If they order pizza, slip into a hotel or go online, high-tech surveillance equipment instantly pinpoints them. The killers are sure the two have met their match. It's match, all right: one to light a hell fire of retaliation.
Fair Game pairs Cindy Crawford as Miami attorney Kate McQuean and William Baldwin as homicide cop Max Kilpatrick, determined to protect Kate when she's targeted by an ex-KGB operative (Steven Berkoff) and his commandos. Producer Joel Silver and debuting director Andrew Sipes craft a blistering perpetual motion machine, frequently delivering more lam for your bam. Buckle up for thrill upon thrill.
Extras:
Scene Access
Closed Captioned
My Thoughts:
I watched this many moons ago and it still holds up as a decent action flick. It's your typical 'protect the beautiful witness at all costs' movie and while it presented nothing terribly original it is as good as most other similar movies.
As many directors have been want to do, they take non-actors at the height of their popularity and throw them in a movie. In this case it was Cindy Crawford. Who cares that she can't act... she's sexy with a capital S. :drooling: Soon as I pulled this movie out I immediately thought of that famous Pepsi commercial with her in it. :D As an added bonus, Salma Hayek and her ample bosom also make a brief but memorable appearance.
Certainly not an award winner by any stretch of the imagination but entertaining none the less.
KC
Rating:
Post by: KinkyCyborg on July 22, 2010, 06:01:49 AM
Title:Bad Boys II (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 2003
Director: Michael Bay
Rating: R
Length: 147 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 2.40:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, French: Dolby Digital: 5.1
Subtitles: English, French
Stars:
Martin Lawrence
Will Smith (1968)
Jordi Molla
Gabrielle Union
Peter Stormare
Plot:
Hang on for maximum mayhem, full-on fun and the wildest chase scenes ever put on film! The action and comedy never stop when superstars Martin Lawrence and Will Smith reunite as out-of-control trash-talking buddy cops. Bullets fly, cars crash, and laughs explode as they pursue a whacked-out drug lord from the streets of Miami to the barrios of Cuba. But the real fireworks result when Lawrence discovers that playboy Smith is secretly romancing his sexy sister, Gabrielle Union (Bring it On).
Director Michael Bay (Pearl Harbor, Armageddon) and producer Jerry Bruckheimer (Pirates of the Carribean, Black Hawk Down) deliver a high-speed, high-octane blockbuster that will blow you away! "...Year's most action-packed and high-flying flick." (Shawn Edwards, FOX TV).
Extras:
Scene Access
Feature Trailers
Bonus Trailers
Deleted Scenes
Featurettes
Gallery
Music Videos
Storyboard Comparisons
Closed Captioned
Script for selected sequences.
My Thoughts:
Bad Boys, Bad Boys... whatcha gonna do?
Great action in typical Michael Bay fashion but by mid-movie I was wishing for two different leads. Will Smith's dialogue seemed completely centered on proving how cool, how hip, how fly, how dope he is and it was starting to get annoying.
It's time to put Martin Lawrence to the acid test by putting him in a dramatic role and see if he can act outside of the pathetic, whining, goofball characters he always seems to be cast as. At least Will Smith has some range. ::)
KC
Rating:
Post by: Najemikon on July 22, 2010, 06:49:05 PM
Post by: KinkyCyborg on July 23, 2010, 04:18:54 AM
Repeat viewings of Bad Boys really weakened it for me. I don't really rate it at all now. The other thing that ruined it was the sequel, which was just offensively bad.
I agree the sequel paled in comparison to the original although the first outing still holds up well for me. Perhaps I haven't watched it as many times as you yet (2 or 3 times at the most for me I think).
Post by: KinkyCyborg on July 23, 2010, 04:24:19 AM
Title:North to Alaska (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 1960
Director: Henry Hathaway
Rating: NR
Length: 122 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 2.35:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 4.0, French: Dolby Digital: Mono, Spanish: Dolby Digital: Mono
Subtitles: English, Spanish
Stars:
John Wayne
Stewart Granger
Ernie Kovacs
Fabian
Capucine
Plot:
John Wayne and Stewart Granger strike it rich in this rousing comedy-adventure set in the heyday of the Alaskan gold rush. When prospectors Sam McCord (Wayne) and George Pratt (Granger) hit the mother lode, George asks Sam to go to Seattle and fetch his sweetheart, Jennie, but she has already married someone else. Determined to bring George a new love, Sam invites a saloon dancer (Capucine) back to Nome as Jennie's replacement.
Extras:
Scene Access
Feature Trailers
Featurettes
Closed Captioned
My Thoughts:
One of the Duke's more light-hearted movies, it plays like a 60's rom-com. Highly entertaining! I've always loved the song North To Alaska by Johnny Horton. A very young Fabian is hilarious as the lovestruck Billy Pratt.
The love interest was played by french beauty Capucine. So gorgeous! Upon reading her bio on IMDB I learned that she was great friends with another beauty, Audrey Hepburn and that she was manic-depressive her whole life, committing suicide in 1990. Pity. :(
Again, not my favorite John Wayne movie but a fun watch!
KC
Rating:
Post by: lovemunkey187 on July 23, 2010, 01:41:10 PM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/02/025195016674f.jpg)
Title:Wanted (http://www.invelos.com/images/BluRayLogo.png)(http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 2008
Director: Timur Bekmambetov
Rating: R
Length: 110 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 2.35:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, Spanish: Dolby Digital: 5.1, French: Dolby Digital: 5.1, Audio Descriptive: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo
Subtitles: English, French, Spanish
Stars:
James McAvoy
Morgan Freeman (1937)
Angelina Jolie
Terence Stamp
Thomas Kretschmann
Plot:
Wesley's (James McAvoy) life is over – his pathetic, old one, anyway... Fortunately, it is all because of a girl. Enter sizzling-hot Fox (Angelina Jolie), who crashes into his life and introduces him to the Fraternity, a secret society of assassins, led by the enigmatic Sloan (Morgan Freeman). Seems Wes's long-lost father was killed while working for the Fraternity and Wes has been selected to target the rogue member who murdered him. But before he can complete his assignment, Wes must first uncover the dark secrets behind the Fraternity in order to determine his own destiny.
Extras:
Scene AccessMy Thoughts:
Movie #10 means I get to pick and I picked Wanted.
About as far fetched as a movie can get and yet it's still a slam-bang, grabastic, thrill ride of epic proportions. Death served up with a sense of humor and moments of pure comic book action.... this rates high for originality and creative kills.
Angelina Jolie, in my mind, is the only sustainable female action star out there right now. I might have thrown Uma Thurman in there too had she done more action beyond the Kill Bill movies. Any other actress I can think of have only basically done one-offs and don't really qualify. Jolie delivers a knockout punch in this movie and I suspect she will in her upcoming spy flick Salt which I hear had Tom Cruise originally cast in the lead role and they decided to (thankfully) go in a different direction. I've seen the trailer and it looks great.
James McAvoy seemed an odd choice at first as the would-be assassin as I've found him to be rather docile in his other roles but he surprised me with a good performance that I think he can sustain in upcoming sequels that I'm sure are coming.
I just bought the bluray of this so I'm looking forward to a re-watch down the road. Wanted has franchise written all over it. :clap:
KC
Rating:
Read the graphic novel (http://www.amazon.ca/Wanted-J-G-Jones/dp/1582404976/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1279885145&sr=8-1) that this is loosley based on and you will see how amazing this could have been.
Although, I admit that they would've had one or two complaints by the limp wristed liberals if they had.
Post by: KinkyCyborg on July 24, 2010, 05:28:49 AM
Post by: KinkyCyborg on July 24, 2010, 04:23:07 PM
Title:Happily N'Ever After (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 2007
Director: Paul J. Bolger, Yvette Kaplan
Rating: PG
Length: 87 Min.
Video: Widescreen 1.85:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, Spanish: Dolby Digital: 5.1, Commentary: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo
Subtitles: English, Spanish
Stars:
George Carlin
John di Maggio
Andy Dick
Sarah Michelle Gellar
Lisa Kaplan
Plot:
Once upon a time will n'ever be the same again. Sleeping Beauty, Rapunzel, and Jack from the Beanstalk are all about to live happily ever after when the balance between good and evil gets thrown out of whack. It's up to Cinderella - aka Ella (Sarah Michelle Gellar) - to save the day by taking on her power-hungry stepmother, Frieda (Sigourney Weaver). But this time, Ella will have to do it without her Prince Charming (Patrick Warburton) as she joins forces with an unlikely army of dwarves, fairies, and the Wizard's bumbling assistants, Mambo (Andy Dick) and Munk (Wallace Shawn). Your favorite fairy tales are turned upside down in this funny, fast-paced adventure that teaches the lesson that - no matter who you are - you have the power to affect how your story turns out!
Extras:
Scene Access
Audio Commentary
Feature Trailers
Deleted Scenes
Featurettes
Interactive Games
Storyboard Comparisons
Closed Captioned
My Thoughts:
My daughter sat down to watch this with me but she lost interest and wandered off after about 15 minutes. It wasn't hard to see why as the dialogue was comprised almost entirely of inside jokes meant for the adult viewers, all of which was completely lost on a 4 year old. Still, I thought it was quite comical particularly the Rumpelstiltskin character. Fredia, voiced by Sigourney Weaver was masterfully done as well.
Better than I was expecting but a little too much geared towards an older audience.
KC
Rating:
Post by: KinkyCyborg on July 25, 2010, 02:55:21 PM
Title:Two Weeks (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 2006
Director: Steve Stockman
Rating: R
Length: 99 Min.
Video: Widescreen 1.85:1, Pan & Scan 1.33:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 5.1
Subtitles: English, French, Spanish
Stars:
Sally Field
Ben Chaplin
Lauren Eliman
Julianne Nickolson
Tom Cavanagh
Plot:
Two time Academy Award Winner, Sally Field delivers a "flawless performance" ('TV Guide's Movie Guide') in this bittersweet dramatic comedy about one family's determination to stay together till the very end.
Four grown siblings return home to their terminally ill mother's house for what they think are her final days. When she hangs on, they find themselves stuck under the same roof for two difficult weeks. But as the children come to terms with their grief, they discover laughter in the midst of sorrow, love in the face of anger, and an opportunity to gain new perspectives on their own lives.
Extras:
Scene Access
Audio Commentary
Deleted Scenes
Featurettes
Closed Captioned
My Thoughts:
Story of four siblings that have grown apart who return home to be with their dying mother in her final days.
Touching, funny, and sad... at times difficult to watch as you witness Sally Field brilliantly playing the unfortunate mom who is dealing with the ravages of ovarian cancer with as much dignity as she can. Meaningful to anyone who has had a loved one deal with cancer... but it will stir emotions in anyone as films of this nature often turn ones thoughts to family.
A downer, but a great movie.
KC
Rating:
Post by: KinkyCyborg on July 25, 2010, 11:57:18 PM
Title:Oz: The Complete Series (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 1997
Director: 1. The RoutineDarnell Martin, 2. Visits, Conjugal and OtherwiseNick Gomez, 3. God's Chillin'Jean de Segonzac, 4. Capital PDarnell Martin, 5. Straight LifeLesley Libman, Larry Williams, 6. To Your HealthAlan Taylor, 7. Plan BDarnell Martin, 8. A Game of CheckersJean de Segonzac
Rating: NR
Length: 451 Min.
Video: Full Frame 1.33:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, English: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround, Spanish: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo, Commentary: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo
Subtitles:
Stars:
1. The RoutineErnie Hudson
Terry Kinney
Harold Perrineau
Eamonn Walker
Plot:
Welcome to Emerald City, an experimental unit of the Oswald Maximum Security Prison or 'OZ'. As run by Tim McManus and overseen by Warden Leo Glynn, Em City is about prisoner rehabilitation over public retribution. No matter how hardened a criminal or killer, whether you're in for a few years or in for life, you have a role to play. Once inside, choose your friends carefully. Every group—Muslims, Latinos, Italians, Aryans—stick close to mutual friends and terrorize mutual enemies. Don't smile. Get yourself a weapon. Stay on everybody's good side...if you can find one.
Extras:
Scene Access
Audio Commentary
Feature Trailers
Deleted Scenes
Featurettes
Production Notes
Music Videos
Closed Captioned
My Thoughts:
I can't be bothered to write a review for every TV episode I watch and will only review a season or complete series in it's entirety, doing this on a go forward basis. :thumbup: Also note that I changed the picture and edited a few details above as I only took the BBcode from Season 1 in DVD Profiler.
After many long months of my wife and I trying to find the time to sit down and watch this series together, we finally finished watching the series today. The fact that it took us so long to watch the series was in no way indicative of our interest in the show... we loved it!
Raw, shocking, debasing and at times horrific, HBO delivers once again in no holds barred fashion.
The series started off a bit rough for me... the constant narration of Harold Perrineau was terribly annoying through the first several episodes, but then you get used to it, and even miss it during several episodes late in the series.
The only other real knock I had on the series is that while deaths in prison are not uncommon, the body count for this series was completely unrealistic. If ANY correctional facility in North America had the kind of homicide rate it would have been shut down ages ago.
Despite the violent nature of the show, the vulgarity and the abundance of drugs and man-love, it really is fascinating to watch.
Some of my favorite actors/characters in the series :
Eamonn Walker as Kareem Said
Lee Tergesen as Tobias Beecher
J.K. Simmons as Vern Schillinger
Christopher Meloni as Chris Keller
and
Adewale Akinnuoye-Agbaje as Simon Adebisi who was so outrageous and over the top... he was iconic in his role. I was so disappointed when they killed him off at the end of Season 4.
I'd highly recommend this series to anyone who isn't overly sensitive or easily turned off by constant violence. :thumbup: :clap:
On to Dexter next! ;)
KC
Rating:
Post by: KinkyCyborg on July 29, 2010, 02:39:29 AM
Title:Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 2004
Director: Michel Gondry
Rating: R
Length: 108 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 1.85:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, English: DTS: 5.1, French: Dolby Digital: 5.1, Commentary: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo
Subtitles: French
Stars:
Jim Carrey
Kate Winslet
Gerry Robert Byrne
Elijah Wood
Thomas Jay Ryan
Plot:
This is the story of a guy, Joel, who discovers that his long-time girlfriend, Clementine, has undergone a psychiatrist's experimental procedure in which all of her memory of Joel is removed, after the couple has tried for years to get their relationship working fluidly. Frustrated by the idea of still being in love with a woman who doesn't remember their time together, Joel agrees to undergo the procedure as well, to erase his memories of Clementine.
The film, which takes place mostly within Joel's mind, follows his memories of Clementine backwards in time as each recent memory is replaced, and the procedure then goes on to the previous one, which is likewise seen, and then erased. Once the process starts, however, Joel realizes he doesn't really want to forget Clementine, so he starts smuggling her away into parts of his memory where she doesn't belong... which alters other things about his memories as well.
Extras:
Scene Access
Audio Commentary
Feature Trailers
Deleted Scenes
Featurettes
Production Notes
Music Videos
DVD-ROM Content
Closed Captioned
Lacuna Commercial
My Thoughts:
Quirky, bizarre, original and fascinating.
I wasn't exactly sure how I felt about this movie until after it was over and I had time to digest it. It made me think about how everyone at some point wishes they could erase all the painful memories in their lives but not at the cost of the good ones. Could I do it? Absolutely not.
Jim Carrey can act outside of the mostly retarded characters he is usually cast as. His performance is excellent and I don't know why he doesn't seek out more dramatic roles. Anyone who has ever had a hate on for Jim Carrey, and I admit to being one of them, should watch this movie.
Kate Winslet, who always turns me off every time I see her making an acceptance speech, redeems herself in an outstanding performance that for me so far exceeds anything else I have seen her in.
I heard that this movie was great but I started it rather skeptical... I'm a believer! :)
KC
Rating:
Post by: Tom on July 29, 2010, 07:38:02 AM
Post by: samuelrichardscott on July 29, 2010, 11:56:20 AM
Post by: hal9g on July 29, 2010, 03:37:07 PM
Post by: addicted2dvd on July 29, 2010, 03:45:56 PM
Post by: Najemikon on July 29, 2010, 08:59:16 PM
Jim Carrey does seek out more dramatic roles. The problem is that he doesn't have commercial success with it and because if this he constantly has to go back and do another comedy.
I don't quite see it like that, especially as the performance of his dramas is good enough. They'll never threaten the big tent-pole releases, but still. At heart, he will always be the rubber faced loon. It's clear he loves doing it, so you'll never be far away from the next one. But both styles are complimenting each other. By all accounts, his performance in I Love You Philip Morris (based on truth) is fantastic, because on the surface, it's classic Carrey, but dig a little and you'll find a lot of substance.
Post by: Antares on July 29, 2010, 09:21:30 PM
Post by: hal9g on July 29, 2010, 09:31:32 PM
I see him going the route of Bill Murray in the future. Murray has pretty much tried to erase from memory his Meatballs, Caddyshack and Stripes period. Carrey will probably follow suit.
That would be a good thing, IMHO.
Post by: Najemikon on July 29, 2010, 09:33:54 PM
I see him going the route of Bill Murray in the future. Murray has pretty much tried to erase from memory his Meatballs, Caddyshack and Stripes period. Carrey will probably follow suit.
Not seen Zombieland then? :laugh: He is brilliantly silly in only the way he can.
While he has changed the sort of films he does, I don't think he would erase his old hits. He's been talking up Ghostbusters 3 as much as anyone...
Post by: Antares on July 29, 2010, 09:46:05 PM
I see him going the route of Bill Murray in the future. Murray has pretty much tried to erase from memory his Meatballs, Caddyshack and Stripes period. Carrey will probably follow suit.
Not seen Zombieland then? :laugh: He is brilliantly silly in only the way he can.
While he has changed the sort of films he does, I don't think he would erase his old hits. He's been talking up Ghostbusters 3 as much as anyone...
I think he's really trying to distance himself now. I remember back at the 2004 Academy Awards, when his name was called as nominee for Best Actor in Lost in Translation, and then not called for winner, he was absolutely pissed. He wants to be thought of as a great actor as opposed to a great comedian. He still does comedy, but unless it's with Wes Anderson, he's generally a minor character.
Post by: Najemikon on July 29, 2010, 09:55:44 PM
Post by: Antares on July 29, 2010, 10:00:02 PM
He might want to move on, but he has no trouble with the past.
I don't know. If you were to chance upon him and said, Hey Bill, you were great in Meatballs, why don't you make films like that anymore?, he'd probably deck you. :hmmmm:
Post by: Najemikon on July 29, 2010, 10:06:10 PM
Post by: Antares on July 29, 2010, 10:09:09 PM
Post by: Najemikon on July 29, 2010, 10:19:19 PM
Post by: KinkyCyborg on July 30, 2010, 03:27:26 AM
I don't necessarily agree that Bill Murray is looking to shed his comedian moniker. Even in some of his more serious roles he throws in some dry humor that you can tell is coming more from him than the script. It's in his nature, always wanting to make people laugh, perpetually cracking jokes whenever he's being interviewed, at Pro-Am golf tournaments, etc... but I would agree that when he does do a dramatic role he wants it to be taken seriously and he might have to drop comedy cold turkey and allow a number of years to pass for that to happen and I just don't see it. He'll always drift back for an occasional dip in the comedy pool.
Another who I seriously think should drop comedy altogether and stick with dramatic roles (which he is quite good at) is Robin Williams. His recent comedies are duds, looking like he's just mailing it in. I recently watched his Weapons Of Self Destruction stand up dvd and I must say he is looking old and tired. I think his health is part of the problem... he's had heart surgery, he fell off the wagon again there for awhile (booze this time) and he's starting to show his age. A lot of his material was repetitive and he is not nearly as animated as we are used to seeing him. I'm thinking his body can no longer meet the demand of his hyperactivity disorder. How all this translates into piss poor movies? I don't know but I'm thinking that maybe he needs to take a page out of Tom Hanks book and leave the comedy behind. I know it's somewhat his signature but Robin has had some excellent dramatic roles and I think he'd do much better with them than these mundane comedies he's putting out. :shrug:
KC
Post by: Antares on July 30, 2010, 04:07:41 AM
Deep down, you know he wants to be remembered for this one scene. :thumbup:
I remember the night my wife and I rented this for the first time, and when this scene ended, we both turned to each other and said WOW at the same time.
Post by: KinkyCyborg on July 30, 2010, 06:17:10 AM
Title:Rescue Dawn (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 2007
Director: Werner Herzog
Rating: PG-13
Length: 125 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 1.85:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, Spanish: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround, French: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround, Commentary: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo
Subtitles: English, Spanish
Stars:
Zach Grenier
Marshall Bell (1945)
Christian Bale
Toby Huss
Pat Healy
Plot:
In 1965, an American pilot on a top-secret bombing mission was shot down over Laos and taken to a hellish prison camp deep in the impenetrable jungle of Vietnam. What followed was one of the most remarkable and harrowing experiences of the entire Vietnam War. Inspired by the true story of Dieter Dengler (Christian Bale) and written and directed by internationally acclaimed filmmaker Werner Herzog, Rescue Dawn is an uncanny tale of camaraderie and betrayal, courage in the face of despair, and triumph over tragedy. It stands as a true testament to the impossible boundaries of the human condition and the invincibility of the American spirit.
Extras:
Scene Access
Audio Commentary
Feature Trailers
Deleted Scenes
Featurettes
Gallery
Closed Captioned
My Thoughts:
This one was my pick and it has been one I've been waiting to see for some time as I am always drawn to the military movies.
Well done true story of Dieter Dengler, bomber pilot who was shot down during a Black Op run before the Vietnam conflict officially became a war.
I was a bit surprised at the lack of torture and degradation so common in P.O.W. movies... in fact I thought the prisoners were treated not too badly as compared to other similar stories, although there was no question they were starving and suffering from severe mental trauma. Dengler, if he was depicted correctly, seemed to have a few screws loose even before he was captured which in a way I believe made his escape possible.
An interesting turn for Steven Zahn who usually plays the likable clown in comedies... he was quite good in this, playing well a man grasping at the last strands of his sanity.
Christian Bale is a bit of an enigma for me. I gain more respect for him as an actor with every movie of his I watch and yet for some in explicable reason I find him creepy. :-\ Can't quite put my finger on why... but I've felt that way about him since the first movie of his I watched right up to Rescue Dawn.
KC
Rating:
Post by: Najemikon on July 30, 2010, 09:00:57 PM
This scene still brings a tear to my eyes...
Deep down, you know he wants to be remembered for this one scene. :thumbup:
I remember the night my wife and I rented this for the first time, and when this scene ended, we both turned to each other and said WOW at the same time.
It really is superb. And what for me makes it especially brilliant is that Matt Damon was that young and he and Affleck had written the damn thing. It's a mark of maturity in any writer to see so far beyond themselves and make it feel they weren't reaching.
Williams was on a recent Jonathan Ross and he was brilliant, but Kevin, I also see what you mean. He's using his age to his advantage, but he's definitely different. Still fast though! He does talk about a recent heart scare, which must have had something to do with it ("slowed down on a recent tour") and his relapse (very funny! erm. You know what I mean)...
Post by: KinkyCyborg on July 31, 2010, 02:34:58 AM
Title:The Gathering (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 2002
Director: Brian Gilbert
Rating: R
Length: 87 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 2.35:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 5.1
Subtitles: English, Spanish
Stars:
Christina Ricci
Ioan Gruffudd
Stephen Dillane
Kerry Fox
Simon Russell Beale
Plot:
Christina Ricci (Monster) stars in this spine-tingling supernatural thriller about an American backpacker in rural England whose life takes a turn for the worse after a car accident. During recovery, she is befriended by a researcher (Stephen Dillane) studying a buried 1st Century church embedded with images of Christ's crucifixion. She begins to have horrific visions of the townspeople and their deaths. Is the town cursed or are her visions spirits from the unearthed church grasping for life? What is uncovered will shock and terrify you!
Extras:
Scene Access
Bonus Trailers
Closed Captioned
My Thoughts:
Billed as a horror movie, there was little that was horrific about it, but I still liked it's originality and concept.
A bit of the supernatural, with religious overtones, as the people of 'The Gathering' are revealed for what they truly are you find yourself marveling at how it all fits into historical significance.
One thing that bothered me about the movie however was one particular scene of utter stupidity in which...
(click to show/hide)
I've never been a fan of Christina Ricci or her abnormally large forehead but she did a good job as the lead and I must confess I was duly impressed by her nicely proportioned 'rack' ;)
KC
Rating:
Post by: Dragonfire on July 31, 2010, 02:36:52 AM
Post by: KinkyCyborg on July 31, 2010, 06:13:15 PM
Title:Slap Shot 3: The Junior League (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 2008
Director: Richard Martin
Rating: PG
Length: 91 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 1.78:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 5.1
Subtitles: English, French, Spanish
Stars:
Greyston Holt
Jeff Carlson
Steve Carlson
David Hanson [Dave Hanson]
Lynda Boyd
Plot:
The Hanson Brothers Are Back!
Get ready for a rough-and-tumble comedy that knows how to kick some serious puck! When a ragtag youth team is on the verge of losing it, their only hope lies with the most outrageous players to ever hit the ice - The Hanson Brothers! Featuring comedy legend Leslie Nielsen and hockey greats Mark Messier and Doug Gilmour, Slap Shot 3 adds an all-new, hilarious chapter to the hardest-hitting, most irreverent sports comedy franchise of all time!
Extras:
Scene Access
Bonus Trailers
Deleted Scenes
Featurettes
The Making of Slap Shot 3: The Junior League, Hockey Legends
My Thoughts:
Yay! A hockey movie!! Not a great one but it wasn't too bad. Played much like a Family Movie of the Week. Had some feel good moments and decent acting by the mostly teenage cast. The goonery that took place during the games make it completely improbable but no more so than the original Slap Shot.
Probably the worst aspect of the film was the Hanson Brothers who just aren't relevant anymore and not funny at all. Cameos by Doug Gilmour and Mark Messier.
KC
Rating:
Post by: KinkyCyborg on July 31, 2010, 09:08:40 PM
Title:The Third Miracle (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 1999
Director: Agnieszka Holland
Rating: R
Length: 118 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 1.85:1, Pan & Scan 1.33:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo, Music Only: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo, Commentary: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo
Subtitles: English, French, Spanish
Stars:
Ed Harris
Anne Heche
Armin Mueller-Stahl
Charles Haid
Michael Rispoli
Plot:
Two-time Academy Award®-nominee Ed Harris, Anne Heche and Armin Mueller-Stahl star in this provocative and powerful mystery from director Agnieszka Holland (Europa Europa).
Father Frank Shore (Harris) is a church-appointed spiritual detective whose job it is to investigate claims of miracles. Having lost his faith after an incident that earned him the nickname "The Miracle Killer," he takes to the streets in despair. When a statue at a convent begins crying blood, Father Shore is asked to look into the death of Helen O'Regan, a devout Catholic who is believed to be responsible for the healing tears. His investigation leads him to her daughter Roxane (Heche), a non-believer who cannot forgive her mother for abandoning her. As he struggles to choose between Helen's cause and his feeling for Roxane, Father Shore also must prove his case to the church, whose decision to name Helen a saint rests on his ability to convince the "Devil's Advocate," Archbishop Werner (Mueller-Stahl), of her worthiness. As sensual as it is spiritual, THE THIRD MIRACLE is "a masterwork" of filmmaking that "packs the power of a genuine revelation!" (Kevin Thomas, Los Angeles Times)
Extras:
Scene Access
Audio Commentary
Feature Trailers
Production Notes
Closed Captioned
isolated music score
My Thoughts:
Excellent film throughout including the ending which absolutely leaves you hanging although I believe that was intended. Still, it is one of the most gripping dramas I have watched in a long time.
Outstanding performance by Ed Harris, one of my all time favorite actors, in a surprising role of a priest, whom despite his own shaken faith, relentlessly champions a pious woman's petition to sainthood. Armin Mueller-Stahl is great as the arrogant Archbishop who, as it turns out, ends up having his own belief system rocked in a much different way.
I highly recommend this. :clap:
KC
Rating:
Post by: KinkyCyborg on August 01, 2010, 01:44:37 AM
Title:My Summer Story (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 1994
Director: Bob Clark
Rating: PG
Length: 85 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 1.85:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo
Subtitles: English
Stars:
Charles Grodin
Kieran Culkin
Mary Steenburgen
Christian Culkin
Al Mancini
Plot:
Charles Grodin (Beethoven), Kieran Culkin (Father of the Bride), and Mary Steenburgen (Elf) star in this delightful sequel to A Christmas Story. For 10-year-old Ralphie Parker (Culkin, it would be a summer filled with adventure. Whether conducting a quest for the ultimate in spinning tops, watching his mother (Steenburgen) lead the gravy boat rebellion at the Orpheum Theater, or aiding the Old Man (Grodin) in his one-man war against their hillbilly neighbors, this was the summer Ralphie would always rememebr as the greatest of his life.
Extras:
Scene Access
Feature Trailers
Closed Captioned
My Thoughts:
Billed as the sequel to A Christmas Story, it is in fact directed by Bob Clark but I must question his sanity for putting out this movie as all it accomplishes is tarnish a classic.
The characters all are back... Ralphie Parker, The Old Man, brother Randy... but with different actors that hold nothing to the original cast. I didn't find this even remotely funny. Charles Grodin, whom I've always admired as an actor, is quite annoying as The Old Man with more grunting and wailing than actual dialogue. Mary Steenburgen, always graceful and pretty, shames herself with this role as a complete ditz.
I'd rather go blind than watch this again. :thumbdown:
KC
Rating:
Post by: Najemikon on August 01, 2010, 03:12:23 AM
Love that last line!
Bob Clark is a weird one. He did Black Christmas didn't he? As well as Porky's! There he is happily creating sub genres and then he's doing this sorry of stuff...
Post by: hal9g on August 01, 2010, 03:59:29 AM
Post by: Dragonfire on August 01, 2010, 04:37:02 AM
Post by: Jimmy on August 01, 2010, 05:10:57 AM
Post by: KinkyCyborg on August 01, 2010, 07:49:44 AM
Strangely, the title under the front cover image says, "It Runs in the Family"? ???
Yeah, IMDB shows that as being the original title of the movie. Probably the only way to ensure a second viewing of the movie by someone was to change the title. ???
Post by: KinkyCyborg on August 01, 2010, 07:57:29 AM
Title:Doomsday (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 2008
Director: Neil Marshall
Rating: Unrated
Length: 113 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 2.35:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, Spanish: Dolby Digital: 5.1, Commentary: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround
Subtitles: English, French, Spanish
Stars:
Caryn Peterson
Adeola Ariyo
Emma Cleasby
Christine Tomlinson
Vernon Willemse
Plot:
From the director of The Descent comes an action-packed thrill ride through the beating heart of hell! To save humanity from an epidemic, an elite fighting unit must battle to find a cure in a post-apocalyptic zone controlled by a society of murderous renegades. Loaded with ferocious fights and high-octane chases, Doomsday grabs you right from the start and doesn't let go till its explosive end!
Extras:
Scene Access
Audio Commentary
Feature Trailers
Featurettes
Theatrical and Unrated Versions
My Thoughts:
Loved this movie! Kind of a cross between the Mad Max series, Braveheart and Outbreak. Rhona Mitra can kick ass and has a gorgeous one herself! Bob Hoskins is solid as usual. Awesome action and plenty of gore. As far fetched as these kind of futuristic movies seem, after watching the news from time to time they probably aren't as improbable as you might think and likely not as far down the road as you might expect.
One of the best action flicks I've seen in a while. Would love to see a sequel to this. :tv:
KC
Rating:
Post by: hal9g on August 01, 2010, 04:02:25 PM
Strangely, the title under the front cover image says, "It Runs in the Family"? ???
Yeah, IMDB shows that as being the original title of the movie. Probably the only way to ensure a second viewing of the movie by someone was to change the title. ???
That's weird, since there is a 2003 movie with the same title which paired Kirk and Michael Douglas for the only time in their careers.
Post by: KinkyCyborg on August 01, 2010, 04:05:03 PM
Post by: KinkyCyborg on August 02, 2010, 01:56:23 AM
Title:Love in the Time of Cholera (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 2007
Director: Mike Newell
Rating: R
Length: 138 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 2.35:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, English: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo
Subtitles: English, Spanish
Stars:
Benjamin Bratt
Gina Bernard Forbes
Giovonnna Mezzogiorno
Javier Bardem
Marcela Mar
Plot:
In the lush tropics of South America, an innocent desire blossoms into a romance for the ages in this stunning epic starring Academy Award® nominee* Javier Bardem (Before Night Falls, No Country for Old Men). At the turn of the 20th century, youthful romantic Florentino Ariza spots the stunning and sheltered Fermina Daza and immediately falls in love. Denied by her father, Florentino refuses to give up his dream of winning her hand...even if that means waiting decades to fill the passion in his heart.
*2000: Actor, Before Night Falls
Extras:
Scene Access
Audio Commentary
Feature Trailers
Deleted Scenes
Featurettes
Closed Captioned
My Thoughts:
A sweeping love story that is both touching and pathetic at the same time... a man moons over a woman he can't have for more than 50 years only to finally fulfill his dream when he has one foot already in the grave.
Javier Bardem shows his immense range as an actor with this performance. I find his character's life tremendously humorous as he pledges his undying love for one woman and yet as the years pass he gets more ass than a toilet seat. :laugh:
Hector Elizondo is great as his uncle and benefactor who mentors and grooms his nephew in business while unwillingly catering to his ridiculous obsession.
Women will love this movie for obvious reasons. Men will like it for the buckets full of irony and the many exposed boobies. ;)
KC
Rating:
Post by: Antares on August 02, 2010, 02:14:49 AM
You should try and search out Goya's Ghosts (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0455957/), he's great in that too.
Post by: KinkyCyborg on August 02, 2010, 02:21:01 AM
Post by: Antares on August 02, 2010, 02:35:34 AM
Post by: Achim on August 02, 2010, 03:59:46 AM
Title:Doomsday (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)There are many complains one can throw at this film (I liked it too, I heard other complain), but for me that car chase at the end makes up for any crap that came before :thumbsup:
[...]
One of the best action flicks I've seen in a while. Would love to see a sequel to this. :tv:
Post by: KinkyCyborg on August 02, 2010, 04:58:15 AM
Title:Doomsday (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)There are many complains one can throw at this film (I liked it too, I heard other complain), but for me that car chase at the end makes up for any crap that came before :thumbsup:
[...]
One of the best action flicks I've seen in a while. Would love to see a sequel to this. :tv:
The car chase scene and the wide range of colorful characters is where I get my Mad Max reference from.... particularly the chase scenes from The Road Warrior and Beyond Thunderdome. No real complaints from me. ;D
Post by: KinkyCyborg on August 02, 2010, 05:01:24 AM
Title:Bambi (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 1942
Director: David D. Hand
Rating: G
Length: 70 Min.
Video: Full Frame 1.33:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, English: Dolby Digital: Mono, French: Dolby Digital: 5.1, Spanish: Dolby Digital: 5.1
Subtitles: English
Stars:
Hardy Albright
Stan Alexander
Bobette Audrey
Peter Behn
Thelma Boardman
Plot:
The forest comes alive with Bambi, the critically acclaimed coming-of-age story that has thrilled and entertained generations of fans. Now digitally restored and remastered with state-of-the-art technology, Bambi sparkles in its first-ever DVD presentation.
This grand adventure is full of humor, heart and the most beloved characters of all time - Bambi, the wide-eyed fawn, his playful pal Thumper, the lovable skunk Flower, and wise Friend Owl.
Experience the wonder with this 2-disc Special Edition including spectacular bonus features and an all-new 5.1 Disney Enhanced Home Theater Mix. Everyone will be "twitterpated" by this endearing classic tale of Bambi, one of Walt Disney's greatest triumphs and a film experience you'll never forget.
Extras:
Scene Access
Feature Trailers
Deleted Scenes
Featurettes
Production Notes
Interactive Games
Closed Captioned
THX
My Thoughts:
Another one I sat down to watch with my little girl but predictably she fell asleep...even before Bambi's mom got shot which may have been a blessing as I'm not sure how she would have reacted to that.
Truly a Disney classic. I find that the musical scores of the earliest Disney films are masterful. I thought that a 2 Disc Edition of this was kind of unnecessary. Three plus hours of special features? Seems a bit excessive for a 70 minute feature, but the DVD games were fun and I applaud the Enhanced Home Theater Mix which delivered 5.1 Surround audio which was a nice touch to give to an old classic. :clap:
KC
Rating:
Post by: KinkyCyborg on August 03, 2010, 02:13:12 AM
Title:The 'Burbs (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 1989
Director: Joe Dante
Rating: PG
Length: 102 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 1.85:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround, French: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround
Subtitles: English
Stars:
Tom Hanks
Bruce Dern
Carrie Fisher
Rick Ducommun
Corey Feldman
Plot:
Tom Hanks portrays suburbanite Ray Peterson, whose plans for a peaceful vacation are disturbed by a creepy new family on the block, in this outrageous suspense-comedy directed by Joe Dante.
To the disappointment of his wife Carol (Carrie Fisher), Ray decides to spend a relaxing week at home, and soon gets into trouble with his neighbors - a hefty busybody (Rick Ducommun), a freaked-out ex-soldier (Bruce Dern), and a spacey teenager (Corey Feldman) - as they observe the strange happenings next door at the Klopek's bizarre residence.
When the neighborhood grouch suddenly disappears, the men are convinced the ramshackle house hides some hideous clues. Armed with assault rifles, high-powered binoculars and a shovel, they decide to see for themselves exactly what is going on in the Klopek place, Set in an average neighborhood that is anything but average, THE 'BURBS blends slapstick comedy and spine-thrilling mystery with the type of witty humor that has made Tom Hanks one of today's most popular stars.
Extras:
Scene Access
Feature Trailers
Deleted Scenes
Production Notes
DVD-ROM Content
Closed Captioned
My Thoughts:
Probably the funniest of the Tom Hanks comedies, or at least on par with Bachelor Party. Knee slapping funny throughout the whole film, the real scene stealer is Bruce Dern. He has some scenes in this film that make you piss yourself laughing. Rick Ducommun and his seemingly rambling improvisations are hilarious too. The Klopek's serving sardines on crackers to their house guests is a riot! :hysterical: I've seen this movie a half a dozen times now and it's a hoot every time. :thumbup: :thumbup:
KC
Rating:
Post by: KinkyCyborg on August 05, 2010, 04:23:07 AM
Title:Paradise Road (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 1997
Director: Bruce Beresford
Rating: R
Length: 132 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 2.35:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, English: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround, French: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround
Subtitles: English, Spanish
Stars:
Glenn Close
Frances McDormand
Pauline Collins
Cate Blanchett
Jennifer Ehle
Plot:
In a time of war, an extraordinary group of women turned a song of hope into a symphony of triumph. From the director of "Driving Miss Daisy" comes a true story of courage, triumph, friendship, and strength starring Glenn Close ("Dangerous Liaisons"), Oscar winner Frances McDormand (1996 Best Actress, "Fargo") and Emmy Award winner Julianna Marguiles (TV's "ER"). This compelling drama reveals the heroic actions of a group of women held prisoner by the Japanese during World War II. These diverse women from different countries, speaking different languages, unite to form a vocal orchestra — creating a lfe affirming symphony of human voices.
Extras:
Scene Access
Feature Trailers
Closed Captioned
My Thoughts:
It's been a long week (considering it's only Wednesday!) for me and an even longer day at work today and I came home beat. I was reclining in my chair after dinner, feeling sleepy but I decided to put in this movie and watch a little bit before I would inevitably doze off. Didn't happen. :tv:
What an excellent movie! I was completely fascinated by this true story about a group of women P.O.W.'s in a Japanese prison camp during WWII. An outstanding cast led by Glenn Close and including Frances McDormand, Julianna Margulies and Cate Blanchett, these remarkable women persevered and kept themselves alive largely through the spirit of song. Many of the women and children died due to the deplorable treatment by their captors who believed women to be inferior but a core group of them beat the odds.
A must watch! :clap:
KC
Rating:
Post by: hal9g on August 05, 2010, 03:08:29 PM
Post by: Najemikon on August 06, 2010, 01:14:20 AM
Post by: KinkyCyborg on August 07, 2010, 03:15:54 AM
I love The Burbs, but the funniest I ever thought Tom Hanks was with a bath in The Money Pit! :laugh:
I liked The Money Pit too and only just recently acquired the DVD. I had it on VHS a long time ago. The Burbs and Bachelor Party are my favorite Hanks movies. Like 1 and 1a. :D
Post by: KinkyCyborg on August 07, 2010, 03:24:04 AM
Title:Taken (http://www.invelos.com/images/BluRayLogo.png)(http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 2008
Director: Pierre Morel
Rating: NR
Length: 93 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 2.35:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, Spanish: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround, French: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround
Subtitles: English, Spanish
Stars:
Liam Neeson
Maggie Grace
Leland Orser
Jon Gries
David Warshofsky
Plot:
Prepare to get Taken for the ride of your life! "Liam Neeson is an unstoppable force" (Premier) in this action-packed international thriller that will have you on the edge of your seat from start to finish. When his estranged teenage daughter (Maggie Grace) is kidnapped in Paris, a former spy (Neeson) sets out to find her at any cost. Relying on his special skills, he tracks down the ruthless gang that abducted her and launches a one-man war to bring them to justice and rescue his daughter.
Extras:
Scene Access
Feature Trailers
Closed Captioned
Theatrical Version
My Thoughts:
No random pick tonight.... I picked Taken. I've heard from just about everyone who watched this how great it was and I have to agree.
Already a huge Liam Neeson fan to begin with, seeing him in an action film of this magnitude brings his game to a whole new level. He has had many tremendous dramatic roles in his career and yet he flawlessly makes the transition to action star... and a great one. I hope to see more from him. The ruthless edge to his character makes this movie so memorable and a keeper in anyone's collection with unlimited rewatchability. The human trafficking theme has been a popular one on screen these past 5 or so years but most of them have been of the dramatic variety.... good, but not nearly as memorable as Taken.
One of the best movies I've watched this year. :yahoo:
Rating:
Post by: hal9g on August 07, 2010, 06:44:59 AM
Post by: Najemikon on August 07, 2010, 11:57:00 AM
Post by: KinkyCyborg on August 07, 2010, 08:37:54 PM
Title:Bottle Shock (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 2008
Director: Randall Miller
Rating: PG-13
Length: 109 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 2.40:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, Commentary: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo
Subtitles: English, Spanish
Stars:
Chris Pine
Hal B. Klein
Alan Rickman
Jean-Michael Richaud
Dennis Farina
Plot:
1976, NAPA VALLEY. One small American winery and its workers are about to show the French that the world's finest wines will now come from the other red, white and blue. Based on an inspiring true story and starring Alan Rickman (Love, Actually), Bill Pullman (Nobel Son), Chris Pine (Smokin' Aces) and Rachael Taylor (Transformers), Bottle Shock is an "intelligent, affectionate, beautifully acted movie" (The Hollywood Reporter) that pours out the laughs.
For connoisseur Steven Spurrier (Rickman), there's no finer art than French wine, despite rumors that the new California wine country holds the future of the vine. Positive the small Napa wineries are no match for established French vintages, Spurrier challenges the Americans to a blind tasting. But when he finds the valley full of ambitious – and talented – novice vintners like Jim Barrett (Pullman) and his son Bo (Pine), he realizes his publicity stunt may change the history of wine forever.
Extras:
Scene Access
Audio Commentary
Feature Trailers
Deleted Scenes
Featurettes
Closed Captioned
My Thoughts:
Back to random picks, but fate picked me a good one in Bottle Shock.
True story of how a blind wine taste test in the mid-70's shattered France's view that they were the only nation on earth capable of making the best wines when they were beat by the wineries of Napa Valley, California.
You'd certainly have a heightened appreciation for this movie if you happen to be a wine drinker (I'm not) but it was entertaining throughout for anyone. A strong cast led by Alan Rickman as the British wine connoisseur who arranged the contest that ended up turning the wine industry on it's ear. Bill Pullman, Chris Pine, Eliza Dushku and a favorite of mine, Freddy Rodriguez of Six Feet Under fame, also star. A great watch!
KC
Rating:
Post by: KinkyCyborg on August 08, 2010, 05:31:46 PM
Title:Blood: The Last Vampire (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 2009
Director: Chris Nahon
Rating: R
Length: 89 Min.
Video: Widescreen 2.35:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 5.1
Subtitles: English, French
Stars:
Gianna
Allison Miller
Liam Cunningham
JJ Feild
Koyuki
Plot:
From a Producer of Hero and Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon comes BLOOD: THE LAST VAMPIRE, based on the cult hit anime series. Demons have infested Earth. And only one warrior stands between the dark and the light: Saya, a half-human, half-vampire samurai who preys on those who feast on human blood. Joining forces with the shadowy society known as the Council, Saya is dispatched to an American military base, where an intense series of swordfights leads her to the deadliest vampire of all. And now after 400 years, Saya's greatest hunt is about to begin.
Extras:
Scene Access
Feature Trailers
Featurettes
My Thoughts:
I have mixed feelings about this movie. Some elements were terrific and others not so much. ???
The pluses... great action sequences with a Kill Bill quality to them. Excellent premise for a story (derived from an anime series) and very good acting.
The minuses... they could have done without the Crouching Tiger aerobatics, the baddies in their demon form looked terribly hokey and the CGI blood splatters throughout the movie looked bad as well...
It was ok but it could have been so much better. :headscratch:
KC
Rating:
Post by: KinkyCyborg on August 10, 2010, 01:11:47 AM
Title:Tears of the Sun (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 2003
Director: Antoine Fuqua
Rating: R
Length: 121 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 2.40:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, French: Dolby Digital: 5.1, English: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround, Commentary: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo
Subtitles: English, French
Stars:
Bruce Willis (1955)
Monica Bellucci
Cole Hauser
Eamonn Walker
Johnny Messner
Plot:
Loyal veteran Navy S.E.A.L. Lt. A.K. Waters Bruce Willis) is sent into the heart of war-torn Africa on a hazardous assignment to rescue Dr. Lena Hendricks (Monica Bellucci), a U.S. citizen who runs a mission. When the beautiful doctor refuses to abandon the refugees in her care, Lt. Waters finds himself having to choose between following orders and the dictates of his own conscience. Together, they begin a dangerous trek through the deadly jungle, all the while being pursued by a rebel militia group, with only one goal in mind: to assassinate Lt. Waters' unit and the refugees in his care.
Extras:
Scene Access
Audio Commentary
Feature Trailers
Deleted Scenes
Featurettes
Production Notes
Closed Captioned
Voices, Fact Track & Interactive Map of Africa
My Thoughts:
Second time watching this and I enjoyed it for more than the war, action flick that it was the first time I watched it. Brutal depiction of the violence and genocide in Nigeria and how morality wins over duty.
Bruce Willis was stoic but steady and a good supporting cast including Cole Hauser and Eamonn Walker in one of his better big screen roles.... (he was excellent in Cadillac Records!)
There is plenty of action to keep the war/military fans happy and a compelling enough story to interest anyone looking for a good drama.
KC
Rating:
Post by: KinkyCyborg on August 11, 2010, 04:31:44 AM
Title:Moving McAllister (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 2007
Director: Andrew Black
Rating: PG-13
Length: 90 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 2.35:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, English: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround
Subtitles: Spanish
Stars:
Ben Gourley
Mila Kunis
Jon Heder
Rutger Hauer
Hubbel Palmer
Plot:
Rick Robinson (Gourley) is a lowly intern at a Miami law firm who dreams of becoming a partner one day. Desperate to score points with his boss, McAllister (Hauer), he commits to a favor he can't afford. Just five days before the bar exam, Rick finds himself in charge of moving McAllister's dearest possession across the country: his seductive, yet untouchable niece Michelle (Kunis) and her pet pig, Dorothy. Along the way, the mismatched pair encounters numerous obstacles and unforgettable characters, like free-spirited hitchhiker Orlick Prescott Hope (Heder). Amidst the breakdowns and strife, Rick just might manage to find love, life and himself in this trans-American road trip from hell.
Extras:
Scene Access
Feature Trailers
Deleted Scenes
Featurettes
Closed Captioned
My Thoughts:
This movie had a few mildly humorous moments but for the most part it was dull and dumb. The dream sequences were retarded, Jon Heder's character was gratingly annoying and I was hoping for more from Rutger Hauer but he had very little screen time in what was mostly just a cameo.
I used to find Mila Kunis's character on That 70's Show incredibly annoying and not attractive at all but she has become a full blown hottie! Still annoying... but HOT! 8)
KC
Rating:
Post by: KinkyCyborg on August 12, 2010, 05:28:54 AM
Title:The Hoax (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 2006
Director: Lasse Hallström
Rating: R
Length: 116 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 1.85:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, Russian: Dolby Digital: 5.1, Commentary: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo, Commentary: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo
Subtitles: English, French, Spanish, Commentary
Stars:
David Aaron Baker
John Carter
Judi Barton
Raul Julia Jr.
James Biberi
Plot:
Golden Globe® winner Richard Gere* (Shall We Dance?, Chicago) leads a stellar cast in The Hoax, the thrilling and unbelievably true story of the man who almost pulled off the biggest literary con of the 20th century. When the charismatic Clifford Irving (Gere) convinces a major publishing house that Howard Hughes, the bigger-than-life billionaire recluse, has asked Irving to pen his authorized autobiography, Irving must concoct an elaborate scheme to prove his fake manuscript is real. Inspired by Irving's tell-all book The Hoax, and directed by Lasse Hallström (Chocolat), this tensely comedic story of deception, international intrigue, powerful corporate empires and beautiful women is a wild ride down the slippery slope of a lie run amuck.
*Best Actor In A Motiom Picture – Musical Or Comedy, Chicago, 2002.
Extras:
Scene Access
Audio Commentary
Feature Trailers
Deleted Scenes
Featurettes
Closed Captioned
My Thoughts:
True story of Clifford Irving who conned his way into a $1 million dollar book deal for his collaboration with Howard Hughes on his autobiography which of course was all bullshit.
Richard Gere plays the silver-tongued Irving and did a great job. Great performances from Alfred Molina and Marcia Gay Harden as well. The back and forth shenanigans between Irving and the publishers who doubt his credibility due to his checkered past is fun to watch. Speculation is that these events led to Richard Nixon's 'Hughes" paranoia which eventually resulted in Watergate.
I love movies with historical significance. ;)
KC
Rating:
Post by: KinkyCyborg on August 13, 2010, 05:25:06 AM
Title:The Honeymooners (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 2005
Director:
Rating: PG
Length: 89 Min.
Video: Full Frame 1.33:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, English: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo, French: Dolby Digital: 5.1
Subtitles: English, Spanish
Stars:
Cedric the Entertainer
Mike Epps
Gabrielle Union
Regina Hall
Eric Stoltz
Plot:
Prepare for Non stop fast paced fun when as Cedric the Entertainer, Mike Epps join with Gabriella Union, Regina Hall and John Leguizamo in this outrageously funny family comedy. Cedric(and sanitation engineer} Norton (Epps)are best friends who always dream of making it big. Their most recent "get rich quick plan" finds the boys out to make their fortune by hiring a dog trainer (Leguizamo) to race their pet Greyhound.
After discovering their savings have been spent on this latest half baked hairbrained idea, their long suffering wives Alice (Union) and Trixie (Hall) finally reach the end of their ropes in this hilarious new spin on a television classic.
Extras:
Scene Access
Audio Commentary
Feature Trailers
Deleted Scenes
Featurettes
My Thoughts:
Lackluster comedy which is a mocking parody of the TV series... Jackie Gleason probably rolled in his grave the first time this aired. It's pretty bad when the funniest bits are to be found in the blooper real. :(
KC
Rating:
Post by: Dragonfire on August 13, 2010, 06:42:57 AM
Post by: KinkyCyborg on August 14, 2010, 06:50:49 AM
I thought this one looked bad from the previews I saw. I did see a few minutes of it on one of the channels I get once. I was just flipping channels and found it. Horrible.
Glad you were able to make that assessment in just the tidbits you saw and not after wasting 90 minutes on the whole thing like I did. :-\
Post by: KinkyCyborg on August 14, 2010, 06:57:04 AM
Title:Let The Right One In (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 2008
Director: Tomas Alfredson
Rating: R
Length: 114 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 2.35:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, English: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo, Swedish: Dolby Digital: 5.1, Swedish: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo
Subtitles: English, Spanish
Stars:
Kåre Hedebrant
Lina Leandersson
Per Ragnar
Henrik Dahl
Karin Bergquist
Plot:
BASED ON THE BEST SELLER BY JOHN AJVIDE LINDQVIST
Lonely, 12-year-old Oskar is regularly bullied by his stronger classmates. A new friendship develops when Eli, a pale, serious young girl who only comes out at night moves in next door. Coinciding with her arrival is a series of inexplicable disappearances and murders. As Oskar becomes more aware of Eli's tragic plight, he cannot forsake her. However, Eli knows that to continue living, she must keep relocating. But when Oskar faces his darkest hour, Eli returns to defend him the only way she can...
Extras:
Scene Access
Feature Trailers
Deleted Scenes
Featurettes
Gallery
My Thoughts:
For some inexplicable reason my wife decided to watch this with me... a surprise as she usually shies away from horror movies.
We both found this movie relatively entertaining. Far from being a hardcore vampire film, it draws you in with the combination of supernatural death and the innocence of youth.
We watched the dubbed version rather that the subbed, which was her preference, not mine as I often find that something is lost in the translation that comes off as looking like bad acting. Seldom does a vampire movie center it's beast in the form of a child. I see now that a Hollywood adaptation of this story, Let Me In, is due out soon. I was hoping for a big budget adaptation but from the looks of the trailer it looks quite similar to the original which is a bit disappointing as I thought it might get a more dynamic treatment. This doesn't at all reflect how I felt about the original... I thought it was very well done and made up for it's lack of budget in story, atmosphere and character development.
KC
Rating:
Post by: KinkyCyborg on August 15, 2010, 05:03:25 AM
Title:United 93 (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 2006
Director: Paul Greengrass
Rating: R
Length: 111 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 2.35:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, Spanish: Dolby Digital: 5.1, French: Dolby Digital: 5.1, Audio Descriptive: Dolby Digital: 5.1, Commentary: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround
Subtitles: English, French, Spanish
Stars:
United 93 - CrewJ. J. Johnson [JJ Johnson]
Gary Commock
Polly Adams
Opal Alladin
Plot:
It's an event that shook the world. Honest, unflinching and profoundly moving, United 93 tells the unforgettable story of the heroic passengers and crew members who prevented the terrorists from carrying out their plans for the fourth hijacked plane on September 11, 2001. As on-ground military and civilian teams scrambled to make sense of the unfolding events, forty people who sat down as strangers found the courage to stand up as one.
Extras:
Scene Access
Audio Commentary
Feature Trailers
Featurettes
Production Notes
My Thoughts:
Managed to get in another movie before I head off to bed and it was gripping.
The events of 9/11 will never be forgotten and everyone remembers where and what they were doing when they first heard of the planes hitting the World Trade Center. Myself, I was at work when my supervisor told me a plane had hit the Empire State Building... early details were mostly inaccurate and given the amount of chaos that was depicted in this film between the various air traffic controllers, the FAA, NORAD, news agencies and the military I'm not surprised. Nobody was prepared for this... who could conceive it possible? All I know is that day I felt a profound sense of shock, despair and fear, and at the same time a tremendous amount of gratitude that I was living in Canada. I still remember the headline on the Toronto Sun Extra that evening... it read 'BASTARDS!' I couldn't have agreed more.
What actually took place on United 93 before it went down has been left to pure speculation by not only director Paul Greengrass but also to the entire world. Conspiracy theorists have proclaimed that it was shot down by the air force, but given the amount of accounts of phone calls from loved ones who were on the plane in the moments before it crashed in Pennsylvania, I'd like to believe that the passengers and crew did decide to fight back and not let the terrorists complete their mission.
The final 30 seconds of the movie during the clash for control in the cockpit and the plane's death spiral to the ground... right up to it's impact were among the best and worst moments in my years of watching movies. I was holding my breath, heart racing, gripping the arms of my chair and gritting my teeth. When it ended and the screen faded to black a huge wave of emotion swept over me, not unlike the day I came home from work on September 11th, 2001, hugged my wife and 6 year old son... and wept.
I'm not a religious person... but God bless all those poor souls who lost their lives that day.
KC
Rating:
Post by: Dragonfire on August 15, 2010, 06:54:57 AM
I thought this one looked bad from the previews I saw. I did see a few minutes of it on one of the channels I get once. I was just flipping channels and found it. Horrible.
Glad you were able to make that assessment in just the tidbits you saw and not after wasting 90 minutes on the whole thing like I did. :-\
Oh I've wasted time on other movies. Sometimes I just suffer through them...but then I can rip them apart in a review. :D
Post by: Najemikon on August 15, 2010, 12:22:48 PM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/02/025192657023f.jpg)
Amazing film. I found it added something that the air traffic controllers played themselves, even Ben Sliney who was the one who had to take the decision to ground all the planes.
Post by: KinkyCyborg on August 15, 2010, 05:53:54 PM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/02/025192657023f.jpg)
Amazing film. I found it added something that the air traffic controllers played themselves, even Ben Sliney who was the one who had to take the decision to ground all the planes.
I didn't know that! I watched the memorial reel in the dvd extras but none of the other bonus content as it was getting late and I was heading off to bed. Certainly adds to the authenticity.
Post by: KinkyCyborg on August 15, 2010, 05:55:01 PM
Title:Surviving the Game (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 1994
Director: Ernest Dickerson
Rating: R
Length: 96 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 1.85:1, Pan & Scan 1.33:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, English: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround
Subtitles: English
Stars:
Ice-T [Ice T]
Rutger Hauer
Charles S. Dutton
Gary Busey
F. Murray Abraham
Plot:
Explosive special effects and high-caliber weapons make for the ultimate manhunt in this hard-hitting action adventure starring Ice-T, Rutger Hauer, Charles S. Dutton, Gary Busey and F. Murray Abraham.
Ice-T is Mason, a homeless man recruited by a band of wealthy hunters to lead an expedition into the Pacific Northwest. But on the first day of the hunt, he discovers a lethal surprise...He's the prey.
It's gut-wrenching action from start to finish as the game begins and the hunters learn a deadly lesson: Never underestimate a man who's got nothing to lose.
Extras:
Scene Access
Feature Trailers
Production Notes
Closed Captioned
My Thoughts:
Surviving The Game... a decent action flick with a great cast highlighted by Rutger Hauer.
Ultra rich hunters go on a safari with humans as the prey, more specifically, Ice-T. I've seen other movies of similar ilk but I like this one as Ice-T didn't turn out to be some former Navy Seal or something... he was just a homeless guy who uses his street smarts to survive.
Gary Busey plays his usual psychotic weirdo but makes an early exit in this one. John C. McGinley was good as well as another crazy who's flipped his lid. Great fun! :)
KC
Rating:
Post by: KinkyCyborg on August 17, 2010, 04:34:52 AM
Title:Star Trek (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 2009
Director: J. J. Abrams
Rating: PG-13
Length: 127 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 2.40:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, French: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround, Spanish: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround, Commentary: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround
Subtitles: English, French, Spanish
Stars:
Chris Pine
Zachary Quinto
Leonard Nimoy
Eric Bana
Bruce Greenwood
Plot:
The future begins in J.J. Abrams' smash hit STAR TREK. When the Romulan Nero comes from the future to take revenge on the Federation, rivals Kirk and Spock must work together to stop him from destroying everything they know. On a thrilling journey filled with incredible action, the new recruits of the U.S.S. Enterprise will voyage through unimaginable danger in one of the biggest and most critically acclaimed movies of the year.
Extras:
Scene Access
Audio Commentary
Deleted Scenes
Featurettes
Outtakes/Bloopers
Closed Captioned
My Thoughts:
Reboot of original Star Trek crew and well done! I was never a big fan of the original series and yet I was an avid fan of Star Trek : The Next Generation, both the tv series and it's spinoff movies. I was extremely pissed off when they canceled STNG at the height of it's popularity and I could never get into Deep Space 9 or any of the series after that. I don't know... I thought the original series was so incredibly hokey... I may give them another chance.
J.J. Abrams brings the action and SFX in all it's glory in this one but gives it a more contemporary feel with some humor thrown in for good measure. I particularly liked Karl Urban and Bones McCoy. Leonard Nimoy makes a reverent appearance and fit well into the story. I heard William Shatner was pissed that he was not asked to be involved with this movie. I'm glad! Adding that porker to the movie would have greatly diminished the credibility of the film.
The way this story unfolded it has left the door wide open for any number of sequels. I'm sure they are coming.... :)
KC
Rating:
Post by: KinkyCyborg on August 22, 2010, 03:41:48 AM
Title:In Love And War (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 1987
Director: Paul Aaron
Rating: NR
Length: 115 Min.
Video: Full Frame 1.33:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo
Subtitles:
Stars:
Jane Alexander
James Woods
Concetta Tomei
Jon Cedar
Richard McKenzie
Plot:
Shot down and taken prisoner early in the Vietnam Conflict, Navy Pilot Jim Stockdale is one of the few who know the truth about the Gulf of Tonkin incident. Knowing an admission would be explosive, Jim has remained silent despite eight nightmarish years of torture and inhuman treatment.
Extras:
My Thoughts:
80's TV drama about Jim Stockdale, an American POW in Vietnam who endured more than 6 years of torture while his wife campaigned stateside to expose the treatment of the prisoners.
Very good movie with James Woods, one of my favorites, in the leading role. It was interesting to see that even though he was held captive and was enemies with his torturers, as the years progressed an understanding developed between captor and captive... that both realized each other was merely acting on orders and in defense of their countries. By the time the war ended there was little or no animosity between them and they parted almost as friends. Compelling drama!
KC
Rating:
Post by: KinkyCyborg on August 22, 2010, 03:37:59 PM
Title:Bells Are Ringing (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 1960
Director: Vincente Minnelli
Rating: NR
Length: 126 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 2.35:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, French: Dolby Digital: Mono
Subtitles: English, French, Spanish
Stars:
Judy Holliday
Dean Martin
Fred Clark
Eddie Foy, Jr.
Jean Stapleton
Plot:
The get-up in New York's get-up-and-go comes from the switchboard operators of Susanswerphone. Need a wakeup call? Your appointments? Encouragement from "Mom"? A racetrack bet? It all comes from the dutiful nerve - or noive - center that keeps enterprises enterprising and, maybe wedding bells ringing.
Judy Holliday reprises her Tony®-winning Broadway role of irrepressible switchboard girl Ella in a jubilant adaptation that marked her final movie and the final teaming of movie-musical titans Arthur Freed and Vincente Minelli. Dean Martin co-stars as a struggling playwright in for a surprise when he learns "Mom's" identity. The sparkling Jule Styne/Betty Comden/Adolph Green score includes Holliday's heartfelt The Party's Over and the jolly Holliday/Martin duet Just in Time. You've dialed the right number, musical fans!
Extras:
Scene Access
Feature Trailers
Deleted Scenes
Featurettes
Closed Captioned
My Thoughts:
60's musical with Dean Martin & Judy Holliday. Great fun and a swinging time! Always loved Dean Martin... he could sing, act and dance all while half in the bag! Judy Holliday was good too although not her best role as her wacky character is a bit over the top. A pre-Edith Bunker, Jean Stapleton makes an appearance too!
My 5 year old daughter, who has taken to watching movies with me quite frequently (that's Daddy's girl!) sat and watched most of this too and loved the musical bits. She now proclaims to everyone that she can do the Cha-Cha-Cha! :yu: :dance:
KC
Rating:
Post by: KinkyCyborg on August 23, 2010, 07:58:54 AM
Title:Vacancy (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 2007
Director: Nimrod Antal
Rating: R
Length: 85 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 2.40:1, Pan & Scan 1.33:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, French: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo
Subtitles: English, French
Stars:
Kate Beckinsale
Luke Wilson
Frank Whaley
Ethan Embry
Scott G. Anderson
Plot:
When David (Luke Wilson) and Amy Fox's (Kate Beckinsale) car breaks down in the middle of nowhere, they are forced to spend the night at the only motel around, with only the TV to entertain them - until they discover that the low-budget slasher videos they find in their room were all filmed in the very room in which they're sitting. With hidden cameras now aimed at them - trapping them in rooms, crawlspaces, underground tunnels - and filming their every move, David and Amy must struggle to get out alive before they end up the next victims on tape.
Extras:
Scene Access
Feature Trailers
Deleted Scenes
Featurettes
Closed Captioned
Alternate opening sequences Extended Snuff Films
My Thoughts:
Decent thriller although I thought Kate Beckinsale and Luke Wilson were a bit of an odd pairing. The hotel manager was like a psychotic, real life Ned Flanders! :laugh: Some edge of your seat cat and mouse thrills keep you revved up. The extended snuff videos in the extras were cool to watch too. 8)
KC
Rating:
Post by: KinkyCyborg on August 24, 2010, 06:23:15 AM
Title:Sky High (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 2005
Director: Mike Mitchell
Rating: PG
Length: 99 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 2.35:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, French: Dolby Digital: 5.1, Spanish: Dolby Digital: 5.1
Subtitles: English, French
Stars:
Michael Angarano
Kurt Russell
Kelly Preston
Danielle Panabaker
Chris Wynne
Plot:
A super adventure of heroic proportions, this crowd-pleasing hit from Walt Disney Pictures stars Hollywood favorites Kurt Russell and Kelly Preston! The son of legendary heroes Commander (Russell) and Jetstream (Preston), young Will Stronghold carries huge expectations as he enters a high-tech high school known for molding the heroes of tomorrow. With no apparent superpowers of his own, however, Will seems destined to grow up a mere sidekick. But as he discovers his true strengths, he'll also learn that it takes loyalty and teamwork to truly become a hero!
Extras:
Scene Access
Bonus Trailers
Deleted Scenes
Featurettes
Music Videos
Outtakes/Bloopers
My Thoughts:
Fun Disney film about a family of superheroes with Kurt Russell as the patriarch. Was interesting to see Russell return to the Disney fold where he basically got his start in the biz as a young kid in a plethora of movies in the late 60's early 70's. The movie was ok, but nothing terribly original. Kelly Preston was my hero in that skin tight outfit!! ;)
I talked my daughter into watching this with me and she was out like a light before the trailers preceding the movie were finished. ::) Gotta teach her stamina now! :training:
KC
Rating:
Post by: Achim on August 24, 2010, 03:29:03 PM
Gotta teach her stamina now! :training:Maybe you want to rethink that. When she's at disco-age and still falls asleep early you might enjoy that quite a bit ;)
Post by: KinkyCyborg on August 25, 2010, 02:13:14 AM
Gotta teach her stamina now! :training:Maybe you want to rethink that. When she's at disco-age and still falls asleep early you might enjoy that quite a bit ;)
I'm already going through that with my 16 year old son, or the Nighthawk as I like to call him. During his summer holidays he's up to about 1-2 a.m. every night and then hibernates till about noon the next day. I was pretty much the same way at his age. :-[
Post by: KinkyCyborg on August 25, 2010, 02:17:03 AM
Title:Eve of Destruction (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 1991
Director: Duncan Gibbins
Rating: R
Length: 100 Min.
Video: Pan & Scan 1.33:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo
Subtitles: English, French, Spanish
Stars:
Gregory Hines
Renée Soutendijk
Michael Greene
Kurt Fuller
John M. Jackson
Plot:
"An original, provocative thriller." - Los Angeles Times
She's beautiful indestructible... and unstoppable! Renee Soutendijk is "sexy and lethal" (Boxoffice) as Eve VIII, a sophisticated and deadly android run amok in this heart-pounding sci-fi thriller. "Genuine suspense and a terrific finale" (The Hollywood Reporter) set this action-adventure apart and above the genre... this is one Eve you just can't miss!
Created in the image of her inventor, Eve VIII is the flawless culmination of years of research, or is she? When an unexpected mishap during testing sends her into a sudden, irreversible rampage, Eve begins stalking and killing anything she perceives as a threat. And now it's up to terrorism expert Jim McQuade (Gregory Hines) to find and deactivate her before she realizes her ultimate capability - nuclear annihilation!
Extras:
Scene Access
Feature Trailers
My Thoughts:
About an android with mass destruction capabilities on the loose... this was like a poor man's Imposter. Kind of dated and a dreadful performance by the female lead Renée Soutendijk. Decent moments of action and Gregory Hines was very solid.
I think Hines was a very underrated actor who had some incredible performances in his career, particularly in White Nights, Tap, The Cotton Club and even the action comedy Running Scared. It's a shame he left us at such a relatively young age of 57. :(
Rating:
Post by: KinkyCyborg on August 26, 2010, 05:13:03 AM
Title:Interstate 84 (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 2000
Director: Ross Partridge
Rating: 14A
Length: 100 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 1.78:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, French: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo
Subtitles: English
Stars:
Kevin Dillon
John Littlefield
John Doman
Megan Dodds
Harley Cross
Plot:
Passion, Rage, Murder, They all collide on Interstate 84.
Joe Weldon (John Littlefield) is an emotionally screwed-up cop living in a small grimy town. Recently separated from his wife and kids he is intensely devoted to his work - especially when he stumbles on the case of an anonymous dead man just fished from the Hudson River.
Unable to identify the body the police focus on a few scattered clues a bible, a card with a phone number and a tooth brush. The number leads to a perplexing suspect. Vinnie (Kevin Dillon) a seedy family man. The investigation is stymied by the fact that the victim was an outsider who ha little contact with the community. As each day passes a new clue is unearthed that enables both Vinnie and the police to piece together the mystery.
An unconventional mystery that unfolds into a humanistic tale about the discovery of life and faith, nothing is what it appears to be on Intersection 84.
Extras:
Scene Access
Closed Captioned
My Thoughts:
Story about a somewhat handicapped, gentle giant who's simple life intertwines with other lost and wandering souls. His story is told after his body washes up on the edge of a river.
This started off a bit slow but got more interesting as it wore on. I thought Joel Garland, whom I've never heard of, played the central character gave an excellent performance and really his was the only one to standout from the entire cast of relative unknowns... Kevin Dillon was the only really recognizable name. Kevin Spacey was executive producer on this one.
If you are looking for action, suspense or thrills, this is not for you... but good dramatic storytelling can be had.
KC
Rating:
Post by: KinkyCyborg on August 27, 2010, 04:10:53 AM
Title:The Parent Trap (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 1961
Director: David Swift
Rating: G
Length: 129 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 1.78:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, Commentary: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo
Subtitles: English, Spanish
Stars:
Hayley Mills
Hayley Mills
Maureen O'Hara
Brian Keith
Charlie Ruggles
Plot:
What could be better than one Hayley Mills? How about two? Special Academy Award®*-winning actress Hayley Mills (Pollyanna) shines again, this time of playing twin daughters of a divorced couple (Brian Keith and Maureen O'Hara). The girls, who have long been separated, meet accidentally for the first time at summer camp. After discovering that they are long-lost twin sisters, the two concoct an outrageous scheme to switch places in an effort to get their parents back together.
In her dual role, Miss Mills moves from slapstick to serious, refined to rock 'n' roll. Her delightful performance, coupled with a charming story, will capture your heart and have you doubling up with laughter!
* 1960, Pollyanna
Extras:
Scene Access
Audio Commentary
Feature Trailers
Featurettes
Production Notes
Closed Captioned
THX
Cartoon-'Donald's Double Trouble'
My Thoughts:
Original Disney classic which is solid family fare but I found the first 40 minutes or so dreadfully boring. :yawn: The primary reason for that I believe was that I didn't care for Hayley Mills, the girl chosen to play the sneaky little conniving twins. The first half of the movie focused on them/her and I found them annoying. Once the parents entered the picture, Maureen O'Hara and Brian Keith, my interest grew tenfold.
Boy, Maureen O'Hara was a gorgeous, fiery redhead in her prime and she never looked more gorgeous! ;) I've always been a fan of Brian Keith... absolutely loved his short but memorable performance as Buckshot Roberts in Young Guns who 'killed more men than smallpox'. Another great performer who took his own life. :(
Not my favorite of the old time Disney classics but a good watch. I would have rated it higher had they cast the young girls better.
KC
Rating:
Post by: KinkyCyborg on August 27, 2010, 05:55:15 PM
Title:Die! Die! My Darling! (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 1965
Director: Silvio Narizzano
Rating: NR
Length: 97 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 1.85:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: Mono
Subtitles: English
Stars:
Tallulah Bankhead
Stefanie Powers
Peter Vaughan
Maurice Kaufmann
Yootha Joyce
Plot:
Directed by Silvio Narizzano ('Georgy Girl,' 'Loot') and produced by Hammer Films, the infamous British studio known for gothic horror classics, DIE! DIE! MY DARLING! stars the legendary Tallulah Bankhead ('Lifeboat,' TV's "Batman") in her final film performance. She plays the psychotic Mrs. Trefoile, a demented mother who terrorizes and imprisons her dead son's fiancée Pat (Stefanie Powers, TV's "Hart to Hart," 'Stagecoach') to avenge her son's tragic death, with the help of her bumbling gardener (Donald Sutherland, 'Invasion of the Body Snatchers,' 'Klute,' 'Don't Look Now').
A domineering religious fanatic, Mrs. Trefoile grows obsessed with her late son's spirit, who died several years earlier in an auto wreck. When her son's former lover pays an unexpected visit, Mrs. Trefoile kidnaps the beautiful young woman, holding her hostage in the basement to "cleanse" her soul, so she can be reunited with her son in Heaven. Trapped and tortured, Pat must fight for her life to escape. DIE! DIE! MY DARLING! is a campy, classic thriller fueled by Bankhead's over-the-top turn as the ultimate Mother from Hell.
Extras:
Scene Access
Feature Trailers
Closed Captioned
My Thoughts:
Hammer Film production from the mid 60's that was Tallulah Bankhead's last movie appearance. Playing a religious fanatic trying to redeem her dead son's soul by cleansing the sins from his former fiancee while holding her captive.... she was perfect in the role! Stephanie Powers played the unfortunate girl caught in the old hag's grasp and she did a credible job as well. She was quite the cute little minx! Donald Sutherland played the retarded, but good natured gardener who had no clue what was going on most of the time... he looked like a teenage kid in this movie.
All in all I enjoyed this much more than I thought I would. :clap:
KC
Rating:
Post by: Rogmeister on August 28, 2010, 01:22:31 AM
Post by: KinkyCyborg on August 28, 2010, 02:29:32 AM
Post by: KinkyCyborg on August 28, 2010, 04:45:33 PM
Title:Screamers (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 1995
Director: Christian Duguay
Rating: R
Length: 108 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 1.85:1, Full Frame 1.33:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, English: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo, French: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo, Spanish: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo
Subtitles: English, French, Spanish
Stars:
Peter Weller
Roy Dupuis
Jennifer Rubin
Andrew Lauer
Charles Powell
Plot:
The year is 2078.
The man is rebel Alliance Commander Col. Joseph Hendricksson (Peter Weller), assigned to protect the Sirius 6B outpost from ravage and plunder at the hands of the New Economic Bloc.
His state-of-the-art weaponry are known as Screamers; manmade killing devices programmed to eliminate all enemy life forms. Screamers travel underground; their intent to kill announced by earpiercing shrieks. They dissect their victims with sushi precision, then eradicate all traces of the carnage. They are lethal. Effective. Tidy.
And, somehow, they are mutating -- self-replicating into human form -- and slaughtering every beating heart on the planet.
Extras:
Scene Access
Feature Trailers
Closed Captioned
My Thoughts:
First time watching this and I thought it was one of the better sci-fi flicks I've seen. Peter Weller was great. This had excellent franchise potential but it took 15 years before a sequel appeared and although I haven't watched it yet, I hear it sucks. :thumbdown: Too bad really... I think this could have rivaled the Alien franchise.
KC
Rating:
Post by: KinkyCyborg on August 31, 2010, 05:25:07 AM
Title:The Departed (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 2006
Director: Martin Scorsese
Rating: 18A
Length: 151 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 2.40:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, French: Dolby Digital: 5.1, Spanish: Dolby Digital: 5.1
Subtitles: English, French, Spanish
Stars:
Leonardo DiCaprio
Matt Damon
Jack Nicholson
Mark Wahlberg
Martin Sheen
Plot:
Rookie cop Billy Costigan (Leonardo DiCaprio) grew up in crime. That makes him the perfect mole, the man on the inside of the mob run by boss Frank Costello (Jack Nicholson). It's his job to win Costello's trust and help his detective handlers (Mark Wahlberg and Martin Sheen) bring Costello down. Meanwhile, SIU officer Colin Sullivan (Matt Damon) has everyone's trust. No one suspects he's Costello's mole.
How these covert lives cross, double-cross and collide is at the ferocious core of the widely acclaimed 'The Departed'. Martin Scorcese directs, guiding a cast for the ages in a visceral tale of crime and consequences. This is searing, can't-look-away filmmaking: like staring into the eyes of a con - or a cop - with a gun.
Extras:
Scene Access
Feature Trailers
Closed Captioned
My Thoughts:
I was dragging my ass around work today because I stayed up about an hour later than I should have last night because once I started watching this, I couldn't stop. :thumbup:
Scorsese really outdid himself with this one. Intense drama, explosive violence and top notch performances across the board from an all-star cast... plus everyone dies! Moles on both sides, double crosses, and sweet revenge... How could you not love this movie?! Mark Wahlberg in particular was stellar in his role.
The only thing that rather surprised me was the inclusion of Anthony Anderson in the cast, albeit in a minor role. Not that I have anything against him, and I felt he did fine in his limited screen time but he just seemed out of place considering the goofball comedies and low rent action flicks I'm accustomed to seeing him in. He must have been just as surprised to find himself being asked to participate in a movie of this magnitude and I'm sure it'll rank high amongst his career achievements.
I'm so glad I decided to make every 10th movie one I get to pick. I feel stupid for waiting so long to watch a movie of such cinematic importance. :-[
KC
Rating:
Post by: Antares on August 31, 2010, 05:56:56 AM
Post by: Dragonfire on August 31, 2010, 09:16:13 AM
Post by: Achim on August 31, 2010, 11:31:38 AM
Post by: Najemikon on August 31, 2010, 07:20:47 PM
Post by: KinkyCyborg on September 02, 2010, 05:35:13 AM
Post by: Jimmy on September 02, 2010, 05:56:29 AM
But who knows maybe it is, since I haven't watch it yet :shrug:
This is the title screen does it look familliar to you Jon? :hmmmm:
(click to show/hide)
Post by: KinkyCyborg on September 02, 2010, 06:00:46 AM
I have one movie called Internal Affairs (http://www.iafd.com/title.rme/title=Internal+Affairs/year=1992/internal-affairs.htm) in my collection, but I doubt highly that it's the one that Jon talked about :headscratch:
But who knows maybe it is, since I haven't watch it yet :shrug:
There is another U.S. release by that name with Richard Gere and Andy Garcia but it is a completely different cop movie and story altogether. A decent movie in it's own right.
Post by: Jimmy on September 02, 2010, 06:02:49 AM
(click to show/hide)
Post by: KinkyCyborg on September 02, 2010, 06:08:09 AM
Post by: Jimmy on September 02, 2010, 06:20:25 AM
Post by: Najemikon on September 02, 2010, 05:14:42 PM
Just so everyone is on the same page, I'm talking about InFernal Affairs, awesome Hong Kong movie. Jimmy is talking about InTernal Affairs, awesome movie with boobies.
:P
Post by: KinkyCyborg on September 03, 2010, 02:47:32 AM
Title:Three Men and a Baby (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 1987
Director: Leonard Nimoy
Rating: PG
Length: 102 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 1.85:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 5.1
Subtitles: English, French, Spanish
Stars:
Tom Selleck
Steve Guttenberg
Ted Danson
Nancy Travis
Margaret Colin
Plot:
Take three of Hollywood's hottest starts (Tom Selleck, Steve Guttenberg, Ted Danson), add one adorable baby girl, and the result is the biggest, funniest comedy hits ever! Three handsome Manhattan bachelors find their dating and mating rituals irreparably damaged when an unexpected new roommate — complete with crib, pacifier, and dirty diaper—shows up on their doorstep. This bouncing bundle of joy is anything but joyous—until the trio's hilarious fathering instincts take over and she becomes "Daddy's Girl" to all three hunks. Blanketed with unexpected story twists and endless laughs, Three Men And A Baby delivers pure enchantment for all!
Extras:
Scene Access
Closed Captioned
My Thoughts:
It's hard to believe that these three guys were among the top leading men in the mid-80's given their relative obscurity now. This is a cute movie with some truly funny moments and some touching ones as well. Any parent can relate to how a baby can completely change your lives in ways you'd never think possible.
I've seen this movie before and probably didn't appreciate it as much the first time around as that was back before I had kids of my own. Great directing effort by everyone's favorite Vulcan, Leonard Nimoy. I'm glad I rediscovered this movie again. :)
KC
Rating:
Post by: Jimmy on September 03, 2010, 04:54:40 AM
Post by: KinkyCyborg on September 04, 2010, 05:21:07 AM
Post by: KinkyCyborg on September 04, 2010, 05:24:24 AM
Title:Chilly Dogs (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 2001
Director: Bob Spiers
Rating: PG-13
Length: 102 Min.
Video: Full Frame 1.33:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround
Subtitles: Spanish
Stars:
Skeet Ulrich
Natasha Henstridge
Leslie Nielsen
Rik Mayall
Lochlyn Munro
Plot:
When slacker Kevin Manley (Skeet Ulrich: Scream, As Good as it Gets) receives a letter from his long-lost grandfather telling him he has inherited land in Alaska, it seems to be the answer to his prayers for excitement and adventure. But there's a catch in order to claim the land, Kevin must first compete in the world's toughest dog sled race across the frozen tundra of Alaska. The wild and crazy adventure begins when Leslie Nielsen (Spy Hard, Naked Gun) and sexy Natasha Henstridge (Whole Nine Yards, Species) join the canine crew as they set out to win the most hilarious race ever!
Extras:
Scene Access
Production Notes
Closed Captioned
My Thoughts:
Yes, the movie is as silly and as dumb as the title would suggest. Some Canadian content here with Leslie Nielsen and Natasha Henstridge, plus Skeet Ulrich who must have been high when he agreed to sign on for this one.
This tries hard to be funny but fails miserably every time, with it's bathroom humor and cartoon sound effects. Simply terrible. :thumbdown:
KC
Rating:
Post by: KinkyCyborg on September 04, 2010, 05:07:21 PM
Title:Paradise Alley (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 1978
Director: Sylvester Stallone
Rating: PG
Length: 98 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 1.85:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: Mono
Subtitles:
Stars:
Sylvester Stallone
Lee Canalito
Armand Assante
Frank McRae
Anne Archer
Plot:
Sylvester Stallone is fighting the odds again, this time in the wrestling ring. As Cosmo Carboni, he and his two brothers dream of getting out of Hell's Kitchen (circa 1946) and into the big time. The exit signs point to Paradise Alley, a sleazy private club where the floorshow consists of raucous wrestling matches with big purses. Stallone not only starred in and wrote this action-packed film, he also made his directorial debut in this tale of three guys who could take anything Hell's Kitchen could dish out.
Extras:
Scene Access
My Thoughts:
Decent movie which was Sly's directorial debut and Armand Assante's first starring role. The 'Wop Talk' gets old fast but the story is strong. Interesting character development as Stallone and Assante's roles flip personnas by the end of the movie. Former real life professional heavyweight boxer Lee Canolito (retired with a 19-0 record!) I thought was impressive as Victor, the gentle giant who was in turns taken advantage of by both of his brothers.
I've always admired Anne Archer's graceful acting style through the years but I was rather disappointed with this early role of hers as she came off looking sleazy. ??? Wrestling fans should easily spot Terry Funk as the goon Frankie The Thumper.
KC
Rating:
Post by: Najemikon on September 04, 2010, 06:32:31 PM
Post by: KinkyCyborg on September 05, 2010, 02:30:00 AM
Post by: KinkyCyborg on September 05, 2010, 02:39:45 AM
Title:In Like Flint (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 1967
Director: Gordon Douglas
Rating: NR
Length: 115 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 2.35:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: Mono, French: Dolby Digital: Mono
Subtitles: English, Spanish
Stars:
James Coburn
Lee J. Cobb
Jean Hale
Andrew Duggan
Anna Lee
Plot:
007 is a great number. And Austin has his powers, but nobody is really "In Like Flint!" He's back, in the ultimate spy spoof, this time going head-to-head with a group of wealthy and powerful female tycoons who have discovered a way to brainwash women through beauty salon hairdryers! And if that's not enough, they then replace the President with their surgically reproduced clone as a part of their super-evil plan to take over the world. In this outrageous adventure where the bad guys are girls, Flint must infiltrate the women's secret lair - a lush and lavish tropical spa called Fabulous Face - before the gals wreak more havoc.
Extras:
Scene Access
Feature Trailers
Closed Captioned
My Thoughts:
Early spy spoof that was likely the inspiration for the Austin Powers franchise. Super cheesy with gangly James Coburn as Derrick Flint, spy extraordinaire! The fight sequences were laughable, the spy gadgets ridiculous and the women gorgeous but lacking any kind of depth. I guess perhaps that was the point! Silly but entertaining.
The highlight was in the bonus features where I found a trailer for a Racquel Welch movie called Fathom. Ohhh MAMA! Is she hot in this flick! :o I have to find this movie which will be challenge as it is OOP. :(
KC
Rating:
Post by: KinkyCyborg on September 05, 2010, 10:05:13 PM
Title:Kart Racer (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 2003
Director: Stuart Gillard
Rating: PG
Length: 93 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 1.85:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 5.1
Subtitles: English, French
Stars:
Johnny Griffin
Randy Quaid
Will Rothhaar
Jordan Conti
Steve Adams
Plot:
Strap on your seatbelt for one thrilling ride! Randy Quaid ('Independence Day') and Will Rothhaar ('Hearts in Atlantis') star in this triumphant tale of a working-class kid with an appetite for acceleration, a knack for trouble and the dream of being a champion!
Fledgling speed demon Watts Davies (Rothhaar) has always dreamed of competing in the high-adrenaline world of kart racing, but so far, the only speed record he's set is for scrapes with the law. His only hope for racing glory lies with his father (Quaid), whose own passion for the sport stalled after the death of Watts' mom. With an International Karting Federation heat fast approaching, Watts must find a way to get his dad on board to strive for victory...in record time!
Extras:
Scene Access
Feature Trailers
Featurettes
Closed Captioned
introduction to the film by Jeff Gordon
My Thoughts:
Days Of Thunder Jr. ::)
A family movie that is more of a promotional tool for NASCAR complete with an introduction from Jeff Gordon. It was decent with an inside look into the world of Go Cart racing. I thought Randy Quaid gave an excellent performance as the bitter father, still torn over the death of his wife who finally sees promise in his young son who only wants to follow in his fathers footsteps. I think it was the uniqueness of the role for him as we are used to seeing him in the zany comedies or as the psychopath criminal. He must have a passion for stock car racing given his role in the aforementioned Days Of Thunder and now this.
Worth a watch, but once is enough.
KC
Rating:
Post by: Antares on September 06, 2010, 12:50:07 AM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/02/024543042631f.jpg)My Thoughts:
Early spy spoof that was likely the inspiration for the Austin Powers franchise. Super cheesy with gangly James Coburn as Derrick Flint, spy extraordinaire! The fight sequences were laughable, the spy gadgets ridiculous and the women gorgeous but lacking any kind of depth. I guess perhaps that was the point! Silly but entertaining.
You really need to watch the first film, Our Man Flint, it's still campy, but a lot more fun than this sequel.
The highlight was in the bonus features where I found a trailer for a Racquel Welch movie called Fathom. Ohhh MAMA! Is she hot in this flick! :o I have to find this movie which will be challenge as it is OOP. :(
I wouldn't rush out to get this one, the film is pretty bad.
Post by: KinkyCyborg on September 06, 2010, 01:00:51 AM
Post by: Antares on September 06, 2010, 01:01:50 AM
Post by: KinkyCyborg on September 06, 2010, 01:04:00 AM
Post by: Antares on September 06, 2010, 01:06:41 AM
Post by: KinkyCyborg on September 06, 2010, 01:22:32 AM
Post by: hal9g on September 06, 2010, 01:24:06 AM
Post by: KinkyCyborg on September 06, 2010, 07:00:08 AM
Title:The Big White (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 2005
Director: Mark Mylod
Rating: 14A
Length: 105 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 1.85:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, English: DTS: 5.1, French: Dolby Digital: 5.1
Subtitles: French
Stars:
Robin Williams (1951)
Holly Hunter
Giovanni Ribisi
Tim Blake Nelson
W. Earl Brown
Plot:
So what's a nice guy with with good intentions but bad business sense to do? The answer lies frozen in a dumpster outside of Barnell Great Escapes - a dead body that Paul (Robin Williams) hopes to pass off as his long-lost brother, Raymond (Woody Harrelson), then collect his life insurance in order to help his beloved wife Margaret (Holly Hunter). Unfortunately, investigator Ted Watters (Giovanni Ribisi) and his girlfriend (Alison Lohman), are not about to let Barnell walk away with a million bucks. Adding to Paul's avalanche of problems are two aspiring hit men-turned-kidnappers (Tim Blake Nelson and W. Earl Brown) and the stunning return of the supposedly dead Raymond, who now has an axe to grind with his brother. Desperation is running high in the "big white," and if Paul is smart, he'll blow the snow, and take the money and run!
Extras:
Scene Access
Feature Trailers
Featurettes
Gallery
Closed Captioned
My Thoughts:
A great cast that was wasted on what was largely a bore of a movie. Holly Hunter was fun as the wife with Tourette Syndrome but the rest of the cast, especially Robin Williams, looked like they mailed it in on this one. :thumbdown:
KC
Rating:
Post by: Dragonfire on September 06, 2010, 10:15:20 AM
Post by: KinkyCyborg on September 06, 2010, 06:08:48 PM
Post by: KinkyCyborg on September 06, 2010, 06:14:42 PM
Title:Love Lies Bleeding (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 2007
Director: Keith Samples
Rating: 18A
Length: 94 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 2.35:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, French: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround
Subtitles: English, French
Stars:
Chris Ashworth
Josh Berry
Frank Bond
Gerard Brodin
Jeremy Burnell
Plot:
Money changes everything, at least that's what Duke and Amber would like to believe - especially after Duke, a hapless Iraq War vet (Brian Geraghty - I Know Who Killed Me), stumbles onto a drug deal turned deadly and finds a duffel bag stuffed with dirty money. After stopping for a quickie wedding, Duke abd Amber (Jenna Dewan - Take The Lead) hit the road to start the life they've always dreamed about. The dream quickly turns into a nightmare when Polen (Christian Slater - Bobby), a corrupt DEA agent, comes to reclaim what he believes is rightfully his. The chase begins with non-stop, hair-raising action as Duke and Amber are forced to outwit the increacingly crazed Pollen - and fight for their very lives.
Extras:
Scene Access
Feature Trailers
Deleted Scenes
DVD-ROM Content
Alternate Ending
My Thoughts:
Much better than I was expecting for a straight to video flick with Christian Slater, another who seems to be relegated to b-movie status.
Good action, great storyline and Slater is quite believable as a badass, crooked DEA agent. The ending left a couple of unanswered questions but not enough to detract from the overall experience. Worth a watch! :tv:
KC
Rating:
Post by: KinkyCyborg on September 06, 2010, 08:06:38 PM
Title:Harum Scarum (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 1965
Director: Gene Nelson
Rating: NR
Length: 85 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 1.85:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: Mono, French: Dolby Digital: Mono
Subtitles: English, French, Spanish
Stars:
Elvis Presley
Mary Ann Mobley
Fran Jeffries
Michael Ansara
Jay Novello
Plot:
"Go East, Young Man," sings show-biz star and martial arts wiz Johnny Tyronne. To hear is to obey. A clandestine group called the Assassins kidnaps Johnny and whisks him to a remote Arabian realm isolated from the world for 2,000 years.
Sheik meets desert chic when Elvis Presley plays Johnny and teams with former Miss America Mary Ann Mobley (Presley's Girl Happy co-star) in this tuneful frolic shot on the original 1925 Cecil B. DeMille set from King of Kings and directed by movie musical veteran Gene Nelson. The kidnappers want Johnny to use his fighting finesse to kill a desert king. Johnny a hitman? No, he's a hit, man, a top singer of songs like Kismet, Harem Holiday and nine more, all part of the jammin.' swashbucklin' fun of Harum Scarum.
Extras:
Scene Access
Feature Trailers
Closed Captioned
My Thoughts:
Three out of my next four reviews are going to be Elvis movies as I randomly selected an Elvis triple feature. First up... Harum Scarum.
I sure hope they get better. ::) Not that his movies were ever very good but this one is quite terrible. He sings the majority of his lines and most of the songs were created just to fit the movie and they are among some of the worst he has ever sang. The acting is poor and the story is ridiculous... full of blatant cultural inaccuracies.
The one consistently good thing about his movies are the scads of good looking women he tends to surround himself with. ;)
KC
Rating:
Post by: KinkyCyborg on September 07, 2010, 03:00:27 AM
Title:Speedway (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 1968
Director: Norman Taurog
Rating: NR
Length: 94 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 2.40:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: Mono, French: Dolby Digital: Mono
Subtitles: Chinese, English, French, Korean, Portuguese, Spanish, Other
Stars:
Elvis Presley
Nancy Sinatra
Bill Bixby
Gale Gordon
William Schallert
Plot:
He races. She chases. Yet love and laughter find a way when "World 600" stock car driver Elvis meets Internal Revenue Service collection agent Nancy Sinatra in Speedway. "There Ain't Nothing like a Song," pedal-to-the-metal Elvis and go-go-booted Nancy sing. For the first time since he and Ann-Margret proclaimed 'Viva Las Vegas', Presley pairs with a high-octane singing, dancing leading lady. Bill Bixby is the manager who mismanages Presley into a $145,000 jam with the IRS and laughs are further fueled by veteran TV funnymen Gale Gordon ('The Lucy Show') and Carl Ballantine ('McHale's Navy'). The supersonic songlist includes 'Let Yourself Go', 'Your Time Hasn't Come Yet', 'Baby' and 'Your Groovy Self'. Have a groovy time!
Extras:
Scene Access
Feature Trailers
Closed Captioned
My Thoughts:
Days Of Thunder The Musical... :laugh:
Much better than Harum Scarum all around. Better music, better story and better acting. Bill Bixby was a hoot as The King's racing manager. They also figured out how to make Elvis's cheesy songs sound better... they got Nancy Sinatra to sing! Yeeesh! The only thing worse than her singing was her dancing. It was like watching a medical show on Cerebral Palsy set to snappy music. ??? At least Elvis had some moves.
I've noticed a common theme with Elvis movies and that is the inclusion of young children. He always has a singing number just for them and you can see through his acting and tell that he genuinely loved working with the kids which I think is great. :)
My next one I get to pick before I watch the final Elvis movie... I wonder what it will be...
KC
Rating:
Post by: Antares on September 07, 2010, 05:21:15 AM
I'd rather have 12 inch needles stuck into my eyes. :devil:
Post by: KinkyCyborg on September 07, 2010, 05:28:01 AM
Post by: Antares on September 07, 2010, 05:31:12 AM
Post by: Najemikon on September 07, 2010, 05:30:11 PM
Post by: KinkyCyborg on September 08, 2010, 01:35:05 AM
KC
Post by: KinkyCyborg on September 08, 2010, 01:36:34 AM
Last month TCM did a month of one day marathons starring one particular actor. Towards the end, they did 24 hours of Elvis, it was awful. No wonder he ate drugs like candy.
My dad loves those TCM marathons with John Wayne all day, all night, all the time being his favorite. Drives my mom nuts. :hysterical:
Post by: KinkyCyborg on September 08, 2010, 01:51:41 AM
Title:2012 (http://www.invelos.com/images/BluRayLogo.png)(http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 2009
Director: Roland Emmerich
Rating: PG-13
Length: 158 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 2.40:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, French: Dolby Digital: 5.1, Audio Descriptive: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround, Commentary: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround
Subtitles: English, French
Stars:
John Cusack
Amanda Peet
Chiwetel Ejiofor
Thandie Newton
Oliver Platt
Plot:
From Roland Emmerich, director of The Day After Tomorrow and Independence Day, comes the ultimate action-adventure movie, exploding with groundbreaking special effects. As the world faces a catastrophe of apocalyptic proportions, cities collapse and continents crumble. 2012 brings an end to the world and tells of the heroic struggle of the survivors.
Starring John Cusack, Chiwetel Ejiofor, Amanda Peet, Danny Glover and Woody Harrelson.
Extras:
Scene Access
Audio Commentary
Bonus Trailers
Deleted Scenes
Featurettes
Music Videos
My Thoughts:
Kiss your ass goodbye! :help:
Given that I am in the midst of a mini Elvis marathon, which most of his movies were disasters I thought I would keep with that theme and watch 2012... a movie about a disaster. ;)
Well... I know where I want to be when the world is ending... wherever John Cusack is because apparently he is the luckiest sumbitch on the entire planet!
Great action, superb effects, beautiful destruction, but after awhile I started to feel like I was watching the 5th installment of the Final Destination franchise as Cusack and his family cheat death by mere nanoseconds for a good hour and half straight. I'm sure even die hard action junkies were groaning 'Awww, c'mon...' Somebody please tell Roland Emmerich that reality does not have to be sacrificed in order to achieve thrills.
What is scary is that a good deal of this vision of Armageddon could potentially happen. I don't buy into any of that Mayan calender crap but the massive quakes, California sinking into the Pacific Ocean, monstrous tsunamis... gonna happen some day. I just hope I am long gone before it does. ???
I enjoyed this and I think it has great rewatchability. :)
KC
Rating:
Post by: Rogmeister on September 08, 2010, 02:53:34 AM
Post by: Dragonfire on September 08, 2010, 07:35:49 AM
Post by: Najemikon on September 08, 2010, 05:31:43 PM
Yes, I must admit that I do like him as a singer and entertainer. I grew up on country and oldies music and Elvis was always a favorite in out home. :dance: His movies however are a bit lacking as he rarely sang any of his big hits in them save for perhaps Jailhouse Rock and Flaming Star... the rest of the music was often whipped up to cater to the scenes of the movie and basically amounted to him singing his dialogue. Still, they make for an interesting character study.
KC
Ah, right. Yeah, that's how I am. I was just wondering if you were watching the movies just to review them or you actually had at least a passing interest in him.
Post by: KinkyCyborg on September 08, 2010, 10:59:59 PM
Title:The Trouble with Girls (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 1969
Director:
Rating: G
Length: 99 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 1.85:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: Mono, French: Dolby Digital: Mono
Subtitles: English, French, Spanish
Stars:
Elvis Presley
Marlyn Mason
Nicole Jaffe
Sheree North
Edward Andrews
Plot:
It's like a carnival midway and a week at some highfalutin, East Coast college all in one. The Chautauqua, a traveling 1927 tent show, has come to Radford Center, Iowa. And so has a heap of trouble. In a change-of-pace role, Elvis Presley portrays Walter Hale, the white-suited impresario overseeing the Chautauqua’s novelty acts, lectures and close harmonies. The supporting cast is as colorful as the film's vibrant Americana. Vincent Price's Mr. Morality holds forth on immorality. John Carradine appears as a nimble-minded Shakespearean actor. Marlyn Mason, Joyce Van Patten, Sheree North, Edward Andrews and Dabney Coleman also star. And Elvis sings as only he can, from the tender ballad Almost to the rousing traditional Swing Low Sweet Chariot and the untraditional rouser Clean Up Your Own Backyard.
Extras:
Scene Access
Closed Captioned
My Thoughts:
Last entry in my Elvis trilogy. Quite a confusing movie that had some great individual performances but in the end I'm left asking myself what was the point and what did the title have to do with the story??!
Some noticeable differences from the other 2 movies I watched. Elvis did much less singing in this one. It was almost 40 minutes into the film before he sang his first song but it was one of his rocking gospel numbers and it was top notch. His only other main singing performance was near the end of the movie and it was also one of the best songs he sang in all three movies.
Another interesting thing I noticed was that he surrounded himself with gorgeous women in the first two movies but in this one his love interest was quite the plain jane. I'm almost led to believe that this was an attempt at a semi-serious movie in order to avoid being typecast as a rocking crooner who makes bad movies. Noble, but in the end it failed.
Vincent Price made a brief but memorable appearance in this one as Mr. Morality, a carnival philosopher who preached about the sin in us all. I've never been a huge Price fan but I thought he was rather prominent and regal in his cameo.
I went into these Elvis movies expecting little... almost turning it into a case study. I think there were positives to be taken from his films but they will always be overshadowed by the tacky productions and the almost compulsive need to have him sing at every opportunity. I have quite a few more unwatched Elvis movies in my collection but I'm in no particular hurry to watch them.
KC
Rating:
Post by: Jimmy on September 08, 2010, 11:14:13 PM
I've never been a huge Price fan but I thought he was rather prominent and regal in his cameo.:o
and you don't even talk about the performance of the great John Carradine :(
Post by: KinkyCyborg on September 09, 2010, 02:59:09 AM
Post by: KinkyCyborg on September 09, 2010, 03:02:42 AM
Title:Teenage Caveman (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 2002
Director: Larry Clark
Rating: R
Length: 100 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 1.85:1, Pan & Scan 1.33:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 5.1
Subtitles: Chinese, English, French, Korean, Portuguese, Spanish, Thai
Stars:
Andrew Keegan
Tara Subkoff
Richard Hillman
Tiffany Limos
Stephen Jasso
Plot:
Teenage Caveman is a stylishly radical sci-fi thriller starring an impressive cast of up-and-coming actors including Andrew Keegan (O, The Broken Hearts Club: A Romantic Comedy), Tara Subkoff (The Cell, The Last Days of Disco) and Richard Hillman (Detroit Rock City, Bring it On). Controversial director Larry Clark (Kids, Bully) and writer Christos Gag (The Breed) take the horror genre to brave new places with this very original film featuring terrifying special effects. Get ready for a wild unconventional ride into a prehistoric future that you'll never forget!
David (Keegan) is frustrated with the repressive laws of his cave-dwelling tribe. Restless, stubborn and defiant, his attitude problem turns deadly when he is forced to kill the tribe leader, his father, to protect his girlfriend. Now, banished to the dangerous and unexplored zone outside their cave, he and five of his teenage friends quickly discover the "old" world they only dreamed about has evolved without them - into a complex, seductive and ultimately terrifying nightmare beyond their wildest imagination!
Extras:
Scene Access
Feature Trailers
Featurettes
Gallery
Production Notes
Closed Captioned
My Thoughts:
Complete trash. I tried very hard to find something I liked about this movie and came up empty. :suicide:
KC
Rating:
Post by: Jimmy on September 09, 2010, 03:06:49 AM
BTW if you haven't see them try them, I highly recommand those 2 ;D
Post by: KinkyCyborg on September 09, 2010, 03:13:57 AM
Post by: KinkyCyborg on September 10, 2010, 04:05:08 AM
Title:Heathers (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 1989
Director: Michael Lehmann
Rating: R
Length: 103 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 1.85:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, English: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround, Commentary: Dolby Digital: Mono
Subtitles:
Stars:
Winona Ryder
Christian Slater
Shannen Doherty
Lisanne Falk
Kim Walker
Plot:
Welcome to Westerburg High, where Veronica Sawyer (Winona Ryder) is beginning to tire of her membership in the powerful yet cruel clique of 'Heathers'. When Veronica falls for the mysterious new kid Jason Dean (Christian Slater), their dislike for the Heathers quickly escalates into a savage cycle of murder, suicide and Slushies. Now that her teenage angst has a body count, are Veronica and JD headed for the prom or hell?
Shannen Doherty co-stars in one of the greatest black comedies of all time, now better than ever and loaded with awesome extras. What's your damage? This is HEATHERS like you've never seen or heard it before!
Extras:
Scene Access
Audio Commentary
Feature Trailers
Featurettes
Production Notes
Closed Captioned
THX
Screenplay Excerpt: Original Ending, Booklet
My Thoughts:
I was sure I had watched this movie years ago... I mean who hasn't seen Heathers? After it was over I realized this was my first viewing.
Well, it certainly wasn't shy when it came to making a statement. In fact, it's easy to see why this became a cult classic... they made fun of teenage suicide! What better way to get people's attention!!
It started to get a little too silly for my liking after awhile and I thought to myself what kind of movie would it have been had they removed all the comedy elements and made this a serious movie about teenage angst? I think the impact may have been greater than it already was.
Christian Slater was quite the young pup and I get the feeling he was somewhat emulating Jack Nicholson... perhaps without even realizing it.
Wynona Ryder gave a performance that was quite similar to other roles she had around that time... slightly goth, sharp tongued and with a smart ass opinion about everything. Truly, nobody did it better than she did and I kind of miss that from her out of the meager performances we've seen from her lately.
The comedic spin on such a morbid subject was likely groundbreaking, even by late 80's standards. Nowadays nothing is taboo or sacred when it comes to film making. Brokeback Mountain was probably the last film to raise eyebrows. ???
KC
Rating:
Post by: KinkyCyborg on September 12, 2010, 01:06:01 AM
Title:Dexter: The First Season (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 2006
Director: 1. DexterMichael Cuesta, 2. CrocodileMichael Cuesta, 3. Popping CherryMichael Cuesta, 4. Let's Give the Boy a HandRobert Lieberman, 5. Love American StyleRobert Lieberman, 6. Return to SenderTony Goldwyn, 7. Circle of FriendsSteve Shill, 8. Shrink WrapTony Goldwyn, 9. Father Knows BestAdam Davidson, 10. Seeing RedMichael Cuesta, 11. Truth Be ToldKeith Gordon, 12. Born FreeMichael Cuesta
Rating: NR
Length: 652 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 1.78:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround, English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, Spanish: Dolby Digital: Mono, Commentary: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo
Subtitles:
Stars:
1. DexterMichael C. Hall
Julie Benz
Jennifer Carpenter
Erik King
Plot:
Led by an amazing performance by Emmy®-nominated actor Michael C. Hall (Six Feet Under), Dexter is one of the most critically acclaimed, must-see television shows of the year! Like no other crime drama you've seen before, this horrifying and intoxicating DVD includes all 12 riveting Season One episodes and a host of delightfully twisted special features.
Episodes:
1. Dexter
2. Crocodile
3. Popping Cherry
4. Let's Give the Boy a Hand
5. Love American Style
6. Return to Sender
7. Circle of Friends
8. Shrink Wrap
9. Father Knows Best
10. Seeing Red
11. Truth Be Told
12. Born Free
Extras:
Audio Commentary
Feature Trailers
Featurettes
Production Notes
DVD-ROM Content
Closed Captioned
2 episodes of Showtime's "Brotherhood"
My Thoughts:
The wife and I finished this off this morning and are eager to start watching season 2.
Having already been a fan of Michael C. Hall from Six Feet Under, he has elevated his game immensely. He is a chameleon that can seamlessly slide into any role and have it fit like a glove. I'm a bit surprised that he hasn't appeared in more Hollywood productions but given the current success of Dexter I can see why he'd be in no particular rush to do movies and I'm sure the offers are forthcoming.
It was great to see some OZ alumni in this one... David Zayas and Lauren Velez are major players in this series and have been top notch. C.S. Lee as Masuka is a hoot and provides some comic relief.
A couple of characters I'm not so stuck on... Erik King as Doakes. Way over the top and seriously annoying. I can already see where season 2 is going to be heading with Doakes suspicions of Dexter.
Jennifer Carpenter, Hall's real life wife, plays Dexter's cop sister and she kinda irks me. It's likely because of the weird expressions she makes with her mouth. I know it seems shallow to knock an actor/actress simply based on a physical trait but it just rubs me the wrong way. :?
This is my first Showtime series and I have to say, even though it is definitely not tv for kids, it comes across as being the watered down, second fiddle to HBO. Yeah, there's lots of blood and nudity but it lacks the brutality of the Sopranos or OZ. I thought they would show more during the kill scenes, but the camera turns away at the crucial moments. It shows a lack of balls by the show's creators and greatly reduced the WOW factor that I was expecting from the series.
Still, it has been highly entertaining and I'm curious to see how Dexter evolves as he continues on his quest of self-discovery.
:clap:
KC
Rating:
Post by: goodguy on September 12, 2010, 02:06:50 AM
Jennifer Carpenter, Hall's real life wife, plays Dexter's cop sister and she kinda irks me. It's likely because of the weird expressions she makes with her mouth. I know it seems shallow to knock an actor/actress simply based on a physical trait but it just rubs me the wrong way. :?
I mentioned it a few times already, but I completely adore Jennifer Carpenter in this role, especially in the first season. Didn't know the tidbit about Hall and her being married. I'm jealous now.
Post by: KinkyCyborg on September 12, 2010, 05:34:57 PM
Post by: KinkyCyborg on September 12, 2010, 05:48:47 PM
Title:Firewalker (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 1986
Director: J. Lee Thompson
Rating: PG
Length: 105 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 1.85:1, Pan & Scan 1.33:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround
Subtitles: English, French, Spanish
Stars:
Chuck Norris
Louis Gossett, Jr.
Melody Anderson
Will Sampson
Sonny Landham
Plot:
This smashing, no-holds-barred adventure stars action legend Chuck Norris (Missing in Action) and Oscar® winner* Lou Gossett (An Officer and a Gentleman) as a pair of treasure-hunters with a knack for finding danger at every turn!
After a long career of mishaps, wrong turns and utter failures, archaeological adventurers Max and Leo (Norris and Gossett) are ready to cal it quits...until a spunky blonde beauty with an ancient treasure map hires them to guide her into Central America to find Aztec gold. But as they draw closer to the priceless bounty, they are unaware that a powerful, vengeful spirit is tracking their every move and will stop at nothing to protect the sacred treasure!
*1982: Supporting Actor, An Officer and a Gentleman
Extras:
Scene Access
Closed Captioned
My Thoughts:
Much like the Allan Quartermain movies did this one also tried to cash in on the success of the Indiana Jones movies. Another adventure quest in search for mythical treasure.
It wasn't a bad movie... some entertaining bits between the mismatched pair of Chuck Norris and Lou Gosset Jr. They just couldn't resist showing the trademark slo-mo roundhouse kick that is in all of Norris' films.
I've always liked Sonny Landham but I'm sure if you asked him he'd tell you he felt quite foolish hamming it up as the big Indian antagonist.
Melody Anderson who played the female lead gave a forgettable performance. I hate it when they pick a chick who is perfect beautiful thinking that will make up for a lack of acting skill. :thumbdown:
Good way to waste 90 minutes as long as you aren't expecting much.
KC
Rating:
Post by: Dragonfire on September 13, 2010, 04:17:05 AM
Oh..and Dexter's sister annoyed me too when I watched the first season. I don't hate her or anything...but I find it hard to like her. Maybe I'll feel differently once I watch more of the show.
Post by: goodguy on September 13, 2010, 04:35:25 AM
Oh..and Dexter's sister annoyed me too when I watched the first season. I don't hate her or anything...but I find it hard to like her. Maybe I'll feel differently once I watch more of the show.
I remember. Well, I've been on record here for a while for liking supposedly unlikable characters. Debra, Rachel, Scarlett... I wonder what Karsten thinks who just speed-watched the four seasons of Dexter.
Post by: Najemikon on September 13, 2010, 01:14:26 PM
Post by: Achim on September 13, 2010, 02:27:35 PM
Makes you wonder what else she can do!Yeah, I never saw her cook :-X
Post by: KinkyCyborg on September 14, 2010, 01:08:26 AM
Title:Vantage Point (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 2008
Director: Pete Travis
Rating: PG-13
Length: 90 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 2.40:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, French: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround, Spanish: Dolby Digital: 5.1, Portuguese: Dolby Digital: 5.1, Thai: Dolby Digital: 5.1, Commentary: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo
Subtitles: Chinese, English, French, Korean, Portuguese, Spanish, Thai
Stars:
Dennis Quaid
Matthew Fox
Forest Whitaker
Bruce McGill
Edgar Ramirez
Plot:
During an historic counter-terrorism summit in Spain, the President of the United States is struck down by an assassin's bullet. Eight strangers have a perfect view of the kill, but what did they really see? As the minutes leading up to the fatal shot are replayed through the eyes of each eyewitness, the reality of the assassination takes shape. But just when you think you know the answer, the shattering final truth is revealed. VANTAGE POINT is a mindbending political action-thriller starring Dennis Quaid, Matthew Fox, Academy Award® Winner Forest Whitaker (Best Actor 2006, The Last King of Scotland), with Sigourney Weaver and Academy Award® winner William Hurt (Best Actor 1985, Kiss of the Spider Woman).
Extras:
Scene Access
Feature Trailers
Featurettes
Interviews
Outtakes/Bloopers
Closed Captioned
My Thoughts:
Great movie! Couldn't believe it was over so quick.
An assassination attempt as seen from 8 different points of view, hence the title. Seeing the event repeated over and over again got to be a little tedious after awhile but it was necessary to put the pieces together and made for a great climax. One of the best car chase scenes I've seen in a movie in a long while.
And to think I had this one in bluray and traded it away! ::)
KC
Rating:
Post by: KinkyCyborg on September 14, 2010, 03:22:24 AM
Title:Nine Lives (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 2001
Director: Andrew Green
Rating: R
Length: 85 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 1.85:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo
Subtitles: English
Stars:
Rosie Fellner
Vivienne Harvey
Paris Hilton
Patrick Kennedy
David Leitch
Plot:
Nine friends seclude themselves in an old, isolated Scottish mansion for a birthday party weekend bash. Cut off from the outside world by a snowstorm, they explore the old mansion and stumble across a book containing a history of the old estate. Formerly belonging to an old Scott patriot, the house was taken away and his eyes were gouged out. Though they pay no attention to the gruesome chronicle, strange behavior soon invades the group and one by one they disappear.
Extras:
Scene Access
Feature Trailers
Featurettes
Closed Captioned
My Thoughts:
A terrible script, for a terrible movie with a terrible cast headlined by a terrible person, Paris Hilton.
Have I mentioned before how much I despise Paris Hilton? The highlight of this movie was that she was the first one killed off which raised a raucous cheer out of me! :yahoo: The rest of the movie was a shambles of bad acting and ridiculous dialogue which seemed more like improvisation and ad lib.
The title might have said Nine Lives but this movie will never get more than this one viewing out of me.
KC
Rating:
Post by: Jimmy on September 14, 2010, 05:18:35 AM
Paris Hilton's My New BFF (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1292967/)
God that show is stupid... even more than Jersey Shore and the one where Brett Michaels search a girlfriend :yucky:
Post by: KinkyCyborg on September 15, 2010, 02:16:32 AM
I find Bret Michaels kind of amusing after seeing him on The Celebrity Apprentice but I don't know if I'd like his Rock Of Live. :headscratch:
Post by: KinkyCyborg on September 15, 2010, 02:17:54 AM
Title:Labyrinth (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 1986
Director: Jim Henson
Rating: PG
Length: 101 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 2.35:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround
Subtitles: English, Spanish
Stars:
David Bowie
Jennifer Connelly
Toby Froud
Shelley Thompson
Christopher Malcolm
Plot:
Journey into the fantastical world of LABYRINTH, starring David Bowie and a cast of incredible creatures created by Jim Henson and produced by the Master of Myth George Lucas!
Frustrated with baby-sitting on yet another weekend night, Sarah – a teenager with an active imagination – summons the Goblins from her favorite book, "Labyrinth," to take her baby step-brother away. When little Toby actually disappears, Sarah must follow him into the world of the fairy tale to rescue him from the wicked Goblin King (Bowie)!
Guarding his castle is The Labyrinth itself – a twisted maze of deception, populated with outrageous characters and unknown dangers. To get through it in time to save Toby, Sarah will have to outwit the King by befriending the very Goblins who protect him, in hopes that their loyalty isn't just another illusion in a place where nothing is as it seems!
Extras:
Scene Access
Feature Trailers
Featurettes
Production Notes
Closed Captioned
6-Page Booklet
My Thoughts:
A classic! Jim Henson magic at it's finest. This has always been my favorite David Bowie performance. He blends his music into his role perfectly and is deliciously evil. A cute Jennifer Connelly, on the brink of being breathtakingly gorgeous, takes us on a magical quest born of her imagination. Only Jim Henson could make his muppets looks so ugly and yet be so endearing, often delivering performances that make them more believable than those of their human acting counterparts.
My daughter made it through about half of this movie before she fell asleep, asking me every 5 minutes if they were going to save the baby boy. I'll have to put the rest of it back on for her tomorrow. :)
KC
Rating:
Post by: Dragonfire on September 15, 2010, 02:18:12 AM
Post by: Jimmy on September 15, 2010, 02:40:47 AM
(http://img38.imagefra.me/img/img38/7/9/14/aesp_pres/f_gods8onr6klm_39b6fef.jpg) (http://img38.imagefra.me/img/img38/7/9/14/aesp_pres/f_gods8onr6klm_aab472f.jpg)
Post by: Dragonfire on September 15, 2010, 02:56:26 AM
Post by: KinkyCyborg on September 17, 2010, 12:31:15 AM
Title:Vanishing Point (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 1996
Director: Charles Robert Carner
Rating: NR
Length: 96 Min.
Video: Full Frame 1.33:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo
Subtitles:
Stars:
Viggo Mortensen
Christine Elise
Steve Railsback
Rodney A. Grant
Peter Murnik
Plot:
Viggo Mortensen stars as Jimmy Kowalski, s Dersert Storm veteran with racing in his blood, dark secrets in his past, a pregnant wife at home, and a vintage 1970 Dodge Hemi Challenger to deliver. But when his wife is suddenly hospitalized, a desperate Kowalski speeds cross-country with police from four states, a vengeful trooper [Steve Railsback of HELTER SKELTER and ED GEIN], and the FBI in hot pursuit. Now with the help of an outspoken radio DJ [Jason Priestley], the man a nation hails "as the last American hero" and the Feds label a "possible terrorist" rockets toward a final roadblock where the speed limit is the floorband, and life, death and freedom all come together at the VANISHING POINT.
Christine Elise [ER], Keith David [ARMAGEDDON] and Peta Wilson [LA FEMME NIKITA] co-star in this explosive Fox-TV remake of the legendary cult classic that fabs call "the ultimate car chase movie"!
Extras:
Feature Trailers
My Thoughts:
Made for TV remake of the 71' classic with Barry Newman. This time around Viggo Mortensen takes the wheel as Kowalski.
I thought this was very good for a TV movie, despite Jason Priestley's presence. :voodoo: Certainly they provided the high octane excitement expected from a car chase movie and likely spent as much on budget as could be expected for a movie of this ilk. Viggo's performance was so good you almost felt as you were watching a Hollywood production meant for a theatrical release.
A must see for fans of muscle cars (my cousin Tony restores them... has a Dodge Super B right now!). It's been quite a few years since I watched the original... it's time for another viewing if not just for comparison purposes. :thumbup:
KC
Rating:
Post by: Rogmeister on September 17, 2010, 01:30:45 AM
Post by: KinkyCyborg on September 17, 2010, 01:43:30 AM
Looks like she's still quite active in TV.
Post by: KinkyCyborg on September 18, 2010, 06:21:12 PM
Title:Baby Mama (http://www.invelos.com/images/BluRayLogo.png)(http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 2008
Director: Michael McCullers
Rating: PG-13
Length: 99 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 1.85:1, Pan & Scan 1.33:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, Spanish: Dolby Digital: 5.1, French: Dolby Digital: 5.1, Commentary: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo
Subtitles: English, French, Spanish
Stars:
Amy Poehler
Tina Fey
Greg Kinnear
Dax Shepard
Romany Malco
Plot:
Comedic geniuses Tina Fey (30 Rock, Saturday Night Live) and Amy Poehler (Saturday Night Live) team up to celebrate a modern twist on motherhood!
Kate (Fey) is a single, successful career woman who wants something more: a baby. But she gets more than she bargained for when she hires Angie (Poehler), a free spirit from South Philly, to be her surrogate in a hysterical mama match-up. From birth class to baby-proofing, they're the ultimate odd couple that critics are calling "the best female comedy duo since Lucy and Ethel" (Claudia Puig, USA Today).
With hilarious performances from an all-star cast featuring Greg Kinnear, Dax Shepard, and Sigourney Weaver, Baby Mama is as full of laughs as it is heart!
Extras:
Scene Access
Audio Commentary
Feature Trailers
Deleted Scenes
Featurettes
My Thoughts:
High powered exec incapable of having kids hires white trailer trash girl to be her surrogate.
Quite a few more laughs than I was expecting. Tina Fey is great and her star is continuing to rise. Amy Poehler surprised me as I never cared for her much on SNL, finding her to be one of the least funny cast members in their history, but she pulled off this role quite well with some of the funniest moments to her credit.
Strong supporting cast as well with Steve Martin, Sigourney Weaver, Greg Kinnear and Dax Shpperd. Lorne Michaels has produced some real dogs with his SNL alumni but I think he did all right with this one.
KC
Rating:
Post by: Rogmeister on September 18, 2010, 06:27:50 PM
Post by: KinkyCyborg on September 19, 2010, 03:21:00 AM
Title:Flags of Our Fathers (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 2006
Director: Clint Eastwood
Rating: R
Length: 132 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 2.35:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, English: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround, French: Dolby Digital: 5.1
Subtitles: English, Spanish
Stars:
Ryan Phillippe
Jesse Bradford
Adam Beach
John Benjamin Hickey
John Slattery
Plot:
For 70,000 marines who fought with bombs blasting and guns blazing, the bloody battle for Iwo Jima was more than a turning point of World War II; it was the defining moment in their lives. In the epic that 'The New York Times' calls "a sweeping spectacle," Academy Award®-winning director Clint Eastwood taps into the single greatest emotional truth of warfare: soldiers may fight for their country, but they die for their friends. Hailed by critics as "a film of awesome power and blistering provocation, an amazing feat" (Peter Travers, 'Rolling Stone'), 'Flags of Our Fathers' is a powerful true story of heroism and bravery that should be shared and remembered.
Extras:
Closed Captioned
My Thoughts:
Companion piece to Letters From Iwo Jima from Clint Eastwood.
This movie was ok, but had some warts and had it been released independently it would have received better reviews from the critics, but as it was it and LFIJ released at the same time and so were inevitably compared to one another. Letters From Iwo Jima was far superior to Flags Of Our Fathers on all levels.
There was no continuity to Flags... jumping all over the place from war time, to current day to post war. I was hoping to see and quite frankly was expecting to see some sustained battle sequences and while they were good they were too short lived. LFIJ focused on the epic battle for Suribachi Mountain and all it's horrors as seen through the eyes of the Japanese soldiers and it was masterful where FOOF focused on the famous picture of the flag raising and the deceit surrounding it as the image was used to play on the emotions of the American citizens to cough up billions of dollars in War Bonds. All I can say is that if it was Eastwood's attempt with these two films to glorify the honor and bravery of the Japanese and bash the integrity of the American military heads and U.S. government he succeeded. ???
Another disappointment with this movie was the performance of Adam Beach, whom I've liked in every other role I've seen him in but in this one I thought he was terrible. His turn as the drunken Native American soldier Ira Hayes was woefully overplayed and rather embarrassing. I think the guilt and shame his character felt could have been conveyed without looking so pathetic.
One of the things I did like was spotting the common footage between the two films. You could almost follow the time line of the battle from both sides.
Again, the movie was ok and enlightened some on the background of an iconic photograph of WWII, but I think this is one of Clint's poorest efforts to date and that surprises me, especially in contrast to Letters From Iwo Jima which was outstanding. The critics definitely got it right in regards to these two films.
KC
Rating:
Post by: KinkyCyborg on September 21, 2010, 02:40:16 AM
Title:Spartacus (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 2004
Director: Robert Dornhelm
Rating: NR
Length: 177 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 1.78:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, French: Dolby Digital: 5.1, Spanish: Dolby Digital: 5.1
Subtitles: English, French
Stars:
Goran Visnjic
Alan Bates
Angus MacFadyen
Rhona Mitra
Ian McNeice
Plot:
In 72 B.C. the Roman Empire swept through Europe, conquering countries and selling their citizens into slavery. One slave dared to take a stand: Spartacus. After witnessing his father's brutal murder and being sold into slavery, Spartacus (Goran Visnjic) vows to one day live as a free man. Leading 80 fellow slaves in a coordinated revolt, Spartacus and his men flee into the mountains. Alarmed by the growing slave insurrection, Roman politicians and generals vow to stop Spartacus at all costs. In the final battle of slaves versus Romans, Spartacus' epic fight for freedom becomes the stuff of legend.
Extras:
Scene Access
Deleted Scenes
My Thoughts:
Made for TV remake that exceeded my expectations!
This was the very first DVD I ever received after joining SwitchPlanet and I remember being pissed off when I got it because the user who sent it listed it as the 1960 version with Kirk Douglas so I sent them a snarky message and left neutral feedback. As it turns out it was a pretty good pickup!
A two part mini-series that lasted about 3 hours long, it starred Goran Visnjic in the title role and I thought he was quite good. Also to my delight Rhona Mitra, who got me slobbering after seeing her in Doomsday, starred as the love interest in what was a softer role for her but she was pure eye candy. ;)
The fight sequences were all well choreographed and was much more graphic than I was expecting. Good sustained action throughout and captivating for fans of Roman lore (my son will love this movie).
Angus Macfayden, whom I almost didn't recognize was also a standout as the slimy senator intent on the death of Spartacus to further his own political clout.
The Kubrick version will always be my favorite telling of the story but I would definitely watch this version again. :thumbup:
KC
Rating:
Post by: KinkyCyborg on September 21, 2010, 08:48:30 PM
Title:Necessary Roughness (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 1991
Director: Stan Dragoti
Rating: PG-13
Length: 108 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 1.78:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, English: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround, French: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround
Subtitles: English
Stars:
Scott Bakula
Hector Elizondo
Robert Loggia
Harley Jane Kozak
Larry Miller
Plot:
THE TEXAS STATE ARMADILLOS are fourth down and nowhere-to-go after a corruption scandal nearly ends the football program. Now upstanding coach Ed Dennaro (Hector Elizondo) must put together a brand new team.
For the position of quarterback Gennaro recruits Paul Blake (Scott Bakula, 'Quantum Leap'), a 34-year-old former high school star whose field of dreams turned out to be the family farm. Blake still has the arm, but can he score with a team that includes a samurai lineman, a butterfingered receiver, and a Samoan strongman with eyes for the place-kicker (Kathy Ireland)?
Extras:
Scene Access
Closed Captioned
My Thoughts:
A favorite comedy of mine and even after a half dozen viewings now the laughs still hold up.
There have been a lot of misfit sports comedies in the past but this one sustains the laughs from start to finish. Larry Miller as the conniving school dean is a scene stealer! :laugh:
This is one of those movies I throw in when I want some laughs and it delivers every time. :)
KC
Rating:
Post by: KinkyCyborg on September 25, 2010, 01:47:26 AM
Title:The Kill Point (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 2007
Director: Episode 1 - Another TourSteve Shill, Episode 2 - Who's Afraid of Mr. WolfSteve Shill, Episode 3 - No MeringueSteve Shill, Episode 4 - Pro PatriaSteve Shill, Episode 5 - Visiting HoursSteve Shill, Episode 6 - Great Ape EscapeSteve Shill, Episode 7 - Rabbit At UnrestSteve Shill, Episode 8 - The Devil's ZooSteve Shill
Rating: NR
Length: 342 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 1.78:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 5.1
Subtitles:
Stars:
Episode 1 - Another Tour
Donnie Wahlberg
Michael Hyatt
John Leguizamo
Peter Appel
Plot:
From SPIKE TV comes the acclaimed original series, "The Kill Point." Emmy® Award-winning actor John Lequizamo is "Mr. Wolf," an Iraq war veteran who leads his ex-platoon on a daring bank heist. But when the robbery goes tragically wrong, the onetime soldier has no choice but to take hostages. Going head-to-head with Mr. Wolf is "Horst Cali" (Donnie Wahlberg), a no-nonsense hostage negotiator who refuses to back down. What follows is a thrilling match of wits and guts between two men who both have something to prove--and everything to lose.
Extras:
Scene Access
Interviews
Closed Captioned
My Thoughts:
8 part, 6 hour made for TV mini-series produced for Spike TV about a botched bank robbery and the ensuing hostage situation.
I started this with some trepidation as I wondered how a simple bank heist could sustain 6 hours and while they could have shaved an hour off all in all I thought it was very good.
John Leguizamo was excellent, one of his best performances ever frankly. Donnie Wahlberg was top notch and in his element as well. Tobin Bell, playing a ruthless business man trying to get his hostage daughter out was solid too in the few episodes he appeared. It was refreshing to see him shed his Jigsaw moniker to take on a more meaningful role.
The biggest flaw I found was the inclusion of a rooftop sniper who babbled prophetic nonsense throughout the series which made no sense as in the end his character had no significant impact on the plot or it's conclusion.
Interesting twist near the end, and a good ending too even if it was a bit predictable.
Some 90 minute movies take me several days to finish watching based on time available and my level of interest. I knocked off this six hour mini-series in one day. That should tell you something about it. :tv:
KC
Rating:
Post by: KinkyCyborg on September 25, 2010, 04:27:08 PM
Title:Major Payne (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 1995
Director: Nick Castle
Rating: PG-13
Length: 98 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 1.85:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, French: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround
Subtitles: English, Spanish
Stars:
Rodney P. Barns
Ross Bickell
Scott "Bam Bam" Bigelow
Joda Blaire-Hershman
Orlando Brown
Plot:
Damon Wayans stars in this hilarious escapade that commands laughs aplenty! When peace breaks out in America, killing machine Major Benson Winifred Payne, United States Marine Corps Special Forces (Wayans), is given his marching orders...to the unemployment line. Unable to cope with civilian life, Payne is thrust back into the military regimen as commander of the Madison Academy Junior ROTC.
How does the military’s most dangerous secret weapon discipline a few good men when none of them is even old enough to shave? Any way he wants! At least until Dr. Emily Walburn, school counselor (Karyn Parsons), joins his tour of duty. Armed with the comic genius of Damon Wayans and stockpiled with humor, “Major Payne orders up the laughs.” (Los Angeles Times)
Extras:
Scene Access
Feature Trailers
Production Notes
DVD-ROM Content
My Thoughts:
Saw this many years ago and don't really remember if it amused me then but this time around it only managed to illicit a few snickers from me. Damon Wayans is my least favorite of the Wayans brothers, not that I'm particularly fond of any of them.... The constant nasally voice really was a pain...
The marching competition near the end was entertaining, with excellent gun work from one of the cadets.
I might have found this more funny as a full fledged youngster but it did little to amuse my remaining inner child. :P
KC
Rating:
Post by: Kathy on September 25, 2010, 05:37:27 PM
The constant nasally voice really was a pain...
Shouldn't that be a Major Payne? :tease:
Post by: KinkyCyborg on September 25, 2010, 05:42:24 PM
Post by: RossRoy on September 25, 2010, 06:21:48 PM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/02/025192051326f.jpg)
I might have found this more funny as a full fledged youngster but it did little to amuse my remaining inner child. :P
Pretty much the same for me. I remember loving it when I was young. When I last saw it recently, it just annoyed me.
Post by: addicted2dvd on September 25, 2010, 06:27:53 PM
Post by: KinkyCyborg on September 26, 2010, 05:12:09 PM
Title:Leatherheads (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 2008
Director: George Clooney
Rating: PG-13
Length: 114 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 1.85:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, Spanish: Dolby Digital: 5.1, French: Dolby Digital: 5.1, Commentary: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround
Subtitles: English, French, Spanish
Stars:
John Krasinski
Princeton ReportersDavid Devries
Rick Forrester
Craig Harper
Plot:
Academy Award® winners† George Clooney and Renée Zellweger team up in this fun-filled comedy set against the beginnings of pro football. Dodge Connelly (Clooney), captain of a struggling squad of barroom brawlers, has only one hope to save his team: recruit college superstar Carter Rutherford (John Krasinski, The Office). But when a feisty reporter (Zellweger) starts snooping around, she turns the two teammates into instant rivals and kicks off a wild competition filled with hilarious screwball antics! Critics are cheering Leatherheads as "a real winner" (Claudia Puig, USA Today).
† George Clooney: 2005 Best Supporting Actor, Syriana. Renée Zellweger: 2003 Best Supporting Actress, Cold Mountain.
Extras:
Scene Access
Audio Commentary
Feature Trailers
Deleted Scenes
Featurettes
My Thoughts:
Amusing period piece about the birth of professional football. You could tell George Clooney had fun with this one. I always enjoy sports movies but this was average at best. I liked how the final game went down though. 8)
KC
Rating:
Post by: KinkyCyborg on September 26, 2010, 05:15:44 PM
Title:Bait Shop (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 2008
Director: CB Harding
Rating: PG
Length: 86 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 1.85:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, English: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo
Subtitles: English, Spanish
Stars:
Bill Engvall
Jim Coleman
Mary Rachel Dudley
Wilbur Houston
Richard Riehle
Plot:
SOMETHING FISHY IS HAPPENING at Bill's Bait Shop. Forced to come up with $15,000 or else witness his small-town bait shop become the one that got away, Bill (Bill Engvall) must rely on a comedic cast of friends and family to hook the "the big one." Putting his reel skill to the test, Bill enters the annual Bass Tournament against rival bait shop owner Hot Rod Johnson (Billy Ray Cyrus), who's determined to put his money where his large mouth is. It's Bill's last chance to prove that in this pond called life, he's still the big fish.
Extras:
Scene Access
Feature Trailers
Deleted Scenes
Featurettes
Outtakes/Bloopers
My Thoughts:
Piss poor comedy full of drab, phony performances. Even the fish looked fake. I always thought Bill Engvall was one of the funnier ones of the redneck goofs but his on stage comedy just doesn't translate to movies.
Billy Ray Cyrus, mullet and all, was extremely annoying. :voodoo:
KC
Rating:
Post by: Antares on September 26, 2010, 06:17:12 PM
Post by: KinkyCyborg on September 27, 2010, 12:28:52 AM
I was pleasantly surprised by Leatherheads, it was an entertaining film. The only part that was annoying was Renée Zellweger. I can't understand how this actress has become so successful. She is like nails on a chalkboard for me.
Renee Zellweger is to you like Drew Barrymore is to me. :voodoo: I enjoyed Zellweger in Cold Mountain & the first Bridget Jones movie. The rest of her performances I can take or leave her. I don't think she has the looks or the personality to be the elite leading lady that some would label her as.
Post by: KinkyCyborg on September 27, 2010, 12:31:56 AM
Title:Angela's Ashes (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 1999
Director: Alan Parker
Rating: R
Length: 145 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 1.77:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, French: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround, Commentary: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo, Commentary: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo
Subtitles: English
Stars:
Emily Watson
Robert Carlyle
Joe Breen
Ciaran Owens
Michael Legge
Plot:
ANGELA'S ASHES, the Pulitzer Prize-winning memoir, comes to life in this stirring film from acclaimed director Alan Parker (Evita), starring Academy Award-nominee Emily Watson (Breaking the Waves) and Robert Carlyle (The Full Monty).
Life in impoverished Depression-era Ireland holds little promise for young Frank McCourt, the oldest son in a tightly-knit family. Living by his wits, cheered by his irrepressible spirit, and sustained by his mother's fierce love, Frank embarks on an inspiring journey to overcome the poverty of his childhood and reach the land of his dreams: America.
Extras:
Scene Access
Audio Commentary
Feature Trailers
Featurettes
Production Notes
My Thoughts:
True story about the extreme poverty and desolation of Ireland in the days of the famine and deadly tuberculosis as seen through the eyes of a young boy.
As powerful a survival story as you will ever see, the story is told from the memoirs of the man who was that young boy, Frank McCourt who wrote the book of the same name. Watching his siblings, friends and even his first love all die of the consumption (tuberculosis), while his drunken father pisses away what little money they are fortunate enough to come by as his family flirts with starvation... you begin to marvel at the fortitude of this young man.
Excellent performances by Robert Carlyle and Emily Watson as the parents who are trying to keep it together. It was not hard to see why so many Irish dreamed of coming to America which the young McCourt worked and earned for himself at the age of 16.
Excellent ambiance and atmosphere in the portrayal of the squalor of the Irish ghettos. I was captivated by the intense storytelling despite the lengthy duration of the film (2 1/2 hours).
Highly recommended! Would like to read the book as well.
KC
Rating:
Post by: Antares on September 27, 2010, 12:32:32 AM
I don't think she has the looks or the personality to be the elite leading lady that some would label her as.
Or she just has a very talented tongue, if you know what I mean. ;)
Post by: KinkyCyborg on September 27, 2010, 04:26:31 AM
Post by: KinkyCyborg on September 28, 2010, 03:04:57 AM
Title:The Serpent and the Rainbow (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 1987
Director: Wes Craven
Rating: R
Length: 98 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 1.85:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround, Spanish: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround, French: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround
Subtitles: English, French, Spanish
Stars:
Bill Pullman
Cathy Tyson
Zakes Mokae
Paul Winfield
Brent Jennings
Plot:
Wes Craven (The People Under the Stairs, Shocker) directs this terrifying story of one man's nightmarish journey into the eerie and deadly world of voodoo.
A Harvard anthropologist (Bill Pullman) is sent to Haiti to retrieve a strange powder that is said to have the power to bring human beings back from the dead. In his quest to find the miracle drug, the cynical scientist enters the rarely seen netherworld of walking zombies, blood rites and ancient curses.
Based on the true life experiences of Wade Davis and filmed on location in Haiti, it's a frightening excursion into black magic and the supernatural.
Extras:
Scene Access
Feature Trailers
My Thoughts:
Inspired by the true story of a doctor who traveled to Haiti to investigate alleged 'Zombie Powder' and it's potential medical applications.
Wes Craven vividly embellishes that story and turns it into a great Voodoo movie. :voodoo: An early movie for Bill Pullman who I thought did great but the real star of this is Zakes Mokae whom I've always admired as an actor. His portrayal of a 'collector of souls' is brilliant. I saw this movie a couple of times over the years and it still fascinates me.
It's surprising that the active ingredient in the powder, textrodotoxin, which was discovered many years ago hasn't been explored and exploited more since then. It's apparent capability to cause a type of paralysis that can emulate death borders on the fantastical and is likely the closest thing there is to real 'black magic'.
KC
Rating:
Post by: Achim on September 28, 2010, 07:18:43 AM
I also read the book this is based on (since it talks about "real life zombies") and found it quite interesting to learn the background.
Post by: KinkyCyborg on September 29, 2010, 04:15:39 AM
I agree, The Serpent and the Rainbow is a good film, Wes Craven did a good job here, far away from any houses, hills or nightmares ;). I rememer it creeped me out quite a bit when I originally saw it at the cinema and it held up quite well during a re-watch not so long ago.
I also read the book this is based on (since it talks about "real life zombies") and found it quite interesting to learn the background.
I agree it has aged quite well as I'm sure it's been a good 10 years between viewings and still I was riveted. Definitely some unnerving scenes in this one. :thumbup:
Post by: KinkyCyborg on September 29, 2010, 04:18:14 AM
Title:Anzio (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 1968
Director: Edward Dmytryk
Rating: PG
Length: 117 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 2.35:1, Pan & Scan 1.33:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: Mono, French: Dolby Digital: Mono
Subtitles: Chinese, English, French, Korean, Portuguese, Spanish, Thai
Stars:
Robert Mitchum
Peter Falk
Earl Holliman
Mark Damon
Reni Santoni
Plot:
Screen greats Robert Mitchum, Peter Falk and Arthur Kennedy star in the riveting war drama ANZIO, a vivid portrait of one of the bloodiest WWII battles ever fought. After landing with Allied troops at Anzio, Italy, in 1944, war correspondent Dick Ennis (Mitchum) and buddy Corporal Rabinoff (Falk) tell Anzio commander General Lesley (Kennedy) that the road to Rome is wide open. But instead of heading to Rome, Lesley attempts to build a coastal stronghold, only to discover that the Germans have outflanked them by enclosing the Anzio beachhead. Four months and over 30,000 casualties later, the Allied forces smash through the German lines and victoriously march to Rome. Directed by highly-acclaimed action director Edward Dmytryk ('The Caine Mutiny', 'Back To Bataan'), ANZIO is a powerful film and a symbol of heroic tenacity.
Extras:
Scene Access
Feature Trailers
Closed Captioned
My Thoughts:
WWII movie about the costly blunder and the thousands of lives lost during the reclaiming of Italy by Allied forces.
This started off a bit slow and the song/score during the opening credits was extremely sappy and inappropriate for a war movie but overall I thought this was a decent film. Robert Mitchum was solid as a war correspondent covering the hostilities while lamenting and trying to make sense of the inhumanity of it all. I've always found Peter Falk kind of annoying but I rather liked him in this one, portraying a solider who craves the action because it beats his plain existence back home.
While this was a good historic depiction of events that took place in the end the message is the same as with most war movies... a condemnation of conflict that turns ordinary men into killers.
KC
Rating:
Post by: KinkyCyborg on September 30, 2010, 03:41:00 AM
Title:Law Abiding Citizen (http://www.invelos.com/images/BluRayLogo.png)(http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 2009
Director: F. Gary Gray
Rating: 18A
Length: 109 Min.
Video: Widescreen :1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, French: Dolby Digital: 5.1
Subtitles: English, French
Stars:
Gerard Butler
Jamie Foxx
Leslie Bibb
Viola Davis
Regina Hall
Plot:
Synopsis of Law Abiding Citizen
When Philadelphia family man Clyde Shelton (Gerard Butler) learns that the D.A. (Jamie Foxx) has cut a deal allowing one of the two killers who murdered his wife and child to escape the death penalty, he launches an ingenious and ruthless campaign of revenge. When Shelton's crimes continue even after he is incarcerated, the police grow baffled even as they desperately try to stop the bloodletting
Extras:
Scene Access
Audio Commentary
Feature Trailers
Featurettes
My Thoughts:
Tonight was my pick and so I chose a movie that has been one of the most talked about at my work in recent months.
Great action and suspense with stellar performances by Jamie Foxx and Gerard Butler. You are meant to cheer for the anti-hero but midway through Butler's character crosses a line and you no longer feel so sorry for him.... that I wasn't expecting and made for an unexpected twist.
The blabber mouths at work talked endlessly about the shocking kill scene so I knew about it, saw it coming... and jumped anyway! Sweet! :clap:
The movie raises an interesting question that I'm sure everyone has asked themselves at some point. What lengths would you go to to get back at those who harm your loved ones?? While I certainly don't possess the ingenuity displayed in Law Abiding Citizen, I'd like to think the end result would be the same.
While I think this movie was very good I think it just misses out on being great which would have been achieved had Butler's character been allowed to carry out his final act. This was edgy, thrilling and intense but it failed to deliver the knockout punch.
KC
Rating:
Post by: KinkyCyborg on October 02, 2010, 04:55:16 PM
Title:Kramer vs. Kramer (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 1979
Director: Robert Benton
Rating: PG
Length: 105 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 1.85:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: Mono, French: Dolby Digital: Mono
Subtitles: Chinese, English, French, Korean, Portuguese, Spanish, Thai
Stars:
Dustin Hoffman
Meryl Streep
Jane Alexander
Justin Henry
Howard Duff
Plot:
Winner of 5 Academy Awards®*, KRAMER VS. KRAMER is a ground-breaking drama about the heartbreak of divorce and the struggle between work and family. Young husband and father Ted Kramer (Dustin Hoffman) loves his family – and his job, which is where he spends most of his time. When he returns home late one evening from work, his wife Joanna (Meryl Streep) confronts him and then leaves him, forcing Ted to become the sole caregiver to their six-year-old son. Now, Ted must learn to be a father while balancing the demands of his high-pressure career. But just as Ted adapts to his new role and begins to feel like a fulfilled parent, Joanna returns. And now she wants her son back.
*1979, Best Picture • Best Actor - Dustin Hoffman • Best Supporting Actress - Meryl Streep • Best Director - Robert Benton • Best Screenplay (adapted) - Robert Benton
Extras:
Scene Access
Feature Trailers
Featurettes
Production Notes
Closed Captioned
My Thoughts:
Saw this years ago, long before I had children of my own. Having gone through my own custody battle (which I won) I could certainly relate to the stress, anxiety and fear associated with a struggle such as that. It was easily the most physically and emotionally unsettling experience of my life.
Dustin Hoffman was great and deserving of his best actor Oscar. Meryl Streep was good too although I was not a fan of hers in the early part of her career as she just always struck me as weird in her roles of the 70's and early 80's. I love all her recent however and shown to just keep getting better with age. :D
KC
Rating:
Post by: KinkyCyborg on October 03, 2010, 06:53:11 AM
Title:Race to Space (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 2000
Director: Sean McNamara
Rating: PG
Length: 104 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 2.35:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, Commentary: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo
Subtitles: English, Spanish
Stars:
James Woods
Annabeth Gish
Alex D. Linz
Wesley Mann
Patrick Richwood
Plot:
Based on the true story of the first chimpanzee in space, James Woods stars as Wilhelm Von Huber, a NASA scientist who transfers to Florida with his son, Billy (Alex Linz). Billy dreams of becoming a hero like the young astronaut Alan Shepard. Wilhelm dreams of Billy becoming a scientist like him. When Billy is hired by Dr. Donni McGuiness (Annabeth Gish) to help train the chimpanzees for the NASA space mission, he develops a close bond with Mac, one of the chimps. But when Mac is chosen to become the first chimp sent into space, Billy soon realizes that if Mac is successful on this mission, something could go terribly wrong. Father and son put aside their differences and work together in hopes of bringing Mac home safely.
Extras:
Scene Access
Audio Commentary
Feature Trailers
Deleted Scenes
Featurettes
Production Notes
Bloopers, HAM Featurette, KSC Promo
My Thoughts:
Based on true events, this explores the U.S./U.S.S.R. race to put a living being in space. An American team led by German scientists accomplished this feat by putting a chimp in orbit.
I don't think this was a completely accurate accounting of the events leading up to the launch of that day as some comical and diabolical elements were added to keep this from being a strictly technical display, but it was done without going overboard.
I enjoyed it although I thought James Woods looked horribly out of place as the lead German scientist whose uptight and strict nature certainly did nothing to dispel the Nazi persona associated with his homeland. I like Woods but I guess I'm used to seeing him as a hard nosed cop or a convincing sleaze... 8)
Kids will enjoy this too as the chimps do the expected gags, farts, raspberries and goofy faces. :laugh:
KC
Rating:
Post by: KinkyCyborg on October 09, 2010, 03:58:24 PM
Title:Dave (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 1993
Director: Ivan Reitman
Rating: PG-13
Length: 110 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 1.85:1, Pan & Scan 1.33:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround, French: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround, Spanish: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround
Subtitles: English, French, Spanish
Stars:
Kevin Kline
Sigourney Weaver
Frank Langella (1938)
Kevin Dunn
Ving Rhames
Plot:
Kevin Kline and Sigourney Weaver star in this box-office winner about an uncanny Presidential lookalike recruited as a momentary stand-in for America's Chief Executive. However, things don't turn out exactly as planned and Dave finds himself continuing the masquerade indefinitely.
Ivan Reitman (Ghostbusters) directs and supporting players Frank Langella, Ving Rhames, Ben Kingsley and Charles Grodin supply more reasons to stand up and cheer. Real-life Washington politicos and pundits join the fun as Dave uses ordinary-guy savvy to deal with the extraordinary responsibilities of the Oval Office.
Extras:
Scene Access
Feature Trailers
Featurettes
Production Notes
Closed Captioned
My Thoughts:
Charming political comedy about a presidential look-a-like who is pressed into taking on the role for real on an ongoing basis.
Outstanding cast with Kevin Kline, Sigourney Weaver, Frank Langella, Charles Grodin, Ving Rhames, Laura Linney, Ben Kingsley and a gaggle of both political and celebrity cameos. The ending was predictable but it was still a great feel good movie.
I very much want to find myself attracted to Sigourney Weaver but I just can't get myself there. I admire her acting chops and some of the great performances she has had in her career but she has a hard, no nonsense edge about her that strips away the sex appeal. The only movie that I felt she pulled off sexy in was the comedy Heartbreakers where she played a gold digging, vampy con artist and I loved it! :thumbup: She is probably now past those kind of roles at her age but I wish I had seen more of that from her earlier in her career. ;)
KC
Rating:
Post by: Antares on October 10, 2010, 05:43:50 PM
Post by: KinkyCyborg on October 11, 2010, 03:56:53 PM
This is one of those films that I tend to gravitate towards when I can't make up my mind on what I want to watch. It's always a safe bet that it will be entertaining.
It has a pretty simple formula but it's amusing and heartwarming nonetheless. If only real politicians could be so likable. :D
Post by: KinkyCyborg on October 11, 2010, 04:00:25 PM
Title:Sky Captain and the World of Tomorrow (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 2004
Director: Kerry Conran
Rating: PG
Length: 106 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 1.85:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, French: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround, Commentary: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround, Commentary: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround
Subtitles: English, Spanish
Stars:
Gwyneth Paltrow
Jude Law
Giovanni Ribisi
Michael Gambon
Bai Ling
Plot:
If the world is in trouble and there's no one else to turn to, it's Sky Captain to the rescue!
When mysterious giant robots begin attacking the streets of New York City, intrepid reporter Polly Perkins (Academy Award® - winner Gwyneth Paltrow*) is on the story and enlists the aid of ace aviator and old flame Joseph "Sky Captain" Sullivan (Academy Award® nominee Jude Law**). Their mission is to find who's behind these killing machines and stop a plot to destroy the world before it's too late.
Co-starring Academy Award® -winner Angelina Jolie*** as the ravishing Franky Cook and Giovanni Ribisi as the technical genius Dex, Sky Captain and the World of Tomorrow features innovative state-of-the-art special effects that will thrill and amaze you right through to the action-packed finale.
*Actress in a Leading Role, Shakespeare in Love, 1998.
** Actor in a Leading Role, Cold Mountain, 2003.
*** Actress in a Supporting Role, Girl, Interrupted, 1999.
Extras:
Scene Access
Audio Commentary
Deleted Scenes
Featurettes
Closed Captioned
Gag Reel, Original Six Minute Film
My Thoughts:
Oh how I disliked this movie.... let me count the ways. :thumbdown:
Hey I like CGI and special effects as much as the next person but the entire movie?!?! The only thing that was real in the entire film was the actors and the clothes on their backs. Sure it's a sci-fi flick but it's hard to get into the moment with a digital backdrop throughout the duration.
Some of the technology was neat, like the invading war birds that flapped their wings and the floating 'carriers' adorned with the Union Jack were grand but then others robots of the invading forces looked like little more than giant toasters with arms and legs. ::)
I normally don't mind Gwyneth Paltrow but I hated her with a passion in this movie. I kept hoping that one of the giant robots would squash her Polly Perkins character and leave her as a bloody pulp of entrails! No such luck. Even the prospect of goggling Angelina Jolie was foiled as she might as well been wearing an Arabic hijab her body was so covered up.... even had a patch over one of her eyes!
I heard bad things about this movie so my expectations were low... apparently not low enough.
KC
Rating:
Post by: Antares on October 11, 2010, 05:24:54 PM
Post by: goodguy on October 11, 2010, 05:52:25 PM
Post by: KinkyCyborg on October 11, 2010, 10:05:05 PM
Post by: KinkyCyborg on October 11, 2010, 10:25:03 PM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/03/031398185871f.jpg)
Title:The Nun (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 2005
Director: Luis De La Madrid
Rating: R
Length: 102 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 1.78:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, English: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo
Subtitles: Spanish
Stars:
Belén Blanco
Oriana Bonet
Anita Briem
Teté Delgado
Natalia Dicenta
Plot:
Years ago, a cruel and merciless nun turned boarding school into a living hell for her students until they could no longer bear the abuse . . . then she mysteriously disappeared. Now the alumnae are being brutally murdered one by one. Feeling a familiar and evil presence, the survivors regroup to save their lives and lay the nun to rest one final time.
Extras:
Feature Trailers
Featurettes
Closed Captioned
My Thoughts:
I didn't mind this at all. Apart from a few moments of terrible acting I thought it was a fresh concept, some original kills, and it held the story together pretty well right through to the end. An average entry in the horror genre but much better than I was expecting.
KC
Rating:
Post by: Rogmeister on October 12, 2010, 01:11:12 AM
Regarding Sky Captain and the World of Tomorrow...I saw it in a theater when it first came out but I can't really recall my feelings for it now. I do have the DVD so I'll have to check it out. One thing I liked is there is an image in there of a robot who appeared in one of the Fleischer Superman cartoons, but seen only fleetingly as I recall. When I do watch the movie, I'll try to catch the Superman cartoon featuring that robot first, to refresh my mind as to what to look for.
Post by: KinkyCyborg on October 12, 2010, 03:23:14 AM
Title:Shane (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 1952
Director: George Stevens
Rating: NR
Length: 117 Min.
Video: Full Frame 1.33:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround, French: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo, Commentary: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo
Subtitles: English
Stars:
Alan Ladd
Jean Arthur
Van Heflin
Brandon De Wilde
Jack Palance [Walter Jack Palance]
Plot:
Acclaimed director George Stevens' legendary rendition of the quintessential Western myth earned six Academy Award® nominations, and made Shane one of the classics of the American cinema. The story brings Alan Ladd, a drifter and retired gunfighter, to the assistance of a homestead family terrorized by a wealthy cattleman and his hired gun (Jack Palance). In fighting the last decisive battle, Shane sees the end of his own way of life. Mysterious, moody and atmospheric, the film is enhanced by the intense performances of its splendid cast.
Extras:
Scene Access
Audio Commentary
Feature Trailers
Closed Captioned
My Thoughts:
An atypical western story of struggling settlers being muscled off their land by greedy money men. What makes this one special is the compelling storytelling and the performance of Alan Ladd in the the title role as the quietly confident Shane.
This was Alan Ladd's most noteworthy role in his career. I felt he never had another stand out role like he did in Shane which is a true western classic. Another actor who suffered from depression, he attempted suicide in 1962 by shooting himself in the chest, but lived only to die 2 years later of an accidental overdose of alcohol and sedatives. He was only 51. :(
Jack Palance was truly diabolical in his role of the hired gun in this one and I loved how exquisitely evil he was. :devil:
The ending scene where the young boy Joey, wide-eyed Brandon De Wilde, is crying out to Shane as he rides off into the dark is one of the most memorable moments of classic western cinema.
KC
Rating:
Post by: Antares on October 12, 2010, 05:42:32 PM
The ending scene where the young boy Joey, wide-eyed Brandon De Wilde, is crying out to Shane as he rides off into the dark is one of the most memorable moments of classic western cinema.
I don't think Jon will agree with you. ;)
Post by: Najemikon on October 12, 2010, 07:22:03 PM
I heard that when he was making A.I., Spielberg made Haley Joel Osment watch Shane time and time again to learn how real robot children acted... ;)
Post by: KinkyCyborg on October 13, 2010, 01:05:38 AM
:suicide:
I heard that when he was making A.I., Spielberg made Haley Joel Osment watch Shane time and time again to learn how real robot children acted... ;)
:hysterical:
The scene where he was watching Shane put on the gun shooting demonstration, showing those big bug eyes of his was kind of creepy. He might have been a good fit for Village Of The Damned.
Post by: KinkyCyborg on October 13, 2010, 05:23:42 AM
Title:Blank Check (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 1994
Director: Rupert Wainwright
Rating: PG
Length: 93 Min.
Video: Full Frame 1.33:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo, French: MPEG-2: 2-Channel Stereo, Spanish: MPEG-2: 2-Channel Stereo
Subtitles:
Stars:
Brian Bonsall
Karen Duffy
James Rebhorn
Jayne Atkinson
Michael Faustino
Plot:
All it takes is a little quick thinking and 11-year-old Preston Waters' life becomes a million-dollar adventure! When a crook runs over Preston's bike, he thinks it's his unlucky day. But when a quick settlement puts a blank check in his hand - he fills it out for a million bucks! Now Preston is rich beyond his wildest dreams! He's got his own pad, his own limo driver, and he's spending the money like there's no tomorrow! The only problem with having a million dollars is keeping it – especially when the FBI and the bad guys are after the loot! Join the spending spree of a lifetime as Preston tries to hang on to the cash – and you cash in on the laughs!
Extras:
Scene Access
Closed Captioned
My Thoughts:
Totally implausible Disney film about a boy who comes by a blank check and cashes it for a million dollars.
Some funny bits, but not many. The highlight of this one was Rick Ducommun, better known as the nosy neighbor Art from The Burbs. He's one of those comedian actors who they don't even give a script to... they just let him improvise his lines just to see what he is going to say and it is often hilarious!
I'm used to seeing Miguel Ferrer play a sleazeball, and he does it quite well, but in a 'G' rated family movie it stinks of blasphemy. It's rare to see an actor who normally plays hardened criminals or scumbags make the transition to family fare and make it work. Joe Pesci pulled it off in the Home Alone flicks, but that was a rare exception.
Kids in the 6-12 age group might like this and have some laughs, but for just about anyone else it's sure to be a bore.
KC
Rating:
Post by: KinkyCyborg on October 14, 2010, 12:09:45 AM
Title:Cirque du Freak: The Vampire's Assistant (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 2009
Director: Paul Weitz
Rating: PG-13
Length: 109 Min.
Video: Widescreen 2.35:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, French: Dolby Digital: 5.1, Spanish: Dolby Digital: 5.1
Subtitles: English, French, Spanish
Stars:
John C. Reilly
Josh Hutcherson
Chris Massoglia
Jessica Carlson
Michael Cerveris
Plot:
Welcome to the Cirque du Freak, a traveling sideshow filled with magical creatures, misunderstood freaks, and the mysterious vampire, Larten Crepsley (John C. Reilly). Drawn to the dark, unpredictable world of the Cirque, 16-year-old Darren (Chris Massoglia) decides to trade in his ordinary life for a chance to become an immortal vampire. As Darren explores his newfound powers and faces unexpected enemies, he'll find that his existence as a memeber of the undead is filled with more challenges, suspense and fun than he ever thought possible. Based on the best-selling book series and co-starring Salma Hayek, Josh Hutcherson, Ken Watanabe, and Willem Dafoe, it's a fast-paced, suspenseful journey critics call, "Imaginative!" (Peter Hall, Cinematical.com)
Extras:
Scene Access
Feature Trailers
Deleted Scenes
Featurettes
My Thoughts:
I really enjoyed this as it was so much more than I was expecting which was a lame comedy that spoofed Vampire movies. Boy was I wrong! While there was some comedic elements, this was the first of what I'm sure will be many entries into an ongoing story about warring vampire factions. Gorehounds looking for buckets of blood will be disappointed.... but what this movie lacks in gore it makes up for with story and mystery.
The two young male leads, Josh Hutcherson and Chris Massoglia were good but the casting for those characters could be completely interchangeable with any multitude of young actors. The real strength of this movie lies in it's veteran cast. John C. Reilly shows us once again that he has leading role savvy as the central vampire, Larten Crepsley. Now if someone could only convince him to stay away from Will Ferrell.... :talktomyhand: Willem Dafoe, in a rather limited role, clearly pays homage to Vincent Price and is marvelous! His final scenes in this one tease us with the promise of more from him in the forthcoming sequels. Salma Hayek, as the bearded lady, was fine as well, although really... who was looking at her beard?? ;)
Throw in Ken Watanabe, Patrick Fugit, Orlando Jones and others in their roles as the various 'freaks', each with their own potential stories to explore made for a spectacular collection of characters and endless possibilities in what should be a franchise. I checked on IMDB and do not see any news of a sequel yet, but I'd be shocked if this one doesn't play out much much more.
Looking forward to the continuing of this story and would recommend this movie to fans of the genre!
KC
Rating:
Post by: KinkyCyborg on October 14, 2010, 03:33:42 AM
Title:... First Do No Harm (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 1997
Director: Jim Abrahams
Rating: PG-13
Length: 94 Min.
Video: Full Frame 1.33:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo
Subtitles:
Stars:
Meryl Streep
Fred Ward
Seth Adkins
Allison Janney
Margo Martindale
Plot:
Academy Award® winner Meryl Streep (Sophie's Choice, Kramer vs. Kramer, The Bridges of Madison County, The River Wild, One True Thing) delivers a powerful and uplifting performance in this story of one family's strength and courage in a time of extreme crisis! Plunged into emotional and financial hardship, a devoted mother (Streep), a hardworking father (Fred Ward — Enough, Road Trip, Corky Romano) and the rest of this close-knit family face a decision that will change their lives forever. As time and options begin to run out, they must find the courage to overcome incredible odds. Widely praised by critics — you'll find this compelling story of determination and hope both entertaining and inspirational!
Extras:
Scene Access
Closed Captioned
My Thoughts:
Powerful and at times heartbreaking, this delves into the world of epileptic seizures in young children.
Based on a true story, it tells the story of a family struggling to endure the hardships, both financial and emotional, from their young son's epilepsy. The movie focuses on the barrage of constant drugs and the horrendous side effects, which seem to make the youngster worse, the potential for brain surgery, which could kill him, and a simple, benign treatment called the Ketogenic Diet which many of the medical professionals failed to disclose to the parents as an option, and discounted out of hand as an unproven 'home remedy'.
Jim Abrahams, the film's director, had an invested interest in this film as his son was epileptic and was successfully treated by the fasting diet. He raises the question of a conspiracy to suppress the information of the treatment by a large proportion of the medical community, as it would point a damning finger towards the many years and millions of dollars put into drug therapies that achieved little results. Also the diet earns the drug companies not one red cent. :redcard:
Through media coverage, this movie and crusading parents such as those portrayed by Meryl Streep and Fred Ward in this film, the Ketogenic Diet is now employed worldwide as a first line of defense before drug therapies are even considered.
Meryl Streep was brilliant as the relentless mother who defied all the doctors and practically willed her son back to health.
While at times this was difficult to watch, seeing what that poor boy had to go through, it was nonetheless gripping. One of the best dramas I have watched in some time.
KC
Rating:
Post by: Achim on October 14, 2010, 06:29:28 AM
It's based on a series of books, I think, which is probably where the episodic feel came from, but maybe it wasn't successful enough to grant sequels.
Post by: KinkyCyborg on October 16, 2010, 02:59:30 AM
I also liked The Vampire's Assistant. It's not a high-rated film, but perfectly entertaining.
It's based on a series of books, I think, which is probably where the episodic feel came from, but maybe it wasn't successful enough to grant sequels.
The ending all but necessitated a sequel so I'd like to think it's coming. But then again I thought the same thing about The Golden Compass... :shrug:
Post by: KinkyCyborg on October 16, 2010, 03:05:07 AM
Title:Avatar (http://www.invelos.com/images/BluRayLogo.png)(http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 2009
Director:
Rating: PG-13
Length: 162 Min.
Video: Widescreen 1.78:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, English: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo, French: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo, Spanish: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo
Subtitles: English, Spanish
Stars:
Plot:
RETURN TO PANDORA
A reluctant hero. An epic journey. A choice between the life he left behind and the incredible new world he's learned to call home. Return to James Cameron's AVATAR -- the greatest adventure of all time.
Extras:
Scene Access
Closed Captioned
THX
My Thoughts:
I finally decided to throw this in and see what all the hoopla was about.
What can I say?? I went into this movie determined to very critical of it so that I wouldn't be one of the masses throwing gobs of praise onto this movie..... when it was over... I loved it! So much for determination. :-[
This movie is going to be phenomenal on Bluray in High Def and it makes me want to expedite the purchase of my first Bluray player. Even in standard dvd format the effects, the colors, the visuals... all stunning.
Very good cast across the board, humans and blue people alike. Sigourney Weaver was a standout but for me the most intense, stellar performance went to Stephen Lang as Col. Quaritch. Hooyah! He was the embodiment of heartless evil and yet I was oddly sad to see him check out.
There was no shortage of statements and morals for Cameron to preach from his $2.8 billion dollar worldwide pulpit.... among them corporate greed, environmental exploitation, prejudice, unprovoked military sanctioning, and tainted foreign policy. It was really no surprise that despite it's enormous success, the film did in fact piss off a lot of people. The Earth Day release of the DVD/Bluray was a further poke in the eye of the pundits of the film and cemented the reverence of James Cameron that much more. Marketing genius!
As I have not yet watched The Hurt Locker, I am not yet equipped to weigh into the debate as to which film deserved Best Picture Oscar. I will say this, with a high level of confidence... if you think Avatar made a boatload of money, just wait until the sequel. It will be more highly anticipated than the second coming of Christ! .... yes, I said it...
KC
Rating:
Post by: dfmorgan on October 16, 2010, 08:19:19 PM
I also liked The Vampire's Assistant. It's not a high-rated film, but perfectly entertaining.
It's based on a series of books, I think, which is probably where the episodic feel came from, but maybe it wasn't successful enough to grant sequels.
The ending all but necessitated a sequel so I'd like to think it's coming. But then again I thought the same thing about The Golden Compass... :shrug:
It's actually based on the first 3 of a series of 12 young adult vampire books by Darren Shan. So there is scope for sequels.
Dave
Post by: KinkyCyborg on October 17, 2010, 02:20:44 AM
Title:The Lonely Man (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 1957
Director:
Rating: NR
Length: 87 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 1.85:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: Mono, French: Dolby Digital: Mono
Subtitles: English
Stars:
Jack Palance
Anthony Perkins
Neville Brand
Robert Middleton
Elisha Cook Jr.
Plot:
The past-and the future-close in on a reformed gunslinger. Like Alan Ladd's Shane, Gregory Peck's The Gunfighter and Clint Eastwood's Unforgiven, The Lonely Man belongs to that saddlebag full of Westerns bout a gunslinger coming to terms with his infamous past and uncertain future. Jack Palance stars as Jacob Wade, a notorious outlaw trying to ride the trail of respectability. But where Wade goes, his reputation follows. And so does trouble. Fearful citizens are quick to turn him out of their town. Vengeful killers have vowed to stalk him to his grave. And Wade's son (Anthony Perkins), embittered over his father's long absence, cannot quell the pain and hate in his heart. Neville Brand, Lee Van Cleef, Claude Adkins and Elisha Cook co-star in this spare, ruggedly entertaining sagebrush saga.
Extras:
Scene Access
My Thoughts:
Lackluster western that had potential but just couldn't deliver.
Jack Palance was solid as a gunfighter trying to live a peaceful life but his past won't leave him be. This story has been told before... much better told in Unforgiven actually. A great cast alongside Palance including Anthony Perkins, Neville Brand, Lee Van Cleef, Claude Aikens and even Denver Pyle in a small role. Aikens, who always made a statement no matter what role he had, doesn't disappoint in his small part here either. That man always had great presence on screen.
Perkins, playing Palance's hateful son, portrays a teenage boy who is just too pathetic for words. Whiny, weak, slovenly... you keep waiting for the moment that he finally grows a spine and becomes a man and it just never happens. Even after the predictable finish I was still expecting for him to finally begin to resemble even a smidgen of the man his father was and instead the movie just abruptly ends. Booooo! :thumbdown:
KC
Rating:
Post by: KinkyCyborg on October 17, 2010, 08:31:37 PM
Title:Assassination (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 1987
Director: Peter Hunt
Rating: PG-13
Length: 88 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 1.85:1, Pan & Scan 1.33:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo, Spanish: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo
Subtitles: English, French, Spanish
Stars:
Charles Bronson
Jill Ireland
Stephen Elliott
Jan Gan Boyd
Randy Brooks
Plot:
Hard-hitting action, cross-country adventure...and a government conspiracy that goes all the way to the top! In this pulse-pounding political thriller, action superstar Charles Bronson is at his rugged best as a man on a mission to protect the First Lady from ruthless assassins who'll stop at nothing to kill her!
When veteran Secret Service Agent Jay Killian (Bronson) is assigned to protect the president's pampered and difficult wife (Jill Ireland), he knows she will be a handful. But what he doesn't know is that assassins are out to kill her! Not only must Killian use his lethal experience to shield the First Lady from danger...he must also do it while tracing her would-be murderer to the highest office in the land!
Extras:
Scene Access
Feature Trailers
Closed Captioned
My Thoughts:
I searched long and hard for this movie and finally caved in, buying it brand new from Deep Discount.
One of my favorite Bronson movies, it has been quite a few years since the last time I watched it and it seems to have lost some of it's appeal. I'm not sure why... perhaps because it seems a bit dated now. Bronson is still a marvel to watch though... the ultimate tough guy. I used to be such a fan of all those Golan-Globus, Canon films of the 80's. :thumbup:
I never got why many of the lead actors from that era insisted on co-starring with their no-talent girlfriends. Bronson and Jill Ireland did quite a few together and of course Clint Eastwood and Sondra Locke who couldn't act her way out of a wet paper bag. ::) I'm sure the directors had to fake a lot of smiles during the filming of those movies. ;D <-- fake
KC
Rating:
Post by: KinkyCyborg on October 18, 2010, 03:30:54 AM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/02/024543244608f.jpg)
Title:Come See the Paradise (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 1990
Director: Alan Parker
Rating: G
Length: 133 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 1.85:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround, French: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo, Spanish: Dolby Digital: Mono
Subtitles: English, Spanish
Stars:
Dennis Quaid
Tamlyn Tomita
Sab Shimono
Shizuko Hoshi
Stan Egi
Plot:
From Oscar nominee Alan Parker comes this "powerful, controversial, masterful achievement" (Susan Granger, American Movie Classics), a romance set against one of the darkest periods in U.S. history. Dennis Quaid is "terrific [and] turns in his best screen work, bar none" (The Hollywood Reporter) in this stirring drama that has become "one of the truly great motion pictures of our time!" (PBS Cinema Showcase)
In California, 1936, intermarriage is illegal. Jack McGurn (Quaid) and Lily Kawamura (Tamlyn Tomita) must elope to Seattle, where they soon have a daughter. But when Pearl Harbor is attacked, Lily, her family and thousands of other Japanese-Americans are "relocated" to internment camps. As Jack tries desperately to keep his family together, the grim specter of war threatens to tear them apart!
Extras:
Scene Access
Audio Commentary
Feature Trailers
Featurettes
Closed Captioned
My Thoughts:
Story of an American man who marries a Japanese woman a few short years before the attack on Pearl Harbor. He then struggles to keep his family together as his wife, daughter and other family members are sent to internment camps.
I watched this movie with great interest as I always felt that the confinement of the Japanese, many of whom were US citizens, was one of the greatest travesties in US history. Completely unconstitutional, for many of them the only way out was to renounce their country of origin, join the army, and go fight their former countrymen on Japanese soil.
Dennis Quaid played the American who fought the system all his life and made whatever sacrifices were necessary to be with his family. He was good, but Tamlyn Tomita was fantastic as his beautiful wife who was outcast by her father for being with an American. Her performance was strong, dignified and she is angelic in appearance. I noticed from her IMDB resume that she is mostly a TV actor which is a pity as I'd love to see more films with her.
Great storytelling of an event the government would like to forget ever happened.
KC
Rating:
Post by: KinkyCyborg on October 19, 2010, 04:32:12 AM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/08/085391453628f.jpg)
Title:Rosewood (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 1997
Director: John Singleton
Rating: R
Length: 142 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 2.35:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, Spanish: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround, Commentary: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo
Subtitles: English, French, Spanish
Stars:
Jon Voight
Ving Rhames
Don Cheadle
Bruce McGill
Loren Dean
Plot:
In 1982 a reporter visiting Levy County in Florida noticed a lack of black residents. So he asked questions…and a long-ago tragedy came to light.
John Singleton directs Jon Voight and Ving Rhames in this powerful true drama. It is January 1, 1923 in Rosewood, but in this largely black town built on family, faith and hard work, hopes for the new year abruptly end. In a few harrowing nights, a white mob razes Rosewood into oblivion. As the rampage gains cataclysmic force, a heroic World War I veteran (Rhames) and a shopkeeper (Voight) join forces. Dozens of terrified women and children have fled into nearby swamps. Somehow they must be led to safety.
Extras:
Scene Access
Audio Commentary
Feature Trailers
Production Notes
My Thoughts:
In my opinion, Ving Rhames' best performance of his career.... as a drifter looking to stay out of trouble but unable to do so as he is looked upon as a savior to the terrorized black community of Rosewood.
Based on a true story, this movie holds nothing back as it shows us deep racial prejudice in all it's ugliness. An entire town wiped out by men who when they couldn't find a reason to act upon their hateful prejudices simply made one up.
Strong cast made up by Rhames, Jon Voight as the solitary white man of reason who sacrifices much in order to save as many people, mostly women and children, as he can... Esther Rolle (from Good Times!) as the kindly Aunt Sarah, and her idealistic son, played by Don Cheadle. Michael Rooker, who seems to be a mainstay in these types of films, plays the town sheriff who tries to do the right thing but quickly loses control and ultimately joins the murderous lynch mob. Bruce McGill gives a powerful performance as the central bigot who whips the mob up into rabid frenzies time and time again, all the while attempting to groom his young son into sharing his hateful beliefs.
The events portrayed would be shocking in any film. To know this really happened, and likely played out in similar veins many times over in the south during that shameful time of American history is repulsive and saddening.
I'd seen this movie before several years ago. It was no less compelling that the first viewing and I feel it has an important place in film making.
Ving Rhames seems to be another relegated to straight to video flicks now but this movie showed what he is capable of. A must watch.
KC
Rating:
Post by: Antares on October 19, 2010, 06:16:15 PM
Post by: KinkyCyborg on October 20, 2010, 03:12:54 AM
Post by: KinkyCyborg on October 20, 2010, 03:20:11 AM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/08/085392149421f.jpg)
Title:Ocean's 11 (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 1960
Director: Lewis Milestone
Rating: NR
Length: 127 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 2.35:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: Mono, French: Dolby Digital: Mono, Commentary: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo
Subtitles: English, French, Spanish
Stars:
Peter Lawford
Dean Martin
Frank Sinatra
Henry Silva
Joey Bishop
Plot:
New Year's Eve in Las Vegas. Roulette wheels spin, cards snap, slots chime, champagne fizzes, the shows go on…and the lights go out. It's the perfect time to steal a kiss or a $25 chip. But for Danny Ocean (Frank Sinatra) and his 10 partners in crime, it's the perfect moment to steal millions.
Sinatra and off-screen pals Dean Martin, Sammy Davis Jr., Peter Lawford, Joey Bishop and more play army buddies who devise a scheme to knock out power to the Vegas strip, electronically rig five big casino vaults and raid them all at the same instant. Packed with location-lensed glamour, sweaty suspense, swinging comedy and a stunning twist ending.
Extras:
Scene Access
Audio Commentary
Feature Trailers
Closed Captioned
My Thoughts:
I started watching this with some preconceived notions... that I wouldn't like it because I had seen the remake first, that it would be diluted with singing numbers and that it would seem terribly dated. Of course I was wrong as usual. :-[
It's easy to resist the temptation to compare this to the remale simply because other than the title of the movie and one character who retained their name, Danny Ocean, there was little these two movies had in common. I enjoyed this and the remake and refuse to say one is better than the other because they both stand on their own merits.
There was a bit of singing in this one, but I can listen to Dean Martin sing all day. Sammy Davis Jr. also had a short snappy number that I liked too. I confess to not having seen Davis Jr. in many movies beyond the Cannonball Run flicks and he impressed me too. Probably my favorite character in this would be Cesar Romero as Duke Santos. Very suave and full of confidence! Also if Julia Roberts had her hair tied up like Angie Dickinson did in this version you would be astonished at the resemblance!
The casino heist theme is common between the two films but the method and direction were completely different. This version of course lacked all the high tech gadgetry, replaced with creative trickery and the art of the con. I think I may have liked the ending better in this version, satisfying and full of irony.
This movie is one I'd like to revisit from time to time so you know it has scored high with me. :yep:
KC
Rating:
Post by: Antares on October 20, 2010, 10:13:16 PM
And...
Quote
Also if Julia Roberts had her hair tied up like Angie Dickinson did in this version you would be astonished at the resemblance!
Uh...No, Angie Dickinson was hot, Roberts is definitely not in the same zip code.
Post by: KinkyCyborg on October 21, 2010, 12:21:53 AM
Glad to see that you liked this film. Sure it's an anachronistic film, but a lot of hedonistic fun.
And...QuoteAlso if Julia Roberts had her hair tied up like Angie Dickinson did in this version you would be astonished at the resemblance!
Uh...No, Angie Dickinson was hot, Roberts is definitely not in the same zip code.
I wasn't commenting on the relative hotness of either actress... it's just there was one scene in particular where Angie was sitting on the couch talking with Dean Martin and in that moment I felt her and Roberts bore a striking resemblance to one another. While they are both attractive women neither of them would make my top 10... or 20 for that matter. Roberts has always kind of creeped me out with that abnormally wide smile of hers that always reminds me of Pennywise The Clown. :-\
Post by: Antares on October 21, 2010, 12:24:48 AM
Roberts has always kind of creeped me out with that abnormally wide smile of hers that always reminds me of Pennywise The Clown. :-\
:laugh: So true
Post by: KinkyCyborg on October 21, 2010, 12:30:44 AM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/79/796019819572f.jpg)
Title:The Reader (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 2008
Director: Stephen Daldry
Rating: R
Length: 124 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 1.85:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, French: Dolby Digital: 5.1
Subtitles: English, Spanish
Stars:
Ralph Fiennes
Jeanette Hain
David Kross
Kate Winslet
Susanne Lothar
Plot:
Academy Award® winner* Kate Winslet (Revolutionary Road) delivers a dynamic performance in this "tale of eroticism, secrecy and guilt" (Claudia Puig, USA Today) set in turbulet post-Nazi Germany. Bringing to life the celebrated international novel, Winslet is riveting as Hanna Schmitz – a lonely, working-class woman who experiences a brief but intense affair with a teenage boy. Years later they meet again: Hanna now a defendant in a notorious case and her ex-lover, now a law student, holding the secret to her salvation. Directed by three-time Academy Award® nominee** Stephen Daldry (Billy Elliot, The Hours) and featuring Ralph Fiennes (The Duchess) as the grown man still reeling from Hanna's influence, The Reader is a "moving, romantic and poignant story" (Roger Friedman, Fox News) about the difficult distance between truth and reconciliation.
*2009 Best Actress, The Reader.
**2009 Best Director, The Reader; 2003 Best Director, The Hours; 2000 Best Director, Billy Elliot.
Extras:
Scene Access
Feature Trailers
Deleted Scenes
Featurettes
Production Notes
Interviews
My Thoughts:
After ejecting the dvd at the movie's conclusion I sat there for quite some time, digesting what I had watched. The movie was great, but I was unsure how I felt about it in terms of the moral questions it posed and the extremes of ones pride.
I can now forgive Kate Winslet for the prattling of her award acceptance speeches. Her performance was outstanding and well deserved of the Oscar she received. The transformation from her beauty that we are all used to to the average and plain appearance of her character makes her performance all the more believable.
This starts off as a mismatched love story of a teenage boy and a thirty something woman but quickly turns dark after years have past and shocking revelations present themselves. The woman's pride sentences herself to lifelong incarceration even though a simple admission would exonerate her... and her lover from many years ago alone knows her secret but can't bring himself to betray her trust, even to save her.
The movie has a serene, even keel throughout that many would attribute to 'boring' but I found it fascinating in it's entirety. The WWII backdrop, particularly the death camps, never fails to reel me in, but this movie goes well beyond a war crimes story. In turns erotic, uplifting, then shocking, horrifying and ultimately tragic and sad... this movie takes you through an entire range of emotions.
It's one of those movies that has you thinking about it days later... that's the mark of a great movie. At least for me. ;)
:clap:
KC
Rating:
Post by: Antares on October 21, 2010, 12:36:44 AM
Post by: Najemikon on October 21, 2010, 12:37:25 AM
Roberts has always kind of creeped me out with that abnormally wide smile of hers that always reminds me of Pennywise The Clown. :-\
:laugh: So true
Clearly horses for courses, because I think Julia Roberts is fantastic, especially the huge gob. ;D She can range so easily and quickly from hard faced bitch to vulnerable and very cute.
I have to say I think Ocean's Eleven is a much better film than Ocean's 11, which was hamstrung by Sinatra phoning in his performance. I mean almost literally so. It's appeal is purely on those guys and that appeal is massive, but it isn't a proper film. The modern gang can only wish they had the same charisma, but the story and the set-pieces are great. Soderbergh has masses of fun directing it. The only mis-step was Don Cheadle's ridiculous accent!
I've said it before and I'll say it again, it's bloody weird how this forum seems to skew toward Ocean's Twelve as the better film. Bloody awful.
Post by: Antares on October 21, 2010, 12:48:54 AM
She can range so easily and quickly from hard faced bitch to vulnerable and very cute.
You've obviously have never seen Mary Reilly, she was God awful in that.
Post by: KinkyCyborg on October 21, 2010, 12:50:02 AM
I have to say I think Ocean's Eleven is a much better film than Ocean's 11, which was hamstrung by Sinatra phoning in his performance.
I like both versions for different reasons but I couldn't agree with you more about Sinatra mailing it in. He did the exact same thing in The Detective. He just oozed arrogance in his movies that had nothing to do with acting. You could tell by his demeanor that he felt he was doing the film justice just by his mere presence :thumbdown: Never been a fan of his, with Von Ryan's Express being his lone performance of his movies I've watched that I can genuinely say I liked. His Rat Pack brethren make it easier to appreciate Ocean's 11 as you have several other personalities to lend to the film's success. Had Sinatra been cast with relative unknowns in place of his buddies I think this would have been dismal.
Post by: Antares on October 21, 2010, 12:52:11 AM
Never been a fan of his, with Von Ryan's Express being his lone performance of his movies I've watched that I can genuinely say I liked.
You should check out From Here to Eternity, Suddenly and The Manchurian Candidate, he was very good in all three films.
Post by: Najemikon on October 21, 2010, 12:56:35 AM
Never been a fan of his, with Von Ryan's Express being his lone performance of his movies I've watched that I can genuinely say I liked.
You should check out From Here to Eternity, Suddenly and The Manchurian Candidate, he was very good in all three films.
I was just going to mention The Manchurian Candidate. Always loved that film.
She can range so easily and quickly from hard faced bitch to vulnerable and very cute.
You've obviously have never seen Mary Reilly, she was God awful in that.
I haven't, but when I say I like her, I mean her [cough] personality. ;) Her acting is definitely case-by-case. Pretty Woman, Charlie Wilson's War, Erin Brokowotsit, The Pelican Brief... all great. Bunch of others, not so much.
Post by: KinkyCyborg on October 21, 2010, 01:04:07 AM
Never been a fan of his, with Von Ryan's Express being his lone performance of his movies I've watched that I can genuinely say I liked.
You should check out From Here to Eternity, Suddenly and The Manchurian Candidate, he was very good in all three films.
I have all three and haven't watched any of them. :-[ I saw him in Cast A Giant Shadow in a small role and Kings Go Forth. Neither role impressed me.
Post by: KinkyCyborg on October 23, 2010, 04:11:51 AM
Savage Grace
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/79/796019814812f.jpg)
Title:Savage Grace (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 2007
Director: Tom Kalin
Rating: NR
Length: 98 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 1.85:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 5.1
Subtitles: English, Spanish
Stars:
Julianne Moore
Stephen Dillane
Eddie Redmayne
Anne Reid
Martin Huber
Plot:
Set across a stunning backdrop ranging from New York to Paris to Cadaqués, Savage Grace is the incredible true story of a scandal that even remains shocking. The beautiful Barbara Daly (Academy Award®-nominee* Julianne Moore; The Hours, Boogie Nights) marries above her social class to the dashing heir of the Bakelite plastics fortune, Brooks Baekeland (Stephen Dillane of the HBO miniseries "John Adams"). The birth of the couple's only child, Tony (Eddie Redmayne of The Good Shepard), intensifies the already volatile marriage. As Tony matures, he becomes an unwilling pawn in the psychosexual games of his parents, and the seeds for a tragedy of spectacular decadence are sown which challenge even the most shocking taboos. Tom Kalin's (Swoon) return to cinema has dazzled and stunned audiences from the Cannes to the Sundance Film Festivals.
*1997 - Actress in a Supporting Role - Boogie Nights, 1999 - Actress in a Leading Role - The End of the Affair, 2002 - Actress in a Leading Role - Far From Heaven, 2002 - Actress in a Supporting Role - The Hours.
Extras:
Scene Access
Feature Trailers
Featurettes
My Thoughts:
Very bizarre and disturbing movie. Based on a the true story of the prestigious Baekeland family, founders of Bakelite plastics. A more screwed up family you'll likely never encounter as adultery, paranoia, dementia and incest were common, ongoing themes throughout the movie.
I'll certainly give it marks for uniqueness... can't say I've seen a movie that even remotely resembled this but I mostly disliked it. Not for the subject matter, but for the wandering lack of direction that left me mostly baffled. Even when the son performs his concluding act I still couldn't figure out how the hell it even reached a conclusion.
Too chaotic for me. I believe director Tom Kalin was going for the shock factor and had he been more purposeful with his storytelling he might have achieved it but overall this was an awful mess. :thumbdown:
KC
Rating:
Post by: KinkyCyborg on October 24, 2010, 04:16:13 AM
(http://img.amazon.ca/images/I/51ZRyMk9ciL._SL500_AA300_.jpg)
~Jack is a NYC advertising exec with a life as glossy as the ads he spins. Jill is new to the city, with nothing to stand on but her fiery personality and romantic ideals. Opposites attract, and together they author their own manifesto of "rules to live by." But Jill betrays Jack by violating rule one - Be Honest. ~
My Thoughts:
There has been no profile made for this movie on the Invelos database so apologies for the lack of details. I wouldn't be surprised if the quality of this movie deemed it unworthy of a profile creation. ???
Run of the mill romance about an in-love couple with one withholding a secret... she has a terminal disease.
Been there done that with Sweet November which was much better than this in all aspects. The biggest problem with this movie, it's death knell really, is the terrible acting of Taryn Manning. UGH! Simply horrible. It's one of those performances where you are convinced that someone owed this girl a huge favor.
This played more like a vanity project for writer/producer/director Vanessa Parise (she even cast herself in the movie and probably manned the cameras and boom mics too!). She did manage to land a few names in Freddie Prinze Jr., Chalrles Martin Smith and Robert Forster, all of whom had looks on their faces that said 'How the hell did I let myself get talked into this?!' :-[
Rating:
KC
Post by: Jimmy on October 24, 2010, 05:35:39 AM
She did manage to land a few names in Freddie Prinze Jr.When he was one? I don't think anyone had watch I Know What You Did Last Summer (and the sequel) or She's All That or Summer Catch or Scooby-Doo because of him... he is more a washed up C movies actor than anything else in my book, a little bit like Shannon Elizabeth or Ashton Kutcher or Pauly Shore :shrug:
Post by: KinkyCyborg on October 24, 2010, 05:44:26 AM
She did manage to land a few names in Freddie Prinze Jr.When he was one? I don't think anyone had watch I Know What You Did Last Summer (and the sequel) or She's All That or Summer Catch or Scooby-Doo because of him... he is more a washed up C movies actor than anything else in my book, a little bit like Shannon Elizabeth or Ashton Kutcher or Pauly Shore :shrug:
I thought he was pretty good in Brooklyn Rules, but aside from that all his roles have been quite forgettable.
Post by: KinkyCyborg on October 24, 2010, 11:31:58 PM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/02/027616902924f.jpg)
Title:Mad Dog Time (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 1996
Director: Larry Bishop
Rating: R
Length: 93 Min.
Video: Pan & Scan 1.33:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, Spanish: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround
Subtitles: English, French, Spanish
Stars:
Ellen Barkin
Gabriel Byrne
Richard Dreyfuss
Jeff Goldblum
Diane Lane
Plot:
Richard Dreyfuss heads an all-star cast in this wickedly funny gangster spoof that explodes with rapid-fire wit and deadly double crosses. An "irresistibly nuts" ('Rolling Stone') glimpse of the criminal underworld, 'Mad Dog Time' is "a comedy masterwork" (American Urban Radio Networks)!
Mob boss Vic is coming home from his most recent stay at a mental hospital, and, before you can say "bada-bing," his ambitious "friends," rivals and underlings are looking to put him -- and each other -- six feet under. Seems like the only one still loyal is Vic’s hired gun Mickey Holliday (Jeff Goldblum)...except that while Vic was away, Mickey was getting very friendly with his boss’ girlfriend. So who’ll be left standing when the bullets start to fly? All bets are off!
Extras:
Scene Access
Feature Trailers
Closed Captioned
My Thoughts:
Black comedy that spoofs gangster life. An all star cast and many unexpected cameos make this a fun watch but many of the performances were preposterous and over the top which I suppose might have been intentional... but it started to get tedious and redundant.
I've never seen Gabriel Byrne acting so silly but in a way it was refreshing. Jeff Goldblum seemed out of place as the cool hitman. Too many roles for him as a rambling intellectual likely prevent me from giving him a fair shake.
Diane Lane was gorgeous but had way too little screen time. I started to feel a bit sorry for Richard Dreyfuss as it has been some time now that I've seen him in a meaningful role outside of his classics that I keep watching over and over again.
The cameos of Billy Idol, Rob Reiner and Richard Pryor added some flavor, even if their parts had little importance.
I have mixed feelings about this one. A great cast with some good individual performances blended into a shambles of a movie. I'll likely need a second viewing of this to get a more focused perspective. :headscratch: I'm curious to hear anyone else's thoughts who might have watched it.
KC
Rating:
Post by: KinkyCyborg on October 26, 2010, 06:04:18 AM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/01/012236148708f.jpg)
Title:Nefertiti Resurrected (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 2003
Director: Matthew Wortman
Rating: NR
Length: 98 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 1.78:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo
Subtitles:
Stars:
Dr. Joann Fletcher
Plot:
Has the famed Egyptian beauty, Queen Nefertiti , been found in a secret chamber deep in the Valley of the Kings?
A Discovery Channel Quest expedition, led by Dr. Joann Fletcher and a team of internationally renown scientists from the University of York Mummy Research Team, hopes to find out. If they're right, the finding will be one of the greatest archaeological discoveries since Nefertiti's stepson – King Tutankhamen – was discovered in 1922.
"Great Royal Wife" of the "renegade" pharaoh Akhenaten, Nefertiti was a mother of six who helped lead a religious revolution that changed Egypt and the world forever. Yet after her death, her enemies destroyed all evidence of Nefertiti's life.
Now, drawing on 13 years of research, Fletcher and her team bring Nefertiti's turbulent reign to life as never before using cutting-edge computer animations to recreate ancient Egypt's great temples; x-rays to reveal the telltale signs of foul play on her mummy; and forensic graphics to recreate the mummy's face.
Have they found the ancient world's greatest beauty?
Extras:
Scene Access
Feature Trailers
Closed Captioned
Interactive Galleries
My Thoughts:
I've been buying up a number of documentaries lately because a few that I have watched recently on TV were very good and I find they provide a nice change of pace from the steady diet of movies that I watch.
Randomly picking this one, I was eager to start watching it as I love docs about history, especially ancient Egypt and given this was a Discovery Channel production I had high expectations.
I hope this show is not indicative of other Discovery Channel releases of which I have a few more kicking around. :redcard:
There was nothing at all wrong with the subject matter in this. They were attempting to identify a discovered mummy, the belief being that she was Nefertiti, King Tut's stepmother and probably the only woman in Egypt's history to rule as Pharaoh. Again I find all history fascinating... but this was presented in such a scattershot manner that there was no flow whatsoever. Constant, repetitive footage showed over and over again made it obvious that they were lacking material to stretch this out over 90 minutes.
What made it even worse was the Egyptologist they selected to follow, a Dr. Joann Fletcher. Someone needed to remind her that this was a documentary and that acting was not necessary. She was forever posturing for the camera and her constant WOWs and THIS IS SO NEAT! made it nearly impossible to take her serious or give her any credibility in her field.
In the end, nothing was confirmed beyond refute. As it turns out the Egyptian body that governs ancient culture and relics would not permit deep DNA testing of any mummies so the doddering relic hunter, despite her own firm convictions and beliefs, proved nothing and was left to conjecture and speculation.
Shockingly poor presentation from a well revered entity like the Discovery Channel. :thumbdown:
I'll give this a one... but only because the topic was of interest.
KC
Rating:
Post by: KinkyCyborg on October 28, 2010, 05:20:25 AM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/88/883904138150f.jpg)
Title:Valkyrie (http://www.invelos.com/images/BluRayLogo.png)(http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 2008
Director: Bryan Singer
Rating: PG-13
Length: 120 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 1.85:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, Spanish: Dolby Digital: 5.1, French: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround
Subtitles: English, French, Spanish
Stars:
Tom Cruise
Kenneth Branagh
Bill Nighy
Tom Wilkinson
Carice van Houten
Plot:
"Tom Cruise gives one of the best performances of his career" (Jeffrey Lyons, NBC/Reel Talk) in this action-packed film from the director of the Usual Suspects and X-Men . Based on the incredible true story of Colonel Claus von Stauffenberg (Cruise) and his ingenious assassination plot targeting Adolph Hitler, this engrossing thriller reenacts the daring operation to eliminate one of the most evil tyrans th world has ever known. Co-staring Kenneth Branagh, Bill Nighy, Tom Wilkinson, Terence Stamp and Eddie Izzard, Valkyrie delivers gripping suspense and pulse-pounding excitement from start to finish!
Extras:
Scene Access
Feature Trailers
Closed Captioned
My Thoughts:
Enjoyed this as I do with most movies of historical significance. Cruise's performance was a bit stiff, but overall I thought he did a decent job. Bill Nighy was exceptionally good in his role!
The resistance to Hitler's manifesto by many in the German hierarchy and military is well documented and despite some 15 odd assassination attempts by Germans on his life he managed to stay alive to watch his nation fall to allied troops, taking his own life in the hours leading up to the taking of Berlin. Had the near miss portrayed in this movie had been successful it would likely have dramatically rewritten many of the horrific events that took place during that war, and saved countless lives but in one way I'm glad he survived the attempts on his life for no other reason than so that he could witness the demise of his life's work... knowing his failure.
According to Amazon there is a documentary about the Valkyrie attempt that I would love to get my hands on.
KC
Rating:
Post by: Antares on October 28, 2010, 02:36:32 PM
Post by: KinkyCyborg on October 29, 2010, 12:25:57 AM
Post by: Critter on October 29, 2010, 12:38:59 AM
Post by: Najemikon on October 29, 2010, 12:53:58 AM
Post by: Kathy on October 29, 2010, 12:58:03 AM
Post by: KinkyCyborg on October 29, 2010, 01:51:48 AM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/65/658149796928f.jpg)
Title:Perfume (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 2001
Director: Michael Rymer
Rating: R
Length: 106 Min.
Video: Widescreen :1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 5.1
Subtitles: English, Spanish
Stars:
Lysa Apostle
Joanne Baron
Monrena Baccarin
Kylie Bax
Angela Bettis
Plot:
New York City is the epicenter of the global fashion industry, a high-stakes world as powerful as the superstars it celebrates and as tenuous as the trends it exploits. Perfume is the story of two women who are partners in an up-and-coming design firm. Overnight, one will find herself stripped of all dignity. The other will betray her very essence for fashion's ultimate deal. Through it all, we meet the myriad of movers, shakers, players, and lovers that power this cutthroat life of hype, image and artifice.
Extras:
Scene Access
Feature Trailers
My Thoughts:
It's been a long time that a movie made me want to stop watching... and while I did finish it (morbid fool that I am) I fingered the eject button to the very end.
Meant to be a raw, blunt testimonial to the fashion industry, this film is one of those 'artistic' attempts at film making. In reality this is just a convoluted mess of one shitty improvised scene after another. A decent cast, all of whom demonstrate just what piss poor actors they are without a script, manage to embarrass themselves for nearly 2 hours.
Paul Sorvino was the only one who gave a halfway decent performance as a Versace-esque fashion icon. Jeff Goldblum, who constantly jibbers and stammers even with script in hand surely landed himself the role of Special Olympics spokesperson after this debacle.
I bet you a good 1/5 of this movie was lost to dramatic pauses between lines as the actors minds raced trying to improvise their lines. Brutal!
This movie is a classic example of what happens when a group of actors and celebrities all get wasted and stoned at one of their Hollywood parties and one of them declares 'Hey, lets whip up a movie and just make it up as we go along!'
KC
Rating:
Post by: Antares on October 29, 2010, 02:07:50 AM
I've never really understood why he seems to be so massively unappealing.
For me, it is one thing that he has done in every film since his breakthrough in Risky Business. In every film, and yes, he does it in Valkyrie too, he flashes that Risky Business smirk that made him famous. Every time I see him do it, I want to smack him across the face with a 2 x 4.
Post by: hal9g on October 29, 2010, 02:53:12 AM
I've never really understood why he seems to be so massively unappealing.
For me, it is one thing that he has done in every film since his breakthrough in Risky Business. In every film, and yes, he does it in Valkyrie too, he flashes that Risky Business smirk that made him famous. Every time I see him do it, I want to smack him across the face with a 2 x 4.
I must admit that I enjoyed Risky Business, Rain Main and Vanilla Sky. Other than those, I really can't watch him in anything else, although I haven't seen Valkyrie yet.
Post by: Achim on October 29, 2010, 07:33:43 AM
In every film, and yes, he does it in Valkyrie too, he flashes that Risky Business smirk that made him famous.Whilt this won't and shouldn't change your mind, but have you considered it not being the "Risky Business smirk" but the Tom Cruise smirk...? It's what he looks like and how he smirks...
Post by: Dragonfire on October 29, 2010, 08:52:02 AM
I've liked most of his other movies that I've seen. Yes he does come across as....ummm. well....arrogant at times, especially in interviews, but if the movie looks interesting, I'll still see it at least once.
I don't think there are really any actors that will keep me from seeing a movie, but there several I don't really like much.
I think I'm about at the point where a certain director - who shall remain nameless as to not start up the great debate again - will keep me away...but I'll see.
Post by: Antares on October 29, 2010, 03:01:52 PM
In every film, and yes, he does it in Valkyrie too, he flashes that Risky Business smirk that made him famous.Whilt this won't and shouldn't change your mind, but have you considered it not being the "Risky Business smirk" but the Tom Cruise smirk...? It's what he looks like and how he smirks...
No, because he didn't do it in Taps or The Outsiders. Two films he made before Risky Business.
Post by: Najemikon on October 29, 2010, 09:07:50 PM
I can't find a clip apart from this dodgy quality one. ???
Post by: KinkyCyborg on October 30, 2010, 11:10:21 PM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/82/829567009321f.jpg)
Title:Posers (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 2002
Director:
Rating: R
Length: 85 Min.
Video: Full Frame 1.33:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 5.1
Subtitles:
Stars:
Jessica Paré
Sarain Boylan
Stefanie von Pfetten
Emily Hampshire
Adam Beach
Plot:
In a nightclub bathroom, after a night of heavy drinking and carousing, four drunken party girls beat a woman to death. The alpha female of the group, Love (Stephanie von Pfetten), vanishes immediately afterward, leaving her three friends -- Ruth (Emily Hampshire), Vonny (Sarain Boylan) and Adria (Jessica Paré) -- with increasingly paranoid thoughts about which of them might be the next to vanish.
Extras:
My Thoughts:
Another trashy movie with piss poor acting and shoddy production.
The movie flipped from one rave to another and tried to sandwich a whodunnit in between. All the characters were so detestable that you didn't care who committed the murders and hoped the rest of them would all die too.
Adam Beach was the only name attached to this sham. He was ok, and perhaps looked to have given a better performance simply by comparison to those of his co-stars (no-stars!).
Waste of time. :thumbdown:
KC
Rating:
Post by: Jimmy on October 30, 2010, 11:37:13 PM
Amazon Canada had this film in french or dub in english for a low price (http://www.amazon.ca/Stardom-Jessica-Par%C3%A9/dp/B0000A1HRK/ref=sr_1_7?s=dvd&ie=UTF8&qid=1288474472&sr=1-7).
Post by: goodguy on October 31, 2010, 03:25:22 AM
Jessica Paré was a name at some point here...
The name was somehow familiar to me too, but I had to look her up. Turns out she was in Leá Pool's Lost and Delirious, along with Piper Pirabo and a very young Misha Barton. Very recommended.
EDIT: She also seems to be in Season 4 of Mad Men, which I haven't seen yet.
Post by: KinkyCyborg on November 01, 2010, 03:21:45 AM
Jimmy: I'd love to give Stardom a watch but it would have to be either dubbed in English or the subtitled version as sadly while I do live in a French-Canadian community I don't speak the language. I'd likely prefer to read the subtitles as quite often something gets lost in the translation to dubbed audio tracks.
Post by: KinkyCyborg on November 01, 2010, 03:43:47 AM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/02/027616909091f.jpg)
Title:The Silence Of The Lambs (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 1991
Director: Jonathan Demme
Rating: R
Length: 118 Min.
Video: Full Frame 1.33:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, French: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround, Spanish: Dolby Digital: Mono
Subtitles: English, French, Spanish
Stars:
Jodie Foster
Lawrence A. Bonney
Kasi Lemmons
Lawrence T. Wrentz
Scott Glenn
Plot:
Jodie Foster and Anthony Hopkins deliver sensational, Oscar®-winning* performances in this "shockingly powerful thriller" (New York). "Stunning" (Los Angeles Times) and "spellbinding" (The Hollywood Reporter), this terrifying masterpiece garnered* five Academy Awards®, including Best Picture.
A psychopath nicknamed Buffalo Bill is murdering young women across the Midwest. Believing it takes one to know one, the FBI sends Agent Clarice Starling (Foster) to interview a demented prisoner who may provide clues to the killer's actions. That prisoner is psychiatrist Dr. Hannibal Lecter (Hopkins), a brilliant, diabolical cannibal who agrees to help Starling only if she'll feed his morbid curiosity with details of her own comlicated life. As their relationship develops, Starling is forced to confront not only her own hidden demons but also an evil so powerful that she may not have the courage – or strength – to stop it!
* 1991: Director, Actor, Acress, Adapted Screenplay
Extras:
Scene Access
Feature Trailers
Closed Captioned
My Thoughts:
Seen this a few times now and even though I know how it ends it still draws me in and puts a vice grip on my attention.
Forget Jodie Foster, Scott Glenn and the rest of the cast... forget director Jonathan Demme. This is Anthony Hopkin's tour de force! Hanibal Lecter is just as real in people's minds as Ted Bundy, Jeffery Dahmer or John Wayne Gacy... for some even more so. The sequels, while not bad, did not ascend to the heights of this film nor the performance of Hopkins.
So many memorable scenes and quotes from this film. I would have never known nor cared to know what fava beans were until Lecter uttered those words with such cool, deadly glee. His facial expressions, his graceful demeanor, his hypnotic speech and piercing intellect make him one of films most unforgettable characters. The performances of Foster, Ted Levine, Glenn and others were like bright shining stars... all but obliterated by the supernova that was Anthony Hopkins. :clap:
If you watch closely you will see the cameos of both Roger Corman and George Romero as FBI guys! :thumbup:
The only blemish that I can perceive on the entire Utopian package which is Silence Of The Lambs was the acceptance speech of Jonathan Demme at the Oscars. This man went on and on for what seemed like an eternity, and yet never finished a sentence in his chaotic, mumbling speech. I'm sure many in the crowd and at home were hoping Hopkins would revert to his Hanibal persona and chew out his voice box and tongue. :devil:
Brilliant directing effort but you soon appreciate why these masters of their craft are better left behind the camera.
KC
Rating:
Post by: Jimmy on November 01, 2010, 04:33:11 AM
Post by: Antares on November 01, 2010, 05:08:45 PM
The only blemish that I can perceive on the entire Utopian package which is Silence Of The Lambs was the acceptance speech of Jonathan Demme at the Oscars. This man went on and on for what seemed like an eternity, and yet never finished a sentence in his chaotic, mumbling speech. I'm sure many in the crowd and at home were hoping Hopkins would revert to his Hanibal persona and chew out his voice box and tongue. :devil:
My wife and I were watching it, and I turned to her and said, "Bet they regret voting for him now". The truly sad thing for me is that Demme's films now, pretty much mirror his personality and mannerisms. Watch Rachel Getting Married and tell me if the style of the film mimics his acceptance speech in tone.
Post by: Najemikon on November 01, 2010, 05:24:25 PM
The only blemish that I can perceive on the entire Utopian package which is Silence Of The Lambs was the acceptance speech of Jonathan Demme at the Oscars. This man went on and on for what seemed like an eternity, and yet never finished a sentence in his chaotic, mumbling speech. I'm sure many in the crowd and at home were hoping Hopkins would revert to his Hanibal persona and chew out his voice box and tongue. :devil:
My wife and I were watching it, and I turned to her and said, "Bet they regret voting for him now". The truly sad thing for me is that Demme's films now, pretty much mirror his personality and mannerisms. Watch Rachel Getting Married and tell me if the style of the film mimics his acceptance speech in tone.
Woah. Good point. As I said before, I do think RGM is brilliantly made in many respects, but I can't get past the tone of the thing. At all. And now you've said that I can't help but agree.
We could still say that maybe RGM is simply his most personal film. Lambs is so brilliant I find it intoxicating, but it is also very different.
I love Manhunter too. Much as I like Hopkins, I can't help but think the perfect Hannibal film is Brian Cox playing against Jodie Foster, directed by Demme.
Jimmy, have you seen The Escapist? It's a marvellous little film with Cox as a prisoner planning an escape. It's an unusual film, but I mention it because Cox has become a brilliant character actor, but you rarely see him lead a film in a role with any depth. To be honest, I think the independent nature of the film would appeal to you anyway.
Post by: Jimmy on November 01, 2010, 05:46:37 PM
Jimmy, have you seen The Escapist? It's a marvellous little film with Cox as a prisoner planning an escape. It's an unusual film, but I mention it because Cox has become a brilliant character actor, but you rarely see him lead a film in a role with any depth. To be honest, I think the independent nature of the film would appeal to you anyway.Never seen it, but knowing that some of your recommandation in the past were really enjoyable for me I'll keep an eye open for this one. I can't order it since my purchases are done for this year (don't forget 90% of them are pre-order), so it will be certainly next year.
Post by: Antares on November 01, 2010, 05:52:00 PM
Woah. Good point. As I said before, I do think RGM is brilliantly made in many respects, but I can't get past the tone of the thing. At all. And now you've said that I can't help but agree.
The one scene in the film that completely blew it for me is when Rachel tells her father and the others in the room, that she is pregnant. Everyone is happy and congratulatory except Kym who throws cinema's biggest narcissistic hissy fit. And instead of Rachel telling her to go fuck herself, they all just walk away. At that point, I wanted nothing to do with the film.
Post by: goodguy on November 01, 2010, 06:01:22 PM
Post by: KinkyCyborg on November 01, 2010, 10:39:15 PM
Even if I like this film I can't pass over the fact that for me Anthony Hopkins isn't the Dr. Hannibal Lecktor. What can I say? I have seen Manhunter (a real gem who doesn't receive the respect it deserve to get. Personally I find it better than Silence Of The Lambs) when it was released in 86, so for me Brian Cox is the character.
Again, guilty of not seeing the original version, although I do own it, so I can't really draw a comparison. For many, and I find myself guilty of this at times too, the first version watched is often like your 'first love' in terms of which version is preferred. Brian Cox is a great actor too so I'm even more intrigued to see Manhunter now.
As for Demme... the Oscar sweep of Silence Of The Lambs I believe went right to his head from the moment he stepped on stage to give his speech and extended for several years afterward. Receiving prestigious top accolades for a film often puts a director in a frame of mind that is not conducive to the criteria that worked for them in the films that led to their success. They immediately start thinking BIGGER and better and things start falling apart for them. M. Night Shylaman is another example of that. Yet when directors like Scorcese and Eastwood win those Oscars they manage to stay grounded, then go out and do it again.
Post by: Kathy on November 01, 2010, 11:27:56 PM
I have the strange urge to yet again defend RGM, but I'm just too tired.
I'll get your back Matthias - I too liked this movie and have trouble understanding why others don't.
Oh wait...I know...they are wrong and we are right! :tease:
Post by: Antares on November 01, 2010, 11:38:31 PM
Yet when directors like Scorcese and Eastwood win those Oscars they manage to stay grounded, then go out and do it again.
I don't know if you can quantify Scorcese with Eastwood in terms of post-Oscar success. Eastwood has released Mystic River, Million Dollar Baby and Letters from Iwo Jima since his first win. While Scorcese has really only released Shutter Island, which, from the reviews I've read, wasn't that good.
Post by: Antares on November 01, 2010, 11:42:21 PM
I too liked this movie and have trouble understanding why others don't.
Because it is overly pretentious, has enough filler to make a Washington politician proud, moves at a snail's pace and gives you characters that aren't for one moment, sympathetic.
Post by: Najemikon on November 02, 2010, 12:20:20 AM
Yet when directors like Scorcese and Eastwood win those Oscars they manage to stay grounded, then go out and do it again.
I don't know if you can quantify Scorcese with Eastwood in terms of post-Oscar success. Eastwood has released Mystic River, Million Dollar Baby and Letters from Iwo Jima since his first win. While Scorcese has really only released Shutter Island, which, from the reviews I've read, wasn't that good.
Funny you should say that! I have a review of Shutter Island I forgot to post. :slaphead: Watch my Horror thread for it, as it had enough thriller elements to warrant inclusion, which is what I thought two weeks ago when I watched the bloomin' thing. :bag:
Post by: KinkyCyborg on November 02, 2010, 12:53:19 AM
Yet when directors like Scorcese and Eastwood win those Oscars they manage to stay grounded, then go out and do it again.
I don't know if you can quantify Scorcese with Eastwood in terms of post-Oscar success. Eastwood has released Mystic River, Million Dollar Baby and Letters from Iwo Jima since his first win. While Scorcese has really only released Shutter Island, which, from the reviews I've read, wasn't that good.
Only one win for Scorcese but he's been a bride's maid many times, with some movies that could be argued as the more deserving winner. He's been right there for Goodfellas, The Aviator, Last Temptation Of Christ, Raging Bull and Gangs Of New York. That many Oscar noms in the Best Picture & Director category would be considered largely successful in most circles as well, despite the lack of wins.
Jury is still out for me on Shutter Island... still in my to watch pile. ::)
Post by: KinkyCyborg on November 02, 2010, 01:03:29 AM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/02/024543103301f.jpg)
Title:The Grapes of Wrath (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 1940
Director: John Ford
Rating: NR
Length: 129 Min.
Video: Full Frame 1.33:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo, English: Dolby Digital: Mono, Spanish: Dolby Digital: Mono, Commentary: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo
Subtitles: English, French, Spanish
Stars:
Henry Fonda
Jane Darwell
John Carradine
Charley Grapewin
Dorris Bowdon
Plot:
This remarkable film version of John Steinbeck's novel was nominated for seven Academy Awards, including Best Picture, Actor (Henry Fonda), Film Editing, Sound and Writing. John Ford won the Best Director Oscar and Jane Darwell won Best Supporting Actress for her portrayal of Ma Joad, the matriarch of the struggling migrant farmer family.
Following a prison term he served for manslaughter, Tom Joad returns to find his family homestead overwhelmed by weather and the greed of the banking industry. With little work potential on the horizon of the Oklahoma dust bowls, the entire family packs up and heads for the promised land – California. but the arduous trip and harsh living conditions they encounter offer little hope, and family unity proves as daunting a challenge as any other they face.
Extras:
Scene Access
Audio Commentary
Feature Trailers
Featurettes
Gallery
Production Notes
Outtakes/Bloopers
Closed Captioned
Restoration Comparison, UK Prologue
My Thoughts:
Screen adaptation of the classic John Steinbeck novel. The movie is a classic as well.
Telling the story of desolate sharecroppers in the dustbowl of Oklahoma who set out for California with the promise of work and better times. Upon reaching the land of 'milk and honey' they quickly and painfully discover that the milk is sour and the honeypot is full of flies. :(
This is a powerful movie of extremes. We see both the worst of inhumanity in people and the pinnacle of compassion in others.
A very young, gangly Henry Fonda play the contemptuous Tom Joad, a man who can barely contain his rage at the cruelty and hardships he and his family must endure. His performance was excellent but as good as he was the true star of this film was Jane Darwell as Ma Joad, the pure embodiment of hope and spirit... she's the glue that keeps the family together and keeps them going. Her closing words to end the film were truly inspirational and she was most deserving of the Best Supporting Actress Oscar she received in 1940 for this role.
For any man, woman or child who has ever bitched and complained about how hard they have it... they should watch this movie.
KC
Rating:
Post by: Antares on November 02, 2010, 01:04:39 AM
Only one win for Scorcese but he's been a bride's maid many times, with some movies that could be argued as the more deserving winner. He's been right there for Goodfellas, The Aviator, Last Temptation Of Christ, Raging Bull and Gangs Of New York.
Sorry, but can include Gangs of New York or The Aviator. The former was overly long and a bit over the top at times, while the latter was a prime example of Scorcese caring more about how the film looked as opposed to how well the screenplay gelled and that the actors show thespian restraint.
That many Oscar noms in the Best Picture & Director category would be considered largely successful in most circles as well, despite the lack of wins.
But I also think Scorcese, at times, benefits from idol worship that is not warranted. One problem I have with a lot of his films, is just what I mentioned above in regards to The Aviator. Sure his films look great and he really wants to be lauded as the Welles/Toland heir to cinematographic innovation, but his films can be aimless at times.
Post by: Antares on November 02, 2010, 01:15:02 AM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/02/024543103301f.jpg)
Rating:
This for me, is the quintessential John Ford film. When Ford made films about the struggles of man, as opposed to his famous horse operas, he tended to keep on the straight and narrow of storytelling. His penchant for corny side plots and hackneyed moments never arises.
It's a shame that the Hays code was in effect when this was made. It would have been interesting to see how Ford would have dealt with the scene in the book where Rose of Sharon feeds the starving farmer with her breast milk. That was one of the most poignant moments in the story.
Post by: KinkyCyborg on November 02, 2010, 01:18:01 AM
Gangs Of New York... I had no problem with the length of the movie and the characters were so rich and engaging. Daniel Day Lewis's performance might be considered over the top but I think that was quite intentional in order to drive home the point of how this man believed in no uncertain terms that he was The Man of the Five Points. I liked that movie so much that I can even forgive the silly inclusion of Cameron Diaz. ???
Post by: Antares on November 02, 2010, 01:34:42 AM
I'd agree with you on The Aviator... so much focus was put on emulating the look and feel of that era that the story often went off on wild tangents that were mostly unnecessary.
Not only tangents, but historical inaccuracies. He's building the Spruce Goose and the XF-11 at the time he's dating Faith Domergue and Ava Gardner. In the film, Domergue tells him that she's 15 years old. But Domergue was born in 1924, making the year 1939 when she meets Hughes. Three years before either plane was commissioned for development by the U.S. government. Ava Gardner was an unknown uncredited actress in 1942, and would not find fame until 1946 in The Killers.
If you're going to make an historical biopic, you should do a little fact checking. :thumbdown:
Post by: KinkyCyborg on November 02, 2010, 01:35:55 AM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/02/024543103301f.jpg)It's a shame that the Hays code was in effect when this was made. It would have been interesting to see how Ford would have dealt with the scene in the book where Rose of Sharon feeds the starving farmer with her breast milk. That was one of the most poignant moments in the story.
Rating:
Even the mere suggestion of such a thing on film in those days would have never seen the light of day. Remember when Archie Bunker did the diaper change on All In The Family and they showed the naked baby? There was such a stink over that... :laugh: Still, I too would be interested too see what Ford would have done for that particular scene.
The censors from those bygone days would blow a bowel if they flipped on the TV today. :bag:
Post by: Antares on November 02, 2010, 01:39:10 AM
Even the mere suggestion of such a thing on film in those days would have never seen the light of day. Remember when Archie Bunker did the diaper change on All In The Family and they showed the naked baby? There was such a stink over that... :laugh: Still, I too would be interested too see what Ford would have done for that particular scene.
This why I've always been a big fan of Pre-Code Hollywood films. For a short 4 year window, they made real films that pushed the envelope.
Post by: KinkyCyborg on November 02, 2010, 01:43:56 AM
I'd agree with you on The Aviator... so much focus was put on emulating the look and feel of that era that the story often went off on wild tangents that were mostly unnecessary.
Not only tangents, but historical inaccuracies. He's building the Spruce Goose and the XF-11 at the time he's dating Faith Domergue and Ava Gardner. In the film, Domergue tells him that she's 15 years old. But Domergue was born in 1924, making the year 1939 when she meets Hughes. Three years before either plane was commissioned for development by the U.S. government. Ava Gardner was an unknown uncredited actress in 1942, and would not find fame until 1946 in The Killers.
If you're going to make an historical biopic, you should do a little fact checking. :thumbdown:
Well, you know that when a movie is made on such a grandiose scale with much time devoted to the dazzling visual effects that everyone will be talking about when the movie is over, it's hard to find time to squeeze in some important tidbits called 'facts'. Also trying to jam in a lifetime into a two and a half hour window you know accuracy is always going to be the first casualty.
Post by: KinkyCyborg on November 03, 2010, 12:59:13 AM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/09/097368799646f.jpg)
Title:The Wool Cap (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 2004
Director: Steven Schachter
Rating: PG-13
Length: 91 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 1.85:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, English: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround
Subtitles: English
Stars:
William H. Macy
Don Rickles
Ned Beatty
Keke Palmer
Catherine O'Hara
Plot:
William H. Macy ('Focus') stars in this inspiring family drama based upon the original story "Gigot" written by legendary entertainer Jackie Gleason. Broken water pipes and busted doors are all part of a day's work for Gigot (Macy) the gruff, mute superintendent of a crumbling urban apartment building. But in the space of one fateful year, he'll discover there are some things that can't be fixed with duct tape and power tools: things and people that can only be made whole again with the power of love and forgiveness. Also starring Ned Beatty ('Network'), Catherine O'Hara ('Orange County') and Don Rickles. 'The Wool Cap' introduces the remarkable Keke Palmer as an abandoned youngster who steals - and helps mend - Gigot's heart!
Extras:
Scene Access
Closed Captioned
My Thoughts:
Heartfelt story about a mute superintendent who gets saddled with a young black girl and becomes her unwilling guardian. As time passes and he learns that the young girl's mother died of an overdose, he becomes more attached to the girl and looks to at worst, foster her and at best adopt her.
William H. Macy was superb as the mute... given that he never uttered a word of dialogue throughout the movie makes it that much more a special performance. His character, battling his own demons, alcohol and mistakes from his past, looks at this young girl as a chance at redemption.
Keke Palmer, from Akeelah & The Bee fame shines as the young girl, full of smarts and even more attitude. What seems like an unlikely match at first has you rooting for them as they overcome many obstacles in their quest to become a family.
I really enjoyed this as I suspected I would being a sucker for the feel good movies. With equal moments of despair and triumph, more than a few times I found myself with a lump in my throat.
Highly recommended for the whole family.
I shall be revealing a surprise with my next review.... :o
KC
Rating:
Post by: Kathy on November 03, 2010, 01:49:03 AM
I really like William H. Macy. Have you ever seen him in Door to Door?
(http://img139.imageshack.us/img139/1420/doortodoor.jpg) (http://img139.imageshack.us/i/doortodoor.jpg/)
Post by: KinkyCyborg on November 03, 2010, 02:03:21 AM
I hadn't thought about this movie in a long time. Thank you for the review Kevin.
I really like William H. Macy. Have you ever seen him in Door to Door?
(http://img139.imageshack.us/img139/1420/doortodoor.jpg) (http://img139.imageshack.us/i/doortodoor.jpg/)
Macy has always been a very likable, dependable actor. I own Door To Door but have yet to watch it. I thought he was great in the movie The Cooler as well. :thumbup:
Post by: KinkyCyborg on November 04, 2010, 01:26:42 AM
(http://img.amazon.ca/images/I/518UVI8xp8L._SL500_AA300_.jpg)
Title:Braveheart (http://www.invelos.com/images/BluRayLogo.png)(http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 1995
Director: Mel Gibson
Rating: R
Length: 177 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 2.35:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, English: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround, French: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround, Commentary: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround
Subtitles: English
Stars:
James Robinson
Sean Lawlor
Sandy Nelson
James Cosmo
Sean McGinley
Plot:
Mel Gibson stars on both sides of the camera, playing the lead role plus directing and producing this brawling, richly-detailed saga of fierce combat, tender love and the will to risk all that's precious for something more precious: freedom. In an emotionally charged performance, Gibson is William Wallace, a bold Scotsman who used the steel of his blade and the fire of his intellect to rally his country-men to liberation. Filled with sword-clanging spectacle, Braveheart is a tumultuous tapestry of history come alive, "the most sumptuous and involving historical epic since Lawrence of Arabia" (Rod Lurie, Los Angeles Magazine).
Extras:
Scene Access
Audio Commentary
Feature Trailers
Featurettes
Closed Captioned
My Thoughts:
Yes... it's true. KC has gone blu. 8)
I've had my bluray player for a few weeks now but this is the first bluray I've watched in it's entirety since I got it. Mostly up till now I've fiddled with it, fine tuned the settings and audio and watched some up-converted dvds on it.
I picked up a sleek Phillips Bluray player and the only way I would agree to buy it from the A/V store where I bought it was if he threw in a Bluray movie of my choice and this is the one I grabbed. :thumbup:
Before I review it though let me give my first impressions of true 1080p Hi Def. What can I say... the visuals are stunning. I can see the pores on the skin of the faces of the people on screen, I can see individual blades of grass when outdoors. The colors are rich, the clarity incredible. My only knock, if I could even call it that, is that is just kind of well... looks weird. :-\ My first thought when seeing true Hi Def was that these Hollywood movies now look like Canadian television... amateur and lacking a Hollywood production 'ambiance'. I think it's merely not being used to it and I'm sure I quickly will. ;)
I have nearly 200 blurays stockpiled and will now start watching only those that I have already seen the DVD version, if only for comparison reasons. Also, I'm sure you'll find this crazy as well, I plan on continuing to collect both DVD and Bluray formats... with potential future business opportunities in mind.
Onto the movie. Mel Gibson's crowning achievement as both and actor and director. Honestly... show of hands... how many people knew the story of William Wallace before this movie? Gibson's vision has made William Wallace near mythical in reverence. Being of Scottish ancestry myself I feel a small amount of personal pride in this film knowing how a fed up nation took up arms to shrug off English tyranny. Some of the finest detailed and choreographed battle scenes ever on film are to be found in Braveheart. The jockeying for position, the betrayals, the constant shifting allegiances throughout the noble class system is fascinating and yet the bulk of the nation chose to follow a commoner not interested in land or riches... just freedom and to avenge the murder of his beloved. Wallace's torture at the end, and his refusal to cry out except to shout FREEDOM is one of the most memorable scenes in all the countless hours of movies I have watched in my life.
Again, in Bluray the visuals are stunning. The sweeping panoramic views of the majestic Scottish highlands is breathtaking. I did detect a very slight amount of motion blur during some of the more intense action scenes but not enough to bother me... yet. I will watch a few more action flicks in blu before I pass complete judgment on that.
I have worked bluray into my semi-random system of selecting movies. Working in random picks, my own picks, TV episodes and now bluray has turned into a form of science for me... I even have a chart/checklist now that I whipped up in Excel to help me remember and facilitate my movie watching.
I've rambled and gushed enough. Feels good to have joined the club! :yahoo:
KC
Rating:
Post by: hal9g on November 04, 2010, 01:45:52 AM
Post by: KinkyCyborg on November 04, 2010, 01:54:27 AM
Welcome to the Blu ray world. Glad you are finding the technology worthwhile. As with DVD, you will find varying levels of quality, so I'm glad you started with something not only of high quality, but also something that you completely enjoyed, as did I. :clap:
Hard to go wrong with Braveheart. ;) For many of the movies that I have already seen, in some cases many times, it will be like experiencing them all over again as the difference between DVD and Bluray is far more immense than I ever expected it to be.
Thanks for the warm welcome... in High Def!! :cheers:
Post by: hal9g on November 04, 2010, 02:02:10 AM
Post by: goodguy on November 04, 2010, 02:03:18 AM
Title:Braveheart
...
Stars:
James Robinson
Sean Lawlor
Sandy Nelson
James Cosmo
Sean McGinley
:stars: :stars:
Omitting Mel Gibson I can understand, but where is Sophie Marceau?
Post by: KinkyCyborg on November 04, 2010, 02:07:58 AM
Oh, and keep in mind that the fast-action blurriness that you experience may have more to do with your TV (or the player) than with the Blu ray disc itself.
The TV is a Phillips as well. I thought that by marrying up matching name brands would be a logical thing to do but I guess I will find out.
Title:Braveheart
...
Stars:
James Robinson
Sean Lawlor
Sandy Nelson
James Cosmo
Sean McGinley
:stars: :stars:
Omitting Mel Gibson I can understand, but where is Sophie Marceau?
That's just the way DVD Profiler orders the cast when copying the BB Code over. I could manually fix it but I'm too lazy for that. :couch:
Post by: Achim on November 04, 2010, 05:17:31 AM
Braveheart is on my "must watch soon" pile (actually I have never seen it before :bag:).
Post by: Najemikon on November 04, 2010, 09:39:51 AM
Mine isn't a Phillips but your description is exactly how I would explain it so check if you have any weird settings enabled. LCD like to use pointless enhancements.
Post by: Antares on November 04, 2010, 05:26:30 PM
Kevin, my tv has a setting called Trumotion and it sets the frame rate to be more realistic. However I find it awful. It looks stunning but the movement is alien. It would work well for sports, concerts, etc, but I don't like it for film.
Mine isn't a Phillips but your description is exactly how I would explain it so check if you have any weird settings enabled. LCD like to use pointless enhancements.
This is the reason I went with a DLP. You don't get the motion problem.
Post by: Najemikon on November 04, 2010, 05:35:38 PM
Kevin, I also thought afterwards, check if your player and TV are 24fps capable and if so, see if there is a setting that needs enabling on the player. That improves things no end too.
Post by: Antares on November 04, 2010, 05:57:22 PM
Switch all the crap off, it's great, but it comes down to price otherwise.
What crap are you talking about?
And DLP's have always been less expensive when compared to an LCD or Plasma, especially when you factor in lifetime of unit. On a DLP, the only thing you need to replace is the bulb. If you keep up with a regular schedule of cleaning and maintenance, this set can last you up to 4 or 5 times that of a Plasma, 2 or 3 times an LCD.
Post by: Najemikon on November 04, 2010, 07:18:58 PM
Are you talking about DLP in a rear projection TV, or on an actual projector with a proper screen? In the UK, either is pricey. In fact the TVs seem to have died out all together. I found them too big anyway, but I just quickly checked and can't find any current ones with typical sellers.
Post by: Antares on November 04, 2010, 09:09:01 PM
Are you talking about DLP in a rear projection TV.
This.
In fact the TVs seem to have died out all together.
Because they have a longer lifespan, sales people and their marketing representatives pushed the thinness of the Plasma and LCD sets as a main selling point. When juxtaposed against the size needed for the bulb in a DLP, everybody was fooled into believing that thinner was better.
If a set dies after 5 years, they're guaranteed you'll be buying a new one fairly shortly after your initial purchase. Whereas a DLP can last twice as long, meaning less sales over the coarse of time. This is why they hyped the shit out of Plasma sets. Sure they looked good in the first 200 hundred hours of viewing, but after that the luminescence degrades quite astonishingly. While LED doesn't degrade as fast, it too needs to be replaced quicker than a CRT or DLP.
In this day and age, sales is about quantity over quality, and knowing the limited knowledge of the consumer, the manufacturers know how to make the shorter life sets look better in the showroom. They never wanted DLP to become successful.
But everyone I talked into buying one, is now thanking me. Especially when they see their friends replacing those 3 - 5 thouseand dollar Plasma sets their friends bought just a few years ago.
Post by: hal9g on November 04, 2010, 09:17:50 PM
The only downside is the weight. No way can I move it myself.
If and when the time comes, I'll replace it with an LED TV. DLP is ancient technology. It is very nice, but it's passé, as is plasma.
Post by: Critter on November 04, 2010, 09:39:57 PM
Post by: Najemikon on November 04, 2010, 09:42:30 PM
I've replaced it with a bigger screen that I'm able to move around myself and the amount of space it's freed up is astonishing. We still have one other 32" ws crt and I can't wait to replace that too because the room will breathe a sigh of relief.
I personally have a Plasma and an LED. The LED is amazing and leaves the plasma in the dust as far as qaulity goes, yet I still like having them both. The Plasma has a nice softer feel to it, so I prefer to watch certain things on it, where as the LED is crystal clear and sharp constantly, which is better for things like blu-ray and gaming. To me they both have their merits.
That's unusual. The plasma should still out perform the LCD. Maybe it's an age/brand thing, but the rule of thumb is that you definitely only consider plasma over a certain size so it isn't superseded tech at all.
Post by: KinkyCyborg on November 05, 2010, 03:19:39 AM
Kevin, my tv has a setting called Trumotion and it sets the frame rate to be more realistic. However I find it awful. It looks stunning but the movement is alien. It would work well for sports, concerts, etc, but I don't like it for film.
Mine isn't a Phillips but your description is exactly how I would explain it so check if you have any weird settings enabled. LCD like to use pointless enhancements.
Switch all the crap off, it's great, but it comes down to price otherwise.
Kevin, I also thought afterwards, check if your player and TV are 24fps capable and if so, see if there is a setting that needs enabling on the player. That improves things no end too.
My TV has a Video Output set of choices where it asks you if you are watching Sports, Movies, etc... I have that set to Movie and then there is a setting where you can set it to 120mhz which it says give a smoother and sharper picture. I've actually tried that with it on and off and could see no noticeable difference.
My bluray player does have a 1080p/24 mode where I assume the 24 if the fps you speak of. I actually have that set to Auto Detect where it is supposed to give you the optimal settings based on what you are watching.
It's still too early for me to make a fair judgment as to the level of quality especially considering I really have nothing to compare with except my old CRT tv and regular dvd player. When making THAT comparison it's hard to say it's anything less than spectacular! Of course I have plenty more tinkering to do in the days and weeks ahead. Thanks for all the great info folks! I'm certainly getting educated quick. :thumbup:
Post by: KinkyCyborg on November 07, 2010, 04:10:36 AM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/02/027616858696f.jpg)
Title:Navy Seals (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 1990
Director: Lewis Teague
Rating: R
Length: 113 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 1.85:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo, French: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo
Subtitles: French, Spanish
Stars:
Charlie Sheen
Michael Biehn
Joanne Whalley [Joanne Whalley-Kilmer]
Rick Rossovich
Cyril O'Reilly
Plot:
They're America's ultimate weapon. Charlie Sheen (Platoon), Michael Biehn (The Terminator) and Bill Paxton (Twister) team up as three of America's finest Navy commandos in this pulse-pounding adventure that brings out the heavy artillery for explosive action and breathtaking suspense "that will leave you clenching your teeth" (The Washington Post)!
The Navy's elite SEAL (SEa, Air and Land) squad is made up of the best of the best: supreme warriors who take on dangerous missions no other fighting force would dare attempt. Sent to rescue the crew of a U.S. aircraft held hostage by mideast terrorists, the SEALs know that their skills will be put to the test. But when they discover that the terrorists have seized the plane's arsenal of deadly Stinger missiles, they're thrust onto the frontlines of the battle of a lifetime.
Extras:
Scene Access
Feature Trailers
My Thoughts:
A favorite action flick of mine... it's been a few years since my last viewing but it still holds up nicely.
Charlie Sheen has been one of the Two & A Half Men for so long now that you almost forget he did a few movies... some good performances as well. I include this one as one of his better roles too as the maverick SEAL Hawkins whose mouth and actions often land him in trouble. Sheen should have little trouble acting the part given his real life tribulations. :laugh:
Michael Biehn has always been a favorite and I forgot Bill Paxton was in this. The two will later appear together again in Tombstone.
Great action with some humor thrown in the right places. Two thumbs up! :thumbsup:
Rating:
Post by: KinkyCyborg on November 07, 2010, 04:46:23 PM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/03/031398832324f.jpg)
Title:Nemesis Game (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 2002
Director: Jesse Warn
Rating: R
Length: 91 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 1.85:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 5.1
Subtitles: English, Spanish
Stars:
Carly Pope
Ian McShane
Adrian Paul
Rena Owen
Brendan Fehr
Plot:
Sara Novak is an introverted college student with a few skeletons in her closet. Shying away from classmates, she prefers to spend time with Vern, an older comic store owner who shares her passion for mind games and riddles. But when the riddles she solves lead to the deaths of those around her, she realizes the riddles are more than a simple game.....
Extras:
Scene Access
Audio Commentary
Deleted Scenes
Featurettes
Closed Captioned
My Thoughts:
Convoluted story about a game of riddles that leads to murder. Very much a movie of highs and lows. There are moments where you are on the edge of your seat and long extended periods where it is painfully boring. During these lulls I found myself getting up and finding something else to do. :-\
This was a joint Canada/New Zealand production with Toronto the city where the story took place. Lots of Canadian content in the movie as well with the attractive Carly Pope, Brendan Fehr and perpetual geek, Jay Baruchel. Ian McShane lends some veteran presence to this mostly younger cast with a good performance as well.
Weird movie with some decent moments but at the end, which wasn't necessarily a bad ending, it did leave me a bit confused.
KC
Rating:
Post by: Najemikon on November 07, 2010, 05:32:58 PM
My TV has a Video Output set of choices where it asks you if you are watching Sports, Movies, etc... I have that set to Movie and then there is a setting where you can set it to 120mhz which it says give a smoother and sharper picture. I've actually tried that with it on and off and could see no noticeable difference.
My bluray player does have a 1080p/24 mode where I assume the 24 if the fps you speak of. I actually have that set to Auto Detect where it is supposed to give you the optimal settings based on what you are watching.
That's interesting because you've reminded me of something now. You should try setting the player specifically to 1080p/24 mode and see how the TV reacts. I found the "Trumotion" (your 120mhz?) thing wouldn't actually work properly until that was set (even though I didn't like it when I did see it working!).
And as for those output choices, is one of them "off"? Because that's the one I use. ;) As I said before, I don't like the TV interpreting what it's receiving. I want a naked signal, so to speak. I mean, we all know how different film-makers can be, it makes me wonder exactly why "Movie" mode is so different to some of the others.
Post by: KinkyCyborg on November 08, 2010, 05:50:34 AM
Post by: KinkyCyborg on November 08, 2010, 05:52:53 AM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/02/027616784926f.jpg)
Title:Dead Man Walking (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 1995
Director: Tim Robbins
Rating: R
Length: 122 Min.
Video: Widescreen 1.85:1, Pan & Scan 1.33:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround, French: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround, Commentary: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo
Subtitles: Spanish
Stars:
Susan Sarandon
Sean Penn
Robert Prosky
Raymond J. Barry
R. Lee Ermey
Plot:
Inspired by the true story of a nun's relationship with a condemned man, this provocative examination of crime, punishment and redemption earned Susan Sarandon the 1995 Oscar® for Best Actress and Sean Penn an Oscar® nomination for Best Actor. Dead Man Walking is a "fast-moving and absorbing" film filled with "genuine suspense" (Variety) that will leave you awe-struck from beginning to end.
Sister Helen Prejean (Sarandon), a compassionate New Orleans nun, is the spiritual advisor to Matthew Poncelet (Penn), a vicious, angry and complex murderer awaiting execution. Her dedication is to help others, like Matthew, find salvation. But as she attempts to navigate Matthew's dark soul, she encounters a depth of evil that makes her question how far redemption can really go. Can she stave off the fateful day of execution long enough to save Matthew, or will she discover a truth that will rock the very foundation by which she lives her life?
Extras:
Scene Access
Audio Commentary
Feature Trailers
Production Notes
Closed Captioned
2-Page Booklet
My Thoughts:
First time watching this and what an intense, emotionally gripping movie it was. True story about Sister Helen Prejean, who at the request of a death row inmate, becomes his spiritual counselor. Inexperienced in such matters, confused and scared shitless, she knows she can't save his life but tries desperately to save his soul.
Maybe Susan Sarandon's finest performance and certainly worthy of the Oscar she received. You could tell how much of an emotional investment she had in this role as she took direction not only from director/hubby Tim Robbins, but from the actual Sister Prejean who was a consultant on the film. Getting first hand accounts of the last week of this convicted killer's life right up to his execution would help any actor get into their role, least of all a great actress like Sarandon.
Sean Penn also earned himself an Oscar nom for his role as the convicted killer whose pride, hatred and disdain for authority eventually works his way towards accountability, remorse and a small amount of redemption thanks to the kindness shown to him by Sister Prejean. No one can dispute Penn's convincing and powerful performances, particularly in difficult roles and he brought it home again in this one.
I'm not exactly sure what message Tim Robbins was trying to convey with this movie save perhaps simple compassion. Dead Man Walking provides plenty of ammunition for both sides of the capital punishment debate and I found it did little to sway my own opinion on the subject. The pros and cons were pretty much a wash and I'd love to ask Robbins that question if I had the chance. I'm also interested to hear other people's take on this movie who have seen it before. It's for sure one of those movies that can inspire spirited discussion, debate and pondering.
KC
Rating:
Post by: Antares on November 08, 2010, 06:01:53 PM
Post by: KinkyCyborg on November 09, 2010, 02:24:21 AM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/09/097368925144f.jpg)
Title:Dexter: The Second Season (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 2007
Director: 1. It's AliveTony Goldwyn, 2. Waiting to ExhaleMarcos Siega, 3. An Inconvenient LieTony Goldwyn, 4. See-ThroughNick Gomez, 5. The Dark DefenderKeith Gordon, 6. Dex, Lies, and VideotapeNick Gomez, 7. That Night, A Forest GrewJeremy Podeswa, 8. Morning ComesKeith Gordon, 9. Resistance Is FutileMarcos Siega, 10. Theres Something About HarrySteve Shill, 11. Left Turn AheadMarcos Siega, 12. The British InvasionSteve Shill
Rating: NR
Length: 636 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 1.78:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo, English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, Spanish: Dolby Digital: Mono
Subtitles:
Stars:
1. It's AliveMichael C. Hall
Julie Benz
Jennifer Carpenter
Erik King
Plot:
DEXTER is back! The critically acclaimed and groundbreaking original series from SHOWTIME starring Michael C. Hall, returns on DVD with all 12 riveting and chilling episodes in DEXTER — THE SECOND SEASON. Although committed to carrying out his twisted brand of vigilante justice - Dexter begins to doubt his murderous capabilities and continues to be haunted by his tortured past. His difficulties multiply when evidence of his deadly after-hours activities begin to surface and the FBI is brought in to investigate the city’s new serial killer dubbed the “Bay Harbor Butcher.” Dexter can’t pause for a breath as the noose tightens and the questions keep mounting. Will he be able to continue his serial-killing ways? Or will Dexter’s dark past finally be uncovered?
Episodes:
1. It's Alive!
2. Waiting to Exhale
3. An Inconvenient Lie
4. See-Through
5. The Dark Defender
6. Dex, Lies, and Videotape
7. That Night, A Forest Grew
8. Morning Comes
9. Resistance Is Futile
10. There's Something About Harry
11. Left Turn Ahead
12. The British Invasion
Extras:
Gallery
Production Notes
DVD-ROM Content
Closed Captioned
2 Bonus Episodes of Brotherhood, Dexter Season 3 Sneak Peek
My Thoughts:
.... and the blood continued to flow. :voodoo:
Season 1 was good but season 2 surpasses it on all levels. I knocked season one for not being edgy enough but they certainly picked it up a notch for round 2.
I love how Dexter's conflicted nature comes full circle as a combination of his past, outside influences and the pursuit to catch him help him with his self discovery and acceptance of what he is and what he does. He is going into season 3 with the dark cloud above his head gone, a spring in his step and a new found appreciation for his craft.
I didn't like Doakes much in season one but he kind of grew on me and even though I knew his departure was going to be inevitable I was still sorry to see him go.
Jennifer Carpenter who plays Dexter's sister still irks me. There must be some way to fix her face.... although it was nice to see her start thinking for herself for a change.
The rest of the cast all delivered solid performances once again but let me talk a moment about Lila...
Lila... scary, sexy, demented, erotic... Lila. Showtime pays homage to Fatal Attraction (on purpose?) with sultry British beauty Lila who becomes obsessed with Dexter, even after she discovers what he is. Never heard of Jamie Murray, the actress who portrayed her but I wish I could see more of her. What a woman! Her actions were often more frightening than anything Dexter did and I wonder how the show might have progressed had they become a duo. She was certainly game. My favorite line in the whole series so far...? 'Pardon my tits...' :laugh:
(http://i.fanpix.net/images/orig/6/6/66xxwv2e5gv5e2gx.jpg)
Some amazing cat and mouse episodes in season 2 and those thick with irony. Not wanting to jump ahead, but I am very anxious to start season 3 so that I can get to season 4 which I am hearing very positive things about. :thumbup:
It's a shame that those annoying things get in the way of my voracious viewing appetite... you know.... job, housework, sleep, etc...
KC
Rating:
Post by: KinkyCyborg on November 10, 2010, 04:30:00 AM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/09/097363432845f.jpg)
Title:The Spiderwick Chronicles (http://www.invelos.com/images/BluRayLogo.png)(http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 2008
Director: Mark Waters
Rating: PG
Length: 101 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 2.35:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, Spanish: Dolby Digital: 5.1, French: Dolby Digital: 5.1
Subtitles: English, French, Spanish
Stars:
Freddie Highmore
Mary-Louise Parker
Nick Nolte
Sarah Bolger
Andrew McCarthy
Plot:
From the moment the Grace family moves into a secluded old house, strange things start to happen. As Jared (Freddie Highmore, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory) investigates, he discovers Arthur Spiderwick’s Field Guide and the unbelievable truth of the Spiderwick estate: a secret world with fantastical creatures hides within our own! Now Jared, his sister and his twin brother are pulled into an unforgettable adventure as they try to protect the secrets of the book. Based on the beloved series of best-selling books and filled with non-stop action, The Spiderwick Chronicles is “a terrific fantasy for all ages!” (Shawn Edwards, FOX-TV)
Extras:
Scene Access
Feature Trailers
My Thoughts:
Goblins, trolls, griffins and other mythical creatures abound all around us... you just need to know where and how to look for them.
Started watching this with my young daughter but she checked out early as the scaries were just a little too much for her. Myself, I thoroughly enjoyed this fantastic tale of a magical world in our own back yard.
Great cast with the ever upbeat Freddie Highmore taking the lead. After discovering a forbidden book he unlocks it's secrets but also unleashes diabolical hordes that would take it from him for the powers that lie within.
I picked out Seth Rogan's voice easily enough but didn't pick up on Martin Short until the credits. As Nick Nolte played the evil troll, it was a reunion of sorts for Nolte and Short who teamed up for one of my favorite comedies, Three Fugitives.
Great effects, well developed creatures and a fantasy setting that interweaves with real life and real life problems as the children are dealing with divorced parents, an unwanted move and feelings of betrayal which in some ways are harder to deal with that the rabid creatures on the prowl outside.
Great family movie with great action and thrills throughout. Kudos!
KC
Rating:
Post by: KinkyCyborg on November 13, 2010, 02:00:27 PM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/02/025195056601f.jpg)
Title:Death Race (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 2008
Director: Paul W.S. Anderson
Rating: Unrated
Length: 111 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 2.35:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, Spanish: Dolby Digital: 5.1, French: Dolby Digital: 5.1, Commentary: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround
Subtitles: English, French, Spanish
Stars:
Jason Statham
Joan Allen
Ian McShane
Tyrese Gibson
Natalie Martinez
Plot:
Welcome to the Death Race, where hardened convicts and smoking-hot navigators race tricked-out cars in the most twisted spectator sport on Earth! Sentenced to the world's most dangerous prison for a murder he did not commit, Jensen Ames (Jason Statham) has only one chance to get out alive - win the ultimate race to the death. Also starring Tyrese Gibson, Death Race, is a "supercharged, sick and satisfying" (Nathan Lee, The New York Times) ride that will keep you pinned to your seat all the way to its insane, metal-crushing end!
Extras:
Scene Access
Audio Commentary
Feature Trailers
Featurettes
Unrated & Theatrical Version
My Thoughts:
No random pick tonight. I was in the mood for some mindless action so I went for Death Race.
I realized my folly about 10 minutes into the movie... I own the original Death Race 2000 and have never watched it... and really should have before watching the remake. Oh well... :-[
I'm not going to try and make this movie out to be anything more than it really is... an action packed display of violence and gore. It requires no thought... just sit back and dodge the shrapnel! :tomato: Loved it!
I thought Joan Allen was perfectly cast as the warden/extreme sport promoter because just about every movie I have watched her in she has played a cross, miserable woman about a friendly as pit viper. She was rather convincing as the warden of Terminal Island, demanding respect and instilling fear.
Jason Statham was predictable but so far I have not tired of his mostly one dimensional roles. You know what to expect from one of his movies and most times when I pop one in that's exactly what I'm looking for.
What I find interesting is that with the direction that real life reality TV is currently heading in, and this might sound a bit ludicrous, but I could see this type of tv in the future. Reality shows are already pushing the envelope in terms of shock factor, tastefulness and viewer curiosity. What's left to reel the viewers in other than death on TV? It may be years away yet, but guaranteed someone, somewhere will do it.
Would you watch? :tv:
KC
Rating:
Post by: Kathy on November 13, 2010, 02:44:26 PM
I don't watch reality TV and never will.
Post by: KinkyCyborg on November 13, 2010, 02:49:22 PM
Post by: Jimmy on November 13, 2010, 02:57:11 PM
Yes, but that was more documentary style. I mean when they turn death into a game show along the lines of The Running Man.Too bad the film isn't as good as the book, the book is more serious than the film is (not that the movie isn't good, but too different).
BTW Kevin you must watch the original ;)
Post by: KinkyCyborg on November 13, 2010, 03:07:36 PM
Yes, but that was more documentary style. I mean when they turn death into a game show along the lines of The Running Man.Too bad the film isn't as good as the book, the book is more serious than the film is (not that the movie isn't good, but too different).
BTW Kevin you must watch the original ;)
Yes, the book was better for that story too, also written as Richard Bachman.
I have so many 'must-watch' movies here it's hard to know where to begin which is why I usually resort to my random selections to choose for me. :shrug:
Post by: Najemikon on November 13, 2010, 05:04:34 PM
Yes, but that was more documentary style. I mean when they turn death into a game show along the lines of The Running Man.Too bad the film isn't as good as the book, the book is more serious than the film is (not that the movie isn't good, but too different).
BTW Kevin you must watch the original ;)
Does he have to? It is a terrible film!
Post by: Antares on November 13, 2010, 05:54:08 PM
Yes, but that was more documentary style. I mean when they turn death into a game show along the lines of The Running Man.Too bad the film isn't as good as the book, the book is more serious than the film is (not that the movie isn't good, but too different).
BTW Kevin you must watch the original ;)
Does he have to? It is a terrible film!
This from the man who gave Death Proof a 4/5 rating :hysterical: :hysterical: :hysterical: :tease: ;)
Post by: Jimmy on November 13, 2010, 09:43:10 PM
Does he have to? It is a terrible film!As much as I usually respect your taste (with some exception) you know I can't agree with you on that...
Not every movies had to be deep Jon... David Carradine, Mary Woronov, Roberta Collins, an over the top Sylvester Stallone, Simone Griffeth, Don Steele, a killing cars game and no CGI are more than enough to pass a good time for me ;D
Certainly more than anything done by you know who :whistle:
Post by: Mustrum_Ridcully on November 13, 2010, 11:01:11 PM
Certainly more than anything done by you know who :whistle:Lord Voldemort is making movies?? :o :tomato:
Post by: Najemikon on November 13, 2010, 11:48:31 PM
Does he have to? It is a terrible film!As much as I usually respect your taste (with some exception) you know I can't agree with you on that...
Not every movies had to be deep Jon... David Carradine, Mary Woronov, Roberta Collins, an over the top Sylvester Stallone, Simone Griffeth, Don Steele, a killing cars game and no CGI are more than enough to pass a good time for me ;D
Certainly more than anything done by you know who :whistle:
Hey I love films that aren't deep! I read a lot of comics remember. All I ask is that there be a modicum of talent involved and a plot that kind of makes some sort of sense. I just thought the original was unwatchable bollocks! Actually the basic idea is very like British comic SciFi of the 70s and that was much better.
Post by: Antares on November 14, 2010, 12:05:51 AM
All I ask is that there be a modicum of talent involved and a plot that kind of makes some sort of sense.
What didn't you understand in the plot? It was a satire on the violent and shallow nature of man. Granted, we haven't reached the point where we're killing on television for ratings or sport. But looking at some of the reality shows out there now, this film wasn't too far off the mark. Let's see in about 15 years, when 2/3 of the populations in the powerbroking countries are above the age of 65. With almost three decades of kids being raised on violent video games, movies and comic books, a similar scenario just could evolve.
I just thought the original was unwatchable bollocks!
Why did you find it unwatchable? It was meant to be a campy satire. And in this sense, it was done quite well. It wasn't meant to be Citizen Kane. Could you not suspend disbelief for just 90 minutes? You seem to be able to do that with Tarantino films, and all but three of his films are considered unwatchable bollocks by many film lovers.
Post by: Mustrum_Ridcully on November 14, 2010, 12:18:23 AM
You seem to be able to do that with Tarantino films, and all but three of his films are considered unwatchable bollocks by many film lovers.Sounds worse than it is. All but three, in this case means 4.
My personal list of unwatchable Tarantino films:
Inglorious Basterds (the only thing that makes this bearable is the great performance of Christoph Waltz)
Death Proof (doesn't even pass as "attempt")
Kill Bill: Vol. 2 (doesn't even come close to Vol. 1)
(and for some reason I never liked the highly praised) Reservoir Dogs (slicing of an ear, even in ultra slow motion, doesn't suffice for a 100 minute movie)
:tomato: :tomato: :tomato:
Post by: Antares on November 14, 2010, 12:22:06 AM
Sounds worse than it is. All but three, in this case means 4.
My personal list of unwatchable Tarantino films:
Inglorious Basterds
Death Proof
Kill Bill: Vol. 2
(and for some reason I never liked the highly praised) Reservoir Dogs
I was actually generalizing for the majority of those who find him marginal at best. For me, it's all but one are unwatchable bollocks.
Post by: KinkyCyborg on November 14, 2010, 12:34:37 AM
But looking at some of the reality shows out there now, this film wasn't too far off the mark. Let's see in about 15 years, when 2/3 of the populations in the powerbroking countries are above the age of 65. With almost three decades of kids being raised on violent video games, movies and comic books, a similar scenario just could evolve.
That's the way I see it playing out too Antares. Twenty to thirty years from now is going to be a scary landscape...
Post by: Antares on November 14, 2010, 12:41:38 AM
We easily seem to achieve Six Degrees of Tarantino with just about every topic/review we post on here. :laugh:
We should call him the polarizing plagiarist ;)
Post by: goodguy on November 14, 2010, 12:42:58 AM
Post by: Antares on November 14, 2010, 12:53:29 AM
Not sure what the earliest take on this was, but the German TV production Das Millionenspiel (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0066079/) (The Millions Game) was made 1970 and people actually thought it was real and called in to take part in the game. There is also Peter Watkins' Punishment Park (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0067633/) (1971), although the premise is a bit different.
I've always wanted to see Punishment Park, and that German film looks very interesting. I found it on YouTube, but it's not subtitled. From what I see, it looks like The Running Man was a derivative of it.
Post by: Najemikon on November 14, 2010, 12:58:10 AM
All I ask is that there be a modicum of talent involved and a plot that kind of makes some sort of sense.
What didn't you understand in the plot? It was a satire on the violent and shallow nature of man. Granted, we haven't reached the point where we're killing on television for ratings or sport. But looking at some of the reality shows out there now, this film wasn't too far off the mark. Let's see in about 15 years, when 2/3 of the populations in the powerbroking countries are above the age of 65. With almost three decades of kids being raised on violent video games, movies and comic books, a similar scenario just could evolve.
Back up a little there! I understood the plot perfectly. That's part of the problem. I've been reading 2000ad for years and that comic regularly does that exact "satire on the violent and shallow nature of man" and they do it better, and sharper than this film. To be fair, it's films like Death Race that helped give birth to the cyberpunk nature of Judge Dredd et al, but still, they improved it immeasurably.
In other words I've been spoilt, to the extent that I actually think science-fiction is a genre that has largely eluded cinema (apart from a handful of times) in that comics and books do it better.
Why? Because the film looks like shit. The cars look ridiculous. It's cheap trash and Stallone especially is just diabolically bad. Compare with Mad Max which is far far better.
I just thought the original was unwatchable bollocks!
Why did you find it unwatchable? It was meant to be a campy satire. And in this sense, it was done quite well. It wasn't meant to be Citizen Kane. Could you not suspend disbelief for just 90 minutes? You seem to be able to do that with Tarantino films, and all but three of his films are considered unwatchable bollocks by many film lovers.
Hey, it's me remember! ??? I can't believe you would pull the Citizen Kane card! Why on earth would you of all people think I expect to see Citizen Kane every time I watch a film or struggle with suspension of disbelief? That's what I do best! Anyway, it's a moot point. See previous paragraph. I just like to watch films that demonstrate a confident grasp of the material -whatever that may be- and inject vibrancy.
Normally I'd be annoyed that I was being smacked with the Tarantino stick again, as I think the way you rush to bring him into every discussion is almost Freudian :tease:, however, it does bring up an excellent point to demonstrate where I am coming from.
Jimmy quite rightly detests the very idea of QT and Robert Rodriguez' Grindhouse project because he enjoys the originals, so their version is an insult. I do not like the originals though and find that apart form one or two notable exceptions, they're "unwatchable crap". ;) However I love the spirit and stories that grindhouse movies tend to follow, so I really enjoy Tarantino's version of it!
That's basically dishonest, I know, but I can't help it. He did the same with Jackie Brown, showing what a wonderful actress Pam Grier is. But the supposedly legendary Coffy or Foxy Brown are utter tripe. :yucky:
Post by: goodguy on November 14, 2010, 01:30:56 AM
Not sure what the earliest take on this was, but the German TV production Das Millionenspiel (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0066079/) (The Millions Game) was made 1970 and people actually thought it was real and called in to take part in the game. There is also Peter Watkins' Punishment Park (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0067633/) (1971), although the premise is a bit different.
I've always wanted to see Punishment Park, and that German film looks very interesting. I found it on YouTube, but it's not subtitled. From what I see, it looks like The Running Man was a derivative of it.
It seems that the origins go even further back, to the short story The Prize of Peril, written 1958 (!) by Robert Sheckley (Wikipedia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Robert_Sheckley)). I was too young to see the original airing of Das Millionenspiel and it disappeared for decades afterwards. When I finally saw it, I found it a bit tedious, but back then it surely must have made an impression.
Punishment Park (which I saw first around the same time, in the early '00s) on the other hand didn't strike me as dated at all and remained as powerful and chilling as it must have been in its own days.
Post by: Jimmy on November 14, 2010, 01:48:46 AM
Jimmy quite rightly detests the very idea of QT and Robert Rodriguez' Grindhouse project because he enjoys the originals, so their version is an insult.As I find insulting the term "grindhouse"... This is a term that means nothing at all, just like torture-porn (this one piss me off a lot more). Those are just hip words use by the hipsters crowd who knows nothing about what they are talking about.
What everybody should knows is that this is not a genre by himself, but just a place (if they refer to the 42th street theatres) in New-York who shown independant movies. Those movies covered a large spectrum of genre : blaxploitation, italian horror film, asian art martial film, mexican monster film, nazisploitation, roughies softcore, nudie cutie, violent revenge films, art movies, comedy, science fiction, hardcore movies of all type (roughies, bestiality, homosexuality, watersport and real movies),... You can also add to that all the drive-in who showed the same type of cinema without the hardcore one.
You see why the term "grindhouse" is insulting and lazy.
There is also Peter Watkins' Punishment Park (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0067633/) (1971), although the premise is a bit different.This one is in my amazon UK wishlist for quite a while, I will have to get it soon before it became OOP.
Post by: Dragonfire on November 14, 2010, 06:42:32 AM
Post by: Achim on November 14, 2010, 06:57:58 AM
(and for some reason I never liked the highly praised) Reservoir Dogs (slicing of an ear, even in ultra slow motion, doesn't suffice for a 100 minute movie)I won't try to change your opinion. But, you thinking that the slicing off of the ear was shown in slo-mo shows that it was done excellently. The action is neither on screen nor slow-motion ;)
Post by: Najemikon on November 14, 2010, 12:49:36 PM
(and for some reason I never liked the highly praised) Reservoir Dogs (slicing of an ear, even in ultra slow motion, doesn't suffice for a 100 minute movie)I won't try to change your opinion. But, you thinking that the slicing off of the ear was shown in slo-mo shows that it was done excellently. The action is neither on screen nor slow-motion ;)
:hysterical:
Post by: KinkyCyborg on November 14, 2010, 05:42:39 PM
The Santa Clause
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/78/786936198010f.jpg)
Title:The Santa Clause (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 1994
Director: John Pasquin
Rating: PG
Length: 97 Min.
Video: Full Frame 1.33:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, French: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo, Spanish: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo
Subtitles: Spanish
Stars:
Tim Allen
Judge Reinhold
Wendy Crewson
Eric Lloyd
David Krumholtz
Plot:
Superstar comedian and Golden Globe winner Tim Allen shines bright in Disney's magical, larger-than-life hit comedy that People Magazine dubbed "the most playfully amusing, inventive cinematic...fable in several decades!" Now in this all-new special edition DVD release, your entire family can enjoy never-before-seen bonus footage, interactive games and more, making this original holiday classic a joyful new experience!
Extras:
Scene Access
Audio Commentary
Feature Trailers
Featurettes
Interactive Games
DVD-ROM Content
Closed Captioned
My Thoughts:
Solid holiday fare with many funny and endearing moments. They should have stopped after this one as the sequels were overkill.
I don't know why but Disney made Tim Allen their darling poster boy for this and many other Disney ventures. I guess they were trying to cash in on the success of his Home Improvement series but almost all of his roles don't seem to stray too far from his Tim The Toolman persona.
I haven't watched it yet but I curious to see him in Redbelt where he is supposed to be some sort of sleazy fight promoter. I don't dislike him but I need to see something more from him beyond these carbon copy family movies before I can begin to take him seriously as a worthy actor.
KC
Rating:
Post by: Antares on November 14, 2010, 06:01:20 PM
Why? Because the film looks like shit. The cars look ridiculous.
Hey, it's me remember! ??? I can't believe you would pull the Citizen Kane card!
You're right and I apologize for using it. What I should have said was that when you go into a film that is directed by Paul Bartel, then you have to understand that he was an independent film maker who constantly worked with budgets that would make a film school virgin director wince. Do you really believe that the cars would have looked like that if he had a $1 million budget?
Post by: snowcat on November 14, 2010, 10:13:15 PM
Post by: Najemikon on November 14, 2010, 10:26:36 PM
Why? Because the film looks like shit. The cars look ridiculous.Hey, it's me remember! ??? I can't believe you would pull the Citizen Kane card!
You're right and I apologize for using it. What I should have said was that when you go into a film that is directed by Paul Bartel, then you have to understand that he was an independent film maker who constantly worked with budgets that would make a film school virgin director wince. Do you really believe that the cars would have looked like that if he had a $1 million budget?
Thanks for that. ;)
I know it's low budget, but I don't like to make excuses for films. It can be admired and demands respect, but that doesn't make it enjoyable and I think he actually could have done better and I wouldn't have minded the cars, except the writing wasn't great and neither were the cast.
Look at John Carpenter's Dark Star, another low budget classic. It inspired Alien and Red Dwarf, is absolutely hilarious and Carpenter shows a great deal more skill in actually pacing and editing a plot. Proved in some way by his success, which Paul "Who?" Bartel can't compare with (he seems to have done more as an actor).
Whatever their origins, films for me have to just work. The original Gone In 60 Seconds is another one with an exaggerated reputation. The final chase is awesome, but as a whole the film is dreadful.
Post by: Jimmy on November 15, 2010, 12:08:45 AM
Post by: Achim on November 15, 2010, 05:01:18 AM
Jon don't use Dark Star as an exemple of a well done film... This one always brings me in the Morphée arms, I'll rewatch The Sorority before I'll try to watch it again :yawn:Dark Star is one of those films that you either dig or you don't. I too have always enjoyed it, mainly for it's humor.
Post by: KinkyCyborg on November 15, 2010, 05:31:07 AM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/02/024543484271f.jpg)
Title:The Simpsons Movie (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 2007
Director: David Silverman
Rating: PG-13
Length: 87 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 2.40:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, English: DTS: 5.1, Spanish: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround, French: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround, Commentary: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo, Commentary: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo
Subtitles: English, Spanish
Stars:
Dan Castellaneta
Julie Kavner
Nancy Cartwright
Yeardley Smith
Nancy Cartwright
Plot:
When Homer accidentally pollutes the river with toxic
waste from the nuclear power plant, he gets fired from his job, and
everyone has to evacuate Springfield, possibly forever.
Extras:
Scene Access
Audio Commentary
Feature Trailers
Deleted Scenes
Featurettes
Gallery
Closed Captioned
My Thoughts:
DOH! :laugh:
Hollywood incarnation of TV's longest running Prime Time show... it was probably long overdue but I'm not convinced it was really necessary.
I enjoyed the movie but really isn't this just an extended episode? I've only watched a few scattered episodes of The Simpsons, although I do own the first 7 seasons so I will get into them some day, but unless you are a complete Simpsons fanatic I don't know what a movie rendition of the show would have different to offer beyond the regular series. Certainly not enough to make me want to shell out money to go watch it in the theater.
The Simpsons are easily considered an institution now with Homer, Marge, Bart, Lisa and even Maggie all household names. The black humor that always pokes fun at celebrities, world events and even our own lives is what has made this show so appealing even after 20+ years. For that reason it should, and is, the most revered animated show of all and it's staying power proves it.
Good, funny movie... I just don't think they should have made their loyal fans pay for it when it could have just as easily been turned into a 2 hour special on FOX.
KC
Rating:
Post by: Critter on November 15, 2010, 05:37:06 AM
Quote
but unless you are a complete Simpsons fanatic I don't know what a movie rendition of the show would have different to offer beyond the regular series.
Nope, true Simpsons fanatics generally dislike this film very much. As well as every episode past season 11....
Post by: KinkyCyborg on November 15, 2010, 12:26:51 PM
Quotebut unless you are a complete Simpsons fanatic I don't know what a movie rendition of the show would have different to offer beyond the regular series.
Nope, true Simpsons fanatics generally dislike this film very much. As well as every episode past season 11....
Really... what happened after season 11?
Post by: Critter on November 15, 2010, 01:03:52 PM
Post by: Dragonfire on November 15, 2010, 10:47:54 PM
Though I didn't start watching it until around season 11 or 12.
Post by: goodguy on November 15, 2010, 11:15:27 PM
... I have never in my life seen a show go from so good to so bad.
Weeds S5 comes to mind, although it returns to form in the final four episodes.
Post by: Critter on November 15, 2010, 11:19:56 PM
Well I guess I must not be a true Simpsons fan since I liked the movie. I still enjoy the show.
Though I didn't start watching it until around season 11 or 12.
To be fair season 12 and 13 do have a couple of good episodes but they became fewer and fewer as it goes on until there are no good ones left. 12 and 13 are sort of like a transition period of the show.
This is an interesting article (entitled What on Earth Happened to The Simpsons) on the matter of decrease in quality within the show: http://ask.metafilter.com/135837/What-on-earth-happened-to-The-Simpsons
Post by: Critter on November 15, 2010, 11:25:54 PM
excerpt:
Quote
The Simpsons used to have messages, though. It was funny, but it was also as heartwarming and values-based as any sitcom this side of The Cosby Show. The characters are all good at heart, and when they screw up (they always screw up somehow), they fix their mistakes and learn from them. Living your life by the virtues The Simpsons taught in the first few seasons would mean being compassionate, loyal to your family and friends, respecting intellectual and artistic ventures, disrespecting authority and institutions, and laughing even when your life is in the sewer. You could pick a worse family to be raised by.
The Simpsons no longer teaches. Maybe all the plots that allowed the Simpsons to grow and discover things about themselves and the world have been done, and there are no more fresh ways to explore the characters' relationships, so the writers are forced to focus more on pop-culture jokes and gimicky storylines. Maybe now that the show is an institution, Matt Groening and the writing staff no longer have to prove themselves by making episodes that say something. Whatever the case, the show isn't the one I grew up with, which is too bad—not bad for me, but bad for the generation now growing up in the glow of the television. Who's going to teach them how to be good people in this cartoon world of ours? Family Guy? South Park?
Post by: Najemikon on November 16, 2010, 12:53:41 AM
Post by: Critter on November 16, 2010, 01:03:42 AM
Post by: Antares on November 16, 2010, 01:14:36 AM
I wish Family Guy didn't keep getting knocked as being a poor standard by which The Simpsons is now measured. That's a good article, but The Simpsons was special and exceptional. It isn't the job of Family Guy to fill that gap and in fact it perfectly achieves what it wants to achieve. I love it, but I watch it for very different reasons than I watched The Simpsons for at its best.
Oh God Jon, I think I'd rather be waterboarded for a full day, rather than watch 30 minutes of Family Guy.
Post by: Critter on November 16, 2010, 01:15:55 AM
:laugh:I wish Family Guy didn't keep getting knocked as being a poor standard by which The Simpsons is now measured. That's a good article, but The Simpsons was special and exceptional. It isn't the job of Family Guy to fill that gap and in fact it perfectly achieves what it wants to achieve. I love it, but I watch it for very different reasons than I watched The Simpsons for at its best.
Oh God Jon, I think I'd rather be waterboarded for a full day, rather than watch 30 minutes of Family Guy.
That sounds like me when it comes to 'American Dad'.
Post by: Antares on November 16, 2010, 01:17:16 AM
:laugh:I wish Family Guy didn't keep getting knocked as being a poor standard by which The Simpsons is now measured. That's a good article, but The Simpsons was special and exceptional. It isn't the job of Family Guy to fill that gap and in fact it perfectly achieves what it wants to achieve. I love it, but I watch it for very different reasons than I watched The Simpsons for at its best.
Oh God Jon, I think I'd rather be waterboarded for a full day, rather than watch 30 minutes of Family Guy.
That sounds like me when it comes to 'American Dad'.
Aren't they made by the same guy?
Post by: Critter on November 16, 2010, 01:18:55 AM
Post by: Antares on November 16, 2010, 01:22:45 AM
Post by: Critter on November 16, 2010, 01:28:08 AM
Post by: Achim on November 16, 2010, 05:31:34 AM
Post by: Najemikon on November 16, 2010, 08:31:11 PM
Post by: Antares on November 16, 2010, 10:14:00 PM
The Simpson's never did a musical number to match Family Guy, which do several a series... :P
I'm booking my flight to Guantanamo :yucky:
Post by: KinkyCyborg on November 16, 2010, 10:37:11 PM
Post by: Critter on November 16, 2010, 11:12:50 PM
The Simpson's never did a musical number to match Family Guy, which do several a series... :P
I know this is sarcasm, or at least, I pray that it is.
Post by: goodguy on November 16, 2010, 11:20:42 PM
Post by: Critter on November 16, 2010, 11:24:20 PM
I almost didn't play it, because of the intro picture, but while not especially good, it's not as bad as Antares' and Critter's reaction suggests.
I wasn't reacting to that particular Family Guy song that Jon posted. I was reacting to his statement that went along with it that said The Simpsons have never done a musical number to match any in Family Guy. I personally love The Simpsons musical numbers and find many of them iconic of the show. I grew up singing them and can still recite many of them word-for-word. So don't get me wrong, I have nothing against that particular FG song he posted just the sentence that went along with it. For me the Family Guy songs aren't completely terrible, but they could still never even get close to how great some of The Simpsons songs were, but to each his own.
Post by: goodguy on November 16, 2010, 11:31:22 PM
I was reacting to his statement that went along with it that said The Simpsons have never done a musical number to match any in Family Guy.
Ah, I see. I have to admit I have never watched a complete episode of either The Simpsons or Family Guy, just the occasional bit while zapping around.
Post by: Dragonfire on November 16, 2010, 11:39:35 PM
I've seen American Dad and The Cleveland Show...not fond of them either. It kind of ...irks me that that guy who created those shows - Seth McFarlaine or whatever his name is - is basically taking over animation on FOX...his shows are held up as this...high standard now. They can be entertaining, but they aren't that great. And none of those shows are anywhere near as good as Futurama. It really bugs me that Fox brought back Family Guy but didn't Futurama. At least Comedy Central started showing new episodes.
Post by: Critter on November 16, 2010, 11:43:49 PM
And none of those shows are anywhere near as good as Futurama. It really bugs me that Fox brought back Family Guy but didn't Futurama. At least Comedy Central started showing new episodes.:clap:
I can't agree more. Futurama, while not being as great as golden-age Simpsons was still a really fantastic show. And in my eyes like in yours it was much better than any of those McFarlaine shows. Although I must admit that I felt those four Futurama movies were a bit of a miss. They were okay, but they just didn't seem to have the same charm as the original series.
Post by: Dragonfire on November 16, 2010, 11:59:24 PM
Post by: Critter on November 17, 2010, 12:15:35 AM
Post by: Najemikon on November 17, 2010, 12:33:45 AM
I could never get into Futurama, to be honest. :shrug: I was being serious about the musical numbers, as I can't remember anything standing out in The Simpsons. :bag:
More examples... OVERLOAD!!! :hysterical:
And this one they won an award for, I think. That might explain Fox's furious copyright crackdown so it's audio only...
Post by: Critter on November 17, 2010, 12:36:56 AM
Post by: KinkyCyborg on November 17, 2010, 04:20:54 AM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/04/043396073593f.jpg)
Title:About Last Night... (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 1986
Director: Edward Zwick
Rating: R
Length: 113 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 1.85:1, Pan & Scan 1.33:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround, Spanish: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround, French: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo
Subtitles: English, French, Spanish
Stars:
Rob Lowe
Demi Moore
James Belushi
Elizabeth Perkins
George DiCenzo
Plot:
Rob Lowe doesn't want to get serious. Demi Moore doesn't want to get used. Together, they're an unforgettable couple in the sexy, contemporary comedy "About Last Night ...". After drinks at a favorite Chicago hang-out, Danny Martin (Lowe) and Debbie Sullivan (Moore) head to Danny’s place to indulge in the predictable single's quest -- the one-night stand. Their affair is casual, sensual, and supposedly over until something surprising happens. They want to see each other again. It's the start of an intense relationship that irritates Danny's rowdy best friend (James Belushi) and astounds Debbie's cynical buddy/roomie (Elizabeth Perkins), who do everything possible to break them up. But Danny and Debbie wind up living together, and amidst the daily drudge of domestic life, they begin to realize that making love is easy, saying "I love you" more difficult, and being in love the hardest of all. Based on David Mamet's Obie Award-winning play, SEXUAL PERVERSITY IN CHICAGO, ABOUT LAST NIGHT ... is an insightful, provocative and often funny look at romance in the '80s.
Extras:
Scene Access
Feature Trailers
Closed Captioned
My Thoughts:
About Last Night is a testimonial to young love that takes both comedic and serious turns at showing us the pitfalls of relationships.
Babyface Rob Lowe made all young women hearts aflutter in the late 80's early 90's but he really kind of disappeared from the limelight, mostly appearing on TV after that.
Demi Moore at about this time was just starting her blossoming career. Speaking of blossoming, watch this movie and then Striptease to see the before and after of her 'bodily enchancements'. She is a gorgeous woman at any stage of her metamorphosis.
The scene stealer in this film is once again John Belushi. The perfect 'best buddy' in all films of the like, he always plays a vulgar ass and does it well, earning the most laughs.
I've never really liked Elizabeth Perkins. I don't know if it's her appearance or demeanor but it seems like in everything I have watched her in she always has her nose in the air. Never really got that.
Been a long time since I watched this and yet I could remember certain scenes right before they happened. Lines that have just stuck with me over the years which is usually a sign that I liked the movie... and I did!
KC
Rating:
Post by: KinkyCyborg on November 18, 2010, 05:02:01 AM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/08/085391853725f.jpg)
Title:Nightbreed (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 1990
Director: Clive Barker
Rating: R
Length: 101 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 1.78:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, English: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround
Subtitles: English, French, Spanish
Stars:
Craig Sheffer
Anne Bobby
David Cronenberg
Charles Haid
Hugh Quarshie
Plot:
Boone (Craig Sheffer) may be a troubled young man, but his troubles are just beginning. Set up as the fall guy in a string of slasher murders, he decides he'll hide by crossing the threshold that separates us from them and sneak into the forbidden subterranean realm of Midian. Boone will live among the monsters.
Hellraiser creator Clive Barker writes (adapting his novel Cabal) and directs this vivid leap into horror that asks: in the battle of man vs. monster, who's really the monster? The answer supplies flesh-crawling suspense, sudden fear, a colorful Danny Elfman score and a creepy array of shape-shifting beings. They are the Nightbreed, denizens of a world beyond death, beyond the imagination, perhaps beyond anything you've seen.
Extras:
Scene Access
Feature Trailers
Production Notes
Closed Captioned
My Thoughts:
A Clive Barker movie starring David Cronenberg.... oh boy... :devil:
I've actually seen this before and it still holds up after many years as being fresh and unique. Fantastic artistry in the makeup, countless boogeymen all with their own unique personalities and a surprising amount of pyrotechnics for what must have been a low budget film. The unimaginable horrors you witness are straight out of Barker's twisted mind and they are truly a site to behold.
Sandwiched in between Barker's first few Hellraiser movies and based on his novel Cabal, it chronicles a society of horrid outcasts who are freaks, unable to exist in society but also unable to remain in the shadows, out of the reach of those too curious, or too hateful to leave them alone. The book is part of my 'to read' pile.
This macabre world is definitely right up Cronenberg's alley as he has creations of his own to rival this but he demonstrates quite pointedly that he should remain on the creative end of films as, while quite creepy in appearance in Nightbreed, he's better off leaving the acting to others.
I always like it when somewhere in Canada serves as the backdrop to the story and for this one it was Alberta. Honestly... how many more times do you expect to hear the Calgary Stampede mentioned in a horror film?! ;)
Been a while since I've seen this one but it has vaulted back up to one of my top 5 favorite horror movies. (http://www.kinkycyborg.com/forum/images/smilies/PDT_fkr.gif)
KC
Rating:
Post by: KinkyCyborg on November 19, 2010, 05:28:01 AM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/78/786936693638f.jpg)
Title:Venom (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 2004
Director: Jim Gillespie
Rating: R
Length: 85 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 2.35:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 5.1
Subtitles: Spanish
Stars:
Agnes Bruckner
Jonathan Jackson
Laura Ramsey
D. J. Cotrona
Rick Cramer
Plot:
'Venom' is a fright-filled voodoo thriller loaded with a sizzling cast of the screen's hottest young stars! Set deep in the eerie swamps of southern Louisiana -- Agnes Bruckner ('Murder By Numbers'), Jonathan Jackson ('Tuck Everlasting'), and Meagan Good ('Roll Bounce') are among a group of teenagers trying to uncover the truth behind a friend's mysterious death. What they find is an evil force more deadly than anyone could have imagined! Now they are the ones running for their lives! Also starring Bijou Phillips ('Almost Famous') and Method Man ('Garden State') - critics everywhere hailed this chilling and thrilling horror tale!
Extras:
Scene Access
Featurettes
Storyboard Comparisons
My Thoughts:
Second horror movie in a row and another that didn't disappoint. :)
The voodoo swamps of Louisiana sets the scene for this movie of a dead man who gets possessed by the many dark souls of many evil and murderous killers.
Excellent scenes of gore, many creative kills and very good acting (for a horror flick!) made for an enjoyable movie.
This movie fooled me however. It's set in Louisiana and yet there was a scene where a train goes by with CN Rail printed on the sides of the cars so I thought AHH!, filmed in Canada! I checked the filming locations on IMDB and it told me that all the locations were in or around New Orleans. I figured that can't be right. Sitting here stumped for awhile I decided to check out the CN Rail website and lo and behold CN Rail does in fact travel to New Orleans, one of North America's largest ports! As if!! I had no idea.
Great movie and worthy of a recommendation. Check it out if you haven't already.
KC
Rating:
Post by: KinkyCyborg on November 20, 2010, 01:59:54 AM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/09/097360230642f.jpg)
Title:Apocalypse Now (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 1979
Director: Francis Ford Coppola
Rating: R
Length: 153 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 2.00:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, French: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround
Subtitles: English
Stars:
Marlon Brando
Robert Duvall
Martin Sheen (1940)
Frederic Forrest
Albert Hall
Plot:
Francis Ford Coppola's stunning vision of man's heart of darkness revealed through the madness of the Vietnam War. Lieutenant Willard (Martin Sheen) receives orders to seek out a renegade military outpost led by the mysterious Colonel Kurtz (Marlon Brando). Willard's mission: "Terminate with extreme prejudice." One of the most powerful films of all time, Apocalypse Now was nominated for eight Academy Awards® and won two for Best Sound and Best Cinematography.
Extras:
Scene Access
Feature Trailers
Closed Captioned
Theatrical Program Excerpts, Kurtz Compound Footage
My Thoughts:
The horror... the horror...
Coppola's iconic Vietnam war film which follows one bizarre descent into madness after another.
The dialogue and the images from this movie imprint in your mind after watching it. Whether it's Duvall declaring ' I love the smell of napalm in the morning ' to the image of Sheen and his slow rise from beneath the putrid waters surface as he begins his end game move.... you can't believe what you are seeing and can't possibly rip your eyes away from it.
Brando gets many of the accolades for this film but the dynamic force in Apocalypse Now is Martin Sheen as Captain Willard. His mission is clear, he knows the reasons why Colonel Kurtz must be put down, in fact he understands the reasons all too well. Watching him try to keep a tenuous grip on his own sanity long enough to complete his mission is spellbinding to watch. In my estimation this is Sheen's finest performance.
Dennis Hopper was reportedly so stoned during the filming of his parts that they just wrote his wigged out persona into the script and his ramblings fit quite well into the chaos portrayed all around him.
Very young stars Harrison Ford, Scott Glenn (he never utters a word) and Lawrence Fishburne who looks like he is about 14 years old, all get to experience greatness early in their careers albeit in minor roles.
The aspect of Apocalypse Now that for me makes this film extraordinary is the ambiance. The steady stream of uneven characters, the smoky haze, the littered landscape and the haunting, chaotic musical score underline the theme of madness, keeping the viewer off balance, dazed but hypnotized.
Great film! :clap:
KC
Rating:
Post by: Achim on November 20, 2010, 02:26:11 AM
In my estimation this is Sheen's finest performance....and it almost killed him to get there :o
I appreciate this film more each time I see it (well, only twice so far :bag:). The most disturbing scene for me has always been the ritual with the cow. I keep reading up whether it was real or fake and then keeping forgetting which it was :slaphead:
Post by: Dragonfire on November 20, 2010, 03:26:04 AM
Post by: KinkyCyborg on November 21, 2010, 12:58:44 AM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/04/043396238183f.jpg)
Title:Dragon Wars (http://www.invelos.com/images/BluRayLogo.png)(http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 2007
Director: Hyung Rae Shim
Rating: PG-13
Length: 90 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 2.40:1, Pan & Scan 1.33:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, French: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround
Subtitles: Chinese, English, French, Korean, Spanish
Stars:
Jason Behr
Amanda Brooks
Robert Forster
Craig Robinson
Aimee Garcia
Plot:
Meet Buraki, the vicious, 200-meter-long Imoogi serpent from ancient Korea. His army includes giant lizards with missile launchers, flying dragons, soldiers bred for evil and mega-intelligent dinosaurs. Together, they will destroy our cities unless reincarnated warriors Ethan and Sarah can outrun them and resurrect the Good Imoogi, Buraki's ancient nemesis. DRAGON WARS reveals every last detail of Earth's greatest battle—a war you'll only believe when you see it for yourself.
Extras:
Scene Access
Bonus Trailers
Featurettes
Gallery
Storyboard Comparisons
Closed Captioned
My Thoughts:
Leapin' lizards!
I would have been much happier if they had of just made this a simple story about dormant dragons coming out of the woodwork to wreak havoc on the world. Instead they wrapped that basic premise tightly into a story about Korean mythology and legend. The result what somewhat cheesy and hokey. ::)
In some instances the CGI was brilliant and in others embarrassing. I loved the warring between the dragon hordes and man's technology in the big city and wished for longer sustained battles.
The giant, bumbling, turtle like reptiles with the rocket launchers were nifty and the air to air combat between the flying lizards and the gunships was thrilling!
I give high marks for originality in this one but what should have been a straight forward check your brain at the door fantasy/action flick was tainted by the director who tried to turn it into a story which usually results in a flawed equation.
KC
Rating:
Post by: KinkyCyborg on November 21, 2010, 04:57:24 PM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/02/027616779229f.jpg)
Title:The Falcon and the Snowman (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 1984
Director: John Schlesinger
Rating: R
Length: 131 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 1.85:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround
Subtitles: English, French
Stars:
Timothy Hutton
Sean Penn
Pat Hingle
Joyce Van Patten
Boyce Children
Plot:
Academy Award™ winner* Timothy Hutton (Ordinary People) and Sean Penn (Dead Man Walking) deliver "superb performances" (Variety) in a true-story spy thriller that is "scathing, arresting" (The New York Times) and laced with white-knuckle excitement. From Oscar® winners** John Schlesinger (Midnight Cowboy) and Steven Zaillian (Schindler’s List), the film blows the lid off the modern-day American dream with its riveting story of two young men of privilege, money and ambition who end up selling out their country, ruining their families and destroying their lives.
Chris Boyce (Hutton) works a low-level job at a defense plant where he uncovers documents that prove that the C.I.A. is secretly coercing foreign governments. He confides in his conniving, fast-talking friend, Andrew Daulton Lee (Penn), a reckless drug dealer and user, who convinces him to sell this information to the Soviets for big bucks. Lee boldly cuts a deal with the KGB, but soon the stakes spin out of control as the Soviets up the ante, Lee descends further into drug abuse, and the C.I.A. prepare to take the informants down!
*1980: Supporting Actor, Ordinary People
** Schlesinger: 1969, Director, Midnight Cowboy;
Zaillian: 1993, Writing, Schindler's List
Extras:
Scene Access
Closed Captioned
My Thoughts:
Captivating true story about a young, privileged man who lets his idealistic views and discontent towards his government lead him to impulsively sell secrets to the KGB. Bringing his loose cannon, drugged out friend along for the ride, they quickly find themselves in way over their heads.
Second or third time watching this now, I've always liked this movie. Showing how the CIA would (and probably still does) coerce and manipulate foreign governments, it fascinates me how they feel it incumbent to stick their noses into everyone's business. For Timothy Hutton's character, Boyce, selling out his country was his way of protesting this political interference.
Hutton was great. He was thriving in the 80's as a hot young actor in demand but like many other young actors from that era, re: Brat Packers, his relevance has waned mostly, playing in mostly low budget straight to video movies now, although he has seen a bit of a resurgence in his new TV series Leverage.
Now Sean Penn on the other hand who, in my opinion, gave his best ever performance in this movie despite his young age, was giving us a taste of things to come in his brilliant, if not turbulent career. Daulton Lee was immortalized by Penn's role as the shifty, fast talking, drug dealing spy wannabe. Dealing in espionage which already breeds paranoia, his constant cocaine and heroin use just compounded his troubles and brought him precariously close to being terminated. Penn is masterful in portraying troubled, desperate men and this was a grand performance.
Great movie. This should be mandatory in anyone's collection!
KC
Rating:
Post by: KinkyCyborg on November 22, 2010, 01:36:41 AM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/68/687797119698f.jpg)
Title:The Contract (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 2007
Director: Bruce Beresford
Rating: R
Length: 96 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 2.35:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, English: DTS: 5.1, English: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo
Subtitles: English, Spanish
Stars:
Morgan Freeman (1937)
John Cusack
Jamie Anderson
Alice Krige
Megan Dodds
Plot:
While on a hiking trip to reconnect with his son, Ray Keene (John Cusack) stumbles into a nightmare scenario of paid assassins and ex-military guns-for-hire. Frank Cardin (Morgan Freeman) is attempting to fulfill a contract to assassinate a high profile businessman when things go awry and he ends up in the custody of the U.S. Marshalls. After an ill-fated attempt by his compatriots to free him Frank, finds himself in the custody of ex-lawman Ray and his son (Jamie Anderson). As they try to make their way back to civilization they are relentlessly pursued by Frank's friends who are intent on freeing their leader in order to collect on the contract. But one may be more foe than friend.
Extras:
Scene Access
Feature Trailers
Featurettes
Gallery
My Thoughts:
An ex-cop and his son, while on a hiking trip deep in the woods, apprehend an assassin following a botched rescue attempt from Federal Marshals by his fellow mercenaries. Compelled to do the right thing, he attempts to bring the fugitive to the authorities while trying to preserve the life of his son and his own from the deadly pursuers.
I can't say I've ever watched a Morgan Freeman movie that I disliked and this is no exception. Freeman is stellar as the wily old hitman whom despite having no compunction about killing has moments of conscience towards his erstwhile captors. As strong as his desire to gain his freedom is he hopes to do so without harm coming to a decent man, played by John Cusack, and his bright teenage boy.
Fast paced and suspenseful without an overkill of action, this manages to keep the viewer interested by cat and mouse strategy between the hunters and the hunted. Throw in a betrayal or two to raise the stakes and you have the makings of a very good movie.
Loved it! :D
KC
Rating:
Post by: KinkyCyborg on November 23, 2010, 02:54:26 AM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/09/097360168846f.jpg)
Title:Heartburn (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 1986
Director: Mike Nichols
Rating: R
Length: 109 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 1.85:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, English: Dolby Digital: Mono
Subtitles: English
Stars:
Meryl Streep
Jack Nicholson
Jeff Daniels
Maureen Stapleton
Stockard Channing
Plot:
Meryl Streep and Jack Nicholson are wonderful together in this wickedly funny look at modern romance based on Nora Ephron's acerbic best-selling novel and directed by Mike Nichols (The Graduate, Postcards From The Edge).
Streep plays Rachel, a successful food writer who puts love and motherhood ahead of her career. Nicholson plays Mark, a woman-chasing newspaper columnist who can't quite give up his old tricks. She lives in New York. He lives in Washington D.C. And if all those complications won't give a relationship Heartburn, nothing will!
Extras:
Scene Access
Closed Captioned
My Thoughts:
This movie was a complete snooze fest through the first hour and only picked up slightly in the second half with some mildly humorous scenes that garnered a few smirks from me.
Meryl Streep had a few clever moments but mostly her character was a pathetic scatterbrain. And Jack Nicholson playing a womanizer?!?! No way!! ::) Early role for Kevin Spacey as a thief.
I was expecting much more from leads the caliber of Streep and Nicholson but this was quite ho-hum.
KC
Rating:
Post by: Antares on November 23, 2010, 07:26:42 PM
Post by: Najemikon on November 23, 2010, 09:03:33 PM
Post by: Antares on November 24, 2010, 12:59:12 AM
He's had his moments, like The Graduate.
You see, I've never understood the fascination with this film. Now granted, I had never seen it in its entirety. I had always either caught just the beginning or just the end. Well, two weeks ago I finally watched it from beginning to end.
The verdict?
This film is one contrived plot point after another. Mrs. Robinson seducing a whiny, nebbish dork. Ben taking Elaine on the first 'date' to a strip club, just to piss her off, then instantly falling in love with her the next day. Ben stalking Elaine at Berkeley, and then she falls in love with him. Rubbish...take out the Simon & Garfunkel soundtrack and the cinematographers work and this film is crap.
Post by: Halo2 on November 24, 2010, 01:36:52 AM
I, unfortunately, have seen the film entirely too many time from start to finish.
It was being played endlessly by the military entertainment network (AFRTS) when I was stationed overseas in the early 70s.
I had a friend that was the local station manger that loved the film and made it his mission to convert me when I foolishly professed my, then, dislike.
We had endless "discussions" regarding the film and I must have sat through 20 screenings of it while he was making his points.
All he succeeded in doing was to ensure that Richard Benjimin was on my short list of actors that I never care if I ever watch anything they are in again.
I love Simon & Garfunkel, but always have a bad taste in my mouth whenever I hear any of their songs from this movie.
Post by: hal9g on November 24, 2010, 03:51:37 AM
Maybe it's because I saw it at a drive-in when I was 17 with the girl who I lost my virginity to....that night!
And the sound track is awesome!
Post by: hal9g on November 24, 2010, 04:00:30 AM
snip
All he succeeded in doing was to ensure that Richard Benjimin was on my short list of actors that I never care if I ever watch anything they are in again.
snip
Richard Benjamin? I don't get the link there?
Portnoy's Complaint turned me off Benjamin (a few years later).
Post by: Halo2 on November 24, 2010, 08:36:56 AM
My mistake Hal. I dislike the movie so much I confused the fact that Dustin Hoffman was the character and not Richard Benjiman. I dislike him for other reasons.
To his credit, I have enjoyed most of Dustin Hoffman's other movies that I have seen.
:stars:
Post by: KinkyCyborg on November 27, 2010, 06:32:32 PM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/09/097363506546f.jpg)
Title:Iron Man (http://www.invelos.com/images/BluRayLogo.png)(http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 2008
Director: Jon Favreau
Rating: PG-13
Length: 126 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 2.35:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, French: Dolby Digital: 5.1, Spanish: Dolby Digital: 5.1
Subtitles: English, French, Spanish
Stars:
Robert Downey, Jr. [Robert Downey Jr.]
Terrence Howard
Jeff Bridges
Gwyneth Paltrow
Leslie Bibb
Plot:
Suit up for action with ROBERT DOWNEY JR. in the ultimate adventure movie you've been waiting for, Iron Man! When jet-setting genius-industrialist Tony Stark is captured in enemy territory, he builds a high-tech suit of armor to escape. Now, he's on a mission to save the world as a hero who's built, not born, to be unlike any other. Co-starring TERRENCE HOWARD, JEFF BRIDGES and GWYNETH PALTROW, it's a fantastic, high-flying journey that is "hugely entertaining" (Joe Morgenstern, The Wall Street Journal).
Extras:
Scene Access
Bonus Trailers
Deleted Scenes
Featurettes
Closed Captioned
My Thoughts:
Time for my pick and I decided that since I just picked up the sequel I should get around to watching the first installment.
If you are looking for a good action movie to watch you can rarely go wrong by picking any one of the Marvel comic book film adaptations and Iron Man certainly delivered. Combine all the explosions in this movie and you have another Hiroshima! I like how the birth of Iron Man unfolded, using current day conflicts as a vehicle to tell the story. Not my favorite comic growing up (I was always partial to the Fantastic Four) but I sure liked his character in the movie.
This movie marked Robert Downey Jr's complete comeback from a drug induced abyss that took many good years away from his career and in so coming back he has actually ascended into the superstar stratosphere. Great for him but it has evolved into something that is now quite a pet peeve of mine. Every interview, every awards appearance, every time he sticks his face in front of a camera he is posturing, shades on, and playing the role of THE MAN which was funny and somewhat deserving at first but c'mon... zip it already! :-X
Interesting role for Jeff Bridges as the sans hair villain and I think he plays a bad guy very convincingly. Gwyneth Paltrow was neither her nor there in this one for me... probably they overpaid for a star for what could have been filled by any number of young, cute actresses. Much was made of the exclusion of Terrence Howard from the sequel but I'm not disappointed. Nothing about his performance stood out and I feel that Don Cheadle, his replacement, has much more personality anyway.
What impresses me most about Iron Man was that is was a great movie coming from director Jon Favreau, who also had a bit part in this one. I've always disliked his loudmouthed, vulgar roles as an actor save for his performance in Rocky Marciano. If this movie, it's sequel and the upcoming Cowboys & Aliens is any indication, perhaps he has finally found his calling. If he can consistently put out big budget, blockbuster caliber movies than he can thankfully put his sub-par acting career to bed.
KC
Rating:
Post by: Dragonfire on November 28, 2010, 06:18:34 AM
I have read that Howard was very difficult on set during the first one and he was demanding a lot for the second. Think I heard about him being demanding on another set too... Though who knows.
Post by: KinkyCyborg on November 29, 2010, 01:57:33 AM
Post by: Dragonfire on November 29, 2010, 02:12:30 AM
I did think he sounded a bit...umm...arrogant in a few interviews I've seen him in.
Post by: KinkyCyborg on November 29, 2010, 04:01:32 AM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/02/025192042126f.jpg)
Title:Gorillas in the Mist(http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 1988
Director: Michael Apted
Rating: PG-13
Length: 129 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 1.85:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, French: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround
Subtitles: English
Stars:
Sigourney Weaver
Bryan Brown
Julie Harris
John Omirah Miluwi
Iain Cuthbertson
Plot:
Based on the true story of young anthropologist Dian Fossey (Sigourney Weaver) who travels to the African mountains to study the rare gorillas. In this incredible paradise which she describes as being "as close to God as you can get," her interest in the gorillas turns to passion and finally obsession. Not even her lover, photographer Bob Campbell (Bryan Brown), can tear her away—or stop her from risking her life to protect the gorillas from poachers and animal traders. Desperate to save her "family" from extinction, Fossey searches for justice, but in the end settles for revenge.
You may applaud what she does. Or you may condemn it. But you will never forget the passion that turned her into a legend.
Extras:
Scene Access
Feature Trailers
Featurettes
Production Notes
DVD-ROM Content
My Thoughts:
Love this movie! Seen in before probably close to 10 years ago now and it still fascinating to watch the story of Dian Fossey and her beloved gorillas.
Sigourney Weaver was the perfect choice to play this driven, tenacious and eccentric woman who went to extreme lengths to first study and then protect these endangered primates. Weaver has always pulled off roles as tough as nails women and near the end when she is starting to lose her grip, being ferociously protective of her gorillas her acting is brilliant.
Bryan Brown, a favorite of mine and one of the most underrated actors out there gave a great performance as well as the National Geographic photographer who falls in love with her but eventually has to leave her behind as he knows that he will always be second fiddle to her obsession.
Fossey's murder still remains a mystery but there was certainly no shortage of suspects including the poachers whom she tried her best to eradicate, the government who tired of her running off the tourists and some speculate even the men who worked for her may have killed her as they feared both her and her wild actions that could have rained trouble down on them all. Her actions defied all and angered many people but her sacrifice saved the species. :bow:
KC
Rating:
Post by: KinkyCyborg on December 07, 2010, 03:53:30 AM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/02/027616879066f.jpg)
Title:Stormy Monday (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 1988
Director: Mike Figgis
Rating: R
Length: 93 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 1.85:1, Pan & Scan 1.33:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo
Subtitles: English, French, Spanish
Stars:
Melanie Griffith
Tommy Lee Jones
Sting
Sean Bean
James Cosmo
Plot:
Melanie Griffith "oozes sensuality" (''The Today Show''), while Oscar® winner Tommy Lee Jones and rock legend Sting face off in a deadly game of cat and mouse in this sexy, "extremely stylish film noir" (Leonard Maltin). Written and directed by Mike Figgis ('Leaving Las Vegas'), 'Stormy Monday' is a sizzling thriller that "holds its audience rapt with the promise of imminent danger" ('The New York Times')!
Corrupt businessman Frank Cosmo (Jones) arrives in Newcastle, England, determined to muscle his way into owning the entire town. On his payroll is Kate (Griffith) - a tantalizing beauty Cosmo "loans" out when he wants a favor from the local officials. But when Kate's new lover ends up working for Cosmo's latest target (Sting), Kate must choose between the man who "owns" her and the man who has stolen her heart.
Extras:
Scene Access
Feature Trailers
Closed Captioned
My Thoughts:
I had an extremely hard time getting into this movie as it crawls at a very slow pace... at times I caught myself nodding off. :yawn: It does achieve a satisfying climax but not good enough I believe to make up for the rest of the movie.
Tommy Lee Jones was good, having never had problems effectively playing a sleazeball. He's the man pulling all the strings. Very low key performance from Sting who exudes quiet confidence. Everyone's favorite rocket scientist Melanie Griffith is predictable, floating prettily from scene to scene, buoyed by the air in her head. Early role for Sean Bean who will go on to have better and more meaningful roles.
Save for about 15 minutes near the end this one is very dull.
KC
Rating:
Post by: KinkyCyborg on December 09, 2010, 04:55:20 AM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/02/027616882394f.jpg)
Title:Music From Another Room (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 1997
Director: Charlie Peters
Rating: PG-13
Length: 104 Min.
Video: Pan & Scan 1.33:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo, Spanish: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo
Subtitles: English, French, Spanish
Stars:
Jude Law
Gretchen Mol
Jennifer Tilly
Martha Plimpton
Brenda Blethyn
Plot:
Jude Law (Road to Perdition) leads an exceptional ensemble cast, including Gretchen Mol ("Girls Club"), Academy Award® nominees* Jennifer Tilly (Monster, Inc.) and Brenda Blethyn (Lovely & Amazing), as well as Martha Plimpton (Beautiful Girls), Jon Tenney (You Can Count on Me) and Jeremy Piven (Black Hawk Down), in this enchanting, "sweet love story" ("Hollywood Online") of a romance born with a little help from destiny...and a few determined matchmakers!
When five-year-old Danny helps deliver a family friend's baby, Anna, he tells his father that he will one day marry her. But it's not until he moves back to America – twenty-five years later – that fate steps in and literally knocks him off his bike – and into the arms of a beautiful, grown-up Anna (Mol)! And while destiny may be on his side, Danny (Law) discovers that time is not...because Anna is not only unsure of her feelings for Danny, but she's also engaged to be married to someone else!
*Tilly: Supporting Actress, Bullets over Broadway (1994)
Blethyn: Actress, Secrets & Lies (1996); Supporting Actress, Little Voice (1998)
Extras:
Scene Access
Feature Trailers
Closed Captioned
My Thoughts:
Great date movie. Despite the comedy that peppers the film throughout, this movie is all about passion and following your heart.
For anyone who has ever stereotyped Jennifer Tilly as a ditz capable of only drab comedies or worse (Seed Of Chucky!) needs to watch this movie. She is breathtakingly beautiful and outstanding as the blind sister who, terrified of the world she can't see, sets herself free to experience life, thrills and love. This was actually secondary to the main story played out between Jude Law & Gretchen Mol but was the far more interesting of the two.
It's too bad that they didn't make Tilly the female lead as I didn't find Mol to be very convincing. Not to mention that the bossy little priss that she portrays makes her completely unattractive.
This would fall into the chick flick category but I think a lot of men would be surprised to find they enjoyed this film very much. ;)
KC
Rating:
Post by: KinkyCyborg on December 10, 2010, 04:15:08 AM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/04/043396062498f.jpg)
Title:Final Fantasy: The Spirits Within (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 2001
Director: Hironobu Sakaguchi, Moto Sakakibara
Rating: PG-13
Length: 106 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 1.85:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround, English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, French: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround, Commentary: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround, Commentary: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround, Commentary: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround
Subtitles: English, French, Commentary
Stars:
Ming-Na
Alec Baldwin
Ving Rhames
Steve Buscemi
Peri Gilpin
Plot:
The year is 2065 AD. The Earth is infested with alien spirits, and mankind faces total extinction. Led by a strange dream and guided by her mentor, Dr. Sid, scientist Aki Ross struggles to collect the eight spirits in the hope of creating a force powerful enough to destroy the alien presence and pure enough to protect the planet. With the aid of the Deep Eyes Squadron, Aki must save the Earth from its darkest hate and unleash the spirits within. FINAL FANTASY: THE SPIRITS WITHIN is the groundbreaking new CGI film from the creators of the Final Fantasy Video Game Franchise.
Extras:
Scene Access
Audio Commentary
Feature Trailers
Bonus Trailers
Deleted Scenes
Featurettes
Gallery
Production Notes
Multi-angle
Music Videos
Storyboard Comparisons
DVD-ROM Content
Closed Captioned
Scene Editing Workshop
My Thoughts:
Film adaptation of the immensely popular gaming series, I did not see much of a resemblance between the two either in characters or story. It is however cutting edge CGI animation and it is stunning to behold.
I've never been a fan of the anime genre. Actually I shouldn't say that... I've never really given it a chance. If all anime were like this, life like in appearance with characters that look like real people I would likely watch more of it. I have no interest in watching the anime where all the 'toons' have big saucer moon eyes and triangular heads. ::) Just not my thing.
I found the story of this confusing, even when it was being explained to me near the end I still wasn't entirely sure what was happening. Something to do with indigenous earth Spirits clashing with alien 'phantom' Spirits with the solution being to collect 8 roaming spirits and channel them through the lead female in order to dissolve the alien 'ghosts'. Again very confusing but the spectacular imagery more than makes up for it.
I always have fun trying to identify the voice talent in animated movies. I was able to pick out Alec Baldwin, Ving Rhames, Steve Buscemi, Donald Sutherland, James Woods and Keith David. It was bugging me who was doing the voice of Aki Ross and was surprised that it was Ming-Na and not a more recognizable actress.
Had they stuck with a less complicated plot I think they could have hit a home run with this but if you leave the viewer puzzled it can detract from planned sequels (Advent Children).
I still haven't watched Titan A.E. and I'm curious to see how it stacks up to this.
KC
Rating:
Post by: Critter on December 10, 2010, 04:58:12 AM
Also, you mentioned that you like this more because visually it is so realistic. I find that interesting. I personally think realistic people work well in video games etc, but I'm not the biggest fan of it in animated films. Animation differs to live-action in many ways, one of them being how you can manipulate the appearance of a character, sometimes to match their personality. It's one of the wonderful things about the medium. If I see an animated film with photo-realistic human characters I can't help but wonder why they made it animated at all? It so easily could have been a live-action film with a lot of CGI work (the spirits etc). Also, if you found the story here slightly confusing then don't have high hopes for Advent Children. I personally love it, especially on blu-ray it is astonishing visually, but half the time I didn't know what's going on. Apparently if you haven't played pretty much all of the games which I haven't, then it's really hard to follow. It doesn't bother me though, I just sit there staring at the breathtaking visuals and enjoy it all the same.
Post by: KinkyCyborg on December 10, 2010, 05:16:07 AM
If I see an animated film with photo-realistic human characters I can't help but wonder why they made it animated at all? It so easily could have been a live-action film with a lot of CGI work (the spirits etc).
Very true! I sometimes wonder if the reason for these ventures is just so that these CGI geeks can beat their chests and say 'See what we can do!?' But once they make their animation so lifelike as to not being able to tell the difference from the real thing then what is left for them to do?
Post by: KinkyCyborg on December 11, 2010, 06:38:08 PM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/02/027616857651f.jpg)
Title:American Buffalo (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 1995
Director: Michael Corrente
Rating: R
Length: 87 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 1.85:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround
Subtitles: French, Spanish
Stars:
Dustin Hoffman
Dennis Franz
Sean Nelson
Plot:
Two-time Academy Award® winner Dustin Hoffman and two-time Emmy Award winner Dennis Franz ("NYPD Blue") deliver tour-de-force performances as volatile small-time hustlers in this edgy, electrifying story of trust, betrayal and loyalty gone dangerously awry. American Buffalo is a riveting study in human virtue and vulnerability from Pulitzer Prize winning writer David Mamet (Wag the Dog, The Edge, The Untouchables) and director Michael Corrente.
For down-and-out junk dealer Don (Franz), life goes from unlucky to unbearable when he discovers that the rare, buffalo head nickel he just sold for $90 is worth ten times as much! Refusing to let himself be out-swindled, Don enlists the help of a young protégé (Nelson) in a scheme to steal the coin back. But their plans are suddenly altered by the intrusion of Teach (Hoffman), a disturbingly aggresive would-be thief who badgers Don into cutting him in on the heist – a decision that carries explosive consequences for everyone involved.
Extras:
Scene Access
Feature Trailers
Closed Captioned
My Thoughts:
Story about three loser scam artists who plan to steal a coin collection.
This movie is not for everyone, and as I reflect, not for me either. Even if I hadn't already read on the dvd artwork I would have known quickly that this movie was based on a stage production play, in this case written by David Mamet. A cast of three with almost the entire 95 minutes taking place inside a junk store, it's one of those micro-managed films that plays like a hamster in his wheel, running endlessly but never getting anywhere.
The entire film is spent planning this daring heist and it never happens. I had a sneaky suspicion this might be the case but I was holding out, hoping it might. Bah! :thumbdown:
Dustin Hoffman is good, the similarities between this role and Ratso Rizzo in Midnight cowboy are uncanny. Both are greasy, fast talking manipulators with major character flaws. Hoffman could always deliver colorful tirades among the best.
Dennis Franz, best known for his days on NYPD Blue plays the man with the plan but unwillingly lets Teach (Hoffman) in on the deal and things quickly fall apart. Franz is ok, but he doesn't exceed his limits which in movies is little more than a bit player.
If you are looking for action this is not for you. If you want to watch a dialogue driven study on human nature than give it a shot.
KC
Rating:
Post by: KinkyCyborg on December 15, 2010, 04:51:36 AM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/02/027616881335f.jpg)
Title:Windtalkers (http://www.invelos.com/images/BluRayLogo.png)(http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 2002
Director: John Woo
Rating: R
Length: 134 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 2.40:1, Pan & Scan 1.33:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, French: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo, Spanish: Dolby Digital: 5.1
Subtitles: English, French, Spanish
Stars:
Nicolas Cage (1964)
Adam Beach
Peter Stormare
Noah Emmerich
Mark Ruffalo
Plot:
In the brutal World War II Battle of Saipan, Sergeant Joe Enders (Academy Award® winner* Nicolas Cage) guards – and ultimately befriends – Ben Yahzee (Adam Beach), a young Navajo trained in the one wartime code never broken by the enemy, the Navajo Code. But if Yahzee should fall into Japanese hands, how far will Enders go to save the military's most powerful secret? John Woo directs this "exciting" (Premiere) "against-all-odds battle adventure" (The Toronto Star) written by John Rice and Joe Batteer and inspired by the true story of the Navajo soldiers whose courage and sacrifices helped win the war in the Pacific.
*1995: Actor, Leaving Las Vegas
Extras:
Scene Access
Feature Trailers
Bonus Trailers
Closed Captioned
My Thoughts:
Bluray #2 : Windtalkers
Here's a question... Isn't Blu-ray supposed to be the superior format? I bought this bluray brand new and was stunned to find out there are absolutely ZERO special features on this disc. Nothing... not even the theatrical trailer. The only thing it does have is the Smart Menu Technology that allows you to access menu features without even leaving the movie. Great! Except the menu features lead you to no where. :thumbdown: Blurays can hold between 25 - 40 GB of content. If you are going to hype that, use it! This is just pure laziness. :redcard:
Onto the movie. True story about the Navajo Indians who were used as code talkers during the Pacific campaign in WWII. I like this war movie as it has more sustained battle sequences throughout than most war movies and yet still manages to tell a story along the way. It's intense, graphic and thrilling.
This was one of Nicolas Cage's better performances which recently seem to be on the decline. He embraces war as he has little or nothing else except the haunting memories of men and friends lost, in his mind because of his perceived failures. He later wins redemption though at the ultimate cost while protecting his Windtalker and friend despite his orders to protect the Code at all costs.
The last couple of Adam Beach movies I've watched (Flags Of Our Fathers and Nemesis Game) presented performances by him that left a lot to be desired. I was starting to lose faith in his ability but watching this again reminded me of how good he can really be.
As much as I despise the lack of content on this bluray the visual presentation itself was top notch whether I was watching the rocky deserts of Arizona or the lush tropics of Saipan. It could only look better if I were in those places for real. :thumbup: Non stop action revealed a bit of motion blur which I'm going to have to resign myself to until I upgrade my TV once again.
I'm enjoying watching movies again in bluray as I likely would never get to review some of these movies otherwise given my eccentric movie watching practices. :stars:
KC
Rating:
Post by: Achim on December 15, 2010, 05:33:34 AM
Here's a question... Isn't Blu-ray supposed to be the superior format? I bought this bluray brand new and was stunned to find out there are absolutely ZERO special features on this disc. Nothing... not even the theatrical trailer. The only thing it does have is the Smart Menu Technology that allows you to access menu features without even leaving the movie. Great! Except the menu features lead you to no where. :thumbdown: Blurays can hold between 25 - 40 GB of content. If you are going to hype that, use it! This is just pure laziness. :redcard:I guess what adds insult to injury is, that the previous DVD release of this film actually had some extras! That is what bugs me the most of this kind of releases...
I have allowed myself to double-dip these (for films that are important ot me), since I would have the special features on the DVD, but if it's a first-buy, then I will refuse to buy such inferior products, trying to send a message to the studios.
Post by: Najemikon on December 16, 2010, 12:01:01 AM
Post by: KinkyCyborg on December 16, 2010, 04:45:50 AM
Being completely, brutally honest? A half-arsed blu-ray release for a half-arsed film. Sorry. :bag: I thought it was pretty awful.
Really... what about it did you dislike so much?
Post by: KinkyCyborg on December 16, 2010, 04:54:40 AM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/02/025195016902f.jpg)
Title:Changeling (http://www.invelos.com/images/BluRayLogo.png)(http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 2008
Director: Clint Eastwood
Rating: R
Length: 142 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 2.40:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, French: Dolby Digital: 5.1
Subtitles: English, French, Spanish
Stars:
Angelina Jolie
Gattlin Griffith
Michelle Gunn
Jan Devereaux
Erica Grant
Plot:
Clint Eastwood directs Oscar® winner† Angelina Jolie and Oscar® nominee‡ John Malkovich in a riveting and unforgettable true story.
Los Angeles, 1928. When single mother Christine Collins (Jolie) leaves for work, her son vanishes without a trace. Five months later, the police reunite mother and son; but he isn´t her boy. Driven by one woman´s relentless quest for the truth, the case exposes a world of corruption, captivates the public and changes Los Angeles forever.
This emotionally gripping story illustrates the profound power of a mother´s love in "a mesmerizing film that burns in the memory" (Peter Travers, Rolling Stone).
†Angelina Jolie, Best Supporting Actress, 1999 Girl, Interrupted
‡John Malkovich, Best Supporting Actor, 1984 Places in the Heart, 1992 In the Line of Fire
Extras:
Scene Access
Featurettes
My Thoughts:
I was rather harsh on old Clint with my last review of one of his movies (Flags Of Our Fathers) but I think he'd like this one.
Stunning look at the corruption of the LAPD in the 20's-50's era entwined with the disappearance of a young boy. These true events not only uncovered a gruesome massacre of 20 young boys but also revealed truly despicable acts by a dirty, intimidating Los Angeles Police Department.
Great work by Angelina Jolie who forces you to concentrate on her performance as her sexuality is virtually stripped away in the fashion of a prim and proper lady of the 1920's. She's relatively quiet and reserved but fiercely determined to find her son, adamantly refusing to acknowledge the boy they brought back to her as her own child. Jolie embodies this woman, Christine Collins, perfectly.
The cinematography and finely detailed production designs are a marvel to look at, giving you the feel of life back in the roaring 20's. Eastwood tells this story in such a compelling way that despite the slow pace you are still on the edge of your seat. Nicely rounded cast to compliment Jolie including John Malkovich, Colm Feore, and Geoff Pierson from Dexter fame as attorney S.S. Hahn. His courtroom interrogations were masterful.
Something that I think is ofter overlooked when looking at Clint's resume is his composing skills. The entire musical score for Changeling was composed by Eastwood and it is great albeit somewhat similar in nature to some of his other films. It has an even flow to it and at times can be very haunting.
This one is highly recommended!
KC
Rating:
Post by: Dragonfire on December 16, 2010, 06:05:22 AM
Post by: Critter on December 16, 2010, 09:02:19 AM
I watched this film I think last year, and was actually depressed for about a month afterwards. As in, really depressed... because of this film! It haunted me, and while it was amazing, outstanding direction, brilliant acting (anyone who says Jolie can't act obviously just haven't seen her in the right things) but really, what a shocking film. This movie made me hate all police for a long time, not to mention almost all men as well until I slowly came back to reality. Such an awful, terrible, sad, depressing yet amazingly well done film.
Post by: Dr. Hasslein on December 16, 2010, 09:11:26 AM
I thought it was an brilliantly directed film. I almost cried during one scene in particular.
Angelina Jolie is a very talented actress, it' just a shame there isn't much to like about her out of acting.
Post by: Critter on December 16, 2010, 09:58:51 AM
Post by: Dragonfire on December 18, 2010, 06:30:25 AM
Post by: KinkyCyborg on December 19, 2010, 05:41:07 PM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/02/025192052521f.jpg)
Title:Madigan (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 1968
Director: Don Siegel
Rating: NR
Length: 101 Min.
Video: Widescreen 2.35:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: Mono, French: Dolby Digital: Mono
Subtitles: Spanish
Stars:
Richard Widmark
Henry Fonda
Inger Stevens
Harry Guardino
James Whitmore
Plot:
Richard Widmark and Henry Fonda star in this critically acclaimed detective drama that takes a hard-hitting look at the lives and loves of New York City's top cops. Directed in gripping documentary fashion by Don Siegel, Richard Widmark portrays the veteran Big Apple detective who is given only a few hours to track down a vicious killer. Henry Fonda is the humane yet relentlessly forceful police commissioner who orders Widmark into the streets to solve the case, even though he knows it might be his last assignment
Extras:
Scene Access
Feature Trailers
Production Notes
Closed Captioned
My Thoughts:
Late 60's cop flick with Richard Widmark & Henry Fonda. There's actually two stories going on in this film... Widmark's character, a hard nosed cop who doesn't always play by the rules botches a takedown and loses his gun to a perp. He's under pressure from the brass to set it right, under even more pressure from himself and his pride, all the while neglecting his beautiful wife played by Inger Stevens.
Henry Fonda plays the Police Comissioner whose known for being straight as an arrow and yet is carrying on an adulterous affair with Canada's own Susan Clark (gorgeous! ;) ) and trying to come to terms with the knowledge that his Chief Of Detectives, also his best friend, is a dirty cop caught on tape in a bribery rap.
The stories overlap somewhat but each would make a good movie on their own. It's a bit dated but has good storylines and top notch talent. My admiration for Richard Widmark has grown over the years as his acting is excellent, always in macho-bravado roles. He also reminds a lot of an old friend of mine who passed away a number of years ago in a motorcycle accident. He looks, sounds and acts like him.
KC
Rating:
Post by: KinkyCyborg on December 20, 2010, 10:40:34 PM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/09/097360848441f.jpg)
Title:Captain Kronos: Vampire Hunter (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 1974
Director: Brian Clemens
Rating: R
Length: 91 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 1.85:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: Mono, Commentary: Dolby Digital: Mono
Subtitles: English
Stars:
Horst Janson
John Carson
Shane Briant
Caroline Munro
John Cater
Plot:
In a small village in the remote English countryside, several young maidens have been found dead - their beautiful faces horribly aged almost beyond recognition. Suspecting a supernatural evil at work, the local doctor calls on Army friend and famed vampire hunter Captain Kronos, an expert swordsman formerly of the King's Imperial Guard. Aided by his expert assistant Professor Grost, the two quickly confirm the gruesome murders are the work of a unique type of vampire, one who drains its victims not of their blood, but of their youth! After forging a lethal new sword from an old graveyard cross, the vampire hunters set out to put an end to Evil's reign of terror in this Hammer Films horror classic.
Extras:
Scene Access
Audio Commentary
Closed Captioned
My Thoughts:
Ultra no-budget Hammer Films movie that is not your traditional vampire movie. This vamp doesn't suck your blood, it sucks out your youth, leaving you a dried up old husk.
The acting is so bad it's actually quite entertaining. Gore hounds will be disappointed as I doubt you could fill a brandy glass with the amount of blood spilled in this one.
The most ridiculous aspect of the film has to be Grost, Kronos's faithful hunchback servant. He was actually one of the better actors but watching the 'hump' on his back shifting around precariously under his shirt was too much! :hysterical:
The few highlights included some excellent swordplay at the end and Hammer pinup girl Caroline Munro who is more vampy than the beast they are hunting. Her beauty more than makes up for her lack of acting skills. :drooling:
As long as you keep in mind you are watching a Hammer Film then nothing about CK : VH should surprise you.
KC
Rating:
Post by: KinkyCyborg on December 24, 2010, 03:25:24 AM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/04/043396059955f.jpg)
Title:Short Circuit 2 (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 1988
Director: Kenneth Johnson
Rating: PG
Length: 110 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 1.85:1, Full Frame 1.33:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround, French: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo, Spanish: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo, Portuguese: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo
Subtitles: Chinese, English, French, Korean, Portuguese, Spanish, Thai
Stars:
Tim Blaney
Fisher Stevens
Michael McKean
Cynthia Gibb
Jack Weston
Plot:
Number Five, aka Johnny Five, that incredible, lovable robot from the smash hit Short Circuit, is back and taking the big city by storm in this action-packed comedy adventure. Upbeat Johnny's out for some "urban input," but some street hoods, a greedy banker and a gang of crooks see his naiveté as their high-tech ticket to easy street. Will Johnny survive the big bad city and its big, bad city slickers? Keep your wires crossed when you switch on this high voltage film.
Extras:
Scene Access
Feature Trailers
Featurettes
Closed Captioned
My Thoughts:
Ok sequel to the Johnny 5 saga. Not nearly as good as the original but still had some entertaining moments thanks largely to the robot himself. I think I would have enjoyed both installments much more had they dropped Fisher Stevens character who I find is one of the most annoying people on the planet.
Cynthia Gibb, hottie and love interest of Rob Lowe in Youngblood was in this but she looks more like a girl scout than a vixen this time around.
Lots of Canadian content including Michael McKean and this film was largely produced in Toronto, mostly around Yonge Street. I spotted a plethora of Canadian flags, The World's Biggest Bookstore, CIBC headquarters and I'm pretty sure I saw the Zanzibar... a strip club I have frequented a few times in my wilder days. 8) The editing crew did a shameful job when trying to make the city look like New York. :-\
Was ok, but I'm glad they stopped after part 2.
KC
Rating:
Post by: KinkyCyborg on December 30, 2010, 04:12:48 PM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/04/043396252622f.jpg)
Title:Zombie Strippers (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 2008
Director: Jay Lee
Rating: NR
Length: 94 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 2.35:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, French: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround
Subtitles: English, French
Stars:
Jenna Jameson
Robert Englund
Roxy Saint
Penny Drake
Joey Medina
Plot:
When a secret government agency lets out a deadly chemical virus causing the reanimation of the dead, the first place to get hit is Rhino's, a hot underground strip club. As one of the strippers gets the virus, she turns into a supernatural, flesh-eating zombie stripper, making her the hit of the club. Do the rest of the girls fight the temptation to be like the star stripper, even if there is no turning back?
Also featuring 'ROXY SAINT' (of Goth band Roxy Saint and the Blackouts) and Ultimate Fighting Champion 'TITO ORTIZ', 'ZOMBIE STRIPPERS' is a sexy, bloody, hilarious good time!
Extras:
Scene Access
Audio Commentary
Feature Trailers
Deleted Scenes
Featurettes
DVD-ROM Content
Closed Captioned
My Thoughts:
I'd pass on the lap dance. :o
Another movie that succeeds on stupidity. Some of it is so ridiculous you can't help but laugh. Take away the comedy, which by the way, pokes terrific fun at American culture and politics, and you have a top notch gore mongers delight! Adding beautiful naked women the likes of Jenna Jameson doesn't hurt either.
Robert Englund had fun with this one, playing a hypochondriac night club owning slime who cowers from the undead rather than dealing out death like he used to as Freddy. Tito Ortiz of the UFC world has a bit part and maybe one line in the whole film. I was expecting him to be one of the bad ass soldiers trying to snuff out the zombies but nope, he played a pussy bouncer who took off running at the first sign of blood. ::)
This is the perfect movie for necrophiliacs! :laugh:
KC
Rating:
Post by: KinkyCyborg on January 02, 2011, 03:59:58 AM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/04/043396347632f.jpg)
Title:The Road (http://www.invelos.com/images/BluRayLogo.png)(http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 2009
Director: John Hillcoat
Rating: R
Length: 111 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 2.35:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, Commentary: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo
Subtitles: English
Stars:
Viggo Mortensen
Kodi Smit-McPhee
Robert Duvall
Guy Pearce
Molly Parker
Plot:
From Cormac McCarthy, author of "No Country For Old Men", comes the highly anticipated big screen adaptation of the beloved, best-selling and Pulitzer Prize-winning novel, "The Road" Academy Award® nominee Viggo Mortensen (Best Actor, Eastern Promises, 2007) Leads an all-star cast featuring Academy Award® winners Chalize Theron (Best Actress, Monster, 2003) and Robert Duvall (Best Actor, Tender Mercies, 1983), Guy Pearce and young newcomer Kodi Smit-McPhee in this epic post-apocalyptic tale of the survival of a father (Mortensen) and his young son (Smit-McPhee) as they journey across a barren America that was destroyed by a mysterious cataclysm. A masterpiece adventure, The Road boldly imagines a future in which men are pushed to the worst and the best that they are capable of – a future in which a father and his son are sustained by love.
Extras:
Scene Access
Audio Commentary
Feature Trailers
Bonus Trailers
Deleted Scenes
Featurettes
My Thoughts:
Tonight it was my pick and as I have been hearing and reading great reviews of this movie I thought the time had come to experience it.
A very emotionally moving movie and unlike any other post-apocalyptic story I have watched before. This focuses less on the tragic end of days (for which it was never clear what caused it) but more on the enduring love between a father and his son.
I like how it begins, with bright colorful images of nature and life before the event compared in stark contrast to the dirty lifeless grey that permeates the entire world after which leaves no confusion as to the extreme level of desolation. Through a series of flashbacks we see how one family drifts from one state of mind to another.... surprise, fear of the unknown, survival, desperation, terror and resignation of ones fate. The mother, played by Charlize Theron, gives up, leaving her men to the horrors of the world.
The man and his boy, played by Viggo Mortensen and Kodi Smit-McPhee set out for the southern coast of Florida facing starvation, the elements, which include constant rain and earthquakes, cannibals & rapists and worst of all... the unknown. All in the hopes of finding a more forgiving climate and some semblance of civilization.
There are some very memorable cameos in this movie. Robert Duvall as the nearly blind old man Eli who envies the bond between the man and boy as he reflects sadly at the loss of his own son. Michael K. Williams, as the thief who runs off with their only belongings, stripped of everything including his dignity once caught. Guy Pearce, plays a man who could be either the boy's death or his salvation and you find yourself holding your breath until you know the answer.
There are moments of raw emotional feeling that were very touching for me. Already ferociously protective of my own children, I could see where a parents survivalist instincts would increase a hundred fold when safekeeping their own.
Now one of my favorite movies, I must read Cormac McCarthy's book.
If this movie is in your to-watch pile... move it to the top.
KC
Rating:
Post by: Najemikon on January 02, 2011, 01:50:58 PM
Have you seen The Proposition? That's also a McCarthy book adapted by the same director, John Hillcoat.
Post by: KinkyCyborg on January 02, 2011, 04:24:22 PM
Great review, KC. I'm glad you liked it. As I said in my review, people are easily put off by the synopsis, yet it is oddly uplifting. Fantastic film.
Have you seen The Proposition? That's also a McCarthy book adapted by the same director, John Hillcoat.
Not yet but I do have it. Given my appreciation for Hillcoat's effort with The Road I think it will be moving up my to-watch pile.
Post by: Rogmeister on January 02, 2011, 08:46:26 PM
Post by: KinkyCyborg on January 06, 2011, 06:06:21 AM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/02/024543242154.3f.jpg)
Title:Emperor of the North(http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 1973
Director: Robert Aldrich
Rating: PG
Length: 120 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 1.85:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo, English: Dolby Digital: Mono, French: Dolby Digital: Mono, Spanish: Dolby Digital: Mono, Commentary: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo
Subtitles: English, Spanish
Stars:
Lee Marvin
Ernest Borgnine
Keith Carradine
Charles Tyner
Malcolm Atterbury
Plot:
Oscar®-winners Lee Marvin ('The Wild One') and Ernest Borgnine ('Marty') face off in an epic battle of wills in this riveting thriller "full of outrageous challenges, impossible predicaments and improbably escapes!" ('The New York Times'). Directed by Robert Aldrich ('The Dirty Dozen'), and boasting "gripping, action-packed suspense [and] one of the most spectacular fights in a long time, 'Emperor of the North' is one helluva film!" ('Genesis'). Set on the Pacific Northwest railways at the height of the Depression, 'Emperor of the North' pits a crafty, train-hopping drifter called A-No.1 (Marvin) against Shack (Borgnine), the cruel, bum-intolerant conductor of Engine 19. But when pride turns their determination into obsession, the clash escalates into a fight to the finish that only one man can survive!
Extras:
Scene Access
Audio Commentary
Feature Trailers
Closed Captioned
My Thoughts:
Lee Marvin and Ernest Borgnine square off toe to toe in a battle of the King Of Hobos Vs. the meanest railman of the Pacific Northwest.
A - No. 1 (Marvin), a legend among the hobo community during the Great Depression, has never found a train he couldn't bum a ride from. Shack (Borgnine), a legend in his own right, has never let a hobo catch a free ride on his train. Many have tried and were slammed by his ball peen hammer... and didn't live to tell about it. Something has got to give and the result is a rip roaring, action packed showdown.
Marvin was the consummate badass for many years in film, proving it once again in Emperor Of The North. Borgnine and his wild eyes was the perfect choice for Shack, a man obsessed in his attempt to ensure his perfect record of no free rides is not tarnished. A very young Keith Carradine hitches along on Marvin coattails, full of piss and vinegar put lacking any real street smarts. His shifting loyalties cost him in the end.
I already have so many favorite Lee Marvin movies... I'm not sure where to rank this beauty!
They don't make'm like this anymore. :clap:
KC
Rating:
Post by: Antares on January 06, 2011, 05:55:55 PM
Post by: KinkyCyborg on January 07, 2011, 12:43:21 AM
I'm glad to see you liked this film, it's one of my favorite Lee Marvin performances. Isn't it amazing how many good films Ernest Borgnine has been apart of?
He certainly has. I particularly liked him in The Poseidon Adventure. He's still going strong at age 93!!! :o He has roles in two movies for 2011 according to IMDB.
Post by: KinkyCyborg on January 08, 2011, 04:25:50 AM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/01/017153100211f.jpg)
Title:The Langoliers (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 1995
Director: Tom Holland
Rating: PG-13
Length: 180 Min.
Video: Full Frame 1.33:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo
Subtitles:
Stars:
Tom Holland
Mark Lindsay Chapman
Kate Maberly
Julie Arnold Lisnet
Bronson Pinchot
Plot:
Something bizarre has happened aboard flight #29...a nightmare so chilling, so frightening, so unrelenting it could only come from the mind of Stephen King. Now the master storyteller of our time gives terror a new name in THE LANGOLIERS. A jet leaves on a red-eye flight from Los Angeles to Boston. But early in the flight, ten passengers awaken to a startling realization: All of the other passengers have vanished – and the ground below is only...ground. But once they manage to land the plane, the situation doesn't improve. No one is there...the air is still...the clocks have stopped...and a dread, evil presence bent on their destruction is headed straight for them. Based on the novella from the best-selling anthology Four Past Midnight, Patricia Wettig (City Slickers II), Bronson Pincho (Beverly Hills Cop), Dean Stockwell (The Player) and David Morse (The Getaway) stare into the jaws of oblivion in this nightmare from the mind of Stephen King.
Extras:
Scene Access
Closed Captioned
My Thoughts:
Read the novella from Four Past Midnight and loved it so I was expecting this made for tv mini-series to fail miserably compared to the book.
Story of a flight the goes through a time rip which causes everyone who wasn't sleeping at the time to disappear. Those who slept through the phenomena are left puzzled and looking for answers. When the truth becomes apparent they must thrust aside their terror in order to find a way to stay alive.
The first two hours of this three hour movie was very good. Suspenseful and thrilling while developing the key characters along the way. Then the 'Langoliers' appear and I was completely disgusted. :thumbdown: The book describes them as rolling black masses that just envelop everything in their path until there is nothing left. The movie portrays them as vicious, thrashing entities with rows of jagged teeth and a hunters instinct. These idiotic computer generated 'things' almost ruined the entire movie for me after a stellar start. I was so thankful when that segment was over.
A decent cast led by David Morse, all in turn tell their stories. Bronson Pinchot was great as the crazed Toomey. It was nice to see him in a different role than the fruits he usually plays. I immediately remembered the robotic ripping of the paper his character did in the book and he absolutely nailed the detachment that was described in King's story.
The movie finished up strong although I was almost expecting a dark turn that deviated from the book, not unlike the way The Mist ended but it didn't happen. Oh and King made his mandatory cameo in this one as well... during a hallucinogenic vision. Seems appropriate. :laugh:
KC
Rating:
Post by: Dr. Hasslein on January 08, 2011, 07:15:07 AM
Post by: hal9g on January 08, 2011, 03:48:15 PM
Post by: KinkyCyborg on January 09, 2011, 02:45:56 AM
Totally agree. The Langoliers were laughable. They reminded me of PacMan with teeth! :redcard:
That describes them perfectly!
Post by: KinkyCyborg on January 09, 2011, 02:48:54 AM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/05/057373155028f.jpg)
Title:Sarafina! (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 1992
Director: Darrell Roodt
Rating: PG-13
Length: 0 Min.
Video: Full Frame 1.33:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo
Subtitles:
Stars:
Whoopie Goldberg
John Kani
Leleti Khumalo
Miriam Makeba
Tertius Meintjes
Plot:
Soweto, South Africa. A new world is opening up for a group of young black students, whose extraordinary teacher, Mary, defies the authorities and dares to teach her students truths not found in approved textbooks.
For one pupil in particular, young Sarafina, the forbidden curriculum will have a far-reaching impact in her life.
A brilliant educator, Mary inspires her students to take pride in their heritage and themselves. She also urges them to search for the truth and stand up for their individual rights.
Extras:
Scene Access
My Thoughts:
Apartheid the musical. ::)
Ugh... how I struggled through this movie. I've seen many movies that have dealt with the injustice and atrocities in South Africa during the incarceration of Nelson Mandela but this adds no new perspectives and quite frankly I found most of the musical bits to be a distraction. The songs sung by the children in their own native tongues with the subtitled translations were quite beautiful but I found the english songs done to a hybrid hip hop/Bollywood type of choreography to be very tacky.
The inclusion of Whoopi Goldberg did little to help this movie and her performance came across as a bit self serving, attaching herself to a cause or movement. The musical magic from her Sister Act flicks was nowhere to be found in this one.
I'm sure this was an artistic interpretation of Apartheid but to me it comes across as mocking. :thumbdown:
KC
Rating:
Post by: Jimmy on January 09, 2011, 04:21:19 AM
Rating:At least the movie is short :laugh:
Length: 0 Min.
Post by: KinkyCyborg on January 09, 2011, 06:03:57 AM
Rating:At least the movie is short :laugh:Length: 0 Min.
Haha! I never noticed that! I rarely look at the profile info although I guess I could look it up and make a quick edit. Thanks for pointing that out Jimmy.
Post by: KinkyCyborg on January 09, 2011, 09:47:08 PM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/79/796019820264f.jpg)
Title:Crossing Over (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 2009
Director: Wayne Kramer
Rating: R
Length: 113 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 2.35:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 5.1
Subtitles: English, Spanish
Stars:
Harrison Ford (1942)
Ray Liotta
Ashley Judd
Jim Sturgess
Cliff Curtis
Plot:
Harrison Ford (Indiana Jones films) is on a quest for justice as an immigrations agent investigating the case of a missing illegal. In a cross-fire of crime and bureaucracy, fraud and murder, he must race against time to try to save a family from becoming collateral damage in the fight for the American dream. Critics rave, "Harrison Ford is terrific. An engrossing, thoroughly entertaining movie with great performances from a first-rate ensemble cast" (Pete Hammond, Hollywood.com). Co-starring Ashley Judd (Twisted), Ray Liotta (Smokin' Aces), Jim Sturgess (21), and Cliff Curtis (10,000 BC), Crossing Over will keep you riveted until the final mystery unfolds.
Extras:
Scene Access
My Thoughts:
Dreadful look at the ugly world of immigration in the U.S. and the lengths some people will go to get in, and those who would keep them out.
A myriad of hard luck stories some of which overlap. With a couple of lucky exceptions all of them conclude badly for those involved.
Harrison Ford plays an INS agent who deals with illegals on a daily basis but finds it harder and harder to remain detached from his work and the unfortunate illegals he encounters. He's solid in his typical brooding way as he exhibits compassion to one young Mexican woman and tries to help her. Ashley Judd is fine too as another bright light who is heartbroken day in and day out as she deals with the children of families without green cards.
On the darker side of the coin we meet Ray Liotta who sleazes his way into a young, sexy (and often nude!) Australian woman's bed in exchange for help with her green card. Alice Eve plays the Aussie and demonstrates the desperation that leads to the surrendering of ones convictions.
Many cultures are given air time including Koreans, Islamics, Israeli's and Hispanics all with emotionally charged stories to tell, some more interesting than others but told in an effort to show opposing points of view on the immigration debate.
Personally, despite the sometimes cold, harsh portrayal of U.S. immigration controls and those who enforce them I find them completely necessary in this day and age and are seriously lacking here in Canada.
This was a bit too slow and drawn out, perhaps biting off more than it could chew by telling so many individual stories. It would have been better had they narrowed their focus to one or two of the better stories but overall it gives a very eye opening, raw look into the world of the illegal alien.
KC
Rating:
Post by: KinkyCyborg on January 15, 2011, 11:35:19 PM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/02/025192278822f.jpg)
Title:Mask (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 1985
Director: Peter Bogdanovich
Rating: NR
Length: 127 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 1.85:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, English: DTS: 5.1, English: Dolby Digital: Mono, Commentary: Dolby Digital: Mono
Subtitles: French, Spanish
Stars:
Cher
Sam Elliott
Eric Stoltz
Estelle Getty
Richard Dysart
Plot:
Acclaimed filmmaker Peter Bogdanovich directed this heartwarming and inspirational film based on the real life story of Rocky Dennis (Eric Stoltz), a terribly disfigured but highly sensitive and intelligent teenager. Motivated by his loving mother, Rusty (Cher), and her boyfriend, Gar (Sam Elliott), Rocky ultimately overcomes pain, loneliness and prejudice to become a role model to his classmates and teachers alike.
Extras:
Scene Access
Audio Commentary
Feature Trailers
Interviews
My Thoughts:
True story of Rocky Dennis, a young man with a terrible disease that horribly disfigured his face, he lived well beyond his doctors expectations but still died at the young age of 16.
Great movie and truly inspiring. Rocky, played by Eric Stoltz, was ever the optimist despite all the negativity around him, he never let his condition hold him back, always living every day to the fullest.
Seen this a few times now and there are some outstanding performances, particularly Cher as Rocky's wild, drug addicted mother. It was often Rocky taking care of her and not the other way around. Sam Elliott, one of the coolest actors ever is great as Gar, sometimes live-in boyfriend and father figure to Rocky. It's been so long since I've watched this that I totally forgot Laura Dern played the young blind girl Rocky falls in love with and there was Estelle Getty as Rocky's grandmother!
I thought it was cool that during a scene in this movie on the TV screen in their living room was playing another movie that I recently watched, Madigan!
I've never been a big fan of Peter Bogdanovich, as an actor or during his long winded interviews but I have to give credit where credit is due... he directed a fantastic movie that ranks very high with me all time. :clap:
KC
Rating:
Post by: KinkyCyborg on January 16, 2011, 05:54:33 PM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/01/012569841451.3f.jpg)
Title:Syriana (http://www.invelos.com/images/BluRayLogo.png)(http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 2005
Director: Stephen Gaghan
Rating: 14A
Length: 128 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 2.40:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, French: Dolby Digital: 5.1
Subtitles: English, French, Spanish
Stars:
Kayvan Novak
George Clooney
Amr Waked
Christopher Plummer
Jeffrey Wright
Plot:
Big oil means big money. Very big money. And that fact unleashes corruption that stretches from Houston to Washington to the Mideast – and ensnares industrialists, princes, spies, politicos, oilfield laborers and terrorists in a deadly, deceptive web of move and countermove. George Clooney (Academy Award®* and Golden Globe winner as Best Supporting Actor), Matt Damon and Jeffrey Wright lead a stellar cast in a lightning-paced, whip-smart thriller written and directed by Traffic Academy Award® winner** Stephen Gaghan. From it's very first scene, Syriana grips your mind and nerves with an intensity that doesn't let go for an instant. What is the price of oil? This "engrossing, insider's tour of the world's hottest spots, grandest schemes and most dangerous men" (Richard Corliss, Time) has a jolting answer.
*2005. **2000: Best Screenplay Based on Material Previously Produced or Published.
Extras:
Scene Access
Feature Trailers
Bonus Trailers
Deleted Scenes
Featurettes
Interviews
Closed Captioned
My Thoughts:
Very intriguing and fascinating movie even though at times I was confused as to what was going on. :headscratch: It was like playing connect the dots... only the dots keep moving.
The message was clear... big business, more directly OIL business, dictates much of what happens in the world. Corruption, terrorism, political unrest, the removing of obstacles with extreme prejudice... all in a days work for the powers that be who jockey for control of the world's most valuable natural resource. Also, this movie does little to endear the viewer to the Arab oil barons whose obscene wealth is prominently on display.
Clooney was good, Damon was good, Jeffrey Wright was great! Also I've never seen Tim Blake Nelson in a suit before and it was quite a shock to the system. :o
Great movie if not a bit confusing. Likely no more confusing than the real life double dealings employed by the oil companies.
KC
Rating:
Post by: KinkyCyborg on January 21, 2011, 04:51:11 AM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/78/786936292978f.jpg)
Title:Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest (http://www.invelos.com/images/BluRayLogo.png)(http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 2006
Director: Gore Verbinski
Rating: PG-13
Length: 151 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 2.40:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, French: Dolby Digital: 5.1, Spanish: Dolby Digital: 5.1, Commentary: Dolby Digital: Mono
Subtitles: English, French, Spanish
Stars:
Johnny Depp
Orlando Bloom
Keira Knightley
Jack Davenport
Bill Nighy
Plot:
Charming rogue pirate Captain Jack Sparrow (Johnny Depp) is back for a grand, swashbuckling, nonstop joyride filled with devilish pirate humor, monstrous sea creatures and breathtaking black magic. Now, Jack's got a blood debt to pay – he owes his soul to the legendary Davy Jones, ghostly Ruler of the Ocean Depths...but ever-crafty Jack isn't about to go down without a fight. Along the way, dashing Will Turner (Orlando Bloom) and the beautiful Elizabeth Swann (Keira Knightley) get caught up in the thrilling whirlpool of misadventures stirred up in Jack's quest to avoid eternal damnation by seizing the fabled Dead Man's Chest!
Extras:
Scene Access
Audio Commentary
Feature Trailers
Outtakes/Bloopers
My Thoughts:
Took me a bit to piece things together at first as it had been some time since I had watched Curse Of The Black Pearl and you could easily tell it picked up right where the last one left off.
Great action and fantastic make-up/artistry especially for Davy Jones' minions who more closely resemble crustaceous sea creatures.
I made a discovery after watching this film. Johnny Depp, who seems to have a tendency to lean towards roles of utmost silliness (Jack Sparrow, Mad Hatter, Willy Wonka, Raoul Duke)... it's starting to get a bit tiresome for me as these roles are all similar in nature. The facial expressions, the lingo, the body language.... getting a bit annoying. I mean he's great in the roles but it seems to me like he's turning into Tim Burton's bitch. :P
Keira Knightley is gorgeous but has a few embarrassing scenes where the brave, smart, athletic and aggressive persona she exudes throughout most of the movie is taken over by that of a complete ditz... i.e. the scene on the beach where she watches the three boys play swords. ::)
Looking forward to At World's End where Rush is back as Captain Barbossa and Chow-Yun Fat joins the cast. The fourth entry is apparently in production now too, sans Bloom and Knightley... one too many perhaps?
KC
Rating:
Post by: Dragonfire on January 21, 2011, 04:58:30 AM
Post by: samuelrichardscott on January 21, 2011, 02:06:55 PM
Post by: Achim on January 21, 2011, 03:26:32 PM
Post by: Najemikon on January 21, 2011, 08:48:32 PM
Post by: Dragonfire on January 22, 2011, 03:09:06 AM
Post by: Achim on January 22, 2011, 04:40:10 AM
Post by: Najemikon on January 22, 2011, 12:33:42 PM
I saw Tron Legacy in 3D (pointless) and the trailers were even more annoying than normal. They a couple of them twice! Gulliver's Travels three times even, if you count the bloody stupid Orange adverts. But anyway... twice because they showed the 3D and 2D versions. In both cases, for me 2D was much better. It looks so forced in Pirates. In particular there's a shot of Jack on a beach... 3D just makes it look weird.
Post by: KinkyCyborg on January 22, 2011, 02:53:45 PM
Post by: Jimmy on January 22, 2011, 03:14:18 PM
Post by: Kathy on January 22, 2011, 03:23:02 PM
Until they can make it perfect - I have no interest.
Post by: Achim on January 22, 2011, 03:36:30 PM
Personally I hope 3D dies a horrible death.As long as it's a quick one... :yu:
Post by: Najemikon on January 22, 2011, 04:05:23 PM
I find that depressing. They have no interest in what he as an artist wishes to do, just so long as he makes it in sodding 3D. I loved his response though.
You might dismiss Star Trek and that ilk as just blockbuster fodder, however he made a comment about how he isn't comfortable with 3D because it doesn't suit a particular panning shot he likes to employ. I found it very reassuring that he is at the forefront of cinema as a popcorn business, yet he will not consider altering his style just to accommodate this ridiculous gimmick. That's unfair of me though, because as he said, if a film-maker has a story he knows will benefit from 3D and they have made an artistic decision to use it -such as Cameron with Avatar- then they should. Just don't expect him to bend over! :thumbup:
Post by: Jimmy on January 22, 2011, 05:33:55 PM
I almost regret the day everything on screen was a remake (not that it's over as a recent trailer I saw yesterday on my TV looks like a remake of a Jennifer Jason Leigh movie), but I regret a lot more the days of the independant creators...
Post by: Najemikon on January 22, 2011, 05:55:13 PM
Post by: KinkyCyborg on January 22, 2011, 11:40:28 PM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/02/027616702425f.jpg)
Title:Thief (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 1981
Director: Michael Mann
Rating: R
Length: 124 Min.
Video: Widescreen 1.85:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, Commentary: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo
Subtitles: English, French, Spanish
Stars:
James Caan
Tuesday Weld
Willie Nelson
James Belushi
Robert Prosky
Plot:
James Caan is at his very best as a tough, wisecracking professional thief trapped between Chicago organized crime families and corrupt police in this "gripping drum-tight tale" (Los Angeles Magazine). Michael Mann, who directed Last of the Mohicans and 'Manhunter' and produced "Miami Vice" and "Crime Story," wrote and directed this taut, visually dazzling "heist"-drama called "the best of that breed since The Asphalt Jungle" by New West Magazine.
Filmed on rain-slicked Chicago streets, Thief captures the chilling suspense and human drama of professional crime with incredible "realistic details...heist technology straight out of Star Wars" and dialog with "the gutter pungency of a wood-alcohol cocktail" (Rolling Stone). Co-starring country superstar Willie Nelson and James Belushi ("Saturday Night Live")," Thief envelopes you in its tough, doom-laden grip and never lets go" (Newsweek).
Extras:
Scene Access
Audio Commentary
Feature Trailers
Closed Captioned
8-Page Booklet
My Thoughts:
Brilliant movie! :thumbup:
James Caan was great as a master thief who wants to pull off one more major score then give it up to live a normal life. Not an original premise for a movie but never more compelling than this one.
What I love about his character Frank, is that at no point did he ever waver in his convictions, even when it looked as though he was backed into a corner. Even if it meant giving up all that was important to him, all of his assets and worldly possessions, he would not give in to those who would oppress him. I love his bit in the coffee shop where he talks of his time in prison, saying how in order to survive he had to mean nothing to himself.
Great performances by James Belushi as his right hand and by Robert Prosky as the mafioso who thinks he has Frank under thumb. Willie Nelson was given high billing in this one but he had two scenes and maybe 20 words of dialogue. He was there for little more than to establish Frank's mentor.
If I had any pet peeve with this movie it was the musical score, done exclusively by electric band Tangerine Dream. Too much, too piercing and at inappropriate times... I just felt that kind of ambient music didn't fit this picture.
A classic movie nonetheless! :clap:
KC
Rating:
Post by: Najemikon on January 23, 2011, 02:28:03 PM
Post by: KinkyCyborg on January 23, 2011, 07:11:21 PM
Post by: KinkyCyborg on January 24, 2011, 03:00:36 AM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/09/097368938045f.jpg)
Title:Dexter: The Third Season (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 2008
Director: 1. Our FatherKeith Gordon, 2. Finding FreeboMarcos Siega, 3. The Lion Sleeps TonightJohn Dahl, 4. All In The FamilyKeith Gordon, 5. Turning BimineseMarcos Siega, 6. Si Se PuedeErnest Dickerson, 7. Easy As PieSteve Shill, 8. The Damage A Man Can DoMarcos Siega, 9. About Last NightTim Hunter, 10. Go Your Own WayJohn Dahl, 11. I Had A DreamMarcos Siega, 12. Do You Take Dexter Morgan?Keith Gordon
Rating: NR
Length: 629 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 1.78:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, English: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo, Spanish: Dolby Digital: Mono
Subtitles:
Stars:
Michael C. Hall
Julie Benz
Jennifer Carpenter
C. S. Lee
Plot:
Dexter is back and more killer than ever! The groundbreaking and critically acclaimed original series from Showtime returns on DVD with all 12 thrilling and riveting episodes in DEXTER: The Third Season. Having faced his darkest demons and eluding the FBI, Dexter has a new take on taking life, when a high profile case puts him in the sights of the most powerful and influential DA in Miami. Will Dexter's need to do away with those who slip through the cracks finally lead to his undoing? Or will his new friend in the DA's office prove to be all he needs to have his cake and eat it too?
Episodes:
1. Our Father
2. Finding Freebo
3. The Lion Sleeps Tonight
4. All In The Family
5. Turning Biminese
6. Si Se Puede
7. Easy As Pie
8. The Damage A Man Can Do
9. About Last Night
10. Go Your Own Way
11. I Had A Dream
12. Do You Take Dexter Morgan?
Extras:
Featurettes
Gallery
Production Notes
DVD-ROM Content
Closed Captioned
The United States of Tara, Season 1: Episodes 1 and 2.
My Thoughts:
We breezed through Season 3 in no time (about a month which is fast for us!) and we are definitely hooked! I don't want to say it was better or worse than the other seasons.... they've all been great! There has been a steady evolution of Dexter and we are starting to see emotions creep in through the chinks in his armor.
Jimmy Smits surprised me in this one as I was expecting a mediocre at best performance from him as I've always found him kind of one dimensional... adequate for those token Latino roles. He pulled off the role of Miguel Prado perfectly, a frustrated man barely keeping his anger in check. He quickly figures Dexter out and discovers both a tool and tutor for releasing his rage.
Masuka gets funnier with every episode and Quinn seems like an interesting character. I think there is more of his story to be told.
I can sort of see where this is heading in terms of Dexter's eventual discovery. His sister Debra is ever so slowly starting to connect the dots and it is inevitable that she will discover her brother for what he really is... question is what will she do?
Looking forward to Season 4 and John Lithgow as he can and will improve an already outstanding series just by his mere presence. That coupled with Dexter's impending fatherhood should make for some complex but fun episodes! ;)
KC
Rating:
Post by: Achim on January 24, 2011, 05:14:29 AM
Looking forward to Season 4 and John Lithgow as he can and will improve an already outstanding series just by his mere presence.After season 3 I hesitated to continue, because I thought the basic premise had run its course and it could only downhill from there. I am very glad I changed my mind, because season 4 is just as good as the others! And that not only because Jon Lithgow does a superb job in his role...
Post by: Najemikon on January 24, 2011, 10:54:33 PM
I'm sure 3D can be good for some films...
I learned today from Mark Kermode and Simon Mayo's podcast, what the most profitable 3D movie actually is. I'm sure this will be of interest to Jimmy! :P According to Wikipedia, it has actually been superseded by Avatar, but still...
(click to show/hide)
:laugh:
Post by: Jimmy on January 25, 2011, 05:05:00 AM
Maybe I will have to order it soon, since all the review for this dvd praise the 3D. Of course it's a great movie also and the first Cliff's project when he began his job at Shout Factory!
Post by: KinkyCyborg on January 26, 2011, 02:09:19 AM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/06/065935147565f.jpg)
Title:Terminator 2: Judgment Day (http://www.invelos.com/images/BluRayLogo.png)(http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 1991
Director: James Cameron
Rating: R
Length: 152 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 2.35:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital EX: 5.1 (Matrixed 6.1), English: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo, Commentary: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo, Commentary: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo
Subtitles: English, Spanish, Commentary
Stars:
Arnold Schwarzenegger
Linda Hamilton
Edward Furlong
Robert Patrick
Earl Boen
Plot:
Experience T2 Like Never Before!
Skynet, the 21st century computer waging a losing war on humans sends a second terminator back in time to destroy the leader of the human resistance while he is still a boy. His mother is the only one who knows of the existence of the Terminators, human-like robots that exist only to kill and are nearly indestructible, and Sarah, the boy's mother is currently in a state mental hospital because of her 'delusions'. A second protector is sent back to the past by the Human resistance to protect John Connor, their future leader, at all costs.
Extras:
Scene Access
Audio Commentary
Feature Trailers
Deleted Scenes
Featurettes
Production Notes
DVD-ROM Content
Closed Captioned
THX
2-Disc Set, Remastered Video, "Special Edition" Cut of film
My Thoughts:
I can say with a fair amount of conviction even without having seen the last installment, Terminator Salvation, that Judgment Day is hands down, and always will be, the best movie in the franchise. :thumbup:
It has all the best lines, the best scenes and the most WOW moments. Be honest... when this first came out and you watched it for the first time you were blown away by the special effects... yes? The T-1000 and it's ability to morph, liquefy, mimic and kick ass was groundbreaking for the time and another pioneering moment of many for James Cameron.
Another thing you have to give Cameron kudos for... his taste of women. We had a recent up close and personal with the gorgeous Katherine Bigelow but my favorite of the ex's is Linda Hamilton. She is a breathtaking vision in this movie. Ripped, toned, athletically graceful and mean! Her facial expressions during her stay in the mental hospital invoke fear... better to take your chances with the Terminator rather than her when she's pissed.
I almost forgot this was Edward Furlong's breakout movie and I find after this viewing that I didn't care too much for him. He didn't quite have the chops yet at that young age to pull off the cockiness of his character. He did go on to have some good roles after that however.
My favorite image from this classic?
(http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_l8xeX8k9lgo/SA9bw-8QRLI/AAAAAAAABuY/ofriZp_o6oY/s1600/thumbsup.jpg)
Rating:
Post by: Jimmy on January 26, 2011, 02:21:05 AM
Post by: KinkyCyborg on January 26, 2011, 02:33:30 AM
Post by: Achim on January 26, 2011, 05:51:37 AM
Post by: KinkyCyborg on January 29, 2011, 04:19:28 AM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/89/897246001041f.jpg)
Title:Brooklyn Rules (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 2007
Director: Michael Corrente
Rating: R
Length: 99 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 2.35:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 5.1
Subtitles: English, Spanish
Stars:
Freddie Prinze, Jr.
Alec Baldwin
Scott Caan
Mena Suvari
Monica Keena
Plot:
A gripping tale of three life-long friends struggling with relationships, responsibility, and loyalty on the mean streets of 1980's-era Brooklyn, NY. When the violent influence of the mafia becomes a factor in their friendship, lives will be threatened as the fond memories of the past begin to give way to a potentially grim future.
Extras:
Scene Access
Audio Commentary
Music Videos
Interviews
My Thoughts:
Excellent movie that is more of a coming of age story than a mob movie as you might get the impression from the trailer. The story of these three young men played by Freddie Prinze Jr, Scott Caan and Jerry Ferrera is interwoven into a mob world of fictitious characters who are part of real life mob families of the Gambino's and the Gotti's.
Some entertaining moments, some touching moments and some brutally violent moments would make this an interesting watch for almost anyone.
Alec Baldwin was great as the man who runs the Brooklyn mob, both feared and looked up to, generous and murderous. I thought Scott Caan was great in this, reminding me of his old man. The Godfather remark Prinze made about Sonny Corleone was not lost on me.
This movie came out with so little fanfare that I was sure this must have been a straight to video flick but I see it did in fact have a Limited theatrical release. Regardless of how it was distributed it is an excellent movie worth a look by all.
KC
Rating:
Post by: KinkyCyborg on January 31, 2011, 03:30:02 AM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/09/097361179247f.jpg)
Title:Shrek the Third (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 2007
Director: Chris Miller
Rating: PG
Length: 93 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 1.85:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, English: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround, French: Dolby Digital: 5.1, Spanish: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround
Subtitles: English, French, Spanish
Stars:
Mike Myers
Eddie Murphy
Cameron Diaz
Antonio Banderas
Julie Andrews
Plot:
Get ready for Thirds – the greatest fairy tale never told continues with a whole new hilarious comedy of royal proportions. When his frog-in-law suddenly croaks, Shrek embarks on another whirlwind adventure with Donkey and Puss In Boots to find the rightful heir to the throne. Everyone's favorite cast of characters is back, along with a magical misguided Merlin, an awkward Arthur, a powerful posse of princesses, and a bundle of unexpected arrivals. Only Shrek can tell a tale where everyone lives happily ever laughter!
Extras:
Scene Access
Feature Trailers
Deleted Scenes
Featurettes
Interactive Games
Music Videos
Outtakes/Bloopers
DVD-ROM Content
Closed Captioned
My Thoughts:
Took me a while to get around to watching this as I wasn't really looking forward to it. I just have... had this feeling that the whole Shrek thing has been rather overdone and it will continue to fade and pale in comparison with every sequel. Doh! Wrong again! ???
I won't say this is the best in the series but I gotta admit, it's still entertaining even after round 3! I love the frogs singing Live And Let Die, the diva princesses (Snow White, Cinderella & Sleeping Beauty) turned bad-ass Charlie's Angels and a gaggle of one liners from much of the supporting cast kept a smile on my face throughout.
Eddie Murphy is still on his game as Donkey although I notice his screen time is starting to diminish, like he is rotating out as one of the central characters. Pinocchio, Gingerbread Man and The Three Pigs are still a riot.
The one I dislike the most is Puss'n Boots, aka Antonio Banderas. Never found him funny and I don't think he has the voice to pull off voice over comedy.
Great music throughout too. The rebel charge set to Heart's Barracuda was stellar! :laugh:
KC
Rating:
Post by: KinkyCyborg on February 03, 2011, 04:19:06 AM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/02/024543450320f.jpg)
Title:Pathfinder (http://www.invelos.com/images/BluRayLogo.png)(http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 2007
Director: Marcus Nispel
Rating: Unrated
Length: 107 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 2.35:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, English: DTS: 5.1, Spanish: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround, French: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround, Commentary: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo
Subtitles: English, Spanish
Stars:
Karl Urban
Moon Bloodgood
Russell Means
Clancy Brown
Jay Tavare
Plot:
Experience a new world of graphic, hard-core action with this Unrated Extended Edition of Pathfinder–packed with extreme battle footage not shown in theaters, plus an army of kick-ass deleted scenes and special features! Savage Viking invaders bent on death and destruction clash with the iron-willed protectors of a new world in this heroic action-adventure filled with intense battle scenes and breathless, primal violence.
Extras:
Scene Access
Audio Commentary
Feature Trailers
Bonus Trailers
Deleted Scenes
Featurettes
Closed Captioned
My Thoughts:
Pretty intense action when vikings and native Americans clash. Actually it's pretty lopsided in favor of the Norsemen who kill and plunder at will until they encounter a man who knows their ways, lost to the natives as a young boy on an earlier expedition and who now fights for his adopted people.
Karl Urban played the man of two people who knew how to fight by the sword perhaps a bit too well considering he might have been about 8 or 9 years old when he was picked up by the kind hearted natives. I can forgive that plot hole for the sake of the exquisite battle scenes. The final showdown on the cliff face was fantastic. :clap: Action fans rejoice!
KC
Rating:
Post by: KinkyCyborg on February 06, 2011, 12:24:34 AM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/79/794043841521f.jpg)
Title:The Bridge of San Luis Rey (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 2004
Director: Mary McGuckian
Rating: PG
Length: 120 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 1.85:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, English: DTS: 5.1, English: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround
Subtitles: English, Spanish
Stars:
Gabriel Byrne
Robert De Niro (1943)
F. Murray Abraham
Dominique Pinon
Pilar López de Ayala
Plot:
Robert De Niro, Kathy Bates, Gabriel Byrne, Harvey Keitel, F. Murray Abraham, and Geraldine Chaplin co-star in this epic film adaptation of Thornton Wilder's Pulitzer Prize winning novel.
Five seemingly unrelated travelers cross the San Luis Ray bridge when it suddenly collapses. Were their tragic deaths the result of Divine Intervention, mere chance or perhaps something more sinister? Intrigued, a Franciscan monk investigates the victims' pasts, uncovering secrets in this moving tale of passion, ambition and destiny.
Extras:
Scene Access
Feature Trailers
Closed Captioned
My Thoughts:
Five souls plummet to their deaths off an old bridge in Peru during a period of the Spanish Inquisitions. The movie delves less into the tragedy and more into the lives of the five people, their own personal tragedies, how their lives interconnect and the intrigues of the Spanish court. A pious priest played by Gabriel Byrne investigates what these people may have had in common, and if that denominator might have been the reason God might have taken their lives.
Pretty heavy subject matter which leaves the viewer with much to digest. The irony of the priest's findings is that they themselves lead to an inquisition, his assertions deemed heretic, and the priest burned at the stake.
Some excellent performances by an A-list cast make up for an at times excessively slow pace. I didn't find the ending very satisfying as many questions that should have been asked at the trial of the priest were not asked. Kathy Bates was incredible as the Marquess, a lonely old woman of power who only longs for the love of her petulant daughter who is off in Spain, playing the social game at Court, all the while ignoring her mother's many letters. You feel terribly bad for Bates' character, almost thankful for her death which was more of a release from her misery.
F. Murray Abraham and Harvey Kietel were also excellent in their respective roles. Robert De Niro seemed out of place as the Archbishop of Peru. His enunciation of the speech from that era was good, but his Goodfellas accent was evident which almost made it appear to be a bad voice over job. :-\
If you want to watch and appreciate some great method acting then you may enjoy this but I'm certain this movie is not for everyone and would likely be labeled as boring for many.
KC
Rating:
Post by: KinkyCyborg on February 08, 2011, 02:54:59 AM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/04/043396059245f.jpg)
Title:The Bride (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 1985
Director: Franc Roddam
Rating: PG-13
Length: 119 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 1.85:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo, French: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo, Spanish: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo, Portuguese: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo, Commentary: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo
Subtitles: Chinese, English, French, Korean, Portuguese, Spanish, Thai
Stars:
Sting
Jennifer Beals
Anthony Higgins
Clancy Brown
David Rappaport
Plot:
Frankenstein builds the perfect woman — and lives to regret it — in this tantalizing marriage of horror, romance and unbridled passion! Rock star Sting plays the cunning scientist and Jennifer Beals lends her dramatic presence as his supreme creation, THE BRIDE. This spectacular movie follows Frankenstein's creations as they look for their place in the world – the gorgeous Eva (Beals) by declaring her sexual independence, and her grotesque mate Viktor (Clancy Brown) by learning self-worth from a compassionate circus dwarf (David Rappaport). Can Dr. Frankenstein survive when the monster returns to claim his intended? Alive with brilliant photography and lavish costumes, THE BRIDE invites you to a wedding night you'll never forget!
Extras:
Scene Access
Audio Commentary
Feature Trailers
Production Notes
Closed Captioned
My Thoughts:
Not bad although I wasn't stuck on Sting's performance as Dr. Frankenstein. He wasn't nearly brash or bold enough for a man with a God complex. Jennifer Beals was ok as The Bride although I found her inexplicably creepy. :-\
I thought the much better sub-plot was the adventures of Victor the monster excellently played by Clancy Brown and his diminutive friend Rinaldo the circus midget. Their steadfast friendship in a cruel world was uplifting.
Cary Ewles makes an appearance as the prissy, pretty boy like he has in so many other movies. I was so glad to see him cut off his own leg in Saw.
This is a below average foray into the Frankenstein world as far as I'm concerned.
KC
Rating:
Post by: Dragonfire on February 09, 2011, 05:55:07 AM
Post by: KinkyCyborg on February 11, 2011, 12:37:18 AM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/02/026359211928f.jpg)
Title:Pavement (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 2003
Director: Darrell James Roodt
Rating: R
Length: 91 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 1.78:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, French: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo, Spanish: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo
Subtitles: English, French, Spanish
Stars:
Robert Patrick
Lauren Holly
Barry Shabaka Henley
Chris Hoffman
Danny Keogh
Plot:
A middle-aged nurse has been found brutally murdered in her apartment. The killer took his time, showing the victim no mercy. The cops, led by Detective Buckley (Lauren Holly) are on the case, unaware that the victim's brother (Robert Patrick), a tracker from Alaska, is shadowing them. When similar victims are discovered, the cops soon realize that they're looking for a serial killer. But what do the victims share in common? The clues lie in their murderer, a cold-hearted, methodical torturer, twisted and tormented by the pain of being alive, bent on revenge for the simple crime of being born. Whether the cops and the tracker can follow the clues to the killer will be a test of their ability to observe...to analyze...and to survive.
Extras:
Scene Access
My Thoughts:
Decent thriller that could have been better but for two major drawbacks. The first being the irritating camera tricks. Constantly zooming in and out and skipping ahead in time in 3 second intervals, all coupled with cheesy 'whooshing' sound effects. God I hate that! :redcard: Might as well turn on a bloody strobe light.
The other negative is the performance of Lauren Holly whom I've yet to watch in a movie where I didn't think she was in way over her head, even in a straight to video flick such as this. She has no acting depth at all and attempts to compensate for her lacking skills by being cute and posturing that is embarrassingly obvious.
Robert Patrick on the other hand is excellent as the stoic and steady tracker, brother of one of the victims. He lends tremendous credibility to the film and I think this would have made a better movie had it been just about him hunting down his sister's killer on his own.
There were a few more roll-your-eyes moments but nothing too shameful. All in all this had a sound story and makes for a presentable late night thriller to watch.
KC
Rating:
Post by: KinkyCyborg on February 11, 2011, 12:42:30 AM
Isn't the Bride supposed to be creepy?
Indeed she should be but her being creepy had nothing to do with her acting creepy or even her appearance. She was meant to viewed as beautiful but it just didn't come across to me that way. Hmmm... hard to articulate what I mean. :headscratch:
Post by: Dragonfire on February 11, 2011, 04:12:02 AM
Post by: KinkyCyborg on February 12, 2011, 12:59:47 PM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/04/043396296213f.jpg)
Title:Lakeview Terrace (http://www.invelos.com/images/BluRayLogo.png)(http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 2008
Director: Neil Labute
Rating: PG-13
Length: 110 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 2.40:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, Spanish: Dolby Digital: 5.1, Thai: Dolby Digital: 5.1, French: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround, Commentary: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround
Subtitles: Chinese, English, French, Korean, Spanish, Thai
Stars:
Samuel L. Jackson (1948)
Patrick Wilson
Kerry Washington
Ron Glass
Justin Chambers
Plot:
A young couple (Patrick Wilson and Kerry Washington) has just moved into their California dream home when they become the target of their next-door neighbor, who disapproves of their relationship. A stern, single father, this tightly wound LAPD officer (Samuel L. Jackson) has appointed himself the watchdog of the neighborhood. His nightly foot patrols and overly watchful eyes bring comfort to some, but he becomes increasingly aggressive to the newlyweds. These persistent intrusions into their lives cause the couple to fight back.
Extras:
Scene Access
Audio Commentary
Deleted Scenes
Featurettes
My Thoughts:
Young interracial couple moves into a house next door to a psycho, black cop who is still pissed at his wife who was fooling around with a white man at the time of her death. Bad timing or what?
Samuel L. Jackson certainly had me convinced as a hard ass cop and father who is losing his grip as he systematically terrorizes his new neighbors.
Said neighbors, played by Patrick Wilson and Kerry Washington, scared shitless at first, soon get fed up and try to get back at the cop in subtle ways so as not to bring down his wrath and that of his LAPD buddies.
An interesting backdrop to the neighbor from hell scenario was the raging wildfires bearing down on their homes which is quite common for California. The cop was so determined to drive them from their home, I was curious to see if the fire would make the whole skirmish moot.
Kerry Washington was ok but would have been better without the distracting Uber Geek glasses she kept sporting throughout the movie. (http://www.kinkycyborg.com/forum/images/smilies/icon_e_ugeek.gif)
Good watch!
KC
Rating:
Post by: KinkyCyborg on February 14, 2011, 03:54:11 AM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/62/629159036625.3f.jpg)
Title:Stories of Lost Souls (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 2006
Director: A Whole New DayWilliam Garcia, The SameMark Palansky, Euston RoadToa Stappard, Standing Room OnlyDeborra-Lee Furness, SupermarketIlleana Douglas, New Year's EveColin Spector, BangersAndrew Upton
Rating: 14A
Length: 90 Min.
Video: Widescreen 1.85:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo
Subtitles:
Stars:
A Whole New DayJames Gandolfini
Katherine Narducci
Ned Eisenberg
Delilah Cotto
Plot:
Stories of Lost Souls compiles seven powerful, intriguing sometimes usettling vignettes of human will and courage. The star-studded cast includes Cate Blachett, Hugh Jackman, Josh Hatnett, James Gandolfini, Kiera Knightley, Paul Bettany, Jeff Goldblum, Daryl Hannah, Mary Elizabeth Mastrantonio, Illeana Douglas, Billy Boyd, Andy Serkis and Michael Gambon.
Extras:
My Thoughts:
Every time a person in Hollywood with limited film making skills calls in a bunch of favors a truly abysmal movie is born! :redcard:
Stories Of Lost Souls is the perfect example of that. Seven short vignettes, all vying to be the worst. Yeeesh! A remarkable cast including Hugh Jackman, Cate Blanchett, James Gandofini, Keira Knightly and others give face time, some of them not even uttering a word as two of these shorts had no dialogue whatsoever. The Illeana Douglas short was particularly stupid and included... wait for it... Jeff Goldblum! Shocker! Every time someone tries to turn film into art there he is spouting out random gibberish. :voodoo:
I did find the last short with Gandolfini mildly entertaining as it was the only one that at least made sense at the end but for the most part this is a complete waste of time that only eccentric artists and stoners might find entertaining. :thumbdown:
KC
Rating:
Post by: KinkyCyborg on February 15, 2011, 04:20:10 AM
(http://img.amazon.ca/images/I/51pM1%2BY-OQL._SL500_AA300_.jpg)
Title:I, Robot (http://www.invelos.com/images/BluRayLogo.png)(http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 2004
Director: Alex Proyas
Rating: PG-13
Length: 115 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 2.35:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, English: DTS: 5.1, French: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround, Spanish: Dolby Digital: Dolby Surround, Commentary: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo
Subtitles: English, Spanish
Stars:
Will Smith
Bridget Moynahan
Alan Tudyk
James Cromwell (1940)
Bruce Greenwood
Plot:
Superstar Will Smith rages against the machines in this mindblowing, sci-fi action thriller! When a scientist (James Cromwell) is found dead, robophobic detective Del Spooner (Smith) suspects an advanced robot committed the murder. According to the Three Laws of Robotics, however, a robot can't harm a human - but rules were meant to be broken! This suspenseful tale of the future questions whether technology will ultimately lead to mankind's salvation...or annihilation.
Extras:
Scene Access
Audio Commentary
Feature Trailers
Featurettes
Gallery
My Thoughts:
Bluray #3.... I, Robot.
This movie looks fabulous in hi-def! :thumbup: Given the amount of sustained action scenes I was worried about motion blur with this movie more so than the other 2 that I watched before but I didn't really notice it which is reassuring going forward into my bluray experience.
I was and still am a big fan of Isaac Asimov's novels, his vision of the future, and his Robot series which was among his finest moments. I also enjoyed his Foundation series. While the movie does deviate from the book, severely in some cases, it does still preserve the principle concept of a world slowly dehumanizing and the 3 laws of robots which prove flawed and with deadly consequences.
Will Smith is suitably wound up to take on the robots given his unabashed prejudice towards them. He nicely meshes fierce consternation with comedic quips keeping his character, Spooner, centered. I forgot or didn't realize that Shia Lebouf was in this. He was still a nobody I think when I first watched this and I wish he still was. If a robot were to break the 3 laws to kill a human it should have been for him. :voodoo:
While this movie is pure science fiction it does leave us keeping a wary eye on technology. Although, it'd be nice to have a robot to work on my wife's 'honeydew' list that she is always waving in front of my face... ;)
KC
Rating:
Post by: KinkyCyborg on February 21, 2011, 12:24:45 AM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/04/043396045408f.jpg)
Title:The Lords Of Flatbush (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 1974
Director: Stephen Verona, Martin Davidson
Rating: PG
Length: 84 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 1.85:1, Pan & Scan 1.33:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo
Subtitles: Chinese, English, Korean, Portuguese, Spanish, Other
Stars:
Perry King
Sylvester Stallone
Henry Winkler (1945)
Paul Mace
Susan Blakely
Plot:
Before "Rocky" was a knock-out, before "the Fonz" was TV's "leader of the pack". two unknown actors named Sylvester Stallone and Henry Winkler starred in their first major screen roles. Soon they'd rule the box office and the airwaves, but before they were kings, they were THE LORDS OF FLATBUSH.
Clad in blue jeans, black leather jackets and bad attitudes, Stanley (Stallone), Butchey (Winkler), Chico (Perry King) and Wimpy (Paul Mace) are a 1950s Brooklyn "gang" of four cool, sexy rebels. Despite their tough appearance, these boys just want to have fun, but reality - a.k.a. adulthood - rears its ugly head when Stanley's steady informs him they have to get married, and bule collar Chico falls for a beautiful blonde (Susan Blakely) from the right side of the tracks. A high-octane cruise down memory lane. THE LORDS OF FLATBUSH is "immensely appealing, often hilarious, suprisingly touching and superbly acted." (The Hollywood Reporter)
Extras:
Scene Access
Feature Trailers
Production Notes
Closed Captioned
My Thoughts:
Don't light a match near their heads... you'll start a grease fire!! :laugh:
My wife decided to watch this with me as she always liked watching Happy Days with 'The Fonz'... Henry Winkler looked exactly like the TV character he would portray for many years but really had limited screen time in this film as it followed two parallel stories centered on Sylvester Stallone and Perry King.
It was dated but entertaining, much like an extended episode of Sha-Na-Na with all it's doo-wop music. My favorite line from this one... "Stanley... I'm pregnant. The rubber band didn't work." :hysterical: I was laughing my ass off.
They don't get much more macho than these slick, rough and tumble 'Lords'. Hell there was so much testosterone exuding from this movie by the time it was over my wife was growing chest hair.
I'm so glad she doesn't read my reviews... :tomato:
KC
Rating:
Post by: KinkyCyborg on February 22, 2011, 04:36:47 AM
(http://www.invelos.com/mpimages/82/821575550451f.jpg)
Title:Tideland (http://www.invelos.com/images/DVDLogo.png)
Year: 2006
Director: Terry Gilliam
Rating: R
Length: 120 Min.
Video: Anamorphic Widescreen 1.78:1
Audio: English: Dolby Digital: 5.1, English: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo, Commentary: Dolby Digital: 2-Channel Stereo
Subtitles:
Stars:
Jodelle Ferland
Janet McTeer
Brendan Fletcher
Jennifer Tilly
Jeff Bridges
Plot:
Jeliza-Rose, a young girl (Jodelle Ferland) is forced to live in a terrifying and gruesome world. After her mother dies, her father (Four-Time Oscar®-Nominee Jeff Bridges) takes her away to a desolate farmhouse. In order to escape the harsh reality of her childhood, she drifts into a bizarre fantasy world where only her dolls' heads keep her company. The line between her imagination and reality quickly disappears when she meets a mentally damaged man and a mysterious ghost-like woman who share in her adventures. Tideland is a spine-chilling tale from the visionary mind of acclaimed director Terry Gilliam.
Extras:
Scene Access
Audio Commentary
Feature Trailers
Deleted Scenes
Featurettes
Interviews
Closed Captioned
Introduction from Terry Gilliam
My Thoughts:
Very bizarre and at times disturbing film involving a young girl and her wild imagination. I still don't know what to think of this film but I can't say I wasn't warned. I was warned by none other than director Terry Gilliam himself who, in an introduction to the movie, very succinctly states that this movie is not for everyone and many will hate it. He also gave this warning in person to the viewing audience at the Toronto International Film Festival where it premiered in 2005. Now that could be interpreted as defiance of his creativity or a means of generating interest in the film to raise box office sales... perhaps both.
There were several scenes that will stay with me for weeks now thanks to a grotesque combination of sexuality, death and moments of sheer inappropriate behavior involving the little girl... and still, the innocence of that resilient young girl shines through as she copes with derelict parents, their untimely deaths, hunger, fear and isolation. Her imagination helps to both reassure and explain the tragic goings on of her sad little life.
Brendan Fletcher gives a marvelous performance as the handicapped but friendly neighbor who befriends the young girl. It is some of the interactions between these two that will leave you squeamish. Jeff bridges, the young girls father is solid in a role that mostly consists of sitting in a chair, a bloated corpse.
Gilliam certainly stretched the boundaries of incongruous behavior in Tideland but that's always been his makeup. I'd like to know from others who have seen the film if you think he went too far or not. Personally I don't think he did but I know many will be sickened with this film. This movie was a shock to my system and I give it high marks for that at least.
KC
Rating:
Post by: Mustrum_Ridcully on February 22, 2011, 12:02:03 PM
being something like a Gilliam-addict I had this on my "probably interesting"-list.
It just got an upgrade to "Must Have".
Post by: Rogmeister on February 22, 2011, 04:45:11 PM
Post by: goodguy on February 23, 2011, 05:19:04 AM
Tideland... I'd like to know from others who have seen the film if you think he went too far or not.
I think it is a wonderful film that at times leaves you uncomfortable, but never is exploitative. The widely negative critical reactions to it have always baffled me.
Post by: KinkyCyborg on February 27, 2011, 02:15:09 PM
While I enjoy these reviews, I wonder if Kinky realizes it's not 2010 anymore? Still writing 2010 on your checks? :tease:
To be honest I never even thought of it. I'll never be accused of being the most observant of fellows... :-[
I hereby declare this thread closed!!
KC
Post by: memphis77 on June 17, 2011, 05:47:17 PM
I really wanna watch this movie! I need to get it!much was talked about this movie DOUBT i watched it and found it to be abso;utly boring and unispired. We all know where it was leading to from the start.