With someone like Barry Levinson in charge of a project you can expect good things. Not to mention the all star cast that make up the movie. Robert DeNiro, Stanley Tucci, John Tuturro, Sean and Robin Wright Penn, Katherine Keener, Bruce Willis, and last but not least my dear Kristen Stewart. This uncomfortably funny satire on the movie industry was highly entertaining while asking some deeper questions of life in general. Even if those questions are answered in this movie with a morose view of life.
The first of these questions he sets forth to the audience is 'What is power?' Of this question, DeNiro's character says, "I don't care what they say, you either have, want it, or you're afraid of losing it" This is certainly a truthful statement of the world at large but is undoubtedly so in the fickle movie business. Levinson's technique of using this question framed as nice neat bookends is different for him, but as a Hollywood convention it works well and certainly so in this case.However, being a believer in manifestation and attention, I must add that, though a popular idea, it is incorrect.
As with everything in life (love, wealth, influence, control, and the list continues) the more one is concerned with 'How much you have?', 'How to get more?' and 'How to I keep what I have?' the less they DO have. By being concerned be a lack of power, you continue to lack. By believing in your power, your power increases. You see many characters throughout this movie experiencing the negative side of this in their lives.
How many times has this story been played out in relationships?? The 'needy' or 'clingy' person imagines their partner to be pulling away and begins to panic. By putting attention and focus on the perceived separation they will overcompensate by becoming increasingly needy. In turn, the partner in question will feel even more smothered and will seek even more freedom until eventually there isn't a relationship to speak of. I personally believe that concentration on the positive is the only way to achievement. "You are your attention."
This movie told me once again what a dark place Hollywood is, full of uncaring, power hunger assholes. Though other movies may have told it better Robert DeNiro is still great. And character that John Tuturro that created was superb as always. Beside these two nice performances, I did like the look of the 'behind the scenes' movie making process. It was interesting to see a producers point of view. Especially when the DeNiro's character is based on the legendary Art Linson, [Fight Club, Into the Wild]. He wrote the screenplay for this movie based on his book Bitter Hollywood Tales From the Front Line.
Bottom Line: Nice movie about movies. Though it didn't have as much heart as some others, it stands up and gives a good try. Recommended for any other cinephiles.
April 22, 2009
March 30, 2009
Big Love
As I sit listening to Fela Kuti, a musician who once married 27 women at one time, I can't help but think of the newest rebirth of the idea of plural marriage. For three seasons, Big Love has asked the questions of what it means to be a good wife, friend, and Mormon living in Utah. These are very culturally specific questions however the broader themes of love, conflict, and family are shared throughout every society.
Though I have written largely of films, HBO has been apart of my life for the past 6 years and has influenced my creativity continually. I have gotten addicted to most of their shows, and have yet to me disappointed. Though I may not wish to be entertained by some of their story lines, they are each unique and have the unfailingly superb taste of Home Box Office stamped all over them. Big Love is no exception and I have been interested in the world of Barb, Nicki, Marge, and Bill since opening night. Having the venerable producing talents of Tom Hanks doesn't hurt the quality of the show one bit.
Does the heart only love one person? Can a family consisting of multiple partners be considered 'family'? What are the reasons some people arrive at polygamy as a life answer? Discussed throughout the seasons, the commentary behind the seamless story-line begs the audience to do more than placidly watch. Though I am not in a position to answer any questions concerning love it is nice to have a show that forces you to question of your existence and beliefs.
Bottom Line: If you can put aside your own prejudices and concern yourself with the characters it is one show not to be missed. Though the conservative aspects can be distracting for a liberal like me the story is superbly told, and continually keeps me guessing.
March 28, 2009
Blood for Dracula
What a movie! Originally released in 1974 as an X -Rated film, this Andy Warhol gem is as painful to watch as it is to look away. Anytime I am flipping the channels and the buzz phrase 'cult classic' is used I need to stop. I have to see for myself what makes it so worthwhile that throngs of people have seen it and continue to love it.
I myself have been part of a 'cult following' for lots of different movies that caught the attention of hipsters, and film geeks alike. (Though it is funny how often the two over lap) However, this is one where I couldn't get past the bad to appreciate the good. It is only as good as the influence it has had on those that have followed.
Several great movies of our recent times have gleened camera work straight from this movie. Whether they'd like to admit it or not. The use of a front mounted camera on the wheel chair of Dracula (played by Udo Kier) is straight out of The Shining. Having arms severed off then spray blood in an almost humorous way is repeated in a lot of movies, from the original Buffy the Vampire Slayer to the infamous Japanese fight sequence in Kill Bill: Volume 1.
Bottom Line: If you like bad movies with lots of naked girls, and even more pretention this is the perfect film for you. It is the epitomy of 'cult classic' so why not get brain washed for the taste of 'Wirgin' blood.
I myself have been part of a 'cult following' for lots of different movies that caught the attention of hipsters, and film geeks alike. (Though it is funny how often the two over lap) However, this is one where I couldn't get past the bad to appreciate the good. It is only as good as the influence it has had on those that have followed.
Several great movies of our recent times have gleened camera work straight from this movie. Whether they'd like to admit it or not. The use of a front mounted camera on the wheel chair of Dracula (played by Udo Kier) is straight out of The Shining. Having arms severed off then spray blood in an almost humorous way is repeated in a lot of movies, from the original Buffy the Vampire Slayer to the infamous Japanese fight sequence in Kill Bill: Volume 1.
Bottom Line: If you like bad movies with lots of naked girls, and even more pretention this is the perfect film for you. It is the epitomy of 'cult classic' so why not get brain washed for the taste of 'Wirgin' blood.
March 25, 2009
Twilight
I can't decide. History or Fantasy. Two great entertainment loves. Twilight was one of the best movies I've seen in the later category since the last installment of the Harry Potter series. When it was being advertised, I couldn't believe that I had never heard of the books! Seeing a movie with out reading the book first is a high on my list of movie don'ts. BUT I broke this rule because I was impatient (one of the first times....ever) and was glad I did.
The movie based on its own merits was fantastic. It was exciting, had great movement, the characters were believable, and the color of the entire work was fantastic. Dark, smokey, and ethereal. It makes me want to move to the Pacific Northwest now instead of later!! I was so impressed at the direction, and screenplay as I watched it for the first time that I hoped it would hold up after I'd done my homework . Besides the behind the scene crew, there is also the small fact that Robert Pattison is one of the most gorgeous guys of all time. (Cedric I'll always mourn for you!!!) Krisitn Stewart has also been on my female up and comers to watch for list since Zathura, and that was only I was solidified by her performance in Into the Wild opposite Emile Hirsch. AND let us not forget the lovely Elizabeth Reaser. Her work in Puccini for Beginners and Grey's Anatomy was so sincere that I was thrilled that she was catapulted into well deserved worldwide recognition with this movie.
Now that I have read the whole series in rapid succession, with several books more than once, I am an ever bigger fan of the movie. I re-watched it over the weekend to see if my opinion would change and was delighted to realize that not only did it hold up, it got better! The adapted screenplay was so well done. Not only do I wish to be Stephanie Meyer, I want to be Melissa Rosenberg!! Or even the director Catherine Hardwicke for that matter. All women. All with incredible talent. The exact sort of person I dream of being.
Bottom Line: Great Movie, Better Books. I would recommend reading them or seeing Twilight to anyone who enjoys the fantasy genres and genuinely wants to be entertained for a couple hours.
The movie based on its own merits was fantastic. It was exciting, had great movement, the characters were believable, and the color of the entire work was fantastic. Dark, smokey, and ethereal. It makes me want to move to the Pacific Northwest now instead of later!! I was so impressed at the direction, and screenplay as I watched it for the first time that I hoped it would hold up after I'd done my homework . Besides the behind the scene crew, there is also the small fact that Robert Pattison is one of the most gorgeous guys of all time. (Cedric I'll always mourn for you!!!) Krisitn Stewart has also been on my female up and comers to watch for list since Zathura, and that was only I was solidified by her performance in Into the Wild opposite Emile Hirsch. AND let us not forget the lovely Elizabeth Reaser. Her work in Puccini for Beginners and Grey's Anatomy was so sincere that I was thrilled that she was catapulted into well deserved worldwide recognition with this movie.
Now that I have read the whole series in rapid succession, with several books more than once, I am an ever bigger fan of the movie. I re-watched it over the weekend to see if my opinion would change and was delighted to realize that not only did it hold up, it got better! The adapted screenplay was so well done. Not only do I wish to be Stephanie Meyer, I want to be Melissa Rosenberg!! Or even the director Catherine Hardwicke for that matter. All women. All with incredible talent. The exact sort of person I dream of being.
Bottom Line: Great Movie, Better Books. I would recommend reading them or seeing Twilight to anyone who enjoys the fantasy genres and genuinely wants to be entertained for a couple hours.
Role Models
Go Minotaur!! Even minutes after being fired, this movie made me laugh. Hard. I actually teared for humor reasons, while the remnants of sad tears hung on my cheek. My roommate had fruitlessly tried to get me to go to this movie for months, but it was just like Zoolander in that, after seeing the ads I really didn't want to see it. In fact, I think this one would have been strung along for another couple weeks had he not caught me in the throws of despair and just when I really needed to smile.
It was a laugh riot from the start to finish. Some jokes were crude (after all the target audience were males 14-30) but the majority of the wit was intelligent. Again, like Zoolander, that surprised me. Much of the movie did in fact. I guess I should be less shocked being that it was a creation of director who did Wet Hot American Summer , a classic hilarious movie that I only watched within the last 2 years and have since seen at least 5 times. The things that sets this movie apart is that they don't sacrifice plot for jokes. The story came first, and every scene helps to further the plot. Even with the series of one liners being the vehicle! That is impressive as most recent comedies only put the jokes in and omit of story which is a damn shame.
Bottom Line: This movie was a treat for my soul and I would recommend it to anyone looking for an easy comedy or a funny distraction. In it they show ways that people disconnect from reality, and this movie is a perfect way to do so for anyone who enjoys using film to do so.
It was a laugh riot from the start to finish. Some jokes were crude (after all the target audience were males 14-30) but the majority of the wit was intelligent. Again, like Zoolander, that surprised me. Much of the movie did in fact. I guess I should be less shocked being that it was a creation of director who did Wet Hot American Summer , a classic hilarious movie that I only watched within the last 2 years and have since seen at least 5 times. The things that sets this movie apart is that they don't sacrifice plot for jokes. The story came first, and every scene helps to further the plot. Even with the series of one liners being the vehicle! That is impressive as most recent comedies only put the jokes in and omit of story which is a damn shame.
Bottom Line: This movie was a treat for my soul and I would recommend it to anyone looking for an easy comedy or a funny distraction. In it they show ways that people disconnect from reality, and this movie is a perfect way to do so for anyone who enjoys using film to do so.
The Meaning of Food
There are countless things that we share with friends in this world. Hopes, fears, love, hate, culture, music BUT to me the thing that combines all of these into one is food. While watching The Meaning of Food my ideas of food, and love were renewed once again. Though my thoughts were ones of sadness at times past, friends who've left, and doubts of today now that they've forgotten me. These thoughts may be off topic for an entertainment rant but after all food is a first love for me not the reverse.
Whether it is the best Reuben sandwich eaten at a truck stop on a road trip, washing down lunch with sweet Mediterranean tea on State Street with that special someone, or preparing appetizers for a party with your very best friend; food matters. In each of these instances food competes passionately with my companions for memory share and now by myself it is the food I remember most fondly. Food shared with friends is better but the taste left in your mouth after someone you trust leaves you is bitter. Perhaps that is why food memories never fail to make you happy, and those concerning people often make you sad.
In this documentary, producer Sue McLaughlin flawlessly brings together what food means to different people. Also, she highlights those memories and cultures where food is integral and why. It was a thoughtful discussion and I took away a lot of information packaged neatly in human interest. This is a style of filmaking that is often the goal in documentary but I rarely have seen it more superbly done than here. I am going to have to look into other films by her Pie in the Sky Productions. This three part series gets a huge thumbs up from me for anyone who enjoys both food, and entertainment as I do.
Whether it is the best Reuben sandwich eaten at a truck stop on a road trip, washing down lunch with sweet Mediterranean tea on State Street with that special someone, or preparing appetizers for a party with your very best friend; food matters. In each of these instances food competes passionately with my companions for memory share and now by myself it is the food I remember most fondly. Food shared with friends is better but the taste left in your mouth after someone you trust leaves you is bitter. Perhaps that is why food memories never fail to make you happy, and those concerning people often make you sad.
In this documentary, producer Sue McLaughlin flawlessly brings together what food means to different people. Also, she highlights those memories and cultures where food is integral and why. It was a thoughtful discussion and I took away a lot of information packaged neatly in human interest. This is a style of filmaking that is often the goal in documentary but I rarely have seen it more superbly done than here. I am going to have to look into other films by her Pie in the Sky Productions. This three part series gets a huge thumbs up from me for anyone who enjoys both food, and entertainment as I do.
January 20, 2009
The Dark Knight
Whew... What a ride. This movie was as good as the hype that I'd heard, and a great deal better than I expected. The performance given by the late Mr. Ledger was superb and well worth all the buzz. It was intensely creepy, and nuanced and was sure to leave any viewer with an uncomfortable sense of awe. Now months after seeing it (in the half priced theatre no less) I will occasionally think back to it say...when the dog smacks her lips loudly after a satisfying petting.
The action sequences too had wonder about them. Yes they were bigger and better than Christopher Nolan's first Batman flick but without the cheese that plagues most movies on their second (or really in this case 8th) reincarnation. He has a knack for smooth, slick films that can stand on their own but with this series he has really boiled the characters down to their most basic selves. This is what makes this a great movie period not just a great comic book movie.
The fact too that only a minimum of CG was used makes me respect it even more. The amazing shots of crashes etc. were really played out on Chicago streets!! What a feat of organization, and planning. As someone interested in directing/producing I can't help but think of those long hours of red tape cutting they had to do. Overall...Bravo for a great film!!!
The action sequences too had wonder about them. Yes they were bigger and better than Christopher Nolan's first Batman flick but without the cheese that plagues most movies on their second (or really in this case 8th) reincarnation. He has a knack for smooth, slick films that can stand on their own but with this series he has really boiled the characters down to their most basic selves. This is what makes this a great movie period not just a great comic book movie.
The fact too that only a minimum of CG was used makes me respect it even more. The amazing shots of crashes etc. were really played out on Chicago streets!! What a feat of organization, and planning. As someone interested in directing/producing I can't help but think of those long hours of red tape cutting they had to do. Overall...Bravo for a great film!!!
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