The Big Screen Bulletin 09.22.08: Night of the Dawn of the Day of the News Reporter

Posted by Chad Webb on 09.22.2008

The Emmy results and thoughts, the box office results, the effect of Wall Street on Hollywood, release date changes, Brett Ratner's "Superman", new DVD releases, new quickees, a new "What Have I Done?" section, and much more!

The 60th Annual Primetime Emmy Award Results

Here are the main winners from the Emmys. We have the full list of winners up here.

Outstanding Drama Series

Winner: Mad Men

* Boston Legal
* Damages
* Dexter
* House
* Lost
* Mad Men

Outstanding Comedy Series

Winner: 30 Rock

* Curb Your Enthusiasm
* Entourage
* The Office
* 30 Rock
* Two and a Half Men

Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series

Winner: Bryan Cranston, Breaking Bad

* James Spader, Boston Legal
* Bryan Cranston, Breaking Bad
* Michael C. Hall, Dexter
* Hugh Laurie, House
* Gabriel Byrne, In Treatment
* Jon Hamm, Mad Men

Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series

Winner: Glenn Close, Damages

* Sally Field, Brothers & Sisters
* Kyra Sedgwick, The Closer
* Glenn Close, Damages
* Mariska Hargitay, Law & Order: Special Victims Unit
* Holly Hunter, Saving Grace

Outstanding Lead Actor in a Comedy Series

Winner: Alec Baldwin, 30 Rock

* Tony Shalhoub, Monk
* Steve Carell, The Office
* Lee Pace, Pushing Daisies
* Alec Baldwin, 30 Rock
* Charlie Sheen, Two And A Half Men

Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy Series

Winner: Tina Fey, 30 Rock

* Julia Louis-Dreyfus, The New Adventures of Old Christine
* Christina Applegate, Samantha Who?
* Tina Fey, 30 Rock
* America Ferrera, Ugly Betty
* Mary-Louise Parker, Weeds

Outstanding Lead Actor in a Miniseries or a Movie

Winner: Paul Giamatti, John Adams

* Ralph Fiennes, Bernard and Doris
* Ricky Gervais, Extras: The Extra Special Series Finale
* Paul Giamatti, John Adams
* Kevin Spacey, Recount
* Tom Wilkinson, Recount

Outstanding Lead Actress in a Miniseries or a Movie

Winner: Laura Linney, John Adams

* Catherine Keener, An American Crime
* Susan Sarandon, Bernard And Doris
* Judi Dench, Cranford (Masterpiece Theatre)
* Laura Linney, John Adams
* Phylicia Rashad, A Raisin in the Sun

Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series

Winner: Zeljko Ivanek, Damages

* William Shatner, Boston Legal
* Ted Danson, Damages
* Zeljko Ivanek, Damages
* Michael Emerson, Lost
* John Slattery, Mad Men

Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Drama Series

Winner: Dianne Wiest, In Treatment

* Candice Bergen, Boston Legal
* Rachel Griffiths, Brothers & Sisters
* Chandra Wilson, Grey's Anatomy
* Sandra Oh, Grey's Anatomy
* Dianne Wiest, In Treatment

Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series

Winner: Jeremy Piven, Entourage

* Jeremy Piven, Entourage
* Kevin Dillon, Entourage
* Neil Patrick Harris, How I Met Your Mother
* Rainn Wilson, The Office
* Jon Cryer, Two and a Half Men

Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series

Winner: Jean Smart, Samantha Who?

* Kristin Chenoweth, Pushing Daisies
* Jean Smart, Samantha Who?
* Amy Poehler, Saturday Night Live
* Holland Taylor, Two and a Half Men
* Vanessa Williams, Ugly Betty

Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Miniseries or a Movie

Winner: Tom Wilkinson, John Adams

* David Morse, John Adams
* Stephen Dillane, John Adams
* Tom Wilkinson, John Adams
* Denis Leary, Recount
* Bob Balaban, Recount

Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Miniseries or a Movie

Winner: Eileen Atkins, Cranford (Masterpiece Theatre)

* Eileen Atkins, Cranford (Masterpiece Theatre)
* Ashley Jensen, Extras: The Extra Special Series Finale
* Alfre Woodard, Pictures of Hollis Woods (Hallmark Hall of Fame Presentation)
* Audra McDonald, A Raisin in the Sun
* Laura Dern, Recount

Outstanding Guest Actor in a Drama Series

Winner: Glynn Turman, In Treatment

* Stanely Tucci, ER
* Glynn Turman, In Treatment
* Robin Williams, Law & Order: Special Victims Unit
* Robert Morse, Mad Men
* Oliver Platt, Nip/Tuck
* Charles Durning, Rescue Me

Outstanding Guest Actor in a Comedy Series

Winner: Tim Conway, 30 Rock

* Shelley Berman, Curb Your Enthusiasm
* Rip Torn, 30 Rock
* Will Arnett, 30 Rock
* Steve Buscemi, 30 Rock
* Tim Conway, 30 Rock

Outstanding Guest Actress in a Comedy Series

Winner: Kathryn Joosten, Desperate Housewives

* Polly Bergen, Desperate Housewives
* Kathryn Joosten, Desperate Housewives
* Sarah Silverman, Monk
* Carrie Fisher, 30 Rock
* Edie Falco, 30 Rock
* Elaine Stritch, 30 Rock

Outstanding Guest Actress in a Drama Series

Winner: Cynthia Nixon, Law & Order: Special Victims Unit

* Ellen Burstyn, Big Love
* Dihann Carroll, Grey's Anatomy
* Cynthia Nixon, Law & Order: Special Victims Unit
* Anjelica Huston, Medium
* Sharon Gless, Nip/Tuck

Outstanding Individual Performance in a Variety or Music Program

Winner: Don Rickles, performer; Mr. Warmth: The Don Rickles Project

* Jon Stewart, host; 80th Annual Academy Awards
* Stephen Colbert, host; The Colbert Report
* David Letterman, host; Late Show With David Letterman
* Don Rickles, performer; Mr. Warmth: The Don Rickles Project
* Tina Fey, host; Saturday Night Live

Outstanding Reality Program

Winner: Kathy Griffin: My Life on the D-List

* Antiques Roadshow
* Dirty Jobs
* Extreme Makeover Home Edition
* Intervention
* Kathy Griffin: My Life on the D-List

Outstanding Reality-Competition Program

Winner: The Amazing Race

* The Amazing Race
* American Idol
* Dancing With the Stars
* Project Runway
* Top Chef

Outstanding Host for a Reality or Reality-Competition Program

Winner: Jeff Probst, Survivor

* Ryan Seacrest, American Idol
* Tom Bergeron, Dancing With the Stars
* Howie Mandel, Deal Or No Deal
* Heidi Klum, Project Runway
* Jeff Probst, Survivor

Outstanding Miniseries

Winner: John Adams

* The Andromeda Strain
* Cranford (Masterpiece Theatre)
* John Adams
* Tin Man

Outstanding Made for Television Movie

Winner: Recount

* Bernard And Doris
* Extras: The Extra Special Series Finale
* The Memory Keeper's Daughter
* A Raisin In The Sun
* Recount

Outstanding Variety, Music or Comedy Series

Winner: The Daily Show With Jon Stewart

* The Colbert Report
* The Daily Show With Jon Stewart
* Late Show With David Letterman
* Real Time With Bill Maher
* Saturday Night Live

Outstanding Animated Program (for Programming Less Than One Hour)

Winner: The Simpsons

* Creature Comforts America
* King of the Hill
* Robot Chicken
* The Simpsons
* SpongeBob SquarePants

Outstanding Animated Program (for Programming One Hour Or More)

Winner: Imaginationland (South Park)

* Blue Harvest (Family Guy)
* Imaginationland (South Park)
* Justice League: The New Frontier

Well, the hosting was absolutely horrendous. The reality show hosts are dumb and not funny no matter how hard they try. That alone made this show difficult to endure. At least Jeff Probst won the reality host award and not friggin Ryan Seacrest. Josh Groban sang a compilation of popular TV themes. That was pretty neat actually, until he tried to imitate Primus. Ricky Gervais and Steve Carell had one of the best bits of the night. Sadly Gervais was snubbed in basically every category because of Recount, a movie I still need to see. Jeremy Piven won…duh. He will win every year he's eligible, much like James Gandolfini. Don Rickles came out victorious as well. He has always been a very funny guy. Tommy Smothers received an award for his writing on The Smothers Brothers because he had taken himself out of the running previously. He started talking about politics, which made things awkward.

John Adams emerged with a bunch of awards, also something I need to see soon. I can see the comments coming now. Isn't it just bugging the hell out of you that I am commenting on TV that I have not seen? Damages and 30 Rock also walked away with a handful of statues. I watched 30 Rock once or twice and was not impressed. It has stayed around, so maybe I should give it another shot. Of course as the show winded down, the acceptance speeches were continually cut short. This happens on almost every award show, but I really hate it because often times, the most intelligent people do not receive enough time. And two Toms were on hand: Mr. Hanks and Mr. Selleck that is, with Hanks doing a short Forrest impression. Overall, the show was weak in my opinion. You never knew how much they would rush the category or speech along, and that made the entire experience irritating, combined with the reality bits.

The News Bulletin

A Pleasant View for "Lake"
Sony/Screen Gem's Samuel L. Jackson thriller "Lakeview Terrace" easily debuted to No. 1 at the weekend box office, while Focus Features' "Burn After Reading" continued to fan the flames in its sophomore sesh. Directed by Neil LaBute, "Lakeview" grossed an estimated $15.6 million from 2,464 runs. The Coen brothers' "Burn" came in second, declining a slim 41% to an estimated $11.3 million from 2,657 theaters for a cume of $36.4 million in its first 10 days.
After that, weekend B.O. results were topsy-turvy. Lionsgate's Dane Cook-Kate Hudson comedy "My Best Friend's Girl" had trouble generating much laughter in its bow, grossing an estimated $8.3 million from 2,604 theaters to come in No. 3. Exodus Film Group's toon "Igor," distributed by MGM, debuted to an estimated $8 million from 2,330 runs to place fourth. The weekend's other new wide entry was DreamWorks/Paramount's comedy "Ghost Town," co-produced and co-financed by Spyglass. Starring Ricky Gervais and Greg Kinnear, "Ghost Town" only managed to come in No. 8, bowing to an estimated $5.2 million from 1,505 runs.

The specialty side saw several bright spots. Paramount Vantage's Keira Knightley period pic "The Duchess" enjoyed a per location average of $28,932 as it opened in seven theaters, grossing an estimated $205,527. Warner Bros.' Viggo Mortensen-Renee Zellweger-Ed Harris Western "Appaloosa" grossed an estimated $258,000 as it bowed in 14 theaters in three markets for a per location average of $18,429. "Appaloosa," directed by Harris, opens nationwide on Oct. 3. Elsewhere on the top 10 chart, Overture Films' "Righteous Kill" came in No. 5 in its second weekend, declining 53% to an estimated $7.7 million from 3,152 theaters for a cume of $28.8 million in its first 10 days. Now in its 10th frame, Warner Bros. "The Dark Knight" declined 29% to take the No. 8 spot. Pic grossed an estimated $2.9 million from 1,905 runs for a cume of $522 million.

Apparently Samuel L. Jackson has more than just color on his side (the color blue that is). He has the box office on his side. This time period is usually sluggish. It falls in between the summer blockbusters and the fall award contenders. I didn't think that thriller had enough steam for #1, but oh well. Glad to see the Coens making some money with such a funny flick. Such a travesty that My Best Friend's Girl was more popular than Ghost Town. Neither look all that appealing, but I'd take Ricky Gervais over Dane Cook any day. The Dark Knight is winding down now. By next week, it will most likely be at #10, or off the list completely. Nothing else on the top 10 is surprising. Igor failed to make a splash, and The Women took a dive. Next week Eagle Eye will come out on top easily.






Wall Street Woes Can't Slow Down Hollywood
The chaos on Wall Street might be unfolding like a disaster movie, but Hollywood dealmaking continues behind the scenes. This week, J.P. Morgan, considered to be the entertainment industry's top banker, finalized two film-related financings totally nearly $1 billion, showing how resilient movie magic is to the gloom and doom on Wall Street. "People will continue to go to movies, buy or rent DVDs and watch pay-per-view," said Eileen Burke, a managing director at investment firm D.B. Zwirn & Co.

"In terms of entertainment companies' ability to access capital, I think if you have a good company with a good asset base, you can still borrow money. Well-structured deals are getting done," she said. J.P. Morgan led a $700 million debt financing for India's Reliance ADA Group to help fund its new venture with Steven Spielberg and the DreamWorks SKG team, sources close to the deal said on Friday.

The investment bank also is expected to close on Friday a $295 million financing for Media Rights Capital, the company behind a new Cameron Diaz movie called "The Box," said banking sources with knowledge of the deal. Comerica Inc was another underwriter, they said. "Every banker I talk to right now is pretty grumpy and say the markets are as bad as they've ever seen," said Bill Johnson, a partner with Inferno Distribution LLC in Beverly Hills, California. However, he said that there was still healthy interest in Hollywood deals, albeit of a smaller scale. "When the wave of fear subsides, I think the smarter bankers and investors will see the film class as recession proof and a good investment," he said.

To be sure, Hollywood has taken a hit from the credit crunch. Months ago, hedge funds that had poured $15 billion into film deals over the last three years started to retreat. Those funds, partnered with big banks, had backed slates of movies from studios like Sony Corp's Sony Pictures, Viacom Inc's Paramount and Time Warner Inc's Warner Bros., shouldering some of the risks usually absorbed by studios in return for a share of box office sales. Paramount recently ditched efforts to raise up to $450 million in a slate deal with Deutsche Bank and is said to be now planning to co-finance films on a picture-by-picture basis. "We've seen hedge funds pull back to some extent, as a number of deals done in the last two years haven't met expectations," said Burke.

But while slate financings are no longer popular, Hollywood insiders say plenty of well-structured deals are still getting done for middle market film and entertainment companies. These financings are typically $100 million to $300 million bank loans for films in production, with collateral such as receivables, film libraries and inventory credits. Walt Disney Co recently said it sees no problem finding new investors in a down market but may not want to share profits or ownership going forward and has not yet decided whether to turn to outside film financing again when its Kingdom Films LLC deal runs out in mid-2009. The deal with Kingdom Films, set up in 2005 by Credit Suisse First Boston, raised $505 million to foot 40 percent of the production and distribution costs for 32 films. "We are raising more money not less in the current environment," said David Molner, chairman of Aramid Capital Partners, which puts together many single-film financing packages, including one for Oliver Stone's upcoming "W" film. "We'll turn over $250 million to $300 million in financing films over the next 12 months and the events of the last 48 hours haven't caused the slightest revision," Molner said.

The long and skinny of the bleak situation is that people will always want to watch movies in some form to keep from going insane. It is not cheap anymore for a ticket, and Netflix does drain the same amount from your account each month, but both are priced modestly enough that you won't feel bad about spending the money. We all have to save money, but we can't quite stare at the wall can we? Make no mistake, Hollywood is sitting fine at the moment, but things are not invincible whatsoever. This was a terrific summer, hence, deals are moving rapidly to capitalize on the success. Banks still realize that borrowed money for film companies will most likely be returned. These studios understand the need to monitor the situation closely. If circumstances look negative, they will adjust as needed. Disney looks to be doing just that.






Swingers Duo Reunite
Universal Pictures is sending Vince Vaughn, Jon Favreau, Jason Bateman and Faizon Love on "Couples Retreat," a Favreau-scripted, Peter Billingsley-directed comedy. Story follows four couples who go to a tropical island resort. While one couple is there to work on their marriage, the others are there to play but soon discover that participation in the resort's couples therapy is not optional. Vaughn will produce with Scott Stuber in a co-production between his Wild West Picture Show Prods. and Stuber Prods. Victoria Vaughn and Guy Riedel exec produce.

Cast deals are being finalized. Pic is being prepped to start production in late October in Bora Bora and Los Angeles. Vaughn hatched the idea for "Couples Retreat," as he did the 2006 comedy hit "The Break-Up." Vaughn produced that comedy with Stuber and starred in it with Favreau. Billingsley, who also had a small role, has been involved in producing and second unit direction on that pic as well as the upcoming Vaughn starrer "Four Christmases" and the Favreau-helmed "Iron Man."

Favreau takes the acting job before preparing to direct Robert Downey Jr. in the "Iron Man" sequel next year. Bateman, coming off "Hancock," will next be seen in "State of Play" and "This Side of the Truth." Love will next be seen in the Cess Silvera-directed "G.E.D." and "Days of Wrath." Stuber recently wrapped "Role Models," which Universal releases in November; the Joe Johnston-directed "The Wolf Man," to be released in April; and "Traveling," which will be released in 2009.

Do we all recall who Peter Billinglsey is? He was none other than Ralphie Parker in A Christmas Story. He has previously directed a 13 minute short entitled The Sacred Fire. I am interested to see how he fares as a filmmaker with Favreau and Vaughn on the cast. My concern is that the cast has a lot of comedic experience, so can Billinglsey control them all as a leader? Still, the story should be fun, and I am happy to see Favreau leaving Iron Man world for a bit. Trust me fans, he needs to let the shoot percolate before jumping immediately into a sequel. In my opinion, Vaughn is falling into the trap many in his class are nowadays like Ferrell and Sandler. They are doing too much of the same type of movie, and people are starting to notice the repetitiveness.






Release Date Changes!
Religulous
Lionsgate has moved up the release of the Bill Maher religion-skewering doco by two days rom October 3rd to October 1st..

Slumdog Millionaire
Fox Searchlight has moved up Danny Boyle's acclaimed new Mumbai-based drama from November 28th to November 19th.

What Doesn't Kill You
The Yari Film Group crime-drama starring Mark Ruffalo, Ethan Hawke, and Amanda Peet will come out April 24th 2009.

Invention of Lying
Previously known as This Side Of The Truth, the Ricky Gervais-led fantasy comedy has moved from March 20th 2009 to an undetermined 2010 date.

The Orphan
The Dark Castle horror starring Peter Sarsgaard and Vera Farmiga will come out November 6th 2009.

Bone Deep
The Screen Gems crime-action film starring T.I., Matt Dillon, Hayden Christensen, Zoe Saldana, Idris Elba, and Paul Walker will come out January 8th 2010. It is assumed that the film will finish production before T.I. has to serve a one-year prison sentence next spring.

Legion
The Screen Gems angelic horror-thriller starring Paul Bettany, Lucas Black, Tyrese Gibson, Dennis Quiad, and Doug Jones will come out January 22nd 2010.

Straw Dogs
The Screem Gems remake of the 1971 revenge thriller will come out August 13th 2010.

Well, no doubt the Maher camp decided they could obtain better numbers during election time. That documentary actually looks amusing. Slumdog Millionaire only moved a week, but early reviews have been ecstatic, so I'll be seeing that one. Invention of Lying has been pushed far ahead. I am happy for Ricky Gervais. I only hope he has a much success in film as he did on television. The Orphan stars Vera Farmiga. Who cares what the plot is about. She is a fox. Does anyone still use that term? Poor Matt Dillon. A few years back he was receiving Oscar buzz, now he's in a movie with T.I. and Hayden Christensen. Choices. I had forgotten about the Straw Dogs remake. Redoing Peckinpah is just a bad idea all around. No cast has been announced yet.






Superman in Ratner's Eyes
Once upon a time, Bryan Singer and Brett Ratner swapped movies – Brett got the third "X-Men" and Bryan got "Superman," which in his hands was "Superman Returns" starring Brandon Routh. We all know how that turned out. But what would have happened if Ratner had continued along his merry way and done the "Superman" he wanted? What would it have been about? Brendan Fraser, who saw the script written by J.J. Abrams, was impressed. So was Ratner, who filled us in on the storyline and casting plans. "The original movie I was going to be a part of," Ratner said, "took place on Krypton for about half of the movie. So it was much more otherworldly, and much darker, because there was a civil war on Krypton. You'd get more of the history." "The Death of Superman" and the art of Alex Ross. "That wasn't just darker, but cooler, in my mind," Ratner said. "That was what we were going to model the visuals after. When you have to translate it to a cinematic world, it's a whole different animal, and he's one of the best Superman artists I've ever seen." If it's as dark as Warner Bros. wants for their reboot of Superman , Ratner still has a shot at making it: "Maybe we can go back to it one day," he said. But sorry, Brendan Fraser, that's not a shot for you, too. "I definitely agreed with Bryan Singer that you need an unknown actor," Ratner said. "I was going to surround Superman with known actors, but it's important to get an unknown. I love Tom Cruise, but to have someone like him who you see as Tom Cruise would be a mistake."

Ok, now who, for one second, actually thinks a Brett Ratner Superman would hold a candle to what Bryan Singer completed? I had my issues with Superman Returns, but surely they would rather have dumped the reboot totally rather than hire Ratner. Look at the man's resume. Let's face it. The quality of his pictures are heading downhill. I only pray his contribution to New York, I Love You is not the same. Of course now he comes out and says his Superman was going to be dark and this and that, but in the end, it's just talk. I still say a Superman reboot is a bad decision. Patience is the key. What I would like to know is, what was Bryan Singer planning for Man of Steel? If anyone knows of a website, let me know.






Spaceballs the Cartoon!
G4 will bring viewers Spaceballs Sunday on September 21 with a special presentation of MGM's 1987 cult classic feature film, followed by two hours of all new, never-before-seen chapters of "Mel Brooks' Spaceballs: The Animated Series." A rollicking parody of popular science-fiction and action films, "Spaceballs" stands as Brooks' homage to genre films in which the master of comedy skewers some of filmdom's biggest blockbusters. A collaboration from MGM, Berliner Film Companies and G4, "Mel Brooks' Spaceballs: The Animated Series" picks up where the cult classic feature film left off, delivering hilarious parodies of today's pop culture. Executive Producer and Co-Creator Mel Brooks reprises his roles as Planet Spaceballs' nefarious President Skroob and Yogurt, Daphne Zuniga returns to voice the lovely Princess Vespa, and Joan Rivers is back as the voice of Dot Matrix. Spaceballs Sunday takes place Sunday, September 21 beginning at 3 pm ET/PT, with the presentation of the feature film, followed by all new chapters of "Mel Brooks' Spaceballs: The Animated Series" at 5 pm ET/PT, only on G4.

The music zone's own Mitch Michaels provided this news bit. I had not realized this show was coming out actually. The clips were a lot funnier than I expected, to be honest, and the fact that some of the original voices are returning is a plus. What will decided this shows fate is how viewers and fans respond to the absence of John Candy, Rick Moranis, and Bill Pullman in their respective roles. In addition, this is described as parodying popular culture, which is fine, but not if it plans to copy Family Guy. I'll definitely be checking out some of these episodes though. As you read this, it premiered last night. Check out Youtube for clips.

The 20 Second Sermon

Prepare for Direct-to-DVD sequels of The Amityville Horror (remake), Grease, The Naked Gun, Bad News Bears, Road Trip, and Mean Girls. Wow, they never stop and could care less what film is harmed. When stupid people stop renting them, maybe the studios will get the hint. Wait, I am one of those stupid people because of straight to video nightmares. Anna Faris is sticking to comedies, and will not be in a biopic about Deep Throat star Linda Lovelace. She said the role is too heavy for her. At this stage of her career, what will not be heavy besides low tier humor? The following names are rumored for the next Conan the Barbarian film: Neil Marshall (The Descent), Juan Carlos Fresnadillo (28 Weeks Later), James McTeigue (V for Vendetta), The Strause Brothers (AVP: Requiem), Mark Neveldine (Crank), and Brian Taylor (Pathology). The most fitting is James McTeigue or Neil Marshall, but it will probably end up going to one of the last three. So Jude Law has been cast as Watson with Robert Downey Jr.'s Sherlock Holmes in the Guy Ritchie pic. This will either be great or atrocious. Not sure which yet.

What's Coming to DVD….Buy or Avoid?

DVD Headline of the Week



The Godfather – The Coppola Restoration Giftset - Well, as I already own the original boxset, it will be awhile until I buy it all over again, though the enhanced technical specifications do entice me. The Blu-Ray is the only wise purchase here. All are released individually as well. Preorderable

L.A. Confidential - The first edition wasn't quite bare bones, but the film definitely needed a double-dip. This should be fantastic, and maybe I'll finally get around to buying it now. Standard versions are available also. Buyable

Leatherheads - George Clooney directs and stars in this nifty throwback to Capra style 50's films. The performances are terrific fun, the set decoration is vibrant, and the idea was promising, but the execution lacked focus. At times, it tried too hard to touch on a variety of areas, and instead of looking honorable, it seemed silly. This could have been better. Rentable

Sex and the City: The Movie (Special Edition) - This film, based on the hit show, is a 148 minute pointless epilogue that feels like one whole season crammed into a dull theater experience. The plot is lame and artificial, many twists are out of character, and the ending is a cliched insult. This had its funny moments, but those are few and far between. Single disc versions are available also. Borrow

Run, Fatboy, Run - Director David Schwimmer has crafted a fairly amusing and even touching comedy about a loser running in a marathon to impress an ex-gf. Simon Pegg, Hank Azaria, and the hilarious supporting cast were terrific. Not all of the jokes resonated well, and the layout is pretty predictable, but this is worth watching. Rentable

Deception - Director Marcel Langenegger crafts a second rate thriller that looks and feels like other filmmakers, but with none of the intelligence. Ewan McGregor gives a poor performance, while Hugh Jackman is ok. In the end, the twists and payoff are lame and lazy. This is not worth watching anytime soon. Borrow

Friday the 13th: The Series – The First Season - For near $40, who would buy this? It can't be all that good, but then again, I haven't seen it, so I don't know. Maybe I'm wrong. It has positive comments on amazon.

The Anderson Tapes - A film until now that was only available on VHS. I highly recommend picking it up, and so does Arnold Furious. Buyable

Schoolhouse Rock – The Election Collection - I've seen some of this before, and it is neat to watch once, but I wouldn't want to own it. Chances are, even if I had kids, they would show it in school.

Aki Kaurismaki's Proletariat Trilogy - From the Eclipse series of Criterion, I am definitely adding this one to the rental list. I know nothing of this filmmaker, so I'm anxious.

The New Centurions - This is another in a series of "Martini Movies" that will be released this week. This stars George C. Scott and Stacy Keach. Also keep an eye out for $ with Warren Beatty and Affair in Trinidad with Rita Hayworth and Glenn Ford.

Pathology - I remember when this was released in theaters, but heard very little about it. The reviews I did come across were less than enthusiastic.

High School Musical 2 Deluxe Dance Edition - A blatant ploy for money prior to the release of the second sequel. These movies are terrible in any form. Forgettable

Far North - Sean Bean and Michelle Yeoh in a dystopian fantasy about survival. Yay. I am slightly curious. Tell no one.

Savage Streets (2-Disc Special Edition) - How is it that a movie starring Linda Blair gets this sort of treatment? Gotta love the tagline: "They raped her sister…Killed her best friend. Now she must seek revenge!"

The Critic's Quickee

Righteous Kill - Let me start by saying I have perused the reviews on our site and the comments debating on what counts as a De Niro/Pacino collaboration. No, this is not the first movie they have been in together, but it IS the first where they have teamed up for the bulk of the plot. Now, just like Jackie Chan and Jet Li in The Forbidden Kingdom, one has certain expectations when 2 legends join forces. The possibilities are endless. However, what we get in Righteous Kill is unfulfilling and disappointing to say the least. What lures you to the theater is the fact that these two will be on screen together. In Heat, it was only one scene, but Director Michael Mann made sure we had a riveting story as well. Yes, I too thought it was exciting to see two Corleones together, but this film proves that both have been coasting with their roles for years, and it has been a long time since either man has shown what greatness he has. This story is equivalent to Law & Order with an R rating. The pacing is bland and monotonous, the investigation process is irritating, the twist ending is absurd, and I didn't buy the motive. To avoid spoiling excessive plot information, I will refrain from citing the numerous elements that made no sense. I'll just say I was bothered by the way the actors aided in trying to fool the audience. Spin/Sin City's Carla Gugino is on hand as a woman cop who enjoys rough sex. True, she is sexy, but this was included solely so viewers would have the obligatory sex scene. Donnie Wahlberg and John Leguizamo are the secondary detectives used so both sets can argue constantly. I can't really complain about their performances, but I can't praise them either. Considering the R rating, Righteous Kill was incredibly tame. If you are intrigued by police corruption and suspense, please go rent Street Kings from Director David Ayer. That was a thriller not afraid to get down and dirty with the genre. Righteous Kill eases back probably so the older folks attend to see Pacino and De Niro. Director Jon Avnet's approach, tone, and overall style was extremely bleak, and he obviously let the two stars do whatever they wished, and he failed to show why this belonged in the theater. To me, it did not seem like the two Oscar winners were pushed. When you leave the theater, you're likely to think mediocre, but trust me, the more you take time to analyze this movie, the worse it becomes. This is one of the biggest letdowns of the year. I'm being generous. Final Rating = 5.0/10.0

Burn After Reading - Another brilliant comedy from the brothers Coen. Read about my thoughts on the new film by clicking here.

The Women - If there could be a worst possible time for The Women to come out, they have achieved it. For those unfamiliar with the 1939 original, this will strike you as a Sex and the City ripoff. In fact, this is better than that movie, regardless of the adjustments made to appeal to that same demographic. The original was a funny, but imperfect comedy about how silly women are in regard to relationships with men, how much they gossip and betray, and so forth. This remake maintains that spirit, and is incredibly faithful. Back in the day, it meant a lot when MGM assembled every top female star they possessed. A similar tactic has been employed here, but the level of shock will not be the same. Romantic comedy queen Meg Ryan is Mrs. Stephen Haines, who soon discovers her husband is cheating with a perfume girl named Crystal, played by Eva Mendes. Ryan was a fine choice for the lead, and Annette Benning was solid as her friend Sylvie, but these two were supposed to have attended school together, and I just don't buy it. Debra Messing was very enjoyable as Edie, a woman with truckloads of kids, and Jada Pinkett Smith was humorous as the lesbian friend. All in all, these characters are ten times nicer than the Sex and the City quartet. Now in the original, it was a trio, and here Jada Pinkett Smith was added as the 4th, a blatant aim to for the Carrie crowd. Eva Mendes fills Joan Crawford's shoes, and is more of a hot bimbo instead of the sexy seductress that Crawford was. I liked how they updated her. Candice Bergman, Gloris Leachman, and Carrie Fisher were all fantastic in minor parts. During this remake and the original, you will see no men around. Not even the dogs or the extras are males. It was a risk then, and it is a risk now because it is then left up to the cast to make viewers believe that male characters actually exists in that universe. I will say they fine tuned it better in this one, but barely. Mrs. Haines has a daughter in both, but the alterations to that character were totally ridiculous. You will notice a bunch of little annoyances that refuse to disappear from your mind. Bette Midler's character is completely trivial here, whereas that same person meant a great deal in the 1939 version. Even though this contained a lot of artificial, corny, and snooty moments, the primary difference is the direction. George Cukor (The Philadelphia Story) had a firm grasp on all the talent, understood proper timing, and placed the comedy above all else. Writer/Director Diane English struggles in many of those areas because she is a first time filmmaker. It has taken her over a decade to get The Women made. It has been in development hell since the early 90's with any female performer you can name attached at one point. I was initially on the fence because I did have more fun than I expected watching this, but the small flaws were just too much to handle. Final Rating = 6.5/10.0

What Have I Done?

I am retiring the movie dictionary permanently. Finding interesting terms has become more difficult, and I have desired a more original section for a while anyway. This will likely change from time to time, just to avoid redundancy. The following will examine various observations and opinions I have each week.



Monday - Finished the new LL Cool J album Exit 13. His best of the 2000's. It has a nice mix of his old school and new school material. There is also a track called "Old School New School" coincidentally. However, the man needs to stop referring to himself as "The G.O.A.T." (The Greatest of All Time) It is lame and too cocky.





Tuesday - I still have friendly arguments with people on whether or not Keebler's Muchems are still sold. In the Eastern U.S., I have not located any. Seriously, that was one of my favorite snack foods. Know where it's available? Drop me a line!





Wednesday - Blockbuster Memory File #2514A – In my youth, between girlfriends, the drama/suspense section was my home away from home. The stickers that prevented anyone under the age of 17 from renting was a barrier I frequently broke by changing the cassettes to a different case. Mirror Images II was in my player many a time. That Shannon Whirry was a significant part of my teenage years. Excuse me while I have impure thoughts.




Thursday - Getting increasingly annoyed with the new Facebook layout. I use the site maybe once a week if I'm lucky, yet I now have to learn how to use it all over again. How retarded. Did Mr. Zuckerberg choose to do this when he was bored? Perhaps a vote would have been wise.


Friday - Just completed Extras. What a superb show. Favorite episode = "Daniel Radcliffe". Warwick Davis was hilarious in that, and he should have been the title. Favorite sequence = The entire bit with the pen in the final season 2 episode. I loved the conclusion, but my only complaint is that sometimes it went overboard to make you feel awkward.

Based on the Trailer…

Newest Trailers

Doubt - A great looking drama with great performers. This trailer was riveting. I'm looking forward to it. How can you go wrong with Meryl Streep and Philip Seymour Hoffman going toe to toe? Trailer Rating = 10.0/10.0

Four Christmases - Vince Vaughn and Reese Witherspoon in a holiday comedy. Yippee. I generally dislike modern Christmas movie because they all go way overboard on the slapstick. This appears to be up that same alley with typical Vaughn shtick. Trailer Rating = 5.0/10.0

The Lucky Ones - This came out of nowhere, but looks to have potential. Rachel McAdams, Tim Robbins, and Michael Pena are all consummate actors. The music was good, and all signs point to a recommended film. Trailer Rating = 7.5/10.0

September Releases

Nights in Rodanthe - An adaptation of a novel from Nicholas Sparks, so this might not be too bad for a romance. It has Richard Gere and Diane Lane reuniting from Unfaithful, so I'm in. Trailer Rating = 8.0/10.0

Choke - A new adaptation from author Chuck Palahniuk, and that gets me excited. I love his books, though I haven't read this particular one. I will before the movie comes out though. This has Sam Rockwell in the lead, so it should be funny. Trailer Rating = 8.5/10.0

Eagle Eye - Mr. LaBeouf surprises me with every passing role. I'll start giving him more credit. This thriller teaser has me intrigued for sure. Trailer Rating = 7.5/10.0

Miracle at St. Anna - I get annoyed by some of Spike Lee's comments, but he is a fabulous filmmaker, and this new war epic looks marvelous with Derek Luke and Joseph Gordon Levitt. Trailer Rating = 10.0/10.0

Blindness - This is a movie that proves how I have changed. It stars Julianne Moore and Mark Ruffalo. It involves an infection. That sounds rather bland right? Well, it's directed by Fernando Meirelles, a brilliant filmmaker, so I'm in, even though it doesn't sound outstanding. Trailer Rating = 7.5/10.0

October Releases

Quarantine - For weeks I have been told this is a remake of a decent Spanish flick called .REC. I get the picture. I will rent it at some point. I still think this remake will suck big time. That is all. Trailer Rating = 4.0/10.0

Zack and Miri Make a Porno - Kevin Smith's new comedy looks hilarious. I'm anxious to see this because I know he is a great filmmaker that can flourish outside of Jay and Silent Bob. Note: This may not be online anymore. Trailer Rating = 8.5/10.0

Zack and Miri Make a Porno (2) - Kevin Smith's new comedy still looks funny, but this trailer sends a different message of tone than the teaser did. I'm anxious to see this due to the absence of Jay and Silent Bob, although Mewes is involved. Trailer Rating = 8.0/10.0

Body of Lies - The new Ridley Scott pic featuring Leonardo DiCaprio and Russell Crowe. It looks phenomenal, but that should be expected with such brilliant talent. Trailer Rating = 8.5/10.0

Regilulous - Well, Bill Maher is always one to stir up controversy, and I'm sure this documentary will do the trick. I think it looks funny personally, so I'll give it a shot. Trailer Rating = 8.0/10.0

City of Ember - Here is a film that could end up being pretty neat. The cast alone is worth the price of admission. You have Bill Murray, Saoirse Ronan, and Tim Robbins, among others. Gil Kenan is a decent director and the plot is creative, so I'm in. Trailer Rating = 8.5/10.0

High School Musical 3: Senior Year - Oh boy the teaser has arrived. Why do I have the feeling that this will be exactly like the first two, both in plot and level of suckage. Ms. Tisdale is the only tolerable character. Trailer Rating = 6.0/10.0

Pride and Glory - A nifty looking cop thriller with Ed Norton and Colin Farrell. Should be ok. And if we're lucky, we will get some commendable work from Jon Voight. Trailer Rating = 7.5/10.0

Max Payne - This trailer kicks major a** with the song in the background and Marky Mark as the main character, but then again, so did the Hitman teaser, and it ended up blowing. Remember, this is based on a video game. Trailer Rating = 7.5/10.0

W. - You're lying if you say you're not curious. Josh Brolin looks the part with white hair, but as the younger Dubya, he looks like himself. I will definitely see this because it is Oliver Stone, but I have serious doubts since its being rushed for the election. Trailer Rating = 6.5/10.0

Changeling - Not to be confused with the superb horror film starring George C. Scott. This is a Clint Eastwood original that looks outstanding. Can Clint do no wrong? Angelina Jolie looks to be in contention for an Oscar. I will be seeing this. Trailer Rating = 9.5/10.0

RocknRolla - The new thriller from Guy Ritchie. It can't be as bad as Revolver right? He needs a comeback badly, and I hope this is it. Trailer Rating = 7.0/10.0

Saw V - This is just a teaser, but it gets the same point across. I am a fan of the series, so I'll certainly be seeing this one. Trailer Rating = 7.0/10.0

November Releases

Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa - This is some sort of weird DVD trailer, but we see the basic layout of the plot, and it is not very funny or interesting. I could care less about this one. Trailer Rating = 4.5/10.0

Repo! The Genetic Opera - They keep the music clips to a minimum in the trailer, which was wise. While this certainly intrigues me, the praising quotes from random websites worries me. It could be really bad, but check out the cast. That alone is worth the price of admission. Trailer Rating = 7.0/10.0

Quantum of Solace - I saw this weeks ago, but forgot to rate it here. The new Bond movie looks to be just as awesome as Casino Royale. I can't wait. Trailer Rating = 10.0/10.0

Transporter 3 - I know George's buddy is looking forward to anything Statham, but this franchise has never been all that outstanding to me. Statham is hit or miss. I'll see this I guess, but only out of curiosity. Trailer Rating = 7.0/10.0

Australia - The new epic from filmmaker Baz Luhrman seems to have left out his usual exaggerated flair. Kidman and Jackman will make a fine team. I think this looks rather good, and the trailer has a splendid piece of music accompanying it. Trailer Rating = 8.0/10.0

Bolt - It takes exactly two seconds to decipher the Disney CGI to the Pixar Disney CGI. This has John Travolta as the lead voice. The hamster seems funny, but the rest doesn't impress me. Trailer Rating = 5.5/10.0

The Soloist - Atonement' Joe Wright changes his British period drama material for something new. This looks a bit like Resurrecting the Champ, only with better actors. Trailer Rating = 8.5/10.0

Milk - Sean Penn as a gay man. At least we know he wants an Oscar. I love Gus Van Sant, so this should be fabulous no matter how many Oscars they want. The cast has some outstanding young guys in it, so I'm there. Trailer Rating = 8.5/10.0

December, TBD, and Beyond Releases

Frost/Nixon - Wow. I was glued to my seat. This is an amazing trailer that shows right away how brilliant the performances are. Ron Howard is a superb director, and I really hope this is a hit for him. Trailer Rating = 10.0/10.0

Yes Man - A new Jim Carrey comedy where he must say yes to everything. Sounds a bit like Liar Liar, but this is the Carrey humor I have missed for years. It looks pretty funny to me. Trailer Rating = 7.5/10.0

The Escapist - A British prison break film starring Brian Cox. This is my favorite genre, so I can't wait for this, but in order for this to make a splash, it will have to be something special. The critic quotes being from random guys worries me. Trailer Rating = 8.0/10.0

Terminator Salvation - I love Christian Bale, and the Terminator franchise, but I have serious doubts about this. I believe it will be terrible, but I must admit, this teaser was well constructed. Trailer Rating = 8.0/10.0

Watchmen - This was the best trailer attached to my Dark Knight screening. Hopefully Zack Snyder can continue to improve his skills after 300. I must read this graphic novel soon. Trailer Rating = 8.5/10.0

Star Trek XI - The teaser was superbly placed before Cloverfield, and this causes me to be amped for the next installment despite my doubts about the cast. I hope it's as good as we deserve. Trailer Rating = 9.0/10.0

Defiance - This new Edward Zwick film looks outstanding with Daniel Craig leading the cast in World War II story. This gave me chills. I can't wait. Trailer Rating = 9.0/10.0

Che - Granted, this is in Spanish, which I do not speak fluently, but this trailer looks amazing nevertheless. Soderbergh's epic should be fantastic. Trailer Rating = 8.5/10.0

Wolverine - Not the finest quality of trailers, but you can still seen and understand it. Gavin Hood is directing, so that is intriguing. The preview is ok, and I am still unsure. Can the character carry a whole film on his own? Trailer Rating = 7.0/10.0

The Perfect Game - Though I'm not a baseball fan, I always enjoy watching the Little League World Series. The problem with this film, despite a bad title, is that the preview reveals way too much, so hopefully it has more going for it besides the story, which I'm sure is inspirational. Trailer Rating = 6.5/10.0

Punisher: War Zone - This is only a teaser, but I get the impression I have seen all I need to. This sequel (or whatever is in relation to the previous film) looks like an comic action nightmare with cliches up the wazoo. I'm not a fan of the Punishers movies thus far, and this does not look to change that. Trailer Rating = 5.0/10.0

The Curious Case of Benjamin Button - This film looks amazing. David Fincher is the man, I will be waiting to purchase my ticket. A plot about someone who ages backwards has all sorts of possibilities. Trailer Rating = 10.0/10.0

The Spirit - This is the new adaptation from Frank Miller. I'm anxious to see this, but from this teaser, it looks a bit too similar to Sin City. Oh well. I loved that film, so maybe this will be just as entertaining. Trailer Rating = 7.5/10.0

The Day the Earth Stood Still - This teaser illustrates how a classic sci-fi film will probably not update well for this era. I am curious because Keanu Reeves is a suitable choices, but I noticed too much CGI just from this, so that's not a good sign. Trailer Rating = 6.0/10.0

The Tale of Despereaux - This new Universal CGI film has some cute lines and some exquisite animation, but the plot strikes me as dull. You never know, at least it isn't filled with poop jokes. Trailer Rating = 6.5/10.0

Outlander - Hmm, I'm not sure about this, but the cast alone is enough for me to buy a ticket. James Caviezel is so talented, but his script choices continue to boggle me (not in a bad way mind you). The idea is shaky, but the effects and acting look good, so I'm in. Trailer Rating = 7.0/10.0

The International - Sadly, this will be released early in 2009, which is not a good time of the year. Still, I like both Owen and Watts, and since Tom Tykwer is helming, it should be at least halfway decent. Trailer Rating = 7.5/10.0

Fast & Furious - Is that the best title they could come up with? Well, I hate this franchise, and everything it stands for, but I'd be lying if I said this wasn't a step up from the previous installment. Trailer Rating = 6.0/10.0

Knowing - This has Number 23 sort of approach, which is fine, but why is Nicolas Cage doing all these mediocre thrillers? He's a great actor, and should be showing that more. Anyway, this looks ok. Trailer Rating = 6.5/10.0

New York, I Love You - The first film, Paris, Je T'aime was one of the best films in recent memory that few knew about. So I am very excited about this second installment. The cast and directors look amazing. It should be a terrific experience. Trailer Rating = 9.0/10.0

Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince - This was a great book, the darkest of the set, and this trailer rocks. I'm anxious to see this. The franchise has not decreased in quality, and here's hoping this continues that trend. Trailer Rating = 9.0/10.0

Other Stuff to Read

The Best Movies of the Alphabet
411 August Roundtable - This month Owain J. Brimfield takes the reigns and compiled the thoughts of the movie zone staff on the summer releases for August!
The MeeThinks Friday FreeThinks - Thanks again to John Meehan for providing my banner here, and for the Alphabet feature.

Also, keep an eye out for more comic book character timelines in the future. Here are the first two:

The Ultimate Batman Timeline
The Ultimate Daredevil Timeline



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