Because I can't always talk on the radio

What to see this weekend: Water for Elephants

2011-04-21T19:21:00.001-04:00

This book was awesome...so I'm very excited to see the movie this weekend!

What to see this weekend: Win Win

2011-03-18T14:42:00.001-04:00

Film Review: Potiche

2011-03-16T10:30:00.003-04:00

This French farce has everything I've wanted to see in a comedy for quite sometime and haven't. Set in a small town in 1970s France, the film follows Catherine Deneuve who plays the Potiche or trophy wife of a successful backwards minded businessman. Based on the play of the same name, this delightful comedy is beautifully directed by Francois Ozon. The movie also stars Gerard Depardieu (Cyrano de Bergerac and Green Card) and Fabrice Luchini. The film opens in limited theaters on Friday.

What to see this weekend: Jane Eyre

2011-03-10T13:16:00.003-05:00

The newest film adaptation of this classic novel by Charlotte Bronte stars Mia Wasikowska (The Kids Are All Right, Alice in Wonderland) as the titled heroine. I'm a sucker for period pieces and if you are too, you don't want to pass up on this new Focus Features gem. Click here for the official trailer.

What to see this weekend:Uncle Boonmee Who Can Recall His Past Lives

2011-03-03T18:33:00.003-05:00

Since I'm spoiled and live in a city where even the most obscure of the indie films is screened for the public, I have to recommend this intriguing film set in Thailand about a man who can recall his past lives. Winner of The Spirit Award's Best Foreign Film prize, this is playing all weekend at the Film Forum-209 West Houston.

Woody Allen takes on Paris

2011-03-02T19:10:00.006-05:00

It could only be a matter a time of course. Mr. Allen who is famous for his New York City based films, slowly spread his wings and flew across the pond to Europe to tackle on neurosis overseas. With films like Match Point, Vicky Cristina Barcelona and You Will Meet a Tall Dark Stranger he has slowly begun to explore the potential for Americans to have their misadventures abroad. So it seems to be with his next film Midnight in Paris. The film is a romantic comedy about a family traveling to Paris on a business trip. In the family party is a young engaged couple played by Owen Wilson and Rachel McAdams. No this is not a follow up to Wedding Crashers- but hopefully it will bring about equal laughs.

Other than an elegant backdrop the film also sports a strong supporting cast, including Marion Cotillard, Adrien Brody and Kathy Bates. Of course Carla Bruni is also in it...since she is the first lady of France, would Woody have it any other way? Interestingly enough this lacks a past muse in the picture, but perhaps he has moved on and has set his sights on McAdams for that. Either way, I'm excited for this film to come out in late Spring.

What to see this weekend: A Good Man

2011-02-24T18:28:00.003-05:00

This documentary comedy tells the story of an Australian farmer who decides to open a brothel to support his growing family which includes his quadriplegic wife. This doc has been making its way throughout film festivals in Australia and is now playing in NYC, Feb 25- March 3 at Quad Cinema, 34 West 13th Street.

The Best Perfomance(s) of the Year!

2011-02-23T17:56:00.004-05:00

While all of the on screen individuals share very little in common with each other, their off screen counterparts have one thing definitely in common: they're great actors.

Actor in a Leading Role Nominees

Javier Bardem
Jeff Bridges
Jesse Eisenberg
Colin Firth
James Franco

My Pick: Colin Firth

Actor in a Supporting Role Nominees

Christian Bale
John Hawkes
Jeremy Renner
Mark Ruffalo
Geoffrey Rush

My Pick: Geoffrey Rush

Actress in a Leading Role Nominees

Annette Bening
Nicole Kidman
Jennifer Lawrence
Natalie Portman
Michelle Williams

My Pick: Natalie Portman

Actress in a Supporting Role Nominees

Amy Adams
Helena Bonham Carter
Melissa Leo
Hailee Steinfeld
Jacki Weaver

My Pick: Hailee Steinfeld

And the Oscar goes to...

2011-02-22T09:39:00.008-05:00

I have to acknowledge that it has taken me awhile to start writing here again, but I think I can safely say after completing some timely tasks I am back with force. I was a little underwhelmed with the films that came out in 2010, but will also say that a handful of very good work did come out this year. As the 2011 Oscars approach, I find myself reflecting on the categories and their potential new winners. So lets countdown until Sunday with some picks!

Best Picture Nominees:

Black Swan
The Fighter
Inception
The Kids Are All Right
The King's Speech
127 Hours
The Social Network
Toy Story 3
True Grit
Winter's Bone

My Prediction: The King's Speech

In all fairness to Winter's Bone I did not see it and if the Oscars are anything like the Grammy's perhaps all bets are off on guessing a winner. If we're trying to predict the Academy's vote however, I think The King's Speech will take Best Picture. A quick rundown on why I don't think the other films will or should not win:

Black Swan- Great performance by Natalie Portman, but compared to the other films on the list, this picture does not seem strong enough to take it. I will always have a soft spot for Vincent Cassel though.

The Fighter-Another good "performance" film. Christian Bale and Melissa Leo propel this film to another level in my opinion. I think their performances should be celebrated, but the overall production will unlikely be victorious on Sunday.

Inception & The Kids Are All Right: Audience movies. My comment is that if the category were not extended to have so many seats, these two would not have made the cut. Worth watching...doubtful either will win.

The King's Speech: This film screams oscar bait. With due respect however- acting was great, writing was amazing and directing was above par. The producers here knew what they wanted, how they wanted it and seemed to get all the pieces of the puzzle to come together and click.

127 Hours: I think this one does have a chance. Good acting, story and directing are all there. I just don't know if it will be the favorite- my gut still goes with the above.

The Social Network: Am I the only person in the world that did not think this movie was that good? Perhaps. Mediocre for me. Jesse Eisenberg does a great Mark Zuckerberg, but can someone explain to me why Rashida Jones is even in the film? Her character serves very little purpose. Sorry fans of this film- sure its with the times but I just don't feel like I ever need to see it again.

Toy Story 3: I would applaud for this to win- although I have not seen it, so I cannot cast my vote. I have only heard good things about this film, but I sense a discrimination against animation in the Academy and don't know if we've progressed to an age where this will come out as the winner.

True Grit: Amazing, amazing, amazing! Will it win? It is deserving, but I think it is at battle with King's Speech and something tells me Colin Firth and Geoffrey Rush are going to win the Academy over with their banter in the end.

Tomorrow's analysis: Best Actor & Actress in a Leading Role.

Movie Review: Never Let Me Go

2010-09-24T13:24:00.004-04:00

When I saw that this film starred two of my favorite actresses, Keira Knightley (Atonement)and Carey Mulligan (An Education), I knew I could not pass it up and with respects to the acting this was true. Exceptional performances were given by Knightley and Mulligan who play Ruth and Kathy; two young women born into inescapably frightening circumstances. Andrew Garfield (Boy A) who completes the top billing for the film gives his own gravity to it with his character Tommy. Particularly intriguing however are the wonderful performances by the child actors who play the young Ruth, Kathy, and Tommy, with the most being the young Kathy played by Izzy Meikle-Small.

While giving a big applause to the acting in the film, the story line and script leave the audience with a sense that something is missing. That something? I'll have to read the book first to really know. The film is based on the novel by the same title, published in 2005 and in the same year winning the award "Best Novel" by Time Magazine. The story also has an amazing hook...
It is approximately mid-1950s and scientists and doctors have made great leaps in the field of medicine. Organ transplants are now seamlessly completed, leaving people to exceptionally long life expectancies and a high need for healthy organ donations. The film opens in Britain at a boarding school where children (assumed to be orphans) are bred to be the aforementioned organ donors when they reach their full growth period (late twenties). The three main characters Ruth, Tommy and Kathy are pulled together by friendship, jealousy and ultimately love as they come to terms with their perilous inevitable fate.

It is true that I recommend renting this film when it is available. The final scene in itself makes the whole movie worth watching. But I did leave feeling slightly robbed of something that could have been far more powerful, had there been stronger screenwrighting for the talented cast to use.

Comedy on the radar; Rosencrantz and Guildenstern Are Undead

2010-04-12T09:36:00.001-04:00

This is one is so ridiculously ridiculous it needs no intro or explanation! Checkout the trailer below...the film comes out in select cities on Friday.

Movie Review: Happythankyoumoreplease

2010-04-08T09:29:00.004-04:00

You might recognize Josh Radnor from tv's How I Met Your Mother but the screenwriter/director in him has made its debut in the upcoming movie Happythankyoumoreplease. I saw a screening of the film at the GenArt Film Festival occurring over the next week here in New York and was overwhelmingly pleased with the entire evening's film presentations.

In Happythankyoumoreplease you're introduced to the character of Sam Wexler, played by Radnor, who although thinks himself to be a good guy, is slightly selfish outside of his immediate circle of friends. This all changes when Sam meets a young child who is separated from his foster care family on the subway. The film also highlights the lives of Sam's friends who bring alot of layers and poignancy to the storyline. Also starring in the film are Malin Akerman (Watchmen, Couples Retreat), Zoe Kazan (Revolutionary Road, It's Complicated), and Kate Mara (Entourage, Iron Man 2).

Check out an interview with Radnor below from the Sundance Film Festival where the film premiered and acquired distribution and a limited release date of August 27th. This is definitely a New Yorker's movie, as it was shot here, mostly in the downtown areas all in a matter of 5 weeks!

Movie to checkout: Bluebeard

2010-04-07T10:34:00.003-04:00

Bluebeard (Barbe Bleue) originially premiered at the Berlin International Film Festival last February and is slowly making its way around the globe. The film, which is directed by Catherine Breillat, takes an intrigueing and dark twist on the classic children's tale. It centers around a rich tyrannic lord who has a habit of making his young wives dissapear. When his newest acquired spouse realizes his habits she must outsmart him to save her skin. No word on regular releases and such but it's saved in my Netflix queue nonetheless. Check out the trailer below:

Anticipated movie: Breaking Upwards

2010-04-01T12:08:00.004-04:00

Back from my mini hiatus and ready to continue the updates! A movie that I am excited to catch when it comes to NY is Breaking Upwards which opens in limited release throughout the US tomorrow. The film follows a real life couple in a fictional narrative loosely based on their real life relationship. When monogamy becomes too mundane, the couple decides to try being in an open relationship to spice things up. The trailer definitely peaked my interests and it was shot all around the city, making it a must see for all New Yorkers!

What to see this weekend: Prodigal Sons

2010-02-22T08:17:00.002-05:00

Director Kimberly Reed brings you a documentary on her life and relationship with her older brother as they reunite after ten years of estrangement and re-conciliate their brotherly rivalry. After having grown up a man Reed is now a female filmmaker...Marc grew up a man but not a very fortunate one in terms of luck, until his whole perspective on life changes when he learns that his birth parents were Orson Wells and Rita Hayworth.

What to watch...

2010-02-10T20:48:00.002-05:00

The Red Riding Trilogy screened at the Telluride and New York film festivals and opened in New York on February 5 at the IFC Center. There is a national release also following but if watching a three part film over the course of five hours is not something you can stomache than watch it on IFC channel's video on demand.

Described by Apple Movie Trailers as "a mesmerizing neo-noir epic based on factual events and adapted for the screen by Tony Grisoni (FEAR AND LOATHING IN LAS VEGAS) from David Peace’s electrifying series of novels revolving around the manhunt for the “Yorkshire Ripper,” a serial killer who terrorized northwest England in the 1970s and ’80s. The three films are directed by three notable filmmakers—Julian Jarrold (BRIDESHEAD REVISITED), James Marsh (MAN ON WIRE) and Anand Tucker (SHOPGIRL)."

Check out the trailers below & make sure to catch the trilogy in theaters or on demand:

Movie Review: Crazy Heart

2010-01-19T18:13:00.004-05:00

After watching the film Crazy Heart it is very apparent why Jeff Bridges walked away with Best Actor in a Drama at this weekend's Golden Globes. He appears on the screen as his character Bad Blake and you have no recollection of his past roles, successes and failures (Big Lebowski and Men Who Stare at Goats). Bad is the kind of character that leaves the audience with sadness and hope. Watching Bridges continue to lose himself in a tumbleweed way of life which primarily revolves around an abuse of whiskey, cigarettes, and a lot of women is painful and brings to mind Mickey Rourke in The Wrestler. Maggie Gyllenhaal also gives a beautiful, honest performance as a young mother who begins to care deeply for Bad despite their significance age difference. Ultimately what draws the audience in and makes the film a powerful one is the honesty and rawness of humanity. The complexities which encase each of us and show that we are composed of beautiful melodies as well harsh, deafening, ugly noise.

An area where the film fell short is in the embracing of Bad's past. It touches upon his years of success very quickly and sporadically but does not really open up; perhaps the reason for this is that Bad himself has been living a majority of his life in a blur. Also the rehabilitation of Bad happens so quickly that if you left for a bathroom break you would have completely missed his transformation from degenerate, washed up country artist to dignified song writing legend. In contrast to the slow bloom of the beginning of the film, the end comes crashing quite quickly, which I thought to be a little of a disappointment.

The reasons to not miss Crazy Heart fall mostly in the performances and the soundtrack which is beautiful and sad at the same time and works well throughout the storyline; and if folksy/country music is not something that appeals to you, the vast, majestic scenery of the southwest that soaks the background of much of the film will surely take your breath away.

2010 Golden Globe Winners

2010-01-19T08:00:00.003-05:00

The 2010 Golden Globes were a bit of a disappointment for me in terms of who won and who walked away empty handed. Albeit a pretty funny bit by Gervais and a nice ovation to Scorsese, the winners and their speeches were not in my favor. Yes, yes Avatar had amazing special affects and has been in the works so long that James Cameron definitely deserved to be recognized, but I would not have chosen it for picture of the year, and I would definitely not have given him best director which should have gone to Kathryn Bigelow for Hurt Locker. I also would have picked Carey Mulligan for best actress for her amazing performance in An Education and although I would have given it to Morgan Freeman before, after having watched Crazy Heart Jeff Bridges definitely earned his statue.

Overall just like the actual event, I thought the ceremony was a bit of a wash out. One of those televised events that is wonderful while watching and leaves a bad taste in your mouth after the results have come out...and now I see why Gervais was slowly putting away the pints while hosting.

For a full list of winners click here.

Movie Review: Book of Eli

2010-01-17T20:04:00.003-05:00

The Book of Eli, which stars Denzel Washington, as a tote bearing "Odysseus" on a quest to go West in a post apocalyptic United States wasteland is not your everyday run of the mill end of days film. Directed by the Hughes brothers, the film lures in the audience from the opening scene with each carefully crafted situation encountered, the desperation and dilapidation of society unfolds. Washington gives an amazing performance as a traveler who is on a mission to bring his book to its home in an unknown western town, on the way he encounters different obstacles which bring his character to the ultimate revelation and binds the film's ending.

Mila Kunis and Gary Oldman also bring an exceptional edge to their roles. The former as Solara, a young woman who seeks more from her destroyed surroundings and reaches out to Washington as he inspires her to realize there is hope for the world; and the latter, a treacherous mayor of a collapsed ghost town in the deserts of the west.

Book of Eli takes its time to unfold, the timing of the picture I found to be especially effective in terms of laying out the absence of structure and time in the world portrayed. The deadened future has no calendar, days blend into cold nights, which run until a blistering sun provides no cheer just blistering heat and another day of bleakness. The cinematography brings to mind the same scarcity of resources that were also apparent in There Will Be Blood. I thought the grayness in the picture really struck a note well to relay a hellish existence where the simple things once taken for granted are now things worth dying over and how happiness is not something the living beings know much about. The metaphorical symbolism in the film is also something to look out for and is extremely well done.

So definitely go see it...and not just once! If you haven't seen it already, check out the trailer below:

Movie Review: A Young Victoria

2009-12-18T08:25:00.002-05:00

A Young Victoria stars Emily Blunt as Queen Victoria, England's longest reigning monarch. The film follows the young Queen in the very early years of her reign as she takes the throne, faces much adversity due to her youth, and also learns many hard lessons from those trying to manipulate her and her power. The film also stars Rupert Friend as Prince Albert and Paul Bettany as Lord Melbourne. The film which was written by Julian Fellowes, writer of Gosford Park and Vanity Fair, is as well done as any period piece. Save for a few awkward cut away scenes, the film carries the audience with it at a nice pace. The short fall of it all is a lack of a major occurrance. The swells and breaks are minor, with no significant shocks, common in many films that pride themselves in historical accuracy.

The reasons to see this film are to take in the magnificent costumes done by Sandy Powell, oscar winning costume designer of Shakespeare in Love and Gangs of New York. Also Emily Blunt's performance is captivating and landed her the Golden Globe nomination, although I do not think it strong enough to take the win amongst her other contenders.

The film is out today in limited release throughout the United States. Checkout the trailer below as well as an interview with Emily Blunt & Rupert Friend by CBCtv:

2009-12-17T16:43:00.002-05:00

2010 Screen Actors Guild Nominations
The winners will be announced on January 23, 2010.
My choices once again italicized.

For a full list visit Variety.

MALE ACTOR IN A LEADING ROLE
Jeff Bridges, "Crazy Heart"
George Clooney, "Up in the Air"
Colin Firth, "A Single Man"
Morgan Freeman, "Invictus"
Jeremy Renner, "The Hurt Locker"

FEMALE ACTOR IN A LEADING ROLE
Sandra Bullock, "The Blind Side"
Helen Mirren, "The Last Station"
Carey Mulligan, "An Education"
Gabourey Sidibe, "Precious: Based on the Novel 'Push' by Sapphire"
Meryl Streep, "Julie and Julia"

MALE ACTOR IN A SUPPORTING ROLE
Matt Damon, "Invictus"
Woody Harrelson, "The Messenger"
Christopher Plummer, "The Last Station"
Stanley Tucci, "The Lovely Bones"
Christoph Waltz, "Inglourious Basterds"

FEMALE ACTOR IN A SUPPORTING ROLE
Penelope Cruz, "Nine"
Vera Farmiga, "Up in the Air"
Anna Kendrick, "Up in the Air"
Diane Kruger, "Inglourious Basterds"
Mo'nique, "Precious: Based on the Novel 'Push' by Sapphire"

CAST IN A MOTION PICTURE
"An Education"
"The Hurt Locker"
"Inglourious Basterds"
"Nine"
"Precious: Based on the Novel 'Push' by Sapphire"

2010 Golden Globe Nominations

2009-12-15T21:31:00.002-05:00

Best Supporting Actor in a Series, Miniseries or Motion Picture Made for Television

Neil Patrick Harris

'How I Met Your Mother'

Best Supporting Actress in a Series, Miniseries or Motion Picture Made for Television

'Glee'

Movie Review: Mammoth

2009-12-13T11:48:00.002-05:00

Gael Garcia Bernal & Michelle Williams portray a husband and wife in Mammoth who due to too much money and not enough have seemed to have lost perspective in their lives. This all changes in the unravelling of the film as Bernal takes a business trip to Thailand and realizes how sheltered and selfishly blind Americans can be to the realities and cruelties that face many people in developing nations. Williams has her own awakening back in New York as she struggles to balance her hectic life as a mother and a surgeon.

Overall the film relays a powerful message and sheds light on heavy topics like sex trafficking, child prostitution, materialism, and the western view of instant gratification. As a film overall, it is shot well, but the timing comes off as lagging. As an audience member, you want to push it along, and help it reach the point Swedish writer/director Lukas Moodysson is trying to make. I gave major points for the soundtrack, and Bernal as in most cases does a great job on the screen.

The film came out in limited release in NYC after premiering in the US at the Hamptons International Film Festival. Check out the trailer below:

Morgan Freeman on Portraying Nelson Mandela

2009-12-12T16:47:00.003-05:00

Backstage interviews Freeman for his new movie Invictus.

Movie Review: Invictus

2009-12-11T07:56:00.002-05:00

Invictus, latin for unconquered, came out in limited release throughout this past week in various art houses and theatres and in wide release today all over the States. The movie focuses on the early presidentship of Nelson Mandela and his support for the national rugby team, after a post apartheid South Africa wants to do away with it and everything that reminds them of the past. Clint Eastwood directed the film and amazing performances were given by Morgan Freeman and Matt Damon who portrayed Francois Pienaar, captain of the Springboks. I think overall Eastwood did a fairly good job of letting the plot unfold as the Springboks were led to inspiration and slowly made their way to the World Cup. In many circumstances it is difficult to try to keep a past event successful when an audience knows the results, however I think the rugby footage in the film will really keep audiences satisfied.

The film is absolutely worth the watch not only for sports fans but for anyone who wants to see how even something as unpolitical as rugby can bring together people and a nation that for years and still has seen too much violence and not enough compassion. The title of the film comes from a poem by English poet William Henley, which is read in the film as well. I definitely left the theatre touched and excited to start watching this sport which I have somewhat overlooked in the past.

Sundance 2010

2009-12-06T17:27:00.002-05:00

The Sundance Film Festival announced its lineup this past week and will have the 2010 film guide up on their site in the coming days. Very exciting! Click below to read Variety's article listing the films and brief descriptions until the actual guide goes live on Sundance's site. The 2010 festival will run from Jan 21-31st in Park City, Utah.

Lineup of Films

Rendition: To Rent or Not To Rent

2009-12-01T17:57:00.002-05:00

Rendition came out in 2007 and stars Jake Gyllenhaal & Reese Witherspoon in a drama about a man who is falsely accused in participating in terrorist activities. The plot line is interesting, the acting so-so, the direction...well it all goes downhill. I wouldn't say that the movie is unwatchable but it definitely leaves the audience wondering. Mostly wondering why there wasn't more of a character development for any of the characters, more of an explanation of before and after. Ultimately I think where the entire production went wrong was trying too hard, pushing for too much of a storyline, too many intertwining relationships, and not enough depth.

Movie Review: A Single Man

2009-11-24T20:57:00.002-05:00

Tom Ford the fashion designer can now add film writer, director, and producer to his repertoire. His first film A Single Man is a beautiful film loosely based on the book of the same title. The story follows an English Professor played by Colin Firth who juggles with his newly lonesome homosexuality in 1960s Los Angeles. Every scene, composed piece, and rhythmic piece of dialogue seems to suck the audience in more and more until the very last shocking scene.

I was lucky enough to catch the film when it screened at the Museum of Modern Art on November 23rd. It opens in limited release December 11th in the United States. Tom Ford and Julianne Moore, lead actress in the film, attended the screening and stayed for a talkback afterwards. Ford discussed how he was able to finally express himself artistically especially since he is seen as more of a commercial designer rather than into haute couture.

Although Moore's performance in the film is almost overshadowed by Firth's who seemed to be built to play the character of George, she talked about how easy it was for her as a veteran of the business to work with Ford as a new director. Although old friends, Moore explained that Ford really believes in the talent of his actors and allowed her to bring herself into the character she played.

Overall the scene composition, transition, and rhythm of the action to the beautifully crafted soundtrack made this film a very touching piece and left me intrigued to see Ford's future in film. Checkout the trailer below for A Single Man.

Joseph Gordon-Levitt on SNL is a Must Watch!

2009-11-22T11:05:00.002-05:00

After watching the opening "monologue" that Joseph Gordon-Levitt gave on SNL the other night I think he may be my selection for male performer of the year (the female one stays with Carey Mulligan of An Education). I never realized how physically able he was or that he could really carry out a musical theater performance, you only really get a little glimpse of that in the song and dance number of 500 Days of Summer. Watch the clip below (it WILL make you laugh) and checkout his interview on Jimmy Fallon as well as he talks about an interesting website he created: hitRECord. Visit the collaborative artistic site, join, and share!

Look Ahead: Agora

2009-11-17T20:42:00.002-05:00

This film isn't scheduled to be released in the U.S. just of yet but hopefully that will change soon! Agora stars Rachel Weisz as a female atheist philosophy professor in Ancient Egypt as the nation turns from its polygamist ways under Roman Christian persecution. Based on the real story of historical figure Hypatia of Alexandria the movie originally premiered at the Cannes Film Festival in 2009 and will be released in Israel, Lebanon, and France in the next few months. While you await its release in the United States check out the trailer below as well as a clip of Ms. Weisz speaking about the film and her character Hypatia.

Casting News: The King's Speech

2009-11-16T08:07:00.002-05:00

Stars Colin Firth and Geoffrey Rush had been set to star in The King's Speech alongside newly cast Helena Bonham Carter, Guy Pearce, Timothy Spall, and Michael Gambon.

The film follows King George VI, the father of the current Queen Elizabeth II as he assumes the title of King of England after his brother Edward formally relinquishes the title after involvement with an American divorce and socialite. Considered unfit by many because of a speech problem, George takes on linguistic help and forms a tight friendship with his new teacher as he rules Britain throughout tumultuous times that included World War II.

What to see this weekend: Fantastic Mr. Fox

2009-11-13T08:19:00.005-05:00

Directed by Wes Anderson, you know right away this is going to be a quirky one. Checkout the trailer below which features the voices of Meryl Streep, George Clooney, Jason Schwartzman, and Bill Murray.

Movie Review: An Education

2009-11-12T07:42:00.002-05:00

The film An Education is a must see in my opinion. Although it was only released in limited theaters in the US, I recommend renting this coming of age film as soon as it is available.

Carey Mulligan plays Jenny, a 16 year old girl growing up in 1960s London and is a little too wise for her own good. When she meets 30 something year old David, played by Peter Sarsgaard, her life takes a complete turn around from its normal routine. Jenny must decide between her past Oxford goals and her new and exciting life with David and his friends.

An unexpected highlight for me was the character of ditzy Helen, played by Rosamund Pike. Her one liners are meticulous and add much humor to the script. Watch the clip below as it shows several scenes from the film & an interview with Carey Mulligan.

Movie Review: Valentine: The Last Emperor

2009-11-08T17:43:00.003-05:00

Valentino: The Last Emperor follows the Italian haute couture fashion designer in his final years as the principal designer of his line. As the oldest standing iconic designer the documentary is an interesting look at the man behind the famous gowns.

Although this film is definitely primarily recommended for those with an interest in fashion, it is also an in depth look at the world of design in general and how the balance of business and art mesh together, revealing ultimately that the glitzy end products and rail thin models are the least of anyone's worries.

Check out the trailer below & checkout the 2008 doc. on dvd.

Movie Review: Bronson

2009-11-07T10:08:00.003-05:00

Bronson is a film that portrays real life British prisoner Michael Peterson, who dubbed himself Charles Bronson later in his life for fighting purposes. Notoriety came to be associated with his name as he slowly achieved his dream of fame through becoming Britain's most dangerous prisoner. He spent 34 years in jail and 30 of those in solitary confinement which did little to alleviate the menace that Charley Bronson was.

This film is definitely worth the watch, but not necessarily a double one. There is nothing extraordinary about this film except for Tom Hardy's performance. His portrayal of the sociopathic Bronson is impeccable, in particular when the film snaps to moments inside Charley's own head when he is performing monologues for an unknown audience.

Hardy brings to life the screenplay that could have easily been completely mutilated by a less than worthy actor. I hope to see more of Hardy who played so fearlessly he reminded me of Daniel Day-Lewis in There Will Be Blood.

The film is in limited release currently in the United States. Check out the trailer & an interview with Hardy below.

Ewan McGregor Interview for The Men Who Stare at Goats

2009-11-06T08:14:00.002-05:00

The Scottish actor best known for his roles in Big Fish, Moulin Rouge, and Star Wars: Episode III-Revenge of the Sith talks about why he was very much excited to take part in this project and why you should see the film which releases throughout the United States today!

What to see this weekend: The Men Who Stare at Goats

2009-11-05T07:50:00.002-05:00

20 Actors I Would Watch in Anything!

2009-11-04T20:12:00.004-05:00

Today seemed to be a great day for lists and Entertainment Weekly posted the 50 Actors They Would Watch in Anything but I narrowed it down to 18 and added two that weren't on the list with some of the notable movies I particularly liked them in.

1.) Clive Owen Closer

2.) Colin Firth Love Actually

3.) Joseph Gordon-Levitt 500 Days of Summer

4.) Alison Janney American Beauty

5.) Javier Bardem Vicky Cristina Barcelona

6.) Bill Nighy Love Actually

7.) George Clooney The Men Who Stare at Goats

8.) Amy Adams Julie & Julia

9.) Kate Winslet The Reader

10.) Jude Law The Talented Mr. Ripley

11.) Philip Seymour Hoffman Cold Mountain

12.) Meryl Streep Julie & Julia

13.) Johnny Depp Alice In Wonderland

14.) Daniel Day-Lewis Gangs of New York

15.) Kristen Bell Forgetting Sarah Marshall

16.) Emma Thompson Love Actually

17.) Catherine Keener 40 Year Old Virgin

18.) Paul Rudd Knocked Up

19.) Matt Damon (My Addition) The Talented Mr. RIpley

20.) Angelina Jolie (My Addition) Changeling

Part 1 of the full list

Part 2 of the full list

20 Best TV Shows of the Decade

2009-11-04T08:03:00.004-05:00

Paste Magazine has come out with their list of the 20 Best TV Shows that have aired since 2000, agree/disagree; feel free to offer some supplements!

Arrested Development
The Wire
The West Wing
The Daily Show with Jon Stewart
The Office
The Sopranos
Lost
Battlestar Galactica
Buffy the Vampire Slayer
Mad Men
Curb Your Enthusiasm
30 Rock
Freaks & Geeks
The Colbert Report
Friday Night Lights
Weeds
Family Guy
Breaking Bad
Dexter
Deadwood

So while I don't watch some of these shows (Breaking Bad, Weeds, The Wire, Battlestar Galactica) I can respect the reasoning as the majority of these weeklies save television viewers from the majority of the reality mania that has otherwise invaded our screens.

For more info on why these shows made the list read the full article HERE!

Film to be excited for: Mammoth

2009-10-31T09:16:00.000-04:00

Very interesting film...

2009-10-13T08:00:00.001-04:00

The show you should be watching...

2009-10-08T15:50:00.002-04:00

Glee, yeah I was a little hesitant at first especially since I'm not into musicals and such, but if you've been avoiding this show like the swine flu, you should stop and reconsider. The premise is based around a rekindled glee club at a high school swamped with cynical minded people...point a finger to funny woman Jane Lynch who is the principal. She and the rest of the cast spew the laugh out loud lines written for them and then go on to sing awesome covers as part of their extracurricular activities.

Check out a clip of the show and a cover performed on last night's epidsode and make sure to watch every Wednesday at 9 on Fox.

Movie Pick of the Week!

2009-10-07T13:23:00.004-04:00

An Education circled all the festivals in 2009 and now is opening in limited release throughout the United States. The film follows a 16 year old girl, played by Carey Mulligan, who falls in love with an older man, played by Peter Saarsgard, in 1960s suburban London. The Variety clip below shows snippets from the film along with interviews from the actors. The movie is based on a memoir and was penned as a screenplay by writer Nick Hornby. Definitely one to check out!

An Education Clip

Add Ally McBeal to your Queues!

2009-10-07T08:09:00.002-04:00

I don't know about the majority of the world but when the show debuted in 97 I was still in grade school and did not get caught up in the crazy legal world of Ms. McBeal. Twelve years later, seven since the show finished, alot has changed in the world of television(including the availability of HD programming on the major networks), but Ally's world has stayed the same and the entire series can be bought or rented, having been released just yesterday! I'm intrigued since all I remember from the show is a dancing baby hallucination...

Real Housewives update

2009-10-06T20:17:00.002-04:00

The Real Housewives of New Jersey is coming back in 2010 along with a new geographic counterpart in DC. Very excited for season 2 of the feisty ladies of NJ and interested to see what goes down in the nation's capital. The New Jersey branch off was the series' highest rated topping Orange County, NYC, and Atlanta so Bravo definitely had to bring it back.

Why Zombieland is #1!

2009-10-05T18:05:00.002-04:00

If you didn't attend this comedy on its opening weekend you missed out! Many would think from the trailer its just another silly movie to ignore and not to put on their radar, but if you've done so I urge you to think again. The movie is well written, laugh out loud funny, and even poignant at times. In a point of time when Vampires are the monster of choice...I throw my vote in the zombie ballot! Plus Emma Stone kicks butt!

CNN agrees!

Flashforward has gone global

2009-10-05T17:56:00.002-04:00

Just like in the premise of the show, Flashforward, the impact is not only State-side. ABC has sold the new fall hit to the various global markets. So far the first two episodes have been suspenseful and leaving audiences, like me, asking for more. The only downfall for the show is its 8pm timeslot, which is too early for me, although DVR generally solves all such problems, and I could do without the show's production team pointing out the specific pieces I should be paying attention to (kangaroo in first episode; like how could we miss that in the middle of LA?) It definately is my must see new fall drama; so if you haven't been watching, now is the time to catch up.

Read the full article from Variety.

I love any movie with Kevin Corrigan

2009-09-16T23:41:00.002-04:00

Harmony and Me is an indie comedy directed by Bob Byington which stars Justin Rice and appears to have the same tagline as 500 Days of Summer, but with a little extra kick in the equation. Here you take 500 Days subtract Sadness add Kevin Corrigan and you equal hiralious! Check out the trailer below:

Movie Pick of the Week!

2009-09-16T23:32:00.002-04:00

Disgrace stars John Malkovich as a professor who lives in Cape Town and has an affair with a student. He moves to the Eastern Cape where his daughter lives to escape the scrutiny but finds himself entangled in post-apartheid politics. The film originally premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival in 2008 and opens in limited release in the U.S. this weekend.

Jersey in the Mid-90s

2009-09-09T22:57:00.002-04:00

I found out about this doc this week and am itching to get my hands on it as it shines light on mid-90s Wildwood, NJ...described as "the last great American blue-collar carnival town." From the trailer I can agree. It was produced by Ruthless Films and can be bought on their website Ruthlessfilms.com. Check out the trailer below!

20 Things Pop Culture Taught Us This Summer

2009-09-08T15:28:00.003-04:00

Entertainment Weekly produced this hilarious slide show of lessons learned from this not so sunny summer. And just like the summer of 09 left us a bit cynical due to mother nature's cruelty...so did the lessons to be learned.

Enjoy!

Get your French fix!

2009-09-04T08:36:00.004-04:00

If you have a craving for the city of lights then I suggest renting the next two films this holiday weekend and be taken away further than to the shore.

Paris, je t'aime is an unfolding of many stories all based around the idea of love...very varying types. Each piece has a different cast and director, but they all unfold seamlessly into each other. Where else can you see Elijah Wood become a vampire...leading into Maggie Gyllenhaal and a drug habbit...into Rufus Sewell seeing the ghost of Oscar Wilde, and still left sobbing at an older couple at the end. The pieces surprise, appease, and anger, and they definately keep you guessing and wondering.

Broken English follows indie queen Parker Posey as she transforms her drab life as a somewhat cynical New Yorker into a life of spontaneous moments filled with risks after meeting a lovely...and handsome Parisian named Julien. They spent a little too much time in the big apple for this one maybe...but it will still leave you with a smile.

Really great documentary to check out!

2009-09-03T08:47:00.001-04:00

The Office adds to cast with Mrs. Beasley

2009-09-02T09:04:00.002-04:00

There's a new Office castmember in town and its Pam's mom! Don't recognize the actress, Linda Purl? That's the point! Mrs. B will make her debut on the show at Pam & Jim's wedding later this month.

For more info on the casting decision check out EW's article below!

Casting Mrs. B.

Highest grossing summer in history

2009-09-01T08:58:00.002-04:00

Although the word "recession"seems to be blurted out every 2 seconds somewhere in the United States, movie theaters thrived this summer and proved to be an escape from the crummy economy. Summer isn't even over technically yet but the national box offices have racked in $4.17 billion so far, up from $4.16 in 2007 which held the title before. The four movies to thank for this: Transformers 2, Harry Potter sequel, Up, and The Hangover. And we still have one very long weekend to go!

Check out the full article below: 2009: A Very Big $$ Movie Deal

What to see this weekend....

2009-08-31T22:33:00.002-04:00

Jason Bateman, Mila Kunis, and Ben Affleck funnier than you have seen him in awhile=Extract...the movie that will help making saying bye to summer just a little bit easier. The writer of Office Space, Mike Judge, brings you this comedy about a man who runs an extract plant whose life is not quite that simple. Check out the trailer below and the film this Friday!

Coming out next week!

2009-07-16T09:02:00.002-04:00

In the summer in particular I always like a good comedy, and In the Loop looks promising to be just that. What happens when there is miscommunication between the US & the UK and it involves Generals and Secretary of State's...hilarity ensues! It comes out next Friday in limited release, but in the mean time check out the trailer below.

In honor of Bastille Day....check this out :)

2009-07-14T23:03:00.002-04:00

Betty Blue or 37.2 (degrees) la matin (in French) initially premiered in the USA 23 years ago; the same birth year as me! It was too hot for American eyes however and never was properly received. Finally many years later, in its maturation with a Director's Cut, the movie made it back in American cinemas and will be available to rent quite soon, so save it on your Netflix queues! It was the 1987 Best Foreign Film of the Year Nominee for the Academy Awards, the BAFTA's, and the Golden Globes...and while it did not win, it is definately worth viewing.

The film follows Zorg, a man leading a fairly simple and undramatic life, until a wild woman named Betty enters his life and fills it not only with passion...but also with some uncontainable craziness. Check out the trailer...and be glad that you have not met a Betty yet!

A Girl Should Be Two Things...Classy & Fabulous! ...Coco Chanel

2009-07-13T19:05:00.003-04:00

Audrey Tautou (Amelie) stars in this film about the legendary designer.
Coco Before Chanel comes out in the States, September 25th in limited release. Exciting, check out the trailer below!

Coming out next Friday!

2009-07-08T09:33:00.002-04:00

Although next week is sure to be Harry Potter mania, if you do not feel like fighting the crowds to see the young wizard's latest installment, check out this film that looks to be an amazing addition to the foreign films released this year. A Woman in Berlin (Anonyma-Eine Frau in Berlin) comes out July 17^th in the US. The film is set in 1945 post WWII when the Soviets invade Berlin and women find themselves to be the victims of rape and devastation as they struggle to survive in their ravaged country. One woman named Anonyma, finds protection under the guard of a Russian officer, due to her educated past, and their relationship develops into a awkward development of love for one's enemy. Check out the trailer!

Woody Harrelson & Abigail Breslin take on the zombies!

2009-06-30T15:40:00.004-04:00

Zombieland , a horror comedy due out this October, looks to do in America what Shaun of the Dead did in England…I don't know if it can but the trailer is quite delicious to watch!

7 days until my birthday & 6 days until Public Enemies!

2009-06-25T09:20:00.001-04:00

Alice in Wonderland…will be quite the visual experience

2009-06-25T09:07:00.005-04:00

Johnny Depp as the Mad Hatter, Helena Bonham Carter as the Queen of Hearts, with an amazing list of other actors as well. Enough said about Tim Burton's Alice in Wonderland expected out next year. The official Alice site went public yesterday on the parent Disney site, and the official US release date is March 5^th, 2010. In the meantime checkout this amazing photo gallery to wet your palettes for what will surely be a feast of a film for the eyes.

Gallery of Photos

Buffy vs. Edward

2009-06-23T10:00:00.002-04:00

In honor of one of my favorite shows growing up Buffy: The Vampire Slayer, I was thrilled to see this mash up of Buffy taking Edward down. It's quite funny…and makes me want to go rewatch the entire series. If they do make another film, I don't know how good it will be with Ms. Gellar.

Because Bradley Cooper is a dreamboat & The Hangover was hilarious

2009-06-22T22:41:00.002-04:00

Film worth watching!

2009-06-22T22:35:00.002-04:00

Moon written and directed by Duncan Jones is a science fiction thriller that is definitely thought provoking. If 2001: A Space Odyssey is right up your alley, then definitely check out this film that follows astronaut Sam Bell (Sam Rockwell) as he has quite the personal realization during the end of his three year contract on the moon. The trailer is below!

Summer means catching up on Film & Travel!

2009-06-19T08:51:00.002-04:00

Yes as we approach the solstice, I think we all get bitten by the summer bug. The one that makes us hungry for big summer blockbusters and foreign lands. This year though you could get both for less, so you don't find yourself penniless when September comes. How? Renting foreign films! Not the same I know, but who knows after building up your knowledge you may be able to visit France or Japan with a little more cultural and linguistic know how! Paste Magazine has put together their list of the 25 essential foreign films, and while I do not completely agree with all on the list, I can say that they are a building ground. So sit back in your living room, sip your Pina Colada, and watch Y Tu Mama Tambien, you may just think you're in Mexico…maybe.
The Decade's 25 Most Essential Foreign Films

Bloopers from the Proposal...and a scene sneak peak

2009-06-18T10:21:00.004-04:00
Gosh I love Sandra Bullock, especially when she acts all awkward...below is a bloopers reel posted & also attached is a link to a very wonderful sneak peak scene!

Good Morning!

Must see film of the week!

2009-06-16T12:17:00.002-04:00
Two words: Nazi Zombies! nuff said!
Dead Snow opens June 19th in limited release, check out the trailer below, I'm tingling with excitement!

Transformers 2, not about the acting! Really?!?!

2009-06-16T08:48:00.002-04:00
Sorry to be all sarcastic about it all but I definately didn't need sexbomb Megan Fox to remind me that Transformers really won't produce any nominees for Best Actor/tress in a leading role at the oscars next year. In all I can't say I completely blame the young starlet for her random comments about unimportant matters, they are not her fault, the reporters do ask the most ridiculously innane questions. To read her interviews with Entertainment Weekly click below, because lets face it even if Shia is the star men and women alike are much for interested in Ms. Fox. O and my mistake Megatron is definately the true star of Transformers...sorry Shia. Transformers 2 opens next Wednesday....watch the trailer below!

Interview 1
Q & A that followed...

Book Pick of the Week!

2009-06-15T09:19:00.003-04:00

Kate Walbert's A Short History of Women has a title that could be seen as a double entendre in the fact that it is "short" in the grand sense of the term history; but quite expansive and detailed in its dealings of the past century . Her novel follows five generations of Townsend women and begins with a British suffragist at the turn of the century to an internet modern day feminist living in New York City.

Another reason to be excited for Christmas Day!

2009-06-14T22:43:00.002-04:00
Not only will there be a present underneath a tree for me on December 25th, 2009 but also one in theaters!

Sherlock Holmes the movie adaptation of Arthur Conan Doyle's famous detective comes out in full release which means three amazing actors that are also extremely easy on the eyes: Robert Downey Jr, Jude Law, and Rachel McAdams with Direction by Guy Ritchie.

Check out the trailer below & sit tight with me for the wait!

Two movies to see if you haven't yet!

2009-06-14T22:34:00.002-04:00
One is fun for the whole family!

Up- The new Pixar film should be seen in 3D!

The other is just hilarious!

They are the current top two in theaters and for good reason!

Book Pick of the Week!

2009-05-14T12:35:00.002-04:00
My Favorite Place on Earth by Jerry Camarillo Dunn is a travel lover's dream. Within the pages of this book sixty amazing publicly known and diverse figures talk about their favorite discoveries in the world.

What to see this weekend....

2009-05-14T12:24:00.003-04:00
Brothers Bloom: If you are in a city where this wacky & fun action comedy is playing check it out!
It stars my personal favorites Rachel Weisz, Adrien Brody, Mark Ruffalo

Angels & Demons: If you haven't read the book, make sure you do so, but this Tom Hanks follow up to the DaVinci Code is full of that summer movie action that everyone loves this time of the year.

Just in case you were worried!

2009-05-14T12:17:00.002-04:00
If you are an in the closet or out of the closet fan of The Hills and you were beginning to get worried about the fate of this non reality/reality MTV show then have no fear, Kristin Cavallari is here. The Laguna Beach starlet has decided there is more drama to be had in Beverly Hills and shes just the gal to jump into it. For a full interview that Cavallari did with Entertainment Weekly about why her Hills will be juicier click below! The next season which will be Lauren-less (gasp!) will be premiere this fall. Kristin's first appearance on the show at Spencer and Heidi's wedding and catches the bouquet...can this unscripted?!?! scenes get any better?

Why Kristin thinks shes better then LC v. 10

Frank Sinatra biopic

2009-05-14T11:52:00.002-04:00
A still untitled Frank Sinatra Project which is in development has been slowly coming together with details. Martin Scorsese has joined Universal and Mandalay Pictures as the director and producer of this project. No one is officially cast in the film, however Leonardo DiCaprio is thought to be the choice to play Sinatara, as Scorsese is known to cling to his actors and DiCaprio has been in a long list of them.

Full Article

This weekend I encourage a "limited" European getaway

2009-05-08T09:38:00.002-04:00
So if you're not a Trekkie like me there are two films that are worth catching and opening only in limited release this weekend.

From the French Riviera comes the heartwarming familial tale Summer Hours which stars one of my favorites Juliette Binoche.

The second film Little Ashes stars Robert Pattinson as Salvador Dali in 1920s Madrid as he explores his artistic visions and the changing world around him.

So which will it be France or Spain?

In case you haven't seen this yet!

2009-05-06T11:32:00.002-04:00
I should've posted this must rent movie yesterday in honor of Cinco de Mayo, but a day late isn't too bad! Y Tu Mama Tambien came out in 2001 and was nominated for an Oscar for Best writing, and Best original screenplay. Although it didn't win the big gold statue it is definitely a movie everyone should see. The story is rich, the dialogue fulfilling, and the film is beautifuly shot. Also actors Gael Garcia Bernal, Diego Luno, and Ana Lopez Mercado bring this engaging story about life...literally to life! Check out the trailer for a sneak peek of what to expect from this film.

Because I can't always talk on the radio

What to see this weekend: Water for Elephants

What to see this weekend: Win Win

Film Review: Potiche

What to see this weekend: Jane Eyre

What to see this weekend:Uncle Boonmee Who Can Recall His Past Lives

Woody Allen takes on Paris

What to see this weekend: A Good Man

The Best Perfomance(s) of the Year!

And the Oscar goes to...

Movie Review: Never Let Me Go

Comedy on the radar; Rosencrantz and Guildenstern Are Undead

Movie Review: Happythankyoumoreplease

Movie to checkout: Bluebeard

Anticipated movie: Breaking Upwards

What to see this weekend: Prodigal Sons

What to watch...

Movie Review: Crazy Heart

2010 Golden Globe Winners

Movie Review: Book of Eli

Movie Review: A Young Victoria

2010 Golden Globe Nominations

Golden Globe Nominations: 2010 List

Golden Globes 2010 Awards Air Date: Sunday, January 17

Best Motion Picture, Drama

Best Motion Picture, Comedy or Musical

Best Director in a Motion Picture

Best Actor in a Motion Picture, Drama

Best Actress in a Motion Picture, Drama

Best Supporting Actor in a Motion Picture

Best Supporting Actress in a Motion Picture

Best Actor in a Motion Picture, Comedy

Best Actress in a Motion Picture, Comedy

Best Screenplay - Motion Picture

Best Animated Feature Film

Best Foreign Language Film

Best Television Series, Drama

Best Televison Series, Comedy or Musical

Best Actor in a Television Series, Drama

Best Actress in a Television Series, Drama

Best Actor in a Television Series, Comedy or Musical

Best Actress in a Television Series, Comedy or Musical

Best Miniseries or Motion Picture Made for Television

Best Actor in a Miniseries or Motion Picture Made for Television

Best Actress in a Miniseries or Motion Picture Made for Television

Best Supporting Actor in a Series, Miniseries or Motion Picture Made for Television

Best Supporting Actress in a Series, Miniseries or Motion Picture Made for Television

Movie Review: Mammoth

Morgan Freeman on Portraying Nelson Mandela

Movie Review: Invictus

Sundance 2010

Rendition: To Rent or Not To Rent

Movie Review: A Single Man

Joseph Gordon-Levitt on SNL is a Must Watch!

Look Ahead: Agora

Casting News: The King's Speech

What to see this weekend: Fantastic Mr. Fox

Movie Review: An Education

Movie Review: Valentine: The Last Emperor

Movie Review: Bronson

Ewan McGregor Interview for The Men Who Stare at Goats

What to see this weekend: The Men Who Stare at Goats

20 Actors I Would Watch in Anything!

20 Best TV Shows of the Decade

Film to be excited for: Mammoth

Very interesting film...

The show you should be watching...

Movie Pick of the Week!

Add Ally McBeal to your Queues!

Real Housewives update

Why Zombieland is #1!

Flashforward has gone global

I love any movie with Kevin Corrigan

Movie Pick of the Week!

Jersey in the Mid-90s

20 Things Pop Culture Taught Us This Summer

Get your French fix!

Really great documentary to check out!

The Office adds to cast with Mrs. Beasley

Highest grossing summer in history