Since it's no one's birthday, I had to get creative. So I will be discussing the top 5 films of Pixar's inferior rival, Dreamworks Animation.
#5-Megamind
This film stars Will Ferrell as a super villain who accidentally kills the super hero, and now has no one to fight. One of my favorite concepts falls a bit flat, but still a funny movie and with an excellent cast including Ferrell, Jonah Hill, Tina Fey and Brad Pitt.
#4-Kung Fu Panda
Another funny cast, led by Jack Black, has a slightly incompetent panda joining an elite martial arts team to fight evil, for lack of a better description. Great action and funny.
#3-Shrek 2
One of the better animated sequels, this installment has Shrek trying to win the respect and approval of Fiona's father. The best sequel in this series of films. Don't even bother watching the last 2, they're not very good.
#2-How to Train Your Dragon
One of my favorite animated films came in one of the best years for animation along with "Megamind," "Despicable Me," and "Toy Story 3." Jay Baruchel plays a young viking nerd who befriends a feared dragon and makes him his pet. This film is great for a number of reasons, but mostly for it's art and visual effects.
#1-Shrek
Still one of the best spoofs and probably the best non-Disney animated feature, this film will forever make me laugh. Mike Myers and Eddie Murphy will most likely be broke without this film since they haven't been very successful with anything else since this movie was released. Nevertheless, this film is still brilliant.
This is gonna be the last post for a while because I'm going to New Jersey and London. See you soon!
Friday, July 27, 2012
Girl, Interrupted
James Mangold directs this adaptation of Susanna Kaysen's memoir of her time in a mental institution. Excellent performances from the ensemble cast, but Winona Ryder and Angelina Jolie stand out. Jolie won an Oscar for her performance. This film gets kind of creepy sometimes with the mental illnesses that these girls suffer from, especially Jolie and Brittany Murphy. However, I found myself questioning why Ryder's character was there in the first place compared to the stories of the other patients. Nevertheless, a good film. 3 stars.
Thursday, July 26, 2012
Top 5 Stanley Kubrick Films
Stanley Kubrick is by far my favorite director. His films are incredible. It's a real shame that his only Oscar came for visual effects. This is probably one of the harder top 5's so far.
#5-Paths of Glory
This is one of Kubrick's earlier films. It tells the story of 3 WW1 soldiers being put to death for refusing to take part in a suicidal mission in the war. This film helped Kubrick become of the best directors, not only of his time, but in history.
#4-The Shining
Jack Nicholson gives one of the most haunting performances in cinema as a hotel caretaker who is corrupted by spirits and goes on a violent rampage against his own family. The film has some of the scariest scenes and characters with some very memorable dialogue.
#3-Spartacus
Kirk Douglas gives another excellent, Kubrick directed performance as a Roman slave who leads a revolt over their owners. The technical aspects of this film are brilliant including the sets, costumes and effects, but the acting is the stand out with a strong cast.
#2-A Clockwork Orange
Malcolm McDowell will never make a better film, and this is probably the best dystopian film to date. McDowell plays a violent man named Alex DeLarge who becomes a government experiment in an effort to rid the city of its crime problem. Brilliant, brilliant, brilliant.
#1-Full Metal Jacket
Most people will disagree with me, but this is my favorite Kubrick film. Kubrick dives into the controversial Vietnam War as he takes us on a ride from boot camp to the war's Tet offensive. R. Lee Ermey's brutal performance as the drill instructor is enough to get you to watch this film.
Honorable Mentions
2001: A Space Odyssey-Not my favorite film, but it is very well done and brilliantly shot.
Dr. Strangelove-Kubrick's funniest film dives into the controversial atomic bomb.
#5-Paths of Glory
This is one of Kubrick's earlier films. It tells the story of 3 WW1 soldiers being put to death for refusing to take part in a suicidal mission in the war. This film helped Kubrick become of the best directors, not only of his time, but in history.
#4-The Shining
Jack Nicholson gives one of the most haunting performances in cinema as a hotel caretaker who is corrupted by spirits and goes on a violent rampage against his own family. The film has some of the scariest scenes and characters with some very memorable dialogue.
#3-Spartacus
Kirk Douglas gives another excellent, Kubrick directed performance as a Roman slave who leads a revolt over their owners. The technical aspects of this film are brilliant including the sets, costumes and effects, but the acting is the stand out with a strong cast.
#2-A Clockwork Orange
Malcolm McDowell will never make a better film, and this is probably the best dystopian film to date. McDowell plays a violent man named Alex DeLarge who becomes a government experiment in an effort to rid the city of its crime problem. Brilliant, brilliant, brilliant.
#1-Full Metal Jacket
Most people will disagree with me, but this is my favorite Kubrick film. Kubrick dives into the controversial Vietnam War as he takes us on a ride from boot camp to the war's Tet offensive. R. Lee Ermey's brutal performance as the drill instructor is enough to get you to watch this film.
Honorable Mentions
2001: A Space Odyssey-Not my favorite film, but it is very well done and brilliantly shot.
Dr. Strangelove-Kubrick's funniest film dives into the controversial atomic bomb.
Body Heat
This film starring Kathleen Turner and William Hurt is overrated. Basically Turner wants Hurt to murder her husband while the two have an extremely steamy love affair. This film is fun to watch at times if you're a guy, even though Kathleen Turner became an ugly, ugly older woman, she once was very attractive. Hurt gives an okay performance, definitely not his best. This film is very cliche with the whole "let's be together, but first you have to kill my rich husband" thing. I give this film 2 out of 3 stars solely based on the fact that there is plenty of "guy friendly" scenes.
Wednesday, July 25, 2012
Top 5 Films of Friends.
to solve Since it's Matt LeBlanc's birthday, here are my top 5 movies involving one of the "Friends."
#5-Trust
David Schwimmer directed this film about a young girl who falls for who she thinks is another teenager on the internet, but he's much older than he says. This film deals with many important issues involving the internet. The dialogue is corny at times, but still a good movie.
#4-Easy A
Lisa Kudrow plays an adulterous guidance counselor to Emma Stone in this excellent teen comedy. Emma Stone is the real star here, but Kudrow is definitely visible in the supporting role.
#3-Horrible Bosses
If you, like every other man in America, is in love with Jennifer Aniston, you must have seen this movie. Her filthy outfits and dialogue are both fun for guys and hilarious. Outside of "Friends," this is definitely her funniest role of her career.
#2-Scream
This Wes Craven film rebooted the slasher film. Courteney Cox stars in all 4 films as an annoying news reporter who will stop at nothing to solve each murder mystery. Her obsessive character slightly resembles Monica Gellar.
#1-Office Space
Jennifer Aniston plays a waitress who hates her job in this cult comedy classic. She is the girlfriend of the hilarious Ron Livingston who steals the show. She's not the funniest part of this film, but her performance is excellent.
Honorable Mentions
The Whole Nine Yards-Matthew Perry's only quality film is funny enough for an honorable mention.
The Good Girl-One of Jennifer Aniston's only serious roles is very well done in this indie flick.
Ace Ventura: Pet Detective- Courteney Cox plays Jim Carrey's sidekick in this funny film.
Matt LeBlanc only made like 4 movies which all suck so he gets no love on his birthday.
#5-Trust
David Schwimmer directed this film about a young girl who falls for who she thinks is another teenager on the internet, but he's much older than he says. This film deals with many important issues involving the internet. The dialogue is corny at times, but still a good movie.
#4-Easy A
Lisa Kudrow plays an adulterous guidance counselor to Emma Stone in this excellent teen comedy. Emma Stone is the real star here, but Kudrow is definitely visible in the supporting role.
#3-Horrible Bosses
If you, like every other man in America, is in love with Jennifer Aniston, you must have seen this movie. Her filthy outfits and dialogue are both fun for guys and hilarious. Outside of "Friends," this is definitely her funniest role of her career.
#2-Scream
This Wes Craven film rebooted the slasher film. Courteney Cox stars in all 4 films as an annoying news reporter who will stop at nothing to solve each murder mystery. Her obsessive character slightly resembles Monica Gellar.
#1-Office Space
Jennifer Aniston plays a waitress who hates her job in this cult comedy classic. She is the girlfriend of the hilarious Ron Livingston who steals the show. She's not the funniest part of this film, but her performance is excellent.
Honorable Mentions
The Whole Nine Yards-Matthew Perry's only quality film is funny enough for an honorable mention.
The Good Girl-One of Jennifer Aniston's only serious roles is very well done in this indie flick.
Ace Ventura: Pet Detective- Courteney Cox plays Jim Carrey's sidekick in this funny film.
Matt LeBlanc only made like 4 movies which all suck so he gets no love on his birthday.
Stripes
Hilarious Ivan Reitman film starring Bill Murray as a nobody who joins the Army with a bunch of fellow misfits, who end up having to go behind enemy lines. Bill Murray is hilarious in this film with one of the funniest casts of the 80's including Harold Ramis, John Candy and Judge Reinhold. The only problem is the lack of a real story. This film gets 3 out of 4 stars.
Tuesday, July 24, 2012
Top 5 Fictional Movie Bands
Today, both Rose Byrne and Elisabeth Moss celebrate birthdays. Both of these actresses starred in the wildly funny, "Get Him to the Greek." So this got me thinking about all the great bands and artists that I wish were real, so here are my top 5.
#5-Dewey Cox, "Walk Hard: The Dewey Cox Story"
John C. Reilly plays this character spoofing such music legends as Ray Charles, Johnny Cash, and Bob Dylan. He is hilarious as he plays a music legend adjusting to the various eras in rock and roll.
#4-Stillwater, "Almost Famous"
Jason Lee and Billy Crudup lead this band across the country on a tour in the 1970's in one of the best written films of this century. Crudup is the focus as the band's guitarist while Lee is the jealous singer who thinks he should be getting all the glory, but the music keeps them together.
#3-Sex Bob-omb, "Scott Pilgrim vs. the World"
"Scott Pilgrim" is a film I fell in love with the moment I saw it, and Sex Bob-omb plays a huge part in making this such an awesome movie. Consisting of Michael Cera, Alison Pill and Mark Webber, this band helps Scott (Michael Cera) defeat one of the evil exes he must face. I could not say enough about this film.
#2-The Blues Brothers
John Belushi and Dan Aykroyd form one of the best comedy duos as well as one of the best bands in film and television history. This film is still very funny and the music is great. The group reformed with John Goodman in the 90's, but it will never be the same.
#1-Spinal Tap
Michael McKean, Christopher Guest, and Harry Shearer form this band for the mockumentary, "This is Spinal Tap." This film perfectly spoofs rock and roll bands with speakers that go up to 11 and the many drummers that are seen with this band. It will forever be one of the best comedy gems of all time.
Honorable Mention
The Wonders, "That Thing You Do"-Tom Hanks introduced this band with one very catchy song and a great story about one bands rise and fall.
Infant Sorrow, "Get Him to the Greek"- Russell Brand is both funny and talented as Aldous Snow singing very funny songs quite impressively.
Any band from "A Mighty Wind"-This film reunites Spinal Tap as a folk band, and even brings together many other fictitious folk bands in this farce about the folk music scene. Very, very funny.
#5-Dewey Cox, "Walk Hard: The Dewey Cox Story"
John C. Reilly plays this character spoofing such music legends as Ray Charles, Johnny Cash, and Bob Dylan. He is hilarious as he plays a music legend adjusting to the various eras in rock and roll.
#4-Stillwater, "Almost Famous"
Jason Lee and Billy Crudup lead this band across the country on a tour in the 1970's in one of the best written films of this century. Crudup is the focus as the band's guitarist while Lee is the jealous singer who thinks he should be getting all the glory, but the music keeps them together.
#3-Sex Bob-omb, "Scott Pilgrim vs. the World"
"Scott Pilgrim" is a film I fell in love with the moment I saw it, and Sex Bob-omb plays a huge part in making this such an awesome movie. Consisting of Michael Cera, Alison Pill and Mark Webber, this band helps Scott (Michael Cera) defeat one of the evil exes he must face. I could not say enough about this film.
#2-The Blues Brothers
John Belushi and Dan Aykroyd form one of the best comedy duos as well as one of the best bands in film and television history. This film is still very funny and the music is great. The group reformed with John Goodman in the 90's, but it will never be the same.
#1-Spinal Tap
Michael McKean, Christopher Guest, and Harry Shearer form this band for the mockumentary, "This is Spinal Tap." This film perfectly spoofs rock and roll bands with speakers that go up to 11 and the many drummers that are seen with this band. It will forever be one of the best comedy gems of all time.
Honorable Mention
The Wonders, "That Thing You Do"-Tom Hanks introduced this band with one very catchy song and a great story about one bands rise and fall.
Infant Sorrow, "Get Him to the Greek"- Russell Brand is both funny and talented as Aldous Snow singing very funny songs quite impressively.
Any band from "A Mighty Wind"-This film reunites Spinal Tap as a folk band, and even brings together many other fictitious folk bands in this farce about the folk music scene. Very, very funny.
Men in Black 3
I was happy to learn that the "Men in Black" franchise would finally add another installment to their series, but the outcome was just so-so. Tommy Lee Jones barely has any screen time in this film due to the fact that Josh Brolin takes over the role as a younger version of Agent K. Then plot and suspense is a little underdone and unoriginal. Basically a monster goes back in time to kill K, and Agent J has to stop him. Barry Sonnenfeld tries to make this film as funny as the previous installments, but falls a bit flat. However, this film is entertaining, and has a twist at the end that brings the entire series together. This film gets 2 1/2 out of 4 stars.
Monday, July 23, 2012
Top 5 Rappers turned actors
In my opinion, rappers can't act, or play music for that matter. But some rappers prove themselves as tolerable and even Oscar nominated actors.
#5-Mos Def
Mos Def has proven that he is one the better rapper-turned-actors with roles in such dramas as "Monster's Ball" and "Cadillac Records." As well as some comedic turns, most notably with Jack Black in "Be Kind Rewind."
#4-Ice Cube
He is on this list mainly for his part in the critically acclaimed "Boyz N the Hood." This is one of my favorite films, and Ice makes an excellent acting debut. He also appears in comedies such as "Friday" and gave a very funny performance in this year's "21 Jump Street."
#3-Eminem
After seeing "8 Mile," I wished Eminem would go further into acting giving a strong debut performance in a character resembling himself. This film would be a major career booster for Eminem as he would win an Oscar for his song, "Lose Yourself."
#2-Will Smith
The fresh prince came onto the scene in the 80's eventually getting national attention in his sitcom, "The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air." But it wasn't until "Ali" that he proved himself as a great actor when he was nominated for an Oscar for Best Actor. His best film, "The Pursuit of Happyness," earned him another Oscar nomination and his "Men in Black" films have pulled in over $1 billion in revenue.
#1-Mark Wahlberg
Wahlberg was originally known as Marky Mark, but got into acting when Penny Marshall cast him in "Renaissance Man." He would eventually become one of Hollywood's most recognizable leading men scoring Oscar nominations for "The Departed" as an actor and "The Fighter" as a producer.
Honorable Mentions
Queen Latifah-I personally do not like this woman, but she is an Oscar nominee so I felt obligated to give her a little love.
P. Diddy-I only mention him because of his hilarious performance in "Get Him to the Greek" as well as his first role in Jon Favreau's "Made."
#5-Mos Def
Mos Def has proven that he is one the better rapper-turned-actors with roles in such dramas as "Monster's Ball" and "Cadillac Records." As well as some comedic turns, most notably with Jack Black in "Be Kind Rewind."
#4-Ice Cube
He is on this list mainly for his part in the critically acclaimed "Boyz N the Hood." This is one of my favorite films, and Ice makes an excellent acting debut. He also appears in comedies such as "Friday" and gave a very funny performance in this year's "21 Jump Street."
#3-Eminem
After seeing "8 Mile," I wished Eminem would go further into acting giving a strong debut performance in a character resembling himself. This film would be a major career booster for Eminem as he would win an Oscar for his song, "Lose Yourself."
#2-Will Smith
The fresh prince came onto the scene in the 80's eventually getting national attention in his sitcom, "The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air." But it wasn't until "Ali" that he proved himself as a great actor when he was nominated for an Oscar for Best Actor. His best film, "The Pursuit of Happyness," earned him another Oscar nomination and his "Men in Black" films have pulled in over $1 billion in revenue.
#1-Mark Wahlberg
Wahlberg was originally known as Marky Mark, but got into acting when Penny Marshall cast him in "Renaissance Man." He would eventually become one of Hollywood's most recognizable leading men scoring Oscar nominations for "The Departed" as an actor and "The Fighter" as a producer.
Honorable Mentions
Queen Latifah-I personally do not like this woman, but she is an Oscar nominee so I felt obligated to give her a little love.
P. Diddy-I only mention him because of his hilarious performance in "Get Him to the Greek" as well as his first role in Jon Favreau's "Made."
Cool as Ice
This is one of those movies that I immediately regretted watching, but watching Vanilla Ice try to act was worth the viewing. As one of the worst movies ever made, this actually cracks the IMDB bottom 100 at #93 with an average score of 2.4. Why would they ever try to redo "Rebel Without a Cause" in the first place, and with a bad rapper no less. Believe it or not, Gwyneth Paltrow almost took the lead female role in this film, but her father wouldn't allow her to. I almost wish she had since this movie probably would've ruined her career and then I wouldn't have had to sit through "Country Strong." Take it from me, don't watch this movie.
Sunday, July 22, 2012
Top 5 Films of Albert Brooks and Willem Dafoe
To celebrate the birthdays of 2 excellent Oscar nominated actors, I will be picking the 5 best movies of Willem Dafoe and Albert Brooks.
#5-Drive
Albert Brooks was robbed of an Oscar nomination in this film from last year. He steals the show as a mobster who tries to get Ryan Gosling to drive his stock car. Brooks gives the best performance of his career in this extremely violent but great action movie.
#4-Spiderman
Willem Dafoe stars as the Green Goblin in possibly his most memorable role. He is perfect for the part as he brings he creepy look to the character and is an excellent Marvel villain.
#3-The Boondock Saints
Dafoe plays a homosexual detective in this cult hit. His funny yet spot on interpretation of the role is a huge stand out in this film about 2 Irish vigilantes on the streets of Boston.
#2-Taxi Driver
Though not a starring role for Brooks, this film will forever be known as one of his bests. Brooks plays a New York City political activist trying to lead a politician to a presidential election. He has a small but important role in the film.
#1-Finding Nemo
Both Brooks and Dafoe donate their voices to this instant Pixar classic. Brooks voices the concerned clownfish, Marlin, while Dafoe plays a determined domesticated fish, Gill. Both major parts in the long journey to return Nemo back to his home in the ocean. Even though this is not either one of their best performances, it is my favorite film starring either one of them.
Honorable Mentions
Broadcast News-Brooks plays a news anchor in his only Oscar nominated role.
American Psycho-This filmed is noted for Christian Bale's creepy serial killer role, Dafoe plays a detective trying to solve the murder mysteries.
Platoon-In one of the best Vietnam War films, Dafoe gives an Oscar nominated performance and one of the most iconic scenes in any war film.
#5-Drive
Albert Brooks was robbed of an Oscar nomination in this film from last year. He steals the show as a mobster who tries to get Ryan Gosling to drive his stock car. Brooks gives the best performance of his career in this extremely violent but great action movie.
#4-Spiderman
Willem Dafoe stars as the Green Goblin in possibly his most memorable role. He is perfect for the part as he brings he creepy look to the character and is an excellent Marvel villain.
#3-The Boondock Saints
Dafoe plays a homosexual detective in this cult hit. His funny yet spot on interpretation of the role is a huge stand out in this film about 2 Irish vigilantes on the streets of Boston.
#2-Taxi Driver
Though not a starring role for Brooks, this film will forever be known as one of his bests. Brooks plays a New York City political activist trying to lead a politician to a presidential election. He has a small but important role in the film.
#1-Finding Nemo
Both Brooks and Dafoe donate their voices to this instant Pixar classic. Brooks voices the concerned clownfish, Marlin, while Dafoe plays a determined domesticated fish, Gill. Both major parts in the long journey to return Nemo back to his home in the ocean. Even though this is not either one of their best performances, it is my favorite film starring either one of them.
Honorable Mentions
Broadcast News-Brooks plays a news anchor in his only Oscar nominated role.
American Psycho-This filmed is noted for Christian Bale's creepy serial killer role, Dafoe plays a detective trying to solve the murder mysteries.
Platoon-In one of the best Vietnam War films, Dafoe gives an Oscar nominated performance and one of the most iconic scenes in any war film.
Tron
Before watching this movie, I made the mistake of watching this movie. This horrible 80's action movie takes place in a video game and I honestly have no idea what it was about because I lost interest so easily. What compelled them to make a sequel? I have no idea. This is probably the only bad Jeff Bridges movie that I've seen (Apparently "Texasville" was bad, too, but I have no interest). The effects are laughable based on the fact that it was made by Disney and I know that better visual effects were available at the time. This move was pretty terrible, so I gave it a disappointing 2 out of 4 stars.
Saturday, July 21, 2012
Top 5 Films of Robin Williams
In honor of his 61st birthday, today's top 5 will be my favorite films of Robin Williams.
#5-The Birdcage
Robin plays a gay nightclub owner in this adaptation of "La Cage Aux Folles" (I think I spelled that right). This is probably his funniest performance of his career, especially in a memorable dancing scene.
#4-Aladdin
Robin has also long been known for his voice, especially in this Disney classic. Robin memorably plays the Genie and is still very funny without ever seeing him.
#3-Good Morning Vietnam
He earned his first Oscar nomination as a crazy DJ entertaining the troops during the Vietnam War. This truly was a breakout role as he proved himself as a great comedian as well as an excellent dramatic actor, all at the same time.
#2-Dead Poets Society
Mr. Williams plays a teacher at an all boys school who inspires them to seize the day and live life to its fullest. He gives another Oscar nominated performance and still inspires people live this kind of life.
#1-Good Will Hunting
Robin finally won a well deserved Oscar for this film as he played a mentor to a janitor who is surprisingly a mathematical genius. However, this film was his last great performance as his films has stunk since then, but his career will forever be legendary.
#5-The Birdcage
Robin plays a gay nightclub owner in this adaptation of "La Cage Aux Folles" (I think I spelled that right). This is probably his funniest performance of his career, especially in a memorable dancing scene.
#4-Aladdin
Robin has also long been known for his voice, especially in this Disney classic. Robin memorably plays the Genie and is still very funny without ever seeing him.
#3-Good Morning Vietnam
He earned his first Oscar nomination as a crazy DJ entertaining the troops during the Vietnam War. This truly was a breakout role as he proved himself as a great comedian as well as an excellent dramatic actor, all at the same time.
#2-Dead Poets Society
Mr. Williams plays a teacher at an all boys school who inspires them to seize the day and live life to its fullest. He gives another Oscar nominated performance and still inspires people live this kind of life.
#1-Good Will Hunting
Robin finally won a well deserved Oscar for this film as he played a mentor to a janitor who is surprisingly a mathematical genius. However, this film was his last great performance as his films has stunk since then, but his career will forever be legendary.
Percy Jackson and the Olympians: The Lightning Thief
Let's get something straight, I don't read. So I think that's why I enjoyed this movie so much, as well as most movies based on books that don't exactly follow the book, i.e. "The Hunger Games." Chris Columbus directs this adaptation and does just enough to keep me into this movie for the entire 2 hours. Percy Jackson discovers that he is not only a demigod, but the son of Zeus, and he must find out who has stolen Zeus' lightning bolt in order to prevent a war of the gods. The film and book does an excellent job introducing Greek mythology to a younger crowd by incorporating these myths into today's world. Once again, I gave this film 3 out of 4 stars.
Friday, July 20, 2012
Top 5 Live Action Disney Movies
Disney has been hitting it big with it's live action films, especially the "Pirates of the Caribbean" franchise. So I've decided to share my Top 5 favorite live action Disney films.
#5-The Mighty Ducks
This is a favorite for kids growing up in the 90's. Emilion Estevez easily made the switch from Breakfast Clubber to Pee Wee hockey coach as Gordon Bombay. This group of young actors have largely disappeared into the Hollywood abyss, but Joshua Jackson went on to much bigger and better things, and a young Kenan Thompson appears in the second and third films in the franchise as the rare black hockey player from the hood. Who would have thought!?
#4-Old Yeller
This is probably the saddest Disney film to date. Old Yeller tells the story of a heroic dog who saves the lives of his owners on more than one occasion, but (spoiler alert) he gets rabies and dies. Big tearjerker for women. Men not so much.
#3-Cool Runnings
One of my favorite sports movies tells the fictionalized true story of the first Jamaican bobsled team. This film is still hilarious largely due to Doug E. Doug's performance and John Candy's washed up portrayal of the team's American coach.
#2-Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl
This film launched one of the most successful film franchises in history, spawning 3 sequels, 2 of which grossed over $1 billion. Johnny Depp introduces Captain Jack Sparrow and has become one of the most iconic Disney characters of recent memory. The action and swashbuckling stunts are incredible. Too bad the other 3 movies in the series are awful.
#1-Remember the Titans
As a former high school football player, this film inspired me as well as many young athletes across the country. Denzel Washington and Will Patton form a great team and leads this diverse football team to an unlikely championship despite the racial barriers. This movie is just as exciting with every viewing.
#5-The Mighty Ducks
This is a favorite for kids growing up in the 90's. Emilion Estevez easily made the switch from Breakfast Clubber to Pee Wee hockey coach as Gordon Bombay. This group of young actors have largely disappeared into the Hollywood abyss, but Joshua Jackson went on to much bigger and better things, and a young Kenan Thompson appears in the second and third films in the franchise as the rare black hockey player from the hood. Who would have thought!?
#4-Old Yeller
This is probably the saddest Disney film to date. Old Yeller tells the story of a heroic dog who saves the lives of his owners on more than one occasion, but (spoiler alert) he gets rabies and dies. Big tearjerker for women. Men not so much.
#3-Cool Runnings
One of my favorite sports movies tells the fictionalized true story of the first Jamaican bobsled team. This film is still hilarious largely due to Doug E. Doug's performance and John Candy's washed up portrayal of the team's American coach.
#2-Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl
This film launched one of the most successful film franchises in history, spawning 3 sequels, 2 of which grossed over $1 billion. Johnny Depp introduces Captain Jack Sparrow and has become one of the most iconic Disney characters of recent memory. The action and swashbuckling stunts are incredible. Too bad the other 3 movies in the series are awful.
#1-Remember the Titans
As a former high school football player, this film inspired me as well as many young athletes across the country. Denzel Washington and Will Patton form a great team and leads this diverse football team to an unlikely championship despite the racial barriers. This movie is just as exciting with every viewing.
Mary Poppins
I wanted to avoid reviewing a kids movie for as long as possible but it didn't last very long. Everyone has seen this film, and everyone loves it. Although everyone praises Julie Andrews' Oscar winning performance, my favorite star is Dick Van Dyke. He never disappoints and brilliantly displays his dancing ability with a pack of cartoon penguins. I give it 3 out of 4 stars. Hopefully tomorrow I can review a movie I didn't like.
Thursday, July 19, 2012
Top 5 Prison Films
Reviewing "The Count of Monte Cristo" got me thinking of other films revolving around prison, so here are my top 5.
#5-Chicago
Since I am a huge musical theatre nerd, this squeaks in at #5. Rob Marshall's film adaptation of the Kander and Ebb Broadway smash revived the movie musical being the first musical to bring home an Oscar for Best Picture since "Oliver" in 1968. It tells the story of a Chicago woman awaiting her trial after she murders her lover. The music and choreography is brilliant, and gave me a new love for the show since I hated the musical on stage.
#4-The Green Mile
One of two Frank Darabont films on this list, "The Green Mile" follows a group of death row guards who encounter an interesting new inmate. Tom Hanks again proves himself as one of the best actors in film history, and Darabont's direction is top notch.
#3-American History X
Even though this film doesn't completely take place in prison, it's way to good to leave off this list. Edward Norton gives what I think is one of the best performances without winning an Oscar. This powerful film sends a message that sticks to you for years, and gets stronger with every viewing.
#2-Cool Hand Luke
Paul Newman is still the best actor ever. And this film would be #1 if Frank Darabont wasn't such a genious.
#1-The Shawshank Redemption
If you don't like this movie, you don't like breathing. Yet another Darabont/Stephen King collaboration, this one is the best. It currently tops the IMDB top 250 with an average score of 9.2. Morgan Freeman gives the best performance of his career, and this film will never go out of style.
Honorable Mentions
The Longest Yard(1974)-Still Burt Reynold's best starring role.
Holes-My favorite book+Shia Labeouf=great Disney film
#5-Chicago
Since I am a huge musical theatre nerd, this squeaks in at #5. Rob Marshall's film adaptation of the Kander and Ebb Broadway smash revived the movie musical being the first musical to bring home an Oscar for Best Picture since "Oliver" in 1968. It tells the story of a Chicago woman awaiting her trial after she murders her lover. The music and choreography is brilliant, and gave me a new love for the show since I hated the musical on stage.
#4-The Green Mile
One of two Frank Darabont films on this list, "The Green Mile" follows a group of death row guards who encounter an interesting new inmate. Tom Hanks again proves himself as one of the best actors in film history, and Darabont's direction is top notch.
#3-American History X
Even though this film doesn't completely take place in prison, it's way to good to leave off this list. Edward Norton gives what I think is one of the best performances without winning an Oscar. This powerful film sends a message that sticks to you for years, and gets stronger with every viewing.
#2-Cool Hand Luke
Paul Newman is still the best actor ever. And this film would be #1 if Frank Darabont wasn't such a genious.
#1-The Shawshank Redemption
If you don't like this movie, you don't like breathing. Yet another Darabont/Stephen King collaboration, this one is the best. It currently tops the IMDB top 250 with an average score of 9.2. Morgan Freeman gives the best performance of his career, and this film will never go out of style.
Honorable Mentions
The Longest Yard(1974)-Still Burt Reynold's best starring role.
Holes-My favorite book+Shia Labeouf=great Disney film
The Count of Monte Cristo
Today's Lenny Maltin film will be the 2002 adaptation of Alexandre Dumas' novel, "The Count of Monte Cristo" directed by Kevin Reynolds and starring Jesus Christ as Edmond Dantes. Since I didn't know anything about the novel or the previous film versions, I would say this was a great adaptation of the book. Mr. Christ eventually went on to play the title role in "The Passion of the Caviezel," but his performance in this film was excellent. The film tells the story of a prison inmate. That's all you need to know. I, like Leonard, gave this film 3 out of a possible 4 stars.
Wednesday, July 18, 2012
Top 5 Basketball Films
Today's Top 5 list will be my all-time top 5 basketball themed films. This genre is not as popular as one would think, but I found a few movies that I enjoyed enough to write about, and none of them is Coach Carter because that movie sucked.
#5-Love and Basketball
I recently saw this film and kind of enjoyed it. Good story, but I did not like the female lead (played by Sanaa Lathan). She was quite ugly and a bit evil which kind of scared me, and I couldn't help but think that Omar Epps could do a lot better than a woman basketball player who seemed to have more testosterone than myself. I'm not saying women athletes are ugly, most of them are but that's not my point here, I'm just saying he belongs he could use some better looking female counterparts in his films.
#4-Space Jam
Everyone my age has seen and loved this film. Michael Jordan teams up with Bugs Bunny to make the best Looney Tunes movie ever (there haven't been many). Jordan has never acted since and probably will not after this 90's classic.
#3-Glory Road
This excellent Disney biopic tells the story of the 1966 Texas Western (now UTEP) men's basketball team who was the first team to start 5 African American players. Disney has a knack of making good sports films and they don't disappoint here. Josh Lucas gives a great performance as coach Don Haskins, who broke color barriers and took this team of minorities to a national championship.
#2-White Men Can't Jump
Woody Harrelson and Wesley Snipes make a great team as they hustle the streets of Venice Beach, California. Harrelson of course plays the white guy who actually can jump. Ron Shelton directs his second of 4 sports films, but not quite as good as his earlier work, "Bull Durham."
#1-Hoosiers
This is an obvious #1 and the main reason I chose this topic as my first Top 5. I recently watched this again and realized how awesome it is. Gene Hackman and Dennis Hopper give career defining performances is this film about a small Indiana high school who defies the odds and wins a state championship. This film will stand the test of time and always be a sports film classic.
Honorable Mentions
The Basketball Diaries-I didn't pick this because it was about basketball as much as most other films in the genre, but Leonardo Dicaprio gives a great young performance
He Got Game-This Spike Lee joint gives a surprising performance from Ray Allen, but not good enough for me.
Semi-Pro-Undeniably funny, but bad movie makes it good enough for an honorable mention.
Again, Coach Carter sucks and will never make this list.
#5-Love and Basketball
I recently saw this film and kind of enjoyed it. Good story, but I did not like the female lead (played by Sanaa Lathan). She was quite ugly and a bit evil which kind of scared me, and I couldn't help but think that Omar Epps could do a lot better than a woman basketball player who seemed to have more testosterone than myself. I'm not saying women athletes are ugly, most of them are but that's not my point here, I'm just saying he belongs he could use some better looking female counterparts in his films.
#4-Space Jam
Everyone my age has seen and loved this film. Michael Jordan teams up with Bugs Bunny to make the best Looney Tunes movie ever (there haven't been many). Jordan has never acted since and probably will not after this 90's classic.
#3-Glory Road
This excellent Disney biopic tells the story of the 1966 Texas Western (now UTEP) men's basketball team who was the first team to start 5 African American players. Disney has a knack of making good sports films and they don't disappoint here. Josh Lucas gives a great performance as coach Don Haskins, who broke color barriers and took this team of minorities to a national championship.
#2-White Men Can't Jump
Woody Harrelson and Wesley Snipes make a great team as they hustle the streets of Venice Beach, California. Harrelson of course plays the white guy who actually can jump. Ron Shelton directs his second of 4 sports films, but not quite as good as his earlier work, "Bull Durham."
#1-Hoosiers
This is an obvious #1 and the main reason I chose this topic as my first Top 5. I recently watched this again and realized how awesome it is. Gene Hackman and Dennis Hopper give career defining performances is this film about a small Indiana high school who defies the odds and wins a state championship. This film will stand the test of time and always be a sports film classic.
Honorable Mentions
The Basketball Diaries-I didn't pick this because it was about basketball as much as most other films in the genre, but Leonardo Dicaprio gives a great young performance
He Got Game-This Spike Lee joint gives a surprising performance from Ray Allen, but not good enough for me.
Semi-Pro-Undeniably funny, but bad movie makes it good enough for an honorable mention.
Again, Coach Carter sucks and will never make this list.
Pirate Radio
My first film review as brought to you by Leonard Maltin's 2011 Movie Guide is "Pirate Radio" or "The Boat That Rocked" as it's known in the UK. Directed by Richard Curtis and starring Phillip Seymour Hoffman with a wide array of British actors, this film is about a radio ship in the 60's broadcasting rock music to households when the playing of this music on the airwaves was illegal. With the British government taking notice of these pirate radio stations, they have passed a law that will shut down the boats forever. Fighting to stay on board, the crew does whatever they can to keep the ship afloat and stay on the air. That's pretty much all this film has to offer as far as the plot goes. Not much else there. However, there are many excellent performances, especially from the likes of Hoffman, Bill Nighy and (one of my favorite Brits) Nick Frost. These actors give some excellent comedic performances, but the true star of the film is the soundtrack. Consisting of hit after hit from the 60's, the soundtrack pulls you into the film regardless of the lackluster story. This major aspect of the film let me thoroughly enjoy the film and give this 3 out of a possible 4 stars.
Welcome Followers
Welcome to this brand new blog for movie lovers. I will be posting daily about a different random movie that I will be randomly selecting from Leonard Maltin's movie guide. They could be old or new, but whatever film comes up that I've seen, I'll be briefly reviewing. I'll also be posting a daily "Top 5" list of different genres or actors or directors. Sometimes I'll celebrate someone's birthday or I'll just write about whatever is on my mind. Hopefully I can keep this blog up as long as possible.
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