Mike Wilkerson's Movies

The Top 5 Astronaut Movies of All Time

2009-07-08T17:50:00.001-07:00

Please do take a moment to review my inaugural article for a website I have dreamed of writing for, "ScreenRant" - which published my first article this evening. First up, a topic dear to my heart - HUMAN SPACEFLIGHT in "The Top 5 Astronaut Movies of All Time" commemorating the 40th Anniversary of the Moon Landing. Please DO COMMENT and tell friends!

The Top 5 Astronaut Movies of All Time
Via ScreenRant.Com - Mike Wilkerson

Everyone has looked up into a clear evening sky to conduct their own survey of distant pinpricks in the regularly-occurring blackness. Passing aircraft, the stars and that which is always largest in the night sky - the Moon.

July 20, 2009, marks the 40th Anniversary of man landing on the Moon, and to showcase a different flavor of that same obsession, Screen Rant’s newest writer (yours truly), dons his newly-minted writing/explorer spacesuit to provide a listing of the Top 5 Astronaut Movies - a look back at the best storytelling that put you into the shoes of those who have TRULY gone boldly where we hope many more men (and women) will eventually go.

Click here to view the entire article via ScreenRant.Com NOW!

DVD Collection Update, Thanks to DVD Profiler from Invelos!

2009-06-16T21:24:00.000-07:00

Ahh, the occasional happenstance of free-time movie watching. I've acquired several new DVD's that I've added to my collection and - thanks to DVD Profiler, you can now view them ALL, right now, and make your own collection for FREE.

Be sure to check out DVD Profiler, and my collection to see what kind of common ground we share in the way of DVD interests and tell me what some of YOUR favorites are via my contact form here at MikeWilkerson.Com. Thanks for visiting and I look forward to hearing from YOU about your movie collections!

People Safari - West -As the Sun Sets on Another Tuesday...

2009-02-03T15:36:00.000-08:00

Last week Tuesday, I left my regular 9-5er and went to a community coffee shop that I frequent. The instant I got in I knew that it was going to be one of those "grab my proverbial pithe helmet kind of stretches and sure enough - I was right!

In the booth next to me were two female gentle beings, both of similar height, weight and their calls (voices) were almost exactly the same. It looked as though they were both exhibiting "nesting" behaviour - one with a large series of stringy cloth strands (known in some cultures as "yarn") and long steel pins that were weaved in and out of the material. The other had some kind of electronic TV tray, that must have been powered by electricity because it emitted light. Obviously, both of these beings were from an advanced culture. On the lower half of the L-shaped electric TV tray, there were symbols on small rectangular seashell-sounding tiles that the one on the left was pushing down with both of her hands in almost an almost musical tamber, over and over again, often hitting a longer, rectangular "button" that made a definitive "clack!" as her little digit on the end of her right arm thundered across it, over and over again.

After approximately 30 minutes of silence, another, younger male, but clearly in the same genus individual arrived. From what I could gather via my Universal Interpreter Device (that works in all conditions, tempretures, environments and times of day), this was the son of the one that was clacking on the electric TV tray. Apparently the "son" had been sent home from school earlier in the day because he as now on something called "academic probation." Ahh, very interesting and revealing. It was hard for me to capture all of the details I had gleaned from my UI, but what I did noticed was the amount of the word "like" used, in almost every single fragmented sentence.

Fascinating.

My UI also helped me understand that in addition to being on academic probation, that the son was also in danger of "flunking out" of some kind of institution - school I assume. It was apparently all the fault of the "stupid teachers" at his school, that clearly don't understand the way he works, and continue to disrepect the way he talks, dresses and acts while in their presence. Oh how terrible for him. Perhaps if he had more piercings on his face, the unruly "stupid teachers" would be better able to read his expressions. How unfair.

Shortly thereafter, the hatch the the coffee aromaed cave I was monitoring. In strode what looked like the same male offspring, but with a pink jacket, different facial piercings and giant earring studs that made the lobes of her ears enormous. Amazing: Except for the differing clothes and mammory glands, this one looked just like the other male offspring. She put down a large sack - perhaps books like the male offspring. Oh my, apparently she too was suffering under he boot of those same dreaded "stupid teachers" because she too was experiencing something called "academic probation" - the mama electric TV tray clacker seemed unfazed by the information and continued to smack her fingertips against the symboled seashell-sounding device.

As the veil of Mutial of Omaha's Wild Electronic Kingdom rises from the Grab the Wheel blog, my usual sarcasm is prepped and ready to get wet! I have been blogging for years now and every time I am in the middle of a situation like this I am reminded how mundane all of my previous witnessings truly are. Here, in front of everyone in the shop that I'm in is a nother paying next to no attention to her two pierced children, who have both just told her that they'e both on academic probation.

Both? In the same day?

Another question rises from my common-sense laced life How many piercings is "too many for what looks like a freshman and sophomore in high school? Do the giant stud loop earring lobes eventually "stretc back to normal? I could put my cell phone in this girls earlobe and she could carry it for me.

The other thing that just absolutely drops my jaw, is the almost complete lack of attention by the mother and (apparently) aunt to the children's plight. Unless something drastic has changed since I was in high school, academic probabation is a big deal. It seemed to be less important than the almond carmel mocha that she stepped away to get a refill of.

Can someone help me with what I'm witnessing here? I will continue to don my electronic pithe helmet and comment on things that I see from various perches in life.

So You Think You Can Dance, Snuggle, and Ken Dippold...

2008-09-11T12:15:00.000-07:00

Let me be plain - I do NOT think I can dance, regardless of how much I drink, who's company I'm in, or -- let's face it - I know I cannot dance. :) Last month, ironically while on a strange and all-too-short family vacation, I was contacted by our pals over at RocketXL, a web-based promotional group that we've worked with since the inception of 2GuysTalking and they asked us if we wanted to partcipate in a great new promotion that Snuggle was tossing through. Being the ever-interested online Barnum & Bailey folks that we are, we said "yes" and jumped in - with both feet so to speak.

Having never seen the show, "So You Think You Can Dance" and only having used Snuggle long enough to know that I liked the original's smell better than most of the other stuff I could smell at the food store, we ventured forward. How on EARTH could I tie in something like "Snuggle" and "So You Think You Could Dance" to my life, television and our audience. Then it hit me...

STORY TIME! Ahh, the web-based bliss of yet another Wilkerson tale.

Caption Hunt: Cast Away

2008-08-03T09:45:00.001-07:00

Show Viewing Date: 8-2-2008
Show Title: Cast Away - Starring Tom Hanks
Network: TNTHD
Reviewed By: Mike Wilkerson - 2GuysTalking.Com

Intro:

As I arrive back from a very short but satisfying rare mid-year vacation, I find myself drawn to watching and taking in the movie "Cast Away" with Tom Hanks, directed by Robert Zemeckis and noteably scored by Alan Silvestri. Those of you that have seen this film know "what happens" but I'd like to issue a quick spoiler warning to those of you that haven't yet seen the film. It's an outstanding film and my Caption Hunt Review of the movie "Cast Away" will destroy any surprise at all.

Opinion Review:

In this feature, Tom Hanks plays "Chuck" an A personality do-it-all guy that works for FedEx training people and solving solutions all over the world. Helen Hunt plays "Kelly" his soul mate who is a hungry doctorate student that loves Chuck, loves her life, and loves the way that Chuck makes her feel. All of that comes literally crashing as Chuck's ride home airflight slams into the south pacific where he is "cast away" into the deep blue in nothing but his frumpy sweater, socks, and a yellow life raft. Chuck is awakened the next day by the burst of his life raft as it strikes the rocky shore of a unique but still non-descript island that will serve as Chuck's home - for the next 5 years.

Click here to read the rest of this great Caption Hunt Review of "Cast Away"...

Resolved to Marvel at Captioning - Interpreter Hell Incarnate

2008-06-29T12:38:00.000-07:00

Movie Viewing Date: June 29th, 2008
Movie Title: Resolved
Network: HBOHD
Reviewed By: Mike Wilkerson - The 2GuysTalking Caption Hunt

Intro:

In the span of my Hard of Hearing-Interpreter career, I have only experienced what I have considered "interpreter hell" a very few times. The stand up comediant referring to the interpreter on stage, testing the interpreter to see "how far they will go" to convey information. Situations that showcase physical proximity to dangers both environmental and legitimate physical harm. They've all been a piece of what is the history of my Interpreting career. I have always prided myself on being able to collect the details of a line of dialogue, an overall argument - to absorb information and be able to translate that to American Sign Language in its many incarnations and provide that to my previous clients. "Resolved" - an outstanding movie on HBOHD this morning showcased the true reality if what would be Interpreter Hell, and why I have never had the opportunity to interpret competitive high school and collegiate debate.

Opinion Review:

What I have found most satisfying about this on-going series of Caption Hunt Reviews is that it has allowed me to not only enjoy an outstanding home theater (called "The Shire"), it also has opened doors to programs that I probably would have never had the interest in watching ot listening to. This movie, "Resolved" was something I probably would have skipped on by, except that I read that it involved debate. While debate was something I dabbled in in high school, the skills, jargon and sheer annunciation skill that I saw in the first several minutes of this truly made my ears and mind spin, wondering just how on Earth I would/could interpret this dialoging bonanza and the answer would have been very much like a very fast country, rock, death-metal or rap song, where I can understand a word here or there, but never anything strung together even on the best most-rested afternoon ever.

Additionally, I wanted to see exactly how this show, where there is a significant section of it depicted with people speed read-speaking (where they actually are giving cogent thought that is collected by not only the team they're debating against, but also the fellow debaters in the room, the judges in the room, and what I perceived were clearly onlookers watching and listening in amazement just as I did for the entire movie, were going to capture in captioning, how the people were speaking so fast. The accomplished it with the same thing interpreters us where the captioning says "[speaking indistinctly]" meaning that they are speaking but nothing in general can be gleaned from what's being said.

The captioning follows each and every team, including the showcased teams that are followed for a series of years as they complete year-round tournaments, local sectionals and everything in between. The names of the players are provided often both in graphics as titles for the participants but also inside of the captioning when they're speaking off screen to people on-screen, that really does make for an easier captioned read. I wish that other programs would take on this trait. In addition to what is the base closed captioning of the movie, they have several sections, including the speed read-speaking segments that are open captioned, which really helps you understand much of what the Deaf and Hard of Hearing Communities experience. A lot of people are under the impression that Deaf and Hard of Hearing people either have hearing, or don't have hearing, when in actuality, it's almost always somewhere on the spectrum of overall hearing losss. I am on the extreme able to function independently end of the Hard of Hearing spectrum and open and closed captioning is definitely gravy for me and helps me to better understand the players participating, their names, the spelling of their names, and more. Regardless of your ability to hear, I would challenge ANYONE READING THIS COLUMN to try to understand much of what is heard inside of this episode, without captioning of any kind. You simply will not be able to do it. Here's why: Over the years, competitive debate has "evolved" into a sort of shorthand speak, that is clearly discernable to those who use and participate in it's creation. To the "rest of us", it sounds just like what shorthand on paper looks like to people that just "write" - squiggles, fragments of words, sometimes-able-to-collect words but not much more. According to the show, the human brain can comprehend up to 800 words per minute being heard. Each of the presenteres in full speed read-speaking mode were pushing about 400 words per minute but it was still - AMAZINGLY DIFFICULT to make them out and I thought to myself: it's possible for some to double THIS speed and sill make things out? Amazing! The experience of listening to them is akin to watching someone speak incredibly fast, with an almost habit-formed bak occurring mid-sentence to break the cadence but also to allow breath. It's one of those things that when you see it with friends, you'll definitely look at your friends sitting in the room and say "you've gotta' be shitting me..."

It's amazing, it's otherworldly, and the best part - it's an acquired and dying skill that many people will never have the opportunity to see - save for the advent of this film that is.

The film continues following the groups as they grow older, pass through the system, and win and lose some major milestones in their scholastic debate careers. There is a point where there is a "revolutnionary team" that makes their presence known, and while I thought the initial ideas that they were providing were solid in regard to what is wrong with "the debate game" and actually attacking it by attacking the process and habitial creation traits of debate, rather than the other team- oy - that descending into what was one of the most frustrating "it's all about racism, and you can't understand because we're black" sessions that make for some very frustrating watching. Thankfully, that is a very tiny and still evocative piece of this great film that I believe everyone should be sure to watch at least once. It's a rich, supporting and educational effort that will give everyone an idea of what being able to communicate faster and more effectively than the other guy can provide to you, your family, your career, and your life - and bring you "resolve."\

Overall Caption Rating: 5

Overall Show Rating: 5

Total Rating: 5

Do You Recommend This Show to Others Who Depend on Captioning? Yes

– Mike Wilkerson
Creator/Graphic Designer/Talk Show Host
- The 2GuysTalking Podcast
2GuysTalking Original Content Podcast Network
http://www.2guystalking.com
Mike@2guystalking.com – 314-229-7683

[Mike is a professional entertainment critic and talk show host for The 2GuysTalking Podcast Network, a multi-media podcasting company specializing in the broadcast of opinion, thought and ideas. Be sure to visit 2GuysTalking.Com for more information.]

30 Days of Night - A Segment from The Caption Hunt

2008-06-29T12:35:00.000-07:00

Movie Viewing Date: June 28th, 2008
Movie Title: 30 Days of Night
DVD
Reviewed By: Mike Wilkerson - The 2GuysTalking Caption Hunt

Intro:

If someone were to ask me if I were a horror film fan, I'd probably say "no". In general I'm not a bloody gore for gore's sake fan, and I think that finding a fresh "look" at vampires is something that hasn't been done in an incredibly long time. Recently, a friend of mine had mentioned that not only were there a number of comic book movies coming out this year (all of which we're reviewing this year on The 2GuysTalking Podcast), but that one came out last year that many people would know nothing about. "Know nothing about" a comic book movie coming out? Instantly my interest was piqued and my hunt to find this "mystery comic book film" was intitiated. Would it be yet another dude or chick dressed in spandex? A fitted latex armour suit that had gadgets, perhaps? Ah, ha, what if perhaps it could be an "anti-hero" where it's just a guy with no super powers at all, who just does extraordinary things and understand that he's making a difference?

Clearly I'm locked into the focus of a superhero taking the center stage in this new comic book movie that came out last year and was released earlier this year on DVD. It wasn't a story about a modern-day hero in a red super suit, it was about a band of vampires, covered in red blood, stalking, hunting and destroying a town in northern Alaska, that experiences an annual black-out, that' provides them with with a platter-creating "30 Days of Night."

Previews/Commercials Captioned: Yes

Opinion Review:

As I stated previously, horror films are not generally an easy sell for me. This one carried through in my interest cue by being a comic-based tale, and then the hook? That it took place in an Alaskan Town that, every year, experiences "30 Days of Night" - a regularly-anticipated "dark spot" in the lives of a very ordinary community of people that live their lives just like you and I do - in a very cold and remote environment.

The movie inspires not only with these two attention-getting initial details, but also with what is a very well put-together cast. Starring Josh Harnett, Dany Houston, and a cast of people that provide solid performances across the horror movie genre, this film delivers not only a different "feel" to vampire films, but a completely different and chaotic look of vampires. Whether it's the very naturally scary-looking people that are of course covered in blood, to the original stunt coordination, to the ability of the characters to halt what could be easy samples of "stupid horror film" traits that plague films of this genre, this is a solid offering that gives you creepy, dark bloody, and viable, understandable gore that "fleshes" out a very entertaining off-shoot vampire story that doesn't disappoint.

The captioning both inside of this film, including the commercials and trailers are all very well done. There are no spelling mistakes of any kind, and it's great to see the different names of people that are different, not only because they're original names, but because of the area they live in. Eban, Mallkai and more are showcased wonderfully, as are the names of the would-be nameless vampires as the captioning follows their "voices" by captioning who is making the vocalizations, though their name is never said. A shining, golden turnip in this offering is the complete captioning not only of the features included, but a captioning of the commentary included on this disc. Things like that are TRULY appreciated and something not seen often.

Special/Supplemental Features Captioned: Yes

Overall Caption Rating: 5

Overall Show Rating: 4

Total Rating: 4

Do You Recommend This Show to Others Who Depend on Captioning? Yes

The Marvel of Another Stan - Remembering Stan Winston

2008-06-16T18:05:00.000-07:00

While Stan Lee has always had the mantle of “Stan the Man” for me, there is another Stan that made innovation, quality work, outstanding work ethic and memories in both the arena of television and feature films, that will last a lifetime. I am of course talking about the master - nay - Father, of modern practical special effects, Stan Winston, who died yesterday - Father’s Day 2008.

Stan had tickled my imagination in 1982’s “The Thing” - a movie my father introduced me to the same year that my best friend Carl and I went to see so many movies that kindled the spirit for The 2GuysTalking Podcast... More>>

Caption Hunt - In the Name of the King: A Dragonsiege Tale

2008-06-15T20:48:00.000-07:00

DVD Viewing Date: June 15th, 2008
DVD Title: In the Name of the King - A Dragonsiege Tale
Reviewed By: Mike WIlkerson - 2GuysTalking

Intro:

To those of you reading this entry for the 2GuysTalking Caption Hunt: I know I won't be the only person that was an adolescent who was trying to make a saving throw verses a wizard-invoked sleep spell during my experiences with Dungeons & Dragons, so let me preface it by stating this: Hope that you fail your saving throw and don't have to experience "In the Name of the King - a Dragonsiege Tale".

The potential for this movie to suck was - well - it's just easiest to say that that it just never had a chance. The career of Jason Statham has had many peaks and valleys, but this one folks? It's right there in the proverbial crotch of a chaotic evil orc. Still not sure why I say that?

Let me clarify - Ray Liotta as an Elvis-looking, sometimes Long Island-accented evil wizard? Ah ha, your eyebrows raise. Still not sold? How about Ron Perlman, Hellboy himself, as a fatherly, grey-haired, written for Morgan Freeman role? Alllmost there. Fine, the final nail in the coffin? It's not the incredibly bad not-so-special digital effects, it's BURT FRICKIN' REYNOLDs as the King. That's right, Smokey and the Bandit's Bandit has returneth to the land of peasants, not with 400+ horsepower, but on horseback in armor and cape. Pardon me while I get an Altoid.

Previews/Commercials Captioned: Yes - one of the saving graces of this very bad movie, is that the captioning is very inclusive. Not only do you get a word-for-word layout of the dialog, you also get a preview of what the character's names are (which in this movie is a great move, because there are so many in it) when they are introduced thereby helping you with a general mental description of who the people are and what their names are. Imagine having something like this featured in - say - Lord of the Rings? It's a piece of brilliance in a very murky cauldron of midieval farce full of bad acting, terrible accents and laughable "how did this movie get made" moments.

Opinion Review:

I think I have had enough post-Indy decompression time to tell you that it's not just my general dissatisfaction with movies lately that makes me hate this movie, it's the fact that I have seen so many movies in the last 5 years that (as I list above) make me wonder how on Earth these movies got made. The level of acting, the special effects quality, and the terribly miscast actors in this film are the stuff of movie WTF legend as far as I'm concerned. In particular is the inclusion of MatthewLillard as the King's completely worthless (both as a character and a family member) and murderous nephew with a floundering English accent and Kristanna Loken - YES TERMINATOR Fans, The TX from T3 appears as a vine-swinging, boob-shaking harlot! Dare I even tell you of the quick, small, please-tell-me-that-he-didn't-take-this-role of Gimli himself, John Rhys-Davies? Indiana Jones would quickly disown him if he knew! Quick! Give me the pair of purple 20-sided dice to change allow me the opportunity to change my fate!

Overall Caption Rating::5

Overall Show Rating: 1

Total Rating: 1

Do You Recommend This Show to Others Who Depend on Captioning? Nope - if fantasy is your choice of movies/DVDs for the evening, the theater releases of The Lord of the Rings (ANY of the three) will destroy all grimey residue of this travesty in your entertainment mouth. Seek them out with the zeal of Aragorn.

– Mike Wilkerson
Creator/Graphic Designer/Talk Show Host
- The 2GuysTalking Podcast
2GuysTalking Original Content Podcast Network
http://www.2guystalking.com
Mike@2guystalking.com – 314-229-7683

Jumper Doesn't Jump Off a Building

2008-06-09T18:57:00.001-07:00

One of the few feature films I saw this year was "Jumper" - sadly, I wish I had the cash I spent on the tickets back in my wallet. I've just seen a note I wanted to share with you: Apparently now 27 year old actor Hayden Christensen says that he's "up for a sequel." I know I'm not, what about you? Were the jittery jumpings of "Jumper" worth the time and ticket cost for a sequel? If you think so, please tell me why. Read the announcement here and put your 2 cents worth in right here!

Christensen Up for Jumper Sequel
Source: Toronto Sun June 9, 2008

With the Jumper DVD (read review) and Blu-ray Disc hitting stores Tuesday, star Hayden Christensen ("Star Wars" prequels) tells the Toronto Sun he's up for a sequel.

"We're talking about it," the 27-year-old Canadian actor said. "I know that they're having those conversations, I hear about them." So would he sign on again? "Oh yeah, and I think I probably will."

Liman originally planned a movie trilogy based on Steven Gould's novel. Liman spun out a liberal re-imagining of Gould's more personal story about child abuse, which had jumping as a metaphor for escape.

"It was set up to become that -- a trilogy -- if it did well," Christensen added. "And I think they're happy with how it did so they want to make another one. But I don't think they're rushing to get into production."

Jumper, made for about $85 million, earned a solid $221.4 million worldwide in theaters."

Making the Computer Animated Movie Mark - Your Thoughts?

2008-06-09T11:06:00.000-07:00

While surfing during lunch today, I found an interesting listing that I thought I would share with you all and comment on. The topic: The Best Computer Animated Films of All Time. First, a preface.

There are many things that make my mind fly into an alternate plane of existence. Sometimes it's a movie, sometimes it's a thought that is triggered from a movie, or even a special feature from a DVD or (now) HD-DVD that I see. Animated films have always carried that for me, probably because of my interest and talent in cartooning and originally having that special something that is the desire to animate movies. The last time I remember having "that feeling" during an (traditionally) animated film was for "TARZAN" the outstanding offering featuring a driving make-it-go soundtrack that won an Oscar back in the 90s. The visuals of that film, in particular the creation of the characters and animal studies that were done to develop the characters are the stuff of "become-a-cartoonist" legend.

That being said, I am often completely underwhelmed by most of today's computer animated movies, with a few exceptions that truly ARE classic marks of computer animated screenplay genius. This list that was provided allows me to not only chime in on the films that I've seen (and also the ones I haven't yet seen) but also lets YOU see what is being called today's "best animated films." I look forward to your thoughts both to the listing, as well as the commentary.

Note: I've no idea if this listing is "in order" (I hope not), so put that in your bonnet when commenting.

1.) Kung Fu Panda: I haven't seen this yet, but my initial impression is that they've taken a reasonably well-known Jack Black and made him a giant Panda Bear. Knowing nothing of the plot, can we guess that he learns the art of Kung Fu ala Karate Kid and faces diversity that he has to overcome from a mentor? Feh, I'll watch to have knowledge.

2.) Horton Hears a Who: I haven't seen this film either, mostly because of its short theater run, and the content. This book was one of the most underwhelming of the Dr. Seuss series for me and while I understand the interest in wanting to make a complete animated feature film out of it (including the inclusion of Jim Carey again), proof in the proverbial Dr. Seuss Pudding is "Cat in the Hat", arguably a terrible and bad choice at making a movie. The jury is out and will need to be for a while. In addition to Jim Carey being an excellent Grinch, he was JUST an excellent Grinch and not a terribly bothersome Jim Carey in a green suit. He is like so many things that are like Dark Chocolate: A little goes a terribly long way.

3.) Ratatouille: This movie is one that I've seen several times and I'll always find something new and interesting in it. Whether it's the overall theme that "anyone can and should showcase their love of cooking" or the showcase of being controlled by strings feel that I know I often feel at one time or another, this movie has all kinds of reasons to watch, though if you tell someone "have you seen that rat cooking movie?" - suddenly the interest level dials down to zero. The art and detail of this film are something you truly should see, and the ending is something you'd never really expect. It's much less "with a bow" than other films of this nature and I think tosses a smack of realism to the whole genre.

4.) Shark's Tale: I thought this too was an excellent entry, that took the robust talent pool of Will Smith and a hoard of others and showed you a glimpse of something you'd never see, that used their environment as a completely alien but somehow familiar showcase of life, community and relationships. It didn't succeed as well as they probably wanted, but it's a solid entry.

5.) Happy Feet: I haven't seen it - whether it be because of of the overwhelming musk of "being green" or because it's a bit "too hip" for me, this entry hasn't given me any of the previous interest in seeing it. It has a ton of stars that I like but I will eventually, one day see it - perhaps after your commentary compels me to do so.

6.) Over the Hedge: I own this, I've had it since the day it hit DVD, yet - I've never seen it. It's got Willis and a cavalcade of other stars, it's based on a cartoon that I've never seen or read, and like Happy Feet, I am waiting to be compelled to see it. Anyone wanna' chime in?

7.) Toy Story: If this listing is based on a "standings" type theme, I am amazed that this franchise is so far in the back - halfway through this listing as a matter of fact. These movies bring to the forefront something that we're trying to achieve with out Podcast Network, in that we're hoping that the zeal people experience while revisiting old, familiar entertainment friends keeps them coming back and - guess what? It works just like it does for the Toy Story franchise. These movies help you remember what it was like to be a kid - sure - that's the appeal for "kids" to watch these films. But there's also an overtone in all of these entries that helps you understand that same feeling now that you're an adult. That's rare, and it's something that so MANY of these computer animated movies have lost point on.

8.) The Incredibles: Arguably one of my favorite movies - again, because not only does it give you a complete slant on what is the "life of a comic book super hero" it showcases their family, their jackass job that they're forced into when "the man clamps down" and what superheroes might do if they were just people "at work like you are. It's a wonderful film, a great soundtrack, and something that I think would endure if it were left to one film.

9.) Shrek: I reallllly like the original Shrek. I kind of like the second Shrek. The Third Shrek? Proof positive that many in Hollywood love to breast feed from the industry for the rest of their natural careers and lives. The original gave you the same great pop-culture references and kid-adult feelings while the latter two - meh. You can only go to the well so many times and well - it's time for the 167th time apparently.

10.) Finding Nemo: This is a movie I would put into the same level/category as Ratatouille. It's a great and detailed look at the realm around you, underwater. Completely inventive, the characters all feel very real, and the overall topic of a father and son finding each other - well, it's very well done in here and I'm not even an Albert Brooks fan. The subject matter "matters" in this film and the comedy isn't so completely on the nose as so many of these have become.

11.) Monsters Inc.: This is another feast for those of you, regardless of age, who have eve wondered about "the monsters" that live under your bed, that lurk behind that just slightly open closet, or who might live behind an ominous tree just outside your open bedroom window in the summer. The camp between the voices of Mike (Billy Crystal) and Sully (John Goodman), along with a giant cast of talented people who bring their craft to this film is just something to revel in. Again, this is one I can watch/listen to over and over again and collect something new from at every viewing. The likening of "being in the business to provide monsters/fear as a business - sheer genius.

12.) Ice Age: Ice Age is another of those movies that I think should be higher up in the list. This movie collects fans from just about every single "age", and has a great cast and a very different and eye-catching process of animation. The lava/ice slide scenes are the stuff of legend. The overall story arc is very well done, giving you a basic adventure story, but lifting it higher with some comedy, some warm moments and a laugh regularly. On the other hand, the suckling of the sequel teat is MIND-NUMBING. The second movie is a terrible and dark shadowy reflection of the original film that could have been a direct-to-DVD mess that I can't recommend to anyone, including those that have seen the first.

13.) Madagascar: The proposed redeeming social value for this movie was supposed to be Keifer Sutherland - ALAS - he was lion in ANOTHER computer animated movie, about wild animals on a journey, "The Wild" that was out at virtually the same time Madagascar was out. It might stem from my general dislike for Ben Stiller, but there was a true shadow of redeeming value when I heard Chris Rock was in it. Sadly, I've not investigated this film but I look forward to hearing from YOU why I need to rethink and view it.

So what are your thoughts on the listing provided? I have to tell you that I'd have a completely different listing/ranking for these movies and I think you'd agree that there are many that are misplaced in the list. Provide your thoughts here and let's talk more about the general genre that is today's growing modern-day Computer Animated Movie Collection.

DVD Profiler Continues to Improve...

2007-10-27T19:02:00.001-07:00

Something that I've been using for almost 10 years now, DVD Profiler, recently offered up an upgrade that I moved to when entering in my most recent additions. I have to tell you, folks: This software is one of the best out there, and it's something that continues to improve, impress and simply makes managing your collection of DVD's pleasurable.

A coworker made me aware of it long ago, and it's grown for my 4-5 DVDs, to my hefty collection of 447 DVDs that span every imaginable type.

Give DVD Profiler a look at their website and let me know if you get interested in them. The details, the cross-referencing and the ability to have a look at my collection anytime really is something I value. I hope YOU too value it.

$17 Dies Hard...

2007-06-30T19:58:00.000-07:00

For those of you that may have forgotten, this next July 4th weekend will feature the 4th installment of the Die Hard series- a movie I honestly never thought would be made. While this isn't the opening of the discussion of the the REVIEW of what is a movie that is "required viewing" during a July 4th weekend, it IS the opening of a discussion showcasing a new and must-have DVD set.

While strolling through the friendly confines of Target yesterday after dropping off my wife at work, I found a 3-pack of the previous "DIE HARD" series - for the dandy low-price of only $17. I hadn't taken the time to buy "all three" of the Die Hard movies available, but I found it a great opportunity to finally have them in one-like collection. All of them are widescreen, THX, and feature special features of all kinds.

If you don't yet have the movies and don't wish to wait for the 4 movies to be provided together in one collection in 6-7 months, then you're target has been selected and it's time to DIE HARD!

Do you already own "DIE HARD?" Do you have the other DVDs yet? Which is your favorite and why? Chime in at the LunchTimeGab.Com and let us know what YOU think!

A Gladiator in the Rough

2007-06-18T18:27:00.001-07:00

For those that aren't familiar with my work habits, I almost always toss in a DVD and through in a DVD and turn on a commentary track to have something working "behind me" in the background as I type, make notes, plan world domination - whatever. For my birthday in April, my wife got me a copy of the Gladiator Extended Edition which I'd wanted since it came out and thanks to SLACKERS (a second-hand DVD/music shop) and $17, I am now the proud owner of one.

So what's the big deal you say? Is it as awesome or even more so than the original release? Honestly I haven't "seen" enough of it to tell you that yet, but folks - there is a Gladiator Diamond in the Rough awaiting those of you that are commentary track feature phreaks or who are hard of hearing/Deaf.

Included in this edition, is a commentary track from Director Ridley Scott, and the Gladiator himself, Russell Crowe that is (drumroll) CAPTIONED!

That's right! For what I think is the first time ever in DVD history, the commentary track is captioned, which offers people like my (Deaf) wife, and others the opportunity to "hear" the great nuggets of movie-making an acting history in a grand movie like "Gladiator".

My personal kudos go out to the creators of this DVD set and i implore others to take on this (though decidedly expensive) task to offer even more people the golden magic that is commentary tracks for everyone.

Will You Be Getting Pirates 3 on DVD? Mike MIGHT NOT!?

2007-06-17T22:23:00.000-07:00

Brian and I continue the great summer-long feature film reviews via the 2GuysTalking Podcast Network! Listen in and be sure to vote for us as the Best Podcast via the link below!

June 17th, 2007 Running Time: 47min.
Remember: Win a Jack's ManPurse by Voting for 2GuysTalking Podcast as the Best Podcast via The Blogger's Choice Awards!

Arrr, Matey! It's time for The 2GuysTalking Podcast Feature Film Review of Pirates of the Caribbean: At World's End and YOU'RE INVITED aboard! Grab your peg leg, your compass pointing to the one thing you truly want and listen in!

-- Download It Now! --

Spider-Man 3 -- Reviewed by The 2GuysTalking Podcast!

2007-06-01T21:39:00.000-07:00

The 2007 of the hit Fox show, "24" has ended and it's time to spread our collective review wings again an address the gathering horde of silver screen feature films that await!

First up this summer: The 2GuysTalking Podcast Review of "SPIDER-MAN 3", directed by Sam Raimi, starring Tobey Maguire and a returning cast of actors who welcome a new cast of villains and special effects into the current largest blockbuster of the 2007 Summer so far.

Join Mike Wilkerson and Ryan Parker (the Comicnaut Podcast Host, filling in for Brian Sirimaturos this week) as they review this special effects feast!

New Acquisitions: April 2007

2007-04-07T20:23:00.000-07:00

The last three months have been a whirlwind of activity, and we've recently acquired a new friend in the form of an HD Television and so the first thing that needed to be acquired was some new movies with which to pass the time. Thankfully with a birthday, some visits to the el cheapo movie store, and the release of some of the best films ever released in the last couple of months, it's been a lot easier to have options to watch than to be able to find time to watch them. Join me as I usher in a variety of new movies to my collection and remember to submit your comments on any of them.

-- Blood Diamond: There's something that's been burgeoning inside of Leonardo DiCaprio for a very long time, and it's not his political viewpoint on the environment. Leo is someone that I really like in the realm of acting and that showcase of talent has somehow been able to help me get by the sour taste I have regarding most of his political leanings and efforts. In any case, both he and Djimon Hounsou, along with Jennifer Connelly whom I loved Damon DeNiro, Jolie Baldwin, Hurt, Turturron "Beautiful Mind" are in this. While it's been painted as "depressing and dark" I think I saw a lot more to it than that. I'll get to review it formally later on this year.

-- The Good Shepherd: Ahhh, the story of the creation of the CIA, as told by many who oppose the current government - sounds like a buy for sure! This movie has a tour de force of acting talent including Damon, DeNiro, Jolie, Baldwin, Hurt, Hutton - man just a feast of acting. I have to admit though: I started watching it on an evening that I was very tired and FELL ASLEEP. That doesn't bode well for it at this point, but I promise to give it another shot.

-- Trespass: One of my FAVORITE guilty pleasure movies, TRESPASS was acquired, like 95% of the movies listed here, at one of a variety of second-hand movie shops. While I have avoided them in the past, the recent experiences of saving almost 80% on movies, especially TV DVD sets really is extraordinary. This movie, with Bill Paxton, Ice Cube, Ice T and William Sadler is a great "Indi-hoodia Jones" epics, with some of the coolest conventional special fx and was shot just "across the river" in the Illinois town of "East St. Louis." Gritty and full of racial tension and treasure, this is one that you SHOULD NOT MISS, and I found this one at one of the stores listed above for a paltry $2.95, in WIDESCREEN no less!

-- Tremors: Ahhh, the movie my Bonus Mom would stab you in the eye to watch again. This romp with Kevin Bacon and a show-stealing performance by Fred Ward and a gaggle of cameos that will not stop, is probably as good a sample of 90's camp horror as there will ever be. The difference? It includes GIANT CARNIVOROUS WORMS and doesn't suck! If you have the chance to watch it don't miss it and for gawd's sake: Watch it in WIDESCREEN already!

-- The Prestige: What will sadly be mixed to death with "The Illusionist" this film starring Hugh Jackman and Christian Bale is another outstanding "Twilight Zone/Outer Limits"-feeling tale of magic, betrayal, with some great twists and wonder that really doesn't disappoint. My father recently cued it up and wasn't impressed with it. I have to tell you that's a strange one - of the people I thought that would have liked this, I thought it would have been the first person I can remember seeing do magic for me :)

-- The Shield: Episodes 1,8,10 & 11: The Emmy Submission Disc: I got this on eBay recently for $11. It's the disc that the powers that be send out to the people that make the Emmy decisions and I was happy to snatch this up for what is a "The Shield" area that I have planned for the theater. I love this series and considering the lackluster offerings that "24" has had as of late, it is my favorite show on television. The pacing cannot be beat, the passion by Chiklis as the lead in this show is a clinic of power, vengeance and heart that few can match and if you aren't watching this series, it's time to start and acquire the previous DVD sets to get your fill of the best bad cop there has ever been.

-- Tucker: One of my favorite movies from the year of my graduation, Tucker was actually one of my first VHS acquisitions too. The story that's told is pulled off so wonderfully by Jeff Bridges, and the over-the-top badness of the "Big Car Companies" is something that appealed very much to an 18-year-old kid that "knew it all". Tucker was the first movie I saw after leaving my parents house and moving into the "big world on my own" and it was great to see that greatness, notoriety, success and stick-to-it-iveness could be achieved even if what you wanted people to buy was thought of as "worthless and a waste of time." There are moments of joy in this film that I still await arrival of in my life.

-- The Departed: The Academy Award-winning Movie of 2007 arrives at Casa de Wilkerson and it was OUTSTANDING. This is one that I have to get Brian and I to do a full review of because it is just simply that good a movie. Kudos to all that played in and created this masterpiece.

-- STAR TREK: NEMESIS: Believe it or not I HATED this STAR TREK movie when I saw it, but I have to tell you: After 5 years of being an avid reviewer of movies, television and more I have to give this one another chance: the reason? It was directed by Stuart Baird, who also directed Executive Decision and has edited together some great movies in the last 25 years that include: 1. Superman II aka Superman II: The Richard Donner Cut, Executive Decision, Radio Flyer, The Last Boy Scout, Lethal Weapon, Lethal Weapon II, Tales from the Crypt, Gorillas in the Mist, The Original Omen, Superman the Movie and much more. So there's a lot of talent there my hope is that with 5 more years, a lot more life experience, a plasma television, and some respect for someone that clearly knows his craft, I'll be able to come away with something great. It's also the Silver Director's Edition disc that will feature the Mike Okuda text-over that talks about the creation of the graphics, special effects and more so I'm very excited about it. The disc couldn't be found anywhere in any regular retail store and I found it in the "why is this here?" bin at Best Buy for $9. Originally, it retailed for $24.95. Yummy.

-- Equilibrium: This movie was recommended to me by someone that loved the Matrix films, and then told me that I should watch this movie because most of what's done inside the Matrix films is done/originated here. Hmm, that's a tall accusation but I will enjoy trying to see if it's true. I enjoyed the Matrix films, and I enjoy both Christian Bale and Taye Diggs who star in it. Positive thoughts folks.

-- Major League: Wild Thing Edition: I got this because when the movie was being made, you guessed it: I was IN IT! We snuck out of school on one of the call days/evenings that they were filming this movie and waited in line for WAY TOO FRIGGIN LONG at County Stadium in Milwaukee to "get into the movie." Of course we all thought we'd have a close up and lines and recognition from the REAL actors,but sadly, we're a blip on the screen about45 minutes into the film. I'll try to get a screen of the shot we're saying we were in. It's a great memory.

More coming soon!

Surprised During a Nite at the Museum!

2007-02-10T09:47:00.000-08:00

Greetings all!

First, my thanks to fellow 2GuysTalking TelevisionReview Blogger Christine Hallowell, for convincing me that I was in need of a nite off recently. After dropping off my daughter Jade at the local KidsPlay for an evening of pizza, fun and comradeship, Christine and I headed to a local restaurant for some tasty grub, and then to the theater to see "Night at the Museum", starring Ben Stiller, Dick Van Dyke, Mickey Rooney and more.

I have to say I went in expecting the worst here. Only after leaving the theater did I get back home and realize that since it's release LAST YEAR, this film is still number 4 in the top 10 listings of films available for people to partake. That really does speak quite a bit to a movie that comes out nowadays. Few movies have the "staying" power that his one is showing and it's greatly missed in the entertainment circle.

First - The Good:

-- Ben Stiller: I have to tell you folks; I don't like Ben Stiller. I think Zoolander finally torpedoed him for me and so getting to this film was honestly, for me, more about seeing effects than much of anything else. While the effects were outstanding, I have to say that he was a bit up the endearing scale this time out. I didn't have much of an issue buying that he was a loser, unemployed, thrust-into-importance self-absorbed father figure.

-- The Effects: This is pretty much what I expect to see in the way of major motion picture special effects nowadays. Playful T-Rex Skeletons, walking-talking bronze Columbus Statues, and this film also offered the same sense of "real/practical effects" that many of Jon Favreau movies offer (Zathura, Elf, etc). They were very believable and with the exception of one or two of the mini-people scenes, I bought it all. It was very easy to put the veil of disbelief over my eyes.

-- The Old Talented Folks: It was great to see Dick Van Dyke, Mickey Rooney (who looked absolutely RABID this time out) and a cast that helped to bridge some very significant generations of cinema with newer ones. While I'd never put someone like Ben Stiller in the same (even comedic) category as Van Dyke and Rooney, it really is a great honor to see them in action, especially in a movie where they get to "relive their youth" thanks to the curse of the tablet.

-- Carla Gugino: Yahlzah - For those that are curious, the offerings here are very much to the liking of CPTMIKE. The pictures over at IMDB don't do her justice. She's got probably 20 more pounds on in "Night at the Museum" and it is a welcome 20 pounds. There are just simply too many waif actresses these days, and her portrayal in "Night at the Museum" was (while a short character) one that I liked both in the head and elsewhere.

-- The Robin Williams Factor: He's next to invisible in this movie (fear not! That's good!), and I think it's because they gave him his ADD medication while filming. That or (looking back at the timeline) he was soused while filming this movie before heading into rehab. Who knows. The point is that THIS is the role that I like to see Robin Williams in - a supportive, almost common-sensical mentoresque wax figure of Teddy Roosevelt that I really liked a lot. Again, it's great to see him jump in with legends of the silver screen and add to a picture rather than having to be a monkey to garner attention to try and do it.

-- The Story: While it was a bit more cutsy than I like to see, I have to give this story some real credit. Who of us hasn't thought that the "things inside a museum" actually have a life that they live when everyone's away? And according to the box office returns and staying power of this movie, I would say it's a pretty wide swath of people that support that notion.

And then theres... - The Bad:

-- SHOCKER! There's NOTHING in this movie that I can complain about! In fact it'll probably get bought at my house because I know my wife and my child will love this movie.

Conclusion: This movie is worth yours, your family's and the American populace's time, without question. I went in looking for some great effects, and found so much more. Very well done and please - no sequel.

New Acquisitions, January 2007...

2007-01-28T13:00:00.000-08:00

The month of January has been a whirlwind - full of activities of every kind you can imagine. Between the launch of the 2GuysTalking: 24 Podcast for Season 6, the continually growing pile of work that is involved with the 2GuysTalking Podcast Network, a spontaneous radio station contest entry called "1GuyTalking", and my family and work life, this has been one crazy month folks. That being said, let's get to the new acquisitions from the last several months that will being the collection current, and provide you with insight on these great new entries to my collection.

-- Cinderella Man: Widescreen
This movie arrived originally at our door inside the Blockbuster DVD through the mail program, and I LOVED it. Not only is it another great entry from Ron Howard, starring Russell Crowe, but it is one of the more beautiful movies I've seen in a long time. The color palette in this movie was outstanding, and the story was a touching mix of depression-era biopic and hero story without ANY of the over-the-head boxing overtures made in most films that incorporate the sweet science. I think this movie never had the chance it deserved because of the unfortunate flap with Russell and the hotel concierge just prior to this movie's release and that really is a shame. This is one I would recommend for anyone, male or female, because it's way more than a boxing movie, and provided me with the opportunity to see Renee Zellwegger in something I really liked her in which is something truly strange for me. Other than Jerry McGuire I don't like almost everything she does.

-- Children of a Lesser God: Widescreen
A very touching movie that along with input from friends, my unceremonious hearing loss and a real interest in communication coaxed me into becomine a professional interpreter for the Deaf. Not so strangely, when we look at pictures of my wife when I met, her, she looked very much like Marlee Matlin in this movie. Strange how great things can be even greater in real life. ;) The commercial success of this movie, and the launching pad that this movie served as for so many actors really is a literal spawn point for me and my "adult life." The disc itself has nothing in the way of features, and while it was a cheap acquisition ($5.55 at Walmart), I hope that it's 25th Anniversary Addition will include some great features, some never-before-seen items and more background on what is a solid movie and inspiration.

-- Reservoir Dogs: 15th Anniversary Edition: Widescreen
One of the very few movies I have never seen all the way thought. This edition was an outstanding find at Target, for a mere $8.99. I know all the corny saying, I can name most of the characters, but I've never had the chance just to sit through it all. I'll have to make time to do that. The 15th Anniversary Edition really makes an entrance, in a pseudo gas can and the discs in it come in a giant matchbook. It's an outstanding, unique, very slick, and cost-effective addition to the collection.

-- CRANK: Widescreen
I've enjoyed Jason Statham's movie career since we first saw him in his solo debut back in 1998 in Lock Stock and Two Smoking Barrels. This offering id anotehr entry into his action career, and folks, it's strange. I want to like it, I want to chalk it up as another tasty "throw in the DVD for fun" entry, but it's going to have to grow on my. The editing could have been done a bit differently I think to benefit the entire movie all the way around.

-- The Beautician and the Beast: Widescreen
What is without a doubt, one of my wife's favorite movies, this romp with The Nanny Fran and Timothy Dalton is way more her decision to own than mine. :)

-- The Legend of Zorro: Widescreen
Another that was for sale in tandem with The Beautician and the Beast: Widescreen. We own the first one that was entertaining and I saw nothing that gave this a good review. We'll get together with some popcorn sometime in the next couple of months and take a look.

-- Bewitched: Widescreen
I haven't taken the time to watch this, but it was available on the $3.99 rack at Blockbuster when we were turning in some DVDs via their Total program. I don't like any of the actors much in this movie, but Gloria is a major league fan of Nicole Kidman.

-- North Country: Widescreen
I have not yet seen this although the critics were very complimentary of it as was my family. It should make a nice entry for a double-feature some night.

-- 24: Season 5
I am very interested in seeing the features in this DVD set. The price was amazingly low at jjust $42 bucks and I got it as a Christmas gift no less.

-- Wolf: Widescreen
This movie was bundled with the movie that I got the pack for, Identity, detailed below. This romp with Nicholson and Michelle Pfeiffer is one of those "also made" movies that when on television, it may or may not catch your attention. My guess is it won't. ;)

-- Identity: Widescreen
There are few movies that lift my eyebrows as quickly as this one did. With an ensemble cast, and one of my favorite actors, John Cusack, this movie provides you with something very different, very fresh and very twisty-turny. It's a pleasure to have it on my collection and I look forward to the several looks at a year it will provide.

-- Pirates of the Caribbean II: A Dead Man's Chest: Widescreen
The second in a series of 3, I am very interested to see what kind of features this DVD offers. It also came with a special musical CD that gives me 10 great "Pirate-related Tracks" from the past and the current. If you didn't get the chance to listen to The 2GuysTalking Review of this movie, make sure you don't miss it. It was great fun!

-- World Trade Center: 2-Disc Commemorative Edition: Widescreen
What was a very special movie, telling the tale of two Port Authority Cops that somehow avoided being killed as the World Trade Center Towers fell, is something that does literally that - tells the tale of two cops, two Towers, and 1 day that will be forever emblazened on so many. I have always taken the tack that movies like this give viewers not only a semblance of what it was like to be there in those locations that day, but also offers a form of education. The features on these discs are a marvel to behold and really do showcase real-life heroes that not only made the difference that day, but continue to do so into today and the future. While many have called it a"dollar sign harvest on those that experienced a tragedy" and "profiteering on 9/11", I'd like to see them say that to either of the families that were touched by this incident, who participated in it to make sure it was "done right" and it WAS done right.

-- The Illustionist: Widescreen
I really appreciated this movie, mostly because it has such a great cast, but that it was also recommended to me by my father, who is himself an amateur magician. The visuals in this movie are stunning, but most important are the actors portrayals in this film. The "Prince" is worth the price of admission and Paul Giamatti gives another supporting performance that is just supremely satisfying.

IMDB Update...

2006-12-11T22:34:00.000-08:00

I have been going to the Internet Movie DataBase since it's inception back in 1996. Many things have changed, all for the better, including it's most recent alteration to the front page of what can easily be called the most prolific online entertainment research tool in history.

Cleaned up as many websites have over the years, the newest alteration to the IMDB provides you with a now center-based search field, rather than the hallmark left-top navigation-based search bar that I think will become very familiar over time as I continue to use it. What is also missing, though I would guess it is temporary, is the litany of advertisements on the top, ranging from DVD releases to the arrival of any one of thousands of feature films that have made their way to the silver screen over the years. I also see some broken images, which thankfully provides me with some saisfaction when not everything in a "site revamp" that i've been involved with doesn't all flesh out the first time. Chew on that, Steve :)

I also like that the DVD and feature film arrivals have what amounts to a very important place in this incarnation, along the left-hand side, giving what is a true "at-a-glance" view of what is coming up on entertainment.

I encourage everyone to check out the metamorphasis of the Internet Movie DataBase here at one of my other favorite online tools, The Internet Archive at Archive.Org, which gives a great history of just about any website that's been online. Also be sure to stop by the newly improved IMDB online and let us know what you think, here in the LunchTimeGab.Com's Comment System!

Recent Additions - October, 2006

2006-10-07T22:26:00.000-07:00

The last several weeks have been ones dedicated to getting our podcasting sites up, running and able, so there's plenty of acquisition, and very little watching going on. Check out the listings here and be sure to post your thoughts on them - I'm always on the hunt for more opinions on the collection that continues to grow. Thanks!

The Lord Of The Rings: The Fellowship Of The Ring.: Limited Edition. 2-Disc Set
Yes, my mission to make Peter Jackson more money continues. These editions, in addition to providing you with both full screen and widescreen editions of the movie on one front and back of the disk, also provide you with a bonus disc of more stuff that only movie idiots that love feature stuff would buy. Yes, this means that in addition to this one, I also got two more to flesh out the collection. Those of you that want to borrow them so that you don't have to purchase them to view them - the line starts BACK THERE! :) Again, this is another presentation of three movies that I think are indicative of what is modern day masterpieces without question.

Entrapment: Special Edition
I'm trying desperately to find out what this was bundled with and I can't for the life of me remember. It was a 2-movie set and if you remember before I do, post your comments here and we'll chat about it :) Other than Sean Connery being in it, the story of it is rather interesting - well that and the body suit and red lasers on a very luscious Catherine Zeta-Jones prior to being violated by Michael Douglas! :)

United 93: Widescreen
I've spoken to 4 people that hear me mention buying this disc and they have all said "Yeah, but we know how it ends." This movie, and the events of September 11th in general are so much more to me than just events that we know the outcome of. This movie, and many others that have either hit the Discovery Channel, A&E, the theaters, etc all are much more than that - they are what I consider educational experiences of life and should be viewed by all - especially if you call yourself an American living in the US. We must never forget how in the span of an hour, the world, our country, and future changed that crisp September morning and this movie is a testimate to that. Grab those you love, sit down and learn.

Romancing the Stone / The Jewel of the Nile: Special Edition
I have ALWAYS loved "Romancing the Stone" because it's one of the few movies that followed the Raiders of the Lost Ark/Indiana Jones franchise theory that DIDN'T SUCK. It also marks the time when Kathleen Turner was a WOMAN! What's happened to her voice, body and thighs? I keep expecting her and Beatrice Arthur to have a Sausage Smuggling contest. What is up with that?

The Sentinel: Widescreen
As most know, I'm a confirmed Keifer Sutherland Fan and so this was a must have. The detail in it and the not too shabby story take this and you along for the ride that it was made to be. The features on the disc are nothing to write home about and very obvious on why they were initially left out of the movie. The detailed interviews with the people that were former Secret Service operatives was very slick.

Brotherhood: The First Season:
I heard about and blogged about this at the LunchTimeGab website, but I never got the time to watch it. Strangely, the entire first season is just $17. I think that's not a good sign, but it made me want to buy it to see whassup :) Lots of acting talent, east-coast Irish Catholic Mob stories - what's not to like?

X-Men: The Last Stand:
As a dedicated Comic Book fan, I was very disappointed with this entry into what was a flourishing franchise under the reins of Bryan Singer. Brett Ratner - another accomplished but DIFFERENT director took the helm on this one and provided what was an adequate entry, but still lacking in a variety of ways. I'll have to watch with my wife here (who hasn't seen it) and see what I see. It also says that it has a variety of features that may turn the tide - we'll see shortly!

Toss me your comments! As anyone that listens to the LunchTimeGab and 2GuysTalking Casts knows, I LOVE me some great movies and there are surely some included here. I look forward to your comments - have a great day!

Recent Additions - August 2006

2006-08-15T19:01:00.000-07:00

A hearty August "HELLO" to everyone!

Below is the listing of the most recent acquisitions, along with a short missive about what they mean to me. Chime in with YOUR thoughts on any of these and tell your friends to come and visit. Comments are always welcome!

-- A History of Violence: One of the sleepers of late last year, this film provides you with a very captivating story, that goes into a variety of different direction that I never expected. Whether it be a very sexy Maria Bell. the solid acting chops of Viggo Mortenson, or the definitive performances of Ed Harris and William Hurt. this one will not disappoint.

-- Battle of the Bulge: There is definitely a way that movies used to be made. This is a shining example of how movies, especially war films, were made in the mid-sixties. With a disgustingly all-star cast, this one, along with Flight of the Phoenix, are films that really are made to pass the test of time. Solid entertainment.

-- 12 Monkeys: This is a movie that came out in 1995, and while I have seen each piece of it since then, until now, I've never seen it all at the same time. This is an excellent, almost stage-like offering that everyone really should see, especially if you don't like any of the actors in it, because it really does take these actors to places they either had never been or eventually revisited to make really solid depictions of actors that "used to just be stars."

-- Out of Time: This was one of the strangest 2-packs I'd ever seen. Partnered with the 80's "FIREFOX" this Denzel Washington vehicle really had one reason backing it's purchase. It wasn't the $6.99 total cost of 2 DVDs, it wasn't that it's such a great story (though it is solid) - honestly it was that the decadent EVA MENDEZ is in it. ZOWIE. I don't normally show my SCHAWING Shadow, but good googley moogely. She is a hottie, and provides something very satisfying to look at during the span of this film.

-- Syriana: I can't believe I haven't even opened this film yet. About a week after I'd purchased it, my father called me to tell me "not to waste my time on it" which truly is schocking. I hope that eventually I'll be able to slit this one open and give'r a view. It's got a ton of actors I like, and had a couple of critics on-board, whose opinions I really do respect.

-- FIREFOX: 1982 was a fine year for the Russians, and this movie not only catered to my love of aircraft in general, but also made me buy a Learn Russian dictionary that helped me with a play I was in during high school playing a russian spy! Ha! The special effects are remarkably not so cheddar cheesy, but the story really does move along at a pace that makes you want to watch.

-- AMAZING STORIES - Season One: There are few things that bring a smile to my face as large as the ability to OWN these stories on DVD. For those that missed this, you REALLY DID MISS something of a hallmark during the 1980's. Looking for just about any star that was or has become anything inthe last 30 years? Check out this set of more dramatic/less Twilight Zone weird stories that DO NOT DISAPPOINT. The packaging is extraordinary, the transfer of the episodes is first rate, and not only features some of the best soundtrack work from John Williams, but also served as a test bed for great composers of moviedom including James Horner. Just first rate stuff, folks.

-- V for Vendetta: A wild card for me to be sure, but I really did like the movie, and Natalie Portman's portrayal in it. I was never familiar with the graphic novel that his movie was based on, but the effects, the story of the star's exit and recast, and the fact that it's from the same poeple that made the genius that is the Matrix Trilogy is something that lit the fire for this one. I also got a Cinefex Magazine that details the making of this movie, and it TRULY is inspiring. I'd like to get more people to chime in on this movie and what they thought of it, especially the last 15 minutes or so.

-- PRISON BREAK - Season One: A FANTASTIC Anniversary gift from my lovely bride, this set is one that I've been waiting for, for a long time. I initially started watching this series on television, but then I got tied into my 24 Bloggery, and eventual Podcast called "2GuysTalking: 24" -- and sadly, this series was lost in the busy-ness. How happy I am that Gloria got it for me. We watched the first 4 hours this last Sunday, and she too really likes the series. What a neat way to spend time together, enjoying what is CLEARLY one of the most solid television shows on television today.

-- The Towering Inferno: This special edition DVD was released a couple of months ago, and with the Anniversary of September 11th rolling in soon, I thought I would get this and give it a view over a weekend here soon. I remember very little of it, other than lots of people in dress clothes, and the usual suspects that populate Irwin Allen romps like this. More after I get to it.

-- THE SIMPSONS - Season 8: I have NO IDEA how this set snuck up on me, but while strolling through Walmart with Jade today when dropping off my wife at work, what to my wandering eyes should appear? That's right - a miniature picture of Maggie Simpson and the rest of the Simpson clan on the front cover of the most recent SIMPSONS Season Set! This is remarkably where I STOPPED WATCHING the Simpsons, so this will be a very enlightening experience when we crack this open and watch these. Just think: There are 8 more sets that away that remain largely UNSEEN to me. AMAZING!

-- PATTON - 2 DISC Special Edition: Amazingly, this is one of the most classic movies, that I didn't own yet, and today at Walmart - there it was for a mere $10! Consider me bought! I look forward to the many special features on these discs, including what is listed as one of the best transfers of classic cinema to the small screen ever. Get out and GET YOURS Today!

So there we have it! Chime in on what YOU think of these great inserts, and don't forget to use your time wisely with DVD Profiler from Intervocative.

A Dark, but Satisfying Nite...

2006-07-31T20:04:00.000-07:00

I have to tell you my breath was almost stolen this evening when I read the following. Read on and then read what is probably one of the best hopes for the era of REALLY SATISFYING COMIC BOOK MOVIES.

"

SCI FI Wire has learned that the upcoming Batman Begins sequel will be titled The Dark Knight and has confirmed widespread rumors that Heath Ledger will play the Joker.

Warner Brothers is expected to announce the title and casting on Aug. 1.

Christopher Nolan, who directed the hit film Batman Begins, will again direct. Christian Bale, who played the Caped Crusader in the first film, is expected to reprise the role, though that has not been confirmed. —Patrick Lee, News Editor"

Now, I have LONG been a Batman fan, and last years "BATMAN BEGINS" provided us with what was probably one of the most satisfying comic book/graphic novel movie incarnate films we've seen in a long time. The feel, the actors, the lines of progression in that film are some that should be hallmarks to great comic book movie storytelling. That the majority of the cast are on their way back is great, as is the director which just makes my heart soar. The only way it can get better? They bring in what is Batman's best arch-enemy: The Joker. The Tim Burton Film, "BATMAN" provided the Joker as well, however they KILLED HIM! The Joker is one of those characters that can never and should never die, and I hope that they have the sense here to realize that keeping the Joker around for more than one storyline is THE ONLY WAY TO GO!

I look forward to seehing where Heath Ledger can take us in the vein of clear and unabashed evil that the Joker persona demands. Look for more soon!

A Blacker Hole (in St. Louis...)

2006-07-31T18:21:00.000-07:00

A dear and best friend of mine, Carl(o) Besasie has been an actor/director of independant films and commercials since he graduated from film school in the early 90's and when I saw this new DVD release, I immediately thought of him. It's a movie, that apparently aired on the Sci-Fi Channel, that has a St. Louis-based research team's nightmare come true! It also reminded me of a game that friends and I play called "Half Life", which not so strangely, has an experiment go "awry" and is the hotbed for gooney and horrific creatures that feed on - you guessed it - the people! Read on below and be sure to also check out the details to one of Carl's films in apparently the same genre, "Go to Hell".

"The Black Hole:

Plot Outline: An atomic research experiment goes awry in St. Louis, Missouri unleashing not only a big black hole, but also a creature from beyond that feeds on electricity through the streets of this Midwest city."

Tell me more about what YOU think of movies like this one. Do you watch them? Do you think they're a waste of time and effort? Chime in now!

My - That's Strange - Queer, One Might Even Say...

2006-07-31T18:10:00.000-07:00

While strolling thru the new DVD release list this evening for a brief instant, I saw an upcoming title that I hadn't seen or heard anything about - "QUEER DUCK".

Does this strike anyone odd? How about if I tell you that it stars JM J. Bullock? Still, not all that odd - Queer basically = JM J. Bullock as he'd be the first to admit most likely.

But wait - what's this? Simpson Writer Mike Weiss? Wait a seco-- STAR WARS' Mark Hamill? Late Nite's Conan O'Brien? X-Files' David Duchovny? What the hell is this? For those that are interested, here's the link to the IMDB Listing, and I've provided the quick detail I found on the web here: Very interesting. That's an interesting power house of Gaydom.

"Queer Duck: The Movie Made-for-DVD spin-off of the animated series, a satirical spoof of gay stereotypes as illustrated through the absolutely fabulous life of Seymour Duckstein (voiced by JM J. Bullock) and his friends, Bi-Polar Bear, Openly Gator, and Oscar Wildcat. Written and produced by former The Simpsons writer Mike Reiss, is features the voices of Maurice LaMarche, Jackie Hoffman, Kevin Michael Richardson, and Mark Hamill, with guest voices by Conan O'Brien, Bruce Villanche, Andy Dick, and David Duchovny. Details: Color, 72 mins, Paramount, widescreen. Supplements: 5 original "Queer Duck" shorts; "Getting Behind Queer Duck" making-of featurette; "The People Behind the Voices" interview featurette with the voice cast; "Getting the Right Homosexual" featurette on casting JM J. Bullock; "How to Find a Partner If You're Bi... Um Coastal" featurette on writer Mike Reiss and director Xeth Feinberg; "Character Assassination" featurette on the celebrity voice cameos. Optional subtitles."

Child Rape = Oscar Bid Opportunity? Huh?

2006-07-31T17:31:00.000-07:00

I have always been hard-pressed to like Dakota Fanning. I'm not sure if it's the screaming child, or the cutsy-blue-eyed child in perioll syndrome there, but I just have never really had time for her in general. I tolerated her in WAR OF THE WORLDS with Tom Cruise, and MAN ON FIRE often made me want to have more of the characters on screen set ablaze, but in general, feh - it's another child actor.

I just read something online that really makes one think about the accomplishment we want to prescribe to our children and I was wondering what YOU think. A link from the ever-lovin' IMDB (Internet Movie Data Base) provided this:

"Fanning Hoping 'Hounddog 'Will Win Her an Oscar
Child actress Dakota Fanning is set to shock fans in new movie Hounddog, because she has shot child rape scenes and appears semi-naked. The controversial film written and directed by Deborah Kampmeier is a dark and violent story set in American's rural south - and the 12-year-old's mother and agent are convinced her gritty performance is Oscar-worthy. Agent Joy Osbrink tells the New York Daily News, "It's not just the rape scene - the whole story is challenging Dakota as an actress. And I've never been so proud of her in my life. I've seen the dailies, and in every scene she gets better and better." "

Now I understand the desire for an Oscar. I even understand the fact that Dakota is probably been "in the business" long enough now, in enough movies, television appearances, etc, that she can undergo this experience and come up pretty rosey in general. I just have to wonder though - does a child actor NEED to get an Oscar for playing a "gritty semi-naked child rape" scene? I also understand that they even SAY "it's not just the rape scene" however it's in the first sentence of the Oscar-bid based sentence of this publicity item that millions will surely see.

What do YOU think? Am I just "fanning the flames of Dakota hatred" or do I have a point?

Chime in here and let me know if you'd like to see her score Oscar gold now!

Recent Additions - Father's Day, 2006

2006-06-18T20:48:00.000-07:00

Oh so many additions, and now just catching up. I've compiled a listing of the most recent (that haven't been detailed here as they were previously acquired - bad Mike!) and a list with a brief note is included here, including today's Father's Day acquisitions!

Please be sure to leave what you think about any or all of these. I always appreciate insight from others that may or may not have similar cinematic tastes as I do. We've got a ton of diversity here for a variety of reasons and I would be happy to hear from you!

Here we go!

== Airplane!: "Don't Call Me Shirley!" Edition
- One of the all-time classic comedies from my childhood. I can still remember the stomach ache I had when watching this over and over with my Father, as well as the worn finger on the rewind button for the then new-fangled tech item called a "VCR"! With features and commentary from a variety of sources, this is one that cannot be denied.

== 24: Season Four
- A continuation of one of the greatest television-bound action dramas that has become the focus of this fantastic Podcast online called "2GuysTalking: 24". That Brian guy on there rocks but that Mike guy - he just drags the whole thing into the toilet! ;)

== John Carpenter's Ghosts of Mars: Special Edition
- As an avid John Carpenter Fan, this is one that just sang out for me to have. While the movie isn't very good, I find that padding the pocket of great directors on the DVD side (even if it's only $4.44!) is a solid alibi to people bitching about what you've recently purchased! It's a zombie movie at heart which has really become something almost mainstream. With a variety of commentaries as well it's a great addition to the solid collection of commentaries that grace my library.

== Dune: Extended Edition
- I think I've always had an attraction to this film because of my long-time love of Sting in general (music, politically I think the guy is off the deep Gore/McClean GoofyCrap-O-Meter), which is what originally drew me to this. With all kinds of extras, the super cool "tin" that it came in and of course - commentary from every end of the cinematic spectrum, this was a great cheap buy at Walmart in the get-rid-of-it rack.

== Titanic: Special Collector's Edition
- There is only one other guy that I know of that likes Titanic. I've no idea what his reasons are, but mine include - ultra-fabulous director James Cameron, the very well-rounded and undeniably my type Kate Winslet (oh, if you weren't a smoker...), one of the decade's most memorable soundtracks (not the Celine song, the rest though is outstanding) from composer James Horner, and every film extra you can imagine including Cameron commentary. Buy, baby, buy!

== The Pink Panther Film Collection: Special Edition
- I got this for my Dad's birthday and sent it off to him This is one of the greatest sources of entertainment that I can remember in my life with my father. It, as with Airplane!, served to make some of the most laughing-so-hard-I-can-taste-my-spleen experiences that remain to this day.

== Doom: Unrated Extended Edition
- When you add in a great video game, The Rock, the transfer of first-person-shooter video games to cinema, and a variety of features, this was a buy for certain. The quality of the movie is clearly suspect, but it's a romp that also, like Ghosts of Mars, turns into an all-out Zombie celebration.

== The Muppets Take Manhattan
- A common recipe lately - take one 3 year-old daughter, add 3 Cups of Father that Loves the Muppets and you have a purchase. ;) Features, hours of entertainment and more.

== Good Night, and Good Luck.: Widescreen Edition
- An Academy Award Winner, it is still wrapped in plastic and remains unwatched. I think I bought it because Ebert & Roeper gave it a solid run. I need to find time to sit and watch it when I'm not irritated already :)

== The Shield: Season 4
- Only by a hair is "24" a greater show than this one. The character that Michael Chiklis (Vic Mackey) has created is just totally engaging and one that anyone should be proud to watch and learn the "story" of.

== Glory: Special Edition
- This has a differently-formatted commentary on it and I'll need to give it a review of it's own. It's one of my favorite movies of all-time that always gets overlooked when people talk about great cinema that totally destroys other movies.

== Dirty Dancing: Ultimate Edition
- Someone held a gun to my head and said "if you don't buy this DVD, I will kill you." Actually it was my wife, it was on the $5,50 rack at Target and so it was purchased, and is now kept in a shrine where the place I used to sleep on the mattress I bought was. :)

== The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe: Special Two-Disc
- Suddenly, there was Azlan... I remember my 3rd Grade Teacher Mrs. Duer reading this series of books to me as a child, and when watching this DVD (as well as the upcoming sequels no doubt" I suddently saw Mr. Tumnus, General Otmin and all of the characters I had conjured as a very small child on the screen. An outstanding addition and one that everyone that has anyexperience or interest in the books should see.

== The Fly: Collector's Edition
- This movie was, for me, Spider-Man on Acid. The kinetics of pulling off a "real" comic book character during BrunbleFly's tranformation in this movie were something that were a strange, undeniable alure when watching this film. Well, that and some circus-phreak couch sex with a then hot Geena Davis. With an entire extra disc of extras, we can only hope for on the cutting room floor remnants of the living room furniture nature. And that loft that Brundle had - did that RULE or what?

== The Elephant Man
- I think I purchased this because while I have only seen it once, I saw it when I was 11 years old and it has always left an impression on me. Directed by David Lynch, with a cast that is a tour de force to say the least, I remember VIVIDLY that this was a "horror" movie when I was younger, only to realize when I'm only that it showcases humanity and it's horror when considering things that are different.

== K-19: The Widowmaker
- This silent, silent service effort for Harrison Ford is one that provides him with an underwater stage that I think went completely underappreciated. I look forward to watching this on the new sound system that I purchased recently and invite all to enjoy it with me.

== Over There: Season One
- This is one of the saddest victims of modern day television last season. This series, showcasing the everyday goings-on of 8 people at work, who just happen to be members of the American military, serving in Iraq during operation Iraqi Freedom. The flavor, the look the authenticity, the people stories and the grit of not war, but of reality were completely missed by a huge segment of society and we will be worse off for it. I encourage everyone to get this half-season set, to watch and finally understand a great deal more - not about the current war effort, but about the people that are participating in the war effort

== Drop Zone
Wesley Snipes is undoubtedly one of America's most prolific action stars, who provides some very solid efforts (but sadly some stinkers, ie 7 seconds, etc) in the past. This film offers not only the chocolate master blaster of disaster, but skydiving which I have always been a sucker for. When you calculate that in, with the undeniably hot, before she went crazy Yancy Butler in skin-tight outfits, and appearances from Gary Busey and Michael "Mr. Noodle" Jeter, this is a great romp that satisfies regularly.

== The Muppet Movie: Anniversary Edition
Note to All: Any accusations of this film being bought to satiate a young three-year-old are greatly exaggerated. This film is one of the films that is etched into my memory as a child and is one of the most adult child-oriented films available. It also has all of the same hallmark traits of the Muppet Show, which is another great, must-have not only for those with children, but those that were 7 years old in 1977. An outstanding film with outstanding makers, creators and puppeteers that easily give Academy Award-winning action as any current day acting source.

== Robot Chicken: Season One
-The answer to "why" is simple. It makes my daughter laugh, and was well-liked by my wife during a recent marathon experience in the theater during Halloween. ;) 'Nuff said.

== Flight 93
-This, along with "The Flight That Fought Back" and the recently released "United 93" are simply required watching for every American. The passion, dedication and understanding and of how good will win out displayed here is something I simply don't have words for. Get 'em, watch 'em, share 'em, and hug your family often.

== The Patriot: Extended Cut
- I really enjoyed the Patriot. The scope of being able to show what was a crucial time in our nation's history, complete with authentic costumes, events, and props offers viewers a great section of the past in a modernly authored tale. I haven't seen the extended eidtion listed here and look forward to viewing it.

== Event Horizon: Special Collector's Edition
- My friend Matt swears by this film, and I have to admit that I always have an open screen for a good science-fiction horror flick filled with stars, gore, and special effects. Got thoughts on this one? Let me know what you think!

== Blue Thunder: Special Edition
- A total guilty pleasure here, folks. I love Roy Schieder, I love Daniel Stern, I love helicopters, helicopter chases over modern day LA, special effects and everything provided in this film.

== Boomerang: Widescreen Collection
- I truly think that this was the last Eddie Murphy movie that I thought offered him something challenging where he hit a home run. Eddie Murphy deserves something more than another Dr. DoLittle sequel and another piece of latex and dress. In the bin for $4.44, this couldn't be passed up and makes a dandy addition to the collection.

== Last Holiday: Widescreen Edition
- This didn't get sufficient accolades that it deserved. While I don't like Queen Latifah's politics, I think she has fantastic acting chops, as does LL Cool J who I think has a breakout role waiting for him in the future. They have a great electricity that is very well showcased here and I recommend it.

== Con Air: Unrated Extended Edition
- Put the Bunny Back: I'm not a huge Nick Cage fan, but this and a select others he has put forth require a purchase. The extra goodies included on this one don't really offer anything more in-depth, but it does have a great set of features and sound options that play very well in the new sound system I've got. Oh, and remember - Put the Bunny Back...

== Crimson Tide: Extended Edition
- Another tour de force with a cast of stellar thespians. Mix in Denzel, Hackman, Gandolphini and Mortensen with great sound effects and punching though stereotypic characterizations of sub folk and you have a nice Michael Bay romp.

== The Cave: Widescreen
- I like Cole Hauser a lot, folks. I think he's probably one of the most underused actors we have today. I so wanted to like this film. It offers a great deal of fun. Spelunking galore, underwater gravitas, cool effects and an ending that sucks the rather large power knob. Great features and sound though, and I look forward to seeing the features on this disc.

== Frantic
- I can remember when this movie came out vividly. I was in my Junior year of higho school and Premiere Magazine had just made it's "premiere" and featured none other than Harrison Ford. This film, from Director Roman Polanski, is one that offers a really great look at what ISN'T the usual shots of Paris. It's also a decent and differently paced missing person pseudo thriller that is a solid offering for Harrison. No features, sadly, but was doubled-up with Firewall. I've been buying the double-ups lately because it sure does save a bit of money to buy new ones like that, plus it helps to flesh out the library in general.

== Firewall: Widescreen
- I wanted to like this movie desperately. With Harrison in the lead role (almost a complete miscast in my opinion, by the way) and Paul Bettany as the supposed baddie, this one had the makings of something good. Sadly, it was not destined to happen apparently. Ironically, we ended up watching "Hostage", the Bruce Willis offering from last year right after this, and damn - if half the same formula wasn't there, but guess what? Hostage at least had a bad guy that WAS A BAD GUY. Bettany never came to the front of "wow, look at that dude, he's really bad" and it could have been accomplished so easily. Virginia Madsen? For her this was apparently a paycheck movie sadly. She is completely wasted in this movie. A"Peanut Allergy" seemed to be something off-key but never really went anywhere. Also the name of the movie - where WAS the firewall in "Firewall?" I'm not the hippest technology industry worker, but I know firewalls and there wasn't one featured here. Just an "offering" that could be taken or not in general, folks.
-
== Planet of The Apes
-This film is one of the first films I remember seeing. I remember it as clearly as the set of action figures I had that were out and at the ready during my watchings of the series that soon followed. Between special effects that come close to matching if not surpassing many of the offerings today, and the high level acting skill that few of today's "actors" can match, this newly remastered version is something that every movie-goer should have in their arsenal. Features galore grace this set of discs and I can't wait to get to it.
== The Dirty Dozen: Two-Disc Special Edition 328
== Underworld: Evolution: Widescreen Special Edition
== Underworld: 2 Disc Unrated Extended Cut

The Pink Panther
- A guilt buy, mostly because I remember the love, laughter and great gut-splitting laughter that my father and I shared watchind and rewinding the originals with Peter Sellers. While I know I will dread watching this movie, at least I can watch it and know how much better the classics are and will always be. This was also a double buy from Walmart with "Roxanne" which is a great movie and (I hope will) makes up for the faux paus in this paycheck film for Steve Martin.

Sleepy Hollow: Widescreen Collection
- A great and literally "haunting" film from the Burton/Depp team. I had just talked about this in a post over at the LunchTimeGab, about how I appreciate many but not all of their projects. What are YOUR thoughts on this one? The special effects are stellar, the "Burtonesue" art is there and Depp hits his stride with this portrayal of a skinny, dark-eyed constable.

Look for more soon and please chime in with your thoughts on my browing collection!

Not So Shining X-ample...

2006-05-29T12:50:00.000-07:00

Let me preface this review with the description of the love I have for the content depicted on the screen yesterday evening. Since I can remember having the concept of money, I had bought comic books - four of which were always "must haves" - Amazing Spiderman, Xmen, Batman, and just about every comic I could get my hands on that was created by John Byrne. Proof of this can be verified when looking at the storage space of my home to see the vast structure that is made out of white comic storage boxes, backing boards and plastic storage bags.

My comic-collecting days ended in the early 90's when RENT became a higher priority than the stack of unread comic books. Nonetheless, the power of the comic book and graphic novel realm was something significant.

That said, it's clear that the Xmen movies that have been release previously have held quite a bit of power for me in the realm of bringing something near and dear to my heart. Bryan Singer leaving the franchise was a surprise, and shock to me, and as we had the Fantastic Four arrive, I was scared that we might be in for trouble with what is easily one franchise that has soooo much potential for Fox. His vision for the last two films was truly epic, and he clearly understood what was going on with the key characters. Sadly, that understanding seems to be missing from this submission to moviedom.

SPOILERS: If you've not seen Xmen: The Last Stand, then you shoudl consider not reading on. You've now received fair warning and I don't want to hear about it later. :)

I am and was all on board for the first 20 minutes of this film. The look, the characters, the brooding attitudes, the camerawork - all very Singer, without question, including a very attention getting credit section/intro that was again, outstanding.

The characters that were so very well rounded in the last episode of this series, are now literally 2-D cutouts that just feel very paper thin. I have to wonder to myself if much of this was due to the introduction of new characters, which when we weigh all of the benefit of the introductions - I firmly come down on the "introduce less people" side in order to foster story and the worth of characters. Sadly, it seems as though the "fix" for this is to KILL KNOWN AND ESTABLISHED characters which again - this soon into the series is next to suicidal.

Cyclops - Mr. Xmen himself (though, very lightly portrayed by James Marsen) - KILLED my Phoenix. A fantastic "death" scene, but WOW. You've just killed the heart of what was the comic book for longer than I've been alive.

Professor X - It is quite possible that if Patrick Stewart wasn't ever cast as this person, the movies may not have been the literal "Juggernaut" that they have become. He has exuded leadership and the focal point for thinking in situations where you very possibly may need to do something OTHER than act. Well guess what? He's dead TOO!

To think back now, a day or so later, I honestly believe that the rest of the movie wasn't really taken in because of the SHOCK of seeing Xavier disintergrated in front of our eyes. That's not a Fanboy perspective, it's the viewpoint of a dedicated fan and interested movie goer just can't quite believe what he just saw. After talking to the person I went to see it with, I think perhaps another viewing might be necessary to determine what the rest of the film contained.

Look for an update here soon.

Back to the Future Back to Back - Commentaries...

2006-01-24T20:44:00.000-08:00

Those of you that remember 1985 in more ways than one will remember that was the year featured in one of my all-time favorite series of films, "Back to the Future" (parts 1-3).

I had the opportunity to listen to all three feature-length commentaries back to back this weekend while cleaning out/rearranging my office downstairs. I wanted to take a few moments to recommend both the options available in the "Q&A sessions" with Director Robert Zemeckis, but also the detailed feature-length commentary with writer/producer Bob Gale.

Just a Few Items of note from the commentaries:

1.) Elijah Wood has his first on-screen role in Back to the Future 2 as one of the kids that Marty shows how to "use his hands to play video games."

2.) Carl Sagan once told Bob Gale that the Back to the Future movies were the best samples of the time-travel theory in American cinema.

3.) Crispin Glover was left out of the subsequent movies, because he had wanted to broker a deal that would fetch him the same money/deal that Michael J. Fox was collecting.

4.) As per the director and producer, no one should ever make two movies at the same time.

5.) Great lengths were taken to try to "show George McFly" in the movie, but to not show that it wasn't Crispin Glover.

6.) Michael J. Fox is very short. Christopher Lloyd is very tall. In an effort to make sure that this fact was never an issue, Zemeckis provided structured "blocking" (how the actors move in an on-screen area) so that the two were always moving in opposite directions in scenes (something that is clearly apparent when you watch the movie after hearing that),

7.) 7 Deloreans were created to provide the movies with the different types of vehicles featured.

8.) Originally, actor Eric Stoltz was slated in the Marty role. They refer to him in a variety of areas during the commentary, and none offer anything negative about Stoltz' performance.

9.) The mothod of creating the stories was initiated by taking an event that they wanted to have happen (Marty creates rock-n-roll) and then creating story to be able to check off that goal.

10.) The ZZTop manager was a prick - wanting to somehow get the ZZTop Mobile into the third movie.

11.) Thanks to a nitpicking Japanese viewer, we now know that the letter that Marty originally wrote, and the one that Doc has at the end of the second movie, were not actually the same letter.

12.) The odometer in the Delorean doesn't display a consistent number throughout the ride.

13.) Marty's western shirt pocket flap in the second movie appears to pop in and out during his discussion with George.

These 12 notes, and hundreds of others provide a fantastic insider view of what is easily one of the most successful and entertaining franchises in American cinema. Give them a chance - you won't be disappointed.

Back to the Future 4 in Our Future? Say It Ain't So.

2005-12-21T14:55:00.000-08:00

Whilest looking for links on the IMDB Website, I saw a note that caught my eye and immediately sparked horror:

"Fox Heading 'Back to the Future'?
Michael J. Fox is heading Back To The Future for a fourth time-traveling movie. The actor, who suffers from Parkinson's disease, admits he's in negotiations for a final film in the series - but only if they make his character as old as he is in real life. The former Spin City star wants to take over Christopher Lloyd's eccentric scientist character, Doc, in the sequel. He tells movie website Moviehole.net, "The only way it would work would be if I played Doc. I'm 44-years-old now and I'm not interested in running around on skateboards! I think after 1, 2 and 3 we all kind of felt we had done it. And I think if they did it again now they would do it with a younger cast and just do a different realisation of it, which would be fun." "

There are fewer bigger fans than I of the Back to the Future franchise. I remember vividly the hunt for the VHS editions of the movies when I was a kid in the 80's and their arrival on DVD was akin to all of the STAR WARS hype for me. That being said, I can think of few other things that would SUCK MORE than "another" Back to the Future" movie, that would feature Michael J Fox as Doc Brown and some other, newer lead roles.

Has Hollywood and their ilk finally realized that they can't come up with something ORIGINAL? How many like-camera angles, winks and nods and cameo appearances would we all be subject to in another offering of Back to the Future?

Please, for the love of GAWD, and for the sake of continuing the fantastic lexicon in Earth history that is Back to the Future - DO NOT subject us to the fourth edition of what is a perfect three-part series.

Four Brothers Review - Siblings Like These Would Have Ruled...

2005-12-21T14:31:00.000-08:00

One of the many movies that I missed this last summer was John Singleton's "FOUR BROTHERS."

One of the skills that today's movie offerings are sadly lacking is the ability to give me the basic story set-up in less than 10 minutes. Four Brothers provided me with this and initiate what became a very satisfying movie memory entry.

The Story: A mother-to-many foster mother is murdered one evening and four orphaned-turned-adopted-brother siblings return home to find out "who dunnit" and find that what seemed like a simple case of "wrong place-wrong time" is much more sinister than originally thought.

The four brothers are portayed by:

Mark Wahlberg
....
Bobby Mercer

Tyrese Gibson
....
Angel Mercer

André Benjamin
....
Jeremiah Mercer (as Andre Benjamin)

Garrett Hedlund
....
Jack Mercer

who all offer up solid characters in what I feared would have been a very shellled character existance in this movie. They, with the supporting vase offer a very satisfactory movie experience with very few loose ends and many memorable scenes.

Three things originally drew me to this movie:

Mark Wahlberg: I have always been a fan of this totally underated actor. He has 10 times the screen presence of Sean Penn, and is infinately more entertaining if anything that he's been in. I would have loved to have seen him in Mystic River in Penn's place, and can think of many other movies that needed a REAL character actor that can and is from the east coast - on particular the Boston area.

John Singleton: John is no stranger to urban movie fare and presents a solid project to add to the ever-growing bundle of street-bloke storytelling. For those that have forgotten, John has directed and or produced many movies that have fleshed out the hollywood street lexicon.

Tales of Revenge: One of the greatest componants in storytelling is the revenge scenario. We've all seen movies that CAN'T PULL it off, and I'm happy to report that this one does.

One other great surprise in this movie was the movies no-nonsense-I'm-an-asshole-villain, Chiwetel Ejiofor, whom I remember first seeing on the big screen in "SERENITY", the carry-over movie for the sadly-canceled "FIREFLY" series. In this instance, he's ditched his real-life english accent and taken on some whole hog street-bound badassedness and really does make you want to have this dude dead as soon as possible.

The only thing lacking (if I can call it that) is the very last act - send me an Email and I'll tell you what I would have liked to have seen happen (as well as NOT to spoil it all for everyone reading here :) ).

All in all, a good solid movie, fleshed-out enough to get it characters and a general zeal present during the entire movie.

"24" Day Five News...

2005-11-01T16:52:00.000-08:00

For those of us that know the power of Jack, the time for worship is just around the corner.

January will bring new episodes of one of the coolest, most vibrant television offerings of all time - "24".

There was recently a quick advertisement during a baseball game that I read about on "24Fans.Com" and thought I'd share.

Cheers!

CPTMIKE

=============================================

"24" Day Five News...
From 24Fans.Com:

The publicity machine has finally started to move on Day Five, as the first trailer was aired during a baseball game. Not many details provided about the new season (it's only 30 seconds) but enough to get the mind wondering and the voice-over has the usual mock intensity which is always good for a laugh.

For thoose who don't want to download the trailer,

http://www.24fans.com/Videos/S5Promo_1.mpg

there are screenshots in the news archive

http://www.24fans.com/news_200510.html

Froogle Saves the Wallet AGAIN!

2005-10-31T18:29:00.000-08:00

Red Alert!

I just found the entire ENTERPRISE series for $306.23 via the cursory search via Froogle, Google's Dandy price-hunt at home site.

When you consider that each of them is $98 (Walmart, larger stores, etc) and that it's retailing for $500 or so, what a deal.

Dig it:

http://www.dvdempire.com/Exec/v4_item.asp?item_id=739360&partner_id=10007124

While I am still amazed that Trek offers what is often the LEAST amount of content for the highest price of a television show, I am very happy when I happen upon things like this. It really shows that here is potential for deals to be found on the web and that searching really can and does payoff.

Now, to just find $300+ extra dollars. :)

The Next "24" Season - Four Hours in Two Nites!

2005-09-04T19:25:00.000-07:00

Just when you thought "24" didn't have anymore cool surprises in regard to format...

The next season will feature the first four hours in 2 2-hour action packed evenings!

Very slick!

Check out the announcement below and if you aren't a "24" Fan yet, there are all kinds of reasons to be.

Cheers!

"24" Series Five Premiere
Source: 24Fans.Com

"...Fox‘s real-time drama '24' which will again kick off its season with four episodes screening on two consecutive nights...
The fifth season will premiere with two episodes from 8-10 p.m. January 8, followed by two from 8-10 p.m. January 9 (the second episode January 9 will be the show‘s 100th). On January 16, the fifth hour of "24" will air in the show‘s regular 9 p.m. Monday slot.

The scheduling strategy is designed to let viewers watch an entire season on a weekly basis without repeats or pre-emptions..."

Confimation their that Day Five will kick off in the same way that Day Four did, and that helped in achieve the highest ratings of any series. Link to the original article is below, but be warned, contains major spoilers regarding casting details some may wish to avoid.
source : www.leadingthecharge.com - Series Five Spoilersmore : news.google.com - Series Five Spoilers

Great "24" Fan News...

2005-09-04T19:21:00.000-07:00

I was surfing for a few minutes after several great "24" episodes on the A&E Marathon, and saw this neat tidbit at 24Fans.Com. It's some terrific news for those of us that are fans and even for those who are not yet "24" fans.

Enjoy!

""24": U.S. DVD Strikes BackSource: 24fans.com
Source: 24Fans.Com

As predicted by various rumours and other murmurings, the upcoming (6th of December) U.S. release of series four will carry on the well-worn tradition of the region 1 dvd getting more extras than the region 2. The U.S. DVD will include no-less than 12 episode commentaries.

Although some of the episodes selected for commentaries seem a bit odd (there are no commentaries for episodes 12 or 13, two of the best episodes of the series after the final two) and the list of participants sadly lack any of the veteran cast members from the series (Mary Lynn Rajskub who plays Chloe is the only cast member to do a commentary who didn't make there debut on the show this year), but then it does include commentaries on the first and finale episodes.

Other extras exclusive to the US release is a Series 4/5 bridge or Series 5 prequel, which has been made during the filming of Series 5, and a Series 5 trailer. If I had the money and the ability to play U.S. discs, my copy would be on pre-order right now.
source : www.tvshowsondvd.comdiscuss : 24fans.3.forumer.com "

Recent Acquisitions - 9-1-2005

2005-09-04T14:53:00.000-07:00

With even more great DVD's going on clearance, and a variety of new movies hitting the shelves, it's time to update the collection and provide you with a listing of newly acquired goodness.

I also wanted to once again tout DVD Profiler, a DVD Collection detailing program as well. I've been able to follow new releases and more via that programs newest features and it's been great to have a one-stop source to checkout whenever I add in new entries.

We're throwing three more into My Collection. The first is one that touches not only the heart, but offers up one of the few ridiculous comedies:

TOMMY BOY: In 1997 Chris Farley died, and was clearly gone too soon. His short but solid impact is offered in what is his best offering as a comedic actor, "Tommy Boy" starting a cavalcade of stars from all over Hollywood, and fosters what was one of the best comedy teams on the planet. He and David Spade offered a relationship that many people my age and a bit younger can totally connect with. The sniping, decadent insult that supports many-a-relationship is something that a great many people can relate with.

While Tommy Boy doesn't offer an Academy Award Winning film for viewers to watch, it does offer a glimpse into a career that could have gone a long way, with features that include some great commentaries and behind the scenes stuff that is not to be missed. A segment with Chris' brothers is particularly interesting.

THREE KINGS: Two of my favorite like-to-watch actors (Mark Wahlberg and Ice Cube), and George Clooney are in this film, and it offered what is a decidedly different view of the first Iraqi War. I am interested in hearing the director commentary from director David Russell who has completely different views than I do on war, but offered one of the movies I remember most from the late 90's.

AMERICAN PSYCHO: This is the movie that brought Christian Bale to stardom and to the interest of many who have enjoyed his career so far. It's an "Uncut Version" so I am interested to see how "un-toned down" this version is. The movie as I originally recall was already very graphic and very dark.

Be sure to check the links about these films here and let me know if you have any opinion on any of the information that I've provided here.

Blockbuster in a Different Light...

2005-08-16T20:57:00.000-07:00

Those of you that have taken the bold steps into the Blue and Yellow doors of Blockbuster should know that you now have an option taking cues from the popular online video rental services that have sprung up over the years.

Gloria and I have, for about 2 months now, taken part in Blockbuster Online - a service that sends us 3 DVDs at a time, as per a custom "que" (also known as "MyQ") that you can create, modify and add to at your leisure via a very nice online interface. The cost for the 1st 4 months is just $9.99, but after that the cost will increase to $17.99 (a recent development).

All in all it's been a very good experience. For those wondering how it works, Blockbuster charges your credit or debit card per month, and sends you 3 DVDs at a time. After watching them, you can send them back all at once or one by one, and Blockbuster then sends you the next one set in your chosen online listing and mails them out right away.

The mailing service is probably the strongest piece so far of this service. We mailed out the most recent discs at 1:30pm yesterday afternoon, and in my Email at 7am in the morning was confirmation that they had been received and that three new ones had been mailed out.

Initially when I heard that the cost was going to increase from their regular $14.99 to $17.99 I had thought about cancelling the service, but I think we're going to stick it out. We are definitely not regular "renters" but it's nice to have some movies "ready to watch" that we don't have to take time out of our day to go and get.

Next Three Arrivals:

--- Suspect Zero
--- Black Cadillac
--- The Original Assault on Pricinct 13

What do YOU think about services like this? Would you/do you pay the money? Do you take part in services like this (Netflix, etc)? How do you participate in things like this?

"Back in the Day" Should Go Back to the Drawing Board...

2005-08-16T19:27:00.000-07:00

Gloria and I had several movies arrive the other day, and in that most recent mix from Blockbuster's Online DVD rental service was "Back in the Day" starring Ving Rhames whom I have really come to like over the last several years. His portrayals as Don King in "Don King: Only In America" and a totally overlooked role in "Dark Blue" are some really great acting.

Back in the day took Ving an the cast into the realm of the reuniting of new and old school gangstas that had a lot of potential, some good solid, heartfelt scenes, but it just misses the mark for me for a variety of reasons.

First, while I can't even begin to know the environment, I have grown tired of seeing the "victim" mentality of what is today's gang scene for young black men. Seeing another pile of young black men grit their teeth and say things while they're pissed off works, but only works for so many movies and we've reached the boiling point. Ving brings some very interesting views to the screen with the portrayal of "J-Bone" who has just been released from prison and heads back to the old neighborhood. We also see another injection of quality from Joe "Miles Bennet Dyson" Morton from Terminator 2 fame who sadly gets killed quick. I also almost didn't recognize Tia Carrere in this movie, who plays J-Bone's business saavy Ho (oh, how the mighty temptress from True Lies and Wayne's World hath fallen!!!), who has avery scripted and illogical death by cop scene. Her "hood" accent felt like one of those things where when you hear it you want to squit and look away from the screen.

Overall this movie is a dud, unoriginal, and brings a very light chalkmark to many careers that have much potential. If you're looking for some almost solid, original old-school gangsta perspective from Ving, and what is some nice music, then this might be worth your time. Otherwise, I recommend another viewing of "Boyz intha' Hood".

Have you seen a good, solid, gangsta film that offers up a solid, interesting perspective in recent years? Tell me about it!

Recent Acquisitions... August 2005...

2005-08-16T12:48:00.000-07:00

Good grief, how the summer FLIES...

My wife and I celebrated our most recent Anniversary (our 10th Wedding anniversary and 15 year "since we met" Anniversary) and I got several items from her to commemorate them as well as some other additions that continue to run the spectrum of entertainment in the Wilkerson houshold.

On to the list

The Simpsons: Season 6 DVD Collection: We are always excited to receive a season of what is one of the most overlooked series in recent times. I look forward to watching/listening to this set and providing a review at a future date. There is also a develpment in the "new Hollowed Out Head" debate. Check that out over here.

Constantine: I have long been hoping that Keanu Reeves would break out of the Neo mode, and this one almost makes it happen. It's a very dark film, that has lots of great points, including some remarkable effects, some sit upright in your seats moments and some neat character casting. It missed the mark by just a hair. I'll pound out a review of it soon.

The Muppet Show: Season One Set: I have long known that the magic of my childhood was housed in a little green felt frog named "Kermit." This show was one of the most influential elements of my childhood. 1976 was the year that my parents marriage started to dematerialize which left me very on my own to find my way as I could and the Muppet Show was a staple that I would race home on my dirt bike to see. I look very forward to revisiting this and the next 5 seasons.

Sin City: This was something of a treat that I completely missed this year. The actors are there, the special effects are literally state-of-the-art, and I look forward to seeing it.

Sesame Street Compilation: All Just $4.88 - The proud tradition of Sesame Street continues on to my daughter, Jade, and this series of DVD's passes on some of the basic magic, and much of the newer magic of Sesame Street. For parents out there, I completely recommend them.

- Big Bird Sings
- The Adventures of Elmo in Grouchland
- Elmo's World: Wake Up with Elmo!
- Friends to the Rescue (A Hurricane Hits Sesame Street!)

Wax-On, Wax-Off...

2005-07-30T10:29:00.000-07:00

For the longest time, I had wondered if there was ever truly a more memorable phrase in cinematic history.

While it didn't make AFI's All-Time List, there is a valid argument for Wax-On, Wax-Off.

It also is included in my newest DVD acquisition, the Special Edition of "Karate Kid" starring Ralph Macchio and Pat Morita.

Look for a review of it in the future. This film evokes many memories from my childhood that would be fun to share.

Days of (Other-worldly) Thunder...

2005-07-12T11:45:00.000-07:00

One of the hallmarks of great storytelling, is being able to instill not only a sense of anticipation, but also to provide some real surprise when executing a story.

Recently, my wife and I went to see "War of the Worlds" and what we witnessed was something that held not only the sense of anticipation and surprise, but left us ready for more when it was all said and done.

War of the Worlds is the classic tale of invasion that has seen it's share of movies already, and has been copycatted almost to death in so many movies that it's hard to begin to explain.

So how do you bring something new and fresh to something so famliar? Something so "already known" that even the youngest science-fiction fan can draw a "tripod" machine?

The answer? You bring in Steven Speilberg.

The most signficant reason I held great expectations for this movie had everything to do with the advertising campaign surrounding it. There is only one other film in modern times that held and even greater genius in the realm of advertising and promotion: Terminator 2 provided what is easily the best advertising campaign in recent memory by providing only vauge ideas of what surrounded the movie that really were "already knowns." The things shown included: Arnold - Sarah Connor - a new young star John Conner - an apparently caring police office - total armegeddon. All of themse items and only a few snippets from the actual movie were provided before the movies release, so you always had a level of anticipation and a "I have no idea what's going to happen" take on things that is completey missing from the vast majority of today's moviedom. Also roll into the mix that after the movie opened, they started to add on small bits of action sequences from the film that still never left the cat out of the bag - that began to get more and more detailed as the days and weeks went by, until finally there was what we NOW see as the FIRST trailer of every other blockbuster movie was released.

Definitive genius by the marketing department hired to launch Terminator 2.

War of the Worlds has followd in the same vein since day one.

Beginning with a simple, 15-second short in which Tom Cruise looks out a minivan dooe and says with just a bit of feeling "Jerry, get in the car or you're going to die..." and a montage of facial expressions, but never any spoilers. As the launch date came closer, we saw a little more, and a little more and still: nothing is spoiled: It's all fresh, it's all ready to be absorbed, but never are you aware of anything that's going to happen in the film (other than the hallmarks from the original story that is) until it hits you like a blunt object over the forehead.

That's the power of this rendition of War of the Worlds.

The 175-Word Synopsis:

Tom Cruise is Ray Ferrier, a longshoreman/crane operator in Jersey who has two children, but has forgotten what it is to be a father. As a new day arrives, a strange-looking thundercloud arrives. News reports from Europe talk about strange electromagnetic events going on and discussion of mass-power outages proliferate the American media. Finally, the storms arrive sending not only a remarkable number of lightning bolts to Earth, but the same strange phenomenon that was occuring in Europe is happening here. Cars halt in the middle of highways, watches stop, digital clocks go blank and no communication devices seem to work. As a sense of reasonable manic falls over the crowd, the Earth begins to move beneath everyone's feet. What rises from the Earth confirms everyone's worst-ever fear: They're here. They're not listening, and they want to milk you like grapes. The story follows Ray and his family for a solid 116 minutes through a variety of twists and turns that keep you guessing, but also deliver solid, what-the-hell-was-that action that makes you thirst for more.

The Actors: Tom Cruise has been on a course of apparent self-destruction in his public personal life, but as I try to tell others: I have no interest in him as a person, but I love to watch this man act. While you might think that imagining that you're seeing a 30-story alien troop transport would be "easy" there's much more to being scared, shocked and showing disbelief than just telling someone to do so. What is also evident here is that Cruise plays a man who probably never really wanted to be a father, but suddently realizes, at the brink of destruction, that he is one and that if he doesn't do something, he will lose everthing that really should have been important all these years. Dakota Fanning offers up some very solid skills here and literally says 1000 words by saying nothing at all and looking absolutely horrified. The other plays in the film are little more than support characters (Tim Robbins shows up and guess what: he's PARANOID! No way!) but in a film like this, there's not much more to what's going on, than what's being seen on screen.

The Effects: The effects in this film, like so many other Speilberg offerings, are other-worldly and almost beyond description. While still in the realm of entertainment, please realize that much of the imagery in the film is completely destructive, bordering on horritying takeover of our planet. That would be a bad thing were we expecting something else, but in this case, it is received like a sponge on the audience that we saw it with.

The Received Message: While everyone will think that this is little more than a disaster movie on Speilberg steroids, I believe that this tale is truly about the realization of fatherhood, and the eternal desire to hold on to what you have. While movies like "Independence Day" offer up a pair of cinematic boxing gloves with which to take on our adversary, we have nothing in the way of offensive potential in this film, barring a last-ditch effort from Cruise's charcter at the end. All of the characters, whether they be an extra in the background, or one of the people appearing in the foreground with lines, want to somehow make sure that what they still have stays. That that is humanity, isn't it?

Recent Acquisitions - June 05...

2005-06-20T10:38:00.000-07:00

It's been a whirlwind month so far and there's no end of business in sight.

Several excellent acquisitions this month so far that I wanted to share. On to the listing...

"The Aviator": What many thought was last year's snubbed picture of the year makes it's way to my collection this month, along with a an exclusive bonus/companion disc that provides viewers with a biography of Howard Hughes and c0mplete coverage of the Aviator World Premeire. Gloria and I have plans to watch this soon and I will be sure to post a solid review of the movie after it's over.

STAR TREK: The Original Series - Season 1 & 3: Two spectacular sets of add-ons here. Over the last two weeks we've been preparing a variety of boxes and "stuff" for a subdivision-wide garage sale. Included in those boxes were my old-school consoles and their associated games from 1981 on. Intellivision, ATARI 5200 & 7800, NES, SEGA and all of their associated games. As you can imagine if you've ever spent time with games and systems, getting rid of them is often something that doesn't happen easily and this was no exception. Though it was tough to pack them all up and get them to a local exchange place - I did it. It yielded me $185 in store credit and so I purchased the two TOS series disc sets that have eluded me since their release almost 2 years ago now.

"24" Season 2: What is easily one of the most compelling television series of our age, "24" has been a wonderful ride every season so far (check out my blog for any of the fun and detailed "Blow by Blow" reviews for more great readings from this recent 4th season) . Season 2 of the series makes its way to my collection via a dandy wife-provided Father's Day gift.

Look for more as I have the opportnity to watch and review the above and look for new editions.

Alone In the Theater...

2005-06-06T16:51:00.000-07:00

This weekend, my wife and I took the time to cozy-up in the theater and watch a couple of movies. While I plan on detailing them both, I wanted to be sure to wave-off anyone in the near vicinity of one of the offers -- "Alone In the Dark" starring Christian Slater.

To fill people in on the "proposed" plot, here is the description from everyone's favorite movie-factoid website, The Internet Movie Database.

"Alone In the Dark" Based on the video game, Alone in the Dark focuses on Edward Carnby, a detective of the paranormal, who slowly unravels a mysterious events with deadly results. Edward Carnby (Slater), detective of the paranormal, unexplained and supernatural, investigates a mystery (the recent death of a friend) with clues leading to "Shadow Island" that brings him face to face with bizarre horrors that prove both psychologically disturbing and lethal, as he discovers that evil demons worshiped by an ancient culture called the Abskani are planning on coming back to life in the 21st century to once again take over the world... and only he and a young genius anthropologist with an incredible memory (and his ex-girlfriend), Aline Cedrac (Reid), stand in their way, at a gateway to hell. Standing in Carnby's way, however, is the impact that a brief encounter with an evil spirit called the Queen had upon his mind, as he slowly finds himself overpowered by the forces of darkness as they eat away at his very sanity..."

The accurate irony of the last few words there is haunting. I have been a Christian Slater fan for a long time. From his earliest works to some of the lesser but still solid portrayals recently, he offers something I'm usually willing to watch and go along with. Murder in the First, Pump Up the Volume, Broken Arrow, and a variety of others are pieces of my collection and they really provide some great storytelling and acting samples. When "Alone In the Dark" offered Slater up as a detective, and that the film was based on a video/computer game of the same name, I was ready to see what there was to offer. I had no idea how unprepared I was.

From the VERY LONG, STAR WARS-like reading session (it's actually longer than any of the STAR WARS intros - can you believe that?) that was inane and described a "lost civilization" I knew that something was askew. I am all for "lost civilizations", I'm all for treasure hunts, but this one decides that that is simply not enough to drive a movie. Roll in some very shoddy character development for just about every character on board, and an attention-span focus that will induce seizure, you've got a recipe for a very long 96 minutes.

Slater pulls off probably the first 20 minutes of the movie, but eventually his role and the movie spirals into something that is a mix of bad B horror movie and a sample reel of how not to produce a movie. While I am completely unfamiliar with how the game worked when playing it on the computer, I surely would have had to consider an icepick for my eyesocket if it had anything to do with the content of this movie. When you take that and feature moderate-level CGI effects (that looked like they might have come from today's computer games rather than a movie studio pushing film-level special effects), you have clearly initiated a recipe for cinematic disaster.

With a mix of pseudo-zombies being controlled by symbiotic organisms that latch onto 19 orphans spines (luckily, number 20 Slater was electrocuted the nite they were installed in the rest and was 'saved'), dog-like CGI-things that are not only not scary, but stupid and loud, and a compliment of "Section 713 Soldiers" that are armed with black, short-sleeved T-Shirts and bicycle helmets (this is the army that's going to stop Armageddon?), this movie is one of the few movies I nearly considered turning off with more than half the movie left to go.

Try again, Christian - try again.

Flowers and Movies in May...

2005-05-11T09:25:00.000-07:00

I've acquired a bunch of great new additions over the last three weeks or so: now - if only I could dedicate time to watch them! :)

Check out the initial listings and thoughts below and be sure to post your comments - after all, that's what it's for!

-- HARSH REALM: This was a series by X-files Chris Carter that just never really got a chance nor the opportunity to collect an audience. Sadly I think that's one of the most significant hallmarks in today's attention-span-challenge entertainment industry that is just so maddening.

For those completely unfamiliar, "HARSH REALM" is a series following Lt. Hobbes who volunteers to test the army's newest tool, a virtual reality training machine code named "Harsh Realm." Once attached to the machine, Hobbes discovers that the VR world is controlled by the renegade soldier Omar Santiago. While Hobbes body remains in a coma, his mind lives on in the VR world, where he must join forces with an underground force in their attempt to overthrow Santiago. It was the great white hope of Fox for the 1999 season and was basically a hybrid of "The Matrix" and "The X-Files" bringing not only many of the character actors and vision that makes both of those original pieces of science fiction americana.

Those of you quick to crap on this series should remember that it is FULL of stars, including one of our favorite recent stars, Terry O'Quinn who plays "Locke" on the successful "LOST" franchise. The draw in general to buying this set of discs is very simple: In addition to liking the "VR for the Military" concept, this series of DVDs offers its viewers not only the three episodes that were aired on television, but six additional, never-before-seen episodes into the mix.

I look forward to checking them out soon.

-- House of Flying Daggers/TheOne Two Pack: Paving the way for the best way to get two great films, Walmart offered this great two-pack together for 8 bucks each. The One is a movie that we saw and liked very much in the theater and offers a super commentary track that I had started listening to late the other nite. A little tease on the review for that: did you know that THE ROCK was supposed to play "The One" instead of Jet Li? The entire movie's action set was completely re-written to offer an appropriate showcase for Li who's fighting style is completely different. Interesting what you find listening to Feature Commentaries, isn't it? The House of Flying Daggers got such RAVE reviews from both Ebert and Roeper that it needed to get seen. We haven't had the opportunity to do so yet, but look forward to seeing a great and critically acclaimed movie.

-- National Treasure: Saturday evening before Mother's Day this year offered a special couple of hours when we viewed "National Treasure" which debuted in November and sadly was eclipsed by the cavalcade of films that hit the streets towards the later months of last year. I went to see it with friends from ATLAS last year and while I have an inate revulsion reflex for Nick Cage in general, I found him at least watchable in this one. It has a lot of great story, historic tie-betweens, and humor and it really ties an entertaining story up for you. We enjoyed this movie a lot more on DVD at home and the disc has some great features. I'll try to get a review set for viewing in the next couple of weeks.

-- Blade: Trinity: I'm not sure if it's paying homage to the progenerator of modern comic book movies, or if I just like vampire-action films, but this was a delight to buy and add to the mix of my collection. Blade: Trinity offers a third installment of the not nearly as popular as Spiderman, Batman or Superman anti-bloodsucking-hero, and it's well put together. I look forward to this review as well as listening to the commentary from director David Goyer and several teams of special effects artists.

Daddy Likes Clearance Sales at the Land of Walmart...

2005-04-19T19:40:00.000-07:00

There are few things more glorious than getting DVD movies, chock full o' features for a paltry $4.88. I've no idea what most of these movies are doing in a "get the hell out of the store" bin, but it's a boon waiting to happen.

In the last 20 days or so, the following titles made their way into my DVD Collection:

For $4.88/disc:

-- The Day After: The only disc that doesn't have features is one that I remember vividly watching as a child: I even remember WHERE I was watching it - Ray Ambrose's house (a boyfriend of my Mother's) in Barrington, IL just outside of Chicago - with his son Ramie and his daughter Holly. However - I don't remember ANYTHING about the movie except that Jason Robards (good Gawd: he's been dead 5 years already) was in it and that it depicted the end of the world as we know it. Strange, isn't it? I've since taken a Sunday evening late to watch it and will throw up a Blow by Blow Review of it in the near future.

-- The General's Daughter: Not sure if I'm a closeted Sweathogs fan and am drawn to John Travolta, or if I just like seeing him be "badass" (in this case, an undercover badass and an everyday smartass when not in asshole's clothing) in movies. I had seen this movie when it aired in the theater opening weekend and remember enjoying it - it's in the same vein as half a dozen other "mystery thrillers" that run thru my brain: Double Jeopardy, Along Came a Spider - that line of movies. What caught my eye was that Simon West, the director, had a commentary track on this film. With the awesome visuals, the stellar, talent-filled cast, and some deleted scenes and alternate endings, this was an easy one to add to my collection.

-- Beverly Hills Cop: I had to look twice when I saw this in the el cheapo rack, but sure as a lemon twist - there it was. Carrying a commentary track from Martin Brest (Actor turned Director in the 80's and on), some great back-then cast and crew interviews and a couple of documentaries, this disc, for $4.88, is a total steal, folks. This also marks one of the very few movies that I really believe Eddie Murphy made before he was replaced by a talentless doppleganger that only looks like him and accepts worthless gag scripts that surely make money but don't have the punch that this, "48 Hrs", "Boomerang", "Trading Places", and the like.

and for $14.98:
-- 2 Disc Pack of:

-- Troy (2 Disc Widescreen Version) : I don't yet have an explanation of this, other than to say that I remembered a series of up and down reviews from a variety of critics that I admire. I also noted a "3-D Glossary of the Myths of the Greek Gods" which sounded slick and an excellent addition to the general knowledge library.

-- The Last Samurai (2 Disc Widescreen Version) : I think this was the reason I bought this two pack in general. I am a fan of Tom Cruise and this is one of the few movies that I never caught. I look forward to both watching this, as well as a commentary track from Director (and producer of a great many films I have enjoyed) Edward Zwick. Seemed like a slam dunk in regard to overall satisfaction-ability for me.

I'll be sure to put links to these as well as my initial thoughts or opinions of the material I've been able to screen/listen to.

Cheers!

An Island Adventure - Grand and Realistic...

2005-03-26T17:15:00.000-08:00

I was amazed to see this addition on sale at Walmart for a mere $6.99 - Imagine - what is probably one of the all time greatest adventure movies available for only $7 bucks.

The Guns of Navarone is a fantastic movie, however it's been long enough since I've seen it (I think I was 11 the last time I saw it: EEK!) that I'll have to view it to give you my adult insight! I'll give that and the features a shot here in the next couple of weeks.

Look for more information on The Guns of Navarone DVD soon!

Pencils, Ink, Computers, and Clones...

2005-03-26T08:45:00.000-08:00

My newest addition, is the animated sure-to-be-classic "CLONE WARS - Season 1" DVD released offically as a "Bridge" to the next installment for STAR WARS being showcased in May this year.

The DVD is a compilation of short animated entries that were put together and finished by the same team that animated "Samauri Jack" for the Cartoon Network and is very high quality. It harkens to the Anime fan in all of us, but stays outside the solid bloodline of Anime nicely and offers something really special - because after all, it's STAR WARS.

The quality of the animated pieces, now all in a "Play All" compilation is stellar. The sound effects, the music and the overall dynamics are there from the original libraries giving the feel of each installment untold value. The new voice talent (the only original actor to provide input was Anthony Daniels, the voice of C-3PO) is excellent and even had more cartooish flair that really adds to the overall punch of the presentation. Both of the commentaries are excellent and provide solid insight into the creative process, but even more - they offer a bit of a better understanding of how the collaborative effort with George Lucas himself works.

All it all this is a disc that is a required piece of inclusion for anyone that has any of the previous cinematic installments. The flavor is all here and you will be supremely satiated with it. I look very forward to the next edition of the animated shorts on DVD.

The commentary on this disc is one of the all-time treats that I wish more items would offer. You get to hear the straight=poop from the guy that was sanctioned by Lucas to do the job, many of the details of the conversations they had, AND -- what this dude though of those conversations which is just something I enjoy the hell out of.

I just recently found out that the next set of discs will arrive on December 6th, 2005 - guess who'll be in THAT line? :)

March 15th Additions - Incredibly Hot Initial Touching...

2005-03-15T17:38:00.000-08:00

While the title is surely meant only to garner attention and oogling eyes, the truth is that I've made three additions to my collection this evening.

The first is the animated-sensation, "The Incredibles", which struck theaters by storm last year and lead the animated Oscar recipients just recently. I look forward to reviewing not only the film but also the tons and tons of special features that these disks include. It came in a two-pack that included not only the two-disc DVD but a PC-CDROM that offers an Icredibles Print Studio that I thought would be cool for Jade's room.

The second: "Always", which is a movie that I can remember watching this movie in a year after I had moved out of my parents house and as "always", it's a Steven Spielberg-directed film. It's one of the great corny buddy films of the late 80's and is actually a re-make of a WWII film "A Guy Named Joe". I will take great pleasure in reviewing this movie when I get to it.

Third and last: "STAR TREK: First Contact Special Edition" -- All of these re-releases of the STAR TREK feature films have all been absolutely extraordinary. Even those of you that don't have interest in STAR TREK can look to almost any of these and see what benefit real and significant special features on DVDs offer into the mix. Once again, the STAR TREK folk have gone to the well and pulled out some outstanding content.

Flight of the Phoenix 2-Pack

2005-03-15T09:23:00.000-08:00

One of the newfound treasures of my DVD collection is this new two-pack of "The Flight of the Phoenix," featuring the original 1965 edition film, and then the re-issued version from 2004.

The Story: A group of miners/oil riggers who are on a flight to an oasis in the desert crash-land. With little hope of survival or rescue, the decision is made to reconstruct a new plane from the remnants of the old one.

The Classic 1965 Edition: In what could possibly be one of the original "disaster movie" movies, Jimmy Stewart, Richard Attenborough and Ernest Borgnine are all a piece of creating a new craft after a desert crash they then dub "The Phoenix". There is a grit of old school actors that is almost completely absent in today's cinema, and this movie is a great sample of what old school movies were. There is implied tension from the acting that comes thru without screaming, dramatic music, and is something that few films today take the time to use. The movie is a long one but one that is able to hold your attention throughout the run. I also like the dash of the German model plane engineer and the buddy storyline that the pilot and copilot had. While he's had a very long and distinguished career, seeing Richard Attenborough as something other than the misguided grandfatherly creator of Jurassic Park is something to see. It is a piece of cinema history that while simple, provides you with what is the old-school classic plan drama.

The Features: This DVD has no features to speak of, other than the original trailer of the film way back in 65.

The New 2004 Edition: The new edition (from late last year) with Dennis Quaid, Giovanni Ribisi, Mirana Otto and Tyrese offers a little something different in that it is laced with a new more inclusive crew (there is what is basically the gangsta' rapper, a latino chef and a woman, all of which were nowhere to be seen in the original). The story follows pretty faithfully until the crash in which there are some interesting departures. The special effects and the "crash" are very much today's cinema, where in the original there was some jostling and then they were down more or less. Gone also are the military officers from the first rendition that I do miss. I like Giovanni Ribisi's portrayal of Elliott, who in the origianl was a German model airplane designer, but there is an edge that is missing with the lack of accent and the determination and eventual realization of needing teamwork - I'm not sure that Ribisi ever gets there. I was also struck by the intervention of the nomads in this edition, that are apparently "gun runners or smugglers" who end up killing the only scottish member of the crew. Also gone in this edition early is the doctor, and there is no reciprocal Ernest Borgnine character which is sad. I would have like to have seen someone put into place for him in this edition.

While this movie was panned originally when it came out, I'm not certain that it deserves that. While nowhere near the ramp for Quaid as it was for Stewart, clearly they are two completely different actors in different eras. I am also very satisfied that they didn't take the easy route of endsuring that each member of a particular race or social circle isn't given the trademark pigeon-holing or stereotypes. Samples: The latin chef doesn't end every sentence with "eh, ese?" The clearly gangsta' member doesn't fall terribly into the stereotypical swearing disrespected rebel. The woman isn't screaming in every direction and contributes. I do appreciate more the explanation of the actual building of the plane in this edition, but strangely the orginal provides you with a much better set up and construction process.

Features: There are a variety of extras on this DVD including Deleted Scenes (one of which includes the "nomad gun runners/smuggers with MOTORCYCLES!" Thank GAWD that was cut. Terrible.), a bunch of trailers for the film, and then a Phoenix Diaries section that features the actors the director (who looked like he was a lot of fun to work with) for an extended 25 minute or so review of the making of the film.

Conclusion: Together, they provide my collection a nice sample of old-school/new-school flavor and I recommend both of them. It also serves as my first Jimmy Stewart film in my collection.