Schoolio's Movie Corner

[Backwater]

Panic Room and Benjamin Button are the worst Fincher films? Did Alien 3 never happen?

[indietron]

I just watched Young @ Heart and I really liked it. Granted, it probably wouldn't be a movie ill watch more than once, but it was still good. It was funny, cute, and sad. The narrator was awful and brought down the film alot though.

[chairmenmeow47]

i actually watched the end of the beach this weekend, weird. no matter how tough leo tries to be, he still looks like an angry little kid every time he gets mad, lol.

[humanoid]

i actually watched the end of the beach this weekend, weird. no matter how tough leo tries to be, he still looks like an angry little kid every time he gets mad, lol.

truthfully, I enjoy most of the movies Leo is in, but I chuckle a little bit almost every time I'm supposed to take him really seriously

[faxman75]

I would agree except in Basketball Diaries. His seriousness didn't make me chuckle at all in that one.

[Backwater]

This reminds me of people who say "Titanic" is the "worst movie ever". Is that opinion based on the actual merits of the film? Or is it a statement about how "different" the critic is from the "masses of idiots". It is fairly common for people to use "success" as a reason to dislike things. When you use extreme negatives to describe something that has some beauty and skill on display, it makes me wonder why you're being so harsh.


I see what you're saying and I agree. However, from an objective standpoint, I honestly just didn't enjoy TDK at all.

[wmgaretjax]

TDK was a fine movie. Didn't do very well on a second viewing (mostly just felt bloated, like Erik mentioned, the Hong Kong stuff was totally unnecessary).

Shouldn't be anywhere near the year-end top 10.

[RotationSlimWang]

Sorry, there are some fairly major parts of TDK that were just really hacky, and a movie with that much money, prestige, and talent behind it shouldn't have settled for writing with Michael Bay-esque suspensions of disbelief and forcefed exposition.

[ivankay]

If you cut out the HK stuff, you got a weird gap on your hands.

[humanoid]

I would agree except in Basketball Diaries. His seriousness didn't make me chuckle at all in that one.

true, but he was really a kid then too, so it was okay for him to act like a kid...but now that he's 30 something, he still seems that way, and it interferes with my ability to take him too seriously or think he's tough or intimidating

[RotationSlimWang]

Not really. The HK stuff is just a part of the absurdity though. All the Joker's plans are so ridiculously contrived that HK subplot doesn't even stick out that much, despite the unbelievably dumb "I've hidden all your money away for its safety and only I can know its location" horseshit.

Take the opening fucking scene. Let's even ignore the wholly unnecessary risk Joker takes by deciding to have the crew execute each other in such a carefully orchestrated order IN THE MIDDLE OF THE CRIME RATHER THAN AFTER GETTING AWAY WITH IT...

when he drives the bus out of the fucking bank wall he conveniently slides into a caravan of five other school buses. Are you kidding me? In addition to the precisely timed domino of murders, Joker somehow knew when those buses were going to be driving past?

The entire movie is full of gaps of probability like that. It's insulting.

[locachica73]

I watched Seven Pounds (depressing) and most of The Wrestler yesterday. I fell asleep at some point while watching The Wrestler, not sure if that was due to the movie or the fact I was exhausted and high. Either way, it was good to the point I crashed. The video wasn't that great but I am pretty sure Morissa Tome was a stripper and I saw her breasts. Not something I expected.

[humanoid]

I think I'm going to see The Wrestler tonight, I'm looking forward to it greatly

[faxman75]

Marisa Tomei is hot. I'm assuming I spelled her name wrong too.

I watched Baghdad High last night. If you want a real depiction of what life in Baghadad is like beyond any stereotypes this is the movie. They gave 4 video cameras to 4 high school kids around the time violence was escalating in Iraq. You don't see much carnage, instead you see normal kids paling around, dealing with friends leaving, reactions to Saddams execution and how people cope with curfews, religion and trying ot learn.

I was surprised to learn their lives aren't as different as ours.

[ivankay]

Not really. The HK stuff is just a part of the absurdity though. All the Joker's plans are so ridiculously contrived that HK subplot doesn't even stick out that much, despite the unbelievably dumb "I've hidden all your money away for its safety and only I can know its location" horseshit.

Take the opening fucking scene. Let's even ignore the wholly unnecessary risk Joker takes by deciding to have the crew execute each other in such a carefully orchestrated order IN THE MIDDLE OF THE CRIME RATHER THAN AFTER GETTING AWAY WITH IT...

when he drives the bus out of the fucking bank wall he conveniently slides into a caravan of five other school buses. Are you kidding me? In addition to the precisely timed domino of murders, Joker somehow knew when those buses were going to be driving past?

The entire movie is full of gaps of probability like that. It's insulting.

Batman needed to get the money man back to the US. The guy was in HK. To cut out the sequence means possibly cutting out the character, changing his hide out location (and essentially having the same action piece, just somewhere else) or writing out the whole mob money inclusion.

Joker's crazy. Everything he does is risky. Doing it in the middle of the crime is crazy. Did i mention the Joker is crazy? He's also a super villain with high intelligence. The heist may have been timed to happen when those throngs of school kids were being driven to a major field trip in Gotham. Super villains know these type of things.

[Gonshman]

Not really. The HK stuff is just a part of the absurdity though. All the Joker's plans are so ridiculously contrived that HK subplot doesn't even stick out that much, despite the unbelievably dumb "I've hidden all your money away for its safety and only I can know its location" horseshit.

Take the opening fucking scene. Let's even ignore the wholly unnecessary risk Joker takes by deciding to have the crew execute each other in such a carefully orchestrated order IN THE MIDDLE OF THE CRIME RATHER THAN AFTER GETTING AWAY WITH IT...

when he drives the bus out of the fucking bank wall he conveniently slides into a caravan of five other school buses. Are you kidding me? In addition to the precisely timed domino of murders, Joker somehow knew when those buses were going to be driving past?

The entire movie is full of gaps of probability like that. It's insulting.

I think some "gaps of probability" are to be expected in hyper-fictionalized action movies like the Dark Knight. Few of the great action/thriller movies are really believable either (such as Seven, for instance). And really, there are plenty of other circumstances in the movie that lend credence to the fact that the Joker is, indeed, a master criminal who would have such things as the school bus escape route planned (i.e. the cell phone bomb in the guys chest).

However, I do think that these "gaps of probability" detract from all the people saying Dark Knight is some deep social commentary. If the movie is going to take itself so seriously, then admittedly, plausibility is an issue.

[Donaldj]

The video wasn't that great but I am pretty sure Morissa Tome was a stripper and I saw her breasts. Not something I expected.

Yep, that was her. She looks really good too.

[humanoid]

/\ I love watching things about places and people that we only get to see through the filter of the media... to find out that in reality, much of our lives are very similar

[locachica73]

Yep, that was her. She looks really good too.

Mickey Roark (sp?) on the other hand looks like his face is swollen from too much plastic surgery, he almost looks lionish. But damn, that old guy has a body on him.

[RotationSlimWang]

Making a superhero movie is one thing--making a movie about supposedly human characters who just happen to have the entire world align for whatever they plan to make them seem omniscient is another.

[faxman75]

Take the opening fucking scene. Let's even ignore the wholly unnecessary risk Joker takes by deciding to have the crew execute each other in such a carefully orchestrated order IN THE MIDDLE OF THE CRIME RATHER THAN AFTER GETTING AWAY WITH IT...

That doesn't seem like a big deal to me. It's a comic movie, it's about sequencing and smooth timing and clever tricks. It's less people to fuck up, give up a trail or figure out how to kill later. Do it in the midst of the chaos. It was more enjoyable than bothersome.



when he drives the bus out of the fucking bank wall he conveniently slides into a caravan of five other school buses. Are you kidding me?

School buses have routes. This was obviously a planned heist. The whole idea to use the school bus I would assume came from staking out the bank for weeks in advance anyway. Too clever? Maybe but again, this isn't something that should ruin the movie.

The end scene with the 2 boats was a bit more annoying than all of this. They basically used ESP as the two boats had no communication and trusted they would not blow eachother up. Again though it's a comic book so you suspend belief for comic movies.

[Gonshman]

Making a superhero movie is one thing--making a movie about supposedly human characters who just happen to have the entire world align for whatever they plan to make them seem omniscient is another.

Can you explain this a little further, I'm not sure what you're responding to or trying to say.

As for the Wrestler love, go for Mickey Rourke and enjoy that part to the fullest. I thought some of the subplots were really weak, though, and they drag the movie down. Locachica, it's plastic surgery and getting punched in the face too many times during his boxing career.

[Gonshman]

That doesn't seem like a big deal to me. It's a comic movie, it's about sequencing and smooth timing and clever tricks. It's less people to fuck up, give up a trail or figure out how to kill later. Do it in the midst of the chaos. It was more enjoyable than bothersome.




School buses have routes. This was obviously a planned heist. The whole idea to use the school bus I would assume came from staking out the bank for weeks in advance anyway. Too clever? Maybe but again, this isn't something that should ruin the movie.

The end scene with the 2 boats was a bit more annoying than all of this. They basically used ESP as the two boats had no communication and trusted they would not blow eachother up. Again though it's a comic book so you suspend belief for comic movies.

I think you misinterpreted the motives of the people on the boat in the final scene. Neither made the decision trusting the other wouldn't get blown up (and one boat was pretty damn close too).

[faxman75]

However, I do think that these "gaps of probability" detract from all the people saying Dark Knight is some deep social commentary. If the movie is going to take itself so seriously, then admittedly, plausibility is an issue.

I think the movie takes itself more seriously than the previous attempts but that doesn't mean it's meant to be some deep social commentary. I think it takes the characters seriously and makes them more human while maintaining the story and the super hero aspect with tricks, stunts and effects without making anyones costumes or gadgets look cheesy.

[Gonshman]

I think the movie takes itself more seriously than the previous attempts but that doesn't mean it's meant to be some deep social commentary. I think it takes the characters seriously and makes them more human while maintaining the story and the super hero aspect with tricks, stunts and effects without making anyones costumes or gadgets look cheesy.

Maybe it wasn't meant to be deep social commentary, but it is being treated as such by many reviewers and Oscar prognosticators.

[RotationSlimWang]

Can you explain this a little further, I'm not sure what you're responding to or trying to say.

Sure. Let's take a look at someone actually trying to defend the plot of this horseshit:


School buses have routes. This was obviously a planned heist. The whole idea to use the school bus I would assume came from staking out the bank for weeks in advance anyway. Too clever? Maybe but again, this isn't something that should ruin the movie.

The end scene with the 2 boats was a bit more annoying than all of this. They basically used ESP as the two boats had no communication and trusted they would not blow eachother up. Again though it's a comic book so you suspend belief for comic movies.

A. The "school buses have routes" argument is about as stupid as one can get. So Joker plans a bank heist, and not only targets a mob bank--which would certainly lead to certain inherent unknown variables in the time and success of an already difficult crime--but ON TOP of such a difficult feat feels the need to put together a string of "then you shoot that guy at this precise moment" scenarios which he's just trusting will not go off without a hitch and not interfere with his escape in any way...

AND he times his exit down to a five second window of a fucking bus route in a major city? It's this level of completely unnecessary convolution that ruins the character. He's not just a psychopath or even a psychotic mastermind--he knows exactly how every sequence of events is going to play out. So either he sees into the future or he's just incredibly poorly written.

[faxman75]

I think you misinterpreted the motives of the people on the boat in the final scene. Neither made the decision trusting the other wouldn't get blown up (and one boat was pretty damn close too).

I don't think I did. They built up the scene quite well only to give it a hollywood scene where the big bad prisoner decides not to push the button. Do you think anyone in that theater thought he was gonna blow up that other boat? It had some suspense though.

[ivankay]

Maybe it wasn't meant to be deep social commentary, but it is being treated as such by many reviewers and Oscar prognosticators.

One thing i got out of film theory classes is all film can be viewed as social commentary (consciously or not). Sure it's theory and that gets an automatic bullshit label from most, but it did provoke interesting examinations and discussions of films and how they reflect the societies that produce them.

[Donaldj]

One thing i got out of film theory classes is all film can be viewed as social commentary (consciously or not).

QFT, I recall the discussions "Hellraiser" provoked in a gender and sexuality in horror films class I took.

[faxman75]

Can you explain this a little further, I'm not sure what you're responding to or trying to say.

As for the Wrestler love, go for Mickey Rourke and enjoy that part to the fullest. I thought some of the subplots were really weak, though, and they drag the movie down. Locachica, it's plastic surgery and getting punched in the face too many times during his boxing career.

Did no one see "Spun"? He's looked like this for years now.

[locachica73]

I haven't but we decided in chat last night that my movie watching is lacking since I never get to answer yes to the "have you seen" question. I tried to watch City of God and Trainspotting last night but they wouldn't load for whatever reason, but those two are on the list. I need to stay home more and spend less money at the bars so illegally watching movies is on my list of things to do.

[Gonshman]

I don't think I did. They built up the scene quite well only to give it a hollywood scene where the big bad prisoner decides not to push the button. Do you think anyone in that theater thought he was gonna blow up that other boat? It had some suspense though.

I was just referring to your mention of ESP and how you said they "trusted they would not blow each other up," when it was in fact the opposite. They both thought the other was going to blow up the ship, and that is what guided their decisions.

[thestripe]

Benjamin Button was like a prettier Forrest Gump. It was gorgeous but lacked any real substance... Either Fincher needs to experiment a little more, or it needed to be a little more focused (like most of his movies are)... Instead it was kind of meandering. I enjoyed it, but it's nothing special...

I saw it a few nights ago and enjoyed it very much. The film was beautifully shot, right up there with Zodiac. I can see the Forrest Gump similarities, and maybe the length of the film will distract some viewers, but didn't bother me at all. I thought the female leads were strong, which is very refreshing. Brad Pitt was good, but not award worthy. I don't really have anything negative to say about it, and would recommend others to see it.

[ghettojournalist]

my take on the Joker is kinda informed by some comic takes. Joker can be considered one of the most intelligent beings on Earth, working on a plane of understanding that is far above a normal person. Anarchy is what it seems like to almost everyone watching what he does, but he has the instinct of a "dog chasing cars" with a master chess player's strategic thinking. He's able to go with the flow of whatever happens because he can think of all the probabilities available.

[Donaldj]

Jesus, I think everybody is reading way too much into a Batman movie. Both the people attacking and defending it.

[blakely]

my take on the Joker is kinda informed by some comic takes. Joker can be considered one of the most intelligent beings on Earth, working on a plane of understanding that is far above a normal person. Anarchy is what it seems like to almost everyone watching what he does, but he has the instinct of a "dog chasing cars" with a master chess player's strategic thinking. He's able to go with the flow of whatever happens because he can think of all the probabilities available.

wasco? are you fucking imprisoned?

[coldstart]

Wasco is a town, you know. The prison happens to be named after the town it's in.

[amyzzz]

I feel apathetic about TDK. There were many much better movies out this year IMO, but parts of it were fun. All the overanalyzing bores me.

[blakely]

Wasco is a town, you know. The prison happens to be named after the town it's in.

Sarcasm (http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/sarcasm)

[coldstart]

It's already been noted that sarcasm doesn't travel well on teh intertubez.

[blakely]

It's already been noted that sarcasm doesn't travel well on teh intertubez.

si.

[Gonshman]

I feel apathetic about TDK. There were many much better movies out this year IMO, but parts of it were fun. All the overanalyzing bores me.

Well what movie should we discuss then zzz's?

[SoulDischarge]

I was willing to suspend my disbelief enough to enjoy The Dark Knight. It's a superhero/comic book movie, so implausibility is to be expected. I think most of what it actually had to say about human nature and the general theme was pretty interesting and holds true (especially considering the recent election; is Obama more Bruce Wayne or Harvey Dent?).

[stinkbutt]

I think most of what it actually had to say about human nature and the general theme was pretty interesting and holds true (especially considering the recent election; is Obama more Bruce Wayne or Harvey Dent?).

are you retarded

[SoulDischarge]

Yes.

[SoulDischarge]

And in all fairness, I don't think that's that bad of a comparison. Does our country need a corrupt leader that puts on a clean public face and instills hope in people, or do we need someone that people wouldn't necessarily trust but would make more noble choices? I think that's a very relevant question right now.

[Gonshman]

And in all fairness, I don't think that's that bad of a comparison. Does our country need a corrupt leader that puts on a clean public face and instills hope in people, or do we need someone that people wouldn't necessarily trust but would make more noble choices? I think that's a very relevant question right now.

Was Harvey Dent corrupt? Not until the very end, and by then he wasn't a leader anymore, was he? Ehh, but it's an interesting argument.

[blakely]

And in all fairness, I don't think that's that bad of a comparison. Does our country need a corrupt leader that puts on a clean public face and instills hope in people, or do we need someone that people wouldn't necessarily trust but would make more noble choices? I think that's a very relevant question right now.

war is never a noble choice, and thats exactly where we would be headed with a president who has a military background. its may sound too simplistic, but most things are.

[blakely]

When was Harvey Dent corrupt?

just shut up while youre behind

did you not see the movie? he may not have been taking kick backs, but he did murder a few people. thats corrupt enough for me.

[stinkbutt]

http://i97.photobucket.com/albums/l240/robo848/not_this_shit_again.jpg

[blakely]

http://i27.photobucket.com/albums/c184/CHINKZILLA/gifs/kerry1782mw4cw51_3.gif

[SoulDischarge]

Sorry. I forgot this was the internet and we can't have discussions without calling each other morons.

[blakely]

Sorry. I forgot this was the internet and we can't have discussions without calling each other morons.

i wasnt calling you a moron. just disagreeing with you.

stinkbutt is a moron... i like that statement.

[stinkbutt]

well if it posts like a moron, has moronic ideas

ITS A FUCKING MORON

[blakely]

well if it posts like a moron, has moronic ideas

ITS A FUCKING MORON

well said, moron.

[stinkbutt]

i wasnt calling you a moron. just disagreeing with you.

you were agreeing with him and disagreeing with me you fucking idiot

you cant even remember 10 minutes ago?

[blakely]

you were agreeing with him and disagreeing with me you fucking idiot

no i was disagreeing with both of you, as i got the feeling that he believed that mccain may have been a wiser choice for president, and that you were fucking retarded.

[SoulDischarge]

McCain? Oh fuck no.

[stinkbutt]

Blakely are you pilgrim's alias?

[blakely]

oh, my bad. just got that impression.

[blakely]

i could be, but im not.

[humanoid]

I think the amount of pseudo-intellectual, impassioned debate regarding a Batman movie is hilarious.

Is it flawed in several ways? Yes. Is it perfectly plausible and realistic at all times? No. Is it a movie about a philanthropic billionaire playboy who wanders the streets, fighting crime dressed in a bat suit? Yes

[Donaldj]

I think the amount of pseudo-intellectual, impassioned debate regarding a Batman movie is hilarious.

QFT

[schoolofruckus]

Well what movie should we discuss then zzz's?



We could all discuss how great Wendy and Lucy was. Or Che. Or Rachel Getting Married. Or Milk. If you want to stay away from all those scary films that are actually memorable and great, we could discuss how funny Role Models was, or how Zack and Miri Make a Porno was a solid comedy despite Kevin Smith's attempts to punish-fuck us with his attempts at writing a love story (scored to a Live song, no less).

Amy's right. The Dark Knight was a good action movie. It is not a masterpiece and it only warrants this much discussion because it's apparently the only movie that some people have seen this year.

[locachica73]

I think I might be the only person left in the US that hasn't seen The Dark Knight.

[blakely]

punish-fuck



classic

[chairmenmeow47]

i'd like to add how painfully un-funny and forced zak & miri make a prono was. my god, it was hard to find anything to laugh at.

[SoulDischarge]

BECAUSE NO OTHER MOVIES WORTH PAYING TEN DOLLARS FOR COME TO SCUMFUCK, OHIO.

Sorry. I have to make an outburst about this at least once a week. Continue.

[schoolofruckus]

Also - I liked The Wrestler a lot as well. I didn't write about it when I saw it in November, because I needed a second shot at it. Yes, I know it's just a simple life story. But even though it's a solid (though not-quite-masterful) naturalistic drama, it didn't blow me out of the water - which is what I'm used to with Darren Aronofsky's films. So I left it thinking more about the few notes that rang false (the "Cobain pussy" exchange chief among them) than the many virtues the film offered. Seeing it again last week, I realized that the main problem with it on my first viewing was a desire for a different effect than what it was offering. Once I adjusted to what the film was doing (and also, picked up on some of its subtexts that I hadn't gotten the first time around), I found it to be wholly satisfying and one of the better films I've seen this year.

[SoulDischarge]

Oh shit. Slumdog and Benjamin Button are finally here. I retract my previous outburst.

[schoolofruckus]

BECAUSE NO OTHER MOVIES WORTH PAYING TEN DOLLARS FOR COME TO SCUMFUCK, OHIO.

Sorry. I have to make an outburst about this at least once a week. Continue.

Is Scumfuck near Dayton? Because if it is, then Synecdoche, New York is playing near there, and your statement is therefore invalidated.

[downingthief]

The wife and I will be checking out Milk, Doubt, and Ben Button over the next week (no kid, so lots of movie time). Looking forward to seeing a good flick. It's been awhile.

[blakely]

Oh shit. Slumdog and Benjamin Button are finally here. I retract my previous outburst.

Danny Boyle can do no wrong. Yeah, I said it.

[amyzzz]

Amy's right.
http://umtailgate.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2007/03/Celebration,_Brooklyn_Bridge,_New_York_City.jpg

[Gonshman]

We could all discuss how great Wendy and Lucy was. Or Che. Or Rachel Getting Married. Or Milk. If you want to stay away from all those scary films that are actually memorable and great, we could discuss how funny Role Models was, or how Zack and Miri Make a Porno was a solid comedy despite Kevin Smith's attempts to punish-fuck us with his attempts at writing a love story (scored to a Live song, no less).

Amy's right. The Dark Knight was a good action movie. It is not a masterpiece and it only warrants this much discussion because it's apparently the only movie that some people have seen this year.

All of those movies that you listed are great to talk about. I'll see the first three when Dan Harkins decides to get his shit together and either a) screen those movies, or b) screen those movies for more than a week at a theater not 30 minutes from my house

And I think your disgust over discussion about the Dark Knight is ridiculous. Throughout the conversation, we have had those who make it clear why they like the movie, why they hate the movie, and why the movie is just okay. In each post, someone has argued their point, and hopefully it will linger in the readers mind and make them think about that posters viewpoint. I think it's dumb to limit discussion about a movie that has created such a polarization in its' viewers. Open your mind and accept that discussion can be better that just stating "The Dark Knight was a good action movie."

[amyzzz]

All of those movies that you listed are great to talk about. I'll see the first three when Dan Harkins decides to get his shit together and either a) screen those movies, or b) screen those movies for more than a week at a theater not 30 minutes from my house

Yeah, I was thinking I don't recall seeing Rachel Getting Married at theatres yet. Was that released in October? (so says the internet)
I don't think we're getting that one, damnit.

[Gonshman]

Yeah, I was thinking I don't recall seeing Rachel Getting Married at theatres yet. Was that released in October? (so says the internet)
I don't think we're getting that one, damnit.

It was at Camelview for a week, then Shea 14 for a week. I think. That, Happy-Go-Lucky, and Synecdoche all vanished, yet you can still go see Beverly Hills Chihuahua if you really wanted to.

[schoolofruckus]

I'm not disgusted by it. I just think it's played out. There were three weeks of debate in July regarding The Dark Knight: Masterpiece, or Piece of Shit? I don't think we need to revisit this topic once more at the end of the year, when there have been probably 10 movies this fall that are more interesting, and better.

I don't think TDK is entirely skin-deep, nor do I think it's boring. But I also don't think it's some ultra-provocative work that has layers upon layers, which can only be unearthed through endless discourse.

I'm truly sorry you live in a place where the smaller films have yet to play. I've been in that boat before, and it would be hard to go back to it. If it's any consolation, Anne Hathaway's Oscar nomination will probably put RGM back in theaters near you. And Che will almost certainly make its way to you in two parts sometime in January/February.

[amyzzz]

I still need to see Synechdoche, NY too. ugh. My kids are away this week, so I need to figure out what R rated movies (or more serious adult movies) I want to see before it's too late! Maybe Milk or Benjamin Button.

[chairmenmeow47]

It was at Camelview for a week, then Shea 14 for a week. I think. That, Happy-Go-Lucky, and Synecdoche all vanished, yet you can still go see Beverly Hills Chihuahua if you really wanted to.

i'm mad because i wanted to see the godfather this past weekend and it was already gone. it was there the friday before but not last friday, WTF?!?!?! so heartbroken i didn't go sooner.

[Gonshman]

I still need to see Synechdoche, NY too. ugh. My kids are away this week, so I need to figure out what R rated movies (or more serious adult movies) I want to see before it's too late! Maybe Milk or Benjamin Button.

I would go with Milk, just knowing that Benjamin Button will be in theaters here longer.

[amyzzz]

Good point.

[chairmenmeow47]

i also wish camelview would get some fucking renovations or something. the temperature is always fucked and there's like 4 stalls in the bathroom. plus the concessions being RIGHT by where you get tickets and walk to the other theatres is really annoying when it's busy.

[patsfan5454]

^Go see Synechdoche!! its Brilliant! I really enjoyed it, and i would recommend seeing it when the kids are gone cuz their is a little brief nudity in it and probably a little boring for kids but a great movie, you've got to walk away feeling great after seeing it, i know i did :)

[Gonshman]

i also wish camelview would get some fucking renovations or something. the temperature is always fucked and there's like 4 stalls in the bathroom. plus the concessions being RIGHT by where you get tickets and walk to the other theatres is really annoying when it's busy.

But they never check your stubs ;)

[captncrzy]

i also wish camelview would get some fucking renovations or something. the temperature is always fucked and there's like 4 stalls in the bathroom. plus the concessions being RIGHT by where you get tickets and walk to the other theatres is really annoying when it's busy.

Camelview is a major pain in the ass; it's like 45 minutes from our house and the clusterfuck around Scottsdale Fashion Square is a nightmare on the weekends. I did notice that when we went to see Doubt, we were in a much bigger auditorium than normal-I think that one has new chairs in it at least. BTW-Doubt was very good...Meryl was fantastic and her performance reminded me of her Ethyl Rosenberg character in Angels in America.

I wanted to go check out The Reader yesterday over there but just didn't want to make the drive. I hear it's so so, but I heard KW's performance is great, and I liked the book.

[Yablonowitz]

This isn't the phoenix thread.

[Gonshman]

This isn't the phoenix thread.

Hopefully it doesn't become a Yablonowitz thread either.

[chairmenmeow47]

This isn't the phoenix thread.

whoa, this isn't the music forum either, WEIRD!

[garrett222]

anyone else see the trailer for night at the museum 2? It looks really really funny. Jonah Hill, Bill Hader...add those two to any movie and it's a winner...

[amyzzz]

Camelview is a major pain in the ass; it's like 45 minutes from our house and the clusterfuck around Scottsdale Fashion Square is a nightmare on the weekends. I did notice that when we went to see Doubt, we were in a much bigger auditorium than normal-I think that one has new chairs in it at least. BTW-Doubt was very good...Meryl was fantastic and her performance reminded me of her Ethyl Rosenberg character in Angels in America.

I wanted to go check out The Reader yesterday over there but just didn't want to make the drive. I hear it's so so, but I heard KW's performance is great, and I liked the book.
I want to see The Reader too since I pretty much have to see every movie Kate Winslet has been in. I just started reading Revolutionary Road (also starring Kate Winslet) because the movie trailer excited me so much -- so far I am really enjoying the book.

[Yablonowitz]

whoa, this isn't the music forum either, WEIRD!


Whoa. Out of forum experience.

[RotationSlimWang]

Also - I liked The Wrestler a lot as well. I didn't write about it when I saw it in November, because I needed a second shot at it. Yes, I know it's just a simple life story. But even though it's a solid (though not-quite-masterful) naturalistic drama, it didn't blow me out of the water - which is what I'm used to with Darren Aronofsky's films. So I left it thinking more about the few notes that rang false (the "Cobain pussy" exchange chief among them) than the many virtues the film offered. Seeing it again last week, I realized that the main problem with it on my first viewing was a desire for a different effect than what it was offering. Once I adjusted to what the film was doing (and also, picked up on some of its subtexts that I hadn't gotten the first time around), I found it to be wholly satisfying and one of the better films I've seen this year.

WAIT WAIT WAIT WAIT FUCKING WAIT.


You... DIDN'T like the Cobain exchange? Are you fucking kidding me, Gabe?

[bmack86]

anyone else see the trailer for night at the museum 2? It looks really really funny. Jonah Hill, Bill Hader...add those two to any movie and it's a winner...

God damn it....

[iv3rdawG]

http://www.comingsoon.net/news/movienews.php?id=51577

Fox to Seek Order Delaying Watchmen Release
Source: The Associated Press
December 29, 2008

An attorney for 20th Century Fox says the studio will continue to seek an order delaying the release of Watchmen, according to The Associated Press.

U.S. District Court Judge Gary Feess last week agreed with Fox that Warner Bros. had infringed its copyright by developing and shooting the film, scheduled for release March 6.

Feess said Monday he plans to hold a trial Jan. 20 to decide remaining issues.

Fox claims it never fully relinquished story rights from its deal made in the late 1980s, and sued Warner Bros. in February. Warner Bros. contended Fox isn't entitled to distribution.

Warner Bros.' attorney said Monday he didn't know if an appeal was coming, but thinks a trial is necessary and a settlement unlikely.

[schoolofruckus]

WAIT WAIT WAIT WAIT FUCKING WAIT.


You... DIDN'T like the Cobain exchange? Are you fucking kidding me, Gabe?

Am I really supposed to believe that this guy who spends all his time getting smashed in the fucking head, taking steroids, and hanging out in strip clubs, took the time to assess the state of rock music in 1991 and determine whose fault it was that Guns N' Roses was no longer the flavor of the month?

The first time I saw it, it bothered me for the rest of the movie. Upon further reflection (i.e. things Jennie noticed and pointed out to me), I realized that they did take steps to set him up as a guy who cares about music (posters in his trailer, etc.) beyond just listening to it as he enters the ring. So it didn't bug me as much the next time. But there was still too much of the screenwriter talking during that exchange. It was jarring because the rest of the movie wasn't like that.

[roberto73]

I just looked up and realized that while I have liked Danny Boyle's films I have only seen the ones with Andrew MacDonald producing. Granted, that only takes away Millions and Slumdog Millionare but hmm. But also I haven't seen anything else Andrew MacDonald has produced so I don't really have the information necessary to go anywhere with this.

And since it is the time of year for ranking things:


Sunshine
Trainspotting
Shallow Grave
28 Days Later
A Life Less Ordinary
The Beach


I know I'm a day late on this, John, but see Millions. I love it so much I almost don't trust my own judgment.

[RotationSlimWang]

Am I really supposed to believe that this guy who spends all his time getting smashed in the fucking head, taking steroids, and hanging out in strip clubs, took the time to assess the state of rock music in 1991 and determine whose fault it was that Guns N' Roses was no longer the flavor of the month?

The first time I saw it, it bothered me for the rest of the movie. Upon further reflection (i.e. things Jennie noticed and pointed out to me), I realized that they did take steps to set him up as a guy who cares about music (posters in his trailer, etc.) beyond just listening to it as he enters the ring. So it didn't bug me as much the next time. But there was still too much of the screenwriter talking during that exchange. It was jarring because the rest of the movie wasn't like that.

... what the fuck are you babbling about? He's just an 80s guy, dude. You think Hogan was 35 and rocking out to Nevermind when it came out? That was the funniest line of the whole movie.

[Abe Lincoln]

I know I'm a day late on this, John, but see Millions. I love it so much I almost don't trust my own judgment.
Plus it's a great holiday kinda movie.I forgot all about that one...
I saw "Benjamin Button" recently and enjoyed it.Brad Pitt plays a simpleton really well.He's better in the beginning of it,before Cate Blanchett and Tilda Swinton completely blow him out of the water.And I think I can now say I will always like every David Fincher movie,no matter what it is.
Also saw "Valkyrie" and liked it the way I like all good straightforward war flicks.No nonsense,just war and suspense and good guys you are rooting for.Afterwards I watched the thing on the History Channel about the whole incident (which I really didn't know much about) and it was perfect for filling in the blanks on what happened with everyone after.
There was one scene with a guy swimming in a pool with a giant swastika on the bottom that I thought might have been filmed at Mel Gibson's house.

[captncrzy]

Benjamin Button is fine, but it's basically a Brad Pitt version of Forrest Gump. The best thing I can say about it is that the special effects were really cool. I won't post my thoughts further because I don't want to spoil it for people that haven't seen it, but if you google Forrest Gump/Benjamin Button, you'll find several articles comparing the two.

[wmgaretjax]

John, I second seeing Millions, it's an incredible film.

I saw The Wrestler last night. I enjoyed it a lot. It was very gorgeous, in a simple and restrained way... The acting was really solid, even if the screenplay got a little hammy in the end. Definitely a top 10 contender, and Rourke certainly deserves a nomination. I didn't have a problem with the Cobain line, I thought it was funny as well. It did seem a little forced, but his character kept surprising me in small ways anyhow...

[C DUB YA]

the current "in thing" of vampire love, gets a much needed new indie flick from Sweden called: LET THE RIGHT ONE IN.

I first heard about it when Guillermo Del Toro (think Pan’s Lab) was raving about it while doing his press work for Hellboy 2.

It's a story of two 12 year olds in Stockholm – one happens to be a vampire responsible for most the killings. Currently averaging 97 on Rotten tomatoes. So, take that, Twilight crap.

http://www.apple.com/trailers/magnolia/lettherightonein/

[wmgaretjax]

Let the Right One In was OK. It's getting lauded way more than I think it deserves... But it's been a shitty year for movies. Especially after last year...

[slipmode]

Let the Right One In has been discussed in here since back in October. More and more people are finally catching on. I guess it is only just making it's appearance in other States now. Glad people are finally starting to show some love. It's a good film.

Also, saw Benjamin Button last night. It was pretty blah. Very laughable at parts & easy to make fun of. Definately reminded me like a Forrest Gump or Big Fish. Not as good as either of those though. Good effort, not the most affective execution.

[schoolofruckus]

... what the fuck are you babbling about? He's just an 80s guy, dude. You think Hogan was 35 and rocking out to Nevermind when it came out? That was the funniest line of the whole movie.

It was funny, but it rang false. Do I expect the Ram to love Nirvana? No. Do I expect him to have pinpointed their impact on the history of music? Again, no.

[C DUB YA]

Let the Right One In has been discussed in here since back in October. More and more people are finally catching on. I guess it is only just making it's appearance in other States now. Glad people are finally starting to show some love. It's a good film.

Also, saw Benjamin Button last night. It was pretty blah. Very laughable at parts & easy to make fun of. Definately reminded me like a Forrest Gump or Big Fish. Not as good as either of those though. Good effort, not the most affective execution.

I was aware of it, just thought the recent Twilight attention was funny considering the alternatives.

It hasn't been popping up in other states though, more like some best of the year lists.

http://www.aintitcool.com/node/39592

[slipmode]

Like I'm going to ever to take a best of list seriously that puts Pineapple Express ahead of Slumdog Millionaire. Fuck aintitcrap dot com

[iv3rdawG]

Let the Right One In was OK. It's getting lauded way more than I think it deserves

Agreed. Come on, CGI cats?

[wmgaretjax]

Yeah, that was pretty bad. The beginning of the movie was incredible, but as it went on it got a little silly.

[C DUB YA]

Like I'm going to ever to take a best of list seriously that puts Pineapple Express ahead of Slumdog Millionaire. Fuck aintitcrap dot com

Like I'm going to take anyone seriously who says aintitcrap dot com???

C'mon. They are geeks who love film. A lot more than you and I do. Their opinions are very valid ones. If you disagree - fine, but they (usually) explain themselves in great detail on why they like or dislike something.

here's another aicn staffer's list (including the worst).

http://www.aintitcool.com/node/39620

[amyzzz]

Plus it's a great holiday kinda movie.I forgot all about that one...
I saw "Benjamin Button" recently and enjoyed it.Brad Pitt plays a simpleton really well.He's better in the beginning of it,before Cate Blanchett and Tilda Swinton completely blow him out of the water.
Wait, wait, Tilda Swinton is in this?? I may have to see that.

And damn, did I just quote Abe Lincoln? haha

[thestripe]

So I put on Wanted last night knowing it would be stupid, but hoping that it would be a somewhat thoughtless, mind numbing action flick. I turned the thing off 30 mins into it. It has to be the worst fucking movie ever made. The fact that the cast is of decent caliber, makes it even worse. All actors involved with this shit should have to take a 5 year time-out from making movies. Shit was awful.

[Gonshman]

So I put on Wanted last night knowing it would be stupid, but hoping that it would be a somewhat thoughtless, mind numbing action flick. I turned the thing off 30 mins into it. It has to be the worst fucking movie ever made. The fact that cast is off decent caliber, makes it even worse. All actors involved with this shit should have to take a 5 year time-out from making movies. Shit was awful.

Yet people will still buy the fifty dollar special edition DVD complete with bullet casings at Best Buy!

[amyzzz]

I agree with that assessment of Wanted. Jacob put it on saying he watched it at his friends and it's what Shoot Em Up should have been. No. Both movies sucked. I happily fell asleep after watching it for about a half hour.

[schoolofruckus]

Like I'm going to take anyone seriously who says aintitcrap dot com???

C'mon. They are geeks who love film. A lot more than you and I do. Their opinions are very valid ones. If you disagree - fine, but they (usually) explain themselves in great detail on why they like or dislike something.

here's another aicn staffer's list (including the worst).

http://www.aintitcool.com/node/39620

Moriarty was the only real reason to read AICN, and he's got another site now.


I am 100% certain I would feel the same about Wanted as you, The. So I am staying far, far away from it.

[sbessiso]

When was the last time anyone saw The Frightners ? I just watched it for the first time in YEARS and this movie is seriously badass

[iv3rdawG]

Well, it is Marty McFly.

[sbessiso]

Ha! I couldn't stop saying that the whole movie

[ivankay]

i saw Valkyrie yesterday. Not bad. The cast is loaded with some great actors (Terrance Stamp, Tom Wilkinson, Kenneth Branagh, Bill Nighy) and the story is interesting. Mr. Cruise is well cast. One thing about Tom Cruise, he knows how to pick parts that he can play well. Regardless of how he comes off away from the screen, the man is a movie star. i was involved in the plot and experienced the tension others have pointed out. In the WW2 genre i would place this in the above average category and a nice comeback for Bryan Singer (Superman Returns has it's moments, but as a whole doesn't work for me).

After i noticed The Day the Earth Stood Still was starting and gave into the temptation of an illegal double feature. i know there is a place in hell for me for doing this, but does it count against me if the movie blows? This is one of those disaster movies where the all star cast looks too nice for the chaos going on around them, the dialogue stinks, the product placement is blatant and the effects are meh. i was hoping the humans would die. Fox should send a letter of apology to Robert Wise's family.

[bmack86]

How true was it to the original story?

Klaatu Maradu Nikto

[ivankay]

They bring it up to date with an environmental message, throw in more escape/chase/action/blowing up shit factor and have the aliens established on the Earth to pass judgement in a different way. Not too true, but an echo. Interesting way to approach it, but the execution was by the book Hollywood. If this came on at 3AM on tv and your curiosity is there, sure watch it. i need to make an appointment and watch the original again (thanks Netflix "watch instantly").

Oh, Klaatu keeps his name.

[Somewhat Damaged]

After i noticed The Day the Earth Stood Still was starting and gave into the temptation of an illegal double feature. i know there is a place in hell for me for doing this, but does it count against me if the movie blows?

No. No, it doesn't. If you know a movie's gonna be a big steaming pile, you're under no obligation to give it any money. I snuck into Battlefield Earth and Pootie Tang back in the day so that when I eviscerated them, I could do so after having watched them -- I hate it when people rag on movies sight unseen. And boy am I glad all I gave those movies were a couple hours of my time. Having something to complain about isn't worth even the matinee price of a film that awful!

[ivankay]

Thanks Damaged. i feel better now.

[slipmode]

Like I'm going to take anyone seriously who says aintitcrap dot com???

C'mon. They are geeks who love film. A lot more than you and I do. Their opinions are very valid ones. If you disagree - fine, but they (usually) explain themselves in great detail on why they like or dislike something.

here's another aicn staffer's list (including the worst).

http://www.aintitcool.com/node/39620

Good. You should never take me too seriously. And I agree with School about Moriarity. I think I gave up on AICN when they convinced me that Blade 2 was some sort of masterpiece. Yes they are geeks. Do they love film more than I do? Not quite convinced on that one. I think they just obsess & geek out about them a bit more. Most of their opinions are useless to me.

[RotationSlimWang]

No. No, it doesn't. If you know a movie's gonna be a big steaming pile, you're under no obligation to give it any money. I snuck into Battlefield Earth and Pootie Tang back in the day so that when I eviscerated them, I could do so after having watched them -- I hate it when people rag on movies sight unseen. And boy am I glad all I gave those movies were a couple hours of my time. Having something to complain about isn't worth even the matinee price of a film that awful!

Pootie Tang was awesome, dickbag.

[ivankay]

Damn. i finally get off my ass to see Benjamin Button at 10:45 at a Kirkorian theater a few miles away. i saw this for times before i split:

The Curious Case of Benjamin Button (PG-13, 167 min.)
10:45am | 11:45am | 2:25pm | 3:25pm | 6:05pm | 7:05pm | 9:45pm | 10:45pm

i get there. "Benjamin Button."

"Sorry, that started at 9:45."

"i saw on the website (moviephone) there was a 10:45 screening."

"That's 10:45 in the morning."

"Why is it at the end? What can i still see?"

"The Spirit started at 10:30, if you don't mind missing the beginning. And Marley and Me at 10:45"

"Damn. Marley and Me?"

So, here i am writing this.

[RotationSlimWang]

Also, I can't believe anyone lasted 30 minutes with Wanted.

[bmack86]

weak.

[thestripe]

Also, I can't believe anyone lasted 30 minutes with Wanted.

I'm not sure if it was even that long.

[woogie846]

I watched Frost/Nixon tonight. I'll go ahead and say that has been my favorite movie of the year.

[Boourns]

http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y200/frankatcoachella/presscon.jpg

[thatfinkleygirl]

http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y200/frankatcoachella/presscon.jpg

oh dear lord. how alarming.

[schoolofruckus]

Pootie Tang was awesome, dickbag.

Tied with "Cabin Fever" for best movies to watch stoned that I would never want to see sober.

[chairmenmeow47]

oh god cabin fever was horrible. i was so pissed that my mom wouldn't change the channel when it was on once.

[humanoid]

I watched Wanted while I was really sick a few weeks ago. It was a decent way to waste a few hours in bed while absolutely unable to do anything else. It made me feel stupid while watching it, but I felt too terrible to get up and change it because unfortunately I had left me remote on the other side of the room. If I had been healthy, I'm not sure it would have made it half an hour

[C DUB YA]

Did anyone see The Spirit?

I've heard nothing but terrible things. The trailers look very bad. I was just wondering.

[humanoid]

I just saw a trailer for that Mall Cop movie, and it made me feel embarrassed for anyone involved in it...


Last night I made it to see Benjamin Button. I enjoyed it and it kept my interest, but I was hoping for a little more from David Fincher. It was a little meandering and seemed to lack focus at times. It was visually stimulating though and the actors all did a good job. Cate Blanchett is always great in my book(well, maybe not in Indiana Jones, but I don't hold that against her)

The Forrest Gump comparisons are definitely valid.

[iv3rdawG]

Gran Torino was pretty awesome. That crappy trailer did it no justice. Also, "We used to stack fucks like you five feet high in Korea and use you for sandbags." is the best quote of 2008.

[captncrzy]

Did anyone see The Spirit?

I've heard nothing but terrible things. The trailers look very bad. I was just wondering.

The line: "Somebody bring me a tie, and it better be red" is reason enough to not see that piece of shit.

[tessalasset]

that's funny... i was talking to my friend on monday night about it. he said for how long it was, he wished more would have happened in the movie. and i said kinda like forrest gump? and he said yeah. i still loved it though. cate blanchett is just absolutely stunning. it's ridiculous. i might have to put her on homo island. and brad was great as well. i didn't cry nearly as much as i expected to after reading reviews on here. just shed a single tear near the end. i loved the score tho. i gotta check out the soundtrack now.

and for anyone who cares:

on wed, jan 7 at 8 pm, there's a screening of Milk at the Arclight Hollywood with a Q&A with gus van sant, josh brolin, and screenwriter dustin lance black afterwards

on wed, jan 14 at 8 pm, there's a screening of Frost/Nixon at arclight hollywood with a Q&A with ron howard afterwards.

on wed, jan 21 at 8 pm, there's a screening of wall-e with a Q&A with writer/director andrew stanton afterwards.

and on wed, jan 28 there's a screening of benjamin button at the arclight hollywood with a Q&A with screenwriter Eric Roth afterwards.

[C DUB YA]

The line: "Somebody bring me a tie, and it better be red" is reason enough to not see that piece of shit.

yeah - it looks incredibly bad

[Boourns]

saw the machine girl earlier

Ahahahahaha wow. That was so bad and so disgusting, it was the best of times.

[whynotsmile99]

Crank 2 trailer

looks fun

http://www.firstshowing.net/2008/12/30/crazy-red-band-teaser-trailer-for-crank-2-high-voltage/

[sbessiso]

Jason Statham is just so fucking good at what he does. He realizes this and Im glad he does

[shakermaker113]

he is?

[paulb]

Crank 2 trailer

looks fun

http://www.firstshowing.net/2008/12/30/crazy-red-band-teaser-trailer-for-crank-2-high-voltage/

is the movie Crank low budget like that trailer looks like?

[DRcube]

The spirit was absolutely terrible, the dialogue was just plain shitty
and the whole thing was very predictable...the only thing good about it is that the girls in it were absolutely gorgeous, but that can only hold you over for a couple of seconds

[BlueDevil50]

watched benjamin button...and ya. that's about it. you guys definitely over-hyped the hell outta that movie. way too long, and very dry. sorry, but this doesn't belong in the same sentence as forest gump.

[wmgaretjax]

Forest Gump is a mediocre film as well, just not as well acted. Both films share a lot in common as far as the story and thematic material goes.

[roberto73]

Name that film:

A white man is born fatherless in the south with birth defects that lead many to think he may never walk nor live a normal life. His saintly mother believes in his potential anyway. At a young age, the man learns to walk and sheds his exoskeleton of locomotive aids. Around this time, he also meets the love of his life, a vivacious girl who grows into a bold woman who parts ways with the man to have her own wild adventures. Meanwhile, the man reaches adulthood, and puts in a wartime stint in the U.S. military. During this stint, the man proves at first an indifferent asset, but during his one firefight, he turns out to be very valuable, saving the day singlehandedly, while also witnessing the death of one of his best friends. The man also spends much time on a small ocean vessel, serving alongside a rowdy, grizzled, hard-drinking man of the sea. This salty sailor serves as one of our man’s two best male friends; the other is a black man who first teaches our man the lessons of friendship before departing forever.

Our man wanders all around the world, his life brushing up against key historical moments of the 20th century. At some point he returns to his childhood home, and his mother dies. The man comes into considerable wealth through blind luck. Around this time, his lifelong love returns from her adventures, ready to commit to him. During their brief time together, they conceive a child. The couple part ways, due to the woman’s perceived inability to take care of the man. He does not raise the child through its early years but later makes an appearance in its life. The woman eventually dies in bed from illness. The man’s later years are hardly touched on, even though the movie has lavished much attention on his early and middle years.

The entire story dwells repeatedly on the theme of life’s uncertainty and, in contrast, on the notion of fate or coincidence. The film’s symbol for these themes is a small object seen hovering improbably in the air. A narrative frame scene punctuates the story, as does the main character’s drawling voice-over.

Acceptable Answers:

Forrest Gump; The Curious Case of Benjamin Button.*

* Both movies were written by Eric Roth, a man who now owes me seventeen dollars.

http://madeinhead.org/anism/?p=369

[bballarl]

I saw Gran Torino tonight. Apart from some cringe-worthy dialogue and acting from people not named Clint Eastwood, the movie was great. Clint Eastwood is a true American hero.

[BlueDevil50]

Name that film:

A white man is born fatherless in the south with birth defects that lead many to think he may never walk nor live a normal life. His saintly mother believes in his potential anyway. At a young age, the man learns to walk and sheds his exoskeleton of locomotive aids. Around this time, he also meets the love of his life, a vivacious girl who grows into a bold woman who parts ways with the man to have her own wild adventures. Meanwhile, the man reaches adulthood, and puts in a wartime stint in the U.S. military. During this stint, the man proves at first an indifferent asset, but during his one firefight, he turns out to be very valuable, saving the day singlehandedly, while also witnessing the death of one of his best friends. The man also spends much time on a small ocean vessel, serving alongside a rowdy, grizzled, hard-drinking man of the sea. This salty sailor serves as one of our man’s two best male friends; the other is a black man who first teaches our man the lessons of friendship before departing forever.

Our man wanders all around the world, his life brushing up against key historical moments of the 20th century. At some point he returns to his childhood home, and his mother dies. The man comes into considerable wealth through blind luck. Around this time, his lifelong love returns from her adventures, ready to commit to him. During their brief time together, they conceive a child. The couple part ways, due to the woman’s perceived inability to take care of the man. He does not raise the child through its early years but later makes an appearance in its life. The woman eventually dies in bed from illness. The man’s later years are hardly touched on, even though the movie has lavished much attention on his early and middle years.

The entire story dwells repeatedly on the theme of life’s uncertainty and, in contrast, on the notion of fate or coincidence. The film’s symbol for these themes is a small object seen hovering improbably in the air. A narrative frame scene punctuates the story, as does the main character’s drawling voice-over.

Acceptable Answers:

Forrest Gump; The Curious Case of Benjamin Button.*

* Both movies were written by Eric Roth, a man who now owes me seventeen dollars.

http://madeinhead.org/anism/?p=369

i just think they are leagues apart...and surprisingly, like jared, i'm not a HUGE gump fan. i just found button to be extremely boring.

[BlueDevil50]

I saw Gran Torino tonight. Apart from some cringe-worthy dialogue and acting from people not named Clint Eastwood, the movie was great. Clint Eastwood is a true American hero.

i heard this was a great flick...definitely also heard they say about every racist name for asians in it too. my asian friend loved it lol i gotta see it.

[captncrzy]

Name that film:

A white man is born fatherless in the south with birth defects that lead many to think he may never walk nor live a normal life. His saintly mother believes in his potential anyway. At a young age, the man learns to walk and sheds his exoskeleton of locomotive aids. Around this time, he also meets the love of his life, a vivacious girl who grows into a bold woman who parts ways with the man to have her own wild adventures. Meanwhile, the man reaches adulthood, and puts in a wartime stint in the U.S. military. During this stint, the man proves at first an indifferent asset, but during his one firefight, he turns out to be very valuable, saving the day singlehandedly, while also witnessing the death of one of his best friends. The man also spends much time on a small ocean vessel, serving alongside a rowdy, grizzled, hard-drinking man of the sea. This salty sailor serves as one of our man’s two best male friends; the other is a black man who first teaches our man the lessons of friendship before departing forever.

Our man wanders all around the world, his life brushing up against key historical moments of the 20th century. At some point he returns to his childhood home, and his mother dies. The man comes into considerable wealth through blind luck. Around this time, his lifelong love returns from her adventures, ready to commit to him. During their brief time together, they conceive a child. The couple part ways, due to the woman’s perceived inability to take care of the man. He does not raise the child through its early years but later makes an appearance in its life. The woman eventually dies in bed from illness. The man’s later years are hardly touched on, even though the movie has lavished much attention on his early and middle years.

The entire story dwells repeatedly on the theme of life’s uncertainty and, in contrast, on the notion of fate or coincidence. The film’s symbol for these themes is a small object seen hovering improbably in the air. A narrative frame scene punctuates the story, as does the main character’s drawling voice-over.

Acceptable Answers:

Forrest Gump; The Curious Case of Benjamin Button.*

* Both movies were written by Eric Roth, a man who now owes me seventeen dollars.

http://madeinhead.org/anism/?p=369

That's a pretty good analysis. The thing that first got me thinking about the similarities was the appearance of the hummingbird and the start of the next phase of his life-much like the feather that showed up in the beginning of the next phase of Forrest's life. And then the appearance of the hummingbird and the feather at the end of both movies. After that, I started finding all sorts of similarities-wartime heroism, free spirited women that want to be off on their own-only to return to the protagonist's childhood home to reunite, the saintly southern mother that runs a boarding house/old folks home that spits out words of wisdom at every turn...etc.

[C DUB YA]

Anyone talked about NINE yet? the new flick from Shane Acker and Tim Burton?

Looks very promising. Kinda like a Tool video meets Little Big Planet. (watch in high quality)

PYGe70ZsInA

[sbessiso]

he is?

Yes. He's all kinds of awesome

[amyzzz]

I just noticed that Revolutionary Road is playing at Camelview! I'm going to see it today (I took the day off work!).

[Gonshman]

Anyone talked about NINE yet? the new flick from Shane Acker and Tim Burton?

Looks very promising. Kinda like a Tool video meets Little Big Planet. (watch in high quality)

PYGe70ZsInA

Yes. Watch the original short film on Youtube, it's fantastic. I'm really looking forward to this one.

[faxman75]

I think best actor is gonna come down to Mickey Rourke vs Sean Penn. I think Rourke should win it but hollywood will probably give it to Penn. The Wrestler was really great. It's like Rourke was born for that part. It seemed they used a documentary style of camera work with some uncomfortable closeups showing the gory details of the damage one puts their body and life through.

Slumdog Millionaire was really good. Maybe my favorite of all the award movies I have seen thus far. It puts you in India and you really feel the culture and it's a great story. You certainly don't get the impression it's going to be a happy ending and it isn't a forced or contrived hollywood happy ending, it just kinda works out that way. I really loved this movie.

So i'm calling for Slumdog to win movie of the year and Rourke to win best actor but it's a toss up between him and Penn.

[dorkfish]

Eagle Eye was surprisingly bad.

Wanted was rather mediocre even though I loved Night Watch/Daywatch.

The Wrestler plated Accept's "Balls to Wall", so it should get a few Oscar nods.

The Incredible Hulk wasn't downright awful, but terribly formulaic and rather dull for a superhero movie. I preferred Ang Lee's weirdo version.

The Frighteners hasn't held up very well.

The Skeleton Key was bad, but it had a great hoodoo album.

The Gatherers was dumb and predictable based off the opening sequence spoiling the film.

Step Brothers was pretty awful and unfunny.

Burn After Reading was better than the reviews showed.

Quantum of Solace taught me that people who try to go green should be forced to drink motor oil.

That's about it for the last couple of weeks.

[shakermaker113]

Anyone talked about NINE yet? the new flick from Shane Acker and Tim Burton?

Looks very promising. Kinda like a Tool video meets Little Big Planet. (watch in high quality)

fucking SEPTEMBER? those bastards. it should be illegal to advertise this early.

[rage patton]

That 9 trailer does look interesting. Looks like a great cast too. And yes, it does remind me of the video for Sober.

[wmgaretjax]

I saw Gran Torino. It was silly. Why did Clint Eastwood talk like Yoda?

[ivankay]

i saw Benjamin Button last night. i can only add how i felt to all that's been presented. i really appreciated the photography, make up and effects. Benjamin as an older looking younger man was more interesting and involving to me than the latter part. Mr. Pitt is a fine actor and all, but i kept wondering how other actors would have played the role. His stoic acting kept me at a distance during the younger looking, older portion. i would expect more emotional involvement in Benjamin as the film progressed. i love Cate Blanchett and will enjoy seeing her get nomination recognition for her role; but i think Brad Pitt shouldn't be such a lock in that department. For a movie of it's length, the humor is available in very small portions (although when it does strike, it's pretty funny). Don't get me wrong, i am happy to have seen it and thought it a fine film, not a great one. Maybe that will change with another view, but i don't have that urge and don't see it coming about. i would recommend checking it out if you're curious or a fan of any of the parties involved.

[ivankay]

If you might be in Santa Monica tomorrow, the Aero will be screening a Monty Python double feature with Holy Grail and The Life of Brian. (http://www.americancinematheque.com/archive1999/2009/Aero/OneNightEvents_JAN_Aero_2009.htm#MONTY%20PYTHON%20 AND%20THE%20HOLY%20GRAIL) i'm of the opinion Brian is the best comedy ever.

Tonight the Aero is doing a Frank Capra double feature with Mr. Smith Goes to Washington and Meet John Doe (info in the same link as above).

[MeowMixer]

In Bruges ftw.

[MeowMixer]

Anyone talked about NINE yet? the new flick from Shane Acker and Tim Burton?

Looks very promising. Kinda like a Tool video meets Little Big Planet. (watch in high quality)

PYGe70ZsInA

My favorite part is when they list the actors and all of the characters look the same. :)

[MeowMixer]

Hey, is anyone as pissed off as me about how hollywood is going to ruin Neil Gaiman's book, Coraline?

[ivankay]

The trailer looks great (especially in 3D). Henry Selik is directing. Why the pessimism chum?

[karecares]

fucking SEPTEMBER? those bastards. it should be illegal to advertise this early.

Seriously! does look great, i'm biased i've always been a fan of anything that tim burtin does

[sbessiso]

I just rented "The Dark Knight" and plan on giving it a second chance. This time not on acid

[paulb]

what movies are coming out today?

[Somewhat Damaged]

In Bruges ftw.

Ahem...

http://coachella.com/forum/showthread.php?t=24353

[MeowMixer]

It was necessary... who are you to say... screw you...

[MeowMixer]

The trailer looks great (especially in 3D). Henry Selik is directing. Why the pessimism chum?

Dakota Fanning+Terri Hatcher = EPICH FAILE

[wmgaretjax]

Jesus Christ you are a cliche...

[MeowMixer]

aren't we all....

[canexplain]

so i am always way behind the curve on current movies ... i never go to movies, just buy them saw the dutchess and wall e today .... loved the peter gabriel song at the end, and in blu ray, wow, things looked real and not like animation a lot of the times .... ****

[sbessiso]

Hamlet 2 isn't very good. Such a shame because I very much wanted to like it. I had a very different impression of what it was going to be, it seemed right up my alley but it'd just a mess. I still very much like Steve Coogan, he's the only reason I kept the DVD on

And what the Elizabeth Shue??

[RotationSlimWang]

... Hamlet 2? Not very good? Shut the fuck up, no wai.

[BlueDevil50]

gran torino was a great flick. extremely better than benjamin button, watch it and see.

[PotVsKtl]

A clump of steel wool inside an Ozarka watercooler bottle could replace Clint Eastwood in his last five movies. I'd rather watch Tilda Swinton nursing two-year old Brad Pitt behind an opaque curtain.

[shakermaker113]

I saw the wrestler last night. while it was very good, I'm surprised at how much people are raving about it.

and I loved the cobain comment.

[BlueDevil50]

A clump of steel wool inside an Ozarka watercooler bottle could replace Clint Eastwood in his last five movies. I'd rather watch Tilda Swinton nursing two-year old Brad Pitt behind an opaque curtain.

to each his own...i'm just not a huuuuge fan of boredom.

[karecares]

Hamlet 2 isn't very good. Such a shame because I very much wanted to like it. I had a very different impression of what it was going to be, it seemed right up my alley but it'd just a mess. I still very much like Steve Coogan, he's the only reason I kept the DVD on

And what the Elizabeth Shue??

i had hopes for hamlet 2, still going to spend my time on it but i've lowered my expectations a bit

[karecares]

how did i miss a cobain moment? i saw this on friday when i was sick,it was between periods of dayquill/nyquill consciousness. what was it?

[shakermaker113]

when he was in the bar with his stripper chic they were reminiscing about how great 80s rock was, with motley crue and def leppard and shit (barf). he followed that by saying "Then that Cobain pussy had to come and ruin it all."

[karecares]

oh yeah thank you

[Gonshman]

when he was in the bar with his stripper chic they were reminiscing about how great 80s rock was, with motley crue and def leppard and shit (barf). he followed that by saying "Then that Cobain pussy had to come and ruin it all."

Just a side note - I was at a Q and A with Darren Aronofsky and Marisa Tomei, and Darren said the song they had wanted to use originally for that scene was too expensive (I think it was the really famous Def Leppard song). So they ended up using Ratt instead, which made the character seem more into the 80's anyway, creating a greater sense of emotional investment that had disappeared.

[bmack86]

I watched Kind Hearts and Coronets. It's a pretty hilarious movie for something made so long ago. Very much a black comedy, and the ending just kinda fell flat, but i was entertained besides that.

[schoolofruckus]

Count me among those who are wildly disappointed by The Curious Case of Benjamin Button. Considering who's involved, I don't want to beat up on it too badly - and I also would have to get into spoilers to describe many of my problems with it - but this definitely takes the cake for the saddest and most unfortunate shortfall of 2008.

The difference (one of the few) between this film and Forrest Gump, in my opinion, is that Forrest Gump succeeds with what it tries to be. Gump isn't deep, it isn't a masterpiece, and it absolutely wasn't the best film of 1994. As far as its offensiveness goes, I'll leave that to the people who cried foul over the "Full Retard" exchange in Tropic Thunder to decide. But Gump works - to the extent that you buy into it - as an entertaining, effects-driven summer tragicomedy. Remember, it came out in the summer of that year; if it hadn’t gone on to become The Film That Stole Pulp Fiction’s Oscar, it would be seen as an acceptable (if too schmaltzy by half), moderately endearing crowd pleaser. But Button had the potential to be a great film about the nature of life, love, death, or any combination thereof. Instead, I’m afraid we got a bloated fairy tale with a wildly-miscalculated contemporary framing device; a historical epic with an unthinkable (given the talent involved) amount of Hollywood phony factor (not to mention a laundry list of borrowed conventions that went out of style….well…about 14 years ago); a love story that, frankly, could have used a little more heart; and a tremendous showcase for visual effects so potent, they can even drown out acting talents once thought to be unsinkable (i.e., a Cate Blanchett performance that is 80% unwatchable).

I didn’t HATE Benjamin Button. I wouldn’t even say “don’t see it”. I would merely advise anyone who has yet to see it to drastically lower their expectations.

[bleep]

i find Anna Faris lovable in the Scary Movie films, so i gave House Bunny a chance. i knew it'd be terrible, but i was hoping i'd get a few cheap laughs out of it like i did from Sorority Boys. the only thing worth chuckling about is the cast for this movie - it includes an American Idol contestant, the singer for All-American Rejects, and Bruce Willis' daughter. the saddest part is that i actually recognized and knew who these people were.

i appreciated Forgetting Sarah Marshall for not relying too much on gross-out humor, for Russell Brand's character, and for its overall sweetness.

Slumdog Millionaire was very entertaining. like a trimmed and toned Bollywood film made more palatable for those who avoid that genre because of its nauseating excess. even though Slumdog was less gritty, more family-friendly and more melodramatic, it reminded me of City of God for some reason.

i think Werckmeister Harmonies went over my head. the score is gorgeous and the acting incredible, but the pace and length of the movie made it difficult for me to focus. the scene with the nude old man in the bathtub was haunting - what do the rest of you who've viewed this film think this scene symbolizes?

[PotVsKtl]

Count me among those who are wildly disappointed by The Curious Case of Benjamin Button. Considering who's involved, I don't want to beat up on it too badly - and I also would have to get into spoilers to describe many of my problems with it - but this definitely takes the cake for the saddest and most unfortunate shortfall of 2008.

The difference (one of the few) between this film and Forrest Gump, in my opinion, is that Forrest Gump succeeds with what it tries to be. Gump isn't deep, it isn't a masterpiece, and it absolutely wasn't the best film of 1994. As far as its offensiveness goes, I'll leave that to the people who cried foul over the "Full Retard" exchange in Tropic Thunder to decide. But Gump works - to the extent that you buy into it - as an entertaining, effects-driven summer tragicomedy. Remember, it came out in the summer of that year; if it hadn’t gone on to become The Film That Stole Pulp Fiction’s Oscar, it would be seen as an acceptable (if too schmaltzy by half), moderately endearing crowd pleaser. But Button had the potential to be a great film about the nature of life, love, death, or any combination thereof. Instead, I’m afraid we got a bloated fairy tale with a wildly-miscalculated contemporary framing device; a historical epic with an unthinkable (given the talent involved) amount of Hollywood phony factor (not to mention a laundry list of borrowed conventions that went out of style….well…about 14 years ago); a love story that, frankly, could have used a little more heart; and a tremendous showcase for visual effects so potent, they can even drown out acting talents once thought to be unsinkable (i.e., a Cate Blanchett performance that is 80% unwatchable).

I didn’t HATE Benjamin Button. I wouldn’t even say “don’t see it”. I would merely advise anyone who has yet to see it to drastically lower their expectations.

Buffoonery.

[Green Panda]

Buffoonery.

The movie or the review?

[schoolofruckus]

I watched Man on Wire last night. I'm really not a big documentary guy, but this one was pretty damn great. It's about the French guy who slung a tightrope between the World Trade Center towers in 1974 and then walked across it. I say this as though you should know what I'm talking about, when in reality I had no idea this happened until this movie came out. It's half talking-head recollection over the impressively-detailed process of executing the stunt by the guys who took part in it, and half impressionist re-enactment of the act itself, combined with some stock footage and stills that aren't quite on the level of the Fahrenheit 9/11 clip where Bush hears the news of the attacks and has a dumbfounded look on his face....but are still really impressive given that you wouldn't expect these guys to be rolling camera while trying to pull off one of the most all-time audacious daredevil stunts ever performed. If you have ever enjoyed a documentary, then you should watch this one because it's probably better than the other ones.

[sydaud]

Count me among those who are wildly disappointed by The Curious Case of Benjamin Button. Considering who's involved, I don't want to beat up on it too badly - and I also would have to get into spoilers to describe many of my problems with it - but this definitely takes the cake for the saddest and most unfortunate shortfall of 2008.

The difference (one of the few) between this film and Forrest Gump, in my opinion, is that Forrest Gump succeeds with what it tries to be. Gump isn't deep, it isn't a masterpiece, and it absolutely wasn't the best film of 1994. As far as its offensiveness goes, I'll leave that to the people who cried foul over the "Full Retard" exchange in Tropic Thunder to decide. But Gump works - to the extent that you buy into it - as an entertaining, effects-driven summer tragicomedy. Remember, it came out in the summer of that year; if it hadn’t gone on to become The Film That Stole Pulp Fiction’s Oscar, it would be seen as an acceptable (if too schmaltzy by half), moderately endearing crowd pleaser. But Button had the potential to be a great film about the nature of life, love, death, or any combination thereof. Instead, I’m afraid we got a bloated fairy tale with a wildly-miscalculated contemporary framing device; a historical epic with an unthinkable (given the talent involved) amount of Hollywood phony factor (not to mention a laundry list of borrowed conventions that went out of style….well…about 14 years ago); a love story that, frankly, could have used a little more heart; and a tremendous showcase for visual effects so potent, they can even drown out acting talents once thought to be unsinkable (i.e., a Cate Blanchett performance that is 80% unwatchable).

I didn’t HATE Benjamin Button. I wouldn’t even say “don’t see it”. I would merely advise anyone who has yet to see it to drastically lower their expectations.


Benjamin Button left me thinking about the plot afterward, but not the movie. It's like I spent the rest of the day making my own movie in my head. I can't state it as eloquently as above, but I left the movie feeling somewhat empty. I was prepared to have all these thoughts about the movie, but I left just feeling "artificially sad".

[humanoid]

Benjamin Button left me thinking about the plot afterward, but not the movie. It's like I spent the rest of the day making my own movie in my head. I can't state it as eloquently as above, but I left the movie feeling somewhat empty. I was prepared to have all these thoughts about the movie, but I left just feeling "artificially sad".

that's how I felt whenever I thought about it too...nothing of any real substance to analyze, yet an unshakable melancholy inspired by the film

I've read and heard many times about this great love story that existed somewhere in the film...but the more I think about it, this love story didn't really exist. No one seems in love at any time during the movie, and no one seems to care that much about Benjamin Button. He wanders in and out of peoples' lives, they go about there business, then he creepily shows back up, stepping out of shadowy corners to announce his presence.

[indietron]

Benjamin Button left me thinking about the plot afterward, but not the movie. It's like I spent the rest of the day making my own movie in my head. I can't state it as eloquently as above, but I left the movie feeling somewhat empty. I was prepared to have all these thoughts about the movie, but I left just feeling "artificially sad".

I agree with this. I expected so much more from BB.

Also, I watched The Fall this last week. Great movie, loved the whole storyline with the bandits and the little girl was cute. If I remember correctly, I think it was directed by Fincher.

[PotVsKtl]

You remember incorrectly.

[wmgaretjax]

Tarsem Singh

[shakermaker113]

I watched Man on Wire last night. I'm really not a big documentary guy, but this one was pretty damn great. It's about the French guy who slung a tightrope between the World Trade Center towers in 1974 and then walked across it. I say this as though you should know what I'm talking about, when in reality I had no idea this happened until this movie came out. It's half talking-head recollection over the impressively-detailed process of executing the stunt by the guys who took part in it, and half impressionist re-enactment of the act itself, combined with some stock footage and stills that aren't quite on the level of the Fahrenheit 9/11 clip where Bush hears the news of the attacks and has a dumbfounded look on his face....but are still really impressive given that you wouldn't expect these guys to be rolling camera while trying to pull off one of the most all-time audacious daredevil stunts ever performed. If you have ever enjoyed a documentary, then you should watch this one because it's probably better than the other ones.

I've been wanting to see this for months. it's still on top of my netflix list, but there is a constant wait.

[karecares]

i was getting the same feeling from slumdog millionaire reminding me of city of god. i think it had to do with the overall degree of poverty and his surviving it, although i think that the characters similarities end there

[karecares]

that's how I felt whenever I thought about it too...nothing of any real substance to analyze, yet an unshakable melancholy inspired by the film

I've read and heard many times about this great love story that existed somewhere in the film...but the more I think about it, this love story didn't really exist. No one seems in love at any time during the movie, and no one seems to care that much about Benjamin Button. He wanders in and out of peoples' lives, they go about there business, then he creepily shows back up, stepping out of shadowy corners to announce his presence.
even though i couldn't buy into them being 'in love' i did believe there was a genuine mutual love for ben and ... cate... then with him and his mom.
it was creepy how he did keep reappearing

[MeowMixer]

Hamlet 2 isn't very good. Such a shame because I very much wanted to like it. I had a very different impression of what it was going to be, it seemed right up my alley but it'd just a mess. I still very much like Steve Coogan, he's the only reason I kept the DVD on

And what the Elizabeth Shue??

I liked it.

[indietron]

I just watched Slumdog, I loved it. One of my favorites of 2008. Very beautiful and well done.

[wmgaretjax]

Revolutionary Road was really overwrought. There was some really good acting and some great moments though. Not much more to say than that, you probably could have guessed it from the trailer. The theme from the soundtrack is really fantastic too... It won't make my top 10 of the year, but I really admire a lot of the film.

So I just read the Voice review and thought I'd add something else. I thought of Cassavetes in terms of the acting after I saw the film, but shrugged it off. The fact that others are seeing the same thing tells me that it happened at least subconsciously. This is a good thing.

[faxman75]

I just watched Slumdog, I loved it. One of my favorites of 2008. Very beautiful and well done.


I did too, I found it the best overall picture and thus far i've seen The Wrestler, The Visitor, Frost Nixon, Burn After Reading, Dark Knight and Milk. Just a great story that engulfs you in the indian culture. It was well done all around. Best Actor i'm still pondering. It's between Sean Penn and Mickey Rourke though. Penn is brilliant but I would love to see Mickey on stage accepting a best actor award and he did a supurb job as that part was custom made for him.

[Gonshman]

Mickeys acceptance speech would be reason alone to see him win. Would he be vindictive? Thankful and teary eyed? Pompous and arrogant and generally crazy? The possibilities are endless.

[wmgaretjax]

But the reality is he doesn't deserve an Oscar... Well he deserves it more than many who have won in the past, but the guy played himself and everyone needs to just acknowledge that and move on (it was a great film, no denying that). I would enjoy watching his speech though.

When do Oscar Noms come out?

[Gonshman]

But the reality is he doesn't deserve an Oscar... Well he deserves it more than many who have won in the past, but the guy played himself and everyone needs to just acknowledge that and move on (it was a great film, no denying that). I would enjoy watching his speech though.

When do Oscar Noms come out?

About a week after Golden Globes, if I'm not mistaken

[patsfan5454]

I know this has been out for awhile, but i just watched In Bruges the other night on DVD and have to say it was a really really good movie! i didnt expect alot from colin farrell but he was great in it! really good dark comedy, the two leads i think both got nominated for golden globes and are well deserving of the nominations

[faxman75]

But the reality is he doesn't deserve an Oscar... Well he deserves it more than many who have won in the past, but the guy played himself and everyone needs to just acknowledge that and move on (it was a great film, no denying that). I would enjoy watching his speech though.

When do Oscar Noms come out?


You're right. He is just someone you want to root for but ultimately, he is playing himself. Much like Courtney Love nailed the part of Larry Flyns wife. She was incredible in the role because that's who she was, a rich heroin addict married to a controversial popular pop icon. I think he would cry in his speech. Sean Penn on the other hand delivers in a powerful role that will certainly make him one of the favorites.

[Gonshman]

You're right. He is just someone you want to root for but ultimately, he is playing himself. Much like Courtney Love nailed the part of Larry Flyns wife. She was incredible in the role because that's who she was, a rich heroin addict married to a controversial popular pop icon. I think he would cry in his speech. Sean Penn on the other hand delivers in a powerful role that will certainly make him one of the favorites.

Fax, are you a big Sean Penn fan? Because I am, and it's gotten to the point where I think he could at least get nominated for an Oscar for any film he does. I guess it might alter my criticism of him, but the guy is just an incredible actor.

[whynotsmile99]

I just Watched Brewster's Millions.

So many shitty movies made in the 80's

[Gonshman]

I just Watched Brewster's Millions.

So many shitty movies made in the 80's

Vote none of the above!

[RotationSlimWang]

I just Watched Brewster's Millions.

So many shitty movies made in the 80's

Did you seriously just dare to call Brewster's Millions a shitty movie, 'cause I will fucking fight you.

[marooko]

Anyone see Yes Man? Did you see Von Iva in there? Pretty awesome!!

[marooko]

Did you seriously just dare to call Brewster's Millions a shitty movie, 'cause I will fucking fight you.

Instant reminder of "Moving". Those movies fucking kicked ass!!

[amyzzz]

I loved that movie when I was a kid.

edit: Brewster's Millions

[ShyGuy75]

But the reality is he doesn't deserve an Oscar... Well he deserves it more than many who have won in the past, but the guy played himself and everyone needs to just acknowledge that and move on (it was a great film, no denying that). I would enjoy watching his speech though.

When do Oscar Noms come out?

Played himself? Do you know him personally? Do you ever think before you post?

[Gonshman]

Played himself? Do you know him personally? Do you ever think before you post?

I think he was referring to the similarities of Rourkes career arc, which does match the storyline pretty well.

[algunz]

The Globes like to acknowledge people who play themselves. Madonna and Courtney Love for example. The Academy . . . not so much.

[whynotsmile99]

Did you seriously just dare to call Brewster's Millions a shitty movie, 'cause I will fucking fight you.

please. that movie sucked ass. Sure the premise of Richard Pryor spending 30 million is fun, but talk about a flat movie. For a "comedy" starring Richard Pryor and John Candy there were zero laughs. ok maybe one. it's like they didn't even write it to be a comedy. the script wasn't even slightly funny

critc at Rottentomatoes.com :

"A simplistic remake of an oft-told tale. Pryor does PG like porn stars do Shakespeare."

couldn't agree more

[wmgaretjax]

Do you know him personally?

He's my godfather.

[whynotsmile99]

i know corey feldman's aunt

[ghettojournalist]

The Globes like to acknowledge people who play themselves. Madonna and Courtney Love for example. The Academy . . . not so much.

But unlike Madonna and Love, Mickey Rourke was a respected actor at one point I believe. And as hard as it is for an actor to transform in a role, I think it's equally hard to give basically a naked performance since it does mirror his own life so much.

And The Wrestler is not Rourke's comeback film; Sin City is. The same way that Iron Man and Tropic Thunder don't fill that role for Robert Downey Jr.; Kiss Kiss Bang Bang does. I think a lot of people tend to forget great recent performances due to award attention...

[wmgaretjax]

I watched Reprise today. One of the best debut films I've ever seen. I really loved it, and that might largely be because of how well it caries the torch of the french new wave... But it was an incredibly honest film that somehow managed to self-critique it's own overly-sincere moments. Because of this, you walk away from the film knowing that the director had moved on and grown before he had finished the film, and was somehow able to impart this experience in a kind of bizarre prescient manner.

[bmack86]

The Wrestler is astounding. I loved it. I thought it was incredibly accurate, and definitely thought of Raging Bull throughout. And I think it's that caliber.

[PotVsKtl]

I bet Rourke sits in his mansion at night staring into a makeup mirror, tears running down his hideously deformed face as he laments the fact that, now that he has a chance at revitalizing his acting career, he has a hideously deformed face.

[MeowMixer]

Hilarious!

[PotVsKtl]

I wish there were more varieties of cancers I could place inside of you.

[MeowMixer]

lol.

[thestripe]

I'll lol once you're diagnosed.

[MeowMixer]

lolololol.

[Xenocide]

And The Wrestler is not Rourke's comeback film; Sin City is. The same way that Iron Man and Tropic Thunder don't fill that role for Robert Downey Jr.; Kiss Kiss Bang Bang does. I think a lot of people tend to forget great recent performances due to award attention...

i thought of Spun as Rourke's comeback film... wait, which came out first?


btw, i thought The Curious Case of Benjamin Button was fucking amazing!
*edit: while i thought all points of production & photography were the best of the year, i will agree that the acting of was subpar (except for the woman playing Benjamin's mom, she was pretty good)

[Xenocide]

gran torino was a great flick. extremely better than benjamin button, watch it and see.

yeah it was good, i wouldn't say better than Button though... although Clint Eastwood deserves an Oscar nod for Acting much more than Pitt...

but Fincher for Director much more than Eastwood...

[faxman75]

I think Sin City came out after Spun. It's hard to call Spun a comeback film considering not many people saw it.

[amyzzz]

Rourke was in Buffalo 66 too.

[faxman75]

He was? I totally forgot he was the bookie! That was a good movie too.

[schoolofruckus]

Rourke has been the best thing about many of his recent movies; he made Spun, he was good in Domino, and he was the only thing that kept me from walking out on Sin City. Buffalo '66 is the best film ever made, but Mickey still had a place in achieving that.

Now, none of those have been performances deserving of an Oscar. But I feel that Rourke deserves one before Penn deserves two....even if Rourke was playing a barely-scripted facsimile of himself.

[Green Panda]

Rourke has been the best thing about many of his recent movies; he made Spun, he was good in Domino, and he was the only thing that kept me from walking out on Sin City. Buffalo '66 is the best film ever made, but Mickey still had a place in achieving that.

Now, none of those have been performances deserving of an Oscar. But I feel that Rourke deserves one before Penn deserves two....even if Rourke was playing a barely-scripted facsimile of himself.

Rourke sucked in that movie - the whole thing was faked. And Sean Penn was brilliant in Milk. So you really have your head stuffed up your ass rather firmly school of ruckus. As usual.

[schoolofruckus]

Just a question, Green Panda....have you had the opportunity of seeing either of these films? Or anything else released in 2008, for that matter?

[wmgaretjax]

I don't think either deserve an Oscar... I think Leo deserves it before any of them. My vote goes to Hoffman for Synecdoche, NY, but I can't see that happening.

[ivankay]

i still need to see The Wrestler and Revolutionary Road. Maybe they might change my mind, but i feel Penn's performance in Milk is the best of his career. Considering his career, give that man a second Oscar.

[bmack86]

I'd fully support that.

[ivankay]

Brian's avatar is reminding me what a great job Josh Brolin did in W. He was also exceptional in Milk. i hope he doesn't get totally shafted when it comes to nominations.

[bmack86]

I love that picture. HIm in a classroom like, "What the fuck? Who couldn't see a giant building when they're flying?"

[Green Panda]

Just a question, Green Panda....have you had the opportunity of seeing either of these films? Or anything else released in 2008, for that matter?

I've seen your mom in 2008.

[Green Panda]

I don't think either deserve an Oscar... I think Leo deserves it before any of them. My vote goes to Hoffman for Synecdoche, NY, but I can't see that happening.

I didn't see Synecdoche, NY. Hasn't come here. Is it any good? Looks really stupid.

[wmgaretjax]

I didn't see Synecdoche, NY. Hasn't come here. Is it any good? Looks really stupid.

It was my favorite of the year that I've seen, for what that is worth...