July 23, 2008
A mixed bag of films
I want to start with the best film first. I finally saw Into the Wild despite a couple friends telling me "you'd like this one, the guy reminds me of you a bit." After watching it, I am not sure if it was a compliment or not.
I absolutely love the idea that Chris McCandless was first and foremost an adventurer. His belief that you shouldn't hesitate to do anything that strikes your fancy certainly appeals to me. His outright insanity in leaving behind civilization entirely is pretty scary.
As the film started, I told myself that I wouldn't like it. I was sure that it would glorify thinking "out of the box" and gloss over the stupidity of some of his actions. It turns out that it was actually a pretty excellent movie.
RATING 8 out of 10
I also took in Loggerheads the other day expecting some quirky little indie film. It certainly was quirky... but I seriously couldn't finish viewing.
The acting was good - but the film just turned me off. I really can't explain why, other than it seemed to drag on and made way too many obvious turns.
RATING 3 out of 10
Posted by CDogg at 09:50 PM | Comments (0)
July 18, 2008
Generation Kill
I caught the first installment of the new HBO miniseries, Generation Kill the other night and have to say, it is a good watch. Based on the first episode, I will be watching the entire seven-part series.
While the show suffers from the fact that all the soldiers tend to look identical, it is definitely realistic in that respect - isn't that the point of the uniforms and short haircuts in the first place?
The fact that it is based on real events makes me a little more forgiving of plot and even dialogue. At the end of the day whether you view it as a sensationalized documentary or just a drama, the situations are enjoyable to watch.
I still prefer Over There, despite some people feeling it came out way too soon in the conflict, but hey - its still early in the series.
Posted by CDogg at 08:53 AM | Comments (0)
July 04, 2008
Whatever your point of view...
I just watched Vantage Point and while I have to applaud the filmmakers for their efforts, they just miss the mark on this one. Dennis Quaid leads an all-star cast that each turn in excellent performances - the problem with the film cannot be put on any of the actors.
The acting suffered when the script was either weak or too stereotypical of the characters - vacationer, news manager, secret serviceman, military adviser etc. The biggest shortcoming however was the Forest Whitaker character. His ability to follow Secret Service agents at a full sprint was unbelievable. There is no way he could have kept up physically with their speed, plus he stopped to shoot video and 'read the scene' time and again.
In the end, I loved the idea, but feel the project was too ambitious to pull off well. When watching the special features on the DVD, it was clear that the filmmakers' felt they had created a much more compelling and complex tale than came across on the screen. Good try, but from my angle it looked like a phantom punch to me.
RATING 6 out of 10
Posted by CDogg at 01:52 AM | Comments (0)
June 20, 2008
Turn out the M. Night - the party's over.
I knew when I first saw the ad for The Happening that it wasn't going to be great. The tagline wasn't about how many award winning actors were involved, it wasn't about breakthrough visuals, heck... it wasn't even about riding on the coattails of his previous film hits. It was simply, "M. Night Shyamalan's first R-rated movie!"
Even though all "M" felt confident in promoting was that he included about 6 ounces of blood this time around, I assumed that his ability to tell a good story would win out. Surely, it would be "average" at least. Hell, I had time to kill in Dallas - I had a free movie pass... what could I possibly lose?
Boy was I wrong. This movie will fight it out with Street Kings for not only the worst movie of 2008, but quite possibly the decade.
The idea of the film seems pretty cool. The problem is that it all ends there. The writing is about third grade level - seriously, I have a play I wrote at age 6 in crayon on two sheets of paper - it rambles, it mixes a genie with three wishes, something about a pony, and valuable life lessons... and it sucked horribly. That childhood scribbling reads like War and Peace compared to this.
I am a fan of Mark Wahlberg, but he has been riding sort of a stink streak lately - MAN did he stink in this one.
Do yourself a favor - if you are thinking of watching this movie, just poke yourself in the eyes with a crochet needle - it will hurt less.
RATING 2 out of 10
Posted by CDogg at 07:37 AM | Comments (0)
May 25, 2008
Ferrell solid as ever - a refresher on Nader
I finally saw Semi-Pro, the latest sports related Will Ferrell flick, and it was laugh-out-loud funny. Based on the previews, I thought I would like it less than Talladega Nights: The Ballad of Ricky Bobby and more than Blades of Glory, and you know it? I was right.
If you like this kind of humor - and I do - you will love Semi-Pro. If you can't stand this kind of idiocy... lighten up. :)
RATING 8 out of 10
Talk about polar opposites. Just before lightening the mood with Semi-Pro, I watched An Unreasonable Man. This documentary chronicles the career of Ralph Nader and the dramatic, if polarizing, effect he has has on the history of the United States.
All of the presidential hijinx has made most of us completely forget (if we ever knew) about his early career and the immense contribution he made to consumer protection.
Whether you blame him for costing Gore or Kerry elections or blame them for costing Nader the elections, you cannot argue with the positive impact he has had on defending your rights as consumers to purchase safe products. This movie reminds us of that as well as examines all the controversy surrounding presidential politics.
RATING 9 out of 10
Posted by CDogg at 03:49 PM | Comments (0)
May 20, 2008
This is why I love PBS
If you don't support, and more importantly watch PBS, you are missing out. A couple of shows that I never miss on PBS are NOVA and Frontline. NOVA had a particularly interesting program tonight "Lord of the Ants."
This is the story of naturalist E.O. Wilson's lifelong study of ants. Sound boring? Only if you don't see the big picture. More than just a kooky old man looking at ants, this is a study of sociobiology involving every species on the planet.
Wilson first came to my attention after his appearance at the TED conference. Since seeing his presentation and his call for creating the Encyclopedia of Life, I have been a big fan.
I think PBS used to use the slogan "TV that changes you." That certainly appears to be true, and I would add that the change is for the better.
Posted by CDogg at 09:44 PM | Comments (0)
May 04, 2008
Where is Hugh Downs when you need him?
The "news magazine" Dateline NBC has never been one of the higher brow shows, but it appears to have sunk to a new low Sunday night. The show renowned for lowest-common-denominator journalism isn't catching predators, busting myths, or even telling a harrowing story of survival. This time around they are counting down the top ten messiest celebrity meltdowns.
This whole show looks like it was purchased lock, stock, and voyeuristic barrel from VH1. You know them - they are the fine folks that bring you "The 40 Most Awesomely Bad Songs," "100 Most Shocking Moments in...." etc.
The format is simple... find something to count down - find about a dozen D-list celebs to reel off one-liners like "Are you kidding girl? she was like melting down in front of everyone" - intercut fast clips and photos of the shocking event - move on the #?.
Dateline NBC is now officially dead to me. As least when they were creating news by entrapment, there was at least some issue to discuss and debate. This is brain cell destruction on steroids... you WILL be less intelligent after watching - guaranteed.
Posted by CDogg at 07:38 PM | Comments (2)
May 02, 2008
Iron Man - another hit for Marvel's movie line
Long time readers will know that my two favorite comic book heroes are The Incredible Hulk and Iron Man. While I was a bit disappointed in parts of the Hulk movie, I still gave it a 9 rating based on how much I really dig the big greenie.
I will also say that when I heard Robert Downey Jr. was pegged to play Tony Stark, I was more than skeptical - I was mad. I assumed that once the film unveiled the Iron Man suit I wouldn't care that Downey is once again waaaay too small to play the tall, powerful billionaire. (Don't even get me started on how wrong the casting was for Cyclops in the X-Men movies.)
I have to admit that Downey did a very good job portraying Tony Stark so that is forgiven. Frankly, I am pleased that this romp wasn't people by teeny boppers as with recent superhero fare - it's nice to have an actor that fits the character age. However, the movie once again took an excellent story and rewrote it for no apparent reason. I am okay with updating the timeline. It didn't HAVE to be done, but it doesn't bother me as the comic books had already done a retelling. (Pull me aside sometime for the list of departures from the mythology.)
All of the nitpicks aside... once the red and gold armored superhero hit the screen, I was in. I could watch Iron Man fly, fight, and blast through baddies for hours. In fact, that was the biggest shortcoming... not enough suit time. Did we really need the faceplate flipped up for so many scenes - NOBODY was here to see Robert Downey Jr. - we were here to see 'Ol Shellhead.
As some country singer says though, "I like it, I love it... I want some more of it!"
RATING 9 out of 10
Note that the Iron Man review may seem to disagree with the rating scale. This has been something I have been questioned on quite a bit with my film reviews. The short answer is that the rating is how much I liked the film, while the review is an opportunity to expose the details of it from the standpoint of story telling and film craft.
Think of it this way... You may have the most adorable mutt dog. If you took it to the Westminster Dog Show, they might be able to point out hundreds of flaws (the review) but at the end of the day, you love the dog (the rating.)
Posted by CDogg at 07:54 AM | Comments (0)
April 26, 2008
A Cornucopia of Movie Reviews
NOTE: I found this saved in my drafts. I had meant to publish is just over a month ago... better late than never. :)
Its been some time since I did a movie review and its high time I remedied that. I have seen a lot of movies since my last review back in January, so I will pull a few out of my memory bank for this entry.
I am going to start things off with the silliest of the bunch - Hot Rod. This was a completely stupid movie, but its okay - it was supposed to be stupid. I enjoyed the heck out of Hot Rod. Andy Samberg did a fine job as the addled stunt man, but the standout performance was by Ian McShane. His portrayal of the d*ckhead stepfather was hilarious.
RATING 7 out of 10
Michael Clayton was this much-ballyhooed "thriller" about a corporate fixer. If you had a problem, George Clooney's Michael Clayton character could make it go away. While it was interesting at times, I think it failed to live up to all the pre-viewing hype.
RATING 6 out of 10
Beowulf is an interesting film. This adaptation of the pre-10th century Old English manuscript is by far the closest I have seen in film version. The visuals are unique in that the entire film is a combination of CGI and motion capture. As fantasy pics go, this one is right up there. I mean who can argue with a nude Angelina Jolie, even if she is computer generated and mostly concealed. :)
RATING 8 out of 10
I also saw the documentary For the Bible Tells Me So. The film is an interesting look at how Christianity deals with the issue of homosexuality and the varied stances affect the subjects of the documentary. The film focuses on perceived misinterpretation of scripture and denial of current public opinion of homosexuality. It is an interesting topic but the filmwork is a bit elementary and uninspiring.
RATING 7 out of 10
I have four or five others to review, but that is all the time I have right now. Let me know what you think? Did you catch any of these films?
Posted by CDogg at 10:32 AM | Comments (0)
April 20, 2008
Proof positive that there is something wrong with America
Okay, I see nothing wrong with a very special Star Wars version of Deal or No Deal... hotties AND Star Wars - that is what is good with America.
What I cannot abide however, it our President showing up on the gameshow - ANY gameshow. Sure, he is not really the statesman type in the first place, but a freakin' gameshow? Are you kidding me?
Oh yeah, and First Lady, Laura Bush will be hosting The Today Show - Thomas Jefferson is rolling in his grave.
Posted by CDogg at 06:20 PM | Comments (0)
April 11, 2008
She looks like Wayne freakin Newton
Now, I know I am going to hear it from the fanboys on this one, but Mary McDonnell (President Laura Roslin on Battlestar Galactica) looks like she had 'some work done' during the hiatus.
I can't find a current photo to do a before and after comparison, but her face has changed. There is no doubt in my mind that some procedure was done and I have to say that, as is the case with most of these 'improvements,' she went from looking gorgeous to unnatural.
She is still my favorite fictional President, but with the no-close eyelids and button nose, she is looking like Wayne Newton with a wig.
Posted by CDogg at 10:48 PM | Comments (2)
March 26, 2008
Lame Baby Lame
Just one quick one this time around. I just finished watching Gone Baby Gone - Ben Affleck's directorial debut. While Ben may have done a serviceable job in telling the story, his brother Casey was one of the worst miscasts ever.
First off, he cannot act his way out of a wet paper bag. Second, he he doesn't even come close to fitting the bill when it comes to looking or acting like a detective. He looks like he should be playing in a high school coming-of-age comedy - that is if he could act.
This film is proof that nepotism can be a BAD BAD thing. It is a shame that several fine performances by supporting actors went to waste with this bowl floater.
RATING 4 out of 10
Posted by CDogg at 09:54 PM | Comments (0)
March 12, 2008
Comedy Central 0 for 2
Geez, what a horrible night of television on Comedy Central. First, a brand new South Park. What's not to love about one of the funniest shows in history? This episode.
Forgive the spoiler, but in the show Cartman and Kyle become HIV positive and search for a cure. While normally even the most taboo subject is made hilarious by Parker and Stone, somehow the HIV story failed to even make me crack a smile. Don't get me wrong, I LOVE poking fun in a politically incorrect manner... they just forgot the 'fun' part.
Next up was Lewis Black's Root of All Evil. I was looking forward to this show because I am big fan of his comedy. Talk about a snooze-fest. The format is that each week a comparison is made between two things and the items are defended/accused by different comedians. Black, as judge, will issue his final verdict at the end after each comedian has a couple chances to make his/her case.
The problem is that the comedy is lame, the comedians are the same tired cabal of out-of-work, in-bred, second-rate yucksters tossed out over and over in hopes of convincing us they are funny, and Lewis Black has proven to be a funny-man best served in two-minute segments on The Daily Show.
Oh yeah and add in the fact that the show appears to be a "text in your vote" cash grab... this one cannot be buried fast enough.
Posted by CDogg at 10:01 PM | Comments (0)
February 28, 2008
Lindsay Lohan's "steamy" photos
I totally missed the whole internet buzz surrounding Lohan's New York magazine photo shoot. (A good friend told me about it, but I won't mention his name in case that might get him in trouble with his wife.)
My review? meh
I wonder how many women throughout time have been convinced to pose nude with the line "hey, just look what it did for Marilyn Monroe's career!"?
Posted by CDogg at 08:24 AM | Comments (0)
February 05, 2008
Not so much
I am going to piss off a lot of people with this post because I know a bunch of people are rabid 30 Rock fans. I saw the pilot episode (streamed on NetFlix) and all I can say is "meh." The ONLY good character is Alec Baldwin's Jack Donaghy and he is so over-the-top at times that it gets old.
I realize that I have only seen the pilot so far and that traditionally pilots suffer from the need to inform the audience about everyone's life in one episode. Because of this fact, I vow to watch a total of five episodes before giving it a final rating, but it needs to improve fast.
Posted by CDogg at 12:31 AM | Comments (0)
January 26, 2008
Groundbreaking isn't always good
I took in two VERY groundbreaking movies tonight. I have to congratulate them for being original - both in VERY different ways. That said, as in the title of the post - this isn't always a good thing. The bottom line is that the art of film making got a few bumps forward this week.
First off is Cloverfield. Five minutes into the film, I leaned over to Tony D. and said, "It's Blair Witch with a big budget." And you know what? It works. The effects in Cloverfield are great. The acting is good, the story is serviceable. It is groundbreaking in how it melds the reality genre with a big budget effects film.
Sure, the setup is tedious and the plausibility of some of the character actions is waaaaay beyond 'a stretch'. The bottom line is that it is an engrossing film that keeps your interest right up to the final second. While I did see the end coming, it was not a letdown.
RATING 8 out of 10
Next up was Rambo. The tagline reads "Heroes never die... They just reload," and while Stallone reloaded a tired franchise, there was indeed something groundbreaking in this schlock as well - the ultra-realistic images of weapon damage. Never before have I seen a film that portrays the weapons of war so utterly deadly as depicted here. I can't even begin to describe the scenes, as to do so would likely give my blog an R rating. If ever there were a film that simultaneously glorified violence while also making a case against using guns to settle differences, this is it. The damage inflicted to the human body is so realistic and intense that it feels like you are watching a snuff film.
Don't get me wrong - this is NOT a top notch film. The story is the same formula as every other tough guy movie. The acting is decent in places, laughable in others, but even during good moments, can't salvage the dialog. This is First Blood on steroids (or human growth hormone) and raw human flesh - bad, but devastatingly groundbreaking.
RATING 6 out of 10
Posted by CDogg at 10:35 PM | Comments (1)
January 24, 2008
Movie catch-up time
I will try to keep these short and sweet as I have a boatload of movies to get through. That means no photos, no long, drawn-out complaints about poor direction or lame acting - just a quick and dirty rating on a scale of 1 to 10.
Let's start off with the one I just finished, 3:10 to Yuma. I've seen better westerns and I've seen worse. It's just always cool to see one.
RATING 7 out of 10
Resident Evil: Extinction - what can I say, I know this whole series blows, but I find it fun for some reason.
RATING 7 out of 10
Frivolous Lola - I am embarrassed to say that I watched this. It seems the titillation factor was the appeal and frankly, not worth it. The one thing that stuck with me was the song "Mona Monella." I can't find it anywhere but love it despite the fact it is Italian and I can't understand any of it.
RATING 5 out of 10
Rescue Dawn is the second Christian Bale film in this list and neither was his best work. Think - Empire of the Sun.
RATING 6 out of 10
TED: The Future We Will Create - I really liked this documentary and like I twittered after watching it, I really want to attend a TED conference now. Cool stuff.
RATING 8 out of 10
Two Days in April - This documentary chronicles college football players leading up to the NFL draft. As a documentary, it is not very well done, as information about the inside dealings of the NFL and the draft, it is kinda cool
RATING 7 out of 10
Posted by CDogg at 01:41 PM | Comments (2)
January 23, 2008
Medium is getting more raw
Hey, it was the only pun I could think of. :)
Although I initially lauded Medium as one of the few good shows to come around in awhile, it seems to have slipped. I am not sure if it is due to the writer's strike or these are just episodes they had in the can that aren't very good. What I am sure of is that the show has been getting progressively more stupid and transparent.
I am hoping it is just evidence that scab writers suck and that the show will bounce back, but geez - it is getting hard to watch.
I mean how many shows does Joe have to wake up after Allison gasps and say "Huh... what's is it?" These dreams are still a surprise to him?
There used to be a little mystery in Allison's visions - you used to have to pay attention a bit. Now, whether it is bad writing or incredibly stupid directing, they hit the audience over the head with "the clues." They don't just focus on what you need to see, but they play dramatic music, pause on the point being made, and show you replays of it over and over for the really stupid viewers.
The last three episodes have been "poop on a stick." Someone please tell me that they know for a fact things are going to get better or this one is going on the trash heap with the rest of the television "entertainment."
Posted by CDogg at 01:01 PM | Comments (0)
January 06, 2008
In praise of the brunettes of my youth
I just got disc one of The Greatest American Hero from NetFlix and was jolted back to the early 80's not by the site of William Katt in that familiar red suit, but by my long-forgotten crush, Connie Sellecca. Oh, how I did love Ms. Selleca. She played the love interest and attorney of our (greatest America) hero. Seeing her not only reminded me of five years of GAH love, but her stint on Hotel as well.
Connie went on to marry John Tesh and even make a good bit of money with her own line of skin products - Selleca Solution or something similar. In a couple of the episodes she looks a lot like a younger, hotter version of that chick from Sex in the City - Sarah whatshername.
Those were the days of gorgeous brunette attorneys on television. During that same era, my unrequited love was not limited to Connie Selleca... I also spent many a late night in the company of attorney, Joyce Davenport of Hill Street Blues. Yes, Veronica Hamel was not only extremely easy on the eyes, but a damn fine actress.
Oh, who am I kidding? I have no idea if she could act. I turned to jelly when she came on the screen. What teenage boy wouldn't turn lose his mind at the sight of such a hottie.
For the record... Veronica gets the edge.
Posted by CDogg at 12:38 AM | Comments (5)
December 24, 2007
Legendary Promises
I Am Legend starring Will Smith is not nearly as bad as the reviewers would have you believe. Yes, the CGI bad guys were a little silly. Yes, the CGI hounds were ridiculous. Yes, there was nothing extremely new and fresh about the film. But darn it... I liked the movie.
Based on the 1954 Richard Matheson scifi novel, the story is still a good one even when the filmmaking comes up a bit short. If the film has one major downfall, it is in that it doesn't do service to the original story. The film strays in such a manner that it is barely recognizable as the Matheson story at times.
I have always been a sucker for a post-apocalyptic story, and for that reason, I've probably rated it higher than I should.
RATING 7 out of 10
I heard a lot of good things about Eastern Promises and was expecting a really good film... oops. That's what I get for letting other people's opinions influence my own. While there was nothing in particular that made it a bad film, it just wasn't anything special.
The story was fine. The acting ranged from good to great. The cinematography added to the feel of the piece. So what was wrong? I think the biggest mistake was the pacing. It was painfully slow in places while making crazy jumps in others.
The subject of the bath house scene is the most mentioned part of the film and boy was it a let down. Just because Viggo Mortenson dangles his tally-whacker freely during the fight scene doesn't make it a great fight scene. Sure, it took courage to show his junk on the big screen. Sure, it was original in that we are not accustomed to viewing a swinging unit while watching fights. Sure, sure, sure. The bottom line is that a bare naked man fighting doesn't improve a fight scene.
In the end, (pun intended) it was a good film, just not as ground-breaking and original as sold.
RATING 7 out of 10
Posted by CDogg at 01:00 PM | Comments (0)
December 11, 2007
Is it just me?
Is it wrong that I watch The Biggest Loser while eating? Is it wrong that my favorite part about the show is Alison Sweeney? There is something about her that is mesmerizing. (That word choice is for you Ron ;) Maybe its because she reminds me of a girl I knew back in high school. (An UBER-HOTTIE)
I find it interesting that the show does nothing to motivate me to workout. It is less about fitness than it is about the "reality" drama formula. I watch the contestants cry over their dramatic transformations and although I root for them and applaud their work - I mainly watch just to see Alison make an appearance.
Sure, the drama occasionally sucks me in... sure, I sometimes feel guilty about not working out while I watch... but hey - it is a TV show right? The purpose is to distract me from my daily life and entertain - mission accomplished.
Posted by CDogg at 11:07 PM | Comments (0)
December 06, 2007
Barbara's Most Fascinating - again a snorefest
Please don't ask me why I devote blog space to this subject for the second year in a row. I guess it is because despite nobody giving a damn who Barbara Walters thinks are the "10 Most Fascinating People," these 'specials' just keep coming. If you surveyed the nation as to who they thought was most fascinating, I guarantee you wouldn't find 10 people who agree with this list, and it only qualifies as a 'special' if we are talking about the padded-helmet-wearing kind of special.
Sure, some of these people are interesting - but the MOST fascinating? Jennifer Hudson? Great voice, great story... not the MOST. Katherine Heigl? Hot actress, great personality, super talent... not the MOST. The guy from MySpace? Rich, lots of fake friends... not the MOST. Posh Spice and that soccer dude? A former singer and a former great athlete... not the MOST. The list goes on and on - seriously, are any of these people on YOUR list of most fascinating?
Here is the real skinny behind the list - it is a stroke of marketing genius. Career flailing? Need a ratings boost? Need to get back in the spotlight? Just do the Barbara special. Oh wait - some of them are doing fine in their careers - maybe you just need some PR? Do the Barbara special. Barbara makes a mint - you get your PR - what's not to love? It's all good if the public behaves as they think - which means believing these people are at all relevant - believing that Barbara Walters opinion of anything is at all relevant - ie. buying this load of bull.
Oh yeah and Justin Timberlake? Sexy back? Really?
Posted by CDogg at 04:03 PM | Comments (0)
December 03, 2007
Brain drain
I am now certain that watching The Jerry Springer Show actually destroys brain cells. I have to thank Ron and Machel for introducing me to the show - yes, I am the one that had never seen an episode. The past few weeks had been eye-opening.
It started innocently enough... they introduced me to one of their guilty pleasures as a way to unwind after a great meal. Here we are weeks later and the parade of rednecks, tramps, ho's, trannies, cheaters, and intellectual oddities that shocked me so much at first, now seem to be a normal part of society. Could it be that 'they' are the real people and that 'we' are the unique ones? It sure seems that way.
Last night when a midget, sadist, sex-therapist came out and proceeded to bully the crowd and cover a fat man with cold cuts, mustard and mayo, I knew I had to blog. I had to take a picture and analyze the situation.
The whole thing is akin to the Romans watching the Christians fight the lions. The middle class watches these nutjobs fight each other, butcher the language, and laughs hysterically - all the while feeling quite superior. The show guests get a slightly better deal than the Christians as rather than being put to death, they just get humiliated in front of millions of people.
Some of the setups appear to be staged as you will catch guests holding back smirks while they tell their "story," but for the most part there does seem to be a nearly limitless supply of weirdness for Springer to cherry pick.
Will I continue to watch Jerry? With friends, yes - its really fun to laugh at the outrageousness with others. Do I think that it is destroying brain cells? Quite possibly - but at the very least, I am not gaining any in the process. Bottom line? I have enough that I can afford an occasion dip in my IQ. :)
JERRY! JERRY! JERRY!
Posted by CDogg at 10:29 AM | Comments (1)
November 21, 2007
Oh, to be young and dumb again
The documentary Overnight chronicles the rise and fall of Troy Duffy - the blue-collar-bartender-turned-Hollywood-smartass. Beside being a nice behind-the-scenes stroll through the life of a filmmaker, it is more a tale of youthful naivety. Duffy's script took Hollywood by storm and revealed him to be a total jerk.
Watching this documentary is like watching one of the most horrific car wrecks in super slow-motion. If its true that power corrupts than this is the perfect test case. This pitiful little megalomaniac took a golden opportunity and pissed it all away, turned on the ones who made it happen, and alienated the people he was supposed to hold the most dear. Duffy takes my award for the biggest shitheel I have ever seen in the film industry and possibly any industry.
This should be mandatory viewing for anyone at film school or anyone even remotely interested in making films. Even if you just want a lesson in how to take a golden opportunity and ruin it, this is a great film.
RATING 9 out of 10
Posted by CDogg at 10:13 PM | Comments (0)
November 20, 2007
Finally taking a little hit...
I finally got around to watching Weeds by renting disc one of season one through Netflix. I originally ignored the show because I didn't have Showtime when it first came out. Even after getting Showtime, it didn't really appeal to me because a) I don't like watching shows unless I can see them from the beginning and b) it didn't sound all that interesting.
After a year or so of people telling me how great the show was - I thought I would at least give it a try. I am still rather torn.
On the one hand - all the suburban sexual hijinx are a bit sophomoric and boring. On the other hand - deep below the silly situations and dumbed-down storylines are characters that you are forced to care about.
Once you get past how over-the-top the characters and story are, you get down to a pretty decent series. The jury is still out as to my long-term interest in Weeds, but I will give it the first season.
Posted by CDogg at 09:40 AM | Comments (0)
November 19, 2007
YAQR (Yet Another Quickie Review)
Once again, it is time to catch up with my film viewing. If my schedule ever slows down, I will go back to doing more detailed reviews. For now, we are in high speed mode.
The 1972 Man of La Mancha starring Peter O'Toole and Sophia Loren was a version I had never seen and recently watched. It is a bit silly in spots, but my love for the story kept me interested. I have seen better versions.
RATING 7 out of 10
Steel Toes is the story of a Jewish attorney defending a neo-nazi skinhead arrested for a violent murder. Had this been the first incarnation of this type of film, I probably would have rated it better. Because it was an old story, a predictable script that consisted of cardboard stereotype characters, and just not that interesting - it sucked.
RATING 4 out of 10
Stardust is a "magical" film about "magical" people and "magical" places. Oh wait... that's marketing. Actually, it was an over-budgeted cute little film. It is guaranteed not to go down as a classic fantasy film... entertaining, just no staying power.
RATING 7 out of 10
Knocked Up, the Judd Apatow comedy starring Seth Rogan was cute. It had a lot of fun moments and is a definite party film. This is the kind of film that gets funnier when more people are around... lowest common denominator films do that.
RATING 7 out of 10
Yellow is an interesting film that chronicles the tale of a Puerto Rican girl that moves to New York to pursue her father's dream of her becoming a dancer. Along the way she.... well, it really doesn't matter. I rented the thing because Roselyn Sanchez plays a stripper. Shallow yes - but MAN, SHE IS HOT! Along the way, I discovered an interesting little film - it's like my own little version of peanut butter and chocolate together. Good stuff.
RATING 7 out of 10
Posted by CDogg at 07:01 PM | Comments (0)
November 12, 2007
I'm holding out for a hero
Am I the only one that thinks Heroes is suffering from a serious sophomore slump? The story has gotten remarkably less interesting, the twists are slower and almost painful in their predictability, and the filmwork has turned amateurish. The scenes of Sylar and the X-Files black goo-goo eyes chick and her bro driving across Mexico are straight out of old 30's Hollywood driving shots - a computerized version of rear projection. The exterior shots of Claire's dad and Eraser Dude walking around in Russia are some of the worst chroma key stuff I have seen in ages - a sin recreated when Peter and Blarney Sue find themselves in New York circa 2008.
I guess if the story were more interesting, I wouldn't be picking it apart from a craft standpoint, but man this is a big drop off from the first season. I mean come on - environmental agendas, rebuilding New Orleans, oh - and don't forget the crazy amounts of product placement. It is getting very distasteful. I'll stick with it despite the shortcomings, but I just wanted to go on record as being disappointed.
Posted by CDogg at 10:04 PM | Comments (1)
November 11, 2007
YAQR (Yet Another Quickie Review)
Once again, it is time to catchup with my film reviews. I have been falling way behind, so I am going to run through these super fast.
Kickin' it Old School - is typical Jaime Kennedy drivel. Funny in places - painful in others. The nods to the 80's pop culture are fun.
RATING 6 out of 10
28 Weeks Later is a shadow of the original 28 Days Later. Its what happens when you take a groundbreaking original and hand it over to a mainstream movie studio. Uggh.
RATING 5 out of 10
Last of the Mississippi Jukes is an excellent documentary. If you're a blues fan, you will want to catch this. If you're not a blues fan - you will be after watching. I'm downloading some of this great music while typing this.
RATING 9 out of 10
95 Miles to Go is a documentary that chronicles a roadtrip by comedian Ray Romano and his long-time friend (and opening act) as they drive between standup gigs. It is one of the most boring documentaries I have ever seen. It is more like a sad promo for his standup routine than anything real. Several of the gags are clearly staged. A real snorer.
RATING 5 out of 10
Martian Child is the new touch-feely film starring John Cusack. In it, he plays a widowed writer that adobts an offbeat 6 year old. It has the makings of a really good movie, but continually falls short. The setups are too schlocky, the acting is too over-the-top drippy, and the story is too predictable. All of the acting by young Bobby Coleman is excellent, the others are just lame.
RATING 6 out of 10
Posted by CDogg at 12:43 PM | Comments (0)
November 05, 2007
YAQR (Yet Another Quickie Review)
Once again, it is time to catchup with my film reviews.
Human Trafficking, the made-for-TV movie starring Mira Sorvino and Donald Sutherland is flawed. The subject matter is something that is better handled in a documentary. In taking this deadly serious matter and "hollywoodizing" it, the filmmakers have exploited the very people they purport to be helping. Simply making the traffickers into stereotypical "bad guys" and putting a traditional story arc and Hollywood ending dilutes the seriousness of human trafficking.
I probably would have overlooked the exploitation had it not been for Mira Sorvino's absolutely horrible acting performance. Even Donald Sutherland appears to have mailed this one in. Skip this one and watch one of the many documentaries on the subject.
Normally I like Sutherland and Sorvino, but wow - these performances were hard to watch. I know the script was horrible, but the director (Christian Duguay) must have been the reason these guys did such a bad job. I see he directed the Pilot of the new CBS series Cane, which looks equally unwatchable.
RATING 5 out of 10
Brooklyn Rules is a film that sort of grows on you as you watch it. Let me say that any film starring Freddie Prinze Jr. and Mena Suvari starts out with a few strikes against it. Alec Baldwin and Jerry Ferrara (Turtle from Entourage) held my attention long enough for me to sit through the entire movie.
I really wanted to hate BR, but little things like a script set against the real-life rise of mobster John Gotti, and the compelling appeal of a story of a group of guys that have known each other since they were kids, just keeps you interested. Was there anything groundbreaking or original about the film? No. It was just a decent little movie - worth your time if you've got nothing to do.
RATING 7 out of 10
American Gangster is a film very much like the previous entry. There is nothing real special about it. There are no outstanding or award-worthy performances. The only thing it has going for it, is frankly that it is interesting.
There are a couple of other similarities with Brooklyn Rules. Both take place in New York. Both chronicle stories involving organized crime. Both either are based on a true story or include real life events as a framework.
How does AG differ? Russell Crowe turns in the best acting performance of the two films combined. The story with American Gangster is much richer and more intelligent.
RATING 8 out of 10
Posted by CDogg at 08:41 PM | Comments (0)
October 29, 2007
YAQR (Yet Another Quickie Review)
Once again, it is time to catchup with my film reviews.
Severence is a a fun horror flick with a lot of black comedy mixed in. The idea of a sales team out on a company retreat having to fight a group of commandos (ala Blackwater) is a blast. The fact that their company is in the business of supplying the weapons of warfare around the world is brilliant.
RATING 7 out of 10
Wolf Creek is another in the horror genre. Based on true events, it certainly takes a lot of liberty with the storyline, but is well paced, well acted, and darn it - the Aussie accents make it fun stuff.
RATING 7 out of 10
Ultimate Avengers II is the follow-up to an animated flick that I really enjoyed. This one however, doesn't quite live up. I took the hint when I fell asleep four times watching it. I never did finish the thing.
RATING 6 out of 10
The Condemned starring "Stone Cold" Steve Austin is a throwback to the 80's tough guy film. The premise was a little like Battle Royale meets Mark Cuban. It was a schlocky good time.
RATING 8 out of 10
Dynamite Warrior was visually fun to watch. The story got confusing and times and downright boring at others, but there was always some great mixed martial arts action to bring you back. Fun stuff.
RATING 7 out of 10
La Lucha: The Struggle was less like a documentary and more like a series of clips thrown together. It was interesting at times, but suffered from a distinct lack of skill in the editing. This could have been a much more engaging look at the masked Mexican-style wrestling in America.
RATING 5 out of 10
Speedo: POV is an extremely well-put-together documentary. It tells the tale of a demolition derby driver with dreams to reach the top and the skills to match. His struggle is inspirational, funny, and heartwarming.
RATING 9 out of 10
Posted by CDogg at 03:48 PM | Comments (0)
October 09, 2007
Nice to see lil' sis has a trash mouth too
Did any of you catch Britney's little sister Jamie Lynn showing off her vocabulary? When someone from the neighborhood where Britney just moved shouted that "Nobody wants you here...you're making the neighborhood unsafe," little JL spouted off, "Get the ____ out of the neighborhood!" Nice.
Looks like you can take the girls out of the trailer park, but you can't... well - you know.
Posted by CDogg at 12:06 AM | Comments (0)
October 05, 2007
YAQR (Yet Another Quickie Review)
Once again, it is time to catchup with my film reviews.
The Host, or Gwoemul as it is called in South Korea, is reminiscent of the 70's schlock monster flicks. After a laboratory dumps expired formaldehyde into the river, a creature mutates into a giant killing machine. It could have stopped at being just another monster movie, but it actually did a good job of including an interesting and somewhat touching backstory. Visually, the film ranges from cornball to awesome... make sure to bring your popcorn for this one because we're not talking about high brow cinema.
RATING 7 out of 10
Flushed Away is the tale of a cultured rat dispatched to the sewers and his attempts to return. Along the way, he experiences the typical hijinx indicative of any good animated film - uncovers a plot by an evil-doing frog, fights the good fight, and even gets the girl. Nothing new here, but the animation ala Wallace & Grommit was interesting to watch and the storyline was entertaining enough.
RATING 7 out of 10
Thank You For Smoking surprised me. Having only heard about it in passing, I actually thought it was a documentary - until the opening credits. Instead, TYFS told the tale of a cigarette industry lobbyist's life. We are shown his masterful ability to win the "are cigarettes dangerous" debate in typical Big Tobacco fashion - obfuscation and misleading statements. We are treated to an inside view of what we all know about the industry. Below the surface though, this story is really about a man's relationship with his son as well as his relationship with the truth. It would be easy to find something inspirational or deep in the film, but the filmmakers do a good job of misdirection themselves. You have to search below the absurdities of this satire to find it.
RATING 8 out of 10
Posted by CDogg at 11:06 PM | Comments (0)
October 02, 2007
Carrell in a real role.
Dan in Real Life was quite the surprise. I went to an advance screening of the film and wasn't expecting a whole lot. Steve Carell jumps outside of his normal goofy roles in this romantic comedy and shines. When I saw that Dane Cook was also in the movie I was immediately disheartened... but you know what? He didn't totally suck in it because he played a small role and wasn't allowed to inject his brand of boring humor. Juliette Binoche as the other romantic lead did a fine job as well.
It is smartly written, expertly delivered by a great ensemble cast, and most importantly kept me smiling almost the entire time. I have to admit there was a moment when it left me a little misty-eyed. :)
The film was entirely predictable (save for one scene) and had nothing new or earthshaking, but it delivered on its promise of being a fun, romantic comedy.
RATING 9 out of 10
Posted by CDogg at 09:34 PM | Comments (0)
Another score
I am going to have to start paying more attention to my friends on Netflix. Usually, these social networking sites that attempt to predict what you like based on what you have in common with other people don't do a very good job. The past couple of films I have tried based on other's recommendations in Netflix have been surprisingly spot-on. I reviewed Battle Royale a couple weeks back after seeing it on Kymberlie McGuire's list. After having great luck with that film, I chose another off her list, District B13. This 2004 film redefines action flicks. I really can't find anything bad to say about it. I guess the worst thing would be that the overall story is a ripoff of Escape from New York sortof, but I loved that film so how bad could it be? Actually, the only thing it takes from Escape is that it takes place in a city walled off and filled with the dregs of society.
The year is 2010, the city is Paris, the action is amazing. The stars of the show are David Belle (co-founder of the sport of Parkour) and stuntman Cyril Raffaelli (his signature move is jumping through an open window of a car into the driver's seat.)
As explained in the Wikipedia article linked above, this style of movement has really caught on in filmmaking.
The most notable appearances in films:
* District 13 (2004)
* The Great Challenge (2004)
* The Bourne Supremacy (2004)
* Casino Royale (2006)
* Breaking and Entering (2006)
* Live Free or Die Hard (Die Hard 4.0) (2007)
* The Bourne Ultimatum (2007)
Add the ultimate in reality-based stuntwork, some of the better French to English dubbing, a compelling storyline, and excellent visuals and you have a very fun movie. It's not Shakespeare, but hey - even he liked to screw off once in awhile.
RATING 9 out of 10
Posted by CDogg at 05:33 PM | Comments (2)
October 01, 2007
Serial boredom
Now I know this one is going to rub a lot of people the wrong way, but I have to say it. I find Showtime's serial killer series Dexter outrageously lame. Contrary to advertisements, this is not "bold, different and exciting, with a central character and performance that take your breath away" as the New York Daily News was obviously paid to say. It is not "Enjoyably challenging TV" as proclaimed by the Pittsburg Post-Gazette. It is the same old tired formula with a new twist. The problem is that the twist wears off after the first episode. Yeah, we get it Dex kills bad guys. What is so damn challenging about that.
I gave this show every opportunity. I rented the first series and sat through four episodes with my nephew who had also never seen it. By the third one, even he was easily calling out what would happen next about 10 minutes before.
I saw nothing wrong with the parts that some people found offensive, I mean seriously, there are a lot of films that show more grotesque stuff that I absolutely love. What I find distasteful is simply how stupid the show is. It is like the sitcom of dramas. If the random acts of stupidly staged gore are what you are into, you should love it. If you don't like checking your brain at the door before you watch television it is painful.
Posted by CDogg at 04:29 PM | Comments (0)
September 27, 2007
Quickie ratings catchup
I have gotten waaaay behind in rating some of the things I have seen and when that happens, I have to play catchup. That means doing away with the explanation of my ratings, and simply churning through them quickly. For that reason, you will only see a quick tagline - rest assured though, if I rate it highly, it's worth taking a longer look. Here we go:
Fog City Mavericks - a great documentary that takes a look at the San Francisco film industry and how it has shaped cinema in America.
RATING 9 out of 10
Bus 174 - Another documentary - this is an amazingly enthralling look at a bus hijacking as Rio de Janeiro on June 12th 2000.
RATING 8 out of 10
In a Dark Place - I watched it because of my crush on Leelee Sobieski... she really needs to start picking better material.
RATING 2 out of 10
High Tension - a decent idea for a horror film. The dubbing is horrendous, but story holds up.
RATING 7 out of 10
Cashback - This little film was a big surprise for me. It is an original look at relationship that is written and shot extremely well.
RATING 9 out of 10
Posted by CDogg at 11:31 PM | Comments (0)
September 26, 2007
Bionic Flub
Despite Katee Sackhoff in the lineup, Bionic Woman just comes up a little weak. The story is cheesier than the old Lindsay Wagner episode. Take the lame story, rotten special effects and add to it a serious lack of Oscar Goldman, and you have one of the worst premieres of this season.
This one doesn't even look like its going to grow on me. There are no characters that are at all interesting and nothing compelling enough to even stick around to episode two. I think funding should be cut on this bionic miscue. Don't get me wrong - Michelle Ryan is entirely watchable, she just needs a show with a little more strength. Oh yeah, and last week I saw her in a much better film - Cashback. (Look for a review soon.)
Posted by CDogg at 10:05 PM | Comments (0)
September 25, 2007
NBCs new lineup
First off, the return of Heroes. In the first few minutes, I was sort of underwhelmed with the campy dialog, hollow storyline, and rehashing of the theme of the show for newcomers to the series. The surprise was that just as I was going through finding issues with the new season, the episode was suddenly over. An hour had flown by in what seemed like about 20 minutes. I guess that means it kept me interested. The last third of the show really got interesting as several new possibilities were laid out and it definitely left me wanting more.
Journeyman is the 2007 version of Quantum Leap. Instead of jumping through time and staying until he figures out and solves something, he jumps randomly, and comes back randomly. The bottom line is that like Sam Beckett, Dan Vasser doesn't know why he has "jumped" or "journeyed" but figures it out as he goes along. He appears to have traded in Al and Ziggy for a gorgeous but dead ex-girlfriend named Livia. Does this mean I am upset at this show for obviously stealing from one of my favorite series? Nah... it's all good - I think I am going to like this one too.
Chuck is a great premise and despite the fact that it is very corny and dangerously close to becoming lame, I will give it a couple of episodes before I make my final decision. I mean, come on, first off based on his background with tech, he would have to be my age - but then, NBC is not going to have a 40 year old Chuck. The over-the-top parody is a bit much too... a bald Chinese guy named Harry, a warehouse store called Large Mart, Nerd Herd, Buy More - cute, but it could become too cheesy. By the end of the first episode, I was smiling so that is a good sign. If it stays cute and occasionally funny, it will last.
The basic theme running through the Monday night lineup seems to be hot women in lingerie... and this is not necessarily a bad thing. I am guessing that there is a marketing deal between NBC and Victoria's Secret. Product placement in general seems to be more blatant than any I have seen in network television. The iPhone in Journeyman, the Nissan all over Heroes, and several other "just too long pauses" over logos etc.
Posted by CDogg at 09:33 PM | Comments (0)
September 21, 2007
Champs, Shepherds, Japanese schoolkids, and even Christ
Resurrecting the Champ is a film about Champ (Samuel L. Jackson,) a former boxing legend and Erik Kernen (Josh Hartnett,) a struggling reporter. The film is a feather in the cap of both actors who have stretched far beyond their typical roles.
Director Rod Lurie - whose work on Commander in Chief was some of the best stuff on television, does a good job with the script. While there is nothing that jumps out at you to make you go "Wow, that was an amazing shot" or "great choice on that setup," Lurie does an excellent job of not getting in the way of the story. Trust me, that means a lot.
Large liberties are taken in this fictionalized version of boxer Bob Satterfield's story, but it is all for the good. The cast is impressive, the story is completely engaging, the acting is top notch, and the time spent with the film is 100% enjoyable.
RATING 9 out of 10
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The Good Shepherd is a flick I tried to catch a couple times over the past few months, but something always conspired to interrupt. It is a hard film to get into as you can't watch this one "on the side." There is so much detail and nuance that requires your full attention. Matt Damon proves once again that he is an excellent actor despite such missteps as the crappy Ocean's 11 through 27 roles.
Despite a carousel of directors, TGS eventually ended up with Robert De Niro at the helm. De Niro did a good job as the replacement director, but the script certainly did make it easy. What is especially good about the story is that it is one of those rare films that doesn't lead you by the nose. It gives you credit for having a brain and forces you to pay attention.
The final 1/4 of the movie is the only letdown as after the first 120 minutes it changes from a thought-provoking well-written story to a typical Hollywood wrapup. This could have been a great one.
RATING 8 out of 10
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After hearing numerous people rave about Battle Royale, I broke down and rented it on NetFlix - fun stuff. The entire movie is in Japanese with English subtitles, but it doesn't take you out of the story at all. BR is the tale of the Japanese government's attempt to reign in out-of-control schoolchildren by capturing one class of ninth graders and forcing them to fight each other to the death over the course of a few days.
Sure, this is pure fantasy. Sure, this is 100% escapism. Sure, it is a crazy premise... but DAMN its a lot of fun! Imprison 42 delinquent students on an island, distribute one random weapon to each student, and let the fun begin.
In news that will either end up great or horrible - I have heard rumors of an American remake of Battle Royale. I sure hope that someone with an appreciation for the original is in charge and that it doesn't turn into typical teen schlock.
RATING 9 out of 10
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Another in a line of films I meant to see long ago but never did - The Last Temptation of Christ was quite a disappointment. When it first came out in 1998 there was quite a bit of turmoil surrounding the Martin Scorsese film because the storyline portrayed Jesus Christ as more human and less holy.
I wasn't bothered at all by the approach of the film. I was however, shocked at the stilted and subpar performance by Willem Dafoe. Harvey Keitel's Judas was a good performance as was Barbara Hershey's Mary Magdelene.
Surrounded by Scorsese's other great works, Temptation pales in comparision. I think that had this film not challenged long-held beliefs and taken on the institution of religion, it would have slipped from the consciousness of moviegoers long ago. The lasting legacy is not that it was any great piece of storytelling, fictional or otherwise, but that it caused a stir. That, my friends, doesn't earn any extra stars in my book.
RATING 4 out of 10
Posted by CDogg at 07:17 PM | Comments (3)
September 17, 2007
K.O. in the first
K-Ville seemed to have promise from the previews I had seen the past few weeks, but boy was I wrong. Not only is this just a run of the mill cop show, it's not even an above average one. The storyline is typical schlock, and really that's what kills it. It takes typical cop drama and tries to cover it liberally with a "but look, we're in New Orleans" paint job. Yeah, we get it - the show is set in New Orleans. Yeah, we get it - New Orleans suffered because of Katrina. Yeah, we get it - there are some bad people taking advantage of the suffering. Yeah, we get it - there are still a lot of good people there. Yeah, we get it - this is a not a very good TV show.
Hey Fox - take a couple of days off from your obviously strenuous idea sessions and just watch NBC. Their transformation is what you should be copying - not the typical tired old rehashed shows in new cities. Oh, and if you are going to put anything back in N'awlins - at least hire one actor that can master the accent.
Posted by CDogg at 08:35 PM | Comments (3)
September 11, 2007
A big hit of adrenalin fun
What is the most over-the-top genre of films? It has to be the "shoot 'em up." What happens when you take that genre and push it even further? You get a "shoot 'em up" titled Shoot 'Em Up! I had such a good time last night watching this film. You already know that Clive Owen is one of my favorite actors, but he outdid himself on this one.
Owen, as Mr Smith, is one part James Bond, one part Rambo, one part Schwarzenegger, and four parts explosive fun. Add in a side order of the gorgeous and talented Monica Bellucci and you have a formula for a good film. All you need is a good story, right? NOPE, you don't need a good story, any old schlock will do - you just need to crank up the action beyond anyone's ability to suspend disbelief and you are treated to the best action film since 300.
Sure, its all gratiutious. Sure, not a frame of it makes much sense. The bottom line is that some excellent films don't need believability - was Sin City a true story? Did everything in Finding Nemo make sense? Of course not. This film is 100% escapism... go into it thinking comic book and you will not only "believe," but enjoy the fact that each situation gets more and more incredible.
PS. This is NOT a kids movie - it is pure adult playtime.
RATING 9 out of 10
Posted by CDogg at 01:17 PM | Comments (0)
September 09, 2007
Some Super and Some Not So Much
Superbad was surprisingly good. I always view this type of film with skepticism because they are rarely average - the norm is for them to be either super bad or super good. If ever a film had the wrong title, it was Superbad.
The story of high school goofs trying to score with hot girls is certainly not new and this was true to the formula. Where Superbad parts way with many "coming of age" flicks is that it is uproariously funny. Sure, there's some bad language. Sure, there's some low brow humor. But isn't that was high school is all about? Seth Rogan's story however, resonates with a realism that makes the most insane situation seem plausible.
The character of McLovin/Fogell played by Christopher Mintz-Plasse is one of the best I have seen in awhile. This one ranks up with there with any film in this genre.
RATING 9 out of 10
The Simpson's Movie has to be the worst episode of the show ever. It was like pulling teeth watching this thing. In a typical television episode there are three or four interesting stories all intertwined, amazing sight gags, excellent and witty one-liners both up-front and in the subtext. In short, the television show is bullets.
The transition to the big screen was not kind. There was less intelligent writing across an hour and a half than in a typical thirty minute show. The supporting cast was entirely wasted - you think with three times the show length, they could fit in a joke or two involving someone other than Homer. Even the color seemed to be more pastel and less lively than normal.
RATING 5 out of 10
Blood Diamond was another film that surprised me. Leonardo DiCaprio is an actor I have really tried to dislike. The problem is that he keeps putting in excellent performances. I'll admit it - I think Leo is a damn fine actor.
The story of blood diamonds is nothing new as I have seen numerous documentaries and yeah, the character of Maddy Bowen played by Jennifer Connelly is standard tough-girl reporter stereotype, but DiCaprio and an amazing performance by Djimon Hounsou (Soloman Vandy) sealed the deal. The editing was sharp. The directing was flawless. It is a well told story that keeps you interested right up until the cliche ending. Had it not been forced to fit the Hollywood script mold, this could have been one of the great ones.
RATING 8 out of 10
Posted by CDogg at 09:22 PM | Comments (0)
September 03, 2007
Jimmy Stewart would have been proud
Can Mr. Smith Get to Washington Anymore? is a fun documentary. It is the tale of a young political science instructor at Washington University who runs for the seat vacated by retiring congressman Dick Gephardt of Missouri. His battle against the entrenched Carnahan family name in the person of Russ Carnaham was the kind of stuff they make movies about - I guess they did.
The little-man versus the machine battle of sheer will and hard work against his opponent's mountain of cash is inspiring and draws a perfect parallel to the 1939 Stewart film where another Jeff Smith fights similar odds.
The film is well-constructed and, as documentaries go, does a great job of keeping you interested while staying true to the story. I tell you, halfway through the thing I was thinking of running for office myself. This film gives you hope that a grass roots movement can actually make a difference in this time of political family and corporate dynasties.
RATING 8 out of 10
Posted by CDogg at 09:58 PM | Comments (0)
August 13, 2007
Sarah Silverman Sucks
It is sure to be an unpopular stance with some, but although her boyfriend's show (Jimmy Kimmel Live) is one of my favorites, her humor is some of lamest on the planet. She takes the low road on every joke and her style is both rude and crude.
The shtick is to start with funny situation and then take the most crude angle possible in an attempt to make the audience laugh. "Watch Season Two of my program or I'll kill my dog," she says in her new ad. How is that funny? Sure, I know she wasn't going to really kill the dog, but how is this funny?
Sarah totally reinvented herself a few years ago when she was a pretty funny standup comedienne. Apparently her act was 'tweaked' to see how far she could push the envelope. She went from establishing a premise and delivering a funny punchline, to establishing a premise and delivering a humorless jab at children, small furry animals, the elderly or the handicapped - often with vulgar sex and fecal references. Now I'm no prude, but when I want to laugh at granny, I just don't want it to be about well-endowed horses (are there any other kind.)
In my humble opinion, Sarah Silverman... you are a humorless hack.
Posted by CDogg at 10:09 PM | Comments (15)
August 07, 2007
Good times at the theater
I went to see the Bourne Ultimatum with Tony last night (I had a free pass) and while waiting around for the movie to start, I met some cool new friends.
I just love how peer pressure works on people who still view themselves as invincible. Their friends convinced them it would be cool to see how many stantions they could jump.
They did a fine job on this jump. The next one didn't turn out as well.
Posted by CDogg at 01:32 AM | Comments (0)
August 03, 2007
MAD MEN - subliminal series
I was going to hold off on writing my thoughts about the new AMC series MAD MEN, but it has really started to grow on me. Hearing the premise before its debut, I was intrigued in the story which chronicles the lives of ad men in the 1950s. It was a time when advertising was changing from simple statements and outright snake oil pitches to a more insidious and psychological approach to move products.
Just weeks before I heard about MAD MEN, I had seen a 2002 BBC documentary called The Century of the Self which talked about the use of psychology in business and politics to control the behavior of the masses. In four one-hour segments, one of the topics it covered at length was how ad men used Sigmund Freud's theories to influence purchases and eventually decide elections. The chief architect that took the theories from the couch to Madison Avenue, Washington D.C., and beyond was Edward Burnays - nephew of Freud. Because the previews of MAD MEN hinted at looking into this topic, I set the TiVo.
At first I was a bit disappointed in that it seemed to have more relationship stuff than serious PR or opinion shaping. While the content has changed a lot in the first few episodes, what I have discovered is an interesting story about how attitudes have changed over time. The first thing you are struck with is how many people smoke and how much, but it is the treatment of women and children that seems almost shocking. Sure, some of it is a bit exaggerated for television but it is a great reminder of how much change we have seen in the last generation. When is the last time you heard the word "divorcee" used in a derogatory way?
It might not be what I was looking for, but I am finding it interesting enough to keep it on the TiVo.
Oh yeah - if you want a good education (in four hours) you can stream all four episodes of "The Century of the Self" online at Google video.
Posted by CDogg at 02:20 PM | Comments (0)
August 01, 2007
Congratulations Edge or is it Eli?
I have to tip my hat to former employee, former business partner, former neighbor, occasional pain in the ass, and longtime friend - Elias Green. Ours has long been a friendship filled with tons of side-splitting laughter and intense competition. Whether he was whupping my butt in a game of XBox 360 football or failing to beat me in cycling, the competition was always there right alongside the frustration and fun.
One of my goals that is yet incomplete is getting my name listed in the Internet Movie Data Base (IMDB.) Despite being an extra in quite a few big-budget productions and numerous indie flicks, I have not yet reached the criteria for my listing. I have to congratulate EJ for traveling out to LA, taking the bull by the horns and making it happen. He now has a listing in IMDB!
Congrats!!
Dave, EJ, & myself working on the scene of one of my short films, "The Audition"
Posted by CDogg at 09:53 PM | Comments (0)
July 26, 2007
Call 1-800-CDOGG-KNOWS to hear your future!
I guess Reuters is reading my blog. Just after I wrote an article about how fake Man vs. Wild with Bear Grylls is on the 22nd, Reuters published a piece on the 24th. Turns out he may be sleeping in hotels during those "wilderness" shoots.
Dave pointed out the timelines of this and other stories like the doping in the tour, the Michael Vick is a bad guy, and Chris Benoit might just be a murderer, and said if I was going to keep predicting the future, I should start writing about how rich and famous I am.
So for the record...
"It seems to me that within a very short time, I will become rich and famous. Furthermore, all signs point to Playboy opening up a new South Mansion in my backyard." (crossing my fingers - think I may have went overboard with the Playboy thing?)
Posted by CDogg at 09:48 AM | Comments (0)
July 22, 2007
Man vs. Boredom
Sorry Dave, after hearing you talk about Man vs. Wild on the last podcast, I thought I would give it a shot. Being a big fan of Survivorman, I was sold on the idea of a show about a dude out in the middle of nowhere trying to survive, but MvW was dead on arrival.
Bear Grylls (or Edward Michael Grylls) may have the skills to survive in the wild, but the show isn't anywhere close to realistic. The obvious difference is that he isn't alone. As he was climbing down a waterfall on a vine, I counted at least five different angles. He's traveling with a full scale production crew. There is none of the survival stuff you see Les Stroud (Survivorman) go through, instead he just nibbles on one or two of the grossest things he can find.
The overt attempts to make things look dangerous and dramatic just take you out of any inkling of belief. If you want a good show - watch Survivorman, he had the idea first, he does it better, and he has the Chris Doelle Seal of Approval.
Posted by CDogg at 10:09 PM | Comments (0)
July 19, 2007
These rats die hard!
Live Free or Die Hard just barely missed being the worst in the Die Hard series (the third one was worse.) The amazing part is how close the call was. My nephew, Scooter, said it best when he said, "It makes a lot more sense if you pretend that John McClain is some sort of superhero."
The stunts are not only insanely impossibly, but so unrealistic. They are clearly staged for the express purpose of doing an original stunt. Did anyone buy the helicopter thing? Please tell me you didn't. Don't even get me started on the jet UNDER the freeway overpass.
Another thing that probably won't bother the mainstream viewing public, but annoyed the hell out of me, were the outrageous technology loopholes. Do they even bother to consult someone with knowledge of technology before they sign off on these insane scripts?
The acting jobs were pretty good... Bruce Willis was his usual entertaining self. Justin Long did a great job (although I expect him to break into his "I'm an Apple" routine. The best surprise however, was Kevin Smith (The Warlock) with an actual speaking role - he did a pretty darn good job.
RATING 6 out of 10
Ratatouille was a fun film. Once again, the folks at Pixar have turned out more than just an animated film. It's more than just a good story. It's more than just great characters. It is a film that everyone can enjoy.
I have a friend that refuses to see animated films or watch anything animated on film because he says "that craps for kids." Are you kidding me? Some of the best films made are animated - Ratatouille has joined the pantheon of excellent animated film.
The characters are compelling. The voice talent is perfect. The storyline is entertaining. What's not to love?
RATING 8 out of 10
Posted by CDogg at 11:02 PM | Comments (3)
July 17, 2007
I am so pissed at ESPN
Twice now I have set my DVR to record the first episode of The Bronx is Burning and twice now it has screwed up. Each time, the show that was on prior to the scheduled start ran long. Each time, The Bronx is Burning started about a half hour into the recording and thus missed the final 30 minutes of the show.
After the first one, I simply deleted the recording, rather than watch half an episode, and selected the next showing to record. I just sat down to watch the second recording and once again it only caught the first half. I could have made a sailor blush with the string of profanities spewed once I realized ESPN had again screwed up my plans.
Luckily, there are enough ESPN channels that it is showing over and over again for the next few days, so I set it to record every single showing. ESPN has to stay on schedule at some point, right?
Posted by CDogg at 10:21 PM | Comments (0)