Support Leroy on Patreon.
TELEVISION - From YahooTV: FOX News "personality" Eric Bolling is the latest FOX white male in trouble for sexual harassment of female co-workers.
----------
TELEVISION - From ShadowandAct: Scripps Network has bought Black-oriented television network, "Bounce TV."
----------
TELEVISION - From Variety: Whoopi Goldberg is returning this fall for Season 21 of "The View."
----------
COMICS-FILM - From TheTrackingBoard: Jeff Robinov's Studio 8 has optioned the independent comic book series, "Black," for film. The series is set in a world where only African-Ameicans have super powers.
----------
TELEVISION - TheTrackingBoard: Teagan Croft is the first cast member of "Titans," based on the comic book from DC Comics.
----------
TELEVISION - From TheWrap: NBC's "Will & Grace" revival has been renewed for a second season before the first season makes it debut (set for September 28th).
----------
MOVIES - From THR: Jaden Smith to star in director Crystal Moselle's film about female skateboarders in New York City.
----------
TELEVISION - From TheWrap: Sylvester Stallone will appear in the upcoming season of NBC's much talked about series, "This is Us."
----------
TELEVISION - From Vulture: The "Divergent" novel series is comprised of three books. The third book, "Allegiant," was supposed adapted into two films. The first film, also entitled "Allegiant," was a box office disappointment, and it seems that Lionsgate is not making the second part, to be called "Ascendant." Starz is developing "Ascendant" as a TV series, instead.
----------
TELEVISION - From Variety: Vin Diesel's One Race Television is working on a reboot of NBC's classic TV series, "Miami Vice."
----------
COMICS-FILM - From CinemaBlend: Dave Bautista, who plays "Drax" in the "Guardians of the Galaxy" films, says he will appear in a film adaptation of Valiant Comics' "Eternal Warrior" comic books.
----------
DISNEY - From THR: Chiwetel Ejiofor is in talks to voice "Scar" in Disney's live-action remake of its animated classic, "The Lion King" (1994), which will be directed by Jon Favreau.
----------
CELEBRITY - From YahooStyle: President and Mrs. Obama send newlywed couple a moving note of congratulations.
----------
JAMES BOND - From YahooCelebrity: Halle Berry does not think that James Bond should be played by a woman. Berry was a co-star in the 2002 Bond film, "Die Another Day."
----------
MOVIES - From ThePlaylist: Scott Cooper to write and direct "Hellhound on His Trail," about the hunt for the assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
----------
SPORTS - From YahooSports: NBA Legend/G.O.A.T. Michael Jordan says that Kobe is higher on the all-time list than LeBron James.
----------
TELEVISION - From YahooTV: ABC's long-running sitcom, "The Middle," will end after this coming season, its ninth.
----------
COMICS-FILM - From YahooMovies: Marvel's "Ant-Man and the Wasp" begins production and releases a teaser video.
----------
MOVIES - From BleedingCool: Ian McShane joins the "Hellboy" film franchise reboot, "Hellboy: Rise of the Blood Queen."
----------
TELEVISION - From Variety: Amazon is developing a TV series from Aaron McGruder (creator of "The Boondocks") and super-producer Will Packer ("Girls Trip") that will deal with a post-slavery reparations America.
----------
TELEVISION - From Variety: Leah Remini is reuniting with her "King of Queens" cast mate, Kevin James, on his recent CBS comedy, "Kevin Can Wait." In order to do that, the character played by Erinn Hayes in "Kevin Can Wait" will be killed off.
----------
TELEVISION - From Variety: 50 Cent is threatening to take his hit show, "Power," from Starz.
---------
TELEVISION - From Vulture: Jason Bateman says Season 5 of "Arrested Development" begins next week for Netflix.
---------
ANIMATION - From YahooMovies: Sony's "The Emoji Movie" may be the worst reviewed movie of the year.
----------
LGBTQ - From YahooNews: A federal judge orders the FBT to probe records of a 1950 program to purge LGBT federal workers from their jobs, as per Executive Order 10450 by then President Dwight Eisenhower.
----------
SPORTS - From YahooSports: Legendary Major League Baseball player Pete Rose had sex with an underage girl, according to court documents.
----------
HEALTH - From Propublica: Could "Agent Orange" exposure in Vietnam be behind Senator John McCain's (a Vietnam War prisoner of war) battle with brain cancer?
----------
CELEBRITY - From Mashable: Mark Hamill sends a sweet DM to a fan trying to verify an old Hamill autograph.
----------
CELEBRITY - From YahooMovies: Idris Elba would like to be in a third "Magic Mike" film, is one happens. "Magic Mike" star, Matthew McConaughey, thinks so, too.
OBIT:
From People: The British actor Robert Hardy has died at the age of 91, Thursday, August 3, 2017. Harry Potter fans know Hardy for playing Minister of Magic Cornelius Fudge in four "Harry Potter" films.
From Variety: The film and television music composer, Daniel Licht, died at the age of 60, Wednesday, August 2, 2017. He was best known for composing the music for all eight seasons of Showtime's serial killer drama, "Dexter." He composed music for two of the films in the "Children of the Corn" series.
Showing posts with label Jason Bateman. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Jason Bateman. Show all posts
Saturday, August 5, 2017
Thursday, April 13, 2017
Shooting Begins on "Game Night" with Jason Bateman and Rachel McAdams
It’s Game On as Shooting Begins on New Line Cinema’s “Game Night”
BURBANK, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Principal photography is underway on New Line Cinema’s action comedy “Game Night,” starring Jason Bateman (the “Horrible Bosses” films, TV’s “Arrested Development”) and Oscar nominee Rachel McAdams (“Spotlight,” “Dr. Strange”). Filming began on location in Atlanta, Georgia, under the direction of Jonathan Goldstein and John Francis Daley, marking their second film as co-directors following “Vacation.”
Joining Bateman and McAdams in the cast are Billy Magnussen (“Bridge of Spies,” TV’s “American Crime Story”), Sharon Horgan (Amazon’s “Catastrophe”), Lamorne Morris (TV’s “New Girl”), Jesse Plemons (“Black Mass,” TV’s “Fargo”), Kylie Bunbury (TV’s “Pitch,” “Under the Dome”), Michael Cyril Creighton (“Spotlight”) and Kyle Chandler (“Manchester by the Sea,” TV’s “Bloodline”).
Bateman and McAdams star as Max and Annie, whose weekly couples game night gets kicked up a notch when Max’s charismatic brother, Brooks (Chandler), arranges a murder mystery party, complete with fake thugs and faux federal agents. So when Brooks gets kidnapped, it’s all part of the game…right? But as the six uber-competitive gamers set out to solve the case and win, they begin to discover that neither this “game”—nor Brooks—are what they seem to be. Over the course of one chaotic night, the friends find themselves increasingly in over their heads as each twist leads to another unexpected turn. With no rules, no points, and no idea who all the players are, this could turn out to be the most fun they’ve ever had…or game over.
Goldstein and Daley are directing the film from an original screenplay by Mark Perez (“Accepted”). John Davis (“Joy”) and Jason Bateman are producing, with Marc S. Fischer, John Fox and James Garavente serving as executive producers.
The behind-the-scenes team includes director of photography Barry Peterson (“Central Intelligence,” “We’re the Millers”), Oscar-nominated production designer Michael Corenblith (“How the Grinch Stole Christmas,” “Apollo 13”), editors Jamie Gross (“Vacation”) and David Egan, and costume designer Debra McGuire (“Vacation,” “Ted”).
“Game Night” is a New Line Cinema presentation and will be distributed by Warner Bros. Pictures, a Warner Bros. Entertainment company.
--------------------------
BURBANK, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Principal photography is underway on New Line Cinema’s action comedy “Game Night,” starring Jason Bateman (the “Horrible Bosses” films, TV’s “Arrested Development”) and Oscar nominee Rachel McAdams (“Spotlight,” “Dr. Strange”). Filming began on location in Atlanta, Georgia, under the direction of Jonathan Goldstein and John Francis Daley, marking their second film as co-directors following “Vacation.”
Joining Bateman and McAdams in the cast are Billy Magnussen (“Bridge of Spies,” TV’s “American Crime Story”), Sharon Horgan (Amazon’s “Catastrophe”), Lamorne Morris (TV’s “New Girl”), Jesse Plemons (“Black Mass,” TV’s “Fargo”), Kylie Bunbury (TV’s “Pitch,” “Under the Dome”), Michael Cyril Creighton (“Spotlight”) and Kyle Chandler (“Manchester by the Sea,” TV’s “Bloodline”).
Bateman and McAdams star as Max and Annie, whose weekly couples game night gets kicked up a notch when Max’s charismatic brother, Brooks (Chandler), arranges a murder mystery party, complete with fake thugs and faux federal agents. So when Brooks gets kidnapped, it’s all part of the game…right? But as the six uber-competitive gamers set out to solve the case and win, they begin to discover that neither this “game”—nor Brooks—are what they seem to be. Over the course of one chaotic night, the friends find themselves increasingly in over their heads as each twist leads to another unexpected turn. With no rules, no points, and no idea who all the players are, this could turn out to be the most fun they’ve ever had…or game over.
Goldstein and Daley are directing the film from an original screenplay by Mark Perez (“Accepted”). John Davis (“Joy”) and Jason Bateman are producing, with Marc S. Fischer, John Fox and James Garavente serving as executive producers.
The behind-the-scenes team includes director of photography Barry Peterson (“Central Intelligence,” “We’re the Millers”), Oscar-nominated production designer Michael Corenblith (“How the Grinch Stole Christmas,” “Apollo 13”), editors Jamie Gross (“Vacation”) and David Egan, and costume designer Debra McGuire (“Vacation,” “Ted”).
“Game Night” is a New Line Cinema presentation and will be distributed by Warner Bros. Pictures, a Warner Bros. Entertainment company.
--------------------------
Monday, February 6, 2017
"Zootopia" Tops 2017 Annie Awards
ASIFA-Hollywood, the Los Angeles, California branch of the International Animated Film Society, presents the Annie Awards. The Annie honors achievements in animation as a whole, including current animated productions, as well as career and lifetime achievements. These awards were created in 1972 by veteran voice talent, June Foray.
On Monday, November 28, 2016, ASIFA-Hollywood announced nominations for the 44th Annual Annie Awards, recognizing the year 2016's best in the field of animation. The Annie Awards cover 36 categories and include Best Animated Feature, Best Animated Special Production, Commercials, Short Subjects, and Outstanding Individual Achievements. The winners were announced at a black tie ceremony on Saturday, February 4, 2017 at UCLA’s Royce Hall.
2017/44th Annie Awards winners:
PRODUCTION CATEGORIES___________________________
Best Animated Feature
Zootopia - Walt Disney Animation Studios
Best Animated Feature - Independent
The Red Turtle - Studio Ghibli – Wild Bunch – Why Not Productions
Best Animated Special Production
Pear Cider and Cigarettes - Massive Swerve Studios and Passion Pictures Animation
Best Animated Short Subject
Piper - Pixar Animation Studios
Best Animated Television/Broadcast Commercial
Loteria 'Night Shift' - Passion Pictures Ltd
Best Animated Television/Broadcast Production For Preschool Children
Tumble Leaf - Episode: Mighty Mud Movers / Having a Ball - Amazon Studios and Bix Pix Entertainment
Best Animated Television/Broadcast Production For Children
Adventure TIme - Episode: Bad Jubies - Bix Pix Entertainment Cartoon Network Frederator Studios
Best General Audience Animated Television/Broadcast Production
Bob's Burgers - Episode: Glued, Where's My Bob? - Bento Box Entertainment
Best Student Film
Citipati - Filmakademie Baden-Wuerttemberg
INDIVIDUAL ACHIEVEMENT CATEGORIES___________________
Outstanding Achievement, Animated Effects in an Animated Production
Moana - Walt Disney Animation Studios - Head of Effects Animation: Marlon West, Effects Lead: Erin V. Ramos, Effects Lead: Blair Pierpont, Foundation Effects Lead: Ian J. Coony
Effects Lead: John M. Kosnik
Outstanding Achievement, Animated Effects in a Live Action Production
Dr. Strange - Mirror Dimension - Marvel Studios - FX Supervisor: Georg Kaltenbrunner, Digital Artist : Michael Marcuzzi, Digital Artist : Thomas Bevan, Digital Artist : Andrew Graham, Digital Artist: Jihyun Yoon
Outstanding Achievement, Character Animation in an Animated TV/Broadcast Production
DreamWorks Trollhunters - Episode: Becoming, Part 1, DreamWorks Animation Television, Character Animator: Mike Chaffe Character: Blinky, Aaarrrgghh!!
Outstanding Achievement, Character Animation in a Feature Production
Kubo and the Two Strings - LAIKA - Animator: Jan Maas Character: Multiple
Outstanding Achievement, Character Animation in a Live Action Production
The Jungle Book - Walt Disney Pictures - Animation Supervisor: Andrew R. Jones, Animation Supervisor: Peta Bayley, Animation Supervisor: Gabriele Zucchelli, Character Supervisor: Benjamin Jones
Outstanding Achievement, Character Animation in a Video Game
Uncharted 4: A Thief 's End - Naughty Dog - Lead Animator: Jeremy Yates Character: All, Lead Animator: Almudena Soria Character: All, Lead Animator: Eric Baldwin Character: All, Lead Animator: Paul Davies Character: All, Lead Animator: Tom Bland Character: All
Outstanding Achievement, Character Design in an Animated TV/Broadcast Production
DreamWorks Trollhunters - Episode: Win, Lose or Draal - DreamWorks Animation Television - Character Designer: Victor Maldonado, Character: All Characters, Character Designer: Alfredo Torres, Character: All Characters, Character Designer: Jules Rigolle Character: All Characters
Outstanding Achievement, Character Design in an Animated Feature Production
Zootopia - Walt Disney Animation Studios - Character Design : Cory Loftis Character: Nick Wilde, Judy Hopps, Flash, Chief Bogo, Clawhauser, Mr. Big, Fru Fru, Koslov, Bellwether, Yax, Finnick, Doug, Mr. and Mrs. Otterton, Duke Weaselton, Misc. Characters
Outstanding Achievement, Directing in an Animated TV/Broadcast Production
Pearl - Google Spotlight Stories/Evil Eye Pictures - Director: Patrick Osborne
Outstanding Achievement, Directing in an Animated Feature Production
Zootopia - Walt Disney Animation Studios - Director: Byron Howard, Director: Rich Moore
Outstanding Achievement, Music in an Animated TV/Broadcast Production
Pearl - Google Spotlight Stories/Evil Eye Pictures - Composer: Scot Stafford, Composer/Lyricist: Alexis Harte, Composer/Lyricist: JJ Wiesler
Outstanding Achievement, Music in an Animated Feature Production
The Little Prince - Netflix and On Animation Studios - Composer: Hans Zimmer, Composer: Richard Harvey, Composer/Lyricist: Camille (no last name)
Outstanding Achievement, Production Design in an Animated TV/Broadcast Production
Pearl - Google Spotlight Stories/Evil Eye Pictures - Production Design: Tuna Bora
Outstanding Achievement, Production Design in an Animated Feature Production
Kubo and the Two Strings - LAIKA - Production Design: Nelson Lowry, Production Design: Trevor Dalmer, Production Design: August Hall, Production Design: Ean McNamara
Outstanding Achievement, Storyboarding in an Animated TV/Broadcast Production
DreamWorks Trollhunters - Episode: Win, Lose or Draal - DreamWorks Animation Television - Storyboard Artist: Hyunjoo Song
Outstanding Achievement, Storyboarding in an Animated Feature Production
Zootopia - Walt Disney Animation Studios - Storyboard Artist: Dean Wellins
Outstanding Achievement, Voice Acting in an Animated TV/Broadcast Production
The Mr. Peabody & Sherman Show - Episode: Ponce de León - DreamWorks Animation Television - Cast: Carlos Alazaraqui Character: Ponce de León
Outstanding Achievement, Voice Acting in an Animated Feature Production TIE
-- Moana - Walt Disney Animation Studios - Voice Actress: Auli'i Cravalho Character: Moana
-- Zootopia - Walt Disney Animation Studios - Voice Actor: Jason Bateman Character: Nick Wilde
Outstanding Achievement, Writing in an Animated TV/Broadcast Production
Bob's Burgers - Episode: The Hormone-iums - Bento Box Entertainment - Writer: Lizzie Molyneux, Writer: Wendy Molyneux
Outstanding Achievement, Writing in an Animated Feature Production
Zootopia - Walt Disney Animation Studios - Writer: Jared Bush, Writer: Phil Johnston
Outstanding Achievement, Editorial in an Animated TV/Broadcast Production
Disney Mickey Mouse - Episode: Sock Burglar - Disney Television Animation - Nominee: Illya Owens
Outstanding Achievement, Editorial in an Animated Feature Production
Kubo and the Two Strings - LAIKA - Nominee: Christopher Murrie
JURIED AWARDS__________________________________
Winsor McCay Award – for their career contributions to the art of animation
- Dale Baer
- Caroline Leaf
- Mamoru Oshii
Ub Iwerks Award – for technical advancement in the art of animation
- Google Spotlight’s Virtual Reality Platform
Special Achievement Award
- Life, Animated - a 2016 documentary film
June Foray Award – for their significant and benevolent or charitable impact on the art and industry of animation
- Bill & Sue Kroyer
Certificate of Merit
- Leslie Ezeh
- Gary Perkovac
-----------------------------
On Monday, November 28, 2016, ASIFA-Hollywood announced nominations for the 44th Annual Annie Awards, recognizing the year 2016's best in the field of animation. The Annie Awards cover 36 categories and include Best Animated Feature, Best Animated Special Production, Commercials, Short Subjects, and Outstanding Individual Achievements. The winners were announced at a black tie ceremony on Saturday, February 4, 2017 at UCLA’s Royce Hall.
2017/44th Annie Awards winners:
PRODUCTION CATEGORIES___________________________
Best Animated Feature
Zootopia - Walt Disney Animation Studios
Best Animated Feature - Independent
The Red Turtle - Studio Ghibli – Wild Bunch – Why Not Productions
Best Animated Special Production
Pear Cider and Cigarettes - Massive Swerve Studios and Passion Pictures Animation
Best Animated Short Subject
Piper - Pixar Animation Studios
Best Animated Television/Broadcast Commercial
Loteria 'Night Shift' - Passion Pictures Ltd
Best Animated Television/Broadcast Production For Preschool Children
Tumble Leaf - Episode: Mighty Mud Movers / Having a Ball - Amazon Studios and Bix Pix Entertainment
Best Animated Television/Broadcast Production For Children
Adventure TIme - Episode: Bad Jubies - Bix Pix Entertainment Cartoon Network Frederator Studios
Best General Audience Animated Television/Broadcast Production
Bob's Burgers - Episode: Glued, Where's My Bob? - Bento Box Entertainment
Best Student Film
Citipati - Filmakademie Baden-Wuerttemberg
INDIVIDUAL ACHIEVEMENT CATEGORIES___________________
Outstanding Achievement, Animated Effects in an Animated Production
Moana - Walt Disney Animation Studios - Head of Effects Animation: Marlon West, Effects Lead: Erin V. Ramos, Effects Lead: Blair Pierpont, Foundation Effects Lead: Ian J. Coony
Effects Lead: John M. Kosnik
Outstanding Achievement, Animated Effects in a Live Action Production
Dr. Strange - Mirror Dimension - Marvel Studios - FX Supervisor: Georg Kaltenbrunner, Digital Artist : Michael Marcuzzi, Digital Artist : Thomas Bevan, Digital Artist : Andrew Graham, Digital Artist: Jihyun Yoon
Outstanding Achievement, Character Animation in an Animated TV/Broadcast Production
DreamWorks Trollhunters - Episode: Becoming, Part 1, DreamWorks Animation Television, Character Animator: Mike Chaffe Character: Blinky, Aaarrrgghh!!
Outstanding Achievement, Character Animation in a Feature Production
Kubo and the Two Strings - LAIKA - Animator: Jan Maas Character: Multiple
Outstanding Achievement, Character Animation in a Live Action Production
The Jungle Book - Walt Disney Pictures - Animation Supervisor: Andrew R. Jones, Animation Supervisor: Peta Bayley, Animation Supervisor: Gabriele Zucchelli, Character Supervisor: Benjamin Jones
Outstanding Achievement, Character Animation in a Video Game
Uncharted 4: A Thief 's End - Naughty Dog - Lead Animator: Jeremy Yates Character: All, Lead Animator: Almudena Soria Character: All, Lead Animator: Eric Baldwin Character: All, Lead Animator: Paul Davies Character: All, Lead Animator: Tom Bland Character: All
Outstanding Achievement, Character Design in an Animated TV/Broadcast Production
DreamWorks Trollhunters - Episode: Win, Lose or Draal - DreamWorks Animation Television - Character Designer: Victor Maldonado, Character: All Characters, Character Designer: Alfredo Torres, Character: All Characters, Character Designer: Jules Rigolle Character: All Characters
Outstanding Achievement, Character Design in an Animated Feature Production
Zootopia - Walt Disney Animation Studios - Character Design : Cory Loftis Character: Nick Wilde, Judy Hopps, Flash, Chief Bogo, Clawhauser, Mr. Big, Fru Fru, Koslov, Bellwether, Yax, Finnick, Doug, Mr. and Mrs. Otterton, Duke Weaselton, Misc. Characters
Outstanding Achievement, Directing in an Animated TV/Broadcast Production
Pearl - Google Spotlight Stories/Evil Eye Pictures - Director: Patrick Osborne
Outstanding Achievement, Directing in an Animated Feature Production
Zootopia - Walt Disney Animation Studios - Director: Byron Howard, Director: Rich Moore
Outstanding Achievement, Music in an Animated TV/Broadcast Production
Pearl - Google Spotlight Stories/Evil Eye Pictures - Composer: Scot Stafford, Composer/Lyricist: Alexis Harte, Composer/Lyricist: JJ Wiesler
Outstanding Achievement, Music in an Animated Feature Production
The Little Prince - Netflix and On Animation Studios - Composer: Hans Zimmer, Composer: Richard Harvey, Composer/Lyricist: Camille (no last name)
Outstanding Achievement, Production Design in an Animated TV/Broadcast Production
Pearl - Google Spotlight Stories/Evil Eye Pictures - Production Design: Tuna Bora
Outstanding Achievement, Production Design in an Animated Feature Production
Kubo and the Two Strings - LAIKA - Production Design: Nelson Lowry, Production Design: Trevor Dalmer, Production Design: August Hall, Production Design: Ean McNamara
Outstanding Achievement, Storyboarding in an Animated TV/Broadcast Production
DreamWorks Trollhunters - Episode: Win, Lose or Draal - DreamWorks Animation Television - Storyboard Artist: Hyunjoo Song
Outstanding Achievement, Storyboarding in an Animated Feature Production
Zootopia - Walt Disney Animation Studios - Storyboard Artist: Dean Wellins
Outstanding Achievement, Voice Acting in an Animated TV/Broadcast Production
The Mr. Peabody & Sherman Show - Episode: Ponce de León - DreamWorks Animation Television - Cast: Carlos Alazaraqui Character: Ponce de León
Outstanding Achievement, Voice Acting in an Animated Feature Production TIE
-- Moana - Walt Disney Animation Studios - Voice Actress: Auli'i Cravalho Character: Moana
-- Zootopia - Walt Disney Animation Studios - Voice Actor: Jason Bateman Character: Nick Wilde
Outstanding Achievement, Writing in an Animated TV/Broadcast Production
Bob's Burgers - Episode: The Hormone-iums - Bento Box Entertainment - Writer: Lizzie Molyneux, Writer: Wendy Molyneux
Outstanding Achievement, Writing in an Animated Feature Production
Zootopia - Walt Disney Animation Studios - Writer: Jared Bush, Writer: Phil Johnston
Outstanding Achievement, Editorial in an Animated TV/Broadcast Production
Disney Mickey Mouse - Episode: Sock Burglar - Disney Television Animation - Nominee: Illya Owens
Outstanding Achievement, Editorial in an Animated Feature Production
Kubo and the Two Strings - LAIKA - Nominee: Christopher Murrie
JURIED AWARDS__________________________________
Winsor McCay Award – for their career contributions to the art of animation
- Dale Baer
- Caroline Leaf
- Mamoru Oshii
Ub Iwerks Award – for technical advancement in the art of animation
- Google Spotlight’s Virtual Reality Platform
Special Achievement Award
- Life, Animated - a 2016 documentary film
June Foray Award – for their significant and benevolent or charitable impact on the art and industry of animation
- Bill & Sue Kroyer
Certificate of Merit
- Leslie Ezeh
- Gary Perkovac
-----------------------------
Saturday, January 7, 2017
Negromancer News Bits and Bites from January 1st to 7th, 2017 - Update #37
Support Leroy on Patreon.
ECO - From YahooNews: A zombie apocalypse would wipe out humanity in 100 days.
----------
TELEVISION - From YahooTV: Comedy duo, Key and Peele, bring back one of their most popular routines, the "Obama anger translator," for one last hurrah.
----------
LGBT - From Variety: Sony Pictures Classics buys hot gay love story, "Call Me by Your Name," before it makes its Sundance 2017 debut.
----------
CELEBRITY - From YahooCelebrity: After battling a mysterious illness, Val Kilmer makes his first red carpet appearance in over a year.
----------
MOVIES - From Variety: Ralph Fiennes and Hugh Laurie are joining Will Ferrell and John C. Reilly's "Holmes and Watson."
----------
MOVIES - From Variety: Keegan-Michael Key joins the cast of "The Predator" (the reboot of the Predator film franchise). The film is due February 2018.
----------
TELEVISION - From TheWrap: Kirsten Dunst will star and executive produce with George Clooney a dark comedy for AMC, entitled "On Becoming a God in Central Florida."
----------
OBIT - From Variety: The actress Francine York has died at the age of 80, Friday, January 6, 2017. She has more than 150 film and TV credits. That includes an appearance in the cult film, "The Doll Squad" and playing Lydia Limpet, the hench-woman of the Bookworm on the 1960s "Batman" TV series.
From Variety: Veteran Indian actor, Om Puri, has died at the age of 66, Friday, January 6, 2017. You might recognize a younger him in the Oscar-winning "Gandhi."
----------
POLITICS - From NYDailyNews: Ann Coulter hits rock bottom, but at least we learn that she is a Nazi-Bitch.
----------
CELEBRITY-STAR WARS - From YahooCelebrity: "People" offers details into the memorial for Carrie Fisher held, Thursday, January 5, 2016.
----------
COMICS-FILM - From THR: In "Thor: Ragnarok," Thor and Hulk will fight in the gladiator ring.
----------
COMICS-FILM - From THR: Sterling K. Brown, who had a star-making turn in FX's "The People v O.J. Simpson: American Crime Story," has joined the cast of Marvel Studios' "Black Panther."
----------
TELEVISION - From Deadline: The team behind the TV series, "Jane the Virgin," is working on a reboot of "Charmed," The WB TV series that ran from 1998 to 2006.
----------
CELEBRITY - From People: Jessica Biel and husband Justin Timberlake's antics at a recent Los Angeles Lakers game cause a stir.
----------
AWARDS - From TheWrap: Writers Guild of America has announced its WGA nominees for 2016.
----------
MOVIES - From THR: Rachel McAdams and Jason Batemon are teaming for the comedy, "Game Night."
----------
MOVIES - From TheWrap: Sylvester Stallone and Adam Driver (Kylo Ren in "The Force Awakens") are teaming for the film project, "Tough as They Come."
----------
OBIT - From Variety: George Kosana has died at the age of 81, Monday, January 2, 2017. Kosana's most famous role was as "Sheriff McClelland" in "Night of the Living Dead." He was also one of 10 investors originally involved in the film.
----------
CELEBRITY - From YahooCelebrity: Although Angelina Jolie has agreed to Brad Pitt's request to keep divorce documents concerning child custody sealed, she says that he is terrified that the truth will come out. What truth, girl?
----------
CELEBRITY - From YahooNews: There was apparently a fight at the funeral of comedian Ricky Harris on Tuesday, January 3, 2017. Comedian/actress Sherri Shepherd filmed the bout. Harris, known for his recurring role on "Everybody Hates Chris," died Monday, December 26, 2016.
----------
CELEBRITY - From CNN: 50-year-old Janet Jackson has given birth to a baby boy.
----------
LGBT - From YahooNews: Anti-gay bigot, Kim Burrell, will not appear on "The Ellen DeGeneres Show" as scheduled.
----------
NEWS - From YahooNews: FOX News hosts Megyn Kelly is moving to NBC.
From YahooNews: Is Kelly's departure a catastrophe for Fox?
----------
STAR WARS - From YahooNews: Actress Joely Fisher, sister of Carrie Fisher, says "We lost our hero."
----------
BOX OFFICE - From BoxOfficeMojo: "Rogue One" won the three-day New Year's weekend box office, 12/30/2016 to 1/1/2017, with an estimated take of $49.5 million. Over the four-day New Year's holiday weekend, which includes Monday, 1/2/2017, "Rogue One" took in $64.3 million.
----------
COMICS-FILM - From BleedingCool: Leslie Jones, of "Saturday Night Live" and the recent "Ghostbusters" reboot, is campaigning to be Ryan Reynolds sidekick in "Deadpool" sequel.
----------
COMICS-ANIMATION - From BleedingCool: Miles Morales (the "Black" Spider-Man) and Spider-Gwen are featured prominently in merchandising for upcoming Spider-Man Disney XD animated series.
----------
COMICS-FILM - From Variety: Ben Affleck seems ambivalent about directing his superhero movie, "The Batman," according to some.
----------
COMICS-FILM - From SlashFilm: Just two months off his big screen debut, Marvel's Doctor Strange has been confirmed to appear in Marvel Studios' "Thor: Ragnarok."
----------
MOVIES - ThePlaylist: Ridley Scott worries about the future of cinema. Says that he has been asked several times to direct superhero movies.
----------
MOVIES - From Deadline: Don Cheadle talks about his 10-year quest to bring the life of Miles Davis to the big screen.
----------
CELEBRITY - From Deadline: A photo gallery of film, TV, and media people who died during 2016.
----------
BOX OFFICE - From Variety: "Rogue One" ($50 million) and "Sing" ($41.4) are topping the New Year's Day holiday weekend so far.
----------
OBITUARY - From Variety: The actor William Christopher has died at the age of 84, Saturday, December 31, 2016. He was best known for playing "Father John Mulcahy" on the long-running TV series, "M*A*S*H."
----------
DISNEY - From BleedingCool: Tyrus Wong, an acclaimed Disney artist, has died at the age of 106, Friday, December 30, 2016. Named a "Disney Legend" in 2001, Wong's paintings were the inspiration for Walt Disney's animated feature film, "Bambi."
TRAILERS AND VIDEOS:
From YouTube: The video for "In My Foreign," the lead single from the "xXx: The Return of Xander Cage" soundtrack.
From YouTube: Just cause I like it, here is another chance to see A.O.A.'s "Afraid of Americans," a remake of a 1990s David Bowie song.
ECO - From YahooNews: A zombie apocalypse would wipe out humanity in 100 days.
----------
TELEVISION - From YahooTV: Comedy duo, Key and Peele, bring back one of their most popular routines, the "Obama anger translator," for one last hurrah.
----------
LGBT - From Variety: Sony Pictures Classics buys hot gay love story, "Call Me by Your Name," before it makes its Sundance 2017 debut.
----------
CELEBRITY - From YahooCelebrity: After battling a mysterious illness, Val Kilmer makes his first red carpet appearance in over a year.
----------
MOVIES - From Variety: Ralph Fiennes and Hugh Laurie are joining Will Ferrell and John C. Reilly's "Holmes and Watson."
----------
MOVIES - From Variety: Keegan-Michael Key joins the cast of "The Predator" (the reboot of the Predator film franchise). The film is due February 2018.
----------
TELEVISION - From TheWrap: Kirsten Dunst will star and executive produce with George Clooney a dark comedy for AMC, entitled "On Becoming a God in Central Florida."
----------
OBIT - From Variety: The actress Francine York has died at the age of 80, Friday, January 6, 2017. She has more than 150 film and TV credits. That includes an appearance in the cult film, "The Doll Squad" and playing Lydia Limpet, the hench-woman of the Bookworm on the 1960s "Batman" TV series.
From Variety: Veteran Indian actor, Om Puri, has died at the age of 66, Friday, January 6, 2017. You might recognize a younger him in the Oscar-winning "Gandhi."
----------
POLITICS - From NYDailyNews: Ann Coulter hits rock bottom, but at least we learn that she is a Nazi-Bitch.
----------
CELEBRITY-STAR WARS - From YahooCelebrity: "People" offers details into the memorial for Carrie Fisher held, Thursday, January 5, 2016.
----------
COMICS-FILM - From THR: In "Thor: Ragnarok," Thor and Hulk will fight in the gladiator ring.
----------
COMICS-FILM - From THR: Sterling K. Brown, who had a star-making turn in FX's "The People v O.J. Simpson: American Crime Story," has joined the cast of Marvel Studios' "Black Panther."
----------
TELEVISION - From Deadline: The team behind the TV series, "Jane the Virgin," is working on a reboot of "Charmed," The WB TV series that ran from 1998 to 2006.
----------
CELEBRITY - From People: Jessica Biel and husband Justin Timberlake's antics at a recent Los Angeles Lakers game cause a stir.
----------
AWARDS - From TheWrap: Writers Guild of America has announced its WGA nominees for 2016.
----------
MOVIES - From THR: Rachel McAdams and Jason Batemon are teaming for the comedy, "Game Night."
----------
MOVIES - From TheWrap: Sylvester Stallone and Adam Driver (Kylo Ren in "The Force Awakens") are teaming for the film project, "Tough as They Come."
----------
OBIT - From Variety: George Kosana has died at the age of 81, Monday, January 2, 2017. Kosana's most famous role was as "Sheriff McClelland" in "Night of the Living Dead." He was also one of 10 investors originally involved in the film.
----------
CELEBRITY - From YahooCelebrity: Although Angelina Jolie has agreed to Brad Pitt's request to keep divorce documents concerning child custody sealed, she says that he is terrified that the truth will come out. What truth, girl?
----------
CELEBRITY - From YahooNews: There was apparently a fight at the funeral of comedian Ricky Harris on Tuesday, January 3, 2017. Comedian/actress Sherri Shepherd filmed the bout. Harris, known for his recurring role on "Everybody Hates Chris," died Monday, December 26, 2016.
----------
CELEBRITY - From CNN: 50-year-old Janet Jackson has given birth to a baby boy.
----------
LGBT - From YahooNews: Anti-gay bigot, Kim Burrell, will not appear on "The Ellen DeGeneres Show" as scheduled.
----------
NEWS - From YahooNews: FOX News hosts Megyn Kelly is moving to NBC.
From YahooNews: Is Kelly's departure a catastrophe for Fox?
----------
STAR WARS - From YahooNews: Actress Joely Fisher, sister of Carrie Fisher, says "We lost our hero."
----------
BOX OFFICE - From BoxOfficeMojo: "Rogue One" won the three-day New Year's weekend box office, 12/30/2016 to 1/1/2017, with an estimated take of $49.5 million. Over the four-day New Year's holiday weekend, which includes Monday, 1/2/2017, "Rogue One" took in $64.3 million.
----------
COMICS-FILM - From BleedingCool: Leslie Jones, of "Saturday Night Live" and the recent "Ghostbusters" reboot, is campaigning to be Ryan Reynolds sidekick in "Deadpool" sequel.
----------
COMICS-ANIMATION - From BleedingCool: Miles Morales (the "Black" Spider-Man) and Spider-Gwen are featured prominently in merchandising for upcoming Spider-Man Disney XD animated series.
----------
COMICS-FILM - From Variety: Ben Affleck seems ambivalent about directing his superhero movie, "The Batman," according to some.
----------
COMICS-FILM - From SlashFilm: Just two months off his big screen debut, Marvel's Doctor Strange has been confirmed to appear in Marvel Studios' "Thor: Ragnarok."
----------
MOVIES - ThePlaylist: Ridley Scott worries about the future of cinema. Says that he has been asked several times to direct superhero movies.
----------
MOVIES - From Deadline: Don Cheadle talks about his 10-year quest to bring the life of Miles Davis to the big screen.
----------
CELEBRITY - From Deadline: A photo gallery of film, TV, and media people who died during 2016.
----------
BOX OFFICE - From Variety: "Rogue One" ($50 million) and "Sing" ($41.4) are topping the New Year's Day holiday weekend so far.
----------
OBITUARY - From Variety: The actor William Christopher has died at the age of 84, Saturday, December 31, 2016. He was best known for playing "Father John Mulcahy" on the long-running TV series, "M*A*S*H."
----------
DISNEY - From BleedingCool: Tyrus Wong, an acclaimed Disney artist, has died at the age of 106, Friday, December 30, 2016. Named a "Disney Legend" in 2001, Wong's paintings were the inspiration for Walt Disney's animated feature film, "Bambi."
TRAILERS AND VIDEOS:
From YouTube: The video for "In My Foreign," the lead single from the "xXx: The Return of Xander Cage" soundtrack.
From YouTube: Just cause I like it, here is another chance to see A.O.A.'s "Afraid of Americans," a remake of a 1990s David Bowie song.
Monday, June 20, 2016
Review: "Zootopia" Another Classic from the Disney Utopia
Zootopia (2016)
Running time: 108 minutes (1 hour, 48 minutes)
MPAA – PG for some thematic elements, rude humor and action
DIRECTORS: Byron Howard and Rich Moore with Jared Bush
WRITERS: Jared Bush and Phil Johnston; from a story by Byron Howard, Jared Bush, Rich Moore, Josie Trinidad , Jim Reardon, Phil Johnston, and Jennifer Lee
PRODUCER: Clark Spencer
EDITORS: Jeremy Milton and Fabienne Rawley
COMPOSER: Michael Giacchino
ANIMATION/FANTASY/FAMILY with elements of comedy, crime and mystery
Starring: (voice) Ginnifer Goodwin, Jason Bateman, Idris Elba, Jenny Slate, Nate Torrence, Bonnie Hunt, Don Lake, Tommy Chong, J.K. Simmons, Octavia Spencer, Alan Tudyk, Shakira, Tommy “Tiny” Lister, and Maurice LaMarche
Zootopia is a 2016 computer-animated fantasy film from Walt Disney Animation Studios (WDAS). Directed by Byron Howard and Richard Moore, the film was originally released to theaters in 3D. It is the 55th animated feature film in the “Walt Disney Animated Classics” line, with John Lasseter of Pixar being the film's executive producer. Zootopia follows a rookie bunny cop who unites with a cynical con artist fox to uncover a dark conspiracy.
Zootopia is populated by anthropomorphic mammals (cartoon or fictional animals that walk and talk like humans). Officer Judy Hopps (Ginnifer Goodwin) is a young female rabbit from the rural hamlet of Bunnyburrow. Her childhood dream was to be a police officer. She recently moved to the urban utopia of Zootopia where she just became a rookie cop with the Zootopia Police Department.
However, her boss, Chief Bobo (Idris Elba), a cape buffalo, does not believe that a bunny can be a cop; honestly, almost no one believes a little bunny rabbit can make it as a cop. Chief Bobo assigns Officer Hopps to the traffic division where she becomes a meter maid, handing out parking tickets. Early in her career, Judy is even tricked by Nicholas P. “Nick” Wilde (Jason Bateman), a cynical red fox who runs various cons and hustles. Fate brings them together to solve the mystery of missing mammals, and the straight-laced Judy and street-smart Nick make a good team. However, neither understands the true extant of the conspiracy surrounding this missing persons case.
After Disney formally purchased Pixar (in 2006), the deal essentially united the Oscar-winning computer-animation studio with Walt Disney Animation Studios (WDAS), there has been a marked improvement in the computer-animated films produced by the WDAS. The credit for that success often goes to Pixar's John Lasseter who is Chief Creative Officer (CCO) for both units. Under his watch, Walt Disney Feature Animation has produced such smash hits as Tangled and Wreck-It-Ralph, as well as the Oscar-winning, worldwide, monster hit, Frozen.
I keep thinking that there is nothing left that either Pixar or WDAS can do to surprise me, but Pixar blew my mind with last year's Inside Out. Now, I am stunned by Zootopia, which is not only fantastic, but is also timely. Zootopia is an American animated film that is aimed at the broad family audience, yet bluntly addresses issues of prejudice, discrimination, and stereotypes. Zootopia is a film about us, the human race, but especially about the United States of America.
We are Zootopia, that shining city on the hill. This place of dreams and of hope is filled with people who secretly harbor all manners of assumptions and prejudices about their fellow citizens. The course of Zootopia's story and of Judy's story is to steer everyone to their better selves. This could have been yet another animated film full of wise-cracking, eccentric talking animal characters that make the audience laugh, but the creators and filmmakers behind Zootopia wanted more. The result truly is a film that can be called a “Walt Disney Animated Classic.”
As the lead characters, Judy and Nick, Ginnifer Goodwin and Jason Bateman give performances that certainly deserve to be called great. Goodwin gives Judy so much color and depth, making the bunny cop a character that is bigger than than this movie; Zootopia seems to be a single chapter in the life of a fictional character with much more to say. Bateman delivers his usual genial, smooth, and droll comedy style onto Nick, but he makes the sly red fox the wise, guiding hand that a young rookie bunny cop needs.
Thoughtful and occasionally brilliant, Zootopia cheats a little in its last act, taking the easy way out so that it can deliver a happy ending. Still, even its action-centered resolution of the conspiracy offers a delightful surprise and sticks to the story's message about the harm of prejudice and the dangers of racism and xenophobia. Perhaps, live-action films can learn a lesson from the state-of-the-art, computer-animated Zootopia. Movies can be smart, timely, and deliver a few messages AND also be big, entertaining event films.
9 of 10
A+
Tuesday, June 14, 2016
The text is copyright © 2016 Leroy Douresseaux. All Rights Reserved. Contact this blog for reprint and syndication rights and fees.
----------------------
Wednesday, April 20, 2016
DreamWorks Begins Principal Photography on "Office Christmas Party"
DreamWorks Pictures Announces Start of Principal Photography on “Office Christmas Party”
UNIVERSAL CITY, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--DreamWorks Pictures today announced that principal photography has commenced on the ensemble comedy “OFFICE CHRISTMAS PARTY,” directed by Josh Gordon and Will Speck. The film is shooting in Atlanta, with additional filming having already taken place in Chicago.
The film stars Jennifer Aniston, Jason Bateman, Olivia Munn, T.J. Miller, Kate McKinnon, Jillian Bell, Courtney B. Vance, Vanessa Bayer, Rob Corddry, Randall Park, Abbey Lee, Sam Richardson, and Jamie Chung.
Laura Solon (“Hot in Cleveland”) wrote the most recent draft of the script. Bluegrass Films’ Scott Stuber, and Entertainment 360’s Guymon Casady, and Daniel Rappaport will produce, with Gordon, Speck, Richard Vane and Beau Bauman executive producing.
In “OFFICE CHRISTMAS PARTY,” when the CEO tries to close her hard-partying brother’s branch, he and his Chief Technical Officer must rally their co-workers and host an epic office Christmas party in an effort to impress a potential client and close a sale that will save their jobs.
The DreamWorks Pictures production will open in U.S. theaters on December 9, 2016. Paramount Pictures is distributing the film in the U.S. and several international territories while Mister Smith Entertainment will oversee distribution in Europe, Africa and the Middle East. Reliance Entertainment will distribute the film in India.
About DreamWorks Pictures
DreamWorks Pictures is a production label of Amblin Partners, a content creation company formed by the former DreamWorks Studios, Participant Media, Reliance Entertainment and Entertainment One (eOne). The company develops and produces films using the Amblin, DreamWorks Pictures and Participant banners and includes Amblin Television, a longtime leader in quality programming. The company’s first film, “Bridge of Spies,” was released to critical acclaim in October 2015. Other projects in various stages of production include: “The Light Between Oceans,” scheduled for release by Disney in 2016; “The Girl on the Train,” scheduled for release in October 2016; “A Dog’s Purpose,” scheduled for release in January 2017; “Ghost in the Shell,” scheduled for release in March 2017; “Thank You For Your Service,” scheduled for release in 2017; and “Ready Player One,” scheduled for release in March 2018. Upcoming shows from Amblin TV include “All the Way,” an HBO movie directed by Jay Roach and starring Bryan Cranston; and “American Gothic,” a summer series that will air on CBS.
DreamWorks Pictures can be found at:
Facebook: www.facebook.com/DreamWorksPictures
Twitter: DW_Pictures
About Paramount Pictures Corporation
Paramount Pictures Corporation (PPC), a global producer and distributor of filmed entertainment, is a unit of Viacom (NASDAQ: VIAB, VIA), a leading content company with prominent and respected film, television and digital entertainment brands. Paramount controls a collection of some of the most powerful brands in filmed entertainment, including Paramount Pictures, Paramount Animation, Paramount Television, Paramount Vantage, Paramount Classics, Insurge Pictures, MTV Films, and Nickelodeon Movies. PPC operations also include Paramount Home Media Distribution, Paramount Pictures International, Paramount Licensing Inc., and Paramount Studio Group.
-----------------------
UNIVERSAL CITY, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--DreamWorks Pictures today announced that principal photography has commenced on the ensemble comedy “OFFICE CHRISTMAS PARTY,” directed by Josh Gordon and Will Speck. The film is shooting in Atlanta, with additional filming having already taken place in Chicago.
The film stars Jennifer Aniston, Jason Bateman, Olivia Munn, T.J. Miller, Kate McKinnon, Jillian Bell, Courtney B. Vance, Vanessa Bayer, Rob Corddry, Randall Park, Abbey Lee, Sam Richardson, and Jamie Chung.
Laura Solon (“Hot in Cleveland”) wrote the most recent draft of the script. Bluegrass Films’ Scott Stuber, and Entertainment 360’s Guymon Casady, and Daniel Rappaport will produce, with Gordon, Speck, Richard Vane and Beau Bauman executive producing.
In “OFFICE CHRISTMAS PARTY,” when the CEO tries to close her hard-partying brother’s branch, he and his Chief Technical Officer must rally their co-workers and host an epic office Christmas party in an effort to impress a potential client and close a sale that will save their jobs.
The DreamWorks Pictures production will open in U.S. theaters on December 9, 2016. Paramount Pictures is distributing the film in the U.S. and several international territories while Mister Smith Entertainment will oversee distribution in Europe, Africa and the Middle East. Reliance Entertainment will distribute the film in India.
About DreamWorks Pictures
DreamWorks Pictures is a production label of Amblin Partners, a content creation company formed by the former DreamWorks Studios, Participant Media, Reliance Entertainment and Entertainment One (eOne). The company develops and produces films using the Amblin, DreamWorks Pictures and Participant banners and includes Amblin Television, a longtime leader in quality programming. The company’s first film, “Bridge of Spies,” was released to critical acclaim in October 2015. Other projects in various stages of production include: “The Light Between Oceans,” scheduled for release by Disney in 2016; “The Girl on the Train,” scheduled for release in October 2016; “A Dog’s Purpose,” scheduled for release in January 2017; “Ghost in the Shell,” scheduled for release in March 2017; “Thank You For Your Service,” scheduled for release in 2017; and “Ready Player One,” scheduled for release in March 2018. Upcoming shows from Amblin TV include “All the Way,” an HBO movie directed by Jay Roach and starring Bryan Cranston; and “American Gothic,” a summer series that will air on CBS.
DreamWorks Pictures can be found at:
Facebook: www.facebook.com/DreamWorksPictures
Twitter: DW_Pictures
About Paramount Pictures Corporation
Paramount Pictures Corporation (PPC), a global producer and distributor of filmed entertainment, is a unit of Viacom (NASDAQ: VIAB, VIA), a leading content company with prominent and respected film, television and digital entertainment brands. Paramount controls a collection of some of the most powerful brands in filmed entertainment, including Paramount Pictures, Paramount Animation, Paramount Television, Paramount Vantage, Paramount Classics, Insurge Pictures, MTV Films, and Nickelodeon Movies. PPC operations also include Paramount Home Media Distribution, Paramount Pictures International, Paramount Licensing Inc., and Paramount Studio Group.
-----------------------
Thursday, February 19, 2015
Idris Elba, Channing Tatum Among Presenters at 87th Oscars
Jason Bateman, Idris Elba, Ansel Elgort, Nicole Kidman, Liam Neeson, Gwyneth Paltrow and Channing Tatum To Present At 87th Oscars®
Jason Bateman, Idris Elba, Ansel Elgort, Nicole Kidman, Liam Neeson, Gwyneth Paltrow and Channing Tatum will be presenters at this year’s Oscars, show producers Craig Zadan and Neil Meron announced today. The Oscars, hosted by Neil Patrick Harris, will air on Sunday, February 22, live on ABC.
Bateman appeared in the Best Picture Oscar®- nominated films “Up in the Air” (2009) and “Juno” (2007). Most recently Bateman starred in the “Horrible Bosses” (2011 and 2014) franchise, “This Is Where I Leave You” (2014), and “Bad Words” (2013), Bateman’s directorial debut. He is currently working on “Untitled Joel Edgerton Project” and recently wrapped production of “The Family Fang,” his second directorial effort in which he also stars.
Elba most recently starred in the 2014 thriller “No Good Deed.” His other film roles include “28 Weeks Later” (2007), “Thor” (2011), “Pacific Rim” (2013) and “Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom” (2013). He has been nominated for four Emmy Awards®, including three for Lead Actor in a Miniseries or a Movie for “Luther” (2010). Elba will next be seen in “Beasts of No Nation.”
Elgort made his film debut in 2013’s “Carrie” and followed up with three more films in 2014: “The Fault in Our Stars,” “Divergent” and “Men, Women & Children.” He will next be seen in the sequel “The Divergent Series: Insurgent.”
Kidman won an Oscar for Actress in a Leading Role for “The Hours” (2002) and was nominated for her leading roles in “Moulin Rouge” (2001) and “Rabbit Hole” (2010). Her other credits include “Dead Calm” (1989), “Far and Away” (1992), “Eyes Wide Shut” (1999), “Cold Mountain” (2003) and “The Golden Compass” (2007). Her upcoming films include “Lion” and “The Secret in Their Eyes.”
Neeson received an Oscar nomination for Actor in a Leading Role for his performance as the title character in “Schindler’s List” (1993). Other film roles include “The Dead Pool” (1988), “Husbands and Wives” (1992), “Michael Collins” (1996), “Love Actually” (2003), “Taken” (2008), “The Grey” (2011) and “Non-Stop” (2014). He will next be seen in “Ted 2” and “Run All Night.”
Paltrow is an Oscar winner for her leading role in “Shakespeare in Love” (1998). She has starred in such films as “Great Expectations” (1998), “The Talented Mr. Ripley” (1999), and “The Royal Tenenbaums” (2001) and most recently the “Iron Man” franchise (2008, 2010 and 2013).
Tatum, who currently stars in the sci-fi feature “Jupiter Ascending,” appeared in last year’s “22 Jump Street” (2014), “Foxcatcher” (2014) and “The Lego Movie” (2014). His previous credits include “White House Down” (2013), “Magic Mike” (2012) and “21 Jump Street” (2012). He will star in “Magic Mike XXL” later this year.
Previously announced presenters and performers include:
Presenters:
Ben Affleck, Jennifer Aniston, Cate Blanchett, Jessica Chastain, Marion Cotillard, Benedict Cumberbatch, Viola Davis, Chiwetel Ejiofor, Chris Evans, Kevin Hart, Josh Hutcherson, Scarlett Johansson, Dakota Johnson, Jennifer Lopez, Jared Leto, Shirley MacLaine, Matthew McConaughey, Sienna Miller, Chloë Grace Moretz, Eddie Murphy, Lupita Nyong’o, David Oyelowo, Chris Pine, Chris Pratt, Margot Robbie, Zoe Saldana, Octavia Spencer, Meryl Streep, Miles Teller, John Travolta, Kerry Washington, Naomi Watts, Oprah Winfrey and Reese Witherspoon.
Performers:
Jack Black, Common, Jennifer Hudson, Lady Gaga, Anna Kendrick, John Legend, Adam Levine with Maroon 5, Tim McGraw, Rita Ora and Tegan and Sara with The Lonely Island.
The 87th Oscars will be held on Sunday, February 22, 2015, at the Dolby Theatre® at Hollywood & Highland Center® in Hollywood, and will be televised live on the ABC Television Network at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT. The Oscars, produced by Zadan and Meron, also will be televised live in more than 225 countries and territories worldwide.
------------------
Jason Bateman, Idris Elba, Ansel Elgort, Nicole Kidman, Liam Neeson, Gwyneth Paltrow and Channing Tatum will be presenters at this year’s Oscars, show producers Craig Zadan and Neil Meron announced today. The Oscars, hosted by Neil Patrick Harris, will air on Sunday, February 22, live on ABC.
Bateman appeared in the Best Picture Oscar®- nominated films “Up in the Air” (2009) and “Juno” (2007). Most recently Bateman starred in the “Horrible Bosses” (2011 and 2014) franchise, “This Is Where I Leave You” (2014), and “Bad Words” (2013), Bateman’s directorial debut. He is currently working on “Untitled Joel Edgerton Project” and recently wrapped production of “The Family Fang,” his second directorial effort in which he also stars.
Elba most recently starred in the 2014 thriller “No Good Deed.” His other film roles include “28 Weeks Later” (2007), “Thor” (2011), “Pacific Rim” (2013) and “Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom” (2013). He has been nominated for four Emmy Awards®, including three for Lead Actor in a Miniseries or a Movie for “Luther” (2010). Elba will next be seen in “Beasts of No Nation.”
Elgort made his film debut in 2013’s “Carrie” and followed up with three more films in 2014: “The Fault in Our Stars,” “Divergent” and “Men, Women & Children.” He will next be seen in the sequel “The Divergent Series: Insurgent.”
Kidman won an Oscar for Actress in a Leading Role for “The Hours” (2002) and was nominated for her leading roles in “Moulin Rouge” (2001) and “Rabbit Hole” (2010). Her other credits include “Dead Calm” (1989), “Far and Away” (1992), “Eyes Wide Shut” (1999), “Cold Mountain” (2003) and “The Golden Compass” (2007). Her upcoming films include “Lion” and “The Secret in Their Eyes.”
Neeson received an Oscar nomination for Actor in a Leading Role for his performance as the title character in “Schindler’s List” (1993). Other film roles include “The Dead Pool” (1988), “Husbands and Wives” (1992), “Michael Collins” (1996), “Love Actually” (2003), “Taken” (2008), “The Grey” (2011) and “Non-Stop” (2014). He will next be seen in “Ted 2” and “Run All Night.”
Paltrow is an Oscar winner for her leading role in “Shakespeare in Love” (1998). She has starred in such films as “Great Expectations” (1998), “The Talented Mr. Ripley” (1999), and “The Royal Tenenbaums” (2001) and most recently the “Iron Man” franchise (2008, 2010 and 2013).
Tatum, who currently stars in the sci-fi feature “Jupiter Ascending,” appeared in last year’s “22 Jump Street” (2014), “Foxcatcher” (2014) and “The Lego Movie” (2014). His previous credits include “White House Down” (2013), “Magic Mike” (2012) and “21 Jump Street” (2012). He will star in “Magic Mike XXL” later this year.
Previously announced presenters and performers include:
Presenters:
Ben Affleck, Jennifer Aniston, Cate Blanchett, Jessica Chastain, Marion Cotillard, Benedict Cumberbatch, Viola Davis, Chiwetel Ejiofor, Chris Evans, Kevin Hart, Josh Hutcherson, Scarlett Johansson, Dakota Johnson, Jennifer Lopez, Jared Leto, Shirley MacLaine, Matthew McConaughey, Sienna Miller, Chloë Grace Moretz, Eddie Murphy, Lupita Nyong’o, David Oyelowo, Chris Pine, Chris Pratt, Margot Robbie, Zoe Saldana, Octavia Spencer, Meryl Streep, Miles Teller, John Travolta, Kerry Washington, Naomi Watts, Oprah Winfrey and Reese Witherspoon.
Performers:
Jack Black, Common, Jennifer Hudson, Lady Gaga, Anna Kendrick, John Legend, Adam Levine with Maroon 5, Tim McGraw, Rita Ora and Tegan and Sara with The Lonely Island.
The 87th Oscars will be held on Sunday, February 22, 2015, at the Dolby Theatre® at Hollywood & Highland Center® in Hollywood, and will be televised live on the ABC Television Network at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT. The Oscars, produced by Zadan and Meron, also will be televised live in more than 225 countries and territories worldwide.
------------------
Sunday, May 4, 2014
Review: "The Kingdom" is a Thrill Ride (Happy B'day, Richard Jenkins)
The Kingdom (2007)
Running time: 110 minutes (1 hour, 50 minutes)
MPAA – R for intense sequences of graphic brutal violence and for language
DIRECTOR: Peter Berg
WRITER: Matthew Michael Carnahan
PRODUCERS: Peter Berg, Michael Mann, and Scott Stuber
CINEMATOGRAPHER: Mauro Fiore (D.o.P.)
EDITORS: Colby Parker, Jr. and Kevin Stitt
COMPOSER: Danny Elfman
ACTION/THRILLER/CRIME/DRAMA
Starring: Jamie Foxx, Chris Cooper, Jennifer Garner, Jason Bateman, Ashraf Barhom, Ali Suliman, Jeremy Piven, Richard Jenkins, Kyle Chandler, Frances Fisher, Danny Huston, Kelly AuCoin, Anna Deavere Smith, and Minka Kelly
The subject of this movie review is The Kingdom, a 2007 action thriller and crime drama directed by Peter Berg. The film follows a team of agents from the United States, investigating the bombing of an American facility in the Middle East.
When terrorists attack and kill over 100 people at the Al Rahmah Western Housing Compound in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, FBI Agent Ronald Fleury (Jamie Foxx) leads a small squad to investigate the bombing and find the culprits. Once Fleury and the other U.S. agents – Grant Sykes (Chris Cooper), Janet Mayes (Jennifer Garner), and Adam Leavitt (Jason Bateman) – arrive, they learn that in Saudi Arabia, many consider them the true enemy.
Culture and the local bureaucracy hamper their investigation, but a local policeman, Col. Faris Al Ghazi (Ashraf Barhom), becomes sympathetic to Fleury’s predicament. Soon, Fleury realizes that he and his team are the targets of the mysterious terrorist leader, Abu Hamza, but neither the threat of death or disgrace back home will stop Fleury’s mission.
With The Kingdom, director Peter Berg (The Rundown, Friday Night Lights) and writer Matthew Michael Carnahan (Lions for Lambs) dive headlong into the snake pit that movies about the “war on terrorism” and set in Middle East can be. What Berg and Carnahan come up with is an imperfect, but entertaining and engaging action flick that doesn’t shy away from the fact that there are few if any easy answers when fighting the murderous criminals who are terrorists.
Berg doesn’t shy away from making a hardcore action movie. There are intense car chases, with the requisite automobile flips and explosions, and there are sequences of manic gun battles that arrive in the kind of big slabs that keep an action movie junkie euphoric. The screenplay even insists on being a police procedural, making The Kingdom something like Black Hawk Down meets Michael Mann’s Heat (Mann also co-produced The Kingdom), and TV’s “CSI: Crime Scene Investigation.”
Honestly, the movie drags when it focuses on the investigation, detective work, and forensics. On the other hand, The Kingdom soars when it lays on the gun battles and car violence. When the movie tries to be an FBI investigation flick, the narrative and indeed the performances get bogged down in detective work and the complications that can arise when different cultures meet. The film does raise several issues – asking questions that complicate what many only want to see as black and white. Are the FBI agents seeking justice or are they out for revenge? Does the subsequent violence only make matters worse? Does anyone gain anything or does everyone lose? These are the kind of questions that get a movie like this in trouble in the current political/social climate. An action movie requires that everything be in black and white, but the film’s setting and the issues it tackles just won’t be divided in two like that.
Ultimately, The Kingdom is a riveting action thriller that delivers. It affirms that Jamie Foxx can carry an action flick (but is there room for more than one or two action “stars of color?”), that Jason Bateman is funny, and that Jeremy Piven is a great character actor. However, the audience might have to take on some sticky issues to enjoy the thrill ride that is The Kingdom.
7 of 10
B+
Friday, January 18, 2008
Updated: Sunday, May 04, 2014
The text is copyright © 2014 Leroy Douresseaux. All Rights Reserved. Contact this site for syndication rights and fees.
Monday, November 25, 2013
Review: "The Sweetest Thing" is a Funny Thing (Happy B'day, Christina Applegate)
TRASH IN MY EYE No. 39 (of 2002) by Leroy Douresseaux
The Sweetest Thing (2002)
Running time: 88 minutes (1 hour, 28 minutes)
MPAA – R for strong sexual content and language
DIRECTOR: Roger Kumble
WRITER: Nancy M. Pimental
PRODUCER: Cathy Konrad
CINEMATOGRAPHER: Anthony B. Richmond
EDITORS: Wendy Greene Bricmont and David Rennie
COMPOSER: Edward Shearmur
COMEDY/ROMANCE
Starring: Cameron Diaz, Christina Applegate, Selma Blair, Jason Bateman, Thomas Jane, James Mangold, and Parker Posey
The subject of this movie review is The Sweetest Thing, a 2002 romantic comedy and chick flick. The film stars Cameron Diaz as a woman forced to pursue Mr. Right, after missing an opportunity the first time she meets him. I have to say that this is one those movie that I enjoyed watching so much that it made me “feel good,” so it is a true feel good movie.
Some of her critics and embittered fellow professionals have accused Cameron Diaz of getting by on her looks. She is a very talented actress, but I’d be lying if denied that one of the reasons I like to watch her movies because of her dazzling beauty and super fine ass.
She unleashes her talent and gorgeous body in director Roger Kumble (Cruel Intentions) and writer Nancy Pimental’s The Sweetest Thing. Mistakenly sold has a romantic comedy, it is actually raunchy comedic romp through a fantastic vision of the millennial dating scene. The Sweetest Thing is more in the vein of There’s Something About Mary than say Autumn in New York, and it’s easily one of the funniest movies I’ve seen since Mary. Some of the credit has to go to Kumble’s sense of timing, important for someone who directs comedy, especially something as farcical as this, and especially Ms. Pimental, who was a series writer for television’s “South Park,” of which The Sweetest Thing shares a sense of over-the-top, gross out comedy.
Cameron Diaz plays the lead character, Christina Walker, simultaneously with bold confidence and sexual power juxtaposed with a painful lack of confidence and romantic confusion. By doing this, Ms. Diaz makes Walker human; without that she’d merely be a raunchy boob worthy of a few belly laughs. She can pull it off because she’s so beautiful and likeable. The cold truth of the matter is that, while art depicts any number of topics, ideas, and subjects, it often executes that depiction in an idealized form. Artist paint good looking people; even the ugly subjects are stylized ugly. Pretty people look good on the big screen, and, frankly, many of us would simply think of Christina Walker as a trailer trash ‘ho if she wasn’t played by someone as attractive as Ms. Diaz. Her looks make us give a pass to some of the unsavory aspects of Christina’s character.
Sadly, the script doesn’t do justice to Christina’s sidekicks: divorce lawyer Courtney Rockcliffe (Christina Applegate) and the recently dumped Jane Burns (Selma Blair, Legally Blonde). Courtney starts off with such promise. She’s a funny partner in crime, but, by the end of the film, she’s reduced to being in scenes merely to feel sorry for her friend. The breakup of Jane’s romance is the element that begins the film’s story. Ms. Pimental ignores Jane’s plight and turns her into pincushion for crude sex scenes – hilarious, but still crude.
Reservations aside, The Sweetest Thing is just too funny not to see. It would take a lot of laughs to make me ignore the fact that the filmmakers throw the story and characterization out the window in favor of raw humor, and, by Jove, the movie has that many laughs and more.
7 of 10
A-
Updated: Monday, November 25, 2013
The text is copyright © 2013 Leroy Douresseaux. All Rights Reserved. Contact this blog for syndication rights and fees.
----------------------
Friday, November 8, 2013
"Horrible Bosses 2" Begins Production
New Line Cinema’s “Horrible Bosses 2” Now in Production
Chris Pine and Christoph Waltz Join Returning Stars Jason Bateman, Charlie Day, Jason Sudeikis, Jennifer Aniston, Jamie Foxx and Kevin Spacey for this Sequel to the Hit Comedy “Horrible Bosses”
BURBANK, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Filming has begun in Los Angeles on New Line Cinema’s “Horrible Bosses 2,” directed by Sean Anders (“Sex Drive”). The follow-up to the 2011 hit comedy “Horrible Bosses” reunites stars Jason Bateman, Charlie Day and Jason Sudeikis as everyone’s favorite working stiffs Nick, Dale and Kurt. Jennifer Aniston, Jamie Foxx and Kevin Spacey also reprise their starring roles, while Chris Pine and Christoph Waltz star as new adversaries standing between the guys and their dreams of success.
Fed up with answering to higher-ups, Nick, Dale and Kurt decide to become their own bosses by launching their own business in “Horrible Bosses 2.” But a slick investor soon pulls the rug out from under them. Outplayed and desperate, and with no legal recourse, the three would-be entrepreneurs hatch a misguided plan to kidnap the investor’s adult son and ransom him to regain control of their company.
Sean Anders directs from a screenplay by Anders & John Morris (“We’re the Millers”), and by John Francis Daley & Jonathan Goldstein (“Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs 2”), who also served as writers on the first film. “Horrible Bosses 2” is being produced by Brett Ratner, Jay Stern, John Morris, John Rickard and Chris Bender, with Diana Pokorny and John Cheng serving as executive producers.
The behind-the-scenes creative team includes director of photography Julio Macat (“Pitch Perfect”), production designer Clayton Hartley (“We’re the Millers”), editor Eric Kissack (“The Dictator”) and costume designer Carol Ramsey (“Identity Thief”).
“Horrible Bosses 2” is a New Line Cinema presentation of a RatPac Entertainment/Benderspink production. The film will be distributed by Warner Bros. Pictures, a Warner Bros. Entertainment Company.
Chris Pine and Christoph Waltz Join Returning Stars Jason Bateman, Charlie Day, Jason Sudeikis, Jennifer Aniston, Jamie Foxx and Kevin Spacey for this Sequel to the Hit Comedy “Horrible Bosses”
BURBANK, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Filming has begun in Los Angeles on New Line Cinema’s “Horrible Bosses 2,” directed by Sean Anders (“Sex Drive”). The follow-up to the 2011 hit comedy “Horrible Bosses” reunites stars Jason Bateman, Charlie Day and Jason Sudeikis as everyone’s favorite working stiffs Nick, Dale and Kurt. Jennifer Aniston, Jamie Foxx and Kevin Spacey also reprise their starring roles, while Chris Pine and Christoph Waltz star as new adversaries standing between the guys and their dreams of success.
Fed up with answering to higher-ups, Nick, Dale and Kurt decide to become their own bosses by launching their own business in “Horrible Bosses 2.” But a slick investor soon pulls the rug out from under them. Outplayed and desperate, and with no legal recourse, the three would-be entrepreneurs hatch a misguided plan to kidnap the investor’s adult son and ransom him to regain control of their company.
Sean Anders directs from a screenplay by Anders & John Morris (“We’re the Millers”), and by John Francis Daley & Jonathan Goldstein (“Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs 2”), who also served as writers on the first film. “Horrible Bosses 2” is being produced by Brett Ratner, Jay Stern, John Morris, John Rickard and Chris Bender, with Diana Pokorny and John Cheng serving as executive producers.
The behind-the-scenes creative team includes director of photography Julio Macat (“Pitch Perfect”), production designer Clayton Hartley (“We’re the Millers”), editor Eric Kissack (“The Dictator”) and costume designer Carol Ramsey (“Identity Thief”).
“Horrible Bosses 2” is a New Line Cinema presentation of a RatPac Entertainment/Benderspink production. The film will be distributed by Warner Bros. Pictures, a Warner Bros. Entertainment Company.
Sunday, October 20, 2013
Review: "Starsky and Hutch" is Average Entertainment (Happy B'day, Snoop Dogg)
TRASH IN MY EYE No. 27 (of 2004) by Leroy Douresseaux
Starsky & Hutch (2004)
Running time: 101 minutes (1 hour, 41 minutes)
MPAA – PR-13 for drug content, sexual situations, partial nudity, language and some violence
DIRECTOR: Todd Phillips
WRITERS: John O’Brien, Scot Armstrong and Todd Phillips, from a story Steve Long and John O’Brien (based upon characters created by William Blinn)
PRODUCERS: William Blinn, Stuart Cornfeld, Akiva Goldsman, Tony Ludwig, and Alan Riche
CINEMATOGRAPHER: Barry Peterson (D.o.P.)
EDITOR: Leslie Jones
COMPOSER: Theodore Shapiro
COMEDY/CRIME with some elements of action
Starring: Ben Stiller, Owen Wilson, Snoop Dogg, Fred Williamson, Vince Vaughn, Juliette Lewis, Jason Bateman, Amy Smart, Carmen Electra, George Cheung, Chris Penn, Patton Oswalt, Jenard Burks, The Bishop Don Magic Juan, and Paul Michael Glaser and David Soul
The subject of this movie review is Starsky & Hutch, a 2004 crime comedy from director Todd Phillips. The film is based on the 1970s television series, Starsky & Hutch, a police drama-thriller that was created by William Blinn and was originally broadcast on the ABC television network from 1975 to 1979. The film is a kind of prequel to the original television series. Starsky & Hutch the movie follows two streetwise cops who fight crime in their red-and-white Ford Torino.
With my refined tastes, I should technically be repulsed by film remakes of 70’s television programs, but repulsed or otherwise, I’ll generally see them. Still, I’d planned on seeing the controversial Mel Gibson Jesus movie, but it was sold out, and there was the poster for Starsky & Hutch staring me in the face. Though I had to settle on something I hadn’t planned on seeing at the time, it didn’t really affect my enjoyment of Starsky and Hutch. It’s a fairly funny film, but you wouldn’t have missed a cinematic event that must be seen on the big screen if you’d waited for home video or TV.
Set in a sort of anachronistic version of the 1970’s, S&H is the story of two streetwise detectives who form an unlikely partnership. David Starsky (Ben Stiller) is an anal by-the-books guy, who actually does nothing but screw up, despite his attention to rules. Ken “Hutch” Hutchinson (Owen Wilson) is a genial kind of guy, always hanging loose, but he is also the kind of cop who breaks the law when it suits him. Hutch robs bookies for their loot, and he uses illegal drugs. The mismatched pair gets on the nerves of their boss, Captain Dobey (Fred Williamson), relies on tips from an omniscient street informer, Huggy Bear (Snoop Dogg), and busts crime in Starksy’s 1974 red-and-white, souped-up Ford Torino. Their first big case together involves a respectable businessman, Reese Feldman (Vince Vaughn), who may be a big time cocaine dealer. However, Starsky and Hutch’s bumbling and lack of hard evidence dog their case every step of the way.
Starsky & Hutch has some extremely hilarious moments, not as many as, say, Scary Movie 3. S&H is structured like SM3 in that S&H’s plot, story, and script are basically an elaborate, but dumb, blueprint to layout jokes. S&H’s script is, however, nothing like the disaster of that was SM3’s script. S&H also reminds me of another of director Todd Phillip’s hits, Old School (2003): lots of funny scenes, but ultimately a lame, by-the-book, Hollywood yuck fest that plays it way too safe.
This is also one of the times that Ben Stiller’s shtick, that of the angry, quick-tempered nerd, works for the film. Owen Wilson is a great screen presence; the camera loves him, and the role of the amiable Hutch easily fits Owen’s usually warm and generous film persona.
I generally enjoyed this film’s deep tongue in the tongue-in-cheek mode. Starsky and Hutch is not to be taken seriously, nor does the film try to make you do so. The quasi-70’s setting is a hoot, at least early on, but the film’s period atmosphere eventually dissolves into mere background noise. There should have been much more Snoop Dogg because he surprisingly has good screen presence. Also, Will Ferrell’s (who doesn’t get a screen credit) riotous turn as Big Earl, a man in the county lockup with serious man crush issues, is certainly a reason to see this film, at home or in a theatre.
5 of 10
B-
NOTES:
2005 Razzie Awards: 2 nominations: “Worst Actor” (Ben Stiller) and “Worst Supporting Actress” (Carmen Electra)
Updated: Sunday, October 20, 2013
-----------------
Sunday, July 14, 2013
Review: Bateman, McCarthy Capture "Identity Thief"
Identity Thief (2013)
Running time: 111 minutes (1 hour, 51 minutes)
MPAA – R for crude and sexual content and language
DIRECTOR: Seth Gordon
WRITERS: Craig Mazin; from a story by Jerry Eeten and Craig Mazin
PRODUCERS: Pamela Abdy, Jason Bateman, and Scott Stuber
CINEMATOGRAPHER: Javier Aguirresarobe
EDITOR: Peter Teschner
COMPOSER: Christopher Lennertz
COMEDY/CRIME
Starring: Jason Bateman, Melissa McCarthy, Amanda Peet, Tip “T.I.” Harris, Genesis Rodriguez, Morris Chestnut, John Cho, Robert Patrick, Eric Stonestreet, Mary-Charles Jones, Maggie Elizabeth Jones, Matthew Burke, and Jon Favreau
Identity Thief is a 2013 crime comedy from director Seth Gordon (Horrible Bosses). Starring Jason Bateman and Melissa McCarthy, the film follows a mild-mannered businessman who sets out to confront the woman who has been living it up after stealing his identity.
Accountant and family man, Sandy Bigelow Patterson (Jason Bateman), finds himself arrested for an assault that occurred in Winter Park, Florida. The problem is that Sandy lives in Denver, Colorado and has never been to Winter Park. After his new boss informs him that his credit score is getting him fired from his new job, Sandy learns that he is the victim of identity theft.
Traveling to Florida, Sandy confronts the other Sandy Patterson, a portly woman named Diana (Melissa McCarthy), who is having the time of her life with his credit. By hook and crook, the real Sandy manages to convince Diana to return with him to Denver to help him clear his name. Diana plans on using any means necessary to escape, but Sandy isn’t the only one after her. A skiptracer (Robert Patrick) is after Diana for a substantial bounty, and an imprisoned crime boss has sent two of his hired guns, Marisol (Genesis Rodriguez) and Julian (Tip “T.I.” Harris), to kill her.
Comedies from big studios tend to follow a formula that I first noticed in 2003’s Old School. The lead characters, especially the men, act like over-grown boys for most of the film. Then, the filmmakers spend the second half of the movie turning these guys that we love to watch being dicks into “dads” or other responsible White male types.
In Identity Thief, the bad boy White guy is actually a woman of many names, whom we come to know as “Diana.” As played by Melissa McCarthy, Diana is not like the frat-pack, stuck-in-adolescence types that headline such films as Anchorman: The Legend of Ron Burgundy and Wedding Crashers, to name a few. Diana is practically too complicated to be in a studio comedy. This character has issues. Diana is scarred, but bent, not broken. She has a rat-like determination to survive, and she’s adopted so many guises and told so many lies that you wonder when she’s telling truth. Who is the real Diana?
Diana is not a criminal with a heart of gold. She simply is good at beating the system, and, as the ultimate bull-shitter, she can separate the honest from the dishonest and truth from lies. For the do-as-I-say-not-as-I-do crowd, she is the worst nightmare: someone who can spot hypocrisy in all its guises.
Identity Thief’s plot and story, however, simply do not live up to Diana’s complexities. She’s intricate, while the plot is a by-the-numbers crime comedy that takes the easy way out of the obstacles placed before Sandy Patterson and Diana. Identity Thief is not a bad movie, because the lead actors and their corresponding characters are witty, engaging, full of intricacies, and damn funny. They make Identity Thief a really good movie.
I don’t want to forget Jason Bateman. He has perfected his spin on the genial good guy and the universal everyman in the television series, “Arrested Development,” and in movies like Hancock and Horrible Bosses. Sandy Patterson is a familiar character, but Bateman offers layers and subtexts that make the character three-dimensional – one certainly more complicated than this movie’s plot and the ending deserve. Bateman and McCarthy are so good that they make the holes in this movie take a backseat to their characters. Identity Thief is an evergreen film because of their performances, and their characters are the reason that this movie will be worth watching a decade from now.
7 of 10
A-
Saturday, July 13, 2013
Tuesday, September 25, 2012
Review: "Hancock" Fails to Be Special (Happy B'day, Will Smith)
Hancock (2008)
Running time: 92 minutes (1 hour, 32 minutes)
MPAA – PG-13 for some intense sequences of sci-fi action and violence, and language
DIRECTOR: Peter Berg
WRITERS: Vy Vincent Ngo and Vince Gilligan
PRODUCERS: Akiva Goldsman, James Lassiter, Michael Mann, and Will Smith
CINEMATOGRAPHER: Tobias A. Schliessler
EDITOR: Colby Parker, Jr. and Paul Rubell
COMPOSER: John Powell
SUPERHERO/ACTION/COMEDY/DRAMA
Starring: Will Smith, Charlize Theron, Jason Bateman, Jae Head, Eddie Marsan, David Mattey, Maetrix Fitten, Thomas Lennon, Johnny Galecki, and Darrell Foster
The subject of this movie review is Hancock, a 2006 superhero film starring Will Smith in the title role. Directed by Peter Berg, the film is part action movie, comedy, and drama, as well as part superhero fantasy.
Will Smith’s new film, Hancock, is a special effects-heavy movie about a superhero who is a drunken, dangerously careless jerk. Instead of looking shiny and futuristic in a fancy costume, he looks like a skid row bum in thrift store rags, but that’s not necessarily a bad thing. When the story presents this hero’s very public disasters and later his public struggles to be a good guy, this film is quite good, but sadly, it’s not always that good.
John Hancock (Will Smith) is the only superhero on the planet. He lives and works in Los Angeles, and boy, is everywhere else very happy that L.A. is stuck with him. If great power comes with great responsibility, Hancock ain’t buying that notion. He’s edgy, sarcastic, and prone to abusing civilians. His well-intentioned heroics get the job done saving lives and stopping criminals, but the same heroics always seem to leave jaw-dropping damage in their wake.
Los Angelinos have finally had enough. As far as they are concerned, if Hancock can’t do the job right (i.e. without causing millions of dollars in damages every time he plays hero), he needs to go away. But Hancock isn't the kind of man who cares what other people think; then, one day he saves the life of struggling PR executive Ray Embrey (Jason Batman). Grateful to be alive, Ray chooses to see his savior not as a menace, but as conflicted and misunderstood, so Ray convinces Hancock to let him embark on an image makeover of the hero. Hancock even sits down to a decent meal with Ray’s wife, Mary (Charlize Theron), and young son, Aaron (Jae Head). Hancock’s biggest obstacle, however, may be submitting to a prison sentence and finally facing both his demons and his past.
Peter Berg’s quasi-superhero film, Hancock, is at its best when the film presents Hancock fighting the war inside his head out in public. He’s adrift – doesn’t know who he is or remember from where he came. His life is a mess, so he’s messy on the job – literally tearing apart the city’s infrastructure and terrorizing the citizens. Watching those disasters are actually fun.
As fun as the action sequences and Hancock’s confrontations with the public are, the focus only on Hancock’s mental problems is not. It seems that somewhere along the line of developing this project, the filmmakers missed the point that watching Hancock interact with the public is great. When the film focuses on John Hancock’s origin (no spoilers here!) or features him alone, drinking and sulking about, it becomes a morose drama.
This great concept doesn’t exactly fail because of the shaky execution, but Hancock is a strange movie because half of it is a fun, high-concept superhero flick and the other half is a depressed superhero drama. It’s bizarre a situation. Will Smith is so good at creating this mentally, emotionally, and spiritually troubled super human that he also creates a somewhat unsatisfying hero that makes for a movie that is sometimes … well, unsatisfying.
Luckily Jason Bateman (who doesn’t make a bad move in this performance), as Ray Embrey, is so good at understanding what a movie needs at particular moment in the story. It’s the right facial expression, the perfect quip, or the best time to be serious. This movie is victorious when Smith’s Hancock and Bateman’s Embrey are onscreen together. Too bad Hancock doesn’t stick with that simple, yet highly entertaining formula.
6 of 10
B
Wednesday, July 02, 2008
-------------------
Friday, July 27, 2012
Review: "The Break-Up" Puts Starch in the Romantic Comedy
TRASH IN MY EYE No. 241 (of 2006) by Leroy Douresseaux
The Break-Up (2006)
Running time: 107 minutes (1 hour, 47 minutes)
MPAA – PG-13 for sexual content, some nudity, and language
DIRECTOR: Peyton Reed
WRITERS: Jeremy Garelick and Jay Lavender; from a story by Vince Vaughn and Jeremy Garelick and Jay Lavender
PRODUCERS: Scott Stuber and Vince Vaughn
CINEMATOGRAPHER: Eric Edwards
EDITOR: David Rosenbloom and Dan Lebental
DRAMA/COMEDY with elements of romance
Starring: Vince Vaughn, Jennifer Aniston, Jon Favreau, Jason Bateman, Vincent D’Onofrio, Cole Hauser, Joey Lauren Adams, Peter Billingsley, John Michael Higgins, Ann-Margaret, Judy Davis, Justin Long, and Jacqueline Williams
When celebrity couples make a film, it can be a financial disaster (Gigli starring Ben Affleck and Jennifer Lopez) or a box office smash (Mr. & Mrs. Smith starring Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie). Vince Vaughn and Jennifer Aniston are a celebrity couple (although they are coy about it), and their film, The Break-Up, was a box office hit in spite of receiving mostly mediocre and poor reviews. But I liked it a lot.
Once upon a time, Gary Grobowski (Vince Vaughn) and Brooke Meyers (Jennifer Aniston) were deeply in love, but like all couples, the daily grind and same old routine started to drive them crazy. One evening, after a long an exhausting day, Gary and Brooke have an argument and somehow it becomes the break-up. The problem is they live together, and neither wants to give up their plum condo. An all-out war and a test of wills begins with each one turning to his or her friends and family for advice. Gary and Brooke are each determined to be the “last man standing,” but, even as things get nastier, will either one like where this feud is going when there are still strong feelings of love.
Vince Vaughn is charming and charismatic, and no matter how many times he plays a sarcastic slacker, it never gets tired. Jennifer Aniston, gorgeous with a tight body and rocking ass, is quiet good in romantic roles. She seems to excel at playing the girlfriend or object of affection, and she does it well enough to suggest that someone should try her in a dramatic role. The Break-Up is her test drive because it is more drama than it is romance or comedy.
Vaughn and Aniston make The Break-Up both spicy and edgy, and it’s absolute delicious fun to watch this take-no-prisoners disintegration of a once thriving relationship. The comedy is dark, and the script maybe goes too far for some viewers in the way the writers are almost anal about showing as many embarrassing scenes and ugly confrontations between Gary and Brooke. As he did in Down with Love, director Peyton Reed is proving to be adept at making offbeat romances.
There are some nice supporting characters, nicely performed by a clever cast of character actors and actors who make a living playing the friend. As good as Jon Favreau, John Michael Higgins, Judy Davis, and Justin long are, they’re really just filler – the kind of comic relief buddies that are all too common in Hollywood relationship flicks. The real treat is Vaughn and Aniston, and The Break-Up is certainly an example of how good it sometimes can be when celebrity couples work together.
7 of 10
A-
Saturday, November 25, 2006
---------------------
Wednesday, November 30, 2011
Review: "DodgeBall: A True Underdog Story" is Still Funny (Happy B'day, Ben Stiller)
DodgeBall: A True Underdog Story (2004)
Running time: 92 minutes (1 hour, 32 minutes)
MPAA – PG-13 for rude and sexual humor, and language
WRITER/DIRECTOR: Rawson Marshall Thurber
PRODUCERS: Stuart Cornfeld and Ben Stiller
CINEMATOGRAPHER: Jerzy Zielinski
EDITOR: Alan Baumgarten and Peter Teschner
COMPOSER: Theodore Shapiro
COMEDY/SPORTS with elements of romance
Starring: Vince Vaughn, Christine Taylor, Ben Stiller, Rip Torn, Justin Long, Stephen Root, Joel David Moore, Chris Williams, Alan Tudyk, Missi Pyle, Jamal E. Duff, Gary Cole, Jason Bateman, Al Kaplon, Curtis Armstrong, and Hank Azaria with (cameos) Lance Armstrong, Chuck Norris, and William Shatner
DodgeBall: A True Underdog Story is a 2004 sports comedy set in the world of competitive dodgeball. Ben Stiller is one of the film’s producers and is also one of the movie’s stars. DodgeBall follows an underdog dodgeball team and their rivalry with a powerhouse team from a big-budget gym.
A group of misfits band together and enter a dodgeball tournament in Las Vegas in order to save their cherished gym, Average Guy Gym. The gym owner, Peter La Fleur (Vince Vaughn), is not an ambitious guy, but he reluctantly joins his friends/customers to go after the $50,000 championship prize.
This prize money will save his gym from foreclosure, where upon it will end up in the hands of Global Gym and its owner, White Goodman (Ben Stiller). When Goodman learns that Peter’s friends will compete in the tournament and that Peter is also dating an attorney (Christine Taylor) he desires, Goodman assembles a killer team of hired muscle to compete in the Las Vegas tournament against Peter and his friends.
DodgeBall: A True Underdog Story is absolutely hilarious. It’s witty, sarcastic, lewd, crude, snarky, and unabashedly lowbrow, but ultimately it’s the kind of belly laugh comedy that doesn’t come around often enough. It’s not high art; it’s the love child of such films as Caddyshack and Revenge of the Nerds. Vince Vaughn, once destined to be a matinee idol, has turned out to be a funny comic actor who gets plenty of mileage out of dry wit and dead pan humor, and though he is warmer than he is hot in this film, he makes DodgeBall.
Anyone who can not take DodgeBall seriously and has the kind of sense of humor that finds a film like Dude, Where’s My Car? funny will like this.
6 of 10
B
NOTES:
2005 Razzie Awards: 1 nomination: “Worst Actor” (Ben Stiller)
------------------------
Saturday, November 12, 2011
Review: Everyone Kills It in "Horrible Bosses"
TRASH IN MY EYE No. 93 (of 2011) by Leroy Douresseaux
Horrible Bosses (2011)
Running time: 98 minutes (1 hour, 38 minutes)
MPAA – R for crude and sexual content, pervasive language and some drug material
DIRECTOR: Seth Gordon
WRITERS: Michael Markowitz and John Francis Daley and Jonathan Goldstein; from a story by Michael Markowitz
PRODUCERS: Brett Ratner and Jay Stern
CINEMATOGRAPHER: David Hennings (D.o.P.)
EDITOR: Peter Teschner
COMEDY/CRIME
Starring: Jason Bateman, Jason Sudeikis, Charlie Day, Kevin Spacey, Jennifer Aniston, Colin Farrell, Lindsay Sloane, Julie Bowen, P.J. Byrne, Donald Sutherland, and Jamie Foxx, Ioan Gruffud, Isaiah Mustafa, Wendell Pierce, and Ron White
Horrible Bosses is a 2011 crime comedy and is the story of three friends who plot to murder the three horrible bosses that make their lives hell. A black comedy because it deals with dark subject matter in an entirely humorous context, Horrible Bosses is one of the year’s funniest movies. As soon as I finished watching it, I wanted to watch it again.
For months, Nick Hendricks (Jason Bateman) practically worked day and night at his job in order to appease his boss, Dave Harken (Kevin Spacey), for a promotion Harken never intended on giving Nick. Harken is a “total fucking asshole.” Dale Arbus (Charlie Day) is a dental assistant who is constantly being grossly sexually harassed by his boss, dentist Dr. Julia Harris (Jennifer Anniston). Harris is an “evil crazy bitch.” An accountant at Pellitt Chemicals, Kurt Buckman (Jason Sudeikis) loves his boss, Jack Pellitt (Donald Sutherland). Then, Jack is replaced by his son, Bobby Pellitt (Colin Farrell), who wants to drain the company of cash that he can spend of hookers and drugs. Bobby is the “dipshit cokehead son.”
One night, over drinks, the three decide to kill their bosses. In search of a hit man, the trio meets Dean “Motherfucker” Jones (Jamie Foxx), who suggests that Nick, Dale, and Kurt kill each other’s bosses to hide their motives while making the deaths look like accidents. The friends discover, however, that killing is harder than they thought. Then, they get unexpected help.
Six years passed between when Horrible Bosses began development and when it finally became a movie. A lot of actors were considered for the various roles, but the filmmakers should consider themselves lucky that things worked out the way they did. The actors who got the roles came together to form a cast that is magic. This gleefully wicked comedy is the result of heaven sent screen chemistry. Everyone is strong, but if I had to choose a standout, it would be Charlie Day as Dale Arbus. Day is a scene stealer and Dale Arbus is a lovable good guy who is funny when he is flustered. Day’s performance turns every scene in which Dale appears – even the most depraved ones – into a comedy gold. Day gives Dale a madness that sparks this film to the next level, so that Horrible Bosses is not just raunchy or just another slob comedy. It is glorious black comedy that stands with the best of them.
Director Seth Gordon gets credit for keeping the actors’ improvisation from going rogue and ruining the film’s pace. Gordon (Four Christmases) is quickly proving himself to be a master of raucous, cheerfully irreverent, non-politically correct comedies. And Horrible Bosses is a masterpiece of incorrectness.
8 of 10
A
Friday, November 11, 2011
--------------------
Monday, August 8, 2011
"Paul" on DVD and Blu-ray August 9th
PAUL arrives on Blu-ray, DVD & Digital Download on August 9, 2011.
BUCKLE UP FOR A HILARIOUS ROAD TRIP FROM THE DIRECTOR OF SUPERBAD & THE STARS AND CREATORS OF HOT FUZZ AND SHAUN OF THE DEAD - PAUL
OWN THE OUTRAGOUS UNRATED VERSION NOT SHOWN IN THEATERS ON BLU-RAY™ COMBO PACK, DVD & DIGITAL DOWNLOAD AUGUST 9, 2011
“Irreverent and hilarious!” – Sean P. Means, SALT LAKE TRIBUNE
“Seth Rogen is perfect as Paul.” – Ray Bennett, THE HOLLYWOOD REPORTER
Universal City, California, June 7, 2011— One tiny alien makes for big, big trouble in the comedy adventure Paul, coming to Blu-ray™ Combo Pack and DVD August 9, 2011, from Universal Studios Home Entertainment. Both versions will feature the theatrical movie, as well as an unrated version of the film, not shown in theaters. The film and its unrated version will also be available day and date for digital download and video on demand.
Paul reunites Simon Pegg and Nick Frost (Hot Fuzz, Shaun of the Dead) as two sci-fi geeks on a pilgrimage to America’s UFO heartland, where they accidentally encounter an alien who sends them on an insane road trip that alters their universe forever. Written by Pegg and Frost, Paul boasts a star-studded cast that features Seth Rogen (The Green Hornet, Knocked Up) as the voice of Paul, Sigourney Weaver (Avatar), Jason Bateman (Hancock), Kristen Wiig (Date Night, Knocked Up), Jane Lynch (“Glee”), Bill Hader (Pineapple Express), Joe Lo Truglio (Role Models), Jeffrey Tambor (“Arrested Development”) and Blythe Danner (Little Fockers). Directed by Greg Mottola (Superbad), Paul comes loaded with in-depth, behind-the-scenes features, bloopers, filmmaker and cast commentary and more, to take viewers on a comical journey behind the making of this critically hailed film.
The Blu-ray™ Combo Pack will include a Blu-ray and DVD copy of the unrated and theatrical versions of the film. Additionally, for a limited time only, the Combo Pack also includes a digital copy of the unrated film that can be viewed anytime, anywhere on an array of digital devices. Blu-ray ™ consumers can also access MY MOVIES™, an exclusive feature that allows consumers to stream a bonus movie instantly to their television through any Internet-connected Blu-ray ™ player via BD-Live™ or to their Smartphone and iPad™ using the free pocket BLU™ app. The bonus movie offer will be available for a limited time only. Visit http://www.universalhidef.com/ for more details.
BONUS FEATURES EXCLUSIVELY AVAILABLE ON BLU-RAY™ COMBO PACK:
· Between the Lightning Strikes: The Making of Paul
· Behind the Scenes Featurettes:
o RV Doorway: The Cast of Paul On-Location — The cast is just as funny off-screen as they are in front of the camera.
o Runway Santa Fe: An Interview with Nancy Steiner — Follow Nancy Steiner, the costume designer, as she chooses hilarious T-shirts and wardrobe for the cast.
o Smithereens — Blowing up a house on location causes excitement among the cast.
o 5th Date Level Direction: The Cast on Greg Mottola — The cast talks about the fun of working with Mottola, who also directed Superbad.
o Mexico Zero: The Locations of Paul—Mexico Zero is the nickname the cast gives to New Mexico, where the majority of filming was done for Paul.
o The Many Pauls — To create Paul, the filmmakers used all the tricks of the trade, from capturing Seth Rogen’s facial expressions and movements, to using a child dressed up as an alien while on-set.
o Paul: The Musical — The cast joins together for an impromptu musical version of the film.
o The Traveler Beagle — A look at all the different RVs used on the set of Paul, from fully functioning vehicles to a mock-up on a Hollywood soundstage.
· BD-LIVE™: Access the BD-Live™ Center through your Internet-connected player to watch the latest trailers and more.
· pocket BLU™: The groundbreaking pocket BLU™ app uses iPhone®, iPod® touch, Android™, PC and Macintosh to work seamlessly with a network-connected Blu-ray™ player. Also available on the iPad®, owners can enjoy a new, enhanced edition of pocket BLU™ made especially to take advantage of the tablet's larger screen and high resolution display. Consumers will be able to browse through a library of Blu-ray™ content and watch entertaining extras on-the-go in a way that's bigger and better than ever before. pocket BLU™ offers advanced features such as:
o Advanced Remote Control — A sleek, elegant new way to operate your Blu-ray™ player. Users can navigate through menus, playback and BD-Live™ functions with ease.
o Video Timeline — Users can easily bring up the video timeline, allowing them to instantly access any point in the film.
o Mobile-To-Go — Users can unlock a selection of bonus content with their Blu-ray™ discs to save to their device or to stream from anywhere there is a Wi-Fi network, enabling them to enjoy content on the go, anytime, anywhere.
o Browse Titles — Users will have access to a complete list of pocket BLU™-enabled titles available and coming to Blu-ray™ Hi-Def. They can view free previews and see what additional content is available to unlock on their device.
o Keyboard — Entering data is fast and easy with your device’s intuitive keyboard.
BONUS FEATURES ON BLU-RAY™ AND DVD:
· Bloopers
· The Evolution of Paul — An inside look at how Paul became a living, breathing alien.
· Simon’s Silly Faces — Simon Pegg makes an assortment of wildly funny faces for the camera.
· Who the Hell is Adam Shadowchild? — Find out about the legendary sci-fi writer from the characters in Paul.
· Feature Commentary with Greg Mottola, Simon Pegg, Nick Frost, Bill Hader and Nira Park
· Photo Galleries, Storyboards and Posters
SYNOPSIS
For the past 60 years, an alien named Paul (voiced by Seth Rogen) has been hanging out at a top-secret military base. For reasons unknown, the space-traveling smartass decides to escape the compound and hop on the first vehicle out of town—a rented RV containing Earthlings Graeme Willy (Pegg) and Clive Gollings (Frost). Chased by federal agents and the fanatical father of a young woman they accidentally kidnap, Graeme and Clive hatch a fumbling escape plan to return Paul to his mother ship. As two nerds struggle to help, one little green man might just take his fellow outcasts from misfits to intergalactic heroes.
http://www.whatispaul.com/
CAST AND FILMMAKERS
Directed By: Greg Mottola
Written By: Simon Pegg & Nick Frost
Produced By: Nira Park, Tim Bevan, Eric Fellner
Executive Producers: Liza Chasin, Debra Hayward, Natascha Wharton, Robert Graf
Director of Photography: Lawrence Sher
Production Designer: Jefferson Sage
Editor: Chris Dickens, ACE
Costume Designer: Nancy Steiner
Music By: David Arnold
Cast: Simon Pegg, Nick Frost, Jason Bateman, Kristen Wiig, Bill Hader, Blythe Danner, Joe Lo Truglio, John Carroll Lynch, Jane Lynch, David Koechner, Jesse Plemons with Sigourney Weaver and Seth Rogen
TECHNICAL INFORMATION
BLU-RAY™ HI-DEF
Street Date: August 9, 2011
Copyright: 2011
Selection Number: 61118963
Running Time: 1Hour 44 Min
Layers: BD-50
Aspect Ratio: Widescreen 2.35:1
Rating: R for language including sexual references and some drug use
Technical Info: English DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1, Spanish and French DTS Surround 5.1, DVS, English SDH, Spanish and French Subtitles
DVD
Street Date: August 9, 2011
Copyright: 2011
Selection Number: 61111728
Running Time: 1Hour 44 Min
Layers: Dual Layer
Aspect Ratio: Anamorphic Widescreen 2.35:1
Rating: R for language including sexual references and some drug use
Technical Info: Dolby Digital English 5.1, Spanish 5.1, French 5.1, DVS, English SDH, Spanish and French Subtitles
NBCUniversal is one of the world’s leading media and entertainment companies in the development, production and marketing of entertainment, news and information to a global audience. NBCUniversal owns and operates a valuable portfolio of news and entertainment television networks, a premier motion picture company, significant television production operations, a leading television stations group and world-renowned theme parks. Comcast Corporation owns a controlling 51% interest in NBCUniversal, with GE holding a 49% stake.
BUCKLE UP FOR A HILARIOUS ROAD TRIP FROM THE DIRECTOR OF SUPERBAD & THE STARS AND CREATORS OF HOT FUZZ AND SHAUN OF THE DEAD - PAUL
OWN THE OUTRAGOUS UNRATED VERSION NOT SHOWN IN THEATERS ON BLU-RAY™ COMBO PACK, DVD & DIGITAL DOWNLOAD AUGUST 9, 2011
“Irreverent and hilarious!” – Sean P. Means, SALT LAKE TRIBUNE
“Seth Rogen is perfect as Paul.” – Ray Bennett, THE HOLLYWOOD REPORTER
Universal City, California, June 7, 2011— One tiny alien makes for big, big trouble in the comedy adventure Paul, coming to Blu-ray™ Combo Pack and DVD August 9, 2011, from Universal Studios Home Entertainment. Both versions will feature the theatrical movie, as well as an unrated version of the film, not shown in theaters. The film and its unrated version will also be available day and date for digital download and video on demand.
Paul reunites Simon Pegg and Nick Frost (Hot Fuzz, Shaun of the Dead) as two sci-fi geeks on a pilgrimage to America’s UFO heartland, where they accidentally encounter an alien who sends them on an insane road trip that alters their universe forever. Written by Pegg and Frost, Paul boasts a star-studded cast that features Seth Rogen (The Green Hornet, Knocked Up) as the voice of Paul, Sigourney Weaver (Avatar), Jason Bateman (Hancock), Kristen Wiig (Date Night, Knocked Up), Jane Lynch (“Glee”), Bill Hader (Pineapple Express), Joe Lo Truglio (Role Models), Jeffrey Tambor (“Arrested Development”) and Blythe Danner (Little Fockers). Directed by Greg Mottola (Superbad), Paul comes loaded with in-depth, behind-the-scenes features, bloopers, filmmaker and cast commentary and more, to take viewers on a comical journey behind the making of this critically hailed film.
The Blu-ray™ Combo Pack will include a Blu-ray and DVD copy of the unrated and theatrical versions of the film. Additionally, for a limited time only, the Combo Pack also includes a digital copy of the unrated film that can be viewed anytime, anywhere on an array of digital devices. Blu-ray ™ consumers can also access MY MOVIES™, an exclusive feature that allows consumers to stream a bonus movie instantly to their television through any Internet-connected Blu-ray ™ player via BD-Live™ or to their Smartphone and iPad™ using the free pocket BLU™ app. The bonus movie offer will be available for a limited time only. Visit http://www.universalhidef.com/ for more details.
BONUS FEATURES EXCLUSIVELY AVAILABLE ON BLU-RAY™ COMBO PACK:
· Between the Lightning Strikes: The Making of Paul
· Behind the Scenes Featurettes:
o RV Doorway: The Cast of Paul On-Location — The cast is just as funny off-screen as they are in front of the camera.
o Runway Santa Fe: An Interview with Nancy Steiner — Follow Nancy Steiner, the costume designer, as she chooses hilarious T-shirts and wardrobe for the cast.
o Smithereens — Blowing up a house on location causes excitement among the cast.
o 5th Date Level Direction: The Cast on Greg Mottola — The cast talks about the fun of working with Mottola, who also directed Superbad.
o Mexico Zero: The Locations of Paul—Mexico Zero is the nickname the cast gives to New Mexico, where the majority of filming was done for Paul.
o The Many Pauls — To create Paul, the filmmakers used all the tricks of the trade, from capturing Seth Rogen’s facial expressions and movements, to using a child dressed up as an alien while on-set.
o Paul: The Musical — The cast joins together for an impromptu musical version of the film.
o The Traveler Beagle — A look at all the different RVs used on the set of Paul, from fully functioning vehicles to a mock-up on a Hollywood soundstage.
· BD-LIVE™: Access the BD-Live™ Center through your Internet-connected player to watch the latest trailers and more.
· pocket BLU™: The groundbreaking pocket BLU™ app uses iPhone®, iPod® touch, Android™, PC and Macintosh to work seamlessly with a network-connected Blu-ray™ player. Also available on the iPad®, owners can enjoy a new, enhanced edition of pocket BLU™ made especially to take advantage of the tablet's larger screen and high resolution display. Consumers will be able to browse through a library of Blu-ray™ content and watch entertaining extras on-the-go in a way that's bigger and better than ever before. pocket BLU™ offers advanced features such as:
o Advanced Remote Control — A sleek, elegant new way to operate your Blu-ray™ player. Users can navigate through menus, playback and BD-Live™ functions with ease.
o Video Timeline — Users can easily bring up the video timeline, allowing them to instantly access any point in the film.
o Mobile-To-Go — Users can unlock a selection of bonus content with their Blu-ray™ discs to save to their device or to stream from anywhere there is a Wi-Fi network, enabling them to enjoy content on the go, anytime, anywhere.
o Browse Titles — Users will have access to a complete list of pocket BLU™-enabled titles available and coming to Blu-ray™ Hi-Def. They can view free previews and see what additional content is available to unlock on their device.
o Keyboard — Entering data is fast and easy with your device’s intuitive keyboard.
BONUS FEATURES ON BLU-RAY™ AND DVD:
· Bloopers
· The Evolution of Paul — An inside look at how Paul became a living, breathing alien.
· Simon’s Silly Faces — Simon Pegg makes an assortment of wildly funny faces for the camera.
· Who the Hell is Adam Shadowchild? — Find out about the legendary sci-fi writer from the characters in Paul.
· Feature Commentary with Greg Mottola, Simon Pegg, Nick Frost, Bill Hader and Nira Park
· Photo Galleries, Storyboards and Posters
SYNOPSIS
For the past 60 years, an alien named Paul (voiced by Seth Rogen) has been hanging out at a top-secret military base. For reasons unknown, the space-traveling smartass decides to escape the compound and hop on the first vehicle out of town—a rented RV containing Earthlings Graeme Willy (Pegg) and Clive Gollings (Frost). Chased by federal agents and the fanatical father of a young woman they accidentally kidnap, Graeme and Clive hatch a fumbling escape plan to return Paul to his mother ship. As two nerds struggle to help, one little green man might just take his fellow outcasts from misfits to intergalactic heroes.
http://www.whatispaul.com/
CAST AND FILMMAKERS
Directed By: Greg Mottola
Written By: Simon Pegg & Nick Frost
Produced By: Nira Park, Tim Bevan, Eric Fellner
Executive Producers: Liza Chasin, Debra Hayward, Natascha Wharton, Robert Graf
Director of Photography: Lawrence Sher
Production Designer: Jefferson Sage
Editor: Chris Dickens, ACE
Costume Designer: Nancy Steiner
Music By: David Arnold
Cast: Simon Pegg, Nick Frost, Jason Bateman, Kristen Wiig, Bill Hader, Blythe Danner, Joe Lo Truglio, John Carroll Lynch, Jane Lynch, David Koechner, Jesse Plemons with Sigourney Weaver and Seth Rogen
TECHNICAL INFORMATION
BLU-RAY™ HI-DEF
Street Date: August 9, 2011
Copyright: 2011
Selection Number: 61118963
Running Time: 1Hour 44 Min
Layers: BD-50
Aspect Ratio: Widescreen 2.35:1
Rating: R for language including sexual references and some drug use
Technical Info: English DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1, Spanish and French DTS Surround 5.1, DVS, English SDH, Spanish and French Subtitles
DVD
Street Date: August 9, 2011
Copyright: 2011
Selection Number: 61111728
Running Time: 1Hour 44 Min
Layers: Dual Layer
Aspect Ratio: Anamorphic Widescreen 2.35:1
Rating: R for language including sexual references and some drug use
Technical Info: Dolby Digital English 5.1, Spanish 5.1, French 5.1, DVS, English SDH, Spanish and French Subtitles
NBCUniversal is one of the world’s leading media and entertainment companies in the development, production and marketing of entertainment, news and information to a global audience. NBCUniversal owns and operates a valuable portfolio of news and entertainment television networks, a premier motion picture company, significant television production operations, a leading television stations group and world-renowned theme parks. Comcast Corporation owns a controlling 51% interest in NBCUniversal, with GE holding a 49% stake.
Wednesday, June 22, 2011
"Horrible Bosses" Soundtrack Hits Digital Retailers July 5th
“Horrible Bosses” Soundtrack Set for July 5th Release
Features Mike McCready (Pearl Jam), Stefan Lessard (Dave Matthews Band), Money Mark (Beastie Boys)
BURBANK, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--WaterTower Music will release “Horrible Bosses: The Original Motion Picture Soundtrack” at all digital retailers on July 5, 2011. This audio companion to New Line Cinema’s irreverent comedy “Horrible Bosses” will offer a unique and exciting musical experience to the listener. Grammy Award Winner and Emmy Award nominated composer Christopher Lennertz (Ozomatli, Supernatural, Lemonade Mouth) has assembled an all-star collection of artists to collaborate on the soundtrack. Bringing together Mike McCready of Pearl Jam, Stefan Lessard of Dave Matthews Band, and Money Mark – a long time Beastie Boys collaborator - to join forces and record with musicians Matt Chamberlain, David Levita, Aaron Kaplan, Victor Indrizzo, Chris Chaney, and Davey Chegwidden, Lennertz has created a wildly funky musical journey to the film.
“I was pretty stoked when Christopher asked me to play guitar on some of these tracks and to collaborate and brainstorm with all these amazing players,” says McCready of the project.
Adds Lessard, “Chris has such a wonderful vibe. It was a pleasure to work on this film and with all these guys and I had a lot of fun throwing down these bass lines.”
In the comedy “Horrible Bosses,” Jason Bateman (“Couples Retreat”), Charlie Day (“Going the Distance”) and Jason Sudeikis (“Hall Pass”) star as three hapless workers who realize that the only way to make their daily grind more tolerable would be to grind their intolerable bosses into dust. Quitting is not an option so, with the benefit of a few-too-many drinks and the dubious advice of a hustling ex-con, the three friends devise a convoluted and seemingly foolproof plan to rid themselves of their respective employers…permanently. But, even the best laid plans are only as foolproof as the brains behind them, Jennifer Aniston (“He’s Just Not That Into You”), Colin Farrell (“Crazy Heart”) and two-time Oscar® winner Kevin Spacey (“American Beauty,” “The Usual Suspects”) star as the unbearable bosses and Oscar® winner Jamie Foxx (“Ray”) stars as the plotters’ unlikely mentor. The main cast also includes veteran actor Donald Sutherland and Julie Bowen (TV’s “Modern Family”).
“Horrible Bosses” is directed by Seth Gordon (“Four Christmases,” “The King of Kong: A Fistful of Quarters”) and produced by Brett Ratner and Jay Stern. The screenplay is by Michael Markowitz and John Francis Daley & Jonathan Goldstein, story by Markowitz. Toby Emmerich, Richard Brener, Michael Disco, Samuel J. Brown and Diana Pokorny serve as executive producers, with John Rickard and John Cheng as co-producers. The creative filmmaking team includes director of photography David Hennings; production designer Shepherd Frankel; editor Peter Teschner; costume designer Carol Ramsey; and composer Christopher Lennertz. Dana Sano is the music supervisor. It is rated R for crude and sexual content, pervasive language and some drug material.
“Horrible Bosses” opens nationwide on Friday, July 8, 2011.
http://www.horriblebossesmovie.com/
Features Mike McCready (Pearl Jam), Stefan Lessard (Dave Matthews Band), Money Mark (Beastie Boys)
BURBANK, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--WaterTower Music will release “Horrible Bosses: The Original Motion Picture Soundtrack” at all digital retailers on July 5, 2011. This audio companion to New Line Cinema’s irreverent comedy “Horrible Bosses” will offer a unique and exciting musical experience to the listener. Grammy Award Winner and Emmy Award nominated composer Christopher Lennertz (Ozomatli, Supernatural, Lemonade Mouth) has assembled an all-star collection of artists to collaborate on the soundtrack. Bringing together Mike McCready of Pearl Jam, Stefan Lessard of Dave Matthews Band, and Money Mark – a long time Beastie Boys collaborator - to join forces and record with musicians Matt Chamberlain, David Levita, Aaron Kaplan, Victor Indrizzo, Chris Chaney, and Davey Chegwidden, Lennertz has created a wildly funky musical journey to the film.
“I was pretty stoked when Christopher asked me to play guitar on some of these tracks and to collaborate and brainstorm with all these amazing players,” says McCready of the project.
Adds Lessard, “Chris has such a wonderful vibe. It was a pleasure to work on this film and with all these guys and I had a lot of fun throwing down these bass lines.”
In the comedy “Horrible Bosses,” Jason Bateman (“Couples Retreat”), Charlie Day (“Going the Distance”) and Jason Sudeikis (“Hall Pass”) star as three hapless workers who realize that the only way to make their daily grind more tolerable would be to grind their intolerable bosses into dust. Quitting is not an option so, with the benefit of a few-too-many drinks and the dubious advice of a hustling ex-con, the three friends devise a convoluted and seemingly foolproof plan to rid themselves of their respective employers…permanently. But, even the best laid plans are only as foolproof as the brains behind them, Jennifer Aniston (“He’s Just Not That Into You”), Colin Farrell (“Crazy Heart”) and two-time Oscar® winner Kevin Spacey (“American Beauty,” “The Usual Suspects”) star as the unbearable bosses and Oscar® winner Jamie Foxx (“Ray”) stars as the plotters’ unlikely mentor. The main cast also includes veteran actor Donald Sutherland and Julie Bowen (TV’s “Modern Family”).
“Horrible Bosses” is directed by Seth Gordon (“Four Christmases,” “The King of Kong: A Fistful of Quarters”) and produced by Brett Ratner and Jay Stern. The screenplay is by Michael Markowitz and John Francis Daley & Jonathan Goldstein, story by Markowitz. Toby Emmerich, Richard Brener, Michael Disco, Samuel J. Brown and Diana Pokorny serve as executive producers, with John Rickard and John Cheng as co-producers. The creative filmmaking team includes director of photography David Hennings; production designer Shepherd Frankel; editor Peter Teschner; costume designer Carol Ramsey; and composer Christopher Lennertz. Dana Sano is the music supervisor. It is rated R for crude and sexual content, pervasive language and some drug material.
“Horrible Bosses” opens nationwide on Friday, July 8, 2011.
http://www.horriblebossesmovie.com/
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)