The Interview about The Interview

As we all know The Interview has been yanked! Pulled! Put on the shelf! The film seemed to have a very captivating story line. No boy meets girl crap, more like B list celebrities killing a dictator. Who else could pull off such a comedy other than two freaks and geeks. (see what I did there) To no surprise the film was just to close to home for America and North Korea. I don’t blame Sony at all for not releasing the film in theaters. Why not just do another Pineapple Express! That movie had a lot of comedic flair, where as The Interview seemed to have too much flair… (don don tushhh). As we sit back and watch the media blow this situation way out of proportion I say lets hear it from the horse’s mouth or settle for Rogan and Franco’s mouths.

When I was a freshman in high school there was a senior that stood out in my drama class. How dis he stand out you ask? Well one he was hilarious but two I had a class with a senior. As long as we have been Facebook friend I have seen him do videos, live shows, and even was in the film Rock of Ages. You can say our small home town is pretty proud of him. I encourage all of you to check him out! Shane Harline  or Wooden Steel Productions!

We all can have a love for film but it is even cooler to share it with someone who lives it!

Hungrier During Thanksgiving! [Mockingjay Part 1 Movie Review]

On a scale from Go see it now to wait for it on Netflix. I would give Mockingjay Part 1 wait for the sequel.

The movie is packed with captivating drama, intimate chemistry among the actors, depressing storyline, and pointless climax. Normally within the first 20 minutes of any ordinary film you will get the plot line, twist, and know where it is headed. The back story will have explained itself and most of the audience will become engaged with the story. For Mockingjay, the producers didn’t really think about the flow of the storyline at all. It was like they gave you half of a Thanksgiving dinner, yea I know what ingredients are on the plate but can I finish eating so I am satisfied?

Mockingjay Part 1

For true fans, of course we are going to spent $50 on our date night to go see this film. That is why they can get away with taking the first half of the film and end it at its first major twist. There was not one moment in the film where we felt hopeful. Not one moment that showed a sign of winning the war. Couldnt you at least ended the film on a high note? You can make a horrible film and if the last 10 minutes are amazing, the audience will forgive you. Mockingjay Par 1 couldn’t even deliver anything more than feeling like you need to take a Xanax. At least The Twilight Saga gave us something to look forward to at the end of Braking Dawn Part 1. This is my disappointment in Hollywood. They split the film into two unnecessary films in order to double or even triple their profits. Well good for you. You got me, twice! But I am not happy about it, and now I have to wait for part 2 to feel any kind of hope for Katniss! End rant.

The only flair in this film is the worst anticipation for a sequel ever. Maybe this is how the director/storyteller wants us to feel. Completely depressed so that way we all run to the box office again next year to find President Snow 6 feet deep. My advice to you is to watch Hunger Games and Catching Fire for another year, and on Thanksgiving 2015 watch Mockingjay part 1 just before you buy your tickets for part 2 in theaters. This way the film will have some type of satisfaction.

Stay Loyal to Your Taste

So what if you are 26 and love Disney movies! Who cares that you like to watch Rocky Horror during Christmas time? Go on and make a list of unseen black and white films that no one will watch with you. Over the years that I have fallen in love with films and I have noticed that it is always a common denominator in conversations with me. I have a tendency to love all types of film from the action packed B-movie, to the musical, to the cult followings of Tarantino. I opened myself up to watching anything and everything people suggested. Some I have realized I will never watch again (Requiem for a Dream or Splice), while others I have embarrassed into my vast range of favorites (Pulp Fiction or The Big Labowski).

One of my biggest pet peeves as an admirer of film for me is those who knock down a movie based on its category. Just because it is a musical doesn’t mean you will hate it. You might come to find that there is a particular story that gains your interest behind the songs. Or that the humor behind the predictable love stories in chick flicks actually tickles your soul. Classics, Comedy, Rom Com, Chick Flicks, Action Movies, Horrors, all types of films that are someones favorite and someone else hates.

I’m not saying to go out there and watch every movie you were ever initially turned off by. I am saying to appreciate the value that film maker put into their films. You have a particular taste in movies that you enjoy watching. Being open-minded is important but embarrassing and sharing your love for your genera is a lot more fun. I force my Dad to watch musicals all the time. He acts like he hates them, and he always will. That is ok because every time I see a musical that I know he would appreciate the simple fact that I force him to watch it with me. And lets just say that is the only time I get to say ‘I told you so’ to my Father.

Personally, I love the blockbusting tweenie trilogies like Hunger Games. I will go to a midnight showing! My mother and I did read the Twilight Saga and dressed in our best PJ’s to watch Breaking Dawn Part 2. Hold on tight to what you love about movies and go out of your comfort zone to see what else is out there. Movies are full of stories, emotions, artistic values, and creative actions that unite its viewers. Never again be misunderstood based on your taste. Value your loyalty and the commitment to other film lovers and their genres. Every film has its flair, all are loved by someone. Don’t be ashamed of your flair.

Falling in Love with Your Own Words

P L Travers

As a writer you have to fall in love with your work everyday. The characters you create must have a special place in your heart. Saving Mr. Banks was a great film that expressed a writers (P. L. Travers) bond with her story. She feared putting Mary Poppins on the big screen because someone else would have altered the character, someone else would be in control of who Mary Poppins, Mr. Banks, and other characters were originally on paper. As a writer I agree with Ms. Travers. It is hard to let go of such wonderful people who you have created. Same reason that Silvester Stallone had to play Rocky. He wrote the script himself and took a major pay cut in order to play the star role. When a writer falls in love with their work, they fight to keep it as they initially intended.

Not only is it important to fall in love with your characters but your plot line and underlining message. I am an advocate for coming-to-age films like Juno. I praise Diablo Cody, writer of Juno and Showtime’s United States of Tara because she writes for the story not for the money. Juno had such a strong connection with audiences and a true connection to Cody’s personal high school experience. You can not get bored with your own ideas. As a writer you have to believe in yourself more than anyone else. The writers that write for the sake of telling a story are the writers that impact generations.

As I am currently writing my own coming-to-age film. I fall in love with ever character, plot line twist, and at times high-five myself for my creative efforts. I get excited about my visual ideas, and convicting dialog. My own brain surprises me. I have to revise my script about 100 times before I bring it to the actors. I am excited to be in the stages of development to see how others interpret my story. But with that being said I will also fight for my message. What I put into my stories are characters that do things I could never do, and in situations others experience day-to-day. I love coming-to-age films because the story behind someones personal growth is foundational to shaping who they are. People relate to that. It is like watching an underdog win every time! Something we always want to see.

For me I am a lot like P. L. Travers. Even if Disney offered to make my film, I’d pull a Stallone. My story has an intended message, and my characters are like my children. I am proud of what is to come of my writing. That is why I have always, and will continue to write, direct, and edit my own films. I do not care to be a big time director, I just want to tell other’s stories. Being completely committed to your own creativity only give flair to your film.

Ebert to Spielberg

Movie fans have become critics. Critics have become the voice to the film maker rather than an opinion to the audience. Yet film makers are still film makers. I have myself written many reviews and thought that I could be a critic one day. The truth is I do not want to have the job to tell another artist that their film lacks flair because they broke a rule of film making. I want to understand why they made the scene they did, how they chose the actors, I want to learn about the film makers imagination to have a better understanding of the art they created.

Me, my producer, and cast at 2013 LYS Film Festival

I have myself written a few storyline and scripts. I am not an Oscar winner but I did have a film win the Best ‘E’ for Everyone short at the 2013 Love Your Shorts Film Festival in Central Florida. It was an amazing feeling having people appreciate your ideas and connect with your story. The best part was people asking the hows and they whys about your film making experience. It is a rush and a high greater than any other. Since I have written and directed my own film, I have seen different perspectives on films and what really puts the flair in them. I have been inspired by others and I read more reviews to gain a wide range of perception on the artist behind the camera.

I am going on a journey to writing a new script, and directing a new short. I am going to put a lot of emotion into this film and I want to invite you on this journey. I will begin to document on this blog where my inspirations are coming from and the how and where I am within the film making experience. If you follow the blog for reviews or fun ideas, keep on following because the ride is about to turn into a rollercoaster. Lets journey the experience together whether you are a Ebert or a Spielberg.

Top 10 Films to Watch for During Oscar Season

The moment you realize the holidays are around the corner is the moment you realize it is Oscar Season. Most of the movies that are entering theaters between August and December are usually advertising to be in the Oscar running in February. Entering the season are the top 10 films to look out for:

Foxcatcher- Directed by Bennett Miller. In theaters November 14. The film is gaining buzz on the acting standpoint, anytime you see actors go further than their comfort zone in an Oscar buzzing film you will see the possibility for the Academy recognizing their efforts. The film is based on a true story (only to bring more attention to the Academy) about the Olympic wrestler Mark Schultz and his sponsor. Starring Steve Carell, Channing Tatum, Anthony Michael Hall, Mark Rufallo.

Boyhood-  Directed by Richard Linklater. This film is most defiantly been on watch for years. Sorry Avatar but Boyhood has been in the making for 12 years, using the same actors and watching them age. The story is about a boy from age 5 to 18 years old. The film is the first of its kind and has more authentication then any film ever made. Already nabbed best Picture, Actress, and Director in Seattle’s Film Festival. ONly more to come from the star-studded cast. Starring Ethan Hawk, Ellar Coltrane, and Patricia Arquette.

The Grand Budapest Hotel– Directed by Wes Anderson. A film about a concierge and lobby boy who become good friends at the legendary hotel. The film is a Anderson Classic with humor and his regular cast. The film has won the Silver Berlin Bear at the Berlin Film festival. Anderson does not fall short with his witty humor or attention to detail. This is a must see for this years Oscars. Starring Ralph Fiennes, Adrien Brody, Willem Dafoe, Jude Law, Edward Norton, Jason Schwartzman, and the list goes on. 

Gone Girl- Directed by David Fincher. The film is based on Gillian Flynn novel, about a mans who is the center of attention in his wifes disappearance. Fincher has directed many mind-blowing suspense films including Oscar-winning Social Network, and Emmy Winning House of Cards. This film has the attention of audiences for its twist and darkness, and has the Academy looking right at Affleck and Fincher for acting and directing. Dont let us down!  Starring Ben Affleck, Rosamund Pike, and Neil Patrick Harris

Interstellar– Directed By Christopher Nolan. Batman in space. Just kidding. This film is about the experience explorers take toward a newly discovered worm hole. So it is Gravity meets Armageddon. An intense action film in space with all the wonderful actors and new film technology you could want. The film is a buzz because of its originality and having Nolan’s name on it doesn’t hurt. Starring Matthew McConaughey, Anne Hathaway, Jessica Chastain.

Mr. Turner– Directed by Mike Leigh. Timothy Spall will most likely get nominated for best actor already winning Cannes Film Festival 2014 for his role as British Painter Mr. turner. Spall has played some iconic characters in such films as Harry Potter and Sweeny Todd.  Now he has his chance to express range as he reenact the life of. Leigh has been nominated 7 times for an Oscar, so maybe Mr. Turner will turn number 8 into some luck. defiantly a film on your watch list this Oscar season. Starring Timothy Spall, Paul Jesson, and Dorothy Atkinson.

Unbroken- Director Angelina Jolie. The film tells the story of another Olympic star, Louis Zamperini, who in World War II was taken prisoner by the Japanese. And no one can deny that they aren’t slightly interested in seeing Jolie’s directing skills. The Film is currently in post production. the Oscar buzz is not far away with the Coen brothers having written the screen play, you can be sure to find a poetic and symbolic story line.  Starring Jack O’Connell, Domhnall Gleeson, and Jai Courtney.

Big Eyes- Director Tim Burton. Amy Adams plays Margaret Keane the 1950’s painter who was famous for her painting of a eyeless girl. Burton has had many nominations and well as Adams, seven together but no wins yet. Many are excited to see the collaboration come to life. The film has not yet been released. Also starring Krysten Ritter, and Oscar Winner Christoph Waltz.

Into the Woods- Directed by Rob Marshall. A Disney musical brought to life with an Oscar-winning cast such as Johnny Depp, Anna Kendrick, Emily Blunt, and the forever queen of the Oscars  Meryl Streep. They made a movie from the depths of storytelling, a lot like ABC’s Once Upon A Time series, the film mends different fairytale plots together. The costume design, music, and directing skills will be buzzing in the next few months, Academy can you hear it?

Fault in Our Stars- Directed by Josh Boone. Shailene Woodley is certainly a top candidate for best actress this year, if not for this film it will be for White Bird in the Blizzard. This film is defiantly a fan favorite among a younger audience, as well as a buzzing feed for the Academy. Anytime a plot has a current social dilemma and love together you will see the flair, and the nominations for Oscars flowing in. This film has all the flair to be on the must watch Oscar ballet list.

 

Watch out for these films as they come out for rental or come to a theater near you. These are sure to have great true story line plots, intense twist, and amazing acting as they all will be in the running for February’s Oscars.

Teller to All

Miles Teller to be the next Hanks

The best actors are the average joes that blast into theaters in every genre. Classic example of this would be Tom Hanks, the Oscar winning actor for Forest Gump. He began his career in comedies, but never let Hollywood typecast him. He has played the romantic, the survivor, the war hero, and the famous story telling chocolate eating runner. It takes hard work in order to avoid being type casted. The best way is to have that rhino vision with your acting career. Put your head down and run as fast as you can forward taking everything down in your way.

Miles Teller is in his moment of rhino vision. He isn’t waiting for the right roles, he is taking on every experience possible and this will shape him to be a versatile actor. First seen as the country boy in Footloose, Teller took off running with five movies in 2014 and five more to come in 2015. He has displayed his funny young side with Project X and 21 & Over. He has also touched our hearts with the romantic in him shining through in The Spectacular Now. He hasn’t been shy with the blockbusters either, playing Peter in Divergent. Ladies can look forward to his date night flicks such as That Awkward Moment with Zac Efron, and his new romantic comedy with Two Night Stand. It’s a great resume for establishing diverse range.

Not only will he be in the blockbuster sequel Insurgent. Teller has also signed up to be Mr. Fantastic in the promising remake of The Fantastic Four, with a sequel already announced. I wouldn’t be surprised to see him with an Oscar nomination within the next five years. Turner and Hooch remake anyone.  He might not have the house hold man yet, but by next summer no one will out shine the average Joe actor.

This is (for) 40 (and 20 plus)

What was your favoirte thing about Knocked Up? The unrealistic love story, or the realistic sister and her relatable family situation? …That’s what I thought.

Director and writer of 40-year Old Virgin, and Pinapple Express, Judd Apatow, has a new project branching off his 2007 comedy Kocked Up. This is 40 is a spin off from about Debbie and Pete. You might remember the characters from the film, Pete was the jerk husband who secretly went to fantasy baseball meetings and Debbie was the paraniod mother who says whatever is on her mind.  

The film takes a look at the couple and their decisions to enhance their lives, now that they are reaching 40. Knowing that this is a Judd Apatow film, audiances can take comfort that this won’t be a film directed at one generation. This isn’t the next ‘Something’s Gotta Give’.  

The solid cast will draw in audiences from all generations. Paul Rudd and Leslie Mann (Judd Apatow’s wife) are a dream duo. Also in the film is the halarious Jason Segel from I Love You, Man and Forgetting Sarah Marshall, Bridesmaids Melissa McCarthy, and apperiences from Chris O’Dowd and Megan Fox.

The film will hit thearters this Christmas, the perfect time for married couples to laugh at themselves. Don’t be surprised when you see all ages of people in the seats next to you, because this film has flair.

This IS 40

“Stay Classy, Planet Earth”

They’re Back

They’re back! Not The Gremlins (which might be hilarious) nothing paranormal, but yes the classic slapstick news spoof honoring the legendary ‘San Diegoian’ Ron Burgundy. The Channel 4 News Team is reassembling for a sequel to Anchorman coming in 2013.

Paul Rudd, Steve Carell, and David Koechner make up Will Ferrell’s unforgettable comedic gang in the 2004 comedy Anchorman: The Legend of Ron Burgundy. These unforgettable characters were played by now staple comedians in the film industry, but at the time these men were not known outside of Will Ferrell’s shadow.

Today when you hear the name Steve Carell, films like The 40-Year Old Virgin, Crazy Stupid Love, and the iconic show The Office come to mind. As for Paul Rudd, you might think of I Love You, Man, Wunderlust, and Our Idiot Brother. These main stream comedians have flourished from the secondary comedian to the leading men in some of our favorite films.
Anchorman became an instant classic in the category of spoof comedies. Having the original cast coming back together after establishing their careers can only excite fans even more.

It is not just another Will Ferrell film, Anchorman 2 will be a Paul Rudd, Steve Carell, and Will Ferrell film. We loved them together the first time, and we have grown to love them as they took on leading roles. The comedic possibilities for this sequel are limitless, and would be difficult to disappoint.

Anchorman 2. 2013. Get excited.

Super 8

Ready for the summer changing Sci-Fi thriller… with writer/director J.J. Abrams and producer Steven Spielberg! Call it Super 8.  The flair of this film is unlimited, unmeasurable, and is the film that will blow your mind.

Audiences have been waiting for this eye peeling Sci-Fi thriller. War of the Worlds grossed over 234 million, yet it didn’t carry the originality that Sci-Fi fans crave.

Star Trek (2009), another J.J. Abrams film, was everything the audience would want in a Sci-Fi film. Classic characters with a classic storyline, major upcoming movie stars such as Chris Pine, and the action with a mix of modern movie magic technology kept audiences cheering. Where is the movie thats not so classic, but groundbreaking?

This is where Super 8 comes in. Kids, teens, adults, and anyone else will be interested to explore this mystery. The film makers are keeping the plot as hidden as possible which creates all the more anxiety to see the film.

Not to mention this being Elle Fanning’s first major role. People are curious to see if Dakota Fanning’s sister has such talents (most likely). Is Steven Speilberg sprouting another Drew Barrymore?

All these questions, all this excitement, and it all will be resolved June 10, 2011.