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Trailer: Moonrise Kingdom
Mission:Impossible – Ghost Protocol — Tom Cruise Owns You
Trailer: The Avengers
Trailer: Young Adult
Trailer – Being Elmo: A Puppeteers Journey
Teaser Trailer: Alps
One of the Most Anticipated of 2011: Drive
Teaser Trailer: The Dark Knight Rises
Red Band Trailer: Horrible Bosses
Muppets Take Green Lantern
Trailer: The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo
Trailer Exclusive: Green With Envy
X-Men: First Class Character Trailers
Trailer: Casa De Mi Padre
Trailer: Rise of the Planet of the Apes
Trailer #2: Green Lantern
Trailer: The Hangover II
This is All You Need: First 5 Minutes of Sucker Punch
Trailer – Captain America: The First Avenger
Trailer: Super 8
Trailer #3: Sucker Punch
Trailer: Bad Teacher
Top 5: Super Bowl Movie Commercials
Trailer: Scream 4
First Look: Bridesmaids Trailer
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84th Academy Award Nominations Are In — Here are the Top 5 Disappointments
Every year I somehow care about the Academy Award nominations. They don’t affect me one bit, but I still seem to be concerned about it. Will such n’ such finally get their deserved praise? Will the Academy recognize my favorite films? I guess it’s the only true barometer that matches my cinematic tastes to what the insiders are feeling. And it never seems to match up. The Academy plays favorites (George Clooney can talk out of his ass and get nominated), becomes prude to movies that push the boundaries (Drive, Shame), and seem to forget the smaller films released anytime outside the crowded November/December release schedule.
For what its worth, check out the Oscar Nominees HERE. We now live in a world where the phrase “Academy Award Nominee Jonah Hill” is a reality.
Here are FIVE reasons this slew of nominations is ridiculously disappointing.
1. SHAME on the Academy for being such prudes. I get it, it’s not easy to watch a chronic masturbator/sex addict live his life. But man, Michael Fassbender hairy palms hands down had the best performance of the year in this film. George Clooney doesn’t even come close to this painful performance. NC-17 + sex is too much for the prudes to handle. Grow up, Academy. Oh wait, you’re all over 80 years old.
2. I wasn’t expecting DRIVE to get a Best Picture nomination (even though it deserved it), but no Albert Brooks nom for Best Supporting Actor?! In one of his greatest performances to date, Albert Brooks has to live with the fact that Jonah Hill will be getting fitted for a tux very shortly.
3. I refuse to see EXTREMELY LOUD & INCREDIBLY CLOSE. Who wants to watch something so obviously manipulative?! Rotten Tomatoes currently has it at 51% — which means it’s not very good. And it was nominated for BEST PICTURE?! How did this happen? What type of underground campaigning was going on? Things that make you go, hmmm.
4. While THE ADVENTURES OF TINTIN wasn’t perfect, there is no denying the quality of animation there. Even with a flat script, there were many jaw dropping scenes that stood above the pack of animated fare in 2011. Apparently, the Academy thinks Kung Fu Panda 2 is a more worthy animated film. *Shaking my head in disbelief*
5. In an effort to seem hip and celebrate mainstream films, BRIDESMAIDS received two nominations (Supporting Actress & Original Screenplay). While the movie was funny, it has no place on Oscar night. This nomination feels more like the Golden Globes.
With all that being said, I’m really happy that The Tree of Life got it’s fair shake. It was a divisive film, but a film that had more brains than most of the nominees combined. And to justify my watching the awards, one of my favorite films of 2011 has the most nominations (HUGO). If you want to feel warm and fuzzy inside, check it out.
Trailer: Moonrise Kingdom
Jiminy Cricket…it’s here!
When Wes Anderson releases a new film, you should pay attention. He’s one of the few American directors out there with a unique style and sense towards story and directing in film. When you see a Wes Anderson film, you know it, even if you never see his name on the credits. On May 25th, his latest venture into quirk will be released. Moonrise Kingdom stars Edward Norton, Bruce Willis, Bill Murray and more in what looks to be a welcome throwback to the sweetness of Rushmore.
One problem. Is this TOO Wes Anderson-ey? In other words, is it so quirky that it walks the fine line of Anderson satirizing himself? We went down this route with another defined filmmaker, Quentin Tarantino. Death Proof was TOO much QT. You could almost feel him in the background clapping at everyone one of his scripted lines. Let’s hope not. This cast, this idea, this sepia toned cinematography has too much potential.
Set on an island off the coast of New England in the summer of 1965, MOONRISE KINGDOM tells the story of two twelve-year-olds who fall in love, make a secret pact, and run away together into the wilderness. As various authorities try to hunt them down, a violent storm is brewing off-shore — and the peaceful island community is turned upside down in more ways than anyone can handle. Bruce Willis plays the local sheriff. Edward Norton is a Khaki Scout troop leader. Bill Murray and Frances McDormand portray the young girl’s parents. The cast also includes Tilda Swinton, Jason Schwartzman, and Jared Gilman and Kara Hayward as the boy and girl.
Check out the trailer after the jump!
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The Best Trailers of 2011
Although I’ve seen a ton of films this year, I still have a few “must see” films left (4 to be exact). Before compiling my favorite movies of 2011 list, I wanted to take a look at some of the great trailer marketing of 2011. While Hollywood took a step back in the quality of film releases (more about that later), it really stepped up its marketing game in 2011. The trailers thrilled me us, teased me us, and got me us pumped to see the film opening weekend. . Unfortunately for some of these, they didn’t deliver on the promise. Here is my list of the best movie trailers of 2011 released films.
#6 The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo
“I have no idea what I just saw, but it looks AMAZING!” – My thoughts after watching this trailer for the 5th time in a row.
“WTF? Really? That’s what all the hype was about?!” – My thoughts after the disappointment of the actual film.
The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo — another example of great marketing; sub-par product. Fantastic cover by Trent Reznor/Karen O of “Immigrant Song” (Listen to it here). The use of quick edits to showcase David Fincher’s stylized directing is superb. The trailer is intriguing and gives nothing away. I loved it. Just didn’t love the movie.
#5 Drive
One of the best things about this trailer is that it hides NOTHING. What you see here is what you get (minus a few smashed heads). It’s intense. It’s gritty. It’s all kinds of awesome. And unlike most trailers, this is the actual music from the film (I highly recommend checking out the soundtrack…Spotify – hint hint). It sets the mood perfectly. My only complaint is that it gives almost too much of the story here.
#4 Shame
If you think this trailer makes you feel a bit uneasy, wait til you see the film. Michael Fassbender should win an Oscar for his portrayal as a sex addict. Unfortunately, the Academy is a bunch of prudes. The trailer encompasses the claustrophobic feeling of Fassbender’s lack of self control in a very subtle way. You hear the heavy breathing (he’s running, it’s not what you’re thinking), the sweeping music, and the visuals of sexual deviance. This trailer intrigues while not overplaying it’s hand. Additionally, they came out with another brilliant trailer that speaks for itself. Carey Mulligan’s rendition of “New York, New York” is one of the most depressing versions…ever
#3 Like Crazy
This trailer broke my heart. And that might subconsciously be why I still haven’t seen the movie. With mixed reviews, I was afraid it would ruin the emotion that these two minutes brings to the table. How often do you worry about a movie ruining the marketing? From Ingrid Michaelson’s haunting cover of “Can’t Help Falling in Love” to the soft, almost dreamlike visuals – this trailer is a great example of how a song choice can perfectly set the mood in film marketing. From these two minutes, you know there is love, there is heartbreak, and it’s safe to guess things won’t end up well. I need to see this.
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Mission Impossible: Ghost Protocol aka Tom Cruise Be Runnin’
First off — go see the new Mission:Impossible and see it in IMAX. It reminds you of what IMAX was created for. Brad Bird (The Incredibles, The Iron Giant) does a phenomenal job in his first stint at live action film. Trust me, the scene in Dubai is worth the price of admission in itself. I’m sure you’ve heard about Tom Cruise scaling the Burj Khalifa (the world’s tallest building), but that’s just the beginning of some serious madness that involves building scaling, sandstorms, masks, diamonds, and Tom Cruise running like he’s a Terminator. It’s pure adrenaline fun. These are two action elements I haven’t seen work well in quite awhile.
The film is one of the best of the franchise. My only complaint is the villain is not as strong as previous installments. It’s not like anyone is going to top Phillip Seymour Hoffman, but would have liked to see some effort. This guy was just too cool for school.
For pure entertainment value, check this one out. You won’t be disappointed. To tell you anymore would ruin the fun. Also, I’m lazy and don’t want to write about it anymore.
Now for the real story. What is up with Tom Cruise and his crazy sprint in every movie (he does it 3 times in M:I 4)? I thought I was the only one fixated on this, but then I did a few keystrokes on the ole Google and learned otherwise. Looks like Tom Cruise is running in everyones minds.
Below, you’ll find two videos I created in my mind found on the world wide web. In the first gem, you’ll see the evolution of the Tom Cruise run. From his early trot to his present day crazed sprint. In the second piece of art, you’ll be treated to a montage of the great runs of Tom Cruise. He runs from the explosion. He runs towards the girl. He runs. Now I have a greater appreciation of his portrayal of wheelchair bound Vietnam Vet, Ron Kovic, in Born on the Fourth of July. You can’t run in a wheelchair. *
*Actually, the first video shows him running pre-wheelchair at the 1:00 min mark. I stand corrected. Running must be in his contract.
Please stretch before watching this.
4 Great Films to See…Now!!
I can’t remember the last time this happened, especially in the past decade or so. For every great film, there seems to be 2-3 turds to wade through. I’ve seen four movies in-theater the past 2 weeks and every single one of them was outstanding. While each movie was uniquely different from one another, they each had one unifying force: A razor sharp script. All of these are worth the price of admission and will make you actually feel something positive as opposed to feeling nauseated at wasting your time watching crap. All four are still ingrained in my mind as they stood above and beyond modern cinematic fare. After the jump, check out my mini-reviews of films that I’d give a grade no lower than B+: The Descendants, Hugo, Shame, and The Muppets.
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The Muppets: “The Rainbow Connection”
Lately, I’ve been hearing a ton of cynicism surrounding the Muppets movie releasing this weekend. Adults think they are too “adult” to watch a Muppet movie. And frankly, that’s just sad. Where in your life did that burning flame of pure imagination, happiness, and profane creativity die a horrible death? The Muppets aren’t targeted to kids. And they are not targeted to adults. Quite simply, The Muppets represent happiness, hope, and the celebration of life. The Muppets are for EVERYONE.
The Muppets are known for great songs in their films. Most notably (and easily the best), is “The Rainbow Connection” from 1979′s The Muppet Movie. The song was nominated for an Academy Award, but lost to this pile of feces.
The Rainbow Connection is a combination of absolute sweetness with the undertones of sadness and a philosophy of life. It’s deep and insane that it exists within a Muppets movie.
I ran track from age 5 all the way through high school. During big track meets, I would get insanely nervous. I felt as if I had the weight of the world on my shoulders. As the lead up to the big race would tick forward, I would need to find a way to calm down. This song always did the trick. Shut out the world and listen to the sad banjo of Kermit the Frog. If you’ve never heard this song or if you’ve never truly LISTENED to this song, I beg you to give it a chance.
Before getting into the song (bottom of the post), here’s a few quick thoughts on some key lyrics.
“Someday we’ll find it, the Rainbow Connection”
Essentially, the “rainbow connection” is the path between us and our dreams. We grow up with so many hopes and dreams of the future, but life (and adulthood) gets in the way. Somewhere along the path, we lose our focus on that connection which makes our dreams come true. Kermit is implying that it’s something you are searching for (your calling in life) or something that was lost (your dreams). What is your purpose? Yes, Kermit is deep.
“What’s so amazing that keeps us star gazing?
What do we think we might see?”
We keep searching for the meaning of it all — but can’t seem to grasp it yet.
“Have you been half asleep and have you heard voices?
I’ve heard them calling my name.”
Kermit is telling you to listen to that internal voice. Deep inside, you know the path that should be taken. Slow down. Listen to your inner voice. He goes on to say…
“I’ve heard it too many times to ignore it.
It’s something that I’m supposed to be.”
This furthers his point. Listen to your internal voice. With the lightening fast journey that life takes you through, it’s too easy to lose focus on yourself. Slow down. And focus. If Kermit wasn’t such a sweet frog, he should be pissed at Oprah. Her entire empire is built off the philosophy of The Rainbow Connection. Kermit may have a lawsuit on his hands.
This is the greatest song ever created for a movie. Period.
Now go see The Muppets this weekend! I don’t care if you don’t have kids. You are never too old to enjoy a Muppet movie.
Exclusive: Twilight – Breaking Dawn Part 1 Review
I’m shell shocked and feeling a bit like I survived my own cinematic Vietnam War. There are no words to describe what I witnessed on Monday. The events were disturbing, starting with a maniacal mob that surrounded me — not even trying to disguise their insanity.
Yes, I attended the Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn Part 1 World Premiere in Los Angeles. And no matter what I try, I cannot unsee it or erase it from my mind. I’m haunted. I’m tarnished. A small piece of me has died inside.
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Mission:Impossible – Ghost Protocol — Tom Cruise Owns You
I’ll probably lose the one ounce of credibility I have left here in speaking the truth on a very important subject matter. Tom Cruise is a great actor. And more importantly, he’s usually in good movies.
Say whatever you want about the man — Crazy, Annoying, Over Acting, Scientologist — I’m 100% all in on Team Cruise. Say what you want about his supposed fake marriage (ridiculous), sexual identity (who cares), or his acting chops (you’re wrong), Tom Cruise is the man. Name another actor that can match up to this body of work: The Outsiders, Top Gun, The Color of Money, Rain Man, Born on the Fourth of July, A Few Good Men, Mission Impossible franchise, Jerry Maguire, Magnolia, Eyes Wide Shut, and Minority Report. And that’s without even mentioning a few of his classics Risky Business and Cocktail. Find your favorite actor/actress and check their movies on IMDB. NO ONE matches up to Mr. Cruise. No one. I’m not saying he’s the best actor, I’m just saying that he knows how to pick the right films. Even with his occasional duds, he always swings for the fences.
This is exactly why I don’t automatically dismiss a fourth film from the dying Mission:Impossible franchise. A few other reasons you should be interested:
- Brad Bird (director of the wonderful Iron Giant and The Incredibles) is making his live action debut as a director
- Jeremy Renner is the co-star
- Tom Cruise performed most of his own stunts. Want to see him jump out of the tallest skyscraper in the world (over a mile and a half UP)? I don’t care how much safety gear you have on, this man is crazy. Check out the behind the scenes nuttery right HERE.
Now that you have been fully convinced WHY this movie has potential, check out the great trailer after the jump. Sometimes dumb action is good — especially when Tom Cruise is performing it. Watch Tom outrun an explosion. Watch him outrun a tornado looking thing. Watch him outrun Usain Bolt.
Mission: Impossible – Ghost Protocol
Release Date: December 21st, 2011
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Dark Knight Rises Prologue Attached to Mission Impossible
Does July 20th, 2012 seem too far away to see The Dark Knight Rises? What if I told you that you can watch the first 6 minutes…in IMAX…in December? Still don’t care? Fair enough, but I’m excited.
It was just announced that the first 6 minutes of the highly anticipated Dark Knight Rises will be attached to Mission: Impossible Ghost Protocol on December 16th in IMAX only. So far, my interest in Mission: Impossible has been minimal. The only thing that has me intrigued is to see director Brad Bird’s (The Incredibles, The Iron Giant) first live action effort. The addition of Jeremy Renner isn’t a bad thing, either. But now I’m sure that I’ll be there opening week. I’m the same guy that attended Avatar Day (16 minutes of footage). Don’t think that only 6 minutes of Dark Knight Rises will keep me away.
See ya soon, Tom. But what’s up with this horrible poster? What disease does your character have? Yikes.
Trailer: The Avengers
I’ve known for a few weeks that today, October 11th, was the day we’d get the first real teaser trailer for next summer’s blockbuster The Avengers. And ever since I’ve known this, I’ve been wanting to hate everything that I saw. Thor gave me a sour taste in this franchise. Captain America was good, but instantly forgettable. And let’s not talk about how terrible the last Iron Man movie was. But The Avengers is everyone together — including The Hulk and Hawkeye. It’s the Dream Team of superhero movies. It’s Lebron/Dwyane Wade/Chris Bosh. It’s Jay-Z/Kanye watchin’ the throne. The whole gang is together as one unstoppable force. Yay!
Did I hate it? No. Did it get me excited for the film? Not at all.
First off — fire whoever had final say on the music used here. Terrible. And while lots of stuff be explodin’ and jokes be flyin’ around — something seems completely ho-hum about it all. Robert Downey Jr. is always good — so his lines worked. But something is off about this trailer. Maybe it’s the fact that Thor is a God working alongside a bunch of gadgets. Why would he need these humans? He has the hammer. Maybe it’s the fact that Samuel L. looks like he’s just phoning it in — reading lines, not acting. Or possibly it’s my most hated move in action movies. The land on one knee and hand while slowly raising your head move that Scarlett Johansson pulls at the 1:24 mark.
After the jump, decide for yourself. Are you ready to assemble? Or are you ready for something fresh and new?
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Trailer: Young Adult
Directed by Jason Reitman (Thank You For Smoking, Juno, Up in the Air). Written by Diablo Cody (Juno). You must be slightly intrigued.
Early buzz around this film promises this one to be darker and edgier than Reitman’s previous three films, but still stays true to his impressive slate. This trailer does a great job of introducing the characters, while promising much more under the surface. In my opinion, Reitman has gone 3 for 3 in directing. I’ve loved all of them equally for vastly different reasons. If Diablo Cody reels in her Diablo-ness (see: every piece of dialogue in Juno), this could be another hit (and Oscar nod) for her. I’m predicting this one hits it out of the park and gets the Best Picture & Best Director Oscar nominations — at the very least. You heard it here first. Ka-BOOM!
Check out the trailer after the jump.
Academy Award(R) winner Charlize Theron plays Mavis Gary, a writer of teen literature who returns to her small hometown to relive her glory days and attempt to reclaim her happily married high school sweetheart (Patrick Wilson). When returning home proves more difficult than she thought, Mavis forms an unusual bond with a former classmate (Patton Oswalt) who hasn’t quite gotten over high school, either.
Young Adult
Release Date: December 19th
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R.I.P. Adam Sandler
In my Top 10 Movies Most Re-Watched, Billy Madison and Happy Gilmore both make the list. I’ve laughed out loud more times than I can remember during both flicks. “Stop looking at me, Swan!” “You eat pieces of shit for breakfast?!” We can quote these classic comedies all day. Adam Sandler was destined for greatness as he could do no wrong in the world of comedy. But something went terrible wrong along the way. I’m not sure if the success got to his head and the riches made him unfunny. Not sure if he just got lazy. But damn, Adam Sandler went from must watch comedy to straight embarrassment. And somehow, he’s laughing all the way to the bank. Horrible movies such as Grown Ups, You Don’t Mess With the Zohan, I Know Pronounce You Chuck & Larry, Click, and more all made decent scratch at the box office. Don’t hate the playa, hate the game never rang more true.
After the jump, I have a little game for you. I have three clips/trailers. Two are fake Adam Sandler videos — they are spoofs from the movie Funny People. One is a real movie releasing this year. Figure out which one is real. Good luck, my friends. Adam Sandler hasn’t been funny for many, many years — I get it. But his new film, well, it’s embarrassing like that drunken uncle that hits on your girlfriend during Thanksgiving dinner.
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