One of my favorite nights of the year, Oscar night, is finally here. I don't know why I love it so much, I rarely agree with the outcome, and for the second consecutive year only one of my top five is in Oscar's best picture category. Oh well, our disagreements aside, I love the Oscars. Here it is, my predictions...
We'll start with Animated Feature, because it is so simple. CARS will lap the competition. Sorry, I'll try to avoid the cheesy puns from here on out.
Original Song- I have only heard the one from Cars, but I guarantee a victory for one of the songs from DREAMGIRLS. Hey, I've got a three in five chance.
Foreign-language film- It's got to be PAN'S LABYRINTH, although The Lives of Others looks really good, I just don't think it got the attention and exposure to compete with PAN.
Original Screenplay- Probably going to be LITTLE MISS SUNSHINE although it will be the wrong choice. There's a chance for Babel or The Queen here, but either one would represent a huge shift away from Little Miss Sunshine, so I doubt it. It should be Pan's of the five nominees.
Adapted Screenplay- Probably DEPARTED, but Children of Men has a very good shot, because there were a lot of people other then me that felt this was the best movie of the year. A win here could be a consolation prize.
Documentary Feature- Al Gore finally wins. INCONVENIENT TRUTH will win without even needing a recount. I've heard a rumor that Gore will announce he's running for President in 08 in his acceptance speech, could be the highlight of the evening.
All right let's get to the big stuff...
Supporting Actor- I know the majority believes Eddie Murphy here, but I doubt it. It'll be ALAN ARKIN for his lovable but crotchety old Grandpa. That was by far the best part of that movie. After his role was done, the film lost steam quickly in my opinion. If the Departed starts to pull a Return of the King as a sort of career night for Scorsese, Mark Walberg could score an upset. It's a very outside shot though.
Supporting Actress- JENNIFER HUDSON. There are those that feel Dreamgirls should have gotten a best pic nomination, I'm not a big fan of musicals personally, so I don't mind the omission too much, but the Academy will be looking for some way to reward the film. This breakout, scene stealing performance is the best way.
Actor- FOREST WHITAKER. Although Peter O'Toole is a possibility I doubt he'll win due to the honorary Oscar he just received. There could be people voting who want to see him get a real one, so an upset is possible. There is no doubt in my mind that Ryan Gosling is the actor who most deserves it, however.
Actress- HELEN MIRREN. I don't really have anything else to add, they might has well have not even nominated anyone else, that's how much of a lock this is.
Director- MARTIN SCORSESE. Throughout the history of the Oscars people have won for films that are much less impressive then others in their filmogrophies just because they were due, Denzel for Training Day, Russel Crowe for Gladiator, for examples. That tradition will continue today. Actually, I think he best directing job of those nominated belonged to Paul Greenrass for United 93, what could have been done wrong in so many different ways and on so many different levels was handled expertly, but as one of Scorsese's biggest fans, I won't argue with the decision. He's earned it time and time again.
Best Picture-
This race is wide open. The only movie that I can reasonably say won't win it is Letters From Iwo Jima, which is one of the worst movies I have seen in years (although it was better then Pirates of the Caribbean 2). It had its moments, but overall it was poorly done and poorly told. That headache you have? It's from being beaten over the head with the point, they're just like us! The Japanese culture is so prevalent here now, the point this movie made has been rendered pointless. A film from the perspective of Iraqis making the same point, now that would be interesting. Still, even with an unimportant theme, you should still try to make an interesting movie. If they did try, they failed, because this movie was just flat boring.
Everyone else has a chance to win. Babel tried the hardest, and for that it gets some credit, but it fell flat just a few too many times. I have to say, though, if all of the scenes in Japan had been fully from that character's perspective, as in completely silent, it would have made those scenes unbelievably powerful. Add that opportunity lost to too many scenes requiring large leaps of faith (although not nearly to the point as last year's winner, the ridiculous Crash) and the dreary subject matter, I would be surprised if it wins.
The Queen is great on many levels, but ultimately it is more a portrait than a movie (as those involved will gladly point out), so while it has a chance, I'm leaning towards this being a two picture race.
The movie that should win (of the five) is The Departed. There is too much momentum and fervor behind LITTLE MISS SUNSHINE, though and I predict it will walk away with the prize. I thought it was an okay film, and the first half was brilliant. It just goes downhill after Alan Arkin's exit, however as he added heart to the eccentricity without even seeming to try. After that, the attempts at adding heart were heavy handed at best, and the rest of the characters were, in my opinion, far more caricatures rather than characters. Sure, it was an enjoyable film for what it was, but for the life of me I can't understand the hype that this movie is receiving and riding very likely to a Best Picture win. Well, I guess it's better than Iwo Jima.
Until Next Time, enjoy the Oscars, and I'll soon return with my second annual "My Thoughts as I Had Them While Watching the Oscars" post.
Sunday, February 25, 2007
Saturday, February 24, 2007
Top Ten and Other Movie News From 2006
Here it is, my definitive list for the Top Ten Films of 2006. But before we get to the main attraction, there are a few honorable mentions to give out. So, without further adue, my review of 2006 in the Movies.
Honorable mentions...
1. Superman Returns- I really liked this movie; I mean, sure there were problems, but it was a return to the Superman I grew up with. I thought Brandon Routh was at times so eerily similar to Christopher Reeve it almost seemed like he was channeling him. The effects were spectacular. It might have cracked the top ten if I had seen the 3d version.
2. Clerks II- Fantastic return to form for Kevin Smith. It's not that we don't think you can do movies without Jay and Silent Bob, it's that we just don't want you to. Features a great tell your friends about it moment when Randal reenacts the Lord of the Rings trilogy and a so gross you aren't sure you should laugh moment involving a donkey. If there hadn't been another comedy that also had great tell your friends about it moments and an even more gross so you aren't sure you should laugh moment, this might have made the top ten.
3. The Illusionist- A great movie in many respects. A good story line and fantastic acting (even by Mary Camdon) just aren't enough to overcome the fact that it was predictable. My poor friend Danie had to hear the entire rest of the plot about 20 minutes in. It was still enjoyable, and for the people who didn't see the twists coming a mile away, I wouldn't be surprised if it were much higher on the list.
Just Missing the Top Ten
The Queen- Helen Mirren is incredible, and the movie is very well done. I didn't think I would enjoy it as much as I did. I was disappointed with the Prince Charles character, I never really believed it was him, whereas sometimes with the Queen and Tony Blair I would forget they were actors. Very interesting film, gave me a perspective on the British royalty I hadn't really considered before (granted, I hadn't really considered the British Royal Family at all.) It felt like an episode of the West Wing at times as well, and I don't mean that disparagingly.
Blood Diamond- I had this in the top ten until a few days ago. This was a great year for movies, and so some are unfortunately going to be left of the list. This movie was great because it took a very serious subject that many of us probably don't know too much about and made a fantastic action thriller out of it. Leo was amazing in this film, and my respect for him as an actor grows more and more with every new role he takes.
And now, the actual TOP TEN LIST 2006....
10--BORAT
Funny, challenging, disgusting: this movie can be described in many different ways. Ultimately, I'm most impressed with Sacha Baron Cohen's ability to disappear so completely within the character that you forget he's just an actor. I also applaud him for showing us the uglier sides of our selves, but also for giving us a good laugh at the same time. And while Clerks II had its tell your friends moments, Borat was full of them from beginning to end. I know, because I was at a party the day after I saw it, and along with some others who had seen it, we ended up retelling pretty much the entire film while laughing hysterically. And if you want a gross don't know whether to laugh or puke moment, naked wrestling is for you.
9--THE PRESTIGE
After I saw it, I couldn't stop analyzing it. Like the Illusionist, it was a good story on a great subject (magic) with amazing acting (come on who doesn't want to see Wolverine vs. Batman?) but it also had one of the most talented young directors working today, Christopher Nolan (Memento), and he did a fantastic job with this film. And unlike the Illusionist, there were plenty of things that had me scratching my head until the reveal. A film much like a magic trick, plus it had Scarlett Johanssen. Mmmm, Scarlett.
8--THANK YOU FOR SMOKING
This was the funniest movie of the year, in my opinion. The fact that it came out so early is probably the only thing costing it Oscar recognition. The performances are top notch, even by Mrs. Cruise who makes you forget she was ever Joey. The script has just the right amount of heart to go with the huge helping of parody, satire, and sarcasm that it serves in no doubt unhealthy portions. It manages to have a happy ending without being cheesy or too syrupy (unlike the comedy Oscar is favoring) and totally stays true to itself at the end as a good satire should.
7--THIS FILM IS NOT YET RATED
A must for anyone interested in the film industry. This could be one of the most important films in regard to the film industry ever. This is the movie that caused the MPAA to break there own strict no piracy rule and make an illegal copy. There were many revelations in this film that shocked and surprised me, and by no means am I ignorant to the industry. And it is as funny as it is unsettling. The subject matter was handled expertly. Documentaries can be difficult in pacing and in storytelling, but this one got it just right. As soon as I finished watching it, I started it again and watched it with the commentary.
6--PAN'S LABYRINTH
Gloriously beautiful, and with a Wizard of Oz-esque storyline, this was a fabulous film. The only reason it's not much higher is the amount of violence. While I understand the need for the violence in this film, in part because of the time period of the story, and also to highlight the difference in the little girl's fantasy world and the real world, I also felt that at times it was more graphic then it needed to be. Overall though, the look of the film was exquisite, and the acting was top notch. I also loved the ending, you weren't sure what to believe, leaving it up to your judgement as to whether it was really a happy ending or not.
5--A SCANNER DARKLY
Finally, the way to make Keanu a good actor, draw over his scenes. Done in the style of Waking Life (also directed by Richard Linkletter) this movie was sort of made twice. They filmed it as live action, then with a computer animation program, actually animated it on top of the film itself, lending a surreal feel to the film. It's an animated film, and yet at the same time it seems like live action. This approach worked perfectly for this story, based very faithfully on the novel by Phillip K. Dick. A movie about drugs, family, and reality, it succeeds on all levels, even with Keanu. I've had it from Netflix since December. I really need to buy my own copy and send this one back.
4--UNITED 93
Originally, I had no desire to see this. I thought it was too soon, and imagined that the film would be preachy and overly patriotic. It is neither. It is filmed in documentary, you-are-there style, and runs in near to real time, adding to its effectiveness. The film not only focuses on what happened on the one hijacked flight that failed to make it to its destination, but also in the main control room for the FAA, the headquarters of the military's air defense, and the air traffic control towers of New York, Boston, and Cleveland, giving us a very real look at what was happening behind the scenes on that fateful morning. A very powerful movie that I liked in spite of myself.
3--THE DEPARTED
Many are calling this a return to form for Martin Scorsese, but personally, I feel that The Aviator and Gangs of New York were both better films then this one. And by no means is this film in the class of Taxi Driver, Raging Bull, Goodfellas, or Mean Streets, but it is still a really great movie. In almost anyone else's hands, this would have been strictly a genre picture, but under Scorsese's skilled direction, it is a masterpiece. There are so many nuanced and breathtaking performances in this film, I don't know how only Mark Walberg is nominated. The only thing that held the film back for me was the performance of Matt Damon. At times he was good, but at times I had a really hard time believing him. Mainly every time he had to show indignation or anger. I think he's much better when he's restrained such as in Talented Mr. Ripley. The rest of the films strengths, however, more then make up for Damon's negatives.
AND THE NUMBER ONE FILMS....
That's right, there's a tie. I've been trying for nearly a month to decide which film I liked better, but I believe both are utterly brilliant. It's rare that two films in one year would become among the greatest films I've ever seen, but that's the case here.
THE FOUNTAIN
I list this one first since I previously blogged about it. My feelings for it have not changed. Feel free to go back and read what I wrote right after I saw it. It's rare for a movie to leave itself so open for interpretation, but it is awesome when it is done right, and The Fountain does it right. There is little doubt in my mind that Darren Aronofsky(Requiem For a Dream, Pi) is one of the finest directors of all time.
CHILDREN OF MEN
So is Alfonso Cuaron (Harry Potter and the Prisoner form Azkaban, Y Tu Mama Tambien). He tackles huge and troubling subjects with real and tangible characters even in unfamiliar places. In this film, he makes a possible future seem all too terrifyingly real in a documentary/noir/post-apocalyptic sci-fi film that stays with you long after the credits roll. The fact that Michael Caine isn't being mentioned for a best supporting actor borders on criminal as he steals every scene that he's in, managing to provide the film's funniest moments as well as it's saddest. Ultimately, it isn't too hard to imagine such a future as being possible, and it reminds us not to lose sight of or take for granted the hope that we do have.
Until next time, get caught up on your movie watching, because the Oscars are Sunday, and my predictions are forthcoming.
On a sadder note, my thoughts and prayers go out to TCU alum and reigning NFL MVP Ladanian Tomlinson and his family. His father died Friday afternoon in a car crash just south of Waco.
Honorable mentions...
1. Superman Returns- I really liked this movie; I mean, sure there were problems, but it was a return to the Superman I grew up with. I thought Brandon Routh was at times so eerily similar to Christopher Reeve it almost seemed like he was channeling him. The effects were spectacular. It might have cracked the top ten if I had seen the 3d version.
2. Clerks II- Fantastic return to form for Kevin Smith. It's not that we don't think you can do movies without Jay and Silent Bob, it's that we just don't want you to. Features a great tell your friends about it moment when Randal reenacts the Lord of the Rings trilogy and a so gross you aren't sure you should laugh moment involving a donkey. If there hadn't been another comedy that also had great tell your friends about it moments and an even more gross so you aren't sure you should laugh moment, this might have made the top ten.
3. The Illusionist- A great movie in many respects. A good story line and fantastic acting (even by Mary Camdon) just aren't enough to overcome the fact that it was predictable. My poor friend Danie had to hear the entire rest of the plot about 20 minutes in. It was still enjoyable, and for the people who didn't see the twists coming a mile away, I wouldn't be surprised if it were much higher on the list.
Just Missing the Top Ten
The Queen- Helen Mirren is incredible, and the movie is very well done. I didn't think I would enjoy it as much as I did. I was disappointed with the Prince Charles character, I never really believed it was him, whereas sometimes with the Queen and Tony Blair I would forget they were actors. Very interesting film, gave me a perspective on the British royalty I hadn't really considered before (granted, I hadn't really considered the British Royal Family at all.) It felt like an episode of the West Wing at times as well, and I don't mean that disparagingly.
Blood Diamond- I had this in the top ten until a few days ago. This was a great year for movies, and so some are unfortunately going to be left of the list. This movie was great because it took a very serious subject that many of us probably don't know too much about and made a fantastic action thriller out of it. Leo was amazing in this film, and my respect for him as an actor grows more and more with every new role he takes.
And now, the actual TOP TEN LIST 2006....
10--BORAT
Funny, challenging, disgusting: this movie can be described in many different ways. Ultimately, I'm most impressed with Sacha Baron Cohen's ability to disappear so completely within the character that you forget he's just an actor. I also applaud him for showing us the uglier sides of our selves, but also for giving us a good laugh at the same time. And while Clerks II had its tell your friends moments, Borat was full of them from beginning to end. I know, because I was at a party the day after I saw it, and along with some others who had seen it, we ended up retelling pretty much the entire film while laughing hysterically. And if you want a gross don't know whether to laugh or puke moment, naked wrestling is for you.
9--THE PRESTIGE
After I saw it, I couldn't stop analyzing it. Like the Illusionist, it was a good story on a great subject (magic) with amazing acting (come on who doesn't want to see Wolverine vs. Batman?) but it also had one of the most talented young directors working today, Christopher Nolan (Memento), and he did a fantastic job with this film. And unlike the Illusionist, there were plenty of things that had me scratching my head until the reveal. A film much like a magic trick, plus it had Scarlett Johanssen. Mmmm, Scarlett.
8--THANK YOU FOR SMOKING
This was the funniest movie of the year, in my opinion. The fact that it came out so early is probably the only thing costing it Oscar recognition. The performances are top notch, even by Mrs. Cruise who makes you forget she was ever Joey. The script has just the right amount of heart to go with the huge helping of parody, satire, and sarcasm that it serves in no doubt unhealthy portions. It manages to have a happy ending without being cheesy or too syrupy (unlike the comedy Oscar is favoring) and totally stays true to itself at the end as a good satire should.
7--THIS FILM IS NOT YET RATED
A must for anyone interested in the film industry. This could be one of the most important films in regard to the film industry ever. This is the movie that caused the MPAA to break there own strict no piracy rule and make an illegal copy. There were many revelations in this film that shocked and surprised me, and by no means am I ignorant to the industry. And it is as funny as it is unsettling. The subject matter was handled expertly. Documentaries can be difficult in pacing and in storytelling, but this one got it just right. As soon as I finished watching it, I started it again and watched it with the commentary.
6--PAN'S LABYRINTH
Gloriously beautiful, and with a Wizard of Oz-esque storyline, this was a fabulous film. The only reason it's not much higher is the amount of violence. While I understand the need for the violence in this film, in part because of the time period of the story, and also to highlight the difference in the little girl's fantasy world and the real world, I also felt that at times it was more graphic then it needed to be. Overall though, the look of the film was exquisite, and the acting was top notch. I also loved the ending, you weren't sure what to believe, leaving it up to your judgement as to whether it was really a happy ending or not.
5--A SCANNER DARKLY
Finally, the way to make Keanu a good actor, draw over his scenes. Done in the style of Waking Life (also directed by Richard Linkletter) this movie was sort of made twice. They filmed it as live action, then with a computer animation program, actually animated it on top of the film itself, lending a surreal feel to the film. It's an animated film, and yet at the same time it seems like live action. This approach worked perfectly for this story, based very faithfully on the novel by Phillip K. Dick. A movie about drugs, family, and reality, it succeeds on all levels, even with Keanu. I've had it from Netflix since December. I really need to buy my own copy and send this one back.
4--UNITED 93
Originally, I had no desire to see this. I thought it was too soon, and imagined that the film would be preachy and overly patriotic. It is neither. It is filmed in documentary, you-are-there style, and runs in near to real time, adding to its effectiveness. The film not only focuses on what happened on the one hijacked flight that failed to make it to its destination, but also in the main control room for the FAA, the headquarters of the military's air defense, and the air traffic control towers of New York, Boston, and Cleveland, giving us a very real look at what was happening behind the scenes on that fateful morning. A very powerful movie that I liked in spite of myself.
3--THE DEPARTED
Many are calling this a return to form for Martin Scorsese, but personally, I feel that The Aviator and Gangs of New York were both better films then this one. And by no means is this film in the class of Taxi Driver, Raging Bull, Goodfellas, or Mean Streets, but it is still a really great movie. In almost anyone else's hands, this would have been strictly a genre picture, but under Scorsese's skilled direction, it is a masterpiece. There are so many nuanced and breathtaking performances in this film, I don't know how only Mark Walberg is nominated. The only thing that held the film back for me was the performance of Matt Damon. At times he was good, but at times I had a really hard time believing him. Mainly every time he had to show indignation or anger. I think he's much better when he's restrained such as in Talented Mr. Ripley. The rest of the films strengths, however, more then make up for Damon's negatives.
AND THE NUMBER ONE FILMS....
That's right, there's a tie. I've been trying for nearly a month to decide which film I liked better, but I believe both are utterly brilliant. It's rare that two films in one year would become among the greatest films I've ever seen, but that's the case here.
THE FOUNTAIN
I list this one first since I previously blogged about it. My feelings for it have not changed. Feel free to go back and read what I wrote right after I saw it. It's rare for a movie to leave itself so open for interpretation, but it is awesome when it is done right, and The Fountain does it right. There is little doubt in my mind that Darren Aronofsky(Requiem For a Dream, Pi) is one of the finest directors of all time.
CHILDREN OF MEN
So is Alfonso Cuaron (Harry Potter and the Prisoner form Azkaban, Y Tu Mama Tambien). He tackles huge and troubling subjects with real and tangible characters even in unfamiliar places. In this film, he makes a possible future seem all too terrifyingly real in a documentary/noir/post-apocalyptic sci-fi film that stays with you long after the credits roll. The fact that Michael Caine isn't being mentioned for a best supporting actor borders on criminal as he steals every scene that he's in, managing to provide the film's funniest moments as well as it's saddest. Ultimately, it isn't too hard to imagine such a future as being possible, and it reminds us not to lose sight of or take for granted the hope that we do have.
Until next time, get caught up on your movie watching, because the Oscars are Sunday, and my predictions are forthcoming.
On a sadder note, my thoughts and prayers go out to TCU alum and reigning NFL MVP Ladanian Tomlinson and his family. His father died Friday afternoon in a car crash just south of Waco.
Wednesday, January 24, 2007
Oscar Nominations and the Films of 2006
The Oscar Nominations were released yesterday. I have only seen two of the best picture noms thus far. The Departed and Little Miss Sunshine. (The others are Letters From Iwo Jima, Babel, and The Queen)
Although I'll do my full and in depth Oscar preview and prediction post once it gets closer to the actual show (and after I've seen everything) I have to say I think that Babel and The Queen are the early favorites. Babel because it won a Golden Globe Best Picture (as did Dreamgirls which surprisingly didn't get nominated) and The Queen because of all the press and fervor behind this movie, (much like Crash last year).
I've got to say, I'm in the minority on Little Miss Sunshine, don't get me wrong, I liked it, but it won't even make my top ten this year (which owing to how many movies I am behind will also come in a later post). It wasn't even the best dark comedy of the year, Thank You For Smoking was. It just goes to show how much the timing of a movie's release matters.
I mentioned I was surprised to see that Dreamgirls didn't recieve a best picture nom (although I'm kind of glad, because I really had no desire to see it and I would have had to if it had gotten a best picture nod), but what I find a bigger shock is that United 93 wasn't nominated. This is another film I had no desire to see initially, but due to the power of Netflix, and the unending praise for this film by some people whose opinions I trust, I went ahead and got it. It is amazing. It is a very powerful film, and it is done extremely well. It is not at all preachy and not at all sappy. It is very realistic, filmed in documentary "you are there" style. It works. Interestingly enough, it did get nominated for Best Director despite it not getting the Best Picture nod.
Until Next Time, Once I see the rest of the Best Pic noms as well as a few other important films I will get my full Oscar Preview and Prediction Post up for your reading pleasure.
Although I'll do my full and in depth Oscar preview and prediction post once it gets closer to the actual show (and after I've seen everything) I have to say I think that Babel and The Queen are the early favorites. Babel because it won a Golden Globe Best Picture (as did Dreamgirls which surprisingly didn't get nominated) and The Queen because of all the press and fervor behind this movie, (much like Crash last year).
I've got to say, I'm in the minority on Little Miss Sunshine, don't get me wrong, I liked it, but it won't even make my top ten this year (which owing to how many movies I am behind will also come in a later post). It wasn't even the best dark comedy of the year, Thank You For Smoking was. It just goes to show how much the timing of a movie's release matters.
I mentioned I was surprised to see that Dreamgirls didn't recieve a best picture nom (although I'm kind of glad, because I really had no desire to see it and I would have had to if it had gotten a best picture nod), but what I find a bigger shock is that United 93 wasn't nominated. This is another film I had no desire to see initially, but due to the power of Netflix, and the unending praise for this film by some people whose opinions I trust, I went ahead and got it. It is amazing. It is a very powerful film, and it is done extremely well. It is not at all preachy and not at all sappy. It is very realistic, filmed in documentary "you are there" style. It works. Interestingly enough, it did get nominated for Best Director despite it not getting the Best Picture nod.
Until Next Time, Once I see the rest of the Best Pic noms as well as a few other important films I will get my full Oscar Preview and Prediction Post up for your reading pleasure.
Thursday, December 7, 2006
The Fountain
Wow. I just saw The Fountain. Wow. It is amazing. I can't even describe how incredible it is. Visually its stunning. It is far and away one of the most beautiful films I have ever seen. A lot of people have been saying that it's confusing, but I didn't feel that way at all. Sure, the film didn't spell out exactly what exactly what everything means, but that's part of the beauty of the film. You can look at it in a couple of different ways, either believing the events to be literal and actually taking place in the film or believing only the modern day story line, taking the five hundred years before as if they are just from Izzy's manuscript and the five hundred years after as Tommy's way of eventually coming to terms with his wife's cancer. Either way you choose to believe, (and I'm not sure which I even believe) the story is very powerful. Easily the years best film in my opinion, and one of the best movies I have ever seen.
Interestingly enough, this wasn't the movie that Aronofsky originally set out to make. After Requiem for a Dream when he could do anything he wanted, he wrote a hugely ambitious film about death set in three different time periods that would have a huge budget. The studio balked. But then Brad Pitt read the script, cried, and signed on. With such a big star attached, the studio agreed as well.
Nothing but trouble followed, and eventually Brad Pitt backed out. Then the studio backed out. It appeared the film would never get made, but Aronofsky refused to give up. He rewrote the script as a smaller budget film and defying all odds, the movie got made
Until Next Time, For a look at what the original vision for the film was, you can read the graphic novel recently published, but the film as made is still incredible. Just an amazing bit of film making.
Interestingly enough, this wasn't the movie that Aronofsky originally set out to make. After Requiem for a Dream when he could do anything he wanted, he wrote a hugely ambitious film about death set in three different time periods that would have a huge budget. The studio balked. But then Brad Pitt read the script, cried, and signed on. With such a big star attached, the studio agreed as well.
Nothing but trouble followed, and eventually Brad Pitt backed out. Then the studio backed out. It appeared the film would never get made, but Aronofsky refused to give up. He rewrote the script as a smaller budget film and defying all odds, the movie got made
Until Next Time, For a look at what the original vision for the film was, you can read the graphic novel recently published, but the film as made is still incredible. Just an amazing bit of film making.
Sunday, November 19, 2006
LOST I Do, first thoughts
I have to admit I am disappointed with the way this episode went and really saddened that I have to wait until Feb with this being the last new episode.
Here is my problem, Dr. Jack took control of the situation far too easily.
Remember Benry Gale and the Others have consistently been at least one step if not more ahead of the crash survivors the entire time, and yet Jack has single handily gained control of the situation?
I'm not buying it.
Why even take Sawyer and Kate if not to use them to make sure Dr. Jack does his best on Benry?
You expect me to believe they didn't foresee this possibility? Wouldn't it have been more prudent to already have Sawyer and Kate at knife or gunpoint in the room to make sure Dr. Jack was on his best behavior?
So, is there anyway to explain this (what I believe is a) inconsistency in the Others? Maybe.
It certainly could be the idea that the Others really are the "good guys" as Benry Gale put it earlier this season.
If that's the case, then, sure, they're smart, but they aren't really evil, so it becomes a little more understandable that they would be so trusting of Dr. Jack.
Add to it that Benry was pretty desperate to have the surgery, and maybe he might become a little less efficient.
While that all seems a little plausible, it doesn't help that just a couple episodes earlier we saw Benry (needing spinal surgery
Granted they didn't actually put an exploding pacemaker in either Sawyer or the bunny, but they had him convinced that they did and whatever their motives you can't call that "good".
And what's even worse, they took away Sawyer's hope.
I guess that what I have to figure is that they don't consider themselves evil and definitely aren't planning evil deeds which means, of course, that Ethan must have known way back in season one that Dr. Jack and Kate would be around in time to save Charlie from dying from being hanged.
If that is true, then perhaps they could be as smart as they are but still naive enough to not realize how desperate the survivors are when it comes to their plight.
Possible, I suppose but I still don't know that I buy it. After all, three of the Others have died proving how the survivors act when fearing for their safety. You'd think that the Others would have learned this lesson by now.
Until Next Time, I guess we'll get more of an idea in February when season 3 returns.
Here is my problem, Dr. Jack took control of the situation far too easily.
Remember Benry Gale and the Others have consistently been at least one step if not more ahead of the crash survivors the entire time, and yet Jack has single handily gained control of the situation?
I'm not buying it.
Why even take Sawyer and Kate if not to use them to make sure Dr. Jack does his best on Benry?
You expect me to believe they didn't foresee this possibility? Wouldn't it have been more prudent to already have Sawyer and Kate at knife or gunpoint in the room to make sure Dr. Jack was on his best behavior?
So, is there anyway to explain this (what I believe is a) inconsistency in the Others? Maybe.
It certainly could be the idea that the Others really are the "good guys" as Benry Gale put it earlier this season.
If that's the case, then, sure, they're smart, but they aren't really evil, so it becomes a little more understandable that they would be so trusting of Dr. Jack.
Add to it that Benry was pretty desperate to have the surgery, and maybe he might become a little less efficient.
While that all seems a little plausible, it doesn't help that just a couple episodes earlier we saw Benry (needing spinal surgery
Granted they didn't actually put an exploding pacemaker in either Sawyer or the bunny, but they had him convinced that they did and whatever their motives you can't call that "good".
And what's even worse, they took away Sawyer's hope.
I guess that what I have to figure is that they don't consider themselves evil and definitely aren't planning evil deeds which means, of course, that Ethan must have known way back in season one that Dr. Jack and Kate would be around in time to save Charlie from dying from being hanged.
If that is true, then perhaps they could be as smart as they are but still naive enough to not realize how desperate the survivors are when it comes to their plight.
Possible, I suppose but I still don't know that I buy it. After all, three of the Others have died proving how the survivors act when fearing for their safety. You'd think that the Others would have learned this lesson by now.
Until Next Time, I guess we'll get more of an idea in February when season 3 returns.
Friday, November 3, 2006
LOST The Cost of Living, first thoughts
Wow. So, I just finished watching last night's Lost episode and so many things are going through my head right now.
First off, I think that might be my favorite episode of television ever. I really love Eko as a character, so that helped. As any of you who have seen my camp labs know, I also really love when religion plays a significant role in pop culture, and clearly that is the case in this episode.
There are spoilers ahead, so if you aren't caught up, you probably shouldn't read on...
First off, I feel that this episode has answered more questions then any other. I think that much of what was confusing me is more clear. More on that later.
At the beginning of this episode, Eko sees his brother who tells him the time has come for him to face his sins and confess. This culminates in the tent in which Eko has been laid catching fire. Damnation awaits. Or so it would seem.
I have 30 minutes to finish this post. I hope that I can get all of my thoughts in during that time.
At the end of last season, John lost faith in the island. When he saw the tape at the Pearl Station, and saw Jack in the television screen, he felt that everything he had done and believed was in vain. Clearly, this station was the real deal, and the button was just a test. The people at Pearl Station were watching while people wrongly believed that they were doing something important. This is what John felt upon his and Eko's discovery.
We of course learned that the reports being filed from the Pearl Station were jettisoning out into an empty field, and the Pearl Station was the test site for psychological reasons. As John himself soon discovered, pushing the button was actually quite important.
My point is that Eko never lost faith in the island. In fact, when faced with evidence that should have lessened his faith (as it did John's) Eko became even more faithful, vowing to push the button even if John quit. John fought Eko on this and endangered Eko's life because of it. This horrendous event once again strengthened John's belief in the island. (As did his vision quest with Boone.)
So, the question becomes, why does Eko get tested when his faith was strong, while Locke does not?
Furthermore, why does the island have John go find and rescue Eko only to test him and ultimately kill him? It doesn't seem to make any sense at all.
Unless of course it makes perfect sense.
I won't get into to much detail here, but I see some comparisons with Job. Eko is the most faithful servant (as was Job) and is tested. He is told by his brother to confess his sins and is caused by the island to relive them. In the end, he rails out exclaiming that he will not admit to sins. He lived his life the only way that he could. He didn't ask for what befell him, but tried to survive it as best he could. He stops short of claiming to be a good man, but says that he did the things that he did in the interest of good.
It is at this point that the smoke monster, which if you will recall Eko has faced before, kills him.
At the end of Job, of course, Job regains all that was taken from him, twice as much as he had before, and lived a long and full life "being old and full of days" Job 42.17 (sorry for the bible lesson, but I want to point out that I think the episode was similar.)
I realize that Eko dies, but is that such a horrible thing? After all, he faced down his demons, and for the most part, I think, is at peace with them.
Benry Gale asks Dr. Jack if he believes there is a God. I'm pretty sure that Eko does. Eko's brother, or whoever that was, asks Eko if he's ready to meet God.
In order to do that, he must die. Boone got over his problems and was rewarded (I know it seems weird, but I think it fits) with death, as was his sister and Ana Lucia. All of them died after their main issues were resolved. We still aren't sure that it is possible to actually escape the island, so while this might not be a literal purgatory (as the show creators have assured us it is not) it could very well be a figurative one (which would explain why the book "Bad Twin" was written by Gary Troup, an anagram of purgatory).
Man made or somehow supernatural, you are tested on the island and set free through death. I believe that Eko passed his trials and tribulations, and left Locke and those with him with good news, "You will be next."
Until Next Time, I only have a couple minutes left, so I'll have to wait to another time to get into what's going on at the other island with Benry Gale and his tumor.
First off, I think that might be my favorite episode of television ever. I really love Eko as a character, so that helped. As any of you who have seen my camp labs know, I also really love when religion plays a significant role in pop culture, and clearly that is the case in this episode.
There are spoilers ahead, so if you aren't caught up, you probably shouldn't read on...
First off, I feel that this episode has answered more questions then any other. I think that much of what was confusing me is more clear. More on that later.
At the beginning of this episode, Eko sees his brother who tells him the time has come for him to face his sins and confess. This culminates in the tent in which Eko has been laid catching fire. Damnation awaits. Or so it would seem.
I have 30 minutes to finish this post. I hope that I can get all of my thoughts in during that time.
At the end of last season, John lost faith in the island. When he saw the tape at the Pearl Station, and saw Jack in the television screen, he felt that everything he had done and believed was in vain. Clearly, this station was the real deal, and the button was just a test. The people at Pearl Station were watching while people wrongly believed that they were doing something important. This is what John felt upon his and Eko's discovery.
We of course learned that the reports being filed from the Pearl Station were jettisoning out into an empty field, and the Pearl Station was the test site for psychological reasons. As John himself soon discovered, pushing the button was actually quite important.
My point is that Eko never lost faith in the island. In fact, when faced with evidence that should have lessened his faith (as it did John's) Eko became even more faithful, vowing to push the button even if John quit. John fought Eko on this and endangered Eko's life because of it. This horrendous event once again strengthened John's belief in the island. (As did his vision quest with Boone.)
So, the question becomes, why does Eko get tested when his faith was strong, while Locke does not?
Furthermore, why does the island have John go find and rescue Eko only to test him and ultimately kill him? It doesn't seem to make any sense at all.
Unless of course it makes perfect sense.
I won't get into to much detail here, but I see some comparisons with Job. Eko is the most faithful servant (as was Job) and is tested. He is told by his brother to confess his sins and is caused by the island to relive them. In the end, he rails out exclaiming that he will not admit to sins. He lived his life the only way that he could. He didn't ask for what befell him, but tried to survive it as best he could. He stops short of claiming to be a good man, but says that he did the things that he did in the interest of good.
It is at this point that the smoke monster, which if you will recall Eko has faced before, kills him.
At the end of Job, of course, Job regains all that was taken from him, twice as much as he had before, and lived a long and full life "being old and full of days" Job 42.17 (sorry for the bible lesson, but I want to point out that I think the episode was similar.)
I realize that Eko dies, but is that such a horrible thing? After all, he faced down his demons, and for the most part, I think, is at peace with them.
Benry Gale asks Dr. Jack if he believes there is a God. I'm pretty sure that Eko does. Eko's brother, or whoever that was, asks Eko if he's ready to meet God.
In order to do that, he must die. Boone got over his problems and was rewarded (I know it seems weird, but I think it fits) with death, as was his sister and Ana Lucia. All of them died after their main issues were resolved. We still aren't sure that it is possible to actually escape the island, so while this might not be a literal purgatory (as the show creators have assured us it is not) it could very well be a figurative one (which would explain why the book "Bad Twin" was written by Gary Troup, an anagram of purgatory).
Man made or somehow supernatural, you are tested on the island and set free through death. I believe that Eko passed his trials and tribulations, and left Locke and those with him with good news, "You will be next."
Until Next Time, I only have a couple minutes left, so I'll have to wait to another time to get into what's going on at the other island with Benry Gale and his tumor.
Sunday, October 29, 2006
LOST Every Man For Himself, first thoughts
I'm guessing it's Benry Gale who has the spinal tumor, but I almost expect it to be someone else, because that seems so obvious.
Other Big Questions after this ep...
What's up with the second island?
It's like something out of an Oliver Stone pic. Instead of a second shooter, there's a second island.
I wonder what it is they want from Sawyer.
We know what they want from Dr. Jack, and they probably took Kate in order to get the boys to stay in line, but what is it they want from Sawyer?
And finally, what is Desmond's new found power?
An ability to see the future of some sort obviously, but my guess is there's more to it.
Either way...
Until Next Time, can't wait to find out.
Other Big Questions after this ep...
What's up with the second island?
It's like something out of an Oliver Stone pic. Instead of a second shooter, there's a second island.
I wonder what it is they want from Sawyer.
We know what they want from Dr. Jack, and they probably took Kate in order to get the boys to stay in line, but what is it they want from Sawyer?
And finally, what is Desmond's new found power?
An ability to see the future of some sort obviously, but my guess is there's more to it.
Either way...
Until Next Time, can't wait to find out.
Sunday, October 22, 2006
LOST Further Instructions, first thoughts
Man it was awesome seeing Boone again. I really like Ian Somerholder, and enjoy the play between him and Terry O'Quinn (Locke).
So, Desmond can see the future now, huh? Weird. Wonder where that will take us.
Where you like me, did you think that the cop was going to shoot Locke, paralyzing him? I wonder when we'll finally find out how he becomes paralyzed.
Until Next Time, Lots of stuff going on this season, but sadly only three more episodes before we get a long hiatus.
So, Desmond can see the future now, huh? Weird. Wonder where that will take us.
Where you like me, did you think that the cop was going to shoot Locke, paralyzing him? I wonder when we'll finally find out how he becomes paralyzed.
Until Next Time, Lots of stuff going on this season, but sadly only three more episodes before we get a long hiatus.
Wednesday, October 18, 2006
LOST The Glass Ballerina, first thoughts
Highlights from Ep 2...
Benry Gale showing Dr. Jack the tape of Red Sox winning world series. Whole scene was brilliantly done, plus makes you wonder how the hell they are getting their info on the island.
Best LOST line ever?
Definitely in the running is Kate's response to Sawyer's statement "You taste like strawberries." Kate's reply had me laughing so hard I had to pause the show... "You taste like fish biscuit." I've been saying that to everyone. That line is great.
Until Next Time, only one more day til the third episode. Can't wait.
Benry Gale showing Dr. Jack the tape of Red Sox winning world series. Whole scene was brilliantly done, plus makes you wonder how the hell they are getting their info on the island.
Best LOST line ever?
Definitely in the running is Kate's response to Sawyer's statement "You taste like strawberries." Kate's reply had me laughing so hard I had to pause the show... "You taste like fish biscuit." I've been saying that to everyone. That line is great.
Until Next Time, only one more day til the third episode. Can't wait.
Sunday, October 8, 2006
LOST A Tale of Two Cities, first thoughts
Wow!!!!! Right off the bat you were sucked in. I was like, what in the world is going on here? Whose flashback is this? Then we find out that it is actually on the island!!!
I knew that the Others were not really all primitive, but I don't think I was expecting a "leave it to beaver" neighborhood.
I wonder who the guy that Jack's wife left him for is. I bet he fits into the island storyline somehow. Everything does.
How much of a connection do the Others have to the world outside the island? They somehow got all the info on Jack, including events just before the flight (the autopsy of Jack's dad). Could they have somehow made sure the people on this plane were on this particular flight?
It's looking more and more likely that someone did, if they are able to get such exact info on various passengers.
Why are they keeping them in a zoo? And who was it that tried to escape with Sawyer?
So much I want to know. Can't wait to find out more.
Until Next Time, Five more episodes before the long break until Feb. Good news is that in Feb, once it comes back, it is non-stop til the end of the season, 24 style.
I knew that the Others were not really all primitive, but I don't think I was expecting a "leave it to beaver" neighborhood.
I wonder who the guy that Jack's wife left him for is. I bet he fits into the island storyline somehow. Everything does.
How much of a connection do the Others have to the world outside the island? They somehow got all the info on Jack, including events just before the flight (the autopsy of Jack's dad). Could they have somehow made sure the people on this plane were on this particular flight?
It's looking more and more likely that someone did, if they are able to get such exact info on various passengers.
Why are they keeping them in a zoo? And who was it that tried to escape with Sawyer?
So much I want to know. Can't wait to find out more.
Until Next Time, Five more episodes before the long break until Feb. Good news is that in Feb, once it comes back, it is non-stop til the end of the season, 24 style.
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