El Capitan

So, being close to Hollywood Blvd. has perks.  Walking down to the famed street is easy to take for granted, yet easy to want to avoid.  People everywhere are buying into the touristy shops, taking pictures of anything having to do with movies, and getting ready for tours.  

I like living close because there are movie theaters down there I can walk to.   The Chinese Theatre is famous (obviously) and very cool to go to.  It also has a digital projection system (I think that's right), which makes the picture look great.

Last night, we went to Disney's El Capitan theatre.

  It is no doubt the last time I go there.  LOL. So the El Capitan theatre apparently does a show to the theme of the most recent disney movie showing.  Last night it was 'UP'.  So, we sit down (me, my roommate, and a neighbor who just moved to LA that neither of us know very well), and the previews show.... then... afterwards.... the "show" began.  

It was the kind of show you would imagine to see on a Disney cruise while sitting down to dinner.  The characters come out in Hawaiian costumes with some other young actor-people and sing and dance, even limbo....  The neighbor was looking at me like.... what did you drag me out of my apartment for?!  This?!  

Then during the movie, the entire audience (filled to the brim with children) was like a studio audience on a television show.  Every time something was cute, every single time, the entire room would "awwww".  Every time something was mildly funny, a laugh track seemed to be playing all around me. And of course, applause was necessary every now and then.  Not to mention, children talking all over the place.  

End of story, El Capitan was not for me.  And at 25 dollars a ticket, I wont go back until I have children.

This is the end of the dance show (when I realized I would need a picture so that people would believe me when I told them).

DisneyNature

Disney recently put out the feature film 'Earth'.  With each ticket, a tree is planted.  Noble.  

What I didn't appreciate about 'Earth' was that it was basically all footage from the BBC's 'Planet Earth'.   That annoyed me a bit.  I hate feeling like we, in America, are thought of as idiots who easily forget or do not watch anything from other countries.

But now, they are readying their next project; 'Oceans'.

 I haven't watched all of 'Planet Earth' yet, but do not recognize the footage.  Which is great!  (Not to mention the animals of the ocean have always fascinated me, so Im much more excited for this one).  It is due out next year, April 22, 2010.  

Take a peak at the trailer.  Im assuming this is a teaser, as it seems just a bunch of footage placed together with some easy to edit to music.

http://disney.go.com/disneynature/oceans/

Salvation

The re-imaging of the franchise is something we should be getting used to by this point.  Not only has it become the savior for studios, but also audiences.  Fresh ideas are so welcomed here.  Without progressive thinking, where would film end up?  Perhaps Casablanca would have just been made....

Anyways, this morning I walked to the famed Chinese theatre on Hollywood (I live about a ten minute walk.... Im lucky, I know).  There, I finally got to see the new "Terminator: Salvation" and was eager to see what some have reported to hate, while others noted they were thoroughly entertained.    **Now, I warn... I talk about the movie... So there are some spoilers***

"Terminator" was what I would call a real "guys" movie.  Something in-between a Chris Nolan story and style, a splash J.J. Abrams intensity, and the beauty of Michael Bay explosions (you cannot argue that man's ability to blow anything up and make it incredible).

The story is simple, destroy skynet and keep John Conner alive.  Bla bla bla.  We know how it goes back full circle.  But what I appreciated was how even though we knew what would happen and that this story wasn't over.... (Kyle Reece is now a teenager and that in is late twenties/early thirties would be sent back in time to prevent Sara Conner's death....) I was still entertained.

So the story is far from over.  Director McG acknowledged this.  He set this film to be a new trilogy.  Id look forward to another.  

One thing I wanted to point out, is the films style.  It is tremendously dark yet delivers very complex CGI, but none of this deters from how amazingly attractive the film turned out.  Its very blue and black.  All other colors (minus the explosion) are muted, almost lifeless.  Its slick and colored like '300'(kinda) was but as the spartans were treated with warm sepia tones, John Conner got a 'cool' look.  It was a great looking film, and the action shots were really nicely planned.

I wont go into the story's twist, which is a little predictable, but the evolution of John Conner from a soldier/prophet to a leader is a good one.  And yet the governor failed to make his appearance... which was fine with me....  Warner Bros. used good old computer graphics to get him in as that bloody robot, and wow... it looked great.

The acting was good, I especially enjoy Anton Yelchin (who was also in 'Star Trek').  He is

 proving to be a pretty talented young actor, and when you are surrounded by so many other lifeless famous young actors... it is nice to see one shine.  Plus, Helena Bonham Carter's presence is always appreciated by me.  She is one of my top ten favorite actors.  And Bryce Dallas Howard.... she is not only talented, but one of the most beautiful women in Hollywood.  We all know Bale is a tremendous actor, so I wont mention him.  Sam Worthington also proved his skill.  It is nice to see a cast together who all are talented (and nice to look at).

All in all, I really liked it.  It is a completely separate film from the original two (and... the... ahem... 3rd)  but really, it should be different.  It takes place almost 40 years after the first, robots from the future are no longer secrets and things are meant to look and feel different.  Check it out, and let me know your take.

The Hollywood Person

The temptation of fame is hard to ignore.  I can honestly say, that if someone knew me by name or what I have done, I would be thrilled.  But the idea of walking down the street with the paparazzi following my every move would get old the very first time it happened.  In Los Angeles, everyone wants to be famous.  Everyone wants to be an actor, musician, model, writer, director, ect.  And now that I work at a restaurant, I am one of four of about 40 that is not an actor, singer, or model(im not kidding).  No matter how attractive some of the people are there, most of them claim they are actors/models, but do not ever go out for auditions.  They do not have agents or headshots.  They say they aspire to be actors but seem to be waiting for the opportunities instead of going out and controlling what happens.  

Im not saying that they would be bad actors, but they do not apply themselves.  It is a rough industry.  You need to audition every chance you get.  You need to have an agent and you need headshots.  Simply having a pretty face is not enough.  And this is true for every aspect of the entertainment industry.  You need to be more than someone just standing around.  There is always going to be someone better (looking/talented) in this city.  Just hanging around waiting for opportunities hardly ever works.

This brings me to my point.  There are plenty of people in this industry who want to be actors, writers, ect.  Then there are people who ARE actors, writers, ect.  The line isnt as thick as you might think.  You can be a actor in this city.  Just dont expect to be famous.  Be rational.  The people who make it as leading roles have the right connections, looks, AND talent.  Its not meant to be discouraging, but its truth.  The percentage of people who get let down by not getting call backs are the ones who will be working for years and years as extras and waiters.  The ones who continue on and are persistent are the ones who will do well.  They will most likely not become famous, but secondary actors for sure.  

I purpose there are three levels to the "actor".  The black zone, grey, and white zone.  White is the largest full of people who want to be something but spend their time as extras.  Grey is small, but accomplishable.  It is the zone of working actors, writers, ect.  And the Black zone is the truly successful actor, ect.  

People can become a "working grey zone" but (at least as far as actors go) most will stay in that zone.  I was explaining to a friend, who wants to act, that I dont think she would ever make it to the black zone.  Because- 1) she doesnt apply herself, and 2) because becoming so successful has to do with being a great actor.  I dont think I know anyone who has the talent of a Meryl Streep or Dustin Hoffman.  Even the most talented people I know dont have this quality (or have not shown it to me).

So when I say that no one I know will be a truly successful actor, Im saying that they will most likely not be famous and on the cover of magazines.  Not that they wouldn't live a life as an actor and make a living.  Its complicated, but people need to understand that being famous comes from training at the right schools, knowing the right people, and being very good at your craft.  So dont be discouraged by my saying you will not be famous.  Im saying to be realistic, and use your skills to perfect your craft to become a success.  And  by all means, prove me wrong.  :)

'Salvation' Facts

Its been twenty five years since 'The Terminator" blasted onto the screen. It was a low budget film that became nothing short of sensational. It was released October 26, 1984 and had a budget of 6.5 million, and made merely over 4 million on its opening weekend!. Oddly, director James Cameron didnt want the body builder Schwarzenegger to play the role. He wanted Lance Henriksen first, and also thought O.J. Simpson. His reason for not choosing O.J.? "People wouldn't have believed a nice guy like O.J. playing the part of a ruthless killer." (I dont think a comment is necessary)

Then came the ursuping sequel and fan favorite, 'Terminator 2: Judgement Day' came July 1991. This film had a much larger budget at 102 million and won 4 academy awards! It took so long to shoot, that Edward Furlong, who played John Conner at the time, had hit a little thing called puberty and needed to dub all his lines over due to his much deeper voice!

'Terminator 3: Rise of the Machines' followed 12 years later (2003). Its something like the cousin that no one likes to talk about.

The movie did quite well, but disappointed fans. (X3 anyone?) This one centered on yet another robot coming back to in time to change the future, but this time was a sexy/scary woman. Anyways, T3 was not directed by Cameron and was an ultimately forgettable. (Even with a 200 million dollar budget! yikes...)

Now, 'Terminator Salvation' is playing in theaters everywhere. It has had the least amount of time in between the previous terminator film and again does not employ Cameron as the director. It had a 200 million dollar budget, and already looks as though it put it to use better than the previous film.

It takes place in 2018, which makes it not only a sequel.... but a prequel as well. Wrap your mind around that one! The director, McG has already mapped out a storyline for a trilogy so we are most likely to see more 'terminator' in the future.... or past.... or... uhhh Anyways, it depends on how this one even does, but its only winning audiences to score it a 'B' and citics as a 'C'. We'll see...

It all started with...

...A mouse. 

Sad news folks. Wayne Allwine for thirty years provided the voice to the Disney icon, Mickey Mouse.  At 62, he died yesterday leaving behind a legacy that affected generations.  

Allwine was (ironically) married to Russi Taylor who did the voice of Minnie Mouse.  

Cheers Mr. Allwine.

Iron / Holmes!

Not many actors make such spectacular comebacks as Robert Downey Jr. He came back with both Iron Man and Tropic Thunder (which he was nominated for 'best supporting actor'... if you forgot). And we are about to hear a lot about more of him later this year and early 2010.

For starters, Sherlock Holmes is back! This is something to be excited about, because the preview looks great! I really do appreciate Robert Downy Jr. and with Guy Ritchie directing we hopefully have something to look forward to!

Check it out!

Also, 'Iron Man 2' is on the horizon. Not much info is out yet, but I did find a picture. Not quite as invigorating as the teaser above... but you're just going to have to deal with it for now.

Iron Man 2 is set to be released May 7th 2010 as Sherlock Holmes is in post and due Christmas Day!

The Other Movies...

So I've written about what the big movies are going to be this summer, as well as what I am really looking forward to seeing.  But, we cannot overlook the "other" side of film.  The BAD movie.  

I understand that some of these movies might actually be good.  But I'm guessing that.... well... they wont be.  Nor will I rush to any theatre and see them.

Something I think is very important when it comes to understanding the good movie, is in fact familiarizing yourself with the bad movie.  Then you will be more aware of what does and does not work in film!

So, on June 5th we are treated with both 'The Hangover' and 'Land of the Lost'.  To me, neither

 of these movies look at all appealing.  Especially 'Lost'.  (no doubt because it reminds me of Brendan Fraiser's failure - "Journey to the Center of the Earth'.

A little further out comes Eddie Murphy's 'Imagine That' which sounds exactly like last winter's 'Bedtime Stories' with Adam Sandler.  

Then!  There is 'Gamer'. Which, again looks like another movie... (a movie so unrememerable that I cannot remember what it was called... but it had death row inmates battling each other to the death to be paroled).

But like I said, these movies might turn out to be amazing.  But I doubt it.  

Online Job Hunting

When is it a good time to use Craigslist?  If you have never heard of the site, introduce yourself to a computer.  Craigslist is used for many things.  I use it for jobs.  Do I recommend it?  Not at all.

There are other job sites out there, ones specifically to help you find entertainment posts.  Craigslist, however is for everyone & everything.  

Two days ago, the owner of the restaurant I work at posted an open call for applicants to show up during a two hour window.  There were sixty people who came!  SIXTY!  Not only that, but of the people who came.... I mean, seriously, who wears tee shirts, shorts, and sandals to an interview?  Also, I think that when you spend the time applying for a job, you should be aware of who is already working at the establishment and whether or not you see yourself hired.  Meaning, all of the wait staff/hosts are under thirty.  Most under 25.  When much older people come in to apply at a tequila bar, its kind of silly (though not as silly as some of the outfits people wore to an interview).  

Now, I'm not being mean.  I totally understand that this economy is wretched and people are willing to take a step down from what they did last.  But really?  40's to 50's?  At a tequila bar? Realistically, they will not get hired.  Its a bar, the cliental is almost exclusively young people and people who like younger people.

And here is a huge recommendation..... ALWAYS BRING A PEN!  Employers watch for this!  And there must have been 20 people yesterday who asked me to borrow one.  And I said "no, Rite Aid is on the corner."

What does this mean?  It means that when you email your resume to a posting on Craigslist, expect to be one of one hundred applicants.  I do recommend checking it for open calls.  As ours went well yesterday (minus what is previously stated).  

And please, use judgement.  There are tons of scams (not to mention sex ads and now even a killer) on Craigslist.  Be careful not to get desperate and overlook the signs.

Paying Attention to Detail

Not all movies get their names in lights.  Or a big premiere.  But all the main actors of 'Bottle Shock' have had that experience before.  

Most of them have seen the red carpet.  Their names scrolling in credits.  And their faces across the silver screen.  (Basically I'm saying they are all accomplished actors.)

But, unfortunately, 'Bottleshock' is an easy movie to pass over at your local movie rental shop.  Honestly, I would not have picked it up if I hadnt seen a billboard for it, and known Alan Rickman was in it.  It is a phenomenal take on mixing, not only culture with wine, but dry English humor with American- not so dry humor.  

I actually loved the story.  I thought the acting was really quite remarkable.  Bill Pullman has been around forever, and this is the first time I really noticed him as a good actor.  He gave this film his all.  As did Alan Rickman, Chris Pine, and Rachael Taylor (from Transformers).

I think that (especially now after 'Star Trek') it is a good time to mention Chris Pine's acting talent.  He is a terrific actor.  I have only seen him in 'Star Trek' and 'Bottle Shock' but in each, he showed extreme capabilities.  I look forward to good acting almost as much as good directing or cinematography.  And even though I think Alan Rickman is one of the best around, or that Rachael Taylor is perhaps one of the most beautiful/yet talented actresses around.... 

you Mr. Pine, are doing your job quite well and shine above the rest.  Cheers.

If you never try...

Then you'll never know the answer?  If you never ask, the answer is always no.  Both are relevant in every aspect of life. 

Its something I've learned since coming here.  I've found myself nervous to ask people questions or advice because I know that these people are plagued with the same questions over and over by everyone.  

I've been extremely fortunate to meet who I have so far.  Half have been simply by chance, others because I took initiative.  I will suggest to everyone to always take initiative.  No matter how intimidating the person might be.  I've met some of my biggest idols since moving to LA, and almost every time you get butterflies.  Therefore, the trick of making yourself known (without being obnoxious or overly confident) will ensure youre remembered.  Its something Im slowly learning and is much harder than it sounds.

Pucker up!

Disney is FINALLY releasing a classic animation film!  We should all rejoice.  Especially, because animated films are finally becoming more and more diverse.  We have an Asian hero in UP and an African-American princess/(prince -  I think) in Dinsey's 'The Princess and the Frog'.  It looks beautiful.  

Disney released its Theatrical Trailer the other day. Check it out!

Batman 3

If you are anything like me, you are dying to know who/ what/ where/ and most importantly when, regarding the sequel to 2008's 'Dark Knight'.  Unfortunately it is no secret that everything about the movie is a huge secret.

There is speculation about everything, but mostly about who the villain(s) will be and who will be bringing them to life.  I have heard so much, including Johnny Depp as the Riddler, Philip Seymour Hoffman as Penguin, and Angelina Jolie as Catwoman.  Each of those ideas sound terrible (perhaps not so much with Hoffman).  But, as much as it sounds cool to imagine Depp or Jolie donning bat costumes, I think the way to think of this is to consider whether these actors fit the franchise.  I do not doubt that whomever Christopher Nolan chooses will be excellent, but these characters seem obvious, overly A-list, and... frankly.... just dont fit into the series.  Can we really picture Johnny Depp arguing with Christian Bale  about riddles, and it working?  I cant.  There is a very selective casting process, and to me it just doesnt feel right.  Its, in part, a large portion of my argument as to why the Xmen franchise is failing.  Characters cast now have different values than were once used.  Popularity is a large part of it.  

Onto the topic at hand.  I wanted to share an artists view on how they feel villains in the next bat flick should look.  Some are very cool.  Others, not so much.  I particularly like Harley Quinn.  Being that Quinn is a doctor at Arkham whose mind is twisted by the Joker, just before she breaks him out, I think her addition would be wise.  Especially if it takes the entire movie to send her over the edge and during the final climax the editor intercuts her having this James Bond-esque (blowing everything up, guns blazing) rescue mission.  That would make me happy.  This artist chose Kristin Bell in his image.  I love the image, a lot.  Costume looks perfect.  But do I think Bell is right for it?  Im not actually sure.  I cannot think of anyone else at the moment, but whoever it is needs to be on par with the acting level of the Joker.  So finding someone who can do that is very important, not just for the look.  The actors need to bounce off one another to keep it believable.  

But then there is Catwoman, who I feel is all wrong.  For me, I think this artist's representation

 of the feline burglar lacks the very thing that makes Catwoman appealing, pure sexiness.  Also, as much as I love Miss Marion Cotillard, I dont find her right for the part.  Personally, I would choose someone a bit more stunning (I think Cotillard is cute, not stunning), tall, and would look great in some tight cat suit.

  Somewhere I read a suggestion that I completely agreed with, Kate Beckinsale.  She is ridiculously beautiful, tall/lean, looks great in leather, and seems perfect for the role.  Also, I can see Rebecca Hall (from Vicky Christina Barcelona) playing the part.

Next, Riddler.  Johnny Depp would bother me.  I think he is a great actor, but he seems too easy of a choice, and, doesn't fit the franchise.  This artist 'Joshwmc' chose David Tennant, who could be great (I would prefer him as the Mad Hatter obsessed with doing the 'off with his head' to Batman.... or something a bit more off).  But my vote would go for Daniel Day-Lewis, for a scary take on the puzzle master.  I think his riddle would be trying to figure out what actually happened to Harvey Dent and work to expose the truth. That, and throwing small clues at Batman to where he would be causing problems next.  That would be creepy and no doubt a great performance.  

I wanted to throw in another idea.  Poison Ivy was ruined (as was Bane, Mr. Freeze, and Batgirl) in 'Batman and Robin'.  Something fun about this character is that she is a brilliant scientist who has gone nuts for flora.  Before the Dark Knight came out, I envisioned Grey's Anotomy and Private Practice's own redhead Kate Walsh.  But lately, I think Amy Adams would nail the character.  She is fair skinned, redhead, and can pull over serious as well as loopy.  She is classically beautiful and would fit into the series nicely.  Not to mention she is a brilliant actress.

Whomever the Nolan's choose I'm sure will be great.  Im just excited for it all to come together for a third go-round.

Star Trek

We are all on the same page at this point, Star Trek is taking over theaters everywhere! And if you have not yet seen it, you are missing out. J.J. Abrams has again created something entirely new out of an old concept and did not disappoint.

Being someone who has never before seen anything Star Trek (No joke. Nothing.) and only have knowledge of the shows references through television shows like Family Guy, I was throughly impressed.

It seemed, thought I cant speak for them, that it was exciting not just for fans but newcomers, such

as myself, as well. Critics are loving it, even hailing it as "the best prequel ever made" - Boston Globe. Yahoo! Users have raited it a solid 'A', and with almost 5000 viewers to make that average, you know its quality. Even my mom, queen of the romantic comedy/drama, liked it and wants to take my dad to see it.

The graphics were beautiful, the sound was intense, acting - noteworthy and the story true quality. Im not sure if it is necessisarily setting up for the television show because, well... it ends up being a bit unclear, meaning I'm not sure it is a true prequel. But it was a great see the development of characters that you (mainly meaning myself) only hear of.

It is really a captivating storyline. From the very first scene, you know that Abrams is going to take you for a wild, often hand held shaky/camera, thriller that somehow ensnares a brilliant story mixed with dialogue. Its no secret that filmmakers of my age know what he is typically going for, and to work with him at Bad Robot (his production company) over on Cloverfield (the street as well as the name for his movie) would be a dream. Speaking of "Cloverfield" the movie, I loved that movie. I hope another one in the form of a sequel/prequel comes about. J.J. Abrams is certainly someone who deserves respect from the film world. If you dont like his movies, you at least have to appreciate his determination to do something fresh.

But back to "Trek", there was some odd casting, I just have to note. Winona Ryder as Spock's mother was not really as odd as Tyler Perry as Admiral Barnett, who sorta seemed in charge of Starfleet...or something. Both were a little strange, distracting for some. And John Cho (we know as Herald from "Herald and Kumar") commanded giggles from audience members when they saw the preview, but actually did a terrific job making the transition

from comedy.

AND! I am going to add something here. 'The people I know' section. In LA, you see people

you know all over the place. In movie trailers, as extras (even I have been in a few shows), and whatever. Today, I'm pointing out my friend Bill, who made his very own cameo (as an extra) in Star Trek. Yay Bill!

So, the question is, do I recccomend this? yes. Big duh. Though I know I wont, this movie made me want to pick up an old Star Trek television season or maybe movie. But again, cheers Mr. Abrams, from all of us out in the world of struggling movie makers.

Deadpool The Movie

It is now official.  Ryan Renyalds is going to be, yet again, playing the role of Deadpool.  Hard to believe but somehow, yes...

Again, don't get me wrong, I think that Deadpool having his own movie is a good idea.  Hes a cool character.  But... he had his shot.  His character (among others) was almost ruined, and now.... the idea of giving him his own story just seems ludicrous. 

Another thing.  I do not think Ryan Renyalds is fit for leading roles.  He has done well with his light comedies... but I think that might be what he is good at.  Leading role with a character like deadpool seems... annoying... to say the least. Good at comedies and making other men jealous.

Jedi's Last Hope

So, this totally made my day... It has NOTHING to do with anything.  

Dom Deluise

Hollywood lost a comedic legend last night.  Dom DeLuise died at 75.  He was a writer, director, and actor and was seen in many of his own films including "Spaceballs" "Blazing Saddles" "Robin Hood: Men in Tights".  

Always sad to loose a great...

Cheers Dom

Biggest Blockbuster Of The Summer

So, the other day (after Wolverine) some friends and I questioned what we thought was going to prove the biggest blockbuster this summer.  That is a great question, as this summer boasts many big budget films that have wide ranges for their audiences.  Now, Im going to guess that the biggest movies this summer will be (in no order): Star Trek, Harry Potter, Transformers 2, Terminator Salvation, and Up (maybe Public Enemies).   

Its interesting to break this summer down, because Star Trek has an enormous fanbase of all ages, Harry potter is more for the fans of the books and blockbuster seekers, Transformers has the people who just want popcorn and explosions, Terminator Salvation has a surprisingly huge fanbase and great marketing, Up will be seen by like everyone of every age, and Public Enemies by those who like gangster movies and good acting/story.  

But If I was to put money on a film's global box office, (I defiantly think its between Star Trek, Harry Potter and Up) I would go with Harry Potter.  

I think Harry Potter will have an easier time getting families to go to the movies, than perhaps Star Trek.  Both will probably compete for the biggest summer movie, but since fans have waited for almost two and a half years.  Plus, Harry Potter's fan base has been around.  Star Trek's franchise has been a bit stagnant for a while.  Not to mention, that Harry Potter is a world wide sensation while  Star Trek, correct me if Im wrong, has mostly an American following.  Up, however, will be a big deal (for families, but will probably loose out on the majority of the 15+ age group) and will no doubt be the family film of summer.  

But all in all, Im really excited for all of them...

***BTW- I put a poll on the side of the blog.  Vote if you do or do not agree with me*****

Wolverine

I heard Friday (May 1st) that Xmen, the first movie, was the worst of the franchise.  Why?  Because it's boring.  Im going to start out by saying, that the reason I loved the original XMen movie, was because it took familar stories and changed them for a film.  I dont like the idea of perfectly translating a story from comic to film because we have seen it before and know the story.  Xmen was the first comic book story in a decade that was successfully translated into film.  It was a set up, not only for the Xmen franchise.  But for every comic book movie we have seen since.  It certainly is not the most action packed, but does this make a movie "the worst"?  I would argue that because of the great dialogue (minus a line about toads and lightning) and the depth of issues handled by director Bryan Singer, Xmen successfully set the stage and rolled out the red carpet for the dozens of comic book movies we have seen since.  Not only that, but it continues to stand as one of the best superhero movies, ever.  I ask, do you think Quinten Tarentino thought that successful dialogue might be more of a 'bang' to end the Kill Bill series as opposed to perhaps ending it in a showdown of sparks, fire, and explosions? Fancy special effects are what makes a movie a "popcorn" movie.  Great story advanced by character development then mixed with great action and effects makes a movie we will remember.  It is then we come to identify with the main characters, and like them.  As opposed to forgetting them quickly.

Sorry, I digress, so when I talk about Wolverine, and how it was or was not like the comics, I do not mean I wish for a faithful adaptation like Watchmen.  I simply mean that what changed or didnt change, did or did not bother me.  Capiche? 

Wolverine was both good and bad.  It was tremendously silly and overly dramatic, but had enough going on to keep people from leaving the theatre (if they managed to get past the dreadful first scene).   I do not think that people will look back in a year and say "wow, wolverine was so awesome!".  I think that, as far as movies go, this one seems like a lot of, for lack of better wording, stuff...... all happening at once.  Read this article for a professionals explination who thinks of better wording than my 'stuff'.  It sums everything up nicely: http://movies.yahoo.com/feature/weekendroundup_4_30_09.html  

Now if you have seen the movie, go ahead and read on.  If not ***spoiler alert**** 

OK, so like I said earlier, Wolverine was waaaaay too dramatic.  I get that Logan likes to yell and throw his claws out to the side.  But really?  Do we have to see him screaming and looking to the sky quite so many times?  And Sabertooths teeth baring?  We get it, you have fangs.  

Then there is the Weapon X scene.  Now, when I said eariler that I didnt want to see things done like the comic?  Well this is excluded.  This was so tainted with prissyness, I wouldnt be surprised to see a soilder holding a barbie doll while it was happening.  What happened to those great teaser shots from X2?  Where was the blood?  Where was the seriousness?   And why was it so freaken short!?  Its one of the biggest moments in comic history - Wolverine and his claws, where is the flippin justice!?  I dont understand how things like this get botched.  (Venom in Spiderman, Phoenix in Xmen, and now this...)  And the nudity.  The scene seemed almost only about showing Hugh Jackman's ass.  Nuidity does not fit into this franchise.  It makes it seem odd, and extremely out of place.  (need I remind everyone that Bryan Singer didnt feel it was needed either)  It would be like if someone said that neo and trinity having sex while some giant nudist rager was happening next door sounds like a good idea.  But thank God that didnt happen.  Phew! 

Ok, next up is the blob.  What a pointless waste of time.  What a stupid fight scene.  That needed to get cut, entirely and just have the cool(ish) teleporting black guy tell him about Gambit.  And speaking of Gambit.... WTF.  Do I even mention how pitiful his existence in the series became?  How silly he looked? How it looked like he was part of the circus flipping and jumping around.  He was one of my (and most fans) favorites, and geeze that was silly. 

So, the adimantium bullets I thought was a neat addition.  But why does Striker have to explain that shooting him in the head will make him loose his memory?  That basically TELLS the audience he is going to get shot in the head.  It would have been so much cooler if he left out the prediction of what would happen.  

Alright, and then we have weapon 11.... deadpool.  The super mutant.  Who, is not really even that cool.  (not to mention hes played by ryan Reynolds and very possibly having his own sequel).   Having someone too good, no flaws, makes them boring.  And to give them their own sequel makes me want to throw up.  Maybe he can do more of that dancing/swinging his sword around like he did the first time he pulled those swords out, because that was awesome....   And finally.... my final greviance..... why, oh why.... does Sabertooths memory stay in tact?!  If this is a prequel, then it is supposed to tie into X1.  And need I remind America (again) that Sabertooth was in it!  And not once does he seem to have a vendetta against old wolverine.  Sure they fight.... but pfft.  He should then know wolverine is his dear old bro.

But, in all honesty, this movie had redeming qualities.  I thought the action, for the most part, was good.  It was fun to watch and.... (minus sabertooths jumping around on all fours) was pretty well done.  The end was cool with the escaping mutants while the plant gets demolished by wolverine, sabertooth and deadpool.  And let me tell you, I didnt think I would like the classic xmutants making cameos, but was totally happy with cyclops's appearence!  It was subtle enough to not bother me.  But, OMG... When he heard Patrick Stewart say "left".... I nearly wet myself.  That was so freaken awesome.  Whoever thought to stick ole Xavier in there, needs a big hug from me.  But whoever did the horrible anti-aging graphics... does not get a hug.  I also liked the other mutants.  Im glad that they were not all big names fromt he series (they might be, but I hadnt heard of any of them).  I prefered them being mostly nameless because I wasnt as attached to how their story was done.

So, I know this sounds very wishy washy... but would I recommend this movie to you?  Probably not.  Unless you dont enjoy the comics.  Then go check it out and enjoy a lot of explosions and other Michael Bay-ish type action.

The Reader & The Wrestler

I recently watched both 'The Wrestler' and 'The Reader'.  Both are excellent movies.  

I'll Talk about 'Reader' first. 

'The Reader' is a coming of age story in Nazi Germany.  It centers around Michael Berg (played by 18 - at the time- year old David Kross) and Hanna (Kate Winslet).  Ralph Fiennes plays the older version of Michael and was directed by Stephen Daldry.

Winslet won an oscar for her performance, so we dont need to talk about its brilliance.  But someone to mention is David Kross.  At only 18, Kross's performance was outstanding.  He is really someone I expect we will see more of now in America.  

The movie itself is a thoughtful look at how one might live with their secrets.  It's very shocking in itself, being that both Winslet and Kross spend a good deal of the movie naked.  But over all, such a wonderful film.

Then there is The Wrestler.  Mickey Rourke and Marisa Tomei were both outstanding.  But, the Oscars already told us all about the acting.  I wanted to see the performances, but what I went in to this film not knowing, was what a great overall movie it was.  I loved it.  It was a real story, with real people, in a very real world.  (minus the Hollywood ending).  But I loved it.  

Also, I usually can stomach gore, but because of the realism in this film, I'd suggest preparing yourself for a little bit of blood because I was squirming.