2008 TURNED OUT TO BE A GREAT YEAR FOR POP CULTURE. THIS WAS A YEAR OF BIG LET DOWNS AND QUIRKY SURPRISES. READ MY PICKS, NUMBERED IN ORDER, FOR MY FAVORITE MOVIES, TELEVISION, MUSIC AND CONCERTS BELOW. LET ME KNOW IF YOUR FAVORITES MADE THE CUT AND MAKE A COMMENT!
THE BEST MOVIES OF 2008
1.) “Wall-E”
2.) “Milk”
3.) “The Wrestler”
4.) “Slumdog Millionaire”
5.) “Pineapple Express”
6.) “Hamlet 2″
7.) “Religulous”
8.) “Let the Right One In”
9.) “Kung-Fu Panda”
10.) “The Dark Knight”
11.) “Baby Mama”
12.) “Man on Wire”
13.) “Forgetting Sarah Marshall”
14.) “Revolutionary Road”
15.) “Horton Hears A Who”
16.) “Frost/Nixon”
17.) “Role Models”
18.) “Tropic Thunder”
19.) “Bolt”
20.) “Iron Man”
21.) “The House Bunny”
22.) “Be Kind, Rewind”
23.) “Hellboy 2: The Golden Army”
24.) “Snow Angels”,
25.) “Bigger, Stronger, Faster”
THE BEST HORROR FILMS OF 2008
1.) “Cloverfield”
2.) “Splinter”
3.) “Quarantine”
4.) “The Ruins”
5.) “The Strangers”
THE BEST TELEVISION OF 2008
1.) “True Blood”
2.) “30 Rock”
3.) “Mad Men”
4.) “The Soup”
5.) “Lost”
6.) “Summer Heights High”
7.) “Big Brother”
8.) “Judge Judy”
9.) “So You Think You Can Dance”
10.) “The Office”
11.) “Wipeout”
12.) “Reality Bites Back”
13.) “Kathy Griffin: My Life on the D-List”
14.) “The First 48″
15.) “Little Britain USA”
(MY MUSIC CHOICES ARE BASED ON ALBUMS AND SINGLES THAT WERE RELEASED WORLDWIDE IN THE YEAR 2008 - ROBYN, M.I.A., RIHANNA AND KYLIE MINOGUE HAD ALBUMS THAT CAME OUT IN 2007! THE SINGLES FROM THOSE ALBUMS DON’T COUNT, THEY MADE MY LIST LAST YEAR!)
THE BEST SONGS OF 2008
1.) Sam Sparro - “Black & Gold”
2.) Hercules & Love Affair - “Blind”
3.) Duffy - “Mercy”
4.) Estelle - “American Boy”
5.) Alphabeat - “10,000 Nights of Thunder”/”Fascination”
6.) Robin Thicke feat. Mary J. Blige - “Magic”
7.) The Ting Ting’s - “That’s Not My Name”
8.) Beyonce - “All the Single Ladies (Put A Ring on It)”
9.) Adele - “Chasing Pavements”
10.) MGMT - “Time to Pretend”
11.) Goldfrapp - “Happiness”
12.) Lilly Allen - “Guess Who Batman (Fuck You)”
13.) Cyndi Lauper - “Into the Nightlife”
14.) Death Cab For Cutie - “I Will Posess Your Heart”
15.) Of Montreal - “St. Exquisites Confession”
16.) Hot Chip - “Ready For The Floor”
17.) The Freemasons - “When You Touch Me”
18.) M83 - “Kim & Jessie”
19.) Natasha Bedingfield - “Love Like This”/”Pocket Full of Sunshine”
20.) She & Him - “Why Do You Let Me Stay Here?”
21.) Morgan Page feat. Lissie - “The Longest Road”
22.) Pink - “So What”
23.) Gnarls Barkley - “Run”
24.) Neyo - “Closer”
25.) Ben DJ - “Me & Myself”
26.) Portishead - “The Rip”
27.) Gabriella Cilmi - “Sweet About Me”/Sarah Bereillis - “Love Song”
28.) Annie - “I Know UR Girlfriend Hates Me”
29.) Mutya Buena feat. Amy Winehouse - “B-Boy Baby”
30.) The Raconteurs - “Old Enough”
THE BEST ALBUMS OF 2008
1.) My Morning Jacket - “Evil Urges”
2.) Jenny Lewis - “Acid Tongue”
3.) Alphabeat - “Alphabeat”
4.) Robin Thicke - “Something Else”
5.) Hercules & Love Affair - “Hercules & Love Affair”
6.) Kaskade - “Strobelight Seduction”
7.) Santogold - “Santogold”
8.) Vampire Weekend - “Vampire Weekend”
9.) Adele - “19″
10.) Duffy - “Rockferry”
11.) Goldfrapp - “Seventh Tree”
12.) The Ting Tings - “We Started Nothing”
13.) MGMT - “Oracular Spectacular”
14.) Ashlee Simpson - “Bittersweet World”
15.) Sia - “Some People Have Bigger Problems”
16.) Lykke Li - “Youth Novels”
17.) Midnight Juggernauts - “Dystopia”
18.) Moby - “Last Night”
19.) She & Him - “Volume One”
20.) Madonna - “Hard Candy”
21.) Kate Nash - “Made of Bricks”
22.) Ladyhawke - “Ladyhawke”
23.) Cyndi Lauper - “Bring Ya to the Brink”
24.) Coldplay - “Viva La Vida or Death and All His Friends”
25.) Erykah Badu - “New Amerykah Part One (4th World War)”
26.) Sam Sparro - “Sam Sparro”
27.) Ray Lamontagne - “Gossip in the Grain”
28.) Bon Iver - “For Emma, Forever Ago”
29.) Crystal Castles - “Crystal Castles”
30.) Beck - “Modern Guilt”
31.) Fleet Foxes - “Fleet Foxes”
32.) Death Cab For Cutie - “Narrow Stairs”
33.) Cat Power - “Jukebox”
34.) The Killers - “Day & Age”
35.) Lucinda Williams - “Little Honey”
THE BEST LIVE SHOWS OF 2009
1.) Mark Ronson - Coachella 2008
2.) My Morning Jacket - Greek Theater
3.) Calvin Harris - Cochella 2008
4.) Madonna - “Sticky & Sweet Tour” Oakland, CA
5.) Mika - The Warfield
6.) Rilo Kiley - Coachella 2008
6.) Robyn - Popscene S.F.
7.) Justice - Treasure Island Music Festival
8.) Hot Chip - Cochella 2008
9.) My Morning Jacket - Coachella 2008
10.) Vampire Weekend - Coachella 2008
11.) Kaskade - Coachella 2008
12.) Goldfrapp - Coachella 2008
13.) Robyn - Bimbo’s S.F.
14.) Roger Waters - Coachella 2008
15.) Duffy - Coachella 2008
16.) Dimitri From Paris - Coachella 2008
17.) Chris Isaak - The Filmore S.F.
18.) DJ Mehdi - Coachella 2008
19.) She & Him - Bimbo’s S.F.
20.) Prince - Coachella 2008
DISAPPOINTING LIVE PERFORMANCES
1.) Hercules & Love Affair
2.) Chromeo
3.) TV on the Radio
4.) Midnight Juggernauts
5.) Death Cab for Cutie
6.) The Racontuers
7.) Sia
8.) Kate Nash
9.) The Verve
10.) Gogol Bordello
THE WORST MUSIC OF 2008
Metro Station - “Shake It”
Lady Gaga - “Just Dance”
Britney - “Womanizer”
David Archuletta - “David Archuletta”
David Cook - “David Cook”
Nickleback - “Dark Horse”
Janet Jackson - “Discipline”
Jonas Brothers - “Burning Up”
Miley Cyrus - “Break Out”
Basshunter - “Now You’re Gone”
Dido - “Safe Trip Home”
Kanye West - “808’s and Heartbreak”
Terrence Howard - “Shine Through It”
Jessica Simpson - “Do You Know”
THE WORST MOVIES OF 2008
“Meet The Spartans”
“Vantage Point”
“Star Wars: The Clone Wars”
“What Happens in Vegas”
“The Love Guru”
“Hancock”
“Fred Clause”
“Meet Dave”
“10,000 B.C.”
“The Mummy: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor”
“Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull”
THE WORST TV OF 2008
“American Idol 7″
“Three and a Half Men”
“The Hills”
“The Real World Hollywood”
“Living Lohan”
“Denise Richards: It’s Complicated”
“The Mole”
“The Moment of Truth”
“The Tyra Banks Show”
“Paris Hilton’s New BFF”
“A Shot at Love With Tila Tequila”
“Hole in the Wall”
“I Love Money”
“Top Design”
I’ve never been a huge fan old holiday classics like “It’s A Wonderful Life”, “Miracle On 34th Street” or “White Christmas”. I prefer the more modern holiday classics. Here is my list of the best holiday movies to come out in the past 25 years.
1.) A Christmas Story - This is the best holiday movie ever. Full of classic Christmas scenes; the leg lamp, “you’ll shoot your eye out” and many more. The characters are timeless, and everyone can relate to the mayhem of Christmas dinner, photo’s w/ Santa and grandma’s home made gift (in this case it was bunny suit pajamas). This movie never gets old.
2.) The Nightmare Before Christmas - This is the best animated holiday movie out there, even those tired Rudolph and Frosty TV toons can’t compare to the brilliance of this picture. Tim Burton found a way to extend the Halloween scares into Christmas cheers. The soundtrack will last in your iPod from Oct. 1st through Dec 30th, keeping you in the holiday mood every step of the way. The songs, visuals and characters are timeless.
3.) Elf - This is one of the funniest movies I have ever seen, let alone a Christmas movie. The childlike energy of Will Ferrell’s character keeps the laughter and holiday vibes rolling along. This movie is sweet, charming and inventive. Zooey Deschanel’s dry wit gives this movie an adult feel balancing out the youthful energy of Christmas, making this a big kids holiday classic.
4.) Emmet Otter’s Jug Band Christmas - If you have not seen this genius, dark “Muppet” holiday movie, you were deprived as a child. Based on the holiday classic story “The Gift Of The Magi” this musical brings a flood of Christmas memories to mind. If you can get past the depressing subtext you will enjoy the music and production values of this early 80’s, lost Jim Henson gem.
5.) Bad Santa - This is the ultimate anti-Christmas movie. This movie says “Bah Fucking Humbug” to all sappy Christmas movies of the past. The “Badder Santa” version is nasty, mean and fun providing great laughs and many shocks at St. Nicks expense. Billy Bob’s performance is understated and hilarious, all of this makes for a great anti-”holiday” movie watching experience. Watch this movie after having a crappy X-Mas shopping day, it’ll bring you some holiday cheer.
6.) Scrooged - Bill Murray makes this movie a festive comedy classic with catchy one liners and memorable scenes. This movie spins the traditional telling of “A Christmas Carol” into a modern day holiday parable. Full of great holiday references and cheer, this movie will make any Scrooge laugh. This new take on a tired tale owes much of it’s greatness to the performances of Murray and Carol Kane as “the ghost of Christmas present”.
7.) National Lampoons Christmas Vacation - This movie is silly, poorly made and full of bad acting. But, how can you not laugh at the many frustrating scenes of Griswold holiday angst. From squirrels in the Christmas tree, to uninvited guests to Christmas light power outages this movie makes fun of the excruciating holiday family gathering perfectly.
8.) The Family Man - This Nicolas Cage charmer is my hidden gem out of the bunch listed here. When it was released in 2000 many critics loved the sweet nature of the story. Cage plays a hard nosed corporate big wig that laments his lonely life on Christmas Eve. He wakes up the next day as a “family man” with a wife and kids, with the inevitable lesson to be learned. But this movie is not heavy handed. You slowly fall in love with Cage’s grumpy guy as the ice slowly melts from his cold heart. This is a touching and cute Christmas film. This is my favorite “Capra-esque” holiday film.
9.) Home For The Holidays - Jodie Foster perfected the modern day holiday family get together movie with “Home For The Holidays”. This movie is the most realistic portrayal of the holidays on this list. Uncomfortable, hilarious, endearing and true to life “Holidays” delivers. The script is adult and fresh. Holly Hunter’s performance is fun and a stand out. This movie stands up to the test of time with each Christmas viewing.
10.) Home Alone - If you are like me then you have seen this movie hundreds of times. Each time you see it you can’t help but feel the Christmas energy, no matter what time of year it is. This has become a staple in the Christmas movie viewing tradition for most people who enjoy getting into the holiday mood.
A parody or spoof film is a comedy that satirizes other film genres or classic films. Movie parodies are one of my favorite genres of comedy films. I will be the first to admit that there are more bad parody films than great ones. Below are my top ten favorite spoofs of all time, have I left any out? Read my list and enjoy!
1.) Top Secret
Why is this film #1 and not one of the dozens of other films I can choose from? Two words…Val Kilmer. This spy thriller spoof has it all; boob gags, singing, dancing, fake poop and beastiality jokes! This is the comedy I watch the most when I am looking for the easy laugh and the most quotable lines.
2.) Airplane!
Most critics call this spoof “the best of all time” and for good reason. This Zucker classic paved the way for sight gags in films to come. This take on disaster films is right on point in the flashback dance scenes. Many of these jokes aren’t politically correct even by today’s standards. And surely you can’t forget Mrs. Cleaver talking “jive”…oh yeah, “don’t call me Shirley”.
3.) Naked Gun 2 1/2: The Smell of Fear
This classic comedy stars Leslie Nielsen in a spoof series that pumped life blood back into the genre. This sequel was hands down the best in the side splitting gag filled series. Even OJ Simpson does a great job. This film contains the best spoof film love scene ever made with Frank Drebin and Jane mocking the film “Ghost”.
4.) Austin Powers: International Man of Mystery
Yes, this is a spoof and most likely “Austin Powers” is the most lucrative series of them all. Mike Meyers first “Powers” film was a modest hit when it was released in theaters but boomed on DVD. When the sequels came out they broke box office records. Meyers is at his peak in this multi-role all time comedy classic.
5.) The Princess Bride
This take on fantasy films is not only the most romantic but it also the smartest in the bunch. Rob Reiner’s classic is told like a bedtime story but plays like a sweet adult comedy. The hilarious over the top characters and great acting by Cary Elwes, Mandy Patinkin and Billy Crystal make this film a subtle spoof masterpiece.
6.) Spaceballs
Mel Brooks is the king of parodies. He created the genre with great films like “Young Frankenstein” and “History of the World, Part. 1″. His spoof on space epics still holds up today. The inspired comedic work by John Candy as “Barf” and Rick Moranis as “Dark Helmet” is funny as hell. As of 2007, an animated sequel TV series is in preparation.
7.) Scary Movie 2
This series of parody films makes jokes at the expense of countless crappy horror remakes and with great laughs and gross out humor. Tori Spelling has some of the most hilarious moments in this raunchy Wayan’s Brothers farce. Chris Elliott steals every scene he is in as the creepy butler.
8.) Don’t Be a Menace in South Central While Drinking Your Juice in the Hood
Gangster films were long over due to be made fun of and leave it to The Wayans Brothers to do it right. All the right racial jokes and weed gags will keep you in stitches. Trying to point out which coming of age ghetto film each scene takes place in is just half the fun of this silly ride.
9.) Not Another Teen Movie
Teen romances and high school films are the easy targets made fun of in this witty comedy spoof. All of your teenage favorites are ridiculed in this small little comedic gem. This film has great 80’s star cameos and enough John Hughes films spoof moments for any teeny bop movie fan.
10.) Hot Shots!
Poking fun at “Top Gun” and the slew of military action romance pictures of the early nineties and late eighties “Hot Shots” has some great visual gags and over the top moments. Charlie Sheen stars in this terrific play on macho movies that is another Zucker classic.
RUNNERS UP: “Walking Hard: The Dewey Cox Story”, “Blazing Saddles”, “Mars Attacks”, “Police Academy”, “Robin Hood Men in Tights”, “History of the World, Part 1″, “Hot Fuzz”, “National Lampoon’s Loaded Weapon”, “High School High”, “I’m Gonna Git You Sucka”, “Galaxy Quest”, “Shaun of the Dead”
THE WORST: “Mafia!”, “Epic Movie”, “Superhero Movie”, “The Comebacks”, “Scary Movie 3 & 4″, “Date Movie”, “Undercover Brother”, “Spy Hard”, “Dracula: Dead & Loving It”, “Meet the Spartans”
“Amelie” is a 2001 French film directed by Jean-Pierre Jeunet and starring the fabulous Audrey Tautou. “Amelie” is a whimsical and creative depiction of contemporary Parisian life, set in Montmartre. It tells the story of a shy waitress who decides to change the lives of those around her for the better.
The blending of fantasy elements and special effects through Amelie’s daydreams is brilliant. Audrey Tatou gives one of the sweetest performances in years as the title character. This film will make you fall in love with Paris and keep your faith in love alive. This is one of the purest most original romantic movies of all time, hands down!
2.) Run Lola Run
“Run Lola Run” is a 1998 film by Tom Tykwer, starring Franka Potente as Lola. The film is set against the gritty urban scenescape of Berlin and has a pounding techno soundtrack. The film is a frenetic, inventive thriller that explores the life-altering impact of seemingly inconsequential actions.
The director of “Run Lola Run” tells the plot three times with cunning variations that are executed like a masterful music video. This fast paced rollercoaster ride is wickedly inventive and it will keep you in its grip until the last frames. I also recommend fans of electronic dance music to check out the classic dance heavy soundtrack.
3.) Ma Vie En Rose (”My Life In Pink”)
“Ma Vie En Rose” (”My Life in Pink”) is a 1997 Belgian film directed by Alain Berliner. It tells the story of a boy named Ludovic, who was born in a male body despite having a female gender identity. The film shows the struggle over gender identity he and his family go through in such a painfully realistic way.
The filmmakers and actors of this film have created one of the most authentic, touching households ever put on film. Even though some parts of this movie are harsh and sad, it has just the right recipe to leave a smile on your face.
4.) Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon
This Academy Award winning Chinese-language film (featuring the “Wuxia” martial arts style) was released in 2000 and was directed by Ang Lee. The film won the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film and was nominated for six other Academy Awards, including Best Picture.
Made on a mere US $15 million budget this film became a surprise international success. It grossed $128 million in the United States alone becoming the highest-grossing foreign-language film in American history. This movie is one of those films you can re-watch over and over again.
5.) Like Water For Chocolate
“Like Water for Chocolate” is a 1991 film based on the popular novel, published in 1989 by first-time Mexican novelist Laura Esquivel. When “Like Water For Chocolate” was released it slowly became the highest grossing foreign film ever released in the United States at the time.
“Like Water For Chocolate” is a funny, touching, sumptuous, and incredibly romantic ode to the joys of love and food that is a rare treat for movie lovers who have not seen it. The book is also a terrific and fulfilling read that, just like the film, is peppered with fantastic authentic Mexican recipes.
6.) Pan’s Labyrinth
“Pan’s Labyrinth” is an Academy Award-winning Spanish language fantasy film written and directed by Mexican film-maker Guillermo del Toro. The movie takes place in a dual setting: in the “real world” the story is set in Spain during the turbulent period shortly after the Spanish Civil War.
The main character Ofelia wins over your heart within the first few moments of this film. And much like Alice down the rabbit hole this trippy fantasy has just as many dark moments as it does fantastical creatures and worlds. This film is not only a dark thrilling war time epic, but a great fantasy film for the ages.
7.) Life Is Beautiful
“Life Is Beautiful” is a 1997 Italian language film which tells the story of a Jewish Italian, (played by Roberto Benigni, who also directed and co-wrote the film), who must learn how to use his imagination to help his son survive their internment in a Nazi concentration camp.
This movie is not for the faint of heart and for those who are sensitive to heavy subject matter. Roberto Benigni won the Academy Award for Best Actor and Best Foreign Film for this tender and uplifting tale of hope and loss. Make sure you have lots of Kleenex when you watch this one folks!
8.) Persepolis
“Persepolis” is a 2007 award-winning animated film based on Marjane Satrapi’s autobiographical graphic novel of the same name. The film was written and directed by Satrapi with Vincent Paronnaud. It is currently nominated for a 2007 Best Animated Feature Length Film by The Academy (which it will lose to “Ratatouille”).
This heartbreaking and crisp black and white animated feature is a one of a kind masterpiece. Fusing real world history and pop culture references “Persepolis” gives insight into a time in history many Americans have no clue about. This fill will enlighten and charm fans of both animation and foreign cinema.
9.) Y Tu Mama Tambien
“Y Tu Mama Tambien” (literally translates to “and your mom, too”) is a 2001 Mexican film written by Carlos Cuarón and directed by Alfonso Cuarón. “Y Tu Mama Tambien” was a big critical and financial success and was also nominated for the 2002 Academy Award for Original Screenplay.
The film is a coming-of-age story about two teenage boys taking a road trip with a woman in her late twenties is a smart, steamy mix of road movie, coming-of-age story and political satire. Anyone with a passion for cinema, and indeed sex, should see this sexy and moving movie as soon as possible.
10.) All About My Mother
“All About My Mother” is a 1999 Spanish film written and directed by Pedro Almodóvar. The film deals with complex issues such as AIDS, transvestitism, sexual identity, gender, religion and faith but with Almodovar’s classic tragicomedy touch and dark humor.
“All About My Mother” is an affecting, wonderfully acted, but oddly quaint drama filled with marvelous performances, fabulous wit, and some dizzying images. By the time I was done watching this movie in the theater for the first time I was in love and wanted to see it again.
RUNNERS UP: “Kung Fu Hustle”, “The Sea Inside”, “The City of Lost Children”, “Spirited Away”, “The Host”, “Volver”, “La Vie En Rose”, “Tie Me Up, Tie Me Down”
Cloverfield Release Date: January 18th 2008 Director: Matt Reeves Cast:Mike Vogel, Lizzy Caplan, Jessica Lucas, T.J. Miller, and Michael Stahl-David The Buzz: If anything else, the top secret JJ Abrams produced monster movie had one of the best teaser trailers of all time. Will the movie be even half as good? We have no idea. The film follows a group of friends in New York City during one January night (January 18th) when some kind of monster attacks. The whole film is shot from the perspective of a consumer video camera that the college-age group bring along for the adventure.
Teeth Release Date: Spring 2008 Director: Mitchell Lichtenstein Cast: Jess Weixler, Adam Wagner The Buzz: Teeth is a black comedy horror film written and directed by Mitchell Lichtenstein. High school student Dawn works hard at suppressing her budding sexuality by being the local chastity group’s most active participant. Her task is made even more difficult by her bad boy stepbrother Ross McIntire’s increasingly provocative behavior at home. A stranger to her own body, innocent Dawn discovers she has a toothed vagina when she becomes the object of violence. As she struggles to comprehend her anatomical uniqueness, Dawn experiences both the pitfalls and the power of being a living example of the vagina dentata myth.
Jumper Release Date: February 15th 2008 Director: Doug Liman (Go, The Bourne Identity) Cast: Hayden Christensen, Samuel L Jackson, Diane Lane, Jamie Bell, Rachel Bilson The Buzz: A feature film adaptation of the Steven Gould series of novels about a genetic anomaly that allows a young man to teleport himself anywhere. He discovers this gift has existed for centuries and finds himself in a war that has been raging for thousands of years between “Jumpers� and those who have sworn to kill them. The film has been delayed, which is usually a bad sign, but the extensive mythology behind the story has held my interest.
Be Kind Rewind Release Date: January 23rd 2008 Writer/Director: Michel Gondy (Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind, Science of Sleep) Cast: Jack Black, Mos Def, Danny Glover, Melonie Diaz, Mia Farrow The Buzz: Michel Gondry’s twisted comic tale of the magic of filmmaking. Jack Black plays Jerry, a junkyard worker who inadvertently causes his brain to become magnetized, leading to the unintentional destruction of all the movies in his friend’s (Mos Def) video rental store. In order to keep the store’s one loyal customer, an elderly lady with a tenuous grasp on reality, the pair re-create a long line of films, putting themselves and their townspeople into it. They become the biggest stars in their neighborhood. Rewind was originally scheduled for release in December 2007, but was pushed back to January. It is likely that the film was pushed back so that it can premiere at the Sundance Film Festival.
Horton Hears a Who! Release Date: March 14th 2008 Directors: Jimmy Hayward, Steve Martino Voice Cast: Jim Carrey, Steve Carell, Seth Rogen, Jonah Hill, Dane Cook, Jaime Pressly, Isla Fisher, Will Arnett, Selena Gomez, Amy Poehler, Dan Fogler The Buzz: Could this be the first great Dr. Suess inspired film since Chuck Jones’ The Grinch who Stole Christmas? Jim Carrey voices Horton the Elephant, who one day hears a cry from help coming from a speck of dust. Even though he can’t see anyone on the speck, he decides to help it. As it turns out, the speck of dust is home to the Whos, who live in their city of Whoville. Horton agrees to help protect the Whos and their home, but this gives him nothing but torment from his neighbors, who refuse to believe that anything could survive on the speck. Still, Horton stands by the motto that, “After all, a person is a person, no matter how small.� The computer generated animation looks top notch (almost Pixar quality even).
Harold & Kumar 2 Release Date: April 4th Directors: Jon Hurwitz & Hayden Schlossberg (Harold & Kumar Go to White Castle) Cast: John Cho, Kal Penn, Rob Corddry, Neil Patrick Harris, Eddie Kaye Thomas The Buzz: This stoner sequel follows the cross-country adventures of the pot-smoking duo as they try to outrun authorities who suspect them of being terrorists when they try to sneak a bong on board their flight to Amsterdam.
Speed Racer Release Date: May 9th 2008 Director: The Wachowski Brothers Cast: Emile Hirsch, Christina Ricci, Susan Sarandon, Matthew Fox, John Goodman, Scott Porter The Buzz: Based on the classic 1960’s Japanese animated series, The Wachowski Brothers (Matrix) direct the story of a young race car driver as he attempts to obtain glory, with the help of his family and the Mach 5, the advanced car created by his father. Emile Hirsch stars as Speed, Christina Ricci as Trixie, and Mathew Fox as Racer X. Even if you weren’t a fan of the tv series, all indications so far point to this being unlike anything ever seen before on the big screen. Here is a bit of trivia: Director Alfonso Cuarón was once attached to direct with Johnny Depp starring.
Iron Man Release Date: May 2nd 2008 Director: Jon Favreau (Elf, Made) Cast: Robert Downey, Jr., Gwyneth Paltrow, Jeff Bridges, Terrance Howard The Buzz: Jon Favreau’s big screen adaptation of the popular Marvel comic book character. Robert Downey Jr. plays Weapons designer Tony Stark, who is injured by shrapnel in his heart while in Afghanistan to introduce his new missile design. His captors order him to assemble a missile for them, giving him access to a workshop. He puts his creativity to use by assembling a bulletproof set of power armor, complete with pacemaker and flamethrowers, and uses it to free himself. Back at home, he becomes Iron Man, developing a flying suit with the red and gold scheme and advanced weapon capabilities.
The Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian Release Date: May 16th 2008 Director: Andrew Adamson (The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe) Cast: Liam Neeson (voice), Ben Barnes, Warwick Davis, William Moseley, Anna Popplewell The Buzz: Okay, so the first film lacked action, but Disney has promised to up the ante with Prince Caspian. This could be the film to jump-start the Summer.
Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull Release Date: May 22nd 2008 Director: Steven Spielberg (Raiders, Jaws, Every great movie from your childhood) The Buzz: Steven Spielberg directs the fourth installment of the Indiana Jones series. Harrison Ford is back, and so is Karen Allen as Marion Ravenwood. New to the production is Cate Blanchett as the bad girl, John Hurt as ??? and Shia LaBeouf as Indy’s greaser sidekick. Not much can be said about the storyline, as it is being kept tightly under wraps. George Lucas has said that Crystal Skull is more in tone with Raiders than any other film in the series.
The Sex & The City Movie Release Date: September 19th 2008 Director: Michael Patrick King Cast: Sarah Jessica Parker, Kim Catrell, Kristin Davis, Cynthia Nixon The Buzz: The plot of the film revolves around the lives of the four main characters, four years after the time frame of the finale of the HBO series.
Get Smart Release Date: June 20th 2008 Director: Peter Segal Cast: Steve Carell, Anne Hathaway, The Rock, Alan Arkin, Terence Stamp, Masi Oka The Buzz: Steve Carell stars as Maxwell Smart in the big screen adaptation of the classic Mel Brooks comic spy television series. Anne Hathaway plays Agent 99, Dwayne Johnson plays Agent 23, and Alan Arkin is the Chief. I think this could be the next Austin Powers if done right.
Wall-E Release Date: June 27th 2008 Director: Andrew Stanton (Finding Nemo) The Buzz: Andrew Stanton developed WALL-E before Toy Story was made: the original idea was, “What if mankind evacuated Earth and forgot to turn off the last remaining robot?� After hundreds of lonely years of doing what he was built for, WALL•E (short for Waste Allocation Load Lifter Earth-Class) discovers a new purpose in life (besides collecting knick-knacks) when he meets a sleek search robot named EVE. EVE comes to realize that WALL•E has inadvertently stumbled upon the key to the planet’s future, and races back to space to report her findings to the humans (who have been eagerly awaiting word that it is safe to return home).
The Dark Knight Release Date: July 18th 2008 Director: Christopher Nolan Cast: Christian Bale, Heath Ledger, Maggie Gyllenhaal, Morgan Freeman, Michael Caine, Aaron Eckhart The Buzz: Christopher Nolan’s follow-up to the highly acclaimed Batman Begins. Batman (Bale) raises the stakes in his war on crime with the help of Lieutenant Jim Gordon (Oldman) and District Attorney Harvey Dent (Eckhart). Batman sets out to dismantle the remaining criminal organizations that plague the city streets. The partnership proves to be effective, but they soon find themselves prey to a reign of chaos unleashed by a rising criminal mastermind known to the terrified citizens of Gotham as The Joker (Ledger).
Mamma Mia! Release Date: July 18th 2008 Director: Phyllida Lloyd Cast: Meryl Streep, Pierce Brosnan, Colin Firth, Stellan Skarsgård, Amanda Seyfried The Buzz: Mamma Mia! employs the hit songs of famed pop group ABBA to tell the story of Sophie Sheridan a young girl who hopes to discover the identity of her father. On the eve of her wedding she brings three men from her mother past back to the Greek island they visited over two decades ago.
The Pineapple Express Release Date: August 8th 2008 Director: David Gordon Green (George Washington, All the Real Girls, Snow Angels) Cast: Seth Rogen, James Franco, Bill Hader, James Remar, Gary Cole, Rosie Perez The Buzz: Yes, another Judd Apatow produced comedy. Superbad co-writers Seth Rogen and Evan Goldberg return with an action comedy about a stoner (Rogen) and his dealer (Franco) who are forced to go on the run from the police after the pothead witnesses a cop commit a murder.
Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince Release Date: November 21st 2008 Director: David Yates (Order of the Phoenix) Cast: Emma Watson, Daniel Radcliffe, Jim Broadbent, Rupert Grint, Tom Felton The Buzz: As Harry Potter begins his 6th year at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, he discovers an old book marked mysteriously “This book is the property of the Half-Blood Prince� and begins to learn more about Lord Voldemort’s dark past.
Star Trek Release Date: December 25th 2008 Director: JJ Abrams The Buzz: JJ Abrams restarts the Trek series at the beginning. Not much is known about the film other than it will feature a young Kirk and Spock in the early days of the Enterprise. Casting of young and comedic actors has worried long time fans, but producers have stated since the beginning that they are trying to attract a new audience to the series. Zachary Quinto as Spock, Eric Bana as the villain Nero, Zoe Saldana as Uhura, Anton Yelchin as Chekov, John Cho as Sulu and possibly Chris Pine as Kirk.
The Happening Release Date: June 13th 2008 Writer/Director: M. Night Shyamalan Cast: Mark Wahlberg, Zooey Deschanel, John Leguizamo
The Buzz: Say what you will about M. Night Shyamalan, but many of his detractors have admitted that The Happening is his best script since The Sixth Sense. A paranoid thriller about a family on the run from a natural crisis that presents a large-scale threat to humanity. The Happening will be released purposely on Friday the 13th.
The Incredible Hulk Release Date: June 13th 2008 Director: Louis Leterrier and Writer: Edward Norton
Cast: Edward Norton, Liv Tyler, Tim Roth, William Hurt, Tim Blake Nelson The Buzz: Edward Norton stars as Bruce Banner, in a non-sequel sequel to Ang Lee’s The Hulk. The Incredible Hulk is on the run, and the action is more intense in Edward Norton’s screenplay (that’s right, Norton also wrote the screenplay).
The X-Files 2 Release Date: Fall 2008 Director: Chirs Carter Cast: David Duchovny, Gillian Anderson The Buzz: Due to the highly secretive nature of the project, very little is known about the movie’s plot. It is known that, unlike the first film, the plot will not focus on the series’ ongoing “mythology” and will instead be a standalone thriller/horror story, similar to many of the “monster-of-the-week” episodes that were frequently seen in the TV series.
Trailer Trash Release Date: August 22nd 2008 Director: Eli Roth The Buzz: An R-Rated feature film full of connected faux horror movie trailers. Eli Roth says he wants to make a film like “Monty Python and the Holy Grail,� which he considers “to be the greatest achievement in the history of cinema.� I, like many, really enjoyed the fake movie trailers which were attached to Grindhouse. And I’ve always been a fan of the short form film (ie short film) because if you don’t like it, just wait a few minutes and it will be over and another one will begin. Plus as Roth notes, you can make a trailer full of tentpole moments without all the exposition and connected story in between.
James Bond 22 Release Date: November 7th 2008 Director: Marc Forster (Stranger Than Fiction, Finding Neverland, The Kite Runner) Cast: Daniel Craig, Goran Visnjic, Judi Dench, Giancarlo Giannini, Jesper Christensen The Buzz: It’s Bond, what more can you say? Daniel Craig returns as agent 007. Not much is known about this film as of yet. All we do know is that this movie is going to be the first ever direct sequel to another official James Bond film (Casino Royale)
Where the Wild Things Are Release Date: October 3rd 2008 Director: Spike Jonze (Being John Malkovich, Adaptation) Cast: Forest Whitaker, Michelle Williams, Catherine Keener, James Gandolfini, Catherine O’Hare The Buzz: Every kid has read the classic illustrated Maurice Sendak book, about Max, a mischievous little boy, creates his own world - a forest in habited by fabulous wild creatures who crown Max as their ruler. Music Video turned filmmaker Spike Jonze has always created some visual and conceptual masterpieces. This is also Spike’s first feature film not written by Charlie Kaufman.
The Changeling Release Date: November 7th 2008 Director: Clint Eastwood (Million Dollar Baby, Mystic River) Cast: Angelina Jolie, John Malkovich, Riki Lindhome, Amy Ryan The Buzz: Jolie plays a woman whose son is abducted but retrieved; she suspects, however, that the returned child is not hers. The woman must then confront corruption in the LAPD. The story is based on true events in 1920s Los Angeles. The film is being produced by Ron Howard and Brian Grazer.
The Day the Earth Stood Still Release Date: December 12th 2008 Director: Scott Derrickson (The Exorcism of Emily Rose, Hellraiser: Inferno) Cast: Keanu Reeves (Matrix) The Buzz: A remake of the classic 1951 sci-fi action film by Robert Wise, which is considered one of the best Science Fiction films of all time (#7 on Arthur C Clarke’s List) and was debated for it’s religious symbolism and many interpretations. Bernard Herrmann score is also notable, partly because of its use of two theremins. The film is currently ranked #187 of all time on IMDb, with a 8.1 rating. Reeves will play Klaatu, an alien who arrives on Earth accompanied by a large humanoid robot named Gort, with a warning to world leaders that their continued aggression will lead to annihilation by species watching from afar.
And the following films are in production or being rushed into production before the strike, and couple possibly be released in Fall 2008, although there are no guarantees.
Zack and Miri Make a Porno Release Date: Fall 2008 (estimated) Writer/Director: Kevin Smith (Clerks, Chasing Amy) Cast: Jason Mewes The Buzz: Two friends, both in their late 20s and feeling various strains of adulthood, decide to launch an amateur porn studio — a knockout story for their upcoming high school reunion. I’m a huge fan of Kevin Smith’s work, and this sounds like a step back towards Chasing Amy, which is probably Smith’s best film to date.
Brüno: Delicious Journeys Through America for the Purpose of Making Heterosexual Males Visibly Uncomfortable in the Presence of a Gay Foreigner in a Mesh T-Shirt Release Date: 2008?? Director: Dan Mazer (Borat) Cast: Sacha Baron Cohen The Buzz: The follow-up to Borat: Cultural Learnings of America for Make Benefit Glorious Nation of Kazakhstan, follows Cohen’s third Da Ali G Show character Brüno, a gay Austrian TV reporter who interviews unsuspecting guests about topics such as fashion, entertainment, celebrities and homosexuality, with an emphasis on the latter as each interview progresses.
The Box Release Date: Fall 2008 (estimated) Writer/Director: Richard Kelly (Donnie Darko, Southland Tales) Cast: Sean William Scott, Cameron Diaz The Buzz: I, like many others, LOVED Kelly’s feature film debut Donnie Darko. I have yet to see his follow-up, Southland Tales, which has garnered far less acclaim. Based on the story “Button, Button� written by Richard Matheson (I Am Legend), the film surrounds a troubled married couple who find a small wooden box on their doorstep, which brings with it unforeseen fortune. Their good luck, however, comes at a price.
Australia Release Date: Fall 2008 (estimated) Writer/Director: Baz Luhrmann (Romeo + Juliet, Moulin Rouge!) Cast: Hugh Jackman, Nicole Kidman, David Wenham, Bryan Brown The Buzz: Luhrmann’s film is set in northern Australia prior to World War II and centers on an English aristocrat (Kidman) who inherits a ranch the size of Maryland. When English cattle barons plot to take her land, she reluctantly joins forces with a rough-hewn cattle driver (Jackman) to drive 2,000 head of cattle across hundreds of miles of the country’s most unforgiving land, only to still face the bombing of Darwin, Australia, by the Japanese forces that had attacked Pearl Harbor only months earlier.
No other movie jolted me to my core and made me rejoice at the same time more than this intense “talkie” by Quentin Tarantino. From beginning to end this movie is relentlessly entertaining. There is not one piece of unoriginal or unrealsitic dialog in this film. At this point I have seen this film over 10 times already, I just cannot get enough of it.
2.) “The Mist”
“The Mist” is way more than just another Stephen King horror movie directed by Frank Darabont. It is a deeply rich morality tale with so many intricacies and subtle messages. Layer on top of that startling creature effects, horrific gory images and an ending that will leave you gasping for air. Some people may not get this film, but I couldn’t stop thinking about it weeks after I saw it in the theater.
3.) “Lars and the Real Girl”
Critics have heralded this film as being tender and beautiful and some have called it pretentious. I say “Lars and the Real Girl” is a soft and sweet film that has a huge heart with a message that moved me to tears. Ryan Gosling gives another remarkable Oscar worthy performance as Lars who starts to date a sex doll. The premise may sound absurd to some people but the pay off in the end restored a bit of my faith in humanity as I realized how much compassion people can have if they try.
4.) “Knocked Up”
“Knocked Up” is the smartest adult stoner comedy to come out in decades (except for “40 year Old Virgin” of course). Who cares if it doesn’t seem plausible that a girl like Katherine Heigel would sleep with a guy like Seth Rogan? Both actors create such a great chemistry and work so well with the absurd comedic material that it truly comes off believable. This movie has so many belly laugh moments it is easy to watch over and over on DVD.
5.) “Hairspray”
The original “Hairspray” film by John Waters from the late 80’s is my all time favorite film ever. I have seen it at least over a hundred times. When I heard the Broadway play was being made into a film I was a bit scared. Boy was I wrong! The set designs, music, screenplay and acting are bursting with energy and color. This musical was the biggest surprise for me this past summer. As the song from the film says, “you can’t stop the beat”, right on!
6.) “Juno”
If “Knocked Up” is the best intelligent stoner comedy of the year, then “Juno” is the best intellectually stimulating comedy of the year. I fell in love with this film within the first few frames. The screenplay by Diablo Cody is a work of genius. Not one scene comes off artificial or contrived. This film finally depicts teen pregnancy in a way that doesn’t demonize sex or young adult’s choices. “Juno” deserves a lot of Oscar nominations this season in all the main categories, hands down!
7.) “Eastern Promises”
David Cronenberg is one of my top three favorite movie directors of all time. “Eastern Promises” is the best Russian mobster movie I have ever seen. Much like “Goodfellas” and “The Departed”, “Eastern Promises” gives a detailed and rich depiction of a culture that isn’t shown much in cinema. The gritty realism and hard core fight scenes make this one of the most intense films of the year.
8.) “Superbad”
“Superbad” is the best teen sex romp comedy since the 1980’s. Written and created by the same guys that made “Knocked Up” this crude and smart as a whip film has the best quotable dialog from a film all year. Mc Lovin is the best film geek ever put on screen in my opinion. Perfectly acted and sweet in all the right moments, “Superbad” is enjoyable from start to finish.
9.) “The Simpsons Movie”
After years and years of waiting “The Simpsons” movie was finally released, and the wait was well worth it. This film blew away my expectations and delivered on all fronts. I am crossing my fingers that we can see the Simpson clan get a nomination for best animated feature at the Academy Awards this year. This film only cemented the fact that The Simpsons are the best animated family in history.
10.) “Hot Fuzz”
A few years ago “Shaun of the Dead” made my top ten list and this year “Hot Fuzz” made the same impact as that hilarious zombie send up did. Taking jabs at movies like “Lethal Weapon” and “Bad Boys”, “Hot Fuzz” does a great job at being consistently funny without being too over the top and silly. There are so many hidden jokes and sight gags you need to see this film more than once to get them all.
11.) “Sicko”
“Sicko” is one of Michael Moore’s most honest films to date. He uses the topic of the poor health care system in America as his latest victim of scrutiny. This movie doesn’t go out of it’s way to create a political divide because health care is a universal problem. “Sicko” will infuriate you and bring you to tears, and that is the true sign of a great film.
12.) “Walk Hard: The Dewey Cox Story”
This year was full of great adult comedies and “Walk Hard” is easily the best farce comedy since “Borat”. John C. Riley’s performance as Cox gives this film the sweet and ridiculously hilarious qualities that make this film such a winner. As a huge fan of the genre I have to say that “The Dewey Cox Story” is the smartest and quickest musical satire since “Spinal Tap”.
13.) “No Country For Old Men”
Haunting gory images and breathtaking scenery make this film stand out in a year of big budgets and highbrow comedies. Leave it to the Coen Brothers to weave a tale of serial killers, gangsters and small town people into a Shakespearean masterpiece. The ending will confuse you at first, but when you finally understand its meaning a bit later you will be blown away. This movie gave me the creeps in a big way, and I liked it!
14.) “Enchanted”
This delightful family film won me over immediately. This movie is exactly what Disney needed to bring back it’s credibility. By making fun of the genre they created Disney has made an instant classic with a sweet as pie plot and terrific acting and singing by Amy Adams. The animation is flawless and evryone of all ages will enjoy the jokes and references.
15.) “Sweeney Todd”
This was another great year for Johnny Depp, Tim Burton and movie musicals. The music and cinematography in “Sweeney Todd” is gloomy and spooky just like the plot. Only Burton could bring a blood splattering tale of revenge and lost love to the screen in such a morbidly beautiful way. Tim Burton and Depp may get some serious Oscar consideration when the nominations are announced next month.
MY FAVORITE DVD RENTALS OF 2007:
1.) “Fido” - This movie is like “Shaun of the Dead” meets “Pleasantville”, enough said. It will steal your heart and gross you out!
2.) “The Host” - This creature feature is funny, scary and a complete delight. This is how a good monster movie should look like.
3.) “Behind The Mask: The Rise of Lilian Vernon” - This dark comedy/horror film is wildly inventive and it is a hidden gem for sure.
4.) “Breach” - The biggest surprise thriller of the year is so intelligent and detailed it will hold you in its grip from start to finish.
5.) “Bug” - Not for the faint of heart, this mind fuck of a film will freak many people out and startle the hell out of your senses.
6.) “Jesus Camp” - The people in this film are some of the scariest documentary subjects ever filmed. It will jolt you to your core.
7.) “The Bridge” - This movie haunts me to this day. The subject of suicide has never been so eloquently explained as it is here in this film.
8.) “Zodiac” - This film was way overlooked by audiences. It is a gripping film with a terrific cast and beautiful cinematography.
9.) “Deliver Us From Evil” - This documentary sheds light on the Catholic Church and pedophelia in a way that will shock you.
10.) “Year of the Dog” - Molly Shannon is so good in this tender comedy about animal lovers. This film has a great message and is true to life in many ways.
11.) “Apocalypto” - I didn’t want to like this film but its details, rich history and lush images make this a gorgeous action film.
12.) “The Lookout” - This film is a great crime thriller that blew many critics away with its smart script and gritty premise.
13.) “Severance” - “Severence” is “The Office” meets “Hostel”. You will laugh and scream all at once in this gross dark comedy.
14.) “Crazy Love” - This was a great year for documentaries and this wacky tale of love is enjoyably twisted and just plain weird.
15.) “Once” - Short and sweet, “Once’ will charm your socks off with it’s great tunes and realistic love story.
THE BEST ANIMATED FILMS OF 2007:
1.) “The Simpsons Movie”
2.) “Ratatouille”
3.) “Surf’s Up”
4.) “Enchanted”
5.) “Bee Movie”
THE WORST FILMS OF 2007:
1.) “I Now Pronounce You Chuck & Larry” - Fuck Adam Sandler and this preachy “love letter” to the gays. This is a piece of shit film that tries to look like it is tollerant, but it is just plain mean.
2.) “The Number 23″ - This movie is so bad it is laughable and ridiculously stupid. Nothing in this movie is believable, nothing!
3.) “Norbit” - Eddie Murphy offends everyone on the planet in this gross immature display of an actor’s ego gone crazy.
4.) “The Fantastic 4: Rise of the Silver Surfer” - Why is Jessica Alba playing a blonde and who really likes this crappy franchise?
5.) “Epic Movie” - This is an example of how a farce can be bad. This one isn’t just bad, it’s horrible and ignorant.
6.) “Resident Evil: Extinction” - This movie series is a waste of celluloid. Even the special effects are crappy.
7.) “300″ - I don’t get this over stylized macho bullshit. The whole movie was laughable and silly, who really fights in underwear?
8.) “The Invisible” - This movie irritated me to no end. The plot is frustrating and the actors are just plain bad.
9.) “Pirates of the Caribbean: At Worlds End” - Why did this movie run 2 1/2 hours? What was it about? Can anyone tell me?
10.) “The Ex” - This comedy was so very painful to watch. “The Ex” is mean spirited and crude, and not in a good way.
MY FAVORITE ALBUMS OF 2007:
1.) Feist - “The Reminder”
2.) Junior Senior - “Hey Hey My My Yo Yo”
3.) Amy Winehouse - “Back to Black”
4.) Robyn - “Robyn”
5.) Mika - “Life In Cartoon Motion”
6.) Of Montreal - “Hissing Fauna, Are You The Destroyer?”
7.) Calvin Harris - “I Created Disco”
8.) Mark Ronson - “Version”
9.) The Arcade Fire - “Neon Bible”
10.) Simian Mobile Disco - “Attack, Decay, Sustain, Release”
11.) Groove Armada - “Soundboy Rock”
12.) Rilo Kiley - “Under The Blacklight”
13.) Robin Thicke - “The Evolution of Robin Thicke”
14.) Peter, Bjorn & John - “Writer’s Block”
15.) The Chemical Brothers -”We Are the Night”
16.) Kylie Minogue - “X”
17.) Rufus Wainwright - “Release The Stars”
18.) Fujiya & Miyagi - “Transparent Things”
19.) Daft Punk - “Alive”
20.) Soundtrack - “Death Proof”
THE BEST SONGS OF 2007:
1.) Peter, Bjorn & John - “Young Folks”
2.) Of Montreal - “Gronlandic Edit”
3.) Rihanna - “Umbrella”
4.) Mika - “Relax (Take It Easy)” / “Big Girl You Are Beautiful”
5.) Feist - “1 2 3 4″ / “My Moon My Man”
6.) M.I.A. - “Jimmy”
7.) Robyn - “Konichiwa Bitches” / “With Every Heart Beat”
8.) Mark Ronson feat. Amy Winehouse - “Valerie”
9.) Justice - “D.A.N.C.E.”
10.) Beck - “Timebomb”
11.) Rufus Wainwright - “Rules & Regulations”
12.) !!! - “Heart of Hearts”
13.) Timbaland - “The Way I Are” / “Apologize” Feat. One Republic
14.) The Fratellis - “Chelsea Dagger”
15.) Kelly Clarkson - “One Minute”
16.) The Kaiser Chiefs - “Ruby”
17.) Rilo Kiley - “Silver Lining”
18.) Amy March - “Chick Habit”
19.) Kylie Minogue - “2 Hearts”
20.) Cassius - “Toop Toop”
MY FAVORITE DANCE SONGS OF 2007:
1.) Ida Corr Vs. Fedde le Grande - “Let Me Think About It”
2.) Samim - “Heater”
3.) Mason Vs. Princess Superstar - “Perfect”
4.) Bodyrox feat. Luciana (D. Ramirez Remix) - “Yeah Yeah”
5.) Axwell - “I Found U”
6.) Camille Jones Vs. Fedde le Grande - “The Creeps”
7.) September - “Cry For Me”
8.) Armand Van Helden - “I Want Your Soul”
9.) DADA - “Lollipop”
10.) Hillary Duff - “Stranger” (remixes)
11.) Pink - “Who Knew” / “U & Ur Hand” (remixes)
MY FAVORITE CONCERTS OF 2007:
1.) Daft Punk & The Rapture @ The Greek Theater 2.) Morrissey in Reno, NV 3.) The Arcade Fire & LCD Soundsystem @ Shoreline Amphitheater 4.) Morrissey @ The Filmore S.F. 5.) Lily Allen @ The Filmore S.F. 6.) Peter, Bjorn & John @ The Warfield S.F. 7.) Erasure & Cyndi Lauper “The True Colors Tour” @ The Greek Theater 8.) Kaskade @ Bill Graham Civic Center 9.) September @ The Energy 92.7 Party 10.) Razorlight @ Slims S.F.
“Sunset Tan” (E!) - There is nothing redeeming about these people or this reality series, the whole mess is just gross. “The Hills” (Mtv) - This “reality show” reminds me that money can make some people ugly. These spoiled rich white kids need a good as whipping. “Dancing With The Stars” (ABC) - This cheesy crap is just too corny and gay even for my taste. “The Simple Life 5: Camp Counselors” (E!) - Why did they make this staged reality t.v. show again? What a waste of t.v. air time! “On The Lot” (FOX) - What a boring failure this train wreck became. I was not impressed. “The Tyra Banks Show” (Syndication) - Tyra acts like a drag queen, and not the funny talented type. “The View” (ABC) - With Rosie O’Donnell gone this show became unbearable and grating. “Star Jones” (Court TV) - I wish this woman would just go away and stay away from my t.v. “A Shot At Love With Tila Tequila” (Mtv) - Watching this dating show is painful and turns my stomach. “American Idol” (FOX) - This year American Idol lost me with the whole Sanjaya thing and with it’s pitiful top 2.
T.V. GUILTY PLEASURES OF 2007:
“I Love New York 2″ (Mtv) “Kid Nation” (CBS) “Janice Dickenson’s Modelling Agency” (Oh!) “John From Cincinatti” (HBO) “Slacker Cats” (ABC Family) “Drawn Together” (Comedy Central) “Intervention” (A&E) “Judge Judy” (Syndication) “American Dad” (FOX)
I posted this top ten list last holiday season, but I thought it would be fun to make it an annual thing and post it again. Nothing has come out in the past year that would make any of these holiday favorites lose their position in my top ten. With that said, let the debate begin! What did I leave out? Any of your favorites?
Let me just start off by saying I have never been a huge fan of old holiday classics like “It’s A Wonderful Life”, “Miracle On 34th Street” or “White Christmas”. The cheesy warm holiday sentiment only goes so far with this cynical Scrooge! I prefer the more modern holiday classics, some I am sure are debatable. Here is my list of the best holiday movies to come out in the past 25 years.
1.) A Christmas Story - This is the best holiday movie ever. Full of classic Christmas scenes; the leg lamp, “you’ll shoot your eye out” and many more. The characters are timeless, and everyone can relate to the mayhem of Christmas dinner, photo’s w/ Santa and grandma’s home made gift (in this case it was pink bunny suit pajamas). This movie never gets old.
2.) The Nightmare Before Christmas - This is the best animated holiday movie out there, even those tired Rudolph and Frosty TV toons can’t compare to the brilliance of this picture. Tim Burton found a way to extend the Halloween scares into Christmas cheers. The soundtrack will last in your iPod from Oct. 1st through Dec 30th, keeping you in the holiday mood every step of the way. The songs, visuals and characters are timeless.
3.) Emmet Otter’s Jug Band Christmas - If you have not seen this genius, dark “Muppet” holiday movie, you were deprived as a child. Based on the holiday classic story “The Gift Of The Magi” this musical brings a flood of Christmas memories to mind. If you can get past the depressing subtext you will enjoy the music and production values of this early 80’s, lost Jim Henson gem.
4.) Elf - This is one of the funniest movies I have ever seen, let alone a Christmas movie. The childlike energy of Will Ferrell’s character keeps the laughter and holiday vibes rolling along. This movie is sweet, charming and inventive. Zooey Deschanel’s dry wit gives this movie an adult feel balancing out the youthful energy of Christmas, making this a big kids holiday classic.
5.) Bad Santa - This is the ultimate anti-Christmas movie. This movie says “Bah Fucking Humbug” to all sappy Christmas movies of the past. The “Badder Santa” version is nasty, mean and fun providing great laughs and many shocks at St. Nicks expense. Billy Bob’s performance is understated and hilarious, all of this makes for a great anti-”holiday” movie watching experience. Watch this movie after having a crappy X-Mas shopping day, it’ll bring you some holiday cheer.
6.) Scrooged - Bill Murray makes this movie a festive comedy classic with catchy one liners and memorable scenes. This movie spins the traditional telling of “A Christmas Carol” into a modern day holiday parable. Full of great holiday references and cheer, this movie will make any Scrooge laugh. This new take on a tired tale owes much of it’s greatness to the performances of Murray and Carol Kane as “the ghost of Christmas present”.
7.) National Lampoons Christmas Vacation - This movie is silly, poorly made and full of bad acting. But, how can you not laugh at the many frustrating scenes of Griswold holiday angst. From squirrels in the Christmas tree, to uninvited guests to Christmas light power outages this movie makes fun of the excruciating holiday family gathering perfectly.
8.) The Family Man - This Nicolas Cage charmer is my hidden gem out of the bunch listed here. When it was released in 2000 many critics loved the sweet nature of the story. Cage plays a hard nosed corporate big wig that laments his lonely life on Christmas Eve. He wakes up the next day as a “family man” with a wife and kids, with the inevitable lesson to be learned. But this movie is not heavy handed. You slowly fall in love with Cage’s grumpy guy as the ice slowly melts from his cold heart. This is a touching and cute Christmas film. This is my favorite “Capra-esque” holiday film.
9.) Home For The Holidays - Jodie Foster perfected the modern day holiday family get together movie with “Home For The Holidays”. This movie is the most realistic portrayal of the holidays on this list. Uncomfortable, hilarious, endearing and true to life “Holidays” delivers. The script is adult and fresh. Holly Hunter’s performance is fun and a stand out. This movie stands up to the test of time with each Christmas viewing.
10.) Home Alone - If you are like me then you have seen this movie hundreds of times. Each time you see it you can’t help but feel the Christmas energy, no matter what time of year it is. This has become a staple in the Christmas movie viewing tradition for most people who enjoy getting into the holiday mood.
Although director Mike Leigh is credited with writing the screenplay for “Secrets & Lies”, most of the performances were actually improvised. Leigh told each of the actors about their roles, and let them create their own lines. The emotional scene in the bar towards the end of the film is the highlight of this film.
The “revelation” scene was filmed in a single uninterrupted take of almost 8 minutes. Academy Award nominee Brenda blethyn is out of this world in this role. This film has a beautifully crafted set up and a heart wrenching climax that will have you bawling. This is in one of my top ten favorite films of all time.
2.) FEARLESS
Max Klein is a survivor of a plane crash. Many people die in the crash, including his business partner. The trauma from the crash transforms his entire life. He enters an altered state of consciousness; soon after the crash he even thinks he is dead, and begins rethinking life, death, God, and the afterlife.
Existential questions start to preoccupy his life. Max soon tries to break the depression and apathy of another survivor who lost her baby son during the flight played by the astonishing Rosie Perez (who was robbed of an Oscar). This movie will move you to tears and make you rethink what is really important in life.
3.) A CRY IN THE DARK
Yes, this is the “a dingo ate my baby” movie. “A Cry in the Dark” is based on the disappearance and assumed death of Azaria Chamberlain, a nine-week-old baby girl who went missing from a campground near Ayers Rock in Australia in 1980. The film closely followed the actual events of the disappearance and the trial that followed.
The overriding theme of the film was how the media and often ill-informed public rapidly came to a judgment of the guilt of Lindy Chamberlain based on her “cold” demeanor. Many critics think it was her eyebrows and stoic religious stance that made her a target. Streep captures the horror and confusion of a mother accused of murder with painful perfection.
4.) TERMS OF ENDEARMENT
The story of a mother/daughter relationship has never been so heartbreaking as it is depicted in “Terms”. “Terms” won the Academy Awards for Best Picture, Directing, Best Actress (Shirley MacLaine), Best Supporting Actor (Jack Nicholson) AND Adapted Screenplay (James L. Brooks).
Debra Winger does a remarkable job as the daughter dying of cancer. Her scenes with MacLaine are intense and all too realistic. This emotional powerhouse of a film still holds up to this day. Forget the crappy sequel, “Evening Star”, it does nothing to improve upon the story. This is a classic “weepy”.
5.) MASK
Mask is a 1985 drama film starring Cher and Eric Stoltz. Cher received the 1985 Cannes Film Festival award for Best Actress. The film concerns the life and early death of Roy L. “Rocky” Dennis, a boy who suffered from craniodiaphyseal dysplasia, an extremely rare disorder known commonly as “lionitis” due to the disfiguring cranial enlargements that it causes.
Cher’s performance is a revelation in this film. At the end of the film, Rocky dies quietly in his sleep at the age of 16. In the words of a grieving Rusty, “Now you can go anywhere you want, baby”. Cher’s reaction to Rocky’s death will have you reaching for the Kleenex and wiping away the many tears.
6.) BEACHES
Even though critics loathed this movie, the soundtrack and performances won over audiences. “Beaches” is the story of a deep friendship, lasting from childhood to beyond death, between two very different women. Bette Midler and Barbara Hershey play the two friends that share a special bond in this sad, depressing film.
One girl is a poor but ambitious Jewish girl from the Bronx who goes on to become a famous Broadway star, and the other an attractive WASP from a wealthy San Francisco family who starts out with all the advantages in life yet manages to find nothing but disappointment. Watching their friendship evolve over time and finally end will have all the softies in the room bawling, if they have a heart.
7.) GHOST
“Ghost” is one of the biggest films of the 90’s. It is part romantic comedy and parts drama-fantasy-thriller. “Ghost” stars Patrick Swayze, Demi Moore and Academy Award winning Whoopi Goldberg. The blending of genres helped this film reach many audiences and become a “sleeper hit”.
I must have watched this film at least 4 times in the movie theater. The final few moments when Sam says goodbye to Molly had the whole audience in tears, you could hear the noses sniffling throughout the theater each time. The word “ditto” never had such a melancholy meaning as it does in this movie.
8.) STEELE MAGNOLIAS
“Steel Magnolias” is a 1987 off-Broadway play, made into a movie in 1989 with an all star cast. Based on the author’s experience with the death of his sister, Steel Magnolias is a comedy-drama about the bond among a group of southern women in northwest Louisiana. Julia Roberts recieved an Oscar nomination for her role as the dying “Shelby”.
The over the top performances by Olivia Dukakis and Sally Field are gut wrenching and painful, but in a good way. The loss of a close friend or daughter has never been depicted so beautifully and funny at the same time. Watch the funeral scene at the end and try not to laugh and cry, I dare you!
9.) HOW TO MAKE AN AMERICAN QUILT
This movie is cheesiest and the corniest film on this list. If you don’t like sappy, soap opera-esque plots that manipulate your feelings, then stay away from the weep-fest. I like to call this the “Joy Luck Club” or “Waiting to Exhale” for white folks, it’s not as rich and in depth as those films, but it’s a whole lot of drama!
The story centers on the stories of several women in a quilting bee as they construct a quilt as a wedding gift for a members’ granddaughter who is having second thoughts about her decision. Wynona Ryder does a better job in this film than in the horrible “Girl, Interrupted”.
10.) TITANIC
This is the most obvious “tear jerker” on this list. It is also still the highest grossing film EVER. Who on this planet has never seen the 1997 American romantic drama film directed, written, produced and edited by James Cameron? It still holds the record at 1.5 billion dollars in ticket sales.
“Titanic” also swept the Academy Awards in 1997 and spawned the awful “My Heart Will Go On” song by Celine Dion. It stars Kate Winslet and Leonardo DiCaprio as Rose DeWitt Bukater and Jack Dawson who paly members of different social classes who fall in love aboard the ill-fated 1912 maiden voyage of the ship.
RUNNERS UP: “Cocoon”, “What’s Eating Gilbert Grape?”, “The Notebook”, “The Joy Luck Club”, “One True Thing”, “Happiness”, “Marvin’s Room”, “Lars & The Real Girl”, “Stella”, “Longtime Companion”, “Dancer In The Dark”, “Life Is Beautiful”
“Slums of Beverly Hills” is a hilarious 1998 motion picture, written and directed by Tamara Jenkins. It tells a story of a teenage girl struggling to grow up in a Jewish family that moves every three months in the late 1970s. The film stars a young and talented Natasha Lyonne, the newly Oscar winning Alan Arkin (”Little Miss Sunshine”) and Academy Award winner/nominee Marisa Tomei (”My Cousin Vinny” and “In The Bedroom”).
As well as being a moderate box office success (considering it was an independent film), it was received very well by critics, some calling it a “1970s version of Clueless”. This modest dark comedy is coarsely funny and surprisingly touching at times. “Slums” is a great comedy with multi-textured characters that are all too human. It is the definition of a “comedy gem”.
2.) “KISS KISS, BANG BANG”
“Kiss Kiss, Bang Bang” is a brilliant 2005 crime/comedy film, which follows many conventions of the classic film noir genre. The movie is narrated by a small-time crook, Harry Lockhart (Robert Downey Jr.). He is self-aware and talks to the audience at various times through the movie. The script is fresh with crackling dialog and pitch perfect performances by Downey Jr. and Kilmer.
The film follows Harry as he finds himself caught up in an acting audition by mistake when he is running away from police after a failed robbery. Posing as an actor, he is brought to Hollywood for an audition, where he meets homosexual private-eye Gay Perry (Val Kilmer), who is there to aid Harry in research for his role in the movie. The result is a fun, original, smart detective movie with bite.
3.) “SO I MARRIED AN AXE MURDERER”
“So I Married an Axe Murderer” is a 1993 film starring Mike Myers and Nancy Travis. Myers plays Charlie McKenzie, a man afraid of commitment until he meets Harriet (Travis), who works at a butcher shop and may be a serial killer. When this movie came out I must have seen it over a dozen times at the local discount movie theater (tickets were $1.50).
This was Myers’s first film after achieving success in the Wayne’s World franchise and was not well received by most mainstream critics or at the box office, grossing a total of $11 million domestically. It has since managed to earn somewhat of a cult following on video, with many of its lines and strong Scottish dialects repeated by then-current as well as future fans of Myers’s work.
4.) “THE OPPOSITE OF SEX”
“The Opposite of Sex” is a 1998 film written and directed by Don Roos. It stars Christina Ricci, Martin Donovan and Lisa Kudrow. The film marked departures for both Ricci and Kudrow, cast against type for the roles they were known for at the time (Ricci for adolescents in The Addams Family and Casper, Kudrow for being the resident airhead on Friends). This is one of my favorite comedies of all time!
The film is a black comedy, narrated by and centered around self-absorbed, manipulative, cynical teenager Deedee Truitt (Ricci), who runs away from home after her stepfather’s funeral and moves in with her gay half-brother Bill, a teacher. Deedee seduces Bill’s lover, Matt, then tricks him into believing she has gotten pregnant by him. The result is a fresh, sharp, hilarious and at times tender film. Kudrow and Ricci were robbed of Oscar nominations fro their roles.
5.) “FLIRTING WITH DISASTER”
“Flirting with Disaster” is a 1996 American comedy film written and directed by David O. Russell about a young father’s search for his biological parents. The film stars Ben Stiller, Patricia Arquette, Tea Leoni, Mary Tyler Moore, George Segal, Alan Alda and Lily Tomlin. “Flirting With Disaster” is one of my top ten favorite feature film comedies ever.
This is one of Stiller’s first starring roles and it is still one of his best film performances to date. Leoni and Arquette give true to life performances that will have you in stitches. The stand out scene with Lily Tomlin and Alan Alda will leave you sore with laughter. Though written by O’ Russell (”Three Kings”) a lot of the dialog was improvised. This film is a smart modern adult comedy classic.
Who would argue that Homer isn’t the best animated character of all time? His antics always seem to muster a laugh even from the hardest cynic. Whether he is being un-PC, drunk, a bad parent or a terrible worker, he always seems to endear himself by the episode’s end. Homer’s one liners and outrageous adventures have been a staple of t.v. cartoon history for the past 20 years. And by the looks of the success from the feature film that came out this past summer, he and his brood will be around for quite a long time.
The most innocent and sweet character on this list is the childlike “Spongebob Squarepants”. This cartoon has been making parents, adults and kids laugh for almost 9 years with no sign of the “Spongebob” craze slowing down in sight. Spongebob is a loyal friend and a devoted employee, what better role model is there for kids to have? Celebrities like David Bowie and Scarlett Johansson have supplied their voices to the classic ‘toon with great results. Spongebob’s appeal is ageless and universal, you would have to be an old fart to not like Spongebob and his friends!
3.) Stimpy - “Ren & Stimpy”
This cartoon was ahead of it’s time when it debuted on Nickelodeon in 1991. The subversive and delightful humor was fresh and irreverent for a children’s cartoon on a children’s television network. Stimpy is undeniably stupid externally, idiotically yet adorably cheerful, and intelligent in some ways, and completely devoted to Ren, as he perceives Ren to be a good friend (despite Ren’s constant abuse toward him). Whether he is singing “Happy Happy, Joy Joy” or playing “Don’t Wizz on the Electric Fence”, Stimpy’s dead pan delivery and simple minded mistakes always make you laugh.
4.) Stewie Griffin - “The Family Guy”
Stewie Griffin is the most wickedly evil character on this list. His taboo, potty mouthed moments of fantasy are hilarious and just plain wrong sometimes. Making Stewie a closeted homosexual is a touch of pure genius by creator Seth McFarland. Stewie’s sophisticated attitude, nature and mannerisms are juxtaposed with typical childish interests and actions. The result is the most hysterical and entertaining animated toddler t.v. villain ever.
5.) Butters - “South Park”
Leopold “Butters” Stotch (voiced by Matt Stone) is my favorite character in the animated television series “South Park”. He is almost always the voice of reason and he usually gets the short end of the stick each time. His sweet and cute persona makes him stand out in the mean spirited world of Comedy Central’s hit cartoon series. Watching Butter’s bumping into his dad at a gay bath house has to be one of the best moments ever on “South Park”. He was mainly portrayed as the social outcast of his class in some of his first episodes and has since evolved into a great main character on the show.
6.) Jack Skeleton - “The Nightmare Before Christmas”
Jack Skeleton is a hero to thousands of “goths” all over the world. This charming, dark film has stood up to the test of time. Jack Skeleton (voiced by Oingo Boingo lead singer/composer Danny Elfman) is the coolest dead guy in cartoon history (sorry Casper) and his singing voice is terrific. This movie not only helped build the “Hot Topic” empire but Jack Skeleton’s appeal has been so big that “A Nightmare Before Christmas” returns on IMAX (and in 3-D) every Halloween/Christmas season (talk about marketing genius!).
7.) Roger - “American Dad”
Roger’s flamboyant speech pattern is a parody of Paul Lynde and is voiced by creator Seth McFarland. Roger is the best thing about the FOX animated series “American Dad”. Speculation exists regarding Roger’s sexuality, but let’s not forget that he is, after all, an alien. Roger brings a somewhat mediocre cartoon to a new level. I am sure this addition will piss some cartoon fans off, but his scenes alone on “Dad” are priceless cartoon moments.
8.) Beavis - “Beavis & Butthead”
Don’t get me wrong, I love Butthead, I do. But who can’t relate to the butt of all of Butthead’s jokes (no pun intended) and torture? Their feature length film was an animated comic surprise hit and critical darling. This cartoon defined a generation of “grunge” fans. Don’t let “B&B’s” dumb persona fool you, their cartoon has a lot to offer, even if it is a fart joke.
9.) Bender - “Futurama”
Bender is everyone’s favorite animated kleptomaniac, alcoholic futuristic robot. If you haven’t seen the under-rated Comedy Central hit t.v. show “Futurama” then you will have your chance to see new episodes in 2008. The re-runs of the canceled show airing on Comedy Central’s “Adult Swim” have been such a hit, FOX is bringing the show back. Fans of the show wouldn’t dispute that much of that success is due to Bender’s corrupt robotic appeal.
10.) Scooby-Doo -”Scooby Doo, Where Are You?”
The first cartoon I can remember ever watching is the “Scooby Doo, Where Are You” Saturday morning cartoon t.v. show when I was 4 years old. For years Scooby and his stoner friend Shaggy helped me get over my fears of the dark and monsters under my bed. Screw “Astro”, “Huckleberry Hound” and especially “Scrappy-Doo”, Scooby is the coolest dog in cartoon history.
11.) Yzma - “The Emperors New Groove”
Maybe it’s because of Eartha Kitt’s campy, pitch perfect vocal work, but Yzma is my favorite Disney villain of all time. Yzma and her companion Kronk are two of the wackiest most hilarious duo’s of recent cartoon memory. This film can still make me laugh even after seeing it so many times. It’s because of the character of Yzma and Kitt’s vocal talent that makes this film so entertaining and re-watchable.
12.) The Iron Giant - “The Iron Giant”
This character reminds me of the live action film character from “E.T.”. The story of “The Iron Giant” is very similar to the family classic by Spielberg, but it is also an emotionally charged original piece of animation considered to be one of the best animated films ever. His character voice work is done perfectly by a young Vin Diesel and was written and directed by Pixar’s Brad Bird (”The Incredibles” and “Ratatouille”). No wonder it has such an impact on fan’s, it’s a rare treat.
13.) Foxxy Brown - “Drawn Together”
Foxxy’s character is crude, a racial stereotype, a sexist depiction of a woman and she is straight up hilarious. Her show “Drawn Together” is the nastiest cartoon ever “drawn” and trumps anything “South Park” has ever shocked audiences with. It may lack the heart and warmth of a “nice” cartoon, but over the top funny as hell characters like Foxxy make “Drawn Together” relevant in the world of animation.
14.) Snagglepuss - “The Yogi Bear Show”/Vanity Smurf - “The Smurfs”
O.k. the only reason why I picked these characters is because even as a child I knew these cartoons were gay. Although I never related to the “butch” Peppermint Patty, these two gay characters made an impact on my little fragile mind. You could say these ‘toons paved the way for other gay characters like Xander (Drawn Together) and that one Care Bear that had a rainbow on on it’s tummy (o.k. that was a stretch). Snagglepuss’s signature gay catch phrases “Heavens to Mergatroid” and “Exit, Stage Left” still crack me up to this day.
15.) Eduardo - “Foster’s Home of Imaginary Friends”
Not only did I name my cat after this “scaredy-cat” giant, purple monster but I bought into the merchandising hype at the local mall and purchased a little Eduardo gear. His innocent, lovable and docile demeanor slams the mean, child eating stereotype that monsters get in the cartoon world. The animation on the Cartoon Network show “Foster’s” is gorgeous and the show has a huge heart. This show is great for the whole family to watch.
16.) Early Cuyler - “Squidbillies”
This Comedy Central “Adult Swim” cartoon original is not well known, but it has been an animated cult favorite of mine fro some time. “Squidbillies” is offensive, the animation is crude and almost juvenile, and there are only a handful of episodes. But the writing on this late night “Adult Swim” show, and Early’s hillbilly stereotype, are pure comic genius. Some people won’t be able to watch a complete episode of this show, some people will get the scathing humor and love it.
17.) Scrat - “Ice Age”
Even though he has never uttered a word, Scrat has become a truly classic cartoon character. Even when the sequel to “Ice Age” didn’t live up to the first film, the scenes with Scrat make both films worthy of the cartoon character hall of fame. Scrat’s small moments on screen always have the audience in stitches. Much like a silent film star, Scrat’s character is able to keep the audience laughing with just physical humor and silly sight gags.
18.) Roger Rabbit - “Who Framed Roger Rabbit?”
Roger Rabbit scored Jessica Rabbit, so he has to automatically make my top animated characters list. Having only starred in one film and a few film shorts, Roger has had a lasting impression on the history of animated films since his debut in 1998. “Roger Rabbit” was groundbreaking and ahead of it’s time with it’s eye popping special effects when it was released. The film still has a lasting impression on audiences until this day, I still want to see a sequel.
19.) Dory - “Finding Nemo”
Ellen DeGeneres’ character from the Pixar smash “Finding Nemo” is the best Disney side-kick ever animated. Forget Robin Williams’ over the top work in “Alladin”, Ellen makes the sometimes forgetful, honest and sincere Dory an instant fan favorite. Each scene with Dory in it has me laughing to no end. The beautiful computer animation is only accented by the terrific voice work DeGeneres does as the delightful Dory.
20.) Eeyore - “Winnie The Pooh”
Eeyore never worried about telling people how he really felt. Some may think he was depressed, as I kid I thought he was practical. Seriously though, Eeyore didn’t go for cutesy laughs, he literally is the original “Debbie Downer” and party pooper. I have always had a love for gloomy weather and the rain, and especially for this sweet little Donkey created by Walt Disney over 40 years ago.
RUNNERS UP: Mutley - “The Laugh-A-Lympics”, Bobby Hill - “King of the Hill”, Mr. Horse - “Ren & Stimpy”, Ralphie Wiggum - “The Simpsons”, The Aliens - “Toy Story”, Orko - “He-Man”, Pebbles - “The Flintstones”, Gumby - “Gumby”.
I related to only a few characters in teen movies growing up, “Ducky” from “Pretty In Pink” was one, and Corey Haim in “Lucas” was another. Haim’s spot on portrayal of an unpopular band geek hits all the right awkward notes. The movie doesn’t talk down to it’s teen viewers, it tells their story in a true to life fashion. If you have ever felt like a high school outcast in real life then this sweet story will tug at your heart strings.
2.) “THE LEGEND OF BILLIE JEAN”
“The Legend of Billie Jean” is the ultimate teenager empowerment film. This movie was way ahead of it’s time with it’s rebellious teenage heroin and revolutionary message, “Fair Is Fair”. I must have watched this film more than any other on this list. As far as a teen idols go Helen Slater (Christian’s sister) takes the cake. Her butch hair-do and positive message to teenagers still has relevance to this day.
3.) “HEATHERS”
“Heathers” was one of the first teen dark comedies to ever be filmed. It’s macabre plot is still controversial and twisted to this day. “Heathers” has a shrewd premise which is wrapped up in great comedy writing topped off with great performances by Winona Ryder and Christian Slater. The subject of teen suicide has never been so authentically portrayed onto the big screen with such funny results. In just two words “Heathers” is “big fun”.
4.) “WEIRD SCIENCE”
This movie has no significant pop culture relevance to it but it sure did crack me up when I was a teenager. I watched this movie as much as I could when I was 13 and still can’t get enough of it. This movie has so many quotable lines I don’t know where to start. Not to mention the theme song by Oingo Boingo (with lead Danny Elfman) kicks some major ass! It’s hard to admit, but this is my favorite John Hughes movie, hands down.
5.) “THE BREAKFAST CLUB”
Many people would say that this film is the best teenager movie out there. I agree it’s up there, but it is the most obvious choice and I’ve never been one to pick something just because it is popular (I learned that from watching too many teen movies). “Breakfast Club” defined an entire generations views of high school. It also depicts high school detention and the hierarchy of cliques pretty well. Not to mention the theme song will always remind people of what it was like to be a rebellious teen.
6.) “MEAN GIRLS”
This is the Lindsay Lohan that people fell in love with. Her performance in “Mean Girls” hits all the right comedic notes. Lohan looks absolutely gorgeous as the new girl that doesn’t fit in. Her introduction into lunchroom politics and high school cliques is priceless. This movie updated a stale genre and made Lohan a star. I attribute all of “Mean Girls” success to Tina Fey’s brilliant screenwriting which doesn’t try to pander to today’s youth.
7.) “DAZED & CONFUSED”
“Dazed & Confused” gives us a great look at life in high school during the 70’s. “Dazed” is a deeply detailed, spot on depiction of the last day of school in the summer of 1976. After watching this film I was immediately in love with the soundtrack. Ben Affleck, Parker Posey and Matthew McConaughey give terrific comedic performances that will leave you in stitches. This movie has more substance and detail than any other movie on this list
8.) “BRING IT ON”
How could I forget the best cheerleader movie of all time? Full of over the top cheer competitions and sassy quotable lines, “Bring It On” started a craze of sports themed teen movies that never really took off (”Step Up”, “Drumline”, “Stick It”) . “Bring It On” is very smart and witty, it delivers the jokes with great timing and precision without dumbing down the dialog for the target teen audience.
9.) “ELECTION”
The brightest film on this list is hands down “Election”. This dark comedy gave us the first glimpse of Reese Witherspoon’s transformation technique as an actress which garnered her a Oscar in 2005. Director/Writer Alexander Payne shows both sides of the drama that is high school through a butt kissing student (Witherspoon’s Tracy Flick) and a bored teacher (Matthew Broderick) with realistic and hilarious results.
10.) “BETTER OFF DEAD”
“I want my 2 dollars!”. Who doesn’t know that line from one of the silliest 80’s teen movies ever created? This is my favorite John Cusack film by far. This wacky over the top movie follows Cusack’s character as he attempts and fails suicide multiple times. The hilarious supporting characters make this 80’s comedy classic one of the most memorable cult teen movies ever made.
RUNNERS UP: “NOT ANOTHER TEEN MOVIE”, “CAN’T BUY ME LOVE”, “SUMMER SCHOOL”, “SIXTEEN CANDLES”, “CLUELESS”, “AMERICAN PIE”, “KIDS”, “RUSHMORE”, “FERRIS BUELLER’S DAY OFF”.
This bright, completely original Terry Gilliam film (”12 Monkeys”, “Monty Pythons The Holy Grail”, “Brazil” and “Time Bandits”) was considered to be a huge flop when it was released in 1998 and is still thought of as one of Hollywood’s biggest fiascoes to this day. Although critics enjoyed the fantasy film (it has a terrific 86% on RottenTomatoes.com and is certified “fresh”) it tanked at the box office all across the globe.
“The Adventures of Baron Munchausen” tells the legend of an old man who has lived a fairy-tale life. Blending Oscar winning effects with witty humor and a terrific cast, “Munchausen” is a gorgeous sprawling film. The art direction, acting, set design and effects still hold up to this day. The film stars John Neville, Eric Idle and Sarah Polley with cameos by Robin Williams, Uma Thurman and Sting.
“DARK CITY”
Many people consider this 1998 film, written and directed by Alex Proyas (”The Crow”), to be the real “Matrix” movie. It stars Rufus Sewell, William Hurt, Kiefer Sutherland, and Jennifer Connelly. While not a major box office hit, it has a considerable reputation within the film industry, with film critic Roger Ebert proclaiming it to be the best film of 1998.
The movie begins with a man (Sewell) waking up in a hotel room with no memory. Right away we find out he is being sought out by police (who believe him to be a serial killer) and also by a group of mysterious men with psychokinetic powers. Furthermore, something appears to be wrong with the world at large because time, memory, and identity behave in unusual ways. This is not only a beautiful film but it is also VERY trippy, extremely thrilling and smart.
“GALAXY QUEST”
The sci-fi comedy “Galaxy Quest” was a huge surprise and a decent hit when it was released in 1999. The plot of the film follows a group of out of work actors who co-starred with eachother on a canceled T.V. show called “Galaxy Quest”. When aliens from another world receive the t.v. show’s transmissions in space, they assume that the shows content is real and travel to earth to find the transmissions crew.
The T.V. shows cast is kidnapped by the aliens at a Sci-Fi convention and taken to another galaxy to help save them from an evil alien dictator. Watching the human actors pretend to be their on screen characters will leave you in sticthces. This movie has an incredible screenplay and a spot on cast starring Tim Allen (who I normally despise), Sigourney Weaver, Allan Rickman and Sam Rockwell.
“INNERSPACE”
Navy pilot Tuck Pendleton (Dennis Quaid) is selected as a guinea pig to take place in an experimental project which will have him placed in submersible pod, miniaturized to microscopic size and injected into the body of a rabbit. Immediately after being miniaturized and put into a needle, the experiment takes a bad turn when the lab is attacked. The experiment supervisor escapes with miniaturized Pendleton he accidentally injects Quaid’s character into a unsuspecting civilian (Martin Short).
“Innerspace” won a couple of Academy Awards in 1987 and was directed by Joe Dante and produced by Steven Spielberg. It stars Dennis Quaid, Meg Ryan and Martin Short. “Innerspace” spoofs the 1966 sci-fi classic “The Fantastic Voyage”. The films blend of awesome, groundbreaking effects and Martin Short’s physical comedy are definate crowd pleasers!
“ENEMY MINE”
During a bloody battle, two warring ships crash on a barren planet, with only one survivor from each ship. At first, the human pilot and the lizard like alien “Drac” continue to fight, but the planet’s harsh climate and the need to survive force them to ally. Denis Quaid stars as the human pilot and Louis Gossett Jr. plays the alien pilot in this unique, bizarre sci-fi fantasy.
The movie has some really great set designs and Quaid and Gosset Jr. give riveting performances that will tug at your heart strings. “Enemy Mine” is a thinly masked treatise on race relations, handled well by its two lead actors. “Enemy Mine” is director Wolfgang Petersen’s first American films and it is a rare find if you have not seen it!
Here is my list of this coming winter’s most highly anticipated films. There are a plethora of movies coming out this holiday season; a gory musical, an apocalyptic sci-fi, tense real life thrillers, classic westerns and much more! With so much to choose from, there is a little bit of something for everyone.
I think this is one of the best movie line ups of any other recent winter. Check out the return of the many brilliant directors; De Palma, The Coen Bros., P.T. Anderson and Frank Darabont (the list goes on)! This is turning out to be one seriously hot winter movie season! Watch the trailers for my picks below!
1.) STEPHEN KING’S THE MIST (NOV. 2007)
Directed by Frank Darabont (”The Shawshank Redemption”)
2.) SOUTHLAND TALES (NOV. 2007)
The follow up to “Donnie Darko”
3.) THE GOLDEN COMPASS (DEC. 2007)
The new “Lord of the Rings” or “Harry Potter”?
4.) SWEENEY TODD (DEC. 2007)
Tim Burton does musicals!
5.) WALK HARD: THE DEWEY COX STORY (DEC. 2007)
A music bio-pic farce co-written by Judd Apatow!
6.) NO COUNTRY FOR OLD MEN (NOV. 2007)
The new Coen Brothers film!
7.) THERE WILL BE BLOOD (JAN 2008)
P.T. Anderson directs a Western starring Daniel Day Lewis!
8.) I AM LEGEND (DEC. 2007)
Will Smith in a Sci-Fi epic.
9.) BE KIND, REWIND (JAN. 2008)
Jack Black and Michel Gondry team up for a sweet comedy!
10.) REDACTED (FEB. 2008)
The most talked about film of the year, just you wait and see!
Zombie movies are my favorite horror film genre. This is why it was hard for me to choose which is my favorite. I love the current zombie films that have come out (like “Fido”, “28 Days Later” and “Planet Terror”) but the original 1968 black and white film is still timeless. The closest film that comes next is the “Dawn of the Dead” remake from 2004. Both films balance social commentary with over the top gore that is sure to make any weak stomach get sick.
2.) JEEPERS CREEPERS 2
This movie has it all; gore, laughs, scares and soft core gay porn. Yes, you heard me right, this movie has so many gay subtleties it is fun to pick them out. Mostly though this movie offers up some seriously scary moments with a great balance of bloody gore. This movie is the best teen horror I have seen. Forget “Scream”, “I Know What You Did Last Summer” and any other teen oriented scary movie, this movie delivers a lot more blood and creepy chills.
3.) THE HILLS HAVE EYES (2006)
This movie has to be one of the most revolting and cringe inducing films on this list. The unrelenting horrific images and ghastly death scenes will have you pressing the pause button a lot. Never before has the demise of one family been so horrific and violent. If you have issues with cruel and mean horror films, stay away from this movie!
4.) HOSTEL
Speaking of cruel nasty images of torture, “Hostel” is the movie that started the trend. The “Saw” movies are child’s play compared to this over the top masterpiece of horrific cinema. This film has a distinctly slow set up with a second half that will disgust many viewers, but it delivers on the non-stop action and grotesque images of torture. After you watch “Hostel” you will think twice about back packing across Europe.
5.) THE DEVIL’S REJECTS
Rob Zombie is a great film maker. I didn’t hate his latest movie which was a re-make of “Halloween” but I didn’t love it as much as I did “Devil’s Rejects” that’s for sure. “The Devil’s Rejects” follows a murderous clan of psychopaths on the run from the law as they leave a trail of blood in their wake. The ending of this film may have some people crying “over kill” but I think it is a perfectly choreographed scene with bloody terrific results.
6.) CARRIE
This film haunted my childhood. I must have seen “Carrie” more than any other movie on this list growing up. Even now when I see it on t.v. for free I will stop and watch it. Maybe it was how much I related to the socially unaccepted teenager that had me fascinated with this movie as a young kid. No matter how much I see this movie though the last 20 minutes never fail to send shivers up my spine each and every time.
7.) EVIL DEAD 2
I chose the bloodier and more creepy of the two “Evil Dead” movies because the second is just more gory. This movie started the whole comic element in horror movies. Also, Sam Raimi created one of the most popular horror film heroes of all time with Bruce Campbell’s “Ash”. Still to this day the slapstick parts in this movie do nothing to hide the fact that this movie is scary and almost too gruesome to watch.
8.) HELLRAISER
“Hellraiser” raised the bar for creature effects and gory images in films when it was released in 1997. This movie has some really disgusting death scenes that will be etched into your mind long after watching it. Pinhead (and his crew from the depths of hell) are in the process of returning to the big screen with a new remake in the works. If the new film is as gory and mean as the first was, then it will be a huge hit.
9.) THE CHAINSAW MASSACRE 2
Why not choose the first movie you may ask? This movie is way more bloody and has a great female hero worth cheering for. Some images in this movie will have people screaming in horror, there are just to many to pick one out. Nothing is more scarier than the image of someone being chased by a chainsaw and this movie goes even further than that. This movie is for the brave fans of gore who want to pushed to the limits of fear.
10.) THE THING
This Sci-fi horror has a terrific premise with a great cast including Kurt Russell. The alien effects in this movie are at times too real. The key scene in this movie will leave most people turning away and cringing. The morbid and messy death scenes only heighten the claustrophobic tension in the film which takes place on the North pole. “The Thing” is not only a smart thriller but it is also an effective gory horror film.
RUNNERS UP: “Event Horizon”, “Scanners”, “Nightmare on Elm St. 3: Dream Warriors”, “An American Werewolf In London”, “Slither”, “Brain Dead”, “Cabin Fever”, “Friday the 13th”, “Creepshow 2″, “Sleepaway Camp”.
This powerful and sweet documentary is a cult classic and a “must see” for any documentary lover. Edith “Big Edie” Ewing Bouvier Beale and her daughter Edith “Little Edie” Bouvier Beale, were the aunt and first cousin of Jacqueline Bouvier Kennedy Onassis. The two women lived together at Grey Gardens in squalor and almost total isolation. In 1972, their living conditions were exposed as the result of an article in the National Enquirer and a series of raids by the Suffolk County Health Department.
This documentary examines the quirky lives of this oddball mother and daughter team (and their many, many pet cats) as they stroll down memory lane. There is something super sweet, kind of bizarre and charming about these two ladies that I cannot put my finger on. Whatever it is, it is fascinating to watch. Recently a Broadway adaptation was opened to rave reviews and it won a handful of Tony’s as well.
2.) “MADONNA: TRUTH OR DARE”
I was 13 years old when “Truth or Dare” was released and I remember sneaking into it at least 4 times when it was in theaters. Critics and fans were blown away by this intimate portrait of Madonna’s “Blonde Ambition” concert tour. This film showcased a slew of “controversial” moments such as; Madonna simulating oral sex on a bottle, Madonna’s “Like A Virgin” masturbation scene, Madonna visiting her mother’s grave, Kevin Costner calling Madonna’s show “neat”.
Before her British accent, before her Malawain baby and way before her many comebacks this film showed people the human side of a mega star. “Truth or Dare” is not only entertaining but is also emotional and revealing. Madonna has always had a special relationship with the media. While many stars try desperately to avoid the paparazzi, Madonna has the power to manipulate the media to her advantage. Giving director Alek Keshishian carte blanche to film her during her Blond Ambition Tour, the result is a controversial “rockumentary” with live performances (filmed in color) and backstage scenes (in black and white).
3.) “PARADISE LOST: THE CHILD MURDERS AT ROBIN HOOD HILLS”
“Paradise Lost: The Child Murders at Robin Hood Hills” is a 1996 documentary film about the trials of three teenage boys in West Memphis, Arkansas for the murder and sexual mutilation of three prepubescent boys. The boys on trial for the crime are: Jessie Misskelley, Damien Echols and Jason Baldwin, also known as the West Memphis 3. This movie has a searing intensity that will haunt you long after you watch it.
During the course of the filming, Mark Byers, the stepfather of one of the victims, gives the filmmakers a knife which has blood in the hinge. The filmmakers turn the knife over to police, who examine it; the DNA is similar to that of himself and the boy but the evidence is nonetheless inconclusive since the DNA evidence produced was fragmented and can not provide concrete links. Then, other evidence is lost and all three teenagers are convicted. This movie will leave you questioning the modern legal system and societies views on people who they deem are “different”.
4.) “THE CORPORATION”
The film charts the development of the corporation as a legal entity from its origins as an institution chartered by governments to carry out specific public functions, to the rise of the vast modern institutions entitled to some of the legal rights of a person. After watching this film you will not be able to view consumerism and the ideal of “American Dream” the same again.
One central theme of the documentary is an attempt to assess the “personality” of the corporate “person” by using diagnostic criteria from the DSM-IV; Robert Hare, a University of British Columbia Psychology Professor and FBI consultant, compares the modern, profit-driven corporation to that of a clinically diagnosed psychopath.
5.) “THE WILD PARROTS OF TELEGRAPH HILL”
This animal documentary is way better than “March of the Penguins”. “The Wild Parrots of Telegraph Hill” is a 2005 documentary film about a population of feral parrots, cherry-headed and blue-crowned conures, in San Francisco, and about Mark Bittner, the man who takes care of them. Watching Bittner crafting story lines, personalities and relationships from the bird behavior is fascinating. Each bird is a different character and Bitner gives each bird there own unique name that suits their personality.
I loved getting to know the different personalities and the varied story lines of the many parrots that Mark Bittner cared for. I was even moved to tears as I followed the love lives and ups and downs of these birds documented in this film. The movie was directed, produced, and edited by Judy Irving who added her own “happy ending” to the movie that has to be seen to be believed.
6.) “MICROCOSMOS”
A team of Swiss, Italian and French cinematographers and naturalists take us to a lush meadow in the south of France and reveal, through microphotography, the unseen (or at least, generally unnoticed) inhabitants at work and play there. The visuals in this film will leave you breathless and grinning from ear to ear.
This is nature documentary at its finest. Insects that we all take for granted are displayed close-up, and are revealed to be perfect in their symmetry of form, their coloration, their awesome design. It does give one a renewed sense of appreciation for creation in all its myriad forms: nature is diverse and abundantly versatile. Kids and adults alike will marvel at the funny and miraculous world depicted in “Microcosmos”.
7.) “THE BRIDGE”
“The Bridge” focuses on the large number of suicides that occur each year at the Golden Gate Bridge, capturing footage of the suicides and interviewing family members. Also interviewed are people who have attempted suicide at the bridge, and witnesses of the suicides.
The movie was shot with multiple cameras pointed at a notorious suicide spot on the bridge during 2004. It captured 19 people as they took their final plunge, and then offers interviews with grieving families.
During the filming, one person jumped off the Golden Gate Bridge every 15 days on average. Growing up in the bay area I had no idea that the Golden Gate Bridge is the number one destination in the world people choose to commit suicide at. This movie handles the topic of mental illness and suicide with grace and precise care. You will be moved beyond belief by “The Bridge”, especially if you live near San Francisco.
8.) “THE FEARLESS FREAKS”
Fearless Freaks is a 2005 documentary chronicling the alternative rock band The Flaming Lips. The Lip’s lead singer Wayne Coyne’s mother and several of his brothers are prominently featured as are the other band members families. The film traces the band from their roots as a local psychedelic punk band to an internationally renowned band that draws celebrities to its performances.
Many of the interviews were filmed in the band’s hometown of Oklahoma City, although Wayne Coyne is the only band member still living there. In addition to the development of the Lips’ music and performance, another theme running through the movie is the effect that drugs have had on the band and their families. For Lips fans this is a must see, for fans of music this is an incredible find!
9.) “GRIZZLY MAN”
Grizzly Man is a 2005 documentary film by German director Werner Herzog. It chronicles the life and death of environmentalist and bear enthusiast Timothy Treadwell. The film consists of Treadwell’s own footage of his interactions with grizzly bears before he was killed, and of interviews with people who knew or were involved with Treadwell. Treadwell’s death was also captured on video and the footage later destroyed by the director of “Grizzly Man”.
This movie captures the essence of one mans passion, which is the reason for his ultimate demise, so perfectly. The magnitude of nature versus man has never been so profoundly depicted as it is in this movie. This movie taps into the human spirit and the brutality of mother nature in such an exquisite way that it will leave you speechless.
10.) “BOWLING FOR COLUMBINE”/”FAHRENHEIT 911″/”SICKO”
Michale Moore has perpetuated the documentary film into blockbuster status. His movies have divided many people and his critics claim he alters the facts to suit his agenda. I tend to disagree and understand that his films have a level of dramatic flair added but Moore doesn’t create facts out of nothing.
These three movies have done more for the documentary film genre than any other documentary movies have. The way Moore crafts his movies to be funny and stirring at the same time can be seen as manipulative, but it works. “Sicko” is the least political of these 3 movies, but still targets the Bush administration. “Farenheit 911″ still proves to be a harbinger of bad times to come. “Bowling for Columbine” is more relevant than ever 5 years after it won the Oscar . No other documentary film maker has been able to touch the mainstream the way Moore has, period.
THE RUNNERS UP:
“Jonestown: The Life & Death of Peoples Temple”, “Deliver Us From Evil”, “Who Killed The Electric Car”?, “Crumb”, “Spellbound”, “What The Bleep Do We Know?”, “Why We Fight”, “Capturing The Friedman’s”, “Jesus Camp”, “The Celluloid Closet”, “Winged Migration”, “Paragraph 175″, “Wal-Mart: The High Cost of Low Price”
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