Club Josh Daily Update

These days, it is not very often that I will actually go and see a movie in the theaters, let alone on opening day. The movie experience in LA/OC just is not what it used to be. It is over $10 to see a movie now in the theater and then you have to deal with punks that talk through the entire movie or the smell of the Subway sandwiches from the family in your row that has smuggled food in because a popcorn and soda costs $15. The lone exception is the El Capitan Theater in Hollywood where Disney shows its latest releases. I prefer seeing movies there because despite the high kid volume, they at least tend to sit there and watch the movie. So in order to get me out to the theater on opening day it has to be an event movie like the latest Indiana Jones movie.

Personally, I can't believe they finally made an Indy 4 after 19 years. I remember so many times getting excited that they were actually going to do it, only to have my hopes dashed. But finally, it arrived here last night. In 19 years, I feel like I have missed so much in Indy's life. In the movie, they allude to a secret World War 2 history as well as some other interesting tidbits that we never got to see, but they also make reference to Marcus Brody and Henry Sr who have passed away since the last film. No one ever mentions Sallah. I mean he was not only in two movies, but narrates the Indiana Jones Adventure at Disneyland, so you would think that he'd get a nod, but sadly not.

I think Lucas and Spielberg have created an (almost) perfect Indy Movie for the time in Indy's life he is at. A bit retrospective, older, wiser, but still gonna punch the bad guys when he has to do so. I did feel that the movie needed one or two more action sequences to plus up the middle. The action sequences that were there were top notch. One thing that suffers is that you can clearly see when there is a stunt double in places for Harrison Ford. The good thing is that it is not very often, but for example, when Indy jumps on the back of Mutt's Harley, it is clearly a thinner guy in a gray wig holding on for dear life. It was so jarring it reminded me of when Leslie Neilsen would do amazing cart wheels in The Naked Gun.

Nits aside, I am glad I saw it opening day. One more note - I was surprised at the number of empty seats in the theater in Huntington Beach. I wonder if our wacky weather is to blame? Could also have been an early-ish showtime, but I hope business picks up!

Posted by Josh at 8:01 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

I finally caught this movie from Netflix and I have to say that while enjoyable, this seemed to be a "lite" feature. There was not much really going on other than Harry brooding around the place and other than Neville, the rest of the characters experienced zero development (Ok, Harry did get a first kiss, but that is about it).

Having not read the book, I can only imagine what was left out considering its size. At any rate I certainly enjoyed Goblet of Fire more.

Bonus note: The Richard Donner cut of Superman II was pretty good. I missed the Eiffel Tower, and it was pretty obvious when they used a screen test instead of actual footage, but they did a great job making it all work. I don't know if any one else noticed, but Richard Donner seems like he is still pissed about what Richard Lester did to his movie. Oh, and aparently his is a big anti-fur activist (if you have any doubts watch the bonus features - nice Anti fur button on his shirt, and the end credits - large font fur disclaimer). If you have not seen it I recommend checking it out.

Posted by Josh at 10:37 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

*/****
Dir: John Putch
2005 English Color 156 min.

This movie sucked so bad that it was a chore to sit through. Now I know you are all saying, "Oh that’s just because you like the original so much". Not true. I have been aching for an updated Poseidon Adventure for many years and back when all I wanted to do was make movies, I had hatched a plan to create an updated version (that and one for DW Griffith's Intolerance, but that is another post).

Before I dive into what really went wrong with this movie, I should point out that I have never read Paul Gallico's book so I do not know if it is closer to the original story than the original movie, but regardless, the problems are numerous:

1. There was no protagonist: Gene Hackman pushed the survivors to the limits to get them to the engine room. In the new version, it was sort of a committee decision and the bishop character (Rutger Hauer) was a total wimp

2. Terrible acting: I can't think of anyone in this movie that was believable or even remotely interesting. When a major character dies that brings me to tears in the original, I shrugged and thought thank god.

3. The whole rescue angle: Valuable screen time was wasted on the rescue angle. I want more upside down ship and people swimming for their lives. Not some bored actors pretending to be interested in what was going on.

4. Terrorists? Jeez do you have to update everything. I guess Tsunamis are too touchy a subject these days.

5. The second group: They leave way after the original group does and actually leave right as everyone gets swamped in the ballroom. Yet the original group has to dodge fire and swim underwater for 90 seconds, this group wanders a few corridors and runs into Rogo.

6. The original exit is blocked? Heck let's blow a hole in the other side. Wow. Lets blow a hole in a sinking unstable ship. That's a great idea.

7. The captain’s name was Paul Gallico. Not Captain Gallico, but Captain Paul Gallico – and Peter Weller made sure everyone knew this was a **wink-wink** nod to the author. Several times. Over the PA. Once would have been sufficient guys.

I could go on for days. Thank goodness I have the original to get the bad taste out of my mouth. Also, the Big Screen remake titled Poseidon looks awesome and has real actors! Check it out on May 12, 2006!

Posted by Josh at 1:54 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

****/****
Dir: Akira Kurosawa
1950 Black and White Japanese 88 min
Unrated because they didn't do that back then silly.

Leave it to Akira Kurosawa to break the string of Netflix disappointments. I admit this one has sat on my record player for the last two months waiting for a chance to get watched. It even traveled to Hong Kong since I figured that I would watch it on the plane. Tonight I dove in and I am glad I did.

The story was basic but straightforward. The acting was top notch as usual, but let’s be honest, Kurosawa is an awesome director and editor and his cinematographer, Kazuo Miyagawa did an amazing job. I think that is why people watch his films really or at least why people in the US do – to marvel at amazing filmmaking. Like Seven Samaurai, and even Amelie, it is a testament to a foregn film that it keeps me interested despite language barriers

Posted by Josh at 1:08 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)

**/****
Dir: Spike Jonze
2002 Color English 114 min
Rated R for language, sexuality, some drug use and violent images.

Another Netflix mixed bag. Roger Ebert said this was one of the best movies of the year. I just found it to be boring. AND I had to suffer through not just one Nicholas Cage, but two. (Damn Twins).

I was raring to give Spike Jonze a try and this was my first attempt. I do see some great potential here so I will probably still add Being John Malkovich to the Netflix list. I did like Charlie Kaufman’s adaptation of Chuck Barris’ book “Confessions of a Dangerous Mind” (though I did point out it was a bit uneven here and there – come to think of it I think that is my biggest gripe against most movies these day – too uneven.) so hopefully this was just a mixed bag movie and not a litmus of things to come.

Posted by Josh at 1:06 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

** ½ /****
Dir: Wolfgang Becker
2003 Color German 121 min
Rated R for brief language and sexuality.

From the Netflix queue, this was one of those movies that you read about and think to yourself that it should be funny and interesting and crazy. The trailers certainly made it feel that way. I should know better than to listen to trailers.

I put this movie in the mixed bag category. One the one hand I liked the whole situation of the movie and the characters that were involved, but I think the movie wasn’t very successful in playing up the comedy when it was there and wrenching the emotions when it was trying to be serious. I think part of the disconnect comes from the fact it was in German, and let’s be honest, I live in the US and have never been personally involved in the sort of trauma and life that these people lived through. I also think part of my blasé feelings regarding this movie was that I felt it just dragged on in spots.

The German thing might be a cop out since I thoroughly enjoy Japanese and French movies that are subtitled…

Posted by Josh at 1:04 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

***/****
Dir: Jean-Pierre Jeunet
2004 Color French 133 min
Rated R for Violence and Sexuality

Ok, I fell for the If you Love Amelie you will love this French movie starring Audrey Tatou line. Damn. Believe me I know Amelie, I Love Ameile, and The Longest Engagement, you are no Amelie.

It is a sweet story about lovers who get separated by war. There is some amazing cinematography in this one as well as some top notch acting (even a surprise visit by Jodie Foster! Acting in French! Who Knew!). I admit I got a bit bleary eyed at certain parts, especially the end. A good date movie if there ever was one despite the occasional blood and violence (It takes place after WWI and flashes back to wartime so duh). Some memorable supporting characters always make for a good time in my book and this movie is chock full of them.

So in the end, I liked the movie, but it just didn’t engross me as that other French movie.

Posted by Josh at 1:01 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

*** 1/2 /****
Dir: Hayao Miyazaki
2004 Color Japanese 119 min.
Rated PG for frightening images and brief mild language.

One thing I enjoy about Miyazaki’s films is that you always hit the ground running. Sometimes it takes you awhile to get your bearings, but when you do, you are usually in for a good solid film. This one is no difference, though skimming through the list of actors who dubbed the movie into English, I am glad I watched the movie in Japanese with subtitles. This movie has something for everyone.

Now let me tell you about my experience seeing this film. Daniel and I raced to the Beverly Center from OC on a Thursday towards the end of the films run. There were very few places playing the film and this was one of the last places to see it. At first I had doubts that it was the right place and from a distance it looked like the theater was abandonded. We got to the ticket counter and thankfully we were able to see the film. The lady behind the counter warned us that the air conditioning had gone out in the theater and it was a tad hot. After some deliberation, we decided to go for it anyways since we were here. The lady rewarded us with a free small soda. When we got into the theater I was amazed. This was by far the smallest theater I had ever been in. The screen was maybe 70” and there was maybe 30 seats in the auditorium. And it was hot.

Thankfully the film was wonderful and the AC was working in the mall when we were done so we were able to survive the rest of the day.

Posted by Josh at 12:56 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

**/****
Dir: Geoffrey Sax
2005 Color English 101min.
Rated PG-13 for violence, disturbing images and language.

This was an interesting film, but not that exciting. Sure there were some good make-ya-jump moments, but you still had to sit there and watch Michael Keaton for 101 minutes try and make sense of what was going on around him.

To be brief: He’s in love with Wife #2 and then she goes missing. Turns out she’s dead and trying to communicate through EVP and the VCR. Think Sci-Fi Channel meets the old Coast to Coast AM with Art Bell. Nothing really stands out in this film other than the fact that Keaton’s character has good taste in architecture. His house and the apartment he moves into are amazing.

Posted by Josh at 11:59 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

****/****
Dir: Akira Kurosawa
1954 Black and White Japanese 206 Min (US Criterion Restored Version)
Unrated because they didn't do that back then silly.

What can you say about The Seven Samurai that has not already been written? Not much really.

This is the story of some poor farmers who are in a bind. Seems there are some bandits that keep raiding their village come harvest time. The farmers are poor, traditional folk. What to do? The elder in the community has an idea – hire some Samurai and feed them to defend us. After getting the Samurai together, it all leads up to a climactic battle over several days to defend the village.

Many people say this is one of the greatest films ever made - Akira Kurosawa's masterpiece. I have never been one to over-analyze films or to look too deeply into symbolism and the such (though this movie is loaded with it).

What I can say is that this movie is revolutionary. It did in 1954 what people are still imitating and repeating today. You know the shot of the bandits coming down the hill to attack the city? It is in at least 100 other films. Let’s get down to the point. This is a 206-minute black and white Japanese language film with mono sound. I enjoyed every minute and with the exception of a scene here and there was completely involved in this movie. Did I get up and use the restroom a few times – oh yeah, but I paused it.

If you have 3 plus hours to kill and you have never seen this – you should it is a piece of cinematic history, and a really good film to boot!

Posted by Josh at 9:02 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

*** / ****
Dir: Morgan Spurlock
2004 Color English 100 Min
Rated PG for thematic elements, a disturbing medical procedure, and some language. (educationally enhanced version)

This was a Netflix movie that was recommended by several people. I have heard a bunch of critics, pundits, friends say that this movie will change the way you eat and that you will give up fast food – especially McDonald’s forever. Pretty tall orders, but I went into it with an open mind.

I am not sure what director/star Morgan Spurlock intended when he started this project. Educational piece? Slam on McD’s? Whatever his intentions, I thought this was pure and simple fun. I enjoyed this from start to finish (ok, maybe not the gastric bypass surgery video) and never once did I ever feel preached to, persuaded or biased in any way. This is how documentaries should be made and I am glad that as tempting as it was, it never got over the edge. Mind you, maybe it was the humor that masqueraded the preaching, but still… I also liked how they showed several different viewpoints on topics like nutrition and obesity.

I was blown away by some of the statistics and the results of the month long McDonald’s binge (For those of you who are not in the know, Morgan ate nothing except what was on McDonald’s menu for 30 days – breakfast lunch and dinner!). Some of the feelings that he exhibited occur in my life all the time – should I cut back? Personally, I thought the nutritionist and one of the doctors were going to pass out as they looked at his lab results part way through the experiment.

I highly recommend the DVD version of the film which includes a funny short called “The Smoking Fries” where Morgan puts several menu items in jars for weeks and you get to see what each becomes.

Mind you people tell me that they were grossed out by the whole thing, but honestly? It made me hungry.

Posted by Josh at 8:37 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

*** 1/2 / ****
Dir: Tim Burton
2005 Color English 115 Min
Rated PG for quirky situations, action and mild language. (and probably that scene with the marionnettes)

There are two things that occurred to me while I was watching this movie. First, why is this movie being made, and second, boy does Johnny Depp look like Michael Jackson. I am glad to say that after 10 minutes or so I stopped thinking about the first item and settled in to really enjoy the movie. I really enjoyed the look and feel of this movie full of Tim Burton’s usual high quality.

I am also glad that this movie followed the book closer and did not feature those unnecessary songs. Granted, they are part of the charm of the first movie, but I was glad to see that they went in a different direction.

What can I say about the acting? From Top to bottom this is a stellar cast that really shines – especially Freddie Highmore as Charlie. He managed to light up the screen every time he was on it and after 15 minutes you just wanted to give him the factory. Even the other four kids were fun to watch – all with slight updating except for Augustus Gloop. And how about Deep Roy? Though it was creepy to see him “hobbitized” and duplicated en masse as the Oompa Loompas, the songs performed by Danny Elfman and the show-stopping numbers that accompanied them were a highlight. One nugget of trivia – the credit for writing on the songs was given to Roland Dahl – so I wonder if they were lifted right from the text.

About the only thing that didn’t work was the extra bit about Willy Wonka growing up with a dentist (Christopher Lee) father. Oh, and that whole Michael Jackson thing. I am not sure if it was intentional or just a result of some bad timing. Normally it would have been an interesting caricature, but unfortunately the comparison is there and well makes things that much creepier.

Certainly was worth the money to see it in the theaters! (Of course now that is two in a row - Really Good Movies just falling short!)

Posted by Josh at 8:34 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

*** 1/2 / ****
Dir: Steven Spielberg
2005 Color English 116 Min
Rated PG-13 for frightening sequences of sci-fi violence and disturbing images.

Ray Ferrier (Tom Cruise) is a bad dad. He neglects his children and is more interested in his car than his son Robbie(Justin Chatwin). The kids are in town this weekend and Ray is mad that Robbie has taken off in his car and his daughter Rachel (Dakota Fanning) is alone in the house. Before he can do anything, a series of bizarre lightning strikes occur – similar to ones that have been happening all around the world. Before Ray knows what is going on, there is an EMP pulse frying all the electronics. The next thing Ray knows, he is on the run from alien invaders who are turning the neighbors into ashes.

Steven Spielberg’s take on the H.G. Wells novel of the same name is full of his trademark seat of the pants excitement and amazing special effects. My favorite part of this movie is that so much is taken from the Wells novel (The alien machine design, the red plant life, Tim Robbin’s character) that to me it is more of a faithful adaptation of a book I’ve always enjoyed. Less campy and in a ways less dated than the ‘50s version (despite the obligatory nod to current events with lines like “Is it the terrorists?”), I’d say this movie was perfect up until the end.

For some reason, the scenes of Ray and his daughter being chased and captured by the machines jumps into a scene of Ray and Rachel meandering through Boston. That’s quite a lot of ground to cover. They could have at least spent a minute or two on a montage. The result just jarred me and kept me thinking about what the heck are they doing through the rest of the movie.

Another thing I didn’t care for was the role of Robbie. I am not sure if it was the actor or the way it was written, but it could have been so much better.

At any rate, I really enjoyed it!

Posted by Josh at 1:47 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

**/****
Dir: Wim Wenders
1991 Color English 158 Min (US VHS Version)
Rated R

I remember being intrigued by this movie back in 1992 when I first saw it with some friends in college. I had remembered the movie being really long, but full of innovative "HD Video" and an interesting look at the not so distant future of 1999. A few months ago, I picked up a used copy of the movie at Amoeba records and decided to re-visit the movie and see how my life perspective would think about it.

The movie follows the travels of Claire who through a series of accidents meets Sam, a mysterious American who seems to be running from something. Claire falls in love with Sam and pursues him around the world to find out his secret. Along the way, they meet bounty hunters, bank robbers, ex lovers, and a whole slew of characters. It turns out Sam has a device to take photos and video which combined with his father's invention will let his blind mother see for the first time. Once the characters reunite in the Australian Outback, they travel down a dark path of inner exploration.

First off: I would love to see this movie in Widescreen and on DVD. The butchering of pan and scan really affects this movie, and as a result makes some of the scenes look unrealistic and cheap. There are rumors that there is a 5 hour director's cut "Trilogy" version of the movie - which I think probably would a lot better.

The film (as I remember it and can imagine - barely from the VHS) is wonderfully shot and full of amazing cinematography in scenes shot in various cities around the world.

As the US release was structured, it was very hodge-podge and jumped around a lot before the characters arrive in the Australian Outback. I suspect because some of the sacrifices in cutting down the movie were in the first half. The pace of the movie slows to a crawl in the Australian scenes. For someone not used to slow paced movie, it can get very boring and dull. I didn't think it was that bad, as I was committed to see how things turned out - someone with no real desire could easily become bored by the whole thing.

There is a lot of discussion of the soundtrack for the movie which is very long and contains new music by all the big stars of 1991. Personally, I felt that the music soundtrack was a bit heavily used and at times it was like "Geez theres another song - gotta squeeze one more song in!". All is not lost, because the score for the movie is actually quite good.

It is worth checking out, but be warned, make sure you are up for a long drama! Personally, I wouldn't mind seeing the five hour version to see if it is actually more engrossing.

Posted by Josh at 11:42 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Next up on the Netflix list was this DVD of the first season of the Clone Wars animated series that was on Cartoon Network. Originally presented as 3-minute shorts before the start of their primetime lineup, on the DVD they have been edited together into an hour-long feature.

I found myself really engrossed into the series and it’s a credit to the writing and the animation. Of course, now I can't wait until Series 2 comes out on DVD, which will tie into Episode 3. The first volume seems more of an outreach of Attack of the Clones, as the relationship between Anakin and Obi-Wan seems to be the same as when we last saw them in that movie.

I liked the style (very Samurai Jack) of the series, but I had to wonder why they went with 2D instead of 3D. Considering the amount of the movies that is rendered in 3D, it doesn't seem too unreasonable that they could have pulled it off. In one of the special features, George Lucas talks about how he wanted more traditional 2D and a more anime feel to the series. Personally, I would like to see what the former Lucasfilm division Pixar could have done.

Regardless it is fun to watch and worth the rent. Now where is Series 2?

Posted by Josh at 2:53 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

***/****
Dir: Alejandro Amenábar
2001 Color English 101 Min
Rated PG-13 for thematic elements and frightening moments.

A creepy little movie that grows on you. I was not sure what to expect from this movie, and I really had no desire to see it. However, there was a line in an AbFab episode (Series 5's 'Huntin', Shootin', and Fishin'') where Eddie wondered if they were in 'The Others'. Daniel told me that I'd never fully get the joke until I saw the movie. He was right, and the joke is better than ever.

As for the movie itself, it really surprised me how much I liked it. The acting and cinematography was all top notch and really drew me into the story. Unfortunately, at the layer switch on the DVD, the disc crapped out so we had to watch the second half a few days later when the replacement DVD from Netflix arrived. It took some of the edge off, but when we started up where we left off, I was sucked back in.

There is a surprise ending in the movie, which I figured out way before the end of the movie, but I won't go into details for those of you who haven't seen it yet.

Posted by Josh at 2:32 PM | Permalink

*** 1/2/****
Dir: George Lucas
2005 Color English 140 Min
Rated PG-13 for sci-fi violence and some intense images.

Everyone talks about this being Lucas' redemption after disappointing fans with Episodes I and II. Personally, I have never thought that he needed to be redeemed. I am a big believer that George can do whatever he wants, and honestly doesn't owe anyone anything.

That being said, this movie, by far, is the best of the prequels and dare I say probably better than Episode VI? No nasty Ewoks or wasting of Han Solo's character here. Everyone (including Jimmy Smits!) gets some good quality time here. One caveat tho: George still needs to get someone else to write his dialog. Of course all of the Star Wars movies suffer from this flaw.

If you have been in a cave for the last 28 years or so, this movie follows Anakin Skywalker and his path down the slippery slope to the Dark Side of the Force. This movie is also a nice bridge to the original Trilogy and features a lot of nice touches that really tie the two trilogies together: The first use of the Vader-grip, token passing of Anakin's lightsaber, Yoda mentioning teaching Ben about haunting people after they die, Bail Organa's ship - the same as from Episode 4, Who knew Chewbacca and Yoda were so close? and much much more.

We saw the movie at the same theater complex that we saw Episode II. Lev bought tickets online and without knowing, we ended up in the digital theater. It was amazing picture quality, though I think the sound could have been a tad louder. None of the coloring issues from the last movie - I am sure this is what it will look like when it comes out on DVD in the fall. I certainly wish all movies were digitally projected - no jumps or spots on the screens at all. Another bonus is that Lev was among the first 100 in line at the theater, and since most people were in the Analog theaters, we were not rushed to find a seat and got choice seats. I did feel left out though since Target was giving away Episode III beach balls, and the audience spent the hour or so waiting for the movie by tossing them around the theater.

The best part was that the Grove's exit was much easier to get out of than the last time, and I was home and in bed in just over an hour from leaving.

To wrap up: Even if you were disappointed by the first two prequels, go see this one - it is worth it.

Posted by Josh at 2:54 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

*** 1/2/****
Dir: Mike Nichols
2003 Color English 352 Min
Rated TV-MA

Watching Angels in America is an interesting experience. It is one of those movies that draws you in and gets you hooked. It is actually two movies in one (and therefore considered a mini-series when it aired on HBO). The first part “Millennium Approaches” is the stronger of the two, and the second part “Perestroika” is where all the payoff is.

I read the original play and saw a production of both parts back in college over 10 years ago. I remembered most of the basics of the plot, but a lot of the details had escaped me. This was a good thing as the combination had me wanting more. I also feel that watching the mini-series, I connected more with the characters than before. It might be that I am not a full theater away or trying to read, or the fact that I have a lot more life experience 10 years later and therefore can better appreciate it.

The entire movie is just a joy to watch. The acting from the entire ensemble cast is dead on and a treat to watch. I almost didn’t mind that Meryl Streep and Emma Thompson played multiple roles – though by the end of the second part, it was a bit wearisome.

One thing I disliked is the monologues. I guess they are necessary to stay true to the story and give us insights into the characters – it seems the character of Harper had the most of them and every time Mary-Louise Parker would dive into one, I just rolled my eyes and told myself, yep, it’s based on a play.

Obviously the topic of the movie is not for everyone – dealing with AIDS in 1985 and the complications people face and how people react is not a light subject. It is emotionally draining, but I think well worth the effort and I recommend people watch it.

Posted by Josh at 12:21 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

**/****
Dir: Steven Soderbergh
2004 Color English 125 Min
Rated PG-13 for language

This movie is actually a lot like Be Cool: a sequel that I wanted to see, that never lives up to the original, which I really enjoyed. Everyone seems to have lost their coolness in this movie - except George Clooney and Brad Pitt (and even Pitt doesn't have much to do). The story revolves around the gang who pulled off the big heist in the first move has been tracked down by the casino owner who wants his money back. In order to get the money, they head to Europe to pull off some gigs, where it turns out some famous French thief wants to challenge Ocean and his gang to try and steal the same thing.

If the plot sounds forced, it is because it is. Not only that, but the plot is a little convoluted. You know you are in trouble when one of the stars ends up playing a character that has to impersonate the star that is playing the character. Oy, what a mess!

The movie is not completely without merit, as it was a nice escape for two hours, and some of the scenery in Italy is stunning. Ok, maybe because I like George Clooney's new house.

Posted by Josh at 11:56 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

**/****
Dir: F. Gary Gray
2005 Color English 118 Min
Rated PG-13 for violence, sensuality, and language including sexual references

I really wanted to see this movie when I heard it was coming out. I loved Get Shorty, and was hoping for more of the same. The problem with this movie is that it never comes close to the hipness and sharpness of the original. Everything just comes out lame. John Travolta just looks uncomfortable reprising the role of Chili Palmer, the shylock turned movie producer who now wants into the music business.

Also whatever chemistry Uma and John had from Pulp Fiction is gone. Maybe both of them just really didn't want to be there. At least some of the supporting characters looked like they were having fun. Vince Vaughn's wannabe black producer shtick is soo 10 years ago. At least the Rock brought some comic relief as the wannabe actor and singer who is forced to drive Vince Vaughn around.

I sure wish Barry Sonnenfeld had directed this movie, I think it possibly would have retained the feel of the original.

Posted by Josh at 11:33 AM | Permalink

I was finally able to get out from the OC and head up to LA to catch a movie and do something I have wanted to do since I moved down from No Cal in 1999.

First up the movie: Inside Deep Throat. I know what you are thinking. It's not a porno, but rather a compelling, funny, and interesting look into the first blockbuster X rated movie - Deep Throat. The movie featured interviews with most of the stars and the behind the scenes people who made it and those who tried to stop it and ban it because it was indecent. There were several choice moments and colorful characters, and I was totally into the movie.

Now you can't make a movie about and adult movie without showing it, and for all the write ups, there really wasn't much to see other than a full frontal here and there - oh, and "The Scene" where Linda Lovelace goes down on Harry Reems. What is really interesting is that how much that shocked people back in the 1970's. Another interesting aspect is how much the mid 1970's and the mid 2000's really echo each other in terms of public outcry over indecency et. Al (Janet Jackson anyone?)

After the movie, we headed out to Hollywood and walked down the red carpet for the 77th Annual Academy Awards (photos soon!). The Gorn was there as was Tiff and Daniel. It was a neat experience, especially now that I am watching them. It was very touristy and gooberish to do, but hey the truth hurts.

Today, I had a good day at work - I emerged from the attraction and interacted with guests for a few chunks of time. It reminded me why I like working at Disneyland. I can't wait until all of our hard work pays off and the attraction finally opens!

Posted by Josh at 7:03 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)

It's time to get caught up on a few movies that have come my way recently:

The Incredibles: It is a testament to an animated movie that when you are watching it, you forget you are watching animation. Not a perfect movie, but darn near close. I was surprised that it felt more adult than the normal Pixar movie, but personally, I like the fact they are willing to branch out. There is something in this movie for everyone, and I think it is the first movie I have seen twice in the theaters in a long, long time. Unfortunately, the preview for Cars was not nearly as good as the preview for The Incredibles was last year. Let's hope that it was just a fluke.

Team America World Police: On the other end of the spectrum is the crude, but hilarious movie from the South Park Team. This one was a little more uneven than Incredibles, but if you are in the mood for some belly laughs and some marionette sex, then this is the movie for you.

The Concorde: Airport '79: Now I haven't seen this movie in ages. I picked up the Airport Terminal pack used at Amoeba Records in Hollywood. Clearly the worst of the Airport movies, but still full of some good cheese. How can you put down a movie when the pilot of the Concorde (George Kennedy as Patroni) tells a female stewardess "There's a reason why they call it a cockpit". I nearly lost it on that one. And let's not forget Charo - who has full title billing - appearing for two minutes as a passenger trying to smuggle a chihuahua on board. Can you say capitalizing on her 1979 fame?

Category Six: Day of Destruction: This was the Sweeps event on CBS this past week. Of course it was bad (goes without saying) but at least none of the characters were as annoying as the scientist in 10.5. It had all the great elements of a good disaster movie, but I thought it was a little lacking in big event disaster. Sure the St. Louis Arch collapsed and Randy Quaid got sucked into a Tornado, but I really wanted to see the Sears Tower and other Chicago buildings get shellacked. I guess in this post-9/11 world it is taboo to show a building collapsing.

Posted by Josh at 1:03 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

*** / ****
Dir: M. Night Shyamalan
2004 Color English 108 Min
Rated PG-13 for a scene of violence and frightening situations.
IMDB Site

I sat through this movie going "where is the twist?” I think it might have dulled the impact of it all on me. However, I really loved the look and feel of the movie. I think it was beautifully shot, edited, and acted. I love William Hurt and Sigourney Weaver along with the rest of the cast - they were all superb. Sure the twist is pretty weenie (honestly nothing will ever match the shock of Six Sense, so maybe M should try something different? Spider-Man 3? How about that Logan's Run movie that is rumored to be stalled now that Bryan Singer is going to re-invent Superman? Just a thought M), but I still suggest seeing it.

Posted by Josh at 12:40 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

*** 1/2 / ****
Dir: Sam Raimi
2004 Color English 127 Min
Rated PG-13 for stylized action violence
IMDB Site

I am not a big Spider-Man fan, though it was one of my favorite parts of "The Electric Company" back in the 70's. Having said that, the first movie was nothing special, but this one is a great flick. It is rare to find a movie (especially comic based ones) that is well balanced with good acting and such. Was it cheesy in spots? Sure was, but it was all great fun. I think Tobey Maguire is a great actor and it helps overcome Kirsten Dunst (sorry guys, but she was terrible in this). Actually Donna Murphy seems to be channeling her Anij role from Star Trek Insurrection so its about a toss-up for bad acting in the movie. Well, at least it is better than the ride at Islands of Adventure.

Posted by Josh at 12:30 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

*** / ****
Dir: Shusuke Kaneko
2001 Color Japanese 105 Min
IMDB Site

AKA: Gojira, Mosura, Kingu Gidora: Daikaijû soukougeki

Why did I rent this? Because I went to Japan and it was fun seeing Godzilla blast the heck out of the Owakundai aerial tram site as well as the Tokyo Government building - two places Daniel and I visited. I recommend watching the dubbed version - it was way more amusing than the subtitled version. How was it as a movie? Actually not a bad entry in the series. Certainly as entertaining as all of the old camp classics. It is interesting that there is still a guy in the suit.

Posted by Josh at 12:30 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

*** / ****
Dir: Tim Burton
2003 Color English 125 Min
Rated PG-13 for a fight scene, some images of nudity and a suggestive reference
IMDB Site

I rented this because I had wanted to see it back when it came out in the theaters, and I like Ewan McGregor and Tim Burton. I got a heads up from Kris L. about some of the weaker points. I wasn't as strongly against the modern day aspects of the story, but the flashbacks to the life of Ed Bloom were way more interesting than anything else in the movie. Lots of emotion and cool visuals. A great DVD rental.

Posted by Josh at 12:30 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

*** 1/2 / ****
Dir: Clint Eastwood
2003 Color English 137 Min
Rated R for language and violence.
IMDB Site

Plot sentance from IMdB: "Three childhood friends are reunited after one loses a daughter"

Another flick that was on my rental list. I watched it with Jason and he kept commenting how intense it was. It is an acting tour de force and it is directed in typical Clint Eastwood fashion (read slow and methodical - it is almost like he thinks he is David Lynch, but with less symbolism). Sean Penn and Tim Robbins won Oscars for their acting chops in this movie. The plot unfolds and the movie is full of raw emotion. If you let yourself get caught up in it, I think you will find it worth your time. Overall, it was a great movie - a bit intense so be prepared.

Posted by Josh at 12:30 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

** / ****
Dir: Frank Oz
2004 Color English 93 Min
Rated PG-13 for sexual content, thematic material and language.
IMDB Site

Frank Oz, Scott Rudin, and Paul Rudnick basically make the same movie. Sure there are differences in the story and the actors, but this re-make of a 70's camp classic is very similar in style to "In & Out", Jeffrey, and Addams Family Reunion back in the 90's. Nothing real special here, though I loved Bette Midler, Christopher Walken, and Glenn Close. I guess I have never been a big Nicole Kidman fan, but she was at least tolerable. Thank goodness Jon Lovitz is getting some work.

Posted by Josh at 12:12 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

*** / ****
Dir: Alfonso Cuarón
2004 Color English
Rated PG for frightening moments, creature violence and mild language.
IMDB Site | Official Site

Sirius Black has escaped from Azkaban prison. He's been convicted of murder and rumor is that he's headed to the Hogwart's School. The heads of the prison have sent Dementors to the school to keep an eye out for Black, but promising to stay out of the way of the normal school activities. So figuratively and literally a cloud hangs over Harry, Hermione, and Ron as they embark on their third year.

The Harry Potter series is vastly entertaining for people of all ages, and this sequel stays true to form. One must not delve too deeply when looking at a movie of this type, but it is nice to note that this movie is smartly directed, well acted (even the kids!), and quite simply well made. Sure it is not going to have everything the Pottermaniac wants from the books, but for someone like me, a lay person, I enjoyed it. I made sure not to repeat the mistake I made with the last film (2002's Chamber of Secrets) and avoided the book and any plot descriptions before I saw the movie. I think it really helped my enjoyment of the film. I was able to watch it with my whole attention and not spend part of the time wondering where this scene is or what happened to that.

You do almost wish that they could just make the books into movies and not have to leave anything out. The books are just so layered and engrossing that it is almost a shame. It is a tribute to the director and the producers that they can whittle it down to movie running time and still make a good product.

In the other character department, Michael Gambon has taken over for the late Richard Harris as Dumbledore. He's a bit too healthy for me. I enjoyed Hariss' frail, yet still powerful (a la Yoda) interpretation better.

One last thing I enjoyed is that despite the lack of screen time devoted to our characters developing, you can really see it happening in the few short glimpses that we see. Hermione is blossoming into a smart witch and Harry is really getting an attitude. It is nice that as the movies progress the characters mature and are not just cardboard cutouts year after year.

Posted by Josh at 6:15 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

*** 1/2 / ****
Dir: Roland Emmerich
2004 Color English
Rated PG-13 for intense situations of peril.
IMDB Site | Official Site

Dr. Jack Hall (Dennis Quaid) and friends Jason (Dash Mikok) and Frank (Jay O. Sanders) are hanging out in Antarctica drilling for ice core samples and generally teasing Jason about being the new guy. New Guy starts drilling for cores and wham-o big crack opens up and a huge chunk of ice breaks off from Antarctica setting in to motion the biggest climate change seen in 10,000 years. Thankfully, things don't take as long as they used to and in just about a week, a new ice age is upon us. People look in amazement. People utter "My God..." L.A. gets destroyed (way better than in 10.5). Tokyo gets shellacked by 10 pound hail. New York gets flooded then frozen. A group of people decide that they should follow someone other than one of the lead characters - you can guess what happens to them.

Day After Tomorrow is one of the best disaster movies to be made in 20 years. Roland Emmerich did his homework and pays homage to all of the key ingredients of disaster movies: Token Child (In this case there is the sick kind AND the nerdy kind), Distresses Relationship that grows closer by the end of the movie, token exchange of sentimental item (in this case a book), token pet, the use of the phrase "My God...", the choice to follow someone, old couple dying together, lovable supporting character who gives their life to save others, and so much more.

Acting wise, these actors all knew where they needed to take their characters in a movie such as this. Dennis Quaid gets away with being Dennis Quaid (and for that much so does Sela Ward but both are perfect in their roles). Ian Holm is great as the Scottish Climatologist working with Quaid on what exactly is going on in the world. Kenneth Welsh (Windom Earle in Twin Peaks about 12 years ago) is great as a Cheney wannabe VP. Jake Gyllenhaal has pretty eyes so its a good thing he gets to stare intently at stuff all the time - books, girls, the sky, wolves, etc. (You see they all are perfect in their roles).

This is most certainly a big screen movie - worth the $10 to see all the effects up there on the screen. There were hardly any shots that you would be like wow that looks like a digital effect (the lone exception is the fake snow covering the migrants fleeing to Mexico). Other than that one, the effects throughout were awesome.

A lot has been written about the politics behind the movie (the swipes at Bush and Cheney, global warming dangers, etc.) but I for one am just glad that someone finally told the public that Global Warming is going to cause an Ice Age. It is something I have been trying to tell people for years since we learned about it in college.

About the only disappointment in the movie is the ending. It is very anti-climatic and feels like a let down. I guess since most of the movie is go-go-go to have all of it end so sudden is quite a shock. Maybe it was just me but I certainly was jarred at the end by its sudden resolution. I was hoping for a bit more.

Go see it. If you enjoy a good disaster movie as I do you won't be disappointed.

Posted by Josh at 1:51 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

*** / ****
Dir: Kinji Fukasaku
2000 Color Japanese
Not Available in the US - Rated 18 in the UK
IMDB Site

This is the story of a high school class that wakes up to find themselves not on a school field trip, but rather on a deserted island where they are to compete in the ultimate competition. They must kill each other to stay alive and only the one person left standing will be able to leave the island.

I was a little apprehensive about watching this movie. I had heard how bloody and violent it was, but actually it could have been a lot, lot worse. I actually found myself engrossed in the character development as well as the fate of certain characters. If you don't like the prospect of seeing friends suddenly turning on each other with guns and grenades and other weapons, then this is not the movie for you. Buried behind the gore was some good messages about the results of our actions - why did you exclude this one girl from everything? or if only you would have told this girl you liked her, she wouldn't have shot you.

I thought that the performances of the students and the teacher were excellent, save for a few of the poor actors who don't have much more than a stereotype to work with. Clearly, this movie is not for everyone, but if you can get past the violence, you will find a well done movie that is way better than your average Hollywood picture. I just know that I will never look at the groups of Japanese students wandering Disneyland the same way.

Posted by Josh at 6:31 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

** 1/2 / ****
Dir: Sergio Arau
2004 Color English/Spanish
Rated R for language and brief sexuality.
IMDB Site | Official Site

One day Californians wake up to find that all the Latinos are gone. Just up and vanished. Worse yet, there is a thick fog around the state that prevents people from contacting the rest of the world. Mixed reactions abound. Family members are mourning the loss of their kin and close friends. Stereotypical bigots are happy, and lawmakers are just trying to make themselves look better in the process. At the hear is Lila, a reporter for a local news station who appears to be the only Latino left. Can she save California and bring back the 14 million missing people?

I heard this movie was a biting satire about the way Latinos are perceived and taken for granted in California. Some people call this movie racist because it employees stereotypes to get its point across. I found it to be a mixed bag. I liked most of the humor and over-the-topness of the situation, but at the same time thought the moviemaking quality of the movie was just bad. Now granted, it is an independent film, but there really was no performance that I could relate to and get drawn into the picture. As a result, the movie seemed more like a string of sequences thrown together than a coherent story.

I can't really recommend this movie, but I do know that the majority of the audience was Latino, and they were also laughing a bits here and there and looking at their watches a lot.

Posted by Josh at 7:46 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

*** / ****
Dir: Hideo Nakata
2002 Color Japanese with English Subtitles
Rater R for violence, sexuality, and language
IMDB site

Yoshimi Matsubara is going through a tough period. She's in the middle of getting a divorce and has to go out and find a place for her and her 6 year old daughter Ikuko to live. They seem to find a nice, but worn place for a good price. Also, they discover the kindergarten is close and Yoshimi finds a job quickly. Things seem to be turning the corner and then Yoshimi starts to notice the water dripping from the ceiling. Turns out that there is more to the complex than it seems. From the spooky elevator right down to the mysterious red bag that keeps re-appearing.

Fans of the original Japanese version of The Ring (Ringu) will want to check this movie out. It is a bit difficult to find a copy in the US, I myself had to resort to some creative computer work to get a version I could watch. It was well worth the wait. It was not quite as creepy as the Ring or The Suicide Club (2002's Jisatsu circle by Japanese director Shion Sono about a string of suicides in Tokyo - made especially creepy by the realism of Tokyo's subway songs that Daniel and I remember from the trip), but still there was a lot of wierd-out-look-at-the-tv-through-the-fingers action.

Some might find this movie a bit slow paced (I have found almost all of the Japanese movies watched recently have some slow pacing) but it is not nearly the ground-to-a-halt pacing of Troy. I just hope they don't mess this one up in the forthcoming US remake like they did to the Ring.

Posted by Josh at 7:10 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

** / ****
Dir: Wolfgang Petersen
2004 Color English
Rated R for graphic violence and some sexuality/nudity.
IMDB Site | Official Site

This was like sitting through the entire 10 year siege of Troy. I haven't suffered this much in a theater seat since that infamous 1997 Brad Pitt movie 'Seven Years in Tibet' which felt like I spent seven years in the movie theater. It just felt s-l-o-w. Sure there were some great battle sequences (not nearly as good as the Lord of The Rings ones - not because they weren't using cool weapons or weird gross warriors, but just the composition and direction of the battle scenes was blah), and some good scenery chewing acting (really there should be an Oscar for this category) by the supporting cast.

Brad Pitt? Well, he is much, much better in contemporary fare like Thelma and Louise, 12 Monkeys, Se7en, and Ocean's Eleven. He is really ill-suited for epics. Sean Bean was much better as Odysseus than as Boromir, but Orlando Bloom's Paris is no match for Legolas.

As for the script, I thought it did a nice job of condensing the whole story from Homer's epic. I just think someone in the studio said "Hey, Lord of the Rings has these big battle sequences that everyone likes - let's add a whole slew of them". So we the viewing audience are treated to some poorly-directed battle sequences interrupted by some cheesy dialog.

In the end, Troy could have been so much more. I am sure lots of people will like it. Personally, I wish they would have gotten some better acting from the leads (really only Eric Bana as Hector was good), some better scripted battles, and a few less shots of Peter O'Toole looking shocked and horrified.

Rated R for a few shots of Brad Pitt in the buff and some graphic violence (mainly sword slicing, some shish-kabob-ing, and one nasty throat slice)
163 Minutes - Color- released by Warner Brothers - 2004

Posted by Josh at 12:05 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

It has been crazy-busy the last week with people coming into town and with my work schedule so I'll do some quick mini-updates:

A Wrinkle in Time was really good on ABC last Monday. It was true to the book and was great to see on the screen. The special effects were pretty weak, but if you were able to get past those and some weak acting on the behalf of Charles Wallace, you can see how strong the original material is.

Cooper and Company were in town this week, and I spent some guest time in the park. I also took some photos of DCA and I will try and post them on the site soon. When people tell me that they spend a week at Disneyland, I wonder what they do with all that time. Spending time with the Cooper clan, I now know when you have little kids, you are on a whole different time table.

I did get to do a walk-through of the Indiana Jones Adventure on Monday night. It was super cool, but when I went on the ride on Wednesday, I have to admit the magic was gone on one of the last rides at the park that still mystified me. Thankfully, the second time I was on the ride I was more enthralled and enjoyed it again. I miss the snake tho - I can't wait until it starts moving again this fall. When I was in Tokyo, I thought our ride was better, but now I am not so sure.

Posted by Josh at 5:02 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)

Honestly, I didn't think it could get much worse, but part two was not nearly as fun as Part 1. To start with, it was almost an hour into the second part before there was more ground shaking. Not only that, but apparently they have super-sonic ways of traveling in this show because one moment they are in LA at the Disaster Center (which by the way doesn't make any sense since they KNOW the earthquakes are heading towards Southern California, why not relocate it to a place like Sacramento which seems to have escaped most of the damage, but I digress) and the next moment they are surveying damage in Redding, then a moment later they are back in LA.

Another problem? Lack of consistent damage. There were precious few scenes of the damage caused by the quakes, especially the 10.5 one. Heck, 1974's Earthquake showed more damage and it was most certainly a smaller quake. Instead, they decided to spend the money on the island-making crack - and even that was only a couple of glances here and there with some water effects from Pinnacle Studio thrown in for good measure. When LA gets slammed, all we see are A) Buildings in LA crumbling for a few brief shots, B) the Hollywood sign start tumbling down, and C) a hillside house crumble and burst into flames. The rest of the 10.5 is spent on watching the people at the refugee camps in Barstow roll around, get swallowed up by the earth, oh and yes let's not forget the slow-mo-opera-music-when-the-producers-think-we-are-tired-after-5-minutes-of-screaming-and-earthquake-noises sequence. Personally, after seeing the Golden Gate Bridge and the Space Needle collapse in part 1, I at least expected to see some freeway overpasses collapse. After all the stock footage of the '89 Loma Preita quake, I thought they would at least throw in a couple of Northridge. Maybe that's too close to home for the producers.

Oh and before I forget, I was glad to see Fred Ward as the FEMA director get taken out by a nuclear warhead. That was certainly one of the better Character Who Meets Untimely Death (tm). I was disappointed he got to talk to his son before it blew up. Most characters in this role aren't that lucky and it is always more emotionally powerful when they don't get that last phone call (just look at poor Rachel who had the argument with her hubby before taking a header at the SF City Hall). And what is up with the lack of a token exchange of sentimental item?

At any rate, Part two was a let down - even for the cheese fest that it was. I think Susie and I need to sit down and write our own disaster movie.

Posted by Josh at 4:06 PM | Permalink | Comments (4)

If you haven't had a chance to watch this epic train wreck of a mini-series, tonight is the last chance you get. Part 2 of the disaster event airs tonight on NBC. I watched part 1 on TiVo last night and I couldn't stop laughing at not only the bad acting, but also the bad NBC Science. I can only imagine the hordes of people out there who think that it could actually happen - so much so that the USGS put out a web site debunking the myths of the show.

Despite it all, I still enjoyed watching things come crashing down. I was a bit disappointed at the Hot Wheels coming off of the Golden Gate Bridge as it collapsed into the bay and maybe the HO scale train getting swallowed up. Tonight they promise lots of flooding and L.A. finally getting hit with the title earthquake. I am still waiting for the "Token Exchange of Sentimental Item" as well as the untimely demise of a character (I had high hopes that Bo Duke was gonna get it in Part 1, but I was foiled by an easily broken sunroof). You know your disaster movie is in trouble when the audience starts rooting for the earthquakes to get everyone! What this movie really needs is George Kennedy. I wonder what he is doing these days?

Tim Goodman of the SF Chronicle has a great review of the whole thing and points out that the mini series is best viewed with others while conducting a drinking game. I couldn't agree more.

Hopefully, next week's "A Wrinkle in Time" adaptation on ABC will be better (at least better than Dinotopia!).

Posted by Josh at 11:42 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

I have always wanted to watch this movie. I knew that Roger Ebert wrote the screenplay way back in 1970 and that it was directed by Russ Meyer so I knew it had to be good. Well, it was so bad it was good. It is definitely a cult classic from the get go. Groovy music, characters and some weird plot makes this a must see (well at least once). It wasn't my intention to watch it, but Daniel and I were up late on Saturday night hanging out and we were channel surfing and some how we ended up on it.

Another movie we had caught a bit of was Amityville Horror 2: The Possession. We made it about 45 minutes into it before Daniel declared it was stupid. I don't know if I agree, I spent several lengthy minutes watching the movie in Josh-vision (hands over eyes, peering through the fingers ever now and then, and sometimes pretending to watch the movie, but really reading the titles on the videos above the TV), but it was pretty bad.

Also on the agenda for the weekend was another viewing of Ringu. Once again it creeped the booboojeebies out of me, but it was neat seeing places that I might visit in a week! I was writing down some of the sights in the movie and seeing how far they were.

I am so excited about the trip. Only one more work day (tomorrow) and then Wednesday I'll be packing and planning. Then its off on Thursday! I'll post details about the trip on Wednesday and hopefully I'll be able to post some updates to the site while I am gone.

Posted by Josh at 11:19 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)

Last night, Daniel and I sat down and watched Lost In Translation. I had heard lots of good things about it and considering we are making a secret trip to the place prominently featured in the film, we thought it would be a good flick to watch to get us prepared.

Honestly, the film isn't nearly as good as people say it is. I liked it, but it wasn't one of those "Man this is a great flick" reactions. I really liked Bill Murray and Scarlett Johansson (who gets to have her panty-claded hiney in full cinemascope as the opening titles form under it - kept reminding me of "From Russia With Love, but I digress) - both of whom give such nuance performances that were right on the mark. Let's be honest, the movie is funny, but it is a character study of two people who are having a miserable time in a VERY foreign place until they happen to run into each other at the Hotel's bar. I kept telling Daniel don't expect our hotel to be that luxurious.

The pace of the movie was a bit slow for me. I enjoyed the lavish panoramas and 'tourist walking around in bewilderment' scenes, but at certain times in the movies I felt the whole thing come crashing to a grinding halt.

As for the DVD, it includes some nifty stuff like a home movie of behind the scenes of the movie as well as some deleted scenes (which I was glad they deleted), a theatrical trailer, a music video, and an interview with some of the cast and crew.

If you are into character pieces or travel its a must-see, but if you are looking for hilarity then go elsewhere.

Posted by Josh at 12:15 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

One of my New Year's resolutions is complete. I made it out to see this movie on a nice Saturday afternoon. LOTR is an epic masterpiece covering three movies: The Fellowship of the Ring, Two Towers, and Return of the King. I have to say that along with everyone else, my interest has increased with each successive movie. I think the series works best when counted all together. Fellowship suffered from having to set up everything, Two Towers was just about bad things happening in the middle of the journey, and Return of the King has to deal with wrapping everything up.

Most people I know who saw the movie complain that the ending really drags, but I think that it is perfect. So many ending chapters just end and don't show what happens to our beloved characters (notable exception - 9 to 5). If we look at Return of the King as a whole it is a remarkable piece of filmmaking that puts the exclamation mark on a great series. Anything that can make Tolkien accessible to the masses is fine by me. I also like the fact that my brother is a fanatic and can help explain bits and pieces to me. One thing, I have found that I am rarely 100 percent satisfied with the movie versions. I found that the extended DVDs actually make the movies better even if they push the running times up. Since ROTK was already 3h 30min I can only imagine how long the special edition will be.

As far as the acting goes, the triangle of Aragorn (Viggo Mortensen), Gimli (the ever good John Rhys-Davies) and Legoas (Orlando Bloom) for me was the best part of the films. The emotion and humor and camaraderie that they portrayed made me wish that the rest of the people would just get on with it so we can get back to them. Also notable: Ian McKellan as Gandalf and Bernard Hill as King Theoden.

For those of you who are not partial to long rear numbing movies, be sure to check it out of video when it comes out later this year. If you don't mind the uncomfortable seats, go see it today!

Posted by Josh at 1:03 PM | Permalink | Comments (2)

I had heard good things about this movie, so I jumped at the chance to watch it. I was a bit perturbed that Blockbuster only rented the full screen version of the movie, but since it wasn't a big epic, I decided to go ahead and rent it.

The story is basically of Sy the Photo Guy (Robin Williams) at the local Save Mart store who has a rather unhealthy interest in some of his customers. One particular family is the Yorkins - a young couple with a nine year old child. Sy has seen the youngster grow up in his pictures.

One Hour Photo is very creepy and makes me glad that all my photos are digital. Robin Williams does a fantastic job in a dramatic role and all of the supporting cast compliment each other. The music here has just the right amount of creepiness which, when combined with the pacing of Director Mark Romanek, keep you on the edge of your seat.

It's a good movie to watch on a cold night bundled up on the couch with all the lights off.

Offical Site

Posted by Josh at 11:37 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Chapter Three of the Matrix series finds Neo in a coma and those creepy sentinels digging ever so closer to the last human settlement of Zion (no word on if it is near the National Park of the same name). Turns out, our hero is caught between two worlds (not for long thanks to the work of Trinity, Morpheus, and Seraph - who I think needs his own movie) and has to figure out what to do to stick it to the machines. In the meantime, the machines are a drillin' down to Zion, and our favorite nemesis Agent Smith is quickly replicating.

Not quite as heavy handed as Reloaded, Revolutions manages to tie everything up in a spectacular entertaining way, but in the end, I felt short changed. The other two movies spent time building up Neo as the one, and when we get the big ending what happens? They spend way toooo much time on the machines attacking Zion angle. Don't get me wrong, I liked the scene and thought it was a tremendous piece of film making, but I wanted more Neo, less machine attacks. I did get a cool Neo v. Smith showdown, but as the big battle scene was raging, I kept looking at my watch thinking "when are they gonna get back to Neo". Maybe they just didn't have that much material for him. Maybe they realize Keanu Reeves is better with less dialogue. Who knows? I think the best scenes of the movie all involved him and his quest, and the relative dearth of them in this flick hurt it. And maybe it is because I like Star Trek, but Councilor Hamann (Anthony Zerbe) looked suspiciously like Admiral Dougherty (Anthony Zerbe) in Star Trek Insurrection - so while I watched both Reloaded and Revolutions, I kept waiting for him to betray the humans.

The first Matrix movie was cool in that it had a bit of everything and was an innovative piece of film making with a solid story and some hints to a cool philosophical musings. I think the second and third one only suffer by comparison because the first was so unique. Taken together, they still are great films, but will never recapture the magic of the first one -- when it was all 'new'. Sequel making is difficult at best -- especially when the first film builds up a rabid fan base (just ask George Lucas how unforgiving fans are). Like Star Wars, all things Matrix will have to live up to that first time -- and inevitably all will fail because the magic is gone.

If you have invested the time in the either of the first two Matrix film, you have to see the third -- if for nothing than to get some resolution. Though, come to think of it, the ending was a bit open ended, so who knows we might be seeing more Animatrix movies or perhaps a series on Cartoon Network. Only the Oracle knows.

Posted by Josh at 10:51 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Disney's latest feature is a perfect example of what is wrong with their animation department. They do not know what to make. Should they make serious epics, Broadway musicals, or over the top comedies? I think the Disney folks need to sit back and watch Pixar's Finding Nemo (they should have, but maybe it is too much to bare). Pixar is making the films Disney should be making, and Disney is like a car sputtering. Some times it gets the fuel it needs and fires all the pistons just right (Lilo and Stitch) and sometimes there is no gas at all (Treasure Planet). Brother Bear falls right in the smack dab of those two. The film is not sure what it wants to be -- it starts out as a serious morality play and then takes a sharp right turn when the main character undergoes his mystical transformation into a bear.

The story goes that an Inuit gets transformed into a bear by his dearly departed brother to teach him a lesson after 86'ing a bear that the first brother thinks was responsible for the late brother's death. Then after the transformation, the brother bear seeks out the spirits to figure out what the dealyo is. Oh yes along the way, the third brother is hunting the brother bear cuz he thinks that the brother bear killed his brother (who actually is the bear). Confused? Yeah we all are. Then throw in talking bears and Moose who are along for the ride (literally on the back of some woolly mammoths) and you have a story. It actually comes across better in the movie, and I really only think that there is one big fault. What is that big fault? The intro is too long. Way too much 'serious time' is spent telling the backstory. I think if the producers had gone the way of Beauty and the Beast and dispensed with the backstory in about 5 minutes, it would have been a better flowing movie. Right now, the movie sputters during the too-long intro and the rest of the movie just can't quite make up for it. And don't even get me started on the Phil Collins songs.

Posted by Josh at 9:00 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

I've managed to do a bit of movie watching lately. First up was the Matrix Reloaded. I didn't get to see this one in the theaters when it came out, but I decided to pick up the DVD at Best Buy. I have heard a lot about this movie, but I still enjoyed it. One of the things that got to me was how fake a lot of things looked. I know when you see movies on the big screen, film tends to make some of the computer effects look realistic. But robbed of the graininess of film and on my TV some of the sequences were very artificial (the freeway chase comes to mind as well as Neo fighting all those Smiths). I don't remember noticing this with the first Matrix - save the bullet time sequence. Come to think of it, I really didn't notice it until I saw a special explaining how it was done. Other than some of the fakeness, I thought it was better than most people said it was. I know I will be seeing the next one when it comes out next week.

Another DVD recently watched was the Star Trek V Collectors Edition. Many people consider this movie to be one of the worst of the series, but in fact I like this movie more as time progresses. Sure the special effects were doomed by Bran Ferren (I really think Paramount should let them re-do all of the effects shots in the movie a la TMP), but as a character piece it holds up (certainly better than that Nemesis crap). The special features on this DVD were great as well - I enjoyed the behind the scenes stuff as well as the myriad of trailers. I remember that I labeled some of my old video tapes whenever I caught a Trek movie trailer on them. It also makes me want to go through the Trek IV disc since it is still in its wrapper. One day!

I actually made it out to the Cineplex to see Scary Movie 3. I remember liking the first two, and when I found out David Zucker was directing, I knew I wanted to see it. The laughs were fast and furious, and I am always a sucker for spoofs like these. It's not anything earth shattering or mind blowing, but a decent way to spend a few hours. I was disappointed that David's mom Charlotte Zucker wasn't there for a brief cameo as she is in most of his films.

Work continues on the WDW photos, I've managed to caption most of the Magic Kingdom and should have the rest done soon. My friends Mice and Wendy are in Florida this week (and seem to have a good internet connection, not like me) check out his site and read updates while he is there.

One last note - I managed to win some auctions on eBay of old vintage Disneyland photos!! I'm very excited!

Posted by Josh at 10:01 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Since I relocated to Orange County, my only real traffic beef has been that cursed light at Westminster and Newhope that takes forever if you miss it. This week, I have gained proper perspective on how silly my traffic woes are. I have been working at my dad's work in South Central Los Angeles for a couple days this week. I notice that I am more aggravated and tired when I get home and need some good 'me' time to try and calm myself down. I keep asking myself, "How did I manage to commute from SFV to Anaheim for over a year?". I don't think I could do it anymore. It was like the shock of going from my Davis commute to the Santa Monica commute four plus years ago.

I am in the middle of two solid weeks of work. No days off until next Friday when it is off to Phoenix and Four Corners. It's going to be tough - on my schedule I have all early shifts at the park and of course early rise for my dad's work (I'm there three times next week as well) and the commute. It hurts because I am a night owl, and I find it difficult to force myself to go to sleep early. I know one day I will just come home and take a nap and then wake up at 4am. Oh, that sounds nice.

Last night, I saw the remake of "Freaky Friday" with Daniel. Both of us liked the movie. I don't remember much of the Jodie Foster version from the 60's, but I do remember liking it as well. One thing I noticed at the Downtown Disney AMC theater is that they have installed the new digital pre-movie slideshow. Sadly, they haven't taken advantage of the technology and used it to provide streaming video, but rather have turned the slide shows into glorified Power Point presentations. Another pre-show highlight was the trailer for "Brother Bear" , the new Disney animated feature coming out in the fall. It looks like a new version of the Lion King, but with Bears and sans patricide. Well, at least it looks better than Treasure Planet (which is not hard).

Oh and one more item: The Coopers paid a visit this past week. I haven't seen them since the A-V trip to Vegas back in February. A lot has happened since then, and it was good to catch up. Their relatives were also glad to have someone with a fresh set of legs chase off after Noah.

Posted by Josh at 7:24 PM | Permalink | Comments (2)

Monday night was movie night here at Club Josh. Daniel selected "The Hot Chick" and I selected a little known Japanese comedy "Happiness of the Katakuris". Both comedies had their high and low points, but I'd tilt the scale towards "Happiness..." as the one I liked better. One thing that I thought was hilarious was that the box for "The Hot Chick" sounded like the trailer for the new Rob Schneider movie on South Park when the gang goes over to see Chef's Mama to exorcise Kenny from Cartman: "He's been a gigolo, and he's been an animal - now Rob Schneider is the Hot Chick!"

Tuesday, Granny and Jerri came down to South Coast to do some shopping. After a bit of Nordstrom's we decided to make a b-line to Disneyland to check out the new Aladdin show at DCA and The Many Adventures at DL. Both won rave reviews from them. It was kind of a consolidation prize since the whole gang wasn't there, but hopefully, I'll get a chance to take Amanda and Dianne to the park on our own so we can hit the coasters.

I really need to start doing laundry more often. Today, I did six loads, effectively using the entire laundry facility in my section of the apartment complex. I've also decided I'm one set of sheets short. I remember hearing that you need 3 sets - One in the laundry, one on the bed, and the other clean and ready to go. I think it would have been nice to have that other set ready to go instead of washing two at the same time.

Posted by Josh at 12:53 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Continuing on from the last post (posted a bit late), I also managed to catch X-Men 2 on the big screen. I was glad that Daniel and I saw the early show to beet the crowds. From my understanding it was a busy weekend for the movie and it was nice to get good seats for an opening day. I think the second movie was better than the first, and provided a good solid two hours of entertainment. This is not the type of movie you rate on artistic quality or acting, but on popcorn value aka how well the brain is amused. I guess the only fault is from a personal point of view. I don't read comics and I have only seen bits and pieces of the old X-Men cartoon - so a lot of it is lost on me. Did the movie make me want to learn more? Not really - but it did make me want to see the next one when it comes out.

Sunday saw the return of the Happy Hearts to Disneyland. It is an outreach program during the slow times of the year that the company does for people with disabilities. For the reduced rate of $18, people who wouldn't normally get a chance to visit the park get to do so. I think it is a wonderful program, despite the many challenges it brings to operations of attractions. Other guests seem to be understanding when it takes place, and its a good thing since there are usually long delays when the rides break down or people need extra time to visit the attraction. Both the Routes and Pooh have been hit hard during the week, but I think its a good thing for new cast members to experience.

Posted by Josh at 7:39 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)

This week's movie reviews concentrate on some movies that were hyped when they came out. All of them I had been eager to see due to the hype, and my big concern was that they wouldn't live up to it. Did they? Let's see:

The first movie was Y Tu Mama Tambien. When this movie came out in 2001, it was hyped due to rampant sex that occurs in the movie as well as some brief bits of male nudity. Well, I went into the movie expecting rampant sex, and lo and behold there was some sex and glimpses of male nudity, but in reality it was nothing that was along the lines of the OMG/eye-popping variety. I thought the movie was well done, though a bit hard to follow at times. I think subtitled movies have to be extra good in order to make up for the fact that you have to do more work by reading at the same time as watching the movie. I wish I had one of those Matrix plugs so I could understand the Spanish and concentrate on the movie more. I recall a similar problem with the 400 blows as well as Fellini's Roma - both good movies that struggled with my attention - maybe its the complexity.

Moving on to the second DVD of the week: Best in Show. This movie was also highly rated and regarded. For me, this movie fell into the "If I get time, I'll see it" category. I have always b