In 1960, Kirk Douglas had helped to break the Hollywood Blacklist with "Spartacus" by publicly crediting then-blacklisted writer Dalton Trumbo as the screenwriter. But in 1969, he found himself working with a director who had been anything but helpful to his Hollywood colleagues during the height of McCarthyism. Sadly, this team-up between Douglas and director Elia Kazan also had the unfortunate distinction of being one of the Greek-American filmmaker's most derided films.
"The Arrangement" currently has a 15% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, which should tell you pretty much all you need to know about how this ill-fated drama was received upon release. The film is an adaptation of Kazan's own 1967 novel of the same name and follows LA advertising executive Evangelos Topouzoglou/Eddie Anderson (Douglas) as he endures a protracted nervous breakdown (which is what watching this incredible trailer feels like). Critics at the time were merciless with their condemnation of Kazan's film,...
"The Arrangement" currently has a 15% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, which should tell you pretty much all you need to know about how this ill-fated drama was received upon release. The film is an adaptation of Kazan's own 1967 novel of the same name and follows LA advertising executive Evangelos Topouzoglou/Eddie Anderson (Douglas) as he endures a protracted nervous breakdown (which is what watching this incredible trailer feels like). Critics at the time were merciless with their condemnation of Kazan's film,...
- 6/9/2024
- by Joe Roberts
- Slash Film
The 1990s was a great time for sci-fi movies, but for every great and popular flick, there were a few underrated ones. The ones that may have had intriguing ideas, a talented director, but were left without a budget, or were simply released at the wrong time.
Here are nine movies, including sci-fi classics and hidden gems, that are sure to leave you thinking.
1. The Thirteenth Floor, 1999
The Thirteenth Floor is one of the unsung masterpieces that had bad luck with its release date — around the same time as The Matrix. The plot is a complex multi-level detective story about a simulation in cyberspace.
The creator of the perfect VR system, Hannon Fuller, is murdered in his own office. All evidence points to his co-worker Douglas Hall. To find the killer and clear his reputation, Hall dives into virtual reality — a simulated Los Angeles of 1937, whose inhabitants are unaware of the artificiality of their origins.
Here are nine movies, including sci-fi classics and hidden gems, that are sure to leave you thinking.
1. The Thirteenth Floor, 1999
The Thirteenth Floor is one of the unsung masterpieces that had bad luck with its release date — around the same time as The Matrix. The plot is a complex multi-level detective story about a simulation in cyberspace.
The creator of the perfect VR system, Hannon Fuller, is murdered in his own office. All evidence points to his co-worker Douglas Hall. To find the killer and clear his reputation, Hall dives into virtual reality — a simulated Los Angeles of 1937, whose inhabitants are unaware of the artificiality of their origins.
- 6/8/2024
- by zoe-wallace@startefacts.com (Zoe Wallace)
- STartefacts.com
Steven Spielberg has made some of the best films that have been celebrated by many critics and filmmakers. The director is one of the rare filmmakers who has successfully managed to deliver in every genre with great conviction. Jaws, Indiana Jones, Jurassic Park, Saving Private Ryan, Schindler’s List, and E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial are some of his best works.
Steven Spielberg made landmark sci-fi films including classics like E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial | Universal Pictures
Spielberg also has great admiration for other filmmakers and shares a very close relationship with Star Wars creator George Lucas. They have helped each other and supported each other’s work. Steven has hailed Lucas’ work on the Star Wars films. However, his choice of his best work may be a controversial one for fans of the franchise.
Steven Spielberg Hails Attack of the Clones as George Lucas’ Most Accomplished Film Attack of the Clones‘ subpar...
Steven Spielberg made landmark sci-fi films including classics like E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial | Universal Pictures
Spielberg also has great admiration for other filmmakers and shares a very close relationship with Star Wars creator George Lucas. They have helped each other and supported each other’s work. Steven has hailed Lucas’ work on the Star Wars films. However, his choice of his best work may be a controversial one for fans of the franchise.
Steven Spielberg Hails Attack of the Clones as George Lucas’ Most Accomplished Film Attack of the Clones‘ subpar...
- 6/8/2024
- by Rahul Thokchom
- FandomWire
Tom Hanks was a television star in 1982 and, 42 years ago, if what you really wanted was to be a movie star, that was a problem.
Actors had made the transition from small-screen success to big-screen stardom before, but Hanks' claim to fame was as one-half of the cross-dressing duo living in an all-women's apartment building on the ABC sitcom "Bosom Buddies." Though the show was initially a hit, the gimmick quickly wore thin, and Hanks found himself back on the casting market.
Post-"Bosom Buddies," Hanks' sole film credit was in the 1980 slasher flick "He Knows You're Alone," and, to his credit, he was so charismatic that the filmmakers opted not to kill him off onscreen. Still, that's not much to hang your hat on, nor was, unfortunately, two years of mild television notoriety. The biggest sitcom stars of the 1970s roughly in Hanks' age range were getting star vehicle...
Actors had made the transition from small-screen success to big-screen stardom before, but Hanks' claim to fame was as one-half of the cross-dressing duo living in an all-women's apartment building on the ABC sitcom "Bosom Buddies." Though the show was initially a hit, the gimmick quickly wore thin, and Hanks found himself back on the casting market.
Post-"Bosom Buddies," Hanks' sole film credit was in the 1980 slasher flick "He Knows You're Alone," and, to his credit, he was so charismatic that the filmmakers opted not to kill him off onscreen. Still, that's not much to hang your hat on, nor was, unfortunately, two years of mild television notoriety. The biggest sitcom stars of the 1970s roughly in Hanks' age range were getting star vehicle...
- 6/8/2024
- by Jeremy Smith
- Slash Film
Can the Rocky franchise ever be complete without ‘Mickey Loves You’? Well, actor Sylvester Stallone reportedly planned on wrapping up the sports drama franchise with Rocky III, wanting to finish up the character’s arc in a trilogy. After the worldwide success of the first film, Stallone hopped on the director’s chair for the sequels and planned a great ending.
Stallone was on the brink of giving up on his dreams when he wrote the screenplay for Rocky and sold it for a chance at starring in the sports drama. What was then a small-budget film became a worldwide phenomenon and the highest-grossing film of 1976. It spawned multiple sequels and a spinoff film centered on Adonis Creed, Apollo Creed’s son.
Sylvester Stallone Wanted To Wrap Up Rocky With The Third Film Sylvester Stallone in Rocky | Credits: Chartoff-Winkler Productions
Sylvester Stallone became an overnight star when he wrote and...
Stallone was on the brink of giving up on his dreams when he wrote the screenplay for Rocky and sold it for a chance at starring in the sports drama. What was then a small-budget film became a worldwide phenomenon and the highest-grossing film of 1976. It spawned multiple sequels and a spinoff film centered on Adonis Creed, Apollo Creed’s son.
Sylvester Stallone Wanted To Wrap Up Rocky With The Third Film Sylvester Stallone in Rocky | Credits: Chartoff-Winkler Productions
Sylvester Stallone became an overnight star when he wrote and...
- 6/6/2024
- by Nishanth A
- FandomWire
100 years after the death of Franz Kafka, a new mini-series aims to dive beneath the surface of an author who remains enigmatic even as his influence on the culture continues to grow.
Kafka, an ambitious German-language meta-drama written by Austrian writer/director David Schalko (Braunschlag) and best-selling author David Kehlmann (Measuring the World), is based on Reiner Stach’s exhaustive three-volume biography of Kafka and weaves together the writer’s life and work, finding the connections and gaps between the two.
Schalko, who spent more than a decade developing the series, and directs all six episodes, says he was well aware of the perils of trying to capture Kafka on screen. “Everything we think we know about Kafka has become a cliche,” says Schalko.
Kafka
There is a temptation to depict Franz Kafka, the writer, as a “Kafkaesque” character, and his work as simply a heightened reflection of his life.
Kafka, an ambitious German-language meta-drama written by Austrian writer/director David Schalko (Braunschlag) and best-selling author David Kehlmann (Measuring the World), is based on Reiner Stach’s exhaustive three-volume biography of Kafka and weaves together the writer’s life and work, finding the connections and gaps between the two.
Schalko, who spent more than a decade developing the series, and directs all six episodes, says he was well aware of the perils of trying to capture Kafka on screen. “Everything we think we know about Kafka has become a cliche,” says Schalko.
Kafka
There is a temptation to depict Franz Kafka, the writer, as a “Kafkaesque” character, and his work as simply a heightened reflection of his life.
- 6/6/2024
- by Scott Roxborough
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
One of the most celebrated comedies of 1999 is “Notting Hill,” starring Julia Roberts and Hugh Grant. Written by Richard Curtis and directed by Roger Michell, the film tells of a famous movie actress named Anna Scott who falls in love with a small-town England bookstore owner named William Thacker. Released 25 years ago in May 1999, “Notting Hill” was a major box office success, grossing $364 million worldwide on a $42 million budget. Read on for more about the “Notting Hill” 25th anniversary.
The nation’s critics gave mostly positive reviews to “Notting Hill,” unusual for a studio romantic comedy. Derek Elley in Variety wrote, “[The film] has buckets to spare of that rarest screen commodity — genuine, engaging charm — plus a cast and production values that fully deliver.” Wesley Morris in San Francisco Examiner said, “Director Michell isn’t content to rest on his stars’ slapstick laurels, mining instead the more sophisticated if subversive socio-romantic pratfalls in Curtis’ script.
The nation’s critics gave mostly positive reviews to “Notting Hill,” unusual for a studio romantic comedy. Derek Elley in Variety wrote, “[The film] has buckets to spare of that rarest screen commodity — genuine, engaging charm — plus a cast and production values that fully deliver.” Wesley Morris in San Francisco Examiner said, “Director Michell isn’t content to rest on his stars’ slapstick laurels, mining instead the more sophisticated if subversive socio-romantic pratfalls in Curtis’ script.
- 6/5/2024
- by Brian Rowe
- Gold Derby
Sylvester Stallone is a brilliant actor, screenwriter, and director. Since the start of his career, the actor has consistently proven himself as a formidable one-man army and has made some of the best movies of all time. Yet, his career has not been without several commercial and critical failures.
Sylvester Stallone ([PC: Tulsa King | Amazon Prime]Also, having made some of the worst movies of all time, the actor once believed he never had made a movie that could lose money. While that is far from the truth today, Stallone once stated that if his career was on the line so badly, he could have made his Rocky Balboa an astronaut.
Sylvester Stallone on Making Rocky Balboa an Astronaut
Sylvester Stallone and Carl Weathers in Rocky II | United Artists
Sylvester Stallone, before his Rocky fame, was just a nobody struggling to make ends meet. Agitated by not being able to get any worthy roles, he...
Sylvester Stallone ([PC: Tulsa King | Amazon Prime]Also, having made some of the worst movies of all time, the actor once believed he never had made a movie that could lose money. While that is far from the truth today, Stallone once stated that if his career was on the line so badly, he could have made his Rocky Balboa an astronaut.
Sylvester Stallone on Making Rocky Balboa an Astronaut
Sylvester Stallone and Carl Weathers in Rocky II | United Artists
Sylvester Stallone, before his Rocky fame, was just a nobody struggling to make ends meet. Agitated by not being able to get any worthy roles, he...
- 6/4/2024
- by Maria Sultan
- FandomWire
Actress Kate Winslet is synonymous with the character of Rose from James Cameron’s disaster epic Titanic. The film saw her paired up with Leonardo DiCaprio in the doomed romance set aboard the ‘unsinkable’ Titanic in 1912. The film garnered her a Best Actress nomination at the Oscars and the film was the highest-grossing movie of all time then.
Despite earning billions, Titanic remains one of the many in Winslet’s amazing filmography. Though she is best known for her role in Cameron’s film, she has delivered far superior and mature performances since the big blockbuster. Here are three performances from Kate Winslet’s extensive filmography that are far better than Titanic.
1. Little Children (2006) Kate Winslet in Little Children | Credits: Bona Fide/Standard Film Company/New Line Cinema
Directed by Todd Field of Tár fame, Kate Winslet plays a housewife who has an affair with her neighbor played by Patrick Wilson.
Despite earning billions, Titanic remains one of the many in Winslet’s amazing filmography. Though she is best known for her role in Cameron’s film, she has delivered far superior and mature performances since the big blockbuster. Here are three performances from Kate Winslet’s extensive filmography that are far better than Titanic.
1. Little Children (2006) Kate Winslet in Little Children | Credits: Bona Fide/Standard Film Company/New Line Cinema
Directed by Todd Field of Tár fame, Kate Winslet plays a housewife who has an affair with her neighbor played by Patrick Wilson.
- 6/3/2024
- by Nishanth A
- FandomWire
"Stargate" is a very silly movie, but like many silly movies, it's also kind of fun. The sci-fi action pic comes from the team of director Roland Emmerich and writer Dean Devlin, who would go on to score a blockbuster hit with "Independence Day." But before they got there, they made "Stargate," a movie in which a giant gate opens a portal to another planet, where the aliens all look human and live and behave like they're in Ancient Egypt. You see, centuries ago, these aliens visited our world and influenced human history. It's basically a scenario you'll hear time and time again on the ludicrous History Channel show "Ancient Aliens," but with a lot more guns. As Roger Ebert said in his one-star review of the film, "The movie is so lacking in any sense of wonder that it hurtles us from one end of the universe to the other,...
- 6/2/2024
- by Chris Evangelista
- Slash Film
Before his career-defining success in the Rocky franchise, Sylvester Stallone was a struggling actor earning just breadcrumbs for his acting roles. Once Rocky happened in 1976, it made Stallone into an overnight star and he admitted that the sudden fame may have got to his head. He revealed in an old interview that he was heading down a path of self-destruction with his arrogance when a fan comment kicked some sense into him.
Sylvester Stallone in Rocky | United Artists
The Tulsa King actor also shared that his media image almost set him up for failure after Rocky‘s resounding success. He was met with the question of whether Rocky II was his comeback movie, despite working on two other movies between the first and second films in the franchise.
Sylvester Stallone Revealed One Fan Question That Put A Stop To His Arrogance Sylvester Stallone and Carl Weathers in Rocky II | United...
Sylvester Stallone in Rocky | United Artists
The Tulsa King actor also shared that his media image almost set him up for failure after Rocky‘s resounding success. He was met with the question of whether Rocky II was his comeback movie, despite working on two other movies between the first and second films in the franchise.
Sylvester Stallone Revealed One Fan Question That Put A Stop To His Arrogance Sylvester Stallone and Carl Weathers in Rocky II | United...
- 6/2/2024
- by Hashim Asraff
- FandomWire
"Broadcast News" premiered at a pivotal time for the news industry: James L. Brooks' 1987 newsroom-set classic was born into a world in which pay cable, the internet, and the 24-hour news cycle were about to change the way the world received information for good. As such, the movie would already feel like a throwback to a simpler time just a few years after its release. Great as it is, it would soon join the ranks of movies and shows about legacy media that portray a writing world that looks nothing like the current freelance-heavy digital landscape.
Brooks was apparently acutely aware of the changing media world even as he made the film. In a retrospective interview with Entertainment Weekly in 2018, the filmmaker recalls being inspired to create one of the movie's most famous scenes when a visit to a real-life newsroom confirmed that it reflected reality. "I was in the...
Brooks was apparently acutely aware of the changing media world even as he made the film. In a retrospective interview with Entertainment Weekly in 2018, the filmmaker recalls being inspired to create one of the movie's most famous scenes when a visit to a real-life newsroom confirmed that it reflected reality. "I was in the...
- 6/2/2024
- by Valerie Ettenhofer
- Slash Film
A Story of Floating Weeds / Floating Weeds: Two Films by Yasujiro Ozu on Blu-ray released to the Criterion Collection on May 7th, 2024.
This marked only my third and forth film by Yasujiro Ozu. I already owned the Criterion Collection releases of Tokyo Story and Good Morning, both of which I thoroughly enjoyed, with Good Morning instantly becoming one of my favorite experiences with Japanese cinema. Part of what makes the Criterion Collection so great is the way it makes important films easily accessible for collectors.
A Story of Floating Weeds / Floating Weeds: Two Films by Yasujiro Ozu Plot
An actor traveling with a theater group set up shop in a small village where he reconnects with an old lover and his estranged son. Emotions boil over as the former lovers rekindle their romantic flame.
The Critique
Floating Weeds
It’s always interesting when a filmmaker remakes one of their own films.
This marked only my third and forth film by Yasujiro Ozu. I already owned the Criterion Collection releases of Tokyo Story and Good Morning, both of which I thoroughly enjoyed, with Good Morning instantly becoming one of my favorite experiences with Japanese cinema. Part of what makes the Criterion Collection so great is the way it makes important films easily accessible for collectors.
A Story of Floating Weeds / Floating Weeds: Two Films by Yasujiro Ozu Plot
An actor traveling with a theater group set up shop in a small village where he reconnects with an old lover and his estranged son. Emotions boil over as the former lovers rekindle their romantic flame.
The Critique
Floating Weeds
It’s always interesting when a filmmaker remakes one of their own films.
- 5/31/2024
- by Joshua Ryan
- FandomWire
Twin movies. Doppelgängers. Rapid fire remakes. Whatever you want to call them, Hollywood studios have a long and painful history of rushing concepts that run the gamut from similar to identical into theaters at virtually the same moment. Oftentimes the belief is if you get before the cameras first, the competitor(s) will throw in the towel and cancel production. Yet once in a while what seems like a turf war played out in industry trade papers, where the disputed territories are overlapping ideas or historical personages, spills out into the multiplex as “the same movie” comes to cinemas weeks or months apart.
This phenomenon is more than a hundred years old, with the first such instance believed to be two silent adaptations of Ivanhoe being produced on different continents in 1913, although a clearer kickoff might be when Paramount and MGM competed to get the first American Mata Hari movie...
This phenomenon is more than a hundred years old, with the first such instance believed to be two silent adaptations of Ivanhoe being produced on different continents in 1913, although a clearer kickoff might be when Paramount and MGM competed to get the first American Mata Hari movie...
- 5/31/2024
- by David Crow
- Den of Geek
Here we are with another case of “Wait, that was a book first?” Although, having watched the movie for the first time and seeing its reputation online, this is also a case of “Wait, that was a movie?” William Friedkin was a master filmmaker and although most of his stone-cold classics happened before 1990, he proved he still had plenty in the tank with things like The Hunted and Bug to name a couple. He was a replacement director which seems surreal considering his talents and he was one of 3 credited writers on a little remembered horror movie adaptation from 1990. The Guardian (watch it Here) is based on The Nanny from 1987 and it’s a strange pairing of source material and finished product. Both pieces of media are mostly slept on in their respective fields but how close did Friedkin and the other writers come to matching the book? Always do...
- 5/29/2024
- by Andrew Hatfield
- JoBlo.com
"Fremaux knows his films, his festival, his audience. His taste is exceptional." (–Roger Ebert's notes from Cannes 2009.) At the start of the 2024 Cannes Film Festival two weeks ago, I announced a special giveaway of four signed copies of Matt Singer's book called Opposable Thumbs: How Siskel & Ebert Changed Movies Forever. Now that the festival has ended, it's time for a quick recap and a thank you to all those who crossed paths with me this year in Cannes. This 2024 giveaway was a follow-up to my 2019 giveaway, when I originally handed out 10 copies of Ebert's Cannes diary book called Two Weeks in the Midday Sun. This time the books were signed by the author, making them even more unique as a gift. Of course, I wanted to connect them to Roger Ebert again, and Matt's book is fantastic - recalling his history as a legendary film critic. All it took...
- 5/27/2024
- by Alex Billington
- firstshowing.net
Few might remember John McTiernan's 2003 military thriller "Basic," a film that was, at the time, touted as a grand reunion between "Pulp Fiction" stars John Travolta and Samuel L. Jackson. Because of its star power, "Basic" cost $50 million to make, but raked in a paltry $43 million at the box office. It currently sits at a 21% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes, and I recall reading Roger Ebert's scathing one-star review with a wince; Ebert said that "Basic" was "was not a film that could be understood," stating that it was so twisty and full of trickery that is might be better called a "jerk-around movie." To elucidate on Ebert's point, the plot description for "Basic" on Wikipedia runs eleven paragraphs. The film is only 98 minutes long.
The plot can, however, be explained (kind of), and we shall now, dear readers, endeavor to unpack this forgotten 2003 thriller for all future generations.
The plot can, however, be explained (kind of), and we shall now, dear readers, endeavor to unpack this forgotten 2003 thriller for all future generations.
- 5/26/2024
- by Witney Seibold
- Slash Film
On May 25, 1934, “The Thin Man” was released to rave reviews and big box office returns. The popularity of husband-and-wife sleuths Nick and Nora Charles set the standard for romantic comedies with a dash of thrill and mystery, and cemented actors William Powell and Myrna Loy as one of the greatest film teams of all time. Read on for more about “The Thin Man” 90th anniversary.
Dashiell Hammett was a well-known writer of hardboiled detective novels, but he added a light touch to his novel “The Thin Man,” and MGM quickly snatched up the film rights. Nick Charles (Powell) is a retired detective who enjoys the high life with his wealthy socialite wife Nora (Loy) and their spoiled pooch Asta (Skippy). Nick is lured back to his mystery-solving days by the disappearance of his old acquaintance, Clyde (Edward Ellis), whose daughter Dorothy (Maureen O’Sullivan) begs Nick to find out what happened to her father.
Dashiell Hammett was a well-known writer of hardboiled detective novels, but he added a light touch to his novel “The Thin Man,” and MGM quickly snatched up the film rights. Nick Charles (Powell) is a retired detective who enjoys the high life with his wealthy socialite wife Nora (Loy) and their spoiled pooch Asta (Skippy). Nick is lured back to his mystery-solving days by the disappearance of his old acquaintance, Clyde (Edward Ellis), whose daughter Dorothy (Maureen O’Sullivan) begs Nick to find out what happened to her father.
- 5/25/2024
- by Susan Pennington
- Gold Derby
A History of Unsimulated Sex Scenes in 17 Cannes Films, from ‘Mektoub’ to ‘Antichrist’ to ‘Caligula’
Editor’s Note: This story was originally published in May 2019 and has been updated several times since.
Deserved or not, French cinema has a reputation for being a little racy. From classics like “Belle de Jour” to controversial modern films like “Blue Is the Warmest Color,” French film has consistently pushed the boundaries of sexuality and sensuality onscreen. So it’s perhaps no surprise that the country’s premier film festival Cannes is such an oasis for sexually explicit films, ones that have frequently generated controversy over its history — especially when these films feature unsimulated sexual acts.
Unsimulated sex onscreen at Cannes dates back to at least 1973, when the film “Thriller — a Cruel Picture,” featuring several acts of hardcore unsimulated porn, played at the festival. In the years afterwards, particularly provocative and avant-garde works like “Sweet Movie” and “The Idiots” caused shock at Cannes by presenting audiences with real, unvarnished sexual content.
Deserved or not, French cinema has a reputation for being a little racy. From classics like “Belle de Jour” to controversial modern films like “Blue Is the Warmest Color,” French film has consistently pushed the boundaries of sexuality and sensuality onscreen. So it’s perhaps no surprise that the country’s premier film festival Cannes is such an oasis for sexually explicit films, ones that have frequently generated controversy over its history — especially when these films feature unsimulated sexual acts.
Unsimulated sex onscreen at Cannes dates back to at least 1973, when the film “Thriller — a Cruel Picture,” featuring several acts of hardcore unsimulated porn, played at the festival. In the years afterwards, particularly provocative and avant-garde works like “Sweet Movie” and “The Idiots” caused shock at Cannes by presenting audiences with real, unvarnished sexual content.
- 5/23/2024
- by Wilson Chapman
- Indiewire
The Cannes Film Festival is arguably the single most prestigious film festival in all of world cinema. Every year, hundreds descend on the French resort town for two weeks of screenings from some of the film industry’s most respected auteurs. If you want high-quality cinema, or movie star glamour, Cannes supplies all of that in abundance.
But maybe it’s because Cannes is such a shiny beacon atop the cinematic landscape that it’s also so frequently embroiled in massive controversies, in a way that American festivals like, say, Sundance don’t really manage, at least not anymore. It’s not an every year occurrence, but whenever Cannes starts up in May, putting money on something happening to make people very angry is generally the safer bet.
Sometimes, the controversy has to do with the films playing on the Croisette themselves. Take notorious projects like “The Brown Bunny,” a...
But maybe it’s because Cannes is such a shiny beacon atop the cinematic landscape that it’s also so frequently embroiled in massive controversies, in a way that American festivals like, say, Sundance don’t really manage, at least not anymore. It’s not an every year occurrence, but whenever Cannes starts up in May, putting money on something happening to make people very angry is generally the safer bet.
Sometimes, the controversy has to do with the films playing on the Croisette themselves. Take notorious projects like “The Brown Bunny,” a...
- 5/22/2024
- by Wilson Chapman
- Indiewire
The first three Star Wars films are often cited as some of the best Hollywood movies of all time, while The Phantom Menace received far less glowing reviews. George Lucas reacted to the critical trashing, saying the reviews for The Phantom Menace were identical to those for the previous Star Wars films. Fans should not take him at his word.
George Lucas defended a controversial character from ‘The Phantom Menace’
During a 1999 interview with Empire Magazine, Lucas shrugged off the negative reviews of The Phantom Menace. “The critics pretty much hated the first three movies; they said the dialogue is bad, the acting’s wooden, no story, too many special effects, it’s a children’s film,” he said.
“That same review got moved to Empire Strikes Back, that same review got moved to Return of the Jedi, and that is the review that is getting reprinted now. You’d think that after a while,...
George Lucas defended a controversial character from ‘The Phantom Menace’
During a 1999 interview with Empire Magazine, Lucas shrugged off the negative reviews of The Phantom Menace. “The critics pretty much hated the first three movies; they said the dialogue is bad, the acting’s wooden, no story, too many special effects, it’s a children’s film,” he said.
“That same review got moved to Empire Strikes Back, that same review got moved to Return of the Jedi, and that is the review that is getting reprinted now. You’d think that after a while,...
- 5/21/2024
- by Matthew Trzcinski
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Steven Spielberg is one of the most refined filmmakers in the entire entertainment industry, gifting viewers with true cinematic gems. Besides helming the masterpieces Indiana Jones and Jurassic Park franchises, he is also credited with directing 2002’s widely critically commended Catch Me If You Can, which is quite literally regarded as one of the best movies he has ever created.
Steven Spielberg. | Credit: Elena Ternovaja/Wikimedia Commons.
But while the crime-comedy is already perfect just the way it is, there’s a backstory to it too; one that makes the movie tenfold more interesting than it already is. What’s even more surprising is that this story involves the Oscar winner committing the same crime as in the movie while growing up, and this story would be more than enough to make you look at the film differently than ever before.
Steven Spielberg Holds a Personal Connection to Catch Me If You Can
Yes,...
Steven Spielberg. | Credit: Elena Ternovaja/Wikimedia Commons.
But while the crime-comedy is already perfect just the way it is, there’s a backstory to it too; one that makes the movie tenfold more interesting than it already is. What’s even more surprising is that this story involves the Oscar winner committing the same crime as in the movie while growing up, and this story would be more than enough to make you look at the film differently than ever before.
Steven Spielberg Holds a Personal Connection to Catch Me If You Can
Yes,...
- 5/20/2024
- by Mahin Sultan
- FandomWire
For years, rumors have circulated about Hollywood heartthrob Tom Cruise, surrounding his love life and alleged difficult persona on set. Rumors of abrasive behavior and outlandish urban legends about Cruise have often been a part and parcel of the actor’s lengthy career. But eventually, renowned director Steven Spielberg came to set the record straight.
Steven Spielberg at the 2017 Sdcc | Photo: Gage Skidmore/ Wikimedia CommonsSpeaking with Roger Ebert in 2002, following the release of Tom Cruise’s futurist thriller Minority Report, Steven Spielberg defended the actor and dismissed rumors regarding Cruise’s alleged difficult persona. Sharing a heartwarming story that showcased the actor’s kindness and generosity towards his fans, Spielberg debunked speculations.
Steven Spielberg Debunked Rumors of Tom Cruise’s Difficult Persona
With a career spanning over three decades, Tom Cruise has been one of Hollywood’s most bankable stars. While the actor has delivered some of the most iconic performances in cinema history,...
Steven Spielberg at the 2017 Sdcc | Photo: Gage Skidmore/ Wikimedia CommonsSpeaking with Roger Ebert in 2002, following the release of Tom Cruise’s futurist thriller Minority Report, Steven Spielberg defended the actor and dismissed rumors regarding Cruise’s alleged difficult persona. Sharing a heartwarming story that showcased the actor’s kindness and generosity towards his fans, Spielberg debunked speculations.
Steven Spielberg Debunked Rumors of Tom Cruise’s Difficult Persona
With a career spanning over three decades, Tom Cruise has been one of Hollywood’s most bankable stars. While the actor has delivered some of the most iconic performances in cinema history,...
- 5/20/2024
- by Krittika Mukherjee
- FandomWire
Steven Spielberg’s legacy is a much-renowned one, unmarred by time and the arrival of new talent. His films have established a new era in Hollywood, through Indiana Jones and Jurassic Park. Despite the presence of evolved technologies and newer creatives, not many have been able to recreate the scale of Spielberg’s career or overthrow his status as a living legend.
Steven Spielberg at the 2017 Sdcc [Photo: Gage Skidmore]With the passing of years, classics such as Harrison Ford’s classic Nazi-hunting adventure junkie or the rebirth of the Jurassic Age in the modern world have taken a backseat, giving way to more modernistic science fiction such as Minority Report and the playful Catch Me If You Can. But not once has the director stumbled in his unbroken creative streak for the past 50 years, beginning with the marine horror, Jaws.
However, when it comes to Steven Spielberg’s kids, they may be his harshest critics,...
Steven Spielberg at the 2017 Sdcc [Photo: Gage Skidmore]With the passing of years, classics such as Harrison Ford’s classic Nazi-hunting adventure junkie or the rebirth of the Jurassic Age in the modern world have taken a backseat, giving way to more modernistic science fiction such as Minority Report and the playful Catch Me If You Can. But not once has the director stumbled in his unbroken creative streak for the past 50 years, beginning with the marine horror, Jaws.
However, when it comes to Steven Spielberg’s kids, they may be his harshest critics,...
- 5/20/2024
- by Diya Majumdar
- FandomWire
What's Daniel Day Lewis' best film? "Gangs of New York," perhaps? What about his Oscar-winning performance as the 16th President of the United States in "Lincoln?" Surely his efforts there should put Steven Spielberg's historical drama in the running for Lewis' finest work. Well, it's neither of these. Daniel Day Lewis' best film is, in fact, 1985's "A Room With a View," — at least according to Rotten Tomatoes.
The website that determined there to be only two perfect horror movies can also be consulted for its rankings of individual actors' filmographies. This has resulted in the definitely correct revelation that Sean Connery's finest film is "Darby O'Gill and the Little People." Now, it's Gene Hackman's turn to have a lifetime of acting ability summed up by a series of cartoon splats and tomatoes. What could possibly be at the top of this list? Well, my money was...
The website that determined there to be only two perfect horror movies can also be consulted for its rankings of individual actors' filmographies. This has resulted in the definitely correct revelation that Sean Connery's finest film is "Darby O'Gill and the Little People." Now, it's Gene Hackman's turn to have a lifetime of acting ability summed up by a series of cartoon splats and tomatoes. What could possibly be at the top of this list? Well, my money was...
- 5/20/2024
- by Joe Roberts
- Slash Film
Steven Spielberg used a filming technique he hadn’t applied since E.T. to shoot the classic film Saving Private Ryan. But he didn’t expect the demoralizing effect that would have on the film.
The special film technique Steven Spielberg used for ‘Saving Private Ryan’ Tom Hanks | CBS/ Getty Images
Spielberg already knew he was going to direct a world war two movie before he did Saving Private Ryan. He just didn’t know what movie that was gonna be before the Tom Hanks war film. He was soon sent the film’s script by a screenwriter, and found the war movie he wanted to do.
“As a matter of fact, it was the only time in my several decades of having an agent that they actually gave me a screenplay that I wound up directing,” he once told the DGA.
What separated Saving Private Ryan from most of...
The special film technique Steven Spielberg used for ‘Saving Private Ryan’ Tom Hanks | CBS/ Getty Images
Spielberg already knew he was going to direct a world war two movie before he did Saving Private Ryan. He just didn’t know what movie that was gonna be before the Tom Hanks war film. He was soon sent the film’s script by a screenwriter, and found the war movie he wanted to do.
“As a matter of fact, it was the only time in my several decades of having an agent that they actually gave me a screenplay that I wound up directing,” he once told the DGA.
What separated Saving Private Ryan from most of...
- 5/17/2024
- by Antonio Stallings
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
We may have had to wait two years for the third season of HBO Max’s “Hacks” to hit our screens but, boy, was it worth it. Ths third edition is a showcase for Jean Smart who plays Deborah Vance, a veteran stand-up experiencing a resurgence in her career. Hannah Einbinder co-stars as Ava Daniels, a comedy writer working to kick-start her career.
The relationship between those two women is at the heart of the show and season three is no different, with the chemistry between Smart and Einbinder reaching new levels. This is, still, however, the Jean Smart show. She aces every moment of comedy, perfectly embodying the Joan Rivers type of comedian that Deborah is. But what elevates the character and Smart’s performance to the next level are the touches of humanity and vulnerability sown into the role.
Critics agree, Smart is turning in career-best work.
Brian Tallerico...
The relationship between those two women is at the heart of the show and season three is no different, with the chemistry between Smart and Einbinder reaching new levels. This is, still, however, the Jean Smart show. She aces every moment of comedy, perfectly embodying the Joan Rivers type of comedian that Deborah is. But what elevates the character and Smart’s performance to the next level are the touches of humanity and vulnerability sown into the role.
Critics agree, Smart is turning in career-best work.
Brian Tallerico...
- 5/16/2024
- by Jacob Sarkisian
- Gold Derby
Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom holds a strange place in every Indiana Jones fan’s heart. The awkward middle child, Temple of Doom is a dark, problematic prequel to Raiders of the Lost Ark, one which takes the series in a weirder, wilder direction—and manages to pull off one of the greatest openings of any action movie ever.
Today there’s often an assumption that contemporary critics weren’t enamored by director Steven Spielberg and writer George Lucas’ second collaboration, but that’s slightly misleading; The New Yorker’s Pauline Kael preferred Temple to Raiders because it fully embraced being “preposterous” and “implausible,” though she also writes that her friends labeled it “heartless” and “overbearing.” Meanwhile Roger Ebert gave the film a perfect four stars while People magazine warned that children may be traumatized by it.
Kael and her friends’ analysis perhaps best sums up why The Temple of Doom...
Today there’s often an assumption that contemporary critics weren’t enamored by director Steven Spielberg and writer George Lucas’ second collaboration, but that’s slightly misleading; The New Yorker’s Pauline Kael preferred Temple to Raiders because it fully embraced being “preposterous” and “implausible,” though she also writes that her friends labeled it “heartless” and “overbearing.” Meanwhile Roger Ebert gave the film a perfect four stars while People magazine warned that children may be traumatized by it.
Kael and her friends’ analysis perhaps best sums up why The Temple of Doom...
- 5/15/2024
- by David Crow
- Den of Geek
"There was no chemistry. They didn't even like each other! But they had a style of relating to the movies, which both of them loved. They were very good critics, and very smart." It's finally time to announce a very special giveaway at the 2024 Cannes Film Festival. This is my 14th year attending Cannes, and it's the year 2024, so I have decided to give out 4 signed copies of a new book about two legendary film critics. Back in 2019, I hosted a Cannes giveaway of the hard-to-find Roger Ebert book "Two Weeks in the Midday Sun: A Cannes Notebook" about his thoughts while attending the 1987 Cannes Film Festival. Some of my colleagues that received this book have told me how much they still cherish it. Now in 2024, I want to hand out another Roger Ebert book – but he only published one Cannes diary book in his time. However, the superb author...
- 5/14/2024
- by Alex Billington
- firstshowing.net
In 1988, director Renny Harlin made a big splash in Hollywood when he directed “A Nightmare on Elm Street 4: The Dream Master,” which at that point was the highest-grossing film in the “Elm Street” series — and would remain so until “Freddy vs. Jason” in 2003. Two years later, Harlin had an even bigger hit with “Die Hard 2,” a movie that several critics at the time considered to be artistically superior to its predecessor. Now Harlin, whose credits also include “Cliffhanger,” “The Long Kiss Goodnight,” and “Deep Blue Sea,” returns to the world of sequels with “The Strangers: Chapter 1,” a sequel to Bryan Bertino’s ultra-creepy 2008 horror film about a brutal home invasion. As with his previous sequels, Harlin has both delivered the satisfactions of his source material and gone in his own new directions, in the process creating the most frightening thriller of 2024 so far.
The director’s overall...
The director’s overall...
- 5/14/2024
- by Jim Hemphill
- Indiewire
The 2024 Cannes Film Festival competition jury, led by president Greta Gerwig, met the international press Tuesday — and it didn’t take long before the assembled stars were urged to address the various fraught political issues swirling around this year’s edition of the world’s most glamorous film fest.
On the eve of the 77th festival, Cannes artistic director Thierry Frémaux had set the tone by attempting to distance the event from hot-button topics, saying at his own press conference on Monday, “We are trying to have a festival without these polemics. In Cannes, the politics should be on the screen.”
The French festival head, who has served in his role since 2001, noted how coverage of Cannes has changed over his tenure, as the international media’s interest has shifted from the films on exhibition to an expectation that the festival be responsive to surrounding social issues. That was certainly the case Tuesday,...
On the eve of the 77th festival, Cannes artistic director Thierry Frémaux had set the tone by attempting to distance the event from hot-button topics, saying at his own press conference on Monday, “We are trying to have a festival without these polemics. In Cannes, the politics should be on the screen.”
The French festival head, who has served in his role since 2001, noted how coverage of Cannes has changed over his tenure, as the international media’s interest has shifted from the films on exhibition to an expectation that the festival be responsive to surrounding social issues. That was certainly the case Tuesday,...
- 5/14/2024
- by Patrick Brzeski
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
I spent the first 37 years of my life on the East Coast, and even there, I knew who Sam Rubin was.
The beloved Ktla Los Angeles entertainment reporter, who died May 10 at age 64, was a Hollywood fixture for over 30 years, beloved, trusted and respected. Drawing heartfelt tributes ranging from industry veterans like Tom Hanks and Henry Winkler and rising stars like Charmaine Bingwa, I’ve never seen such an outpouring for an entertainment journalist since perhaps Roger Ebert in 2013. Sam greeted everyone with the same infectious enthusiasm and genuine curiosity, whether they were industry stalwarts or nervous newcomers. He was synonymous with Los Angeles but he was also known well outside of Southern California through his reporting for ITV and Australia’s 9 Network.
I was fortunate to spend time with Sam off-camera, serving with him on the board of the Critics Choice organization. On my first trip to Los...
The beloved Ktla Los Angeles entertainment reporter, who died May 10 at age 64, was a Hollywood fixture for over 30 years, beloved, trusted and respected. Drawing heartfelt tributes ranging from industry veterans like Tom Hanks and Henry Winkler and rising stars like Charmaine Bingwa, I’ve never seen such an outpouring for an entertainment journalist since perhaps Roger Ebert in 2013. Sam greeted everyone with the same infectious enthusiasm and genuine curiosity, whether they were industry stalwarts or nervous newcomers. He was synonymous with Los Angeles but he was also known well outside of Southern California through his reporting for ITV and Australia’s 9 Network.
I was fortunate to spend time with Sam off-camera, serving with him on the board of the Critics Choice organization. On my first trip to Los...
- 5/13/2024
- by Clayton Davis
- Variety Film + TV
There are few films that made a bigger splash in 2021 than Jane Campion’s masterful and suspenseful Western . It’s Certified 95% Fresh on the Tomatometer, leading the Golden Globes with seven nominations and a clear winner of IndieWire’s Critics Poll. These types of astounding accolades aren’t new for Campion, the only woman to ever win the Palme d’Or at Cannes and the second woman to be nominated for a Best Director Oscar (both for 1993’s The Piano).
In his review of The Piano, late critic Roger Ebert wrote, “Campion has never made an uninteresting or unchallenging film.” While that was true when she was three films into her theatrical career, it’s even truer now, as the 67-year-old is deservedly celebrated as one of the best filmmakers alive. Whether it’s because of her gorgeously constructed and unorthodox cinematography, resilient protagonists, or patient storytelling, each viewing of...
In his review of The Piano, late critic Roger Ebert wrote, “Campion has never made an uninteresting or unchallenging film.” While that was true when she was three films into her theatrical career, it’s even truer now, as the 67-year-old is deservedly celebrated as one of the best filmmakers alive. Whether it’s because of her gorgeously constructed and unorthodox cinematography, resilient protagonists, or patient storytelling, each viewing of...
- 5/13/2024
- by Josh Terry
- Tudum - Netflix
Steven Spielberg's filmmaking techniques took a large bound forward in 2001 with the release of "A.I. Artificial Intelligence." The sci-fi film, set in a near future populated by conscious androids, was a project Spielberg took over from an ailing Stanley Kubrick, who passed on it when he felt Spielberg could do it better. In "A.I.," Spielberg's photography and editing were very different from the slick, adventure films and glossy prestige pictures he had become popular making. Now everything was hazy, staid, more deliberate.
Although he had already won three Oscars (two for "Schindler's List" and one for "Saving Private Ryan") and was widely considered to be a reigning master of Hollywood's blockbuster class, Spielberg evolved. After 2001, Spielberg's career bifurcated into dispassionate effects-based thrillers wherein the filmmaker was merely experimenting, and deeply passionate political thrillers that used the politics of the past to reflect on issues of the day.
The official...
Although he had already won three Oscars (two for "Schindler's List" and one for "Saving Private Ryan") and was widely considered to be a reigning master of Hollywood's blockbuster class, Spielberg evolved. After 2001, Spielberg's career bifurcated into dispassionate effects-based thrillers wherein the filmmaker was merely experimenting, and deeply passionate political thrillers that used the politics of the past to reflect on issues of the day.
The official...
- 5/12/2024
- by Witney Seibold
- Slash Film
If you took a poll of movie lovers and asked for a list of the best actors of the past 50 years, Daniel Day-Lewis would certainly be among them -- he may even occupy the number one slot. The versatile performer has been wowing audiences with his all-in, committed performance style for decades, and legends are legion about the lengths to which he'll go to immerse himself in his characters.
But only one of his films has a perfect 100% Rotten Tomatoes score, and it's somewhat surprising: It's not "Gangs of New York," "My Left Foot," or even "In the Name of the Father," but 1985's "A Room With a View," directed by James Ivory. Set in the early 1900s, the film follows a young Englishwoman named Lucy (Helena Bonham Carter) and her chaperone (Maggie Smith) on a trip to Italy, where she ignites a brief relationship with a man (Julian Sands...
But only one of his films has a perfect 100% Rotten Tomatoes score, and it's somewhat surprising: It's not "Gangs of New York," "My Left Foot," or even "In the Name of the Father," but 1985's "A Room With a View," directed by James Ivory. Set in the early 1900s, the film follows a young Englishwoman named Lucy (Helena Bonham Carter) and her chaperone (Maggie Smith) on a trip to Italy, where she ignites a brief relationship with a man (Julian Sands...
- 5/12/2024
- by Ben Pearson
- Slash Film
The original Japanese version of Ishiro Honda's kaiju classic "Gojira" -- previously bowdlerized by American translators as "Godzilla" -- wasn't released in American theaters until 2004 to coincide with the film's 50th anniversary. Up until then, American audiences had to content themselves with the 1956 film "Godzilla, King of the Monsters!," a heavily re-edited version of "Gojira" that included new scenes of actor Raymond Burr narrating the action. The footage was directed by Terry O. Morse.
When "Gojira" was finally released in 2004, not every critic was pleased. Most audiences accepted that Honda's film more or less birthed the kaiju genre, and established a persistent pop culture icon that persists to this day. Roger Ebert acknowledged that "Gojira" could be significant while also being completely shabby. He gave the film only one and a half stars, saying it was "idiotic." "Godzilla at times looks uncannily like a man in a lizard suit,...
When "Gojira" was finally released in 2004, not every critic was pleased. Most audiences accepted that Honda's film more or less birthed the kaiju genre, and established a persistent pop culture icon that persists to this day. Roger Ebert acknowledged that "Gojira" could be significant while also being completely shabby. He gave the film only one and a half stars, saying it was "idiotic." "Godzilla at times looks uncannily like a man in a lizard suit,...
- 5/10/2024
- by Witney Seibold
- Slash Film
Put down that notebook, grab your tap-dancing shoes, and saddle up because we're about to break down why one of Hollywood's most prominent leading men is more than Kenough.
In his thirty years as an actor, Ryan Gosling has amassed a total of 107 award nominations and 40 wins. No small feat, considering he's been known to take multiple years-long breaks in his line of work.
Having cemented a career with roles ranging from comedy to thriller to action, Gosling is not one to limit himself. As Roger Ebert said, Ryan "proves he's one of the finest actors in contemporary movies."
Starting at a young age, Gosling managed to sidestep the drama that has plagued many notable child stars in Hollywood's history.
The actor likely saw the downfall of fellow industry peers and prioritized his mental health to avoid such pitfalls.
Whatever the case, Ryan has also made a name for himself...
In his thirty years as an actor, Ryan Gosling has amassed a total of 107 award nominations and 40 wins. No small feat, considering he's been known to take multiple years-long breaks in his line of work.
Having cemented a career with roles ranging from comedy to thriller to action, Gosling is not one to limit himself. As Roger Ebert said, Ryan "proves he's one of the finest actors in contemporary movies."
Starting at a young age, Gosling managed to sidestep the drama that has plagued many notable child stars in Hollywood's history.
The actor likely saw the downfall of fellow industry peers and prioritized his mental health to avoid such pitfalls.
Whatever the case, Ryan has also made a name for himself...
- 5/9/2024
- by Joshua Pleming
- TVfanatic
Many Marvel fans would love to see how original Doctor Strange director Scott Derrickson would have made the poorly executed second film. Derrickson recently shared a tweet that highlighted the bad reviews against Harrison Ford’s 1982 film Blade Runner. He was among the few who loved the theatrical version and posted the tweet as his voice against the critical opinion. However, he later deleted the tweet and has a good explanation as to why he did it.
Scott Derrickson loved the theatrical cut of Harrison Ford’s Blade Runner
Blade Runner‘s theatrical version was not everyone’s favorite and critics bashed the film left and right. However, the criticism forced director Ridley Scott to come out with a Director’s Cut and later a much better Final Cut of the film.
Doctor Strange Director Explains Why He Deleted Tweet Bashing Critics of Blade Runner Doctor Strange director Scott Derrickson...
Scott Derrickson loved the theatrical cut of Harrison Ford’s Blade Runner
Blade Runner‘s theatrical version was not everyone’s favorite and critics bashed the film left and right. However, the criticism forced director Ridley Scott to come out with a Director’s Cut and later a much better Final Cut of the film.
Doctor Strange Director Explains Why He Deleted Tweet Bashing Critics of Blade Runner Doctor Strange director Scott Derrickson...
- 5/8/2024
- by Hashim Asraff
- FandomWire
Let’s talk about a film that took me on a rollercoaster of emotions and left me with plenty to ponder.
You might have heard of it – “The Green Inferno.” Before you jump to any conclusions, I want to give you a sneak peek into my journey through this controversial horror flick.
Whether you’re a horror enthusiast or just curious about the buzz, you’re in for a ride as I recount my thoughts and feelings about this cinematic adventure.
Related: 10 Best Horror Movies of All Time, Ranked by Viewers
So, grab your popcorn, get comfy, and dive into the world of “The Green Inferno” together!
Some Context Before We Begin
Before diving into the depths of my experience, let’s provide some context.
“The Green Inferno” is centered around idealistic college students traveling to the Amazon rainforest to thwart illegal deforestation activities.
However, their mission takes a horrific...
You might have heard of it – “The Green Inferno.” Before you jump to any conclusions, I want to give you a sneak peek into my journey through this controversial horror flick.
Whether you’re a horror enthusiast or just curious about the buzz, you’re in for a ride as I recount my thoughts and feelings about this cinematic adventure.
Related: 10 Best Horror Movies of All Time, Ranked by Viewers
So, grab your popcorn, get comfy, and dive into the world of “The Green Inferno” together!
Some Context Before We Begin
Before diving into the depths of my experience, let’s provide some context.
“The Green Inferno” is centered around idealistic college students traveling to the Amazon rainforest to thwart illegal deforestation activities.
However, their mission takes a horrific...
- 5/7/2024
- by Pia Vermaak
- buddytv.com
With six decades of acting under his belt, Harrison Ford has made works that have run the gamut of critical responses. On Rotten Tomatoes, his most critically acclaimed role is listed as the "Apocalypse Now" making-of documentary "Hearts of Darkness," a film in which he ironically doesn't actually speak or appear but which nonetheless earned universal acclaim from the review-tabulating site. His lowest-rated film? An already-forgotten 2013 thriller called "Paranoia," which just 7% of critics included on the aggregation site wrote positively about.
Many of Ford's most entertaining films lie somewhere in the middle of that wide range; they're crowd-pleasing blockbusters and cult favorites with some endearing -- and in the best cases, now legendary -- imperfections. Ask fans what their favorite Ford-starring films are and you'll get a smorgasbord of answers that fit in this category, from "Star Wars" to "Indiana Jones" to "Blade Runner" to "The Fugitive." When it...
Many of Ford's most entertaining films lie somewhere in the middle of that wide range; they're crowd-pleasing blockbusters and cult favorites with some endearing -- and in the best cases, now legendary -- imperfections. Ask fans what their favorite Ford-starring films are and you'll get a smorgasbord of answers that fit in this category, from "Star Wars" to "Indiana Jones" to "Blade Runner" to "The Fugitive." When it...
- 5/5/2024
- by Valerie Ettenhofer
- Slash Film
"Every second of every day you make a choice that can change your life." Sony Classics posted an updated 2024 official trailer for the 4K re-release of this German classic Run Lola Run, which originally debuted in 1998 some 26 years ago. Anyone who loves cinema already knows and has seen this movie, and it's still as thrilling & exciting to watch today as it was back then. It played at Sundance 1999 (and won the Audience Award there) and also screened at the 1998 Venice & Toronto Film Festivals. After her boyfriend botches a money handover, Lola has 20 minutes to bring 100,000 Dm to him or he robs a store. If the money is not returned, there will be consequences. We see three possible scenarios, depending on Lola's encounters. She races through the streets of Berlin to find the money and bring it to him on the other side of the city before it's too late. Franka Potente...
- 5/3/2024
- by Alex Billington
- firstshowing.net
New month, new horror recommendations from Deep Cuts Rising. This installment features one random pick as well as four selections reflecting the month of May 2024.
Regardless of how they came to be here, or what they’re about, these past movies can generally be considered overlooked, forgotten or unknown.
This month’s offerings include a self-loathing serial killer, a violinist’s murderous ghost, and a postmodern vamp flick.
Scream, Pretty Peggy (1973)
Pictured: Ted Bessell and Sian Barbara Allen in Scream, Pretty Peggy.
Directed by Gordon Hessler.
The TV-movie Scream, Pretty Peggy first aired as part of ABC Movie of the Week. Bette Davis plays the mother of a reclusive sculptor (Ted Bessell), and after the previous housekeeper goes missing, a local college student (Sian Barbara Allen) fills the position. Little does she know, though, the young employee’s predecessor was murdered — and the killer is still on the loose.
Admittedly,...
Regardless of how they came to be here, or what they’re about, these past movies can generally be considered overlooked, forgotten or unknown.
This month’s offerings include a self-loathing serial killer, a violinist’s murderous ghost, and a postmodern vamp flick.
Scream, Pretty Peggy (1973)
Pictured: Ted Bessell and Sian Barbara Allen in Scream, Pretty Peggy.
Directed by Gordon Hessler.
The TV-movie Scream, Pretty Peggy first aired as part of ABC Movie of the Week. Bette Davis plays the mother of a reclusive sculptor (Ted Bessell), and after the previous housekeeper goes missing, a local college student (Sian Barbara Allen) fills the position. Little does she know, though, the young employee’s predecessor was murdered — and the killer is still on the loose.
Admittedly,...
- 5/1/2024
- by Paul Lê
- bloody-disgusting.com
Michael Douglas is in terrific form as Benjamin Franklin in Apple TV’s new historical limited series “Franklin” but he isn’t the only actor to emerge with awards whispers whizzing through the air. Veteran actor Eddie Marsan features in a key supporting role as John Adams and delivers one of the finest performances of his career while also shining a new light onto a man that many actors have depicted before.
The limited series follows Franklin’s eight years in France as he tried to persuade King Louis XVI (Tom Pezier) to join the colonies’ cause and aid them in the American Revolutionary War. The scenes between Douglas and Marsan are nothing short of spectacular and Marsan nails his performance as Adams, as noted by critics.
Clint Worthington (Roger Ebert) noted: “Marsan’s energy as Adams is decidedly different from Paul Giamatti’s in Ellis’ original 2008 miniseries—“Franklin” feels...
The limited series follows Franklin’s eight years in France as he tried to persuade King Louis XVI (Tom Pezier) to join the colonies’ cause and aid them in the American Revolutionary War. The scenes between Douglas and Marsan are nothing short of spectacular and Marsan nails his performance as Adams, as noted by critics.
Clint Worthington (Roger Ebert) noted: “Marsan’s energy as Adams is decidedly different from Paul Giamatti’s in Ellis’ original 2008 miniseries—“Franklin” feels...
- 4/30/2024
- by Jacob Sarkisian
- Gold Derby
While we gloat over the achievements of Tinseltown, we should ask ourselves if Schindler’s List, Steven Spielberg’s 1993 moving historical drama, could have come to fruition without the support of any super alliance. The Ohio-born director, 77, himself expressed his deep appreciation for the decisive support he received from none other than, George Lucas, his loyal comrade.
Earlier this year, Spielberg discussed in detail the paramount role that Lucas had in the creation of Schindler’s List. Indeed, thanks to Lucas and Lucasfilm President Kathleen Kennedy, who was in the US completing Jurassic Park’s sound mixing, Spielberg was able to work effectively on the moving and impactful Holocaust flick.
Steven Spielberg | Credits: Wikimedia Commons
Spielberg even remembered saying, “George, I am in trouble”, when he reached out to Lucas. That being said, both Schindler’s List and Jurassic Park became timeless masterpieces because of Lucas’ helping hands and generosity.
Steven Spielberg...
Earlier this year, Spielberg discussed in detail the paramount role that Lucas had in the creation of Schindler’s List. Indeed, thanks to Lucas and Lucasfilm President Kathleen Kennedy, who was in the US completing Jurassic Park’s sound mixing, Spielberg was able to work effectively on the moving and impactful Holocaust flick.
Steven Spielberg | Credits: Wikimedia Commons
Spielberg even remembered saying, “George, I am in trouble”, when he reached out to Lucas. That being said, both Schindler’s List and Jurassic Park became timeless masterpieces because of Lucas’ helping hands and generosity.
Steven Spielberg...
- 4/29/2024
- by Siddhika Prajapati
- FandomWire
Hulu’s “We Were the Lucky Ones” is primed for a big night at this year’s Emmys. Adapted from the Georgia Hunter‘s 2017 book of the same name, the limited series follows the Kurcs, a Polish Jewish family who were split apart during World War II: some members go into hiding and others are forced into concentration camps. The series, brutal and dark, follows the family’s attempts to reunite after the war ends. It’s a tough watch but a vital one and the series, created by Erica Lipez, is intelligent in its portrayal of such hard subject matter, as noted by critics.
Aramide Tinubu (Variety) stated: “Devastating, and profoundly moving, ‘We Were the Lucky Ones’ illustrates the scope of World War II, the inhumanity of others and the anguish of disconnection and loss.”
Matthew Gilbert (Boston Globe) observed: “Yes, the miniseries is challenging, and steeped in heartbreak,...
Aramide Tinubu (Variety) stated: “Devastating, and profoundly moving, ‘We Were the Lucky Ones’ illustrates the scope of World War II, the inhumanity of others and the anguish of disconnection and loss.”
Matthew Gilbert (Boston Globe) observed: “Yes, the miniseries is challenging, and steeped in heartbreak,...
- 4/25/2024
- by Jacob Sarkisian
- Gold Derby
Annette Bening is a five-time Oscar nominee, having recently garnered a bid for her leading turn in Netflix’s biographical drama “Nyad.” Bening is clearly having a great year as she also features in Peacock’s limited series “Apples Never Fall,” which could bring her back to the Emmys for the first time since 2006.
The limited series, adapted from the novel of “Big Little Lies” author Liane Moriarty, depicts four adult children trying to piece together the mystery behind the disappearance of their mother, played by Bening. Sam Neil, Jake Lacy, and Allison Brie all turn in fabulous supporting performances but this is Bening’s show, with the veteran actress performing at the peak of her powers.
Bening always has a commanding screen presence and, in truth, she could play most roles in her sleep, such as is the might of her talent. With “Apples Never Fall,” she is afforded...
The limited series, adapted from the novel of “Big Little Lies” author Liane Moriarty, depicts four adult children trying to piece together the mystery behind the disappearance of their mother, played by Bening. Sam Neil, Jake Lacy, and Allison Brie all turn in fabulous supporting performances but this is Bening’s show, with the veteran actress performing at the peak of her powers.
Bening always has a commanding screen presence and, in truth, she could play most roles in her sleep, such as is the might of her talent. With “Apples Never Fall,” she is afforded...
- 4/25/2024
- by Jacob Sarkisian
- Gold Derby
Oftentimes, a sequel to a much-beloved film fails to meet the expectations set by its predecessors, which eventually ends up tainting the original’s legacy. Fortunately, this wasn’t the case with Sylvester Stallone’s Rocky, arguably his most iconic franchise, which is still going strong with Michael B. Jordan taking its reign with the Creed features.
However, getting the first sequel off the ground wasn’t easy, and if it wasn’t for one plot twist, Rocky might not have gone on to become one of the most celebrated franchises in the sports genre.
One Illogical Plot Twist Was Made in Rocky 2 to Combat Sylvester Stallone’s Injury
Rocky II | United Artists
Coming off the success of the Rocky, which won the Oscar for Best Picture, the sequel had a lot to live up to. But just a month and a half before the shooting was about to kickstart,...
However, getting the first sequel off the ground wasn’t easy, and if it wasn’t for one plot twist, Rocky might not have gone on to become one of the most celebrated franchises in the sports genre.
One Illogical Plot Twist Was Made in Rocky 2 to Combat Sylvester Stallone’s Injury
Rocky II | United Artists
Coming off the success of the Rocky, which won the Oscar for Best Picture, the sequel had a lot to live up to. But just a month and a half before the shooting was about to kickstart,...
- 4/24/2024
- by Santanu Roy
- FandomWire
Peacock’s new limited series “Apples Never Fall” is cut from the same cloth as “Big Little Lies,” with both shows adapted from the novels of Australian author Liane Moriarty.
“Apples Never Fall” follows a family, led by four adult children, trying to piece together the mysterious disappearance of their mother Joy (Oscar-nominee Annette Bening). Bening is reliably excellent in this limited series, as is “Jurassic Park” star Sam Neil, who plays her on-screen husband. And Jake Lacy and Allison Brie shine as two of the four adult kids. All four performances have been praised by critics and its these turns that could lead the Emmy charge for the series.
Brian Lowry (CNN) stated: “As for the old expression ‘How do you like them apples?,’ in this case, happily, the answer is quite a lot.”
Matthew Gilbert (Boston Globe) opined: “If the ending to the mystery is predictable, the getting...
“Apples Never Fall” follows a family, led by four adult children, trying to piece together the mysterious disappearance of their mother Joy (Oscar-nominee Annette Bening). Bening is reliably excellent in this limited series, as is “Jurassic Park” star Sam Neil, who plays her on-screen husband. And Jake Lacy and Allison Brie shine as two of the four adult kids. All four performances have been praised by critics and its these turns that could lead the Emmy charge for the series.
Brian Lowry (CNN) stated: “As for the old expression ‘How do you like them apples?,’ in this case, happily, the answer is quite a lot.”
Matthew Gilbert (Boston Globe) opined: “If the ending to the mystery is predictable, the getting...
- 4/23/2024
- by Jacob Sarkisian
- Gold Derby
The film industry often comes across people who will never be forgotten for centuries to come. With their expert skills and undeniable charm, these people manage to make a mark on the industry that does not dull with time. The Godfather’s John Cazale was one such extraordinary actor who managed to deliver one great performance after the other.
John Cazale in The Godfather (1972)
Unfortunately, his time in Hollywood was limited as the actor passed away in 1978, just after being a part of six total films. Even though John Cazale doesn’t have an extensive filmography to his name, he holds a record that no actor has been or will be able to break. From his feature film debut in 1972 to his last film in 1978, all five of them have been cinematic masterpieces.
The Godfather’s John Cazale Holds a Unique Record
A still from Dog Day Afternoon (1975)
Hollywood has...
John Cazale in The Godfather (1972)
Unfortunately, his time in Hollywood was limited as the actor passed away in 1978, just after being a part of six total films. Even though John Cazale doesn’t have an extensive filmography to his name, he holds a record that no actor has been or will be able to break. From his feature film debut in 1972 to his last film in 1978, all five of them have been cinematic masterpieces.
The Godfather’s John Cazale Holds a Unique Record
A still from Dog Day Afternoon (1975)
Hollywood has...
- 4/22/2024
- by Mishkaat Khan
- FandomWire
It's now just over 50 years since Truffaut argued that it was impossible to make an antiwar film. That was in a Chicago Tribune interview with Gene Siskel, whose colleague Roger Ebert described films as "a machine that generates empathy." Truffaut's words were that "Every film about war ends up being pro-war," in a piece published on Armistice Day, November 11th 1973. A Sunday too. I'm quoting from page 228 when physical media was still fat with advertising that now tracks more effectively than any slippered foot across a lawn. That musing was extended by Siskel, who says that "every war film, just like every war, has its heroes, and that, too, seems to cut across any anti-war sentiment."
Is Civil War an anti-war film? I'm perhaps appropriately conflicted about it, and I doubt I'd be alone. If the mark of art is to allow multiple interpretations then I think that...
Is Civil War an anti-war film? I'm perhaps appropriately conflicted about it, and I doubt I'd be alone. If the mark of art is to allow multiple interpretations then I think that...
- 4/21/2024
- by Andrew Robertson
- eyeforfilm.co.uk
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