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This looks incredible.
May 8 is right around the corner!
See it in HD @ apple.com
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Friday, March 6, 2009
Seinfeld Reunion!
Reports of flooding the internet that the cast of one of televisions past great sitcoms is reuniting on one of televisions current great shows, Curb Your Enthusiasm. The cast will appear on multiple episodes of the shows seventh season which should begin airing this fall on HBO.
This has hilarity written all over it.
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Movie Review: Watchmen
Watchmen
Written by: David Hayter and Alex Tse
Based on the graphic novel by Alan Moore and David Gibbons
Directed by: Zack Snyder
Starring: Malin Akerman, Billy Crudup, Matthew Goode, Jackie Earle Haley, Jeffrey Dean Morgan, Patrick Wilson, Carla Gugino, and Matt Frewer
It is probably the most anticipated movie of the year and one of the most anticipated comic book adaptations in history. You've no doubt seen the trailers, the posters, and the tv spots so I think it's safe to say I don't really need to go to far into plot details. There will be a hundred reviews out there where people dissect this movie and write dissertations about it as if it's the dawning of a new era in film.
I'm not going to do that. I don't have that much loyalty to the source material and to be honest it's just not good enough for that kind of work.
I will start by saying that I don't see what the fuss is about. People talk about Watchmen with such reverence and devotion and I don't understand it. I've read it twice and feel no such dedication. In fact, I was rather underwhelmed. It must be generational. It came out when I was a kid so I was too young to even know it existed, let alone read it. I was 27 when I did finally read it and I had to force myself to finish it. It was a bore to me. I read it again recently and did enjoy it better, but I still failed to see the genius or jump from my chair to proclaim it a masterpiece.
So to be honest, I wasn't that excited about the film and the firs trailer did nothing to change that. The second trailer was a little better and did peak my interest enough to actually see it. I didn't go into the movie as an overexcited fan boy or someone being dragged to see something they didn't want to see.
My point here is that I went into this movie as the average film goer might. Mild interest, no expectations either way, and no real connection to the source material.
I don't think I can get any more objective than that.
That said, Watchmen is a snooze fest.
Let me talk a moment about what works. First and foremost it's Jackie Earle Haley as Rorschach. He brings this character to life in away I didn't think was possible. I hate to say Jackie Earle Haney IS Rorschach (that seems a little cliche nowadays) but it's pretty close to being true. The majority of the cast is good but its Haley that owns this movie. No other performance stands out, with the exception of Malin Akerman as Laurie Jupiter, except for a different reason that I'll touch on in a moment. Dr. Manhattan is also well done. Crudup portrays his detachment with a rather subtle intensity that works really well.
Another positive is the look of the film. It really is gorgeous to look at. Visually striking, and extremely true to the atmosphere of the comic.
The last positive is this, Snyder took extreme care to remain true to the the comic. Scenes and dialogue are taken directly from the page and put on screen with exacting precision.
This is also a bad thing. Watchmen is not a comic for mainstream audiences and Snyder sticking so close to the source material gives us a movie that will not sit well with mainstream viewers. It's just too dense. Snyder's direction, while at times gives us some stunning visuals, also betrays the comic somewhat.
I'm referring to the slow motion shots. Now, they aren't numerous but when they're used they sort of give the illusion that these crime fighters are super powered. In the comic, these are real people who put on costumes and fight crime. They are not super heroes. They do not have super strength or x ray vision. They are regular people. This is one reason why Dr. Manhattan is such an important part of the story. He is the first true SUPER hero. I don't know if it was a creative decision to sort of make it seem like all the characters have immense strength or if it just looks like it but either way, it sort of takes away from the characters.
I was also slightly underwhelmed by Jeffrey Dean Morgan. He wasn't bad by any means. He looks the part and plays the part of The Comedian well, it's just that he seems to lack a certain sort of madness that The Comedian has in the comic. You look at Morgan and see a sort of every man nice guy instead of the sociopath The Comedian is supposed to be.
I mentioned Malin Akerman before. I can honestly say that her performance will be ranked among the worst of the year. It was brutal. It was as if she didn't bother to learn her lines and simply settled for having someone yell them out to her before each take. She has zero passion, zero emotion, and has the same lights out expression on her face for the entire movie.
Another negative? The Music. Wildly out of place and jarring. I think every song is from the 70s (except 99 luft balloons) which is odd since the movie takes place in the 80's. Beyond that, none of them really fit. They all feel shoehorned in and as soon as they start you're yanked out of the movie. There is hardly any orchestration at all and even what little there may have been, I couldn't tell you when or where it occurred.
There is a sex scene that is better suited for a late night Cinemax movie, some of the dialogue is atrocious, its about 45 minutes too long (which means that the 3 hours plus directors cut will probably be unbearable). I found myself getting frustrated and antsy before the last act began. It's that boring. There are a few rather indulgent camera shots as well. We see reference to 300 a couple of times at least and do we really need to see grave stones for 45 seconds and then pull back through a sign that says cemetary? Isn't our location obvious by the hundreds of gravestones we're seeing? This is also the point where another jarring song appears. This sets up another long music videoish montage, of which I believe there are three.
Despite all that, it's not a terrible movie. It has enough good moments to warrant at least one watch. I don't think Warner Bros. has the next Dark Knight here by any means. I'd guess it has one huge weekend and then plummets because this movie's success is all going to be on the shoulders of comic fans. This is not a movie for the mainstream movie going public and in the end I don't see this as ending up particularly successful.
Oh and yes, there is full frontal nudity here. There's a blue penis. Get over it.
Watchmen is in theaters now.
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Thursday, March 5, 2009
Michael Jackson: "This is it."
Michael Jackson announced today "This is it." As he termed it, this is his final curtain call, his last performace will be in London, with performances of songs that fans would want. "See you in July." he said.
For those of you who were not able to witness this event, Michael began to walk off the stage, turned around to his fans, and gave a signature stare and arm raise to the crowd. And then he departed.
He boasted tremendous confidence, and commanded a full crowd of people in this venue. I have to say, I am excited.
No news of a new album, but rumors have been circulating. Time will tell.
Rawr!
Getting The Most From Your Gaming
The majority of discussions about getting the best gaming experience are focused on the gaming system. The debate between whether the PS3, XBOX 360, Wii, or others are the “best” gaming console will undoubtedly continue far beyond the point where each is obsolete and the debate transitions to the next generation of gaming systems. Others focus on electronic accessories like the best television or best sound system. Instead, I would like to address how to get the best from you gaming environment. That means choosing the TV stand and game seating that will enhance your “valuable” gaming time.
First, select a TV stand to suit your gaming style. Are you addicted to Wii Sports and are constantly on your feet returning serves or rolling strikes? If so, you may want a taller TV stand that will meet your standing eye line. If you like to lean back in a low-sitting game chair you may want a lower stand that will prevent you from straining you neck during a three hour gaming mission. Next, are you firmly tied to a couple of games that will always dominate your gaming time? If not, and you need a new game weekly to hold your interest but would never think of reselling the old favorites, you are going to need storage space that will hold your games longer than the games hold your interest. And while it may go without saying, make sure your first choice of TV stand actually fits in your TV room.
Game seating is the other most important part of your gaming environment. The primary decision should be defined by whether you view your seating as an integral part of the game or just an ancillary factor. The seat can be part of the game itself if you opt for a specialized gaming chair. Game chairs can enhance the sound with built in speakers and send a vibrating rumble through your body every time you crash your Mario cart. Some gamers are simply looking for a comfy chair or sofa and are content to let the controller do the vibrating. The added benefit here is that you may feel more comfortable in a couch or recliner when the games have been turned off.
In the end, the important thing to remember is that there is more to a gaming experience than the game system and by thinking carefully about the type of gamer you are, your gaming environment can add to the experience.
Rawr!
Wednesday, March 4, 2009
Tuesday, March 3, 2009
BluRay Review: The French Connection 1 and 2
The French Connection
Written by: Ernest Tidyman, based on the novel by: Robin Moore
Directed by: William Friedken
Starring: Gene Hackman, Roy Scheider, and Fernando Rey
The legendary crime classic The French Connection is now available on BluRay for the first time in a robust two disc set.
Based on the incredible true story of two New York City police detectives, Jimmy "Popeye" Doyle (Gene Hackman) and Buddy Russo (Roy Scheider), trying to hunt down a major heroin smuggling ring.
The film won five 1971 Academy Awards: Best Picture, Directing, Actor, Adapted Screenplay, and Film Editing and it is easy to see why.
The film is a gritty, action filled thrill ride that only betrays its age because of the clothes the characters wear.
The transfer is extremely grainy at times but from what I understand it fits the director's vision. To be honest the grain makes the film seem even more real. The sound is great, fully utilizing the DTS HD Master Audio.
The acting is top notch. As usual, Gene Hackman is phenomenal and every time I watch Roy Scheider I always wonder why I dont seek out his movies more often. He is great here.
The shocking thing here is how well this film stands up. It could easily be made today and turn out the same. It's a remarkable film.
The BluRay release is jam packed with features, including some previously released on DVD. The special features include commentary from Gene Hackman and Roy Scheider, Director William Friedkin, Trivia Track, Isolated Score Track, Enhanced for D-Box Motion Controls, Deleted Scenes, Featurettes: Anatomy of a Chase, Hackman on Doyle, Friedkin and Grosso remember the real French Connection, Scene of the Crime, Color Timing The French Connection, Cop Jazz: The Music of Don Ellis, Rogue Cop: The Noir Connection, a BBC Documentary The Poughkeepsie Shuffle, and Making The Connection: The Untold Stories of The French Connection.
It is a great set for film lovers and lovers of The French Connection. With this BluRay, we get a comprehensive collection of features for a movie wildly considered to be one of the best ever made. While the picture isn't perfect at times, the grain only adds to the atmosphere expertly crafted by the filmmakers.
The French Connection is a must own on bluray.
French Connection II
Written by: Alexander Jacobs and Robert Dillon
Directed by: John Frankenheimer
Starring: Gene Hackman, Fernando Rey, Bernard Fresson, and Cathleen Nesbitt
Gene Hackman returns as "Popeye" Doyle" in French Connection II this time moving the action to France in order to track down the ever elusive French Connection. This time, Doyle finds himself captured by a heroin kingpin and forced to become a junkie himself.
French Connection II is a worthy follow-up to the brilliant original. It's just as gritty, even a little darker as we witness Doyle injected with the very narcotics he's tracked across the ocean.
Everything seems a bit ratcheted up here. The action, the chase, the drama. While it is worthy of the original, it certainly doesn't surpass it. Gene Hackman is again amazing but I did miss Roy Scheider. It would have been nice to see him return for this one.
This disc isn't nearly as feature intensive as the original. Again we have the D-Box motion capabilities, commentary from John Frankenheimer, commentary from Gene Hackman and producer Robert Rosen, Still Galleries, A Conversation with Gene Hackman, and Frankenheimer: In Focus and Isolated Score Track.
A little light, compared to the other disc but where it falls short in features, it makes up in picture and sound. There isn't a grain to be seen in this film. It's a pristine picture that makes the first look like super 8.
Together, The French Connection and French Connection II are must see examples of cop drama/thrillers at their best. Gorgeously shot, expertly scored, and wonderfully acted. While the original is served best in terms of features, its sequel looks best on the format.
Both, however, are definitely welcome in any BluRay collection.
The French Connection and French Connection II are available now from 20th Century Fox Home Entertainment.
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Life On Mars Canceled!
TV News and spoiler master Michael Ausiello has just confirmed that ABC has canceled Life on Mars.
If they were smart they'd use this opportunity to bring back Boston Legal.
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Monday, March 2, 2009
Movie Review: American Shopper
American Shopper
Written by: Tamas Bojtor and Adam Keker
Directed by: Tamas Bojtor and Sybil Dessau
American Shopper is quite an interesting animal. It's quirky, unusual, and full of interesting characters.
Let's start with the synopsis according to IMDB:
American Shopper is a feature-length film about one man's passionate and comic struggle to start an unlikely new sport, and about the citizens of a small town who overcome their initial skepticism and get swept up in his crazy dream. The film follows the stories of several townspeople who decide to participate in the sport and compete in the 1st National Aisling Championship, and whose lives are turned upside down in the process.
When I started watching this movie I was a little confused as to what exactly I was watching. I started by thinking this guy trying to launch a grocery shopping sport was a complete lunatic. In fact, I almost wrote the whole movie off as ridiculous. But I decided to give a a chance and I'm glad I did. It captivated me.
The whole idea of "aisling" really is completely ridiculous. It's a little confusing and quite frankly a little odd. The real heart of this movie isn't the sport itself it's the people who lose themselves in it.
All shapes, sizes, ages, races. A diverse group of people who throw themselves into this event and each dream of winning it. They bring their own history and reasons and each one of them are interesting. It is them that make this movie worthwhile.
You really get caught up in the journeys these people take towards victory at the 1st National Aisling Championship.
Now here is the kicker, it's not really a documentary per say. The main character is a actor but all the other people in the film are real people.
Does that take away from the charm of the film? Not in the least, because it's the people who drive this story and these people are real.
If you want a funny, touching, and charming film to watch with friends and family, than American Shopper will certainly fit the bill. Pick it up and maybe you can start an Aisling team of your own.
American Shopper is available on DVD now.
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Terminator Salvation Posters and Stills
See more at Yahoo Movies.
Terminator Salvation hits theaters on May 21. That same week Terminator 2: Judgement Day is released on BluRay with an incredible Limited Edition that features every special feature released to date and the Skynet Edition.
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BluRay Review: South Park The Complete Twelfth Season
South Park: The Complete Twelfth Season
1080i High Definition
Dolby TrueHD: English 5.1; Dolby Digital: English 5.1, English Stereo
Special Features: Six Days to South Park: A Day-by-Day Making of South Park, Making Boobage: Behind the scenes of "Major Boobage", Behind the Scenes: "About Last Night" HD, Mini Commentaries by the creators of South Park, Trey Parker and Matt Stone, and a digital copy of the season for portable media players.
South Park is back on DVD with the release of The Complete Twelfth Season. This release also marks the first time the show is available in BluRay High Def and the difference is notable.
The show looks incredible. The animation is smooth and there isn't a blemish to be seen. It really takes the show to a new level.
Season 12 finds our favorite fourth graders in fourteen new adventures that find them infected with HIV, helping a near headless Britney Spears, dealing with a striking Canada, coming to terms with the rape of Indiana Jones (probably the most brilliat episode of the season), and much more.
Compared to other seasons, 12 isn't one of the best. It's started a marked decline in the episodes that continues to the current season. That said, season 12 has some extremely good episodes. When we get a bad episode we get a bad episode, namelythe two part "Pandemic" and "Super Fun Time." But when the shows are good, they're up there with the best of the series.
South Park has been on the air since 1997 and to only now start to have a couple misses per season is remarkable. The Simpsons has been on the air nearly twice as long and that show became almost unwatchable years ago.
12 years down the line, South Park does continue to be smart and funny more often than not.
This set does seem to have more features than usual. We get a couple interesting Behind The Scenes features, including one for "Major Boobage" the Heavy Metal tribute episode and one for "About Last Night" which is presented in HD. It's a great set of features for any fan who are curious as to how these episodes are done and what exactly goes into each weeks show. We also get the standard mini commentaries that are featured on each season release.
In the end, it's not the best season of the show but it is one of the best released sets, especially in terms of special features. Any fan of the show will be all over this and with good reason. It has a couple misses but like I said, when it's funny, it's really really funny.
South Park is a welcome edition ot the world of BluRay and I hope we get the rest of the seasons in the format.
South Park: The Complete Twelfth Season hits DVD and BluRay on March 10.
Here is the complete episode list for Season 12.
Episode 1: Tonsil Trouble
After Cartman and Kyle are infected with the AIDS virus, they turn to Magic Johnson for assistance in finding a cure.
Episode 2: Britney's New Look
Distraught over the media's nonstop coverage of her, Britney Spears attempts to commit suicide, but survives despite blowing the top half of her head off. Disgusted by this treatment of her, the boys attempt to help, only to learn the secret behind the media's cruel scrutiny of celebrities.
Episode 3: Major Boobage
South Park declares cats illegal after kids start getting high on cat urine. Cartman starts hiding neighborhood cats in his attic to protect them, and Kenny becomes an addict and starts having "Heavy Metal" hallucinations.
Episode 4: Canada on Strike
Canada goes on strike and demands more money, but nobody takes the strike seriously. However, the boys try to make money for Canada by turning Butters into an Internet video star.
Episode 5: Eek, a Penis!
Cartman is commended for his excellent substitute teaching, so he his brought to the inner city to help the high schoolers. Meanwhile, Ms. Garrison wants to be Mr. Garrison again.
Episode 6: Over Logging
A prolonged Internet service outage hits South Park and most of the rest of the country, and Randy moves the Marsh family to California hoping to find a connection (and Internet porn for himself).
Episode 7: Super Fun Time
A class field trip to a frontier park turns into a hostage situation when a group of robbers use the park to evade the police, but the park employees won't help resolve the situation because they won't get out of character.
Episode 8: The China Probrem
Cartman and Butters go to P.F. Chang's to try to uncover the Chinese conspiracy to take over the U.S.. Stan and Kyle accuse Steven Spielberg and George Lucas of raping Indiana Jones
Episode 9: Breast Cancer Show Ever
Cartman makes of fun of Wendy after she delivers a report on breast cancer. She challenges him to a fight, but he keeps finding ways to get out of it. But he also won't stop making fun of her.
Episode 10: Pandemic
With Craig's help, the boys start up a Peruvian pan flute band to make money. However, they are detained by Homeland Security and sent to Peru to end the "Pandemic." In the pan flute bands' absence, giant guinea pigs invade South Park.
Episode 11: Pandemic 2: The Startling
Craig and the boys are stranded in the Andes Mountains while giant guinea pigs wreak havoc all over the planet. Craig is the only person who can end the terror, but he doesn't care and won't do anything about it.
Episode 12: About Last Night...
While the rest of the nation is distracted by the results of the presidential election, Barack Obama and John McCain set out to complete their true combined objective: a daring "Ocean's Eleven" style jewel heist.
Episode 13: Elementary School Musical
The boys try to resist the "High School Musical" fad when it hits South Park Elementary, while also trying to convince the school's top singer that he should follow his dream and try out for the basketball team.
Episode 14: The Ungroundable
Butters starts hanging out with the Vampire kids, who are angering the Goth kids at South Park Elementary because everybody is confusing the Vampire kids with them.
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