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
TriStar Pictures believed they had the surest of things when they hired Roland Emmerich and Dean Devlin to make the first Hollywood "Godzilla" flick. The duo had just delivered the biggest film of 1996 in "Independence Day," and appeared poised to become a blockbuster brand name on par with Steven Spielberg and James Cameron. Every studio in town wanted to make their next smash hit. But this is where the trouble started: TriStar wanted Emmerich and Devlin to make its next smash hit.
The 1998 iteration of "Godzilla" did not originate with Emmerich and Devlin. TriStar came very close to greenlighting it in 1994 with Jan De Bont (hot off the success of "Speed") directing a screenplay by Ted Elliott and Terry Rossio (who would eventually make their franchise fortune on the "Pirates of the Caribbean" series), which would've placed it in direct competition with "Independence Day" during the summer of 1996. So this all felt awfully fortuitous.
The 1998 iteration of "Godzilla" did not originate with Emmerich and Devlin. TriStar came very close to greenlighting it in 1994 with Jan De Bont (hot off the success of "Speed") directing a screenplay by Ted Elliott and Terry Rossio (who would eventually make their franchise fortune on the "Pirates of the Caribbean" series), which would've placed it in direct competition with "Independence Day" during the summer of 1996. So this all felt awfully fortuitous.
- 4/20/2024
- by Jeremy Smith
- Slash Film
Resident Evil films, as we know them, could’ve been different only if the late George A. Romero had entered the arena. He was an American-Canadian director known for the Night of the Living Dead series, which was also a major contributor to shaping the presentation of zombies as we see them today. Little did many know that he was this close to directing the first Re movie.
The first film in the action-horror series arrived in 2002, starring Milla Jovovich, Michelle Rodriguez, Joseph May, and more. Though the movie was a commercial success, generating $103 million in revenue against a $33 million budget, it wasn’t received well by the fans and critics. What’s more, it landed on the most hated list of renowned Chicago Sun-Times journalist Roger Ebert.
Sir Romero’s Resident Evil Films Might Have Been Different Leon S. Kennedy remains one of the beloved Resident Evil characters.
Directed by Brandon Salisbury,...
The first film in the action-horror series arrived in 2002, starring Milla Jovovich, Michelle Rodriguez, Joseph May, and more. Though the movie was a commercial success, generating $103 million in revenue against a $33 million budget, it wasn’t received well by the fans and critics. What’s more, it landed on the most hated list of renowned Chicago Sun-Times journalist Roger Ebert.
Sir Romero’s Resident Evil Films Might Have Been Different Leon S. Kennedy remains one of the beloved Resident Evil characters.
Directed by Brandon Salisbury,...
- 4/19/2024
- by Anurag Batham
- FandomWire
Stars: Fairuza Balk, Nicol Williamson, Jean Marsh, Piper Laurie, Matt Clark, Michael Sundin, Tim Rose, Mak Wilson, Stephen Norrington, Justin Case, John Alexander, Deep Roy, Emma Ridley | Written by Walter Murch, Gill Dennis, L. Frank Baum | Directed by Walter Murch
According to Roger Ebert, Walter Murch is “the most respected film editor and sound designer in the modern cinema.” Across a career spanning over 50-years, including multiple Academy Award wins from nine nominations, he has only two directorial credits to his name. The second is a fourth-season episode of Star Wars: The Clone Wars, which was preceded over 25 years before by the only feature he directed; Return to Oz.
After her adventures in the Land of Oz, Dorothy Gale (Fairuza Balk) remains obsessed with the locale that she previously visited. Out of a fear that their niece is experiencing delusions, Dorothy’s aunt and uncle take her away to a sanitorium.
According to Roger Ebert, Walter Murch is “the most respected film editor and sound designer in the modern cinema.” Across a career spanning over 50-years, including multiple Academy Award wins from nine nominations, he has only two directorial credits to his name. The second is a fourth-season episode of Star Wars: The Clone Wars, which was preceded over 25 years before by the only feature he directed; Return to Oz.
After her adventures in the Land of Oz, Dorothy Gale (Fairuza Balk) remains obsessed with the locale that she previously visited. Out of a fear that their niece is experiencing delusions, Dorothy’s aunt and uncle take her away to a sanitorium.
- 4/15/2024
- by James Rodrigues
- Nerdly
Tom Ripley is back and in a big way. First introduced in Patricia Highsmith’s 1955 psychological thriller novel, Ripley is a sociopath, murderer, and con artist. He’s also the character Highsmith identified with-no wonder she wrote four more novels featuring Ripley. A 2023 New York Times article stated, “her concepts are daring, her portrayals of men in the throes of personality disorder and psychopathic leanings are equally repulsive and propulsive…she was a lesbian who identified more with men; an ardent pursuer of pleasure, especially in her youth…a raging antisemite…she could never hold on to happiness.”
Andrew Scott, the “hot priest” of “Fleabag,” is the latest actor to play the character described as having “an elusive sexuality,” in Netflix’s “Ripley,” a handsome, black-and-white limited series from Oscar-winning screenwriter/director Steve Zaillian (“Schindler’s List”).
Ripley’s a small-time con man living in a seedy room in New York...
Andrew Scott, the “hot priest” of “Fleabag,” is the latest actor to play the character described as having “an elusive sexuality,” in Netflix’s “Ripley,” a handsome, black-and-white limited series from Oscar-winning screenwriter/director Steve Zaillian (“Schindler’s List”).
Ripley’s a small-time con man living in a seedy room in New York...
- 4/12/2024
- by Susan King
- Gold Derby
We often see reboots of beloved movies, including Batman, James Bond, and a number of Disney releases in Tinseltown. It attempted the same thing with Robin Hood. Aiming to reinvent the traditional English hero for a contemporary audience, Kevin Reynolds’ tried his hand at doing so in 1991, starring Alan Rickman.
Even though Robin Hood has been adapted for the big screen numerous times, Reynolds’ adaptation is still a commendable and highly entertaining one. At its core, the classic flick is an action-packed adventure with memorable characters and an inspirational story, underneath the drama that occurs behind the scenes.
Alan Rickman in Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves
Yes, things were very different behind the scenes. Rickman graciously defended his co-star Kevin Costner from baseless claims that the late actor’s performance outshined the Yellowstone star.
The Remarkable Act of Alan Rickman Standing Up for Kevin Costner
Egos are frequently brittle and...
Even though Robin Hood has been adapted for the big screen numerous times, Reynolds’ adaptation is still a commendable and highly entertaining one. At its core, the classic flick is an action-packed adventure with memorable characters and an inspirational story, underneath the drama that occurs behind the scenes.
Alan Rickman in Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves
Yes, things were very different behind the scenes. Rickman graciously defended his co-star Kevin Costner from baseless claims that the late actor’s performance outshined the Yellowstone star.
The Remarkable Act of Alan Rickman Standing Up for Kevin Costner
Egos are frequently brittle and...
- 4/10/2024
- by Siddhika Prajapati
- FandomWire
Emma Stone became the lucky 13th two-time Best Actress Oscar champ with her recent win for “Poor Things.” And she could well be adding an Emmy to her awards collection for her leading role in Showtime’s idiosyncratic drama series “The Curse.”
“The Curse,” created by Nathan Fielder and Benny Safdie, follows a newly married couple (Stone and Fielder) who host an HGTV show while trying to conceive a baby and navigate a curse. Sure the series is rich in cringe comedy that is hard to tear your eyes from even if you watch through your fingers. But it is also intelligent, dark and surprisingly moving. At the heart of it all is Stone, who delivers yet another tour de force, as noted by critics.
Joel Golby (The Guardian) proclaimed: “Emma Stone is in there, continuing to be our generation’s finest mouth actor – she really can show a whole...
“The Curse,” created by Nathan Fielder and Benny Safdie, follows a newly married couple (Stone and Fielder) who host an HGTV show while trying to conceive a baby and navigate a curse. Sure the series is rich in cringe comedy that is hard to tear your eyes from even if you watch through your fingers. But it is also intelligent, dark and surprisingly moving. At the heart of it all is Stone, who delivers yet another tour de force, as noted by critics.
Joel Golby (The Guardian) proclaimed: “Emma Stone is in there, continuing to be our generation’s finest mouth actor – she really can show a whole...
- 4/9/2024
- by Jacob Sarkisian
- Gold Derby
With Godzilla x Kong‘s box office success and Godzilla Minus One’s Oscar win making the kaiju legend more relevant than ever, let’s turn the doomsday clock back to 1998 as Awfully Good Movies tackles Roland Emmerich and Dean Devlin’s infamous American reboot, known simply as Godzilla!
With TriStar eager to keep its rights agreement with Toho to make its own Godzilla trilogy after director Jan de Bont was dropped from the film, they turned to the same duo that just blew up both the box office and the White House with Independence Day, who were allowed to do whatever the hell they wanted with the giant lizard’s American debut as long as they could get the flick made within a year for Memorial Day 1998. And much like the Toho executives who first saw Emmerich’s redesigned Godzilla, the eager audiences of Godzilla fans in Japan and...
With TriStar eager to keep its rights agreement with Toho to make its own Godzilla trilogy after director Jan de Bont was dropped from the film, they turned to the same duo that just blew up both the box office and the White House with Independence Day, who were allowed to do whatever the hell they wanted with the giant lizard’s American debut as long as they could get the flick made within a year for Memorial Day 1998. And much like the Toho executives who first saw Emmerich’s redesigned Godzilla, the eager audiences of Godzilla fans in Japan and...
- 4/4/2024
- by Jesse Shade
- JoBlo.com
Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire is roaring at the box office while receiving praise from the audience despite the mixed reactions from critics. As the movie is heading to create a box-office legacy as the newest addition to the iconic MonsterVerse, the Lead Creature Designer of the film Jared Krichevsky debunked one misconception about the movie.
A still from Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire
The Adam Wingard movie is making a huge splash among fans, primarily for the stunning visuals and CGI, but the new rose-colored Godzilla has baffled fans as it left them wondering the reason behind it.
Lead Creature Designer For Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire Revealed Details Of The Godzilla’s Color
Godzilla in Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire (2024).
Right after the success of Takashi Yamazaki’s Godzilla Minus One, Adam Wingard’s Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire revered the essence of the Monsterverse narrative,...
A still from Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire
The Adam Wingard movie is making a huge splash among fans, primarily for the stunning visuals and CGI, but the new rose-colored Godzilla has baffled fans as it left them wondering the reason behind it.
Lead Creature Designer For Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire Revealed Details Of The Godzilla’s Color
Godzilla in Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire (2024).
Right after the success of Takashi Yamazaki’s Godzilla Minus One, Adam Wingard’s Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire revered the essence of the Monsterverse narrative,...
- 4/3/2024
- by Lachit Roy
- FandomWire
“Lessons in Chemistry” is Apple TV’s shiny new limited series and it looks like the streaming service has another major Emmy player. Oscar winner Brie Larson is Elizabeth Zott, a lab technician in the 1960s who takes up a gig as the host of a cooking show and uses her position to educate women about scientific topics. “The Office” writer and director and “Jury Duty” creator Lee Eisenberg adapted Bonnie Garmus‘ book of the same name. Critics were effusive in their praise of the show.
Peter Travers (ABC News) wrote: “This fierce, funny and vital series tackles a mid-century battle for women’s rights through the eyes of a chemist—an Emmy-bound Brie Larson—who uses a local TV cooking show to lead the charge.”
Cristina Escobar (Roger Ebert) noted: “Lee Eisenberg crafts an aspirational fairytale, building a positively lovely universe and central heroine to spend eight episodes with.
Peter Travers (ABC News) wrote: “This fierce, funny and vital series tackles a mid-century battle for women’s rights through the eyes of a chemist—an Emmy-bound Brie Larson—who uses a local TV cooking show to lead the charge.”
Cristina Escobar (Roger Ebert) noted: “Lee Eisenberg crafts an aspirational fairytale, building a positively lovely universe and central heroine to spend eight episodes with.
- 4/2/2024
- by Jacob Sarkisian
- Gold Derby
"It's about time you grew up." Film Movement has revealed a brand new official trailer for a 4K restoration and re-release of a cult classic Korean indie film from 2002. Oasis was the third feature made by Korean auteur Lee Chang-dong, who later went on to make a splash worldwide with his film Burning in 2018. In this film Oasis, an irresponsible and childish ex-con fresh out of prison befriends a girl with cerebral palsy and develops a progressively stronger bond with her. Co-starring Sol Kyung-gu and Moon So-ri. Winner of the Silver Lion for Best Director and Best Young Actress at the Venice Film Festival, Lee Chang-dong's Oasis is a "brave film" that "shows two people who find any relationship almost impossible, and yet find a way to make theirs work." (From a positive Roger Ebert review.) It was also South Korea's official entry for Best Foreign Language Film at the...
- 4/1/2024
- by Alex Billington
- firstshowing.net
It's astonishing to look back at John Lasseter's 1995 film "Toy Story" and regard how rudimentary it looks by today's standards. "Toy Story" was the first widely distributed CGI-animated feature film, and it felt overwhelmingly revolutionary at the time. Many were astonished at how expressive and fun CGI characters could be, and the film's success effectively ushered in a sea change in the animation world. In 2024, traditional cel animation is incredibly uncommon, and CGI is the naturally assumed standard.
CGI characters are designed to essentially be "puppets," in terms of their elasticity. Animators, at least at the time, were forced to stay on-model, only able to expand eyeballs or raise eyebrows so high. It wouldn't be for years that CG characters could mutate, squash, and stretch the way hand-drawn characters could. "Toy Story" benefitted from being about, well, toys. Its characters were all made of plastic, so there was an...
CGI characters are designed to essentially be "puppets," in terms of their elasticity. Animators, at least at the time, were forced to stay on-model, only able to expand eyeballs or raise eyebrows so high. It wouldn't be for years that CG characters could mutate, squash, and stretch the way hand-drawn characters could. "Toy Story" benefitted from being about, well, toys. Its characters were all made of plastic, so there was an...
- 4/1/2024
- by Witney Seibold
- Slash Film
As a brief prologue, we must remind ourselves how Rotten Tomatoes works. When a critic submits a written review to the Rt aggregate, they are asked to deem that review either "fresh" or "rotten." The critic typically gets to make the distinction, meaning a 2.5-star review can be either positive or negative, based on who is submitting it. It's based on pass/fail grades. Rotten Tomatoes will then create a percentage of "positive" reviews. If 60% or more of the submitted reviews are positive, the film is deemed "fresh." If 59% or fewer are positive, it's "rotten."
If a film has, say, a 73% approval rating, it doesn't mean that every critic gave it a 73 out of 100. It only means that 73% of the submitted reviews are positive.
All that said, some films receive such low approval ratings that one might be able to draw some logical conclusions about the film being rated. A...
If a film has, say, a 73% approval rating, it doesn't mean that every critic gave it a 73 out of 100. It only means that 73% of the submitted reviews are positive.
All that said, some films receive such low approval ratings that one might be able to draw some logical conclusions about the film being rated. A...
- 3/31/2024
- by Witney Seibold
- Slash Film
The Listener has had a long and winding journey to its late March 2024 release. The movie, opening in theaters and available on video-on-demand tomorrow, is genuinely moving. Much of that credit should go to the director and actor, who seem in sync in tone and highlight an exploration of compassion and empathy.
Tessa Thompson delivers a terrific performance in The Listener, taking the viewer on a journey that’s fulfilling. Director Steve Buscemi coaxes out a cinematic experience that seems to aim to build a therapeutic rapport with its audience. This results in a “bottle” film with only one cast member, whom you can’t pull your eyes away from.
Tessa Thompson in The Listener (2022) | Image via Vertical Entertainment
Also Read: Thor’s Tessa Thompson Reacts To Potential Captain Marvel & Valkyrie Romance
The Listener’s Synopsis and Review
Tessa Thompson stars as Beth, a woman who works the night shift...
Tessa Thompson delivers a terrific performance in The Listener, taking the viewer on a journey that’s fulfilling. Director Steve Buscemi coaxes out a cinematic experience that seems to aim to build a therapeutic rapport with its audience. This results in a “bottle” film with only one cast member, whom you can’t pull your eyes away from.
Tessa Thompson in The Listener (2022) | Image via Vertical Entertainment
Also Read: Thor’s Tessa Thompson Reacts To Potential Captain Marvel & Valkyrie Romance
The Listener’s Synopsis and Review
Tessa Thompson stars as Beth, a woman who works the night shift...
- 3/30/2024
- by M.N. Miller
- FandomWire
While plans to further TriStar’s Godzilla franchise on the big screen fell through, the animated sequel turned out to be a great alternative. Godzilla: The Series debuted mere months after the 1998 film was released, and it went on to become a popular part of Fox Kids’ Saturday morning programming. And although this continuation had a limited lifespan of just two seasons, it still managed to do the impossible and redeem Roland Emmerich’s widely disliked adaptation.
Similar to Ultra Q, Godzilla: The Series saw Dr. Niko “Nick” Tatopoulos leading a specialized team — Humanitarian Environmental Analysis Team, or H.E.A.T. for short — in the struggle against the giant and disruptive creatures (often referred to as “mutants”) who have begun to appear all across the globe. Aiding them was the lone, surviving offspring of Godzilla teased at the end of the film. And to ensure the juvenile Godzilla stood...
Similar to Ultra Q, Godzilla: The Series saw Dr. Niko “Nick” Tatopoulos leading a specialized team — Humanitarian Environmental Analysis Team, or H.E.A.T. for short — in the struggle against the giant and disruptive creatures (often referred to as “mutants”) who have begun to appear all across the globe. Aiding them was the lone, surviving offspring of Godzilla teased at the end of the film. And to ensure the juvenile Godzilla stood...
- 3/29/2024
- by Paul Lê
- bloody-disgusting.com
David Lynch‘s “Blue Velvet” continues to cause a stir nearly four decades after its release, with the film having just as many detractors as it does champions. And in a recent interview with IndieWire, actress Isabella Rossellini had a chance to respond to one of the film’s harshest critics: the late Roger Ebert.
Read More: ‘La Chimera’ Trailer: Alice Rohrwacher’s Latest Drama Stars Josh O’Connor, Isabella Rossellini & More
Ebert infamously trounced the film upon release in 1986, particularly how Lynch treated Rossellini in her performance, deeming it exploitative, but Rossellini defended her “choice” to do the role as “an adult.” “I didn’t read the reviews at the time it came out,” the actress said about “Blue Velvet.” “I try not to read reviews.
Continue reading ‘Blue Velvet’: Isabella Rossellini Reflects On Roger Ebert’s Criticism Of Lynch’s Film: “I Chose To Play The Character” at The Playlist.
Read More: ‘La Chimera’ Trailer: Alice Rohrwacher’s Latest Drama Stars Josh O’Connor, Isabella Rossellini & More
Ebert infamously trounced the film upon release in 1986, particularly how Lynch treated Rossellini in her performance, deeming it exploitative, but Rossellini defended her “choice” to do the role as “an adult.” “I didn’t read the reviews at the time it came out,” the actress said about “Blue Velvet.” “I try not to read reviews.
Continue reading ‘Blue Velvet’: Isabella Rossellini Reflects On Roger Ebert’s Criticism Of Lynch’s Film: “I Chose To Play The Character” at The Playlist.
- 3/29/2024
- by Ned Booth
- The Playlist
Nearly 40 years after Roger Ebert’s one-star review of David Lynch’s Blue Velvet, in which the late critic alleged that Isabella Rossellini was “degraded,” the film’s star is speaking out on how incorrect she believes Ebert’s assessment was.
Speaking with IndieWire, Rossellini said she didn’t read Blue Velvet reviews when the film came out — which she avoids for any of her work — because “even if [the review is] good, there is always one sentence that is negative and stays inside you forever.” However, Ebert’s words were unavoidable, as she was told his review mentioned that Lynch, who was Rossellini’s partner at the time, “exploited” her.
“I was surprised, because I was an adult,” she recalled. “I was 31 or 32. I chose to play the character.”
In the film, Rossellini plays Dorothy Vallens, who is raped and abused by gangster Frank Booth (Dennis Hopper), who has also kidnapped her husband,...
Speaking with IndieWire, Rossellini said she didn’t read Blue Velvet reviews when the film came out — which she avoids for any of her work — because “even if [the review is] good, there is always one sentence that is negative and stays inside you forever.” However, Ebert’s words were unavoidable, as she was told his review mentioned that Lynch, who was Rossellini’s partner at the time, “exploited” her.
“I was surprised, because I was an adult,” she recalled. “I was 31 or 32. I chose to play the character.”
In the film, Rossellini plays Dorothy Vallens, who is raped and abused by gangster Frank Booth (Dennis Hopper), who has also kidnapped her husband,...
- 3/28/2024
- by Tatiana Tenreyro
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Isabella Rossellini transitioned from her modeling career to an acting career through David Lynch’s 1986 film, Blue Velvet. Rossellini was praised for her role and the film achieved a cult status in the following years, but Blue Velvet was a controversial film at the time of its release. The explicit content was a major problem for critics, including Roger Ebert, who accused Lynch of exploiting the actress. However, Rossellini has defended Lynch in her recent interview.
Isabella Rossellini as Dorothy Vallens in Blue Velvet
David Lynch worked on Blue Velvet‘s script after the commercial failure of his epic sci-fi project, Dune. While the critical response was divided, Lynch received his second Academy Award nomination for Best Director for the film.
Isabella Rossellini Defends David Lynch For Her Exploitative Scenes In Blue Velvet Isabella Rossellini and David Lynch on the sets of Blue Velvet
Isabella Rossellini played the role of...
Isabella Rossellini as Dorothy Vallens in Blue Velvet
David Lynch worked on Blue Velvet‘s script after the commercial failure of his epic sci-fi project, Dune. While the critical response was divided, Lynch received his second Academy Award nomination for Best Director for the film.
Isabella Rossellini Defends David Lynch For Her Exploitative Scenes In Blue Velvet Isabella Rossellini and David Lynch on the sets of Blue Velvet
Isabella Rossellini played the role of...
- 3/28/2024
- by Hashim Asraff
- FandomWire
Jodie Foster is having a good year. The two-time Oscar winner returned to the attention of the academy for the first time since 1995 with a nomination for “Nyad.” Now, she and showrunner Issa López have revamped HBO’s flagging “True Detective” with the best entry since the show’s first season.
“True Detective: Night Country” stars Foster as an acid-tongue, spiky police chief who is tasked with investigating the disappearance of eight men in the spooky, fictional town of Ennis, Alaska. Playing a detective will naturally harken viewers’ minds back to her turn as Clarice Starling in “The Silence of the Lambs,” the film for which she won her second Best Actress Oscar (“The Accused” being the other). It’s her meatiest role in years and Foster devours it.
Brian Tallerico (Roger Ebert) observed: “Our unsteady guiding hand through this darkness is Liz Danvers, played with icy perfection by Jodie Foster.
“True Detective: Night Country” stars Foster as an acid-tongue, spiky police chief who is tasked with investigating the disappearance of eight men in the spooky, fictional town of Ennis, Alaska. Playing a detective will naturally harken viewers’ minds back to her turn as Clarice Starling in “The Silence of the Lambs,” the film for which she won her second Best Actress Oscar (“The Accused” being the other). It’s her meatiest role in years and Foster devours it.
Brian Tallerico (Roger Ebert) observed: “Our unsteady guiding hand through this darkness is Liz Danvers, played with icy perfection by Jodie Foster.
- 3/27/2024
- by Jacob Sarkisian
- Gold Derby
One of the most infamous reviews for David Lynch’s “Blue Velvet” to publish when the film opened in 1986 came courtesy of Roger Ebert, who gave the movie one star. Then the most prominent critic in the United States, Ebert criticized how Lynch’s casting of Isabella Rossellini in a role where she gets “humiliated.”
“[Rossellini] is asked to do things in this film that require real nerve … She is degraded, slapped around, humiliated and undressed in front of the camera,” Ebert wrote. “And when you ask an actress to endure those experiences, you should keep your side of the bargain by putting her in an important film.”
Rossellini stars in “Blue Velvet” as the tormented nightclub singer Dorothy Vallens, who is held emotionally and physically captive by the sociopath gangster Frank Booth (Dennis Hopper). At one point in the film, Dorothy shows up naked on the front porch of Jeffrey...
“[Rossellini] is asked to do things in this film that require real nerve … She is degraded, slapped around, humiliated and undressed in front of the camera,” Ebert wrote. “And when you ask an actress to endure those experiences, you should keep your side of the bargain by putting her in an important film.”
Rossellini stars in “Blue Velvet” as the tormented nightclub singer Dorothy Vallens, who is held emotionally and physically captive by the sociopath gangster Frank Booth (Dennis Hopper). At one point in the film, Dorothy shows up naked on the front porch of Jeffrey...
- 3/27/2024
- by Zack Sharf
- Variety Film + TV
In Roger Ebert’s one-star review of David Lynch‘s “Blue Velvet” in 1986, the film critic had strong words for the director he never softened through the rest of his career, even as Ebert came to appreciate some of Lynch’s later films. Ebert wrote that Isabella Rossellini “is asked to do things in this film that require real nerve… She is degraded, slapped around, humiliated and undressed in front of the camera. And when you ask an actress to endure those experiences, you should keep your side of the bargain by putting her in an important film.”
But Rossellini, who at the time of the controversial landmark’s release was in a relationship with director Lynch, today doesn’t necessarily agree with Ebert’s takedown of the movie. The daughter of Ingrid Bergman and Roberto Rossellini had by then gathered some modeling and film credits, but “Blue Velvet” proved to be her big breakout.
But Rossellini, who at the time of the controversial landmark’s release was in a relationship with director Lynch, today doesn’t necessarily agree with Ebert’s takedown of the movie. The daughter of Ingrid Bergman and Roberto Rossellini had by then gathered some modeling and film credits, but “Blue Velvet” proved to be her big breakout.
- 3/27/2024
- by Ryan Lattanzio
- Indiewire
Showtime’s “Fellow Travelers” depicts a sweeping, complex romance across the ages in one of the most acclaimed pieces of television this year. Matt Bomer and Jonathan Bailey are the couple in question and both men are at the top of their game here.
Bomer has always been a commanding performer, capturing viewers’ attention every moment he’s on-screen. As the closeted Hawk Fuller, he delivers a performance of vulnerability and restraint. Critics agree, it’s some of his best work.
Ben Travers (Indie Wire) observed: “Bomer and Bailey deserve all the credit coming their way for building such palpable chemistry…. Bomer’s stoic restraint proves his strongest attribute. Hawk, quite literally, is cleaner cut than a Kennedy (Bobby makes a brief appearance), and Bomer wears his classic Wasp exterior like a slightly too-snug Halloween costume. He can smile for the cameras, but there’s something tugging at the corners,...
Bomer has always been a commanding performer, capturing viewers’ attention every moment he’s on-screen. As the closeted Hawk Fuller, he delivers a performance of vulnerability and restraint. Critics agree, it’s some of his best work.
Ben Travers (Indie Wire) observed: “Bomer and Bailey deserve all the credit coming their way for building such palpable chemistry…. Bomer’s stoic restraint proves his strongest attribute. Hawk, quite literally, is cleaner cut than a Kennedy (Bobby makes a brief appearance), and Bomer wears his classic Wasp exterior like a slightly too-snug Halloween costume. He can smile for the cameras, but there’s something tugging at the corners,...
- 3/27/2024
- by Jacob Sarkisian
- Gold Derby
When you think of the great directors in cinema history – Martin Scorsese, Steven Spielberg, Alfred Hitchcock, etc. – chances are the first films that come to mind are Goodfellas, Jaws and Vertigo. But every brilliant filmmaker has their duds. Now, Rolling Stone – you know, the publication that doesn’t think Roseanne and Bill Cosby had historic shows just because of their wrongdoings – has put out a list of the 50 worst movies by some of the most renowned directors…And yes, they have missed the mark considerably.
In the list, titled “50 Terrible Movies by Great Directors”, there are plenty of bottom-barrel films, those that are absolutely anomalies in otherwise remarkable careers. We wouldn’t argue that man-child family comedy Jack (#1) isn’t Francis Ford Coppola’s worst movie or that Rob Reiner’s North (#2) wasn’t worthy of Roger Ebert’s famed “hated, hated, hated, hated, hated” review. Those guys didn’t...
In the list, titled “50 Terrible Movies by Great Directors”, there are plenty of bottom-barrel films, those that are absolutely anomalies in otherwise remarkable careers. We wouldn’t argue that man-child family comedy Jack (#1) isn’t Francis Ford Coppola’s worst movie or that Rob Reiner’s North (#2) wasn’t worthy of Roger Ebert’s famed “hated, hated, hated, hated, hated” review. Those guys didn’t...
- 3/27/2024
- by Mathew Plale
- JoBlo.com
Remember Baz Luhrmann’s early 2000 film about romance and music in Paris? Yes, we are referring to the 2001 release of the jukebox musical Moulin Rouge!, which film critic Roger Ebert once likened to “being trapped on an elevator with the circus”.
In the 2001 flick, we saw English writer Christian (Ewan McGregor) pen his love story on his typewriter as he mourned the loss of his beloved Satine (Nicole Kidman). You may not be aware, though, that multiple actors tried out for the role of Christian but were not selected. Among them were Leonardo DiCaprio, Heath Ledger, and Jake Gyllenhaal; Ethan Hawke was also considered for the part.
Jake Gyllenhaal in a still from Road House
During a recent interview with Howard Stern, the Prisoners actor disclosed that he and Ledger were both “disappointed” about losing the role.
Jake Gyllenhaal And Heath Ledger Almost Starred In Moulin Rouge!
Jake Gyllenhaal was...
In the 2001 flick, we saw English writer Christian (Ewan McGregor) pen his love story on his typewriter as he mourned the loss of his beloved Satine (Nicole Kidman). You may not be aware, though, that multiple actors tried out for the role of Christian but were not selected. Among them were Leonardo DiCaprio, Heath Ledger, and Jake Gyllenhaal; Ethan Hawke was also considered for the part.
Jake Gyllenhaal in a still from Road House
During a recent interview with Howard Stern, the Prisoners actor disclosed that he and Ledger were both “disappointed” about losing the role.
Jake Gyllenhaal And Heath Ledger Almost Starred In Moulin Rouge!
Jake Gyllenhaal was...
- 3/27/2024
- by Siddhika Prajapati
- FandomWire
“True Detective” is back with a bang thanks to an electric fourth entry in the franchise from Issa López, who injects the crime series with darkness, humanity, and intrigue. This fourth edition of the HBO hit follows Jodie Foster as a police chief in the fictional town of Ennis, Alaska. She leads an investigation into the disappearance of eight men from a research station. Seasons two and three of “True Detective” weren’t received as rapturously as the first season, starring Matthew McConaughey and Woody Harrelson, but numerous critics have proclaimed that this fourth entry is as good if not better than season one.
Katie Rife (IGN) opined: “‘True Detective: Night Country’ is the best season of the series since the original. The horror sequences are especially good, and creator Issa López thoughtfully engages with the Alaska location without sacrificing the intrigue of a good detective story.”
Brian Tallerico (Roger Ebert...
Katie Rife (IGN) opined: “‘True Detective: Night Country’ is the best season of the series since the original. The horror sequences are especially good, and creator Issa López thoughtfully engages with the Alaska location without sacrificing the intrigue of a good detective story.”
Brian Tallerico (Roger Ebert...
- 3/27/2024
- by Jacob Sarkisian
- Gold Derby
Foreground: Ernie Hudson, Bill Murray, Dan Aykroyd, and Harold Ramis in Ghostbusters (Columbia Pictures/Archive Photos/Getty Images); Background: Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire (Sony Pictures)Graphic: The A.V. Club
The original Ghostbusters is a near-perfect film. It’s just the right blend of comedy and legitimate horror, with Dan Aykroyd,...
The original Ghostbusters is a near-perfect film. It’s just the right blend of comedy and legitimate horror, with Dan Aykroyd,...
- 3/26/2024
- by Charles Moss
- avclub.com
When Steven Spielberg’s “Lincoln” was released in the fall of 2012, one of the nagging complaints — for an otherwise heralded film — related to its ending. Namely, it had too many.
Roger Ebert, in his four-star review, succinctly implied the picture should’ve wrapped before President Lincoln’s assassination. Samuel L. Jackson felt similarly, though he didn’t mince words about it. While it would be a stretch to say the contentious closing scenes chronicling Lincoln’s murder cost the film any of its Oscars — including losses in Best Editing, Best Screenplay, Best Director, and Best Picture — it’s exactly the type of first-thought quibble voters would use as an excuse for choosing their preferred nominee.
Though plenty of pundits backed the chosen ending and “Lincoln’s” sweeping acclaim and staggering box office spoke to its overall appreciation ($275 million for a 150-minute period drama? Martin Scorsese would kill a flower moon...
Roger Ebert, in his four-star review, succinctly implied the picture should’ve wrapped before President Lincoln’s assassination. Samuel L. Jackson felt similarly, though he didn’t mince words about it. While it would be a stretch to say the contentious closing scenes chronicling Lincoln’s murder cost the film any of its Oscars — including losses in Best Editing, Best Screenplay, Best Director, and Best Picture — it’s exactly the type of first-thought quibble voters would use as an excuse for choosing their preferred nominee.
Though plenty of pundits backed the chosen ending and “Lincoln’s” sweeping acclaim and staggering box office spoke to its overall appreciation ($275 million for a 150-minute period drama? Martin Scorsese would kill a flower moon...
- 3/22/2024
- by Ben Travers
- Indiewire
One of cinema's most prolific and cherished character actors has died just short of his 89th birthday. M. Emmet Walsh, memorable in so many films including Blade Runner, Blood Simple and more recently, Knives Out, was 88 when he died on Tuesday.
Born in 1935 in Ogdensburg, New York, Walsh was raised in Vermont. He kicked off his acting career in typical fashion, with guest roles in TV series in the 1960s and 70s, but unlike some of his peers, he continued to juggle big and small screen gigs throughout his life. He had a personal credo about the work: "I approach each job thinking it might be my last, so it better be the best work possible. I want to be remembered as a working actor. I’m being paid for what I’d do for nothing."
Cinematically, he got his start via uncredited roles in the likes of Midnight Cowboy,...
Born in 1935 in Ogdensburg, New York, Walsh was raised in Vermont. He kicked off his acting career in typical fashion, with guest roles in TV series in the 1960s and 70s, but unlike some of his peers, he continued to juggle big and small screen gigs throughout his life. He had a personal credo about the work: "I approach each job thinking it might be my last, so it better be the best work possible. I want to be remembered as a working actor. I’m being paid for what I’d do for nothing."
Cinematically, he got his start via uncredited roles in the likes of Midnight Cowboy,...
- 3/21/2024
- by James White
- Empire - Movies
Michael Shannon has done his fair share of high-budget films, like Man of Steel, but the actor has not shied away from doing smaller projects either. However, working on a particular project allowed the actor to meet one of the industry greats, something he likened to being a ‘dream’.
Michael Shannon as General Zod in Man of Steel
A Little White Lie is a cerebral literary thriller film, revolving around Shannon’s character, who is a down-on-his-luck handyman who gets mistaken for a celebrity writer. The film had a box office run of only $22,482 (via Box Office Mojo), but that does not mean the cast was not stuffed with talented artists of the industry, one that Shannon couldn’t believe he was working with: M. Emmet Walsh.
Michael Shannon felt like he was dreaming when working with M. Emmet Walsh
Michael Shannon with M. Emmet Walsh in A Little White Lie...
Michael Shannon as General Zod in Man of Steel
A Little White Lie is a cerebral literary thriller film, revolving around Shannon’s character, who is a down-on-his-luck handyman who gets mistaken for a celebrity writer. The film had a box office run of only $22,482 (via Box Office Mojo), but that does not mean the cast was not stuffed with talented artists of the industry, one that Shannon couldn’t believe he was working with: M. Emmet Walsh.
Michael Shannon felt like he was dreaming when working with M. Emmet Walsh
Michael Shannon with M. Emmet Walsh in A Little White Lie...
- 3/21/2024
- by Anuraag Chatterjee
- FandomWire
M. Emmet Walsh, the wily character actor who became an audience favorite for his deliciously despicable performances in such films as Blood Simple, Blade Runner, Brubaker and The Jerk, has died. He was 88.
Walsh died Tuesday in St. Albans, Vermont, his longtime manager, Sandy Joseph, told The Hollywood Reporter. The cause was cardiac arrest.
With his distinctive lumbering form and droll delivery, Walsh was an ideal supporting player. A master of off-kilter comic delivery and dogged edginess, he excelled at roles that dwelled in the darker corners of humanity. No matter whom he played, he made a colorful impact.
“A consummate old pro of the second-banana business, Walsh has left his mark on 109 movies and counting, with the grin of that big bastard who stands between you and something else — and knows it,” Nicolas Rapold wrote in a 2011 profile of the actor for L.A. Weekly.
In the same piece, Walsh...
Walsh died Tuesday in St. Albans, Vermont, his longtime manager, Sandy Joseph, told The Hollywood Reporter. The cause was cardiac arrest.
With his distinctive lumbering form and droll delivery, Walsh was an ideal supporting player. A master of off-kilter comic delivery and dogged edginess, he excelled at roles that dwelled in the darker corners of humanity. No matter whom he played, he made a colorful impact.
“A consummate old pro of the second-banana business, Walsh has left his mark on 109 movies and counting, with the grin of that big bastard who stands between you and something else — and knows it,” Nicolas Rapold wrote in a 2011 profile of the actor for L.A. Weekly.
In the same piece, Walsh...
- 3/20/2024
- by Chris Koseluk
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
M. Emmet Walsh, a veteran character actor who appeared in more than 150 films including “Blade Runner,” “Blood Simple” and “Knives Out” and played Dermot Mulroney’s dad in “My Best Friend’s Wedding,” has died.
His manager Sandy Joseph confirmed that he died Tuesday in Vermont. He was 88.
In Ridley Scott’s 1982 “Blade Runner,” Walsh was Harrison Ford’s LAPD boss, while he played the vicious private detective Loren Visser in the Coen brothers’ directing debut “Blood Simple.” Wearing a sickly yellow suit, Pauline Kael said he was the film’s “only colorful performer. He lays on the loathsomeness, but he gives it a little twirl — a sportiness.”
His other roles included the corrupt sheriff in the 1986 horror film “Critters” and a small role as a security guard in “Knives Out.”
Walsh appeared in a string of memorable 1970s films, including “Little Big Man” with Dustin Hoffman, “What’s Up, Doc?” with Ryan O’Neal and Barbra Streisand,...
His manager Sandy Joseph confirmed that he died Tuesday in Vermont. He was 88.
In Ridley Scott’s 1982 “Blade Runner,” Walsh was Harrison Ford’s LAPD boss, while he played the vicious private detective Loren Visser in the Coen brothers’ directing debut “Blood Simple.” Wearing a sickly yellow suit, Pauline Kael said he was the film’s “only colorful performer. He lays on the loathsomeness, but he gives it a little twirl — a sportiness.”
His other roles included the corrupt sheriff in the 1986 horror film “Critters” and a small role as a security guard in “Knives Out.”
Walsh appeared in a string of memorable 1970s films, including “Little Big Man” with Dustin Hoffman, “What’s Up, Doc?” with Ryan O’Neal and Barbra Streisand,...
- 3/20/2024
- by Pat Saperstein
- Variety Film + TV
It is a testament to his acting ability that it was years before I realized that Gary Oldman is British. With an ability to nail accents, the dedication to drastically change his appearance and the talent to convey the full spectrum of emotions, Oldman is one of the most eclectic and underrated actors of our time.
Born March 21, 1958, in London, Oldman began his acting career on the British stage in 1979, and made his film debut in “Remembrance” in 1982. In 1984, he reluctantly accepted the role of punk rocker Sid Vicious in “Sid and Nancy,” a performance which garnered him critical acclaim and launched a diverse and successful career that has spanned almost four decades, and includes everything from small indie films to blockbuster franchises.
Oldman is well-known for his portrayal of some of the most memorable villains in the history of the cinema, from the campy Zorg in “The Fifth Element...
Born March 21, 1958, in London, Oldman began his acting career on the British stage in 1979, and made his film debut in “Remembrance” in 1982. In 1984, he reluctantly accepted the role of punk rocker Sid Vicious in “Sid and Nancy,” a performance which garnered him critical acclaim and launched a diverse and successful career that has spanned almost four decades, and includes everything from small indie films to blockbuster franchises.
Oldman is well-known for his portrayal of some of the most memorable villains in the history of the cinema, from the campy Zorg in “The Fifth Element...
- 3/15/2024
- by Susan Pennington, Chris Beachum and Misty Holland
- Gold Derby
"What kind of man is he?" Janus Films has revealed a brand new trailer for the 4K restoration re-release of an all-timer hitman classic called Le Samouraï. This French noir thriller first opened in France in 1967, only showing up in the US in 1972. It is widely considered one of the best assassin films ever made, and is often referenced by many great filmmakers in terms of style and minimalism. After professional hitman Jef Costello is seen by witnesses, his efforts to provide himself an alibi drive him further into a corner. Jean-Pierre Melville's Le Samouraï stars French legend Alain Delon as Costello, a contract killer with samurai instincts. The cast also includes François Périer, Nathalie Delon, and Caty Rosier. Roger Ebert wrote a 4 star review in 1997, stating: "The movie teaches us how action is the enemy of suspense--how action releases tension, instead of building it. Better to wait for...
- 3/13/2024
- by Alex Billington
- firstshowing.net
Actor Christopher Walken has the kind of distinctive voice that you would recognize even in your sleep. Thanks to the way he speaks, people love mimicking him and trying out his accent for themselves. After all, imitation is the best form of flattery, isn’t it? The voice also allows him to pull off some of the most messed up characters we have seen in the film industry.
Christopher Walken in King of New York (1990)
From The Deer Hunter to King of New York, Christopher Walken’s portrayals of these characters are enough to send a chill throughout your body and leave you with goosebumps for a while. However, the actor once revealed that he was totally and completely over playing such characters and wanted to play the role of a nice family man.
Christopher Walken is Tired of Doing the Same Roles Christopher Walken in Dune 2
Getting typecast in Hollywood is real,...
Christopher Walken in King of New York (1990)
From The Deer Hunter to King of New York, Christopher Walken’s portrayals of these characters are enough to send a chill throughout your body and leave you with goosebumps for a while. However, the actor once revealed that he was totally and completely over playing such characters and wanted to play the role of a nice family man.
Christopher Walken is Tired of Doing the Same Roles Christopher Walken in Dune 2
Getting typecast in Hollywood is real,...
- 3/13/2024
- by Mishkaat Khan
- FandomWire
Variety has been given exclusive access to a first-look clip (below) from Simon Ennis’ documentary “The Hobby,” which world premieres at SXSW on Friday. International sales are being handled by Vortex Media.
“The Hobby” is an affectionate, character-driven portrait of the subculture of board games, covering the World Series of Board Games in Las Vegas and reaching back to Ancient Mesopotamia.
The characters portrayed – who include the “Roger Ebert of board games,” a rock-climbing board-game philosopher and a birdwatcher who created an unlikely smash hit – share personal stories of competition, compulsion, creativity and connection.
Ennis says: “One of the most fun and exciting events we visited was the first ever World Series of Board Games held in Las Vegas in 2022. In this clip, one of our main subjects, Dan Corbett is up all night in his hotel room getting ready for his final shot at winning in the [contest]. We then...
“The Hobby” is an affectionate, character-driven portrait of the subculture of board games, covering the World Series of Board Games in Las Vegas and reaching back to Ancient Mesopotamia.
The characters portrayed – who include the “Roger Ebert of board games,” a rock-climbing board-game philosopher and a birdwatcher who created an unlikely smash hit – share personal stories of competition, compulsion, creativity and connection.
Ennis says: “One of the most fun and exciting events we visited was the first ever World Series of Board Games held in Las Vegas in 2022. In this clip, one of our main subjects, Dan Corbett is up all night in his hotel room getting ready for his final shot at winning in the [contest]. We then...
- 3/7/2024
- by Leo Barraclough
- Variety Film + TV
Steven Spielberg kissed his wife and embraced his mother before his left hand floated to his temple in disbelief. Then he grew visibly emotional as he made his way to the stage of the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion. The 46-year-old Spielberg had just won his first Oscar — as best director for “Schindler’s List,” an unflinching look at the Holocaust and its horrors. “This is a big surprise,” presenter Clint Eastwood said somewhat sarcastically.
As Eastwood’s joke suggests, Spielberg’s victory at the 1994 Academy Awards was preordained — an unavoidable coronation after he had dominated popular culture so completely over the past year. Not only had he subverted his image as a boy genius, spinning escapist fantasies out of celluloid, by tackling a project as grown up as “Schindler’s List,” but he had also reestablished himself as the most successful director in Hollywood with another 1993 release, “Jurassic Park.” The adventure film, essentially “Jaws” with dinosaurs,...
As Eastwood’s joke suggests, Spielberg’s victory at the 1994 Academy Awards was preordained — an unavoidable coronation after he had dominated popular culture so completely over the past year. Not only had he subverted his image as a boy genius, spinning escapist fantasies out of celluloid, by tackling a project as grown up as “Schindler’s List,” but he had also reestablished himself as the most successful director in Hollywood with another 1993 release, “Jurassic Park.” The adventure film, essentially “Jaws” with dinosaurs,...
- 3/6/2024
- by Brent Lang
- Variety Film + TV
The late '70s were a dark time for Disney. Following the death of Walt Disney, the studio went through much experimentation (not all of which was successful), and the departure of animator Don Bluth and several other animators led to a mini-crisis at the studio. Still, this was a very interesting time for Disney, which released many movies unlike anything they'd made before or since, from the sci-fi adventure "The Black Hole" to the criminally underrated "The Black Cauldron."
Loosely based on the first two books in Lloyd Alexander's "The Chronicles of Prydain" series, the film follows a bard and a princess who try to destroy a powerful and ancient magical cauldron before the wicked Horned King uses it to rule the world. This is by far the darkest animated movie Disney has made, one that starts with an explanation that the Black Cauldron's power comes from an...
Loosely based on the first two books in Lloyd Alexander's "The Chronicles of Prydain" series, the film follows a bard and a princess who try to destroy a powerful and ancient magical cauldron before the wicked Horned King uses it to rule the world. This is by far the darkest animated movie Disney has made, one that starts with an explanation that the Black Cauldron's power comes from an...
- 3/3/2024
- by Rafael Motamayor
- Slash Film
“You get me?” barks Career Drill Sergeant Zim (Clancy Brown). The young, beautiful, and vapid recruits giving him their full attention answer in kind: “Sir yes sir!” Johnny Rico (Casper Van Dien) and his fellow roughnecks might get Zim, but most people do not. Since its first theatrical run through today, viewers misread, misunderstand, and, frankly, misattribute Starship Troopers time and again, failing to see the cutting satire at work.
The most recent example comes from author Isaac Young, who took to Twitter to critique the film’s approach to satire. Young argued that director Paul Verhoeven failed to make fun of the Terran Federation because the attractive heroes, clean cities, and technologically advanced schools look nicer than the ugly bugs they fight.
Why the first Starship Troopers movie failed as a parody, a thread:
Watching the movie, it was clear the director was aiming for a campy, over-the-top depiction of the Terran Federation.
The most recent example comes from author Isaac Young, who took to Twitter to critique the film’s approach to satire. Young argued that director Paul Verhoeven failed to make fun of the Terran Federation because the attractive heroes, clean cities, and technologically advanced schools look nicer than the ugly bugs they fight.
Why the first Starship Troopers movie failed as a parody, a thread:
Watching the movie, it was clear the director was aiming for a campy, over-the-top depiction of the Terran Federation.
- 2/28/2024
- by Joe George
- Den of Geek
Jeffrey Wright plays the role of a lifetime as a frustrated Black professor driven to write a cliche-riddled crime saga – and makes universal his struggle to be seen and heard
Oscars 2024: best picture nominees – reviews, awards and where to watch
If cinema is, as Roger Ebert called it, a machine that generates empathy, few works have ever expressed the sentiment of exasperation quite like American Fiction, Cord Jefferson’s adaptation of Percival Everett’s novel Erasure. At its centre is Jeffrey Wright in a once-in-a-lifetime performance, sighing, deadpanning, and raising his eyebrows a fraction of a millimetre to show how very close he is to giving up in the face of the unshakable stupidity that is modern culture.
It takes about 30 seconds for American Fiction to stake its claim. Wright’s Thelonious “Monk” Ellison is an author and professor foolish enough to think “we’re all adults here” is...
Oscars 2024: best picture nominees – reviews, awards and where to watch
If cinema is, as Roger Ebert called it, a machine that generates empathy, few works have ever expressed the sentiment of exasperation quite like American Fiction, Cord Jefferson’s adaptation of Percival Everett’s novel Erasure. At its centre is Jeffrey Wright in a once-in-a-lifetime performance, sighing, deadpanning, and raising his eyebrows a fraction of a millimetre to show how very close he is to giving up in the face of the unshakable stupidity that is modern culture.
It takes about 30 seconds for American Fiction to stake its claim. Wright’s Thelonious “Monk” Ellison is an author and professor foolish enough to think “we’re all adults here” is...
- 2/27/2024
- by Jordan Hoffman
- The Guardian - Film News
Somebody stop me! Alamo Drafthouse is taking a trip back 30 years to the Clinton-era and the year 1994 for a two-month long repertory slate of classic film screenings. And IndieWire can exclusively reveal the full lineup of films as part of the Alamo Time Capsules 1994 series.
Beginning the week of March 1 and running through the end of April, Alamo Drafthouse locations across the country will screen 29 different films all released in 1994.
Among them are some blockbusters and fan favorites, including “Pulp Fiction,” “Dumb and Dumber,” “The Mask,” “Interview With a Vampire,” “Forrest Gump,” “Little Women,” “The Shawshank Redemption,” and the live-action “The Flintstones.” There’s some cult classics like “Clerks,” “Drunken Master II,” “Reality Bites,” and “The Crow,” some art house darlings like “Chungking Express” and the “Three Colors” trilogy, and there are even some obscure deep cuts such as the bizarre Martin Short film “Clifford” or a special “Gore Cut...
Beginning the week of March 1 and running through the end of April, Alamo Drafthouse locations across the country will screen 29 different films all released in 1994.
Among them are some blockbusters and fan favorites, including “Pulp Fiction,” “Dumb and Dumber,” “The Mask,” “Interview With a Vampire,” “Forrest Gump,” “Little Women,” “The Shawshank Redemption,” and the live-action “The Flintstones.” There’s some cult classics like “Clerks,” “Drunken Master II,” “Reality Bites,” and “The Crow,” some art house darlings like “Chungking Express” and the “Three Colors” trilogy, and there are even some obscure deep cuts such as the bizarre Martin Short film “Clifford” or a special “Gore Cut...
- 2/16/2024
- by Brian Welk
- Indiewire
One cannot understate the strange cultural dominance Hugh Wilson's 1984 comedy "Police Academy" held over the pop zeitgeist throughout the 1980s. Clearly a child of "Animal House," "Police Academy" was a traditional snobs-vs.-slobs comedy that pitted winking wiseacres against their stern commanding officers at a police school in an unnamed city. I've long had a theory that the "Police Academy" movies take place in Metropolis, the city where Superman lives. With Superman taking care of major crimes, the local police force would likely become complacent, unused to enforcing the law.
None of the "Police Academy" movies were well-reviewed, recognized by critics as crass, dumb, and low-brow. This is a series that banks on misogyny, offensive stereotypes, and a lot of crotch/sex humor. There is no wit to the "Police Academy" movies. Roger Ebert famously gave the first film zero stars, citing merely how dreadfully unfunny and uninspired it is.
None of the "Police Academy" movies were well-reviewed, recognized by critics as crass, dumb, and low-brow. This is a series that banks on misogyny, offensive stereotypes, and a lot of crotch/sex humor. There is no wit to the "Police Academy" movies. Roger Ebert famously gave the first film zero stars, citing merely how dreadfully unfunny and uninspired it is.
- 2/10/2024
- by Witney Seibold
- Slash Film
With its scathing social satire, raunchy humor and frequent use of the controversial N-word, “Blazing Saddles” got mixed reviews upon its release February 7, 1974. Nonetheless, it galloped to the top of the box office and earned three Oscar nominations, and set new standards for comedy films with its irreverence, spoofs and just plain silliness. Some reviewers did get the joke from the beginning, including Roger Ebert, who awarded it four out of four stars, saying it’s “a crazed grab bag of a movie that does everything to keep us laughing except hit us over the head with a rubber chicken.” On its 50th anniversary, we look back at how “Blazing Saddles” has endured as one of the greatest and most beloved comedies of all time.
It all started when Mel Brooks bought the film rights to a story titled “Tex-x” (changed so it wouldn’t be mistaken for an X-rated...
It all started when Mel Brooks bought the film rights to a story titled “Tex-x” (changed so it wouldn’t be mistaken for an X-rated...
- 2/7/2024
- by Susan Pennington
- Gold Derby
IMDb.com, Inc. takes no responsibility for the content or accuracy of the above news articles, Tweets, or blog posts. This content is published for the entertainment of our users only. The news articles, Tweets, and blog posts do not represent IMDb's opinions nor can we guarantee that the reporting therein is completely factual. Please visit the source responsible for the item in question to report any concerns you may have regarding content or accuracy.