John Flynn’s Rolling Thunder is a lean, mean revenge thriller that could have only been made in the 1970s. It’s 1973, to be exact, and Major Charles Rane (William Devane) has recently returned to San Antonio after several years in a Viet Cong prison camp. Greeted with a hero’s welcome, Rane has little use for his neighbors’ praise, which he appears to regard (correctly) as an almost poignantly inadequate expression of collective survivor’s guilt.
Rane, along with his friend and fellow veteran Johnny Vohden (Tommy Lee Jones), inhabits the film with a calm pragmatism that might be disconcerting for viewers accustomed to cinema’s more overheated depictions of soldiers coming home. The men don’t appear to resent the friends and family who’re blessedly ignorant of the atrocities they experienced abroad, but the soldiers no longer possess the facilities necessary to uphold basic social conventions such...
Rane, along with his friend and fellow veteran Johnny Vohden (Tommy Lee Jones), inhabits the film with a calm pragmatism that might be disconcerting for viewers accustomed to cinema’s more overheated depictions of soldiers coming home. The men don’t appear to resent the friends and family who’re blessedly ignorant of the atrocities they experienced abroad, but the soldiers no longer possess the facilities necessary to uphold basic social conventions such...
- 4/23/2024
- by Chuck Bowen
- Slant Magazine
If you know your Quentin Tarantino lore, you’ll know that one of his favourite films of all time is John Flynn’s Rolling Thunder. A gritty revenge flick, the 1977 movie was such an influence on Tarantino that he named his short-lived distribution company, Rolling Thunder Pictures, after it. He explains his love of the film in detail in his epic film book, Cinema Speculation. Now, the film is set to get a 4K special edition courtesy of Shout Factory, which comes packed with extras.
If you’ve never seen it, Rolling Thunder is a pretty incredible film. Paul Schrader originally wrote it, but it was heavily rewritten by Heywood Gould (Cocktail). It follows a Nam P.O.W., Major Charles Rane (William Devane), who returns to his home in San Antonio after seven years in Hanoi. Having long come to terms with the fact that he was unlikely ever to return home,...
If you’ve never seen it, Rolling Thunder is a pretty incredible film. Paul Schrader originally wrote it, but it was heavily rewritten by Heywood Gould (Cocktail). It follows a Nam P.O.W., Major Charles Rane (William Devane), who returns to his home in San Antonio after seven years in Hanoi. Having long come to terms with the fact that he was unlikely ever to return home,...
- 2/25/2024
- by Chris Bumbray
- JoBlo.com
The hottest musical writer of recent years will reportedly be adapting the 1979 film, The Warriors, into a stage musical. Can You Dig It? The cult Walter Hill film is a popular urban grit fairy tale that tells of a night amongst the many number of gang factions in New York City. The movie was based on the 1965 novel of the same name by Sol Yurick and illustrated by Frank Modell. Many character actors were involved with the production in their younger days, including James Remar, who currently can be seen in Oppenheimer, David Patrick Kelly, Mercedes Ruehl, and Lynne Thigpen.
Variety now reports that a source close to the subject has confirmed that Lin-Manuel Miranda is in the works to adapt the movie into a stage musical. The film isn’t exactly West Side Story, but it does involve rivalry between street gangs. The plot of both the film and...
Variety now reports that a source close to the subject has confirmed that Lin-Manuel Miranda is in the works to adapt the movie into a stage musical. The film isn’t exactly West Side Story, but it does involve rivalry between street gangs. The plot of both the film and...
- 8/4/2023
- by EJ Tangonan
- JoBlo.com
Lin-Manuel Miranda is writing a stage musical version of The Warriors, Sol Yurick’s 1965 novel, which inspired the 1979 cult thriller film by director Walter Hill. According to The New York Post, which first reported the news, not many details on the project are know at this point, but Miranda’s involvement was confirmed.
The novel and film are about a fictional New York City street gang who travel from the Bronx to their home turf of Coney Island after being framed for the murder of a respected gang leader. Hill’s film,...
The novel and film are about a fictional New York City street gang who travel from the Bronx to their home turf of Coney Island after being framed for the murder of a respected gang leader. Hill’s film,...
- 8/4/2023
- by Emily Zemler
- Rollingstone.com
Lin-Manuel Miranda reportedly has set his sights on his next musical for the stage. The multiple Tony and Grammy award winner is adapting a stage musical version of The Warriors, based on Sol Yurick’s 1965 novel that was later turned into the 1979 action thriller film directed by Walter Hill, according to the New York Post‘s Johnny Oleksinski.
The project would be Miranda’s first full stage musical since his global phenom Hamilton, winner of 11 Tony Awards, including Best Musical, in 2016..
The Warriors is a familiar setting for New York City native Miranda. The film centers on a fictitious New York City street gang who must travel 30 miles, from the north end of the Bronx to their home turf in Coney Island in southern Brooklyn, after they are framed for the murder of a respected gang leader.
The project would be Miranda’s first full stage musical since his global phenom Hamilton, winner of 11 Tony Awards, including Best Musical, in 2016..
The Warriors is a familiar setting for New York City native Miranda. The film centers on a fictitious New York City street gang who must travel 30 miles, from the north end of the Bronx to their home turf in Coney Island in southern Brooklyn, after they are framed for the murder of a respected gang leader.
- 8/4/2023
- by Denise Petski
- Deadline Film + TV
The Young and the Restless premiered in 1973 and has since become one of the most famous soap operas of all time. At one point, it had such a big impact on American culture that Mary J. Blige even sampled its theme music on a single.
What song does ‘The Young and the Restless’ use in its intro sequence?
So excited about this! ? https://t.co/D4l37FE1GN
— Nischelle Turner (@nischelleturner) March 8, 2023
Since its premiere, Y&r has used the instrumental song “Nadia’s Theme” in its intro sequence.
“Nadia’s Theme” was composed by Barry De Vorzon and Perry Botkin Jr. in 1971 for the movie Bless the Beast and Children. At the time, it was known as “Cotton’s Dream.”
Not long after, Botkin Jr. composed another version of “Cotton’s Dream” for Y&R.
The song became known as “Nadia’s Theme” in 1976 when it was used during...
What song does ‘The Young and the Restless’ use in its intro sequence?
So excited about this! ? https://t.co/D4l37FE1GN
— Nischelle Turner (@nischelleturner) March 8, 2023
Since its premiere, Y&r has used the instrumental song “Nadia’s Theme” in its intro sequence.
“Nadia’s Theme” was composed by Barry De Vorzon and Perry Botkin Jr. in 1971 for the movie Bless the Beast and Children. At the time, it was known as “Cotton’s Dream.”
Not long after, Botkin Jr. composed another version of “Cotton’s Dream” for Y&R.
The song became known as “Nadia’s Theme” in 1976 when it was used during...
- 3/15/2023
- by Tram Anh Ton Nu
- Showbiz Cheat Sheet
Over the past decade, it seems like William Peter Blatty’s The Exorcist III has finally been getting the appreciation it deserves. Following their 2016 Blu-ray release of the horror sequel, Scream Factory is bringing The Exorcist III Collector's Edition to 4K Uhd on March 28th, and we have a look at the full list of special features!
From the Press Release: Los Angeles, CA – William Peter Blatty’s The Exorcist III will rise to a 4K Uhd + Blu-Ray Collector’s Edition on March 28, 2023 from Scream Factory™. From the creator of the original The Exorcist, this terrifying third installment of the popular horror franchise creeps in 4K Uhd for the first time.
Fans can possess William Peter Blatty’s original version of the novel Legion with this director’s cut of The Exorcist III. Customers who pre-order their copy at ShoutFactory.com will receive an exclusive 18” x 24” rolled poster featuring the...
From the Press Release: Los Angeles, CA – William Peter Blatty’s The Exorcist III will rise to a 4K Uhd + Blu-Ray Collector’s Edition on March 28, 2023 from Scream Factory™. From the creator of the original The Exorcist, this terrifying third installment of the popular horror franchise creeps in 4K Uhd for the first time.
Fans can possess William Peter Blatty’s original version of the novel Legion with this director’s cut of The Exorcist III. Customers who pre-order their copy at ShoutFactory.com will receive an exclusive 18” x 24” rolled poster featuring the...
- 2/17/2023
- by Derek Anderson
- DailyDead
Perry Botkin Jr., the Grammy-winning composer behind “The Young and the Restless” theme song, died on Monday, his publicist confirmed. He was 87.
A TV and film composer whose work dominated the ’60s and ’70s, Botkin composed and arranged theme music and scores for hit series like “Happy Days,” “Laverne & Shirley,” “Mork & Mindy” and “The Smothers Brothers Show.”
The theme song for “The Young and the Restless,” best known as “Nadia’s Theme” for its association with Olympic gymnast Nadia Comăneci, was an original rearrangement of a piece he co-wrote with Barry De Vorzon and later earned him a Grammy award for best instrumental arrangement.
On film, Botkin’s credits include “Goin’ South,” “Skyjacked,” “Tarzan the Ape Man,” “They Only Kill Their Masters” and 1971’s “Bless the Beasts and Children,” for which he received a “Best Original Song” Oscar nomination for the title song performed by The Carpenters.
Botkin...
A TV and film composer whose work dominated the ’60s and ’70s, Botkin composed and arranged theme music and scores for hit series like “Happy Days,” “Laverne & Shirley,” “Mork & Mindy” and “The Smothers Brothers Show.”
The theme song for “The Young and the Restless,” best known as “Nadia’s Theme” for its association with Olympic gymnast Nadia Comăneci, was an original rearrangement of a piece he co-wrote with Barry De Vorzon and later earned him a Grammy award for best instrumental arrangement.
On film, Botkin’s credits include “Goin’ South,” “Skyjacked,” “Tarzan the Ape Man,” “They Only Kill Their Masters” and 1971’s “Bless the Beasts and Children,” for which he received a “Best Original Song” Oscar nomination for the title song performed by The Carpenters.
Botkin...
- 1/23/2021
- by J. Clara Chan
- The Wrap
Perry Botkin Jr., the Oscar-nominated and Grammy-winning TV and film composer known for creating the The Young And The Restless theme, has died. Botkin’s friend and The Happy Days of Garry Marshall writer John Scheinfeld announced the musician’s death on Facebook, noting that the he died on Monday. He was 87.
“Today I share the news that the man who discovered Harry (Nilsson) and signed him to his first publishing contract, a gentleman and gentle-man named Perry Botkin, passed away on Monday at age 87,” Scheinfeld wrote. “Perry was a magnificently talented composer, arranger, producer and story-teller, perhaps best known for composing the Grammy-winning Nadia’s Theme for the CBS soap ‘The Young and the Restless.'”
Born in New York on April 16, 1933, Botkin kicked off his music career in Los Angeles as a trombone player in a high school jazz quartet. His musical passions brought him to Indiana University...
“Today I share the news that the man who discovered Harry (Nilsson) and signed him to his first publishing contract, a gentleman and gentle-man named Perry Botkin, passed away on Monday at age 87,” Scheinfeld wrote. “Perry was a magnificently talented composer, arranger, producer and story-teller, perhaps best known for composing the Grammy-winning Nadia’s Theme for the CBS soap ‘The Young and the Restless.'”
Born in New York on April 16, 1933, Botkin kicked off his music career in Los Angeles as a trombone player in a high school jazz quartet. His musical passions brought him to Indiana University...
- 1/23/2021
- by Alexandra Del Rosario
- Deadline Film + TV
By Tim McGlynn
“You probably think I’m beautiful, but I’m not.”
Super model Tina Cassidy (Kathryn Witt) visits Hollywood plastic surgeon Larry Roberts with a specific list of tiny imperfections that need to be corrected at the request of Reston Industries, a producer of glossy television commercials. Dr. Roberts becomes curious when he realizes that several of his recent patients have had the same type of list.
What follows is a science fiction/police procedural that involves the murder of these same models. The police become suspicious when it is discovered that all the victims were patients of Dr. Roberts
Director/Writer Michael Crichton once again makes predictions based on emerging technologies. His first feature film, Westworld (1973), pioneered the use of digitized imagery to present the point of view of Yul Brynner’s android gunslinger.
In Looker, we have actors being converted to computerized images that may be manipulated through animation.
“You probably think I’m beautiful, but I’m not.”
Super model Tina Cassidy (Kathryn Witt) visits Hollywood plastic surgeon Larry Roberts with a specific list of tiny imperfections that need to be corrected at the request of Reston Industries, a producer of glossy television commercials. Dr. Roberts becomes curious when he realizes that several of his recent patients have had the same type of list.
What follows is a science fiction/police procedural that involves the murder of these same models. The police become suspicious when it is discovered that all the victims were patients of Dr. Roberts
Director/Writer Michael Crichton once again makes predictions based on emerging technologies. His first feature film, Westworld (1973), pioneered the use of digitized imagery to present the point of view of Yul Brynner’s android gunslinger.
In Looker, we have actors being converted to computerized images that may be manipulated through animation.
- 12/9/2018
- by nospam@example.com (Cinema Retro)
- Cinemaretro.com
For this final Tuesday in October (and the last day of home entertainment releases prior to Halloween), horror fans have a bunch of great new Blu-rays and DVDs coming out just in time for everyone’s favorite holiday. Scream Factory has given The Exorcist III an HD overhaul (including the original Director’s Cut of the sequel), which is something no genre lover will want to miss out on experiencing. Arrow Video is also keeping busy on October 25th with the release of their impressive 17-disc box set celebrating trailblazing filmmaker Herschell Gordon Lewis, and the recent supernatural thriller Lights Out is making its way to Blu-ray and DVD as well.
Cult film enthusiasts are undoubtedly going to be busy this Tuesday, with Severin Films releasing a 2K version of Burial Ground, Blue Underground showing Lucio Fulci’s Manhattan Baby some love this week, and Vinegar Syndrome giving...
Cult film enthusiasts are undoubtedly going to be busy this Tuesday, with Severin Films releasing a 2K version of Burial Ground, Blue Underground showing Lucio Fulci’s Manhattan Baby some love this week, and Vinegar Syndrome giving...
- 10/25/2016
- by Heather Wixson
- DailyDead
On October 25th, Scream Factory will give horror fans an early Halloween treat with their Collector's Edition Blu-ray release of The Exorcist III, and we've been provided with three copies to give away to Daily Dead readers.
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Prize Details: (3) Winners will receive (1) copy of The Exorcist III Collector's Edition Blu-ray.
How to Enter: For a chance to win, email contest@dailydead.com with the subject “The Exorcist III Contest”. Be sure to include your name and mailing address.
Entry Details: The contest will end at 12:01am Est on October 30th. This contest is only open to those who are eighteen years of age or older that live in the United States. Only one entry per household will be accepted.
————
From the Press Release: Los Angeles, CA – William Peter Blatty’s cult favorite The Exorcist III [Collector’s Edition] will be bearing its cross on a 2-disc Collector’s Edition Blu-ray set from Scream Factory on October 25th,...
————
Prize Details: (3) Winners will receive (1) copy of The Exorcist III Collector's Edition Blu-ray.
How to Enter: For a chance to win, email contest@dailydead.com with the subject “The Exorcist III Contest”. Be sure to include your name and mailing address.
Entry Details: The contest will end at 12:01am Est on October 30th. This contest is only open to those who are eighteen years of age or older that live in the United States. Only one entry per household will be accepted.
————
From the Press Release: Los Angeles, CA – William Peter Blatty’s cult favorite The Exorcist III [Collector’s Edition] will be bearing its cross on a 2-disc Collector’s Edition Blu-ray set from Scream Factory on October 25th,...
- 10/24/2016
- by Derek Anderson
- DailyDead
On October 25th, Scream Factory will give horror fans an early Halloween treat with their Collector's Edition Blu-ray release of The Exorcist III, and we have high-def clips and a trailer that teases the film's 2K transfer.
From the Press Release: Los Angeles, CA – William Peter Blatty’s cult favorite The Exorcist III [Collector’s Edition] will be bearing its cross on a 2-disc Collector’s Edition Blu-ray set from Scream Factory on October 25th, 2016, in a partnership with Morgan Creek Productions. The must-have set boasts the first ever home entertainment release of the director’s cut, a brand-new, alternate version of The Exorcist III, reflecting William Peter Blatty’s original vision of his novel Legion.
The Exorcist III [Collector’s Edition] also features a new 2K transfer from the inter-positive, and over 4 hours of special features. Highlights from the special features include a new audio commentary with writer/director William Peter Blatty, and new interviews with producer Carter DeHaven,...
From the Press Release: Los Angeles, CA – William Peter Blatty’s cult favorite The Exorcist III [Collector’s Edition] will be bearing its cross on a 2-disc Collector’s Edition Blu-ray set from Scream Factory on October 25th, 2016, in a partnership with Morgan Creek Productions. The must-have set boasts the first ever home entertainment release of the director’s cut, a brand-new, alternate version of The Exorcist III, reflecting William Peter Blatty’s original vision of his novel Legion.
The Exorcist III [Collector’s Edition] also features a new 2K transfer from the inter-positive, and over 4 hours of special features. Highlights from the special features include a new audio commentary with writer/director William Peter Blatty, and new interviews with producer Carter DeHaven,...
- 10/22/2016
- by Derek Anderson
- DailyDead
In my mind, I have always found Exorcist III not only scarier than the original film. Ever since I saw the film on home video in the 90’s, I think the film becomes even more haunting as I get older. Later, I heard that Blatty, the author of The Exorcist and the writer/director of Exorcist III, had to re-shoot an ending that included an exorcism which was mandated by the studio. For years, a “director’s cut” has been on the whispers of genre fans worldwide. Late last year, I found a tasty morsel of information that this rumored “director’s cut” was happening. Bigger genre sites picked it up immediately after our little site was the first to dig up the info from the source, TheNinthConfiguration.com, some credited us to finding the info and bringing it to the attention of many, most of the sites didn’t attribute us.
- 9/14/2016
- by Andy Triefenbach
- Destroy the Brain
Scream Factory will make this Halloween season one to remember with their Collector's Edition Blu-ray release of William Peter Blatty’s The Exorcist III, featuring a 2K scan of the inter-positive and new interviews with the cast and crew:
Press Release: Los Angeles, CA – William Peter Blatty’s cult favorite The Exorcist III [Collector’s Edition] will be bearing its cross on a 2-disc Collector’s Edition Blu-ray set from Scream Factory on October 25th, 2016, in a partnership with Morgan Creek Productions. The must-have set boasts the first ever home entertainment release of the director’s cut, a brand-new, alternate version of The Exorcist III, reflecting William Peter Blatty’s original vision of his novel Legion.
The Exorcist III [Collector’s Edition] also features a new 2K transfer from the inter-positive, and over 4 hours of special features. Highlights from the special features include a new audio commentary with writer/director William Peter Blatty, and new interviews with producer Carter DeHaven,...
Press Release: Los Angeles, CA – William Peter Blatty’s cult favorite The Exorcist III [Collector’s Edition] will be bearing its cross on a 2-disc Collector’s Edition Blu-ray set from Scream Factory on October 25th, 2016, in a partnership with Morgan Creek Productions. The must-have set boasts the first ever home entertainment release of the director’s cut, a brand-new, alternate version of The Exorcist III, reflecting William Peter Blatty’s original vision of his novel Legion.
The Exorcist III [Collector’s Edition] also features a new 2K transfer from the inter-positive, and over 4 hours of special features. Highlights from the special features include a new audio commentary with writer/director William Peter Blatty, and new interviews with producer Carter DeHaven,...
- 9/13/2016
- by Derek Anderson
- DailyDead
Savant UK correspondent Lee Broughton analyzes one of his favorite pictures starring Stacy Keach, who seemed to make only cult items in the '70s and '80s. William Peter Blatty dishes out a thick mix of comedy and dark soul-searching about the human condition as a Caligari- insane asylum, but with new twists. The Ninth Configuration Second Sight Region B Blu-ray 1980 / Colour / 2.35:1 enhanced widescreen / 118 m. / available through Amazon.uk Starring Stacy Keach, Scott Wilson, Jason Miller, Ed Flanders, Neville Brand, George Dicenzo, Moses Gunn, Robert Loggia, Joe Spinell, Tom Atkins. Cinematography Gerry Fisher Production Design William Malley Film Editors Peter Taylor, T. Battle Davis, Roberto Silvi, Peter Lee-Thompson Original Music Barry DeVorzon Written, Produced and Directed by William Peter Blatty from his novel
Reviewed by Lee Broughton
(Note: Savant reviews as a guest at Tfh. Here I stretch my prerogatives by presenting a review from Lee Broughton, a valued U.
Reviewed by Lee Broughton
(Note: Savant reviews as a guest at Tfh. Here I stretch my prerogatives by presenting a review from Lee Broughton, a valued U.
- 6/26/2016
- by Glenn Erickson
- Trailers from Hell
By Lee Pfeiffer
Sony has released Walter Hill's 1975 directorial debut, Hard Times, on on DVD through their Sony Choice Collection. Hill was an up-and-coming screenwriter with Peckinpah's The Getaway to his credit as well as solid thrillers like The Drowning Pool, The Mackintosh Man and Hickey and Boggs. There is no evidence in Hard Times that Hill was a novice behind the camera, either. This is one of my favorite films of the period, though many retro movie fans probably haven't seen it. The story is set in 1933. Chaney (Charles Bronson) is a middle-aged drifter who ends up crossing paths with Speed (James Coburn), a fast-talking promoter of "street fights" (no holds barred matches between local tough guys with no rules or regulations). Needing some quick cash, the soft-spoken, low-key Chaney forms a partnership with the mercurial Speed. In his first match, they win big when Chaney knocks the...
Sony has released Walter Hill's 1975 directorial debut, Hard Times, on on DVD through their Sony Choice Collection. Hill was an up-and-coming screenwriter with Peckinpah's The Getaway to his credit as well as solid thrillers like The Drowning Pool, The Mackintosh Man and Hickey and Boggs. There is no evidence in Hard Times that Hill was a novice behind the camera, either. This is one of my favorite films of the period, though many retro movie fans probably haven't seen it. The story is set in 1933. Chaney (Charles Bronson) is a middle-aged drifter who ends up crossing paths with Speed (James Coburn), a fast-talking promoter of "street fights" (no holds barred matches between local tough guys with no rules or regulations). Needing some quick cash, the soft-spoken, low-key Chaney forms a partnership with the mercurial Speed. In his first match, they win big when Chaney knocks the...
- 5/5/2016
- by nospam@example.com (Cinema Retro)
- Cinemaretro.com
Guns! Guns! Guns! John Milius' rootin' tootin' bio of the most famous of the '30s bandits has plenty of good things to its credit, especially its terrific, funny cast, topped by the unlikely star Warren Oates. The battles between Dillinger's team of all-star bank robbers and Ben Johnson's G-Man aren't neglected, as Milius savors every gun recoil and Tommy gun blast. Dillinger Blu-ray + DVD Arrow Video U.S. 1973 / Color / 1:85 widescreen / 107 min. / Street Date April 26, 2016 / 39.95 Starring Warren Oates, Ben Johnson, Michelle Phillips, Cloris Leachman, Harry Dean Stanton, Geoffrey Lewis, John Ryan, Richard Dreyfuss, Steve Kanaly, John Martino, Roy Jenson, Frank McRae. Cinematography Jules Brenner Special Effects A.D. Flowers, Cliff Wenger Edited by Fred R. Feitshans, Jr. Original Music Barry De Vorzon Produced by Buzz Feitshans Written and Directed by John Milius
Reviewed by Glenn Erickson
There it was in the dentist's office, an article in either...
Reviewed by Glenn Erickson
There it was in the dentist's office, an article in either...
- 4/19/2016
- by Glenn Erickson
- Trailers from Hell
Every year, we here at Sound On Sight celebrate the month of October with 31 Days of Horror; and every year, I update the list of my favourite horror films ever made. Last year, I released a list that included 150 picks. This year, I’ll be upgrading the list, making minor alterations, changing the rankings, adding new entries, and possibly removing a few titles. I’ve also decided to publish each post backwards this time for one reason: the new additions appear lower on my list, whereas my top 50 haven’t changed much, except for maybe in ranking. I am including documentaries, short films and mini series, only as special mentions – along with a few features that can qualify as horror, but barely do.
Come Back Tonight To See My List Of The 200 Best!
****
Special Mention:
Wait until Dark
Directed by Terence Young
Written by Robert Carrington
USA, 1967
Directed by Terence Young,...
Come Back Tonight To See My List Of The 200 Best!
****
Special Mention:
Wait until Dark
Directed by Terence Young
Written by Robert Carrington
USA, 1967
Directed by Terence Young,...
- 10/31/2013
- by Ricky
- SoundOnSight
By Lee Pfeiffer
Twilight Time has released Walter Hill's 1975 directorial debut, Hard Times, on Blu-ray as a limited edition (3,000 units). Hill was an up-and-coming screenwriter with Peckinpah's The Getaway to his credit as well as solid thrillers like The Drowning Pool, The Mackintosh Man and Hickey and Boggs. There is no evidence in Hard Times that Hill was a novice behind the camera, either. This is one of my favorite films of the period, though many retro movie fans probably haven't seen it. The story is set in 1933. Chaney (Charles Bronson) is a middle-aged drifter who ends up crossing paths with Speed (James Coburn), a fast-talking promoter of "street fights" (no holds barred matches between local tough guys with no rules or regulations). Needing some quick cash, the soft-spoken, low-key Chaney forms a partnership with the mercurial Speed. In his first match, they win big when Chaney knocks the...
Twilight Time has released Walter Hill's 1975 directorial debut, Hard Times, on Blu-ray as a limited edition (3,000 units). Hill was an up-and-coming screenwriter with Peckinpah's The Getaway to his credit as well as solid thrillers like The Drowning Pool, The Mackintosh Man and Hickey and Boggs. There is no evidence in Hard Times that Hill was a novice behind the camera, either. This is one of my favorite films of the period, though many retro movie fans probably haven't seen it. The story is set in 1933. Chaney (Charles Bronson) is a middle-aged drifter who ends up crossing paths with Speed (James Coburn), a fast-talking promoter of "street fights" (no holds barred matches between local tough guys with no rules or regulations). Needing some quick cash, the soft-spoken, low-key Chaney forms a partnership with the mercurial Speed. In his first match, they win big when Chaney knocks the...
- 8/25/2013
- by nospam@example.com (Cinema Retro)
- Cinemaretro.com
No one could touch Charles Bronson in terms of global popularity throughout the 1970’s and Hard Times was his best film from that decade (my favorite for cinema, the only films from the ‘70s I would personally rate above Hard Times are Taxi Driver, Texas Chainsaw Massacre, and The Godfather). Walter Hill, in his 1976 directorial debut, made a remarkably earthy and entertaining film about illegal bare-knuckle fighting in Depression-era New Orleans. Hard Times, whose succinct tag line read “New Orleans 1933, in those days words didn’t buy much”, perfectly exploits Bronson’s granite presence and is a concise, almost mythical celebration of men who only communicate with their fists. Bronson is Chaney, a hardened loner who hops off a freight train in New Orleans where he tries to score some quick cash the only way he knows how-with his fists.
The fight scenes in Hard Times, which seem authentic rather over-choreographed,...
The fight scenes in Hard Times, which seem authentic rather over-choreographed,...
- 6/25/2013
- by Tom Stockman
- WeAreMovieGeeks.com
Ever since the release of the Academy Award nominated The Exorcist, back in 1973, Hollywood has benefited quite a bit from movies about exorcism, and the box office numbers show no signs of recession. With the release of The Last Exorcism 2, I decided to spotlight three films that are criminally overlooked, and that I think fans would definitely enjoy.
****
Here Comes the Devil
Directed Adrián García Bogliano
Screenplay by Adrián García Bogliano
2012, Mexico
From Argentinian filmmaker Adrián García Bogliano, Here Comes the Devil, is a coming of age tale of demonic possession, sexual awakening and suspected child abuse. Staying clear of the typical traps of exploitation, Bogliano takes a low-key, less graphic approach to the unearthly proceedings. This isn’t your standard possession film. That’s not to say there aren’t displays of the supernatural, but those hoping for frightening exorcisms may be disappointed (although you will get scenes of levitation,...
****
Here Comes the Devil
Directed Adrián García Bogliano
Screenplay by Adrián García Bogliano
2012, Mexico
From Argentinian filmmaker Adrián García Bogliano, Here Comes the Devil, is a coming of age tale of demonic possession, sexual awakening and suspected child abuse. Staying clear of the typical traps of exploitation, Bogliano takes a low-key, less graphic approach to the unearthly proceedings. This isn’t your standard possession film. That’s not to say there aren’t displays of the supernatural, but those hoping for frightening exorcisms may be disappointed (although you will get scenes of levitation,...
- 2/23/2013
- by Ricky da Conceição
- SoundOnSight
by Nick Schager
[This week's "Retro Active" pick is inspired by Liza Johnson's vet-home-from-duty drama Return.]
Infused with an atonality that's responsible for both its uneasy power as well as considerable pretentiousness, 1980's The Ninth Configuration finds Exorcist author William Peter Blatty following up his horror classic with something decidedly more "serious": an adaptation of his own novel "Twinkle, Twinkle, Killer Kane," which he wrote in 1966 and then rewrote in 1978 under this film's title. Here directing as well as scripting, Blatty jaggedly melds atmospheres with his tale of a remote Pacific Northwest castle that secretly houses army vets who've gone insane due to combat (or combat-anticipation) stress, delivering a mood that's part Catch-22 farcical, part haunted-house spooky. That latter mode is dominant early, as Blatty introduces his mist-enshrouded locale through aerial shots scored to the mismatched sound of Barry Devorzon's sweet "San Antone," and then delivers the haunting sight of a docked U.S. spaceship being dwarfed on the horizon by the ominously rising moon.
[This week's "Retro Active" pick is inspired by Liza Johnson's vet-home-from-duty drama Return.]
Infused with an atonality that's responsible for both its uneasy power as well as considerable pretentiousness, 1980's The Ninth Configuration finds Exorcist author William Peter Blatty following up his horror classic with something decidedly more "serious": an adaptation of his own novel "Twinkle, Twinkle, Killer Kane," which he wrote in 1966 and then rewrote in 1978 under this film's title. Here directing as well as scripting, Blatty jaggedly melds atmospheres with his tale of a remote Pacific Northwest castle that secretly houses army vets who've gone insane due to combat (or combat-anticipation) stress, delivering a mood that's part Catch-22 farcical, part haunted-house spooky. That latter mode is dominant early, as Blatty introduces his mist-enshrouded locale through aerial shots scored to the mismatched sound of Barry Devorzon's sweet "San Antone," and then delivers the haunting sight of a docked U.S. spaceship being dwarfed on the horizon by the ominously rising moon.
- 2/13/2012
- GreenCine Daily
Beginning today, TCM.s 31 Days Of Oscar® and host, Robert Osborne are taking viewers on a trip around the world through nearly 350 Academy Award®-nominated and winning films. Throughout the month, TCM will feature movies set in 47 worldwide locations such as Canada (Feb. 2), Germany (Feb. 7), Italy (Feb. 14), Africa (Feb. 15-16), Russia (Feb. 16), Southeast Asia (Feb. 23), the Middle East (Feb. 28), China (Feb. 29), Japan (March 1) and Hawaii (March 1). Sit back and enjoy the adventure!
Turner Classic Movies (TCM) is packing its bags and hitting the road for a globe-trotting February packed with the very best in movie entertainment. With each night.s programming set in a different location, the 2012 edition of TCM.s ultra-popular 31 Days Of Oscar® is going to take viewers on a trip around the world through nearly 350 Academy Award®-nominated and winning films. The extraordinary lineup features 25 Best Picture honorees and 30 movies appearing on TCM for the very first time.
Turner Classic Movies (TCM) is packing its bags and hitting the road for a globe-trotting February packed with the very best in movie entertainment. With each night.s programming set in a different location, the 2012 edition of TCM.s ultra-popular 31 Days Of Oscar® is going to take viewers on a trip around the world through nearly 350 Academy Award®-nominated and winning films. The extraordinary lineup features 25 Best Picture honorees and 30 movies appearing on TCM for the very first time.
- 2/2/2012
- by Michelle McCue
- WeAreMovieGeeks.com
The Warriors
Directed by Walter Hill
Screenplay by David Shaber and Walter Hill
1979, USA
Even if you haven’t seen The Warriors, you’ve most likely heard someone quote the film numerous times. Of all the many classic one liners spoken in the movie, perhaps the most memorable was, “Waaaaariors, come out to plaaaay.” If that line doesn’t ring a bell, than perhaps you’ve heard of the 2005, smash hit video game adaptation/prequel, titled Grand Theft Auto, created by Rockstar Games. Did you know that aside from clearly being inspired by The Warriors, many of the cast members provided voice acting support for the game?
Director Walter Hill (Streets of Fire, The Driver) delivers a campy, shameless but thoroughly entertaining thrill ride with his third feature film. Based on the 1965 novel by Sol Yurick, the action, fantasy, stylized exploitation picture features a very simple but effective plot, following...
Directed by Walter Hill
Screenplay by David Shaber and Walter Hill
1979, USA
Even if you haven’t seen The Warriors, you’ve most likely heard someone quote the film numerous times. Of all the many classic one liners spoken in the movie, perhaps the most memorable was, “Waaaaariors, come out to plaaaay.” If that line doesn’t ring a bell, than perhaps you’ve heard of the 2005, smash hit video game adaptation/prequel, titled Grand Theft Auto, created by Rockstar Games. Did you know that aside from clearly being inspired by The Warriors, many of the cast members provided voice acting support for the game?
Director Walter Hill (Streets of Fire, The Driver) delivers a campy, shameless but thoroughly entertaining thrill ride with his third feature film. Based on the 1965 novel by Sol Yurick, the action, fantasy, stylized exploitation picture features a very simple but effective plot, following...
- 4/8/2011
- by Ricky
- SoundOnSight
This past Tuesday, Fred Dekker's beloved cult classic Night Of The Creeps finally got a much deserved DVD and Blu-Ray release and in celebration, Dark Delicacies in Burbank, California put together a pretty impressive event. Besides the DVD/Blu-Ray, the shop was carrying the Night Of The Creeps CD soundtrack, as well as the CD soundtrack for Child's Play , both limited pressings and just freshly released by La-La Records. On hand to sign CD's & DVD's were Night Of The Creeps director Fred Dekker ( The Monster Squad ) and composer Barry Devorzon, along with Child's Play director Tom Holland. (Child's Play composer Joe Renzetti pre-signed multiple copies of the score prior to the event.) Fans lined up to meet both cult directors, who up until this very evening had never...
- 10/29/2009
- shocktillyoudrop.com
I remember seeing Night Of The Creeps when it was released in 1986. I hadn’t seen the trailer and didn’t know anything about the movie, but a friend invited me at the last minute, and, hey, being 11 at the time, any chance to see an R-rated horror movie was an opportunity I would never pass up. While first-time writer-director Fred Dekker’s Sf-horror pastiche bombed at the box office and quickly left theaters, I Loved the film. I watched it a few times afterward when it showed up on cable, but I haven’t seen Night Of The Creeps in nearly 20 years. So when I heard that Sony Pictures Home Entertainment was releasing a Director’s Cut of the film on DVD ($19.95; also Blu-ray $24.95), I couldn’t wait to revisit it, but I was trepidatious about how it has aged over the years. Well, Night Of The Creeps is...
- 10/25/2009
- by no-reply@starlog.com (Allan Dart)
- Starlog
La-La Land Records passed on info and cover art from two upcoming limited-edition soundtrack CDs for a pair of beloved horror films: Fred Dekker’s Night Of The Creeps (scored by Barry DeVorzon) and Tom Holland’s Child’S Play (music by Joe Renzetti). Burbank-area fans will have the chance to get both these discs signed, thanks to a special event at horror bookstore Dark Delicacies (4213 West Burbank Boulevard).
The Creeps soundtrack, limited to 2,000 units, includes 25 pieces of music, including 21 score tracks and four vintage songs, plus an audio interview with DeVorzon, for a total running time of 71 minutes, 26 seconds. Here are the details:
1. Main Title (3:32)
2. The Axe Man Cometh (1:15)
3. I’m Your Bud (:37)
4. Cylo Lab/It’s Alive (2:42)
5. Thrill Me’s Dream (:53)
6. Cindy’s Scream (3:43)
7. Done With an Axe (:33)
8. Screaming Like Banshees (1:23)
9. Zombie Cat/Zombie (:27)
10. The Bathroom Stall (2:38)
11. Will You Go With Me?...
The Creeps soundtrack, limited to 2,000 units, includes 25 pieces of music, including 21 score tracks and four vintage songs, plus an audio interview with DeVorzon, for a total running time of 71 minutes, 26 seconds. Here are the details:
1. Main Title (3:32)
2. The Axe Man Cometh (1:15)
3. I’m Your Bud (:37)
4. Cylo Lab/It’s Alive (2:42)
5. Thrill Me’s Dream (:53)
6. Cindy’s Scream (3:43)
7. Done With an Axe (:33)
8. Screaming Like Banshees (1:23)
9. Zombie Cat/Zombie (:27)
10. The Bathroom Stall (2:38)
11. Will You Go With Me?...
- 10/14/2009
- by no-reply@fangoria.com (Michael Gingold)
- Fangoria
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