Rich–It: The Oscar Predictions (Sunday, Feb. 22nd at 5pm/PST on ABC)

Rich–It: The Oscar Predictions (Sunday, Feb. 22nd at 5pm/PST on ABC)

I’ll only predict the categories that matter to me. I have seen most of these films but I’ve been working on watching everything to give my best prediction. Again these are the choices I’ve made for who I want to win not who will win because we all know how unpredictable that can be. Comment away…

Performance by an actor in a leading role
Richard Jenkins in “The Visitor” (Overture Films)
Frank Langella in “Frost/Nixon” (Universal)
Sean Penn in “Milk” (Focus Features)
Brad Pitt in “The Curious Case of Benjamin Button” (Paramount and Warner Bros.)
Mickey Rourke in “The Wrestler” (Fox Searchlight)

* I chose Mickey because his performance goes beyond what an actor does for a role. It was a toss up between Sean Penn and Mickey. Ultimately, Rourke’s character work here deserves this award.


Performance by an actor in a supporting role
Josh Brolin in “Milk” (Focus Features)
Robert Downey Jr. in “Tropic Thunder” (DreamWorks, Distributed by DreamWorks/Paramount)
Philip Seymour Hoffman in “Doubt” (Miramax)
Heath Ledger in “The Dark Knight” (Warner Bros.)
Michael Shannon in “Revolutionary Road” (DreamWorks, Distributed by Paramount Vantage)

* This was a no-brainer for me. Heath turned something comical and odd to downright savage and unsettling. You will be missed.


Performance by an actress in a leading role
Anne Hathaway in “Rachel Getting Married” (Sony Pictures Classics)
Angelina Jolie in “Changeling” (Universal)
Melissa Leo in “Frozen River” (Sony Pictures Classics)
Meryl Streep in “Doubt” (Miramax)
Kate Winslet in “The Reader” (The Weinstein Company)

* This one was tough for me but I went with Kate. She deserves more than anyone. Her career and her work on this film shows her quality. Meryl was great as was Anne but it belongs to Kate this year.


Performance by an actress in a supporting role
Amy Adams in “Doubt” (Miramax)
Penélope Cruz in “Vicky Cristina Barcelona” (The Weinstein Company)
Viola Davis in “Doubt” (Miramax)
Taraji P. Henson in “The Curious Case of Benjamin Button” (Paramount and Warner Bros.)
Marisa Tomei in “The Wrestler” (Fox Searchlight)

*There were 4 greats in this category. Marisa was great and Penelope turned in something genuine and Viola was tough to watch without feeling as helpless as her character. But Amy’s character was so natural and when she is pushed in the film Doubt. You can see her heart and morals cracking.. truly deserving.


Best animated feature film of the year
“Bolt” (Walt Disney), Chris Williams and Byron Howard
“Kung Fu Panda” (DreamWorks Animation, Distributed by Paramount), John Stevenson and Mark Osborne
“WALL-E” (Walt Disney), Andrew Stanton

* There are many levels at work in Wall-e. It trancsends what animation was made for. Full of heart, imagination, purpose and social awareness..it is the defining animated film of the year.


Achievement in directing
“The Curious Case of Benjamin Button” (Paramount and Warner Bros.), David Fincher
“Frost/Nixon” (Universal), Ron Howard
“Milk” (Focus Features), Gus Van Sant
“The Reader” (The Weinstein Company), Stephen Daldry
“Slumdog Millionaire” (Fox Searchlight), Danny Boyle


Best motion picture of the year
“The Curious Case of Benjamin Button”
“Frost/Nixon”
“Milk”
“The Reader”
“Slumdog Millionaire”

*I'm pretty sure this will be the upset of the night but Slumdog is in a prime position to win. Frost/Nixon is a mirror to the last eight years of president running the country for his own interests not those of the people.

Thanks For Reading Comment Away

Into the Wild - DVD

How many times have you felt like leaving society behind? Most of us fear leaving the confines of the everyday world. Our routine is what keeps us safe and taking chances are few and far between. Some might say that people who live without a care in the world are foolish and lazy. How can you go through life not caring about money, shelter, food, or human connection?

Into The Wild is the true story (written by Jon Krakauer) of Christopher Mccandless (Emile Hirsch), a college graduate who decides to leave the world he’s known for a life in the Alaskan wilderness. This is a gripping story that quickly blooms in to something else entirely. Emile reminds me of a young Leonardo DiCaprio. His defiant charm and confidence really opens your eyes to a world we never see. There are several layers at work here, which I don’t want to dissect but unfold nicely. Along the way he encounters some very interesting and beautiful characters. Catherine Keener is the middle aged hippie chick that longs for her son. Kristen Stewart is that young, wide-eyed soul looking for love. Hal Holbrook is the widowed elderly man longing for a final chance at a family. What Chris does along the journey is touch others. He opens their eyes to something special and in turn, they want him to abandon his quest and stay. Unfortunately, Chris is too focused to find his life in the Alaskan wild. Chris’ parents, played by William Hurt and Marcia Gay Harden (amazing actress), have given their boy a life that may seem ordinary to some. But sadly his family is full of secrets, inconsistencies and a lack of genuine love (or so one would think)

This is fantastic story with great performances from Emile and the supporting cast. The soundtrack with songs from Eddie Veder, fit so well into the story and really bring this voyage to life. I do have some issues with the movie though. At 2.5 hours, the film is a little long. Into the Wild is directed by Sean Penn and for the most part he sticks to telling the story. Although at times, he gets a little pretentious with some shots and scenes. I feel that I would need to read the book to do this story justice but this film is quite good. Rent This: B+

Forgetting Sarah Marshall - DVD

I'm so sorry I missed this movie in theaters. I literally laughed out loud throughout. Forgetting Sarah Marshall is a different kind of romantic comedy. One that leads with comedy first and fulfills in the romance category with ease.

Jason Segel is a new favorite (His next film is I Love You, Man). He plays Peter, a tv composer for show called Crime Scene (A really great spoof of CSI) who is dating the shows leading lady, Sarah Marshall played by Kristen Bell. Sarah feels its time to move on from Peter and in turn crushes this poor guy. His downward spiral is so funny but very sad. His step-brother Brian, Bill Hader, convinces Peter to go on vacation to get him out of his depression. So Peter jets off to Hawaii only to find that his ex Sarah and new boyfriend Aldous, Russell Brand, are vacationing at the same resort. Peter feels he should leave but Front Desk Manager Rachel, Mila Kunis, gives him a reason to stay.

Mila Kunis stood out for me here. She impressed me beyond belief. Her acting was great. We'd only seen her in 'That 70's Show' and heard her in Family Guy as Meg but she is a stand out in the movie. Funny and sweet with a lot of charisma. There are a lot of great characters that make up this hilarious movie. Jonah Hill, Paul Rudd, Jack McBrayer and Kristen Wiig all have great moments in the movie. Its not your typical gross out comedy. It rises to a level that I hope more films will try to achieve. Oh and you have to love the 'Dracula puppet musical' Fantastic stuff. Rent This: A

Confessions of Shopaholic

I'm not sure I understand the compulsion to shop. When I walk in to a store, I head straight for what I need. I rarely browse or buy over and above what I was looking for. Yet as I watched Confessions of a Shopaholic I began to see a bit of myself in Isla Fisher's 'Rebecca Bloomwood'. (Note: I've never read the books) I am addicted to Amazon.com. I buy everything and anything I want from that site. I peruse it everyday just to see if there is anything I might need. A new DVD, some more music, a new gadget for my blackberry. So in a way I am shopaholic. "My name is Rich and I am a shopaholic". lol . I like getting new things that make me feel better about myself.

That is one aspect that the film gets right. Rebecca is a clumsy, funny, good natured girl with a serious compulsion that has lead her into debt. The apt she shares with her roommate ( a character I felt the film forced on us) is packed with stuff. Clothes, shoes and accessories are everywhere. Her credit cards are maxed out and she is drowning in credit card bills. Although you'd think that paying her bills would be her first priority, its landing a job at Allet fashion magazine that takes precedent. Without giving too much more away, she meets a dreamy young professional and son of a socialite named Luke Brandon played by Hugh Dancy (Claire Danes real life Fiance). Hugh was very good in the film. He worked with what they gave him and was able to pull of a charming performance. Other notable supporting characters are Rebecca's parents played by Joan Cusack and John Goodman. I loved these two. They added a much needed warmth and mild humor to the film. John Goodman has been a favorite of mine for years. His heart shows through every line he delivers and doesn't disappoint here. I almost wish there were more scenes with them but this story is about Rebecca's life in the city and her addiction.

Although I found the film to be enjoyable and entertaining, it does have its share of problems. The pop music soundtrack is extremely overused. I mean every time we see a chick walking in heels its this hip hop laced pop song blasting out of the speakers. It's like we get it, chicks walking in heels equals booty thump. I will say there is one acoustic cover version of Cyndi Laupers 'Girls Just Wanna Have Fun' that was very well done and came in at the right time. Then there was the CGI. You may ask what kind of effects would they have in this kind of film? Well its unexpected and I'll be honest kind of cool. However it is very distracting and not all together necessary. Also the story is far fetched. The villain in the movie or the 'Debt Collector' scenario is just not believable but it offers a good bit of balance. Finally, I hate to compare actress' but Isla is no Amy Adams. By that I mean I don't think Isla pulls off the funny, quirky girl to serious, dramatic moments as well as Amy Adams. I know its not a fair comparison but I just had to say it. Overall a lighthearted film that I think is made for teens or young twenty somethings? I am not entirely sure since it has blatant alcohol use and stories of bad debt and irresponsibility. Rich's Grade: C+

The Wrestler

The 80’s hold so many memories for me. Saturday Morning cartoons, Nintendo vs Sega, MTV (its heyday) and WrestleMania! My brother’s and I lived for the WWF. We would watch our heroes Hulk Hogan, Iron Sheik, Andre the Giant battle it out every week until the ultimate match up. We loved these guys and occasionally my older brother would re-enact such moves as the ‘Pile-Driver’ or ‘Body Slam’ on my younger brother and me. Lol. These wrestlers were icons for so many. Later we would find out that our ‘heroes’ had a list of problems from drug abuse to heavy steroid use.

The Wrestler brings a lot of these memories back. Its 80’s ‘Hair’ Band, anthem rock soundtrack and cheering crowds transport you to this world right from the start. It is the defining film in Mickey Rourke’s career. He transforms from an actor into Randy ‘The Ram’ flawlessly. His performance is absolutely stellar. I can’t say enough about how much my heart felt for this character. Although his acting was fantastic it was his physicality that brought this performance home. This man lives his life for the joy and energy of the crowd. It is his air and without it, he cannot exist.

Marisa Tomei plays Cassidy, an over the hill stripper who is a perfect mirror to the character of ‘The Ram’. She is really great in the role. She knows when to hold back and when to let go. Evan Rachel Wood is Randy’s estranged daughter. I’ll be honest she was a bit hard to swallow when first introduced. I almost wish someone else had played this role but in the end, it really didn’t affect my view of the entire film.

The Wrestler is a must see. It is a sweet, well acted, touching story told very well. Rich’s Grade: A

Coraline

Thank goodness there are still some great stories to tell and so what if they scare young children in the process. Newsflash kids! life is scary, get used to it. When I was growing up children's films and stories were scary. There was nothing sweet about Labyrinth, The Dark Crystal or the often overlooked Return to OZ. They were eerie, bizarre and made to ignite the imagination as well as creep us out. The thought that kids can't handle scary images saddens me. Imagine how much real world violence they are exposed to by the news and human history. You can't shield the world from your kids by always looking on the bright side. It has to be understood that there is darkness out there, that's why we value the light so much.

Neil Gaiman's Book and Henry Selick's directing have proven that you can take an audience into a fantastical story that will scare you but bring you to understand 'Be careful what you wish for'. Coraline is so effective as a film. Beautiful and technically amazing, it is definitely a film to catch in theaters. Our theater was packed and very responsive. They were really enjoying themselves while watching. Dakota Fanning and Teri Hatchers voice acting were fantastic. The animation is detailed and viewing it in 3D was a real feast for the eyes. The movie is quirky, smart, scary, funny and overall enjoyable. If you liked films like Nightmare Before Christmas and Corpse Bride, then you will enjoy Coraline. Rich's Grade: A

Revolutionary Road

Most of us have seen the "1950's American" way of life deconstructed before. If you've watched the tv series Mad Men ( which actually takes place in the year 1960) or films like Far From Heaven and Pleasantville, this concept is nothing new. What this film offers isn't so much a new story but its amazing performances. Both Kate Winslet and Leo Dicaprio (April and Frank Wheeler) hold their own in the film. Their tense battles and gut wrenching heartache on full display across each one's face. It is almost unbearable to watch at times because you feel awkward watching two people share love then fight so much. They both 'hit below the belt' because they know what hurt's the other the most.

Another subtle and fantastic performance is turned in by Kathy Bates. Her character, Helen Givings, has that touch of weakness we all have. She has to please others and keep up appearances even as her own son, John, has become hard to handle. She is a perfect counter to Kate Winslet's April who is only playing the role of perfect 50's wife. Michael Shannon plays John Givings and I have to admit his performance felt a little heavy handed for my taste. Nevertheless, it was effective enough to secure a best support actor nomination.

There are a couple of things that take some getting used to. The acting style is very different from modern movies. The film really wants to take you into this world, so the dialect of 1950 America is very apparent. Also the first 10 mins or so were a little tough for me as a viewer. I really didn't care enough for the characters to follow them through. However the movie picks up once we get a better look in to the couple's lives. Another set back is that the film is about 20 minutes too long. Don't get me wrong I was interested in the story but there were some scenes that could have been left out or shortened. I mean how long can we stare at something so miserable before it loses its affect? All in all a good film but you will not leave the theater all smiles. Rich's Grade: B+

My 10 Favorite Films of 2008 plus some other crap...

This list is in no particular order..read away

-Cloverfield-
New York yuppies get together to give Rob a going away party. He is in love with his best friend Lily but can not commit to her now that he is leaving. Meanwhile, A monster emerges from the depths of the ocean to destroy anything and anyone it see's. Our party goer's enter the streets of Manhattan in a shaky cam fight for survival. I loved the the first person view of the Camera. Although some people experienced motion sickness, I was able to follow it pretty well. Also I loved the grim ending Cool fact: The very last scene with the characters at Coney island, you see something fall from the sky and land in the water.

-Iron Man-
The superhero film that put Robert Downey Jr. back in the spotlight. Tony Stark is a weapons manufacturer and technical genius. After surviving an IED attack in Afghanistan, He returns home with a new sense of purpose and an electro-magnet in his chest that keeps him alive. The cast of the movie is great. The effects are awesome. There is plenty of humor, action and drama to keep you involved. The one thing I still do not like is the music. The score is bland and generic. I sure hope they get a better composer for the sequel.

-Wall-E-
By far one of my favorite Pixar films. It's funny because my other favorite is Finding Nemo and it was directed by the same person, Andrew Stanton. Wall-e is the last "clean-up" robot left on Earth. He is driven by function but has somehow grown a personality. He's longs for a connection with another being. This is a simple and sweet love story set against the devolution of human beings. There is a message about blatant consumerism and our current wasteful culture. However what holds me in this movie is the sincerity of the characters and the overall feeling that we are nothing without love. The animation is amazing!

-The Dark Knight-
I am a fan of Director Christopher Nolan. His films never cease to amaze me. Insomnia, Memento, and The Prestige are all top notch films. So when he tackled Batman Begins he really reinvented the character for today's audience. His Batman is tough, brooding, challenging and just plain cool.
So does the Dark Knight live up to the hype? Yes. There was a guy in our audience tonight who stood up during the credits and decided to share his opinion with his group of friends. He said "a lot of cool sequences but it doesn't live up to the hype." It actually made me a little angry only because I don't think he gave the film a chance to show him its worth. Should you go in blindly and not take the reviews to heart? Yes!. Even my mini review. This is a great film with great performances. So many things that I wasn't expecting. Amazing action, tense drama and some awesome thrills.
Hands down, Heath Ledger is amazing. He has taken a character that sometimes people dismiss because of his appearance and made him truly frightening. Don't get me wrong, I love Nicholson's Joker. I always will. This Joker is a disgusting son of a bitch. He is what you most fear, a man with nothing to lose. His performance will stun you while making you snicker. I am sorry Heath is gone. I would have loved to see him continue this role.
The rest of the cast is great. Bale owns Batman. Michael Caine is perfect as Alfred. Gary Oldman does very well. Another standout for me was Aaron Eckhart. He is amazing as Harvey Dent/Two Face. Very strong performance. I won't spoil the movie anymore. Go into this movie, sit down and let it take you, you will not be disappointed. I must admit some parts really annoyed me. Sorry Maggie you were hot in the Secretary but you've got nothing on Katie Holmes.
It saddens me to think that this 'real-world' Gotham Nolan created may not see the crazy villains of Batman's Universe. I would love to see Catwoman get another chance, or the Riddler or the Penguin for that matter. But we'll see. All the actors are signed for a third film, so lets hope it comes out great.


-The Fall-
Director Tarsem takes you on a very emotional and wondrous journey into the imagination of a young girl. The movie is filled with amazing visuals and costumes. The story has a such sweet sadness. Lee Pace is a great actor. He definitely needs more work. (see Soldiers Girl)

-Doubt-
Meryl Streep will surely be nominated for best actress this year. Her performance as Sister Aloysius was gripping. A pungent, evil woman who justifies her methods by believing she is doing the right thing. Amy Adams has a great supporting role as the young optimistic nun. Philip Seymour Hoffman turns in another strong performance. The movie plays very much like a stage play but I think it makes it work. The locations are slim because all that matters is what is going on in that Catholic School.

-Hellboy 2: The Golden Army-
Guillermo del Toro brings a fantastical world to life. I enjoyed this movie immensely because of the visuals, music, and story. Reality is killing fantasy and imagination. I'm glad this point was being made in the movie. Overall very entertaining and much better than the first film.

-Vicky Christina Barcelona-
This has become my favorite Woody Allen film since Bullets Over Broadway. The story is simple and so engaging. Vicky and Christina are spending the summer in Barcelona. They meet a charismatic Spanish man played by Javier Bardem. His passionate ex-wife is played by Penelope Cruz. Buy a bottle of your favorite wine and watch this movie. The atmosphere in the movie is so warm and makes you long for another life in a European country.

-Quarantine-
I don't know how many people saw this but I loved it! Its another first person camera kind of directing, like Cloverfield or the less succesful Diary of the Dead. The first 10 minutes is slow but when shit goes down, its awesome! The best part is that you're not entirely aware of whats around you or whats happening. This made me very uneasy. Great horror flick.

-Milk-
A moving bio-pic about Harvey Milk. Sean Penn will certainly be nominated for best actor. I enjoyed him in the movie more than I ever have before. The supporting cast is excellent. The politics of the movie mirror life today in a very sad and upsetting way.


Guilty Pleasures of 2008
Twilight - What can i says I love Vampires!
Mamma Mia! - What Can I say I love Vampires..I mean musicals :P


Worst Movies of 2008
The Women - How could anyone screw this classic up? Try uninspired casting and bullshit modern movie cliche's. Insulting to the audience it was meant for. Please see the original.

Mad Money- OMG talk about unwatchable. Queen Latifah is this movies saving grace. Katie Holmes is chewing scenery and Diane Keaton is a one note. Bad pacing, lame gags, and a flat story make this a real a stinker!

The Happening- Wow this movie was such crap! After the first 5 minutes it became the worst movie of the year. So So So Bad. Don't believe me, rent it! I dare you to watch for more than 20 mins max!

2008 Movies I have yet to see:
Slumdog Millionaire; Revolutionary Road; Curious Case of Benjamin Button;
Frost/Nixon; The Wrestler; The Reader; Valkyrie


Movies I'm looking forward to in 2009:
Coraline
Watchmen
X-men Origins: Wolverine
Up
Harry Potter and The Half Blood Prince
Terminator Salvation
Star Trek
2012
Where the Wild Things Are
New Moon
The Princess and the Frog

ya Cheers thanks a lot!

Rich

Comic Book Tattoo – Tales inspired by Tori Amos – Image 2008

Comic Book Tattoo – Tales inspired by Tori Amos – Image Comics 2008

Back Cover:

"Over 80 of the best creators from every style and genre, have contributed over 50 stories to this anthology featuring stories inspired by the songs of multi-platinum recording artist, Tori Amos."

Most might think that graphic novels paint stories easily and literally, almost like a storyboard for a film. Often however, they separate themselves from literal comic book works as pieces of pure art, such as Neil Gaiman's Sandman or Morrison and Mckeen's, Batman: Arkham Asylum. These artists and writers have the chance to open your mind with image and story but thankfully not always as you'd expect.

Saturday afternoon I received my copy of Comic Book Tattoo (named for a line in the song The Flying Dutchman by Tori Amos). I sat for 2.5 hours reading this amazing collection of stories shaped from the music and lyrics of Tori Amos. I won't lie, I am a huge Tori fan, mostly because her songs are always telling stories and never in the literal sense. It is essential sensory poetry.

The writers and artists creating these works moved me to tears, laughter and at times pure awe. What you see here is a collection of up and coming artists who transcend the ideas of what humanity holds within its imagination.

As a treat to myself, I would play each song to the story as I was reading (YouTube helps if you don't own all her work). It heightened the effect of the art work and the tale being told. I suggest, if you buy this, that you do the same. Also, take your time with it because these mini graphic stories are sometimes layered. I hate to admit this, but some stories fall flat. Some just didn't connect with me or the sense of the music. It's all up to interpretation.

Stories of note:

Winter – An amazingly touching and human story.

Bouncing Off Clouds –Very cute and cool story. Great art work.

Girl – Such an interesting story that pulled me into something entirely new from the lyrics

Marianne – Wow. Just call it picture poetry.

Programmable Soda – Very sweet and funny.

Little Amsterdam – Crazy, creepy..Tales from the Crypt. Lol

Here, in my hand – Awesome Fairytale

Waitress – Very involved and very detailed story.

1000 Oceans – Pure Design Awe

Hey Jupiter – Fairytale in all our minds.

Devils and Gods-Sci-fi whimsical tale with a touch on humanity



All in all a wonderfull coffee table book. Its huge! 12x12x1.5 inches, 480 pages. 20 bucks on Amazon.com

Worth every penny and a must have for any Tori fan or lover of graphic novels. Here's the song list just in case you were wondering can be found here:

http://www.toriamos.com/main_comic.html

La Misma Luna (Under the Same Moon)

La Misma Luna – 2007 (Spanish with English Subtitles)

In this tale illuminating the plight of illegal aliens, Kate del Castillo plays Rosario, a woman working illegally in the United States to provide a better life for her son Carlitos (Adrian Alonso), who remains at home in Mexico. Longing for his mother, Carlitos stows away on a van that's headed for the border. An already treacherous journey becomes even more so when Carlitos is separated from his smugglers (Jesse Garcia, America Ferrera).

There are times when a film shows you its true heart. There are times when a story surpasses it telling to touch you in the deepest of places. For example: Mi Familia, Fried Green Tomatoes, La Vie en Rose to name a few. These are stories where characters grow right before your eyes yet never lose that sense of familiarity. Just having wiped the last tear of uncompromising joy from my eye… This is one of those films.

The polarizing debate of illegal immigration gets a much needed human touch in this film by Indie director Patricia Riggen. This is not a political tale nor does it preach in support of either side. This is a story of love, separation and courage. A son longs for his mother. A mother longs for the son she left behind. Through unforeseen circumstances, 9yr old Carlitos (played by talented child actor Adrian Alonso) sets out to cross the American border in search of his mother who is living in LA. His journey is often scary and disheartening. He presses on, determined that his faith in love and his mother will get him where he needs to go.

There are many great performances by well known Latino actors. The best of these in my opinion are Kate del Castillo and Eugenio Derbez with honorable mention to Carmen Salinas. Kate gives an honest performance. Her character is motivated by loyalty and love. She will not blinded by anything or anyone when it comes to her son. Her vulnerability peaks toward the end of the film. She is such strong person without being overtly tough that when she does finally succumb to any kind of pain, your heart drops. Eugenio on other hand, adds a nice light to the drama of the movie. He slips in a couple one liners that are funny but not forced. That's the thing, none of these characters are forced. Their motivations are true and sincere not manipulated. (See-Babel, for case in point: WHAT NOT TO DO WITH YOUR CHARACTERS!!!)

I really don't think I can say how much more I loved this movie. I will admit that at times it gets a little sappy but don't worry, it will not ruin the ultimate heart of this film. BTW, I absolutely love the very last shot in the film. It is perfection. The soul that the writer and director put into this movie makes it all the more special. It would be a shame not to see it. La Misma Luna: A+

Thanks- Richard

Batman Blog 1 (Warning: Entering a Geek Zone)

Warning: The following blog is extremely geeky but will cover what Batman and the DC Universe mean to me as well as my mini reviews of all Batman films plus some other crap.lol enjoy and comment if you wish.

Batman has always been my favorite superhero. My close second of course is Wonder Woman, followed by Superman. I am DC Comics fan boy. Although I really appreciate Marvel comics for X-men and the Hulk (my two favorites of that universe). DC is the father of comic books while Marvel is like the cool uncle. lol. Sadly to date DC has not made very many films from their library of characters, well compared to Marvel.

My introduction to the Dark Knight was via re-runs of the 60's high camp series starring Adam West as Batman and Burt Ward as Robin. I think most people that I speak to or other fans my age started this way too. I was really young maybe 6 or 7. I was already a fan of the Wonder Woman re-runs. My dad would watch with me, mainly because he thought Lynda Carter was smoking hot! lol I watched
because she was just awesome (I'll save my love of Princess Diana for another blog). Well one Saturday afternoon, while surfing all 30 channels of cable, I fell upon this series. I loved it. I loved the Joker, played by Cesar Romero, with that
crazy laugh and that caked on white makeup to cover his mustache (seriously). I loved the Riddler and Penguin. My first Catwoman was Eartha Kitt. I didn't even realize there were some white women playing Catwoman before and after Eartha until a few years later.

After, watching the TV show for many years, I decided I wanted to start reading the comics. The first one I picked up was "The Killing Joke" (1988) which BTW
is one of the main influences on the movie coming out this weekend. After seeing the Joker being funny and I guess more zany than diabolical in the TV show, this Joker in the comic was fcking nuts! Its a grim story with amazing artwork and a standout among all of Batman's comics. I will admit I do not collect many comics. I rarely purchase them. I do not proclaim to be the absolute authority on all things
Batman but I know enough to warrant my views of the character. So its the summer 1989 and the rest is movie history...


Batman (1989)
Michael Keaton as Batman/Bruce Wayne
Jack Nicholson as The Joker/Jack Napier
Kim Basinger as Vicki Vale
Directed by Tim Burton

From the opening shot of the bat symbol and that huge score by Danny Elfman, you are transported to a very dark, corrupt, crowded, and crime riddled Gotham City. A place you would not want to be in at night, hell even in the daytime. This place sucks and the citizens of Gotham are shells. Empty frightened human beings. The current thing they fear the most is the mysterious Batman. In Batman's quest to fight crime and avenge his parents murder by ridding Gotham of criminals, he creates his nemesis, The Joker. The Joker, once known as gangster Jack Napier, slips from Batman's grip and falls into a vat of toxic waste. Joker's sole purpose is to wreak havoc on Gotham and somehow become its greatest hero (I use the term hero loosely, its like he was trying to get the city on his side so he could run the whole town).

Jack Nicholson stole the show in this movie. His interpretation of the Joker is decidedly deviant. He relishes in the pain of others. All the things that scare us, are cause for laughter in the Joker's mind. From disfiguring the public of Gotham by tainting household chemicals and cosmetics to scarring his once beautiful girlfriend, Alicia. "She just threw herself out of a window...hey you can't make an omelet without breaking a few eggs." Keaton's Batman is very tangible. AS I watched this film again the other day, I realized his Bruce Wayne is not arrogant but more approachable. As in his scenes with Vicki Vale, his mystery is there in his eyes but he gives of himself as a normal man. His best scene being the one that takes place in Vicki's apartment before the Joker rudely interrupts. His Batman, on the other hand, is really great. Tough and no nonsense. You get the sense that his brain is on overdrive and actively solving problems. Whats my next move and such. The grand finale is fantastic. The atmosphere built up to this point becomes the "now or never" moment for both characters. The Joker loses his cool but tries to maintain his confidence. Batman can see right through him, but what really pushes Batman at this point is the nail in the Joker's coffin "Tell me something, you ever
dance with the devil in the pale moonlight... I don't know, I just like the sound of it". One of the best comic book movies ever made. My Grade: A+



Batman Returns (1992)
Michael Keaton as Batman/Bruce Wayne
Michelle Pfeifer as Catwoman/Selina Kyle
Danny Devito as The Penguin/Oswald Cobblepot
Directed by Tim Burton

Its a dark and snowy Christmas in Gotham as the camera pans into the Cobblepot Mansion. A freakish baby boy has been born to High Society parents (played by Paul Reubens and Diane Salinger, Pee Wee and Simone from Pee Wee's Big Adventure
also directed by Tim Burton). So naturally the horrified parents throw the child, basket and all, into the river which carries him into the sewer. Queue Danny Elfman's haunting score and we are into the next chapter of the Batman saga. The abandoned child grows to become the Penguin. A rotund, foul mouthed, grotesque with a plan to ruin the families of Gotham city as well as becoming the next mayor. Meanwhile a mousy, pushover of a secretary named Selina Kyle, is walking through her life blindly. Her naivety and curiosity end up being her undoing. However with her death she is given a new lease on life. Biting, licking, gnawing, alley cats bring her back from the grave.

My favorite character in this film is Catwoman. She transitions so well from lowly assistant to slinky,crazy, Catwoman. You know this bitch is seriously twisted. All her life she has been put upon. Those around her, make her feel unimportant and invisible. When she transforms into Catwoman, all of those inhibitions go right out the window. "I don't know about you miss kitty, but I feel..so much yummier."
Towards the end, you realize that she wants to be normal again but her new life empowers her to be. There is no going back. The Penguin is a tragic character. I honestly feel sorry for him yeah he's being sadistic, exacting his revenge on the
first born children of Gotham but all he knows is envy. He was born unlike anyone else and he himself could never accept that. I will say that making his character sex hungry and perverse was a little strange for me. I guess growing up in sewer, you really don't get much action. His part in the finale is very sad but the moment is ruined somewhat by the lack of technology in those days. Hey, they did the best they could for the time. Batman, again played by Keaton was good although a bit out shined by the villains. His scenes with Michelle are some of the best in the movie. My Grade: B+
Side note: FCK you Pitof and Halle Berry for ruining an awesome character and for pulling Catwoman out of the Batman Mythos. You Bastards!



Batman Forever (1995)
Val Kilmer as Batman/Bruce Wayne
Jim Carrey as The Riddler/Edward Nigma
Tommy Lee Jones as Two-Face/Harvey Dent
Nicole Kidman as Dr. Chase Meridian
Chris O'donnell as Robin/Dick Grayson
Directed by Joel Shumacher

Okay so here begins the downward spiral of the Batman film franchise. We are introduced to Two-Face pulling off a bank robbery with one of the most annoying security guards in film history being placed in a safe which just so happens to fill up with acid. Kilmer's Batman comes to the rescue. From here on in the tone of the film is pretty much set. There are a lot of colors in this new Gotham Shumacher has created. There are constant moving lights, think rock concert lighting. We are introduced to Edward Nigma a scientist and inventor who needs more funding from Wayne enterprises but is denied. His envy of Bruce Wayne and his mind control/
thought stealing contraption help him to become the Riddler. One day Bruce is at the Circus with Chase and while the Flying Graysons are performing, Two-Face crashes the festivities. Robin witness' his families death and vows revenge on Two face. The finale is quite theatrical. Think rock star lighting and planetarium rolled into one.

I loved the costume design in this movie. The Riddler's outfits are fantastic down to the cane. Carrey's portrayal of him was pretty good actually but a little too over the top. Hell, the whole movie is over the top. This is so far removed from Burton's creation Tommy Lee is such a good actor but I found his Harvey Dent annoying. Everytime he was on screen I shuddered from disgust.lol. Cool Cameos
from Drew Barrymore and Debbie Mazar. Chris O'donnell was a perfect Robin but a tad too old for the part. Val Kilmer just didn't do it for me as Batman. Not bad but not good either. The best thing about the movie you ask? Its the soundtrack! Kiss from a Rose by Seal, U2, Mazzy Starr, PJ Harvey. Great soundtrack even today. My Grade: C+



Batman & Robin (1997)
George Clooney as Batman/Bruce Wayne
Chris O'Donnell as Robin/Dick Grayson
Arnold Shwarzenegger as Mr. Freeze/Dr. Victor Fries
Uma Thurman as Poison Ivy/Dr. Pamela Isley
Alicia Silverstone as Batgirl/Barbara Wilson
Directed by Joel Shumacher

Holy Crap Batman! what the hell is this?? Nipples on the bat suit you say? I'm not even going to go into too much detail about this one. lol. We get a new Batman played by George Clooney and guess what he sucks. lol George Clooney plays George Clooney in every role. I've never liked him as an actor and I don't think I ever will. You know he was just cashing this check because he really wasn't doing much at the time! Chris O'Donnell tried his best as Robin again. Although he looks hot as hell in this movie, he isn't given much to do except being a total fuck up whom Batman has to keep saving. Last time I checked, Batgirl was Barbara Gordon, Commissioner Gordon's daughter but not in Shumacher's movie. Gee, lets make her Alfred's niece and shoehorn her into the script shall we. Uma Thurman's Poison Ivy is campy and fun "My vines have a crush on you" but a waste of talent. And then there is AHNOLD! oh my god, could they have written him more ICE-puns? "Alright everyone, Chill" "Allow me to break the ice, my name is Mr. freeze" its like stop already. There is not a lot I like about this movie but its become sort of a guilty pleasure. Its just so bad. My Grade: D-



Batman Begins (2005)
Christian Bale as Batman/Bruce Wayne
Liam Neeson as Henry Ducard/Ra's Al Ghul
Cillian Murphy as The Scarecrow/Dr. Jonathan Crane

Thank God for Director Chris Nolan and Writer David Goyer. They saved Batman from the campy doom that was the last two movies.This is the story of how Bruce Wayne came to become Batman. After his parents untimely death, Bruce must come to grips with who he really is. Also exacts revenge on the man who killed them but sadly, fate has other plans for him. He has been split down the middle and decides to do some soul searching. It leads him into the hands of a mentor, Henry Ducard.
Ducard teaches Bruce the ways of the League of Shadows, a group of ninja assassins. Bruce returns to Gotham a changed man however while he's been away, organized crime has taken over. Bruce is believed to be dead to Wayne enterprises has been taken out from under him. He reclaims his company, discovers a giant cave beneath Wayne Manor and begins to enlist the help of Lucius Fox. Lucius is the man who has developed all the "wonderful toys" ( I couldn't help myself). While Batman is being born, a doctor by the name of Jonathan Crane begins creating his alter ego to instill fear in others, The Scarecrow.

This film resurrected Batman and brought him back to full glory in a very realistic way. I think they had to be drastic in tone to wash the taste of Shumacher's mess out of the audiences mouth. This is Christian Bale's movie. His Bruce Wayne is cocky, wild eyed, unashamed and determined. Although you can definitely see that he is struggling with his new persona. His relationship with his childhood friend and now love interest is faltering. His father figure in Ducard has let him down and betrayed his own moral sensibilities. Bale has got it down. I love the Scarecrow. What a fantastic villain for this story. His ability to create a drug induced fear was awesome. Ra's motivation is very finite. Let Gotham cave in on itself. Dog eat dog. But Batman knows he has to try to restore his city into what it was or what it could be ideally. Little does he know, that the more he tries to be a savior to the city, the more the criminals would need to up there antics. Which is precisely what happens at the end of Batman Begins. The joker has been unleashed on
the people of Gotham. My Grade: A



The DARK KNIGHT
I am a fan of Director Christopher Nolan. His films never cease to amaze me. Insomnia, Memento, and The Prestige are all top notch films.
Amazing!
So when he tackled Batman Begins he really reinvented the character for today's audience. His Batman is tough, brooding, challenging and just plain cool.
So does the Dark Knight live up to the hype? Yes. There was a guy in our audience tonight who stood up during the credits and decided to share his opinion with his group of friends. He said "a lot of cool sequences but it doesn't live up to the hype." It actually made a little angry only because I don't think he gave the film a chance to show him its worth. Should you go in blindly and not take the reviews to heart? Yes!. Even my mini review. This is a great film with great performances. So many things that I wasn't expecting. Amazing action, tense drama and some awesome thrills.
Hands down, Heath Ledger is amazing. He has taken a character that sometimes people dismiss because of his appearance and made him truly frightening. Don't ge me wrong I love Nicholson's Joker. I always will. This Joker is disgusting son of a bitch. He is what you most fear, a man with nothing to lose. His performance will stun you while making you snicker. I am sorry Heath is gone. I would have loved to see him continue this role.
The rest of the cast is great. Bale owns Batman. Michael Caine is perfect as Alfred. Gary Oldman does so well. Another standout for me was Aaron Eckhart. He is amazing as Harvey Dent/Two Face. Very strong performance. I won't spoil the movie anymore. Go into this movie, sit down and let it take you, you will not be disappointed. Btw I will say there are some minor flaws. Some parts really annoyed me, I think some of you will know what I mean when you see them. However not enough to deter me from seeing this again. Also, its sad to me that this world that Nolan has created may not see the crazy villains of Batman's Universe. I would love to see Catwoman get another chance, or the Riddler or the Penguin for that matter. But we'll see. All the actors are signed for a third film, so lets hope it comes out great.
My Grade: A+

Batman Blog 2 - coming soon. My rundown of Batman in animated form. Also where I describe and dissect his wonderful world of villains...or as they say his Rogue's Gallery.

Rich

comment away!!!!

My 10 Favorite Films of 2007 plus some other crap

My 10 Favorite Films of 2007

These are in no particular order. It may be a bit long so prepare to read. Comments are welcome.



-Juno-

Great performances by Ellen Page, Allison Janney and Jennifer Garner. Great dialogue and so much heart. Some critics have compared it to Little Miss Sunshine, but this movie is sooooooo much better. Can't wait to own it.



-La Vie en Rose-

Oscar worthy performance by Marion Cottillard as Edith Piaf. Fantastic film about the life of the French singer. Beautifully filmed and acted. Prepare yourself to be completely wrapped up in this movie.



-Bridge to Terrabithia-

I know some of you may think this is a childrens film but the themes in this film are very much adult. It can be considered a coming of age, escapist fantasy film. I never read the book growing up but this film reminds me a lot of the Neverending Story, which I love. I know that it was marketed as a fantasy film such as Narnia or Golden Compass but I believe the heart of this story is much better.



-Ratatouille-

This film is gorgeous! The story, artwork, voice talent are incredible. I love all Disney/Pixar films (except Cars, what a let down) but this film surpasses in story. The story is sweet, sad, funny, and clever. Worth watching over and over.



-Grindhouse-

I was one of the lucky few on opening weekend that was able to see the whole Grindhouse Experience (Tarantino and Rodriguez's double feature). The movie was not making enough money so the studio decided to split it up on DVD to recoup some of the box office loss. The two films are "Death Proof" and " Planet Terror". Death proof is absolute genius but you have to let yourself into the movie. Don't expect that you know what you are getting into it works best that way. Planet Terror is like watching the original Dawn of the Dead, very funny and gory with great action scenes. Both are great but distinctly different in tone.



-Superbad-

I've have not laughed out loud at a movie so much. Great film although the cop sequences can really try your patience. Hysterical film with a fair amount of Heart.



-Stardust-

A great film with fantastic performances by Michelle Pfeiffer, Robert De Niro, and Claire Danes. Claire Danes is just so good in this movie. I loved watching this and I really wish I had watched it in the theater. A charming romantic, epic, fantasy that equals A Princess Bride.



-The Host-

A Korean film about a monster that terrorizes the city. I know simple premise but the way this film is shot scares the hell out of me. To see the monster running behind camera (basically your P.O.V) or running along side you, basically trying to get you is insane. Its shot in broad day light mostly so there is no mystery as to what you are witnessing. Its funny, sad, suspenseful and scary all at the same time.



-Transformers-

I'm a sucker for popcorn flicks but this one was one hell of movie. It was funny, exciting, huge and let's face it a bit nostalgic. I loved Transformers all my life and the 1986 movie was amazing to see in the theater. So maybe I am biased but who cares, Transformers rock and this years film was spectacular.



-Waitress-

A sweet and funny film about a waitress with an a-hole husband and a talent for baking. Great dialogue and a bit predictable but enjoyable to watch. I think I'm going to bake a "I need a new job" Pie.



GUILTY PLEASURES of 2007

Norbit – Come on, this shit was funny. How you doin!

AVP-2 - Not a great film but damn bloody and fun.



WORST OF 2007

Smoking Aces – If you were able to get through 10 mins of this trash, you deserve a medal.

Spider-Man 3- WTF? This movie was everywhere!! I'd rather watch Spider-Man 2 TWICE than this piece of shit!

Shrek 3 – Ya know what? No more fckn shrek movies pleeeeeaaaaaaasssssssseeeeee! Sad attempt at plot and NO laughs!!!

Ghost Rider- OMG This movie was absolutely terrible. Don't even waste your time.



Looking forward to these films in 2008:

The Dark Knight

Cloverfield

Wall-E

Jumper

Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian

Where the Wild Things Are

Star Trek

Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince



ya Cheers, Thanks a lot!



Richie