Happy New Year!!!
Just for the record, I want to be clear that I will NOT be waiting to meet you atop the Empire State Building!! I'm famous for miscommunications, so I do not want to be held responsible for anyone waiting for hours, expecting me to show up. I'm in Houston, not in NY. Do not be hurt, mad or upset. Do not hunt me down and unload on me for not making it as agreed-- we have NO arrangement, NO agreements...
Ok, just wanted to sleep well tonight.
"When Harry met Sally (Sorry, Sallie, they spelled her name wrong.)," "Sleepless in Seattle" and "Affair to Remember" are three of my New Year's favorite movies. You just can't go wrong with any of these. Of course, "Affair to Remember" is the original-- and it's alluded to in "Sleepless..."
Of course, being a guy, my favorite scene from all three movies, collectively, is when Tom Hanks' character (in Sleepless in Seattle) watches his sister (played by Tom's wife, btw) start babbling and cry while describing. "that scene" from "Affair to Remember." Tom is bewildered by her breakdown. Her husband just looks at Tom and says, "Don't worry, she gets this way sometimes."
The story goes that Tom Hanks went off-script, and started ad-libbing. He breaks down and starts crying, identifying with her, "I know what you mean," he sobs. "It's like in 'The Dirty Dozen' when Trini Lopez loses his legs..." The actor playing the husband chimes right in and starts ad-libbing himself, adding to the scene and sobbing with Tom.
I have watched this scene over and over, trying to get the "fly on the set" feel for this scene. The director says she rarely cuts when Tom is on set. So I watch the sister in the scene, as she goes from crying, to being incredulous, to laughing. She pulls it off perfectly-- it's so believable that the sister would go through those transistions. But it's also believable that the actress (Rita something, I think) just broke character and started laughing at her husband's sharp wit. Who knows? It is a great story and a great scene-- either way.
New Year's is always time to reflect and to look forward with anticipation and hope. Any of these movies will set the mood for both reflection and looking forward. We all want love and companionship-- whether we admit it or not-- and our journey is sweeter if we realize that it's not about waiting for the right person to come along. It is about getting and being prepared internally to be ready when that right one does appear.
Harry has Sally in his life for years before he is ready. But it is more about our journey than it will ever be about a perfect love story.
So, for this coming year, I wish you a year of health, of wealth, of love and happiness!!
Warm regards,
Fred T Wyrick
Friday, December 31, 2010
Wednesday, December 29, 2010
Shutter Island
Greetings!!
The name Martin Scorsese elicits many images to many people. He is considered one of the greats by most. He has been around forever-- well, since the 60's-- and he just commands attention, if not regard, for his work.
My favorite piece by Scorsese is a "short" they play at cinemas before the feature presentation starts. In this short, there is a guy on a phone-- talking to a girl. As he struggles to tell her how he feels about her, Mr. Scorsese abruptly interrupts him. He actually starts being this guy's director-- berating his lines, criticizing his delivery, doubting his sincerity, etc-- and it disturbs the guy so much, he cannot continue his phone call. The moral, or tag line is: "We don't interrupt your phone calls with our directing, so please don't interrupt our movie with your phone calls." It's classic, and I secretly wish I was able to do the same to some phone callers in cinemas-- but I'm no Scorsese.
While I admire the legend, most of Scorsese's film are not my cup of tea. I had to watch them all once-- out of respect, and to expand my cinematic horizons. Movies like Casino, Goodfellas, Gangs of New York, Cape Fear-- all superbly well done, by the way-- were just too violent and profane for my taste. I mean, I know guys like that are out there, but, as a rule (and by the grace of God), I am able to stay far away from them.
You know that feeling when you go into a movie with low expectations and you walk away pleasantly surprised!! OK, you probably don't go to a movie if you have low expectations, right?? But, what if a friend, or a significant other wanted to rent a movie that you didn't really think you would like?? Ever happened to you?? Be honest. Have you ever said, "Well, that wasn't as bad as I expected."? That is such a good feeling for me.
That is what I felt after watching "Shutter Island." I have had the DVD box in my hand many times, but always seemed to find a replacement video rental. It seemed I wasn't in the mood for a dark film, so I would pick up, "Fast Times at Ridgemont High" for the thousandth time. Or a James Bond movie, or anything but "Shutter Island."
Last night, I finally broke down and rented it. I had low expectations- I don't really care for DiCaprio. I don't really care for scary or supernatural or demonic movies-- and I thought this would be a combination of all three.
It turns out that the movie has a good story (have I mentioned I love stories??). The characters were solid and I found myself caring and wanting to know more. And I hadn't realized Mark Ruffalo was in it. I find I like his roles. For those of you not acquainted with Mark, he is a dark-haired guy who delivers most of his lines as if he was whining (whether or not the lines are whiny, he still delivers them as if they were), and somehow it works. Whether he is military (Last Castle, Windtalkers), or a cop (Collateral), or the leading man in a romatic-comedy (13 Going on 30, Just Like Heaven), he whines his lines and I laugh or cry as he intended. He's kinda magic. My favorite line he's ever delivered on screen was in "Rumor Has It," with Friends girl- oh, blond, very whiny herself-- but in a way I can't stand. Her name escapes me, and it's just as well. My mom taught me if you can't say something nice about someone, don't say anything at all.
But, back to my favorite Mark Ruffalo line. The movie is about a girl who discovers her grandmother is "Mrs. Robinson" from, "The Graduate" (Another classic--early 60's-- worth an entire post, so I'll get to that later). So this means that her grandmother was portrayed in the movie by Anne Bancroft, her mom was portrayed by Katherine Ross. The guy who was supposedly portrayed by Dustin Hoffman was Kevin Costner. Of course, Jennifer Anniston (thought of her name, YAY!) wasn't born when the movie was made.
Wow! There is a lot of work involved at getting to Mark's best work! I just now figured out why I was the only one in tears, when he replied to his girlfriend (Jennifer) when she first found out. She said, "OMG!! Why didn't anybody ever tell me???!!!??) and Mark, in perfect timing, came back with:
"Because, most of all, you've got to hide it from the kids...koo koo ka choo...."
I know I'm easily amused, but I thought that was brilliant. If you are Gen X or Gen Y, I doubt I have little chance of getting you to agree with me, but, fortunately, I need no one's approval to laugh.
(Oh, I'm back to Shutter Island, my friends). The story was, indeed, sad. Morbid, actually. But at the end, I didn't feel depleted of all humanity-- it didn't have all the bludgeoning of "The Departed" or the profanity of "Casino" (I know, I know-- it's a classic, and many a person's favorite all-time movie, but, still-- c'mon!! Enough is enough... I get it: they beat him to death!!).
A good indicator, for me, that the Shutter Island was good was the fact that I immediately thought about watching "Shutter Island" again to see how much-- if at all-- the story would change, now that I had seen it in its entirety. I don't analyze as I watch a movie (roller coaster mentality, I guess), but afterwards, I enjoy dissecting and bisecting and playing around with it.
I hope you will enjoy it, too!! Have a great week--it's the last one of the year!!
Warm regards,
Fred T Wyrick
The name Martin Scorsese elicits many images to many people. He is considered one of the greats by most. He has been around forever-- well, since the 60's-- and he just commands attention, if not regard, for his work.
My favorite piece by Scorsese is a "short" they play at cinemas before the feature presentation starts. In this short, there is a guy on a phone-- talking to a girl. As he struggles to tell her how he feels about her, Mr. Scorsese abruptly interrupts him. He actually starts being this guy's director-- berating his lines, criticizing his delivery, doubting his sincerity, etc-- and it disturbs the guy so much, he cannot continue his phone call. The moral, or tag line is: "We don't interrupt your phone calls with our directing, so please don't interrupt our movie with your phone calls." It's classic, and I secretly wish I was able to do the same to some phone callers in cinemas-- but I'm no Scorsese.
While I admire the legend, most of Scorsese's film are not my cup of tea. I had to watch them all once-- out of respect, and to expand my cinematic horizons. Movies like Casino, Goodfellas, Gangs of New York, Cape Fear-- all superbly well done, by the way-- were just too violent and profane for my taste. I mean, I know guys like that are out there, but, as a rule (and by the grace of God), I am able to stay far away from them.
You know that feeling when you go into a movie with low expectations and you walk away pleasantly surprised!! OK, you probably don't go to a movie if you have low expectations, right?? But, what if a friend, or a significant other wanted to rent a movie that you didn't really think you would like?? Ever happened to you?? Be honest. Have you ever said, "Well, that wasn't as bad as I expected."? That is such a good feeling for me.
That is what I felt after watching "Shutter Island." I have had the DVD box in my hand many times, but always seemed to find a replacement video rental. It seemed I wasn't in the mood for a dark film, so I would pick up, "Fast Times at Ridgemont High" for the thousandth time. Or a James Bond movie, or anything but "Shutter Island."
Last night, I finally broke down and rented it. I had low expectations- I don't really care for DiCaprio. I don't really care for scary or supernatural or demonic movies-- and I thought this would be a combination of all three.
It turns out that the movie has a good story (have I mentioned I love stories??). The characters were solid and I found myself caring and wanting to know more. And I hadn't realized Mark Ruffalo was in it. I find I like his roles. For those of you not acquainted with Mark, he is a dark-haired guy who delivers most of his lines as if he was whining (whether or not the lines are whiny, he still delivers them as if they were), and somehow it works. Whether he is military (Last Castle, Windtalkers), or a cop (Collateral), or the leading man in a romatic-comedy (13 Going on 30, Just Like Heaven), he whines his lines and I laugh or cry as he intended. He's kinda magic. My favorite line he's ever delivered on screen was in "Rumor Has It," with Friends girl- oh, blond, very whiny herself-- but in a way I can't stand. Her name escapes me, and it's just as well. My mom taught me if you can't say something nice about someone, don't say anything at all.
But, back to my favorite Mark Ruffalo line. The movie is about a girl who discovers her grandmother is "Mrs. Robinson" from, "The Graduate" (Another classic--early 60's-- worth an entire post, so I'll get to that later). So this means that her grandmother was portrayed in the movie by Anne Bancroft, her mom was portrayed by Katherine Ross. The guy who was supposedly portrayed by Dustin Hoffman was Kevin Costner. Of course, Jennifer Anniston (thought of her name, YAY!) wasn't born when the movie was made.
Wow! There is a lot of work involved at getting to Mark's best work! I just now figured out why I was the only one in tears, when he replied to his girlfriend (Jennifer) when she first found out. She said, "OMG!! Why didn't anybody ever tell me???!!!??) and Mark, in perfect timing, came back with:
"Because, most of all, you've got to hide it from the kids...koo koo ka choo...."
I know I'm easily amused, but I thought that was brilliant. If you are Gen X or Gen Y, I doubt I have little chance of getting you to agree with me, but, fortunately, I need no one's approval to laugh.
(Oh, I'm back to Shutter Island, my friends). The story was, indeed, sad. Morbid, actually. But at the end, I didn't feel depleted of all humanity-- it didn't have all the bludgeoning of "The Departed" or the profanity of "Casino" (I know, I know-- it's a classic, and many a person's favorite all-time movie, but, still-- c'mon!! Enough is enough... I get it: they beat him to death!!).
A good indicator, for me, that the Shutter Island was good was the fact that I immediately thought about watching "Shutter Island" again to see how much-- if at all-- the story would change, now that I had seen it in its entirety. I don't analyze as I watch a movie (roller coaster mentality, I guess), but afterwards, I enjoy dissecting and bisecting and playing around with it.
I hope you will enjoy it, too!! Have a great week--it's the last one of the year!!
Warm regards,
Fred T Wyrick
Tuesday, December 28, 2010
The A-Team
Hiya!!
There wasn't much about it in the news, but on September 30, 2010, we lost one of the most influential screen writers of our time-- Stephen J. Cannell. I purposefully did not call him the greatest, but I will stand by influential. Undeniably prolific, Cannell had his hand in so many of my favorite shows. Many of his shows were corny, and some even formulaic, but all were fun.
I would love to watch his shows and just forget the troubles of the day. These were the shows we made fun of (many people denied watching them at all), yet they were so popular that almost all aired for many seasons. His famous ending from each show was his fast typing on an IBM Selectric III typewriter (I wish I could type as fast as he could), wearing a smile and a goatee, and then ripping the paper out and tossing it in the air. As it slowly descended onto a stack of papers, the stack would form his logo. For those of you who don't know, Stephen J Cannell's contributions include:
Ironside, Adam-12, Columbo, Black Sheep Squadron, Baretta, Nightrider, Rockford Files, Greatest American Hero, Hunter, Mike Hammer, 21 Jump Street, The Commish and The A-Team.
"The A-Team" was just released to DVD, and I had to watch it. I crossed my fingers, because I had such a bad experience with "Mission Impossible." I hate it when they make a movie out of one of my favorite shows... and ruin it.
Mission Impossible," the movie, started out pretty ok by following the spirit of the show. I became incensed, however, as the the "real" story began to unfold. See, the opening of the movie was similar to a James Bond flick-- the opening sequence really was not a part of the story. But when Mr Phelps later assembled his team for the real mission, it didn't take long for me to see that Mr. Phelps was going to be the bad guy (made even more pronounced by being portrayed by Jon Voight- save for "National Treasure," he is the go-to bad guy). Oh, I know this is a spoiler alert, but if you haven't seen Mission Impossible by now, I submit you are not much of a fan.
Anyway, I almost had to be carried out of the theater. They kept telling me it was only a movie. I kept telling them that they had sullied one of my heroes. There was NO way Mr. Phelps would turn... ever!! Well, they needed a younger lead, they countered. A new generation wouldn't care that Tom Cruise was too young to play Phelps, I argued. If they were worried about sequels, they could have had Cruise play Phelps, and found some other mole.
So, after being told over and over that an alteration is not so bad-- that TV and theater are different-- I offered to remake "Miracle on 34th street." Only this time I will make Santa a child molester-- would anyone be upset?? Why?? It's just a movie. Heroes aren't important-- just as long as there is a good hook. There's always some reason to explain why good guys go bad. Ok, I digress-- I know, I know... not the first time.
Anyway, we lost an icon, so here I was, renting "A-Team," and praying this would be a different experience for me. Granted, "A-Team" is no "Mission Impossible." How bad can you screw up the "A-Team"? It was corny, campy, cheap, unbelievable and corny-- did I say corny twice? Good-- it was corny. Still, it was always fun.
I am happy to report that I really enjoyed the movie. It kept the spirit, but removed the corny. It was much more realistic (except for the stunts) and, yet, still fun. It wasn't cheap-- they put some money into the cast and sunts and locations, etc.-- and it has plenty of action and comedy.
I see this movie more like the "Star Trek" remake of the show. The show used cardboard sets and the movie used CGI and showed us the parts or the ship and the universe we had never seen on the screen. The A-Team show used spring boards to jettison vehicles, etc, while the movie shows us the real action.
The story moves along, and I liked all the characters. There was a good mix of familiarity and newness to it. I also like that you can watch the movie without knowing anything about the show- or you can be a fan of the show, and not be constantly comparing notes.
If you don't like action movies, this probably isn't your cup of tea. But, having said that, if you like comedic banter, this movie could be right up your alley. I do not remember any graphic violence-- the violence wasn't campy, but it wasn't over-the-top either. It still seemed to be all in the spirit of fun, to me.
So, for a nice ride (remembering that I liken movies to rollercoasters, not books), rent "The A-Team," and sit back and relax. You'll laugh more than once-- even if you don't know that B.A. hates to fly, that Murdoch is crazy, that Face has abs as well, and that Hannibal loves it when a plan comes together.
Have a great day, my movie friend!!
Warm regards,
Fred T Wyrick
There wasn't much about it in the news, but on September 30, 2010, we lost one of the most influential screen writers of our time-- Stephen J. Cannell. I purposefully did not call him the greatest, but I will stand by influential. Undeniably prolific, Cannell had his hand in so many of my favorite shows. Many of his shows were corny, and some even formulaic, but all were fun.
I would love to watch his shows and just forget the troubles of the day. These were the shows we made fun of (many people denied watching them at all), yet they were so popular that almost all aired for many seasons. His famous ending from each show was his fast typing on an IBM Selectric III typewriter (I wish I could type as fast as he could), wearing a smile and a goatee, and then ripping the paper out and tossing it in the air. As it slowly descended onto a stack of papers, the stack would form his logo. For those of you who don't know, Stephen J Cannell's contributions include:
Ironside, Adam-12, Columbo, Black Sheep Squadron, Baretta, Nightrider, Rockford Files, Greatest American Hero, Hunter, Mike Hammer, 21 Jump Street, The Commish and The A-Team.
"The A-Team" was just released to DVD, and I had to watch it. I crossed my fingers, because I had such a bad experience with "Mission Impossible." I hate it when they make a movie out of one of my favorite shows... and ruin it.
Mission Impossible," the movie, started out pretty ok by following the spirit of the show. I became incensed, however, as the the "real" story began to unfold. See, the opening of the movie was similar to a James Bond flick-- the opening sequence really was not a part of the story. But when Mr Phelps later assembled his team for the real mission, it didn't take long for me to see that Mr. Phelps was going to be the bad guy (made even more pronounced by being portrayed by Jon Voight- save for "National Treasure," he is the go-to bad guy). Oh, I know this is a spoiler alert, but if you haven't seen Mission Impossible by now, I submit you are not much of a fan.
Anyway, I almost had to be carried out of the theater. They kept telling me it was only a movie. I kept telling them that they had sullied one of my heroes. There was NO way Mr. Phelps would turn... ever!! Well, they needed a younger lead, they countered. A new generation wouldn't care that Tom Cruise was too young to play Phelps, I argued. If they were worried about sequels, they could have had Cruise play Phelps, and found some other mole.
So, after being told over and over that an alteration is not so bad-- that TV and theater are different-- I offered to remake "Miracle on 34th street." Only this time I will make Santa a child molester-- would anyone be upset?? Why?? It's just a movie. Heroes aren't important-- just as long as there is a good hook. There's always some reason to explain why good guys go bad. Ok, I digress-- I know, I know... not the first time.
Anyway, we lost an icon, so here I was, renting "A-Team," and praying this would be a different experience for me. Granted, "A-Team" is no "Mission Impossible." How bad can you screw up the "A-Team"? It was corny, campy, cheap, unbelievable and corny-- did I say corny twice? Good-- it was corny. Still, it was always fun.
I am happy to report that I really enjoyed the movie. It kept the spirit, but removed the corny. It was much more realistic (except for the stunts) and, yet, still fun. It wasn't cheap-- they put some money into the cast and sunts and locations, etc.-- and it has plenty of action and comedy.
I see this movie more like the "Star Trek" remake of the show. The show used cardboard sets and the movie used CGI and showed us the parts or the ship and the universe we had never seen on the screen. The A-Team show used spring boards to jettison vehicles, etc, while the movie shows us the real action.
The story moves along, and I liked all the characters. There was a good mix of familiarity and newness to it. I also like that you can watch the movie without knowing anything about the show- or you can be a fan of the show, and not be constantly comparing notes.
If you don't like action movies, this probably isn't your cup of tea. But, having said that, if you like comedic banter, this movie could be right up your alley. I do not remember any graphic violence-- the violence wasn't campy, but it wasn't over-the-top either. It still seemed to be all in the spirit of fun, to me.
So, for a nice ride (remembering that I liken movies to rollercoasters, not books), rent "The A-Team," and sit back and relax. You'll laugh more than once-- even if you don't know that B.A. hates to fly, that Murdoch is crazy, that Face has abs as well, and that Hannibal loves it when a plan comes together.
Have a great day, my movie friend!!
Warm regards,
Fred T Wyrick
Wednesday, December 22, 2010
"Salt" DVD released
OK,
This post will be very short and sweet-- it took me way to long to get past the Nazi sign in procedure. I guess it's a good thing, but when it goes south... wow, it goes south!! Anyway, I'm in now, but it is too late to pontificate. So, I'll just share my one new piece of advice:
If you rent the "Salt" DVD (Angelina Jolie, Liev Schreiber, Chiwetel Ejiofor), watch the "Theatrical Version" first. It is far superior to the "Extended Cut Version," far and away. I would be interested to hear from those who take the time to watch the other versions. Would they agree with me, or not??
The theatrical version makes more sense, develops some characters better, and gives me much more enjoyment than the other versions. I walk away with fewer questions and a better sense of satisfaction with the theatrical version.
I'll add another post later, but I wanted to get this out to you. I want you to be warned-- what you do with my warning is completely up to you.
Have a good night, my movie friend...
Warm regards,
Fred T Wyrick
This post will be very short and sweet-- it took me way to long to get past the Nazi sign in procedure. I guess it's a good thing, but when it goes south... wow, it goes south!! Anyway, I'm in now, but it is too late to pontificate. So, I'll just share my one new piece of advice:
If you rent the "Salt" DVD (Angelina Jolie, Liev Schreiber, Chiwetel Ejiofor), watch the "Theatrical Version" first. It is far superior to the "Extended Cut Version," far and away. I would be interested to hear from those who take the time to watch the other versions. Would they agree with me, or not??
The theatrical version makes more sense, develops some characters better, and gives me much more enjoyment than the other versions. I walk away with fewer questions and a better sense of satisfaction with the theatrical version.
I'll add another post later, but I wanted to get this out to you. I want you to be warned-- what you do with my warning is completely up to you.
Have a good night, my movie friend...
Warm regards,
Fred T Wyrick
Monday, December 20, 2010
New (and fairly new) DVD releases
Hey!!
Hope you are all ready for Christmas!! I drove by a house that had one of those "real-time" clocks with a Christmas countdown... and I have already forgotten what it said. But it's coming up, and I wish you all the best this season...
As I thought about a new DVD release I want to see ("Salt"), I flashed to a Hollywood truism-- so many hyped movie releases seem to be followed by yet another hyped release- and they seem to be very, very, scarily similar. I don't know if it's lack of secrecy in script reviewing, or just coincidence, or what, but it happens frequently to me.
I'm sure you can think of examples the likes of "Troy" and "Alexander the Great;" or "Step up" and Take the Lead." And I am NOT saying these "sets" are exactly alike- though many times they might be- especially to fans of that genre. To a non-dance guy like me, they may all seem the same, while a fan would say that one was about ballet and the other ballroom, so they are very different. But, I hope you get my point. Feel free to post a couple you think fit this truism if you care to.
My "case in point" are three current movies: "Knight and Day (Tom Cruise and Cameron Diaz)," "Salt (Anjolina Jolie)" and "Killers (Ashton Kutcher and Katherine Heigl)." All three of these movies are right up my alley. I love movies where I can just sit back and let them rip-- I don't have to think about whether I would do that, or if it was believeable or any other of those thoughts that tend to get in my way when I watch a dramatic movie where the plot "might happen" to me. All three of these stories are about spies and outlandishly incredible circumstances.
"Knight and Day" and "Killers" are closer to being the same movie, and both are dwarfed by "Salt," in my opinion. And the reason I am blogging about these three is three-fold:
1. They point out my observation that Hollywood tends to release two or three similar movies at a time
2. They are all new or soon-to-be-new DVD releases, and some of you have asked for movie reviews/suggestions
3. Most importantly, I find it odd that, while I normally prefer comedy to other genres, I think the most dramatic (well, at least seriously portrayed) of the three movies is my favorite. Hmmm, I just love my inextricable choices when it comes to the cinema.
All three movies are fast-paced, roller coaster movies. All three involve spies and spying. In all three, part of their presentations allude to not knowing the who, what or when of their situations. The two comedies , "Knight and Day" and "Killers" are more alike, in that, there are bewildered love interests who are just as lost as we, the audience, are.
And let's not forget that each of these movies should have disclaimers stating, "Professional stunt people-- do NOT attempt these at home." I know there are those who watch a stunt and say, "Yeah, right," but I see a stunt and say, "Wow!!" If unbelievabilty ruins a movie for you, do not see any of these three. But if you like fun rides, these are for you.
Now for my advice-- If you are only going to see one of these, see "Salt," which comes out on DVD this week. It has all the elements I like in a movie (and Angelina is NOT one of those elements). Of course there is a ton of non-stop action. There is intrigue. There is mass confusion. There are relationships, and all the qualities that go with them-- loyalty, trust, love, betrayal. And since Angolina's strong suit seems to be her ability to portray a woman who sacrifices everything for something or someone she cares about-- Changeling (son), Mighty Heart (husband), Beyond Borders (possible true love)-- and, I would dare say, part of "Salt" is discovering what/who she cares about.
Parts of the story are revealed through flashbacks, and some people I know got lost from time to time in the storyline. I did not find it to be the case, but I feel it worth mentioning.
If you only watch a few movies, I would suggest leaving out a drama or two and seeing all three of these (Killers being the weakest), but man cannot live by spy movies alone. So enjoy your holiday, no matter what you watch-- or don't watch-- and I'll see you back here another time.
Warm regards,
Fred T Wyrick
Hope you are all ready for Christmas!! I drove by a house that had one of those "real-time" clocks with a Christmas countdown... and I have already forgotten what it said. But it's coming up, and I wish you all the best this season...
As I thought about a new DVD release I want to see ("Salt"), I flashed to a Hollywood truism-- so many hyped movie releases seem to be followed by yet another hyped release- and they seem to be very, very, scarily similar. I don't know if it's lack of secrecy in script reviewing, or just coincidence, or what, but it happens frequently to me.
I'm sure you can think of examples the likes of "Troy" and "Alexander the Great;" or "Step up" and Take the Lead." And I am NOT saying these "sets" are exactly alike- though many times they might be- especially to fans of that genre. To a non-dance guy like me, they may all seem the same, while a fan would say that one was about ballet and the other ballroom, so they are very different. But, I hope you get my point. Feel free to post a couple you think fit this truism if you care to.
My "case in point" are three current movies: "Knight and Day (Tom Cruise and Cameron Diaz)," "Salt (Anjolina Jolie)" and "Killers (Ashton Kutcher and Katherine Heigl)." All three of these movies are right up my alley. I love movies where I can just sit back and let them rip-- I don't have to think about whether I would do that, or if it was believeable or any other of those thoughts that tend to get in my way when I watch a dramatic movie where the plot "might happen" to me. All three of these stories are about spies and outlandishly incredible circumstances.
"Knight and Day" and "Killers" are closer to being the same movie, and both are dwarfed by "Salt," in my opinion. And the reason I am blogging about these three is three-fold:
1. They point out my observation that Hollywood tends to release two or three similar movies at a time
2. They are all new or soon-to-be-new DVD releases, and some of you have asked for movie reviews/suggestions
3. Most importantly, I find it odd that, while I normally prefer comedy to other genres, I think the most dramatic (well, at least seriously portrayed) of the three movies is my favorite. Hmmm, I just love my inextricable choices when it comes to the cinema.
All three movies are fast-paced, roller coaster movies. All three involve spies and spying. In all three, part of their presentations allude to not knowing the who, what or when of their situations. The two comedies , "Knight and Day" and "Killers" are more alike, in that, there are bewildered love interests who are just as lost as we, the audience, are.
And let's not forget that each of these movies should have disclaimers stating, "Professional stunt people-- do NOT attempt these at home." I know there are those who watch a stunt and say, "Yeah, right," but I see a stunt and say, "Wow!!" If unbelievabilty ruins a movie for you, do not see any of these three. But if you like fun rides, these are for you.
Now for my advice-- If you are only going to see one of these, see "Salt," which comes out on DVD this week. It has all the elements I like in a movie (and Angelina is NOT one of those elements). Of course there is a ton of non-stop action. There is intrigue. There is mass confusion. There are relationships, and all the qualities that go with them-- loyalty, trust, love, betrayal. And since Angolina's strong suit seems to be her ability to portray a woman who sacrifices everything for something or someone she cares about-- Changeling (son), Mighty Heart (husband), Beyond Borders (possible true love)-- and, I would dare say, part of "Salt" is discovering what/who she cares about.
Parts of the story are revealed through flashbacks, and some people I know got lost from time to time in the storyline. I did not find it to be the case, but I feel it worth mentioning.
If you only watch a few movies, I would suggest leaving out a drama or two and seeing all three of these (Killers being the weakest), but man cannot live by spy movies alone. So enjoy your holiday, no matter what you watch-- or don't watch-- and I'll see you back here another time.
Warm regards,
Fred T Wyrick
Saturday, December 18, 2010
Happy Birthday Twins Helen and Jenny!!
Happy Birthday to my twin nieces-- Jenny and Helen!! I love you both so very much, and I wish all the best for you this coming year!! I enjoy spending time with you both. This blog post is dedicated to both of you!!
When I think of Jenny in the context of movies, I think immediately of "Sex and The City" (1 and 2). Before the first movie came out, she emailed me, asking if I watched the series on HBO. I replied that I did not. She was so excited about it, that she said she would send me the DVD set (knowing that would be the only way I watch a TV show anymore)... after her mom returned them to her. She was forcing her to watch them first.
She did, and I was not as enthused as she had been. But, having said that, there were some questions being asked in each episode that could make for some good conversation starters. As the movies were released, I was sure she would find bigger fans of the series to accompany her-- and she did. I still have not seen either full-length movie.
But whenever I see Carrie, or any of the characters from the series (except for Kim Cattrall-- she will forever be Honeywell from "Porky's" to me-- and I will never think of sweatsocks the same way again), I think of my lovely, niece, Jenny, and smile. I watch many movies with her at her house, but "Sex in The City" will always be the epitome of Jenny. FTR (for the record) I would watch either or both movies with you, Jenny. Happy Birthday, and I love you, Jennifer!!!
When I think of Helen, I think of "In The Name of The King" with Jason Stathom and Claire Forlani. Jason Stathom is to Helen what Bruce Willis is to me-- gender and the things that go with it aside!! Let me just rephrase that whole thought: Helen will watch a movie simply because Jason is in it- just as I will watch a movie just because Bruce is in it. I am certain I feel about Bruce differently from the way Helen feels about Jason... but I digress..... (I just don't want to start any rumors)
Stathom plays pretty much every character the same, whether it's the Transporter, Handsome Rob (Italian Job remake), Chev (Crank), Lee (The Expendables), etc. But I really wanted to see "In The Name of The King" because it was a historical piece, and I wondered how he would fare on set without rip-away Tshirts and the like. It turns out he did very well, in my book.
Of course, watching it with Helen (she owns the DVD) makes it even more enjoyable. Even though he still uses his modern style of fighting, it doesn't come off as corny or contrived in this picture. And, of course, she could have picked a different actor, say, Taylor Lautner or Robert Pattinson, and then I would have to cringe as I think of Helen-- this works so much better!! Happy Birthday, and I love you, Helen!!!
Whether it's your birthday or not, I wish you all the best my movie watching friend!!
Warm regards,
Fred T Wyrick
When I think of Jenny in the context of movies, I think immediately of "Sex and The City" (1 and 2). Before the first movie came out, she emailed me, asking if I watched the series on HBO. I replied that I did not. She was so excited about it, that she said she would send me the DVD set (knowing that would be the only way I watch a TV show anymore)... after her mom returned them to her. She was forcing her to watch them first.
She did, and I was not as enthused as she had been. But, having said that, there were some questions being asked in each episode that could make for some good conversation starters. As the movies were released, I was sure she would find bigger fans of the series to accompany her-- and she did. I still have not seen either full-length movie.
But whenever I see Carrie, or any of the characters from the series (except for Kim Cattrall-- she will forever be Honeywell from "Porky's" to me-- and I will never think of sweatsocks the same way again), I think of my lovely, niece, Jenny, and smile. I watch many movies with her at her house, but "Sex in The City" will always be the epitome of Jenny. FTR (for the record) I would watch either or both movies with you, Jenny. Happy Birthday, and I love you, Jennifer!!!
When I think of Helen, I think of "In The Name of The King" with Jason Stathom and Claire Forlani. Jason Stathom is to Helen what Bruce Willis is to me-- gender and the things that go with it aside!! Let me just rephrase that whole thought: Helen will watch a movie simply because Jason is in it- just as I will watch a movie just because Bruce is in it. I am certain I feel about Bruce differently from the way Helen feels about Jason... but I digress..... (I just don't want to start any rumors)
Stathom plays pretty much every character the same, whether it's the Transporter, Handsome Rob (Italian Job remake), Chev (Crank), Lee (The Expendables), etc. But I really wanted to see "In The Name of The King" because it was a historical piece, and I wondered how he would fare on set without rip-away Tshirts and the like. It turns out he did very well, in my book.
Of course, watching it with Helen (she owns the DVD) makes it even more enjoyable. Even though he still uses his modern style of fighting, it doesn't come off as corny or contrived in this picture. And, of course, she could have picked a different actor, say, Taylor Lautner or Robert Pattinson, and then I would have to cringe as I think of Helen-- this works so much better!! Happy Birthday, and I love you, Helen!!!
Whether it's your birthday or not, I wish you all the best my movie watching friend!!
Warm regards,
Fred T Wyrick
Thursday, December 16, 2010
Lucky Number Slevin
Sometimes you just take a risk and go see a movie just because a guy (or gal) you like is in it-- "Lucky Number Slevin" is such a movie. And Bruce Willis was the guy in question. I admit I would pay good money to see Bruce read ads out of the Yellow Pages-- I just connected with him from all the way back to his quirky Blue Moon Investigations partnership with Cybil Shepard in the TV show, "Moonlighting."
I already mentioned my holiday movie pick, "Die Harder (2)" in which he starred. There will be many more blog posts with his work before long.
I went to see "Lucky Number Slevin" without knowing what it was about-- and 2/3 of the way through it, I still wasn't sure. But as you well know by now, I love a story. This movie starts out with Bruce telling some kid in an airport a story. I was hooked immediately. Then all I had to do was hang on as the story unfolded. Losts of curves, fast balls and twists, but what a joyous ride!!
The movie is chock full of colorful characters. Faces you know and faces you don't. It was nice to just sit back, hold on and let the movie rip. My advice is to watch it without trying to analyze it. Don't try to figure anything out. Just enjoy the action.
My favorite colorful character is played by Lucy Liu. She's not the action figure I am used to in her movies-- Charlie's Angels, Kill Bill, Ecks vs Sever, Payback-- and I found her departure role completely entertaining.
Josh Hartnet is the lead in this movie. I'm not his target market, but I find myself enjoying a lot of his recent works- Sin City, 40 days/ 40 Nights, Wicker Park and Hollywood Homicide. In this flick, he has a bad week, and then it gets even worse. And the phrase, "in a weird way," doesn't even begin to cover it.
The plot involves hit men, warring mob bosses, and gambling-- so there is bound to be some killing and cursing thrown in there. I was so absorbed by the story, that I do not recall any-- but, I've never known Bruce to play a hitman with a clean mouth. So be warned.
I'll take this opportunity to say that most of my movies carry an "R" rating, so these posts are not recommending family movies. If nothing is mentioned, please assume it will NOT be family oriented. I will make a "special dispensation" clause if I think it might be appropriate for all-- like "Up," or something along those lines. There-- "Up," is family oriented. "Up" is a movie about an old man (played by Ed Asner-- well, it's animated) who loses his wife and puts a bunch of balloons on his house and it flies away. He has an unwanted stowaway. As Susan would say, "It's about relationships." I laugh, I cried-- park the whole family on the couch and enjoy. There--don't let it be said I never include family movies in my posts!!
Ok, so strap in and watch, "Lucky Number Slevin," and let me know what you think. If you did see it-- please let me know what you thought. I do not do the reviews, so there are no, "spoiler alerts" here. I prefer to sit and watch a movie without critics' pontifications- just trust me on this one.
Till next time, my friend!!
Warm regards,
Fred T Wyrick
I already mentioned my holiday movie pick, "Die Harder (2)" in which he starred. There will be many more blog posts with his work before long.
I went to see "Lucky Number Slevin" without knowing what it was about-- and 2/3 of the way through it, I still wasn't sure. But as you well know by now, I love a story. This movie starts out with Bruce telling some kid in an airport a story. I was hooked immediately. Then all I had to do was hang on as the story unfolded. Losts of curves, fast balls and twists, but what a joyous ride!!
The movie is chock full of colorful characters. Faces you know and faces you don't. It was nice to just sit back, hold on and let the movie rip. My advice is to watch it without trying to analyze it. Don't try to figure anything out. Just enjoy the action.
My favorite colorful character is played by Lucy Liu. She's not the action figure I am used to in her movies-- Charlie's Angels, Kill Bill, Ecks vs Sever, Payback-- and I found her departure role completely entertaining.
Josh Hartnet is the lead in this movie. I'm not his target market, but I find myself enjoying a lot of his recent works- Sin City, 40 days/ 40 Nights, Wicker Park and Hollywood Homicide. In this flick, he has a bad week, and then it gets even worse. And the phrase, "in a weird way," doesn't even begin to cover it.
The plot involves hit men, warring mob bosses, and gambling-- so there is bound to be some killing and cursing thrown in there. I was so absorbed by the story, that I do not recall any-- but, I've never known Bruce to play a hitman with a clean mouth. So be warned.
I'll take this opportunity to say that most of my movies carry an "R" rating, so these posts are not recommending family movies. If nothing is mentioned, please assume it will NOT be family oriented. I will make a "special dispensation" clause if I think it might be appropriate for all-- like "Up," or something along those lines. There-- "Up," is family oriented. "Up" is a movie about an old man (played by Ed Asner-- well, it's animated) who loses his wife and puts a bunch of balloons on his house and it flies away. He has an unwanted stowaway. As Susan would say, "It's about relationships." I laugh, I cried-- park the whole family on the couch and enjoy. There--don't let it be said I never include family movies in my posts!!
Ok, so strap in and watch, "Lucky Number Slevin," and let me know what you think. If you did see it-- please let me know what you thought. I do not do the reviews, so there are no, "spoiler alerts" here. I prefer to sit and watch a movie without critics' pontifications- just trust me on this one.
Till next time, my friend!!
Warm regards,
Fred T Wyrick
Wednesday, December 15, 2010
Angel Eyes
Welcome Back!!
I have been inundated with "Love Story" movies since my childhood. Some were good, and some were not so good. Still, I tend to enjoy love stories for two reasons:
1. I like stories-- hello.
2. I am unimpressed with movie makers who use technological cinematic advances to replace stories.
Love stories tend to keep it the way I like it- story driven. I am not opposed to all the movie magic that is out there. I just resist if it becomes the thrust of the movie, rather than an aid in telling a good story better. I guess it's like sex scenes for me. If they add to the plot development, then fine (to a degree... and I would dare say my degree of tolerance is greater than most). But, if they replace story, I would prefer they be left out completely. But I digress (and not for the last time, I'm sure).
Another great thing about love stories is how my (and I would wager your) acceptance of them depends on how love is treating me. If I'm in love (as I am now) nothing is too sappy. Yet, when I was young, kissing was gross. My reaction to the same stories changes as my life-views and love-views change. Ever happen to you??
So, I just want to mention a simple little love story called, "Angel Eyes," with Jennifer Lopez and Jim Caviezel. It's not my absolute favorite-- as I have already said, my favorite would change frequently anyway-- but today, it's in the forefront of my mind.
I like this flick because it is about imperfections. She has problems, he has problems, they have problems. Real life is messy, and watching Disney too much can warp the minds of our youth. Disney has it's place in the cinema, of course (actually, I think I HAVE to say that to retain my relationship, right Sallie?? A deal-breaker if ever there was one!!). Every once in a while, though, I like a movie that portrays the grittiness of life a little closer to home- without taking it overboard.
One of the dearest people on the planet to me-- Margie-- has been sharing her take on life and love with me . She says she loves my brother more than ever-- not in spite of his imperfections, but because of them. Wow, I'm glad she met him first-- my imperfection list dwarfs Art's by a bunch!! But the realness of this concept is found in "Angel Eyes."
Although Jenifer and Jim might be considered pretty people, I did not see them that way in this movie. They were two average people with problems trying to find their way-- alone and together. I could replay this movie in my head-- replacing the actors with friends and people I know in real life.
My favorite scene is when Caviezel picks up a trumpet and plays one of my mom's favorite songs called, "Nature Boy." Very well done.
Pick up a copy of "Angel Eyes" when you want a nice, not-too-sappy love story. I think it was released around 2000, and again, is probably available if you google it. Enjoy!!
Please do not try to post a list of all your favorite love stories-- I know the list will be long, and my pc will crash!! But list one or two you have on your mind, and let's have some fun!! I look forward to reading your comments.
Take care until next time!!
Warm regards,
Fred T Wyrick
I have been inundated with "Love Story" movies since my childhood. Some were good, and some were not so good. Still, I tend to enjoy love stories for two reasons:
1. I like stories-- hello.
2. I am unimpressed with movie makers who use technological cinematic advances to replace stories.
Love stories tend to keep it the way I like it- story driven. I am not opposed to all the movie magic that is out there. I just resist if it becomes the thrust of the movie, rather than an aid in telling a good story better. I guess it's like sex scenes for me. If they add to the plot development, then fine (to a degree... and I would dare say my degree of tolerance is greater than most). But, if they replace story, I would prefer they be left out completely. But I digress (and not for the last time, I'm sure).
Another great thing about love stories is how my (and I would wager your) acceptance of them depends on how love is treating me. If I'm in love (as I am now) nothing is too sappy. Yet, when I was young, kissing was gross. My reaction to the same stories changes as my life-views and love-views change. Ever happen to you??
So, I just want to mention a simple little love story called, "Angel Eyes," with Jennifer Lopez and Jim Caviezel. It's not my absolute favorite-- as I have already said, my favorite would change frequently anyway-- but today, it's in the forefront of my mind.
I like this flick because it is about imperfections. She has problems, he has problems, they have problems. Real life is messy, and watching Disney too much can warp the minds of our youth. Disney has it's place in the cinema, of course (actually, I think I HAVE to say that to retain my relationship, right Sallie?? A deal-breaker if ever there was one!!). Every once in a while, though, I like a movie that portrays the grittiness of life a little closer to home- without taking it overboard.
One of the dearest people on the planet to me-- Margie-- has been sharing her take on life and love with me . She says she loves my brother more than ever-- not in spite of his imperfections, but because of them. Wow, I'm glad she met him first-- my imperfection list dwarfs Art's by a bunch!! But the realness of this concept is found in "Angel Eyes."
Although Jenifer and Jim might be considered pretty people, I did not see them that way in this movie. They were two average people with problems trying to find their way-- alone and together. I could replay this movie in my head-- replacing the actors with friends and people I know in real life.
My favorite scene is when Caviezel picks up a trumpet and plays one of my mom's favorite songs called, "Nature Boy." Very well done.
Pick up a copy of "Angel Eyes" when you want a nice, not-too-sappy love story. I think it was released around 2000, and again, is probably available if you google it. Enjoy!!
Please do not try to post a list of all your favorite love stories-- I know the list will be long, and my pc will crash!! But list one or two you have on your mind, and let's have some fun!! I look forward to reading your comments.
Take care until next time!!
Warm regards,
Fred T Wyrick
Monday, December 13, 2010
Holiday Movies
Hey Hey!!
As we approach the holiday season, I'll take a cue from Debbie, who suggested we all watch, "The Holiday," and make this post all about holiday movies. There are so many good holiday movies, we could chat from now until Christmas!! What movies do you watch at Christmas?? Not counting all the seasonal rerun specials on TV, and the music-star-de-jour caroling specials, there are several classics that touch our heart at Christmas. I wish for you and your family a plethora of Christmas specials that you can share, enjoy, discuss and rinse and repeat every year.
It doesn't seem to matter if a movie is old or new, if it carries the Christmas story or the message of a warm heart in a cold world, it is worthwhile to watch as a family. Do you have special Christmas memories?? Are you sharing and making more memories with your kids as well?? Tell me about them- the movie portion, not the recipes and sweets...I'm TRYING to cut back.
For me, the list starts with "Christmas Vacation." I guess it ends with "Christmas Vacation," too. I put some in between, but uncontrolled laughter warms my heart like nothing else. "It's a Wonderful Life," "Miracle on 34th Street" and "White Christmas" are more than just standards, they are a part of me. And they are as close to snow as I care to be anymore.
Of course, the obvious omission is the classic I save for myself when all else have called it a night. I pull it out, dust it off, remove the disc and gingerly place it in the DVD player. The opening starts with, "Oh... the weather outside is frightful..." and I sit down with my (heavily buttered and salted) popcorn and enjoy "Die Hard 2- Die Harder." The blizzard at Dulles, the parking ticket, the parkas, the gunfire, the explosions and plane crashes. Then there's the witty banter and wise- cracking Bruce Willis as Det. John McClane. And the colorful cast of characters-- Led by Dennis Franz. Let's not forget politician Fred Thompson portraying the head of the airport. It could be present day, but for John's famous comeback to the pretty young car rental agent who has helped him (he is technology challenged) communicate from Dulles to his police partner in LA. She looks at him and says, "You know I get off in a few minutes..." and he flashes his Bruce Willis smile (and wedding ring) and quips, "Just the fax, ma'am. Just the fax." I mean, that could only be funny in the 80's. Who remembers "Dragnet," with Jack Webb?? And now you can get fax on cell phone-- so passe. Other than that, though- totally current!! OK, maybe not. But I love it, and it is, and will be, my Christmas present to myself.
So, what is on your list??
See you next time, my friend.
Warm regards,
Fred T Wyrick
As we approach the holiday season, I'll take a cue from Debbie, who suggested we all watch, "The Holiday," and make this post all about holiday movies. There are so many good holiday movies, we could chat from now until Christmas!! What movies do you watch at Christmas?? Not counting all the seasonal rerun specials on TV, and the music-star-de-jour caroling specials, there are several classics that touch our heart at Christmas. I wish for you and your family a plethora of Christmas specials that you can share, enjoy, discuss and rinse and repeat every year.
It doesn't seem to matter if a movie is old or new, if it carries the Christmas story or the message of a warm heart in a cold world, it is worthwhile to watch as a family. Do you have special Christmas memories?? Are you sharing and making more memories with your kids as well?? Tell me about them- the movie portion, not the recipes and sweets...I'm TRYING to cut back.
For me, the list starts with "Christmas Vacation." I guess it ends with "Christmas Vacation," too. I put some in between, but uncontrolled laughter warms my heart like nothing else. "It's a Wonderful Life," "Miracle on 34th Street" and "White Christmas" are more than just standards, they are a part of me. And they are as close to snow as I care to be anymore.
Of course, the obvious omission is the classic I save for myself when all else have called it a night. I pull it out, dust it off, remove the disc and gingerly place it in the DVD player. The opening starts with, "Oh... the weather outside is frightful..." and I sit down with my (heavily buttered and salted) popcorn and enjoy "Die Hard 2- Die Harder." The blizzard at Dulles, the parking ticket, the parkas, the gunfire, the explosions and plane crashes. Then there's the witty banter and wise- cracking Bruce Willis as Det. John McClane. And the colorful cast of characters-- Led by Dennis Franz. Let's not forget politician Fred Thompson portraying the head of the airport. It could be present day, but for John's famous comeback to the pretty young car rental agent who has helped him (he is technology challenged) communicate from Dulles to his police partner in LA. She looks at him and says, "You know I get off in a few minutes..." and he flashes his Bruce Willis smile (and wedding ring) and quips, "Just the fax, ma'am. Just the fax." I mean, that could only be funny in the 80's. Who remembers "Dragnet," with Jack Webb?? And now you can get fax on cell phone-- so passe. Other than that, though- totally current!! OK, maybe not. But I love it, and it is, and will be, my Christmas present to myself.
So, what is on your list??
See you next time, my friend.
Warm regards,
Fred T Wyrick
Sunday, December 12, 2010
What is Your Favorite movie???
Hello Again!!
I don't know about you, but one of my most dreaded questions is, "What is your favorite movie?" You may be one of those who has a favorite "all-time" movie-- maybe "Gone With the Wind," "Caddyshack," "Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid," "The Care Bear Movie," or whatever series like "LOTR" or "HP" (btw... I just found out HP is NOT a movie about personal computers...who knew??)-- that you can whip out on any day as your favorite of all time. I, on the other hand, am NOT one of those people. Nor can I offer my favorite color, food, or flavor of ice cream. For me, it depends....
I pick my favorite food or ice cream according to my current mood. Ask me tomorrow, and I might choose something completely. I used to try to pick my favorite movie by category (comedy, drama, western, etc)-- but even THAT changed from time to time.
So, what is YOUR favorite movie?? Feel free to post it. Defend your choice if you care to, but there will be no need to-- your favorite is the right choice for you.
I go through a bit of a process when I think about movie selection-- maybe you do too (consciously or subconsciously), or... maybe you don't. But I will share a little of my process here.
I decide what to watch in categories:
1. Big screen movies are movies that I am dying to see (Robin Hood, RED, Losers and the like).
2. Dollar Theaters are for movies I want to see, but are not atop my list, or for movies where the technology would be lost on my laptop (Star Wars, LOTR, HP or Avatar).
3. DVD rentals and downloaded movies are ones I want to see to know the story, but don't need the price of admission or the hassle of the crowds (Nights in Rodanthe, Sherlock Holmes, and Eat, Love, Pray-- OK...maybe not Eat Love Pray... but you get the idea!!!)
As for the type of movie to see:
I like almost any story, so I like to match my movie-going partner's mood. I tend to watch a ton of action movies by myself, and save the "feel good" or "dramatic" selections with those who would enjoy them more than myself-- then I increase my joy with their joy.
For instance, I would watch, "From Paris with Love," by myself, and watch, "Letters for Juliet," with my daughters. In a conflict of the "which screen process," I will choose their preference. See, "Letters From Juliet," would be a DVD for me, but Elisa (my youngest daughter, for those of you who don't know) would want to see it as soon as possible on the big screen. Hence, we will go to the big screen (Megaplex when first released- hopefully matinee) and see it. Not my choice, but I will enjoy the story, and enjoy Elisa's reactions even more.
Does that make sense?? So, it is a screen choice and a genre choice-- they are not the same.
So, I will answer the big question as well-- knowing it may change by the time you read this. My favorite movie is, "KISS KISS BANG BANG." Robert Downey Jr. cracks me up in this move-- as does Val Kilmer. The more I watch it, the funnier it gets. The story is madcap-- and the dialogue is witty and non-stop.
My last item is my DISCLAIMER---
This is included especially for my sister, Lora (who already knows this NOW). But, in her honor, I would like to make clear that when I say I like a movie, I am in NO WAY insinuating, implying, hinting or any other synonym of these actions, that YOU will like this movie. In fact, I will try to point out things that will detract from your enjoyment movies I discuss in my blog, but if I fail to do so, please do NOT come back to me and say, "Fred, you lying .... I did not find this movie (whatever positive word you insert) at all!" Okay?? OK!
As for "KISS KISS BANG BANG," the detractor is the extraordinarily foul language throughout. If I notice it, it is a problem. After nine years in the Marines, I know that some people lack the ability to communicate without resolving to the F word. In the old days, people like Red Skelton could make me roll me off the couch, laughing, and NEVER use a curse word. Bill Cosby's wife (according to Bill) stood up in the stirrups during childbirth and informed the entire hospital - very loudly- that Bill's parents were never married. Nowadays... well, I digress, sorry. Suffice it to say that they curse so much in this film, that they apologize to us at the end of it. Go figure. Still, I overlook it due to the extremely good acting, timing and quirky storyline. (Again, if profanity upsets you, this movie is NOT for you.)
Okay, my movie-going friends, I will catch up with you next time, When Dr Kildare says, "Please sit down, this may sting a bit...:
JUST KIDDING!!! (and who IS Dr. Kildare, anyway???)
Warm regards,
Fred T Wyrick
I don't know about you, but one of my most dreaded questions is, "What is your favorite movie?" You may be one of those who has a favorite "all-time" movie-- maybe "Gone With the Wind," "Caddyshack," "Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid," "The Care Bear Movie," or whatever series like "LOTR" or "HP" (btw... I just found out HP is NOT a movie about personal computers...who knew??)-- that you can whip out on any day as your favorite of all time. I, on the other hand, am NOT one of those people. Nor can I offer my favorite color, food, or flavor of ice cream. For me, it depends....
I pick my favorite food or ice cream according to my current mood. Ask me tomorrow, and I might choose something completely. I used to try to pick my favorite movie by category (comedy, drama, western, etc)-- but even THAT changed from time to time.
So, what is YOUR favorite movie?? Feel free to post it. Defend your choice if you care to, but there will be no need to-- your favorite is the right choice for you.
I go through a bit of a process when I think about movie selection-- maybe you do too (consciously or subconsciously), or... maybe you don't. But I will share a little of my process here.
I decide what to watch in categories:
1. Big screen movies are movies that I am dying to see (Robin Hood, RED, Losers and the like).
2. Dollar Theaters are for movies I want to see, but are not atop my list, or for movies where the technology would be lost on my laptop (Star Wars, LOTR, HP or Avatar).
3. DVD rentals and downloaded movies are ones I want to see to know the story, but don't need the price of admission or the hassle of the crowds (Nights in Rodanthe, Sherlock Holmes, and Eat, Love, Pray-- OK...maybe not Eat Love Pray... but you get the idea!!!)
As for the type of movie to see:
I like almost any story, so I like to match my movie-going partner's mood. I tend to watch a ton of action movies by myself, and save the "feel good" or "dramatic" selections with those who would enjoy them more than myself-- then I increase my joy with their joy.
For instance, I would watch, "From Paris with Love," by myself, and watch, "Letters for Juliet," with my daughters. In a conflict of the "which screen process," I will choose their preference. See, "Letters From Juliet," would be a DVD for me, but Elisa (my youngest daughter, for those of you who don't know) would want to see it as soon as possible on the big screen. Hence, we will go to the big screen (Megaplex when first released- hopefully matinee) and see it. Not my choice, but I will enjoy the story, and enjoy Elisa's reactions even more.
Does that make sense?? So, it is a screen choice and a genre choice-- they are not the same.
So, I will answer the big question as well-- knowing it may change by the time you read this. My favorite movie is, "KISS KISS BANG BANG." Robert Downey Jr. cracks me up in this move-- as does Val Kilmer. The more I watch it, the funnier it gets. The story is madcap-- and the dialogue is witty and non-stop.
My last item is my DISCLAIMER---
This is included especially for my sister, Lora (who already knows this NOW). But, in her honor, I would like to make clear that when I say I like a movie, I am in NO WAY insinuating, implying, hinting or any other synonym of these actions, that YOU will like this movie. In fact, I will try to point out things that will detract from your enjoyment movies I discuss in my blog, but if I fail to do so, please do NOT come back to me and say, "Fred, you lying .... I did not find this movie (whatever positive word you insert) at all!" Okay?? OK!
As for "KISS KISS BANG BANG," the detractor is the extraordinarily foul language throughout. If I notice it, it is a problem. After nine years in the Marines, I know that some people lack the ability to communicate without resolving to the F word. In the old days, people like Red Skelton could make me roll me off the couch, laughing, and NEVER use a curse word. Bill Cosby's wife (according to Bill) stood up in the stirrups during childbirth and informed the entire hospital - very loudly- that Bill's parents were never married. Nowadays... well, I digress, sorry. Suffice it to say that they curse so much in this film, that they apologize to us at the end of it. Go figure. Still, I overlook it due to the extremely good acting, timing and quirky storyline. (Again, if profanity upsets you, this movie is NOT for you.)
Okay, my movie-going friends, I will catch up with you next time, When Dr Kildare says, "Please sit down, this may sting a bit...:
JUST KIDDING!!! (and who IS Dr. Kildare, anyway???)
Warm regards,
Fred T Wyrick
Thursday, December 9, 2010
My Early Movie Experiences
Hi!!
Here we go!! My FIRST post actually about MOVIES!! YAY! I am so excited!! As many of you may know, it is quite daunting to stare at a blank page and try to start writing about a HUGE subject matter!! What to say?? Where to begin?? Very scary!! So, I figure I will start with my beginning experiences with movies. My posts will NOT be ordered chronologically, btw!! In fact, some will argue they may not be ordered at all!! What a compliment!! If this ever becomes work, I'll quit!!
I would like to introduce to you, my early movie favorites-- "No Man is an Island" (W/ Jeffrey Hunter) and, "To Hell and Back" (w/ Audie Murphy). They both just happen to be war movies, but the drama and story richness in each left me in awe as a kid. (Maybe I'll add, "No Name on the Bullet" (Audie in a western), just to round this out a little.)
"No Man is an Island" tells a story (I think it's a true story) of a US Sailor who gets separated and stranded on an island (Guam, I think) as it is being occupied by the Japanese. The islanders and a catholic priest hide him, and put their own lives in peril to protect him. Of course, there were bombs exploding (Not the likes of Saving Pvt Ryan), but I don't remember any graphic violence. There was, however, plenty of stressful moments and suspense-- enough to rival any Hitchcock movie (a topic of many upcoming posts, I am sure). The take away for me was learning of racial tolerance versus bigotry. As a child, I learned a ton about the value of human life from this movie.
Don't hold me to this, but I think there are sites that stream this movie for free-- just google, "Watch No Man is an Island movie' and it should be listed.
Which reminds me......
I do NOT research my information. I leave that to those who are far more adept at it than I. If I have remembered something incorrectly, please post corrections. Remember, though, most of my postings are of my opinions, not facts. If I say I like a movie, and, say, you do not, please post "We disagree" or something like it, not, "You are wrong- the movie is bad." See, I can't be wrong saying I like the movie, just as you are not wrong for saying you do not like it. Wrong would be saying the movie starred Jeffrey Hunter, when, in fact is was William Shatner-- some people do confuse them, since they were both captains in the early (maybe even the first episode) Star Trek TV show. Of course, I MAY be wrong!!
Okay, I'll be leaving out "No Name on The Bullet," since this post is longer than I meant for it to be.
The last movie, "To Hell and Back" is definitely the true story of Audie Murphy- the most decorated soldier in US history (at the time of filming the movie, anyway). Ironically, he is portrayed by Audie Murphy. His story is both astounding and entertaining. My favorite scene is when he takes on the entire German army by himself (probably some embellishment). He rushes to a vacated truck-mounted machine gun and starts mowing the Germans down. At the same time, he is calling in for air support. He gives the coordinates, and they tell him the coordinates are wrong-- those are, in fact, Murphy's coordinates. He says, "I know! I know! ...FIRE!!!" The voice on the walkie-talkie (that's like a cell phone for you younger guys) asks, "How close are they??" and, in perfect Audie Murphy style, he says, "Just a second, I'll let you talk to them!!" Classic. I love it.
But my real takeaway for this, and every Audie Murphy movie, was that I didn't have to be big and tall, like John Wayne (topic for yet another post), to be a hero ...and get the girl. Audie was my size, and now I had hope.
I also think you can watch this movie for free online by doing the same thing-- google, "watch to hell and back movie" and pick a site listed.
Thanks for hanging in with me!! I hope you had a walk down memory lane with me- or learned a little bit if you weren't there the first time(s) these movies aired.
I look forward to knowing if you know or saw any of these movies. Write anything you care to!!
See you here next time, my movie friend!!
Warm regards,
Fred T Wyrick
Thank you for Responses!
Hiya!!
Thank you so much for all your responses!!I'm really having a great time with this blog, and I appreciate all your comments and questions. I really wasn't expecting this much feedback so quickly!! Again, thank you!!
Most of the comments I'm getting are thanking me for offering a place to get movie reviews from a personal source. I must say that I was really shying away from doing that-- mostly because I hate critics. I don't like being told what I will like- or even worse, what I should like. Who is anyone to tell another person anything like that. Okay, I don't want to rant, but you get my point.
But I will offer this-- after all, the mantra is, "Give them what they want," right?? I will do regular movie reviews-- maybe on days new DVDs are released, for example-- BUT you have to agree that I am only sharing MY thoughts on the matter, not what I think YOUR thoughts will be. Fair enough?? OK?? OK.
Having said that, I might offer three (3) tips:
1. Read my posts regularly- they will give you insight on how I see movies. Then you will find yourself agreeing with me or not agreeing with me (I would appreciate postings from you saying just that-- agree or disagree).
2. Check out my Facebook page (Fred T Wyrick) to see more about me personally-- you want to know the source, right? You will find some about me here, but my FB page will fill in some gaps.
3. Watch a movie or two that I like, and see if our tastes are similar-- we can always agree to disagree.
Okay, thank you for participating on my blog!! Post whatever you like. Some have been posting to Facebook as well, and that is also fine with me. BTW (by the way), I will be tweeting on twitter soon as well. Watch for that!!
All my best to you and yours!!
Warm regards,
Fred T Wyrick
Thank you so much for all your responses!!I'm really having a great time with this blog, and I appreciate all your comments and questions. I really wasn't expecting this much feedback so quickly!! Again, thank you!!
Most of the comments I'm getting are thanking me for offering a place to get movie reviews from a personal source. I must say that I was really shying away from doing that-- mostly because I hate critics. I don't like being told what I will like- or even worse, what I should like. Who is anyone to tell another person anything like that. Okay, I don't want to rant, but you get my point.
But I will offer this-- after all, the mantra is, "Give them what they want," right?? I will do regular movie reviews-- maybe on days new DVDs are released, for example-- BUT you have to agree that I am only sharing MY thoughts on the matter, not what I think YOUR thoughts will be. Fair enough?? OK?? OK.
Having said that, I might offer three (3) tips:
1. Read my posts regularly- they will give you insight on how I see movies. Then you will find yourself agreeing with me or not agreeing with me (I would appreciate postings from you saying just that-- agree or disagree).
2. Check out my Facebook page (Fred T Wyrick) to see more about me personally-- you want to know the source, right? You will find some about me here, but my FB page will fill in some gaps.
3. Watch a movie or two that I like, and see if our tastes are similar-- we can always agree to disagree.
Okay, thank you for participating on my blog!! Post whatever you like. Some have been posting to Facebook as well, and that is also fine with me. BTW (by the way), I will be tweeting on twitter soon as well. Watch for that!!
All my best to you and yours!!
Warm regards,
Fred T Wyrick
Wednesday, December 8, 2010
Why I Like Movies
Hi Again!!
Before I actually start blogging movies, I thought it might be appropriate to mention why I like movies so much. My association with movies goes back to my childhood, when there were only three TV stations. When I moved, I found I could get a couple more (Los Angeles) stations, and that almost doubled my ability to find movies.
But, still, it was my local movie emcees that were my best friends. I was thrilled when my dad actually befriended one, Don Rodewald, and he became like a member of our family. When I lost my dad in Sep 2003, Don continued emailing updates regarding his wife and family. Which reminds me, his birthday is coming up....
The "other" afternoon emcee was Jim Hayden. I played in a band, and Jim invited us to do a set on his afternoon show. They did just about anything they wanted on live TV back then- 90 minute movies took all afternoon to air. Forget about fast-forwarding though commercials- the live movie breaks could be as entertaining as the movie itself!
Anyway, I spent the hours and hours after school watching westerns, dramas, comedies, musicals and any movie they aired (in black and white, of course). But I soon found myself more than entertained- I was patterning my vocabulary after characters I liked. I was starting to carry myself, walking and using some mannerisms of my cinematic heroes.
Then I progressed to analyzing what I thought funny, what I thought sad, what I thought profound. I started building a repertoire of gag lines to make friends laugh. I started viewing philosophies of characters against my philosophies of real life.
Many of life's lessons I wanted to share could concisely be summed up in a line from a movie. An emotion I wanted to define could be described with a movie scene.
And so it went- the more I watched movies, the more I liked them, the more I resonated with them, the more I memorized them, the more I used them as references.
I don't expect you are as crazy about the movies as I am (though, maybe you are), but you can still relate to one or more of my experiences. Surely, you can tell me of a time a movie (character, line, scene, etc) affected you to laugh, cry, or share it with another person (And I promise, that will be the last time I call you Surely).
That is what I hope this blog will be-- a portrayal of how life imitates art imitating life. This could be fun, couldn't it??
Come back often and see where we are and write whatever you want about it. You can even start by posting your early experiences with movies right now! Or later ones, if you are sensitive about giving away your age-- it certainly (whew! I ALMOST said "surely" after promising NOT to!) doesn't matter to me, your age. We can all enjoy movies.
Good day, and I'll see you here next time!
Warm regards,
Fred T Wyrick
Before I actually start blogging movies, I thought it might be appropriate to mention why I like movies so much. My association with movies goes back to my childhood, when there were only three TV stations. When I moved, I found I could get a couple more (Los Angeles) stations, and that almost doubled my ability to find movies.
But, still, it was my local movie emcees that were my best friends. I was thrilled when my dad actually befriended one, Don Rodewald, and he became like a member of our family. When I lost my dad in Sep 2003, Don continued emailing updates regarding his wife and family. Which reminds me, his birthday is coming up....
The "other" afternoon emcee was Jim Hayden. I played in a band, and Jim invited us to do a set on his afternoon show. They did just about anything they wanted on live TV back then- 90 minute movies took all afternoon to air. Forget about fast-forwarding though commercials- the live movie breaks could be as entertaining as the movie itself!
Anyway, I spent the hours and hours after school watching westerns, dramas, comedies, musicals and any movie they aired (in black and white, of course). But I soon found myself more than entertained- I was patterning my vocabulary after characters I liked. I was starting to carry myself, walking and using some mannerisms of my cinematic heroes.
Then I progressed to analyzing what I thought funny, what I thought sad, what I thought profound. I started building a repertoire of gag lines to make friends laugh. I started viewing philosophies of characters against my philosophies of real life.
Many of life's lessons I wanted to share could concisely be summed up in a line from a movie. An emotion I wanted to define could be described with a movie scene.
And so it went- the more I watched movies, the more I liked them, the more I resonated with them, the more I memorized them, the more I used them as references.
I don't expect you are as crazy about the movies as I am (though, maybe you are), but you can still relate to one or more of my experiences. Surely, you can tell me of a time a movie (character, line, scene, etc) affected you to laugh, cry, or share it with another person (And I promise, that will be the last time I call you Surely).
That is what I hope this blog will be-- a portrayal of how life imitates art imitating life. This could be fun, couldn't it??
Come back often and see where we are and write whatever you want about it. You can even start by posting your early experiences with movies right now! Or later ones, if you are sensitive about giving away your age-- it certainly (whew! I ALMOST said "surely" after promising NOT to!) doesn't matter to me, your age. We can all enjoy movies.
Good day, and I'll see you here next time!
Warm regards,
Fred T Wyrick
Welcome to my Blog!!
Welcome to my Blog!!!
I'm glad to have you here, and I hope you'll have as much fun here as I do! I am not a critic, nor will you find any movie reviews as such. I plan on posting rambles about films I like, lines I find memorable, performances I enjoy and so on.
I encourage you to participate by posting yourself. Your insights will be greatly appreciated, and hopefully, we will create some threads that cannot be constructed anywhere else!
Have fun and come back often! I will be posting random posts on a regular basis. Tell your friends, so they can see what I wrote, what you wrote and maybe they will write some themselves!!
See you here again soon!!
Warm regards,
Fred T Wyrick
I'm glad to have you here, and I hope you'll have as much fun here as I do! I am not a critic, nor will you find any movie reviews as such. I plan on posting rambles about films I like, lines I find memorable, performances I enjoy and so on.
I encourage you to participate by posting yourself. Your insights will be greatly appreciated, and hopefully, we will create some threads that cannot be constructed anywhere else!
Have fun and come back often! I will be posting random posts on a regular basis. Tell your friends, so they can see what I wrote, what you wrote and maybe they will write some themselves!!
See you here again soon!!
Warm regards,
Fred T Wyrick
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