Author(s): Adam
Location: Texas
“Altamont"
Directed by Walter SallesWritten by Alfonso Cuaron & Carlos Cuaron
Produced by George Lucas, Albert Maysles & Alfonso Cuaron
Principal Cast:
MATTHEW McCONAUGHEY as Ralph "Sonny" Barger
MAGGIE GYLLENHAAL as Dorothy Maynard
ANTHONY MACKIE as Meredith Hunter
PAUL DANO as Alan Passaro
ROBERT DOWNEY, JR. as Albert MayslesJOAQUIN PHOENIX as David Maysles
Tagline: "December 6, 1969... The day the music died"
Released: December 6, 2007
Rated R for strong language, some strong violence, some sexual content, drug use
Synopsis: December 6, 1969. It was a free concert featuring The Rolling Stones, Santana, The Flying Burrito Brothers, Crosby Stills Nash & Young and Jefferson Airplane. It was being called the Woodstock of the West Coast. It became a chaotic affair that ended in four deaths, four births, and the day the music died. Altamont tells the story of three groups at the Altamont event.
Ralph "Sonny" Barger, leader of the Oakland division of the Hell's Angels, is hired to lead his gang as security for the event. They are paid $500 and free beer throughout the event. Consuming alcohol and taking drugs throughout the day, they become agitated at the hard to control crowd. They resort to violence and aggression towards the crowd. This results in four deaths and numerous injuries.
Meredith Hunter, an 18 year-old African-American is attending the concert. With him, he is carrying long-barreled revolver. In a dispute with Alan Passaro, a notorious 21 year-old member of the Hell's Angels, he is stabbed and kicked to death. Passaro was tried for murder in 1972, but acquitted in belief that the act was in self-defense. It is never known if Hunter drew his weapon before or after being stabbed. Hunter's death is known as the most famous death at the event.
Dorothy Maynard, a single mother-to-be who is nine months pregnant, is attending the concert with her husband for a day of music before her child is born, as chaos breaks out, Dorothy goes into labor. Now, Dorothy is in fear of losing her child at birth amongst everything occuring around her.
Albert & David Maysles are two filmmakers attending the show with equipment and filming the concert for use on a documentary. Not expecting what would occur as the sun went down, they begin to film the chaotic events. Eventually, they have caught on tape numerous situations, including the stabbing of Meredith Hunter. Their footage would eventually be used for a documentary they called "Gimme Shelter"
Altamont is the story of four different groups of people and how one day changed their lives. It show how the Altamont event each affected them in its own way. It opens our eyes to how we handle certain situations and how we come out as different people when having experienced a traumatic event.
What the press would say:
"A moving film about human nature from different aspects of a diverse group of people"
"Beautifully shot and photographed. Walter Salles is making his way to the list of top foreign filmmakers in our modern day"
"When it comes to this years acting race for the oscars, McConaughey, Gyllenhaal, Dano, and Mackie can be placed at the starting line"
"The Cuaron brothers have scored another hit as writers, from Y tu Mama Tambien to this, their range and diversity to tell a story is clearly shown in their works"
FYC
BEST PICTURE- George Lucas, Albert Maysles, Alfonso Cuaron
BEST DIRECTOR- Walter Salles
BEST ORIGINAL SCREENPLAY- Alfonso/Carlos Cuaron
BEST ACTOR- Matthew McConaughey
BEST ACTRESS- Maggie Gyllenhaal
BEST SUPPORTING ACTOR- Paul Dano
BEST SUPPORTING ACTOR- Anthony Mackie
FILM EDITING
CINEMATOGRAPHY
SOUND MIXING
Wednesday, June 18, 2008
Around the Horn
Author(s): Tony
Location: Pittsburgh
“Around the Horn"
Directed by Larry Charles
Written by Alexander Payne
Produced by Albert Berger
Music by Pieter Bourke
Principal Cast:
Oliver Platt as Lenny Crow
Denis Leary as Ace Headlee
Jeremy Piven as Clark Quackinbush
Robert Downey JR as John Cannon
Christopher McDonald as Bob Payne
Morgan Spurlock as Himself
David Morse as George Lewis
Michael Rooker as Jim Deikstra
Laura Kightlinger as Lisa Deikstra
Joseph Gordon-Levitt as Tim Deikstra
Mary-Louise Parker as Connie Preston
Wiley Wiggins as Amber Newman
Terry Crews as LaMarshal Whitney
Tagline: "The words you don't see coming are the ones that hurt the most"
Synopsis: Host Bob Payne and four different citizens with the most hated jobs and opinions from across the country debate the hottest and intense topics live via satellite, "Around the Horn". Imagine one show where the "villains" get to speak, where they get their word in to express their own beliefs. The show often brings on guests to debate the 4 analysts on their own respective topics, and it's no holds barred.
Lenny Crow has the back of perhaps the people that are looked down the most in the country, the obese public. Crow is blind in his left eye which brings many of the other analyst humor, Crow is always knocking over his unseen pen or coffee mug on the left side of his body, but apart from this unusual habit, Crow means business. Crow is sick of these vegetarian, whiny, "eat healthy" activist that need to show themselves on TV every 4 seconds. The fact is the general obesity problem is no ones concern except the obese. Morgan Spurlock is often a guest on the show and is enraged by Crows comments. Perhaps Spurlock did put a hand in abolishing the "super size" option, now the public will just order 2 larges and invest more money in the fast food nation.
Ace Headlee, steroid activist by day, and uh...steroid dealer by night. Headlee is the medias most well known agent in all of sports. With clients in football and baseball, Headlee is a man on a mission, to juice the competition. With his biggest client, all-star left fielder and homerun batting champ LaMarshal Whitney, on suspicion for using horse roids that were strictly given to him from Ace Headlee, George Lewis, a former Senate majority leader, leads the investigation, but it's not enough to stop the problem. Ace has his opportunity to express himself on ATH, and in the end walks away with the cash, and a big old grin on his face.
Clark Quackinbush, the #1 hated man on all feminists, republicans, and pro-life activists lists. Quackinbush is the lead organizer of the biggest pro-abortion cult in the country, BNOB, "Baby Not on Board". Quackinbush is banned from most late night talk shows and is the leads the country for most death threats in one year. His security has doubled ever since the public felt the need to throw bricks through his house windows. Clark and his trusty accomplice Amber Newman (4 abortions to her count) take on the country, expressing the RIGHTS the country has been complaining about for years now, and it is a womans RIGHT if she wants to abort a child she doesn't want. Clark has kids of his own, which only pushes his pro-abortion standards ever further. With his on-going rivalry with feminist Connie Preston, Clark is a very busy man, and it's like he says, "Why be against something that you haven't tried yourself?"
And finally, our fourth and final villain, John Cannon, perhaps the most popular of the bunch, often is a guest on CNN, most media talk shows, Cannon is a ferocious predator with his war beliefs. Not only does Cannon not show a care in the world for the soldiers in battle, but is dealing with a law suit that the Deikstra has put on him. "Why should I feel sorry if a guy gets decapitated on television?" as John likes to say, claiming that if the guy doesn't want to get decapitated, stay home. Tim Deikstra is a soldier in present time and via satellite guest stars on the show against Cannon, debates in which people from all over the country tune into. Cannon's words affected Tim so deeply after 3 or 4 appearances, Tim eventually took his life over seas, in time led to the law suit. Cannon believes this incident alone shows weakness in the country, "how can this all around tough kid be affected by MY WORDS and my words alone?".
Perhaps some of the fueds will end badly, perhaps some will be jailed, some will be broke, but all in all, the show must go on, and not only do the panalyst get to express themselves, but the media is "rolling in the benjamins".
What the press would say:
You may find yourself very nervous when seeing a movie like this. You choose your friends or family carefully, you're not sure who you want to take and you must study their natural beliefs or you know you'll have a heated debate also. From the director of "Borat", Larry Charles brings you the most outrageous comedy since, um, well, Borat, "Around the Horn" is mesmorizing in it's own kind. Strictly led on it's witty, off beat humor and spot on dialogue, each staff and cast member in their own unselfish ways create this raunchy atmosphere that will definitely open some eyes and perhaps make you question your own beliefs. Not all of the film is shot on the talk show, but we get a good evaluation of how these realistic characters live and what they go through, it's truly an amusing matter.
You decide whether the ultra enthusiastic characters are the pro or antagonist, but what doesn't need debated is the performances from each panel member. Oliver Platt plays off his blindness as if he were actually blind, Platt is known for his comic supporting roles, this one will only increase his legacy. Denis Leary takes on the sports world and is so convincing it's hard not to love him. Jeremy Piven is without a doubt the most outspoken, charismatic character in the film, a supporting role that might go down as one of the most memorable. And finally Downey JR, who realistically took the most risky of all roles, that enough deserves credit. JR, who hasen't touched a bad script in so long, continues his comeback journey with his brilliant portayal of a man against sympathy for the "troops". His quote "Excuse me if playing cards and drinking all night doesn't deserve my sympathy" will go down in the books with "I'll make him an offer he won't refuse".
This movie will leave you speechless for a few hours, afterwards you'll be talking about it for days. Comedy has surely lost its touch, but it's guys like Larry Charles and Alexander Payne that bring the true brightness and intellect in comedy. "Around the Horn" shines, and it shines well.
For Your Consider:
Best Picture - Larry Charles, Alexander Payne, and Albert Berger
Best Director - Larry Charles
Best Supporting Actor - Oliver Platt
Best Supporting Actor - Denis Leary
Best Supporting Actor - Jeremy Piven
Best Supporting Actor - Robert Downey JR
Best Original Screenplay - Alexander Payne
Best Film Editing
Location: Pittsburgh
“Around the Horn"
Directed by Larry Charles
Written by Alexander Payne
Produced by Albert Berger
Music by Pieter Bourke
Principal Cast:
Oliver Platt as Lenny Crow
Denis Leary as Ace Headlee
Jeremy Piven as Clark Quackinbush
Robert Downey JR as John Cannon
Christopher McDonald as Bob Payne
Morgan Spurlock as Himself
David Morse as George Lewis
Michael Rooker as Jim Deikstra
Laura Kightlinger as Lisa Deikstra
Joseph Gordon-Levitt as Tim Deikstra
Mary-Louise Parker as Connie Preston
Wiley Wiggins as Amber Newman
Terry Crews as LaMarshal Whitney
Tagline: "The words you don't see coming are the ones that hurt the most"
Synopsis: Host Bob Payne and four different citizens with the most hated jobs and opinions from across the country debate the hottest and intense topics live via satellite, "Around the Horn". Imagine one show where the "villains" get to speak, where they get their word in to express their own beliefs. The show often brings on guests to debate the 4 analysts on their own respective topics, and it's no holds barred.
Lenny Crow has the back of perhaps the people that are looked down the most in the country, the obese public. Crow is blind in his left eye which brings many of the other analyst humor, Crow is always knocking over his unseen pen or coffee mug on the left side of his body, but apart from this unusual habit, Crow means business. Crow is sick of these vegetarian, whiny, "eat healthy" activist that need to show themselves on TV every 4 seconds. The fact is the general obesity problem is no ones concern except the obese. Morgan Spurlock is often a guest on the show and is enraged by Crows comments. Perhaps Spurlock did put a hand in abolishing the "super size" option, now the public will just order 2 larges and invest more money in the fast food nation.
Ace Headlee, steroid activist by day, and uh...steroid dealer by night. Headlee is the medias most well known agent in all of sports. With clients in football and baseball, Headlee is a man on a mission, to juice the competition. With his biggest client, all-star left fielder and homerun batting champ LaMarshal Whitney, on suspicion for using horse roids that were strictly given to him from Ace Headlee, George Lewis, a former Senate majority leader, leads the investigation, but it's not enough to stop the problem. Ace has his opportunity to express himself on ATH, and in the end walks away with the cash, and a big old grin on his face.
Clark Quackinbush, the #1 hated man on all feminists, republicans, and pro-life activists lists. Quackinbush is the lead organizer of the biggest pro-abortion cult in the country, BNOB, "Baby Not on Board". Quackinbush is banned from most late night talk shows and is the leads the country for most death threats in one year. His security has doubled ever since the public felt the need to throw bricks through his house windows. Clark and his trusty accomplice Amber Newman (4 abortions to her count) take on the country, expressing the RIGHTS the country has been complaining about for years now, and it is a womans RIGHT if she wants to abort a child she doesn't want. Clark has kids of his own, which only pushes his pro-abortion standards ever further. With his on-going rivalry with feminist Connie Preston, Clark is a very busy man, and it's like he says, "Why be against something that you haven't tried yourself?"
And finally, our fourth and final villain, John Cannon, perhaps the most popular of the bunch, often is a guest on CNN, most media talk shows, Cannon is a ferocious predator with his war beliefs. Not only does Cannon not show a care in the world for the soldiers in battle, but is dealing with a law suit that the Deikstra has put on him. "Why should I feel sorry if a guy gets decapitated on television?" as John likes to say, claiming that if the guy doesn't want to get decapitated, stay home. Tim Deikstra is a soldier in present time and via satellite guest stars on the show against Cannon, debates in which people from all over the country tune into. Cannon's words affected Tim so deeply after 3 or 4 appearances, Tim eventually took his life over seas, in time led to the law suit. Cannon believes this incident alone shows weakness in the country, "how can this all around tough kid be affected by MY WORDS and my words alone?".
Perhaps some of the fueds will end badly, perhaps some will be jailed, some will be broke, but all in all, the show must go on, and not only do the panalyst get to express themselves, but the media is "rolling in the benjamins".
What the press would say:
You may find yourself very nervous when seeing a movie like this. You choose your friends or family carefully, you're not sure who you want to take and you must study their natural beliefs or you know you'll have a heated debate also. From the director of "Borat", Larry Charles brings you the most outrageous comedy since, um, well, Borat, "Around the Horn" is mesmorizing in it's own kind. Strictly led on it's witty, off beat humor and spot on dialogue, each staff and cast member in their own unselfish ways create this raunchy atmosphere that will definitely open some eyes and perhaps make you question your own beliefs. Not all of the film is shot on the talk show, but we get a good evaluation of how these realistic characters live and what they go through, it's truly an amusing matter.
You decide whether the ultra enthusiastic characters are the pro or antagonist, but what doesn't need debated is the performances from each panel member. Oliver Platt plays off his blindness as if he were actually blind, Platt is known for his comic supporting roles, this one will only increase his legacy. Denis Leary takes on the sports world and is so convincing it's hard not to love him. Jeremy Piven is without a doubt the most outspoken, charismatic character in the film, a supporting role that might go down as one of the most memorable. And finally Downey JR, who realistically took the most risky of all roles, that enough deserves credit. JR, who hasen't touched a bad script in so long, continues his comeback journey with his brilliant portayal of a man against sympathy for the "troops". His quote "Excuse me if playing cards and drinking all night doesn't deserve my sympathy" will go down in the books with "I'll make him an offer he won't refuse".
This movie will leave you speechless for a few hours, afterwards you'll be talking about it for days. Comedy has surely lost its touch, but it's guys like Larry Charles and Alexander Payne that bring the true brightness and intellect in comedy. "Around the Horn" shines, and it shines well.
For Your Consider:
Best Picture - Larry Charles, Alexander Payne, and Albert Berger
Best Director - Larry Charles
Best Supporting Actor - Oliver Platt
Best Supporting Actor - Denis Leary
Best Supporting Actor - Jeremy Piven
Best Supporting Actor - Robert Downey JR
Best Original Screenplay - Alexander Payne
Best Film Editing
Australia
Author(s): Ryan
Location: N/A
“Australia"
Directed by Guillermo del Toro
Written by Guillermo del Toro and Alfonso Cuaron
Music by Javier Navarrete
Cinematography by Emmanuel Lubezki
Principal Cast:
Ivana Banquero: Lola Walgala
Maribel Verdu: Carmen
Jaiver Bardem: Estaben Walgala
Prissy: Rose McGowan
Benji: Ryan GoslingKestie: Radha Mitchell
The Mister: Jim Carrey
Naomi Watts: Maura Johnson
Mark Johnson: Christian Bell
Jen Kang: Gong Li
Tagline: "N/A"
Synopsis: In 2058 the world is almost dead. The remaining countries are at war, the water supply is beginning to lower, and the climate has changed drastically. The world population is 36 million. The world consists of Russia which was taken over by America in 2020, Old Asia which is China, Japan, and Korea, Spanish Territory which is Portugal and Spain, and Former America where states no longer exist but rather the whole country America. Then there is Australia. Australia is the only place that nothing is happening. It is supposed to be the Perfect place and Lola desperately wants to go.
Lola lives in Russia in an Army house where the Army lives. Her father has promised to take her when the war is over but that seems to be never. She is often visited by a black figure with a white blank face she calls ghost. He tells her the future and good things arriving but is ghost really telling her or is she imagining it? Her best friend is Carmen the Nurse in the home. She wants to go to Australia also. They are practically sisters and are together almost all the time. Carmen often tell Lola a true story Carmen calls The Whisper in the dark.
The Whisper in the dark tells the story of the eccentric Prissy and Benji and Kestie. Prissy is the slave of The Mister. The mister is a rich demanding sex addicted malevolent murderer who hangs around with his Drunk buddies. The Mister gives Prissy free time in which Prissy goes to the Cinema (which is abandoned) to meet her boyfriend Benji. They often go and watch old movies there. One day Benji's wild at heart cousin Kestie comes to the theater and tell them she has a plan to escape to Australia that night. The two agree to come along but The Mister and his gang find out about it and want Benji and Kestie dead and Prissy returned to him.
Lola loves this story because eventually all three escape and Lola's situation is not nearly as bad as the three and this gives her hope. The Ghost appears again to Lola he tells her she is Going to Australia soon but tell no one or something bad will happen. Thought Lola can't resist and tells Carmen. Since Carmen is the only one that believes Lola, Lola and Carmen escape that night on a boat. Though when the army finds out about the escape they suspect Carmen of kidnapping Lola and a troop is sent after to find Lola. On the way to Australia Carmen tells Lola more stories about a married couple who crosses paths with The Mister and how the world became the way it is. Lola begins to wonder then if Australia is really what it seems.
What the press would say:
From the writer and Director of Pan's Labyrinth and Alfonso Cuaron of Children of men comes an explosive fantasy in a world which no one wants to see. The story takes place in Russia which is now a foggy abandoned country. In Russia lives Lola Walgala (Ivana Banquero). Lola is a thirteen year old girl whose father is fighting in the war. She wants to go to the supposedly perfect place Australia where nothing is happening. Her best friend Carmen the nurse (Maribal Verdu) is wanting to go to escape war. These are the two leads of the film who give heart breaking performances and really make you feel for them.
In The Whisper in the Dark segment Rose McGowan shines as Prissy a wild eccentric woman who is the Slave of the Mister (Jim Carrey). Ryan Gosling also gives a great performance as Benji, Prissy's boyfriend. Radah Mitchell plays the ghost like Kestie, who in her 7 minute performance steals every scene she's in. Jim Carrey also proves to be a scene stealer as the terrifying Mister.
The last 45 minutes of the film has many twists to it and has you on the edge of your seat.With the Cinematography of Children of Men and the Originality of Pan's Labyrinth this is a true Masterpiece and will be remembered in times to come.
For your Consideration
Best Motion Picture of the Year
Best Director: Guillermo del Toro
Best Original Screenplay: Guillermo del Toro and Alfonso Cuaron
Best Actress in a leading role: Ivana Banquero
Best Supporting Actress: Maribal Verdu
Best Supporting Actor: Jim Carrey
Best Supporting Actor: Ryan Gosling
Best Supporting Actress: Rose Mcgowen
Best supporting Actress: Radah Mitchell
Best Art Direction
Best Cinematography
Best Makeup
Location: N/A
“Australia"
Directed by Guillermo del Toro
Written by Guillermo del Toro and Alfonso Cuaron
Music by Javier Navarrete
Cinematography by Emmanuel Lubezki
Principal Cast:
Ivana Banquero: Lola Walgala
Maribel Verdu: Carmen
Jaiver Bardem: Estaben Walgala
Prissy: Rose McGowan
Benji: Ryan GoslingKestie: Radha Mitchell
The Mister: Jim Carrey
Naomi Watts: Maura Johnson
Mark Johnson: Christian Bell
Jen Kang: Gong Li
Tagline: "N/A"
Synopsis: In 2058 the world is almost dead. The remaining countries are at war, the water supply is beginning to lower, and the climate has changed drastically. The world population is 36 million. The world consists of Russia which was taken over by America in 2020, Old Asia which is China, Japan, and Korea, Spanish Territory which is Portugal and Spain, and Former America where states no longer exist but rather the whole country America. Then there is Australia. Australia is the only place that nothing is happening. It is supposed to be the Perfect place and Lola desperately wants to go.
Lola lives in Russia in an Army house where the Army lives. Her father has promised to take her when the war is over but that seems to be never. She is often visited by a black figure with a white blank face she calls ghost. He tells her the future and good things arriving but is ghost really telling her or is she imagining it? Her best friend is Carmen the Nurse in the home. She wants to go to Australia also. They are practically sisters and are together almost all the time. Carmen often tell Lola a true story Carmen calls The Whisper in the dark.
The Whisper in the dark tells the story of the eccentric Prissy and Benji and Kestie. Prissy is the slave of The Mister. The mister is a rich demanding sex addicted malevolent murderer who hangs around with his Drunk buddies. The Mister gives Prissy free time in which Prissy goes to the Cinema (which is abandoned) to meet her boyfriend Benji. They often go and watch old movies there. One day Benji's wild at heart cousin Kestie comes to the theater and tell them she has a plan to escape to Australia that night. The two agree to come along but The Mister and his gang find out about it and want Benji and Kestie dead and Prissy returned to him.
Lola loves this story because eventually all three escape and Lola's situation is not nearly as bad as the three and this gives her hope. The Ghost appears again to Lola he tells her she is Going to Australia soon but tell no one or something bad will happen. Thought Lola can't resist and tells Carmen. Since Carmen is the only one that believes Lola, Lola and Carmen escape that night on a boat. Though when the army finds out about the escape they suspect Carmen of kidnapping Lola and a troop is sent after to find Lola. On the way to Australia Carmen tells Lola more stories about a married couple who crosses paths with The Mister and how the world became the way it is. Lola begins to wonder then if Australia is really what it seems.
What the press would say:
From the writer and Director of Pan's Labyrinth and Alfonso Cuaron of Children of men comes an explosive fantasy in a world which no one wants to see. The story takes place in Russia which is now a foggy abandoned country. In Russia lives Lola Walgala (Ivana Banquero). Lola is a thirteen year old girl whose father is fighting in the war. She wants to go to the supposedly perfect place Australia where nothing is happening. Her best friend Carmen the nurse (Maribal Verdu) is wanting to go to escape war. These are the two leads of the film who give heart breaking performances and really make you feel for them.
In The Whisper in the Dark segment Rose McGowan shines as Prissy a wild eccentric woman who is the Slave of the Mister (Jim Carrey). Ryan Gosling also gives a great performance as Benji, Prissy's boyfriend. Radah Mitchell plays the ghost like Kestie, who in her 7 minute performance steals every scene she's in. Jim Carrey also proves to be a scene stealer as the terrifying Mister.
The last 45 minutes of the film has many twists to it and has you on the edge of your seat.With the Cinematography of Children of Men and the Originality of Pan's Labyrinth this is a true Masterpiece and will be remembered in times to come.
For your Consideration
Best Motion Picture of the Year
Best Director: Guillermo del Toro
Best Original Screenplay: Guillermo del Toro and Alfonso Cuaron
Best Actress in a leading role: Ivana Banquero
Best Supporting Actress: Maribal Verdu
Best Supporting Actor: Jim Carrey
Best Supporting Actor: Ryan Gosling
Best Supporting Actress: Rose Mcgowen
Best supporting Actress: Radah Mitchell
Best Art Direction
Best Cinematography
Best Makeup
Big Brown Bag
Author(s): Alex
Location: Texas
“Big Brown Bag"
Directed by Clint Eastwood
Produced by Scott Rudin & Bob Yari & Clint Eastwood
Written by Todd Field & Patrick Marber & Stephen Gaghan
Edited By Thelma Shoonmaker & Stephen Mirrione
Cinematography by Emmanuel Lubezki
Music by Phillip Glass
Costume Design by Patricia Field
Production Design by Jess Gonchor
Art Direction & Set Decoration by Tom Warren & Lydia Marks
Principal Cast:
Mischa Barton (Rachel) Kathy Bates (Miriam)
Victoria Beckham (Gina)
Kate Beckinsale (Natasha)
Jamie Bell (John)
Hayden Christensen (Tom)
Jill Clayburgh (Brenda) Zac Efron (Bobby)
Kyle Gallner (Henry)
Eva Green (Jane)
Bryan Greenberg (Richard)
Jennifer Hudson (Sam)
Felicity Huffman (Susan)
Keira Knightely (Jamie)
James Lafferty (Andy)
Blake Lively (Natalie)
Rachel McAdams (Sarah)
Sienna Miller (Diana)
Samuel Page (Christopher)
Danielle Panabaker (Jen)
Alex Pettyfer (Daniel)
Vanessa Redgrave (Joan)
Channing Tatum (Luke)
Reese Witherspoon (Amanda)
Tagline: "Loneliness. Friendship. Fear. Hate. Life. You Think You’ve Seen It All. TAKE A CLOSER LOOK"
Synopsis: Imagine a normal day in the regular mall near your house. Have you ever thought of what’s happening to the guy next to you in the elevator, the lady in front of you buying a pet or the brother and sister laughing and talking as they walk. No, didn’t think so. Big Brown Bag brings the tale of a regular day in the mall, Daniel (Pettyfer) is a messed up kid who receives a chance by a naïve yet dedicated teacher (Greenberg) of making a project in order to avoid failing a class that would mean his last day in school, the project is about observing people during a day in the local mall, and analyzing their behavior and their response to everything around them during Christmas season, but this project would mean a lot more, it will open his mind to everything he ignored and never cared to pay attention to.
The ensemble cast tells a wide variety of stories that find cohesion in the setting and Daniel’s project. The story begins with John (Bell), a 19 year old who lacks motivation and any short and long term goals, he’s overwhelmed by pressure and expectations but particularly doubt, he works at the video store with Luke (Tatum), a free spirited guy who can’t stay in one place for too long, always moving and always avoiding any kind of real responsibility; and Bobby a really funny kid, extremely fanatic of movies, always making references in real life, but he means well and portrays a know it all image, but in reality he knows little but hopes much. Together they form a weird group of friends but eventually each will find what’s lacking in their lives from each other. The second story is about Joan a recent widow facing life without his life companion, facing the loneliness and reality of the issue and with the help of two long time friends, quirky and expressive Miriam (Bates) and serious, uptight Brenda (Clayburgh). In a trip to the mall she will realize that is tough but life goes on. Her son Tom will help her realize that even though her husband’s life ended, she still has much to live.
The third focus on snobby, bossy; Diana. The manager of an exclusive boutique who is unable to truly express her feelings, she lives in fear of seeming weak to her employees, Jane (Green) and Rachel (Barton). But after all her nature has maker her, a woman without trust and depending on the false security she exudes. She eventually opens up but to herself, realizing her mistakes and flaws as a person.
As a fourth here comes the typical High School princess Natalie (Blake Lively), but with her there’s more that what meets the eye, she can’t stand her life but its too afraid of leaving it, she’ tired of the lack of friendship and loyalty in her life she can only rely on his also popular cousin Andy (James Lafferty) who also hides a big secret, even to her , everyone loves her, and her perfect life, but you know there is more than just being beautiful, rich and with a family that loves her, I know is there actually something better? Well the answer is yes, the most important thing is having all these by being true to yourself and having peace of mind. At the end they realize that life is not perfect and sometimes is hard facing our own reality but we have to accustom to it as it is.
Then we know the story of Susan (Huffman) a bitter and unhappy woman, facing the fact that all her aspirations and hopes are lost in her new persona. She struggles with her daughter Jane (Panabaker), without realizing she’s her only support and that she’s the only thing holding her family, Jane behaves with great maturity and honesty. Susan knows the only worthy thing she has done is raising Jane the way she is. Susan never fully understands that life is more than just the gathering of your accomplishments.
The final and lighter story is between two siblings, Henry (Gallner) and Sarah (McAdams) their relationship besides the age difference is special and both of them find in themselves the meaning of family, that even when you think everything is going bad there’s light at the end of the tunnel. Their part in this story is merely to show the real meaning of family and trust, their relationship brings a change of mood to the story and shows what love is.
All the stories include flashbacks to explain certain aspects of the character and what made it that way. At the end on simple day in the mall during the holidays actually shows more that what anybody else expects. Every person has a story before entering and with this story; some of those stories are told.
What the press would say:
The first time I read about this movie my first reaction was Huuu???. Basically because just looking at the cast you see a great burden to carry through a very difficult way. You have the experienced and great actors teamed up with the unproven and inexperienced young actors, and with this larger than life cast you can kiss quality good bye with the smallest mistake, but guess what before you even dare to criticize the cast and the destiny of the movie take a look at the crew, another Molotov bomb you might say, who would think Clint Eastwood would ever do a movie like this, particularly written by Todd Field, Stephen Gaghan and Patrick Marber, you might think, where the hell did Paul Haggis went?? But let me tell you something before your eyebrows reach the sky. It works. After the success in Cannes being the only movie to ever win so many prizes, Palme D’Or, Best Director, Best Screenplay and a special mention to the whole cast in both acting categories, everything about this movie fits in perfectly, every member of this vast cast was born to play their respective roles, Jamie Bell and Alex Pettyfer shine as the leading men in this movie, they take what it seem to be very superficial characters and turns them in human beings without exaggerating the issue or situations in which they are placed. Vanessa Redgrave and Felicity Huffman prove that you don’t have to be young to take over the screen, every woman on this film are overshadowed by this two. In the supporting performances you can choose whoever you want, every one of them achieve something marvelous, some with more screen time that others, but whoever doubted that teen idols couldn’t act please watch this movie before saying anything, James Lafferty a “One Tree Hill” alumni proves he can add feelings and humanity to the typical jock, his role is one of the hardest ones in the movie and he pulls it off with limited screen time and lines. Also Zac Efron and Channing Tatum achieve something beyond words, you leave the theater knowing that you once were in their position, the rest of the guys are also awesome Christensen in the role of a son struggling with the past of his family and what it takes to face the present, Greenberg as very naïve teacher that has amazing hope in what people can achieve if they’re give a chance, Page functions as trigger of emotions in the movie in his roles as Bell’s big brother and Gallner as a teenager with no problems just enjoying life the way everyone should. With the ladies we have Blake Lively who changes and humanizes the typical popular girl, let me tell you something, she’s awesome at doing it, Keira Knightely has a very limited role as the owner of the video store but she squeezes every second in screen, this is that kind of performances that earn at least Oscar nominations for her 14 minutes on screen, Sienna Miller is impressive as Diana, she is capable of showing a great range of emotions with just a look or expression, if anyone loved Meryl in Prada they will certainly love Miller she even matches her to the surprise of everyone that watches this movie, J-Hud actually proves that she deserved her Oscar and positions herself as one of the finest actresses working right now being constant in good work, she plays Miller’s mentor and the reason of her attitudes, a very good performance. The veterans Clayburgh and Bates make one of the funniest and more loved couples in cinema; they hate each other but is so goddamn funny watching it in the screen, heartfelt performances worthy of them. Beckinsale and Beckham put the B in bitch; I mean they take their role so seriously that your actually afraid of saying anything while they talk, their roles as the owners of the exclusive store was built for them, together they create the snobbiest bitches in cinema history. Barton, Green, McAdams, Panabaker and Witherspoon have one thing in common, they brake your hearts wide open, your really feel what they are trying to say. This weird cast functions as a puzzle, each one of them has a specific role in the story and together they create this image of perfection.
Eastwood proves that he can work outside his usual type of movie in order to create a gripping drama, he plays with time in the shape of flashbacks that would take a gifted director to make it work, also the great editing creates a swift pacing and flow between the stories, that with the help of Lubezki’s photography you actually feel you’re in the mall following this people. Glass’ music works perfectly in the high dramatic points, is difficult to hold you tears in this movie trust me on that. The script can easily fall into cheesiness and stereotypes, but in the hands of all this gifted writers, believe nothing goes wrong. The story has great humanity and sensibility in portraying the life of these persons, is really sublime the way it works. As you watch this film you feel in another era of cinema, there will be a difference from this point in making movies. This is one of those movies that surprise you every time you see them. An instant classic and frontrunner in every award show.
FYC
Best Picture - Scott Rudin & Bob Yari & Clint Eastwood
Best Director – Clint Eastwood
Best Actor in a Leading Role – Jamie Bell and Alex Pettyfer
Best Actress in a Leading Role – Vanessa Redgrave and Felicity Huffman
Best Actor in a Supporting Role – Hayden Christensen, Zac Efron, James Lafferty and Channing Tatum
Best Actress in a Supporting Role – Kathy Bates, Jill Clayburgh, Sienna Miller, Blake Lively and Keira Knightely
Best Editing - Thelma Shoonmaker & Stephen Mirrione
Best Cinematography - Emmanuel Lubezki
Best Costume Design - Patricia Field
Best Art Direction - Tom Warren & Lydia Marks
Best Original Score - Phillip Glass
Location: Texas
“Big Brown Bag"
Directed by Clint Eastwood
Produced by Scott Rudin & Bob Yari & Clint Eastwood
Written by Todd Field & Patrick Marber & Stephen Gaghan
Edited By Thelma Shoonmaker & Stephen Mirrione
Cinematography by Emmanuel Lubezki
Music by Phillip Glass
Costume Design by Patricia Field
Production Design by Jess Gonchor
Art Direction & Set Decoration by Tom Warren & Lydia Marks
Principal Cast:
Mischa Barton (Rachel) Kathy Bates (Miriam)
Victoria Beckham (Gina)
Kate Beckinsale (Natasha)
Jamie Bell (John)
Hayden Christensen (Tom)
Jill Clayburgh (Brenda) Zac Efron (Bobby)
Kyle Gallner (Henry)
Eva Green (Jane)
Bryan Greenberg (Richard)
Jennifer Hudson (Sam)
Felicity Huffman (Susan)
Keira Knightely (Jamie)
James Lafferty (Andy)
Blake Lively (Natalie)
Rachel McAdams (Sarah)
Sienna Miller (Diana)
Samuel Page (Christopher)
Danielle Panabaker (Jen)
Alex Pettyfer (Daniel)
Vanessa Redgrave (Joan)
Channing Tatum (Luke)
Reese Witherspoon (Amanda)
Tagline: "Loneliness. Friendship. Fear. Hate. Life. You Think You’ve Seen It All. TAKE A CLOSER LOOK"
Synopsis: Imagine a normal day in the regular mall near your house. Have you ever thought of what’s happening to the guy next to you in the elevator, the lady in front of you buying a pet or the brother and sister laughing and talking as they walk. No, didn’t think so. Big Brown Bag brings the tale of a regular day in the mall, Daniel (Pettyfer) is a messed up kid who receives a chance by a naïve yet dedicated teacher (Greenberg) of making a project in order to avoid failing a class that would mean his last day in school, the project is about observing people during a day in the local mall, and analyzing their behavior and their response to everything around them during Christmas season, but this project would mean a lot more, it will open his mind to everything he ignored and never cared to pay attention to.
The ensemble cast tells a wide variety of stories that find cohesion in the setting and Daniel’s project. The story begins with John (Bell), a 19 year old who lacks motivation and any short and long term goals, he’s overwhelmed by pressure and expectations but particularly doubt, he works at the video store with Luke (Tatum), a free spirited guy who can’t stay in one place for too long, always moving and always avoiding any kind of real responsibility; and Bobby a really funny kid, extremely fanatic of movies, always making references in real life, but he means well and portrays a know it all image, but in reality he knows little but hopes much. Together they form a weird group of friends but eventually each will find what’s lacking in their lives from each other. The second story is about Joan a recent widow facing life without his life companion, facing the loneliness and reality of the issue and with the help of two long time friends, quirky and expressive Miriam (Bates) and serious, uptight Brenda (Clayburgh). In a trip to the mall she will realize that is tough but life goes on. Her son Tom will help her realize that even though her husband’s life ended, she still has much to live.
The third focus on snobby, bossy; Diana. The manager of an exclusive boutique who is unable to truly express her feelings, she lives in fear of seeming weak to her employees, Jane (Green) and Rachel (Barton). But after all her nature has maker her, a woman without trust and depending on the false security she exudes. She eventually opens up but to herself, realizing her mistakes and flaws as a person.
As a fourth here comes the typical High School princess Natalie (Blake Lively), but with her there’s more that what meets the eye, she can’t stand her life but its too afraid of leaving it, she’ tired of the lack of friendship and loyalty in her life she can only rely on his also popular cousin Andy (James Lafferty) who also hides a big secret, even to her , everyone loves her, and her perfect life, but you know there is more than just being beautiful, rich and with a family that loves her, I know is there actually something better? Well the answer is yes, the most important thing is having all these by being true to yourself and having peace of mind. At the end they realize that life is not perfect and sometimes is hard facing our own reality but we have to accustom to it as it is.
Then we know the story of Susan (Huffman) a bitter and unhappy woman, facing the fact that all her aspirations and hopes are lost in her new persona. She struggles with her daughter Jane (Panabaker), without realizing she’s her only support and that she’s the only thing holding her family, Jane behaves with great maturity and honesty. Susan knows the only worthy thing she has done is raising Jane the way she is. Susan never fully understands that life is more than just the gathering of your accomplishments.
The final and lighter story is between two siblings, Henry (Gallner) and Sarah (McAdams) their relationship besides the age difference is special and both of them find in themselves the meaning of family, that even when you think everything is going bad there’s light at the end of the tunnel. Their part in this story is merely to show the real meaning of family and trust, their relationship brings a change of mood to the story and shows what love is.
All the stories include flashbacks to explain certain aspects of the character and what made it that way. At the end on simple day in the mall during the holidays actually shows more that what anybody else expects. Every person has a story before entering and with this story; some of those stories are told.
What the press would say:
The first time I read about this movie my first reaction was Huuu???. Basically because just looking at the cast you see a great burden to carry through a very difficult way. You have the experienced and great actors teamed up with the unproven and inexperienced young actors, and with this larger than life cast you can kiss quality good bye with the smallest mistake, but guess what before you even dare to criticize the cast and the destiny of the movie take a look at the crew, another Molotov bomb you might say, who would think Clint Eastwood would ever do a movie like this, particularly written by Todd Field, Stephen Gaghan and Patrick Marber, you might think, where the hell did Paul Haggis went?? But let me tell you something before your eyebrows reach the sky. It works. After the success in Cannes being the only movie to ever win so many prizes, Palme D’Or, Best Director, Best Screenplay and a special mention to the whole cast in both acting categories, everything about this movie fits in perfectly, every member of this vast cast was born to play their respective roles, Jamie Bell and Alex Pettyfer shine as the leading men in this movie, they take what it seem to be very superficial characters and turns them in human beings without exaggerating the issue or situations in which they are placed. Vanessa Redgrave and Felicity Huffman prove that you don’t have to be young to take over the screen, every woman on this film are overshadowed by this two. In the supporting performances you can choose whoever you want, every one of them achieve something marvelous, some with more screen time that others, but whoever doubted that teen idols couldn’t act please watch this movie before saying anything, James Lafferty a “One Tree Hill” alumni proves he can add feelings and humanity to the typical jock, his role is one of the hardest ones in the movie and he pulls it off with limited screen time and lines. Also Zac Efron and Channing Tatum achieve something beyond words, you leave the theater knowing that you once were in their position, the rest of the guys are also awesome Christensen in the role of a son struggling with the past of his family and what it takes to face the present, Greenberg as very naïve teacher that has amazing hope in what people can achieve if they’re give a chance, Page functions as trigger of emotions in the movie in his roles as Bell’s big brother and Gallner as a teenager with no problems just enjoying life the way everyone should. With the ladies we have Blake Lively who changes and humanizes the typical popular girl, let me tell you something, she’s awesome at doing it, Keira Knightely has a very limited role as the owner of the video store but she squeezes every second in screen, this is that kind of performances that earn at least Oscar nominations for her 14 minutes on screen, Sienna Miller is impressive as Diana, she is capable of showing a great range of emotions with just a look or expression, if anyone loved Meryl in Prada they will certainly love Miller she even matches her to the surprise of everyone that watches this movie, J-Hud actually proves that she deserved her Oscar and positions herself as one of the finest actresses working right now being constant in good work, she plays Miller’s mentor and the reason of her attitudes, a very good performance. The veterans Clayburgh and Bates make one of the funniest and more loved couples in cinema; they hate each other but is so goddamn funny watching it in the screen, heartfelt performances worthy of them. Beckinsale and Beckham put the B in bitch; I mean they take their role so seriously that your actually afraid of saying anything while they talk, their roles as the owners of the exclusive store was built for them, together they create the snobbiest bitches in cinema history. Barton, Green, McAdams, Panabaker and Witherspoon have one thing in common, they brake your hearts wide open, your really feel what they are trying to say. This weird cast functions as a puzzle, each one of them has a specific role in the story and together they create this image of perfection.
Eastwood proves that he can work outside his usual type of movie in order to create a gripping drama, he plays with time in the shape of flashbacks that would take a gifted director to make it work, also the great editing creates a swift pacing and flow between the stories, that with the help of Lubezki’s photography you actually feel you’re in the mall following this people. Glass’ music works perfectly in the high dramatic points, is difficult to hold you tears in this movie trust me on that. The script can easily fall into cheesiness and stereotypes, but in the hands of all this gifted writers, believe nothing goes wrong. The story has great humanity and sensibility in portraying the life of these persons, is really sublime the way it works. As you watch this film you feel in another era of cinema, there will be a difference from this point in making movies. This is one of those movies that surprise you every time you see them. An instant classic and frontrunner in every award show.
FYC
Best Picture - Scott Rudin & Bob Yari & Clint Eastwood
Best Director – Clint Eastwood
Best Actor in a Leading Role – Jamie Bell and Alex Pettyfer
Best Actress in a Leading Role – Vanessa Redgrave and Felicity Huffman
Best Actor in a Supporting Role – Hayden Christensen, Zac Efron, James Lafferty and Channing Tatum
Best Actress in a Supporting Role – Kathy Bates, Jill Clayburgh, Sienna Miller, Blake Lively and Keira Knightely
Best Editing - Thelma Shoonmaker & Stephen Mirrione
Best Cinematography - Emmanuel Lubezki
Best Costume Design - Patricia Field
Best Art Direction - Tom Warren & Lydia Marks
Best Original Score - Phillip Glass
Bootleg
Author(s): Maia
Location: LA
“Bootleg"
Written and Directed by Jason Reitman
Editing by Thelma Schoonmaker
Cinematography by Rodrigo Prieto
Original Score by Phillip Glass
Principal Cast:
Aaron Eckhart as Quincy Scalanti
Zac Efron as Daryl Cooper
Paul Dano as Brad Williamson
Jada Pinkett Smitt as Marcia Jones
Derek Luke as Mike Jones
Drea de Matteo as Melina Lombardi
Gael Garcia Bernal as Fernando Suarez
Mia Maestro as Paula Suarez
Adriana Barraza as Lucia Suarez
Milla Jovovich as Amber Evans / “The Silent Mistress”
Chris Cooper as Johnny Taylor
Tagline: "Now playing everywhere… but your local Cineplex"
Synopsis: A controversial look at the distribution cycle of film piracy in Hollywood through the eyes of the different intermediaries involved:
QUINCY SCALANTI (Eckhart) is the American cult film director by excellence; his four movies have made him a household name for the studios and one of the most popular filmmakers in the world. He was even up for an Academy Award last year (and he can’t still get over the fact that he lost). His past commercial success earned him complete creative freedom during the production of “The Silent Mistress,” a bloody martial arts adventure starring the equally famous (and narcissistic) Amber Evans as a woman seeking revenge for her daughter’s murder. A week before the film’s release, Quincy is ready to start the mandatory promotion tour across America but things are not going exactly as he had hoped…
JOHNNY TAYLOR (Cooper) is the head of Dynamo Studios, the powerful film company in charge of distributing “The Silent Mistress” nationwide; Taylor fell in love with Scalanti’s concept at their pitch meeting almost a year ago but ever since though, nothing had been pleasant between them. The latest test screenings have turned out disastrous for the film and with over sixty millions invested in production and advertising, Taylor fears he’s about to drop a bomb…
[The Silent Mistress (Jovovich) swordfights her enemy, she struggles for a while and finally, fulfills her revenge...] Credits start rolling, “Directed by Quincy Scalanti” appears on screen and then, all goes black: DARYL COOPER (Efron) turns off his camera and we find ourselves inside a movie theater. BRAD WILLIAMSON (Dano) looks around as the awkward audience leaves the Sneak Peek quickly. Daryl is an average teenager who enjoys watching movies and making an extra-income out of them; Brad is an aspiring screenwriter trying to get money for film school. They met FERNANDO SUAREZ (Garcia Bernal), a bootleg movie vendor from Mexico, a year ago while they were searching for a cheap DVD copy of “The Lord of the Rings” trilogy in Downtown LA. Fernando introduced them to the business and they soon became his providers. For film buff Brad, movie piracy was worst than murder but his need for money turned him into an obsessive bootlegger, Daryl didn’t care much about the legal issues of movie piracy but he did care for Fernando’s sister: PAULA (Maestro). Every week or two, they would visit Fernando to give him their latest recordings. Fernando would then burn them into hundreds of DVDs, prepare them for local distribution and also, take them to Mexico. In the meantime, Paula was responsible of taking care of Lucia (Barraza), their ill mother. Daryl fell in love with Paula quickly and as they are becoming closer, Brad is becoming more desperate for money and he is willing to do whatever it takes to enroll in film school…
MPAA executive MARCIA JONES (Pinkett Smith) has never gotten anything for free but now, well established as a film censor; she can afford a luxury or two (Including supporting her brother Mike). Marcia has just received a DVD screener of “The Silent Mistress” for additional reviewing but has been busy on a confidential case about online piracy to watch it yet. Secretly, her brother MIKE (Luke) burns these licensed DVDs to his computer and sells them on his website NotPlaying.com.
Entertainment reporter MELINA LOMBARDI (de Matteo) has always dreamed about becoming a respected journalist, her boss has just assigned her a story that could help her do it: the increase of movie piracy in America. She heads to Downtown with her crew to tape the bootleg vendors in action and spots Fernando. She is sure she has found her big story (and she is right, her report would turn into the most discussed subject of the week on national media).
Quincy Scalanti is devastated: a couple of days before “The Silent Mistress” debuts; critics are unanimously calling it the worst film of the year. He is proud enough to hide his fears behind an arrogant attitude and recurrent sniffs of coke but he can’t hide from Johnny Taylor’s rage. Taylor is furious; Quincy’s over-the-top direction will cost him millions and to make things worst, impatient fanboys are already downloading the film!. Quincy can’t handle the media pressure but he can’t stay away from it. As he watches an entertainment news show in his bedroom, he catches Melina Lombardi’s story… He can’t believe his film is out on the streets for sale at $4!
From that moment, the characters connect directly or indirectly and we are led to the film’s bittersweet conclusion: Will Melinda’s acclaimed story launch her to the top? What will happen to Marcia when the MPAA and the FBI discovers her brother is the one to blame for the computerized piracy? Will Johnny Taylor save his company and reputation? How far will the relationship between Daryl and Paula go? How far will Brad go to attain his goal? And most importantly, Will ‘The Silent Mistress” flop… or not?
What the press would say:
Unconventional! That’s the only way we can describe Jason Reitman’s riveting tragicomedy “Bootleg:” an ensemble masterpiece with many and none agendas at the same time. It’s a terrific film study about Hollywood’s worst nightmare: movie piracy, and it is accomplished to award-worthy results by its cast and crew. Reitman provides us with all the elements we need to empathize with his universe of characters but never tries to manipulate us into liking their life choices. Instead, Reitman adds pathos and motivations to each intermediary and allows us to judge for ourselves if we approve their actions or not. This decision is what ultimately makes the film work, Reitman stays away from the anti-movie piracy speech and instead; presents the problem and explores its causes and consequences with a smarter approach than his previous directorial effort "Thank You For Smoking"
Aaron Eckhart (playing wonderfully against type) creates a brilliant personality as the egomaniac and Tarantino-esque director Quincy Scalanti, Eckhart is hilarious on each of his scenes but his natural depth shines on the most dramatic moments where his character must battle his inner demons. The rest of the ensemble is also outstanding: Drea de Matteo is a perfect cast as the ruthless reporter Melina Lombardi; she glows on every scene (especially on those hilarious moments where her character’s overconfidence is revealed). Paul Dano reinvents himself as the ambitious and deceiving Brad (a coveted role that all Young Hollywood auditioned for) and Chris Cooper steals the show as the no-nonsense studio chief Johnny Taylor (particularly on every scene he shares with Eckhart's Scalanti).
The inherent legal issues of movie piracy are smartly given a secondary role against the moral conflicts in Reitman’s witty screenplay, making the film transcend the more than likely debate and become one of the most inspiring and though-provoking films of the year. Intermediaries are punished but the start and end of the cycle remain undefeated because a problem like movie piracy can’t be solved in two and a half hours, not even in Hollywood…
With almost ninety millions on the american box-office alone, “Bootleg” has also earned the audience’s acclaim and now, as we get closer to the announcement of the Oscar nominations, it should be considered for the following awards:
Best Picture (AMPAS)
Best Picture – Drama (HFPA)
Best Cast (SAG)
Best Director – Jason Reitman
Best Original Screenplay
Best Actor – Aaron Eckhart
Best Supporting Actor – Chris Cooper
Best Supporting Actor – Paul Dano
Best Supporting Actress – Drea de Matteo
Creativity Awards
Location: LA
“Bootleg"
Written and Directed by Jason Reitman
Editing by Thelma Schoonmaker
Cinematography by Rodrigo Prieto
Original Score by Phillip Glass
Principal Cast:
Aaron Eckhart as Quincy Scalanti
Zac Efron as Daryl Cooper
Paul Dano as Brad Williamson
Jada Pinkett Smitt as Marcia Jones
Derek Luke as Mike Jones
Drea de Matteo as Melina Lombardi
Gael Garcia Bernal as Fernando Suarez
Mia Maestro as Paula Suarez
Adriana Barraza as Lucia Suarez
Milla Jovovich as Amber Evans / “The Silent Mistress”
Chris Cooper as Johnny Taylor
Tagline: "Now playing everywhere… but your local Cineplex"
Synopsis: A controversial look at the distribution cycle of film piracy in Hollywood through the eyes of the different intermediaries involved:
QUINCY SCALANTI (Eckhart) is the American cult film director by excellence; his four movies have made him a household name for the studios and one of the most popular filmmakers in the world. He was even up for an Academy Award last year (and he can’t still get over the fact that he lost). His past commercial success earned him complete creative freedom during the production of “The Silent Mistress,” a bloody martial arts adventure starring the equally famous (and narcissistic) Amber Evans as a woman seeking revenge for her daughter’s murder. A week before the film’s release, Quincy is ready to start the mandatory promotion tour across America but things are not going exactly as he had hoped…
JOHNNY TAYLOR (Cooper) is the head of Dynamo Studios, the powerful film company in charge of distributing “The Silent Mistress” nationwide; Taylor fell in love with Scalanti’s concept at their pitch meeting almost a year ago but ever since though, nothing had been pleasant between them. The latest test screenings have turned out disastrous for the film and with over sixty millions invested in production and advertising, Taylor fears he’s about to drop a bomb…
[The Silent Mistress (Jovovich) swordfights her enemy, she struggles for a while and finally, fulfills her revenge...] Credits start rolling, “Directed by Quincy Scalanti” appears on screen and then, all goes black: DARYL COOPER (Efron) turns off his camera and we find ourselves inside a movie theater. BRAD WILLIAMSON (Dano) looks around as the awkward audience leaves the Sneak Peek quickly. Daryl is an average teenager who enjoys watching movies and making an extra-income out of them; Brad is an aspiring screenwriter trying to get money for film school. They met FERNANDO SUAREZ (Garcia Bernal), a bootleg movie vendor from Mexico, a year ago while they were searching for a cheap DVD copy of “The Lord of the Rings” trilogy in Downtown LA. Fernando introduced them to the business and they soon became his providers. For film buff Brad, movie piracy was worst than murder but his need for money turned him into an obsessive bootlegger, Daryl didn’t care much about the legal issues of movie piracy but he did care for Fernando’s sister: PAULA (Maestro). Every week or two, they would visit Fernando to give him their latest recordings. Fernando would then burn them into hundreds of DVDs, prepare them for local distribution and also, take them to Mexico. In the meantime, Paula was responsible of taking care of Lucia (Barraza), their ill mother. Daryl fell in love with Paula quickly and as they are becoming closer, Brad is becoming more desperate for money and he is willing to do whatever it takes to enroll in film school…
MPAA executive MARCIA JONES (Pinkett Smith) has never gotten anything for free but now, well established as a film censor; she can afford a luxury or two (Including supporting her brother Mike). Marcia has just received a DVD screener of “The Silent Mistress” for additional reviewing but has been busy on a confidential case about online piracy to watch it yet. Secretly, her brother MIKE (Luke) burns these licensed DVDs to his computer and sells them on his website NotPlaying.com.
Entertainment reporter MELINA LOMBARDI (de Matteo) has always dreamed about becoming a respected journalist, her boss has just assigned her a story that could help her do it: the increase of movie piracy in America. She heads to Downtown with her crew to tape the bootleg vendors in action and spots Fernando. She is sure she has found her big story (and she is right, her report would turn into the most discussed subject of the week on national media).
Quincy Scalanti is devastated: a couple of days before “The Silent Mistress” debuts; critics are unanimously calling it the worst film of the year. He is proud enough to hide his fears behind an arrogant attitude and recurrent sniffs of coke but he can’t hide from Johnny Taylor’s rage. Taylor is furious; Quincy’s over-the-top direction will cost him millions and to make things worst, impatient fanboys are already downloading the film!. Quincy can’t handle the media pressure but he can’t stay away from it. As he watches an entertainment news show in his bedroom, he catches Melina Lombardi’s story… He can’t believe his film is out on the streets for sale at $4!
From that moment, the characters connect directly or indirectly and we are led to the film’s bittersweet conclusion: Will Melinda’s acclaimed story launch her to the top? What will happen to Marcia when the MPAA and the FBI discovers her brother is the one to blame for the computerized piracy? Will Johnny Taylor save his company and reputation? How far will the relationship between Daryl and Paula go? How far will Brad go to attain his goal? And most importantly, Will ‘The Silent Mistress” flop… or not?
What the press would say:
Unconventional! That’s the only way we can describe Jason Reitman’s riveting tragicomedy “Bootleg:” an ensemble masterpiece with many and none agendas at the same time. It’s a terrific film study about Hollywood’s worst nightmare: movie piracy, and it is accomplished to award-worthy results by its cast and crew. Reitman provides us with all the elements we need to empathize with his universe of characters but never tries to manipulate us into liking their life choices. Instead, Reitman adds pathos and motivations to each intermediary and allows us to judge for ourselves if we approve their actions or not. This decision is what ultimately makes the film work, Reitman stays away from the anti-movie piracy speech and instead; presents the problem and explores its causes and consequences with a smarter approach than his previous directorial effort "Thank You For Smoking"
Aaron Eckhart (playing wonderfully against type) creates a brilliant personality as the egomaniac and Tarantino-esque director Quincy Scalanti, Eckhart is hilarious on each of his scenes but his natural depth shines on the most dramatic moments where his character must battle his inner demons. The rest of the ensemble is also outstanding: Drea de Matteo is a perfect cast as the ruthless reporter Melina Lombardi; she glows on every scene (especially on those hilarious moments where her character’s overconfidence is revealed). Paul Dano reinvents himself as the ambitious and deceiving Brad (a coveted role that all Young Hollywood auditioned for) and Chris Cooper steals the show as the no-nonsense studio chief Johnny Taylor (particularly on every scene he shares with Eckhart's Scalanti).
The inherent legal issues of movie piracy are smartly given a secondary role against the moral conflicts in Reitman’s witty screenplay, making the film transcend the more than likely debate and become one of the most inspiring and though-provoking films of the year. Intermediaries are punished but the start and end of the cycle remain undefeated because a problem like movie piracy can’t be solved in two and a half hours, not even in Hollywood…
With almost ninety millions on the american box-office alone, “Bootleg” has also earned the audience’s acclaim and now, as we get closer to the announcement of the Oscar nominations, it should be considered for the following awards:
Best Picture (AMPAS)
Best Picture – Drama (HFPA)
Best Cast (SAG)
Best Director – Jason Reitman
Best Original Screenplay
Best Actor – Aaron Eckhart
Best Supporting Actor – Chris Cooper
Best Supporting Actor – Paul Dano
Best Supporting Actress – Drea de Matteo
Creativity Awards
Border Relations
Author(s): Al
Location: NY
“Border Relations"
Directed by Paul Thomas Anderson
Written by Paul Thomas Anderson
In Memory of Robert Altman
Principal Cast:
Jeff Holt: John C. Reilly
Matteo Gorcina: Benicio Del Toro
Anita Gorcina: Rosario Dawson
Bob Watson: Jon Voight
Rick Sheldon: Woody Harrelson
Senator Roger Holmes: Chris Cooper
Luis Gorcina: Edward James Olmos
Lisa Holt: Virginia Madsen
Carla Gorcina: Rita Moreno
Alejandro: Luis Guzman
Tagline: "N/A"
Synopsis: For 30 years, Bob Watson has been the sheriff of Ft. Platt, Texas, a close-knit town right near the Mexican-American border. Living alone, he longs for some excitement in his career other than the occasional misdemeanor. He also wants to stop what he thinks is the decay of moral values in America. While watching the news, he becomes convinced that illegal immigration is what's wrong with the country. He immediately announces an initiative to build a giant electric fence along their area of the border, and root out any existing illegal immigrants in the area. He gains the support of most of the town's residents, including Rick Sheldon, a hard-right conservative hunting fanatic. The plan continues, and even attracts the attention of backhanded Texas Senator Holmes who makes a goodwill P.R. appearance in the town to highlight the "fine work" that Bob is doing. Jeff, a liberal and soft-spoken friend of Rick and Bob's, has been hiring illegal immigrants secretly, believing that everyone has the chance at the American dream. When the plan is announced, Jeff fights the law quietly and makes sure his employees are safe.
However, the real trouble with the initiative comes from siblings Matteo and Anita Gorcina. They are illegal Mexican immigrants who have been working tirelessly for Jeff in order to raise enough money to bring the rest of their family into the country legally. In addition, their mother Carla is deathly ill and requires serious medical attention that their broken-down local hospital won't be able to provide. Her husband Luis needs to bring her over the border immediately, legal or not. Alejandro, one of their co-workers at Jeff's factory and a fellow illegal immigrant, rats out Matteo and Anita to Bob in exchange for amnesty. With the help of Jeff and his lawyer wife Lisa, the Gorcina siblings challenge the law, hoping to get a sanction for their mother to enter the country. As the case gains traction and eventually advances to the Supreme Court, all the citizens of Ft. Platt must examine themselves, their beliefs… and whether what they did for a chance at the American Dream was worth it.
What the press would say:
Our country is so divided these days over so many issues. War or peace? Red or blue? Free or not? The list goes on. Movies, however, have always been able to bring us together and help us see the other side's point of view for the first time, and our own in a new light. Hollywood never is afraid to show their colors and discuss serious issues. And now we have "Border Relations", a sensitive drama helmed by up-and-comer Paul Thomas Anderson. Its multilanguage, border-crossing story emphasizes the similarities between the Mexicans and the Americans; the same values, and the same dream. Whether the American Dream still exists or can exist is a recurring theme in the film, but there still is a bit of sentimentality within it. On the other hand, the film at times seeps into darkness and bleakness, while still retaining a spark of hope. It's no wonder this film is dedicated to Robert Altman: his sweeping ensemble style, witty dialogue, and belief that we are all interconnected in some way shines through in his student Anderson's film. The screenplay is clever and multi-layered, and shows us both sides of the story sympathetically. However much we may hate the point of view of characters like Bob Watson, we still understand his rationale, and maybe even feel sorry for him. It challenges every perception we have about immigration, and makes us reconsider our own beliefs. Only the best films can do that.
An ensemble film is nothing without, well, a great ensemble, and "Border Relations" delivers on that. Woody Harrelson is great as a racist denizen of the town, Luis Guzman is perfectly conflicted as a spy for the police, and Chris Cooper is very sleazy as a shifty senator. Benicio Del Toro is also deeply moving as Matteo Gorcina, one of the film's protagonists who will do anything for his family. Oscar-winning veteran actress Rita Moreno is heartbreaking as the dying Carla, conveying so many emotions across her face while also making you believe that she is deathly ill. John C. Reilly gives a very interesting performance as the conflicted Jeff. He delivers his lines with so much passion you listen hard to every word that he is saying. While his character is very earnest and shy for most of the movie, he explodes with emotion in later scenes. We have never seen Reilly act like this, with such emotion and heart. However, I would say the standout is Rosario Dawson. After taking second-banana roles for years and being all but condemned to always playing a hooker-with-a-heart-of-gold, she breaks out in this movie. She drops all vanity and sexiness for this role, and it shows. Opening herself up to the audience, she shows us her every emotion and doesn't even need to speak-a quivering lip, a darkening eye, a pursing lip all portray a thousand words. Her best scenes come when she breaks down under all her stress because Anita is quite the burdened character-even having to resort to stripping for money, we see emotion welling up under her surface until she absolutely bursts. I would go so far as to say this performance is worthy of an Oscar nomination, and perhaps a win.
"Border Relations" is a heartfelt and thought-provoking film that portrays a hugely controversial political issue without losing sight of the human side of the equation. Paul Thomas Anderson is a perfect directorial choice for the film, and all the pieces seem to fit together perfectly. It may not be one of the greatest films of all time, but it's extremely significant-and I'm sure will be for years to come.
Best Picture-AMPAS
Best Picture (Drama)-HFPA
Best Ensemble-SAG
Best Director
Best Original Screenplay
Best Actor: John C. Reilly
Best Actor: Benicio Del Toro
Best Supporting Actor: Jon Voight
Best Supporting Actor: Chris Cooper
Best Supporting Actor: Luis Guzman
Best Supporting Actress: Rosario Dawson
Best Supporting Actress: Rita Moreno
Location: NY
“Border Relations"
Directed by Paul Thomas Anderson
Written by Paul Thomas Anderson
In Memory of Robert Altman
Principal Cast:
Jeff Holt: John C. Reilly
Matteo Gorcina: Benicio Del Toro
Anita Gorcina: Rosario Dawson
Bob Watson: Jon Voight
Rick Sheldon: Woody Harrelson
Senator Roger Holmes: Chris Cooper
Luis Gorcina: Edward James Olmos
Lisa Holt: Virginia Madsen
Carla Gorcina: Rita Moreno
Alejandro: Luis Guzman
Tagline: "N/A"
Synopsis: For 30 years, Bob Watson has been the sheriff of Ft. Platt, Texas, a close-knit town right near the Mexican-American border. Living alone, he longs for some excitement in his career other than the occasional misdemeanor. He also wants to stop what he thinks is the decay of moral values in America. While watching the news, he becomes convinced that illegal immigration is what's wrong with the country. He immediately announces an initiative to build a giant electric fence along their area of the border, and root out any existing illegal immigrants in the area. He gains the support of most of the town's residents, including Rick Sheldon, a hard-right conservative hunting fanatic. The plan continues, and even attracts the attention of backhanded Texas Senator Holmes who makes a goodwill P.R. appearance in the town to highlight the "fine work" that Bob is doing. Jeff, a liberal and soft-spoken friend of Rick and Bob's, has been hiring illegal immigrants secretly, believing that everyone has the chance at the American dream. When the plan is announced, Jeff fights the law quietly and makes sure his employees are safe.
However, the real trouble with the initiative comes from siblings Matteo and Anita Gorcina. They are illegal Mexican immigrants who have been working tirelessly for Jeff in order to raise enough money to bring the rest of their family into the country legally. In addition, their mother Carla is deathly ill and requires serious medical attention that their broken-down local hospital won't be able to provide. Her husband Luis needs to bring her over the border immediately, legal or not. Alejandro, one of their co-workers at Jeff's factory and a fellow illegal immigrant, rats out Matteo and Anita to Bob in exchange for amnesty. With the help of Jeff and his lawyer wife Lisa, the Gorcina siblings challenge the law, hoping to get a sanction for their mother to enter the country. As the case gains traction and eventually advances to the Supreme Court, all the citizens of Ft. Platt must examine themselves, their beliefs… and whether what they did for a chance at the American Dream was worth it.
What the press would say:
Our country is so divided these days over so many issues. War or peace? Red or blue? Free or not? The list goes on. Movies, however, have always been able to bring us together and help us see the other side's point of view for the first time, and our own in a new light. Hollywood never is afraid to show their colors and discuss serious issues. And now we have "Border Relations", a sensitive drama helmed by up-and-comer Paul Thomas Anderson. Its multilanguage, border-crossing story emphasizes the similarities between the Mexicans and the Americans; the same values, and the same dream. Whether the American Dream still exists or can exist is a recurring theme in the film, but there still is a bit of sentimentality within it. On the other hand, the film at times seeps into darkness and bleakness, while still retaining a spark of hope. It's no wonder this film is dedicated to Robert Altman: his sweeping ensemble style, witty dialogue, and belief that we are all interconnected in some way shines through in his student Anderson's film. The screenplay is clever and multi-layered, and shows us both sides of the story sympathetically. However much we may hate the point of view of characters like Bob Watson, we still understand his rationale, and maybe even feel sorry for him. It challenges every perception we have about immigration, and makes us reconsider our own beliefs. Only the best films can do that.
An ensemble film is nothing without, well, a great ensemble, and "Border Relations" delivers on that. Woody Harrelson is great as a racist denizen of the town, Luis Guzman is perfectly conflicted as a spy for the police, and Chris Cooper is very sleazy as a shifty senator. Benicio Del Toro is also deeply moving as Matteo Gorcina, one of the film's protagonists who will do anything for his family. Oscar-winning veteran actress Rita Moreno is heartbreaking as the dying Carla, conveying so many emotions across her face while also making you believe that she is deathly ill. John C. Reilly gives a very interesting performance as the conflicted Jeff. He delivers his lines with so much passion you listen hard to every word that he is saying. While his character is very earnest and shy for most of the movie, he explodes with emotion in later scenes. We have never seen Reilly act like this, with such emotion and heart. However, I would say the standout is Rosario Dawson. After taking second-banana roles for years and being all but condemned to always playing a hooker-with-a-heart-of-gold, she breaks out in this movie. She drops all vanity and sexiness for this role, and it shows. Opening herself up to the audience, she shows us her every emotion and doesn't even need to speak-a quivering lip, a darkening eye, a pursing lip all portray a thousand words. Her best scenes come when she breaks down under all her stress because Anita is quite the burdened character-even having to resort to stripping for money, we see emotion welling up under her surface until she absolutely bursts. I would go so far as to say this performance is worthy of an Oscar nomination, and perhaps a win.
"Border Relations" is a heartfelt and thought-provoking film that portrays a hugely controversial political issue without losing sight of the human side of the equation. Paul Thomas Anderson is a perfect directorial choice for the film, and all the pieces seem to fit together perfectly. It may not be one of the greatest films of all time, but it's extremely significant-and I'm sure will be for years to come.
Best Picture-AMPAS
Best Picture (Drama)-HFPA
Best Ensemble-SAG
Best Director
Best Original Screenplay
Best Actor: John C. Reilly
Best Actor: Benicio Del Toro
Best Supporting Actor: Jon Voight
Best Supporting Actor: Chris Cooper
Best Supporting Actor: Luis Guzman
Best Supporting Actress: Rosario Dawson
Best Supporting Actress: Rita Moreno
Defiant Soul
Author(s): Corey
Location: USA
“Defiant Soul"
Directed By: Steven Spielberg
Written By: Eric Roth & Steve Zaillian
Produced By: Steven Spielberg, Kathleen Kennedy, and Colin Wilson
Music By: John Williams
Cinematography By: Janusz Kaminski
Costumes By: Anna B. Sheppard
Art/Set Direction: Leslie McDonald
Edited By: Michael Kahn
Principal Cast:
Annette Bening: Jeannette Rankin
Judi Dench: Carrie Chapman Catt
Kerry Washington: Coretta Scott King
Julianne Moore: Judy Collins
Ian McKellen: Woodrow Wilson
Tagline: "You take people as far as they will go, not as far as you would like them to go"
Synopsis: On November 7, 1916 she was elected to the House of Representatives as a Republican from Montana, becoming the first female member of Congress. Just four days into her term the House voted on the resolution to enter World War I. Jeannette Rankin would cast one of 50 votes against the resolution, earning her immediate vilification from the press. Suffrage groups would cancel her speaking engagements, and in 1918, she runs an unsuccessful campaign for the Republican nomination to represent Montana in the United States Senate.
Forced out of national politics, Rankin goes to works as a lobbyist in Washington, D.C. for various causes. In 1918 and again in 1919, she introduces legislation to provide state and federal funds for health clinics, midwife education, and visiting nurse programs in an effort to reduce the nation's infant mortality.
After helping to create the American Civil Liberties Union and Women's International League for Peace and Freedom, Rankin is again elected to Congress, this time on an anti-war platform. Following the attack on Pearl Harbor, she once again votes against entering a World War, the only member of Congress to do so, saying "As a woman, I can't go to war and I refuse to send anyone else. I vote 'NO'".
Rankin did not bother to run for re-election because she became so unpopular from her decision. During the remainder of her life, she traveled to India seven times and was a devotee of Gandhian principles of non-violence and self-determination. In 1968, Rankin, a strong supporter of Martin Luther King Jr., led more than 5,000 women who called themselves "The Jeannette Rankin Brigade" to the United States Capitol to demonstrate their opposition to U.S. involvement in the Vietnam War. Coretta Scott King and Judy Collins were among the luminaries who attended.
Rankin died in Carmel, California at the age of 92 from natural causes, bequeathing her property in Watkinsville, Georgia to help "mature, unemployed women workers."
What the press would say:
“Spielberg enters the arena in which he excels. His stories of hope and determination in the face of adversity, like Amistad and Schindler’s List, have become masterpieces, and Defiant Soul enters into that rare territory as well.”
“Bening excels in the role of a lifetime. Under Spielberg’s direction she crafts one of the most poignant portrayals of her career.”
“Spielberg, along with his crew of familiar faces, creates easily the best picture this year.”
“A powerful film.”
“An urgent, effective film about politics and the American spirit. Another Spielberg masterpiece.”
“Whoever said Spielberg can’t direct women needs to take a look at this wonder.”
Oscar Nominations:
Best Picture: Steven Spielberg, Kathleen Kennedy, and Colin Wilson
Best Director: Steven Spielberg
Best Actress: Annette Bening
Best Supporting Actor: Ian McKellen
Best Supporting Actress: Judi Dench
Best Adapted Screenplay: Eric Roth & Steve Zaillian
Best Cinematography: Janusz Kaminski
Best Score: John Williams
Best Art/Set Direction: Leslie McDonald
Location: USA
“Defiant Soul"
Directed By: Steven Spielberg
Written By: Eric Roth & Steve Zaillian
Produced By: Steven Spielberg, Kathleen Kennedy, and Colin Wilson
Music By: John Williams
Cinematography By: Janusz Kaminski
Costumes By: Anna B. Sheppard
Art/Set Direction: Leslie McDonald
Edited By: Michael Kahn
Principal Cast:
Annette Bening: Jeannette Rankin
Judi Dench: Carrie Chapman Catt
Kerry Washington: Coretta Scott King
Julianne Moore: Judy Collins
Ian McKellen: Woodrow Wilson
Tagline: "You take people as far as they will go, not as far as you would like them to go"
Synopsis: On November 7, 1916 she was elected to the House of Representatives as a Republican from Montana, becoming the first female member of Congress. Just four days into her term the House voted on the resolution to enter World War I. Jeannette Rankin would cast one of 50 votes against the resolution, earning her immediate vilification from the press. Suffrage groups would cancel her speaking engagements, and in 1918, she runs an unsuccessful campaign for the Republican nomination to represent Montana in the United States Senate.
Forced out of national politics, Rankin goes to works as a lobbyist in Washington, D.C. for various causes. In 1918 and again in 1919, she introduces legislation to provide state and federal funds for health clinics, midwife education, and visiting nurse programs in an effort to reduce the nation's infant mortality.
After helping to create the American Civil Liberties Union and Women's International League for Peace and Freedom, Rankin is again elected to Congress, this time on an anti-war platform. Following the attack on Pearl Harbor, she once again votes against entering a World War, the only member of Congress to do so, saying "As a woman, I can't go to war and I refuse to send anyone else. I vote 'NO'".
Rankin did not bother to run for re-election because she became so unpopular from her decision. During the remainder of her life, she traveled to India seven times and was a devotee of Gandhian principles of non-violence and self-determination. In 1968, Rankin, a strong supporter of Martin Luther King Jr., led more than 5,000 women who called themselves "The Jeannette Rankin Brigade" to the United States Capitol to demonstrate their opposition to U.S. involvement in the Vietnam War. Coretta Scott King and Judy Collins were among the luminaries who attended.
Rankin died in Carmel, California at the age of 92 from natural causes, bequeathing her property in Watkinsville, Georgia to help "mature, unemployed women workers."
What the press would say:
“Spielberg enters the arena in which he excels. His stories of hope and determination in the face of adversity, like Amistad and Schindler’s List, have become masterpieces, and Defiant Soul enters into that rare territory as well.”
“Bening excels in the role of a lifetime. Under Spielberg’s direction she crafts one of the most poignant portrayals of her career.”
“Spielberg, along with his crew of familiar faces, creates easily the best picture this year.”
“A powerful film.”
“An urgent, effective film about politics and the American spirit. Another Spielberg masterpiece.”
“Whoever said Spielberg can’t direct women needs to take a look at this wonder.”
Oscar Nominations:
Best Picture: Steven Spielberg, Kathleen Kennedy, and Colin Wilson
Best Director: Steven Spielberg
Best Actress: Annette Bening
Best Supporting Actor: Ian McKellen
Best Supporting Actress: Judi Dench
Best Adapted Screenplay: Eric Roth & Steve Zaillian
Best Cinematography: Janusz Kaminski
Best Score: John Williams
Best Art/Set Direction: Leslie McDonald
Faded Red
Author(s): Brian
Location: Arizona
“Faded Red"
Directed by Steven Soderbergh
Written by Steven Zaillian
Principal Cast:
Geoffrey Rush (Joseph Stalin)
Gary Sinise (Adolf Hitler)
Michael Imperioli (Yakov Dzhugashvili)
Peter Sarsgaard (Viktor Suvorov)
Kurt Russell (Richard Sorge)
Rachel Weisz (Eva Braun)
Ian McKellen (Vladimir Lenin)
Tagline: "Trust Can Be Found in the Most Unlikely of Places. Betrayal Cannot Be"
Synopsis: Joseph Stalin builds everything on fear. The Communist ruler of the Soviet Union, he uses his own people as unlimited resources. After only 10 years of power, he has commanded the death of millions of Russians, simply to prove that he could do so. He has aborted all of the original Socialist ideals of the late ruler Vladimir Lenin and has gone to a flat-out Communist state. That is what makes him the most hated person in the world. But he is also one of the most powerful. So, when World War II approaches, the world is watching him to see whose side he will take. And he stuns millions when he makes an alliance with the Fascist Dictator of Germany, Adolf Hitler. Being a Communist, the two are supposed to hate each other. But, instead, they both fight on the side of the Axis powers. The difference is that both Stalin and Hitler are planning to overthrow the other and gain their power and their nation. Stalin is persuaded by his colleagues, Viktor Suvorov and Richard Sorge that Hitler is planning this. The meetings between the two dictators grow tenser. Stalin is also occasionally visited by his son, Yakov Dzhugashvili, a Capitalist, whose only business with his father is to try and change his mind and head the Soviet Union in a new direction. But that is all that is known about this topic. The film then takes these facts and combines them with speculation. Stalin sends out spies and even assassins to Hitler, blatantly unaware that he has done the same to him. The meetings grow tenser. Hitler’s misress, Eva Bruan, begins to grow suspicious about what exactly he is doing with Stalin, and if he is convincing him to change his political system, and eventually his staff becomes just as concerned. Yakov enlists as a troop for Britain, and is forced to kill some of his former friends and allies. Meanwhile, Suvorov and Sorge, in competition for prestige from Stalin, begin to tell total lies about Hitler and his country in order. All of this continues up until Hitler betrays Stalin and attacks the Soviet Union. Russia joins the Allied powers, and eventually reaches victory against Germany. Stalin died in 1953, with a story no one can forget.
What the press would say:
“Faded Red” has finally been released in our town. Now go see it. Period. You’ve heard what the critics have said, and they are right. “Faded Red” is the best movie of the year, beyond any possible doubt. Every single line of dialogue is crisp, subtle, interesting and gripping. Every shot is set up just the right way, at just the right angle and in just the right mood. And the performances are simply heavenly. Academy Award Winner Rachel Weisz plays Eva Braun. She only has around 10 minutes of screen time, but makes the most of every second. At first, we wonder why she is even in the film, but by the end, she becomes the one thing that drives the story forward. The film wouldn’t work without her, or her excellent performance. Gary Sinise plays the very tricky part of Adolf Hitler with ease. Sinise is able to find an actual human in the ruthless dictator, and that is an achievement bigger than any other imaginable. If he is not recognized for this, every critic in America will be scratching their heads. And then there’s Geoffrey Rush, as Joseph Stalin. This Oscar winner won the role after endless lobbying from Michael Gambon, Alec Baldwin, Tom Hanks and Chris Cooper, and let me tell you, he was the right choice. He demands your attention in every scene, and wins it over every time. In the meeting scenes between him and Sinise, you forget that either one is acting, and feel as though you are watching a recording of the actual conversations. If Rush doesn’t win the Oscar for Best Actor, the Academy will lose all of its credibility. Other critics were absolutely right: “Faded Red” is the best movie of the year, and possibly the decade. It one of those films you know will go down as one of the best of all time. It is set to sweep the Oscars with a strong campaign in the following categories…
Best Picture
Best Director (Steven Soderbergh)
Best Actor (Geoffrey Rush)
Best Supporting Actor (Gary Sinise)
Best Supporting Actress (Rachel Weisz)
Best Original Screenplay (Steven Zallian)
Best Film Editing
Best Cinematography
Best Art Direction
Best Costume Design
Location: Arizona
“Faded Red"
Directed by Steven Soderbergh
Written by Steven Zaillian
Principal Cast:
Geoffrey Rush (Joseph Stalin)
Gary Sinise (Adolf Hitler)
Michael Imperioli (Yakov Dzhugashvili)
Peter Sarsgaard (Viktor Suvorov)
Kurt Russell (Richard Sorge)
Rachel Weisz (Eva Braun)
Ian McKellen (Vladimir Lenin)
Tagline: "Trust Can Be Found in the Most Unlikely of Places. Betrayal Cannot Be"
Synopsis: Joseph Stalin builds everything on fear. The Communist ruler of the Soviet Union, he uses his own people as unlimited resources. After only 10 years of power, he has commanded the death of millions of Russians, simply to prove that he could do so. He has aborted all of the original Socialist ideals of the late ruler Vladimir Lenin and has gone to a flat-out Communist state. That is what makes him the most hated person in the world. But he is also one of the most powerful. So, when World War II approaches, the world is watching him to see whose side he will take. And he stuns millions when he makes an alliance with the Fascist Dictator of Germany, Adolf Hitler. Being a Communist, the two are supposed to hate each other. But, instead, they both fight on the side of the Axis powers. The difference is that both Stalin and Hitler are planning to overthrow the other and gain their power and their nation. Stalin is persuaded by his colleagues, Viktor Suvorov and Richard Sorge that Hitler is planning this. The meetings between the two dictators grow tenser. Stalin is also occasionally visited by his son, Yakov Dzhugashvili, a Capitalist, whose only business with his father is to try and change his mind and head the Soviet Union in a new direction. But that is all that is known about this topic. The film then takes these facts and combines them with speculation. Stalin sends out spies and even assassins to Hitler, blatantly unaware that he has done the same to him. The meetings grow tenser. Hitler’s misress, Eva Bruan, begins to grow suspicious about what exactly he is doing with Stalin, and if he is convincing him to change his political system, and eventually his staff becomes just as concerned. Yakov enlists as a troop for Britain, and is forced to kill some of his former friends and allies. Meanwhile, Suvorov and Sorge, in competition for prestige from Stalin, begin to tell total lies about Hitler and his country in order. All of this continues up until Hitler betrays Stalin and attacks the Soviet Union. Russia joins the Allied powers, and eventually reaches victory against Germany. Stalin died in 1953, with a story no one can forget.
What the press would say:
“Faded Red” has finally been released in our town. Now go see it. Period. You’ve heard what the critics have said, and they are right. “Faded Red” is the best movie of the year, beyond any possible doubt. Every single line of dialogue is crisp, subtle, interesting and gripping. Every shot is set up just the right way, at just the right angle and in just the right mood. And the performances are simply heavenly. Academy Award Winner Rachel Weisz plays Eva Braun. She only has around 10 minutes of screen time, but makes the most of every second. At first, we wonder why she is even in the film, but by the end, she becomes the one thing that drives the story forward. The film wouldn’t work without her, or her excellent performance. Gary Sinise plays the very tricky part of Adolf Hitler with ease. Sinise is able to find an actual human in the ruthless dictator, and that is an achievement bigger than any other imaginable. If he is not recognized for this, every critic in America will be scratching their heads. And then there’s Geoffrey Rush, as Joseph Stalin. This Oscar winner won the role after endless lobbying from Michael Gambon, Alec Baldwin, Tom Hanks and Chris Cooper, and let me tell you, he was the right choice. He demands your attention in every scene, and wins it over every time. In the meeting scenes between him and Sinise, you forget that either one is acting, and feel as though you are watching a recording of the actual conversations. If Rush doesn’t win the Oscar for Best Actor, the Academy will lose all of its credibility. Other critics were absolutely right: “Faded Red” is the best movie of the year, and possibly the decade. It one of those films you know will go down as one of the best of all time. It is set to sweep the Oscars with a strong campaign in the following categories…
Best Picture
Best Director (Steven Soderbergh)
Best Actor (Geoffrey Rush)
Best Supporting Actor (Gary Sinise)
Best Supporting Actress (Rachel Weisz)
Best Original Screenplay (Steven Zallian)
Best Film Editing
Best Cinematography
Best Art Direction
Best Costume Design
The Giver
Author(s): Bryce Marrero
Location: Los Angeles, CA
“The Giver"
Directed by: Steven Spielberg
Written by: David Koepp and James Cameron
Produced by: Steven Spielberg, James Cameron, and Bonnie Curtis
Original Score: Danny Elfman
Editing: Zach Staenberg
Visual F/X: John Gaeta, Michael Lantieri, and Joe Letteri
Cinematography: Vilmos Zsigmond
Art Direction: Richard L. Johnson, and Paul M. Sonski
Principal Cast:
Alexander Gould as Jonas Mills
Patrick Stewart as The Giver
Tom Hanks as Jason Mills (Jonas' Father)
Rachel Weisz as Jennifer Mills (Jonas' Mother)
Abigail Breslin as Lily Mills
Bonnie Wright as Fiona
Austin Rogers as Asher
Tagline: "Even a perfect society, can be the worst kind of society"
Genre: Science Fiction Drama
Synopsis: The movie is set in a futuristic society that has gotten rid of all pain, fear, war, and hatred which was suppose to create the perfect community. There is no prejudice or competition, because everyone looks and acts the same. At age twelve every member of the community is assigned a job based on his or her abilities. When it comes to making a family, people must apply for a suitable spouse, and each couple is assigned exactly two children, a girl and a boy. The children are born to "Birthmothers", who will never see the babies they give birth to, and the babies spend their first year in a Nurturing Center with other babies, or “newchildren,” born that year.
When a family's children are grown, the family dissolves and adults live together with other childless adults until they are too old to function in society. In the community, release is death, but it is never described that way. Most people think that after someone is released, they go to a place called "Elsewhere" which is rumored to be another society from their own. Flawed "newchildren" are the ones that get mostly released, so that the community won't be overpopulated. Occasionally, people have an outburst of emotions and must take pills to suppress those emotions. Everything is planned and organized so that life is as convenient and pleasant as possible.
Jonas lives with his father, a mild mannered nurturer of new children, his mother, who works at the Department of Justice and is very serious about her job, and his little sister Lily. Jonas' friends include Asher, a joyful individual, and Fiona, a simpleton girl. At the Ceremony of Twelve, they will be given an official job as a new adult member of the community. Jonas is different than most people. He has pale eyes, while most people in his community have dark eyes. he also has unusual powers of perception. He alone in his community can perceive flashes of color. Everyone else can not see color, because it conjures up emotions of pain and fear. At the Ceremony of Twelve, Jonas is given the honorable job of Receiver of Memory. The Receiver is the sole keeper of the community’s collective memory. When the community first adapted it's lifestyle it abandoned all memories of pain, war, and emotion. However the memories cannot disappear completely. Someone must keep them so that the community can avoid making the mistakes of the past. No one but the Receiver can bear the pain the memories can bring. Jonas receives the memories of the past, good and bad, from the current Receiver, a wise old man who tells Jonas to call him the Giver.
As Jonas receives memories of pleasure and pain, he realizes how empty life in his community is. The memories make Jonas’ life richer and more meaningful, and he wishes that he could share it with others. But in exchange for their peaceful existence, the people of Jonas’ community have lost the ability to feel passion about anything. Jonas grows more frustrated with his community, and the Giver, who feels the same way, encourages him to keep trying. The two grow very close, and develop a grandfather and grandchild relationship.
Meanwhile, Jonas is helping his family take care of a problem "newchild", Gabriel, who has trouble sleeping through the night at the Nurturing Center. Jonas begins to develop a relationship with Gabriel. When Gabriel is in danger of being released, the Giver reveals to Jonas that release is the same as death. After learning this, Jonas becomes full of rage and horror. He is inspired by the Giver to devise a plan to change things in the community forever. Jonas plans to escape the community and enter "Elsewhere". Once he has done that, his memories will disperse, and the Giver will help the community learn about the new feelings and thoughts that will come to them, thus changing the community forever.
Jonas is forced to leave earlier than planned when he finds out his father will be releasing Gabriel the next day. Desperate to save Gabriel, Jonas steals his father’s bicycle and sets off for "Elsewhere". Gradually, he enters a landscape full of color and animals, but also he goes through hunger, danger, and exhaustion. Avoiding search parties from his community, Jonas and Gabriel travel for a long time until heavy snow make bike travel impossible. Will they reach "Elsewhere"? Is "Elsewhere" real? Or will they not even make it to "Elsewhere".
What the press would say:
Steven Spielberg's latest film is the book adaptation of "The Giver" that is set in a utopian world that is also a dystopia world. The movie follows Jonas, a twelve year old boy who is selected to become the next receiver of memories, a job that requires Jonas to learn old memories of how society use to be like before it was a utopia. During this time, the new memories effect Jonas' emotions and after becoming attach to a newborn baby, he attempts to change society, and look elsewhere for a new society. This movie is stunningly beautiful. One of the best visual films of our time. This is another Spielberg masterpiece. The movie has the thrills and suspense of Indiana Jones, and the emotional acting of Schindler's List and Saving Private Ryan. Audience can feel the emotions going through Jonas as he receives more memories, and start to despise society. Alexander delivers the emerging new emotions with such expertise, that audiences will really get into Jonas' character and feel for him. Patrick Stewart gives an inspiring performance as The Giver that reminds me of the Master/Teacher role that the brilliant Alec Guiness delivered in Star Wars. Tom Hanks delivers another powerful performance as a father who always suppresses his emerging emotions he has about the babies he takes care of. It is truly a heartbreaking performance that rivals his performance in Philadelphia. The Giver is another Spielberg masterpiece, that is entertaining and touching. It is the best movie of the year, and I recommend everyone to go see it in theaters.
Best Picture
Best Director- Steven Spielberg
Best Actor- Alexander Gould
Best Supporting Actor- Patrick Stewart
Best Supporting Actor- Tom Hanks
Best Adapted Screenplay- James Cameron and David Koepp
Best Editing
Best Visual F/X
Best Original Score
Best Cinematography
Best Art Direction
Location: Los Angeles, CA
“The Giver"
Directed by: Steven Spielberg
Written by: David Koepp and James Cameron
Produced by: Steven Spielberg, James Cameron, and Bonnie Curtis
Original Score: Danny Elfman
Editing: Zach Staenberg
Visual F/X: John Gaeta, Michael Lantieri, and Joe Letteri
Cinematography: Vilmos Zsigmond
Art Direction: Richard L. Johnson, and Paul M. Sonski
Principal Cast:
Alexander Gould as Jonas Mills
Patrick Stewart as The Giver
Tom Hanks as Jason Mills (Jonas' Father)
Rachel Weisz as Jennifer Mills (Jonas' Mother)
Abigail Breslin as Lily Mills
Bonnie Wright as Fiona
Austin Rogers as Asher
Tagline: "Even a perfect society, can be the worst kind of society"
Genre: Science Fiction Drama
Synopsis: The movie is set in a futuristic society that has gotten rid of all pain, fear, war, and hatred which was suppose to create the perfect community. There is no prejudice or competition, because everyone looks and acts the same. At age twelve every member of the community is assigned a job based on his or her abilities. When it comes to making a family, people must apply for a suitable spouse, and each couple is assigned exactly two children, a girl and a boy. The children are born to "Birthmothers", who will never see the babies they give birth to, and the babies spend their first year in a Nurturing Center with other babies, or “newchildren,” born that year.
When a family's children are grown, the family dissolves and adults live together with other childless adults until they are too old to function in society. In the community, release is death, but it is never described that way. Most people think that after someone is released, they go to a place called "Elsewhere" which is rumored to be another society from their own. Flawed "newchildren" are the ones that get mostly released, so that the community won't be overpopulated. Occasionally, people have an outburst of emotions and must take pills to suppress those emotions. Everything is planned and organized so that life is as convenient and pleasant as possible.
Jonas lives with his father, a mild mannered nurturer of new children, his mother, who works at the Department of Justice and is very serious about her job, and his little sister Lily. Jonas' friends include Asher, a joyful individual, and Fiona, a simpleton girl. At the Ceremony of Twelve, they will be given an official job as a new adult member of the community. Jonas is different than most people. He has pale eyes, while most people in his community have dark eyes. he also has unusual powers of perception. He alone in his community can perceive flashes of color. Everyone else can not see color, because it conjures up emotions of pain and fear. At the Ceremony of Twelve, Jonas is given the honorable job of Receiver of Memory. The Receiver is the sole keeper of the community’s collective memory. When the community first adapted it's lifestyle it abandoned all memories of pain, war, and emotion. However the memories cannot disappear completely. Someone must keep them so that the community can avoid making the mistakes of the past. No one but the Receiver can bear the pain the memories can bring. Jonas receives the memories of the past, good and bad, from the current Receiver, a wise old man who tells Jonas to call him the Giver.
As Jonas receives memories of pleasure and pain, he realizes how empty life in his community is. The memories make Jonas’ life richer and more meaningful, and he wishes that he could share it with others. But in exchange for their peaceful existence, the people of Jonas’ community have lost the ability to feel passion about anything. Jonas grows more frustrated with his community, and the Giver, who feels the same way, encourages him to keep trying. The two grow very close, and develop a grandfather and grandchild relationship.
Meanwhile, Jonas is helping his family take care of a problem "newchild", Gabriel, who has trouble sleeping through the night at the Nurturing Center. Jonas begins to develop a relationship with Gabriel. When Gabriel is in danger of being released, the Giver reveals to Jonas that release is the same as death. After learning this, Jonas becomes full of rage and horror. He is inspired by the Giver to devise a plan to change things in the community forever. Jonas plans to escape the community and enter "Elsewhere". Once he has done that, his memories will disperse, and the Giver will help the community learn about the new feelings and thoughts that will come to them, thus changing the community forever.
Jonas is forced to leave earlier than planned when he finds out his father will be releasing Gabriel the next day. Desperate to save Gabriel, Jonas steals his father’s bicycle and sets off for "Elsewhere". Gradually, he enters a landscape full of color and animals, but also he goes through hunger, danger, and exhaustion. Avoiding search parties from his community, Jonas and Gabriel travel for a long time until heavy snow make bike travel impossible. Will they reach "Elsewhere"? Is "Elsewhere" real? Or will they not even make it to "Elsewhere".
What the press would say:
Steven Spielberg's latest film is the book adaptation of "The Giver" that is set in a utopian world that is also a dystopia world. The movie follows Jonas, a twelve year old boy who is selected to become the next receiver of memories, a job that requires Jonas to learn old memories of how society use to be like before it was a utopia. During this time, the new memories effect Jonas' emotions and after becoming attach to a newborn baby, he attempts to change society, and look elsewhere for a new society. This movie is stunningly beautiful. One of the best visual films of our time. This is another Spielberg masterpiece. The movie has the thrills and suspense of Indiana Jones, and the emotional acting of Schindler's List and Saving Private Ryan. Audience can feel the emotions going through Jonas as he receives more memories, and start to despise society. Alexander delivers the emerging new emotions with such expertise, that audiences will really get into Jonas' character and feel for him. Patrick Stewart gives an inspiring performance as The Giver that reminds me of the Master/Teacher role that the brilliant Alec Guiness delivered in Star Wars. Tom Hanks delivers another powerful performance as a father who always suppresses his emerging emotions he has about the babies he takes care of. It is truly a heartbreaking performance that rivals his performance in Philadelphia. The Giver is another Spielberg masterpiece, that is entertaining and touching. It is the best movie of the year, and I recommend everyone to go see it in theaters.
Best Picture
Best Director- Steven Spielberg
Best Actor- Alexander Gould
Best Supporting Actor- Patrick Stewart
Best Supporting Actor- Tom Hanks
Best Adapted Screenplay- James Cameron and David Koepp
Best Editing
Best Visual F/X
Best Original Score
Best Cinematography
Best Art Direction
Gypsy
Author(s): Alex
Location: Washington State
“Gypsy"
Directed by Sam Mendes
Written by Bill Condon
Lyrics by Stephen Sondheim
Music by Julie Styne
With a new Score by Stephen Sondheim
Principal Cast:
Patti LuPone (Mama Rose)
Claire Danes (Louise)
Richard Gere (Herbie)
Amy Adams (June)
Patrick Wilson (Tulsa)
Tagline: "This April…Everything’s Coming Up Roses!!"
Synopsis: Based on the hit Broadway musical, Gypsy is about an aggressive stage mother named Mama Rose. She has been taking her two girls, June and Louise, for as long as they can remember. She promises to make June a star. She’s built a whole act around June. Louise plays a cow that June dances around.
One day, they are auditioning for a part in a local musical, but are rejected by the feisty Italian director. A salesman by the name of Herbie approaches the director and tells him that he’s seen the girls in numerous musicals and says that they’re just what he’s looking for. Herbie is, of course, lying. He likes Rose and when she asks him to be June’s manager he agrees.
Together, they create a new act for June. This time they even hire a few dancers for the act. Louise is still in a cow suit. They continue traveling from state to state, putting on the act, always looking for a gig until one night, Rose finds a note from June. The note reads:
“Dear Mama,
Thanks for everything, but I can’t keep doing this act. Me and Tulsa found a theatre that we can dance at every night. We got our own routine and everything. We’ve been working on it for awhile now, and it’s time I left. Say goodbye to Louise for me!”
Sincerely,
June
This drives Rose insane. The act is nothing without June. Now that Tulsa, one of the dancers, has left all the others leave in search of work. This leaves Rose with Louise and Herbie. Rose promises to now make Louise a star. They try the old act with Louise, but Louise is not June. It’s a disaster.
Looking for work, Herbie finds an old Burlesque theatre they can work at until they have enough money to finance a new act. Rose strenuously objects to working with strippers, and is about to leave until the stage manager can’t find the next act. At this, Rose jumps on the opportunity and sends Louise into the dressing rooms. Herbie is disgusted, but when Rose insists it’s only temporary he reluctantly agrees.
This continues for months. Louise becomes known as “Gypsy Rose Lee” and her act keeps getting dirtier. Like her sister, she tells Rose that she is no longer needed. Herbie also leaves Rose in disgust after she repeatedly turns down his proposals. Rose has hit rock bottom, but Louise is a star. Rose’s dream comes true, but everything has it’s consequences.
What the press would say:
“Gypsy” is one of the best movie musicals springing from a revival of the genre that started with “Evita” and carried on to “Moulin Rouge”, “Chicago”, “Dreamgirls”, and most recently, “Wicked”. For Tony Award-winning Broadway legend Patti LuPone (who starred in “Evita” onstage), the role of Mama Rose began for her in August of 2006, when she played the part in a production of “Gypsy” at the Ravinia Sondheim Festival near Chicago. LuPone will be taking the show to New York soon, but when Sam Mendes (who directed a Broadway revival of “Gypsy” in 2003) saw the performance he immediately asked her to star in a film version. Unknown to most moviegoers, LuPone was apprehensive but finally agreed to take on the role. And thank God she did! This is by far the best performance in this genre beating even Catherine Zeta-Jones’ and Jennifer Hudson’s Oscar-winning performances and will be the first leading performance in a musical to win the Oscar in a long time. Her performance in the film’s signature song, “Everything’s Coming Up Roses”, is absolutely stunning. You’ll be begging for more! You can count on Patti LuPone to bring home the Gold come Oscar Night. This is by far the first real lock of this Oscar season. Many of you may be thinking, “Hey, she can’t win an Oscar! She’s a Broadway gal!” And to those of you, I say look at Julie Andrews’ performance in “Mary Poppins”, her first ever film role. Claire Danes turns in an admirable performance as LuPone’s naive daughter, Louise, who takes to stripping as her road to fame and Richard Gere is Herbie, the salesman in love with Mama Rose, but is tired of her restless attempts at stardom for her children. Though this is LuPone’s show, both Danes and Gere are very worthy of a nomination. Overall, this fabulous movie musical is definitely going to get nominated in the following categories:
Best Picture
Best Director (Sam Mendes)
Best Actress (Patti LuPone)
Best Supporting Actor (Richard Gere)
Best Supporting Actress (Claire Danes)
Best Adapted Screenplay (Bill Condon)
Best Original Score (Stephen Sondheim)
Best Costume Design
Best Cinematography
Location: Washington State
“Gypsy"
Directed by Sam Mendes
Written by Bill Condon
Lyrics by Stephen Sondheim
Music by Julie Styne
With a new Score by Stephen Sondheim
Principal Cast:
Patti LuPone (Mama Rose)
Claire Danes (Louise)
Richard Gere (Herbie)
Amy Adams (June)
Patrick Wilson (Tulsa)
Tagline: "This April…Everything’s Coming Up Roses!!"
Synopsis: Based on the hit Broadway musical, Gypsy is about an aggressive stage mother named Mama Rose. She has been taking her two girls, June and Louise, for as long as they can remember. She promises to make June a star. She’s built a whole act around June. Louise plays a cow that June dances around.
One day, they are auditioning for a part in a local musical, but are rejected by the feisty Italian director. A salesman by the name of Herbie approaches the director and tells him that he’s seen the girls in numerous musicals and says that they’re just what he’s looking for. Herbie is, of course, lying. He likes Rose and when she asks him to be June’s manager he agrees.
Together, they create a new act for June. This time they even hire a few dancers for the act. Louise is still in a cow suit. They continue traveling from state to state, putting on the act, always looking for a gig until one night, Rose finds a note from June. The note reads:
“Dear Mama,
Thanks for everything, but I can’t keep doing this act. Me and Tulsa found a theatre that we can dance at every night. We got our own routine and everything. We’ve been working on it for awhile now, and it’s time I left. Say goodbye to Louise for me!”
Sincerely,
June
This drives Rose insane. The act is nothing without June. Now that Tulsa, one of the dancers, has left all the others leave in search of work. This leaves Rose with Louise and Herbie. Rose promises to now make Louise a star. They try the old act with Louise, but Louise is not June. It’s a disaster.
Looking for work, Herbie finds an old Burlesque theatre they can work at until they have enough money to finance a new act. Rose strenuously objects to working with strippers, and is about to leave until the stage manager can’t find the next act. At this, Rose jumps on the opportunity and sends Louise into the dressing rooms. Herbie is disgusted, but when Rose insists it’s only temporary he reluctantly agrees.
This continues for months. Louise becomes known as “Gypsy Rose Lee” and her act keeps getting dirtier. Like her sister, she tells Rose that she is no longer needed. Herbie also leaves Rose in disgust after she repeatedly turns down his proposals. Rose has hit rock bottom, but Louise is a star. Rose’s dream comes true, but everything has it’s consequences.
What the press would say:
“Gypsy” is one of the best movie musicals springing from a revival of the genre that started with “Evita” and carried on to “Moulin Rouge”, “Chicago”, “Dreamgirls”, and most recently, “Wicked”. For Tony Award-winning Broadway legend Patti LuPone (who starred in “Evita” onstage), the role of Mama Rose began for her in August of 2006, when she played the part in a production of “Gypsy” at the Ravinia Sondheim Festival near Chicago. LuPone will be taking the show to New York soon, but when Sam Mendes (who directed a Broadway revival of “Gypsy” in 2003) saw the performance he immediately asked her to star in a film version. Unknown to most moviegoers, LuPone was apprehensive but finally agreed to take on the role. And thank God she did! This is by far the best performance in this genre beating even Catherine Zeta-Jones’ and Jennifer Hudson’s Oscar-winning performances and will be the first leading performance in a musical to win the Oscar in a long time. Her performance in the film’s signature song, “Everything’s Coming Up Roses”, is absolutely stunning. You’ll be begging for more! You can count on Patti LuPone to bring home the Gold come Oscar Night. This is by far the first real lock of this Oscar season. Many of you may be thinking, “Hey, she can’t win an Oscar! She’s a Broadway gal!” And to those of you, I say look at Julie Andrews’ performance in “Mary Poppins”, her first ever film role. Claire Danes turns in an admirable performance as LuPone’s naive daughter, Louise, who takes to stripping as her road to fame and Richard Gere is Herbie, the salesman in love with Mama Rose, but is tired of her restless attempts at stardom for her children. Though this is LuPone’s show, both Danes and Gere are very worthy of a nomination. Overall, this fabulous movie musical is definitely going to get nominated in the following categories:
Best Picture
Best Director (Sam Mendes)
Best Actress (Patti LuPone)
Best Supporting Actor (Richard Gere)
Best Supporting Actress (Claire Danes)
Best Adapted Screenplay (Bill Condon)
Best Original Score (Stephen Sondheim)
Best Costume Design
Best Cinematography
Harvey
Author(s): Ben Miller
Location: Canyon, Texas
“Harvey"
Directed by Greg Daniels
Written by Paul Leiberstien & Greg Daniels
Produced by Greg Daniels & B.J. Novak
Principal Cast:
Adrien Brody as Elwood P. Dowd
Joan Allen as Vita Louise Simmons
Mark Wahlberg as Dr. Sanderson
Rachel McAdams as Miss Kelly
John Hurt as Dr. Chumley
Rachel Bilson as Myrtle Mae Simmons
Jason Lee as Wilson
Creed Bratton as Taxi Driver
Tagline: "In this world, you must be oh so smart or oh so pleasant. Well, for years I was smart. I recommend pleasant"
Synopsis: Elwood P. Dowd is a free-spirited, amiable and seemingly odd individual. An alcoholic and people-pleaser, Elwood lives his life for the purpose of being as pleasant as possible. He lives with his sister, Vita and niece, Myrtle Mae. Vita and Myrtle Mae are obsessed with high society and getting into that lifestyle, while Vita is desperately trying to marry off Myrtle Mae to the first available, rich man. Unfortunately for them, every time they introduce anyone to Elwood, he pleasantly introduces them to his best pal Harvey, a six-foot, three-and-a-half-inch rabbit he met after a night of drinking.
When Elwood breaks up a brunch with the local ladies of the high class after he introduces everyone to Harvey, Vita gets fed up, but needs a way to get rid of Elwood, but keep his money that supports her and her daughter. The only solution they are left with is to commit Elwood to a local sanitarium. When they arrive Vita explains to the young and beautiful admitting nurse, Miss Kelly, about Elwood and he is whisked away by Wilson, the quirkily odd orderly of the sanitarium. As Vita meets with Dr. Sanderson, the young head doctor in charge of the in-patients, she in an agitated state and explains to quickly and confusingly to Dr. Sanderson the circumstances behind Elwood and Harvey. In her venting of the facts, she confesses that she occasionally sees Harvey herself. Dr. Sanderson, believing a mistake has been made, releases Elwood and commits Vita to the asylum instead.
Dr. Sanderson talks to Dr. Chumley, the head of the asylum and explains the situation. Mrs. Chumley comes in after speaking with Elwood out in the lawn and they all realize that there has been a mix-up. They release Vita and due to the mix-up, Dr. Chumley fires Dr. Sanderson and goes out with Wilson to look for Elwood. The two go over to the Simmons’ house to intercept Elwood, but just miss him after he puts up a picture of Harvey and himself over the mantle. Elwood calls from Charlie’s Bar and tells Vita where he is. Wilson heads back to the asylum and Dr. Chumley goes after Elwood.
As Wilson gets back to the sanitarium, he walks in on Dr. Sanderson and Miss Kelly arguing. They stop but realize that Dr. Chumley hasn’t come back with Elwood, which was four hours ago. The three head off to Charlie’s to find them. They arrive and find Elwood at his booth. Despite Wilson’s attempts to force Elwood to talk, Dr. Sanderson coaxes it out. Elwood explains that Dr. Chumley had a few drinks with Harvey and he and he went over to another bar.
Wilson goes to check the bars out while Elwood, Dr. Sanderson and Miss Kelly go into the alley and discuss what Elwood does for a living. He explains that all he does is sit, talk and smile with people and they tell him about all the bad in their lives. Then they meet Harvey, and it all fades away. He then goes on to tell how he met Harvey leaning on a lamppost outside a bar. Wilson returns and says he can’t find Dr. Chumley. They all return to the sanitarium where Vita and Myrtle May are to sort everything out.
Dr. Chumley returns to the sanitarium before everyone else saying that he is being followed. He clumsily hurries into his office believing that Harvey is close behind. Frightened, he jumps out his window, setting off the asylum’s alarm. All the others arrive to find the doctor rattled, but he will refuse to explain what is going on. Dr. Chumley calls in Elwood to his office. Elwood explains to the doctor about the powers Harvey has; he is intuitive and he can stop time. The doctor explains to Elwood what he would do if he could stop time and asks if he could “borrow” Harvey for just that reason. Elwood agrees and goes into the lobby as the doctor puts his hand around Harvey and returns to his office.
In the lobby, Dr. Sanderson explains to Vita that he can give Elwood a powerful serum that will shock him out of his “hallucination” and back to reality. Vita agrees and Dr. Sanderson and Miss Kelly take Elwood into a room to administer the serum. The taxi driver who took Vita to the sanitarium explains what the serum does to people. He explains that he takes the patients to the asylum and they are happy, smiling and always leave a big tip. But after the serum is administered, they are normal and mean to the way he drives. Vita doesn’t want this to happen to Elwood, since she realizes how wonderful a person he is, so she bursts in the door to stop the procedure. She does just in time and Elwood happily comes out to talk to everyone in the lobby.
Elwood, in his usual joy, invites everyone in the lobby to dinner on the following night and they all accept. They all leave and Elwood has a sadness come over him since Harvey is staying with the doctor. But just before he leaves the gate, Elwood turns to see Harvey, who wanted to stay with him. Elwood turns, hand around the air, and walks into the sunset.
What the press would say:
I was skeptical coming in. Why would you want to remake one of the most joyful and superb films? Well, the writing and producing team behind NBC’s “The Office” breathes fresh life into this tale of a man and his best pooka friend. Adapted from the Pulitzer Prize-winning play and the 1950 film of the same name, the tale of a man who could or could not be crazy is charming, funny and makes you want to be nice to every person you meet. Adrien Brody plays the lead role of Elwood P. Dowd to amiable perfection. Brody plays the character with a hint of insanity but only in flashes and not enough to disturb the audience. Dowd is so pleasant and non-confrontational that you could angrily throw him into a car and he would laugh and talk about how wonderful a time he’s having. Playing Dowd’s older and high society obsessed sister is Joan Allen. Reprising the Oscar-winning role from the original film, she brings the character a more dignified look but seems absolutely chaotic when she has her moments of insanity. She has some of the best lines in the film as she walks into rooms and proclaims, “Oh good, there are only people in here.” Maybe the best in show is veteran actor John Hurt as the head doctor of the asylum Vita attempts to get Elwood committed into. He begins the film as the stereotypical stern doctor but after a meeting with Dowd and Harvey, he becomes almost child-like, becoming obsessed with how Dowd is so pleasant and happy and if it is because of this rabbit. The rest of the cast shines as well including Mark Wahlberg and Rachel McAdams as a doctor and a nurse trying to reel in Elwood but are put together by him instead. They don’t require much acting, more to look pretty than anything else. Also entangled in love is the odd pairing of Rachel Bilson as Dowd’s niece and Jason Lee as the asylum orderly. Vita would love nothing more than for her daughter to marry someone high in society, and she can’t stand her being attracted to someone like Lee’s character. First time film writers Paul Leiberstien and Greg Daniels (also first-time director) bring the trenched-in-reality feel from “The Office” and put it here. The writing is so real, you forget that this is a film. Daniels is patient as a director and lets the action develop while some other directors could become impatient and push the story along. Daniels takes his time and everything comes together like it should. One of the best comedies in years, one of the best remakes of all time and should be the best film of the year.
For Your Consideration (Comedy)
Best Picture: Greg Daniels & B.J. Novak
Best Director: Greg Daniels
Best Actor: Adrien Brody
Best Supporting Actor: John Hurt
Best Supporting Actress: Joan Allen
Best Adapted Screenplay: Paul Leiberstien & Greg Daniels
Location: Canyon, Texas
“Harvey"
Directed by Greg Daniels
Written by Paul Leiberstien & Greg Daniels
Produced by Greg Daniels & B.J. Novak
Principal Cast:
Adrien Brody as Elwood P. Dowd
Joan Allen as Vita Louise Simmons
Mark Wahlberg as Dr. Sanderson
Rachel McAdams as Miss Kelly
John Hurt as Dr. Chumley
Rachel Bilson as Myrtle Mae Simmons
Jason Lee as Wilson
Creed Bratton as Taxi Driver
Tagline: "In this world, you must be oh so smart or oh so pleasant. Well, for years I was smart. I recommend pleasant"
Synopsis: Elwood P. Dowd is a free-spirited, amiable and seemingly odd individual. An alcoholic and people-pleaser, Elwood lives his life for the purpose of being as pleasant as possible. He lives with his sister, Vita and niece, Myrtle Mae. Vita and Myrtle Mae are obsessed with high society and getting into that lifestyle, while Vita is desperately trying to marry off Myrtle Mae to the first available, rich man. Unfortunately for them, every time they introduce anyone to Elwood, he pleasantly introduces them to his best pal Harvey, a six-foot, three-and-a-half-inch rabbit he met after a night of drinking.
When Elwood breaks up a brunch with the local ladies of the high class after he introduces everyone to Harvey, Vita gets fed up, but needs a way to get rid of Elwood, but keep his money that supports her and her daughter. The only solution they are left with is to commit Elwood to a local sanitarium. When they arrive Vita explains to the young and beautiful admitting nurse, Miss Kelly, about Elwood and he is whisked away by Wilson, the quirkily odd orderly of the sanitarium. As Vita meets with Dr. Sanderson, the young head doctor in charge of the in-patients, she in an agitated state and explains to quickly and confusingly to Dr. Sanderson the circumstances behind Elwood and Harvey. In her venting of the facts, she confesses that she occasionally sees Harvey herself. Dr. Sanderson, believing a mistake has been made, releases Elwood and commits Vita to the asylum instead.
Dr. Sanderson talks to Dr. Chumley, the head of the asylum and explains the situation. Mrs. Chumley comes in after speaking with Elwood out in the lawn and they all realize that there has been a mix-up. They release Vita and due to the mix-up, Dr. Chumley fires Dr. Sanderson and goes out with Wilson to look for Elwood. The two go over to the Simmons’ house to intercept Elwood, but just miss him after he puts up a picture of Harvey and himself over the mantle. Elwood calls from Charlie’s Bar and tells Vita where he is. Wilson heads back to the asylum and Dr. Chumley goes after Elwood.
As Wilson gets back to the sanitarium, he walks in on Dr. Sanderson and Miss Kelly arguing. They stop but realize that Dr. Chumley hasn’t come back with Elwood, which was four hours ago. The three head off to Charlie’s to find them. They arrive and find Elwood at his booth. Despite Wilson’s attempts to force Elwood to talk, Dr. Sanderson coaxes it out. Elwood explains that Dr. Chumley had a few drinks with Harvey and he and he went over to another bar.
Wilson goes to check the bars out while Elwood, Dr. Sanderson and Miss Kelly go into the alley and discuss what Elwood does for a living. He explains that all he does is sit, talk and smile with people and they tell him about all the bad in their lives. Then they meet Harvey, and it all fades away. He then goes on to tell how he met Harvey leaning on a lamppost outside a bar. Wilson returns and says he can’t find Dr. Chumley. They all return to the sanitarium where Vita and Myrtle May are to sort everything out.
Dr. Chumley returns to the sanitarium before everyone else saying that he is being followed. He clumsily hurries into his office believing that Harvey is close behind. Frightened, he jumps out his window, setting off the asylum’s alarm. All the others arrive to find the doctor rattled, but he will refuse to explain what is going on. Dr. Chumley calls in Elwood to his office. Elwood explains to the doctor about the powers Harvey has; he is intuitive and he can stop time. The doctor explains to Elwood what he would do if he could stop time and asks if he could “borrow” Harvey for just that reason. Elwood agrees and goes into the lobby as the doctor puts his hand around Harvey and returns to his office.
In the lobby, Dr. Sanderson explains to Vita that he can give Elwood a powerful serum that will shock him out of his “hallucination” and back to reality. Vita agrees and Dr. Sanderson and Miss Kelly take Elwood into a room to administer the serum. The taxi driver who took Vita to the sanitarium explains what the serum does to people. He explains that he takes the patients to the asylum and they are happy, smiling and always leave a big tip. But after the serum is administered, they are normal and mean to the way he drives. Vita doesn’t want this to happen to Elwood, since she realizes how wonderful a person he is, so she bursts in the door to stop the procedure. She does just in time and Elwood happily comes out to talk to everyone in the lobby.
Elwood, in his usual joy, invites everyone in the lobby to dinner on the following night and they all accept. They all leave and Elwood has a sadness come over him since Harvey is staying with the doctor. But just before he leaves the gate, Elwood turns to see Harvey, who wanted to stay with him. Elwood turns, hand around the air, and walks into the sunset.
What the press would say:
I was skeptical coming in. Why would you want to remake one of the most joyful and superb films? Well, the writing and producing team behind NBC’s “The Office” breathes fresh life into this tale of a man and his best pooka friend. Adapted from the Pulitzer Prize-winning play and the 1950 film of the same name, the tale of a man who could or could not be crazy is charming, funny and makes you want to be nice to every person you meet. Adrien Brody plays the lead role of Elwood P. Dowd to amiable perfection. Brody plays the character with a hint of insanity but only in flashes and not enough to disturb the audience. Dowd is so pleasant and non-confrontational that you could angrily throw him into a car and he would laugh and talk about how wonderful a time he’s having. Playing Dowd’s older and high society obsessed sister is Joan Allen. Reprising the Oscar-winning role from the original film, she brings the character a more dignified look but seems absolutely chaotic when she has her moments of insanity. She has some of the best lines in the film as she walks into rooms and proclaims, “Oh good, there are only people in here.” Maybe the best in show is veteran actor John Hurt as the head doctor of the asylum Vita attempts to get Elwood committed into. He begins the film as the stereotypical stern doctor but after a meeting with Dowd and Harvey, he becomes almost child-like, becoming obsessed with how Dowd is so pleasant and happy and if it is because of this rabbit. The rest of the cast shines as well including Mark Wahlberg and Rachel McAdams as a doctor and a nurse trying to reel in Elwood but are put together by him instead. They don’t require much acting, more to look pretty than anything else. Also entangled in love is the odd pairing of Rachel Bilson as Dowd’s niece and Jason Lee as the asylum orderly. Vita would love nothing more than for her daughter to marry someone high in society, and she can’t stand her being attracted to someone like Lee’s character. First time film writers Paul Leiberstien and Greg Daniels (also first-time director) bring the trenched-in-reality feel from “The Office” and put it here. The writing is so real, you forget that this is a film. Daniels is patient as a director and lets the action develop while some other directors could become impatient and push the story along. Daniels takes his time and everything comes together like it should. One of the best comedies in years, one of the best remakes of all time and should be the best film of the year.
For Your Consideration (Comedy)
Best Picture: Greg Daniels & B.J. Novak
Best Director: Greg Daniels
Best Actor: Adrien Brody
Best Supporting Actor: John Hurt
Best Supporting Actress: Joan Allen
Best Adapted Screenplay: Paul Leiberstien & Greg Daniels
Home For Purim
Author(s): Michael
Location: Oklahoma
“Home for Purim"
Directed by James Mangold
Produced by Cathy Konrad and Alan C. Blomquist
Distributed by Universal Pictures
Adapted by James Mangold
Principal Cast:
Catherine O’Hara -Esther Pischer
Rachel McAdams -Rachel Pischer
Kristen Chenoweth -Mary Pat Hooligan
William Hurt -David Pischer
Ryan Phillippe -Sam Pischer
Genre: Drama
Tagline: "This April, Come Home, Come Out, and Come See This Movie"
Synopsis: It’s the 1940’s and World War II is raging on. Forced by the draft, Sam Pischer is now in the U.S. Navy. His sister, Rachel has recently discovered that she is gay and met Mary Pat Hooligan whom she believes to be the love of her life. When the two siblings, Rachel and Sam, find out that their mother Esther is dying they decide it is time to go home to celebrate what will be their last family celebration of the Jewish holiday Purim. Sam gets permission to come home for the week and arrives before Rachel and Mary. He makes sure that he helps out in every way he can by taking care of his mother, washing dishes, and cleaning house. Once Rachel arrives with Mary, she comes out about her sexuality to her father and her brother who are sitting outside on the porch. They are both shocked, but are supportive and decide that they want to get to know Mary better.
When Rachel tells her mother about her sexual preference, her mother is utterly shocked and quickly dismisses the fact that her daughter is a lesbian. After much discussion and drama, Esther decides that she will live with the fact that her daughter is a lesbian and love the sinner, hate the sin. Meanwhile, as David and Sam try to figure out more about Mary Pat, they find that she is not Jewish, but Christian, and is very uncomfortable about the traditions of Purim. However that night at dinner, all of these problems seem to fade away as the lovely dinner goes on. There is much fun, laughter, and song that soon dissipate into a fight between Rachel and Esther. The fight comes to an abrupt ending when Esther suddenly falls onto the floor.
David and Sam are quick to react to the falling of Esther and hurry to get her medication. Mary Pat starts to get Esther into her room, while Rachel is sitting at the table in disbelief that she is fighting with her mother. Later that night, Esther is feeling a bit better and sitting up in bed. Rachel comes in to apologize to her mother; her mother however is still unable to move on from the fact that her little girl is a gay and does not accept her apology. That night Rachel decides that in the morning, Mary Pat and she will leave and go home.
The next morning, right before Rachel and Mary Pat are to leave, Esther once again collapses. This time they call the doctor, who makes a house call and informs them that Esther is taking her last breaths. One last time, Rachel goes in to try and reconcile with her mother. This time, Esther tells her, in a moving monologue, that although she dislikes the fact that Rachel is a lesbian she does not want to go to her grave in the middle of a dispute with her daughter. Soon after, Esther dies a quiet peaceful but heartbreaking death.
What the press would say:
Never before has there been such a good movie trying to get Oscars, based on a movie trying to get Oscars, which was inside of a movie that was trying to get Oscars. Home for Purim really goes the extra distance in all areas such as character development, story, drama, acting, directing and writing. James Mangold makes another terrific film with the strongest acting ensemble of the year. Rarely do you see a director such as Mangold with the talent to direct his actors into the best performances of the year and some of the best of the decade. James also wrote the screenplay, which also was fantastic. The dialogue is flawless and extremely well written. One of the best parts about the screenplay is that Mangold doesn’t use cliché's but writes with a fresh approach to a fairly old subject. The performances are incredible to say the least. Catherine O’Hara reprises her role as Esther Pischer, the role in which she played in For Your Consideration. Once again, she plays the role perfectly and not as cheesy as in Consideration. The scenes between her and McAdams alone are worth more than I paid for my ticket to see the film. The chemistry between these two fantastic actresses’ are chilling in the power that is being portrayed on screen. If these 2 actresses’ are ignored by the Academy like they were in Consideration, they have to be insane. Rachel McAdams gives another great performance and as I mentioned earlier, her scenes with O’Hara are amazing. The dynamic that is on the screen between these actresses is indescribable. I guarantee that after you walk out of the theater you will have been so impressed by these performances you will be thinking about them for weeks to come.
Rachel and Catherine aside, the rest of the cast gives great supporting performances. Kristen Chenoweth presents yet another Oscar worthy performance that is sure to have everyone talking. After winning the Oscar for Wicked, one would think that she couldn't come up with another great performance, but think again. Her rendition as Mary Pat is fantastic; the level of awkwardness when she is on screen with everyone besides Rachel is bone-chilling. Ryan Phillippe produces a great performance that is sure to be under-rated, but still worthy. William Hurt gives a great subtle performance that will probably be over-shadowed by the other performances of the film, but still none the less incredible. On the whole, this is the best film I have seen in a while. It is full of Oscar worthy performances, directing, and writing. Clearly, the best film of the year that you don't want to miss!
For Your Consideration:
Best Picture
Best Director- James Mangold
Best Adapted Screenplay- James Mangold
Best Actress- Catherine O’Hara
Best Actress- Rachel McAdams
Best Supporting Actor- Ryan Phillippe
Best Supporting Actor- William Hurt
Best Supporting Actress- Kristen Chenoweth
Best Costume Design
Best Art Direction
Location: Oklahoma
“Home for Purim"
Directed by James Mangold
Produced by Cathy Konrad and Alan C. Blomquist
Distributed by Universal Pictures
Adapted by James Mangold
Principal Cast:
Catherine O’Hara -Esther Pischer
Rachel McAdams -Rachel Pischer
Kristen Chenoweth -Mary Pat Hooligan
William Hurt -David Pischer
Ryan Phillippe -Sam Pischer
Genre: Drama
Tagline: "This April, Come Home, Come Out, and Come See This Movie"
Synopsis: It’s the 1940’s and World War II is raging on. Forced by the draft, Sam Pischer is now in the U.S. Navy. His sister, Rachel has recently discovered that she is gay and met Mary Pat Hooligan whom she believes to be the love of her life. When the two siblings, Rachel and Sam, find out that their mother Esther is dying they decide it is time to go home to celebrate what will be their last family celebration of the Jewish holiday Purim. Sam gets permission to come home for the week and arrives before Rachel and Mary. He makes sure that he helps out in every way he can by taking care of his mother, washing dishes, and cleaning house. Once Rachel arrives with Mary, she comes out about her sexuality to her father and her brother who are sitting outside on the porch. They are both shocked, but are supportive and decide that they want to get to know Mary better.
When Rachel tells her mother about her sexual preference, her mother is utterly shocked and quickly dismisses the fact that her daughter is a lesbian. After much discussion and drama, Esther decides that she will live with the fact that her daughter is a lesbian and love the sinner, hate the sin. Meanwhile, as David and Sam try to figure out more about Mary Pat, they find that she is not Jewish, but Christian, and is very uncomfortable about the traditions of Purim. However that night at dinner, all of these problems seem to fade away as the lovely dinner goes on. There is much fun, laughter, and song that soon dissipate into a fight between Rachel and Esther. The fight comes to an abrupt ending when Esther suddenly falls onto the floor.
David and Sam are quick to react to the falling of Esther and hurry to get her medication. Mary Pat starts to get Esther into her room, while Rachel is sitting at the table in disbelief that she is fighting with her mother. Later that night, Esther is feeling a bit better and sitting up in bed. Rachel comes in to apologize to her mother; her mother however is still unable to move on from the fact that her little girl is a gay and does not accept her apology. That night Rachel decides that in the morning, Mary Pat and she will leave and go home.
The next morning, right before Rachel and Mary Pat are to leave, Esther once again collapses. This time they call the doctor, who makes a house call and informs them that Esther is taking her last breaths. One last time, Rachel goes in to try and reconcile with her mother. This time, Esther tells her, in a moving monologue, that although she dislikes the fact that Rachel is a lesbian she does not want to go to her grave in the middle of a dispute with her daughter. Soon after, Esther dies a quiet peaceful but heartbreaking death.
What the press would say:
Never before has there been such a good movie trying to get Oscars, based on a movie trying to get Oscars, which was inside of a movie that was trying to get Oscars. Home for Purim really goes the extra distance in all areas such as character development, story, drama, acting, directing and writing. James Mangold makes another terrific film with the strongest acting ensemble of the year. Rarely do you see a director such as Mangold with the talent to direct his actors into the best performances of the year and some of the best of the decade. James also wrote the screenplay, which also was fantastic. The dialogue is flawless and extremely well written. One of the best parts about the screenplay is that Mangold doesn’t use cliché's but writes with a fresh approach to a fairly old subject. The performances are incredible to say the least. Catherine O’Hara reprises her role as Esther Pischer, the role in which she played in For Your Consideration. Once again, she plays the role perfectly and not as cheesy as in Consideration. The scenes between her and McAdams alone are worth more than I paid for my ticket to see the film. The chemistry between these two fantastic actresses’ are chilling in the power that is being portrayed on screen. If these 2 actresses’ are ignored by the Academy like they were in Consideration, they have to be insane. Rachel McAdams gives another great performance and as I mentioned earlier, her scenes with O’Hara are amazing. The dynamic that is on the screen between these actresses is indescribable. I guarantee that after you walk out of the theater you will have been so impressed by these performances you will be thinking about them for weeks to come.
Rachel and Catherine aside, the rest of the cast gives great supporting performances. Kristen Chenoweth presents yet another Oscar worthy performance that is sure to have everyone talking. After winning the Oscar for Wicked, one would think that she couldn't come up with another great performance, but think again. Her rendition as Mary Pat is fantastic; the level of awkwardness when she is on screen with everyone besides Rachel is bone-chilling. Ryan Phillippe produces a great performance that is sure to be under-rated, but still worthy. William Hurt gives a great subtle performance that will probably be over-shadowed by the other performances of the film, but still none the less incredible. On the whole, this is the best film I have seen in a while. It is full of Oscar worthy performances, directing, and writing. Clearly, the best film of the year that you don't want to miss!
For Your Consideration:
Best Picture
Best Director- James Mangold
Best Adapted Screenplay- James Mangold
Best Actress- Catherine O’Hara
Best Actress- Rachel McAdams
Best Supporting Actor- Ryan Phillippe
Best Supporting Actor- William Hurt
Best Supporting Actress- Kristen Chenoweth
Best Costume Design
Best Art Direction
How It Ends
Author(s): Connor Campbell
Location: Texas
“How it Ends"
Directed by Sam Mendes
Written by Dan Futterman
Principal Cast:
Patricia Arquette- Carrie Tungsten
Greg Kinnear- Allen Tungsten
Emma Roberts- Gracie Tungsten
Matt Weinberg- Cameron Tungsten
Tagline: "Family ties that bind…and gag"
Synopsis: The Tungsten family had been living a somewhat normal life in Flagstaff, Arizona. Allen was a borderline alcoholic and a stoner, but the family seemed not to notice, except for when he vacuumed the front lawn. Allen & Carrie had been married for 21 years and had two children, Gracie and Cameron. Carrie is a normal mom who works as a substitute teacher at her son’s elementary school. Allen had a job that nobody in his family quite understood, and quite frankly he didn’t either. Gracie was a normal teenager who partied, dabbled with drugs, just like every other teen. And Cameron was introverted and smart. He was funny, but he didn’t say much. He kept his distance from people. Then everything changed.
Carrie was diagnosed with trigeminal neuralgia, when the trigeminal nerve which relates to jaw function, sight & hearing is damaged most commonly by aneurysm, and if gone untreated, could possibly be fatal. The treatment for the disease was not available in Arizona, so they had move to Chicago. They sold their home and bought a house in Bolingbrook, Illinois where there was a job available for Allen. Here was where the problems started.
Carrie was unable to work, since she was prone to sudden attacks of pain and short periods of blindness and deafness. She would have her new friends take her to bars where she would develop a drinking problem. Allen’s drinking got worse and he was on drugs most people don’t know exist. He was spending a lot of money for these substances that were needed to pay for Carrie’s medical treatment and not to mention the electric, water and gas all while juggling an affair with a coworker of his named Jenny. Gracie made friends quickly, and partied until the early hours of the morning, on all sorts of drugs. She was loosing control. Cameron was furious with his mother when she decided to skip his birthday to go to her favorite bar, Stanley’s.
Carrie was faced with a difficult decision, she could divorce Allen, not have the operation and risk the small but real possibility of death, and loose custody of her children since she had no money and was developing a drinking and gambling problem, or stay with Allen unhappy, but have her kids and her life. But then something would happen that would spare her the difficulty of having to choose.
Allen was in his Camry speeding to Jenny’s house. It was a rainy day, almost pitch black outside if it weren’t for the headlights and the lights coming from the stores, gas stations and houses he passed by. This kind of day was the kind that Carrie thought of as perfect for drinking. In a hurry, Allen ran a red light. As Carrie and her friends drove to Stanley’s, a Camry ran in front of them and they collided. Allen and Carrie were both killed.
Gracie was high and roaming the sidewalk with her friends when she saw her parents collide, while Cameron was across the street skateboarding to his friend Kyle’s. A disease pulled them apart when a collision brought them together.
What the press would say:
Wow. This film belongs alongside American Beauty and Crash as some of the greatest modern dramas ever made. Dan Futterman has done it again. “How it Ends” is a masterpiece about disease, dysfunction, drugs & suburbia. The film is a perfect mix of comedy and drama. Sam Mendes has done it again. His beautiful direction has blended perfectly with this amazing script. This project is sure to win him his 2nd Oscar®. Patricia Arquette is amazing as Carrie, the victim of an obscure disease who turns to drinking and gambling to drown out the troubles and fear she faces. Her performance is almost flawless. Greg Kinnear provides the comedic relief in the film as the drunken stoner of a father. His performance is amusing as well as thought-provoking. Emma Roberts, the niece of Julia Roberts has inherited the acting gene. Her performance as Gracie is amazing and is one of the best child performances in a long time. She beautifully plays the troubled teen which is ever so baity. Matt Weinberg has come a long way from The Hot Chick as Cameron the troubled child who’s just trying to fit in. Overall the cast and crew work beautifully alongside each other with great editing, scoring and cinematography.
FYC.
Best Picture
Best Director- Sam Mendes
Best Actress- Patricia Arquette
Best Actor- Greg Kinnear
Best Supporting Actress- Emma Roberts
Best Supporting Actor- Matt Weinberg
Best Original Screenplay- Dan Futterman
Best Editing- Tariq Anwar
Best Cinematography- Dick Pope
Best Original Score- Thomas Newman
Location: Texas
“How it Ends"
Directed by Sam Mendes
Written by Dan Futterman
Principal Cast:
Patricia Arquette- Carrie Tungsten
Greg Kinnear- Allen Tungsten
Emma Roberts- Gracie Tungsten
Matt Weinberg- Cameron Tungsten
Tagline: "Family ties that bind…and gag"
Synopsis: The Tungsten family had been living a somewhat normal life in Flagstaff, Arizona. Allen was a borderline alcoholic and a stoner, but the family seemed not to notice, except for when he vacuumed the front lawn. Allen & Carrie had been married for 21 years and had two children, Gracie and Cameron. Carrie is a normal mom who works as a substitute teacher at her son’s elementary school. Allen had a job that nobody in his family quite understood, and quite frankly he didn’t either. Gracie was a normal teenager who partied, dabbled with drugs, just like every other teen. And Cameron was introverted and smart. He was funny, but he didn’t say much. He kept his distance from people. Then everything changed.
Carrie was diagnosed with trigeminal neuralgia, when the trigeminal nerve which relates to jaw function, sight & hearing is damaged most commonly by aneurysm, and if gone untreated, could possibly be fatal. The treatment for the disease was not available in Arizona, so they had move to Chicago. They sold their home and bought a house in Bolingbrook, Illinois where there was a job available for Allen. Here was where the problems started.
Carrie was unable to work, since she was prone to sudden attacks of pain and short periods of blindness and deafness. She would have her new friends take her to bars where she would develop a drinking problem. Allen’s drinking got worse and he was on drugs most people don’t know exist. He was spending a lot of money for these substances that were needed to pay for Carrie’s medical treatment and not to mention the electric, water and gas all while juggling an affair with a coworker of his named Jenny. Gracie made friends quickly, and partied until the early hours of the morning, on all sorts of drugs. She was loosing control. Cameron was furious with his mother when she decided to skip his birthday to go to her favorite bar, Stanley’s.
Carrie was faced with a difficult decision, she could divorce Allen, not have the operation and risk the small but real possibility of death, and loose custody of her children since she had no money and was developing a drinking and gambling problem, or stay with Allen unhappy, but have her kids and her life. But then something would happen that would spare her the difficulty of having to choose.
Allen was in his Camry speeding to Jenny’s house. It was a rainy day, almost pitch black outside if it weren’t for the headlights and the lights coming from the stores, gas stations and houses he passed by. This kind of day was the kind that Carrie thought of as perfect for drinking. In a hurry, Allen ran a red light. As Carrie and her friends drove to Stanley’s, a Camry ran in front of them and they collided. Allen and Carrie were both killed.
Gracie was high and roaming the sidewalk with her friends when she saw her parents collide, while Cameron was across the street skateboarding to his friend Kyle’s. A disease pulled them apart when a collision brought them together.
What the press would say:
Wow. This film belongs alongside American Beauty and Crash as some of the greatest modern dramas ever made. Dan Futterman has done it again. “How it Ends” is a masterpiece about disease, dysfunction, drugs & suburbia. The film is a perfect mix of comedy and drama. Sam Mendes has done it again. His beautiful direction has blended perfectly with this amazing script. This project is sure to win him his 2nd Oscar®. Patricia Arquette is amazing as Carrie, the victim of an obscure disease who turns to drinking and gambling to drown out the troubles and fear she faces. Her performance is almost flawless. Greg Kinnear provides the comedic relief in the film as the drunken stoner of a father. His performance is amusing as well as thought-provoking. Emma Roberts, the niece of Julia Roberts has inherited the acting gene. Her performance as Gracie is amazing and is one of the best child performances in a long time. She beautifully plays the troubled teen which is ever so baity. Matt Weinberg has come a long way from The Hot Chick as Cameron the troubled child who’s just trying to fit in. Overall the cast and crew work beautifully alongside each other with great editing, scoring and cinematography.
FYC.
Best Picture
Best Director- Sam Mendes
Best Actress- Patricia Arquette
Best Actor- Greg Kinnear
Best Supporting Actress- Emma Roberts
Best Supporting Actor- Matt Weinberg
Best Original Screenplay- Dan Futterman
Best Editing- Tariq Anwar
Best Cinematography- Dick Pope
Best Original Score- Thomas Newman
The Jungle
Author(s): Zgamer
Location: Eagle, ID
“The Jungle"
Produced by: Robert Lantos, J.C. Spink and Paul Webster
Directed by: David Croenberg
Written by: Josh Olsen and Steven Knight
Based on the book by Upton Sinclair
Principal Cast:
Adrien Brody as Jurgis Rudkus
Chloe Sevigny as Ona Rudkis
Armin Mueller-Stahl as Dede Antanas Rudkus
Naomi Watts as Marija Berczynskas
Ellen Burstyn as Teta Elzbieta Lukoszaite
Tim Robbins as Phil Connor
Tagline: "Buyer Beware!"
Running Time: 125 Minutes
Rated R for graphic, grisly depictions of factory accidents, disturbing scenes, nudity and sexuality
Synopsis: Debt. That is all that surrounds Jurgis’ world. To think things had seemed so promising. Not long ago, he immigrated to America with his finacee Ona, his father Dede Antanas, Ona’s cousin Marija and stepmother Teta Elzbieta. They all had the dream of a better life rooted into their skulls from the stories told in their homelands and now wanted to fulfill it. In Chicago, they enjoy what should have been a promising event of things to come with Jurgis and Ona’s wedding feast. However, Fate had other plans. Shortly after the feast, bills begin to pile up. From the payment for the feast to payments for the house, including some hidden costs put in by the swindling dealers, Jurgis’ family is now in trouble. With no other options, Jurgis, Ona, Marija and Dede have to search for work.
Jurgis and his father eventually obtain jobs at a meat processing plant at the Chicago “Packingtown”. There, Jurgis sees the evils of labor abuse. Dozens of workers, including many who are missing fingers or dying from infections, are forced to work long, backbreaking hours for very little pay. They continually risk their lives and limbs to work for bosses that are ungrateful for their aid and neglectful of their products. Each day, Jurgis is ordered to prepare obviously contaminated and poorly cut hunks of meat to be sold to grocery stores all over America. Though Jurgis is quite capable to work under these conditions, his financial and family issues worsen the already troublesome burden. Marija is having trouble maintaining her job and Ona has had to suffer the difficulties of working while pregnant. Then, on the eve of the birth of Jurgis’ son, Jurgis’ father falls ill to the contamination of the factory and dies.
This devastates Jurgis. However, it is only the start of things to come. As the brutal cold of winter descends upon Chicago, fate deals a new hand of sorrow. When Jurgis sprains his ankle due to unsafe factory conditions, the factory fires him while he is recovering. Marija, still in financial trouble, is being pressured by her factory supervisor to join a prostitution ring that she runs. But worse of all, Ona is once again pregnant, but not by Jurgis. One night after work, her corrupt boss Phil Connor forced Ona to have sex with him. Out of impulse, Jurgis attacks Connor at his office. He is arrested and unfairly sentenced to a month in prison.
After his sentence was over, Jurgis discovers that his family had been evicted from their already shabby house into a slum in the outskirts of town. While heading there, he spots Marija inside a prostitution house. Tearfully, she explains that it was the only job left that she could get. When he finally arrives to the slum, he finds Ona in bed prematurely in labor. Though she tries her best, the grueling labor eventually kills both her and the baby. Depressed and penniless, Jurgis turns to alcohol to dull the pain as he searches for a new job. When Jurgis finally work at a manure farm, his firstborn son drowns in a mud-logged street. Jurgis, all but completely crushed, wanders the streets until he enters a building that is holding socialist meeting. As the flamboyant speaker preaches of worker rights and revolution, Jurgis suddenly feels inspired. As the crowd cheers on his intense speech, Jurgis stands up and joins them. He realizes that if society wishes to crush the immigrants, they will have to return the favor. The screen fades as Jurgis listens to the words “Chicago Will Be Ours” rings in his ears.
What the press would say:
For anyone who only thought that David Croenberg could only gross you out, I say shame on you. I have just walked out of one of the most emotionally draining and expertly crafted films of the year. Croenberg must have been feeling good after the critical praise from his previous work “A History of Violence”. However, rather than doing another graphic novel adaptation, Croenberg has delved deep into classic American literature and resurrected Upton Sinclair’s revolutionary novel. And what a resurrection it is!
Though the story center around the tragic story of an immigrant family, the main topics of the movie still have relevance today. Acclaimed writers Olsen and Knight do an amazing job in writing a period piece that not only has great dialogue and structure, but can also draw an audience as well as any action movie with its emotional power. If anything, this adaptation reminds us that we have it easy. Not pulling any punches, the film shows more than its share of hideous images portraying the horrors that can occur in factories. Limbs are severed, faces are boiled and the workers see death as a salvation. Complimented with the grim realization of the condition of meat sold in that time, you get a sense of satisfaction as well as disgust that this book had solved the labor conditions problem so many years ago. Another prominent issue is the attitude of society towards immigrant workers. Despite their willingness to do menial jobs and unfavorable labor, they are still seen as expendable and less than human. The film’s final moments give a glimpse of what consequences may occur if this is not resolved Hopefully, Croenberg will set those thinkers straight with this movie.
Croenberg and his team should be credited mostly for making moral and literal filth seem so artistic. Through gritty camera work and a grimy color scheme, Croenberg makes you feel sympathy for these poor characters. The art direction is amazing, as the film not only gives an accurate portrayal of old America, but also creates one of the most eerily believable settings in film history with the meat factories. However, all of this would be for nothing if it were not for the great cast portraying the characters. Adrien Brody, with that sad-puppy face and depressing voice, is the ideal Jurgis. Throughout the film, a tear from the entire audience matched every bitter tear he shed onscreen. Brody carries the film with an emotional intensity that cannot appropriately be put into words. He is matched by fellow cast members Sevigny. Mueller-Stahl and Watts, who are all worthy of our sympathy. From Muller-Stahl’s heartbreaking deathbed scene to Watts’s teary speech on her eventual career option, the cast all portray the ultimate tragic heroes.
The Jungle will not be an easy film to forget, even after its bittersweet “happy ending”. Croenberg has crafted a masterpiece of emotional filmmaking. Just try looking at your lunchmeat the same way after going through those two beautiful hours.
Award Possibilities
Best Picture (Robert Lantos, J.C. Spink and Paul Webster)
Best Director (David Croenberg)
Best Actor (Adrien Brody)
Best Supporting Actor (Admin Mueller-Stahl)
Best Supporting Actress (Chole Sevigny)
Best Supporting Actress (Naomi Watts)
Best Adapted Screenplay (Josh Olsen and Steven Knight)
Best Cinematography (Peter Suschitzky)
Best Art Direction (Rebecca Holmes and Nick Palmer)
Best Editing (Roland Sanders)
Best Make-Up
Best Original Score (Howard Shore)
Location: Eagle, ID
“The Jungle"
Produced by: Robert Lantos, J.C. Spink and Paul Webster
Directed by: David Croenberg
Written by: Josh Olsen and Steven Knight
Based on the book by Upton Sinclair
Principal Cast:
Adrien Brody as Jurgis Rudkus
Chloe Sevigny as Ona Rudkis
Armin Mueller-Stahl as Dede Antanas Rudkus
Naomi Watts as Marija Berczynskas
Ellen Burstyn as Teta Elzbieta Lukoszaite
Tim Robbins as Phil Connor
Tagline: "Buyer Beware!"
Running Time: 125 Minutes
Rated R for graphic, grisly depictions of factory accidents, disturbing scenes, nudity and sexuality
Synopsis: Debt. That is all that surrounds Jurgis’ world. To think things had seemed so promising. Not long ago, he immigrated to America with his finacee Ona, his father Dede Antanas, Ona’s cousin Marija and stepmother Teta Elzbieta. They all had the dream of a better life rooted into their skulls from the stories told in their homelands and now wanted to fulfill it. In Chicago, they enjoy what should have been a promising event of things to come with Jurgis and Ona’s wedding feast. However, Fate had other plans. Shortly after the feast, bills begin to pile up. From the payment for the feast to payments for the house, including some hidden costs put in by the swindling dealers, Jurgis’ family is now in trouble. With no other options, Jurgis, Ona, Marija and Dede have to search for work.
Jurgis and his father eventually obtain jobs at a meat processing plant at the Chicago “Packingtown”. There, Jurgis sees the evils of labor abuse. Dozens of workers, including many who are missing fingers or dying from infections, are forced to work long, backbreaking hours for very little pay. They continually risk their lives and limbs to work for bosses that are ungrateful for their aid and neglectful of their products. Each day, Jurgis is ordered to prepare obviously contaminated and poorly cut hunks of meat to be sold to grocery stores all over America. Though Jurgis is quite capable to work under these conditions, his financial and family issues worsen the already troublesome burden. Marija is having trouble maintaining her job and Ona has had to suffer the difficulties of working while pregnant. Then, on the eve of the birth of Jurgis’ son, Jurgis’ father falls ill to the contamination of the factory and dies.
This devastates Jurgis. However, it is only the start of things to come. As the brutal cold of winter descends upon Chicago, fate deals a new hand of sorrow. When Jurgis sprains his ankle due to unsafe factory conditions, the factory fires him while he is recovering. Marija, still in financial trouble, is being pressured by her factory supervisor to join a prostitution ring that she runs. But worse of all, Ona is once again pregnant, but not by Jurgis. One night after work, her corrupt boss Phil Connor forced Ona to have sex with him. Out of impulse, Jurgis attacks Connor at his office. He is arrested and unfairly sentenced to a month in prison.
After his sentence was over, Jurgis discovers that his family had been evicted from their already shabby house into a slum in the outskirts of town. While heading there, he spots Marija inside a prostitution house. Tearfully, she explains that it was the only job left that she could get. When he finally arrives to the slum, he finds Ona in bed prematurely in labor. Though she tries her best, the grueling labor eventually kills both her and the baby. Depressed and penniless, Jurgis turns to alcohol to dull the pain as he searches for a new job. When Jurgis finally work at a manure farm, his firstborn son drowns in a mud-logged street. Jurgis, all but completely crushed, wanders the streets until he enters a building that is holding socialist meeting. As the flamboyant speaker preaches of worker rights and revolution, Jurgis suddenly feels inspired. As the crowd cheers on his intense speech, Jurgis stands up and joins them. He realizes that if society wishes to crush the immigrants, they will have to return the favor. The screen fades as Jurgis listens to the words “Chicago Will Be Ours” rings in his ears.
What the press would say:
For anyone who only thought that David Croenberg could only gross you out, I say shame on you. I have just walked out of one of the most emotionally draining and expertly crafted films of the year. Croenberg must have been feeling good after the critical praise from his previous work “A History of Violence”. However, rather than doing another graphic novel adaptation, Croenberg has delved deep into classic American literature and resurrected Upton Sinclair’s revolutionary novel. And what a resurrection it is!
Though the story center around the tragic story of an immigrant family, the main topics of the movie still have relevance today. Acclaimed writers Olsen and Knight do an amazing job in writing a period piece that not only has great dialogue and structure, but can also draw an audience as well as any action movie with its emotional power. If anything, this adaptation reminds us that we have it easy. Not pulling any punches, the film shows more than its share of hideous images portraying the horrors that can occur in factories. Limbs are severed, faces are boiled and the workers see death as a salvation. Complimented with the grim realization of the condition of meat sold in that time, you get a sense of satisfaction as well as disgust that this book had solved the labor conditions problem so many years ago. Another prominent issue is the attitude of society towards immigrant workers. Despite their willingness to do menial jobs and unfavorable labor, they are still seen as expendable and less than human. The film’s final moments give a glimpse of what consequences may occur if this is not resolved Hopefully, Croenberg will set those thinkers straight with this movie.
Croenberg and his team should be credited mostly for making moral and literal filth seem so artistic. Through gritty camera work and a grimy color scheme, Croenberg makes you feel sympathy for these poor characters. The art direction is amazing, as the film not only gives an accurate portrayal of old America, but also creates one of the most eerily believable settings in film history with the meat factories. However, all of this would be for nothing if it were not for the great cast portraying the characters. Adrien Brody, with that sad-puppy face and depressing voice, is the ideal Jurgis. Throughout the film, a tear from the entire audience matched every bitter tear he shed onscreen. Brody carries the film with an emotional intensity that cannot appropriately be put into words. He is matched by fellow cast members Sevigny. Mueller-Stahl and Watts, who are all worthy of our sympathy. From Muller-Stahl’s heartbreaking deathbed scene to Watts’s teary speech on her eventual career option, the cast all portray the ultimate tragic heroes.
The Jungle will not be an easy film to forget, even after its bittersweet “happy ending”. Croenberg has crafted a masterpiece of emotional filmmaking. Just try looking at your lunchmeat the same way after going through those two beautiful hours.
Award Possibilities
Best Picture (Robert Lantos, J.C. Spink and Paul Webster)
Best Director (David Croenberg)
Best Actor (Adrien Brody)
Best Supporting Actor (Admin Mueller-Stahl)
Best Supporting Actress (Chole Sevigny)
Best Supporting Actress (Naomi Watts)
Best Adapted Screenplay (Josh Olsen and Steven Knight)
Best Cinematography (Peter Suschitzky)
Best Art Direction (Rebecca Holmes and Nick Palmer)
Best Editing (Roland Sanders)
Best Make-Up
Best Original Score (Howard Shore)
Love
Author(s): Harry
Location: Colombia
“Love"
A Sony Pictures Classic Release
Directed by Zhang Yimou
Written by Kim Ki-Duk, Zhang Yimou and Deepa Mehta
Produced by Bill Kong and Ang Lee
Music by Tan Dun and Ji-woong Park
Production Design by Huo Tingxiao and Tim Yip
Cinematography by Gilles Nuttgens
Costume Design by Emi Wada
Editing by Tim Squayres and Angie Lam
Sound by Tao Jing
Visual effects by Ellen Poon
Principal Cast:
Takeshi Kaneshiro as Huhai
Zhang Ziyi as Nameless Girl
Ken Watanabe as the Emperor
Tagline: "Love is a pure force that connects two souls into one"
Synopsis: Love is a feeling in which you feel a mix of a quiet tranquility, an enormous passion and a pure atmosphere surrounding you. Love is a force, so powerful, that unites two souls into one connecting the emotions that one feels for the other. Love can be attacked by the dreadful and miserable world but it must surpass this hate and fly freely like a butterfly full of life. In the 3rd century BC in China, a few years after the construction of the Great Wall, two sensible souls meet and become one force. This is the story of Huhai, the son of the emperor, who lives in a palace with all of the luxuries and richness you could desire but with a heart that couldn’t express its feelings, and of a mute girl who has no name and that tries to find herself and her spirituality thru the art of meditations, martial arts and swordplay.
In summer, love burn as hard as the sun.
A little bored of the palace, Huhai goes take a walk in the forest. As he cleans his spirituality thru a connection with nature, he finds the nameless girl and feels a deep mix of emotions for her. The nameless girl also falls in love with him and they live an intense love.
In fall, love begins to fall as the leaves of the trees.
After the long disappearance of his son Huhai, the Emperor seeks for him in the forest and finds him with the nameless girl. Enraged, he separates them. Huhai and the nameless girl begin to pass thru a crisis of desperation, surrounded by the dark loneliness.
In winter, love does the impossible to surpass the cold.
The Emperor and Huhai travel with their troops in search of new lands. Huhai, madly in love, escapes the carriage and tries to find his love. When he finds the nameless girl, the Emperor and his troops attack them and injure the nameless girl. Full of anger, Huhai kills his father and the troops in revenge.
In spring, love is reborn as the flowers blossom again.
Huhai begins to take care of his love’s injure and miraculously, many flowers of a huge diversity, colors and shapes begin to magically blossom.
What the press would say:
When I saw the beauty of love expressed thru the visually stunning film “Love”, I felt a mix of emotions inside of me that made me feel free and pure as I was blowed away by the soft and magical winds that this film had delicately throw at me. When I try to use words to describe this piece of art, I end up writing a poem, expressing the connections of two souls becoming one thru humans and nature. The amazing Chinese filmmaker Zhang Yimou beautifully directs this masterpiece mixing the deep spirituality of the story with some astonishing elements such as the combination of colors, the nature shots, the simple and mystical score and the very convincing performances that define Yimou’s directing style and skills. With a unique storytelling and some memorable metaphors; Kim Ki-Duk, Deepa Mehta and Yimou write a very spiritual and emotional script mixing a few historical facts with the intensity of the strong feelings of human beings. Bringing the great and very well developed characters to life, the three performers of the film give brilliant portrayals making us believe that they’re living their roles. Takeshi Kaneshiro plays Huhai, a sensible prince with many feelings in his heart that couldn’t be expressed and a burning love that was almost impossible to live. Zhang Ziyi plays a mute girl with no name, that tries to find herself and her inner spirit and that finds love in the most unexpected place. And Ken Watanabe plays the Emperor, a selfish man that only thought on power and privileges for himself. All of these elements make of “Love” a film of deepness and spirit of humans that will leave you amazed and that will take your breath to places full of emotions and feelings.
Best Picture (AMPAS) – Bill Kong and Ang Lee
Best Picture Drama (HFPA) – Sony Pictures Classic
Best Ensemble (SAG) – Takeshi Kaneshiro, Zhang Ziyi and Ken Watanabe
Best Foreign Language Film – Zhang Yimou (China)
Best Directing – Zhang Yimou
Best Actor in a Leading Role – Takeshi Kaneshiro
Best Actress in a Leading Role – Zhang Ziyi
Best Actor in a Supporting Role – Ken Watanabe
Best Original Screenplay – Kim Ki-Duk, Zhang Yimou and Deepa Mehta
Best Score – Tan Dun and Ji-woong Park
Best Art Direction – Huo Tingxiao and Tim Yip
Best Cinematography – Gilles Nuttgens
Best Costume Design – Emi Wada
Best Film Editing – Tim Squayres and Angie Lam
Best Sound Mixing – Tao Jing
Best Visual Effects – Ellen Poon
Location: Colombia
“Love"
A Sony Pictures Classic Release
Directed by Zhang Yimou
Written by Kim Ki-Duk, Zhang Yimou and Deepa Mehta
Produced by Bill Kong and Ang Lee
Music by Tan Dun and Ji-woong Park
Production Design by Huo Tingxiao and Tim Yip
Cinematography by Gilles Nuttgens
Costume Design by Emi Wada
Editing by Tim Squayres and Angie Lam
Sound by Tao Jing
Visual effects by Ellen Poon
Principal Cast:
Takeshi Kaneshiro as Huhai
Zhang Ziyi as Nameless Girl
Ken Watanabe as the Emperor
Tagline: "Love is a pure force that connects two souls into one"
Synopsis: Love is a feeling in which you feel a mix of a quiet tranquility, an enormous passion and a pure atmosphere surrounding you. Love is a force, so powerful, that unites two souls into one connecting the emotions that one feels for the other. Love can be attacked by the dreadful and miserable world but it must surpass this hate and fly freely like a butterfly full of life. In the 3rd century BC in China, a few years after the construction of the Great Wall, two sensible souls meet and become one force. This is the story of Huhai, the son of the emperor, who lives in a palace with all of the luxuries and richness you could desire but with a heart that couldn’t express its feelings, and of a mute girl who has no name and that tries to find herself and her spirituality thru the art of meditations, martial arts and swordplay.
In summer, love burn as hard as the sun.
A little bored of the palace, Huhai goes take a walk in the forest. As he cleans his spirituality thru a connection with nature, he finds the nameless girl and feels a deep mix of emotions for her. The nameless girl also falls in love with him and they live an intense love.
In fall, love begins to fall as the leaves of the trees.
After the long disappearance of his son Huhai, the Emperor seeks for him in the forest and finds him with the nameless girl. Enraged, he separates them. Huhai and the nameless girl begin to pass thru a crisis of desperation, surrounded by the dark loneliness.
In winter, love does the impossible to surpass the cold.
The Emperor and Huhai travel with their troops in search of new lands. Huhai, madly in love, escapes the carriage and tries to find his love. When he finds the nameless girl, the Emperor and his troops attack them and injure the nameless girl. Full of anger, Huhai kills his father and the troops in revenge.
In spring, love is reborn as the flowers blossom again.
Huhai begins to take care of his love’s injure and miraculously, many flowers of a huge diversity, colors and shapes begin to magically blossom.
What the press would say:
When I saw the beauty of love expressed thru the visually stunning film “Love”, I felt a mix of emotions inside of me that made me feel free and pure as I was blowed away by the soft and magical winds that this film had delicately throw at me. When I try to use words to describe this piece of art, I end up writing a poem, expressing the connections of two souls becoming one thru humans and nature. The amazing Chinese filmmaker Zhang Yimou beautifully directs this masterpiece mixing the deep spirituality of the story with some astonishing elements such as the combination of colors, the nature shots, the simple and mystical score and the very convincing performances that define Yimou’s directing style and skills. With a unique storytelling and some memorable metaphors; Kim Ki-Duk, Deepa Mehta and Yimou write a very spiritual and emotional script mixing a few historical facts with the intensity of the strong feelings of human beings. Bringing the great and very well developed characters to life, the three performers of the film give brilliant portrayals making us believe that they’re living their roles. Takeshi Kaneshiro plays Huhai, a sensible prince with many feelings in his heart that couldn’t be expressed and a burning love that was almost impossible to live. Zhang Ziyi plays a mute girl with no name, that tries to find herself and her inner spirit and that finds love in the most unexpected place. And Ken Watanabe plays the Emperor, a selfish man that only thought on power and privileges for himself. All of these elements make of “Love” a film of deepness and spirit of humans that will leave you amazed and that will take your breath to places full of emotions and feelings.
Best Picture (AMPAS) – Bill Kong and Ang Lee
Best Picture Drama (HFPA) – Sony Pictures Classic
Best Ensemble (SAG) – Takeshi Kaneshiro, Zhang Ziyi and Ken Watanabe
Best Foreign Language Film – Zhang Yimou (China)
Best Directing – Zhang Yimou
Best Actor in a Leading Role – Takeshi Kaneshiro
Best Actress in a Leading Role – Zhang Ziyi
Best Actor in a Supporting Role – Ken Watanabe
Best Original Screenplay – Kim Ki-Duk, Zhang Yimou and Deepa Mehta
Best Score – Tan Dun and Ji-woong Park
Best Art Direction – Huo Tingxiao and Tim Yip
Best Cinematography – Gilles Nuttgens
Best Costume Design – Emi Wada
Best Film Editing – Tim Squayres and Angie Lam
Best Sound Mixing – Tao Jing
Best Visual Effects – Ellen Poon
The Mousetrap
Author(s): Daniel Crooke
Location: Ohio
“The Mousetrap"
Directed by: Sidney Lumet
Adapted Screenplay by: Peter Morgan
Film Editing by: Lucia Zucchetti
Principal Cast:
Rachel Weisz as Mollie Ralston
Chiwetel Ejiofor as Giles Ralston
Rupert Everett as Christopher Wren
Joan Plowright as Mrs. Boyle
Helena Bonham Carter as Ms. Casewell
Bill Nighy as Major Metcalf
Jim Broadbent as Mr. Paravicini
Johnny Depp as Sergeant Trotter
Tagline: "Three blind mice, three blind mice. See how they run...”
Synopsis: A terrible snowstorm had covered England in a deep snow.
Mollie and Giles Ralston are a young couple in a town just north of London.
MOLLIE RALSTON: Wife to Giles Ralston. A kind and simple woman.
GILES RALSTON: Husband to Mollie Ralston. A nice enough man, but with a commanding spirit.
The two had only been married a year and they had just opened "Monkswell Manor", a boarding house. On the first day of opening, they were expecting four tenants.
CHRISTOPHER WREN: A tenant. A flamboyant, hyperactive, and young male architect. Entertained easily.
MRS. BOYLE: A tenant. A grumpy old woman who finds the wrong in every aspect of Monkswell Manor.
MS. CASEWELL: A tenant. A cold and stern woman in her late twenties who seems to be hiding something.
MAJOR METCALF: A tenant. A retired army major who lacks personality besides that of a major in the army.
After the four tenants arrived, a foreign and unexpected stranger arrived at the door looking for a room.
MR. PARAVICINI: An unannounced tenant. A friendly East German man who takes nothing seriously.
Soon after everyone was settled, Mollie recieved a phone call from Scotland Yard saying they were sending a sergeant over to Monkswell Manor. Soon, the sergeant arrived.
SERGEANT TROTTER: A sergeant of Scotland Yard. Takes his job very seriously, intimidating.
Sergeant Trotter explained his reasoning of coming to Monkswell Manor. An elderly woman named Maureen Lyon had been murdered in London and Scotland Yard had determined that Monkswell Manor was not safe from the murderer. This was because the police determined that Lyon's murderer was a former foster child that she had taken care of, as well as the murderer's two other siblings. Lyon had starved the children and the youngest child died of starvation. The children were taken away from Lyon. On Lyon's body was a note saying "Three blind mice, three blind mice. This is the first mouse.". Scotland Yard found another note that had fallen out of the murderer's jacket. It had the address of Lyon's flat and of Monkswell Manor. Trotter urged the tenants and the Raltsons to speak up if they were involved in any way with the three children. He begged them to confess so he could get them to safety if they were involved. But no one said anything. Later that night, the murderer struck again. But this time, it was in Monkswell Manor. The snow continued to fall. Trotter began the interrogations of each and every person still at Monkswell Manor. Relationships were tried, trusts were broken, and when enough information was presented, Sergeant Trotter laid a trap to catch the killer before the third mouse was murdered.
What the press would say:
Legendary director and Honorary Oscar winner Sidney Lumet directs the smash mystery-drama "The Mousetrap". Adapted from Agatha Christie's brilliant play (the longest running play in the world), "The Mousetrap" proves to be one of the better adaptations in recent history. I was fortunate enough to see "The Moustrap" on London's West End and at the end of the play, you are asked to not reveal "the secret of The Mousetrap", which refers to the results of the mystery. At the end of the film, there is a black screen with "Please do not reveal the secrets of 'The Mousetrap'". Because of this request, I will try not to go much into the plot. I will say that the film is about a murderer on the loose in London with a heart full of revenge. The murderer is supposed to strike at a boarding house run by a young couple where five tenants are living. The cast and crew, with the exception of Lumet and Johnny Depp (who puts on a Scottish accent), are all British. Speaking of Johnny Depp, he gives a fantastic portrayal of Sergeant Trotter, the detective assigned to the murderer's case. Depp really gets inside of the character, plays it with complete conviction, and gives a commanding performance. Joan Plowright, once again, puts in a flawless performance. She plays an old, pessimistic, and grumpy British woman. Plowright steals every scene she is in and provides a subtle comic relief. Speaking of comic relief, Rupert Everett gives a career-best performance. He plays the flamboyant Christopher Wren and plays the part to utter perfection. What defines Everett's performance, however, is one scene between him and Rachel Weisz's character. I don't want to give away too much information, but I will say that Everett's character has a complete and utter breakdown where he explains why he is so outrageous. Not only does Everett make us laugh, but he also makes us tear up as he breaks down. But don't be misleaded by this talk of comic relief, "The Mousetrap" is a taut thriller and murder mystery that keeps you on the edge of your seat. In homage to "12 Angry Men", Lumet shows, once again, that you can provide an entertaining and gripping film without much change of scenery. "The Mousetrap" is the best thriller since "The Silence of the Lambs", but it thrills in a completely different, more subtle, way. "The Mousetrap" has been cleaning up and scoring key nominations at the Golden Globes, SAG, and PGA awards and has great chances at scoring at this year's Academy Awards.
Nominations
Best Picture
Best Director- Sidney Lumet
Best Actor- Johnny Depp
Best Supporting Actor- Rupert Everett
Best Supporting Actress- Joan Plowright
Best Adapted Screenplay- Peter Morgan
Best Film Editing- Lucia Zucchetti
Location: Ohio
“The Mousetrap"
Directed by: Sidney Lumet
Adapted Screenplay by: Peter Morgan
Film Editing by: Lucia Zucchetti
Principal Cast:
Rachel Weisz as Mollie Ralston
Chiwetel Ejiofor as Giles Ralston
Rupert Everett as Christopher Wren
Joan Plowright as Mrs. Boyle
Helena Bonham Carter as Ms. Casewell
Bill Nighy as Major Metcalf
Jim Broadbent as Mr. Paravicini
Johnny Depp as Sergeant Trotter
Tagline: "Three blind mice, three blind mice. See how they run...”
Synopsis: A terrible snowstorm had covered England in a deep snow.
Mollie and Giles Ralston are a young couple in a town just north of London.
MOLLIE RALSTON: Wife to Giles Ralston. A kind and simple woman.
GILES RALSTON: Husband to Mollie Ralston. A nice enough man, but with a commanding spirit.
The two had only been married a year and they had just opened "Monkswell Manor", a boarding house. On the first day of opening, they were expecting four tenants.
CHRISTOPHER WREN: A tenant. A flamboyant, hyperactive, and young male architect. Entertained easily.
MRS. BOYLE: A tenant. A grumpy old woman who finds the wrong in every aspect of Monkswell Manor.
MS. CASEWELL: A tenant. A cold and stern woman in her late twenties who seems to be hiding something.
MAJOR METCALF: A tenant. A retired army major who lacks personality besides that of a major in the army.
After the four tenants arrived, a foreign and unexpected stranger arrived at the door looking for a room.
MR. PARAVICINI: An unannounced tenant. A friendly East German man who takes nothing seriously.
Soon after everyone was settled, Mollie recieved a phone call from Scotland Yard saying they were sending a sergeant over to Monkswell Manor. Soon, the sergeant arrived.
SERGEANT TROTTER: A sergeant of Scotland Yard. Takes his job very seriously, intimidating.
Sergeant Trotter explained his reasoning of coming to Monkswell Manor. An elderly woman named Maureen Lyon had been murdered in London and Scotland Yard had determined that Monkswell Manor was not safe from the murderer. This was because the police determined that Lyon's murderer was a former foster child that she had taken care of, as well as the murderer's two other siblings. Lyon had starved the children and the youngest child died of starvation. The children were taken away from Lyon. On Lyon's body was a note saying "Three blind mice, three blind mice. This is the first mouse.". Scotland Yard found another note that had fallen out of the murderer's jacket. It had the address of Lyon's flat and of Monkswell Manor. Trotter urged the tenants and the Raltsons to speak up if they were involved in any way with the three children. He begged them to confess so he could get them to safety if they were involved. But no one said anything. Later that night, the murderer struck again. But this time, it was in Monkswell Manor. The snow continued to fall. Trotter began the interrogations of each and every person still at Monkswell Manor. Relationships were tried, trusts were broken, and when enough information was presented, Sergeant Trotter laid a trap to catch the killer before the third mouse was murdered.
What the press would say:
Legendary director and Honorary Oscar winner Sidney Lumet directs the smash mystery-drama "The Mousetrap". Adapted from Agatha Christie's brilliant play (the longest running play in the world), "The Mousetrap" proves to be one of the better adaptations in recent history. I was fortunate enough to see "The Moustrap" on London's West End and at the end of the play, you are asked to not reveal "the secret of The Mousetrap", which refers to the results of the mystery. At the end of the film, there is a black screen with "Please do not reveal the secrets of 'The Mousetrap'". Because of this request, I will try not to go much into the plot. I will say that the film is about a murderer on the loose in London with a heart full of revenge. The murderer is supposed to strike at a boarding house run by a young couple where five tenants are living. The cast and crew, with the exception of Lumet and Johnny Depp (who puts on a Scottish accent), are all British. Speaking of Johnny Depp, he gives a fantastic portrayal of Sergeant Trotter, the detective assigned to the murderer's case. Depp really gets inside of the character, plays it with complete conviction, and gives a commanding performance. Joan Plowright, once again, puts in a flawless performance. She plays an old, pessimistic, and grumpy British woman. Plowright steals every scene she is in and provides a subtle comic relief. Speaking of comic relief, Rupert Everett gives a career-best performance. He plays the flamboyant Christopher Wren and plays the part to utter perfection. What defines Everett's performance, however, is one scene between him and Rachel Weisz's character. I don't want to give away too much information, but I will say that Everett's character has a complete and utter breakdown where he explains why he is so outrageous. Not only does Everett make us laugh, but he also makes us tear up as he breaks down. But don't be misleaded by this talk of comic relief, "The Mousetrap" is a taut thriller and murder mystery that keeps you on the edge of your seat. In homage to "12 Angry Men", Lumet shows, once again, that you can provide an entertaining and gripping film without much change of scenery. "The Mousetrap" is the best thriller since "The Silence of the Lambs", but it thrills in a completely different, more subtle, way. "The Mousetrap" has been cleaning up and scoring key nominations at the Golden Globes, SAG, and PGA awards and has great chances at scoring at this year's Academy Awards.
Nominations
Best Picture
Best Director- Sidney Lumet
Best Actor- Johnny Depp
Best Supporting Actor- Rupert Everett
Best Supporting Actress- Joan Plowright
Best Adapted Screenplay- Peter Morgan
Best Film Editing- Lucia Zucchetti
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