The Moviezzz Blog

BURN NOTICE Books by Tod Goldberg

Moviezzz@aol.com (Moviezzz) — Fri, 17 Jul 2009 12:00:00 +0000

One of my favorite blog features is over at Johnny LaRue's Crane Shot where Marty McKee reviews action adventure paperbacks usually from the 1970's Many of these were based on films and TV shows of the era. They were a way to have readers relive the characters.

The series died out by the time that direct to video action films took off.

With my recent obsession with the USA Network series BURN NOTICE, I was surprised to see that there were two spin off novels featuring the characters. Both are written by Tod Goldberg, a crime novelist.

The novels feature Michael Westen, the hero of the show, a burned spy out to find out who shut down his career. He is aided by his ex-girlfriend, the gun runner Fiona and his friend Sam, a former Navy Seal.

The first book in the series from 2008, BURN NOTICE: THE FIX has Michel helping a socialite find out who her missing husband is.

Published earlier this year, the second, and probably the better of the two, THE END GAME, has the gang involved in a kidnapping tied to a yacht race.

First off, these are not what you would call great works of literature. They aren't up there with Elmore Leonard or, more importantly, Carl Hiaasen who owns the Miami crime thriller genre. But they are great reads.

I was a bit surprised by how low key the books were. You would think that a book, since it doesn't have a budget, would have bigger action scenes that would be too expensive to do on TV. Instead, they are all a bit toned down. There are more explosions and such in a typical episode.

Would those who don't watch the TV show care about the books? Doubtful. Although once you watch the show, the books are a great way to fill time between episodes.

Both THE FIX and THE END GAME are available now from Signet.

Happy 102, Barbara Stanwyck

Moviezzz@aol.com (Moviezzz) — Thu, 16 Jul 2009 18:00:00 +0000

One of the true greats in Hollywood, Barbara Stanwyck, would have turned 102 today.

If you look at her films, especially those she made in the 1930's, she was undeniably one of the best that ever was.

EMMY NOMINATIONS 2009: Congratulations Kristen and Jim!

Moviezzz@aol.com (Moviezzz) — Thu, 16 Jul 2009 13:38:00 +0000

Maybe I shouldn't complain. Jim Parsons of THE BIG BANG THEORY and Kristen Wiig of SATURDAY NIGHT LIVE were both nominated for Emmys. They are two of my favorites so that should be enough for me to be happy.

But other than that, what a lousy nomination list.

I mean, no FRIDAY NIGHT LIGHTS? No series nomination for THE BIG BANG THEORY? (And FAMILY GUY gets a nomination? What is going on?)

Here are the full nominations:

BEST DRAMA SERIES

* 'Big Love'
* 'Damages'
* 'Dexter'
* 'House'
* 'Lost'
* 'Mad Men'

BEST ACTOR, DRAMA SERIES

* Bryan Cranston, 'Breaking Bad'
* Michael C. Hall, 'Dexter'
* Hugh Laurie, 'House'
* Gabriel Byrne, 'In Treatment'
* Jon Hamm, 'Mad Men'
* Simon Baker, 'The Mentalist'

BEST ACTRESS, DRAMA SERIES

* Sally Field, 'Brothers and Sisters'
* Kyra Sedgwick, 'The Closer'
* Glenn Close, 'Damages'
* Mariska Hargitay, 'Law & Order: SVU'
* Elisabeth Moss, 'Mad Men'
* Holly Hunter, 'Saving Grace'

BEST SUPPORTING ACTOR, DRAMA SERIES

* William Shatner, 'Boston Legal'
* Christian Clemenson, 'Boston Legal'
* Aaron Paul, 'Breaking Bad'
* William Hurt, 'Damages'
* Michael Emerson, 'Lost'
* John Slattery, 'Mad Men'

BEST SUPPORTING ACTRESS, DRAMA SERIES

* Rose Byrne, 'Damages' Sandra Oh, 'Grey's Anatomy'
* Chandra Wilson, 'Grey's Anatomy'
* Dianne Wiest, 'In Treatment'
* Hope Davis, 'In Treatment'
* Cherry Jones, '24'

BEST COMEDY SERIES

* 'Entourage'
* 'Family Guy'
* 'Flight Of The Conchords'
* 'How I Met Your Mother'
* 'The Office'
* '30 Rock'
* 'Weeds'

BEST ACTOR, COMEDY SERIES

* Jim Parsons, 'The Big Bang Theory'
* Jemaine Clement, 'Flight Of The Conchords'
* Tony Shalhoub, 'Monk'
* Steve Carell, 'The Office'
* Alec Baldwin, '30 Rock'
* Charlie Sheen, 'Two And A Half Men'

BEST ACTRESS, COMEDY SERIES

* Julia Louis-Dreyfus, 'The New Adventures Of Old Christine'
* Christina Applegate, 'Samantha Who?'
* Sarah Silverman, 'The Sarah Silverman Show'
* Tina Fey, '30 Rock'
* Toni Collette, United States Of Tara'
* Mary-Louise Parker, 'Weeds'

BEST SUPPORTING ACTOR, COMEDY SERIES

* Kevin Dillon, 'Entourage'
* Neil Patrick Harris, 'How I Met Your Mother'
* Rainn Wilson, 'The Office'
* Tracy Morgan, '30 Rock'
* Jack McBrayer, '30 Rock'
* Jon Cryer, 'Two And A Half Men'

BEST SUPPORTING ACTRESS, COMEDY SERIES

* Kristin Chenoweth, 'Pushing Daisies'
* Amy Poehler, 'Saturday Night Live'
* Kristin Wiig, 'Saturday Night Live'
* Jane Krakowski, '30 Rock'
* Vanessa Williams, 'Ugly Betty'
* Elizabeth Perkins, 'Weeds'

THE MIGHTY BOOSH: COMPLETE SEASON ONE DVD Review

Moviezzz@aol.com (Moviezzz) — Thu, 16 Jul 2009 12:00:00 +0000

THE MIGHTY BOOSH, the complete first season, is being released on DVD from BBC Home Video.

Who or what is THE MIGHTY BOOSH?

Great question. Thanks for asking.

I wish I could answer.

The basic premise is about two guys, Julian Barratt and Noel Fielding who also wrote the show, working as zookeepers. That is about all that is describable about the show.

Imagine if David Lynch directed a Monty Python film. The result would be something like THE MIGHTY BOOSH.

The show features the two, who are very funny, getting into all sorts of surreal adventures in and around the zoo. From having to box kangaroos, to discovering the animals in the zoo are disappearing, and much more. Episodes include musical numbers and dream sequences. It really isn't like anything out there.

The show currently airs on Adult Swim on the Cartoon Network, late night Sundays. Those episodes are edited by almost ten minutes. This set contains the complete episodes.

WHAT IS ON THE DVD?

This is a two DVD set of all eight first season episodes.

Disc one contains episodes one through six. Disc two contains episodes seven and eight.

There are commentaries on four episodes.

Disc Two also contains the following:

INSIDE THE ZOONIVERSE (28:04) and THE HISTORY OF BOOSH (9:37)- Documentaries on the production and history of the show.

BOOSH MUSIC (12:09) - Collection of musical numbers from the show.

OUTTAKES (6:19)

PICTURE GALLERY

SHOULD I BUY IT?

  THE MIGHTY BOOSH isn’t for everyone. Those expecting a straightforward sitcom may be a bit lost. But to others, this will be a very different and very funny show.

THE MIGHTY BOOSH COMPLETE SEASON ONE will be available July 21, 2009 from BBC Home Video.

FORGOTTEN FILM: WALK PROUD (1979)

Moviezzz@aol.com (Moviezzz) — Wed, 15 Jul 2009 12:00:00 +0000

1979’s WALK PROUD followed the releases of Walter Hill’s THE WARRIORS and BOULEVARD NIGHTS. All three were films about street gangs. After violence erupted in theatres with the previous films, groups protested the release of WALK PROUD. They were afraid it would be yet another unfavorable view of gang life, especially the lives of Mexicans in L.A.

The film itself wasn’t as controversial. In fact, it is closer to ROMEO AND JULIET, or to name a more recent film CRAZY / BEAUTIFUL than it is to THE WARRIORS. It is about star crossed lovers, a Mexican gang member from East L.A. who falls for a rich girl.

While this isn’t what you would call a great film, Robby Benson isn’t bad in the lead. I know that he isn’t the first person you would think of when thinking “Mexican gang member”. I think it was in his career plan to play every ethnic group possible. He was a Hasidic Jew in THE CHOSEN, a Native American in RUNNING BRAVE, even Paul Newman’s son in HARRY AND SON. After checking off each of those roles, he was able to retire and move behind the camera.

His love interest was played by Sarah Holcomb (profiled here in a “What Ever Happened To” story). This was to be her biggest role in her four film career, and she is good.

The film was written by Evan Hunter aka novelist Ed McBain. It was directed by Robert E. Collins, a TV writer and director (MARCUS WELBY, M.D., POLICE STORY) making his theatrical debut.

Released by Universal, the film has never been released on video in any format. It recently played on Turner Classic Movies. While the print was letterboxed, it was shown with all the language edited out. It was only rated PG so it was still watchable. But since TCM usually shows films uncut, I wonder if an uncut version of the film even exits.

Top 10 Songs From June 16, 1984

Moviezzz@aol.com (Moviezzz) — Tue, 14 Jul 2009 12:00:00 +0000

Maybe it is just me getting old, but today’s music does nothing for me.

Reading Rolling Stone, and not even recognizing most songs in the Top 10, I happened to see this list, the Top 10 Singles from 25 years ago.

Here is the Top 10 from June 16, 1984

10. “Borderline” by Madonna

9. “Dancing in the Dark” by Bruce Springsteen

8. “Jump (For My Love)” by The Pointer Sisters

7. “Self Control” by Laura Branigan (NOTE: The above William Friedkin directed video was originally banned by MTV. Can still see why)

6. “The Heart of Rock & Roll” by Huey Lewis and the News

5. “Sister Christian” by Night Ranger

4. “Oh Sherrie” by Steve Perry

3. “Let’s Hear It For The Boy” by Deniece Williams

2. “The Reflex” by Duran Duran

1. “Time After Time” by Cyndi Lauper

Is it just me or do those songs still hold up?

If only for how the #1 song inspired this:

One of the greatest movie moments of the 1990’s.

Will we still be listening to Lady Gaga (whoever that is) 25 years from now?

NOTE: This post contains Youtube clips. If reading from an outside site, click through to view.

TCM UK Recreates FAME

Moviezzz@aol.com (Moviezzz) — Mon, 13 Jul 2009 17:34:00 +0000

In order to promote an upcoming showing of FAME, TCM UK staged the world's largest reenactment of the street dancing scene. Thousands of fans participated.

I'm just glad to read the TCM is on in the UK!

LAUREL AND HARDY ON SALE ON DVD...IN THE UK

Moviezzz@aol.com (Moviezzz) — Mon, 13 Jul 2009 12:00:00 +0000

One of the biggest DVD sales I have ever seen is going on right now.

LAUREL AND HARDY - THE COLLLECTION was released on DVD in 2004 in the UK for 200 pounds, the equivalent of around $325. That would make it for serious fans only.

Currently, at the UK version of Amazon, the set is selling for, with shipping to the US, the equivalent of $55.

The set is 21 DVDs of every Laurel and Hardy silent and sound short, almost 70 of them. There are a few that are lost and they obviously aren't included. It also includes ten of their feature films, including their best known SONS OF THE DESERT. Plus, there are several other shorts that the pair appeared in, the foreign versions of some of the shorts, as well as a documentary on the duo. It is all housed in a very nice box.

Over the years, I haven't watched as much Laurel and Hardy as I would have liked. One of the sad things about them is that, in this country, no one is doing anything with the titles. There is no collection like this available in the US.

Several volumes of their shorts have been released. Most are today out of print. Some used copies of single volumes containing just a few shorts are selling for more than this box set, which includes the same shorts and a lot more! If you have the old versions, you can sell them off and buy a couple of these sets.

Many of the Laurel and Hardy features are available in the US, but since so many different companies own the rights, a collection like this is impossible. In the UK, they are all released by Universal.

I've only started to go through the set and I am happy to say, it is well worth ordering. The shorts look great and still are VERY funny. I was a bit worried I would get the set and find the duo dated. Not a bit.

The set isn't perfect.

Many of the discs include a colorized version as an extra, which is pretty much pointless. Serious fans don't want to see the team in color. And a new fan isn't going to buy a big box set like this and be put off by the black and white versions.

Plus, there is no booklet for the DVDs, and the shorts are kind of randomly assembled on the DVDs. They claim to be separated into themes. I would have rather they were in chronological order, the way I am watching them. But, some might not be as much of a geek as I am.

These are very minor points though.

These are UK DVDs, so you need to have a multi region player to watch them in the US. Players can be found for $40 at Wal-Mart, so that shouldn't be a drawback.

I have no idea how long this sale will be going on. You might just want to head over there and order one.

Now if only someone would release a set like this in the US.

BLU-RAY AND DVD RELEASES FOR 7-14-09

Moviezzz@aol.com (Moviezzz) — Sun, 12 Jul 2009 12:00:00 +0000

Here are the DVDs releasing this week, for Bastille Day, Tuesday July 14, 2009.

A few very big titles this week.

DVDS OF THE WEEK

The State: The Complete Series - The MTV comedy series finally makes it to DVD.

Joe Schmo 2 - The fake reality dating show where two of the contestants think it is real. A must see if you missed it.

DVDS RELEASING THIS WEEK

Grey Gardens (HBO) - Jessica Lange and Drew Barrymore star in this HBO version of the classic documentary

Hangin' Tough Live - The NKOTB concert film that I'm sure everyone has pre-ordered. Or not.

The Haunting in Connecticut (Unrated Special Edition) - Horror film with Virginia Madsen.

The Edge of Love - Keira Knightley and Sienna Miller star in this barely released romance.

Van Wilder: Freshman Year - Unrated - Direct to DVD prequel. Reviewed here.

[Rec] - Acclaimed horror film.

Welcome To Macintosh - A documentary on Apple.

Karl Rove, I Love You - Dan Butler of FRASIER stars in this film about Butler playing Rove in a stage show.

Take Me Home - Celtic Thunder concert.

Cheap Trick: Every Trick In The Book - Concert film

BLU-RAYS RELEASING THIS WEEK

The Haunting in Connecticut [Blu-ray]

The Edge of Love [Blu-ray]

Mad Men: Season Two [Blu-ray]

For All Mankind- Criterion Collection [Blu-ray]

The Towering Inferno [Blu-ray]

Wild Pacific [Blu-ray]

The Black Crowes: Warpaint Live [Blu-ray]

I Still Know What You Did Last Summer [Blu-ray]

TV ON DVD THIS WEEK

Mad Men: Season 2

Bewitched: The Complete Eighth Season

Leverage: The First Season

Bleach Uncut Box Set, Vol. 3: The Rescue w/ Limited Collector's Hollow Mask

ER: The Complete Eleventh Season

G.I. Joe A Real American Hero: Season 1.1 - Reviewed here.

Peyton Place: Part Two

Wild Pacific

Wire in the Blood: The Complete Sixth Season

Tracey Takes On... Complete Seasons 3 & 4

1,001 Classic Commercial Collection

American Gladiators (The Original Series): The Battle Begins - Reviewed here.

Click on the title to read more at Amazon.

I LOVE YOU, BETH COOPER (2009)

Moviezzz@aol.com (Moviezzz) — Sat, 11 Jul 2009 21:47:00 +0000

WHAT IS IT ABOUT?

Denis Cooverman (Paul Rust) is the valedictorian of his high school class. During his speech, he decides he doesn’t want to live with regret, so he announces “I love you, Beth Cooper”, declaring his love for the head cheerleader (Hayden Panettiere). The film follows the wild night that results from his speech.

WHO MADE IT?

The film was based on the novel by Larry Doyle, who also adapted it. Doyle is a writer for THE SIMPSONS as well as a frequent contributor to the NEW YORKER.

It was directed by Chris Columbus, director of everything from ADVENTURES IN BABYSITTING to the first HARRY POTTER film, RENT and MRS DOUBTFIRE.

IS IT ANY GOOD?

The novel of I LOVE YOU BETH COOPER was one of my favorites of recent years. Yet, funny books often have trouble translating to feature films.

Look at Carl Hiaasen. He is one of the best comedy writers out there. The one film that was based on his work that has made it to the screen was Demi Moore’s STRIPTEASE. Despite being very faithful to the novel (even improving on the plot at one point) the film was pretty terrible. It was the writing that made it funny, not the plot.

The good news, while the film version of BETH COOPER isn’t as funny as the book, it is still a lot of fun.

They get the cast right. Especially the supporting roles. While Paul Rust and Hayden Panettiere are good in the leads, the film is often stolen by Jack Carpenter as Rich Munsch, Denis’ movie quoting friend who may or may not be gay. Lauren Storm is also very funny as one of Hayden’s friends, as is Lauren London. Alan Ruck (FERRIS BUELLER’s best friend Cameron) plays Denis’ dad

The film has some pacing issues. There are some dialogue scenes early on that seem to go a bit too slowly. Columbus should have stepped up the tempo. But by the end, it is all forgiven.

The book is still the better way to experience the material. For those who love the book, while this isn’t as funny, they got it right.

I saw this immediately after BRUNO. It is the better film of the two.

BRUNO (2009)

Moviezzz@aol.com (Moviezzz) — Sat, 11 Jul 2009 21:24:00 +0000

Sacha Baron Cohen’s DA ALI G SHOW is truly one of the funniest TV series in history. Rarely has a show been as consistently funny. It is where we first saw the character of Borat.

Borat I thought was an odd choice for a feature film as I always thought he was the weakest of Cohen’s characters. The film, while loved by many, I found to be a bit disappointing. Not that it didn’t have laughs, I laughed quite a bit, but I laughed even more in a typical half hour episode.

When BRUNO was announced as the follow up feature, I thought for sure this would be even funnier. Bruno was a character that he could do something with.

Sadly, the result is similar to that of BORAT. While it has its laughs, it isn’t up to the TV show.

BRUNO is an Austrian TV fashion host who travels across America. Well, mainly L.A.and Alabama. That is part of the problem with the film. It felt too small, too rushed. It runs under 90 minutes, like a lot was left out.

Some of the gags go a bit too far. Not that I was offended, but it gets a bit too extreme for most audiences.

There are two skits with Bruno from the TV series I will never forget.

One had Bruno at spring break with a bunch of drunken frat guys. He was on a beach with them, getting them to dance for his cameras. He is having them yelling promos for his TV show. Then, after all this, he tells them “Say to the camera “Welcome to Gay Spring Break”” The guys, being drunken frat guys, freak out, not realizing they were part of a Gay TV show. They turn on him and run away.

Another sketch had Bruno interviewing a fashion designer (at 3:30 in the clip above) They are talking about the theme of a fashion show. Bruno is able to manipulate the interview to show that the designer will agree with anything he says.

In both of these events, Bruno had a defined target, homophobia and the vapidness of fashion. He made direct hits at both.

The film needed this focus. He could have done so much more in L.A. attacking the culture of celebrity. Not to mention homophobia. But, the film doesn’t really go there. It is all over the place.

If you haven’t seen it, I strongly suggest going out and getting DA ALI G SHOW on DVD.

I still am interested in what Cohen will do next. Ali G was his greatest creation. Unfortunately, he only made it to film in a scripted film, ALI G: INDAHOUSE that was not a success. Can a feature film be made of him? Or is he too well known?

DEAD SPY RUNNING By Jon Stock

Moviezzz@aol.com (Moviezzz) — Sat, 11 Jul 2009 12:00:00 +0000

DEAD SPY RUNNING is already in the works to become a film franchise, with McG signing on to direct a film version and Steve Gaghan (TRAFFIC) adapting.

So, before it is even published in the US, it is already a hit.

I was sent a copy of the book by Harper Collins and have to say, this could be a great series.

DEAD SPY RUNNING opens with an exciting set up.

Daniel Marchant is an MI6 operative on suspension. His father was head of the agency until it was suspected he was working with terrorists. This accusation led to his leaving the post and, soon after, passing away without being able to clear his name.

Marchant and his girlfriend are running in the London marathon when he discovers a suspicious looking runner, with a few too many water bottles on his belt that he isn't drinking from. He is running right behind the U.S. Ambassador. Marchant confronts him only to find it is a bomb unwillingly put on his belt. If the runner falls below a certain pace, it will go off. Think of this as SPEED on sneakers.

After this event, many people suspect that it was all a set up, with Marchant being like his father, a traitor, trying to get back in good graces with the government to inflitrate them again.

Marchant has to clear his and his father's name by tracking down the terrorist responsible for everything.

This is a great read, very fast paced, made up of short chapters that just have you flipping through. Stock, a British journalist with two other novels, is clearly writing for a British audience. The bad guys are the CIA, who want to waterboard Marchant. Rush Limbaugh and his friends probably won't enjoy this book.

It is very reminiscent of Robert Ludlum's Bourne novels. The films had little to do with the books, taking nothing from them but the titles and the main character. However the books all dealt with Bourne and his rival, the terrorist Carlos "The Jackal". This series could have the same rivalry.

If you enjoy spy thrillers, this will be a great summer read.

DEAD SPY RUNNING is available in the UK from Harper Collins. So far, it is only available from 3rd party sellers on Amazon.com but I'm sure will be published here when the film is released.

AMERICAN GLADIATORS: THE BATTLE BEGINS (1990) DVD Review

Moviezzz@aol.com (Moviezzz) — Fri, 10 Jul 2009 12:00:00 +0000

Do the names Nitro, Blaze, Gemini, Titan, Laser and Zap mean anything to you?

If so, you may be interested in the new DVD, AMERICAN GLADIATORS: THE ORIGINAL SERIES: THE BATTLE BEGINS.

This is a 3-DVD set of the first season of the 90’s series. The show was so popular that at one point I remember President Bill Clinton admitting that he and Chelsea used to watch it.

Contestants would battle against a team of bodybuilders and athletes in various obstacle course style events. Events such as Assault, Breakthrough and Conquer, Human Cannonball, Joust, Powerball, the Eliminator and The Wall. The winner would go on to the next round until the end of season Final Round where a winner was declared.

This set covers episodes from the very first season of the show, 1989-1990.

WHAT IS ON THE DVD?

DISC ONE

The first disc has a Highlight Show of the first half of the season. There is also a commentary track for this episode with Dan “Nitro” Clark, Raye “Zap” Hollitt and Jim “Laser” Starr. The three do commentaries for additional episodes.

Four rounds of the preliminaries are also on this DVD. There is a commentary track for the first round.

DISC TWO

This contains Round 5 of the preliminaries, along with four rounds of the quarterfinals. Round 4 has a commentary track.

DISC THREE

This disc has two rounds of the semifinals. It also contains the finals (with a commentary track) along with "The Grand Championship".

There is one extra on Disc Three:

GLADIATOR DAYS WITH BILLY WIRTH (9:48) - Wirth, an actor and contestant on the show, looks back on what it was like to compete.

The set also contains a very nice full color booklet with interviews and profiles of the Gladiators, talking about what they are doing today.

SHOULD I BUY IT?

Whether you are interested in 10 1/2 hours of AMERICAN GLADIATORS is up to you. It is a well done set, that should be appreciated by fans.

AMERICAN GLADIATORS: THE BATTLE BEGINS will be available July 14, 2009 from Shout! Factory.

G.I. JOE: A REAL AMERICAN HERO: SEASON 1.1 DVD Review

Moviezzz@aol.com (Moviezzz) — Thu, 09 Jul 2009 12:00:00 +0000

I collected G.I. JOE toys during the 1980’s.

I’ll admit it.

I had them all. The action figures, the vehicles, the big bases and that really cool F-16. I even sent away to get the Destro figure that you could only buy from Hasbro.

I had all the Marvel comics. While my friends were collecting Conan and X-Men, I was collecting G.I. Joe comics.

Yet, I didn’t watch the G.I. JOE cartoon all that much. Not that I didn’t want to, but it first aired in the afternoon, during soccer season. I began to set the VCR to tape them, but I only taped a few before giving up. By the time it returned as a regular series, I had outgrown it.

The show was very popular for those a bit younger than me. Like THE TRANSFORMERS, they could be written off as glorified toy commercials, but they worked even if you didn’t have the toys.

Now, the first few years of episodes are out on DVD in a new set from Shout! Factory.

WHAT IS ON THE DVD? 

This is a 4 DVD collection of Season 1.1, the first few years of the show when it was a once a year miniseries.

DISC ONE

The first disc contains A REAL AMERICAN HERO: THE M.A.S.S. DEVICE, the five part miniseries that aired September 12-16 1983.

This disc also contains.

LOOKING BACK WITH WRITER RON FRIEDMAN: PART ONE (7:01) - A surprisingly serious look at his writing process.

DISC TWO

The five part THE REVENGE OF COBRA, that aired September 10-19, 1984.

Also features:

LOOKING BACK WITH WRITER RON FRIEDMAN: PART TWO (7:03) - Creating the characters.

DISC THREE

The five part THE PYRAMID OF DARKNESS series that aired September 16-20 1985.

Also:

LOOKING BACK WITH WRITER RON FRIEDMAN: PART THREE (4:44) - A look at the impact of the series

DISC FOUR

Seven episodes that aired in 1985 from September 23 to October 1.

This disc contains also contains:

“KNOWING IS HALF THE BATTLE” (3:42) - A collection of seven public service announcements where the members of G.I. Joe talk about issues such as getting lost, lightning, petting strange dogs, treehouse and campfire safety and teach how to tread water.

ARCHIVAL HASBRO TOY COMMERCIALS (1:31) - Three G.I. Joe toy commercials from the early 80’s. And I should note, I had them all.

G.I. JOE ORIGINAL 1963 TOY FAIR PRESENTATION (9:06) - A look at the original G.I. Joe doll.

PRINTABLE SCRIPT FOR “JUNGLE TRAP” - PDF of the episode.

SHOULD I BUY IT?

  For fans of the series, the only real question should be whether to buy this series, or to hold out for the COMPLETE SERIES COLLECTION which will be released at the end of July.

G.I. JOE A REAL AMERICAN HERO SEASON 1.1 will be available July 14, 2009 from Shout! Factory.

WHAT EVER HAPPENED TO: LYNN-HOLLY JOHNSON

Moviezzz@aol.com (Moviezzz) — Wed, 08 Jul 2009 12:00:00 +0000

Lynn-Holly Johnson was an actress whose career got off to a great start. With almost twenty years in the business, she appeared in less than twenty films and TV episodes, yet some of those films are still remembered today.

Born in 1958, she got her start in ice skating. In 1974, she placed second in the U.S. Figure Skating Championships. This led to her joining the Ice Capades and her first film role.

1978’s ICE CASTLES. In this film she played a blind ice skater who falls for Robby Benson.

ICE CASTLES is a film that today is best known for its Marvin Hamlisch / Melissa Manchester theme song “Looking Through The Eyes Of Love”. (And I apologize if I've now got that song stuck in your head. I've had it in mine since beginning to write this)

In reading about this, one surprising bit of trivia I read had Lynn-Holly walking off the set when she refused to do a nude scene. I think she made the right choice as this has become something of a PG rated romance classic and such a scene would have been inappropriate.

Her next film would be the troubled Disney production THE WATCHER IN THE WOODS. This was a horror film, with Bette Davis, that was released to theatres, withdrawn, and then rereleased with a different ending.

The next year had her appearing in 1981’s FOR YOUR EYES ONLY , still my favorite Bond film. Lynn played a wannabe Bond girl that Bond rejects. She was able to skate again in the film.

There was a lot of TV work, episodes of CHiPS, MATT HOUSTON and TRAPPER JOHN M.D. before here next film, WHERE THE BOYS ARE ’84, an R-rated attempt to recreate the Beach Party films of the 1960’s. She starred with Lorna Luft and Lisa Hartman. The film was not a success.

By the late 80’s, her name was still popular enough that she was prominently billed on the movie posters of such little seen films as ALIEN PREDATOR, THE SISTERHOOD and HYPER SPACE. She acted occasionally in the 1990’s in films that didn’t see much if any release.

SO, WHAT EVER HAPPENED TO HER?

Lynn-Holly was married in 1993. This coincided with her break from acting.

She has two kids.

In recent years, she has appeared at autograph conventions and done some community theatre.

Lynn-Holly is a case of someone who may have just accidentally become an actress. She was just an ice skater who got a great role. This led to more work. Maybe somewhere along the line, she just decided it wasn't for her, and she left the business.

Lynn-Holly Johnson on DVD

Lynn-Holly Johnson on Blu-Ray

Lynn-Holly Johnson on VHS

THE BIG REWIND By Nathan Rabin

Moviezzz@aol.com (Moviezzz) — Tue, 07 Jul 2009 12:00:00 +0000

Who is Nathan Rabin and why should I care about reading his memoir?

 Great question.

I asked the same thing when I received a copy of THE BIG REWIND: A MEMOIR BROUGHT TO YOU BY POP CULTURE by Nathan Rabin.

Nathan is a film critic who writes for THE ONION’S AV CLUB, the serious side of THE ONION (that I don't read as often as I probably should).

Nathan was also one of the film critics on the short lived AMC movie review show THE MOVIE CLUB WITH JOHN RIDLEY. Even though I watched this, I had no memory of him.

So, I didn't know what I was getting into when reading it.

I did realize we have one thing in common. Nathan and I have the only two reviews of the 1984 film LOVELINES that are linked from the IMDB. (Checking it, his link seems to be dead. So, I’m alone in having reviewed the Mary Beth Evans / Michael Winslow epic).

THE BIG REWIND is divided into chapters, each beginning with some pop culture item, a book, a movie, or song, and then jumping into a related anecdote. He is sort of a movie obsessed Chuck Klosterman, only with a much darker life.

Nathan was abandoned by his mother early on, and lived with his father, who was diagnosed with MS. Nathan was even sent to a mental institution briefly, only leaving when his father’s insurance ran out.

After his father was unable to care for him, he was sent to live in a group home. Even more terrifying than the group home were his years living in a clothing optional, drug filled co-op in the 90’s.

Klosterman just had to live in the middle of nowhere without MTV. Nathan really had it rough!

Through his jobs at various video stores, he eventually made it to THE ONION, writing reviews. This led to his time on THE MOVIE CLUB.

If you didn't see THE MOVIE CLUB, it was not the biggest hit. The host, John Ridley, sat amid a panel of usually four critics. I still have no idea why Ridley hosted this. He was a screenwriter (best known for writing THREE KINGS) that most of those in the viewing audience had never heard of. Plus, he never brought anything to the discussion. He just sat listening to the others. Maybe if he wasn't there, the budget would have been less and the show would still be on the air.

The show takes up a large, and fascinating part of the book. From the logistics of shooting (he would fly from Chicago to L.A. every week to shoot) to the lengths they went to screen films. At one point he writes about not able to get into an L.A. screening of WAR OF THE WORLDS so several critics were flown from L.A. to NY to try to see it. They were unsuccessful.

Flying across the country to see WAR OF THE WORLDS? And we have to wonder why the show was canceled?

Through it all, Nathan is a terrific writer. Take this bit, that I loved, of his description of a fellow MOVIE CLUB critic, the great Kim Morgan of the blog SUNSET GUN. He describes her as being a “Cine Monk”:

“The Cine-Monk will gladly spend his or her last dollar on a ticket to an Ozu retrospective. They’ll happily swear a vow of poverty and go without food, shelter, and clothing if it means seeing more movies. The Cine-Monk lives by the creed that he who sees the most movies before dying wins, and he who sees the most obscure Asian or African movies picks up extra bonus points. The Cine-Monk is by nature an obsessive, a completist, a list maker, an inveterate canon creator.”

Raise your hand if you identify with that? I'm sure a lot of film bloggers do.

Nathan may be a bit too honest though. Early on, he apologizes over how many of the anecdotes involve a certain part of his anatomy. Maybe we could have done without his descriptions of his trips to “massage parlors”. But then again, that is all part of the very self deprecating style of his writing.

There is also a very funny segment on his “Frank Grimes”. If you get that reference (and I did), you will love this book.

Even if you have no idea who he is, this is a great read.

THE BIG REWIND by Nathan Rabin is now available from Scribner.

PEANUTS: 1960'S COLLECTION DVD Review

Moviezzz@aol.com (Moviezzz) — Mon, 06 Jul 2009 12:00:00 +0000

The PEANUTS specials have been released on DVD countless times. You may already have a few. It seems they get repackaged each and every year. Parents walking through Wal Mart each Christmas time see A CHARLIE BROWN CHRISTMAS and pick it up. Everyone needs a copy.

Warner Home Video currently has the PEANUTS library and they are finally releasing it right. Rather than a collection of Holiday themed episodes, they are releasing them in chronological order in one set.

PEANUTS: 1960’s COLLECTION is made up of all the TV specials starring Charlie Brown and the gang together in one 2 DVD set.

WHAT IS ON THE DVD?

The set is made up of two DVDs, with six remastered specials.

DISC ONE

A CHARLIE BROWN CHRISTMAS (1965) - The special that started it all and the most popular Christmas special of all time.

CHARLIE BROWN ALL-STARS (1966) - A baseball themed special, with Charlie Brown and his team.

IT’S THE GREAT PUMPKIN, CHARLIE BROWN (1966) - Another classic holiday themed special. Charlie Brown, his ghost costume, "I got a rock", and the Great Pumpkin.

DISC TWO

YOU’RE IN LOVE, CHARLIE BROWN (1967) - Charlie Brown and the Little Red Haired Girl.

HE’S YOUR DOG, CHARLIE BROWN (1968) - A Snoopy themed cartoon. This is the DVD debut of this special.

IT WAS A SHORT SUMMER, CHARLIE BROWN (1969) - Charlie Brown goes to camp. This is also the DVD debut of this special.

There is also documentary

VINCE GUARALDI: THE MAESTRO OF MENLO PARK (36:55) - The man behind the unforgettable music if profiled. It follows his jazz career through his work on the specials.

SHOULD I BUY IT?

After countless releases, Warner finally gets it right. All the decades specials together in one set. Let’s hope they continue with future decades.

PEANUTS: 1960's COLLECTION will be available July 7, 2009 from Warner Home Video.

BLU-RAY AND DVD RELEASES FOR 7-7-09

Moviezzz@aol.com (Moviezzz) — Sun, 05 Jul 2009 12:00:00 +0000

Here are the DVDs releasing this week, Tuesday July 7, 2009.

I guess everyone is recovering from the 4th as it is a slow week.

DVDS RELEASING THIS WEEK

Knowing - Nicolas Cage and the end of the world.

Push - Chris Evans and Dakota Fanning star in a sci-fi film.

Lonely are the Brave - Kirk Douglas, Gena Rowlands, Wlater Matthau and George Kennedy star in this classic from 1962.

The Unborn - Horror film with Odette Yustman.

Beau Geste - Gary Cooper stars.

Trail of the Lonesome Pine - Western with Henry Fonda and Fred MacMurray.

Coco Chanel - Shirley MacLaine stars as the fashion icon. Malcolm McDowell also appears.

Jeff Garlin: Young and Handsome: A Night with Jeff Garlin - Concert film from the CURB YOUR ENTHUSIASM star. Reviewed here.

Ali Baba and the Forty Thieves - From 1943.

John Barrymore Collection (4pc) (Silent) (Full) - Features Sherlock Holmes, Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde, The Beloved Rogue and Tempest

Five Fingers - With Laurence Fishburne.

Mr. Rock N Roll: The Alan Freed Story - TV movie starring Judd Nelson, Madchen Amick and Paula Abdul.

Flying By- TV movie starring Billy Ray Cyrus, Heather Locklear and Patricia Neal. And for Billy Ray fans, he sings several songs.

Garrison Keillor: The Man on the Radio in the Red Shoes - Documentary on the Prairie Home Companion host.

BLU-RAYS RELEASING THIS WEEK

The Deep [Blu-ray] - The Jacqueline Bisset, Robert Shaw, Nick Nolte underwater film.

Knowing [Blu-ray]

Push [Blu-ray]

The Unborn [Blu-ray]

The Universe: The Complete Season Two (History Channel) [Blu-ray]

Torchwood: The Complete Second Season [Blu-ray]

Grumpy Old Men [Blu-ray]

TV ON DVD THIS WEEK

Mystery Science Theater 3000: XV - Reviewed here

Murder, She Wrote: The Complete Tenth Season

Agatha Christie's Poirot: The Movie Collection - Set 4

Doctor Who: Attack of the Cybermen (Episode 138)

Doctor Who: The Rescue / The Romans (Episodes 11 & 12)

Third Watch: The Complete Second Season

Matlock: The Third Season

Peanuts: 1960's Collection (A Charlie Brown Christmas / Charlie Brown's All-Stars / It's the Great Pumpkin / You're in Love / He's Your Dog / It Was a Short Summer) - Reviewed here.

Petticoat Junction: The Official Second Season

Reno 911!: The Complete Sixth Season

Kath & Kim - Season One

Torchwood - The Complete Second Season

Click on the title to read more at Amazon.

Happy July 4th 2009!

Moviezzz@aol.com (Moviezzz) — Sat, 04 Jul 2009 12:00:00 +0000

Happy 4th of July everyone!

What a better way to celebrate than the best fireworks show out there, Illuminations at EPCOT CENTER. I've seen it many times over the years (although sadly, not in the last 10 years of so).

PUBLIC ENEMIES (2009)

Moviezzz@aol.com (Moviezzz) — Fri, 03 Jul 2009 21:17:00 +0000

PUBLIC ENEMIES is a collection of scenes concerning a character named John Dillinger, edited together. The total running time of all these scenes is two hours and fifteen minutes.

To call this a film isn’t really fair. There is no narrative drive. There is not an overall story. It is just a collection of scenes.

Rarely have I found watching a film as much of a chore as this was. I just did not care about what happened, and there was nothing on the screen to care about.

One of my tests of how a film works is how often I check my watch. Usually, I never do. Here, I was checking every ten minutes or so. Twenty minutes in, I knew I was in trouble.

The problem lies with the screenplay, if there even was one. We first meet Dillinger in the middle of his crime spree. I guess they expect the audience to be as familiar with the story as those back in the 30’s.

I watched a documentary on films of the 1930’s last night. With all the talk in that documentary about THE ROARING TWENTIES, SCARFANCE and PUBLIC ENEMY, maybe I just expected more. I would have rather have seen a full version of Dillinger’s life rather than just this take on his later years.

Johnny Depp is fine in the lead, but has little to do. Not to get into gossip, but a recent news report stated that he and director Michael Mann weren't even speaking on the set, as Depp was unhappy with the way Mann was shooting. You can kind of see that disconnect in the film.

Christian Bale is similarly wasted. It is good that he has a role that doesn’t require him to growl, but he isn’t required to do much of anything. Marion Cotillard may not have much of a stateside career if this film is any indication. She barely registers on screen.

There are moments where you remember this is the Michael Mann of HEAT. There is an early shootout in an apple orchard. And, the film starts to come alive with the Biograph Theatre finale. But that is over two hours in.

Another scene, a lengthy chase through the woods at night that is shot in such darkness, you don’t know who is who, is just poorly realized.

Maybe it is time for someone to take Mann’s handheld cameras away. There comes a point where a shaky camera stops being a style decision and instead is just unprofessional. One shot with Depp and Cotillard dancing back and forth, with the bouncing camera, just made me nauseous.

Skip this one. Or if you must see a Dillinger story, go with the John Milius film DILLINGER with Warren Oates. While not a great film, it is better than this version.

BRIEF DVD REVIEW: TOKYO (2008)

Moviezzz@aol.com (Moviezzz) — Fri, 03 Jul 2009 12:00:00 +0000

TOKYO is the latest attempt at the “Anthology Film”, a grouping of related short films by various major directors. Big in the 1960’s (PARIS BY SIX, SPIRITS OF THE DEAD), I don’t know why the genre died out.

What would you rather see, a group of short films by major directors, or one Michael Bay film?

Like the recent PARIS JE T’AIME, this is all set around one city. There are three films.

The first is “Interior Design” directed by Michel Gondry (ETERNAL SUNSHINE OF A SPOTLESS MIND). A couple moves to Tokyo and, well, I won’t give away what happens. This would have been a better film at half the length. Even as a short it felt too long.

The second, “Merde”, is from French director Leos Carax (BOY MEETS GIRL, POLA X). As my favorite filmmaker in the group, I was looking forward to this one. Sadly, it was my least favorite.

Carax regular Denis Lavant is a sort of monster living in the underground who roams the streets of Tokyo. Carax admits in the extras he was going for a GODZILLA like story. It didn’t quite work.

I was set to turn it off after those two, as the third, “Shaking Tokyo”, was by Joon-ho Bong, whose film THE HOST was very popular, but I didn’t care for all that much. Instead, I stayed with it.

This is the simplest story, of a shut in who hasn’t left his home in years. Each week, he gets a pizza, without making eye contact with the person delivering. One day, he happens to look up and notice it is a woman, and he falls in love.

I loved this segment and I’d say it is worth renting the entire film to see.

The DVD contains making of segments, along with director interviews, for each film.

TOKYO is available on DVD and Blu-Ray from Liberation.

Turner Classic Movies Returns to 1939

Moviezzz@aol.com (Moviezzz) — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 20:00:00 +0000

After last month's focus on Great Directors, in July, Turner Classic Movies will devote Thursday nights to the films from one of cinema's greatest years, 1939.

Here is the schedule (all times are Eastern):

Thursday, July 2

Musicals and Comedies

7 p.m. The Wonderful Wizard of Oz: 50 Years of Magic

8 p.m. The Wizard of Oz

10 p.m. 1939

11:15 p.m. The Women

1:30 a.m. Ninotchka

3:30 a.m. Babes in Arms

5:15 a.m. The Story of Vernon and Irene Castle

Friday, July 3

7 a.m. Idiot’s Delight

9 a.m. Bachelor Mother

10:30 a.m. The Little Princess

Thursday, July 9

Westerns

8 p.m. Union Pacific

10:30 p.m. Dodge City

12:30 a.m. Stagecoach

2:15 a.m. The Oklahoma Kid

Crime Dramas

3:45 a.m. Blind Alley

5:00 a.m. Each Dawn I Die

Friday, July 10

6:45 a.m. The Roaring Twenties

8:45 a.m. 1939

Thursday, July 16

Action & Adventure

8 p.m. Stanley and Livingstone

10 p.m. Beau Geste

Midnight Golden Boy

2 a.m. Gunga Din

4 a.m. Only Angels Have Wings

Friday, July 17

6:15 a.m. The Real Glory

8 a.m. The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn

9:45 a.m. The Man in the Iron Mask

Thursday, July 23

Literary Adaptations

8 p.m. Of Mice and Men

10 p.m. Dark Victory

Midnight Goodbye Mr. Chips

2 a.m. Mr. Smith Goes to Washington

4:15 a.m. The Old Maid

Friday, July 24

6:00 a.m. They Made Me a Criminal

8:00 a.m. On Borrowed Time

9:45 a.m. Juarez

Noon The Hunchback of Notre Dame

Thursday, July 30

Romance

8:00 p.m. Gone With the Wind

Midnight The Rains Came

2:00 a.m. Wuthering Heights

4:00 a.m. Intermezzo: A Love Story

5:15 a.m. Love Affair

Friday, July 31

7 a.m. The Private Lives of Elizabeth and Essex

9 a.m. Midnight

10:45 a.m. 1939

JEFF GARLIN: YOUNG AND HANDSOME (2009) DVD Review

Moviezzz@aol.com (Moviezzz) — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 12:00:00 +0000

If you only know Jeff Garlin from CURB YOUR ENTHUSIASM, you are missing out.

You might have missed his wonderful film I WANT SOMEONE TO EAT CHEESE WITH, that he wrote, directed, and starred in.

He also directed a very funny John Waters stand up concert film, THIS FILTHY WORLD.

Now, with JEFF GARLIN: YOUNG AND HANDSOME, he returns to how it all began for him, stand up.

Filmed in 2008 in Chicago, Garlin takes the stage to do an almost hour long set talking about himself. He discusses his weight, his wife, caulk, celebrities like Kid Rock and Peter Cetera, and much more.

This is less of a stand up film than it is just Garlin telling stories. And he is a great storyteller.

WHAT IS ON THE DVD

The DVD contains an interview with Garlin and MR. SHOW’S Bob Odenkirk (who directed the concert). This is a very interesting piece about Garlin’s early comedy career and his favorite comics.

There are also two short deleted scenes from the concert.

SHOULD I BUY IT?

  If you are going through withdrawal, waiting for the next season of CURB YOUR ENTHUSIASM, you are sure to enjoy this concert.

JEFF GARLIN YOUNG AND HANDSOME will be available July 7, 2009 from Shout! Factory.

KARL MALDEN (1912-2009)

Moviezzz@aol.com (Moviezzz) — Wed, 01 Jul 2009 20:04:00 +0000

Karl Maden has passed away.

While many may remember him from his American Express Commercials, or THE STREETS OF SAN FRANCISCO, he had a fine film career.

He worked with Hitchcock in I CONFESS in 1953, Elia Kazan on four films, BOOMERANG, A STREETCAR NAMED DESIRE (for which he won an Oscar), ON THE WATERFRONT and BABY DOLL.

He starred in Disney's POLLYANNA, with Natalie Wood in BOMBERS B-52 and GYPSY (both featured in her recent box set, along with the above deleted scene which should have remained in the film).

There was also John Frankenheimer's BIRDMAN OF ALCATRAZ, HOW THE WEST WAS WON, THE CINCINNATI KID, John Ford's CHEYENNE AUTUMN, Ken Russel's BILLION DOLLAR BRAIN and, a personal favorite from when I was a kid, PATTON.

He spent the latter part of his career on TV and in movies such as BEYOND THE POSEIDON ADVENTURE, METEOR, STING II and FATAL VISION. His final role was that of a priest on THE WEST WING.

At 97, he lived a long life and left us many great films.

MYSTERY SCIENCE THEATER 3000 VOLUME XV DVD Review

Moviezzz@aol.com (Moviezzz) — Wed, 01 Jul 2009 12:00:00 +0000

When the history of film criticism in the 21st Century is written, don’t expect to read much about Pauline Kael or Andrew Sarris. While the were hugely influential to a generation, to those born after 1970, Kael had stopped writing by the time they reached their teens and the auteur theory was already accepted.

Instead, you can look to a group from Minnesota as being a major influence, Joel Hodgson, Tom Servo and Crow. The three, along with Mike Nelson later, essentially defined what internet criticism would become. Anyone can have an opinion. Anyone can critique a film.

The show became hugely popular in the 90’s on Comedy Central and later the Sci-Fi Channel.

Now, another collection of episodes, Volume XV has been released.

WHAT IS ON THE DVD?

This is a 4 DVD set. Each is in a slimcase, along with collectible lobby cards.

The films are:

THE ROBOT VS THE AZTEC MUMMY

This is a Mexican horror film about a robot being invented to take on a mummy! This 1989 episode also features the short COMMANDO CODY AND THE RADAR MEN FROM THE MOON.

Also on this DVD are:

KTMA 1 (15:35) - The wraparound segments from the earliest days of MST3K. Watch as Joel’s hair gets shorter and shorter.

PROMOS (2:30) - Promos for the film on the then Comedy Channel along with the film’s trailer.

THE GIRL IN LOVER’S LANE

In this episode from 1993, the gang critiques a juvenile delinquent film from 1959.

This disc also features.

SCRAPS - WRITING ROOM (8:07) - Behind the scenes footage of an episode in production, from the writing stages, through the production.

ZOMBIE NIGHTMARE

My favorite in this set is this 1994 episode (with Mike Nelson) of a mid 80’s horror film starring Adam West and Tia Carrere. A group commits a hit and run, and then are killed one by one by the now zombie that they hit. Essentially I KNOW WHAT YOU DID LAST SUMMER, but with zombies.

ZOMBIE NIGHTMARE = MST3K DREAM (11:51) - Two of the cast members of the film are interviewed about what it was like being on the show.

RACKET GIRLS

Another 1994 episode of a woman’s wrestling film. This also features the short ARE YOU READY FOR MARRIAGE?

The extras on this disc are:

SNEAK PEAK: HAMLET A.D.D. (5:15) - “The plays the thing” segment from a HAMLET reworking featuring several MST3K voices.

PROMO (2:03)

SHOULD I BUY IT?  

MST3K is a favorite show of many, and they are sure to love this set.

MYSTERY SCIENCE THEATER 3000 VOLUME XV will be available July 7, 2009 from Shout! Factory.