Look out! It's time to cheat death again in the next installment of the Final Destination series new at the box office this weekend. A big opening as we slowly inch towards Halloween.
You may remember the first one or two of these movies. Premonition meet coincidence, meets a bunch of young people and their possible deaths. This is of course is a "can we stay alive movie?" And of course the answer is "no." Death has a plan, and try as they might, our hero's live only to die....all in very graphic and unusual ways. Sound morbid? It is....and it isn't.... all at the some time.
You kind of have to "get" these movies. Even though there is some rough stuff to see and hear, these flicks don't take themselves too seriously. Presented in a half tongue-in -cheek way of sorts. Complete with goofy sound, and visual effects at times, it's hard to explain, but there is a ray of levity to it all. But as the plot line thickens, we wonder who is next and how will it happen?
But you have to be willing to "cut the movie a break." And understand the producers know that none of this stuff is really possible. Even though technically some of it is. I mean there are those who have had horrible escalator accidents, and pool drain accidents, but not many have had a automatic car wash try to do them in. Young adults will love this movie, as it speaks to them and their willingness to be thrilled at the movies. Should be noted this is NOT a slasher movie. Oh there's plenty of people meeting the end, but not at the hands of anyone person. Just by death itself. This is more of a thriller than a horror movie. It's also filled with irony, humor at times and of course some really BAD acting.
Truth is, we all owe a death. That's just the plain hard, cold facts. And the truth is, death can not be cheated time and time again. When it's your time, it's your time. But most of us wish for some kind of more ceremonial ending than Final Destination.
There will be countless other scary movies this fall just in time for Halloween, and Final Destination will fall by the wayside as just an "oh yea" movie. But it you're looking for the first jolt of the Fall, here you go! You'll also never look at an escalator ride the same way again - I'm just saying.
For most this is a miss. But for some, Final Destination will be the the first scary ride of the Halloween season.
Monday, August 31, 2009
Tuesday, August 25, 2009
MOVIE REVIEW - Post Grad
Post Grad is the new Alexis Bledel movie new in theaters this week. Bledel, of course from TVs Gilmore Girls, and more recently, Sisterhood Of The Traveling Pants movies. PG also stars Micheal Keaton, and even a small role with Carol Burnett, and a host of other sort-of recognizable stars.
It's the story of Ryden, (Bledel) who has recently graduated from college, and is beginning the Post Grad era of her life. You remember it. Trying to get a job, trying to find your way. Deciding who you are, who you'll be friends with, and who you'll fall in love with. Tough but exciting times. Except in this movie. It's just tough.
Sometimes you've gotta wonder why on earth some movies are made in the first place. There are certainly worse movies than PG, but you struggle to find a more perplexing one. The only reason I can see to make this movie is so Bledel can get a starring role in a movie. It's like her dad bankrolled the movie or something. That's the feel it has.
The story is boring,average and tough to watch at times. Ryden can't get a job, can't stand living with her parents, and can't see that the love of her life is right there in front of her. She gets tangled up with the neighbor guy for some reason (I have now idea why) and that's a bit creepy. She is 22, and he is 35 or so. That part of the "plot" make no sense.
Keaton plays her weird father, who supposed to be funny, but isn't. Burnett is the grandmother, she's not funny either. Toss in a bunch of side plots and predictability, and you've got a huge bomb. It's also tough to watch an actor try to be funny, likable, and lovely who generally is not. Bledel is NOT leading woman material and this movie proves it outright. TV and movies are two different animals, and she just doesn't work here.
One bright note or two. PG is short, 88 minutes. And there are some fun and interesting songs on this eclectic soundtrack that make it slide down a bit easier. It helps you avoid having to choke this whole thing down dry. It's just one big, WHY? It has the feel of a backyard production on the patio with a sheet as a curtain. "Hey, let's have a show!" Please!
Post Grad. Post-Mortem
It's the story of Ryden, (Bledel) who has recently graduated from college, and is beginning the Post Grad era of her life. You remember it. Trying to get a job, trying to find your way. Deciding who you are, who you'll be friends with, and who you'll fall in love with. Tough but exciting times. Except in this movie. It's just tough.
Sometimes you've gotta wonder why on earth some movies are made in the first place. There are certainly worse movies than PG, but you struggle to find a more perplexing one. The only reason I can see to make this movie is so Bledel can get a starring role in a movie. It's like her dad bankrolled the movie or something. That's the feel it has.
The story is boring,average and tough to watch at times. Ryden can't get a job, can't stand living with her parents, and can't see that the love of her life is right there in front of her. She gets tangled up with the neighbor guy for some reason (I have now idea why) and that's a bit creepy. She is 22, and he is 35 or so. That part of the "plot" make no sense.
Keaton plays her weird father, who supposed to be funny, but isn't. Burnett is the grandmother, she's not funny either. Toss in a bunch of side plots and predictability, and you've got a huge bomb. It's also tough to watch an actor try to be funny, likable, and lovely who generally is not. Bledel is NOT leading woman material and this movie proves it outright. TV and movies are two different animals, and she just doesn't work here.
One bright note or two. PG is short, 88 minutes. And there are some fun and interesting songs on this eclectic soundtrack that make it slide down a bit easier. It helps you avoid having to choke this whole thing down dry. It's just one big, WHY? It has the feel of a backyard production on the patio with a sheet as a curtain. "Hey, let's have a show!" Please!
Post Grad. Post-Mortem
Friday, August 21, 2009
MOVIE REVIEW - Inglourious Basterds
Director Quentin Tarantino has another movie on the screen this weekend, Inglourious Basterds, starring Brad Pitt. But the real star of this movie is - the movie!
IB is set in WWII in Nazi occupied France from 1941-44. Brad Pitt leads a small, but highly motivated and effective unit that goes way behind enemy lines with one thing in mind. Killing as many Nazi's as they can for the terrible acts they carried out against mankind during the war. But at this point it should be noted, IB is NOT a "war" movie in the traditional sense at all.
IB is drama plain and simple. The plot line is way to complicated to go into here, but essentially it is the story of seemingly affable people, using all of their cunning, intelligence and charm, to do horrible things to the enemy in times of war. And they do. Toss in a plot to assassinate the Nazi hierarchy, and you have a really fantastic formula for a great movie. And that is exactly what you get.
Taratino has hit and missed with me over the years at the movies. But somehow he mesmerizes you for much of this movie with long, dialogue heavy, dramatic scenes done brilliantly by actors completely immersed in their roles. You are riveted, and kept guessing as to what is next time after time. What is really amazing here, most of these scenes are subtitled, as the speech is in a mixture of German and French. This I know is not for everyone, and it's only fair to point it out here. If subs are not your thing, then you may want to pass IB by.
We all know that the signature of Tarantino flicks is the violence, and there is some here and some is tough to watch for some. But to be honest, it's much less than I was anticipating. And when used, it was highly effective. What is also the QT trademark is the snappy dialogue, and a great sense of irony, and you get both of them here too. The great thing about IG, is that it doesn't need the violence like other QT flicks. It's so smart, so well done, it stands on it's own with no problem.
Pitt is terrific as the American commander of his troupe. He bring s realism, and a parody to his character that is very well rounded. The supporting cast is also terrific. The script is well written, with wonderful character development. This movie is one of the great surprises at the box office in a long time.
Inglourious Basterds. It's Tarantino, so it's not for everyone. But if he's for you......it's simply fantastic.
IB is set in WWII in Nazi occupied France from 1941-44. Brad Pitt leads a small, but highly motivated and effective unit that goes way behind enemy lines with one thing in mind. Killing as many Nazi's as they can for the terrible acts they carried out against mankind during the war. But at this point it should be noted, IB is NOT a "war" movie in the traditional sense at all.
IB is drama plain and simple. The plot line is way to complicated to go into here, but essentially it is the story of seemingly affable people, using all of their cunning, intelligence and charm, to do horrible things to the enemy in times of war. And they do. Toss in a plot to assassinate the Nazi hierarchy, and you have a really fantastic formula for a great movie. And that is exactly what you get.
Taratino has hit and missed with me over the years at the movies. But somehow he mesmerizes you for much of this movie with long, dialogue heavy, dramatic scenes done brilliantly by actors completely immersed in their roles. You are riveted, and kept guessing as to what is next time after time. What is really amazing here, most of these scenes are subtitled, as the speech is in a mixture of German and French. This I know is not for everyone, and it's only fair to point it out here. If subs are not your thing, then you may want to pass IB by.
We all know that the signature of Tarantino flicks is the violence, and there is some here and some is tough to watch for some. But to be honest, it's much less than I was anticipating. And when used, it was highly effective. What is also the QT trademark is the snappy dialogue, and a great sense of irony, and you get both of them here too. The great thing about IG, is that it doesn't need the violence like other QT flicks. It's so smart, so well done, it stands on it's own with no problem.
Pitt is terrific as the American commander of his troupe. He bring s realism, and a parody to his character that is very well rounded. The supporting cast is also terrific. The script is well written, with wonderful character development. This movie is one of the great surprises at the box office in a long time.
Inglourious Basterds. It's Tarantino, so it's not for everyone. But if he's for you......it's simply fantastic.
Wednesday, August 19, 2009
MOVIE REVIEW - Time Travelers Wife
Wow...wow....break out the bags from the seat pocket in front of you, here comes The Time Travelers Wife. This week new at the box office, it's Eric Bana, and Rachel Mcadams in this cry fest of a movie that makes Nicholas Sparks stories read more like Stephen King.
Before I paddle this movie, I will say that I am a big Rachel Mcadams fan. She is lovely and generally very good in her roles in some really good movies. Trouble here is, I think at this stage far more side dish, than main course and she doesn't work here. Eric Bana? Well he is who he is. Nothing really there.
TTW, is based on a huge set of stories about a naive, young woman who comes from wealth, who ends up marrying a seemingly nice young man. Trouble here is, he has what they call a genetic anomaly (how convenient..whatever that means) that "makes" him travel through time at the most inopportune times. He just vanishes, only to return at random. Why does this happen? Where did this come from? How does she cope with all of this? And will they make it? Who knows? Moreover - who cares?
This movie is so cheesy, you almost need a glass of wine to get it down. Full of HUGE holes, and "what on earth are they doings" and "why does this happen in in the first place's" Example, if you had someone in your life that just vanished on 1 seconds notice, and only left his clothes behind, would you EVER let him drive? I'm guessing not. But he does. This is a small example,with a movie that's loaded with them. The whole thing is just dumb on film. Probably very nice books, but on film? No!
This flick does start off kind of fun and interesting, then after about the 30 minute pole, it becomes cold, dark,and morose. A slow, unending funeral dirge, that kind of just lies there all the while stripping down any enjoyment you had an hour ago slapping down your hard earned cash to see this....travesty. The big question in the movie is, "When will he die?" Soon I hope, so we can go HOME!
One bit of kudos though. The little girls cast to play Mcadams at a young age, and their daughter, are just great. They put some nice charm in an otherwise charmless flick. Nice casting job, and the performances as small as they are, are wonderful.
The Time Travelers Wife. Really not good, only for the completely dedicated book readers, and huge fans of the story. If you're new to it........keep rolling on by. Travel someplace else...anywhere else.
Before I paddle this movie, I will say that I am a big Rachel Mcadams fan. She is lovely and generally very good in her roles in some really good movies. Trouble here is, I think at this stage far more side dish, than main course and she doesn't work here. Eric Bana? Well he is who he is. Nothing really there.
TTW, is based on a huge set of stories about a naive, young woman who comes from wealth, who ends up marrying a seemingly nice young man. Trouble here is, he has what they call a genetic anomaly (how convenient..whatever that means) that "makes" him travel through time at the most inopportune times. He just vanishes, only to return at random. Why does this happen? Where did this come from? How does she cope with all of this? And will they make it? Who knows? Moreover - who cares?
This movie is so cheesy, you almost need a glass of wine to get it down. Full of HUGE holes, and "what on earth are they doings" and "why does this happen in in the first place's" Example, if you had someone in your life that just vanished on 1 seconds notice, and only left his clothes behind, would you EVER let him drive? I'm guessing not. But he does. This is a small example,with a movie that's loaded with them. The whole thing is just dumb on film. Probably very nice books, but on film? No!
This flick does start off kind of fun and interesting, then after about the 30 minute pole, it becomes cold, dark,and morose. A slow, unending funeral dirge, that kind of just lies there all the while stripping down any enjoyment you had an hour ago slapping down your hard earned cash to see this....travesty. The big question in the movie is, "When will he die?" Soon I hope, so we can go HOME!
One bit of kudos though. The little girls cast to play Mcadams at a young age, and their daughter, are just great. They put some nice charm in an otherwise charmless flick. Nice casting job, and the performances as small as they are, are wonderful.
The Time Travelers Wife. Really not good, only for the completely dedicated book readers, and huge fans of the story. If you're new to it........keep rolling on by. Travel someplace else...anywhere else.
MOVIE REVIEW - The Goods
Look out, there's a new raunchy movie in town, and it's called, The Goods. The Goods stars Jeremy Piven, and believe it or not, a whole bevy of high profile stars that I think were hoping for another Hangover surprise summer hit. It's not going to happen.
The Goods staggered out of the gates over the weekend at the box office, and for good reason. Over all this goofy comedy is just not very funny. It's a parody on the car selling business, and on life in general, and there are moments that make you laugh. But not enough to pull it through.
TG is one of those guilty-pleasure flicks. Very politically incorrect at times, and raunchy most of the time. You do laugh out loud a time or two, and you feel embarrassed that you do. And that's okay! Some of this stuff is alright, and we are all a bit uptight on what is really funny in today's PC world. But go ahead and have a laugh or two. But therein lies the problem with The Goods. It's a time or two only.
This movie goes from being raunchy, to REALLY raunchy in about 15 minutes, and that joke wears out its welcome and gets old. There's only so many times that really terrible language and over all profane subject matter are really funny. The main trouble here is, one joke - one punchline - the lowest common denominator.
Sad for the supporting cast that the Hangover effect isn't going to play out here. In addition to Piven, TG stars, James Brolin, Ving Rhames, Will Farrell, Alan Thicke, Katheryn Hahn and Jordana Spiro. All hoping for the 350 million dollar take. Sorry. Movie is produced by Farrell, and right now that's a wagon not worth hitching onto. Another flop.
The Goods. Actually...The Not-So-Goods...
The Goods staggered out of the gates over the weekend at the box office, and for good reason. Over all this goofy comedy is just not very funny. It's a parody on the car selling business, and on life in general, and there are moments that make you laugh. But not enough to pull it through.
TG is one of those guilty-pleasure flicks. Very politically incorrect at times, and raunchy most of the time. You do laugh out loud a time or two, and you feel embarrassed that you do. And that's okay! Some of this stuff is alright, and we are all a bit uptight on what is really funny in today's PC world. But go ahead and have a laugh or two. But therein lies the problem with The Goods. It's a time or two only.
This movie goes from being raunchy, to REALLY raunchy in about 15 minutes, and that joke wears out its welcome and gets old. There's only so many times that really terrible language and over all profane subject matter are really funny. The main trouble here is, one joke - one punchline - the lowest common denominator.
Sad for the supporting cast that the Hangover effect isn't going to play out here. In addition to Piven, TG stars, James Brolin, Ving Rhames, Will Farrell, Alan Thicke, Katheryn Hahn and Jordana Spiro. All hoping for the 350 million dollar take. Sorry. Movie is produced by Farrell, and right now that's a wagon not worth hitching onto. Another flop.
The Goods. Actually...The Not-So-Goods...
Saturday, August 15, 2009
MOVIE REVIEW - District 9
Many times you see that a new "big" movie is from a certain producer, or director. You hear the TV ads claiming from so-and-so, it's such-and-such! And we think that the movie is a can't miss. After all, it's a such-and-so movie.
District 9 is from Producer Peter Jackson, who gave us all of the Lord Of The Rings flicks, and the 45 hour remake of King Kong a few years back. It's Sci-Fi aliens come to earth for some reason. And aren't we the humans for the most part just a bunch of barbaric horrible people. That's District 9. And by the way, don't believe the hype!
It's the story that starts in 1982, when an alien space ship starts to hover over South Africa. After a few years of inactivity, we decide to board the ship and take out all the refugee aliens marooned on the stranded vessel. They quarantine the million or so aliens on earth at a place called District 9. As you might suspect, there is trouble of every imaginable aspect.
Now flash forward 20 years. A private company MNU, has been hired to move the aliens to a new District 10, 240 kilometers away from town. And guess what? It all goes wrong. Toss in one man getting infected with alien DNA, organized crime, talking aliens that somehow humans can understand, and lots of testosterone gun play, and you have one big...WHY?
Why on earth would anyone make this movie, besides the money train? And as you might have guessed the door is left wide open for District, 10, 11.....blah blah.....blah. To it's credit, some snappy special effects, and a game attempt at character development, and plot line District 9 isn't a total wash-out. But I will caution you. You have seen this movie before in one way or another many times in your life. Just different years, different actors, different title...same movie.
District 9. Another special effects fest that relies strictly on the people in the computer room, and not those in front of the camera. Ho-hum!
District 9 is from Producer Peter Jackson, who gave us all of the Lord Of The Rings flicks, and the 45 hour remake of King Kong a few years back. It's Sci-Fi aliens come to earth for some reason. And aren't we the humans for the most part just a bunch of barbaric horrible people. That's District 9. And by the way, don't believe the hype!
It's the story that starts in 1982, when an alien space ship starts to hover over South Africa. After a few years of inactivity, we decide to board the ship and take out all the refugee aliens marooned on the stranded vessel. They quarantine the million or so aliens on earth at a place called District 9. As you might suspect, there is trouble of every imaginable aspect.
Now flash forward 20 years. A private company MNU, has been hired to move the aliens to a new District 10, 240 kilometers away from town. And guess what? It all goes wrong. Toss in one man getting infected with alien DNA, organized crime, talking aliens that somehow humans can understand, and lots of testosterone gun play, and you have one big...WHY?
Why on earth would anyone make this movie, besides the money train? And as you might have guessed the door is left wide open for District, 10, 11.....blah blah.....blah. To it's credit, some snappy special effects, and a game attempt at character development, and plot line District 9 isn't a total wash-out. But I will caution you. You have seen this movie before in one way or another many times in your life. Just different years, different actors, different title...same movie.
District 9. Another special effects fest that relies strictly on the people in the computer room, and not those in front of the camera. Ho-hum!
Wednesday, August 12, 2009
MOVIE REVIEW - 500 Days Of Summer
It's time for all to get on the Zooey Deschanel bandwagon. She is "Summer," in the new movie 500 Days Of Summer at the box office this week. And this movie is right on time. What a great flick!
500, is the story of Tom (Joseph Gordon-Levitt) and Summer. They meet by chance working together at a greeting card company. Tom is a good guy, who takes a liking to the enigmatic, Summer. Summer is a strange, quirky, beautiful, young woman. No one can really figure her out. The only thing about her that is universal, is that she is totally irresistible. There is a goodness to her that all seem to like, and are drawn to.
Summer does have her quirks. Is she the mistress of mixed signals, or is she the most brutally honest woman in the world? She says she wants her and Tom to be friends, but the relationship is physical. They seem to be headed down a road of "love" but she says "no." This movie follows Tom through his 500 days of knowing, persuing, and dating Summer. It turns out to be the classic, "what she said, is NOT what he heard," movie.
This movie is so entertaining, it's hard to imagine anyone walking out with a bad taste in their mouth. Zooey Deschanel is just terrific. I have seen her in a number of flicks, and she is better every time out. She is a little off-beat, imperfect, and refreshing on screen. She is so well cast here, and is so good in this movie, her performance really should not be missed. They could not have cast anyone else in this role and have it be as good as it is. Gordon-Levitt is great too as Tom. The non-mainstreaming casting in 500, is the separator. I loved every single frame of this movie that I hope does not get lost at the box office.
Also a wonderful soundtrack, and strong supporting casting and performances. This movie is really unlike anything else at the box office right now. It's a small movie, with a big heart.
500 Days Of Summer. Fantastic. Zooey Deschanel, and her performance is worth the price of the ticket. Great, and I mean great date movie!
500, is the story of Tom (Joseph Gordon-Levitt) and Summer. They meet by chance working together at a greeting card company. Tom is a good guy, who takes a liking to the enigmatic, Summer. Summer is a strange, quirky, beautiful, young woman. No one can really figure her out. The only thing about her that is universal, is that she is totally irresistible. There is a goodness to her that all seem to like, and are drawn to.
Summer does have her quirks. Is she the mistress of mixed signals, or is she the most brutally honest woman in the world? She says she wants her and Tom to be friends, but the relationship is physical. They seem to be headed down a road of "love" but she says "no." This movie follows Tom through his 500 days of knowing, persuing, and dating Summer. It turns out to be the classic, "what she said, is NOT what he heard," movie.
This movie is so entertaining, it's hard to imagine anyone walking out with a bad taste in their mouth. Zooey Deschanel is just terrific. I have seen her in a number of flicks, and she is better every time out. She is a little off-beat, imperfect, and refreshing on screen. She is so well cast here, and is so good in this movie, her performance really should not be missed. They could not have cast anyone else in this role and have it be as good as it is. Gordon-Levitt is great too as Tom. The non-mainstreaming casting in 500, is the separator. I loved every single frame of this movie that I hope does not get lost at the box office.
Also a wonderful soundtrack, and strong supporting casting and performances. This movie is really unlike anything else at the box office right now. It's a small movie, with a big heart.
500 Days Of Summer. Fantastic. Zooey Deschanel, and her performance is worth the price of the ticket. Great, and I mean great date movie!
Sunday, August 9, 2009
Thanks For The Energy!
The past couple of weeks have just flown by. We've been so busy on WQMX with various ticket stops, concerts, charity events, and general getting together with you guys, it's been very rewarding. And even though it's been busy, and sleep has been at a premium, it's been just great.
Meeting you guys, is really the gas in the engine for WynnAndWilson, and for WQMX. The energy that we draw from you is palpable and really energizing. All of the staff has been out on a regular basis, but I can only speak for the morning show, as we've been out a bunch and have loved every minute of it.
Sue and I worked the wonderful event at the Cornerstone Methodist Church last week with their wildly successful community day and it was so rewarding for us. We made tons of new friends, and that's what we're all about. Making friends! As much as those in need drew benefit that day, Sue and I have talked about it many times since. I think we got the same amount of satisfaction out of working the event. I will never forget that day, and look forward to next year.
Whether it was the 1,000 people that came to the U of A last Monday for the Hard Hat Huddle that I met, or the hundreds that have come to various WQMX T-shirts stops, it's so good to meet you face to face. It's good to shake your hand and get to know you. You give us energy, and we take it with us, and you keep us going. In case we don't say it enough, we really do appreciate you. Sue and I always talk on and off the air especially on Monday mornings about all great people and great times we had at various events that take place over the weekend, that involve you.
The Hall Of Fame Ceremonies and Eric Church concert, was a success. Met tons of great listeners, and got a few backstage and great seats. Same goes for the hundreds that showed up a the Bluegrass Fest at Clay's Park Saturday. Not to mention the 20,000 or so at Blossom for the Rascal Flatt's Concert Friday night. The energy there was high, and the time was just terrific. We got to shake thousands of hands and make new friendships, all the while solidifying the old ones. What a night.
We know that it takes time and your energy to come out to some of the various events, roadshows and concert that we do. We all live in the same world, and we know that you have other things going on as well. We appreciate you so very much, and hope that our friendship with you goes on for a long, long time.
It's always great to see you, and to meet you. So from Sue and myself, we say thanks for stopping by at an event and every morning on the show. We couldn't do it without you!
Thanks for the energy!!
Meeting you guys, is really the gas in the engine for WynnAndWilson, and for WQMX. The energy that we draw from you is palpable and really energizing. All of the staff has been out on a regular basis, but I can only speak for the morning show, as we've been out a bunch and have loved every minute of it.
Sue and I worked the wonderful event at the Cornerstone Methodist Church last week with their wildly successful community day and it was so rewarding for us. We made tons of new friends, and that's what we're all about. Making friends! As much as those in need drew benefit that day, Sue and I have talked about it many times since. I think we got the same amount of satisfaction out of working the event. I will never forget that day, and look forward to next year.
Whether it was the 1,000 people that came to the U of A last Monday for the Hard Hat Huddle that I met, or the hundreds that have come to various WQMX T-shirts stops, it's so good to meet you face to face. It's good to shake your hand and get to know you. You give us energy, and we take it with us, and you keep us going. In case we don't say it enough, we really do appreciate you. Sue and I always talk on and off the air especially on Monday mornings about all great people and great times we had at various events that take place over the weekend, that involve you.
The Hall Of Fame Ceremonies and Eric Church concert, was a success. Met tons of great listeners, and got a few backstage and great seats. Same goes for the hundreds that showed up a the Bluegrass Fest at Clay's Park Saturday. Not to mention the 20,000 or so at Blossom for the Rascal Flatt's Concert Friday night. The energy there was high, and the time was just terrific. We got to shake thousands of hands and make new friendships, all the while solidifying the old ones. What a night.
We know that it takes time and your energy to come out to some of the various events, roadshows and concert that we do. We all live in the same world, and we know that you have other things going on as well. We appreciate you so very much, and hope that our friendship with you goes on for a long, long time.
It's always great to see you, and to meet you. So from Sue and myself, we say thanks for stopping by at an event and every morning on the show. We couldn't do it without you!
Thanks for the energy!!
MOVIE REVIEW - The Hurt Locker
The Hurt Locker is one of those movies that is playing to little fanfare, but certainly should not be lost in the summer blockbuster movie season.
The Hurt Locker is one of those powerful movies, that tells a story you don't know, and should. It also stars people you've never seen, told in a way you'll never forget. Rated R and for good reason, this is not for the squeamish. But it is terrific!
THL is the story of some of our soldiers in Iraq a few years ago. We all think about the soldiers fighting in tanks, or in fighter jets, or even in combat. THL shows you the story of a small 3 man team, that goes around the battered streets of Baghdad, disarming roadside bombs that are killing most of the people there. These bombs are booby - trapped, and are becoming more sophisticated all the time. These guys go in, and under tremendous pressure from the people of Iraq, the enemy and even themselves, and try to do a job that seemingly never ends. Will they crack under the enormous pressure? And who are these guys? That's The Hurt Locker.
THL, to it's credit is not a blood fest. There are some things that are hard to watch, but this movie is far more about what goes on insides these brave soldiers heads. And you realize as well, our people over there are just young guys and gals. Trying to to a job, and trying to stay alive under very tough circumstances. THL is extremely intense, suspenseful, and down right scary at times. What dawns on you in THL is the job these soldiers do never ends. It's a drama..period. If you're looking for huge action and computer generated special effects, stay home.
Their performances are very powerful, and the pressure they feel is palpable to the viewer. THL hasn't been flowered up either with any kind of side story. It deals with the issue at hand, and does so skillfully. This movie is so good, it makes you realize that really good projects can still come out of Hollywood, even in the same season as the silly G-I Joe, and countless others that make light of war, and violence. Nothing light here. This movie slaps you in the face, and doesn't apologize for it. You have a choice. You can except the slap with an open mind and move on, or you can sell-out and think that G-I Joe is good movie making, or that Transformers is real "cool." That's if you're ready to step up to adult movies, the choice is yours.
The Hurt Locker. Not for everyone. But certainly in a movie making sense, one of the best movies that will be on any screen in 2009.
The Hurt Locker is one of those powerful movies, that tells a story you don't know, and should. It also stars people you've never seen, told in a way you'll never forget. Rated R and for good reason, this is not for the squeamish. But it is terrific!
THL is the story of some of our soldiers in Iraq a few years ago. We all think about the soldiers fighting in tanks, or in fighter jets, or even in combat. THL shows you the story of a small 3 man team, that goes around the battered streets of Baghdad, disarming roadside bombs that are killing most of the people there. These bombs are booby - trapped, and are becoming more sophisticated all the time. These guys go in, and under tremendous pressure from the people of Iraq, the enemy and even themselves, and try to do a job that seemingly never ends. Will they crack under the enormous pressure? And who are these guys? That's The Hurt Locker.
THL, to it's credit is not a blood fest. There are some things that are hard to watch, but this movie is far more about what goes on insides these brave soldiers heads. And you realize as well, our people over there are just young guys and gals. Trying to to a job, and trying to stay alive under very tough circumstances. THL is extremely intense, suspenseful, and down right scary at times. What dawns on you in THL is the job these soldiers do never ends. It's a drama..period. If you're looking for huge action and computer generated special effects, stay home.
Their performances are very powerful, and the pressure they feel is palpable to the viewer. THL hasn't been flowered up either with any kind of side story. It deals with the issue at hand, and does so skillfully. This movie is so good, it makes you realize that really good projects can still come out of Hollywood, even in the same season as the silly G-I Joe, and countless others that make light of war, and violence. Nothing light here. This movie slaps you in the face, and doesn't apologize for it. You have a choice. You can except the slap with an open mind and move on, or you can sell-out and think that G-I Joe is good movie making, or that Transformers is real "cool." That's if you're ready to step up to adult movies, the choice is yours.
The Hurt Locker. Not for everyone. But certainly in a movie making sense, one of the best movies that will be on any screen in 2009.
Friday, August 7, 2009
MOVIE REVIEW - Julie And Julia
You more than likely have seen, or heard the buzz on TV about the new Nora Ephron bio-pic/comedy, Julie And Julia. Meryl Streep, Amy Adams and Stanley Tucci star in this new "two stories colliding" movie that parallels cooking legend Julia Child and Julie Powers, who is not a cooking legend. At least not yet.
It's the true story of Julie Powers, who is a 30 year-old underachiever, stuck in a dead-end job. She decides to start a blog in 2004, where she cooks her way through Julia Child's classic cook book. Then daily, she blogs about her successes and failures of her venture. 524 recipes and 365 days. The blog becomes quite an Internet success, but will it lead her to a better way of life?
In a story told in parallel, J&J flashes back to Julia Child's rise to stardom, with her story and travels. Basically how Julia Child became....Julia Child. Funny, but their stories are very similar, and does make for some interesting movie making. J&J is a concept movie, whose concept is actually pretty darn good.
Amy Adams is Julie. Adams just keeps getting better every time out. I think she is the next big thing. She is lovely, and engaging. She is easy to watch on screen, with a quiet understatedness that is very attractive. She is a perfect fit here, as our working class hero woman, who wants desperately to make something of herself after watching all her friends leave her behind on the career trail.
Meryl Streep is Julia. Whether you are a big Streep fan or not, one thing is certain here. After watching J&J, you totally want to meet Julia Child, and feel a little cheated that you only knew her through her TV show. If the portrayal is accurate, Julia Child was a wonderful, fun loving woman anyone would be lucky to know.
J&J does many things well. Well written, well acted, and a well conceived idea to begin with. I always think, that when you see a story you've never seen before in any way, it's good movie making. I am fairly certain, you don't know Julia Child's story, or Julie Powers either. I'm not sure the makers quite knew how to end this movie properly, but it doesn't sink the souffle. Nice soundtrack, well edited, for the most part solid.
Julie And Julia. No real problems here. Very well done. Bon appetite'!
It's the true story of Julie Powers, who is a 30 year-old underachiever, stuck in a dead-end job. She decides to start a blog in 2004, where she cooks her way through Julia Child's classic cook book. Then daily, she blogs about her successes and failures of her venture. 524 recipes and 365 days. The blog becomes quite an Internet success, but will it lead her to a better way of life?
In a story told in parallel, J&J flashes back to Julia Child's rise to stardom, with her story and travels. Basically how Julia Child became....Julia Child. Funny, but their stories are very similar, and does make for some interesting movie making. J&J is a concept movie, whose concept is actually pretty darn good.
Amy Adams is Julie. Adams just keeps getting better every time out. I think she is the next big thing. She is lovely, and engaging. She is easy to watch on screen, with a quiet understatedness that is very attractive. She is a perfect fit here, as our working class hero woman, who wants desperately to make something of herself after watching all her friends leave her behind on the career trail.
Meryl Streep is Julia. Whether you are a big Streep fan or not, one thing is certain here. After watching J&J, you totally want to meet Julia Child, and feel a little cheated that you only knew her through her TV show. If the portrayal is accurate, Julia Child was a wonderful, fun loving woman anyone would be lucky to know.
J&J does many things well. Well written, well acted, and a well conceived idea to begin with. I always think, that when you see a story you've never seen before in any way, it's good movie making. I am fairly certain, you don't know Julia Child's story, or Julie Powers either. I'm not sure the makers quite knew how to end this movie properly, but it doesn't sink the souffle. Nice soundtrack, well edited, for the most part solid.
Julie And Julia. No real problems here. Very well done. Bon appetite'!
Sunday, August 2, 2009
It Was Only Saturday!
Saturday was my lucky day. It was a day I won't soon forget, and I'm glad. I was lucky enough to be able to help out our community in a great way. I was fortunate enough to be asked to be a volunteer for the great folks at The Cornerstone Methodist Church in the Coventry area for the Community Day Of Action there.
Actually, I wasn't the only lucky one. There were others, many others that played a way more important role than me in the amazingly successful day of giving back to the town. My partner Sue Wilson and I were there helping families who need a little help this year with free school supplies. We were just filling lists along with tons of others. Everyone that we met Saturday was just great. Giving, caring, people that took at least a day and made their neighbors day a little better. Not only could families get supplies, but many, many services absolutely free. All of it free.
The amount of people that came out was truly amazing and humbling at the same time. So many people. And so much generosity from so many people it takes to make an event like this possible and successful at the same time. I haven't been too many places recently where the feeling of community and family were as strong as that wonderful church in Coventry on Saturday afternoon.
Sue and I got to meet many wonderful new people both volunteering and receiving, and we made many new friends. Sue and I host, and work many events around town both for the station and for various charitable organizations, all of them wonderful. But this one was a little different. No one had to pay to get in. Anyone could show up. And they did, by the hundreds. And every service needed was free.
It was an amazing day in every regard. If we met it was great to meet you. It made me thankful and humble at the same time. It also made me thankful that there are great people in this world that still do great things just because. And it made me thankful that I live in a part of the country, and in a community that has this kind of generosity in them, to make it so.
What an amazing day at the Cornerstone Methodist Church in Coventry, where for many a real miracle happened at a time when one was needed.
Hmm...amazing things happen at a church.......And it was only Saturday!
Actually, I wasn't the only lucky one. There were others, many others that played a way more important role than me in the amazingly successful day of giving back to the town. My partner Sue Wilson and I were there helping families who need a little help this year with free school supplies. We were just filling lists along with tons of others. Everyone that we met Saturday was just great. Giving, caring, people that took at least a day and made their neighbors day a little better. Not only could families get supplies, but many, many services absolutely free. All of it free.
The amount of people that came out was truly amazing and humbling at the same time. So many people. And so much generosity from so many people it takes to make an event like this possible and successful at the same time. I haven't been too many places recently where the feeling of community and family were as strong as that wonderful church in Coventry on Saturday afternoon.
Sue and I got to meet many wonderful new people both volunteering and receiving, and we made many new friends. Sue and I host, and work many events around town both for the station and for various charitable organizations, all of them wonderful. But this one was a little different. No one had to pay to get in. Anyone could show up. And they did, by the hundreds. And every service needed was free.
It was an amazing day in every regard. If we met it was great to meet you. It made me thankful and humble at the same time. It also made me thankful that there are great people in this world that still do great things just because. And it made me thankful that I live in a part of the country, and in a community that has this kind of generosity in them, to make it so.
What an amazing day at the Cornerstone Methodist Church in Coventry, where for many a real miracle happened at a time when one was needed.
Hmm...amazing things happen at a church.......And it was only Saturday!
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