Do we need this? Well, no we don't.
The Pitch Perfect series has had some real fine moments of fun, satire and self lampooning. But the old saying three's a crowd is apt here.
OK, the music with the Bellas and the supporting cast is good again, as it always is with these movies. But the rest of this is a just a mess. They say this is the end of this very successful series, but I'll believe it when I don't see it.
There is nothing really new here. Same characters, same jokes, same delivery, and same formula. Movie makes just can't help themselves sometimes. Take a nice original idea and over time make it anything but anymore, and that's the trouble here. You're gonna throw down 10 bones or so and see the exact same movie you saw a couple years ago.
Pitch Perfect 3. Save your money.
Wednesday, December 27, 2017
Saturday, December 23, 2017
MOVIE REVIEWS - In Theaters Now!
The movies are coming out at a fast pace these days, keep checking in on the latest reviews.
The Greatest Showman
Hugh Jackman, Zac Ephron and Michelle Williams star in this new story of the real P.T. Barnum in this LA LA Land type of musical. This movie is going to be this years LA LA Land, as it has the same feel, and made by many of the same people. This is very good by any measure, and will be enjoyed by many.
Great music, and solid production numbers, and some by any account, are simply breathtaking. This story moves along nicely, has something to say, says it, and finishes up. This is only about 1 hour 45 and that is plenty. This is not a "total" musical like Les Mis, but is more like the more modern LA LA Land.
Jackman is great, and I have yet to see a movie where Williams isn't brilliant. She is quietly become Hollywood's best actress. I love her in this.
The Greatest Showman. Quite good, and good for the whole family.
Father Figures
You know, you kind of have to like this flick, even if it's full of guilty pleasure laughs, and some juvenile humor. This does grow a heart and is not exactly what you think it will be. This stars Owen Wilson, Ed Helms, Glenn Close and a bunch of others in a story where two 40 somethings go looking for their biological father.
This is crass, crude and silly at times, but in the end, there is a story here and, twists and turns you won't see coming. Yes, this sells out at times for some stupid laughs, but overall this is far better than its packaging. Is this going to win an Oscar? Well no, but this is generally OK for most to see, and will be a nice getaway when you need to get out of the house and laugh over Christmas.
Father Figures. Better than you may think.
The Greatest Showman
Hugh Jackman, Zac Ephron and Michelle Williams star in this new story of the real P.T. Barnum in this LA LA Land type of musical. This movie is going to be this years LA LA Land, as it has the same feel, and made by many of the same people. This is very good by any measure, and will be enjoyed by many.
Great music, and solid production numbers, and some by any account, are simply breathtaking. This story moves along nicely, has something to say, says it, and finishes up. This is only about 1 hour 45 and that is plenty. This is not a "total" musical like Les Mis, but is more like the more modern LA LA Land.
Jackman is great, and I have yet to see a movie where Williams isn't brilliant. She is quietly become Hollywood's best actress. I love her in this.
The Greatest Showman. Quite good, and good for the whole family.
Father Figures
You know, you kind of have to like this flick, even if it's full of guilty pleasure laughs, and some juvenile humor. This does grow a heart and is not exactly what you think it will be. This stars Owen Wilson, Ed Helms, Glenn Close and a bunch of others in a story where two 40 somethings go looking for their biological father.
This is crass, crude and silly at times, but in the end, there is a story here and, twists and turns you won't see coming. Yes, this sells out at times for some stupid laughs, but overall this is far better than its packaging. Is this going to win an Oscar? Well no, but this is generally OK for most to see, and will be a nice getaway when you need to get out of the house and laugh over Christmas.
Father Figures. Better than you may think.
Tuesday, December 19, 2017
MOVIE REVIEWS - In Theaters Now
The prime movie season is here now, and the movies are coming out fast and we will keep up.
Star Wars: The Last Jedi
Real quick here. Reviewing Star Wars is almost futile. Fans of this franchise simply love every frame of this series, and this movie before ever seeing it. And if you're a fan of this, you will love this.
There is lots to like here, and it's a visual feast for sure. But this is a bit lengthy at 2 hours 20. And to me, as I am not a super fan of this series, many of these are now really looking much the same. What this is, is simply another Star Wars flick, and not a terribly great - movie. But many times franchises as large as this are compared against each other and not other movies. So it's a solid Star Wars movie.
Star Wars: The Last Jedi. Solid, entertaining, and a favorite for its fans.
Jumangi
It would be very tough to release a movie that is better timed in its release than this one. Jumangi is the continuation of sorts of the 1996 original and it is updated very nicely for the new century and more up to date movie making. This stars, The Rock, Jack Black, Kevin Hart and a really nice supporting cast, that is well casted and flat out funny.
This time, our heroes go inside the game of Jumangi instead of the game coming to them. The effects are fun, the script is very solid and the imagination here is really the star. It would have been very easy to make the same movie over again, but they did not. This does a great job of tipping the cap to the original and just keeping the fun going.
Many people may wonder why this has been rebooted, and the answer is clear. This is funny, entertaining and virtually good for everyone to see. This by the numbers will be no Star Wars, but this will be the family fun movie of the Christmas season.
Jumangi. Flat out fun. Well done!
The Shape Of Water
This is nominated for a ton of Golden Globes and there is a lot to like here. This movie has a huge check in the positive category. It is an original. A story you have not seen told this way before. Although this borrows a few "feels" from some classic stories, TSOW, is an original.
It takes place in 1962 in Cold War America, Baltimore being precise. The US Government has captured a "swamp type creature" in the Amazon, and brought him to America. Many think he could provide keys to winning the space race with the Soviet Union, as he possesses many incredible traits. Problem is, he's a creature, and there are those that want to kill him and examine him. All except a young, lonely, pretty, and mute woman, Elisa. She is on the cleaning crew.
She falls in love with the creature, and he with her. And you can take it from there. The question is, can he be saved, and can they be "together" forever? There are moments this is really nice, and exciting, and there are moments this is really - weird! This overall looks great and takes you back to 1962 very well, and is very original.
The Shape Of Water. An acquired taste.
3 Billboards Outside Of Ebbing, Missouri
This is in very limited release, and should not be missed. This small, independent movie is a remarkable story of a woman in small town Missouri, who takes out a blatant billboard campaign against the local sheriff who has not found her young daughters murderer in over a year.
This is a hard R rated movie, and should be. A GREAT cast of Frances McDormand, Woody Harrelson, and Sam Rockwell, bring this highly original story to life. This is gritty, powerful and extremely well acted and directed. This is tough to watch sometimes, as there is a fair amount of direct violence, but is is central to the story. This is Fargo like in its feel and in it's timely dark comedic moments.
And this is very, very good.
scott@wqmx.com
Star Wars: The Last Jedi
Real quick here. Reviewing Star Wars is almost futile. Fans of this franchise simply love every frame of this series, and this movie before ever seeing it. And if you're a fan of this, you will love this.
There is lots to like here, and it's a visual feast for sure. But this is a bit lengthy at 2 hours 20. And to me, as I am not a super fan of this series, many of these are now really looking much the same. What this is, is simply another Star Wars flick, and not a terribly great - movie. But many times franchises as large as this are compared against each other and not other movies. So it's a solid Star Wars movie.
Star Wars: The Last Jedi. Solid, entertaining, and a favorite for its fans.
Jumangi
It would be very tough to release a movie that is better timed in its release than this one. Jumangi is the continuation of sorts of the 1996 original and it is updated very nicely for the new century and more up to date movie making. This stars, The Rock, Jack Black, Kevin Hart and a really nice supporting cast, that is well casted and flat out funny.
This time, our heroes go inside the game of Jumangi instead of the game coming to them. The effects are fun, the script is very solid and the imagination here is really the star. It would have been very easy to make the same movie over again, but they did not. This does a great job of tipping the cap to the original and just keeping the fun going.
Many people may wonder why this has been rebooted, and the answer is clear. This is funny, entertaining and virtually good for everyone to see. This by the numbers will be no Star Wars, but this will be the family fun movie of the Christmas season.
Jumangi. Flat out fun. Well done!
The Shape Of Water
This is nominated for a ton of Golden Globes and there is a lot to like here. This movie has a huge check in the positive category. It is an original. A story you have not seen told this way before. Although this borrows a few "feels" from some classic stories, TSOW, is an original.
It takes place in 1962 in Cold War America, Baltimore being precise. The US Government has captured a "swamp type creature" in the Amazon, and brought him to America. Many think he could provide keys to winning the space race with the Soviet Union, as he possesses many incredible traits. Problem is, he's a creature, and there are those that want to kill him and examine him. All except a young, lonely, pretty, and mute woman, Elisa. She is on the cleaning crew.
She falls in love with the creature, and he with her. And you can take it from there. The question is, can he be saved, and can they be "together" forever? There are moments this is really nice, and exciting, and there are moments this is really - weird! This overall looks great and takes you back to 1962 very well, and is very original.
The Shape Of Water. An acquired taste.
3 Billboards Outside Of Ebbing, Missouri
This is in very limited release, and should not be missed. This small, independent movie is a remarkable story of a woman in small town Missouri, who takes out a blatant billboard campaign against the local sheriff who has not found her young daughters murderer in over a year.
This is a hard R rated movie, and should be. A GREAT cast of Frances McDormand, Woody Harrelson, and Sam Rockwell, bring this highly original story to life. This is gritty, powerful and extremely well acted and directed. This is tough to watch sometimes, as there is a fair amount of direct violence, but is is central to the story. This is Fargo like in its feel and in it's timely dark comedic moments.
And this is very, very good.
scott@wqmx.com
Saturday, November 18, 2017
MOVIE REVIEWS - In Theaters NOW
The better movie season is finally here, and let's see what's new for you this week at the flicks!
Justice League
I really wish I had better news on this one, but Justice League misses the mark. This brings together numerous DC characters to save the world, with the main plot revolving around Wonder Woman (Gal Gadot) and Batman. (Ben Affleck).
This is what you would think it is. A huge CG fest that at times looks like a video game, with our characters fighting for good, and for screen time. The action scenes are long, drawn out and a bit clunky with no real flow to them. This is also the basic formula you would expect, about 40 minutes of team building and about 90 minutes of action sequences.
To its credit, it's not too long checking in at about 2 hours. And this movie knows its audience, and could care less about what the critics say, as it will bring in a ton this weekend, and for the next few weeks. And they are counting on it, as the budget was about 300 million.
Justice League. This is NO Wonder Woman, that for my money is the best superhero movie ever. But fans will be ready for this one, as where many of the rest of us will simply tolerate it.
Wonder
Good to see Julia Roberts back on the screen in the new very good, Wonder. Roberts stars with Owen Wilson, and a really nice young actor, Jacob Tremblay in a well told story about a young boy named Auggie who is badly disfigured since birth. His struggle to integrate into middle school is the plot here, and his acceptance, or not.
This movie is so relevant to pretty much any parent in today's world, and the struggle they have many times with any kid today. This takes on bullying, and abandonment, the school systems, and parenting, or the lack thereof. Even though Auggie clearly has more mountains to climb in middle school than most kids, this flick does a remarkable job of making it for everyone.
Tremblay as Auggie is amazing, and Roberts and Wilson as his caring parents are terrific too. This is a nice movie the for the most part is very family friendly, without looking like a "family" movie.
Wonder. Great!
Daddy's Home 2
Real quick. This movie knows its fan base and what they think is funny, and that's to it's credit. But I think many have to draw the line at drunken 9 year olds, and the continuation of more of the same with this cast.
The original cast is joined this time by Mel Gibson, John Lithgow, and John Cena, but it makes no difference. There is nothing new here, despite a could of funny scenes.
Daddy's Home 2. Too many.
Justice League
I really wish I had better news on this one, but Justice League misses the mark. This brings together numerous DC characters to save the world, with the main plot revolving around Wonder Woman (Gal Gadot) and Batman. (Ben Affleck).
This is what you would think it is. A huge CG fest that at times looks like a video game, with our characters fighting for good, and for screen time. The action scenes are long, drawn out and a bit clunky with no real flow to them. This is also the basic formula you would expect, about 40 minutes of team building and about 90 minutes of action sequences.
To its credit, it's not too long checking in at about 2 hours. And this movie knows its audience, and could care less about what the critics say, as it will bring in a ton this weekend, and for the next few weeks. And they are counting on it, as the budget was about 300 million.
Justice League. This is NO Wonder Woman, that for my money is the best superhero movie ever. But fans will be ready for this one, as where many of the rest of us will simply tolerate it.
Wonder
Good to see Julia Roberts back on the screen in the new very good, Wonder. Roberts stars with Owen Wilson, and a really nice young actor, Jacob Tremblay in a well told story about a young boy named Auggie who is badly disfigured since birth. His struggle to integrate into middle school is the plot here, and his acceptance, or not.
This movie is so relevant to pretty much any parent in today's world, and the struggle they have many times with any kid today. This takes on bullying, and abandonment, the school systems, and parenting, or the lack thereof. Even though Auggie clearly has more mountains to climb in middle school than most kids, this flick does a remarkable job of making it for everyone.
Tremblay as Auggie is amazing, and Roberts and Wilson as his caring parents are terrific too. This is a nice movie the for the most part is very family friendly, without looking like a "family" movie.
Wonder. Great!
Daddy's Home 2
Real quick. This movie knows its fan base and what they think is funny, and that's to it's credit. But I think many have to draw the line at drunken 9 year olds, and the continuation of more of the same with this cast.
The original cast is joined this time by Mel Gibson, John Lithgow, and John Cena, but it makes no difference. There is nothing new here, despite a could of funny scenes.
Daddy's Home 2. Too many.
Monday, November 6, 2017
MOVIE REVIEWS - In Theaters Now
Bad Moms Christmas
This bunch is back again, and this time taking on Christmas.
Here comes Mila Kunis, Kristen Bell, and Katherine Hahn reprising their characters again. And this time, their moms are involved, as we welcome Kristine Baransky, Susan Sarandon and Cheryl Hines. A big cast, but are there big laughs. Well, yes there are some. This is a movie that is a good example of knowing exactly what its target audience wants and gives it to them. Don't look for this at the Oscars though.
This movie does a few things well. It is wonderful parody of the relationship between mom and daughter, and how it relates to the holidays. Of course it's exaggerated and over the top, but it's overall effective. I do like how they have carved out these three main characters, and our stars are fine. Is this hilarious? No, but fun.
I do wish that sometimes editors would realize when a joke, or phrase is being beaten to death though. Fair statement, this is no where near original. There is too much of the same gag, and jokes in much of this, but if you can wade through that like I was able to, this is fun.
Bad Moms Christmas. If this is your thing, then it's your day!
Thank You For Your Service
Miles Teller stars in this movie that s very powerful, and anything but light movie watching.
But, this is good. Being fair, this is not as good as I thought it would be. But it's still good. This deals with three veterans, all young, and their re-entry to being out of the Army and blending back into society. And it's not very easy, if possible at all. I do like the story and the entire idea of telling these stories, as this is based on true events.
But some of this becomes to my eye a bit like a news feature at times, and for moments loses its focus. But is does refocus and gets back on track. This is a very serious movie that deals with a very poignant topic, and I'm glad it's here for us to see.
Performances are good, story is worth telling and this will leave you more aware than when you walked in.
Thank You For Your Service. Quite good.
Only The Brave
This is a movie that is a great example of a story that should be told, and takes you somewhere you have never been before. Both are huge checks in the plus column.
Toss in a GREAT cast, lead by Josh Brolin, Jeff Bridges, and Miles Teller, and you have a really strong early fall flick. This movie makes us all pause and again give thanks for the fearless folks who fight fires of all kinds, including suburban, city and wildfires. This movie is the true story of the Arizona Granite Mountain Hot Shots. All were lost in a terrible wildfire a few years ago.
I won't give too much away, but this tells you exactly who these guys are, and who their families are, as they are all in the lifestyle together. These are truly the Navy Seals of firefighters. They fight fires without water, and go places that most would never dream of going daily, putting themselves in incredible danger.
Brolin and Bridges are terrific, and the story is powerful and on point. To this movies extreme credit, this movie is far more story and substance as opposed to special effects. This movie is very careful to get it right, and spends far more quality time on what they should do...and not what they could do.
Only The Brave. I loved every frame of this movie.
The Foreigner
It is so good to see Jackie Chan back making movies. With all due respect to the half action, half comedy movies he has made and had great success with. This is the Jackie Chan I really like.
This is the story of a very sad man, (Chan). His entire family has been killed over the years all by political means. After his youngest daughter is killed in England, our hero decides he has had enough and sets out to avenge years of horrible events. The last killing has ties to the political wars in Ireland and England, and this is backdrop of our story.
Chan is still remarkable as he continues to amaze us with his physical talent, and his overall charm and likability. This also stars Pearce Brosnan, who I thought was terrific in this movie. This has action, and a strong story, and more than that, it marks the return of the Jackie Chan we have been waiting for.
The Foreigner. Very good, and is set up for more!
The Mountain Between US
Very quick. Idris Elba and Kate Winslet star in this love story, that I really liked. Can these two survive a plane crash in the Rockies, and where do they go from there if they do.
Great date movie, and just a good movie that got lost in the movie shuffle
The Mountain Between Us - Good!
This bunch is back again, and this time taking on Christmas.
Here comes Mila Kunis, Kristen Bell, and Katherine Hahn reprising their characters again. And this time, their moms are involved, as we welcome Kristine Baransky, Susan Sarandon and Cheryl Hines. A big cast, but are there big laughs. Well, yes there are some. This is a movie that is a good example of knowing exactly what its target audience wants and gives it to them. Don't look for this at the Oscars though.
This movie does a few things well. It is wonderful parody of the relationship between mom and daughter, and how it relates to the holidays. Of course it's exaggerated and over the top, but it's overall effective. I do like how they have carved out these three main characters, and our stars are fine. Is this hilarious? No, but fun.
I do wish that sometimes editors would realize when a joke, or phrase is being beaten to death though. Fair statement, this is no where near original. There is too much of the same gag, and jokes in much of this, but if you can wade through that like I was able to, this is fun.
Bad Moms Christmas. If this is your thing, then it's your day!
Thank You For Your Service
Miles Teller stars in this movie that s very powerful, and anything but light movie watching.
But, this is good. Being fair, this is not as good as I thought it would be. But it's still good. This deals with three veterans, all young, and their re-entry to being out of the Army and blending back into society. And it's not very easy, if possible at all. I do like the story and the entire idea of telling these stories, as this is based on true events.
But some of this becomes to my eye a bit like a news feature at times, and for moments loses its focus. But is does refocus and gets back on track. This is a very serious movie that deals with a very poignant topic, and I'm glad it's here for us to see.
Performances are good, story is worth telling and this will leave you more aware than when you walked in.
Thank You For Your Service. Quite good.
Only The Brave
This is a movie that is a great example of a story that should be told, and takes you somewhere you have never been before. Both are huge checks in the plus column.
Toss in a GREAT cast, lead by Josh Brolin, Jeff Bridges, and Miles Teller, and you have a really strong early fall flick. This movie makes us all pause and again give thanks for the fearless folks who fight fires of all kinds, including suburban, city and wildfires. This movie is the true story of the Arizona Granite Mountain Hot Shots. All were lost in a terrible wildfire a few years ago.
I won't give too much away, but this tells you exactly who these guys are, and who their families are, as they are all in the lifestyle together. These are truly the Navy Seals of firefighters. They fight fires without water, and go places that most would never dream of going daily, putting themselves in incredible danger.
Brolin and Bridges are terrific, and the story is powerful and on point. To this movies extreme credit, this movie is far more story and substance as opposed to special effects. This movie is very careful to get it right, and spends far more quality time on what they should do...and not what they could do.
Only The Brave. I loved every frame of this movie.
The Foreigner
It is so good to see Jackie Chan back making movies. With all due respect to the half action, half comedy movies he has made and had great success with. This is the Jackie Chan I really like.
This is the story of a very sad man, (Chan). His entire family has been killed over the years all by political means. After his youngest daughter is killed in England, our hero decides he has had enough and sets out to avenge years of horrible events. The last killing has ties to the political wars in Ireland and England, and this is backdrop of our story.
Chan is still remarkable as he continues to amaze us with his physical talent, and his overall charm and likability. This also stars Pearce Brosnan, who I thought was terrific in this movie. This has action, and a strong story, and more than that, it marks the return of the Jackie Chan we have been waiting for.
The Foreigner. Very good, and is set up for more!
The Mountain Between US
Very quick. Idris Elba and Kate Winslet star in this love story, that I really liked. Can these two survive a plane crash in the Rockies, and where do they go from there if they do.
Great date movie, and just a good movie that got lost in the movie shuffle
The Mountain Between Us - Good!
CMA Preview - Big Night Tonight
When the CMA's were born in 1967, the founders could not imagine for the growth of our format, and the show itself. From a "gathering" of a thousand or so, to a concert of 25,000 and a dominant national TV audience, tonight's 51st installment will be huge! Plus, this year no World Series game 7 to get in our way.
I am a lifetime member of the CMA, and look forward to tonight with a good deal of well - I have no idea about the winners, or who they will be. Many times me and my peers have far more confidence in our choices. These are not predictions, but things to keep in mind as we watch together.
The grand award of the night, is the Entertainer Of The Year and the competition is strong, all with worthy resumes. But my feeling is that with 6.5 million concert tickets sold on his current tour, Garth Brooks may be a bit out front. His shows are amazing after all these years. Garth is simply uncanny in his ability to stay relevant, packing arenas every single night.
One of the more interesting races to watch is Female Vocalist Of The Year. This is a wide open race, with Miranda and Carrie more than likely leading the list of favorites. Both winners of this award. But I have yet to meet someone who doesn't like the music of Maren Morris and who she is. She is giving voice to a new generation of fans.
Male Vocalist is generally a tough one. Dierks Bentley would be a very interesting choice, as he has done something that is rare and very tough to do. He is recording the best music of his career after all this time, as he continually reinvents himself. But Thomas Rhett is everywhere, and has throngs of fans in Country and well outside of Country.
I am always intrigued by the New Artist category as it is a mix of men, women and groups usually, so it's fun to watch. What a year Jon Pardi had getting the traction so long thought that he would. He scored 3 BIG songs, all among the most memorable songs this year. Hey, and Luke Combs has the same wonderful affliction Maren Morris has, as I have yet to meet anyone who doesn't love his music.
Album Of The Year is one I do have the strongest feeling in that, as good as they all are, Chris Stapleton's, From A Room, is flying off the shelves and his fans just flat out like him. Plus, he is gathering more fans seemingly every minute of every day.
Vocal Duo. This year's nominees are so incredibly different it's a difficult call. But undeniably Florida Georgia Line is as big as any act in our format and from any category. They jam venues every night, and their fans are insanely loyal. They are also a few years ahead of the others in their bracket. Brothers Osborne though, look like blue chip prospects.
Vocal Group? Fans love all of them no doubt. But Little Big Town has a special relationship with fans, as they have hung in there all these years even when times were not so good. Fans relate to them, like them, and support them. Old Dominion is off to a very strong start, and Zac Brown is solid year after year.
The Song and Single category I really have no feel for. And truth be told, we for the most part are a stars format. Fans more often than not, love their favorite singers first. All fine songs here, a couple will win.
The show promises to be the biggest one yet, and the chatter around the office the next day and on social media is always fun to watch and participate in. We can talk about it Thursday morning on the show, as we will host an After Show with Scott And Sarah.
Enjoy the CMA's and we'll talk it over in the morning!
scott@wqmx.com
I am a lifetime member of the CMA, and look forward to tonight with a good deal of well - I have no idea about the winners, or who they will be. Many times me and my peers have far more confidence in our choices. These are not predictions, but things to keep in mind as we watch together.
The grand award of the night, is the Entertainer Of The Year and the competition is strong, all with worthy resumes. But my feeling is that with 6.5 million concert tickets sold on his current tour, Garth Brooks may be a bit out front. His shows are amazing after all these years. Garth is simply uncanny in his ability to stay relevant, packing arenas every single night.
One of the more interesting races to watch is Female Vocalist Of The Year. This is a wide open race, with Miranda and Carrie more than likely leading the list of favorites. Both winners of this award. But I have yet to meet someone who doesn't like the music of Maren Morris and who she is. She is giving voice to a new generation of fans.
Male Vocalist is generally a tough one. Dierks Bentley would be a very interesting choice, as he has done something that is rare and very tough to do. He is recording the best music of his career after all this time, as he continually reinvents himself. But Thomas Rhett is everywhere, and has throngs of fans in Country and well outside of Country.
I am always intrigued by the New Artist category as it is a mix of men, women and groups usually, so it's fun to watch. What a year Jon Pardi had getting the traction so long thought that he would. He scored 3 BIG songs, all among the most memorable songs this year. Hey, and Luke Combs has the same wonderful affliction Maren Morris has, as I have yet to meet anyone who doesn't love his music.
Album Of The Year is one I do have the strongest feeling in that, as good as they all are, Chris Stapleton's, From A Room, is flying off the shelves and his fans just flat out like him. Plus, he is gathering more fans seemingly every minute of every day.
Vocal Duo. This year's nominees are so incredibly different it's a difficult call. But undeniably Florida Georgia Line is as big as any act in our format and from any category. They jam venues every night, and their fans are insanely loyal. They are also a few years ahead of the others in their bracket. Brothers Osborne though, look like blue chip prospects.
Vocal Group? Fans love all of them no doubt. But Little Big Town has a special relationship with fans, as they have hung in there all these years even when times were not so good. Fans relate to them, like them, and support them. Old Dominion is off to a very strong start, and Zac Brown is solid year after year.
The Song and Single category I really have no feel for. And truth be told, we for the most part are a stars format. Fans more often than not, love their favorite singers first. All fine songs here, a couple will win.
The show promises to be the biggest one yet, and the chatter around the office the next day and on social media is always fun to watch and participate in. We can talk about it Thursday morning on the show, as we will host an After Show with Scott And Sarah.
Enjoy the CMA's and we'll talk it over in the morning!
scott@wqmx.com
Saturday, November 4, 2017
The Four Places
I only speak for me, but I tend feel a bit reflective when some places close and we lose them for good. Honestly, I am not even close to the guy that lives in the past, or wants you off the lawn, but I feel I know - too bad - when I see it.
And now it's the Akron Rubber Bowl's time to end. As dilapidated as it now is, I still feel reflective on its life. And not just for this city, but for any city where something that was once vital, is no longer so. And in the Rubber Bowls case, not by a little. We have learned yes, some places we build are living, breathing things. I call them The Big Four - Schools, Stadiums, Theaters, Amusement Parks - the list is short. Even sometimes when a golf course is left to die and grow over itself. Places made by humans strictly to give humans joy, or be communal that outlive their usefulness. Their demise fills me with a sense of thinking about what happened there. But not in the here and now condition, but when the Rubber Bowl was shiny new, prime of life, and breathing well.
It will be torn down soon mercifully for every reason that is right to do so. The times had at the Rubber Bowl were both good and bad for many for sure. It does have a very interesting history that a simple Google search can show you. The Rubber Bowl has been standing there roughly 80 years, and it has met the exact same fate that the old Chippewa Lake Amusement Park in Medina County did some 40 years ago after a 100 year run. Newer, shinier places showed up as times changed, and people just - walked away and left the older ones there to decay slowly. Chippewa Lake became overgrown and eerie to say the least, and now so has the Rubber Bowl.
Being honest, these things seldom happen to the extent they have around here. Huge, expansive places made for humans, just ....left to fend for itself. I will never say the Rubber Bowl should have been saved because that simply is not a clear thought. It had its run, but it's over, as now the clock has simply run out. But I still think that there is a certain melancholy that is triggered inside us when places like this meet their maker. Even though it's been a long time since Charlie Frye threw a touchdown there, or the Stones or Tom Petty played a note of music there, it's now officially over.
All of my schools I attended as a kid are demolished or will soon be as I have learned. The neighborhood theaters are by and large gone, and the stadiums of my youth too. And even though some amusement parks get bigger, the smaller ones get - smaller. And golf courses? Some nice ones are now parking and retail. Times and people change, but one thing that doesn't, is that luckily they still build The Four Places that for these days - will have their shining moment of the now.
And the inevitable fate - of the later.
And now it's the Akron Rubber Bowl's time to end. As dilapidated as it now is, I still feel reflective on its life. And not just for this city, but for any city where something that was once vital, is no longer so. And in the Rubber Bowls case, not by a little. We have learned yes, some places we build are living, breathing things. I call them The Big Four - Schools, Stadiums, Theaters, Amusement Parks - the list is short. Even sometimes when a golf course is left to die and grow over itself. Places made by humans strictly to give humans joy, or be communal that outlive their usefulness. Their demise fills me with a sense of thinking about what happened there. But not in the here and now condition, but when the Rubber Bowl was shiny new, prime of life, and breathing well.
It will be torn down soon mercifully for every reason that is right to do so. The times had at the Rubber Bowl were both good and bad for many for sure. It does have a very interesting history that a simple Google search can show you. The Rubber Bowl has been standing there roughly 80 years, and it has met the exact same fate that the old Chippewa Lake Amusement Park in Medina County did some 40 years ago after a 100 year run. Newer, shinier places showed up as times changed, and people just - walked away and left the older ones there to decay slowly. Chippewa Lake became overgrown and eerie to say the least, and now so has the Rubber Bowl.
Being honest, these things seldom happen to the extent they have around here. Huge, expansive places made for humans, just ....left to fend for itself. I will never say the Rubber Bowl should have been saved because that simply is not a clear thought. It had its run, but it's over, as now the clock has simply run out. But I still think that there is a certain melancholy that is triggered inside us when places like this meet their maker. Even though it's been a long time since Charlie Frye threw a touchdown there, or the Stones or Tom Petty played a note of music there, it's now officially over.
All of my schools I attended as a kid are demolished or will soon be as I have learned. The neighborhood theaters are by and large gone, and the stadiums of my youth too. And even though some amusement parks get bigger, the smaller ones get - smaller. And golf courses? Some nice ones are now parking and retail. Times and people change, but one thing that doesn't, is that luckily they still build The Four Places that for these days - will have their shining moment of the now.
And the inevitable fate - of the later.
Wednesday, October 18, 2017
MOVIE REVIEWS - In Theaters Now!
Only The Brave
This is a movie that is a great example of a story that should be told, and takes you somewhere you have never been before. Both are huge checks in the plus column.
Toss in a GREAT cast, lead by Josh Brolin, Jeff Bridges, and Miles Teller, and you have a really strong early fall flick. This movie makes us all pause and again give thanks for the fearless folks who fight fires of all kinds, including suburban, city and wildfires. This movie is the true story of the Arizona Granite Mountain Hot Shots. All were lost in a terrible wildfire a few years ago.
I won't give too much away, but this tells you exactly who these guys are, and who their families are, as they are all in the lifestyle together. These are truly the Navy Seals of firefighters. They fight fires without water, and go places that most would never dream of going daily, putting themselves in incredible danger.
Brolin and Bridges are terrific, and the story is powerful and on point. To this movies extreme credit, this movie is far more story and substance as opposed to special effects. This movie is very careful to get it right, and spends far more quality time on what they should do...and not what they could do.
Only The Brave. I loved every frame of this movie.
The Foreigner
It is so good to see Jackie Chan back making movies. With all due respect to the half action, half comedy movies he has made and had great success with. This is the Jackie Chan I really like.
This is the story of a very sad man, (Chan). His entire family has been killed over the years all by political means. After his youngest daughter is killed in England, our hero decides he has had enough and sets out to avenge years of horrible events. The last killing has ties to the political wars in Ireland and England, and this is backdrop of our story.
Chan is still remarkable as he continues to amaze us with his physical talent, and his overall charm and likability. This also stars Pearce Brosnan, who I thought was terrific in this movie. This has action, and a strong story, and more than that, it marks the return of the Jackie Chan we have been waiting for.
The Foreigner. Very good, and is set up for more!
This is a movie that is a great example of a story that should be told, and takes you somewhere you have never been before. Both are huge checks in the plus column.
Toss in a GREAT cast, lead by Josh Brolin, Jeff Bridges, and Miles Teller, and you have a really strong early fall flick. This movie makes us all pause and again give thanks for the fearless folks who fight fires of all kinds, including suburban, city and wildfires. This movie is the true story of the Arizona Granite Mountain Hot Shots. All were lost in a terrible wildfire a few years ago.
I won't give too much away, but this tells you exactly who these guys are, and who their families are, as they are all in the lifestyle together. These are truly the Navy Seals of firefighters. They fight fires without water, and go places that most would never dream of going daily, putting themselves in incredible danger.
Brolin and Bridges are terrific, and the story is powerful and on point. To this movies extreme credit, this movie is far more story and substance as opposed to special effects. This movie is very careful to get it right, and spends far more quality time on what they should do...and not what they could do.
Only The Brave. I loved every frame of this movie.
The Foreigner
It is so good to see Jackie Chan back making movies. With all due respect to the half action, half comedy movies he has made and had great success with. This is the Jackie Chan I really like.
This is the story of a very sad man, (Chan). His entire family has been killed over the years all by political means. After his youngest daughter is killed in England, our hero decides he has had enough and sets out to avenge years of horrible events. The last killing has ties to the political wars in Ireland and England, and this is backdrop of our story.
Chan is still remarkable as he continues to amaze us with his physical talent, and his overall charm and likability. This also stars Pearce Brosnan, who I thought was terrific in this movie. This has action, and a strong story, and more than that, it marks the return of the Jackie Chan we have been waiting for.
The Foreigner. Very good, and is set up for more!
Monday, October 9, 2017
I Will Miss Tom Petty
It's been about a week since Tom Petty died. And because of recent events, it's now I am more comfortable about sharing this. And why not, as you will hear a Petty song covered at about any Country concert you go to, and have for years.
I was a fan. I'm not the fan that can tell you song 3 on album 4, and its length. But a fan nonetheless. I was a big fan of his music, and of who he was. He was just a guy with his crew that simply recorded good music. When he hit in the 70's everything was simpler, and musically it was a very good time especially for rock music. The music was where the sole emphasis was. Straight out of the garage, to the bars, and to hopefully better days ahead. And he went up against the big boys on the charts and did very well. Somehow we didn't view him as such. But now we know he was one of the big boys, and so do those who are still around, at long last.
I feel Tom Petty maybe the most underrated rock star of all time. We all just thought he'd be here forever. He never became dated, or a caricature of himself. It never became hard to watch him on stage, as it has many others. He aged well, and never left his musical roots so far behind we didn't recognize who he was. I respected that. He remembered he was Tom Petty.
If Tom Petty came out today, he probably would not be a star. He was not a heartthrob. His shows were good, but there were no dance routines, no fluff, nothing that distracted you from the music. They were playing music, and not relying on ancillary diversions making you think the music and the stars were better than they really were.
Petty's music stayed relevant till the end. For every reason there is, when his music was introduced to new and younger audiences, they loved it. Jerry MacGuire gave Free Fallin' a huge resurgence. As did a terrific Superbowl Halftime show. I'm not sure anyone got more out of, or appreciated an appearance there more than Petty. By the iconic picture of he and his Heartbreakers at shows end, they understood the moment clearly, and climbed a mountain they never thought they would. The word was they were not the first choice that year by a long shot, and they knew it, and they didn't care. They played with incredible confidence and joy.
Petty was a heavy influence as well on many of today's Country Stars clearly. Although Petty's recorded music and vocals are more aggressive than even the most rockin' country stars, the beat and the Petty idea of many songs is apparent. Petty even wrote a top 20 country hit years ago recorded by group Southern Pacific called, Thing About You, that featured Emmylou Harris. Cool song. Being from Gainesville, Florida, Petty understood Country, and in he end, had the Southern Rock feel to much of his music, that is clear in much of today's Country.
I will miss the music, and the kind of guy we knew. Where he was out front of his band, where the music he made was the star - and it was out in front of him. Guys like him in music just don' really exist anymore.
I will miss Tom Petty.
I was a fan. I'm not the fan that can tell you song 3 on album 4, and its length. But a fan nonetheless. I was a big fan of his music, and of who he was. He was just a guy with his crew that simply recorded good music. When he hit in the 70's everything was simpler, and musically it was a very good time especially for rock music. The music was where the sole emphasis was. Straight out of the garage, to the bars, and to hopefully better days ahead. And he went up against the big boys on the charts and did very well. Somehow we didn't view him as such. But now we know he was one of the big boys, and so do those who are still around, at long last.
I feel Tom Petty maybe the most underrated rock star of all time. We all just thought he'd be here forever. He never became dated, or a caricature of himself. It never became hard to watch him on stage, as it has many others. He aged well, and never left his musical roots so far behind we didn't recognize who he was. I respected that. He remembered he was Tom Petty.
If Tom Petty came out today, he probably would not be a star. He was not a heartthrob. His shows were good, but there were no dance routines, no fluff, nothing that distracted you from the music. They were playing music, and not relying on ancillary diversions making you think the music and the stars were better than they really were.
Petty's music stayed relevant till the end. For every reason there is, when his music was introduced to new and younger audiences, they loved it. Jerry MacGuire gave Free Fallin' a huge resurgence. As did a terrific Superbowl Halftime show. I'm not sure anyone got more out of, or appreciated an appearance there more than Petty. By the iconic picture of he and his Heartbreakers at shows end, they understood the moment clearly, and climbed a mountain they never thought they would. The word was they were not the first choice that year by a long shot, and they knew it, and they didn't care. They played with incredible confidence and joy.
Petty was a heavy influence as well on many of today's Country Stars clearly. Although Petty's recorded music and vocals are more aggressive than even the most rockin' country stars, the beat and the Petty idea of many songs is apparent. Petty even wrote a top 20 country hit years ago recorded by group Southern Pacific called, Thing About You, that featured Emmylou Harris. Cool song. Being from Gainesville, Florida, Petty understood Country, and in he end, had the Southern Rock feel to much of his music, that is clear in much of today's Country.
I will miss the music, and the kind of guy we knew. Where he was out front of his band, where the music he made was the star - and it was out in front of him. Guys like him in music just don' really exist anymore.
I will miss Tom Petty.
Saturday, October 7, 2017
The TRIBE - The Right Way
This Tribe ride we are all on is simply amazing. Last nights unimaginable win has electrified our area - yet again. As they have many times this summer.
Why is this team so fun? Why are they so successful? And why is this happening? The reason, to me, has become clear as glass. They play the game, and handle themselves the right way. Granted you need talent to get to this point, but to win this way and possibly climb the tallest mountain in sports, the intangibles are what gets you there.
These guys are not outwardly worried about being on Sportscenter, and they don't care the Cubs have a huge following. They don't mind where they play, who they play, or on what obscure network or what time. They don't care who gets the credit, and they go out every day with the idea of going on. All of this is pretty unusual in today's modern sports world with today's modern pro athlete. Isn't is funny, when you watch the Tribe play, it's not like watching sports, it's like watching life. A bunch of guys that clearly care for each other, relish each others company and celebrate each others contribution.
They play with a Little League like enthusiasm, they run out ground balls, they never give up, the bench is into the game. As a season ticket holder I have been to a bunch of games, and this fact alone you can clearly see, has other teams in this league befuddled. They just don't get it, it's all over their faces. They play positions and take on roles that Tito asks them to, and it works. Sure, Tito looks like the genius, and he is. But the guys have to buy into him, and give it all up on the field for him, for them and for us, and get it done.
What a great lesson for all us of in what we do, at work, or in life. When we believe in what we are doing, who we are with, and where we are going, it makes a difference. When you do something the right way, the right thing has the best chance of happening.
Go Tribe!
Why is this team so fun? Why are they so successful? And why is this happening? The reason, to me, has become clear as glass. They play the game, and handle themselves the right way. Granted you need talent to get to this point, but to win this way and possibly climb the tallest mountain in sports, the intangibles are what gets you there.
These guys are not outwardly worried about being on Sportscenter, and they don't care the Cubs have a huge following. They don't mind where they play, who they play, or on what obscure network or what time. They don't care who gets the credit, and they go out every day with the idea of going on. All of this is pretty unusual in today's modern sports world with today's modern pro athlete. Isn't is funny, when you watch the Tribe play, it's not like watching sports, it's like watching life. A bunch of guys that clearly care for each other, relish each others company and celebrate each others contribution.
They play with a Little League like enthusiasm, they run out ground balls, they never give up, the bench is into the game. As a season ticket holder I have been to a bunch of games, and this fact alone you can clearly see, has other teams in this league befuddled. They just don't get it, it's all over their faces. They play positions and take on roles that Tito asks them to, and it works. Sure, Tito looks like the genius, and he is. But the guys have to buy into him, and give it all up on the field for him, for them and for us, and get it done.
What a great lesson for all us of in what we do, at work, or in life. When we believe in what we are doing, who we are with, and where we are going, it makes a difference. When you do something the right way, the right thing has the best chance of happening.
Go Tribe!
Thursday, September 14, 2017
TRIBE - Don't Poo Poo The Steak
OK this is fun, this right now record 21 game winning streak the Indians are riding. But conversely there are some detractors, and I sort of get it.
I have heard some in the National and Local Media, and even some chat around the office that says this. "Yeah this is all well and good but it won't mean a thing if the Tribe doesn't win the World Series." I sort of get that too, and I do understand where that comes from. But for me, they are not separate issues. They are one of the same.
I won't lie, I hope we win 25, 26 or heck, even 30 in a row. What a streak like this does is so valuable to a team and the area, it makes winning it all even more attainable. If this streak, whether is ends tonight or goes on for 10 more games does, is put the Tribe in a better position to win the World Series.
First, it completely galvanizes the fan base, it gets everyone on board. And that is crucial down the stretch to re-energize a team that has played over the course of 6 months. Second, if winning so many in a row helps us track down the Astros and have the best record in the American League, and make everyone come to our re-energized stadium to get through us? Again, I am all for it. If this streak runs down the Nationals and Dodgers in the National League record-wise, and makes them come here to play a World Series first? Again - FOR IT!
You see winning a World Series is the hardest title to win in sports. In the NBA, you can out athlete people to a title. The NFL, is one and done, anything can happen in a one game situation. Baseball is at least three series, against great teams and pitching only - playing the hardest team sport there is to play in the world. So I will gladly take anything that gives us a leg up on any team from either league. And if this streak plays a part in it, I am all in.
I have even heard some say they hope the streak ends so we can concentrate on the rest of the season. WTH? Get a grip! On opening Day every year, I want the Tribe to win every game! And right now, they are. So let's go get the Giants now from 1916, and really leave no doubt.
The Streak. Is it everything? No, but it's a real thing, and it's here and it is something that none of us will never see again. GO TRIBE!
I have heard some in the National and Local Media, and even some chat around the office that says this. "Yeah this is all well and good but it won't mean a thing if the Tribe doesn't win the World Series." I sort of get that too, and I do understand where that comes from. But for me, they are not separate issues. They are one of the same.
I won't lie, I hope we win 25, 26 or heck, even 30 in a row. What a streak like this does is so valuable to a team and the area, it makes winning it all even more attainable. If this streak, whether is ends tonight or goes on for 10 more games does, is put the Tribe in a better position to win the World Series.
First, it completely galvanizes the fan base, it gets everyone on board. And that is crucial down the stretch to re-energize a team that has played over the course of 6 months. Second, if winning so many in a row helps us track down the Astros and have the best record in the American League, and make everyone come to our re-energized stadium to get through us? Again, I am all for it. If this streak runs down the Nationals and Dodgers in the National League record-wise, and makes them come here to play a World Series first? Again - FOR IT!
You see winning a World Series is the hardest title to win in sports. In the NBA, you can out athlete people to a title. The NFL, is one and done, anything can happen in a one game situation. Baseball is at least three series, against great teams and pitching only - playing the hardest team sport there is to play in the world. So I will gladly take anything that gives us a leg up on any team from either league. And if this streak plays a part in it, I am all in.
I have even heard some say they hope the streak ends so we can concentrate on the rest of the season. WTH? Get a grip! On opening Day every year, I want the Tribe to win every game! And right now, they are. So let's go get the Giants now from 1916, and really leave no doubt.
The Streak. Is it everything? No, but it's a real thing, and it's here and it is something that none of us will never see again. GO TRIBE!
Saturday, September 9, 2017
TRIBE - Tito's Hand Made Roster
The Tribe is rolling along right now with a 17 game winning streak and are the talk of the town.
This incredibly likable team have become the darlings of the area, and are doing what only a winning Major League Team can do. Re-energize an area like nothing else can. I, like you, never saw a 17 game winning steak coming, but no one should be surprised the Indians are 30 games over .500 with about 20 to go. If you say you're not surprised at the streak, I'm not buying it. It's happened a couple times in about 100 years.
It makes me laugh every season. Twitter, Facebook, and even Sports Talk Radio are a buzz about how terrible this guy is, or how they need to send this guy down, or let's trade this guy, or go get this guy. "Experts" of so many kinds who have a fundamental non-understanding of the game. Many in this area continually get the Indians and the Browns confused and they are two completely different stories in every single, solitary way imaginable. While the Browns have struggled with virtually every aspect of building a winning franchise, the Tribe has been brilliant in same. The Indians these days are not "Typical Cleveland"
Terri (Tito) Francona is the main reason why. One team can say they have the runaway best manager in the Major Leagues - and that's us. And it's not even close. He has been the reason that players play as hard as they do, the reason free agents want to come here, and the reason top prospects break their butt to get up here and play well for him. His managing hand and style are that of legend. He's going to the Hall Of Fame as a manager, and few will be more deserving.
Baseball is a very long season with 162 games played roughly over 200 days. You are going to have your great patches, your rough stretches, your injuries, and disappointments. That is why we love the game so much. It so mimics life, that we relate to it completely. It takes patience to be a baseball fan, a good one anyway. And Social Media has made it so easy to vent emotions quickly without putting a great deal of thought into it. As to where some have to devour a bushel basket of crow with a shovel for dinner.
Ever notice that at years end, the guys that many fans scream about in May, end up being the reason your playing in October? And of course the reverse can be true, as many times the "Blossoms Of April" ending up being "The Weeds of September." The Indians are doing this area such good, no matter what happens with this streak, or from now on, enjoy this amazing ride.
I admit, my patience wears thin sometimes too, but not at Tito's Hand Made Roster, but when you're going great, I have a hard time waiting till the next day to play.
Go Tribe!
This incredibly likable team have become the darlings of the area, and are doing what only a winning Major League Team can do. Re-energize an area like nothing else can. I, like you, never saw a 17 game winning steak coming, but no one should be surprised the Indians are 30 games over .500 with about 20 to go. If you say you're not surprised at the streak, I'm not buying it. It's happened a couple times in about 100 years.
It makes me laugh every season. Twitter, Facebook, and even Sports Talk Radio are a buzz about how terrible this guy is, or how they need to send this guy down, or let's trade this guy, or go get this guy. "Experts" of so many kinds who have a fundamental non-understanding of the game. Many in this area continually get the Indians and the Browns confused and they are two completely different stories in every single, solitary way imaginable. While the Browns have struggled with virtually every aspect of building a winning franchise, the Tribe has been brilliant in same. The Indians these days are not "Typical Cleveland"
Terri (Tito) Francona is the main reason why. One team can say they have the runaway best manager in the Major Leagues - and that's us. And it's not even close. He has been the reason that players play as hard as they do, the reason free agents want to come here, and the reason top prospects break their butt to get up here and play well for him. His managing hand and style are that of legend. He's going to the Hall Of Fame as a manager, and few will be more deserving.
Baseball is a very long season with 162 games played roughly over 200 days. You are going to have your great patches, your rough stretches, your injuries, and disappointments. That is why we love the game so much. It so mimics life, that we relate to it completely. It takes patience to be a baseball fan, a good one anyway. And Social Media has made it so easy to vent emotions quickly without putting a great deal of thought into it. As to where some have to devour a bushel basket of crow with a shovel for dinner.
Ever notice that at years end, the guys that many fans scream about in May, end up being the reason your playing in October? And of course the reverse can be true, as many times the "Blossoms Of April" ending up being "The Weeds of September." The Indians are doing this area such good, no matter what happens with this streak, or from now on, enjoy this amazing ride.
I admit, my patience wears thin sometimes too, but not at Tito's Hand Made Roster, but when you're going great, I have a hard time waiting till the next day to play.
Go Tribe!
Remembering - Glen, Don and Troy
The past couple of weeks have been tough for long time and newer fans of Country Music. The deaths of three long time artists that were loved by millions. Glen Campbell, Don Williams and Troy Gentry of Montgomery Gentry.
Glen -
Glen passed a couple weeks ago after battling a long term fight with Alzheimer's. It was an incredible story that showed me that life is a series of phases. Campbell lived them all. First, in the 1960's and 70's with his amazing run of classic songs still loved today. Wichita Lineman, Galveston, and dozens more, leading up to a song all of the world knows, Rhinestone Cowboy.
Glen was the kind of entertainer that really doesn't exist anymore. Singer, actor, performer, amazing guitar player, Vegas act, TV star, and during the height of his run, was seemingly everywhere, and everyone loved him. He sung in one way or another virtually everyone there was to sing with, and they were lining up to do it.
By his own admission, he always tried to bridge the river between Country and Popular Music. And he did it. The greatest songwriters in America were lining up to give him songs so he could sprinkle his magic dust on it, with this unheard of five octave range. He knew a good song when he heard one, and knew how to sing and arrange it so neither side was offended. He did this more effectively than anyone I have ever seen. What a gift. His songs perfectly blended the genres, they were just...good songs.
His final gift was his public battle with Alzheimer's. Touring, and singing while the disease was in full force, he gave hope to thousands and awed millions with remarkable bravery. When his battle ended, his music sales soared and I was glad to see that. He earned every reason to keep his incredible music alive.
Glen Campbell. There were few like him.
Don -
If you are reading this here, there is every possibility you are not very familiar with The Gentle Giant, Don Williams. His run covered a long period of time, and he successfully bridged and survived many changes to the format itself. Williams' list of hit songs is a mile long, and awards and nominations same.
Williams rose up in the 1970's with great songs like Tulsa Time, Amanda and others. Rode the wave of the Urban Cowboy craze in the late 70's and recorded amazingly huge songs like, I Believe In You and tons more. But he did it differently than many others. At the time, there was Conway Twitty, Kenny Rogers, George Jones, Waylon, Willie and Hank Jr. Williams was way outside of all that. He was not the heartthrob like Rogers, or Twitty, and had no headlines like Jones. His music was not reminiscent of the Outlaw Movement of Jennings, and Nelson, or the southern rock influence of Hank Jr. He just quietly recorded hit after hit. Williams style.
Williams was a real fan favorite singing truthful songs, with a voice that was as smooth and honest as anyone at the time, or any time His hit making survived the first real crush of New Country acts that appeared about 1982, with George Straight, Ricky Skaggs and John Anderson. And then the next crush about 1985 with Randy Travis, and Dwight Yoakum. But when Country turned to the higher profile presentations of Clint Black, Garth Brooks, Alan Jackson, and the Tracy Lawrence types in 1989, Williams and others found that the tide had turned for good. Ironic, the Traditionalist that was Williams, was replaced by the New Traditionalist Movement on the radio. Especially after Williams never sold out to the "pop" sound of Country that was attempted early in the decade by many.
But Williams continued on with his chronic bad back, and toured and pleased thousands of fans for many years after falling of the charts. He embraced the new world and has about 800,000 Facebook fans, and this week, we lay him to rest. For many, including me, he helped forge a love for Country Music that we all still enjoy today.
Don Williams. He just did it quietly.
Troy -
When we all heard the news of Troy Gentry being killed this week, we all stopped and caught our breath. 50 years old, and dying a tragic death. Being half of the duo Montgomery Gentry, they helped pave the way for a new era of country. When you listen to an MG song, there is no doubt it's country. And there's no doubt they had the right idea about the music itself. They understood that many times in our format, we take ourselves musically way too seriously.
MG had no interest in singing formula songs about lovey-dovey relationships. I interviewed them once and they laughingly said that the song, She Don't Tell Me To, was as close to a love song as they would ever sing. They had no time to sing about sap. Their music simply made people happy. From Hell Yeah, to My Town, Speed, Somethin' To Be Proud Of, Hillbilly Shoes, and my favorite, She Couldn't Change me. And there were many more. What a gift to give, the gift of music giving happiness, making fans move at a show!
They came of age in the era of Brooks And Dunn dominance and that was tough to do. But they held their own, and separated themselves as their own act, with a look, sound, and attitude that was different from B&D. They were the Florida Georgia Line of the time, and helped pave the way for what would be known as Bro Country. In my ear, they were Bro, we just didn't really have a name for it then.
This duo faced some tough challenges in real life off the stage as well, and somehow survived and made it all work. And even after the songs stopped being played on the radio every 3 hours a few years ago, their fans never ever forgot them. And they never will. You see, MG made Country cool for many, and that's a gift all of us will benefit from for years to come.
Troy Gentry. Too young. Far too young.
Glen -
Glen passed a couple weeks ago after battling a long term fight with Alzheimer's. It was an incredible story that showed me that life is a series of phases. Campbell lived them all. First, in the 1960's and 70's with his amazing run of classic songs still loved today. Wichita Lineman, Galveston, and dozens more, leading up to a song all of the world knows, Rhinestone Cowboy.
Glen was the kind of entertainer that really doesn't exist anymore. Singer, actor, performer, amazing guitar player, Vegas act, TV star, and during the height of his run, was seemingly everywhere, and everyone loved him. He sung in one way or another virtually everyone there was to sing with, and they were lining up to do it.
By his own admission, he always tried to bridge the river between Country and Popular Music. And he did it. The greatest songwriters in America were lining up to give him songs so he could sprinkle his magic dust on it, with this unheard of five octave range. He knew a good song when he heard one, and knew how to sing and arrange it so neither side was offended. He did this more effectively than anyone I have ever seen. What a gift. His songs perfectly blended the genres, they were just...good songs.
His final gift was his public battle with Alzheimer's. Touring, and singing while the disease was in full force, he gave hope to thousands and awed millions with remarkable bravery. When his battle ended, his music sales soared and I was glad to see that. He earned every reason to keep his incredible music alive.
Glen Campbell. There were few like him.
Don -
If you are reading this here, there is every possibility you are not very familiar with The Gentle Giant, Don Williams. His run covered a long period of time, and he successfully bridged and survived many changes to the format itself. Williams' list of hit songs is a mile long, and awards and nominations same.
Williams rose up in the 1970's with great songs like Tulsa Time, Amanda and others. Rode the wave of the Urban Cowboy craze in the late 70's and recorded amazingly huge songs like, I Believe In You and tons more. But he did it differently than many others. At the time, there was Conway Twitty, Kenny Rogers, George Jones, Waylon, Willie and Hank Jr. Williams was way outside of all that. He was not the heartthrob like Rogers, or Twitty, and had no headlines like Jones. His music was not reminiscent of the Outlaw Movement of Jennings, and Nelson, or the southern rock influence of Hank Jr. He just quietly recorded hit after hit. Williams style.
Williams was a real fan favorite singing truthful songs, with a voice that was as smooth and honest as anyone at the time, or any time His hit making survived the first real crush of New Country acts that appeared about 1982, with George Straight, Ricky Skaggs and John Anderson. And then the next crush about 1985 with Randy Travis, and Dwight Yoakum. But when Country turned to the higher profile presentations of Clint Black, Garth Brooks, Alan Jackson, and the Tracy Lawrence types in 1989, Williams and others found that the tide had turned for good. Ironic, the Traditionalist that was Williams, was replaced by the New Traditionalist Movement on the radio. Especially after Williams never sold out to the "pop" sound of Country that was attempted early in the decade by many.
But Williams continued on with his chronic bad back, and toured and pleased thousands of fans for many years after falling of the charts. He embraced the new world and has about 800,000 Facebook fans, and this week, we lay him to rest. For many, including me, he helped forge a love for Country Music that we all still enjoy today.
Don Williams. He just did it quietly.
Troy -
When we all heard the news of Troy Gentry being killed this week, we all stopped and caught our breath. 50 years old, and dying a tragic death. Being half of the duo Montgomery Gentry, they helped pave the way for a new era of country. When you listen to an MG song, there is no doubt it's country. And there's no doubt they had the right idea about the music itself. They understood that many times in our format, we take ourselves musically way too seriously.
MG had no interest in singing formula songs about lovey-dovey relationships. I interviewed them once and they laughingly said that the song, She Don't Tell Me To, was as close to a love song as they would ever sing. They had no time to sing about sap. Their music simply made people happy. From Hell Yeah, to My Town, Speed, Somethin' To Be Proud Of, Hillbilly Shoes, and my favorite, She Couldn't Change me. And there were many more. What a gift to give, the gift of music giving happiness, making fans move at a show!
They came of age in the era of Brooks And Dunn dominance and that was tough to do. But they held their own, and separated themselves as their own act, with a look, sound, and attitude that was different from B&D. They were the Florida Georgia Line of the time, and helped pave the way for what would be known as Bro Country. In my ear, they were Bro, we just didn't really have a name for it then.
This duo faced some tough challenges in real life off the stage as well, and somehow survived and made it all work. And even after the songs stopped being played on the radio every 3 hours a few years ago, their fans never ever forgot them. And they never will. You see, MG made Country cool for many, and that's a gift all of us will benefit from for years to come.
Troy Gentry. Too young. Far too young.
Friday, September 8, 2017
MOVIE REVIEW - IT
At last! THE movie adaptation of Stephen King's 1,100 page thriller IT, comes to the big screen this week, and it is terrific.
This story, and the slightly under budget early visual attempts have ruined clowns for countless people, and this will only make it worse. But I'm good with that, as this movie is adapted well, acted well, and overall captured well. And will... well, give you a jolt or two.
Pennywise, the well, whatever IT is, clown demon thing, is terrorizing the fictional town of Derry, Maine where children are disappearing at an alarming rate. And as the town keeps ignoring this fact, a group of brave kids decide to take IT, straight on.
This movie is very rare in the essence that it virtually has no adult actors in it. This is basically all kids, who are casted well, and are all very good, in a bevy of large roles with tons of difficult dialogue. The direction is terrific as the emphasis is placed on being a cruel mind game for you, as opposed to tons to loud jolts and crashes. There is a lot of slow burn suspense here, and the payoff is quite good in most scenes. This is like the roller coaster you have never ridden because of one thing or another. But you should ride this one as this is worth seeing, even if scary movies are not your thing.
Much of this is classic King. Knowing what scares you, and preying on your fears from your childhood. And also giving you the epiphany of having things scare you that you didn't know you were afraid of when you walked into the theater. About everything about this is really great, and this is head and shoulders above most sellout "scary" movies that hit the theaters this time of year.
IT. A King Classic, that movie goers should not miss. This is the version you have been waiting for.
This story, and the slightly under budget early visual attempts have ruined clowns for countless people, and this will only make it worse. But I'm good with that, as this movie is adapted well, acted well, and overall captured well. And will... well, give you a jolt or two.
Pennywise, the well, whatever IT is, clown demon thing, is terrorizing the fictional town of Derry, Maine where children are disappearing at an alarming rate. And as the town keeps ignoring this fact, a group of brave kids decide to take IT, straight on.
This movie is very rare in the essence that it virtually has no adult actors in it. This is basically all kids, who are casted well, and are all very good, in a bevy of large roles with tons of difficult dialogue. The direction is terrific as the emphasis is placed on being a cruel mind game for you, as opposed to tons to loud jolts and crashes. There is a lot of slow burn suspense here, and the payoff is quite good in most scenes. This is like the roller coaster you have never ridden because of one thing or another. But you should ride this one as this is worth seeing, even if scary movies are not your thing.
Much of this is classic King. Knowing what scares you, and preying on your fears from your childhood. And also giving you the epiphany of having things scare you that you didn't know you were afraid of when you walked into the theater. About everything about this is really great, and this is head and shoulders above most sellout "scary" movies that hit the theaters this time of year.
IT. A King Classic, that movie goers should not miss. This is the version you have been waiting for.
Thursday, August 10, 2017
MOVIE REVIEW - In Theaters Now
Let's get caught up on what is out there for you at the flicks.
Atomic Blonde
This graphic novel come to life with the full weight of actor and producer Charlize Theron is what's fun for you right now. This has been highly anticipated all spring, and being honest, this good - not great.
This is in the John Wick vein, but not as effective. But what this lacks in parody and fun, it does make up for in a deeper story, and and overall more adult feel. Theron plays our hero, our secret agent who works for....well who? She is an amazing hand-to-hand combat agent, and quite frankly is great at about everything, ala James Bond. This takes place in 1989, just days before the Berlin Wall came down, and it's a battle for control of sensitive info before the world changes for good
This is really fun, and Theron is terrific as this enigmatic character, who does much of her own stunt work. James McAvoy, and John Goodman too. This is not as great as the anticipation, but this is good summer fun. Violent yes, and adult all the way, but good summer flick.
Girls Trip
OK, this is a bit late but this is worth the wait. This is the latest of the "Hangover" type movies, and the new trend is to show women acting "badly." This has much of the same formula as Hangover, and Bridesmaids, but this is so much more than that.
This has a number of good laughs, and maybe a few too many sight gags. Some I could have done without seeing. But, after you cut through all the stuff, this delivers a pretty nice message on friendship, and of self empowerment, no matter who you are.
Four girls in New Orleans doing a lot of naughty things, OK. But there is more here. It may have taken them to long to say it, at 2 hours, 2 minutes shorter would have been better, but not a deal breaker. This is overall fun, and had the theater laughing out loud.
The Emoji Movie
Can we just stop? Please?
Horrible
scott@wqmx.com
Atomic Blonde
This graphic novel come to life with the full weight of actor and producer Charlize Theron is what's fun for you right now. This has been highly anticipated all spring, and being honest, this good - not great.
This is in the John Wick vein, but not as effective. But what this lacks in parody and fun, it does make up for in a deeper story, and and overall more adult feel. Theron plays our hero, our secret agent who works for....well who? She is an amazing hand-to-hand combat agent, and quite frankly is great at about everything, ala James Bond. This takes place in 1989, just days before the Berlin Wall came down, and it's a battle for control of sensitive info before the world changes for good
This is really fun, and Theron is terrific as this enigmatic character, who does much of her own stunt work. James McAvoy, and John Goodman too. This is not as great as the anticipation, but this is good summer fun. Violent yes, and adult all the way, but good summer flick.
Girls Trip
OK, this is a bit late but this is worth the wait. This is the latest of the "Hangover" type movies, and the new trend is to show women acting "badly." This has much of the same formula as Hangover, and Bridesmaids, but this is so much more than that.
This has a number of good laughs, and maybe a few too many sight gags. Some I could have done without seeing. But, after you cut through all the stuff, this delivers a pretty nice message on friendship, and of self empowerment, no matter who you are.
Four girls in New Orleans doing a lot of naughty things, OK. But there is more here. It may have taken them to long to say it, at 2 hours, 2 minutes shorter would have been better, but not a deal breaker. This is overall fun, and had the theater laughing out loud.
The Emoji Movie
Can we just stop? Please?
Horrible
scott@wqmx.com
Friday, July 21, 2017
MOVIE REVIEW - Dunkirk
Director Christopher Nolan gets a lot of praise for his movies, some of it warranted. As decent as some of his directed movies have been, I have been slow to get on the bandwagon. I do believe his movies have flaws. But this is terrific!
Dunkirk is based on the true story of the 400,000 trapped British and French troops in Dunkirk in the dark days of WWII. The Nazi's had them pinned in with no way home, and sitting ducks on the beach. Then "home" came to rescue them. This is a tough story to watch sometimes as little went well there for the Allies, but this is a remarkable story told very well here.
Nolan's movies for me, have always have a flaw or two that are big. They have all been way, way too long, and many of them infused with him being far to infused into the movie. Most of his flicks check in at almost 3 hours, and just need less of "him" and more of "them" (the people in the movie).
Dunkirk is under two hours and the star of this movie is - the movie! This incredibly written story, (that Nolan wrote) is told exrtremely well through action, with little emphasis on dialogue. There is not a lot of character development, and needless side plots. And this doesn't smack of "I'm the smartest guy in the room" vibe.
This is filmed brilliantly, and acted same. The editing is amazing and we, and Nolan, can sit back and watch the movie itself tell its important story as if we are really there. This is exciting, suspenseful, and told as simply as it can, and as it should be. This is important stuff here, and the respect shown to the participants is really on full display. Adapted well, written well, and directed with a restrained skill and sharp editing blade, not generally displayed in Nolan films.
Dunkirk. Will get some Oscar buzz, and will be one of the best movies of the entire year. Just flat out great!
Dunkirk is based on the true story of the 400,000 trapped British and French troops in Dunkirk in the dark days of WWII. The Nazi's had them pinned in with no way home, and sitting ducks on the beach. Then "home" came to rescue them. This is a tough story to watch sometimes as little went well there for the Allies, but this is a remarkable story told very well here.
Nolan's movies for me, have always have a flaw or two that are big. They have all been way, way too long, and many of them infused with him being far to infused into the movie. Most of his flicks check in at almost 3 hours, and just need less of "him" and more of "them" (the people in the movie).
Dunkirk is under two hours and the star of this movie is - the movie! This incredibly written story, (that Nolan wrote) is told exrtremely well through action, with little emphasis on dialogue. There is not a lot of character development, and needless side plots. And this doesn't smack of "I'm the smartest guy in the room" vibe.
This is filmed brilliantly, and acted same. The editing is amazing and we, and Nolan, can sit back and watch the movie itself tell its important story as if we are really there. This is exciting, suspenseful, and told as simply as it can, and as it should be. This is important stuff here, and the respect shown to the participants is really on full display. Adapted well, written well, and directed with a restrained skill and sharp editing blade, not generally displayed in Nolan films.
Dunkirk. Will get some Oscar buzz, and will be one of the best movies of the entire year. Just flat out great!
Saturday, July 8, 2017
MOVIE REVIEWS - In Theaters Now
Baby Driver
This us terrific! A great cast led by Kevin Spacey, Jamie Foxx, John Hamm, Ansel Elgort, and Lily James. This gets a ton of originality points with me.
It's the story of Baby, (Elgort) a young hot shot getaway driver with a small group of big time bank robbers. Baby has a back story that is interesting and and original. He falls in love with Deborah, (James) and decides he wants out of the crime business. But his boss (Spacey) feels differently.
This is fun, fast, well paced and a story you have not seen before, with original characters and good performances. HUGE kudos to Lily James, she is amazing as the reluctant love interest and is a very nice break from the fast pace of the much of this movie.
Baby Driver - Flat out good!
The Beguiled
This should have been much better than it is, and that's a shame. All the parts were assembled together for this to be really strong. Adapted by Sophia Coppola, and starring Nicole Kidman, Kirsten Dunst, Elle Fanning and Colin Farrell.
National critics are loving this, but the public is not. It's the story taking place in 1864 Virginia. A school for woman takes in a wounded Northern soldier (Farrell) in the waning days of the Civil War. He is badly injured and they bring him back to health, even though the are Southern Loyalists. Then the problems begin. They have not seen a man in years, and he a dishonest guy with ideas about how he can "benefit" from being locked up with many lonely women. How do they take revenge? Or deal with him?
This lacks teeth. Yes, there is some nice acting, and some twists that are interesting, but this lacks a any real direction, and there is really no strong end payoff. This could have been way more compelling and way more scary, but this just comes up as a movie packaged way better than produced.
The Beguiled - disappointing.
The House
Will Farrell and Amy Poehler can be funny people, or maybe used to be funny people. But quite frankly, I feel they are just out of ideas and have been for a while.
I am sure you know the premise here, and if you've seen the trailer, there is no real reason to see the movie. You have seen all of it. There is not one thing here that is new, original, and the laughs are few.
The House - Huge flop and flat out bad.
scott@wqmx.com
This us terrific! A great cast led by Kevin Spacey, Jamie Foxx, John Hamm, Ansel Elgort, and Lily James. This gets a ton of originality points with me.
It's the story of Baby, (Elgort) a young hot shot getaway driver with a small group of big time bank robbers. Baby has a back story that is interesting and and original. He falls in love with Deborah, (James) and decides he wants out of the crime business. But his boss (Spacey) feels differently.
This is fun, fast, well paced and a story you have not seen before, with original characters and good performances. HUGE kudos to Lily James, she is amazing as the reluctant love interest and is a very nice break from the fast pace of the much of this movie.
Baby Driver - Flat out good!
The Beguiled
This should have been much better than it is, and that's a shame. All the parts were assembled together for this to be really strong. Adapted by Sophia Coppola, and starring Nicole Kidman, Kirsten Dunst, Elle Fanning and Colin Farrell.
National critics are loving this, but the public is not. It's the story taking place in 1864 Virginia. A school for woman takes in a wounded Northern soldier (Farrell) in the waning days of the Civil War. He is badly injured and they bring him back to health, even though the are Southern Loyalists. Then the problems begin. They have not seen a man in years, and he a dishonest guy with ideas about how he can "benefit" from being locked up with many lonely women. How do they take revenge? Or deal with him?
This lacks teeth. Yes, there is some nice acting, and some twists that are interesting, but this lacks a any real direction, and there is really no strong end payoff. This could have been way more compelling and way more scary, but this just comes up as a movie packaged way better than produced.
The Beguiled - disappointing.
The House
Will Farrell and Amy Poehler can be funny people, or maybe used to be funny people. But quite frankly, I feel they are just out of ideas and have been for a while.
I am sure you know the premise here, and if you've seen the trailer, there is no real reason to see the movie. You have seen all of it. There is not one thing here that is new, original, and the laughs are few.
The House - Huge flop and flat out bad.
scott@wqmx.com
Wednesday, June 21, 2017
MOVIE REVIEW - Megan Leavey
There are some movies that are not going to be gigantic hits, but deserve to be made. This is one of those.
Based on the true story of Marine Megan Leavey and her bomb sniffing, warrior dog, Rex, this is an emotional piece that tells a story you have not seen before. Megan and Rex are kindred spirits as they each have bad past and have trouble connecting with others still. They find each other in the Marines as Megan becomes Rex's handler and they end up in the Middle East together in 2006, saving lives by sniffing out explosives.
But where will this journey eventually end? Rex is the property of the U.S. Military, as is Megan. What happens in the Middle East, and what happens when Rex, or Megan for that matter can no longer work?
This movie is very powerful at times, and as a dog lover you can't help but be moved by all that Rex is, and what he becomes. This movie is moving, interesting, and entertaining. It could be a bit too long, but it's not a deal breaker. It also takes us somewhere we have never been before, and that always gets high marks from me.
Megan Leavey. Limited release, but worth the find.
Based on the true story of Marine Megan Leavey and her bomb sniffing, warrior dog, Rex, this is an emotional piece that tells a story you have not seen before. Megan and Rex are kindred spirits as they each have bad past and have trouble connecting with others still. They find each other in the Marines as Megan becomes Rex's handler and they end up in the Middle East together in 2006, saving lives by sniffing out explosives.
But where will this journey eventually end? Rex is the property of the U.S. Military, as is Megan. What happens in the Middle East, and what happens when Rex, or Megan for that matter can no longer work?
This movie is very powerful at times, and as a dog lover you can't help but be moved by all that Rex is, and what he becomes. This movie is moving, interesting, and entertaining. It could be a bit too long, but it's not a deal breaker. It also takes us somewhere we have never been before, and that always gets high marks from me.
Megan Leavey. Limited release, but worth the find.
Tuesday, June 20, 2017
MOVIE REVIEW - 47 Meters Down
Well you can tell summer is here, because here comes the obligatory "shark" movie. And 47 Meters Down, is OK.
This stars Mandy Moore and Claire Holt as two young sisters who are very different on vacation somewhere in southern, tropical waters. One sister learns of this off the books boat charter that drops you in a cage in scuba gear and submerges you down about 15 meters, and lets the great white sharks swim around you. Sound fun?
One of sisters (Moore) wants nothing to do with this scheme, while the other (Holt) is all about it, and she pressures the other to do it. So they do. And it does not go well. The cable snaps that he cage goes to the sea floor. They are stuck, no way to get up, and sharks, and limited air supply.
This movie does a number of things well. First off, it does not wear out its welcome, very short. It is filmed well, as 90% of this is underwater. The story is a good one, that is as original as a shark movie can be, and our stars do well in a limited setting. The only real negative here is in your own mind. You just may be tired of shark movies, or there may not be enough shark for others.
But this is an entertaining movie. It's no perfect, but neither is any other movie. Above all this is NOT hokey or stupid. It has a story, it tells it, and that's it. Effects good, story good, over all good.
47 Meters Down. Well done!
This stars Mandy Moore and Claire Holt as two young sisters who are very different on vacation somewhere in southern, tropical waters. One sister learns of this off the books boat charter that drops you in a cage in scuba gear and submerges you down about 15 meters, and lets the great white sharks swim around you. Sound fun?
One of sisters (Moore) wants nothing to do with this scheme, while the other (Holt) is all about it, and she pressures the other to do it. So they do. And it does not go well. The cable snaps that he cage goes to the sea floor. They are stuck, no way to get up, and sharks, and limited air supply.
This movie does a number of things well. First off, it does not wear out its welcome, very short. It is filmed well, as 90% of this is underwater. The story is a good one, that is as original as a shark movie can be, and our stars do well in a limited setting. The only real negative here is in your own mind. You just may be tired of shark movies, or there may not be enough shark for others.
But this is an entertaining movie. It's no perfect, but neither is any other movie. Above all this is NOT hokey or stupid. It has a story, it tells it, and that's it. Effects good, story good, over all good.
47 Meters Down. Well done!
Sunday, June 4, 2017
MOVIE REVIEW - Wonder Woman
It's no secret, I am not a fan of the millions of unneeded Superhero movies. There are too many, they come out to fast, and they all look the same. - But this - this is really something.
Wonder Woman starring Gal Gadot and Chris Pine, and for my money is the best, non parody Superhero movie yet, and not be a little. Guardians is the best comical one I have ever seen, but this is straight, and this is incredible. In fact, this is one of the best movies of any kind in this young year so far. The strength of this, is its incredibly smart, slick and well written script. I have always stated, all GREAT movies start with a great script and not what you can generate on a computer.
This script is sensational, patient, smart, and they develop the characters wonderfully. You learn who WW (Diana) is, where she's from, why she is the way she is. You like her, you feel with her, you understand her the best you can given her complicated origins. Gadot is so well cast, it's one of the best decisions possible. You have to have an up and comer be Diana so we can grow with her. Because of that, you are learning about and watching Diana, and not some huge A-lister in a skimpy costume. This is also not written for any wise-cracking big stars' comedic ego either. There is no real attempt at being funny here like so many of these other series. This has a story to tell in a troubled time, and tells it directly.
This takes place during the waning days of WWI, and you feel the horror that was that horrible war. The settings are in Europe and the locations, sets, music, effects and costuming are fabulous. The story is a great blend of an actual event, (WWI), and of course the fantasy that are Superheros. This makes you feel, it makes you angry, and puts you right in the middle of a place we seldom go to at the movies.
The effects are fine, but they are in all these flicks. The star here is Gadot, Pine and "the smart." The enemy is the the war and its horror. What a great decision. There's not some stupid villain that has some far fetched ray gun trying to eliminate mankind. This is written for adults, and boy is that a nice switch from the rest.
Wonder Woman - Not just a great superhero movie. This is a great movie -period!
Wonder Woman starring Gal Gadot and Chris Pine, and for my money is the best, non parody Superhero movie yet, and not be a little. Guardians is the best comical one I have ever seen, but this is straight, and this is incredible. In fact, this is one of the best movies of any kind in this young year so far. The strength of this, is its incredibly smart, slick and well written script. I have always stated, all GREAT movies start with a great script and not what you can generate on a computer.
This script is sensational, patient, smart, and they develop the characters wonderfully. You learn who WW (Diana) is, where she's from, why she is the way she is. You like her, you feel with her, you understand her the best you can given her complicated origins. Gadot is so well cast, it's one of the best decisions possible. You have to have an up and comer be Diana so we can grow with her. Because of that, you are learning about and watching Diana, and not some huge A-lister in a skimpy costume. This is also not written for any wise-cracking big stars' comedic ego either. There is no real attempt at being funny here like so many of these other series. This has a story to tell in a troubled time, and tells it directly.
This takes place during the waning days of WWI, and you feel the horror that was that horrible war. The settings are in Europe and the locations, sets, music, effects and costuming are fabulous. The story is a great blend of an actual event, (WWI), and of course the fantasy that are Superheros. This makes you feel, it makes you angry, and puts you right in the middle of a place we seldom go to at the movies.
The effects are fine, but they are in all these flicks. The star here is Gadot, Pine and "the smart." The enemy is the the war and its horror. What a great decision. There's not some stupid villain that has some far fetched ray gun trying to eliminate mankind. This is written for adults, and boy is that a nice switch from the rest.
Wonder Woman - Not just a great superhero movie. This is a great movie -period!
Friday, May 26, 2017
MOVIE REVIEW - Baywatch
The much hyped Baywatch satirical movie is here with The Rock and Zac Efron.
This movie is getting ripped by critics, and here is a good example of a flick they will hate, and those who goes will like. Probably a lot. This movie totally makes fun of every aspect of the long running TV show. The plot lines, the filming, the whole concept of these lifeguards somehow turning into cops. We all wondered that when the show was on, or were we simply giving it a pass because of the pretty people on it?
This movie spends the entire film making fun of itself, and what's not to like about that? Yes, this is mindless fun. Great? No! Too long? Yes! And yes sometimes the "comedy" envelope was pushed a bit too far and the movie is not better for it. I could have done without seeing a thing or two that happens here, but I dealt and you can too.
You do have to have some knowledge of the TV show to get all the jokes and situations, but if not, you can catch on pretty quickly. The Rock is funny, I like him in roles like this, and the supporting cast is fine too. Some nice action, and of course lots of pretty people.
Baywatch. Go, it's fun. Leave your mind at home for a bit.
This movie is getting ripped by critics, and here is a good example of a flick they will hate, and those who goes will like. Probably a lot. This movie totally makes fun of every aspect of the long running TV show. The plot lines, the filming, the whole concept of these lifeguards somehow turning into cops. We all wondered that when the show was on, or were we simply giving it a pass because of the pretty people on it?
This movie spends the entire film making fun of itself, and what's not to like about that? Yes, this is mindless fun. Great? No! Too long? Yes! And yes sometimes the "comedy" envelope was pushed a bit too far and the movie is not better for it. I could have done without seeing a thing or two that happens here, but I dealt and you can too.
You do have to have some knowledge of the TV show to get all the jokes and situations, but if not, you can catch on pretty quickly. The Rock is funny, I like him in roles like this, and the supporting cast is fine too. Some nice action, and of course lots of pretty people.
Baywatch. Go, it's fun. Leave your mind at home for a bit.
Saturday, May 6, 2017
MOVIE REVIEWS - In Theaters Now
Something for everyone, but only one will really matter this week and you know what it is.
Guardians Of The Galaxy Vol. 2
I loved the first installment of this series, and I like this one way more. As far as comic book and superhero flicks are concerned, this series has the absolute right idea. Chris Pratt leads a terrific cast again in this incredibly entertaining movie that people will totally fall in love with. This is the best superhero flick series - period.
For my money, the very best comic book flicks are the ones that embrace the fun that comic books can be. I love the ones that have a thread of humor that runs through not just certain moments, but throughout the entire movie. So many of these become too dark, too serious and make it more difficult to enjoy them. I also think that they can become more "offensive" (the only word I can come up with), where they invent villains that resemble so closely real life terrorists that are really no joke. And then lead us to think that some flying, ray shooting, joke cracking superhero will show up and save us all.
This movie is funny, fun, action based, and all at the same time continues to develop its characters like few others really do. Or try to do. This is way out there fun, that understands that these movies should be entertaining
This will easily be one of the most entertaining movies of this year or any year. Great performances, an interesting story, and Baby Groot?? C'mon! Who wonderful is this.
Guardians Of The Galaxy Vol. 2. Run to see this. Terrific!
How To Be A Latin Lover
We need a good comedy. What a surprise hit, and what a fun flick. This little movie is the story of a middle aged Mexican man, who used his good looks as a young man, to hook up with rich old women simply for the money. And when his sugar mama of 25 years throws him out, he must find a new one, or just change his life.
This movie has a bunch of names you know. Salma Hayek, Rob Lowe, Raquel Welch, Kristin Bell, Linda Lavin, Micheal Cera, Rob Corddry and Eugenio Derbez who is terrific as Maximo, our Latin Lover wanna be again. And Rapheal Alajandro is simply amazing as Maximo's young nephew.
Not all of this works, there are some moments that could have been rethought, and edited out, but this is overall pretty funny, and really fun.
Looking for a laugh, this will give it to you!
The Circle
What a disappointment. This is a way better idea than movie. This gigantic company that is sort of a mixture of Amazon, Facebook, Google, and Twitter thinks that they have the answer to all of our problems. They think there should be virtually no privacy at all. They also upon further review seem to be up to no good, possibly evil.
This script is really silly, and not even Tom Hanks and Emma Watson can save it. There are tons of holes in this, general silliness, and some stupid stereotypes. Plus, this makes young people look foolish by and large. Even though one of them wakes up and saves the day. (Not a spoiler, you'll see it coming, like everything else in this.)
This has a lousy script, marginal performances, and is among the most predictable movies you will ever see. Should be noted, Bill Paxton has a small role, think this was his movie shot before his tragic death.
The Circle. Not good.
scott@wqmx.com
Guardians Of The Galaxy Vol. 2
I loved the first installment of this series, and I like this one way more. As far as comic book and superhero flicks are concerned, this series has the absolute right idea. Chris Pratt leads a terrific cast again in this incredibly entertaining movie that people will totally fall in love with. This is the best superhero flick series - period.
For my money, the very best comic book flicks are the ones that embrace the fun that comic books can be. I love the ones that have a thread of humor that runs through not just certain moments, but throughout the entire movie. So many of these become too dark, too serious and make it more difficult to enjoy them. I also think that they can become more "offensive" (the only word I can come up with), where they invent villains that resemble so closely real life terrorists that are really no joke. And then lead us to think that some flying, ray shooting, joke cracking superhero will show up and save us all.
This movie is funny, fun, action based, and all at the same time continues to develop its characters like few others really do. Or try to do. This is way out there fun, that understands that these movies should be entertaining
This will easily be one of the most entertaining movies of this year or any year. Great performances, an interesting story, and Baby Groot?? C'mon! Who wonderful is this.
Guardians Of The Galaxy Vol. 2. Run to see this. Terrific!
How To Be A Latin Lover
We need a good comedy. What a surprise hit, and what a fun flick. This little movie is the story of a middle aged Mexican man, who used his good looks as a young man, to hook up with rich old women simply for the money. And when his sugar mama of 25 years throws him out, he must find a new one, or just change his life.
This movie has a bunch of names you know. Salma Hayek, Rob Lowe, Raquel Welch, Kristin Bell, Linda Lavin, Micheal Cera, Rob Corddry and Eugenio Derbez who is terrific as Maximo, our Latin Lover wanna be again. And Rapheal Alajandro is simply amazing as Maximo's young nephew.
Not all of this works, there are some moments that could have been rethought, and edited out, but this is overall pretty funny, and really fun.
Looking for a laugh, this will give it to you!
The Circle
What a disappointment. This is a way better idea than movie. This gigantic company that is sort of a mixture of Amazon, Facebook, Google, and Twitter thinks that they have the answer to all of our problems. They think there should be virtually no privacy at all. They also upon further review seem to be up to no good, possibly evil.
This script is really silly, and not even Tom Hanks and Emma Watson can save it. There are tons of holes in this, general silliness, and some stupid stereotypes. Plus, this makes young people look foolish by and large. Even though one of them wakes up and saves the day. (Not a spoiler, you'll see it coming, like everything else in this.)
This has a lousy script, marginal performances, and is among the most predictable movies you will ever see. Should be noted, Bill Paxton has a small role, think this was his movie shot before his tragic death.
The Circle. Not good.
scott@wqmx.com
Monday, May 1, 2017
Good Thought - Practice Your Passion
My dad died when I was 16. He wasn't here long. But he was here long enough to make say some things that have stuck with me forever.
You know, the basics. Be nice, treat women nicely, work hard, work before play. Some of that didn't hit me till later, like what is going on every day in our lives now. The Cavs and the Indians have me thinking a lot about him lately. In short, my dad gave me the love of sports. And that's an accurate sentence. LOVE the SPORT. Not in the winning and losing, but in the passion and the reflection sport can give us - to life. He flat out told me to "practice your passion." And even though he never heard me say one word on the radio ever....I have done so in my professional life all these years. Practiced my passion.
He once said I should learn to play golf. He was a scratch player (par), I am not. So he taught me how to play, and how to understand the game. He said I should learn it, as it is about the only game you can play your whole life long. He was right, been playing my whole life and there's no end in sight for me. I love the game, and if you love something, you respect it, and treat it right. I play golf because of the game, and relationships the game forges and not my scores. There are good scoring days and not good scoring days. But I am always on the course with my best friends on earth. Everyone should be so lucky.
The Tribe and the Cavs have me thinking now too. I have been fans of them my entire life. My dad was too as he took me to games all the time. And it was always for the fun that we could get from the game. It wasn't about winning and losing, it was about going to the game. And now that both of our favorite teams are having great runs, I am glad I have been a fan all these decades.
He would love this winning! But what he would really love, is that I still go to the games for all the same reasons I did during the down years. That I go, buy a beer, a dog, and simply enjoy a day at the ball yard. For no other reason that it was a fun thing to do.
Dad was right.
You know, the basics. Be nice, treat women nicely, work hard, work before play. Some of that didn't hit me till later, like what is going on every day in our lives now. The Cavs and the Indians have me thinking a lot about him lately. In short, my dad gave me the love of sports. And that's an accurate sentence. LOVE the SPORT. Not in the winning and losing, but in the passion and the reflection sport can give us - to life. He flat out told me to "practice your passion." And even though he never heard me say one word on the radio ever....I have done so in my professional life all these years. Practiced my passion.
He once said I should learn to play golf. He was a scratch player (par), I am not. So he taught me how to play, and how to understand the game. He said I should learn it, as it is about the only game you can play your whole life long. He was right, been playing my whole life and there's no end in sight for me. I love the game, and if you love something, you respect it, and treat it right. I play golf because of the game, and relationships the game forges and not my scores. There are good scoring days and not good scoring days. But I am always on the course with my best friends on earth. Everyone should be so lucky.
The Tribe and the Cavs have me thinking now too. I have been fans of them my entire life. My dad was too as he took me to games all the time. And it was always for the fun that we could get from the game. It wasn't about winning and losing, it was about going to the game. And now that both of our favorite teams are having great runs, I am glad I have been a fan all these decades.
He would love this winning! But what he would really love, is that I still go to the games for all the same reasons I did during the down years. That I go, buy a beer, a dog, and simply enjoy a day at the ball yard. For no other reason that it was a fun thing to do.
Dad was right.
Thursday, April 27, 2017
MOVIE REVIEWS - In Theaters Now
This week, there are many choices at the movies, let's see what's up!
Free Fire
This very short, and strange little independent flick is 91 minutes of violence, fun, and flat out irony. I have never really seen a movie like it.
Set in 1978, it's the story of a few "gangs" if you will, who end up shooting up themselves and an abandoned building after an arms sale deal goes wrong. This movie is essentially a bunch of people shooting at each other the entire time. Who is going t make it out?
As strange as this sounds and is, it is pretty good. They do develop the characters pretty well, in the midst of all of this gunfire, and it does keep you wondering who is going to make it out. A solid cast, and an original idea make this work.
Not for everyone, but this will find a way.
Gifted
This movie is gaining momentum and is really a feel good flick, and it's right on time with that. Chris Evans (Captain America) is quite good as a uncle raising a literal genius 7 year old little girl. He is determined to raise her as a regular kid, when others want her to be raised differently.
He is terrific in this, as is the supporting cast. This movie makes you feel - a lot. This is very good all the way around. This movie also does not wear out it's welcome and ends right on time. This little movie may get lost in the Spring Break shuffle, but this is worth a ticket for a date, or a family night out.
Well done - Very well done!
Unforgettable
Simple here. Rosario Dawson and Katherine Heigl "star" in EASILY the worst movie of the year so far.
And it may be tough to pass. This is a putrid mess.
scott@wqmx.com
Free Fire
This very short, and strange little independent flick is 91 minutes of violence, fun, and flat out irony. I have never really seen a movie like it.
Set in 1978, it's the story of a few "gangs" if you will, who end up shooting up themselves and an abandoned building after an arms sale deal goes wrong. This movie is essentially a bunch of people shooting at each other the entire time. Who is going t make it out?
As strange as this sounds and is, it is pretty good. They do develop the characters pretty well, in the midst of all of this gunfire, and it does keep you wondering who is going to make it out. A solid cast, and an original idea make this work.
Not for everyone, but this will find a way.
Gifted
This movie is gaining momentum and is really a feel good flick, and it's right on time with that. Chris Evans (Captain America) is quite good as a uncle raising a literal genius 7 year old little girl. He is determined to raise her as a regular kid, when others want her to be raised differently.
He is terrific in this, as is the supporting cast. This movie makes you feel - a lot. This is very good all the way around. This movie also does not wear out it's welcome and ends right on time. This little movie may get lost in the Spring Break shuffle, but this is worth a ticket for a date, or a family night out.
Well done - Very well done!
Unforgettable
Simple here. Rosario Dawson and Katherine Heigl "star" in EASILY the worst movie of the year so far.
And it may be tough to pass. This is a putrid mess.
scott@wqmx.com
Saturday, April 15, 2017
MOVIE REVIEW - The Fate Of The Furious
This franchise keeps getting larger and larger. This really does defy the odds.
This is number eight in this series, that was granted a 250 million dollar budget and is going to make it back ten times over. This is no spoiler here, they are all here. All your favs and some new ones as this series is most definitely going to charge on well past this one.
This time Charlize Theron is our villain and she is terrific as the ruthless cyber bully that is bent on breaking up the family and recruiting Dom to her insanely evil side. She is wonderful, and not overly dramatic. She was perfectly cast.
There is plenty of bang for your buck too. This is strewn with tons of well done action scenes. Some of them though do look like movies past, But nonetheless, there is lots to feast your eyes on. Much of the action scenes too were filmed in downtown Cleveland and the city really is on display for you to see. Although you are lead to believe it is New York City.
This is fun, well done and just flat out escapism, and in today's world we need some of that. And to think this series was almost stopped after the third film.
Fate Of The Furious. This is really fun and a long, long way from Tokyo Drift.
This is number eight in this series, that was granted a 250 million dollar budget and is going to make it back ten times over. This is no spoiler here, they are all here. All your favs and some new ones as this series is most definitely going to charge on well past this one.
This time Charlize Theron is our villain and she is terrific as the ruthless cyber bully that is bent on breaking up the family and recruiting Dom to her insanely evil side. She is wonderful, and not overly dramatic. She was perfectly cast.
There is plenty of bang for your buck too. This is strewn with tons of well done action scenes. Some of them though do look like movies past, But nonetheless, there is lots to feast your eyes on. Much of the action scenes too were filmed in downtown Cleveland and the city really is on display for you to see. Although you are lead to believe it is New York City.
This is fun, well done and just flat out escapism, and in today's world we need some of that. And to think this series was almost stopped after the third film.
Fate Of The Furious. This is really fun and a long, long way from Tokyo Drift.
Sunday, April 2, 2017
The Silent Shoulder Chip
All is right with the world as baseball season is here at last. I have been ready for the Tribe to begin since he final out of the amazing game 7 from last year. And I am sure the Indians have been too.
The off season has been strewn with so much Cubs love, it's almost ridiculous. I am a tolerant person by DNA, but even I have had enough. According to the media, 2017 is simply a formality and the Cubs are again the champs. ESPN has them going about 159-3 this year. It's about that silly. The Cubs were a great story from last year. As a Tribe fan, I can absolutley relate to the long World Series win drought as well as anyone. But being honest, the Cubs are good. But last year they were very, very fortunate and lucky, as well as good, to win the title.
They were very lucky to win the National League and then to face the Tribe with tons of injuries to the games best pitching staff. And they still almost blew it and let it get away. But that's the inept history of a Cubs franchise that has been botching chance after chance with Yankee advantages for decades.
Being said, now that the Joe Buck/Fox Sports Kyle Schwarber smooching sessions on national TV is over (let's hope), lets get down to 2017. The Tribe should be good, and should be a contender to win it all. They have the games best pitching staff, the best manager, and the most hungry of all fan bases. My hope this year is that the Tribe stays healthy and stays focused. My feeling is that they will. Because as sick as you and I are of all the Cubs/Schwarber groping, my gut tells me the Indians are way more tired of it that anyone.
I want the Tribe to be that exciting, fun team they were last year. Fun to watch, easy to like and contending from day one. But I also want them to play with a silent chip on their shoulders. The one you won't see with anger, or a snarled lip. But the one the just permeates their collective souls and drives them from within. The one that's healthy, and motivating. The one that jams runs across the plate at a breakneck pace, and strikes out the opposition same. The one where the game is fun for them, and not for the competition. And the one where each team goal leads to the next one. Where you win as much as you can, the right way, and show Joe Buck that he took the wrong date to the prom.
Can the Tribe end this long drought? 6 months will tell, but in the meantime enjoy what could be an amazing summer. Focus on game one, then game two, and so on, all the while knowing the most important game the Indians play is the next one. And then the one after that. Us against the world? Maybe.
But carry that silent shoulder chip, and know that this summer should be fun, should be memorable, and should ours. It's our time now, it's our moment now. The Cubs have assured that.
GO TRIBE!
The off season has been strewn with so much Cubs love, it's almost ridiculous. I am a tolerant person by DNA, but even I have had enough. According to the media, 2017 is simply a formality and the Cubs are again the champs. ESPN has them going about 159-3 this year. It's about that silly. The Cubs were a great story from last year. As a Tribe fan, I can absolutley relate to the long World Series win drought as well as anyone. But being honest, the Cubs are good. But last year they were very, very fortunate and lucky, as well as good, to win the title.
They were very lucky to win the National League and then to face the Tribe with tons of injuries to the games best pitching staff. And they still almost blew it and let it get away. But that's the inept history of a Cubs franchise that has been botching chance after chance with Yankee advantages for decades.
Being said, now that the Joe Buck/Fox Sports Kyle Schwarber smooching sessions on national TV is over (let's hope), lets get down to 2017. The Tribe should be good, and should be a contender to win it all. They have the games best pitching staff, the best manager, and the most hungry of all fan bases. My hope this year is that the Tribe stays healthy and stays focused. My feeling is that they will. Because as sick as you and I are of all the Cubs/Schwarber groping, my gut tells me the Indians are way more tired of it that anyone.
I want the Tribe to be that exciting, fun team they were last year. Fun to watch, easy to like and contending from day one. But I also want them to play with a silent chip on their shoulders. The one you won't see with anger, or a snarled lip. But the one the just permeates their collective souls and drives them from within. The one that's healthy, and motivating. The one that jams runs across the plate at a breakneck pace, and strikes out the opposition same. The one where the game is fun for them, and not for the competition. And the one where each team goal leads to the next one. Where you win as much as you can, the right way, and show Joe Buck that he took the wrong date to the prom.
Can the Tribe end this long drought? 6 months will tell, but in the meantime enjoy what could be an amazing summer. Focus on game one, then game two, and so on, all the while knowing the most important game the Indians play is the next one. And then the one after that. Us against the world? Maybe.
But carry that silent shoulder chip, and know that this summer should be fun, should be memorable, and should ours. It's our time now, it's our moment now. The Cubs have assured that.
GO TRIBE!
Wednesday, March 29, 2017
MOVIE REVIEWS - In Theaters Now
Kind of a yawner this week at the movies, lets see what's out there for you!
Power Rangers
OK this is the latest toy or TV series come to life for the grown adults as much as their children. This ala Transformers and the like. There is nothing new here.
This is loud.
This is Power Rangers. Not a bad afternoon for you and the kids. Get set, there will be more
Life
There is bad, there is really bad, and then there is this. How anyone can be enthralled by this is simply amazing. This is Alien, reborn, and ripped off. Plus, has there been a movie in the past few years as predictable as this?
Observation here. When you make space adventure and action thrillers that are set in the way distant future, you have more license. When you make a modern day space movie with people on the International Space Station, you need to get it right. Making the people on the station look like morons and stupid is simply bad movie making. And that's what this does. Also, real stories of space set in the contemporary world as FAR more compelling than terrible fiction like this.
True stories feature characters you like and are pulling for. This movie has neither. I hated these characters so much, I couldn't wait to see them meet a horrible end. This is silly, insulting and you know from frame ten, what will happen in the final one.
Life - Go see the new Alien this summer instead. Embarrassing.
Wilson
Woody Harrelson stars in the latest Indy lick about a quirky, grumpy old man. This time it's Wilson. This has some fun moments in it, as Woody gives it his best, as this smacks some of St. Vincent, About Schmidt, and As Good As It Gets. But it's not nearly in the same class.
This is an original story to a degree, as Wilson is a upper middle aged guy, alone in the world, as the world has passed him by. This does have a twist or two that are compelling, but sadly overall, this is just simply a way better idea than it was a produced movie.
Wilson - a select group will see it, and walk out wishing it has been better.
Power Rangers
OK this is the latest toy or TV series come to life for the grown adults as much as their children. This ala Transformers and the like. There is nothing new here.
This is loud.
This is Power Rangers. Not a bad afternoon for you and the kids. Get set, there will be more
Life
There is bad, there is really bad, and then there is this. How anyone can be enthralled by this is simply amazing. This is Alien, reborn, and ripped off. Plus, has there been a movie in the past few years as predictable as this?
Observation here. When you make space adventure and action thrillers that are set in the way distant future, you have more license. When you make a modern day space movie with people on the International Space Station, you need to get it right. Making the people on the station look like morons and stupid is simply bad movie making. And that's what this does. Also, real stories of space set in the contemporary world as FAR more compelling than terrible fiction like this.
True stories feature characters you like and are pulling for. This movie has neither. I hated these characters so much, I couldn't wait to see them meet a horrible end. This is silly, insulting and you know from frame ten, what will happen in the final one.
Life - Go see the new Alien this summer instead. Embarrassing.
Wilson
Woody Harrelson stars in the latest Indy lick about a quirky, grumpy old man. This time it's Wilson. This has some fun moments in it, as Woody gives it his best, as this smacks some of St. Vincent, About Schmidt, and As Good As It Gets. But it's not nearly in the same class.
This is an original story to a degree, as Wilson is a upper middle aged guy, alone in the world, as the world has passed him by. This does have a twist or two that are compelling, but sadly overall, this is just simply a way better idea than it was a produced movie.
Wilson - a select group will see it, and walk out wishing it has been better.
Thursday, March 23, 2017
MOVIE REVIEWS - In Theaters Now
One movie broke box office records, and one is just broke. Check out this weeks flicks here.
Beauty And The Beast
This movie is very interesting, as it has not been received as well from the national critics as I would have thought. This does have some problems, and makes a couple of strange decisions, but this is very good movie making. In fact the making of this, is the star as it is the marriage of many different kinds of movies rolled into one.
First the problems. Emma Watson as Belle. OK, she's not as good of a singer as the written music here, but who you gonna get? Who can sing this incredible music, and still be a box office draw at this young age that is required? She makes it through, in a no-win situation for her. She's fine, not great, but not a deal breaker. Also, this is a bit too long, with too many far too long scenes that do wear out their welcome. And some of this is a bit over the top.
But this does have some real nice moments. Its old school musical format is fun to see. The CG effects are incredible, and the sets, costuming and overall feel is certainly what they were going for. Makeup is terrific, and music same. And some of the techniques used here are simply breathtaking when the non human characters come to life.
Perfect? No. But highly enjoyable for you and your family.
The Belko Experiment
OK, this is a really, really good idea that they just fumble through, and that's too bad. This story had the chance to be something original, but they went for simply violent instead.
This fictional American company called Belko, is taken over by some entity that delivers this ultimatum to the 6 employees inside. They must kill 2/3 of the employees themselves in few hours, or "they" will kill them all by a means ...you don't want to know here. It all is in the name of an "experiment." Sad part is, after about 90 minutes of blood, guts and violence, you never really find out why, or who "they" are to any real satisfaction.
That was the whole thing here. That fact alone, was the star of this movie. Too bad the makers didn't know that. They sell out to big violence and straight out killing instead of a decent story.
Good and original idea, flushed away
Beauty And The Beast
This movie is very interesting, as it has not been received as well from the national critics as I would have thought. This does have some problems, and makes a couple of strange decisions, but this is very good movie making. In fact the making of this, is the star as it is the marriage of many different kinds of movies rolled into one.
First the problems. Emma Watson as Belle. OK, she's not as good of a singer as the written music here, but who you gonna get? Who can sing this incredible music, and still be a box office draw at this young age that is required? She makes it through, in a no-win situation for her. She's fine, not great, but not a deal breaker. Also, this is a bit too long, with too many far too long scenes that do wear out their welcome. And some of this is a bit over the top.
But this does have some real nice moments. Its old school musical format is fun to see. The CG effects are incredible, and the sets, costuming and overall feel is certainly what they were going for. Makeup is terrific, and music same. And some of the techniques used here are simply breathtaking when the non human characters come to life.
Perfect? No. But highly enjoyable for you and your family.
The Belko Experiment
OK, this is a really, really good idea that they just fumble through, and that's too bad. This story had the chance to be something original, but they went for simply violent instead.
This fictional American company called Belko, is taken over by some entity that delivers this ultimatum to the 6 employees inside. They must kill 2/3 of the employees themselves in few hours, or "they" will kill them all by a means ...you don't want to know here. It all is in the name of an "experiment." Sad part is, after about 90 minutes of blood, guts and violence, you never really find out why, or who "they" are to any real satisfaction.
That was the whole thing here. That fact alone, was the star of this movie. Too bad the makers didn't know that. They sell out to big violence and straight out killing instead of a decent story.
Good and original idea, flushed away
Monday, March 13, 2017
Sleep The Snow Away
Today is National Napping Day, and being honest I just woke up from one Felt great!
Naps are a funny thing. Is there anything we have such a different opinion on in different stages of life than naps. As a kid you fight tooth and nail NOT to take a nap. You cry, moan, throw a fit and simply are afraid to miss out on anything. For me, being the youngest, I always played the "not fair" card as my brother and sister had outgrown the peaceful practice of the nap.
But as adults, we can't wait to take a nap. Oh my gosh, laying down on the couch with something bad on TV, and just dozing off for a while in the middle of the day - heaven. If you can, you do. If you can't, you wish you could. That's just the reality of the nap.
Snow days are the only thing I think that compare with naps in our change of perception. As a kid, the idea of not going to school on short notice was simply amazing. Remember just sitting there wondering if we would get enough snow not to go? Waiting to see your school on TV, or hear it on the radio. It was the best feeling on earth! NO School!! It was like a gift. An Amazon box that was for you, that you didn't know was on the way!
As a responsible adult? Is there anything more disheartening? Driving in it, shopping in it, shoveling, or snow blowing it. The morons in their first 4 wheel drive who think they can drive 80. The cancelled flights, the delayed flights, the slipping, sliding, and falling. Walking the dog..the list goes on. It really is a stunning metamorphosis. From giddy, to grumpy with snow.
Look, on some nice weekend night, when you are at home and there's no reason to go out, and strong blast of snow can be nice. Looks good, and you are inside safe and warm. But when it's during the week, like this week?
I think I'll take a nap. Wake me up when it's time to get up and drive in for the show - in the snow.
See you in the morning.
Naps are a funny thing. Is there anything we have such a different opinion on in different stages of life than naps. As a kid you fight tooth and nail NOT to take a nap. You cry, moan, throw a fit and simply are afraid to miss out on anything. For me, being the youngest, I always played the "not fair" card as my brother and sister had outgrown the peaceful practice of the nap.
But as adults, we can't wait to take a nap. Oh my gosh, laying down on the couch with something bad on TV, and just dozing off for a while in the middle of the day - heaven. If you can, you do. If you can't, you wish you could. That's just the reality of the nap.
Snow days are the only thing I think that compare with naps in our change of perception. As a kid, the idea of not going to school on short notice was simply amazing. Remember just sitting there wondering if we would get enough snow not to go? Waiting to see your school on TV, or hear it on the radio. It was the best feeling on earth! NO School!! It was like a gift. An Amazon box that was for you, that you didn't know was on the way!
As a responsible adult? Is there anything more disheartening? Driving in it, shopping in it, shoveling, or snow blowing it. The morons in their first 4 wheel drive who think they can drive 80. The cancelled flights, the delayed flights, the slipping, sliding, and falling. Walking the dog..the list goes on. It really is a stunning metamorphosis. From giddy, to grumpy with snow.
Look, on some nice weekend night, when you are at home and there's no reason to go out, and strong blast of snow can be nice. Looks good, and you are inside safe and warm. But when it's during the week, like this week?
I think I'll take a nap. Wake me up when it's time to get up and drive in for the show - in the snow.
See you in the morning.
MOVIE REVIEWS - In Theaters This Week
A nice array of movies in the houses this week, let's take a quick look.
Kong Skull Island
Here comes King Kong yet again, rebooted and good to go with an all star cast to back him up. This stars John Goodman, Tom Hiddleston, Brie Larsen, Samuel L. Jackson, John C. Rielly and many more in this story of discovering Kong deep in the South Pacific on Skull Island.
Kong looks to be in good shape, and that's saying something after 84 years have passed since his big screen debut. This is simply escapism. Kong is discovered, and he still basically wants to be left alone, except man, keeps butting in. Kong is still a sympathetic character with emotions, as well as strength, and boy does he have strength. Kong is bigger and better than ever. The CG is terrific here, and there is planty of action, and yes, there is plenty of Kong.
This is available to you in various formats, including IMAX, and 3D. I saw it in 3D, and being honest I'm not sure it added to the experience. But you can be the judge for yourself.
Kong, clearly he's been working out and has accepted his role again as one of cinemas most enduring characters. Kong Skull Island, simply fun.
The Shack
This was a gigantic book, and now it's movie, and a spiritual one at that. Perfect and I mean perfect example of a movie critics will hate and patrons will love. Are there better movies? Absolutely! But this is getting a bad national rap.
This is the story of Mac, who suffers unimaginable loss in life, and he loses his way with himself, his wife, and family. He then decides to go on a solo journey back to the scene that is the source of all of his pain, a place called, The Shack. While there, he has a weekend long encounter with God, and Jesus - themselves in person. Their goal is to heal Mac, and mend his life and family.
Flat out, this will be far too spiritual for some. This does get off to a slow start, and makes a few silly flubs, but it does gather itself. This is far too long at 2:15. But it does offer a Mac's look inside of his own belief system, and will bring comfort to some who may struggle in every day life. It is a bit too much like a sermon at times, but is not a deal deal breaker.
The Shack. Great? No. But not the tanker national critics want you to think.
Before I Fall
This is a pretty interesting movie that dares to ask questions about not only what happens to you when you die, but what can happen before you die that matters.
This is the story of four high school girls who seem to live typical modern teen lives. Samantha, (Zoey Deutch) is our main character, and she lives through a typical day, that does not end typically. As a result, she starts to re-live that same day over and over again, ala Groundhog Day. But this is not a comedy, this is teen drama.
What this is, is a young girl given the chance time and time again to grow up before it's too late. It's about coming of age, and doing the right thing that is in your heart, and not succumbing to the pressures of being a teen. This, is overall interesting enough to hold your attention, but this does have the view that these teens aren't as average as the writer would like you to believe. I would have preferred to see teens not from such affluence showcased here.
Deutch was terrific, supporting cast decent, overall an interesting flick that teens and tweens will love as it may look like them. For the rest of us, especially parents could be a great learning tool.
Moonlight
After its big Oscar win for Best Picture, Moonlight has gone wide release to about 1,500 screens this week. This movie is a very powerful flick that is daring to take us to places seldom gone to at the movies.
This is the story of a young African American boy from his childhood, to his adulthood beginning in the worst part of the inner city. This movie chronicles the amazingly complicated and difficult life in the projects, and the fight, or not, to break away from it. And here, they also wrote in some ancillary life situations that add to the struggle. This is written bravely and skillfully with a totally original story that none of us has ever seen told this way before.
Great performances, a great script, and filmed wonderfully, Moonlight is a true original. This is certainly a trip to the movies you have not taken before. Well, well done.
Kong Skull Island
Here comes King Kong yet again, rebooted and good to go with an all star cast to back him up. This stars John Goodman, Tom Hiddleston, Brie Larsen, Samuel L. Jackson, John C. Rielly and many more in this story of discovering Kong deep in the South Pacific on Skull Island.
Kong looks to be in good shape, and that's saying something after 84 years have passed since his big screen debut. This is simply escapism. Kong is discovered, and he still basically wants to be left alone, except man, keeps butting in. Kong is still a sympathetic character with emotions, as well as strength, and boy does he have strength. Kong is bigger and better than ever. The CG is terrific here, and there is planty of action, and yes, there is plenty of Kong.
This is available to you in various formats, including IMAX, and 3D. I saw it in 3D, and being honest I'm not sure it added to the experience. But you can be the judge for yourself.
Kong, clearly he's been working out and has accepted his role again as one of cinemas most enduring characters. Kong Skull Island, simply fun.
The Shack
This was a gigantic book, and now it's movie, and a spiritual one at that. Perfect and I mean perfect example of a movie critics will hate and patrons will love. Are there better movies? Absolutely! But this is getting a bad national rap.
This is the story of Mac, who suffers unimaginable loss in life, and he loses his way with himself, his wife, and family. He then decides to go on a solo journey back to the scene that is the source of all of his pain, a place called, The Shack. While there, he has a weekend long encounter with God, and Jesus - themselves in person. Their goal is to heal Mac, and mend his life and family.
Flat out, this will be far too spiritual for some. This does get off to a slow start, and makes a few silly flubs, but it does gather itself. This is far too long at 2:15. But it does offer a Mac's look inside of his own belief system, and will bring comfort to some who may struggle in every day life. It is a bit too much like a sermon at times, but is not a deal deal breaker.
The Shack. Great? No. But not the tanker national critics want you to think.
Before I Fall
This is a pretty interesting movie that dares to ask questions about not only what happens to you when you die, but what can happen before you die that matters.
This is the story of four high school girls who seem to live typical modern teen lives. Samantha, (Zoey Deutch) is our main character, and she lives through a typical day, that does not end typically. As a result, she starts to re-live that same day over and over again, ala Groundhog Day. But this is not a comedy, this is teen drama.
What this is, is a young girl given the chance time and time again to grow up before it's too late. It's about coming of age, and doing the right thing that is in your heart, and not succumbing to the pressures of being a teen. This, is overall interesting enough to hold your attention, but this does have the view that these teens aren't as average as the writer would like you to believe. I would have preferred to see teens not from such affluence showcased here.
Deutch was terrific, supporting cast decent, overall an interesting flick that teens and tweens will love as it may look like them. For the rest of us, especially parents could be a great learning tool.
Moonlight
After its big Oscar win for Best Picture, Moonlight has gone wide release to about 1,500 screens this week. This movie is a very powerful flick that is daring to take us to places seldom gone to at the movies.
This is the story of a young African American boy from his childhood, to his adulthood beginning in the worst part of the inner city. This movie chronicles the amazingly complicated and difficult life in the projects, and the fight, or not, to break away from it. And here, they also wrote in some ancillary life situations that add to the struggle. This is written bravely and skillfully with a totally original story that none of us has ever seen told this way before.
Great performances, a great script, and filmed wonderfully, Moonlight is a true original. This is certainly a trip to the movies you have not taken before. Well, well done.
Sunday, March 12, 2017
Give Them A Trophy~!
As this is being written, many will say this is a silly idea. But if you really think about this honestly, it starts to make sense.
As a movie buff all my life I will stand behind this statement, that the time has come to finally give King Kong and Godzilla - HONORARY Oscars. Not acting Oscars clearly but for lifetime achievements. The continued success of both of these characters is nothing short of amazing and unmatched. Kong did it again this week, raking in another 100 million or so. And to those of the "elite set" in Hollywood that would think this to be below them, or undignified, I say the following. Get over yourself. Here's the case for each.
They have been making Kong movies for 84 years! Godzilla for 63, for aombined for 147 years! Think about that. Godzilla has appeared in more movies that any other character in movie history. Kong brings throngs to theaters, and will keep doing so when he and Godzilla team up in the same movie in 2020. Look, I know that they are characters, but the Oscars would be an amazing tribute to the countless people over many decades and generations who brought those characters to life. From clay-mation, to the guy in the suit, to the incredible CG of today.
Kong and Godzilla have been enough of an inspiration to thousands, within Hollywood to be all they can be. From directors, to producers, to the special effects guys, to the long list of popular actors over the years who line up to star alongside them, to the studios who put up the money bring them back to life.
Both too are wonderful characters. Kong of course, is the lonely, sympathetic giant that only wants to be left alone, protect what is his, as he is the last of his kind. Virtually every successful "monster movie" and many other tragic movies, have drawn inspiration from the original King Kong from 1933. Kong died for what he thought was important as he was a victim of man's greed. You felt amazingly sorry for him.
Godzilla was created from man's testing of Nuclear Weaponry in post war WWII. He was the first of his kind and now wants to keep the balance that the world seems to need. The original Godzilla was absolutely an anti-nuclear weapon movie as it was made just a few years after Hiroshima, and takes place in Japan. He is a victim again, of man's encroachment on his environment. Also Godzilla's iconic roar, is considered to be the most famous sound effect in movie history.
Somehow these two characters have endured a century and half of movie making. From the originals, to the silly ones with the guys in the suits, to the incredible CG of today. Kong and Godzilla still captivate new generations of movie goers well into this century.
And to the "elites" that may claim this undignified? Each individually have made more movies than them over a far longer period of time. They look better now than 50 years ago, (can they say the same?). They have been seen by FAR more patrons, and have made infinitely more money than them. And being more than honest, are probably far more loved, and have portrayed characters as, or more substantive than them.
Would be a cool thing to do. The time has come. I think that 147 years of successful movie making is long enough to wait.
As a movie buff all my life I will stand behind this statement, that the time has come to finally give King Kong and Godzilla - HONORARY Oscars. Not acting Oscars clearly but for lifetime achievements. The continued success of both of these characters is nothing short of amazing and unmatched. Kong did it again this week, raking in another 100 million or so. And to those of the "elite set" in Hollywood that would think this to be below them, or undignified, I say the following. Get over yourself. Here's the case for each.
They have been making Kong movies for 84 years! Godzilla for 63, for aombined for 147 years! Think about that. Godzilla has appeared in more movies that any other character in movie history. Kong brings throngs to theaters, and will keep doing so when he and Godzilla team up in the same movie in 2020. Look, I know that they are characters, but the Oscars would be an amazing tribute to the countless people over many decades and generations who brought those characters to life. From clay-mation, to the guy in the suit, to the incredible CG of today.
Kong and Godzilla have been enough of an inspiration to thousands, within Hollywood to be all they can be. From directors, to producers, to the special effects guys, to the long list of popular actors over the years who line up to star alongside them, to the studios who put up the money bring them back to life.
Both too are wonderful characters. Kong of course, is the lonely, sympathetic giant that only wants to be left alone, protect what is his, as he is the last of his kind. Virtually every successful "monster movie" and many other tragic movies, have drawn inspiration from the original King Kong from 1933. Kong died for what he thought was important as he was a victim of man's greed. You felt amazingly sorry for him.
Godzilla was created from man's testing of Nuclear Weaponry in post war WWII. He was the first of his kind and now wants to keep the balance that the world seems to need. The original Godzilla was absolutely an anti-nuclear weapon movie as it was made just a few years after Hiroshima, and takes place in Japan. He is a victim again, of man's encroachment on his environment. Also Godzilla's iconic roar, is considered to be the most famous sound effect in movie history.
Somehow these two characters have endured a century and half of movie making. From the originals, to the silly ones with the guys in the suits, to the incredible CG of today. Kong and Godzilla still captivate new generations of movie goers well into this century.
And to the "elites" that may claim this undignified? Each individually have made more movies than them over a far longer period of time. They look better now than 50 years ago, (can they say the same?). They have been seen by FAR more patrons, and have made infinitely more money than them. And being more than honest, are probably far more loved, and have portrayed characters as, or more substantive than them.
Would be a cool thing to do. The time has come. I think that 147 years of successful movie making is long enough to wait.
Wednesday, March 8, 2017
Fowlerville
I love learning new things. I feel life is a quest, and we are all on it. And when you stop being willing to learn new things, the quest is over. If you know it all, or all you need to know, that's sad to me.
As I see news story's, especially local news items, I like you, wonder what were these people thinking? Understanding that life is not a "one size fits all proposition" still some decisions I see do confound me. Today, that reminded me of a lesson I learned years ago that was from as unlikely a source as I could have ever, ever imagined. But it stays with me today 20 some years later.
When I lived in Florida, I played a lot of golf with my great friend Ray at a place called the Bartow Golf Course, in the town of Bartow. Ray was the superintendent of the course. One day, we played golf with a local legend of that place, a long lanky guy named, Fowler. I can't even remember his first name, just Fowler. I'm sure he had one, I just never heard anyone call him that. Ray and I were good players, Fowler was a really good player. He would hit the ball so long and so straight, where his drives ended up in the fairway became known as "Fowlerville" as no one else could hit it nearly that far. As the round went on he noticed something about my game and shared this.
"Scott, you would score a lot better if you made some different decisions on the course. You hit, and putt the ball fine, but you manage the course wrong sometimes." Fowler then went on to advise me this. "The next time you are thinking about a really hard shot, say it out loud and see how it sounds. Saying out loud makes it real and you may make a different choice." So I tried it. "OK, I have to hit it 250 yards, straight, over the water, uphill, left of the Oak, over the sand trap, onto the raised green."
For heavens sake, my chances of doing that are almost none. But what I can do, is make two shorter easier shots, and maybe putt for birdie. Sage advice. All the while, not losing sight of the fact that some risks are worth taking, but they would be the exception, and not the general way of doing things.
My game got better, and still is, as I still do this on the course. But over time I began to realize this was easily transferable to every day life. So when I have a big decision to make or even a moderate one, I say it out loud to see how it sounds. It makes it real. And if it sounds ridiculous, then it more than likely is and I move on to a more reasonable option. To be honest, it has made my life better, less stressful, and with better decisions made overall.
Just thought I'd share, and maybe, just maybe this will help someone you know manage the course better when needed. And who doesn't need that sometimes. Who knew such wisdom would come to me, on a simple cart ride to a place called, of all things, Fowlerville.
As I see news story's, especially local news items, I like you, wonder what were these people thinking? Understanding that life is not a "one size fits all proposition" still some decisions I see do confound me. Today, that reminded me of a lesson I learned years ago that was from as unlikely a source as I could have ever, ever imagined. But it stays with me today 20 some years later.
When I lived in Florida, I played a lot of golf with my great friend Ray at a place called the Bartow Golf Course, in the town of Bartow. Ray was the superintendent of the course. One day, we played golf with a local legend of that place, a long lanky guy named, Fowler. I can't even remember his first name, just Fowler. I'm sure he had one, I just never heard anyone call him that. Ray and I were good players, Fowler was a really good player. He would hit the ball so long and so straight, where his drives ended up in the fairway became known as "Fowlerville" as no one else could hit it nearly that far. As the round went on he noticed something about my game and shared this.
"Scott, you would score a lot better if you made some different decisions on the course. You hit, and putt the ball fine, but you manage the course wrong sometimes." Fowler then went on to advise me this. "The next time you are thinking about a really hard shot, say it out loud and see how it sounds. Saying out loud makes it real and you may make a different choice." So I tried it. "OK, I have to hit it 250 yards, straight, over the water, uphill, left of the Oak, over the sand trap, onto the raised green."
For heavens sake, my chances of doing that are almost none. But what I can do, is make two shorter easier shots, and maybe putt for birdie. Sage advice. All the while, not losing sight of the fact that some risks are worth taking, but they would be the exception, and not the general way of doing things.
My game got better, and still is, as I still do this on the course. But over time I began to realize this was easily transferable to every day life. So when I have a big decision to make or even a moderate one, I say it out loud to see how it sounds. It makes it real. And if it sounds ridiculous, then it more than likely is and I move on to a more reasonable option. To be honest, it has made my life better, less stressful, and with better decisions made overall.
Just thought I'd share, and maybe, just maybe this will help someone you know manage the course better when needed. And who doesn't need that sometimes. Who knew such wisdom would come to me, on a simple cart ride to a place called, of all things, Fowlerville.
Sunday, March 5, 2017
Half Court Healing
Over the past couple of years I've been watching a situation in my neighborhood, simply from a drive by perspective. And it quite frankly, has been fascinating to watch it unfurl.
It starts out sad. A couple years ago, an elderly couple that lived about a mile from my house, that I never knew, had a early morning terrible house fire one winter day. They did not make it out. The house, that was a nice one, in a desirable area then stood there for a while empty. It was one of those situations where the house looked abandoned, but you really couldn't tell casually from a drive by, that it was more than likely completely destroyed inside.
Time went by and I always wondered what really happened there, and what was going to happen there. There was not a time I drove by, I didn't think about these people I didn't know. Over the months there was little change. Then one day, I noticed the home was being torn down totally. Again, this didn't seem surprising - on my levels. Then I noticed the basement had been filled in, and grass had been planted. That to me was surprising. A nice piece of land in a nice area, between two other nice houses sitting empty. The land, quite valuable.
Then, the biggest surprise of all. The other day, I noticed right in the middle of this really big empty house lot, was a new basketball hoop, with a mold being prepared for a level concrete half court to be poured. I was almost stunned, and I smiled. Full disclosure, I didn't know these people, their family, or anything about this whole thing other than what I just told you.
But I know this. It is incredibly refreshing to see that someone is clearly honoring someone's wishes, or giving a loved one a lasting legacy. I don't know if this is the family, or the city, or one of their neighbors. But it's wonderful to see that someone is gentle enough to deem this a worthy idea.
This has taught me that hallowed ground is not strictly limited to the deserved National Monuments that we all know and respect. But it can be more than powerful, when it's placed in the care and memory of neighborly perished souls who met and end that none of us can imagine.
This moved me. Well done.
It starts out sad. A couple years ago, an elderly couple that lived about a mile from my house, that I never knew, had a early morning terrible house fire one winter day. They did not make it out. The house, that was a nice one, in a desirable area then stood there for a while empty. It was one of those situations where the house looked abandoned, but you really couldn't tell casually from a drive by, that it was more than likely completely destroyed inside.
Time went by and I always wondered what really happened there, and what was going to happen there. There was not a time I drove by, I didn't think about these people I didn't know. Over the months there was little change. Then one day, I noticed the home was being torn down totally. Again, this didn't seem surprising - on my levels. Then I noticed the basement had been filled in, and grass had been planted. That to me was surprising. A nice piece of land in a nice area, between two other nice houses sitting empty. The land, quite valuable.
Then, the biggest surprise of all. The other day, I noticed right in the middle of this really big empty house lot, was a new basketball hoop, with a mold being prepared for a level concrete half court to be poured. I was almost stunned, and I smiled. Full disclosure, I didn't know these people, their family, or anything about this whole thing other than what I just told you.
But I know this. It is incredibly refreshing to see that someone is clearly honoring someone's wishes, or giving a loved one a lasting legacy. I don't know if this is the family, or the city, or one of their neighbors. But it's wonderful to see that someone is gentle enough to deem this a worthy idea.
This has taught me that hallowed ground is not strictly limited to the deserved National Monuments that we all know and respect. But it can be more than powerful, when it's placed in the care and memory of neighborly perished souls who met and end that none of us can imagine.
This moved me. Well done.
Friday, March 3, 2017
MOVIE REVIEWS - New In Theaters Now
This is traditionally the time they toss all the movies in theaters that, well have no place else to go Let's see if that's the case this week.
Logan
This is a good example of a series that from a movie standpoint is starting to wear thin. And it appears the end is near, and that's all I will say. Even Patrick Stewart is saying he is done.
I have to admit, expectations from me were low, as I have become fatigued on this whole Wolverine thing. But, I was reminded by Hugh Jackman that he is a fine actor, and has done a lot with this character over the past number of years. This may be a bit too long at 2 hours 15, but I was captured and entertained. And that's what these movies do, and for the most part do well.
Jackman and a solid script and a slick adaptation make this a late winter winner.
Get Out
What a surprise hit! And this is totally worth a ticket or two. This is as original of a script as we have seen in a long time. A thriller with serious racial overtones that was handled beautifully.
This is the story of a interracial couple who go home to meet mom and dad. The woman is white and her boyfriend is black. The parents clearly are messed up, but we don' exactly know how, but boy do we find out. This is a compelling story, that moves along fast, and handles a touchy topic exceedingly well.
This doesn't wear out its welcome either. It says what it needs to and moves on. Get Out is strong, original and flat out good.
Fist Fight
This Ice Cube, Charlie Day "comedy" is new this week. Um, where to begin on this one. This story is set in a modern day high school and the place is a zoo. And two teachers (Cube and Day) cross paths on the last day of school, and that leads to the two the THEM having a fist fight.
This is a really harsh, vile, foul language filled, drug glorifying "lampoon" of sort, on today's high school experience. This is also one of those comedy's that is essentially improvisational, where the actors really have no script and just try to be funny for 90 minutes. Truth is, this is not funny for even nine of it.
This could also be the most irritating movie of this year or any year. Would someone please shut Charlie Day up and ask him to quit screaming all movie in that shrill, high voice of his? And while your at it, ask the rest of the cast to do the same. This just does not work and it sends a brutal example that is supposed to be parody, but ends of being a celebration of the dysfunction of many schools.
Fist Fight. Not good, not funny, not needed.
Logan
This is a good example of a series that from a movie standpoint is starting to wear thin. And it appears the end is near, and that's all I will say. Even Patrick Stewart is saying he is done.
I have to admit, expectations from me were low, as I have become fatigued on this whole Wolverine thing. But, I was reminded by Hugh Jackman that he is a fine actor, and has done a lot with this character over the past number of years. This may be a bit too long at 2 hours 15, but I was captured and entertained. And that's what these movies do, and for the most part do well.
Jackman and a solid script and a slick adaptation make this a late winter winner.
Get Out
What a surprise hit! And this is totally worth a ticket or two. This is as original of a script as we have seen in a long time. A thriller with serious racial overtones that was handled beautifully.
This is the story of a interracial couple who go home to meet mom and dad. The woman is white and her boyfriend is black. The parents clearly are messed up, but we don' exactly know how, but boy do we find out. This is a compelling story, that moves along fast, and handles a touchy topic exceedingly well.
This doesn't wear out its welcome either. It says what it needs to and moves on. Get Out is strong, original and flat out good.
Fist Fight
This Ice Cube, Charlie Day "comedy" is new this week. Um, where to begin on this one. This story is set in a modern day high school and the place is a zoo. And two teachers (Cube and Day) cross paths on the last day of school, and that leads to the two the THEM having a fist fight.
This is a really harsh, vile, foul language filled, drug glorifying "lampoon" of sort, on today's high school experience. This is also one of those comedy's that is essentially improvisational, where the actors really have no script and just try to be funny for 90 minutes. Truth is, this is not funny for even nine of it.
This could also be the most irritating movie of this year or any year. Would someone please shut Charlie Day up and ask him to quit screaming all movie in that shrill, high voice of his? And while your at it, ask the rest of the cast to do the same. This just does not work and it sends a brutal example that is supposed to be parody, but ends of being a celebration of the dysfunction of many schools.
Fist Fight. Not good, not funny, not needed.
Monday, February 27, 2017
Jenny's Question
The other day I was doing what you were doing. I was scrolling through Facebook, and I saw this status question posed by "Jenny, " a friend of mine.
"At what age can one lose her filter and just say whatever comes to mind without repercussions?"
Man is that a wonderful question. And the immediate answer that came to me was, "Most of us begin this way too late." Some people don't have this problem at all. Never do - and just toss it out there and they don't care where the plates land, or how badly they shatter. But for many, this is one of the toughest things to do in life. To really speak what's on our mind (in person) and have no fear of what others will think of us. And after thinking a bit more about it, sadly, this is something that develops over time and doesn't happen near early enough in life.
I see people in their 20's and even 30's all the time stressing out about the reactions of their peers over something that they say or do, but especially say. And it does take me back to an age that I would never go back to again. I admit, I still think very carefully before speaking most times, on the air on off. And I'm glad I do. That's just my DNA. I also put a ton of thought into social media posting as well. That is very easy to leave the wrong impression with people that hardly know you.
Truth is, the keyboard on our phones, tablets and computers has emboldened a new generation, young and old, with a sense of invincibility that anything can be said confidently, even defiantly without any repercussions. But there are, they just don't have to face the music in person. And that lacks - guts.
So what is the answer to "Jenny's" poignant question? I say, as soon as possible. But it begins with making sure you have the best people in your world that you can. And that begins with being that very person for others who may be wondering the same thing you are. Who are wishing silently, like Jenny, to be surrounded by those who simply want your total friendship, and your insightful perspective - unabashed, and straight forward. And will love you all the more for it.
I do believe you teach people how to treat you. So be the person to them, you wish them to be for you.
"At what age can one lose her filter and just say whatever comes to mind without repercussions?"
Man is that a wonderful question. And the immediate answer that came to me was, "Most of us begin this way too late." Some people don't have this problem at all. Never do - and just toss it out there and they don't care where the plates land, or how badly they shatter. But for many, this is one of the toughest things to do in life. To really speak what's on our mind (in person) and have no fear of what others will think of us. And after thinking a bit more about it, sadly, this is something that develops over time and doesn't happen near early enough in life.
I see people in their 20's and even 30's all the time stressing out about the reactions of their peers over something that they say or do, but especially say. And it does take me back to an age that I would never go back to again. I admit, I still think very carefully before speaking most times, on the air on off. And I'm glad I do. That's just my DNA. I also put a ton of thought into social media posting as well. That is very easy to leave the wrong impression with people that hardly know you.
Truth is, the keyboard on our phones, tablets and computers has emboldened a new generation, young and old, with a sense of invincibility that anything can be said confidently, even defiantly without any repercussions. But there are, they just don't have to face the music in person. And that lacks - guts.
So what is the answer to "Jenny's" poignant question? I say, as soon as possible. But it begins with making sure you have the best people in your world that you can. And that begins with being that very person for others who may be wondering the same thing you are. Who are wishing silently, like Jenny, to be surrounded by those who simply want your total friendship, and your insightful perspective - unabashed, and straight forward. And will love you all the more for it.
I do believe you teach people how to treat you. So be the person to them, you wish them to be for you.
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