movieguyjon

Chuck, We Need To Talk

Posted on October 13, 2010 by movieguyjon Blather Screenwriting TV Writing 4

Can you come here a minute, Chuck? We need to talk. Yes, it’s as bad as you think it is. Sit down and let me get this off my chest before I lose my nerve.

This isn’t working. I’m sorry, Chuck. It’s you, not me. I can’t go on in this relationship anymore. It’s obvious that things are going nowhere and I really need a show that appreciates my sensibilities and that is able to grow with me. I’m all the way over here in season four and I feel like you’ve never really left season two. I come home after a long day’s work and turn on the television, only to find the same old schtick that I’ve seen before. If I wanted “same old,” I would have purchased an older season or watch Undercovers instead. But that’s not on on Mondays, so that leaves me with what? Weeds? Sure, I’ll only watch a half hour of television to relax in the evening. Maybe I’ll fill the rest of my night crying into a vodka bottle while listening to The Magnetic Fields.

But I digress.

I feel like we’re not in this together anymore. I wanted to see Casey have a larger arc involving his daughter. The promise of that excited me in ways I’ve not felt since you gained the Intersect 2.0 or when I found out that Scott Bakula was going to be your dad. Seeing a new side to an otherwise one dimensional character felt so right.

Or how about Morgan and the Buy More story arc. Here’s a character that started off nothing more than the comedic relief of this show. He was the idiot that served to lighten the mood when the spy stuff got too intense. With the most recent season, I expected to see him take more of an important role and come into his own. Hell, you promised me that this would happen last season when he became an official operative and started going on missions with you.

What? Hold on. Neighbor yelled something about spoilers. Give me a sec. I’ve got to reply. HOW ABOUT YOU WATCH THE SHOW WHEN IT AIRS, HUH?! MAYBE THEN YOU WOULDN’T BE SPOILED. WHORE. Can you believe that? It’s like they wait to watch things on DVD or something.

Where were we? Oh yeah. Us.

We had all this potential together. What happened? What went wrong?

Wait. I know what went wrong. You went back to HER. You decided that you wanted to spend all your time with Sarah, making your petty squabbles the main focus of the show. Instead of letting me get to know your friends better, you made this all about you. Do you realize how much it hurt watching the most recent episode and realizing that things would never progress between us? It was like a slap in the face, Chuck.

No. I won’t hear it. Don’t tell me that you can change. It’s too late. I just…I…I think you should go.

Diagnosis: Film – Weekend of Oct. 15

Posted on October 11, 2010 by movieguyjon Blather Film Trailers 0

I think the highlight of my trailer searches this week was the trailer for N-Secure. Otherwise, a fairly non-standout week for film. I’ve got a few films I’d go see, and some you probably couldn’t pay me to see *cough cough*politcal documentary*cough cough*. Give the trailers a look-see by clicking on the film name. Are there any films this week you plan on seeing?

	Red Directed By: Robert Schwentke Written By: Erich Hoeber Starring: Bruce Willis, Morgan Freeman, Helen Mirren, Mary-Louise Parker Release Date: Oct 15, 2010 It took me a little bit to warm up to this idea, admittedly. But that’s thanks to a somewhat lackluster first trailer. I’ve changed my mind since then. Diagnosis: Can haz now plz?!
	Jackass 3-D Director: Jeff Tremaine Written By: Starring: Johnny Knoxville, Bam Margera, Steve-O, Jason Acuna Release Date: Oct 15, 2010 Jackass is my guilty pleasure. I’ve been a fan of it since early high school and was quite into it as I started college. I guess you could say I’ve grown up with these dickheads. Diagnosis: Want to see.
	Hereafter Director: Clint Eastwood Written By: Peter Morgan Starring: Matt Damon, Bryce Dallas Howard, Daniel McLaren, Cécile De France Release Date: Oct 15, 2010 (Limited) I have yet to see a Clint Eastwood film. This one looks interesting. Diagnosis: Okay, I’ll bite.
	Conviction Director: Tony Goldwyn Written By: Pamela Gray Starring: Hilary Swank, Minnie Driver, Sam Rockwell, Peter Gallagher Release Date: Oct 15, 2010 (Limited) The trailer is a bit over-the-top and seemingly Oscar-bait. But that aside it looks like an interesting story. Ever since Moon, I’m kind of drawn to Sam Rockwell’s choice in roles. Diagnosis: Curious to see.
	Samson and Delilah Director: Warwick Thornton Written By: Warwick Thornton Starring: Rowan McNamara, Marissa Gibson, Mitjili Napanangka Gibson, Scott Thornton Release Date: Oct 15, 2010 (Limited) I hate when trailers heap unrealistic praise on films. Despite this trailer being full of said praise, I’m still interested in seeing this. Diagnosis: IT’S THE MUST SEE OF THE MILLENNIA, YO
	The Trouble with Terkel (Terkel i knibe) Director: Kresten Vestbjerg Andersen, Thorbjorn Christoffersen, Stefan Fieldmark, Randolph Kret Written By: Mette Heeno Starring: Kim Matthesen, Anders Matthesen, Bill Bailey, Tom Everett Release Date: Oct 12, 2010 (Limited) This looks absolutely ridiculous…in a good way. Diagnosis: Want to see.
	I Want Your Money Director: Ray Griggs Written By: Starring: Ray Griggs, Mike Huckabee, Stephen Moore, William Voegeli Release Date: Oct 15, 2010 (Limited) Guess how interested I am in this “documentary.” Diagnosis: Not very.
	Down Terrace Director: Ben Wheatley Written By: Robin Hill, Ben Wheatley Starring: Bob Hill, Robin Hill, Julia Deakin, David Schaal Release Date: Oct 15, 2010 (Limited) Heard about this one awhile ago. Still kind of interested in seeing it. Diagnosis: Still kind of interested in seeing it.
	Vision: From the Life of Hildegard von Bingen Director: Margarethe von Trotta Written By: Margarethe von Trotta Starring: Barbara Sukowa, Heino Ferch, Hannah Herzsprung, Gerald Alexander Held Release Date: Oct 13, 2010 (Limited) Couldn’t find an english trailer so I put up this one instead. Looks like an interesting enough film. Might not seek it out, though. Diagnosis: If I have time.
	Carmo, Hit the Road Director: Murilo Pasta Written By: Murilo Pasta Starring: Fele Martínez, Mariana Loureiro, Seu Jorge, Mauricio García Release Date: Oct 15, 2010 (Limited) Again, couldn’t find an english trailer, but I don’t think one was needed. I’m interested. Diagnosis: Curious to see.
	Poema de salvacion Director: Brian Dublin Written By: Eduardo Marando, Omar Quiroga, Alejandro Robino Starring: Gonzalo Senestrari, Irina Alonso, Fernando Rosarolli, Fernando Rossaroli Release Date: Oct 15, 2010 (Limited) The trailer didn’t do much to grab me, but the synopsis did. Still, not sure I would see this unless I had some extra time on my hands. Diagnosis: If I have time.
	N-Secure Director: David M. Matthews Written By: Julius Lewis, Christine Taylor Starring: Cordell Moore, Essence Atkins, Denise Boutte, Tempestt Bledsoe Release Date: Oct 15, 2010 (Limited) Wait…what? Diagnosis: …no seriously. What?!
	The Four-Faced Liar Director: Jacob Chase Written By: Marja-Lewis Ryan Starring: Lisa Bierman, Daniel Carlisle, Natasha David, Todd Kubrak Release Date: Oct 15, 2010 (Limited) I would be lying if I said this trailer and the film’s synopsis didn’t interest me some. Romantic comedies that aren’t mainstream? Sure, sign me up. Diagnosis: Interested.
	Urville Director: Angela Christlieb Written By: Starring: Starring: Denis Cremel, Francois Grossi, Patricia Raveneau-Laurent Release Date: Oct 15, 2010 (Limited) When the synopsis reads “Equal parts bemused reportage and whimsical fantasy,” there’s a decent chance I’ll be interested. Couldn’t find a trailer, but I’d see this just based on what I’ve read about it. Diagnosis: Want to see.
	Gerrymandering Director: Jeff Reichert Written By: Starring: Arnold Schwarzenegger, Howard Dean, Gray Davis, Pete Wilson Release Date: Oct 15, 2010 (Limited) yawn Diagnosis: ZZzzzz.
	White Lion Director: Michael Swan Written By: Michael Swan, Janet van Eeden Starring: Jamie Bartlett, John Kani, Thabo Malema Release Date: Oct 15, 2010 Seems like a fun family outing, with interesting visuals and a heartwarming story. Diagnosis: Not interested.

My Week In TV: Oct. 3-9

Posted on October 9, 2010 by movieguyjon Blather TV 0

Here we are with another solid week of television. The only major thing for me was that I dropped Undercovers from my “watch” list in preparation for The Walking Dead coming up at the end of this month. As much as I enjoyed the episodes of Undercovers that I watched, it just wasn’t as engaging for me as the other shows and was getting to be kind of a chore to watch. Not a slight on the solid work that goes into the show, but it’s just not for me.

Boardwalk Empire: S1 x 03 – Broadway Limited ★★★★☆

Another strong episode, with solid writing and character development. Perhaps the most interesting character in this episode agent Alden, pictured above and played by Michael Shannon. His doubled efforts to catch the bad guy are evident here, giving us a rather intense scene in a dentist’s office. It’s this scene juxtaposed with a comically mundane home life that shows off the great character work in this show.

Chuck: S4 x 03 – Chuck Versus The Cubic Z ★★★☆☆

This episode is a step down from the previous. It’s nice that they’re keeping the Chuck’s Mom story arc drawn out, but this lacks much of the heart of the second episode and I found myself more interested in Morgan’s bumbling attempts at managing a Buy More than yet another boring foray into Chuck and Sarah’s relationship. Frankly, I’m not sure how much more of them I can take. Let them simmer for the rest of this season, please.

Community: S2 x 03 – The Psychology of Letting Go ★★★★☆

While not as laugh out loud hilarious as episode two, this episode has heart and as such is a very good episode. Three solid episodes in a row? I’m blown away. Still not sure why this show has low ratings.

Fringe: S3 x 03 – The Plateau ★★★★☆

Kudos to the Fringe writers for being able to balance both the overall story arc and monster-of-the-week. Very rarely can shows pull this off and yet here it’s masterfully done. Because of this, all the incidental characters get the proper time and attention required to make picking a side difficult. Perhaps the strongest stylistic choice so far in this season has been sticking to one universe per episode. Now we’ve essentially got two Fringe divisions working on two sets of cases that we’re weaving in and out of. Essentially, this has evolved the monster-of-the-week style and taken it to new and interesting heights. As always, can’t wait for next week.

No Ordinary Family S1 x 02 – No Ordinary Marriage ★★★☆☆

I feel weird when I make some kind of criticism about a show and then in the next episode those criticisms get addressed. Such is the case with the second episode of No Ordinary Family. The characters were written stronger, and the episode itself was by and large a “learning the rules” episode, which is perhaps my favorite part of any super hero origin story. I still wasn’t sold on the villains until the very end. If they stick with this touch of dark, I think we might be in store for an interesting arc.

Terriers: S1 x 05 – Manifest Destiny ★★★★☆

The end of the Lindis arc. Not sure how I feel about this not playing out to the end of the season, but after this episode I’m not entirely sure they could have gone much farther with it anyway. Still getting some strong character work overall, and it’s an interesting watch.

Weeds: S6 x 07 – Pinwheels and Whirligigs ★★★☆☆

This is a pretty chill episode in a series of rather frenetic and stressful episodes, and as such it loses some of the bite that’s made it really awesome so far. This is probably for the best. Looks like there are some investigators on the case of the murdered politician, so things could heat up quite a bit in the episodes to come. The highlight of this episode was the scene pictured above. You’ll know when you see it as you will probably share the same grimace I had throughout.

On Writetober

Posted on October 4, 2010 by movieguyjon Blather Film My Life Screenwriting 0

It’s October, and with it comes horror films galore. Just saw the original 13 Ghosts a few days ago and had a blast. Going to watch all of the Friday the 13th movies at some point this month as well as a bunch of really crappy horror films. Might also get a viewing of Candyman in and a bunch of films I’ve never seen before. Apart from that, I’m taking the proverbial pen to paper (lap to laptop, maybe?) and writing a horror film. It’s a film in the style of Skeleton Key and Candyman in which a main character obsesses over a mystery and it ends up being their undoing.

I was thinking I would write the outline this week, and then take the rest of the month to write out the script itself. Sounds simple, right?

Just a matter of writing it.

*sigh*

Diagnosis: Film – Weekend of Oct. 8

Posted on October 4, 2010 by movieguyjon Blather Film Trailers 0

Got a horse movie we’ve never seen before and some horror that I’m always down for seeing. There’s also a Carey Elwes beat-em-up worth noting and a lot of documentaries you might be into but that fail to grab me in the slightest. And MILLA! There’s a frickin’ Milla movie this week that’s coming out. DEFINITELY want to see that one. Anyway, check out the trailers and enjoy.

	Secretariat Director: Randall Wallace Written By: Mike Rich Starring: Diane Lane, John Malkovich, Dylan Walsh, Scott Glenn Release Date: Oct 8, 2010 Another story about horse races and outrageous odds. yawn Diagnosis: Pass.
	Life as We Know It Director: Greg Berlanti Written By: Ian Deitchman, Kristin Rusk Robinson Starring: Katherine Heigl, Josh Duhamel, Jean Smart, Josh Lucas Release Date: Oct 8, 2010 Is it just me being weird or does this remind anyone else of Three Men And A Baby? Two unlikely adults raise a child left to them. Not entirely sure I’m sold on the movie from the trailer, but I would be lying if I said the premise didn’t interest me some. Diagnosis: If I have time.
	My Soul to Take Director: Wes Craven Written By: Wes Craven Starring: Max Thieriot, John Magaro, Emily Meade, Nick Lashaway Release Date: Oct 8, 2010 Wes Craven. October. Horror. Of course I’m going to see this. Diagnosis: Want to see.
	Nowhere Boy Director: Sam Taylor Wood Written By: Matt Greenhalgh Starring: Aaron Johnson, Kristin Scott Thomas, Thomas Sangster, David Morrissey Release Date: Oct 8, 2010 Not a Beatles fan, but I am kind of interested in this movie based off the trailer. And it stars Kick-Ass, so I’m curious to see how he moves on from that film. Diagnosis: If I have the time.
	It’s Kind of a Funny Story Director: Ryan Fleck, Anna Boden Written By: Anna Boden, Ryan Fleck Starring: Keir Gilchrist, Zach Galifianakis, Emma Roberts, Viola Davis Release Date: Oct 8, 2010 (Limited) Zach Galifianakis has gotten quite a bit of film saturation lately, so I’m not entirely sure I’m interested in seeing him play another variation on his usual shtick. This could just be the fault of an uninteresting trailer. Diagnosis: Not interested.
	Stone Director: John Curran Written By: Angus MacLachlan Starring: Robert De Niro, Edward Norton, Milla Jovovich, Frances Conroy Release Date: Oct 8, 2010 Milla Jovovich. Diagnosis: Must see.
	It’s a Wonderful Afterlife Director: Gurinder Chadha Written By: Paul Mayeda Berges, Gurinder Chadha Starring: Sanjeev Bhaskar, Steve Morphew, Jamie Sives, Sendhil Ramamurthy Release Date: Oct 8, 2010 (Limited) It’s Mohinder Suresh from Heroes…and a plot I don’t much care about…like Heroes. Diagnosis: Pass.
	Tamara Drewe Director: Stephen Frears Written By: Moira Buffini, Posy Simmonds Starring: Gemma Arterton, Roger Allam, Dominic Cooper, Luke Evans Release Date: Oct 8, 2010 (Limited) At first I thought it was a film about writers, and then I thought it was a film about Tamara Drewe, but then I realized it was a film about a potty-mouthed little girl causing trouble for everyone. Turns out, it wasn’t about that either. Diagnosis: Saw it so you don’t have to.
	I Spit On Your Grave Director: Steven R. Monroe Written By: Jeffrey Reddick, Meir Zarchi Starring: Rodney Eastman, Chad Lindberg, Andrew Howard, Daniel Franzese Release Date: Oct 8, 2010 (Limited) Never saw the original. Might look into seeing that first. Diagnosis: If I have time.
	Inside Job Director: Charles Ferguson Written By: Starring: Matt Damon (narrator), William Ackman, Daniel Alpert, Jonathan Alpert Release Date: Oct 8, 2010 (Limited) Not the kind of documentary that grabs me. Diagnosis: Pass.
	Letters to Father Jacob (Postia pappi Jaakobille) Director: Klaus Härö Written By: Klaus Härö Starring: Kaarina Hazard, Heikki Nousiainen, Jukka Keinonen, Esko Roine Release Date: Oct 8, 2010 (Limited) Didn’t quite understand the trailer, but the premise sounds interesting. Diagnosis: Curious.
	As Good as Dead Director: Jonathan Mossek Written By: Erez Mossek, Eve Pomerance Starring: Cary Elwes, Andie MacDowell, Frank Whaley, Matt Dallas Release Date: Oct 8, 2010 (Limited) Welcome to the beat the shit out of Cary Elwes movie. Although, the trailer does kind of pique my interest. Diagnosis: Piqued interest.
	Red White & Blue Director: Simon Rumley Written By: Simon Rumley Starring: Noah Taylor, Amanda Fuller, Marc Senter, Lauren Schneider Release Date: Oct 8, 2010 (Limited) Not sure what to make of the trailer, but it did its job and now I’m interested in seeing this film. Diagnosis: Interested.
	Budrus Director: Julia Bacha Written By: Julia Bacha Starring: Release Date: Oct 8, 2010 (Limited) Eh.. Diagnosis: Pass.
	GhettoPhysics: Will the Real Pimps and Hos Please Stand Up! Director: William Arntz, E. Raymond Brown Written By: William Arntz, E. Raymond Brown Starring: Ice-T, Norman Lear, Cornel West, KRS-One Release Date: Oct 8, 2010 (Limited) Just not a week of interesting documentaries for me. Diagnosis: Pass.

My Week In TV: Sept. 26-Oct. 2

Posted on October 3, 2010 by movieguyjon Blather TV 0

Overall, this was a good week for television. The only rough gem is a new show that started this past week.

Boardwalk Empire: S1 x 02 – The Ivory Tower ★★★☆☆

This is clearly the episode AFTER the episode that Martin Scorsese directed. It pretty much lacks all the directorial flair and style of the pilot, but still remains interesting and engaging. I just wish this episode had kept that little “something extra” as the style suited the story very well.

Chuck: S4 x 02 – Chuck Versus The Suitcase ★★★★☆

Compared to the season opener, this episode is a breath of fresh air. Chuck is his usual geeky/goofy self, and everyone else gets a chance to shine. It’s what every episode should be by default, and this one in particular gives me hope that the rest of the season is in good hands. Of course, there’s still time to ruin everything.

Community: S2 x 02 – Accounting For Lawyers ★★★★★

They make it look easy. My gut hurt before the teaser even finished. Every other show on the Thursday comedy lineup needs to take note: Community is the one to beat. I am in love with the Troy/Abed credits sequence from this episode. Also, Drew Carrey is rather striking nowadays.

Fringe: S3 x 02 – The Box ★★★★★

By the time you reach the end of this episode, you’ll be wishing it was next week already. This show continues to get better in each andevery aspect, from the way they handle the main arc to the standalone episodes. Anna Torv (Olivia Dunham) shines in this episode, pulling off alternate-Olivia with a subtlety and nuance that you never would have guessed possible in season one. Note to all: Do not eat dinner during this episode.

No Ordinary Family S1 x 01 – Pilot ★★☆☆☆

I’m surprised this show got picked up from this pilot alone. The premise is strong, but the execution leaves a lot to be desired. The best parts of the episode can be found in the commercials for it, leaving only one scene in particular to surprise viewers. The hook of having the husband and wife in counseling isn’t very well thought-out and by the end of the episode I don’t buy that any therapy is needed at all. That’s not to say this is a complete pan. TV shows have rough starts all the time. I just hope things pick up speed as the season progresses. Note to network: saw that turn a mile away. Re-think your reveals.

Terriers: S1 x 04 – Fustercluck ★★★★☆

This is a solid episode and manages to further the main arc in an interesting way. I’ve been getting a little wary up to this point because the show has lacked much direction, but with this episode it’s apparent that something is going down. I’m interested in where this goes. Would be cooler if Olivia Williams was in this again. Shame she was only a guest.

Undercovers: S1 x 01 – Pilot ★★★☆☆ :: S1 x 02 – Instructions ★★★☆☆

Apparently people have the notion that Undercovers is supposed to be this deep and engaging spy series that has the layers of an onion and makes you think. Folks, this is the diet coke of spy shows and it’s a mistake to get any kind of pissed off when you don’t get the depth you’re looking for. This is light and it’s easy to watch. The leads are attractive and have amazing chemistry, and the side characters are goofy and pop in with accurate comedic timing. I’m not sure I’ll stick with it past episode three, personally, but if you want to lightly nom on some spy action, this is the show for you!

Weeds: S6 x 06 – A Shoe For A Shoe ★★★★☆

Shane Botwin. The kid has had tremendous growth as a character these past six years and it shows. This episode neatly wraps up everything that went down in the previous one and gives us the right amount of closure. Odd that things are starting fresh from this point on since this is half-way through the season, but I imagine more trouble is on it’s way. Perhaps the strongest point of this show and this episode even is the extent in which Nancy has really lost her way and how it’s made her a much weaker person overall. I wonder if she’ll ever be able to recover what she had from way back in the Agrestic days.

Diagnosis: Film – Weekend of Oct. 1

Posted on September 28, 2010 by movieguyjon Blather Film Trailers 0

This is a good week to see films, for the most part. Got a few in this bunch I would go see, and a few others I am kind of interested in seeing. Nothing really struck me as a pan except for a few that you’ll read about below. Let’s get to this without further delay.

	The Social Network Director: David Fincher Written By: Aaron Sorkin Starring: Jesse Eisenberg, Justin Timberlake, Andrew Garfield Release Date: Oct 1, 2010 Despite the suspiciously glowing reviews on RottenTomatoes, I’m still interested in seeing this. And it’s not because I’m all that interested in Facebook. I am interested in the story the filmmakers have devised. It’s not like this is actually how it all went down. Diagnosis: Want to see.
	Case 39 Director: Christian Alvart Written By: Ray Wright Starring: Renée Zellweger, Jodelle Ferland, Ian McShane, Bradley Cooper Release Date: Oct 1, 2010 Horror film month is approaching soon and with it a slew of films where randy youths get chopped to bits and people deal with tangible demons. It’s pretty much my favorite month for mainstream B horror and attempts at something better. This doesn’t look like the later. Diagnosis: If I have time.
	Let Me In Director: Matt Reeves Written By: Matt Reeves Starring: Chloe Moretz, Kodi Smit-McPhee, Richard Jenkins, Elias Koteas Release Date: Oct 1, 2010 It’s a remake. I liked the original, but some positive reviews have turned on the curiosity. So much for my stance on remakes. Diagnosis: Interested in seeing.
	Ip Man (Yip Man) (2008) Director: Wilson Yip Written By: Edmond Wong Starring: Donnie Yen, Hiroyuki Ikeuchi, Fan Siu-Wong, Xiong Dailin Release Date: Oct 1, 2010 If I see the phrase “one man defies an empire” one more time, I’m gonna scream. Didn’t we get that same description for Hero as well? Seriously. Time to get new copy. Diagnosis: I eat this punchy-kicky-shit up like cocoa puffs.
	Leaving (Partir) Director: Catherine Corsini Written By: Catherine Corsini Starring: Kristin Scott Thomas, Sergi López, Yvan Attal, Bernard Blancan Release Date: Oct 1, 2010 (Limited) As much as I love tales of infidelity and woe (I don’t), the trailer just doesn’t grab me. I think after the third shot of the lady running away and the mean ol’ coot of a husband staring off into the distance, I decided not to seek this one out. But I’m a guy…and I like punchy-kicky-shit and cocoa puffs. Diagnosis: Not interested.
	Freakonomics Director: Alex Gibney, Heidi Ewing Written By: Peter Bull, Alex Gibney, Jeremy Chilnick, Morgan Spurlock, Eugene Jarecki, Heidi Ewing, Rachel Grady, Seth Gordon Starring: Zoe Sloane, Adesuwa Addy Iyare, Jade Viggiano Release Date: Oct 1, 2010 (Limited) Admittedly, I’ve grown into a bit of a documentary person. Not sure when that happened, but the few on my Netflix Instant Queue remain there for a definite reason. Now there’s this one and the trailer has piqued my interest. Diagnosis: Want to see.
	Barry Munday Director: Chris D’Arienzo Written By: Chris D’Arienzo Starring: Patrick Wilson, Judy Greer, Chloë Sevigny, Cybill Shepherd Release Date: Oct 1, 2010 (Limited) Not entirely sure on the premise, but the trailer makes me think that this could either be really fun or really suck. Diagnosis: Tentative…
	Casino Jack Director: George Hickenlooper Written By: Norman Snider Starring: Kevin Spacey, Barry Pepper, Jon Lovitz, Kelly Preston Release Date: Oct 1, 2010 (Limited) Did they just say “show me the money” in the trailer? shoots self Diagnosis: Pass.
	Hatchet II Director: Adam Green Written By: Adam Green Starring: Kane Hodder, Danielle Harris, Tony Todd, Parry Shen Release Date: Oct 1, 2010 (Limited) There’s a Hatchet 1?! Wow. The trailer promises a lot, but I think the B horror nature of it has won me over already. Diagnosis: Need to see the first one first. But yeah..
	Douchebag Director: Drake Doremus Written By: Drake Doremus, Andrew Dickler Starring: Andrew Dickler, Ben York Jones, Marguerite Moreau, Nicole Vicius Release Date: Oct 1, 2010 (Limited) Saw the trailer to this before Enter The Void. I’m kind of curious. Diagnosis: I’m kind of curious.
	Atlantis Down Director: Max Bartoli Written By: Max Bartoli, Doug Burch, Sam Ingraffia Starring: Michael Rooker, Dean Haglund, Greg Travis, Kera O’Bryon Release Date: Oct 1, 2010 (Limited) The trailer wasn’t working for me, but the premise seems interesting enough. Really, anything that starts with “on a routine mission” promises some degree of calamity. Diagnosis: If there’s time. Otherwise, DVD..
	Sex Tax: Based On A True Story Director: John Borges Written By: David Landsberg Starring: John Livingston, Erin Cardillo, Dana Green, Fiona Gubelmann Release Date: Oct 1, 2010 (Limited) I question the “based on a true story” subtitle. I also see the National Lampoon logo on the poster and…there goes any interest in seeing this gem. Diagnosis: Pass.
	Release Director: Darren Flaxstone, Christian Martin Written By: Darren Flaxstone, Christian Martin Starring: Daniel Brocklebank, Garry Summers, Bernie Hodges, Wayne Virgo Release Date: Oct 1, 2010 (Limited) There’s a lot of plot to sift through on the synopsis on RottenTomatoes. Um..this might be a wait for Netflix for me. Diagnosis: Netflix Instant
	NUREMBERG Director: Pare Lorentz, Sean Stone Written By: Starring: Release Date: Oct 1, 2010 (Limited) It’s a documentary. Diagnosis: Interested.
	Is It Just Me? Director: J.C. Calciano Written By: J.C. Calciano Starring: Nicholas Downs, David Loren, Adam Huss Release Date: Oct 1, 2010 (Limited) I feel like I’ve seen this plot play out in other films, but it sounds like it could be a fun film nonetheless. But honestly, who these days is silly enough to use a shared computer for online dating sites? Diagnosis: Netflix Instant
	Brutal Beauty: Tales of the Rose City Rollers Director: Chip Mabry Written By: Starring: Release Date: Oct 1, 2010 (Limited) I’ve got this constant fascination with Roller Derby. Meant to see Whip It with Ellen Page and Drew Barrymore, but forgot. I think I would probably be more interested in this, however, as it’s real Roller Derby folk. Diagnosis: Want to see.
	The Hungry Ghosts Director: Michael Imperioli Written By: Michael Imperioli Starring: Aunjanue Ellis, E.J. Carroll, Emory Cohen, Joe Caniano Release Date: Oct 1, 2010 (Limited) The synopsis didn’t grab me initially, but watching through the trailer kind of grabbed me. Diagnosis: It kind of grabbed me. Maybe I’ll see it.

My Week In TV: Sept 19-25

Posted on September 25, 2010 by movieguyjon Blather TV 0

The Fall television season has begun and I decided to watch a few more shows this year than I did last. I think last year it was a grand total of three, and even then I watched those rather inconsistently. This year I’ve decided to check out some newcomers. We’ve got a Martin Scorsese led series on HBO, an FX original about private investigators and a show about a husband and wife spy team. Usually I’m not one to jump into a series until fans have developed for it, but this year is about doing things different and being adventurous. I’m also returning to a few shows from last year, but we’ll see how long some of those last as their writing remains a bit spotty at best.

Without further ado, I’d like to share with you my thoughts for this first week of television.

Boardwalk Empire: S1 x 01 – Boardwalk Empire ★★★★☆

Martin Scorsese directed this season opener and it shows. If you liked his previous films, you’ll like this. The episode opens and closes with an iris in on Steve Buscemi’s character and from there we’re taken into the gangster scene of that era. Michael Pit from The Dreamers stars in this as well, and we get a brief look at the burgeoning mob scene in Chicago, and Al Capone getting his start. Lots of promise. I’m definitely on board for the season at this point.

Chuck: S4 x 01 – Chuck Versus The Anniversary ★★☆☆☆

Chuck is a show that’s severely plagued by inconsistent writing, but what it lacks in that department it makes up for in heart. The show keeps it’s characters honest, even if it has no idea what to do with them. Such is the case with the season four opener. The revelation of Linda Hamilton as Chuck’s mother is a nice touch, but the rest of the episode is boring and Chuck seems to be stuck in this feedback loop of “I gotta lie to everyone and waffle on being a spy between every commercial break.” I hate to do this to a show, but I give season four at least two more episodes to get a handle on the writing. After that, I think I’ll wait out the DVD release.

Weeds: S6 x 05 – Boomerang ★★★★★

It’s nice to see characters getting their just desserts, especially in a show about bad decisions. This episode is the culmination of way too many bad choices and in Nancy’s dilemma we finally see some of the humanity that she’s lost in previous episodes. Granted, they’ll probably wrap up the cliffhanger neatly in the next episode, but it’s nice to have a little bit of time to wonder what will happen to the Newman family.

Terriers: S1 x 03 – Change Partners ★★★☆☆

The pilot for Terriers was a strong one. Two blue collar ne’er-do-wells go into the private investigation business “unofficially” while their lives crumble apart around them. Seems like a strong premise and one that could develop into a strong show. Now that I’m three episodes in, I’m starting to wonder if this won’t take the Justified route for me and get continually less interesting as things progress. There’s no real arc to speak of within these episodes and this episode could have done with WAY more Olivia Williams than it got. Next week promises something bigger, so we’ll see. Losing interest.

Community: S2 x 01 – Anthropology 101 ★★★★☆

Community hit me like a blast of fresh air last year. The Office had grown stale for me and 30 Rock had long since lost my interest (just didn’t have exciting guest stars or something). Coming into this new season I’ll admit my expectations were a bit high. Thankfully, the laughs came in right around the 20 second mark for me. A strong episode that manages to be funny and continue with the Winger / Brita arc. Also, Betty White.

Fringe: S3 x 01 – Olivia ★★★★☆

I couldn’t help but yell at my TV a few times with this season opener. The arc seems to be progressing naturally and at the same time building toward something. By the end, I’m still at the edge of my seat wanting to know what happens next. I can’t help but wonder at how this show has grown in just two seasons from a REALLY flat sci-fi monster of the week series with bad acting to an engaging sci-fi drama with characters we can really get behind and root for. Major props on this episode for being able to make the taxi driver a well-developed and likable character. Looks like we’ll be seeing more of him too, which is nice. This is easily the best sci-fi show on currently, maybe even since BSG (first couple of seasons).

Filed Under: Didn’t Get To Watch

Undercovers: S1 x 01 – Pilot ☆☆☆☆☆

Forgot to watch this, and therefore can’t really give my thoughts. I’ll check it out with the second episode next week and let you know. Did you see it? What are your thoughts? I liked the movie Mr. And Mrs. Smith and I’m getting that vibe from this show.

Diagnosis: Film – Sept 19 – 25

Posted on September 20, 2010 by movieguyjon Blather Film Trailers 5

I want to start a new type of blog post wherein I look at what films are coming out each week to see if there’s anything worth watching. I used to do something like this with an old blog I wrote for. I would post the trailers to movies coming out that week, although I wouldn’t really make any kind of comment on them. With these posts I would like to give at least some kind of initial thoughts and present a diagnosis for your consideration. Of course, the tone probably won’t be very serious. Enjoy. Oh, and you can click on the title of the movie to go to the trailer.

	Wall Street: Money Never Sleeps (2010) Director: Oliver Stone Writer: Allan Loeb Cast: Michael Douglas, Shia LaBeouf Didn’t see the first film, and frankly have no interest in seeing the sequel. Sally Sparrow is in this, but I can just get my fix of her in other, more interesting films. Diagnosis: Pass.
	You Again Director: Andy Fickman Writer: Moe Jelline Cast: Kristen Bell, Jamie Lee Curtis Betty White is awesome, and on her merit alone I would probably rent this. Otherwise, meh. Diagnosis: Netflix Instant Play…if I’m really bored some Thursday night.
	Legend of the Guardians: The Owls of Ga’Hoole Director: Zack Snyder Writer: John Collee, John Orloff, Kathryn Lasky Cast: Kristen Bell, Jamie Lee Curtis Soren, a young barn owl, is kidnapped by owls of…something. I bet this would look UH-MAZING in 3D. Diagnosis: Hahaha
	Buried (Limited Release) Director: Rodrigo Cortés Writer: Chris Sparling Cast: Ryan Reynolds The trailer obviously can’t show a whole lot, but just the premise alone has me jonesing to see this film. Although, I can guarantee you right now I’ll be squirming uncomfortably throughout the duration of the film. Much dislike on the being in small, confined spaces. Diagnosis: Must See.
	You Will Meet a Tall Dark Stranger Director: Woody Allen Writer: Woody Allen Cast: Antonio Banderas, Anthony Hopkins Admittedly, I’ve seen nothing from Woody Allen. There, you can revoke my film cred. Happy? I see a trailer for any new Woody Allen film and pretty much think, “I should probably go watch Annie Hall now, huh?” Diagnosis: Let me know if this one is any good.
	Howl Director: Jeffrey Friedman, Rob Epstein Writer: Rob Epstein, Jeffrey Friedman Cast: James Franco, John Hamm Clearly, I’ve been paying attention to film news because I didn’t really know this was a film. FAIL. I’m always onboard for any role James Franco plays that’s not Harry Osbourne. Diagnosis: Want to see
	Waiting for Superman Director: Davis Guggenheim Writer: Cast: It’s a documentary about our education system. Calamity, as they say, will ensue. Diagnosis: If it’s not “inconvenient” to see..
	Enter the Void (Soudain le vide) (Limited Release) Director: Gaspar Noe Writer: Gaspar Noe Cast: Nathaniel Brown, Paz de la Huerta Saw the trailer. Diagnosis: Sign me up!
	Like Dandelion Dust Director: Jon Gunn Writer: Stephen J. Rivele, Michael Lachance Cast: Mira Sorvino, Barry Pepper Can’t really say I’ve heard of this one, nor can I say I’m entirely interested after reading the synopsis. Diagnosis: Hmm..
	A Mother’s Courage: Talking Back To Autism (Sólskinsdrengurinn) (Limited Release) Director: Fridrik Thor Fridriksson Writer: Cast: Based off of the trailer, I would probably see this. Diagnosis: If I’ve got the time.
	Friction Director: Cullen Hoback Writer: Cast: First of all, the trailer has Menomena playing throughout. Second of all, the concept seems kind of neat and it looks as though the results are just as interesting. But that could just be the strength of the trailer that’s grabbing me. Diagnosis: That kid touched her bottom.

On The Milla Movie

Posted on September 12, 2010 by movieguyjon Blather Film 24

Pictured above is a screencap from the Paul W.S. Anderson film Resident Evil: Afterlife. Below are some more pictures.

If none of those screencaps grabbed you in any particular way, then don’t be surprised if you leave the film hating it. RE4 is not a movie for those hoping to see cohesive plot and connecting action sequences. Instead, it’s a movie for people like me who are Milla Jovovich fans who don’t really care what she’s in as long as she kicks ass and looks good doing it. It’s the same logic that goes into seeing films like The Room or Ultraviolet. If you have ANY expectations going in, you’ll be let down.

Now, if you’ll excuse me, I need to go make plans to see this in 3D. Unlike many, I can’t wait to set my thinking cap aside and just enjoy the hell out of an actress enjoying the hell out of jumping around and killing stuff.