Memorable Quote

“Sufficient will can overcome any pain.”
--Aged Genghis from the graphic novel Doctor Strange and Doctor Doom: Triumph and Torment (as written by Roger Stern)

Currently Listening to: LORDI - The Arockalypse (2006

LORDI - The Arockalypse (2006)

Excellent heavy metal, horrorcore. The album is pretty solid all the way through. The top track being “Hardrock Hallelujah” (track 7). Other great songs include: “Bringing Back The Balls To The Rock”, “Who's Your Daddy”, “They Only Come Out At Night”, and my second favorite, and one of my overall favorite Lordi songs, “It Snows In Hell”.

I love Lordi’s appearance. They dress up in the full garb for concerts and are never seen out of it. They take what Slipknot and Mushroomhead gave and make it extreme. Much like Gwar, except not as overly obtrusive.

If you’re a fan of horror films you should check out DARK FLOORS. Lordi is in it. They are the monsters. How cool is that for a rock band. They're so horrifying and grotesque in appearance that they are actually in a horror movie, pretty much playing themselves, sans the whole rock band persona.

Movie Review: G.I. JOE (2009)

G.I. JOE (2009)
directed by: Stephen Summers
written by: Stuart Beattie and David Elliot & Paul Lovett



I was very entertained by this exciting, action-packed adventure. Despite some horrible casting, I found it to be fun while capturing the true G.I. Joe experience.

Synopsis:
A secret special ops, anti-terrorism task force battles an underground terrorist organization headed by a corrupt arms dealer.

Cinematography/Special Effects:
It’s interesting to see how the cinematography plays out in an effects-heavy action/adventure. I imagine it can get pretty complicated shooting on location and setting up shots knowing it will undergo hours of manipulation in post-production. I think Mitchell Amundsen (director of photography) did a good job while offering some nice views of Paris and Washington, and provides fast-paced and exciting action sequences. I particularly like the Paris chase scene.
Rating = B-

Acting:
Can’t expect much from this cast. Channing Tatum as Duke is one of the worst casting decisions I’ve seen in awhile. His acting goes as far as him standing in front of a mirror. Marlon Wayans has been in some acting heavy roles before (REQUIEM FOR A DREAM) but is mostly comedy relief here. Ray Park does what’s expected of him as Snake Eyes, if not more. Dennis Quaid as General Hawk is just bad and almost laughable at times (Grandpa needs a cane). The standout performance is Sienna Miller as The Baroness/Ana. She exudes a sultry seductiveness, coupled with her shockingly good looks, that makes it difficult to take your eyes off at times. More so as the dark, mysterious Baroness rather than the bright and bubbly Ana.



Joseph Gordon-Levitt turning out to be Cobra Commander really makes me scratch my head.
D

Direction:
Stephen Sommers won’t win any oscars, but he makes some fun movies. That’s the case here. He certainly can do special effects heavy productions. Don’t know if he had any say in casting. That would definitely be a blemish. In terms of storytelling, creating mood, and pulling an audience in, I would say he passes.
C

Music/Score/Sound Design:
Quality and effective Alan Silvestri score. Very good sound development and design that meaningfully enhances the visuals.
B+

Script/Story:
Vastly different from the cartoons and comics in terms of characters’ origins. The essence of the original characters as well as thematic elements and atmosphere have been preserved. Not enough back story on Snake Eyes. And I’m not quite sure about how I feel about Baroness flipping and being romantically involved with Duke. Probably could have done without it, but it seems to work well enough.
C+

G.I. Joe is an action-packed, immensely exciting, thrilling adventure with decent special effects and lackluster acting that should otherwise keep you entertained. Probably will be appreciated more by the fans of the cartoons and comics (and kids) than adults looking to be captivated by heartfelt storytelling.



Overall Rating = 8.0/10.0


Let me know what you think. Email responses to dvass77@gmail.com

THE POWER OF FILMMAKING - DISTRICT 9

Movie Review:

DISTRICT 9
Directed by: Neill Blomkamp
Written by: Neill Blomkamp and Terri Tatchell



This film is easily the top movie of the year. There’s not many words that can describe how good it truly is. Amazing, spectacular, astonishing, and phenomenal just don’t quite seem to do it justice. Movies like these make me realize the power of filmmaking and why I want to be involved.

Just to be safe:



Synopsis:
A psuedo-documentary look back on the presence an alien species that came to earth, and whose ship remains dormant above the city of Johannesburg, South Africa. The story follows Wickers Van Den Merwe (an agent for MNU, a government agency that deals with the aliens) and his recently appointed mission to formerly relocate the population of aliens, or “prawns”, currently living in fenced in slums below their ship to new government built camps in order to supposedly better house them.



Cinematography/Special Effects:
Amazing! The documentary style introductions set a reality-based tone to the film. I was blown away by the authenticity of the vintage film and stock-based footage, that only seemed to add to the feeling of this being an actual event. Once the action gets going, you are immediately sucked in. The suspension of disbelief is never in question. Considering the content and subject matter, that’s quite impression. There are plenty of gorgeous skyline shots of Johannesburg and the ship. The creature animations our some of the best I’ve ever seen. Truly amazing how far technology has advanced. I felt the prawns’ movements and actions were super-realistic. Whoever acted as the motion captures for them deserves an Oscar. There are some wicked cool effects with the alien weaponry. Again, making it seem that if they were real, that’s what it would be like.
Rating: A

Acting:
Surprisingly good despite being an all foreign cast. No overacting, showboating American Super-Action stars here to muddle a great script. Sharlto Copley does a superb job representing the main character, Wickers. His performance is as captivating as any role in a multitude of sci-fi pictures. His relation with the CGI based creatures is blatantly convincing, making me feel that there was an actually person acting out the creatures’ parts on set.
B+

Direction:
Never hearing of Neill Blomkamp, I would have to say that this is a good indicator that this is an extremely talented individual. His ability to present this story as if it were an actual event is unprecedented (perhaps the only thing coming close to THE BLAIR WITCH PROJECT). The story is executed to perfection. The acting is spot on. There are huge amounts of special effects that don’t get in the way of the action and only seem to augment the story and performances of everyone and everything involved. And at the end of the day, he wasn’t making a film about aliens. He wasn’t making an action film. He wasn’t showing the execs at Microsoft that he could do a HALO film. He is telling a story. And it’s got a lot of heart and a lot of guts. That takes a talented director to pull all that off.
A+

Music/Score/Sound Design:
Another astonishing feat. Beautiful score that accentuates the brilliant emotion of the film. Good selection of music to set the tone of the action and chaos of the film. Excellent sound design. From the alien weapons to the prawn dialect, there are no shortages of creativity and visionary design.
B+

Script/Story:
Unique. Inventive. Intriguing. Dramatic. Emotional. Sensible. Depth. Artful. There’s a lot that can describe this story. I love stories about aliens. And I love thinking about first contact and how we would relate to unknown life forms. This presents an interesting take. It’s not “we come in peace”. It’s not a “hostile takeover”. It’s about a group of living beings (who have, some how, got here and want to go home) versus the greed of humanity.
A+

This has to be a movie everyone goes and sees. I know I’m presenting a lot of positivity here because I’m such a fan of the Sci-Fi genre, and I‘m very excited to get another masterpiece (right up there with ALIENS and T2). However, it’s really a great film with a lot of excitement, drama and masterful special effects. The story has heart. It makes you think. It makes you feel. It makes you wonder. Those are all signs of a great film and this is certainly that.



Overall Rating = 9.6/10.0

Quote

"In loquaciousness lay insanity."
       —Alan Dean Foster (as written in the novelization of ALIEN)

Currently Reading: MONSTROSITY

MONSTROSITY
by Edward Lee



Down on her luck Clare finally gets a break. But in her good fortune she stumbles upon a horror that she’s never imagined.

Very good book so far. I can really get into it. It’s got a lot of cool, classic horror elements with a modern twist. The characters are enjoyable to read. There is some very gruesome descriptions of what the monsters are and do. I love it so far. Lee might not be as skilled as Stephen King, but he can write horror. That is clear. And I dig it.

Movie Review: THE COLLECTOR

THE COLLECTOR
Directed by: Marcus Dunstan
Written by: Patrick Melton & Marcus Dunstan




Originally intended to be a prequel to SAW, writer-director Marcus Dunstan and writer Patrick Melton (SAW IV, V, VI) present an interesting, stylistic horror film that may lack in originality, but succeed in an enjoyable modern-horror film experience.

I thoroughly enjoyed THE COLLECTOR. The premise is rather simple: A man, trying to support his wife/girlfriend and their child, resorts to breaking in a house to steal a valuable gem. However, on the night of the heist, someone else has other plans for the house and its occupants.

Cinematically, this is a beautiful film. Opting for a more stylistic approach proves to be more effective, using filmic imagery and sensual tones to draw the viewer in. You become more comfortable with what’s going on in front of you and less aware of the horror and gore that will inevitably ensue. The sound design adds to the effect and really makes you question what‘s in store. Good job there. The acting is nothing special. Josh Stewart gives an adequate performance in the lead role. While Juan Fernandez‘s performance as the title character works, but could be better. He’s not as physically imposing as Jason Voorhees or Leatherface, but he does come off as very creepy, mysterious, and disturbed individual. I appreciated the fact that he isn’t all powerful. He gets knocked around almost as much as he dishes out torture and pain. His strength lies in his trickery. The character has a weird fascination with insects that is left for the audience to infer. He creates traps much like a spider lays its webs. I found that aspect to be quite interesting. Overall, the characters might not come off as likable as you’d want, but you certainly don’t want to see them die; and not in such painful fashion. Which is the desired affect for any horror movie protagonists.

Beware, this movie does contain booby traps/torture scenes similarly found in SAW, which is easier to understand once you realize its original intent (prequel). But also, any number of which can be forgiven when you come to understand the character’s motive. It’s not clearly given, but you can make some sense of it if you just use your imagination a bit. Besides, they produce some decent gore and make you cringe frequently.

Overall, THE COLLECTOR delivers plenty of horror and gore, but presents it in a very unique and elegant way that has past most, if not all, modern-horror films of its kind by.

Rating = 8.5/10.0

Acquiescence

Adults quickly learn the tithe of acquiescence when dealing with infants and young children.

Currently Listening To: KILLSWITCH ENGAGE II (2009)

KILLSWITCH ENGAGE - Killswitch Engage (2009)

Just released on June 30th, 2009. I’ve been listening to it nonstop. They are my favorite band. If I could only listen to one band for the rest of my life…it would be them.

So far, this sounds like it’s a great release. It’s stacked from the first track to the last. The problem is that’s not much. There’s only 11 total tracks (15 on the special edition- three of which are live songs). The total run time is just over 38 minutes (special edition - 55 minutes). That’s extremely short for an album. However, even with the lack of songs and length, the album certainly makes up with quality.

Top Tracks: “Reckoning”, “Starting Over”, “Light In A Darkened World”

Definitely check it out.

FREE SPIRIT! A Poem by Michelle Torres

I am freed, I am freed
My spirit is Freed
I soar up in the sky, free of the chains
That weighed me down.
Free of the pain and suffering, That
I could not shed.

I am freed, I am freed
My spirit is freed
I am so above the clouds, free of
Traditions that I wore proud
Free of who, they want me to be, versus
Who I am.

I am freed, I am freed
My spirit is freed
I do not hate, I do not judge, I do not
Feel jealousy.
All of those are ugly and I am now
Clean
To be free
Not to be bound
Or dragged down

Ever again!

I am freed, I am freed
My spirit is freed!

© Michelle Torres 2009

I AM LEGEONED

I’ve been reading the graphic novel adaptation of Richard Matheson’s I AM LEGEND. I love post-apocalyptic stories; or even “the last man on earth” idea. I’m on chapter 6 now. Chapter 5 dealt with Neville fighting to get back in his house after forgetting to set his watch, to watch for sunset. I got excited reading it and the events that lead up to it. Neville running his errands out in town where no one is around.

At the start of Chapter 6, Neville talks about all his work in having to repair his house. It says, “He’d almost enjoyed all the work once it was started. It gave him something to lose himself in, something to pour all the energy of his pulsing fury into. It broke the monotony of his daily tasks;”
This makes me think about why I want ZA (Zombie Apocalypse). I’m sick of living life the way we do; having no real purpose; living only to consume and procreate and continue the never-ending bullshit cycle. I’d rather live like Robert Neville: having a purpose and the will to survive. Doing the things needed to be done in order to survive; striving for a life we all currently take advantage of. Life would be more meaningful and enjoyable.

So—I want ZA to break the monotony of life. Not just day-to-day. But forever. So we can strive to have a better life. A life worth living.

Watch A CLOCKWORK ORANGE

If you want to watch a great movie, you should check it out. It deals with crime, ultra-violence and the corruption of youth. It's a film by Stanley Kubrick, a visionary far ahead of his time.

Personally, I love this film and I forgot how great it is. I recently re-watch it and was amazed by the depth of the story (which was orginally presented in the novel that the film is based off of by Anthony Burgess), cinematography, the multitude of brilliant imagery, and how well the film holds up and the significance of the message even for modern times.

So check it out if you haven't seen it.

Inner Self (or How I Learned to Love The Zom)

The other day I listened to an audio book by Paul McKenna about positivity and inner happiness/contentment. He’s mainly know as a hypnotist and a TV personality in the United Kingdom. And although, he presents some hypnotic exercises in the audio book, I was more interested in what he had to say about society and culture of the western world in reference to being less happy with ourselves and seeking happiness through exterior sources. He says that too often we seek fulfillment in the outside world. This has caused us to become overly competitive, selfish, and rapidly consume the Earth’s resources without care for the ecological consequences.

He suggests that we need to find more contentment within. Be more comfortable with ourselves, and instead of trying to change what we have or don’t have, we should change our attitudes and our perspective.

“Life is only as amazing as the ideas you have about it.”

This quote got me thinking about my outlook on life. The truth is I’ve had a very negative outlook on life which has caused my quality of life to be diminished simply because of the way I perceived it. Lately, I’ve been trying to have a more positive outlook on life. It really works.

However, that doesn’t mean I should curb my thoughts and creativity. Much of my ideas come from my particularly cynical outlook on life, society, and where we as a species are heading. After thinking about it, I have realize this is why I love ZOMBIES! I love stories about zombies, the end of the world and the apocalypse. I believe the world is a great place. But it has been overrun. Not by zombies, but by our insatiable appetites for consumer goods, products, and consumption of resources such as fuel. I feel zombies represent this. Like they say in George Romero’s films, “They’re us. We’re them and they’re us.” It’s that simple. Therefore, we must destroy all the zombies (all of our cravings for goods to satisfy us). Then, we can learn to do without and find contentment within. This will bring about a massive, worldwide change. Then, we as a species can grow and start anew.

Look at it like this: the zombies have taken over. They are consuming and infecting all the living. The survivors must stop them. They must destroy them. Once they do, they can start to rebuild the world in a better image. We can start over. But first we have to hit the reset button. It’s time for change. Before it’s to late. Before this will truly be a…..Dead World.

Movie Review: PUBLIC ENEMIES

PUBLIC ENEMIES (2009)
Directed by: Michael Mann
Written by: Ronan Bennett and Michael Mann & Ann Biderman

I’m not a fan of Michael Mann. Of course I like HEAT. With De Niro and Pacino on the top of their game how could you not. THE LAST OF THE MOHICANS is ok. But it has Daniel Day-Lewis, one of the most talented actors ever to be on the big screen. I don’t care for anything else he’s done. So, having said that, I have to say PUBLIC ENEMIES isn’t that bad. I didn’t expect it to be great, despite having two of the best actors around (Depp and Bale).

The story’s not too dynamic. Depp plays John Dillinger, Public Enemy Number 1: the nation’s most wanted man; to be taken, “dead or dead”. Bale plays Melvin Purvis, assigned by J. Edgar Hoover (played by Billy Crudup - recently off his performance as Dr. Manhattan in WATCHMEN) and his Bureau of Investigations to track down and apprehend Dillinger.

A massive manhunt and gun fights a plenty ensue. Hope you like machine guns and Tommy Guns. You get a bunch of them.



Both Depp and Bale’s performances are solid. Now I’m not a huge fan of Depp’s so I can’t attest to how well he did the job because he always plays such strange roles. And he’s not going to stop (look at his picture as the Mad Hatter in next year’s ALICE IN WONDERLAND remake). However, the Dillinger character is interesting, you’ll enjoy what Depp can bring. Bale, on the other hand, plays a more subdued role. Purvis is a judicious, dutiful special agent that wants to bring Dillinger in at all costs. His performance leaves me wanting to know more about the character. There’s not too much depth shown to Purvis. I believe that is the intended effect. We need to believe that his one and only goal is catching Dillinger. And I do. But I want to dig deeper and its just not here. You will find some interesting actors with some small and minor roles. The best being Stephen Dorff’s portrayal of Homer, one of Dillinger’s men. I found him to be the most entertaining character. Plus, his dialogue and accent feels the most realistic of the lot.

Ok. Now to the epic downfall of the film. The cinematography. This film could have been so much better had the cinematography been better. It incorporates the “shaky” cam technique to a sickening level. Its attempt is realism, and to pull you in. It does the exact opposite. It pushes you out immediately, and takes away the suspension of disbelief. It’s noticeable in a bad way. Not good for the DP (Director of Photography). When you have audiences complaining that its too shaky and it’s making them sick--that’s just bad. I love using hand held cameras. But there is no reason to intentionally shake the camera to the point that you can’t tell what you’re looking at. I don’t care how realistic you want to make it appear. That’s just stupid.

Overall, it’s a little long, and if you’re a fan of either Bale or Depp (and you can get over crap-o-vision) you should definitely watch it. Good characters, simple, interesting plot, and dynamic characters should keep you there for the 137 minutes.

Rating = 7.8/10.0

Bad Hollywood

A link to the original article:

http://www.getthebigpicture.net/blog/2009/6/26/darabont-not-giving-up-on-fahrenheit-451yet.html

Basically, Frank Darabont (director of some great Stephen King adapts including THE GREEN MILE, THE SHAWSHANK REDEMPTION, and THE MIST, my personal favorite) is trying to make FARENHEIT 451, a classic novel by Ray Bradbury about a dsytopian future. People that have read it (including studio execs and producers) say it's an amazing script and it should be made. However, Darabont can't get anyone to option it. When asked why, they say, "How am I going to get 13-year-olds to show up at the theater." Referring to it being an R-Rated feature, therefore limiting the number of people, limiting the number of ticket sales.

This is Hollywood. This is what we aspiring filmmakers want to be a part of. Someone has a work of art, admittingly so, and cannot get it made because it won't make as much money. This is what it has become. And I AM ASHAMED.

Beautiful Picture

Sunset meets a thunderstorm in California.

Baysplosion! - TRANSFORMERS 2 Review

This isn't my review. In fact I've been hesitant to put a review here because--well because I just didn't want to waste my time. I didn't like it. In fact, I found it to be one of the worse movies I've seen of that caliber, big budget blockbusters. Don't get me wrong. It's not horrible, complete, utter crap. And there are things I like about it (the Decepticons' world; special effects; and simply the Transformers). However, for every one thing I like about it, there are a hundred more I detest. I've found the perfect review for it that reflect my views. I agree with it 100%. Hopefully, this will help more people become aware of this epidemic....called Hollywood.

http://www.getthebigpicture.net/blog/2009/6/26/movie-review-transformers-revenge-of-the-fallen.html

The Downfall of Man

I’ve been thinking lately about our society and how it has been negatively affected by pop culture. I feel like we are getting dumber, less sensitive, more promiscuous, less respectful, less caring, more selfish, and altogether a far worse sense of good character. Its cause has had a noticeable effect on youth. People dress differently, speak differently, and have a far worse attitude about life and how to live it. They no longer care about the common good of man and making the world a better place. Instead, they are more concerned with iPhones and getting laid 24/7.

Personally, I can’t help but feel ashamed. I see it happening right in front of me as it hits me in waves. For every solid, decent person I meet, there is ten, twenty, fifty, even a hundred people that I want nothing to do with.

This realization has caused me to grow distance from our society as it further descends into corruption and moral decay.

Quick Overview of: YEAR ONE

More of a Comedy Movie Movie

YEAR ONE
Directed by: Harold Ramis
Written by: Harold Ramis, Gene Stupnitsky, Lee Eisenberg

YEAR ONE is probably the first disappointing movie all year. It plays more like a Wayans’ Brother movie (SCARY MOVIE, DANCE FLICK) than it does a Harold Ramis’ (CADDYSHACK, National Lampoon’s VACATION, ANALYZE THIS) fun comedy. There’s not much laughs to be had unless you’re a big Jack Black fan or you are enamored with Michael Cera’s subtle, dry quips. Personally, I lost a taste for them after seeing the trailer a couple of times. Don’t expect to be blown away by story. Not much here. I’m not a fan of the subject content, nor do I know much of the history behind it.

Unfortunately, THE PROPOSAL is the better movie to come out this week. Pass on YEAR ONE. Ye be warned!

Inspirational Quote

"We cannot change anything until we accept it. Condemnation does not liberate, it oppresses."
--C. G. Jung

Currently Listening To: ALL THAT REMAINS - Overcome (2008)

ALL THAT REMAINS - Overcome (2008)



Edgy Heavy metal with a lot of punch. Originally formed in 1998, this Massachusetts band’s third officially released album is another stellar performance following their 2006 release The Fall of Ideals. Overall, Overcome, isn’t quite as good as Fall…, but is not to be missed by fans of the melodically fused hardcore metal genre, much in the style of KILLSWITCH ENGAGE, my favorite band. Plenty of great tracks are present here, making it extremely easy to listen to throughout without skipping tracks. However, none are quite like the second track on the album “Two Weeks”. This has been one of my favorite songs since I first heard it. It remains in my top songs ever. It’s just a gut-wrenching, pulsating, cathartic experience every time I hear it. The words can ring true with people who have experienced loss and a failed relationship. But it’s more than that. And the sound truly kicks ass.

ALL THAT REMAINS has quickly become one of my favorite bands over the last few years when I’ve really latched on to this particular genre. I feel like it’s an appropriate fit for my life right now: moments of anger, aggression, and pain followed by moments of peace, harmony, and enlightenment.

Inspirational Quote

"There is only one way to happiness, and that is to cease worrying things which are beyond the power of our will."
  --Epictetus

Big News - PREDATORS, IRON MAN 2, ROBOCOP, DEADPOOL

-Robert Rodriguez is producing the new PREDATOR movie (called PREDATORS) through his Troublemakers Studios. As of now they're talking to Neil Marshall to direct it. Neil Marshall is the director behind some of the best genre pics in last five years (DOG SOLDIERS, THE DESCENT, DOOMSDAY). I love him and I hope he is in fact going to direct. He's incredibly talented and would be a perfect fit for the movie. In addition, by getting him, I feel better about the film. I was worried it might be over the top action that Rodriguez is known for. But with Marshall at the helm...let's just say I feel a lot better.


-First pic of Mickey Rourke in IRON MAN 2.

http://rpc.blogrolling.com/redirect.php?r=6c5e2e482016b5d0125e545064151ed8&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.comicbookmovie.com%2F

He's playing the villain Whiplash. But the character's name is Ivan Vanko, who from the comics is the Crimson Dynamo (another Russia's version of Shellhead). The pic looks cool and of course I'm super-stoked about the movie.


-Darren Aronofsky, director of REQUIEM FOR A DREAM and most recently THE WRESTLER, is set to reboot ROBOCOP. This is unbelievable. I think he's a tremendously talented director who has vision. If he can bring that to a new ROBOCOP movie...well, let's say it would be "wicked awesome"!!!


-Ryan Reynolds says the new DEADPOOL spin-off will be true to the source material. It will be the Merc with a Mouth and not Weapon XI. So that's excellent news. There's potential for a great movie here. Ryan Reynolds is the perfect Deadpool. It should be good provided it has a good director under it.

First Look - H2: HALLOWEEN 2

I watched the first trailer last night for the first time. It looks amazing. I’m very excited about it. It actually looks better than the first. The feeling and atmosphere it evokes is truly something that is missing in a vast majority of horror films present today. The dark, menacing, hooded Michael Myers stalking his victims in the hospital, looking to finish the job; Mrs. Myers (apparently) guiding him from beyond the grave; more brutality, more gore, more Rob Zombie taking it to the max (I can only hope).

I love the original HALLOWEEN 2 (written by Debra Hill and John Carpenter, The Man, himself and directed by Rick Rosenthal). There’s plenty of people who didn’t like that film and feel it’s a let down, and a dramatic step down from the brilliant original masterpiece. I don’t quite see it that way. It’s a legitimate sequel and I view it as a continuation of the first film. It’s not quite on the level as it, but it’s one of my top horror movies. I can’t get enough of it. This new reincarnation of it, H2, looks fine and I hope it can be just as good.

Currently Listening To: TERMINATOR SALVATION Soundtrack

TERMINATOR SALVATION - Original Soundtrack
Music by: Danny Elfman



This is a fantastic soundtrack. I loved hearing it for the first time while watching the movie. It’s actually very good to listen to by itself as a stand alone album. It creates a vibrant atmosphere unique to the Terminator landscape. Overall the album, and entire score, maybe better than Brad Fiedel’s score for the original TERMINATOR and T2, and Marco Beltrami’s TERMINATOR 3 score as a whole. However, it lacks that knockout punch that exists in the previous films' main theme. The main theme, initial created by Brad Fiedel, is one of the best themes ever, and my personal favorite. The T2 interpretation being the best of the three. With that being said, I believe Danny Elfman has done a superb job in re-establishing the franchise with a great score that supplements an outstanding film.

Movie Review: DRAG ME TO HELL

DRAG ME TO HELL
Directed by: Sam Raimi
Written by: Sam Raimi & Ivan Raimi



I found DRAG ME TO HELL to be a refreshing entry in the American horror cinema landscape, albeit another PG-13 movie. Here, Raimi gets back to his horror (EVIL DEAD) roots. And that’s where he belongs. The SPIDER-MAN movies are very good. But horror needs a great director leading the industry. Raimi is just the guy. Slapstick and satire aside, he definitely knows how to make horror.

This may not be his best work, but it’s nothing to push aside. There are plenty of thrills and shocking moments. In addition to the many instances of Raimi’s style that harkens back to the EVIL DEAD trilogy, it makes for a very entertaining movie-going experience.



From the opening scene you get a feel and a sense of what the movie is going to be like, introducing you to the demon, Lamia, and what it can do. Then, we see the title. I love how it hits you in the face, popping on screen in huge text. From there we meet the characters and the plots laid out for you. Christine Brown, a loan officer, denies Mrs. Ganush, a very creepy gypsy, a loan on her home. After begging, Mrs. Ganush puts a curse on little Christine. After a bitter battle in a parking garage with gypsy-psycho-lady, Christine is tormented by the Lamia, and subsequently destroyed.

There are some great shocking scenes which provide plenty of gore and icky-ness to make the gorehound within the true horror fan smile. In fact, between that and the comedy in the movie, I found myself smiling quite a bit. Raimi definitely knows how to blend the genres between horror and comedy.

The sound design in the film is fantastic. All the creepy, eerie sounds add to the overall look and feel of the film. Christopher Young’s score is also a shinning example of how to add to the atmosphere with dark underlying tones, and strange foreboding violins streaming along your curiosity, then shattering your senses with large, loud, violent screeches and screams.

Overall, I had a ball watching the movie. I predicted the ending, which I never like, and I did hope for more at certain parts of the movie (I really, really wanted to see the Lamia in its true Monster form), but despite all that it’s a great film and I can’t wait to watch it again.

Rating = 8.9/10.0

Words of Inspiration

"A fool gives full vent to his anger, but a wise man keeps himself under control."
        --Proverbs 29:11

Currently Reading:

Aliens vs. Predator Omnibus: Volume 1



Very good stuff. The first AvP story is clearly an inspiration to the first movie. A great deal was pulled directly from the comics. The writer, Randy Stradley, is quite gifted at storytelling. He makes AvP more than just an action/horror comic. He adds a dynamic to writing that is rarely seen in comics. Plus anything with ALIENS and PREDATORs I love.


If Chins Could Kill: Confessions of a B Movie Actor by Bruce Campbell



The Man himself with his first autobiography. Brucey is one of my favorite actors. Obviously the EVIL DEAD Trilogy is some of my favorite stuff. But his most recent film, MY NAME IS BRUCE, is unbelievably good. I love it.

This book is insanely entertaining. I could read this book even if I hated reading…or even if I hated him (but that's impossible).

Currently Listening To:

Dredg - Catch Without Arms (2005)



There’s something about the music of the California-created band Dredg that affects me. The sounds and melody throughout are rhythmic, hypnotic, and enthralling at the same time. I’ve been listening to them since I discovered them in 2001 at a DEFTONES concert. They were amazing then and they have easily become one of my favorite bands.

Catch Without Arms is an excellent album from top to bottom. The chords resonate a sense of passion and desire within me that makes it difficult to keep away from it. I find it inspirational more than just something to listen to for a good time. If I ever feel down or scatterbrained or am just not feeling in a comfortable state this album, along with their others (Leitmotif and El Cielo), help me rise above my temperamental shades of gray.

From the opening track, Ode To The Sun, you are cast upon in the landscape and atmospheric tones of Dredg. The title track has a clingy rhythmic tune with contemporary proverb-esque words of wisdom for me personally. Sang Real’s beat brings you in, while Hung Over on a Tuesday reveals their true hard rock/metal side that can’t be ignored. My favorite tracks are Planting Seeds and Matroshka (The Ornament) for their insanely encapsulating melodies that truly touch me with its tender emotional effectiveness.

Movie Review:

UP
Directed by: Pete Doctor and Bob Peterson (Co-Director)
Written by: Bob Peterson (Screenplay)



Quite simply the best animated movie of the year and is definitely UP there when you talk about best animated movies ever. Yeah, it’s that good. Should you expect anything less from Pixar whose animated features have absolutely transformed the animation industry? Year after year they have been producing stellar work that both kids and adults can enjoy with great story, depth, characterization, comedy, action and the utmost in entertainment. And UP is no exception.

I’ll be honest, when I first heard about this one I thought it wouldn’t be that good and it really didn’t look interesting. Well, I’ve now learned never to doubt Pixar. This is an outstanding movie. The animation itself is always supreme quality. It’s an excellent blend of comedy, action, adventure, drama and suspense. These movies have it all and it really makes it difficult not to like. There’s something in them for everyone.

One of the most surprising elements in the picture for me was the characterization and the depth of the story. Clearly from the trailer you don’t get much of the story other than the general premise. And that alone is enough to make you curious, but nothing is there for one to really get excited about. From the opening scene to the end credits, this movie will keep your attention. You are immediately pulled into the world that is created on screen; you follow the characters and you get emotionally attached. You can relate with them and you sympathize with them. That’s just good writing and great execution of the script. That’s a trademark of these Pixar movies. That’s why it’s my belief that these are some of the best stuff on the market, and everybody should be looking forward to them year after year.

UP should be on everyone’s list of movies to see.

Rating = 8.8/10.0

Movie Review:

TERMINATOR SALVATION (2009)
Directed by: McG
Written by: John D. Brancato & Michael Ferris



TERMINATOR SALVATION is everything I thought it would be, if not more. It lived up to my expectations, and I set the bar pretty high. I was definitely impressed. Every aspect of the movie seemed to click and flow and create a great film going experience. It’s simple stunning!

This is a rare movie that has an amazing set of trailers for it and the movie itself lived up to those previews not allowing them to reveal too much. And I really appreciate that considering that amount of films that come out and do the exact opposite of that.

The special effects are wonderful. The Terminators look exceptionally well. The CGI is very good and doesn’t seem too contrived. The environment and landscapes look fairly good and add to the rugged look of the film.

There is good acting throughout by the entire cast. Sam Worthington (Marcus Wright) does a particularly good job considering he hasn’t been in much and certainly nothing as big as a Terminator movie. Christian Bale is on par with his other great performances. I’m a huge fan of his and it is like a dream to see him play as the legendary John Connor in this movie. Terminator fans couldn’t ask for more with him. Also, Anton Yelchin’s portrayal of young Kyle Reese is very good and the importance of his character is not something to push aside.



I really like how the main characters' screen time is split while being able to tell a compelling story from both characters' standpoints. Both characters, Wright and John Connor, have an interesting dynamic and when they come together it adds to the sense that they are like brothers, even though they are so different, being two different breeds (one a resistance leader for the human race; the other a new hybrid of Terminator-Synthetic based organism who believes he is actually human but ultimately used as a pawn by the machines).

Seeing the Arnold T-800 is nice. It really brings a presence and attitude that no other single Terminator can do. It looks strikingly like the original Terminator back in 1984. Arnold's face is CG'd onto a built stunt player. The irony being that this Terminator, the one that originally tried to kill his mother then was sent to protect him and becomes much like a father to him, would be the one to FINALLY kill him and eliminate the chances for success for the Resistance.

The action is fantastic throughout and is very much one of the strongest elements of the entire movie. It definitely had me on the edge of my seat wanting more and more and becoming engulfed in the excitement. Rarely does a movie accomplish that.

Overall I can’t say enough positive things about it. I was extremely pleased and I will be watching this movie for many, many years to come. I really can’t wait to see it again.

Rating = 9.1/10.0

Currently Reading:

‘Salem’s Lot by Stephen King



I just finished it. And I have to say, even back in the late 70s, King reigned supreme in his mastery of writing. I don’t think anybody can argue against his ability because clearly he can write extremely well. The suspense and the way he pulls you into certain scene really allow you to experience the terror just as the characters themselves. One of the best instances of this is when Ben Mears, the main character, is describing his first experience with the dreaded, evil Marsten House. Reading this scene and following as the nine year-old boy sneaks into the house on a dare and witnesses an absolutely terrifying image of Hubert Marsten’s hanging dead body open his eyes and look at Ben had my heart racing. I’ve never really experienced that feeling just reading a book. That’s why you can never underestimate the impact of reading.

Overall the book is very enjoyable. Not a whole lot of action, and certain plenty of dialogue, but you shouldn’t struggle following what’s going on. I love how King only reveals what the book is truly about as you read along and experience what and when the characters experience. I believe that is an extremely effective style of writing.

Rating = 7.8/10.0

Currently Listening To:

Godsmack - Self-Titled (1998)



This is their best album although their most recent release, IV, will give it a run for its money. Both are great albums. But this one is the one that introduced me to the Boston-based group lead by lead singer Sully Erna. His vocals are unique and produce a tough, edgy quality to the music that make the sound really strike hard. Their first single “Whatever” is still one of the best tracks in addition to “Voodoo”, “Bad Religion”, “Keep Away” and “Stress”. This is an album that I can listen to all the way through and not be inclined to skip a track here and there. I can only say that for very few albums and that’s what makes it one of my favorites.

Best Movies of 2009 (So Far)

It’s really starting to pick up. We’ve had a number of good movies so far and it’s not even June. So there’s still a lot left. But here’s some of my favorite movies so far that might be on my “Best of” list at the end of the year:

The Wrestler 1.30.09
The International 2.13.09
Friday the 13th (2009) 2.13.09
Watchmen 3.06.09 ½
Sunshine Cleaning 3.13.09 ½
I Love You, Man 3.20.09 ½
X-Men Origins: Wolverine 5.01.09
Star Trek 5.08.09


STAR TREK is the biggest surprise right now. I really didn’t think it was going to be that good, but it was. SUNSHINE CLEANING isn’t really my kind of movie but it’s just one of those films that has an intangible quality to it that really makes me like it. I’m sure it has to do with the excellent direction, action, and storytelling. I LOVE YOU, MAN has Paul Rudd. And what I can I say about Paul Rudd other than he’s probably my favorite comedy actor and I have a man crush on him. WATCHMEN will definitely be on the list at the end of the year; at least in some regard. Good filmmaker adapting a great graphic novel. No real surprise there.

We’ve still got some potentially great ones coming up. I hope none of them make my “Let Down” list. Until then, au revoir! (Has Gambit would say…even though Deadpool could kill him easily.)