That Would Make a Great Movie!

Recently AOL Television collected the top 10 November News Headlines that ought to be Movies. Here's a little taste of the article and my favourite picks. Some are pretty out there so I will save you the hassle and give you my top three.



"It's no secret that there are little to no original ideas left in Hollywood, as we're overrun week after week with sequels and seemingly endless remakes. The question is: Why? Don't movie executives and screenwriters read the news?

The everyday world is filled with strange and bizarre occurrences that are a thousand times more original -- and entertaining -- than a lot of what Hollywood is churning out these days, from a hopeful reality TV star crashing a White House dinner to a seven-day search in the woods for an engagement ring that fell from a hot air balloon.

Here are 10 news headlines from November 2009 that would make great TV movies, complete with our ideal casts."

News Headline: Missing Boy Lived in NYC Subways
Who Should Star in the TV Movie: Rebel Rodriguez, Denis Leary
Synopsis: Francisco Hernandez, Jr., a 13-year-old boy who got in trouble at school and feared further punishment from his mother, removed the battery from his cell phone and lived for 11 days on the New York City subway system, surviving on snacks and soda. This is the story of his incredible journey that really just went around in circles, with Denis Leary as the wisecracking homeless man who befriends him.

News Headline: Two Arrested Over Cheese Heist
Who Should Star in the TV Movie: Karl Urban, Kylie Bax
Synopsis: New Zealand: the land of beautiful scenery, 'The Lord of the Rings' and -- cheese heists? You could really get fantastical with this one, having it just be "inspired" by a true story and let your imagination do the rest -- we'd have the young couple getting a taste for the thug life after stealing the cheese and concocting more "jobs" involving seemingly random items. The movie's show-stopper sequence would have them lifting a bunch of Generation One Transformers toys encased in glass from a high-security specialty toy store.

and my personal favourite . . .

News Headline: White House Crashers Met Obama
Who Should Star in the TV Movie: Tom Wilkinson, Heather Locklear
Synopsis: You knew this was coming, didn't you? We follow the saga of Michaele and Tareq Salahi, the couple who made a mockery of the Secret Service and White House security in general by crashing a White House dinner party and meeting the President of the United States himself. In real life, Michaele is also a candidate for a reality TV show on Bravo, 'The Real Housewives of D.C.' -- but it wouldn't be a shock if she and her husband got their own reality TV show, 'The Salahis,' after pulling this off.

Who really cares if this last one is true, it would be a fantastic movie!

To read the full list: http://www.aoltv.ca/2009/11/30/november-news-headlines-that-ought-to-be-tv-movies/

Jr. is on the Case

I must admit that I am awaiting the new Sherlock Holmes movie with fear and trembling. My apprehensive fear is caused by Guy Ritchie and my hopeful trembling is caused by Robert Downey Jr. I will begin with Guy Ritchie, who has stated that he is trying to give this film as modern look as possible while maintaining a Victorian feel. His hope is that the audience will find a more contemporary Sherlock Holmes in this film. I worry that there may be too much bang for it's buck. Mysteries are about the subtle unfolding of a story, not smashing and crashing. Give the people what they want, I suppose! This being said, when Robert Downey Jr. is added to the mix anything can happen.
I have not been a Robert Downey Jr. fan until recently, and have found myself wandering through his past films with enjoyable results. When it comes to a Robert Downey Jr. film I can never determine if I liked the film or not, but always enjoy him. This was definitely the case with his film Kiss Kiss, Bang Bang; if it hadn't have been for Jr's humor, I probably would hated the film. Again, with Ironman, the plot was fairly formulaic, but Jr. kinda stole the show. I find it rather ironic that an american icon will be playing a British icon. Jr. has the potential to turn Sherlock Holmes into a sex symbol; strange yes, but not surprising in a Guy Ritchie film.
I love a good Sherlock Holmes story, and the Robert Downey Jr. of late has wooed me, but the more I learn about the film the more I fear for it (especially the fact that Rachel McAdams will be playing alongside Jr). Don't get me wrong, I think this movie is going to be a huge blockbuster hit, and I'm sure Robert Downey Jr. will twist and turn every cliche we think we know about Sherlock. I'm looking forward to this case!

What do you think?

Sherlock Holmes currently has no rating on RT.

Master of Macabre

Tim Burton's films have a strange mysterious pull on audiences. To say he has a dark sense of humor would be an understatement. Vanity Fair recently wrote an article on the director entitled, "Death Becomes Him." Perhaps this statement best sums up the director. He is truly in his element when delving into the darker side of life. What is fascinating about Burton, is that he successfully walks the fine line between, the dark genre of gothic, and the candy coated world of Disney. In fact, his early career began at Disney working on the failed animated telling of The Black Cauldron, at the time thought to be too dark for Disney. Perhaps the world was not ready for Burton form of storytelling, yet Disney would return to Burton for his film Nightmare Before Christmas. Burton now has a eclectic assortment of films, that all seem to share a morbid, fantasy quality. Although Burton's films unabashedly enter into darkness, the audience is always shown a glimmer of hope and beauty; perhaps not a traditional sense of beauty, but beauty nevertheless. This is particularly true of his early film Edward Scissorhands, that forged Burton's gothic niche, and was effortless in its ability to captivate in its audience. This film was funny, quirky, morbid, and surprisingly poignant; bringing us to another magical element of his film: the cast. The director surrounds himself with muses who often look like they have walked off his sketchbook. Burton's filmic successes often share one thing: Johnny Depp, whose elegant scarecrow looks lend themselves to his characters. More recently in Barber of Seville, Depp showed the world another of his many talents, his singing voice: the beauty among the darkness. Johnny Depp many be Burton's lucky charm but his true muse is gothic queen herself, Helen Bonham Carter. Despite the fact that Depp and Boham Carter are often a whimsical couple onscreen, offscreen it is the director who holds the heart of the queen. Although they are probably not the most popular couple in hollywood, they certainly do make bed head look chic. Both Johnny Depp and Helen Bonham Carter, have an amazing gift for caricature. These two acotrs also give life to Burton stop motion characters, by lending their voices. In keeping with the proper custom, Carter and Depp will once again be featured in the upcoming film Alice in Wonderland. His newest film will take a step towards the digital world of animation, with its blending of live action and digital overlay. This version of the familiar tale will not surprisingly be a rather untraditional telling, as he creates a new story using character from both of Lewis Caroll's books: Alice in Wonderland and Through the Looking Glass.
Burton's stop motion films are always delicately crafted; a perfect art form to describe the worlds that he imagines.
Tim Burton's work is currently on display at the MoMa Gallery in New York. Those lucky enough to see the exhibit, will be treated to hand sketches of concept art, storyboards from previous films, and character sculptures used in some of his stop motion films.
He truly is the master of macabre, constantly returning to the world of fairytales as the source for his storytelling. It is excited to think what Tim Burton's imagination will create next.

Tim Burton's films have received an average rating of 83% on RT.

What do you think?

Hunt for Oscar

The hunt for this year's Oscar host continues. Apparently this role isn't quite so coveted as it use to be. Although the gig was once again offered to last year's host Hugh Jackman, he politely refused. Ricky Gervais, another hopefully, has taken on that role for the Golden Globes. As well, both Ben Stiller and Robert Downey Jr. have declined the offers.

I'm going to throw a couple names out there: Johnny Depp, Clive Owen, Bill Murray.
What about a female hostess?

Who would you choose to host the 2010 Oscars?

The 82nd Oscar awards take place March 7th, 2010. Synchronizing watches now!

An Education

As I write this, I am listening to An Education soundtrack. Beth Rowley is lulling me with You’ve Got Me Wrapped Around Your Little Finger. The first thing that I must say about this film is that the soundtrack is incredible. Through this soundtrack I was introduced to two fabulous female artists: Beth Rowley and Melody Gardot. (Beth Rowley can be seen crooning in one of the scenes, wearing a striking black number, you can’t miss her!) It is very appropriate for music to have a prominent role in this film, and fitting that two such strong female artist should lead the way. Nick Hornby’s films (High Fidelity and About a Boy) always have a strong tie to music.
I won’t deny that I have been anticipating this film for quite some time. I was intrigued from the beginning. My filmic huger was feed, as I learned this movie contained all my favorite things: the early 60’s, music, fashion, and French culture. What can I say, for me, it was an easy sell from the beginning. Therefore I’m sorry if my opinion is bias.
The title describes it all; this movie purposes the question: what is the true definition of an education? The story focuses around a high school student, Jenny, played by newcomer Carey Mulligan. An Education boasts a talented cast. I believe this is a breakthrough role for Mulligan. Physically, she epitomizes the delicate, fledgling female becoming a woman, struggling with the place between girlhood and womanhood. Mulligan carries her confidence with her graceful humor. I found myself being swept up in her world of awe for the unattainable. Peter Sarsgaard (Garden State) is perfect. I know that sounds terrible, but he was just perfect. He physically embodied the character and conveyed emotionally charisma, all with the perfect amount of innocence and seduction. Alfred Molina, who I always love, did not fail to deliver his dry jumbled humor, achieve by perfect timing. Surprisingly one of my favorite characters was played by Rosamund Pike (what a great name!) (Jane, Pride and Prejudice), who could say all that needed to be said with a simple eyebrow raise or blink. I loved that Emma Thompson dropped in for a small but powerful performance as the school’s head mistress, she was so well cast. Of course, who else could play that role, clearly Emma Thompson. I'm excited to see how this film fares at the Oscars.
At the heart of this story is a struggle, deciding what is more important, an education offered by school or life. I believe that this struggle transcends gender, but in this case the writer choose to focus on the feminine side of this question, as under the lens of the early 60’s. Many tough choices are analyzed as the film unfolds, in fact as the movie progresses just about everyone has some kind of regret. I found that I was totally enthralled by the questions that were being posed. Although my own life is not nearly so dramatic as Jenny’s (ha), I find myself wrestling with many of the same questions, and being seduced by a life of easy come, easy go. I was on the edge of my seat awaiting the answers, but they never came. This is my only criticism of the movie: the ending is . . . cryptic. Is it success or denial? I don’t know if the conclusion does the rest of the film justice. This being said, I can’t think of how else the movie could be ended. Perhaps life is one giant conundrum, there is no right answer. Like the film I have yet to find my conclusion.
I will finish this on a light note! This film is glamorous from start to finish. Beautiful romanticized scenes of Paris, . . . sigh, I love it. The fashion of this film is glorious, and that is simply because early 60’s fashion was glorious. My goodness, why can’t men dress like that today. MMMmm! That’s all I am going to say about that.

Overall, I love that this film was able to explore, with humor and sensitivity, the dark secrets of such a seductive era.

Oh, I almost forgot! . . . I do have one question. How did C.S. Lewis find his way into this film?

This film received 92% on RT.

What do you think?

Fantastic Mr.Clooney

George Clooney has proved his foxiness in this world, but now he will have to prove it in the world of animation as he takes on the role of Mr. Fox. I cannot wait to see Fantastic Mr. Fox. The combination of Wes Anderson directing and George Clooney, Bill Muray, and Jason Schwatzman rounding out the cast, could possibly be magical.
For those of you who are not familiar with Wes Anderson, he is the brains behind the Royal Tenenbaums and Life Aquatic . It is rare for Wes Anderson to tinker in the realm of children's stories, as most of his work is quite dark. The film is based on the story of Roald Dahl, more commonly known for his Book, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.
Possibly the most exciting part of this new film is that it is a stop motion film. I am going out on a limb, and saying that I think this film with clean up at the Oscars in the animation department. The attention to detail in this film is exquisite. Every scene is packed with clever detail. In a world where hollywood pumps out straight to video, digitally animated films, I believe filmgoers are forgetting the roots of animation; giving life to something inanimate. As Josh Horowitz of MTV states, Fantastic Mr. Fox is "proof that Pixar doesn't have a monopoly on heartfelt and funny animation." I believe this film will rekindle an appreciation of animation as fine art.
Another delightful element of this movie is its soundtrack, which features two Beach Boys song and a Rolling Stones hit. The soundtrack is composed by Alexandre Desplat.
Can't wait for this film!!!!

This film received 100% on RT.

To view the trailer visit the site below:
http://www.apple.com/trailers/fox_searchlight/fantasticmrfox/

What do you think?

Rule, Britannia!

Those Brits, they do love their royalty, and one can't help understanding why after seeing a film like The Young Victoria. I have been anticipating this movie for a little over six months, which was why I was overjoyed to see that it was playing at the VIFF this year. Needless to say I bought tickets.
The opening scene of this film was heavenly, and I say heavenly because it truly captured the grandeur and sanctity of a tradition that is sadly being forgotten. It is overwhelming to see such a young woman taking the crown. Her youth is presented perfectly as the camera pans across Victoria's feet, dangling from the towering throne. In the coronation scene the audience is also treated to a cameo of Princess Beatrice, daughter of Sarah Ferguson, who in the film plays one of Victoria's ladies in waiting. Another standout scene for me, is the parliament scene, where it is interesting to see the seeds of monarchy denial being planted.
The cinematography of this film is truly stunning, and cuts no corners in conveying the splendor of the Victorian era. The camera often moves in and out of focus, prompting the viewer to take in the whole scene. The costumes were spectacular, spectacular! Bring on the corsets! Emily Blunt brings a great elegance to the character of Victoria, and I believe, is successful in conveying the different ages of girl becoming a woman. Is there an Oscar nomination in Emily Blunt's future? I can't help but wish, but truly, I don't think so. I love to hear that Emily actually begged for the part, because the character of Victoria was so fascinating to her. Yeah, Emily! On a side note, I enjoyed hearing Robert Friend speak some of his lines in German. The cast is a collection of actors and actresses that one expects from a British history film. A stand out, was Jim Broadbent, who's part was small, but so amusing.
The film unwrapped itself with subtle beauty, and it's every meticulous ingredient composes a nearly perfect film. I say almost perfect, because there were factual flaws. The filmmakers sadly gave in to the urge to play up the drama of Alberts heroism, when he protected the queen from an assassination attempt. Albeit, it was an extremely brave thing to do, but he was not actually injured, absolutely nothing. I believe this does somewhat soil the movie because the scene is played as if she will lose Albert, and we are pursuaded to lose ourself in the romance of the situation.
In the end I felt that the movie ended too soon; perhaps that it a sign the of movie's success, as I was left wanting more. Although the film at times wanders into quaintness, it is alway promptly brought back to very human situations. It was so pleasant to seeing a woman who was most commonly remember as a stoic, widow, presented as a vivacious girl. I love the Royals.

Quote:
Duchess of Sutherland: Look at that demure little head. And all of us wondering what's inside it.
Lord Melbourne: We'll find out soon enough

This film received 74% on RT

Young Victoria comes to Canadian theaters December 18th.

If you are loved this movie I suggest watching the BBC version, Victoria & Albert. To continue the story, of Victoria life as a widow, the film Mrs. Brown, staring Dame Judy Dench and Billy Conolly is excellent.
To view Victoria's costumes in detail visit http://www.costumersguide.com/cr_victoria.shtml

What do you think?

Suggestively Yellow

If you're anything like me, a movie just isn't a movie without bowl of perfectly popped popcorn, drizzled with warm butter, and then kissed with a thin layer of salt. I am not referring to the crap the movie theatres now sadly pass off as pop corn. Yet, I must admit that I do have moments of weakness. When my popcorn lust hits, I will indulge with those suggestively yellow, cardboard like kernels. I alway feel dirty afterwards.

Welcome to the wonderful world of Celluloid

A common thread runs through culture and time, and that is the world's fascination with storytelling. For me, storytelling resonates most deeply in the form of cinema. So many components are brought together to create a narrative. Often, it is the individual components that carry the success of a film. If John Williams had not written the soundtrack for the Star Wars Trilogy, would Darth Vader seemed quite so ominous? Would we refuse the Godfather's offer if he was not played by Marlon Brando? There are so many elements that make a film enthralling, and so many elements that can make it less than enthralling. Motion pictures have the power to entertain, educate, or indoctrinate. Because it holds such a strong power over us, I believe it is important to discuss cinema in all its forms.
I must admit that my own taste in film can at best be described as eclectic. I cannot often describe why I love a film, yet I know I love or hate it passionately. I relish the fact that filmgoers, are as diverse as the movie world itself. With that being said, this site will hopefully be a place to agree, disagree, or agree to disagree regarding the celluloid world.