C - Natasha Haught-Fudge, who I still love and adore, even though she hated my favorite movie of last year oh so passionately. I would link you there, but I know she's embarrassed by it, so I'll spare her that.
L - Brown Brother's Gallery, where I spent a bit of my Friday being an extra for Nick Stenzel's four-one-nine. Sweet place... Gotta love that BL!!!
O - An Oscar, for Diablo Cody, Glen Hansard, Marketa Irglova, and Marion Cotillard. You all deserved it! Way to go!
S - Realizing that I'm losing friends left and right, and that eventually, I'll have to move back home and accept reality. Oh August! Please do not make haste!
A - Seeing three movies, in the theatres, over the course of 5 days. Haven't done that in a long while.
T - The Film Faculty doesn't care about you, or your films. Accept it, and you might do well. Forget it, and it'll break your heart.
So yeah, three movies. Here they are!
The Spiderwick Chronicles - Decent, fun, family entertainment. Scarier than I had imagined, but overall, something nice for the 8 year olds of the world to enjoy. I saw it cause my screenwriting prof saw it with his young'uns, and liked it. I liked it too.
Dan in Real Life - Yep, I went and saw it. Funny, really funny. Schmaltzy, of course, but genuinely entertaining. Steve Carell is pretty great, and I really do love Juliette Binoche. Vive la France!
Vantage Point - Meh. I cannot say that I wasn't entertained, because I was, BUT! they use a cinematic conceit more suited for television to tell their story. Let me explain: we all know the premise from the trailers which have played ad nauseum for the better part of 8 months (8 strangers, 8 points of view, one truth, blah blah). Well, every time the point of view switches, we get this lovely white fade out, and then we are subjected to a rewinding of the events we previously saw, and then a lovely clock, a la 24 shows up in the bottom left hand of the screen, telling us what time it is. It was nice, the first time, but the filmmakers decided, as I previously stated, to do it every time we switched perspectives! Thankfully, we only have to suffer through this brief lapse of judgement four times, but man alive did it get old fast. Still, all preposterousness aside, the film was a nice thriller, with a kinda surprising twist. I felt that, for the most part, this story would have been great as a 6 episode miniseries, where each episode was one perspective. Then, we could have gotten to know our characters more, and thus making it less one-dimensional. Oh, and also the film features the most AWKWARD bit of exposition I've seen in a long time, save for that news reporter bit in War of the Worlds. I shudder when I think about it. A nice rental on a lazy Saturday evening. Nothing more. I only paid $5.50, so I'm not complaining.
The Oscars were last night, and they were actually fun. I watched them live for the first time in a while, which wasn't as painful as it usually is. The speeches were nice and short, and there were some nice surprises, especially Marion Cotillard's much deserved win for La Vie en Rose. All those women were worthy of the prize, but she stood out to me big time. Oh, and Once winning best song, and seeing Colin Farrell get choked up presenting it was a nice tender moment. Oh, and don't forget Jon Stewart's lovely gesture of bringing dear sweet Marketa back on stage to give a very moving speech after Bill Conti (orchestra guy) oh so rudely interrupted her. Talk about classy. I don't know what it is about that film, but it raises my spirits in ways I don't think any other film has. As much as I loved No Country, I want more positive, hopeful cinema. It's why I dug Juno so much, I think: it took teenage pregnancy and didn't make it about parenting issues, or anything overly serious. Instead, it made us laugh, and it made the character's arc more about finding her identity as a teenager than her identity as a mother (which is often how those movies play out). It made me smile in the end, which was a welcome change. And no, Tash, that wasn't a jab at you and your blog. Really...
And, in other news, my senior project made it into the third round of production (yay!). No real surprise there, as I know that there's been little concern about it since the beginning (keepin' it simple!). But, not all is well in Zion. For you see, during our little meeting with the big wigs of the Media Arts department, I had a dark epiphany: There are two individuals on that committee would couldn't care less whether or not I made a film. I won't name names for privacy sake, but anyone familiar with our department should known darn well who they are. In fact, even those not familiar at all with our department should know one of them, but in a VERY different context. ANYway, the fact of the matter is, despite these person's place on the Project Review Committee, it is disturbingly clear after our last encounter that their interest in students and projects is at about 10%, which is probably a generous amount, but they do show up to these pitches, so I guess that accounts for something. I'm just fed up with it. I'm fed up with the lack of support. Instead of support, we have to jump over a billion hurdles, and then climb a few walls. THEN, we have to white water raft down a river with Kevin Bacon, gun firmly planted on our temples, all while singing the university's fight song (which no self-respecting Media Arts student knows, which makes this uber impossible). Yeah, it's that ridiculous. Misunderstandings, lack of communication, and a general lack of interest are all adding up to equal serious frustration on my part, while they couldn't care less. Really. It's sad, isn't it? Shouldn't they be supporting us? The people who pay their salaries? Isn't that what they should but don't do as professors? Seriously! It makes no sense to me sometimes.
A'ight, rant over. It really gets me going when I think about it.
Dang it. I'm exhausted. I'm sure I had more to say, but it all escapes me. Oh, let me just say this before I close: I am in love with Tina Fey. Absolutely in love with her. In fact, I'm so in love with her, I don't even care that she's supporting Hillary. The very fact that Tina Fey is living and breathing, and currently writing super awesome episodes of 30 Rock makes me giddy. She hosted Saturday Night Live this past weekend, and it was actually pretty grand. Tina was at her usually awesomeness, in spite of some pretty bad sketches. Other great moments were Bill Hader's spot-on impression of Daniel Plainview from There Will Be Blood (the Daniel Day-Lewis role), the Celebrity Apprentice spoof, the Annuele drug ad, and the cold open, which had me laughing almost too hard. Oh, and Tina's monologue with Steve Martin, and her Weekend Update bit: Awesome and awesome. And, in spite of himself, I'm much more endeared to Mike Huckabee than I was before after he so wonderfully spoofed himself. Pretty great. I'm stoked for our dear Ms. Ellen Page to host next week. She's a bundle of awesome as well, and probably a much healthier crush, as she's much closer to my age than Tina, and not married with a baby. A cute baby, but a baby nonetheless.... *sigh*...
See y'all later...
Monday, February 25, 2008
Monday, February 18, 2008
Captain Subtext
C - Johanna McCuen, who's collection of Mystery Science Theaters makes me jealous. But, also the mere fact that she's awesome helps to endear her to me on a regular basis.
L - The Fudges. For 7 hours. Boring? Now, why would you say that? It's the Fudges for pete's sake! We had cake! With Nutella frosting! And Arrested Development!
O - An iPod touch. No, I didn't buy one, but I sure have been lusting. Seriously. It's become such a problem, I can almost guarantee you that Kevin Spacey will visit me, and murder me all clever-like...
S - Waking up with a migraine again. I'm not sure what's wrong, but it's frightening me the more I think about it. I haven't had this happen since Paris, so I don't know what's up... I really don't.
A - Finally finishing Cormac McCarthy's The Road, which was equal parts brilliant and sad. It ended better than I expected, but still, a hard one to get through, especially in our day and age.
T - True sadness is achieved whilst eating the last piece of Orange Chicken in the box... *sniff*
I just barely saw two films worthy of note in terms of the year's best: Michael Clayton and The Darjeeling Limited.
Michael Clayton - This was a pretty intense legal thriller. While I knew where it was heading for the most part, the character of Michael Clayton himself made the piece a bit different than what we've seen in the past. Flawed, complex, and brilliantly acted by George Clooney, it's a tour de force character who we are constantly struggling to understand. We're told he's a "Fixer", or as he puts it a "Janitor", and it isn't until the film's end that we really get a sense of what exactly that means. When I saw it's Oscar nod for Best Picture, I was indeed shocked, but after having seen the film, it's not surprising. Is it deserving? Probably not, but it's a great thriller, unlike many supposed thrillers we've seen in the months and even years past. Director/writer Tony Gilroy has a sense for great pacing, and being able to engage us with fantastically rendered characters (he wrote the last two Bourne films). Check this one out.
The Darjeeling Limited - I had heard a lot of bad mouthing in regards to this film, and a lot of it is probably deserved. It is most assuredly esoteric, odd, distancing, and many other adjectives often associated with Wes Anderson films, but it also has a lot of heart, and that's hard to ignore, in this person's opinion. For all of the wide angle shots, and all of the slow mo moments, Anderson, and co-writers Roman Coppola and Jason Schwartzman manage to actually make us come to love our three leads over time, and not instantly. Lush visuals of a rather colorful India (a perfect fit for Anderson's normal obsession with production design), typical non-sequiturs spouted by ambiguous but charming characters, and an interesting turn of events makes this film a nice entry into Anderson's Canon of Quirk. I liked it, a lot more than I expected to. See it!
I may go check out yet another film tonight, Dan in Real Life. I chanced upon the opening sequence awhile back thanks to one of my professors (WGA member, with a screener), and it intrigued me greatly. It starts in an hour and half or so. We'll see... I still have the migraine from this morning... Ugh... And I thought a little bit of Panda could cure all ails. Not so... *sigh*.
Maybe a second shot at some OC would help........
.......
.....
....
..
.
I joke, really... Honest....
Oh, and let me know what you think of the new title. I'm not completely sold on it, but it's clever. I do so miss the old Haberdashery, but this title fits... What should I do? Keep this one, or go back to the tried and true? Quite the conundrum...
L - The Fudges. For 7 hours. Boring? Now, why would you say that? It's the Fudges for pete's sake! We had cake! With Nutella frosting! And Arrested Development!
O - An iPod touch. No, I didn't buy one, but I sure have been lusting. Seriously. It's become such a problem, I can almost guarantee you that Kevin Spacey will visit me, and murder me all clever-like...
S - Waking up with a migraine again. I'm not sure what's wrong, but it's frightening me the more I think about it. I haven't had this happen since Paris, so I don't know what's up... I really don't.
A - Finally finishing Cormac McCarthy's The Road, which was equal parts brilliant and sad. It ended better than I expected, but still, a hard one to get through, especially in our day and age.
T - True sadness is achieved whilst eating the last piece of Orange Chicken in the box... *sniff*
I just barely saw two films worthy of note in terms of the year's best: Michael Clayton and The Darjeeling Limited.
Michael Clayton - This was a pretty intense legal thriller. While I knew where it was heading for the most part, the character of Michael Clayton himself made the piece a bit different than what we've seen in the past. Flawed, complex, and brilliantly acted by George Clooney, it's a tour de force character who we are constantly struggling to understand. We're told he's a "Fixer", or as he puts it a "Janitor", and it isn't until the film's end that we really get a sense of what exactly that means. When I saw it's Oscar nod for Best Picture, I was indeed shocked, but after having seen the film, it's not surprising. Is it deserving? Probably not, but it's a great thriller, unlike many supposed thrillers we've seen in the months and even years past. Director/writer Tony Gilroy has a sense for great pacing, and being able to engage us with fantastically rendered characters (he wrote the last two Bourne films). Check this one out.
The Darjeeling Limited - I had heard a lot of bad mouthing in regards to this film, and a lot of it is probably deserved. It is most assuredly esoteric, odd, distancing, and many other adjectives often associated with Wes Anderson films, but it also has a lot of heart, and that's hard to ignore, in this person's opinion. For all of the wide angle shots, and all of the slow mo moments, Anderson, and co-writers Roman Coppola and Jason Schwartzman manage to actually make us come to love our three leads over time, and not instantly. Lush visuals of a rather colorful India (a perfect fit for Anderson's normal obsession with production design), typical non-sequiturs spouted by ambiguous but charming characters, and an interesting turn of events makes this film a nice entry into Anderson's Canon of Quirk. I liked it, a lot more than I expected to. See it!
I may go check out yet another film tonight, Dan in Real Life. I chanced upon the opening sequence awhile back thanks to one of my professors (WGA member, with a screener), and it intrigued me greatly. It starts in an hour and half or so. We'll see... I still have the migraine from this morning... Ugh... And I thought a little bit of Panda could cure all ails. Not so... *sigh*.
Maybe a second shot at some OC would help........
.......
.....
....
..
.
I joke, really... Honest....
Oh, and let me know what you think of the new title. I'm not completely sold on it, but it's clever. I do so miss the old Haberdashery, but this title fits... What should I do? Keep this one, or go back to the tried and true? Quite the conundrum...
Friday, February 15, 2008
The Polyphonic Spree
C - Chloè (mind the accent) Huber, who just turned 21, and whose roommates threw her the most wicked birthday celebration ever.
L - The Sunda Trench, which is where they "found" Oceanic 815. We all know its a lie, people...
O - A bucket of red paint... With a sponge brush and a paint brush...
S - Trying to write 3 scripts at once: two shorts and one feature... Awesome, sure, but stressful sans doute...
A - Sawing a tree in half, in order to cross a large trench, and get the treasure of Barbaros, and save the day...
T - Valentine's Day is for suckers... Nice red, heart-shaped suckers...
Okay, so on Wednesday, my dear friend Chloè Huber had a birthday, and I had the immense privilege of celebrating it with her, complete with cake and well wishes. BUT! The best part, most assuredly, had to be the jumpsuits, goggles, shower caps and the numerous paint buckets that we all carried about, and proceeded to thrown on each other, and the tent in which we were encompassed. It was mighty fantastic. While the fumes were a bit much, and I managed to get paint in my mouth more than a few times, it made for quite the evening. The best part was the look on my roommates faces as Kent and I walked in, paint all over our faces in several different shades. Loads of fun. Thanks Chloè, and Emily, and Chloè's other roommate, whose name escapes me at the moment! Well worth the cold trip through the snow to get there...
One thing I've failed to mention, but I can't help but be completely obsessed with is the return of Lost to the airwaves. Three weeks ago, we were given the much anticipated season premiere, which was good, but not great. Why was it not great? Because the two episodes that have proceeded it have been even better. I'm still reeling from last night's unbelievable revelation that... HA! I'm not going to spoil it. Watch it. If you've given up on the show, all of the episodes from all three seasons are on ABC.com, and they're pretty great. Season 3 is quite possibly the best renaissance of any show I've ever seen, totally giving us everything we've wanted from the show, but were denied in Season 2 (even though I've heard repeatedly that season 2 is MUCH better in consecutive chunks, and not week to week like I watched it). I can't praise the show enough, because it just keeps getting better, even in a season that most shows fail to enthrall. Chalk that one up to Damon Lindelof and Carlton Cuse (or Darlton, as we lovingly call them), whose deft leadership of the show has not wavered, even when their fearless creator and spear-header, J.J. Abrams, barely stops by for a visit anymore (*sniff*). They managed to get ABC to give them an end date for the show (May 2010), and also to allow them to air 16 episodes back to back each season, no reruns. Talk about loyalty to the fans. I love this show. It has yet to disappoint me, even at its worst. Why? Because even at its absolute worse ("Stranger in a Strange Land", Season 3), its still better than 90% of what's on TV. 'Nuff said...
Another thing: For all you Wii-ites out there, do yourself a favor and pick up Zack and Wiki (or Z-Dub as the fans have named it). It is loads of fun, and its a real brain teaser. It's sure to exercise your noggin in ways you couldn't imagine.
Recent Films: Eagle vs. Shark - Not bad. Basically Napoleon Dynamite for the Kiwi-set. Manages a few chuckles, and a heart-felt end, but its nothing more than a sophisticated rip-off. Sad to say. Irony: Jemaine Clement, the "Eagle" of the film's title, and Napoleon's Kiwi cousin, will be starring in Jared Hess's newest film, Gentleman Broncos. Talk about hilarious... I can't wait. I love Flight of the Conchords.
Rocket Science - Another odd duck, from the director of Spellbound, a pretty entertaining doc about the National Spelling Bee. Fantastic performances, but its the dialogue that got me down: too good to be true. It is a heightened world, but some of the characters were a bit too much for me. Overall, a nice film. Weird, but nice.
Seven Samurai - Kurosawa. Classic. Brilliant. Entertaining. Three and half hours. That's all I need to say.
Music: I'm completely in love with Mika and Amy Winehouse right now, two people I've failed to hear much of, due to my lack of radio listening (I'm an NPR nerd, and a classic rock whore). "Lollipop" and "Rehab" are two of the catchiest songs I've heard in a long time. Way cool.
In other news: The strike is over. Woo Hoo! Bring on 30 Rock!!! That's all I have to say on that...
L - The Sunda Trench, which is where they "found" Oceanic 815. We all know its a lie, people...
O - A bucket of red paint... With a sponge brush and a paint brush...
S - Trying to write 3 scripts at once: two shorts and one feature... Awesome, sure, but stressful sans doute...
A - Sawing a tree in half, in order to cross a large trench, and get the treasure of Barbaros, and save the day...
T - Valentine's Day is for suckers... Nice red, heart-shaped suckers...
Okay, so on Wednesday, my dear friend Chloè Huber had a birthday, and I had the immense privilege of celebrating it with her, complete with cake and well wishes. BUT! The best part, most assuredly, had to be the jumpsuits, goggles, shower caps and the numerous paint buckets that we all carried about, and proceeded to thrown on each other, and the tent in which we were encompassed. It was mighty fantastic. While the fumes were a bit much, and I managed to get paint in my mouth more than a few times, it made for quite the evening. The best part was the look on my roommates faces as Kent and I walked in, paint all over our faces in several different shades. Loads of fun. Thanks Chloè, and Emily, and Chloè's other roommate, whose name escapes me at the moment! Well worth the cold trip through the snow to get there...
One thing I've failed to mention, but I can't help but be completely obsessed with is the return of Lost to the airwaves. Three weeks ago, we were given the much anticipated season premiere, which was good, but not great. Why was it not great? Because the two episodes that have proceeded it have been even better. I'm still reeling from last night's unbelievable revelation that... HA! I'm not going to spoil it. Watch it. If you've given up on the show, all of the episodes from all three seasons are on ABC.com, and they're pretty great. Season 3 is quite possibly the best renaissance of any show I've ever seen, totally giving us everything we've wanted from the show, but were denied in Season 2 (even though I've heard repeatedly that season 2 is MUCH better in consecutive chunks, and not week to week like I watched it). I can't praise the show enough, because it just keeps getting better, even in a season that most shows fail to enthrall. Chalk that one up to Damon Lindelof and Carlton Cuse (or Darlton, as we lovingly call them), whose deft leadership of the show has not wavered, even when their fearless creator and spear-header, J.J. Abrams, barely stops by for a visit anymore (*sniff*). They managed to get ABC to give them an end date for the show (May 2010), and also to allow them to air 16 episodes back to back each season, no reruns. Talk about loyalty to the fans. I love this show. It has yet to disappoint me, even at its worst. Why? Because even at its absolute worse ("Stranger in a Strange Land", Season 3), its still better than 90% of what's on TV. 'Nuff said...
Another thing: For all you Wii-ites out there, do yourself a favor and pick up Zack and Wiki (or Z-Dub as the fans have named it). It is loads of fun, and its a real brain teaser. It's sure to exercise your noggin in ways you couldn't imagine.
Recent Films: Eagle vs. Shark - Not bad. Basically Napoleon Dynamite for the Kiwi-set. Manages a few chuckles, and a heart-felt end, but its nothing more than a sophisticated rip-off. Sad to say. Irony: Jemaine Clement, the "Eagle" of the film's title, and Napoleon's Kiwi cousin, will be starring in Jared Hess's newest film, Gentleman Broncos. Talk about hilarious... I can't wait. I love Flight of the Conchords.
Rocket Science - Another odd duck, from the director of Spellbound, a pretty entertaining doc about the National Spelling Bee. Fantastic performances, but its the dialogue that got me down: too good to be true. It is a heightened world, but some of the characters were a bit too much for me. Overall, a nice film. Weird, but nice.
Seven Samurai - Kurosawa. Classic. Brilliant. Entertaining. Three and half hours. That's all I need to say.
Music: I'm completely in love with Mika and Amy Winehouse right now, two people I've failed to hear much of, due to my lack of radio listening (I'm an NPR nerd, and a classic rock whore). "Lollipop" and "Rehab" are two of the catchiest songs I've heard in a long time. Way cool.
In other news: The strike is over. Woo Hoo! Bring on 30 Rock!!! That's all I have to say on that...
Saturday, February 02, 2008
Nudity Clauses
C - Daniel Day-Lewis, who I swear could act his way into Fort Knox. He is phenomenal (I mean, phenomenal), in There Will Be Blood. See it and believe it.
L - BBC America, my new favorite channel... It's like going to England, except that I'm still stuck here...
O - Orange Chicken, which I'm convinced is what God eats everyday... It has to be... It's just that good...
S - Watching Notting Hill, alone, on a Saturday night, and not fretting it. It's a fine film, with fantastic performances... I swear.
A - Taking a leak three times in one hour. Gross, I know, but it was an accomplishment. Why? Cause it was clear! Hooray for Hydration!
T - When times get you down, compromise your morals, and maybe you will be able to dig on many a tract of land, and potentially strike oil, which you will then suck up like a milkshake! I drink your milkshake! I drink it up!
For all four of you that read this, I apologize for the delay in updating. The reason being is that the semester has begun, and I actually did in fact have a post about two weeks ago, but I failed to post it, for whatever reason.
Excuses aside, I'm happy to be back, and with a nifty new logo. I made that sucka almost three months ago, and it didn't work the first time, so I abandoned it. I tried it again on a whim last night, and voilà! It worked! So, enjoy. I intend to fix it a bit in Photoshop or something, give it an edge or whatever.
As I noted above, I saw There Will Be Blood today, and I can only really say "wow", because this film is a superb achievement in filmmaking, and a film that will probably be remembered years down the line as a pinnacle of perfection. I doubt it will win Best Picture this year, because that would just be too perfect.
As for my top ten list, it's still brewing in the brain, because I can't quite decide what will make the top of the list. It's sooooooo close between a few (No Country, Juno, and There Will Be Blood). I think, based solely on my pure exuberance after having seen it, Juno takes it, but seeing There Will Be Blood has shaken that. Well, actually... Here's the list...
1. Juno
1. There Will Be Blood
1. No Country For Old Men
4. Hot Fuzz
4. Once
4. Zodiac
4. Ratatouille
8. Atonement
9. Paris, je t'aime
10. Hairspray
Some honorable mentions: Sweeney Todd, 3:10 To Yuma, The Host, The Bourne Ultimatum, Knocked Up, Enchanted, The Simpsons Movie, Waitress, Bridge To Terabithia...
So, there it is. I think. It's not gospel, nor shall it be canonized, but it should appease the masses, as they say. I pulled a Princeton Review and gave several films the same number... Deal with it. I really honestly cannot choose between them and give them numbers. I debated not giving numbers, but then the list would have been long, and confusing for those people who just cannot live without numbers.
Et, voilà!
L - BBC America, my new favorite channel... It's like going to England, except that I'm still stuck here...
O - Orange Chicken, which I'm convinced is what God eats everyday... It has to be... It's just that good...
S - Watching Notting Hill, alone, on a Saturday night, and not fretting it. It's a fine film, with fantastic performances... I swear.
A - Taking a leak three times in one hour. Gross, I know, but it was an accomplishment. Why? Cause it was clear! Hooray for Hydration!
T - When times get you down, compromise your morals, and maybe you will be able to dig on many a tract of land, and potentially strike oil, which you will then suck up like a milkshake! I drink your milkshake! I drink it up!
For all four of you that read this, I apologize for the delay in updating. The reason being is that the semester has begun, and I actually did in fact have a post about two weeks ago, but I failed to post it, for whatever reason.
Excuses aside, I'm happy to be back, and with a nifty new logo. I made that sucka almost three months ago, and it didn't work the first time, so I abandoned it. I tried it again on a whim last night, and voilà! It worked! So, enjoy. I intend to fix it a bit in Photoshop or something, give it an edge or whatever.
As I noted above, I saw There Will Be Blood today, and I can only really say "wow", because this film is a superb achievement in filmmaking, and a film that will probably be remembered years down the line as a pinnacle of perfection. I doubt it will win Best Picture this year, because that would just be too perfect.
As for my top ten list, it's still brewing in the brain, because I can't quite decide what will make the top of the list. It's sooooooo close between a few (No Country, Juno, and There Will Be Blood). I think, based solely on my pure exuberance after having seen it, Juno takes it, but seeing There Will Be Blood has shaken that. Well, actually... Here's the list...
1. Juno
1. There Will Be Blood
1. No Country For Old Men
4. Hot Fuzz
4. Once
4. Zodiac
4. Ratatouille
8. Atonement
9. Paris, je t'aime
10. Hairspray
Some honorable mentions: Sweeney Todd, 3:10 To Yuma, The Host, The Bourne Ultimatum, Knocked Up, Enchanted, The Simpsons Movie, Waitress, Bridge To Terabithia...
So, there it is. I think. It's not gospel, nor shall it be canonized, but it should appease the masses, as they say. I pulled a Princeton Review and gave several films the same number... Deal with it. I really honestly cannot choose between them and give them numbers. I debated not giving numbers, but then the list would have been long, and confusing for those people who just cannot live without numbers.
Et, voilà!
Wednesday, January 02, 2008
Ginger Balls
C - David Letterman, and his crack team of writers, back again, to stay (we hope)
L - A 7-11, located just behind my alma mater (high school-wise)
O - The 16-Disc Complete Monty Python's Flying Circus
S - Watching Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers in The Gay Divorcee for the second time, and not realizing it
A - Trying to chop up almonds in a blender, with a really high blade.
T - Life without water makes a lot of things really difficult
My dad keeps turning the water on and off in order to fix a leak in my parent's bathroom. It's caused a lot of grief, especially yesterday when we were trying to do laundry and dishes (my sister and her husband had a band of hooligans over for some UFC fight last night, so lots of things were being made, and no water with which to wash them). It's getting old.
But! Here's the real reason for today's entry: I've been itching, ever since Matt Roush at TV Guide did this a few weeks back, to write out my top 10 television programs of the year. A lot of good TV, especially this summer, and with this writer's strike, it helps to remember why they deserve what they are asking for: because they write some of the most compelling stuff TV has seen in years.
So, without much else to blab about, here it is:
1. Lost - While a bit inconsistent in its first six episodes, Lost turned around at the beginning of 2007, giving us 15 (only one dud. Thanks a million, Jack's tattoos.)of the finest hours television has seen, and in all honesty, the most exhilarating and surprising season finale this humble television viewer has ever seen. Season 4 looks to keep the pace up, once it begins at the end of January. My hope is more viewers who left this island come back to its warmth, and realize what they missed last season. It was a thrill ride not seen on TV since I don't even know what. With a guaranteed end in 2010, this show has the makings of a television classic, and I refuse to miss one moment of it.
2. 30 Rock - This show's laugh per minute ratio is off the charts. The first half of its first season was chock full of some nice moments, but the show hit its stride near the end of last season, and hasn't stopped well into its second season. Alec Baldwin and Tracy Morgan are unbelievably brilliant in their respective roles, with Tina Fey holding it all together as the funniest straight [wo]man since Jason Bateman on Arrested Development. No longer is The Office the funniest show on Thursdays; Liz Lemon and friends take the cake. I can't get enough of this show, I really can't.
3. Mad Men - AMC really knocked it out of the park with this subtle, quiet, yet ultimately engaging series about the ad world in the early sixties. Every episode was pitch perfect (save for one off moment in the series' season finale), thanks to its brilliant writing, fantastic acting, and lush production design. This show, along with Damages on FX, really saved me this summer from going crazy during the annual quality television drought. I lapped up every moment of this show, and cannot wait for its second season.
4. Pushing Daisies - The best new show of this past season. Funny, dark, touching, and just all around amazing. I can't say enough about this show as a whole, firing on all cylinders to create a beautiful product that week in and week out has been absolute perfection, not to mention one heck of a cliffhanger, whose conclusion, sadly, awaits us after this strike ends. Keep it up Bryan Fuller. Please...
5. Friday Night Lights - I wasn't all that into this show towards the beginning of last season, but constant curiosity kept my interest piqued, and I was able to catch up on the show during off hours at work, and boy was I surprised with what I saw. I can say that season one was one of the most satisfying experiences I've had with TV in awhile. Just awesome.
6. Flight of the Conchords - Great music and great comedy make for an incredibly entertaining series. The second season should be round this next summer, and I couldn't be happier.
7. Brothers and Sisters - I love this show. It's sweet, funny, dramatic and very beautifully shot (gotta love ABC's aesthetic). I've grown to love these characters like my own family, and that makes for a great experience. I look forward to watching this every Monday via TiVo more than a lot of shows. It's just a great time.
8. How I Met Your Mother - One of the finest comedies on television right now. This one has managed to make the traditional sitcom hip and engaging. Neil Patrick Harris' Barney Stinson is probably one of the funniest characters on TV, and Cobie Smoulders is gorgeous to look at. But, there is more to it than that, thankfully, and it's just an all around great show.
9. Damages - This show was a creepy good time. Twisty, turny, crazy fun. Not much else to say. It was rather inconsistent, with red herrings galore, but I still enjoyed it, thanks mostly to fantastic performances, and an overall mood that remained consistently dark and foreboding. Plus, the season finale promises a fantastic second season that couldn't come any sooner.
10. Battlestar Galactica - Unfortunately, this past season was mostly a disappointment, but the show ended on a bang, and with the Razor TV movie this past November, the show proved to me it still had what it takes to be exciting and surprising, turning this past season's finale on its head, making us question how this show will end this coming season. I can't stand waiting until March, but it'll be worth it.
L - A 7-11, located just behind my alma mater (high school-wise)
O - The 16-Disc Complete Monty Python's Flying Circus
S - Watching Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers in The Gay Divorcee for the second time, and not realizing it
A - Trying to chop up almonds in a blender, with a really high blade.
T - Life without water makes a lot of things really difficult
My dad keeps turning the water on and off in order to fix a leak in my parent's bathroom. It's caused a lot of grief, especially yesterday when we were trying to do laundry and dishes (my sister and her husband had a band of hooligans over for some UFC fight last night, so lots of things were being made, and no water with which to wash them). It's getting old.
But! Here's the real reason for today's entry: I've been itching, ever since Matt Roush at TV Guide did this a few weeks back, to write out my top 10 television programs of the year. A lot of good TV, especially this summer, and with this writer's strike, it helps to remember why they deserve what they are asking for: because they write some of the most compelling stuff TV has seen in years.
So, without much else to blab about, here it is:
1. Lost - While a bit inconsistent in its first six episodes, Lost turned around at the beginning of 2007, giving us 15 (only one dud. Thanks a million, Jack's tattoos.)of the finest hours television has seen, and in all honesty, the most exhilarating and surprising season finale this humble television viewer has ever seen. Season 4 looks to keep the pace up, once it begins at the end of January. My hope is more viewers who left this island come back to its warmth, and realize what they missed last season. It was a thrill ride not seen on TV since I don't even know what. With a guaranteed end in 2010, this show has the makings of a television classic, and I refuse to miss one moment of it.
2. 30 Rock - This show's laugh per minute ratio is off the charts. The first half of its first season was chock full of some nice moments, but the show hit its stride near the end of last season, and hasn't stopped well into its second season. Alec Baldwin and Tracy Morgan are unbelievably brilliant in their respective roles, with Tina Fey holding it all together as the funniest straight [wo]man since Jason Bateman on Arrested Development. No longer is The Office the funniest show on Thursdays; Liz Lemon and friends take the cake. I can't get enough of this show, I really can't.
3. Mad Men - AMC really knocked it out of the park with this subtle, quiet, yet ultimately engaging series about the ad world in the early sixties. Every episode was pitch perfect (save for one off moment in the series' season finale), thanks to its brilliant writing, fantastic acting, and lush production design. This show, along with Damages on FX, really saved me this summer from going crazy during the annual quality television drought. I lapped up every moment of this show, and cannot wait for its second season.
4. Pushing Daisies - The best new show of this past season. Funny, dark, touching, and just all around amazing. I can't say enough about this show as a whole, firing on all cylinders to create a beautiful product that week in and week out has been absolute perfection, not to mention one heck of a cliffhanger, whose conclusion, sadly, awaits us after this strike ends. Keep it up Bryan Fuller. Please...
5. Friday Night Lights - I wasn't all that into this show towards the beginning of last season, but constant curiosity kept my interest piqued, and I was able to catch up on the show during off hours at work, and boy was I surprised with what I saw. I can say that season one was one of the most satisfying experiences I've had with TV in awhile. Just awesome.
6. Flight of the Conchords - Great music and great comedy make for an incredibly entertaining series. The second season should be round this next summer, and I couldn't be happier.
7. Brothers and Sisters - I love this show. It's sweet, funny, dramatic and very beautifully shot (gotta love ABC's aesthetic). I've grown to love these characters like my own family, and that makes for a great experience. I look forward to watching this every Monday via TiVo more than a lot of shows. It's just a great time.
8. How I Met Your Mother - One of the finest comedies on television right now. This one has managed to make the traditional sitcom hip and engaging. Neil Patrick Harris' Barney Stinson is probably one of the funniest characters on TV, and Cobie Smoulders is gorgeous to look at. But, there is more to it than that, thankfully, and it's just an all around great show.
9. Damages - This show was a creepy good time. Twisty, turny, crazy fun. Not much else to say. It was rather inconsistent, with red herrings galore, but I still enjoyed it, thanks mostly to fantastic performances, and an overall mood that remained consistently dark and foreboding. Plus, the season finale promises a fantastic second season that couldn't come any sooner.
10. Battlestar Galactica - Unfortunately, this past season was mostly a disappointment, but the show ended on a bang, and with the Razor TV movie this past November, the show proved to me it still had what it takes to be exciting and surprising, turning this past season's finale on its head, making us question how this show will end this coming season. I can't stand waiting until March, but it'll be worth it.
Thursday, December 20, 2007
Pork Swords
C - Juno, a pregnant teenager with the wit and wisdom of a much older woman.
L - Somewhere cold, like Utah, but not as obnoxiously quirky and annoying.
O - A mailbox full of Tic-Tacs.
S - Eating lunch in the school trophy case.
A - Taking a swig of Sunny-D.
T - No matter how terrible the situation may be, all life is worth keeping, if only for the kinds of changes that can make one's own life all the more spectacular.
Today's CLOSAT is dedicated to Juno which is far and away the best film I've seen all year, and quite possibly one of the best films I've ever seen. The dialogue is crackling with wit not seen in hardly any films these days, and the story contains more heart than most dramas. Cinematic bliss is probably the only way to describe the experience. It was an awesome reminder as to why I went into film in the first place: to make films that matter, as well as entertain.
At first off-putting (too witty for its own good), I soon warmed to the sort of wacky nature of the film's presentation, thanks it part to its incredibly convincing performances, specifically from Ellen Page, who just simply knocks it out of the park. She owns the role of Juno, riding the thin line between quirk and heart with so much ease. J.K. Simmons is another standout, whose warmth and charm as Juno's father is unbelievably amazing. The rapport between the two of them is truly a sight. Jason Bateman is a joy, as usual, as is the impeccable Michael Cera. Allison Janney is her usual snarky self, and Jennifer Garner pulls in a surprising performance, capable of being icy cold in one moment, only to become the warm matriarch she is destined to be. It's simply one of those dream casts, with not a weak link among them. They all shine, taking hold of a film that is, all at once, grounded in reality, yet floating in fantasy.
I can't recommend it enough. I really can't. Find it, wherever you are. Find it, and see it, and love it. Films just don't get much better. I promise.
L - Somewhere cold, like Utah, but not as obnoxiously quirky and annoying.
O - A mailbox full of Tic-Tacs.
S - Eating lunch in the school trophy case.
A - Taking a swig of Sunny-D.
T - No matter how terrible the situation may be, all life is worth keeping, if only for the kinds of changes that can make one's own life all the more spectacular.
Today's CLOSAT is dedicated to Juno which is far and away the best film I've seen all year, and quite possibly one of the best films I've ever seen. The dialogue is crackling with wit not seen in hardly any films these days, and the story contains more heart than most dramas. Cinematic bliss is probably the only way to describe the experience. It was an awesome reminder as to why I went into film in the first place: to make films that matter, as well as entertain.
At first off-putting (too witty for its own good), I soon warmed to the sort of wacky nature of the film's presentation, thanks it part to its incredibly convincing performances, specifically from Ellen Page, who just simply knocks it out of the park. She owns the role of Juno, riding the thin line between quirk and heart with so much ease. J.K. Simmons is another standout, whose warmth and charm as Juno's father is unbelievably amazing. The rapport between the two of them is truly a sight. Jason Bateman is a joy, as usual, as is the impeccable Michael Cera. Allison Janney is her usual snarky self, and Jennifer Garner pulls in a surprising performance, capable of being icy cold in one moment, only to become the warm matriarch she is destined to be. It's simply one of those dream casts, with not a weak link among them. They all shine, taking hold of a film that is, all at once, grounded in reality, yet floating in fantasy.
I can't recommend it enough. I really can't. Find it, wherever you are. Find it, and see it, and love it. Films just don't get much better. I promise.
Thursday, November 22, 2007
Tim Tam Slam
C - Emma Walker, my cousin Kyle's adorable daughter who I met for the first time today. She blows her own nose! Seriously, can't get enough!
L - My uncle John's house. It's huge.
O - My most recent purchase: Flight of the Conchords, Season 1 on DVD. It's a freaky dream, Bret. A freaky freaky dream!
S - Having waaaaaay too much time on my hands. I'm not used to this, especially considering I've been so busy lately; actually having time to relax has kinda driven me batty...
A - Watching Season 1 of Lost again. Brilliant TV, my friends...
T - Never let your busy schedule make you forget what it's like to relax, because it may just make you crazy.
Saw two movies yesterday: The Mist and Enchanted. One was mystifying and the other was hilarious. I'll let you figure out which is which (and no, I'm not being ironic)(or punny).
Thanksgiving was today. I went up to my uncle's house and we ate, "we" being a small group of my family. It was nice. It still made me sad, mostly because I had intended for the last three weeks or so to be heading home to San Diego, but I changed my mind at the last minute. I love my extended family, but due to past issues (mostly distance), I'm not as close to them as I could or should be. It frustrates me, and it makes things difficult whenever I come to visit. So, my current attitude is of sadness and regret. I should be okay, because it's not like I'm alone at my house, wishing I was elsewhere. But, then again, I am elsewhere, and I really wish that I wasn't.
I love Arrested Development. I just wanted to say that. Cause it's true...
Whoa! Boone and Shannon are about to get freaky! Aren't they, like, related? How so very George Michael and Maeby of them!
Short aside about Lost: I realized I skipped two episodes during my current "Island Madness Marathon" (my race to watch all of the previously aired episodes of Lost before the new season begins in February). It made me sad. I think I'd be more sad if I hadn't seen the show before. Sorry. I told you it was an aside.
The Battlestar Galactica movie, Razor premieres this Saturday on Sci-Fi. Can you say "Holy Crap I Couldn't Be More Excited About A Stupid Science-Fiction Show!" ? Yeah, cause it's true...
L - My uncle John's house. It's huge.
O - My most recent purchase: Flight of the Conchords, Season 1 on DVD. It's a freaky dream, Bret. A freaky freaky dream!
S - Having waaaaaay too much time on my hands. I'm not used to this, especially considering I've been so busy lately; actually having time to relax has kinda driven me batty...
A - Watching Season 1 of Lost again. Brilliant TV, my friends...
T - Never let your busy schedule make you forget what it's like to relax, because it may just make you crazy.
Saw two movies yesterday: The Mist and Enchanted. One was mystifying and the other was hilarious. I'll let you figure out which is which (and no, I'm not being ironic)(or punny).
Thanksgiving was today. I went up to my uncle's house and we ate, "we" being a small group of my family. It was nice. It still made me sad, mostly because I had intended for the last three weeks or so to be heading home to San Diego, but I changed my mind at the last minute. I love my extended family, but due to past issues (mostly distance), I'm not as close to them as I could or should be. It frustrates me, and it makes things difficult whenever I come to visit. So, my current attitude is of sadness and regret. I should be okay, because it's not like I'm alone at my house, wishing I was elsewhere. But, then again, I am elsewhere, and I really wish that I wasn't.
I love Arrested Development. I just wanted to say that. Cause it's true...
Whoa! Boone and Shannon are about to get freaky! Aren't they, like, related? How so very George Michael and Maeby of them!
Short aside about Lost: I realized I skipped two episodes during my current "Island Madness Marathon" (my race to watch all of the previously aired episodes of Lost before the new season begins in February). It made me sad. I think I'd be more sad if I hadn't seen the show before. Sorry. I told you it was an aside.
The Battlestar Galactica movie, Razor premieres this Saturday on Sci-Fi. Can you say "Holy Crap I Couldn't Be More Excited About A Stupid Science-Fiction Show!" ? Yeah, cause it's true...
Saturday, November 17, 2007
Caviar Garnish
C - Carrie Hakes, mi amiga de New Mexico, returning to town for one last ride! And some hot chocolate!
L - Panda Express for the first time in months. Man, I miss me some Orange Chicken!
O - Nifty Real D glasses that I get to keep and not use again. They really should let you bring them back to use again, because I'm on my third pair, and they're completely useless.
S - Dealing with hurt feelings from people who I once believed to be my friends. Long story. Let's not go there.
A - Watching You've Got Mail. Always a pleasure, I must say.
T - If you're not invited to see Beowulf with certain people, see it with better people. 'Nuff said...
Saw Beowulf today.
Pretty nifty.
DO NOT (seriously) see it in a normal theatre, without the aid of 3-D glasses. Part of the fun of this film is seeing it in 3-D. I honestly believe that it wouldn't have been half as cool without them. So, please, do what 'ere you can to see it in 3-D.
Yeah...
OH! Another warning: While it's PG-13, it's pretty violent, and contains a lot of nudity (mostly male bottom, but we do see some Jolie nudity, but she's covered in gold most of the time, and so there's nothing explicit). Just to warn you.
See it. It's pretty darn cool. In my humble opinion, 3-D, especially with blockbusters, is going to become the norm. It's such a fantastic way to immerse the audience in the experience, and with Beowulf there were many moments where I physically felt the film (does that make sense?). It's pretty cool. This is the 3rd film I've seen completely in 3-D (Monster House, The Nightmare Before Christmas), and two others I saw partly in 3-D (Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix, Superman Returns). I'm convinced it's where Hollywood is going. Spielberg and Peter Jackson have recently announced a partnership to produce The Adventures of Tintin in 3-D, and James Cameron's Avatar will be completely in 3-D. Big names, big projects. Embrace it my friends. Not only is it fun, but it makes the theatre-going experience super fantastic.
L - Panda Express for the first time in months. Man, I miss me some Orange Chicken!
O - Nifty Real D glasses that I get to keep and not use again. They really should let you bring them back to use again, because I'm on my third pair, and they're completely useless.
S - Dealing with hurt feelings from people who I once believed to be my friends. Long story. Let's not go there.
A - Watching You've Got Mail. Always a pleasure, I must say.
T - If you're not invited to see Beowulf with certain people, see it with better people. 'Nuff said...
Saw Beowulf today.
Pretty nifty.
DO NOT (seriously) see it in a normal theatre, without the aid of 3-D glasses. Part of the fun of this film is seeing it in 3-D. I honestly believe that it wouldn't have been half as cool without them. So, please, do what 'ere you can to see it in 3-D.
Yeah...
OH! Another warning: While it's PG-13, it's pretty violent, and contains a lot of nudity (mostly male bottom, but we do see some Jolie nudity, but she's covered in gold most of the time, and so there's nothing explicit). Just to warn you.
See it. It's pretty darn cool. In my humble opinion, 3-D, especially with blockbusters, is going to become the norm. It's such a fantastic way to immerse the audience in the experience, and with Beowulf there were many moments where I physically felt the film (does that make sense?). It's pretty cool. This is the 3rd film I've seen completely in 3-D (Monster House, The Nightmare Before Christmas), and two others I saw partly in 3-D (Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix, Superman Returns). I'm convinced it's where Hollywood is going. Spielberg and Peter Jackson have recently announced a partnership to produce The Adventures of Tintin in 3-D, and James Cameron's Avatar will be completely in 3-D. Big names, big projects. Embrace it my friends. Not only is it fun, but it makes the theatre-going experience super fantastic.
Thursday, November 15, 2007
You've Got Mail!
I found this to be pretty spot on brilliant. I guess that's just the geek in me coming out. This may be over some people's heads (Geocities, Prodigy, etc) but there are enough great gags that I think any fan of 24 would just love...
Enjoy!
Enjoy!
Tuesday, November 13, 2007
Armani Wearing Prada
'Nuff Said...Here's a helpful link, in case you care:
Here's a good video explaining it all. Take note that DVD residuals are currently off the table. What they're really fighting for is Internet profits.
It's all about residuals, people, not salaries. Residuals keep unemployed writers (of which there are many) and their families fed. Call them spoiled, call them greedy, but they do have a right to the profits from their products, if only a ridiculously small portion.
I commend the writers for fighting for my future, and for standing strong. Here's hoping, however, that the two parties can meet, and television and film can get back to entertaining us.
Here's to you, my non-colleagues and maybe friends. I wish you the best.
Wednesday, October 31, 2007
Jovi Punch
C - Tracy Jordan, Jewish Werewolf
L - Corner house, 11:00pm, trying to watch "The Bone Collector", people at house being louder than loud...
O - New Chocolate cell phone! It's red!
S - Trying to re-write my 419 script for a meeting tomorrow with Jeff, but being unable to do so because of excessive guitar flirting and loud giggling...
A - Doing fake suicides, à la Joel McHale on "The Soup"
T - Silence can often be the best motivator.
L - Corner house, 11:00pm, trying to watch "The Bone Collector", people at house being louder than loud...
O - New Chocolate cell phone! It's red!
S - Trying to re-write my 419 script for a meeting tomorrow with Jeff, but being unable to do so because of excessive guitar flirting and loud giggling...
A - Doing fake suicides, à la Joel McHale on "The Soup"
T - Silence can often be the best motivator.
Thursday, October 18, 2007
Dimitri and the Seven Layered Cake
C - Jared, an awesome dedicated filmmaker, with great patience when it comes to his writer...
L - Ben Unguren's office, F-342 in the HFAC ( I think)
O - A pack of Subway cookies, whose richness causes many a stomach-ache
S - Trying to decipher Tom Lefler's crazy notes!
A - Sleeping during an Ansel Adams documentary in the advanced directing class.
T - You can't please everyone, especially the Media Arts faculty.
From the sound of it, there's only one thing on my mind, and you'd be correct. Script, script, and more script. We're getting there though. We're convinced to see this through, even without our third person. We're convinced that if we hold our own and stand our ground based on the story that we'll be able to get through to the next round, but we'll see...We'll see...
In other news, it was Migraine city, after I almost threw up this morning on the way to class, due to an awful smell that reeked of vomit. I think it made me sick. Then, in an attempt to feel better, I bought some cookies that looked awesome from Subway, and they proceeded to make my already upset stomach even worse. *sigh*. Although, I was able to nap during the Ansel Adams doc (awesome, by the way, or what I saw of it anyway), so that was certainly nice.
Oh, and Jared's awesome. He's the director of the piece I'm writing. I'm glad he's patient with me, and my ramblings. It's good to have a director that cares about the process, and isn't super concerned with the story changing so frequently. Phew!
L - Ben Unguren's office, F-342 in the HFAC ( I think)
O - A pack of Subway cookies, whose richness causes many a stomach-ache
S - Trying to decipher Tom Lefler's crazy notes!
A - Sleeping during an Ansel Adams documentary in the advanced directing class.
T - You can't please everyone, especially the Media Arts faculty.
From the sound of it, there's only one thing on my mind, and you'd be correct. Script, script, and more script. We're getting there though. We're convinced to see this through, even without our third person. We're convinced that if we hold our own and stand our ground based on the story that we'll be able to get through to the next round, but we'll see...We'll see...
In other news, it was Migraine city, after I almost threw up this morning on the way to class, due to an awful smell that reeked of vomit. I think it made me sick. Then, in an attempt to feel better, I bought some cookies that looked awesome from Subway, and they proceeded to make my already upset stomach even worse. *sigh*. Although, I was able to nap during the Ansel Adams doc (awesome, by the way, or what I saw of it anyway), so that was certainly nice.
Oh, and Jared's awesome. He's the director of the piece I'm writing. I'm glad he's patient with me, and my ramblings. It's good to have a director that cares about the process, and isn't super concerned with the story changing so frequently. Phew!
Wednesday, October 17, 2007
Japanese Candy
C - Gerald, lead male soloist for his Baptist Gospel choir
L - On the set of the hit television program, "Little House on the Prairie"
O - A can of soup
S - Losing your producer over creative differences
A - Watching Pushing Daisies
T - When life comes at you fast, its important to grab on, and not let go.
L - On the set of the hit television program, "Little House on the Prairie"
O - A can of soup
S - Losing your producer over creative differences
A - Watching Pushing Daisies
T - When life comes at you fast, its important to grab on, and not let go.
Update....
So, .mac was a bust. I had a hunch it would be, all things considered. While designing the site was fun and joyful, it was still a pain in the rear to update, and I could only do it from my laptop, thus leaving my poor desktop sad and lonely.
Alas, here I am, back in the Blogspot saddle again, trying to make amends for lost time.
Let's get going!
News! The producer for the project I'm writing dropped out today. Yeah. I know. Apparently he wasn't happy with the script's direction. The project was his idea, and so I suppose he deserves some kind of creative input, but the director and I have come to find his participation to be increasingly diminutive. He started not participating in our script sessions, and he would generally not read our script when I'd send it his way. I had a hunch that he was upset, but it frustrates me that he never made that clear to me.
I'm not mad, don't get me wrong, but it is annoying to see him leave like this, pretty much jeopardizing the entire production, which we have to re-pitch to The Powers That Be this next Tuesday. I loved his original idea, which is why I signed on, but holy land! Why wasn't this made clearer to me? Insecurities are abound in my mind, mostly because it is my script that has caused him to leave. I'll stand by my script, mostly because the director is fond of the direction it's heading. That makes me happy, but again, frustrated.
So, enough complainin'! On to the next, I reckon. Now we're in a mad dash for a producer to pitch with us come Tuesday. If there's anybody out there who actually reads this, and who would like to produce said project, by all means, let me know!!
Alas, here I am, back in the Blogspot saddle again, trying to make amends for lost time.
Let's get going!
News! The producer for the project I'm writing dropped out today. Yeah. I know. Apparently he wasn't happy with the script's direction. The project was his idea, and so I suppose he deserves some kind of creative input, but the director and I have come to find his participation to be increasingly diminutive. He started not participating in our script sessions, and he would generally not read our script when I'd send it his way. I had a hunch that he was upset, but it frustrates me that he never made that clear to me.
I'm not mad, don't get me wrong, but it is annoying to see him leave like this, pretty much jeopardizing the entire production, which we have to re-pitch to The Powers That Be this next Tuesday. I loved his original idea, which is why I signed on, but holy land! Why wasn't this made clearer to me? Insecurities are abound in my mind, mostly because it is my script that has caused him to leave. I'll stand by my script, mostly because the director is fond of the direction it's heading. That makes me happy, but again, frustrated.
So, enough complainin'! On to the next, I reckon. Now we're in a mad dash for a producer to pitch with us come Tuesday. If there's anybody out there who actually reads this, and who would like to produce said project, by all means, let me know!!
Monday, August 27, 2007
A New Home...For Now
I'm trying out Apple's .Mac service because I'm fascinated by their iWeb application that allows for impressive looking blogs and such with a very user friendly environment. So, for at least the duration of the 60 day trial, I direct your attention to this website.
Enjoy!
Enjoy!
Saturday, March 03, 2007
The Tops...
Finally, three months into this new year, I'm going to finally announce my favorite films of this past year...Well, the top 10, anyway...
So, in lieu of more exposition, here she is:
1. Pan's Labyrinth - The most beautifully haunting film of the year, and also the most violent. Such a strange combination is what makes this film work so incredibly well, because it is what makes the end all the more enchanting.
2. Little Miss Sunshine - This was the best family film of the year. In spite of its R-rating, its a film that speaks to every person on this planet who questions their own self-worth. A worthwhile film for everyone to see.
3. The Departed - Its a fun, thrilling actioneer that never lets up on the tension, not even until the very last, shocking scene. Just a fantastic film.
4. Stranger Than Fiction - It's heartwarming, and its funny, and it does make you think, but not so much that your head spins. It knows its audience, and it plays to them. Will Farrell is his usual fantastic self, with a supporting cast that makes film-going a dream.
5. Children of Men - Brilliantly shot and directed. It takes an okay script and raises it to levels of sheer cinematic genius. The car chase and the final action set piece are possibly two of the most thrilling shots ever filmed. Period.
6. The Prestige - Twisty, dark and beautiful to behold. Nuff said...
7. Marie-Antoinette - Another win by Sofia Coppola. Beautiful in every frame, and mesmerizing in its directorial vision. Never has 80s punk been so cool.
8. V for Vendetta - Fun, thrilling, and thought-provoking. Full of those great "goose bump moments" that make movie-going so much fun.
9. Inside Man - Spike Lee does mainstream, and boy is it a treat. Clive and Denzel are fantastic together, and Jodie Foster being enigmatic is incredibly fun. A great bank-heist thriller with some pretty fun twists.
10. Casino Royale/Mission:Impossible III - Yes, a tie. I know... but these two spy flicks both managed to succeed in outdoing their predecessors, but they also knew how to thrill. J.J.'s directorial debut was a treat to behold (thank you Ms. Russell), and Daniel Craig's moody Bond was one of the best surprises of the year. We finally got a Bond I could respect, and Alias: The Movie...Who could ask for much more?
Other Notable Films: Dreamgirls, The Devil Wears Prada, United 93, Apocolypto, Nanny McPhee, Talladega Nights, World Trade Center, Nacho Libre
So, in lieu of more exposition, here she is:
1. Pan's Labyrinth - The most beautifully haunting film of the year, and also the most violent. Such a strange combination is what makes this film work so incredibly well, because it is what makes the end all the more enchanting.
2. Little Miss Sunshine - This was the best family film of the year. In spite of its R-rating, its a film that speaks to every person on this planet who questions their own self-worth. A worthwhile film for everyone to see.
3. The Departed - Its a fun, thrilling actioneer that never lets up on the tension, not even until the very last, shocking scene. Just a fantastic film.
4. Stranger Than Fiction - It's heartwarming, and its funny, and it does make you think, but not so much that your head spins. It knows its audience, and it plays to them. Will Farrell is his usual fantastic self, with a supporting cast that makes film-going a dream.
5. Children of Men - Brilliantly shot and directed. It takes an okay script and raises it to levels of sheer cinematic genius. The car chase and the final action set piece are possibly two of the most thrilling shots ever filmed. Period.
6. The Prestige - Twisty, dark and beautiful to behold. Nuff said...
7. Marie-Antoinette - Another win by Sofia Coppola. Beautiful in every frame, and mesmerizing in its directorial vision. Never has 80s punk been so cool.
8. V for Vendetta - Fun, thrilling, and thought-provoking. Full of those great "goose bump moments" that make movie-going so much fun.
9. Inside Man - Spike Lee does mainstream, and boy is it a treat. Clive and Denzel are fantastic together, and Jodie Foster being enigmatic is incredibly fun. A great bank-heist thriller with some pretty fun twists.
10. Casino Royale/Mission:Impossible III - Yes, a tie. I know... but these two spy flicks both managed to succeed in outdoing their predecessors, but they also knew how to thrill. J.J.'s directorial debut was a treat to behold (thank you Ms. Russell), and Daniel Craig's moody Bond was one of the best surprises of the year. We finally got a Bond I could respect, and Alias: The Movie...Who could ask for much more?
Other Notable Films: Dreamgirls, The Devil Wears Prada, United 93, Apocolypto, Nanny McPhee, Talladega Nights, World Trade Center, Nacho Libre
Tuesday, February 13, 2007
Of Formalities...
Today I had an odd experience while buying some snacks at my university's commons area. I noticed while standing in line that the cashier who was checking people's items out kept calling her customers by name. I've seen this done before, mostly at a particular grocery store back home, but I never quite took to it. I dreaded the moment I got up to the line, knowing darn well that since I was paying with a debit card that she could steal a glance at my name on the card, and then proceed to mention it as I parted ways. I was not wrong in my assumption, and to be perfectly honest, it put a huge damper on the whole transaction.
In a perfect world, though, such niceties would be appreciated. We obviously live in an increasingly cynical world where people rarely make any sort of contact with one another on a regular basis, so wouldn't such a gesture indicate a glimmer of hope? Well, in this blogger's opinion, no. I'm all for being courteous at the checkout counter. I usually say "Hi" as I approach, and then when I leave, I usually respond to the cashier's "Have a good day" with an equally as sincere "You too." I'm completely comfortable with this sort of communication between the helper and the helped. I feel like the girl who checked me out (what a phrase) wasn't even remotely sincere in her declaration. Saying my name isn't going to keep me from buying my salted cashews and Snicker's bars elsewhere. Considering the gigantic monopoly my school has on food while I'm at work (as in, I can really only buy my break items there, so I really have no choice), I guarantee I'll be back to buy more junk food items.
I don't know. I sound jaded. My roommate will certainly tell you that I'm a curmudgeon for loving the notion of the "Metro Face" (the face that most Parisians carry about their person when riding on the Parisian subway system, or Le Métro, which is usually a look of deep Parisian melancholy, with eyes full of longing...It's actually very cool), because I've never been big on being conversational with strangers. He loves it, but that's a conversation for another time. I need to do a bit of research on this topic to really ascertain how others feel about it. I just found it creepy, plain and simple. As nice a thing she might have believed it to be, it really turned into something unbearable. I dreaded our transaction, because I knew it would involve a level of insincerity that I can barely handle.
Small talk has always been a beef of mine, which is why Metro Face is so entertaining for me. Small talk reeks of insincerity. We do it simply because social conventions require us to never let a silent moment pass between two people confined to a certain space. I can agree that awkward silences are just what they claim to be -- awkward, but that's no excuse for the fact that sometimes, we just don't need to connect. I've stated in previous posts just how much I love big cities, and the connection that is palpable, especially when riding on the local transit. Even when all of our faces are clearly in Metro Face mode, there is something going on that is unspoken, but is clearly at work between each and every person on that bus/subway/trolley. There's no need to speak, and the loud noises that whichever mode you are currently riding makes certainly don't allow for easy conversation. We are apart of a larger whole, and we get that, and its a beautiful thing. Why must we feign interest in someone else's existence in order to make ourselves feel better about a certain silence that really shouldn't bother anyone? It just feels ludicrous to me. I love talking to people. Anyone who knows me knows that I love to talk anyone's ear off who will listen, but I draw the line at strangers, especially strangers in passing.
I don't think I'm totally right on this matter. My roommate is perfectly happy talking to random people, and he loves having random people talking to him. I'm pretty convinced that he would love to have someone say his name at the checkout counter. Feel what you will, but I just might snap the next time I hear someone say my name while scanning food. But, not in a crazy way... I just might write another post... Heaven forbid...
In a perfect world, though, such niceties would be appreciated. We obviously live in an increasingly cynical world where people rarely make any sort of contact with one another on a regular basis, so wouldn't such a gesture indicate a glimmer of hope? Well, in this blogger's opinion, no. I'm all for being courteous at the checkout counter. I usually say "Hi" as I approach, and then when I leave, I usually respond to the cashier's "Have a good day" with an equally as sincere "You too." I'm completely comfortable with this sort of communication between the helper and the helped. I feel like the girl who checked me out (what a phrase) wasn't even remotely sincere in her declaration. Saying my name isn't going to keep me from buying my salted cashews and Snicker's bars elsewhere. Considering the gigantic monopoly my school has on food while I'm at work (as in, I can really only buy my break items there, so I really have no choice), I guarantee I'll be back to buy more junk food items.
I don't know. I sound jaded. My roommate will certainly tell you that I'm a curmudgeon for loving the notion of the "Metro Face" (the face that most Parisians carry about their person when riding on the Parisian subway system, or Le Métro, which is usually a look of deep Parisian melancholy, with eyes full of longing...It's actually very cool), because I've never been big on being conversational with strangers. He loves it, but that's a conversation for another time. I need to do a bit of research on this topic to really ascertain how others feel about it. I just found it creepy, plain and simple. As nice a thing she might have believed it to be, it really turned into something unbearable. I dreaded our transaction, because I knew it would involve a level of insincerity that I can barely handle.
Small talk has always been a beef of mine, which is why Metro Face is so entertaining for me. Small talk reeks of insincerity. We do it simply because social conventions require us to never let a silent moment pass between two people confined to a certain space. I can agree that awkward silences are just what they claim to be -- awkward, but that's no excuse for the fact that sometimes, we just don't need to connect. I've stated in previous posts just how much I love big cities, and the connection that is palpable, especially when riding on the local transit. Even when all of our faces are clearly in Metro Face mode, there is something going on that is unspoken, but is clearly at work between each and every person on that bus/subway/trolley. There's no need to speak, and the loud noises that whichever mode you are currently riding makes certainly don't allow for easy conversation. We are apart of a larger whole, and we get that, and its a beautiful thing. Why must we feign interest in someone else's existence in order to make ourselves feel better about a certain silence that really shouldn't bother anyone? It just feels ludicrous to me. I love talking to people. Anyone who knows me knows that I love to talk anyone's ear off who will listen, but I draw the line at strangers, especially strangers in passing.
I don't think I'm totally right on this matter. My roommate is perfectly happy talking to random people, and he loves having random people talking to him. I'm pretty convinced that he would love to have someone say his name at the checkout counter. Feel what you will, but I just might snap the next time I hear someone say my name while scanning food. But, not in a crazy way... I just might write another post... Heaven forbid...
Monday, February 12, 2007
The Life of Pi
Today while driving with one of my housemates, I noticed that he had a copy of Yann Martel's (il est un québecois!) The Life of Pi. He told me to read it, because the very thought of it (the book's story) bored him to tears, so I gladly took it. Its actually not his copy, but some girl he knows' copy. So, I'm borrowing it from someone else who's borrowing it from someone else...
In any case, I'm stoked to finally read it, as I've heard its nothing short of fantastic. I like what I've read so far, so maybe I'll keep whoever reads this posted, so they too may venture into this world.
In any case, I'm stoked to finally read it, as I've heard its nothing short of fantastic. I like what I've read so far, so maybe I'll keep whoever reads this posted, so they too may venture into this world.
Sunday, February 11, 2007
John August
Writers and those who love writers take note:
A freakin' rad website has come to my attention... www.johnaugust.com
It's written almost daily by a produced screenwriter appropriately named John August, whose works include Go, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, Big Fish, Corpse Bride and a few more less than reputable films (but, hey, he's doin' better than I am). His most recent film The Nines, was a selection at Sundance, where it earned raves and also distribution. He wrote and directed that one, in case you care....
What I dig most about the site is his insight into not only the business of screenwriting, but the craft as well. Film students should take notes on his "How to Write a Scene" entry, and especially his "How to Write Dialogue." I'm just fascinated by his techniques, and equally as heartened to realize that he too struggled and continues to fine tune his craft. It's healthy to realize we may never be exceptional, but it's important to note that we can always at least try.
So, visit said website, if you have any interest at all in the craft of screenwriting (and yes, my dear naysayers, it is a craft, and it is one that does have to be fine tuned...)
Snarky comments aside, its a fun read for all who care to venture in that direction. Audiences should check it out to maybe get a better sense as to why we as writers try so desperately to surprise you, and for the most part, you deny us that with your reliance upon cliché. Get a glimpse into our process, and maybe you'll better appreciate how much we actually do care about what you think...
Enjoy!
John August
A freakin' rad website has come to my attention... www.johnaugust.com
It's written almost daily by a produced screenwriter appropriately named John August, whose works include Go, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, Big Fish, Corpse Bride and a few more less than reputable films (but, hey, he's doin' better than I am). His most recent film The Nines, was a selection at Sundance, where it earned raves and also distribution. He wrote and directed that one, in case you care....
What I dig most about the site is his insight into not only the business of screenwriting, but the craft as well. Film students should take notes on his "How to Write a Scene" entry, and especially his "How to Write Dialogue." I'm just fascinated by his techniques, and equally as heartened to realize that he too struggled and continues to fine tune his craft. It's healthy to realize we may never be exceptional, but it's important to note that we can always at least try.
So, visit said website, if you have any interest at all in the craft of screenwriting (and yes, my dear naysayers, it is a craft, and it is one that does have to be fine tuned...)
Snarky comments aside, its a fun read for all who care to venture in that direction. Audiences should check it out to maybe get a better sense as to why we as writers try so desperately to surprise you, and for the most part, you deny us that with your reliance upon cliché. Get a glimpse into our process, and maybe you'll better appreciate how much we actually do care about what you think...
Enjoy!
John August
Friday, October 06, 2006
Snore....
I fell asleep during Battleship Potemkin yesterday.
Yeah, I know...
Maybe I'm completely reading this wrong, but shouldn't I be ashamed of myself? Me, a film student, falling asleep during THE quintissential film from Soviet cinema? I see it as wrong, but I also don't seem to care that much. It was a great nap, and I was able to catch up after a long night, so I really couldn't care less. But still! A part of me is reeling from the fact that I have the ability to fall asleep during any movie you put me in front of. Any movie. Whether or not I like it or not, I'm out like a light, usually within the first 15 minutes. In the broad scheme of things, I suppose the first 15 is the best place to fall asleep, if one had to fall asleep, but there is always that "what if" factor that informs me that I could very well be missing something great.
It's been a problem for years, actually. I remember my first year of college, taking an Intro to Film class, and falling asleep during EVERY movie I watched (except two, The Apartment and Wait Until Dark, but come on! Those are impossible to sleep through!). Ever since then, I have no choice half of the time. I just fall asleep. Annoying, is the word that frequently comes to mind. I should be studying these films intensely, trying to better understand the history of cinema, etc. etc. but man!
Anyway, I think no matter how hard I try, this will always be a problem. I'm chroniclly tired, no thanks to my current lifestyle, and I fear I'll never be able to catch up (the film world requires 14 hour days for months at a time....Yeah....).
Oh well.
Yeah, I know...
Maybe I'm completely reading this wrong, but shouldn't I be ashamed of myself? Me, a film student, falling asleep during THE quintissential film from Soviet cinema? I see it as wrong, but I also don't seem to care that much. It was a great nap, and I was able to catch up after a long night, so I really couldn't care less. But still! A part of me is reeling from the fact that I have the ability to fall asleep during any movie you put me in front of. Any movie. Whether or not I like it or not, I'm out like a light, usually within the first 15 minutes. In the broad scheme of things, I suppose the first 15 is the best place to fall asleep, if one had to fall asleep, but there is always that "what if" factor that informs me that I could very well be missing something great.
It's been a problem for years, actually. I remember my first year of college, taking an Intro to Film class, and falling asleep during EVERY movie I watched (except two, The Apartment and Wait Until Dark, but come on! Those are impossible to sleep through!). Ever since then, I have no choice half of the time. I just fall asleep. Annoying, is the word that frequently comes to mind. I should be studying these films intensely, trying to better understand the history of cinema, etc. etc. but man!
Anyway, I think no matter how hard I try, this will always be a problem. I'm chroniclly tired, no thanks to my current lifestyle, and I fear I'll never be able to catch up (the film world requires 14 hour days for months at a time....Yeah....).
Oh well.
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