Blog Pick Week #12

   Almost everyone has a movie that they deem their favorite holiday classic. Either one that brings back fond memories of opening gifts with you parents on Christmas morning, or spending the holiday around a roaring fire exchanging gifts and pleasantries. For those that the holiday season may not be their cup of tea, you probably have a favorite holiday comedy. Both possibilities bring us to this weeks pick, Not just a holiday classic, but a classic comedy. The 1989 holiday classic, National Lampoon's "Christmas Vacation"
   Dreaming of having a "fun old fashioned family Christmas", Clark Griswold (Chevy Chase), gathers the family and the in-laws for a holiday he has always dreamed of hosting. Everything including going out into the country and picking out that special tree, decorating the house with enough illumination to land a jumbo jet, and eating a classic turkey Christmas dinner with all the fixins.
   It all seems to be going according to plan, until the flood gates open and his dream Christmas holiday turns into a nightmare. No "Vacation" movie would be complete without a visit from cousin Eddie (Randy Quaid), and his arrival just adds to the mayhem.
   There are many holiday classics to see this time of year, very few include an old fashioned theme and memorable comedy that will leave you cracking up and reciting lines years to come. "Christmas Vacation" is the type of movie that has it all. A holiday classic indeed. Before you open your gifts this year, watch "Christmas Vacation", then make it a tradition. Until next time happy viewing.

by
Joe Talmage
webmoviepick@gmail.com

"Christmas Vacation" trailer

The Nominees are......

THE GOLDEN GLOBE 2013 FILM NOMINATIONS

BEST MOTION PICTURE - DRAMA

• ARGO
• Django Unchained
• Life of Pi
• Lincoln
• Zero Dark Thirty 

BEST PERFORMANCE BY AN ACTRESS IN A MOTION PICTURE - DRAMA

• Jessica Chastain - Zero Dark Thirty
• Marion Cotillard - Rust and Bone
• Helen Mirren - Hitchcock
• Naomi Watts - The Impossible
• Rachel Weisz - The Deep Blue Sea 

BEST PERFORMANCE BY AN ACTOR IN A MOTION PICTURE - DRAMA

• Daniel Day-Lewis - Lincoln
• Richard Gere - Arbitage
• John Hawkes - The Sessions
• Joaquin Phoenix - The Master
• Denzel Washington - Flight

BEST MOTION PICTURE - COMEDY OR MUSICAL

• The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel
• Les Miserables
• Moonrise Kingdom  
• Salmon Fishing in the Yemen

BEST PERFORMANCE BY AN ACTRESS IN A MOTION PICTURE - COMEDY OR MUSICAL

• Emily Blunt - Salmon Fishing in the Yemen
• Judi Dench - The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel
• Jennifer Lawrence - Silver Linings Playbook
• Maggie Smith - Quartet
• Meryl Streep - Hope Springs

BEST PERFORMANCE BY AN ACTOR IN A MOTION PICTURE - COMEDY OR MUSICAL

• Jack Black - Bernie
• Bradley Cooper - Silver Linings Playbook
• Hugh Jackman - Les Miserables
• Ewan McGregor - Salmon Fishing in the Yemen
• Bill Murray - Hyde Park on the Hudson

BEST ANIMATED FEATURE FILM

• Brave
• Frankenweenie
• Hotel Transylvania
• Rise of the Guardians
• Wreck-It Ralph

BEST FOREIGN LANGUAGE FILM

• Amour (Austria)
• A Royal Affair (Denmark)
• The Intouchables (France)
• Kon-Tiki (Norway/UK/Denmark)
• Rust and Bone (France)

BEST PERFORMANCE BY AN ACTRESS IN A SUPPORTING ROLE 

• Amy Adams - The Master
• Sally Field - Lincoln
• Anne Hathaway - Les Miserables
• Helen Hunt - The Sessions
• Nicole Kidman - The Paperboy  

BEST PERFORMANCE BY AN ACTOR IN A SUPPORTING ROLE

• Alan Arkin - ARGO
• Leonardo DiCaprio - Django Unchained
• Philip Seymour Hoffman - The Master
• Tommy Lee Jones - Lincoln
• Christoph Waltz - Django Unchained

BEST DIRECTOR - MOTION PICTURE

• Ben Affleck - ARGO
• Kathryn Bigelow - Zero Dark Thirty
• Ang Lee - Life of Pi
• Steven Spielberg - Lincoln
• Quentin Tarantino - Django Unchained

BEST SCREENPLAY - MOTION PICTURE

• Mark Boal - Zero Dark Thirty
• Tony Kushner - Lincoln
• David O. Russell - Silver Linings Playbook
• Quentin Tarantino - Django Unchained
• Chris Terrio - ARGO

BEST ORIGINAL SCORE - MOTION PICTURE

• Mychael Danna - Life of Pi
• Alexandre Desplat - ARGO
• Dario Marianelli - Anna Karenina
• Tom Tykwer, Johnny Klimek, Reinhold Heil - Cloud Atlas
• John Williams - Lincoln

BEST ORIGINAL SONG - MOTION PICTURE

• "For You" - Act of Valor
• "Not Running Anymore" - Stand Up Guys
• "Safe & Sound" - The Hunger Games
• "Skyfall" - Skyfall
• "Suddenly - Les Miserables

* Watch The Golden Globes Award Show January 13, 2013 @ 8pm Eastern *               

Blog Pick Week #11

   Sometimes it can be hard to separate a trilogy into three different movies. Even if each of the films have their own look and feel, those three movies are actually a continuation of one long story. When this happens it can be difficult to recommend only one of the three, rather than the entire series. We find ourselves in this bind for this weeks pick. With the prequel set to be released this week, our pick is Peter Jackson's "The Lord of the Rings".
   As stated before, we are referring to the entire trilogy, not one movie in particular. If you've never seen any of the "Lord of the Rings" movies, you obviously need to begin with the first "The Fellowship of the Ring". In part one of the story, which takes place in a fictional place called middle earth, a group of rings have been made. One ring rules all the rings, and he who possess it, holds great power. Having considerable power, also brings evil and sinister thoughts. A fellowship is formulated to take the ring to be destroyed, while trying to keep it out of the hands of the dark lord Sauron.
   "The Lord of the Rings" trilogy are fantasy adventure films set in a fictional world, full of wizards, dwarfs, elves and little creatures known as hobbits. It may sound like a children's Disney cartoon but it is anything but. The movies are live action and filmed primarily in New Zealand. The films are some of the most beautiful and picturesque movies ever made. The cinematography and art direction bring middle earth alive.
   To put it in perspective, the entire trilogy was nominated for 30 Academy Awards, with the final film "The Return of the King" responsible for eleven of them, ultimately winning all eleven. In total the trilogy walked away with 17 Oscars, leaving it amongst the greatest movies of all time, certainly one of the greatest trilogy's of all time.
   Each film is about three hours, and even longer in the extended versions. That being said, these are some of the best movies of all time and warrant everyone to see them.  Start with "The Fellowship of the Ring", then "The Two Towers", and finally "The Return of the King". Until next time happy viewing.

by
Joe Talmage
webmoviepick@gmail.com

"The Fellowship of the Ring" trailer

Does it have to be like this???

   I am all for honoring the classics....in other words watching them again. Some films even require you to see it again to gain the true effect, also to pick up something that you may have missed the first time. This time, I am referring to the growing trend it seems, of remaking an original release. Whether it is an entirely new production with cast and crew, or simply as enhancing it in high definition or 3-D. Does it really have to happen that Hollywood needs to regurgitate previous releases?
   I understand that it may be difficult to come up with new and original content, simply because with all the mainstream movies that have been made it's bound to have been done already. Let's take Disney's "The Lion King", now the original was a fantastic movie. Admired by critics and audiences worldwide, but just because the studio tries to beef it up a bit and make it into 3-D doesn't necessarily mean I am going to fork out close to $10 to watch the same film again, regardless of how good the new version may have been. Another example is the great horror classic John Carpenter's "Halloween", a title that we recommended this year at Webmoviepick. It was re-made about thirty years later by Rob Zombie. The remake was good in itself but, almost never is the remake or sequel as good as the first.
   Honoring a classic film is one thing, and quite honestly something that should occur. Preserving such films has been going on for sometime now. Let's leave the originals in their "original" form. Their are plenty of eager filmmakers out there trying to make an name for themselves, all with creative minds and fresh ideas. Original content is out there and Hollywood certainly has the capital to produce it. Let's just watch the classics again and not re-pay to watch the classics remade.

by
Joe Talmage
webmoviepick@gmail.com

Blog Pick Week #10

  
   When you watch a movie, sometimes that particular film may be similar to another one. Often enough you may check out that other movie. That was the case with this weeks pick. After catching the movie "Goodfellas", which is a huge favorite for us at Webmoviepick; I saw another flick that is quite similar. At the recommendation of a close friend of mine, I watched "Casino", which is the pick for this week.
   This is a movie that is the case of bad timing. "Casino" just happened to come out after "Goodfellas". Each are similar in some ways, and different in others. Both are great films by Martin Scorsese, also starring Robert Deniro and Joe Pesci.
   "Casino" takes place in no other than Las Vega's Nevada. Go back in time about thirty years ago, when the mob ran Sin City. The bosses there want a guy that lives, sleeps and eats gambling. They offer the job of running the fictional "Tangiers Hotel & Casino" to Sam Rothstein, played by Robert Deniro. Also to protect Sam and make sure nobody interfered with the scam, they send Nicky Santoro, played by Joe Pesci, to Las Vegas. Along with an award winning performance by Sharon Stone, who plays Sam's hustler wife.
   Even though "Casino" is often compared to "Goodfellas", it really deserves to be mentioned on it's own. "Casino" does a magnificent job showing the inside of Vegas, one that only Martin Scorsese can do so well. Throughout the film, you see the highs and lows of Sin City, and how making it big on the strip isn't always a sure thing. So take a chance on "Casino", there isn't a lot riding on it. Until next time happy viewing.

by
Joe Talmage
webmoviepick@gmail.com

"Casino" trailer
  

Webmoviepick at the movies...

   Last month, we here at Webmoviepick had a chance to recently catch a couple movies in theaters. Although both of these films had been released weeks prior, nevertheless we wanted to get our opinions out there. You may have been seated next to us while we took in "Skyfall" and "Flight."

"Skyfall"

     Let's begin with the latest James Bond flick "Skyfall." This is the twenty third installment in the James Bond series, and the third for Daniel Craig playing Bond. I am not necessarily saying they saved the best for last, but in a nutshell, they knocked this one out of the park. In this latest tale, there is a computer hacker that has infiltrated MI6, the headquarters. They are determined to release the names of government operatives working around the globe. With a determined interest to carry out this task, it sets up perfectly for James Bond to stop it in it's tracks.
   No this isn't a movie about saving the planet from a computer virus, but instead a platform for a James Bond action film. Add Academy Award winners in director Sam Mendes (American Beauty), and actor Javier Bardem (No Country for Old Men) playing the villain. Combined with Daniel Craig and a great script, what you get is a great movie. This film does not disappoint at all. With an insane train rooftop struggle at the beginning, we were on the edges of our seats until the end credits. No actor has been able to play James Bond so perfectly since the inception of the character in the first Bond "Dr No" played by the legendary Sean Connery.
   "Skyfall" is a great film and probably the best Bond film in years, certainly among the best all time. We give it an "A+"  

"Flight" 

    Our second film that we recently viewed, is the latest film by Academy Award winning director Robert Zemekis (Forrest Gump) and starring Academy Award winner Denzel Washington (Training Day). Throughout the film we see Whip Whitaker, played by Denzel, struggle between substance abuse and trying to prove his raw talents as an airline pilot. The beginning of the movie Whip Whitaker pulls off an amazing maneuver to try and land a crashing commercial jet. Afterwards we uncover the fact that he habitually drinks and does cocaine. Attempting to balance his personal life with his professional one, Denzel brings his talents to this film.   
   Not many actors when you see them in a movie, are as automatic as Denzel Washington. Every film he does, he nails it. Whip Whitaker is a troubled pilot and we don't know if we should feel sorry for his problems or condemn him. Other actors may have been able to take on this role, but only Denzel can be Denzel.
   "Flight" by itself is an overall good movie. Denzel Washington makes it a very good movie. We give it an "A-"

by
Joe Talmage
webmoviepick@gmail.com

"SKYFALL" trailer

"Flight" trailer


   

Blog Pick Week #9

   For this week, our pick certainly comes with mixed reviews. Some people loved the movie, while others despised it...we are definitely the latter. A phrase that we have used in the past, "a diamond in the rough", pertains to this week as well. This week we pick "Chapter 27".
   "Chapter 27," tells the story of Mark David Chapman, the convicted killer of former Beatle John Lennon. Told from the perspective of the killer, and describing his love of the famous singer, until ultimately plotting and carrying out his heinous act. An unrecognizable Jared Leto plays Mark David Chapman, and does an excellent job showing the deranged mind of the character. Filmed in historic locations such as Strawberry Fields in New York City, and accurate accounts from eyewitnesses, bring out the special qualities in this movie.
   As I have said earlier, this movie is a like or hate type of film. Some claim that it is to slow, I couldn't disagree anymore. There are almost no movies out there telling the story of the assassination of John Lennon. "Chapter 27" does a wonderful job showing Mark David Chapman's path of love to hate, and really demonstrates his isolation from society. It is more of a movie about the convicted killer than one of John Lennon. Take a chance on it, until next week happy viewing.

by
Joe Talmage
webmoviepick@gmail.com

"Chapter 27" trailer


     

An Original Sequel...

   Last week we told you about a movie I made, well this week we are introducing the sequel to that same movie. It is also under ten minutes in length. Here at Webmoviepick, we thank you in advance for taking the time to watch. Enjoy!

by
Joe Talmage
webmoviepick@gmail.com

Blog Pick Week #8

   You would be hard pressed to find someone that never heard of Quentin Tarantino. The Writer/Director, burst onto the scene with his crime drama "Reservoir Dogs" in the early 1990's. Followed by his Oscar winning, and critically acclaimed "Pulp Fiction". Known for writing great dialogue in his films, Quentin has a cult following that seems to be growing everyday. His characters that he creates in each of his films, leave lasting impressions in the minds of audiences everywhere. This could not be more evident in our pick for this week, the third film by Quentin Tarantino, a movie called "Jackie Brown".
   "Jackie Brown", is about a gunrunner named Ordell Robbie, played by Samuel L. Jackson, who is using a flight attendant friend Jackie Brown, played by Pam Grier, to transport his half million dollars he has in Mexico back to the States. In the process an ex-con, beach bunny, bail bondsman, and two ATF agents try and get there hands on the loot. Who will get all that money? Loaded with great actors, Tarantino's stellar dialogue and script, make Jackie Brown a great movie. Throughout the film, you get the perspective of each characters point of view and you see how each sub plot intersects with the main plot.
   "Jackie Brown", may unfortunately find itself in the shadows of his other films like "Pulp Fiction" or "Kill Bill", great films themselves, but "Jackie Brown" is just as good. If you liked any other movie Quentin Tarantino did, or are looking for a good movie to see, then certainly check this weeks pick out. Until next time happy viewing.

by
Joe Talmage
webmoviepick@gmail.com

 "Jackie Brown" trailer

An Original Movie...

   Here at Webmoviepick, we typically give our reviews, and recommend movies for our readers to watch. This time, we are asking you to watch a short silent film that I made a few years ago. Starring my dog and my lovely wife as co-star. It was shot using a home video camera, and edited on our personal computer. Total running time is under ten minutes. Enjoy the show!

by
Joe Talmage
webmoviepick@gmail.com

Blog Pick Week #7

   When you think of the career resume of a great director like Stanley Kubrick, movies like "Dr. Strangelove" "A Clockwork Orange" or "The Shining" may come to mind. For this weeks pick, we have to look a bit further back in time, a time when Stanleys career was just beginning to blossom. It was his second feature film, on a short list of films. This weeks pick, is the 1956 crime drama "The Killing".
   "The Killing" tells the story of a daring horse track robbery. Johnny Clay, played by Sterling Hayden, orchestrates a well planned heist, by enlisting the help of a group of thieves. Each member has one job to do, and each thief doesn't know the master plan, just their small piece of it. Johnny Clay maps out a brilliant plan that seems flawless...or is it? Told through the perspective of each character, Stanley Kubrick shows a glimpse of what made him the legend that he would become. A solid story line,  masterfully acted and directed, "The Killing" is a complete film. Often over looked, but rarely under appreciated when audiences watch it. In fact, I hear more people who are not fans of Kubrick, love it more than any other movie he has ever done.
   Even though this is one of his first feature films, "The Killing" is in no way a movie that was done by an inexperienced director. If you enjoy movies, and want to see a good film, that you may have never seen before, we highly recommend "The Killing". Until next time happy viewing.

by
Joe Talmage
webmoviepick@gmail.com

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KQXokRldBUo 
 
  

Blog Pick Week #6

   Not all plays transition well to the big screen. Movies have the ability to do things a stage performance can't, and vice versa. Occasionally, a simple stage act can come alive on film, without losing it's look and feel. This certainly is apparent in our selection for this week, the 1957 Sidney Lumet classic, "12 Angry Men."

   "12 Angry Men" tells the story of a courtroom jury hearing a murder case. The film begins after both sides have presented their cases, and the fate of the defendant is in the hands of the jury. Most of the jurors just want to wrap things up fairly quickly, and hand down a guilty verdict. One juror, played by Henry Fonda, wants to take things a little slower, and examine the case. The jurors face flaring tempers from one another and have sort of a cabin fever being sequestered for so long. Acting out scenarios throughout the trial and trying to put aside personal prejudices towards one another, the jurors begin to see things in a new light, and come together for the common man.

   Almost the entire movie takes place in one scene...the jurors room. Nominated for three Academy Awards, including Best Picture, and on the AFI's list of Greatest Movies of all time. "12 Angry Men" demonstrates when you combine a solid script with a strong cast, you can produce a superb film. Considered a classic, "12 Angry Men" is a must see. Until next time happy viewing.

by
Joe Talmage
webmoviepick@gmail.com

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A7CBKT0PWFA 

Instant vs Disc

   We are so lucky we live in this time period. Remember the days of waiting on long lines for the highly anticipated new release? Even having to camp out for the die hard fans in us? (not that I ever did) Or when we would go to our local video store to get one of the last copies of the movie we never got to see in the theater, only realizing about a dozen people before beat you to it. How about you get a DVD to rent but your copy has been scuffed and scratched making it unplayable and ruining your night. Times have changed...for the better.
   With the ability to stream directly to your home, it makes all those points moot. Streaming is as simple as it gets. As long as you have a strong Internet connection such as cable or DSL with a router, and an Internet ready device whether it is a TV, Blu-ray or video game console. Add a service like Amazon Prime or Netflix, and you are ready to roll.
   To live in a period in time, that allows us to receive information at our fingertips almost instantaneously, is something our ancestors couldn't even dream of. The capability to watch entertainment instantly goes back to pay per view. Now with the ability to search for and watch movies immediately, is something we should all take advantage of. Especially when it appears that more and more movies are being released this way and bypassing the movie theater all together.
   Movies are such a fantastic form of entertainment, and with so many different ways to watch them, makes it even better. Whether it is at the theater or at home, take advantage of streaming a movie. Then watch another...and another.....

by
Joe Talmage
webmoviepick@gmail.com

Blog Pick Week #5

  
   There are many classic Hollywood horror films like "Psycho", "The Exorcist", and monster films like "Frankenstein" and "Dracula". All were well made films that can still give us chills down our backs when we watch them again but, you don't need to just see a Hollywood blockbuster to scare the wickets out of you. Even the little guys can deliver a monstrous punch.
   Over thirty years ago, a group of film students came together to make a low budget horror movie. So low budget in fact, that the crew had to double as set designers and work in the art department. All were inexperienced and unknown in the industry.  What they came up with was not only a classic but something of a legend. A movie that is shown on television every Halloween and made and remade, but never as well as the original. The small budget film that went on to gross millions of dollars worldwide,  a little film called "Halloween".
   I am talking about the original, John Carpenters "Halloween". Initially dismissed by audiences and critics alike, until basically one critic named Roger Ebert. His four star review got the ball rolling that has not stopped tumbling since.
   "Halloween," possess one of the most iconic villains in horror movie history with Michael Myers, (not the Austin Powers guy). Also, a very classic and chilling musical score with a legendary main theme song. The music in fact was later put in after audiences didn't care for the film without it. Once it was in, the music elevated the chilling message that the movie was trying to portray.
   The story takes place in fictionalized Haddonfield Illinois, where the villain Michael Myers returns every Halloween, to torture and torment the community. Although the character Michael Myers never talks, his message is heard loud and clear.
   "Halloween" is the type of horror movie that is the complete package. Scaring audiences and movie goers for nearly thirty years. So for this Halloween, be sure to watch John Carpenters "Halloween". Until next time happy viewing.

by
Joe Talmage
webmoviepick@gmail.com

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5unH8gOhydY 
  

Bond....James Bond

   The latest Bond film "Skyfall" set to be released in a couple weeks, stars Daniel Craig as James Bond. He is actually the sixth one to play the secret agent on film. With now a half dozen different actors to play the famous character, it's only natural for everybody to have a favorite.
   For the nostalgic fans it's sure to be the original in Sean Connery or even Roger Moore. The younger generation, may prefer Pierce Brosnan or Daniel Craig. Just like my article last month "Movies are Subjective", there is no right answer on who the best one is.
   The James Bond character has always been the envy of every guy in the world it seems. The spy that gets all these cool gadgets and expensive sports cars; at the same time always getting the pretty girl at the end of the day. Even though, there is one James Bond, each actor brought a different variation to the character. All were good Bonds, and everyone had their particular favorite. Although, the list of people who had George Lazenby as theirs is probably very short. Sean Connery certainly set the bar pretty high in 1962, with the first Bond movie "Dr No." Roger Moore and Timothy Dalton followed, and then ultimately bringing us to the present day with Pierce Brosnan and Daniel Craig.
   The new Bond is definitely more of an action star. Most recently in "Casino Royale," Daniel Craig is climbing up construction sites and leaping across buildings. Even seen jumping out of a helicopter with the Queen of England at this years Olympics. Sean Connery may have started it with the swagger and sophistication. The ability to have a girl on your arm while killing the bad guy.
   From Connery to Craig, they make all us guys jealous. Who else gets to play with all those cool toys, drive an Aston Martin and get the model. Who ever your favorite might be, whether you like it shaken or stirred, enjoy each of them for who they are.

by
Joe Talmage
webmoviepick@gmail.com
  

Coming Soon...

   This fall is an exciting time for us at Webmoviepick. We will be at the theater to see "Skyfall", "Lincoln" and "The Hobbit" which is scheduled to be in theaters this December. In addition we hope to get a chance to see "The Sessions".
   History has shown that studios wait until the end of the year to release their Oscar worthy movies. So go out and enjoy a great film, and be on the look out for Webmoviepick at a seat near you, (hopefully it will be at the theater and not your home). Reviews for these films coming soon.

by
Joe Talmage
webmoviepick@gmail.com

Blog Pick Week #4

  
   I have to thank the Academy Awards for this weeks pick. In 2008 the Oscar for Best Actress went to an almost unknown, a choice that literally ruined every Oscar pool throughout the country. That surprise pick may be the only reason I would have ever seen this movie. The actress was Marion Cotillard for "La Vie En Rose".
   "La Vie En Rose" is a french language film that tells the life story of  french singer Edith Piaf. Marion Cotillard gives one of the best biopic performances ever, with her portrayal of the legendary singer. So believable and well done you almost forget it's another language. The story begins with Edith as a young girl performing on the streets of Paris. Her discovery by night club owner Louis Leplee (played by Gerard Depardieu), which helped jump start her career. Then ultimately describing her rocky relationships with love interests and people in her inner circle into old age. Marion plays Edith as a child, adult and finally an elderly woman. Throughout the film you a drawn into the performance Marion gives, and how Edith may have had it all but she never had what so many people already posses. Besides her Oscar winning performance, the movie itself was top notch and award worthy.
   Foreign language films can be tough for some. For anybody that doesn't want to read while watching a movie, I understand but believe me this movie is worth it. I hope you enjoy and I am sure you will. Until next time happy viewing.

by
Joe Talmage
webmoviepick@gmail.com 

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uzEJ7NV_g98

Marvel goes 3-D

   It is being reported that "Iron Man 3" and "Thor 2" are going to be released in 3-D. Certainly big news for Marvel fans, which should make those films larger than life.
   The news comes with mixed reactions as some people would prefer 2-D. No word on whether the studio will be releasing them in standard or in IMAX. Both films are slated to be released in 2013.

by
Joe Talmage
webmoviepick@gmail.com

The Silent era was louder than you think

   When you watch a movie with your family tonight, could be a new Hollywood release. The new 3-D movie with the mind blowing special effects and starring the big name actor. The sounds of popcorn crunching in your mouths are buried beneath the deep sound of your sub-woofer as the villain and hero clash. As entertaining as the movie is, we should reflect on how this technology got us here.
   Everything has to start somewhere. Before 3-D we had high definition. Before that we had computer special effects or CG. Prior to that, there was the evolution of color. Even before that, we had black and white cinema with sound, and before that we had the silent era.
   Some people can be turned off with a silent movie, but hopefully can still appreciate how valuable they were to movies today. Just think if Thomas Edison didn't put all those pictures together to make a movie. Or the famous flip book of the running man, then it might not have sparked the idea of "movies". The silent era had such classic actors as Charlie Chaplin and Buster Keaton. Actors like this had to rely on visual comedy rather than telling a joke. If you see a silent film, you will witness some of the best comedy that was ever captured on film. Take the movie "The General" for example. In this movie, Buster Keaton is operating a train locomotive, and is seen dangling out the sides while it is in motion and riding on top, all while telling a story visually with only a musical background. Throughout the film, I was cracking up louder than I have laughed at a movie in years. The movie "City Lights" starring the iconic Charlie Chaplin. He is seen doing the same slapstick visual humor that has sparked the careers of many comedic actors since. Both of these films are classic in themselves, but what this genre started basically gave birth to American cinema. Besides acting, silent films also had to tell a story visually. For directors and screen writers, they couldn't rely on dialogue to carry the story.
   Not only is the silent film an icon, but it's something that we should all look back and appreciate. Especially when we are watching the latest summer blockbuster in the Imax 3-D. If it wasn't for the running man and those early flipbooks that made images move..we might not have what we see today.

by
Joe Talmage
webmoviepick@gmail.com

 

Lindsay Lohan....again?

   According to published reports, earlier this week actress Lindsay Lohan was involved in a physical altercation.....with her mother.
   Eyewitnesses say around 4am Tuesday morning Lindsay Lohan and her mom Dina, were clubbing in New York City, and got into a heated physical blowup. Which resulted in Lindsay calling her father Michael, and saying her mom was on cocaine and "Is acting like the f------ devil!"
   Allegedly, Lindsay has reneged on this story and said it didn't happen that way. Whether any of this is true, the one bright spot is apparently Lindsay and her mom did get a limo ride home from the NYC club.
   Who knows if any of this is accurate but the one bottom line is, when someone like Lindsay with all the problems she seems to get herself mixed up in, why would she even be anywhere near a possible predicament like that???? Especially, being at a club to the wee hours of the morning with your mom. Lindsay is a young woman with her whole life ahead of her. Hopefully, she can straighten herself out and get back to focusing on her career. For the sake of her well being, as well as her family and friends, she can overcome these obstacles, but time is ticking. To take a quote from the movie Ferris Bueller, "Life moves pretty fast, if you don't stop and look around once in awhile, you could miss it."

by
Joe Talmage
webmoviepick@gmail.com

  

Blog Pick Week #3

   
   Often enough when you watch movies, one comes along that kind of surprises you. A diamond in the rough so to say. For me, it came in the form of one that I had not heard of, until moments before I hit the play button on my remote to begin watching it.
   In the movie "Wall Street," we saw Gordon Gecko wheeling and dealing himself right into prison, while simultaneously exposing the harsh world of the financial market also known as Wall Street. The similarity with this weeks pick ends there. I am talking about the movie "Margin Call."
   It's 2008, just prior to the economic collapse that crippled this countries economy and sent thousands of workers to the unemployment line. The story centers around a large wall street investment firm. Times are getting a bit shaky so the company decides to cut costs and a wave of layoffs commence. Among those let go is a math wiz working in the risk management department. What he uncovers before he is dismissed from his position will bring on events this country has not seen in decades. Full with big named actors like Kevin Spacey, Jeremy Irons, Demi Moore and Stanley Tucci. Throughout the film you are sucked into the fast moving world of finance. I know that can sound dull to some but it could not be further from the truth. It's a movie that can be a bit confusing to follow, especially for someone that is not in tuned to the world that is Wall Street. As long as you just pay attention you should do fine.
   Probably, not since the first "Wall Street" have I been this into a movie about finance. It was entertaining and thrilling with top notch performances by all involved. So pop in "Margin Call" and get the snacks ready. Just don't invite Gordon Gecko. Until next time happy viewing.

by
Joe Talmage
webmoviepick@gmail.com 

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y2DqFRsPrns 

DeVito/Perlman split

   After thirty years of marriage and three children, longtime couple Danny DeVito and Rhea Perlman are calling it quits. The two met nearly ten years prior to tying the knot, so all in all they have been together for almost forty years.
   They aren't saying, and nobody close to the couple know for sure just why they have decided to end their longtime marriage, especially long for Hollywood standards. Still that doesn't lessen the blow of the news. Both have long fruitful careers and share a working relationship. A partnership owning a production company called Jersey Films, that produced the classic film "Pulp Fiction". With Danny DeVito playing Louie De Palma in the show "Taxi" and Rhea Perlman playing the tough minded Carla Tortelli in the show "Cheers". In addition a lengthy film career both acting, producing, and directing for DeVito.
   Hopefully, the two can find some kind of happiness going forward. It can't be easy to replace a void that is left after forty years of existence, but I wish nothing but the best for the entire family.

by
Joe Talmage
webmoviepick@gmail.com

Why Stanley Kubrick was a genius

   Whether you liked his movies or not, you have to accept the fact that he was a genius. He was credited for directing sixteen films, three of them shorts. In those few films he managed to change the way movies are made from start to finish. Most mainstream directors today, have been influenced in some way by how he directed. Here are some examples:

   Photography - Stanley Kubrick started as a photographer for "Look Magazine," when he was just a high school student. Photographing captivating images that got the attention of executives, from the magazine to see that Stanley had a knack of capturing an entire scene in only a few images. This early success some critics believe, led him to master the camera in his movies. If you watch his films, his use of the steadicam and tracking shots, where the camera seems to be floating around even through walls and objects, (see "The Killing" for an example). This was also evident in his use of tracking shots in his war films. In the movie "Paths of Glory," when Kirk Douglas was walking in the trench, and the camera is walking with him as he heads down the line. This same shot has been used in many war films since. Most recently in the Steven Spielberg film "Warhorse."

   Inventor - A film camera typically needs a lot of light in a scene to even capture a usable image. So obviously shooting a movie in candlelight would be next to impossible. Since Kubrick was a perfectionist that wanted authenticity in all his films, he basically altered a lens and camera to be able to shoot in low light such as candlelight. How can you forget his revolutionary work on the film "2001 A Space Odyssey." Here was a movie that was made before computer graphics, before we even landed on the moon. He was able to pull off a movie like that with basically nothing more than a camera and the ability to manipulate an image and create an entire universe in a studio. If you never saw it, check it out.

   Music - Stanley Kubrick, was one of the first filmmakers to take music from more of a background bedding to set the scene and bring it to the forefront and make it the main focus. A great example of this is in "2001 A Space Odyssey." When the ship is flying to the moon set to the song "Blue Danube". Here you can see how everything in the scene is almost floating and dancing with the music. He used this same technique in all his films. Music can certainly set the stage for the mood of a scene, but to bring it from the background to the foreground essentially made the music the star of the scene.

   Versatility - When you see that he directed a little over a dozen movies, but then you realize how many genres he covered in that small group of films. He has made a comedy, science fiction, thriller, horror, period piece, war epic and others. Some directors are known as directing one certain genre, to have made such few films as Kubrick made it really makes you realize how amazing that is.

   Stanley Kubrick always had a vision of what he wanted in all his films. According to people that worked with him it was basically his way or the highway. A mentality like that demonstrates just how creative he was and didn't want others clouding his vision. Of course, it also led to feuds that sparked negative feelings by others towards the legendary director. Feelings that I find to be very unfortunate, because if something like that gets in the way of people enjoying this man's brilliant work, is a shame to say the least. His movies can be an acquired taste, but it's a taste that everyone should acquire. After all he was a genius.

by
Joe Talmage
webmoviepick@gmail.com




  

Blog Pick Week #2

  
   In the classic television sitcom "The Odd Couple", there was a phrase spoken "Never ASSUME because it makes an ASS out of U and ME." That comedic expression deals with this weeks pick.
   Stephen King is often known for such classic horror novels as, "Carrie", "It", "Misery" and "The Shining" among others. He has also written other genre's and short stories. Stories that have become classics and made into great films. One of which in my opinion; is probably one of the best movies to not win a Best Picture Oscar. I am talking about the film, "The Shawshank Redemption." Here is a movie that is far from a horror film but rather, as stated in the title a redemption story that defines the term, "good things happen to those who wait." Based on the original short story by Stephen King and turned into a classic film directed by Frank Darabont. This movie was so well done, that probably the only reason it did not win the Oscar for Best Picture, is because it went against "Forrest Gump" and the amazing momentum that movie carried throughout the awards. Any other year this would have arguably won all seven Oscars it was nominated for.
   With an Oscar worthy performance by lead actor Morgan Freeman, (who lost the Oscar to Tom Hanks that year) and his co-star Tim Robbins give an amazing performance. The story takes place in Maine, where Andy Dufresne (played by Tim Robbins) is accused of killing his wife and her lover, and is then sent to Shawshank prison to serve his back to back life sentences. There he meets "Red" (played by Morgan Freeman), who is also serving life in prison. The movie does show the harsh life of a prison inmate but the prison is not the central focus, even though most of the movie takes place behind those cement walls. Instead, it's a story about friendship and holding onto hope.
   "Shawshank Redemption" is a film that I am hard pressed to find a person that did not like it. I am not trying to over hype this movie, but if you have seen it I am sure you would echo the same statement I made, and if you haven't well watch it and let me know what you think. I ASSUME you will like it so let's not make an ASS out of U and ME. Until next time happy viewing.

by
Joe Talmage
webmoviepick@gmail.com 

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6hB3S9bIaco 

To Rent or Buy?

   Nothing beats seeing a movie in a movie theater. With popcorn and soda in hand, friends or family in tow. Then the lights dim, the previews begin and finally the main feature.
   Let's back track a little. How did we get here? After the cost of movie tickets at $10 a piece for a matinee, then another $10 for that popcorn and soda, now we are up to $20. Once the movie begins, some of your fellow theater goers have decided to boorishly open their candy wrapper's while simultaneously a small child decides this is a good time to cry at the top of his lungs. The guy behind you needs to stretch his legs to the point his foot accidentally collides with the back of your seat. You realize a woman in front of you has forgotten to shut her cellphone off, which becomes apparent when she begins rummaging around in her pocketbook trying to find it. While all this is going on, the gum you stepped on has cemented your foot to the puddle of spilled soda on the floor. Who knows whats going on in the movie now???
   All these events occurring at once are certainly stretching it. I must sound like those commercials that over dramatize the situation by showing simple things but the person is struggling with it, and stressing over it. Anyway, the point is they can and do happen. Obviously, this can ruin a usually fun and entertaining experience of enjoying a good movie on the big screen.
   With all these factors, especially the cost of a ticket to pay for a movie that you were disappointed in anyway, one may find solace elsewhere.
   I was always a theater goer. Growing up making at least a once a week trip to the movies with family or friends. I still head to the theater...but not as much. 
   In this day and age, with the technology of home theaters which have crystal clear Blu-ray players and surround sound stereo systems, you get all the advantages of going to the movies minus the many distractions and a fraction of the price. More and more home movie rental options are popping up. Back in the day it was your mom and pop video stores, then came Blockbuster. Now with services like Netflix, Cinema Now and Amazon Prime to name a few, make renting a movie easier. All of these services have a growing library with thousands of movies and television shows to choose from.
    Let's take Netflix for instance. The cost of an unlimited subscription with one DVD at a time comes to $7.99/month. So if you watch two movies a week, that comes to roughly eight movies a month. Adversely, if you went to the movies that much it would run you about $80 a month, and that's just for one ticket and no popcorn or soda. Interestingly enough, some mainstream movies are bypassing theaters and being released straight to DVD and Blu-ray. Could this be the beginning of the end for movie theaters? 
   Now, I love the movies and nothing beats watching a movie on the big screen, but with a tough financial climate and no end in sight, we need to look for alternatives. A nice home theater system or just a simple television with a DVD player can do wonders.
    So, this weekend grab some microwave popcorn and pop in a disc in your home theater system. Chances are your feet wont be cemented to the floor. Besides if they are, you will have a little more money in your pocket to pay for some floor cleaner.

by
Joe Talmage
webmoviepick@gmail.com

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Blog Pick Week #1

  
   If you have never seen a Ken Burns documentary you should, and you should begin by watching Ken Burns "The Civil War." This is the pinnacle of the very deep Ken Burns collection in my opinion. It is a very long series, a total of 680 minutes spread out into numerous episodes, so it's obviously something that would be hard to see in one sitting. In addition since the subject is war, I would not suggest letting children or people who are squeamish watch. It's gory...very gory.
   To put this series in perspective, I have a very limited interest in the Civil War in general. Regardless I have always had a tremendous respect for it considering what these men went through, and of course what it meant to this country's history. We would be living in a North or South United States if we didn't have the outcome that we did. So considering this, I was drawn into this film. Ken Burns description and execution made you feel like you were witnessing the Civil War in person. What added to this feeling was he did more than just tell a history lesson, he personalized it by incorporating letters soldiers wrote to their wives and families back home describing the horrors they were experiencing on the battlefields. His telling of how the north and south plotted against one another with descriptive graphics and background sound effects really did bring the Civil War alive again. For someone like myself, that went into seeing this mini series with lukewarm interest, and to walk out loving it speaks volumes to how well it was made.
   Although, this series is quite long, and maybe with your busy schedule you don't have the time...it doesn't matter maybe find the time. Don't go out to dinner a couple weeks - I don't know. There are many great series that Ken Burns did, if you have seen one you know what I mean when I say he can bring history alive. If you haven't then I recommend beginning with this one and then try "Lewis & Clark." I hope you enjoy the film, until next time happy viewing.

by
Joe Talmage
webmoviepick@gmail.com

Movies are subjective...

  Just like the saying "no two snowflakes are alike," the same can be said about movie preferences. Each and every person has similar "likes" and "dislikes" when it comes to movies. Even if people share the same favorite type of movie genre, (whether it is a drama, action, comedy, etc...), can still not share that same movie choice in that particular genre. How many times on the show "Siskel & Ebert" did they argue on a movie they were critiquing that week? Both were highly respected movie critics that had seen countless movies, so obviously they were well qualified as a reputable source. Yet they still disagreed... a lot.
  Therefore there is no right answer on whether a movie is good or not. Sure some movies are technically better than others, but nobody is wrong for liking a particular movie. We all have our guilty pleasures that others may find ridiculous, so we just keep it to ourselves out of pure embarrassment.
  Don't ever feel if you liked a movie but others didn't that your opinion is worthless, I should take my own advice on that for sure. So what I am trying to do on this site is share my thoughts on movies I rented and enjoyed. Choices I feel like sharing with others who may also enjoy them. I am not an expert by any means, and certainly not at the level of critics like Roger Ebert or Richard Roeper. All I am is a movie fan who loves watching and discussing movies with family, friends and co-workers. You may not agree with my particular choices that I make here, but that is OK, you don't have to. All I ask is for you to have your own choices, so I invite you to share your comments and likes. Remember no two snowflakes are alike, movies are subjective.

by
Joe Talmage
webmoviepick@gmail.com