Boombatty's Recent Comments
BEE MOVIE - Mar 19, 2008 - 11:42am
All I know is I took my kids to see this movie in the theater. They were bored, I was bored, my wife was bored and the humor was lacking and went for the most childish gaffs. This is not an entertaining Adult movie. I get sucked into all the kid flicks and have to tell you, Alvin & the Chipmonks was cute, Horton Hears a Who was cute, neither was spectacular for adults but the kids loved them. Bee Movie is a lame snorer. I'd rate it a C-/D+ at best. I vote that Pixar be the only studio allowed to produce kid flicks from now on.
All I know is I took my kids to see this movie in the theater. They were bored, I was bored, my wife was bored and the humor was lacking and went for the most childish gaffs. This is not an entertaining Adult movie. I get sucked into all the kid flicks and have to tell you, Alvin & the Chipmonks was cute, Horton Hears a Who was cute, neither was spectacular for adults but the kids loved them. Bee Movie is a lame snorer. I'd rate it a C-/D+ at best. I vote that Pixar be the only studio allowed to produce kid flicks from now on.
DEATHLY HALLOWS Split into Two Films - Mar 12, 2008 - 08:41pm
At this rate Part II will have to be named Harry Potter and the Nursing Home. The kid is gonna be like 35 years old by the time this finished filming. It's like the 90 year old Beverly Hills 90210 kids in their tenth year.
At this rate Part II will have to be named Harry Potter and the Nursing Home. The kid is gonna be like 35 years old by the time this finished filming. It's like the 90 year old Beverly Hills 90210 kids in their tenth year.
Black Freighter Confirmed for WATCHMEN DVD - Feb 29, 2008 - 08:27am
I have to agree with Hobbs on this one. If it is an Extra on the DVD (a mini-movie as it were) I think it could be really really cool. Within the movie, if they address it at all it needs to be comic book (old EC style) flashes of a page the kid is reading (at most), perhaps a little narration of the story with the page (assuming Snyder used it).
I have to agree with Hobbs on this one. If it is an Extra on the DVD (a mini-movie as it were) I think it could be really really cool. Within the movie, if they address it at all it needs to be comic book (old EC style) flashes of a page the kid is reading (at most), perhaps a little narration of the story with the page (assuming Snyder used it).
The Sarah Connor Chronicles: The Turk - Jan 24, 2008 - 09:29am
What I don't understand is that Cameron stated she opened an account with the bank (or something similar to that) when it opened in the 60's. By that logic she has been around for 40-50 years. If so, couldn't she have learned to be a bit more human by now?
What I don't understand is that Cameron stated she opened an account with the bank (or something similar to that) when it opened in the 60's. By that logic she has been around for 40-50 years. If so, couldn't she have learned to be a bit more human by now?
Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles: Gnothi Seauton - Jan 17, 2008 - 12:38pm
LOL. Now that is some funny shit. I swear the comments are the reason I come to this site.
LOL. Now that is some funny shit. I swear the comments are the reason I come to this site.
Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles: Gnothi Seauton - Jan 17, 2008 - 11:55am
I think everybody who thinks he isn't a Terminator could be in for a rude awakening by end of season. I wonder how many of you will eat crow and admit they were wrong IF it turns out the FBI Agent is a Terminator. My guess...none of you kind gentle folks. As for all the opinions about whether the red glow in the computer screen is or isn't, well you know what they say about opinions.
I think everybody who thinks he isn't a Terminator could be in for a rude awakening by end of season. I wonder how many of you will eat crow and admit they were wrong IF it turns out the FBI Agent is a Terminator. My guess...none of you kind gentle folks. As for all the opinions about whether the red glow in the computer screen is or isn't, well you know what they say about opinions.
Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles: Pilot - Jan 15, 2008 - 12:55pm
joeybaloney - The FBI agent, in episode 1, looks at the computer screen and (right before fade out) his eyes glow red, ala the Terminator (reflecting in the computer's screen). Anyone else see this?
joeybaloney - The FBI agent, in episode 1, looks at the computer screen and (right before fade out) his eyes glow red, ala the Terminator (reflecting in the computer's screen). Anyone else see this?
Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles: Pilot - Jan 15, 2008 - 10:01am
The whole nude thing never made sense to me as how did the Robert Patricknator make it through? And if clothes and other items like guns can't be brought back then how do they account for other non-biological items like Terminators themselves? If it is because they are covered in flesh and couldn't a Terminator bring a future weapon with him if it were covered in flesh? This is a hole I wish would get explained someday. As for other potential Terminators I am expecting, if this show goes the distance we will eventually see Terminator Dogs or other animals show up. They could cover a car in flesh, send it back and have KITT kill John Connor ;)
The whole nude thing never made sense to me as how did the Robert Patricknator make it through? And if clothes and other items like guns can't be brought back then how do they account for other non-biological items like Terminators themselves? If it is because they are covered in flesh and couldn't a Terminator bring a future weapon with him if it were covered in flesh? This is a hole I wish would get explained someday. As for other potential Terminators I am expecting, if this show goes the distance we will eventually see Terminator Dogs or other animals show up. They could cover a car in flesh, send it back and have KITT kill John Connor ;)
Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles: Pilot - Jan 15, 2008 - 06:57am
SPOILERS - BEWARE! I thought the first episode was pretty good while the second episode slowed down a lot while explaining continuity within the T2-T3 time line and setting up season arcs. What I learned: 1) Sarah Connor still will die (or believes she will die) as fore-told by the hottie Terminator. They jumped into the future so she doesn't have to die fast. Inn fact they could stay in the future into the war if needed with this fix. Also, there are a myriad of ways to "unkill" Sarah if they choose (send back a duplicate & push Sarah into the future (or past, say 1965?) for example and thus open the door to further Sarah adventures). They are finding ways to fill the continuity gaps. I like this. There is nothing worse than continuity holes. 2) I't looks like the FBI agent is the same model as Cameron as he eats and drinks as well. I liked that she (and probably he) have been in the past since the 60's (or perhaps earlier by the story told by Cameron). I am wondering if perhaps the Terminators were sent in the past to protect Sarah Connor's mother (so she could birth Sarah) or even to protect Kyle Reese's folks? The number of stories that could derive from that alone is huge. 3) Wow, hot Terminator. I hate to say this but this is a fan boy's wet dream. A hot robot that has to follow your instructions (and what is John now 15, 16, 17? Go go gadget Hormones). 4) The multiple terminators so they can rebuild each other and/or build new terminators. This allows for a lot of enemies but likely too many enemies. With this and a bunch of other soldiers having been sent back in time I count 8 beings already having been sent back into time, 4 terminators and 4 soldiers. This can get ugly as the future war is being battled through the past. We have now seen or heard of Terminators in the 60's (and technically the 70's as a result), the 80's, 90's and 2000's so far. The concept will stretch thin the more they do this (example, Marvel shot themselves in the foot in the 90's in comic form by literally adding millions of mutants, thus diluting their X-men who were maybe a few dozen guppies in the ocean, eventually they had to retcon their way out). 5) Speaking of continuity. One of the holes now fixed is that John's age always seemed off in the movies. A lot of fans didn't like that, well that is now fixed by adding the time travel arc. He can age and then when he goes back in time he will be the correct age. Odd, I know, but it is a fix. 6) Hopefully there will be no Arnie cameo in this series. The only Arnie in T3 should have in the deleted scene on the disc where we find out why the Terminator looked like Arnie and how he got the accent, pure genius, should have been kept. All in all, I give the show a solid B+. It has lots of potential I must say. I haven't been this excited for a show since the Blade series, and that, well, no pun intended, sucked.
SPOILERS - BEWARE! I thought the first episode was pretty good while the second episode slowed down a lot while explaining continuity within the T2-T3 time line and setting up season arcs. What I learned: 1) Sarah Connor still will die (or believes she will die) as fore-told by the hottie Terminator. They jumped into the future so she doesn't have to die fast. Inn fact they could stay in the future into the war if needed with this fix. Also, there are a myriad of ways to "unkill" Sarah if they choose (send back a duplicate & push Sarah into the future (or past, say 1965?) for example and thus open the door to further Sarah adventures). They are finding ways to fill the continuity gaps. I like this. There is nothing worse than continuity holes. 2) I't looks like the FBI agent is the same model as Cameron as he eats and drinks as well. I liked that she (and probably he) have been in the past since the 60's (or perhaps earlier by the story told by Cameron). I am wondering if perhaps the Terminators were sent in the past to protect Sarah Connor's mother (so she could birth Sarah) or even to protect Kyle Reese's folks? The number of stories that could derive from that alone is huge. 3) Wow, hot Terminator. I hate to say this but this is a fan boy's wet dream. A hot robot that has to follow your instructions (and what is John now 15, 16, 17? Go go gadget Hormones). 4) The multiple terminators so they can rebuild each other and/or build new terminators. This allows for a lot of enemies but likely too many enemies. With this and a bunch of other soldiers having been sent back in time I count 8 beings already having been sent back into time, 4 terminators and 4 soldiers. This can get ugly as the future war is being battled through the past. We have now seen or heard of Terminators in the 60's (and technically the 70's as a result), the 80's, 90's and 2000's so far. The concept will stretch thin the more they do this (example, Marvel shot themselves in the foot in the 90's in comic form by literally adding millions of mutants, thus diluting their X-men who were maybe a few dozen guppies in the ocean, eventually they had to retcon their way out). 5) Speaking of continuity. One of the holes now fixed is that John's age always seemed off in the movies. A lot of fans didn't like that, well that is now fixed by adding the time travel arc. He can age and then when he goes back in time he will be the correct age. Odd, I know, but it is a fix. 6) Hopefully there will be no Arnie cameo in this series. The only Arnie in T3 should have in the deleted scene on the disc where we find out why the Terminator looked like Arnie and how he got the accent, pure genius, should have been kept. All in all, I give the show a solid B+. It has lots of potential I must say. I haven't been this excited for a show since the Blade series, and that, well, no pun intended, sucked.
REAPER: Cash Out - Dec 06, 2007 - 08:09am
Am I the only one who thinks this show is downright horrible? I've tried to watch this show repeatedly and I can't make it through a full episode.
Am I the only one who thinks this show is downright horrible? I've tried to watch this show repeatedly and I can't make it through a full episode.
My Thoughts on 30 DAYS OF NIGHT - Oct 25, 2007 - 10:51am
I love Dusk til Dawn (just not the crap sequels). Near Dark is cool but horribly directed (and ripe for a remake). My all time favorite Vamp movies (as action movies go) is the first & second Blade. I always liked Interview a lot as well.
I love Dusk til Dawn (just not the crap sequels). Near Dark is cool but horribly directed (and ripe for a remake). My all time favorite Vamp movies (as action movies go) is the first & second Blade. I always liked Interview a lot as well.
My Thoughts on 30 DAYS OF NIGHT - Oct 24, 2007 - 10:32pm
I think 30 Days needed about 20 more minutes to add to the backstory of some of the characters. Characterization, or rather more of it would have made this a great movie. Maybe when the DVD comes out there will be additional footage.
I think 30 Days needed about 20 more minutes to add to the backstory of some of the characters. Characterization, or rather more of it would have made this a great movie. Maybe when the DVD comes out there will be additional footage.
STARSHIP TROOPERS Sequel, VACANCY Prequel? - Oct 09, 2007 - 12:53pm
What is Wesley going to film AoW2 from prison? I can see the Snipes movie now, "Art of War 2". Snipes has to defend himself from Rapists while serving 15 years for Tax evasion. If the movie does well he might get the chance to cameo in Starship Poopers.
What is Wesley going to film AoW2 from prison? I can see the Snipes movie now, "Art of War 2". Snipes has to defend himself from Rapists while serving 15 years for Tax evasion. If the movie does well he might get the chance to cameo in Starship Poopers.
Olyphant, Perlman & Wahlberg in TUROK - Oct 03, 2007 - 11:46am
Ah, I see they changed the picture associated with the article now to show a Dinosaur being attacked. I Wiki'd Turok and he is a Native American and goes around killing Dinosaurs. I remember now that I have a game for the X-Box that came out right after the first Halo in which you run around sniping dinosaurs and Slezak looking Dinodudes. It wasn't great was easy to beat. I remember the AI sucked on it. None of the character names on the list match the Wiki for all of the Turoks but there was a notation about it being a Time Lost Land so maybe they shot it into the future for this installment. It looks like they are going for Halo with Dinosaurs here. I also never understand what star power brings to a video game. I am not going to buy it because some cool actors voice it. I will buy it if it looks cool and plays well, regardless of overpriced voice talent. How odd of a trend. How is Pam Anderson voicing Beer Tapper going to make the game not suck? And if Bruce Willis voiced Master Chief how many more copies of Halo would actually have been sold? 2?
Ah, I see they changed the picture associated with the article now to show a Dinosaur being attacked. I Wiki'd Turok and he is a Native American and goes around killing Dinosaurs. I remember now that I have a game for the X-Box that came out right after the first Halo in which you run around sniping dinosaurs and Slezak looking Dinodudes. It wasn't great was easy to beat. I remember the AI sucked on it. None of the character names on the list match the Wiki for all of the Turoks but there was a notation about it being a Time Lost Land so maybe they shot it into the future for this installment. It looks like they are going for Halo with Dinosaurs here. I also never understand what star power brings to a video game. I am not going to buy it because some cool actors voice it. I will buy it if it looks cool and plays well, regardless of overpriced voice talent. How odd of a trend. How is Pam Anderson voicing Beer Tapper going to make the game not suck? And if Bruce Willis voiced Master Chief how many more copies of Halo would actually have been sold? 2?
Olyphant, Perlman & Wahlberg in TUROK - Oct 03, 2007 - 11:19am
I thought Turok was about an American Indian guy? Can someone school me on this? Maybe I'm thinking of the wrong thing.
I thought Turok was about an American Indian guy? Can someone school me on this? Maybe I'm thinking of the wrong thing.
Which one… - Oct 02, 2007 - 11:10am
Rob, Much better column this week! Now we can start using this a list to go by once again! Bravo!
Rob, Much better column this week! Now we can start using this a list to go by once again! Bravo!
NBC Orders ROBINSON CRUSOE Series - Oct 01, 2007 - 01:09pm
I have my own idea for a pilot: Lost 2: Electric Bugaloo. Turbo & Ozone get stranded on the Lost remote island in the 80's and never realize Break Dancing as a craze died. Then they find Robinson Crusoe's bones and all wackiness ensues when Turbo makes a record player out of them.
I have my own idea for a pilot: Lost 2: Electric Bugaloo. Turbo & Ozone get stranded on the Lost remote island in the 80's and never realize Break Dancing as a craze died. Then they find Robinson Crusoe's bones and all wackiness ensues when Turbo makes a record player out of them.
HALO 3 Hits $170 Million Mark on First Day - Sep 27, 2007 - 11:44am
Frozenfear: $130? where are you buying your games. I'll sell you mine for $120/pop. As for the numbers, I think the games retails for $60 thus they have sold roughly over 2.8 million copies. Plus the 1.7 mil pre-sales = 4.5 million. If HP sold 11 million copies on it's first day it kicked the crap out of Halo 3. Price wise HP at $25/pop= $275Mil (at 11 mil copies) vs. Halo at $60/pop= $270Mil (at 4.5 mil copies) the numbers are so close that it is indeed possible that Halo 3 outsold the HP book by $$$ (but obviously not copies sold). I also wonder if they were talking US sales only. HP sold 8.3 million on day one iin the US, 11 million worldwide.
Frozenfear: $130? where are you buying your games. I'll sell you mine for $120/pop. As for the numbers, I think the games retails for $60 thus they have sold roughly over 2.8 million copies. Plus the 1.7 mil pre-sales = 4.5 million. If HP sold 11 million copies on it's first day it kicked the crap out of Halo 3. Price wise HP at $25/pop= $275Mil (at 11 mil copies) vs. Halo at $60/pop= $270Mil (at 4.5 mil copies) the numbers are so close that it is indeed possible that Halo 3 outsold the HP book by $$$ (but obviously not copies sold). I also wonder if they were talking US sales only. HP sold 8.3 million on day one iin the US, 11 million worldwide.
NEXT - Sep 25, 2007 - 07:40pm
This column needs help. It used to be a great thing. The sections should either be seperate, Horror/SciFi/Action/Comedy or just list everything out like they used to. Example (well this is actually all released on Sept. 25)- Horror: SEPTEMBER 25 ALONE IN THE DARK Director's Cut (special edition): Lionsgate BLACK ROSES (special edition): Synapse BROKEN (R & unrated special editions): Dimension Extreme/Genius BUG (special edition): Lionsgate CAT O'NINE TAILS (special edition rerelease): Blue Underground CAT PEOPLE (1982; HD-DVD): Universal COUNT DRACULA (TV): BBC/Warner CREATURES FROM THE PINK LAGOON (special edition): Ariztical CUJO (special edition): Lionsgate CURSE OF ALCATRAZ (special edition): Lionsgate DAWN OF THE DEAD (2004)/LAND OF THE DEAD (2-disc rerelease): Universal *NEW* DEAD BOYZ DON'T SCREAM (special edition): Sharpie Films *UPDATE* DEAD IN THE WATER (special edition): Indican DEADLY FRIEND: Warner DEMONS (rerelease): Anchor Bay DEMONS 2 (rerelease): Anchor Bay DR. GIGGLES: Warner EATEN ALIVE (new 2-disc special edition): Dark Sky ELVIRA'S MOVIE MACABRE: BLUE SUNSHINE/MONSTROID: Shout! Factory ELVIRA'S MOVIE MACABRE: GAMERA, SUPER MONSTER/THEY CAME FROM BEYOND SPACE: Shout! Factory ELVIRA'S MOVIE MACABRE: MANEATERS OF HYDRA/THE HOUSE THAT SCREAMED: Shout! Factory *NEW* EXPERIMENTS IN TERROR 2: Other Cinema/Facets EYES OF A STRANGER: Warner THE FERRYMAN: First Look FRIGHT NIGHT COLLECTION (SLEEPY HOLLOW, RED EYE, WHAT LIES BENEATH, THE HAUNTING; 4-disc rerelease): Paramount FROM BEYOND THE GRAVE: Warner FROSTBITTEN: Genius GOTHIKA (Blu-ray, HD-DVD): Warner THE HAND: Warner *NEW* HURT: Redemption USA IN THE DARK: Sovereign *NEW* THE IRON ROSE: Redemption USA KISS DADDY GOODBYE: SRS Cinema THE LAST COFFIN: Laguna THE LIVING HEAD: CasaNegra MALABIMBA (special edition): Severin NIGHT OF THE DEMONS 2: Lionsgate OPERA (special edition rerelease): Blue Underground *NEW* PLANET OF DINOSAURS (special edition): Retromedia/Infinity QUEEN COBRA: Razor Digital REEKER (special edition): Paramount RINGU Ø/RASEN (rerelease): Paramount SATAN'S BABY DOLL (special edition): Severin SOMEONE'S WATCHING ME!: Warner SPIDER BABY (new special edition): Dark Sky THE STENDHAL SYNDROME (2-disc special edition): Blue Underground STEPHEN KING GIFT SET (THE LANGOLIERS, THE STAND, GOLDEN YEARS; 5-disc rerelease): Paramount STUPID TEENAGERS MUST DIE! (special edition): Vanguard SUSPIRIA (2-disc rerelease): Blue Underground TWISTED TERROR COLLECTION (DEADLY FRIEND, DR. GIGGLES, EYES OF A STRANGER, FROM BEYOND THE GRAVE, THE HAND, SOMEONE'S WATCHING ME!; 6-disc set): Warner UNDERWORLD (unrated Blu-ray): Sony Pictures WINGRAVE (special edition): Fat Cat/Tempe WORLD OF VAMPIRES: CasaNegra
This column needs help. It used to be a great thing. The sections should either be seperate, Horror/SciFi/Action/Comedy or just list everything out like they used to. Example (well this is actually all released on Sept. 25)- Horror: SEPTEMBER 25 ALONE IN THE DARK Director's Cut (special edition): Lionsgate BLACK ROSES (special edition): Synapse BROKEN (R & unrated special editions): Dimension Extreme/Genius BUG (special edition): Lionsgate CAT O'NINE TAILS (special edition rerelease): Blue Underground CAT PEOPLE (1982; HD-DVD): Universal COUNT DRACULA (TV): BBC/Warner CREATURES FROM THE PINK LAGOON (special edition): Ariztical CUJO (special edition): Lionsgate CURSE OF ALCATRAZ (special edition): Lionsgate DAWN OF THE DEAD (2004)/LAND OF THE DEAD (2-disc rerelease): Universal *NEW* DEAD BOYZ DON'T SCREAM (special edition): Sharpie Films *UPDATE* DEAD IN THE WATER (special edition): Indican DEADLY FRIEND: Warner DEMONS (rerelease): Anchor Bay DEMONS 2 (rerelease): Anchor Bay DR. GIGGLES: Warner EATEN ALIVE (new 2-disc special edition): Dark Sky ELVIRA'S MOVIE MACABRE: BLUE SUNSHINE/MONSTROID: Shout! Factory ELVIRA'S MOVIE MACABRE: GAMERA, SUPER MONSTER/THEY CAME FROM BEYOND SPACE: Shout! Factory ELVIRA'S MOVIE MACABRE: MANEATERS OF HYDRA/THE HOUSE THAT SCREAMED: Shout! Factory *NEW* EXPERIMENTS IN TERROR 2: Other Cinema/Facets EYES OF A STRANGER: Warner THE FERRYMAN: First Look FRIGHT NIGHT COLLECTION (SLEEPY HOLLOW, RED EYE, WHAT LIES BENEATH, THE HAUNTING; 4-disc rerelease): Paramount FROM BEYOND THE GRAVE: Warner FROSTBITTEN: Genius GOTHIKA (Blu-ray, HD-DVD): Warner THE HAND: Warner *NEW* HURT: Redemption USA IN THE DARK: Sovereign *NEW* THE IRON ROSE: Redemption USA KISS DADDY GOODBYE: SRS Cinema THE LAST COFFIN: Laguna THE LIVING HEAD: CasaNegra MALABIMBA (special edition): Severin NIGHT OF THE DEMONS 2: Lionsgate OPERA (special edition rerelease): Blue Underground *NEW* PLANET OF DINOSAURS (special edition): Retromedia/Infinity QUEEN COBRA: Razor Digital REEKER (special edition): Paramount RINGU Ø/RASEN (rerelease): Paramount SATAN'S BABY DOLL (special edition): Severin SOMEONE'S WATCHING ME!: Warner SPIDER BABY (new special edition): Dark Sky THE STENDHAL SYNDROME (2-disc special edition): Blue Underground STEPHEN KING GIFT SET (THE LANGOLIERS, THE STAND, GOLDEN YEARS; 5-disc rerelease): Paramount STUPID TEENAGERS MUST DIE! (special edition): Vanguard SUSPIRIA (2-disc rerelease): Blue Underground TWISTED TERROR COLLECTION (DEADLY FRIEND, DR. GIGGLES, EYES OF A STRANGER, FROM BEYOND THE GRAVE, THE HAND, SOMEONE'S WATCHING ME!; 6-disc set): Warner UNDERWORLD (unrated Blu-ray): Sony Pictures WINGRAVE (special edition): Fat Cat/Tempe WORLD OF VAMPIRES: CasaNegra
THOR #3 - Sep 18, 2007 - 10:50am
Jeebus this is a hot topic isn't it. And separate from the whole political bend in the review and posts I'll leave an actual comic related post. What made a BIG dent for me in this book is that Iron Man got his ass handed to him. Easily. This basically establishes an order much needed in the Marvel U. Hulk kicked the crap out of Iron Man. Thor kicked the crap out of Iron Man. Why is this important. Iron Man always seems to come up with some sort of super armor (Hulkbuster, Thorbuster) that can mythically lay a beat down on the most powerful (strength wise) heroes. Lately things are swinging back to the whole, "look, armor is great and will protect you...a little, but these superdudes are just way out of your Iron league". It is like Spiderman fighting Silver Surfer. No contest. I applaud the effort to finally correct this from Marvel. It also fits well into the story where Iron Man realizes he has no choice about Thor/Asgard. Give them what he wants or he is going to off him right there and then (hows that for political?). Now Iron Man has to figure out who and/or what he can use to drop Thor and hopefully Marvel isn't going to resort to a single piece of armor again. Iron Man has a better chance of Nuking Asgard.
Jeebus this is a hot topic isn't it. And separate from the whole political bend in the review and posts I'll leave an actual comic related post. What made a BIG dent for me in this book is that Iron Man got his ass handed to him. Easily. This basically establishes an order much needed in the Marvel U. Hulk kicked the crap out of Iron Man. Thor kicked the crap out of Iron Man. Why is this important. Iron Man always seems to come up with some sort of super armor (Hulkbuster, Thorbuster) that can mythically lay a beat down on the most powerful (strength wise) heroes. Lately things are swinging back to the whole, "look, armor is great and will protect you...a little, but these superdudes are just way out of your Iron league". It is like Spiderman fighting Silver Surfer. No contest. I applaud the effort to finally correct this from Marvel. It also fits well into the story where Iron Man realizes he has no choice about Thor/Asgard. Give them what he wants or he is going to off him right there and then (hows that for political?). Now Iron Man has to figure out who and/or what he can use to drop Thor and hopefully Marvel isn't going to resort to a single piece of armor again. Iron Man has a better chance of Nuking Asgard.
Bayer Leads Vampires in NEAR DARK - Sep 18, 2007 - 10:37am
Most of the actors were frequent James Cameron faves. I believe Bigelow (who may have been married to Cameron at the time, anyone know if that was true?) convinced him to let her borrow some of his actors from Aliens which was filming or recently wrapped. As for the film, I love it for the story and the acting but not necessarily the directing, similar in my feelings for Night Breed. This is a film that, while I love it, could make a kick-ass remake (as could Night Breed).
Most of the actors were frequent James Cameron faves. I believe Bigelow (who may have been married to Cameron at the time, anyone know if that was true?) convinced him to let her borrow some of his actors from Aliens which was filming or recently wrapped. As for the film, I love it for the story and the acting but not necessarily the directing, similar in my feelings for Night Breed. This is a film that, while I love it, could make a kick-ass remake (as could Night Breed).
Monster Manual V - Sep 04, 2007 - 03:29pm
Those people were beat up savagely in high school weren't they ? ;)
Those people were beat up savagely in high school weren't they ? ;)
Aliens Vs. Predator Omnibus Vol. 1 - Aug 20, 2007 - 08:26am
I have bought and read the 3 related Omnibuses at this point, Alien v. Predator 1, Aliens 1 and Predator 1 and have to say that Dark Horse is making me smile greatly at these digests. They are $25 (less online, I paid @$18), over 400 pages, color, and all stories in the books tie together. I wish Marvel, DC and some of the smaller publishers would see these and realize the best way to reprint and sell their wares. As for the books themselves. Sheer Joy. The strongest of the 3 IMHO is the Alien Omnibus 1. It continues the adventures of Newt & Hicks post Aliens (and no reference to Aliens 3 onward thank God). The story continues as a series of sequels to the first and second movies and only takes a dive in the final arc when Ripley returns to the cast (I don't really understand what the were going for in the conclusion). We learn how the Aliens communicate and how they affect the population of a planet (other than feeding and procreating inside of them). We see the aliens make it to earth and the insidious Corporate and Government forces in competition. We also see Alien competition for resources which was the weaker aspect that feeds into the conclusion. Next up is the aforementioned Aliens v. Predator 1 which removes some of the horror aspect of the Aliens digest and replaces it with the Predator action genre. The book is an interesting read that feeds on previous Aliens stories. Again the book is essentially sequential in it's story telling and has a main protagonist as described in the review. I was locked on the story and it is quite a worthwhile read. So much in fact that I have pre-ordered November's Alien v. Predator Omnibus 2. As for the final book in this AvP Omnibus trilogy thus far, Predator 1, is the only book I would recommend for the completest. The first story is spectacular and tells the story of Dutch's brother (Arnie's character from the Predator 1 movie). It is also a "sequel" of sorts that builds on the first movie and many aspects of this story were used in the Predator 2 film (although not some of the coolest). While the story of Dutch's brother searching for his sibling's fate post Predator1 (film) is engaging the continuation of the story throughout the digest gets stale and the character's ability to not just survive but kill Predators en masse ends the "realism" of the character. In conclusion, if you like the characters from the movies and the genre, buy these. They are better than the sequels in the theaters. Now I am hoping dark Horse gives this treatment to the Terminator franchise. Those who are Star Wars fans, you can find similar Dark Horse Omnibuses for that series.
I have bought and read the 3 related Omnibuses at this point, Alien v. Predator 1, Aliens 1 and Predator 1 and have to say that Dark Horse is making me smile greatly at these digests. They are $25 (less online, I paid @$18), over 400 pages, color, and all stories in the books tie together. I wish Marvel, DC and some of the smaller publishers would see these and realize the best way to reprint and sell their wares. As for the books themselves. Sheer Joy. The strongest of the 3 IMHO is the Alien Omnibus 1. It continues the adventures of Newt & Hicks post Aliens (and no reference to Aliens 3 onward thank God). The story continues as a series of sequels to the first and second movies and only takes a dive in the final arc when Ripley returns to the cast (I don't really understand what the were going for in the conclusion). We learn how the Aliens communicate and how they affect the population of a planet (other than feeding and procreating inside of them). We see the aliens make it to earth and the insidious Corporate and Government forces in competition. We also see Alien competition for resources which was the weaker aspect that feeds into the conclusion. Next up is the aforementioned Aliens v. Predator 1 which removes some of the horror aspect of the Aliens digest and replaces it with the Predator action genre. The book is an interesting read that feeds on previous Aliens stories. Again the book is essentially sequential in it's story telling and has a main protagonist as described in the review. I was locked on the story and it is quite a worthwhile read. So much in fact that I have pre-ordered November's Alien v. Predator Omnibus 2. As for the final book in this AvP Omnibus trilogy thus far, Predator 1, is the only book I would recommend for the completest. The first story is spectacular and tells the story of Dutch's brother (Arnie's character from the Predator 1 movie). It is also a "sequel" of sorts that builds on the first movie and many aspects of this story were used in the Predator 2 film (although not some of the coolest). While the story of Dutch's brother searching for his sibling's fate post Predator1 (film) is engaging the continuation of the story throughout the digest gets stale and the character's ability to not just survive but kill Predators en masse ends the "realism" of the character. In conclusion, if you like the characters from the movies and the genre, buy these. They are better than the sequels in the theaters. Now I am hoping dark Horse gives this treatment to the Terminator franchise. Those who are Star Wars fans, you can find similar Dark Horse Omnibuses for that series.
POLTERGEIST'S 25th Anniversary on Oct 9 - Aug 18, 2007 - 03:52pm
Jarrod, Thanks for the update man! I have to agree with the sentiment around here that while the weekly DVD corner didn't generate a lot of response it is an intregal aspect of the website. I used the list weekly to determine what I would be buying for the week. In fact, Amazon & Target ought to be thanking you for the bucks the list has cost me over the years.
Jarrod, Thanks for the update man! I have to agree with the sentiment around here that while the weekly DVD corner didn't generate a lot of response it is an intregal aspect of the website. I used the list weekly to determine what I would be buying for the week. In fact, Amazon & Target ought to be thanking you for the bucks the list has cost me over the years.
POLTERGEIST'S 25th Anniversary on Oct 9 - Aug 17, 2007 - 05:00pm
Jarrod, We ever gonna get that DVD weekly release roundup back? It was one of Mania's best features. If not, anyone know of a good site that still does a similar weekly roundup?
Jarrod, We ever gonna get that DVD weekly release roundup back? It was one of Mania's best features. If not, anyone know of a good site that still does a similar weekly roundup?
300 Marches on to DVD July 31st - Jul 24, 2007 - 08:49am
Hey! What ever happened to the weekly DVD release round-up here at Mania? I looked forward to it every week.
Hey! What ever happened to the weekly DVD release round-up here at Mania? I looked forward to it every week.
BLOODY REUNION - Jul 24, 2007 - 08:48am
Hey! What ever happened to the weekly DVD release round-up here at Mania? I looked forward to it every week.
Hey! What ever happened to the weekly DVD release round-up here at Mania? I looked forward to it every week.
Hawke Calls DAYBREAKERS "Silly" - Jul 03, 2007 - 03:29pm
Of course I Am Legend will make 150-200million minimum domestic, it has Will Smith and I believe a holiday opening. I do wonder which of the other two will do better. Daybreakers has a better cast but 30 Days has the younger pull IMHO and of course the comic crowd although I dont know if that means much as this isn't an A-List Superhero movie.
Of course I Am Legend will make 150-200million minimum domestic, it has Will Smith and I believe a holiday opening. I do wonder which of the other two will do better. Daybreakers has a better cast but 30 Days has the younger pull IMHO and of course the comic crowd although I dont know if that means much as this isn't an A-List Superhero movie.
AVP 2 Gets a New Name - Jul 01, 2007 - 04:57pm
So Jarrod, as "News Editor" is all news going back to the days of KJ's take now complete with sarcastic wit spread throughout? Just checking before the usual uproar takes place. Shall we line up Kurt Russell in the cross hairs yet? Speaking of which, did KJ get the axe or something?
So Jarrod, as "News Editor" is all news going back to the days of KJ's take now complete with sarcastic wit spread throughout? Just checking before the usual uproar takes place. Shall we line up Kurt Russell in the cross hairs yet? Speaking of which, did KJ get the axe or something?
Pixar's RATATOUILLE Fries a Victory - Jul 01, 2007 - 04:53pm
Well it looks like the top two spots are all lined up: 1) Pirates 3 2) Spiderman 3 Unless Harry Potter knocks them out of the park. I wonder if Transformers or Harry Potter will end up in third or if Shrek will hold up.
Well it looks like the top two spots are all lined up: 1) Pirates 3 2) Spiderman 3 Unless Harry Potter knocks them out of the park. I wonder if Transformers or Harry Potter will end up in third or if Shrek will hold up.
Stan Lee Gives Comic MOVIE TIPS - Jun 29, 2007 - 01:02pm
Why yes. I created Captain America. Never-the-less, can you tell me something in say...the last twenty years he did that warrants such adulation for his movie making skills? I find Stan to be whoring his creations from 40 years ago into any medium he can to attempt to stay relevant. It would be like if Mark McGuire were writing a book about how to play football in the NFL or how to make Baseball movies so that you dont forget he was big almost a decade ago. It gets tired, sad and pathetic.
Why yes. I created Captain America. Never-the-less, can you tell me something in say...the last twenty years he did that warrants such adulation for his movie making skills? I find Stan to be whoring his creations from 40 years ago into any medium he can to attempt to stay relevant. It would be like if Mark McGuire were writing a book about how to play football in the NFL or how to make Baseball movies so that you dont forget he was big almost a decade ago. It gets tired, sad and pathetic.
Stan Lee Gives Comic MOVIE TIPS - Jun 29, 2007 - 12:40pm
I think he should be giving washed-up has-been tips. When was the last time Stan produced anything of significance? Ravage 2099? Yeah, that was a winner.
I think he should be giving washed-up has-been tips. When was the last time Stan produced anything of significance? Ravage 2099? Yeah, that was a winner.
1408 - Jun 23, 2007 - 02:43pm
So it's not just me? Somedays I feel like I am taking crazy pills when I read this site. I never understood the grading process on Cines..., ahem, Mania. Usually the reviews either hype up a piece of shit film and give it a "B" or a "B-" if it is a horrible piece of crap or worse yet when they "review" a film by giving you a play by play, spoileriffic summary of the film, "at the end of the film after you find out the killer was Bob, the mute brother, there is a twist when he pulls off his mask to reveal he was the sister all along". Um...thanks.
So it's not just me? Somedays I feel like I am taking crazy pills when I read this site. I never understood the grading process on Cines..., ahem, Mania. Usually the reviews either hype up a piece of shit film and give it a "B" or a "B-" if it is a horrible piece of crap or worse yet when they "review" a film by giving you a play by play, spoileriffic summary of the film, "at the end of the film after you find out the killer was Bob, the mute brother, there is a twist when he pulls off his mask to reveal he was the sister all along". Um...thanks.
BLACK SHEEP - Jun 23, 2007 - 02:37pm
D'oh! Good point mlaforcer. I think I am stuck in the past. I miss the past *sigh*
D'oh! Good point mlaforcer. I think I am stuck in the past. I miss the past *sigh*
EVAN ALMIGHTY - Jun 22, 2007 - 03:04pm
"If we see three A movies, then you'll see three A grades. Will you complain then? " Yup. Mostly because when you guys give a movie an "A" I think you are whacked. Most of your reviews aren't bad but the reviewers seem to fall all over the place when it comes to grading. I really wish you guys would give up on letter grades altogether here. I have been screwed in the past by DVD reviews that tell me how great the movie is and how it is an "A" only to buy or rent the damn thing and curse out Cinescape for making lose my money and two hours I can never get back. So yeah, I will most likely complain but you can call it a "review" if you'd like. By the way, shouldn't most reviews garner a "C" by your logic? I have seen many of your reviews sir and by and large I can't figure out how average hacky material garners a "B". "C" is average, adjust your ratings. Let's review: You are a critic. That is your job. Can you really be pissed when your reviews get reviewed?
"If we see three A movies, then you'll see three A grades. Will you complain then? " Yup. Mostly because when you guys give a movie an "A" I think you are whacked. Most of your reviews aren't bad but the reviewers seem to fall all over the place when it comes to grading. I really wish you guys would give up on letter grades altogether here. I have been screwed in the past by DVD reviews that tell me how great the movie is and how it is an "A" only to buy or rent the damn thing and curse out Cinescape for making lose my money and two hours I can never get back. So yeah, I will most likely complain but you can call it a "review" if you'd like. By the way, shouldn't most reviews garner a "C" by your logic? I have seen many of your reviews sir and by and large I can't figure out how average hacky material garners a "B". "C" is average, adjust your ratings. Let's review: You are a critic. That is your job. Can you really be pissed when your reviews get reviewed?
EVAN ALMIGHTY - Jun 22, 2007 - 11:52am
SURPRISE! 3 movie reviews today, three "B" grades! Why do they even bother here at Cinescape? And yes, I am posting this comment in all 3 "B" movie reviews. Cinescape, you suck. Steve Holt, I do not believe they have any other grade here but "B".
SURPRISE! 3 movie reviews today, three "B" grades! Why do they even bother here at Cinescape? And yes, I am posting this comment in all 3 "B" movie reviews. Cinescape, you suck. Steve Holt, I do not believe they have any other grade here but "B".
1408 - Jun 22, 2007 - 11:51am
SURPRISE! 3 movie reviews today, three "B" grades! Why do they even bother here at Cinescape? And yes, I am posting this comment in all 3 "B" movie reviews. Cinescape, you suck. BTW, the trailer for this looks awesome.
SURPRISE! 3 movie reviews today, three "B" grades! Why do they even bother here at Cinescape? And yes, I am posting this comment in all 3 "B" movie reviews. Cinescape, you suck. BTW, the trailer for this looks awesome.
BLACK SHEEP - Jun 22, 2007 - 11:50am
SURPRISE! 3 movie reviews today, three "B" grades! Why do they even bother here at Cinescape? And yes, I am posting this comment in all 3 "B" movie reviews. Cinescape, you suck.
SURPRISE! 3 movie reviews today, three "B" grades! Why do they even bother here at Cinescape? And yes, I am posting this comment in all 3 "B" movie reviews. Cinescape, you suck.
THE SOPRANOS: Made in America - Jun 11, 2007 - 05:31pm
Well, I guess I dont need to watch it OnDemand now. Thanks for the SPOILER WARNING! As usual around here. I prefer when my reviews are saaayyyyy actually reviews instead of 90% "here is what happened". Well I give your recap an "A+" as well. Your review "F".
Well, I guess I dont need to watch it OnDemand now. Thanks for the SPOILER WARNING! As usual around here. I prefer when my reviews are saaayyyyy actually reviews instead of 90% "here is what happened". Well I give your recap an "A+" as well. Your review "F".
Captain America # 26 - May 30, 2007 - 11:59am
I am sort of waiting for the Hand/Hydra to resurrect him and make him a (temporary) bad guy ala Wolverine, Northstar, Elektra, etc. Aren't they planning a whole "big event" around the Hand and them trying to take over the world (or kill it or somesuch) ?
I am sort of waiting for the Hand/Hydra to resurrect him and make him a (temporary) bad guy ala Wolverine, Northstar, Elektra, etc. Aren't they planning a whole "big event" around the Hand and them trying to take over the world (or kill it or somesuch) ?
RAMBO IV Trailer - May 24, 2007 - 02:28pm
Stallone needs to lay off of the Growth Hormone. Look at the size of his head. It's like he is in a race with Barry Bonds to see who has the biggest hat size. He is a walking commercial for staying away from that shit.
Stallone needs to lay off of the Growth Hormone. Look at the size of his head. It's like he is in a race with Barry Bonds to see who has the biggest hat size. He is a walking commercial for staying away from that shit.
28 Weeks Later… - May 11, 2007 - 01:57pm
Y'know, in the very same vein, Iwon.com published an interview with Carlye in which he talks about how annoying being made up as a zombie is. Also, no friggin spoiler warning. Then on the radio today the idiots were telling the ending to Spiderman 3 for all to hear. What the hell is going on?
Y'know, in the very same vein, Iwon.com published an interview with Carlye in which he talks about how annoying being made up as a zombie is. Also, no friggin spoiler warning. Then on the radio today the idiots were telling the ending to Spiderman 3 for all to hear. What the hell is going on?
More TERMINATORS in the Future - May 10, 2007 - 04:31pm
I figure with a new trilogy we will get the Star Wars Trilogy Part 2 again in which we see the "beginning that leads to the end". According to the first 3 movies we know that 1) In the future war, towards the end or by the end, that John Conner will send Kyle Reese back in time as well as a Terminator 800(?) I think after finding out the first Terminator was sent back in time 2) John will get offed by a Terminator 850 who will be captured and sent back through time to stop the T-X (sort of an Anakin gets corrupted motif, except John gets killed) 3) John and his chickee's kids will then take up the war (as Kyle Reese's proclamation that Skynet was crushed was obviously wrong, apparently it has a couple of backup tapes).
I figure with a new trilogy we will get the Star Wars Trilogy Part 2 again in which we see the "beginning that leads to the end". According to the first 3 movies we know that 1) In the future war, towards the end or by the end, that John Conner will send Kyle Reese back in time as well as a Terminator 800(?) I think after finding out the first Terminator was sent back in time 2) John will get offed by a Terminator 850 who will be captured and sent back through time to stop the T-X (sort of an Anakin gets corrupted motif, except John gets killed) 3) John and his chickee's kids will then take up the war (as Kyle Reese's proclamation that Skynet was crushed was obviously wrong, apparently it has a couple of backup tapes).
Disturbia wins but not by much - Apr 30, 2007 - 04:35pm
Did anyone catch the number of screens Pirates opens up on? I figure that between a near 3 hr running time and what will probably be a few hundred less screens that there is no possible way for Pirates to beat Spiderman at the B.O.
Did anyone catch the number of screens Pirates opens up on? I figure that between a near 3 hr running time and what will probably be a few hundred less screens that there is no possible way for Pirates to beat Spiderman at the B.O.
Smokin’ Aces - Apr 19, 2007 - 09:20am
Smokin Aces was excellent! An "B+" by my standing as well. Add this movie to the cult pantheon that houses Fight Club, Tarantino flicks and Swingers. I am happy to say that Ben Affleck delivered the goods in what is a standard character actor role. The large number of characters in a film such as this usually leaves much to be desired as it is tough to make you care about them all in under 2 hours but the film succeeded in doing just that, bravo. If you like the cult films at the top of this post then go rent/buy this flick. I give it an "A" for rewatchability. You'll be watching this over and over and over again when it hits cable, mark my words.
Smokin Aces was excellent! An "B+" by my standing as well. Add this movie to the cult pantheon that houses Fight Club, Tarantino flicks and Swingers. I am happy to say that Ben Affleck delivered the goods in what is a standard character actor role. The large number of characters in a film such as this usually leaves much to be desired as it is tough to make you care about them all in under 2 hours but the film succeeded in doing just that, bravo. If you like the cult films at the top of this post then go rent/buy this flick. I give it an "A" for rewatchability. You'll be watching this over and over and over again when it hits cable, mark my words.
Justin Marks to write "Super Max" - Apr 19, 2007 - 09:10am
My guess is that this film, if it comes to fruition, ends up with a new main character and set of villains that are not DC or Marvel. The film itself, based on what has been presented thus far, can be changed easily to fit any number of characters from any company OR simply be a set of new characters. Based on where, or if, it lands will determine whether this becomes a Direct to DVD release or Theatrical. On that note, I think it could easily translate into a TV series like Prison Break on crack. Unless it becomes a Sci-Fi show in which it will be as ugly as Painkiller Jane.
My guess is that this film, if it comes to fruition, ends up with a new main character and set of villains that are not DC or Marvel. The film itself, based on what has been presented thus far, can be changed easily to fit any number of characters from any company OR simply be a set of new characters. Based on where, or if, it lands will determine whether this becomes a Direct to DVD release or Theatrical. On that note, I think it could easily translate into a TV series like Prison Break on crack. Unless it becomes a Sci-Fi show in which it will be as ugly as Painkiller Jane.
Leslie Bibb joins "Iron Man" - Apr 11, 2007 - 12:54pm
I have finally figured out where KJ should work, Playboy. Take this as a compliment KJ, you do have an eye for the right Pix to attach to the news. Between this and the Halle Berry pick you have made me think two girls I never much cared look friggin hot. Bravo.
I have finally figured out where KJ should work, Playboy. Take this as a compliment KJ, you do have an eye for the right Pix to attach to the news. Between this and the Halle Berry pick you have made me think two girls I never much cared look friggin hot. Bravo.
Weinstein's to split "Grindhouse"? - Apr 10, 2007 - 03:40pm
I saw the flic last night and was I ever psyched for it! I love Tarantino and while Rodiguez for me is hit or miss, I do so love Dusk til Dawn. I thoroughly enjoyed the outing but I have to say that even I was looking at my watch. I was really stoked to go to a loooong film by some cool directors on subject matter I enjoy but damn if it wasn't getting a little long in the tooth for me. I can see why people might want to forgo this film until DVD. It is a commitment. I realize that was also the intent but movie seats get real uncomfortable after a while. Mostly due to leg space. I started to feel like I was on a trans-Atlantic flight waiting to die from a blood clot in my leg. Eh, maybe I'm getting old in my old age :P As for the Kurt man. I'm sorry, he may be getting old but dammit, he still has it. I'd be much happier if he sticks to the grim and gritty persona he plays so well.
I saw the flic last night and was I ever psyched for it! I love Tarantino and while Rodiguez for me is hit or miss, I do so love Dusk til Dawn. I thoroughly enjoyed the outing but I have to say that even I was looking at my watch. I was really stoked to go to a loooong film by some cool directors on subject matter I enjoy but damn if it wasn't getting a little long in the tooth for me. I can see why people might want to forgo this film until DVD. It is a commitment. I realize that was also the intent but movie seats get real uncomfortable after a while. Mostly due to leg space. I started to feel like I was on a trans-Atlantic flight waiting to die from a blood clot in my leg. Eh, maybe I'm getting old in my old age :P As for the Kurt man. I'm sorry, he may be getting old but dammit, he still has it. I'd be much happier if he sticks to the grim and gritty persona he plays so well.
Luke Goss joins "Hellboy 2" - Apr 01, 2007 - 03:02pm
Verbal, You hit the nail on the head there. Literally summed it up perfectly. It wasn't that there were comments, it was that they were worthless, trite and actually managed to take away from the news.
Verbal, You hit the nail on the head there. Literally summed it up perfectly. It wasn't that there were comments, it was that they were worthless, trite and actually managed to take away from the news.
"G.I. Joe: A Real American Hero" Single Packs - Mar 27, 2007 - 01:32pm
Nope. No vehicles just 25 figures...for now. I guess sales will dictate if the line continues. I know the new cartoon got cancelled and the Comic Book isn't selling all that great.
Nope. No vehicles just 25 figures...for now. I guess sales will dictate if the line continues. I know the new cartoon got cancelled and the Comic Book isn't selling all that great.
Johnny Depp and Antonio Banderas in "Sin City 2"? - Mar 27, 2007 - 01:23pm
Actually, yeah, I do. It took a lot of effort on a lot of folk's parts to get us back to the good ol' days. I for one couldn't be more thrilled that we can now read the news instead of the inane rant of an uniformed critic. That's what the comment section is for. Now we, meaning ALL of us, can decide for ourselves if we want to read or get involved in the rants and raves of keyboard critics. I do, and I like to read them here, just not in the news section. The best part of all of this is now everyone can get back to bickering with each other instead of with KJ. And what's more, we can bicker about the NEWS now. All things considered, whether you hated or liked KJ's Take, I think we can all agree that it was taking away from people commenting about the story. It will be nice for me get ripped on for my opinions about a movie now instead of my opinions about Schneider. Now I can just be an @sshole to the rest of you instead ;) And not to get overly repetitive in my posts, but you have to realize when not only a large % of posters but also some of Mania's own columnists start getting pissed at KJ's Take that things are getting to a breaking point (see the Kurt Russell story for more - it was ugly, but dammmmnnn funny).
Actually, yeah, I do. It took a lot of effort on a lot of folk's parts to get us back to the good ol' days. I for one couldn't be more thrilled that we can now read the news instead of the inane rant of an uniformed critic. That's what the comment section is for. Now we, meaning ALL of us, can decide for ourselves if we want to read or get involved in the rants and raves of keyboard critics. I do, and I like to read them here, just not in the news section. The best part of all of this is now everyone can get back to bickering with each other instead of with KJ. And what's more, we can bicker about the NEWS now. All things considered, whether you hated or liked KJ's Take, I think we can all agree that it was taking away from people commenting about the story. It will be nice for me get ripped on for my opinions about a movie now instead of my opinions about Schneider. Now I can just be an @sshole to the rest of you instead ;) And not to get overly repetitive in my posts, but you have to realize when not only a large % of posters but also some of Mania's own columnists start getting pissed at KJ's Take that things are getting to a breaking point (see the Kurt Russell story for more - it was ugly, but dammmmnnn funny).
Four more join "Hitman" - Mar 27, 2007 - 01:15pm
Well you guys are lucky, it doesn't look like you'll have to hear about it anymore :) And you know it was getting bad when even other columnists on this site were taking KJ's Take to task (as seen in the now infamous Kurt Russell rant). You can get mad for us posters not liking KJ's crap but come on, even his own guys are knocking it now.
Well you guys are lucky, it doesn't look like you'll have to hear about it anymore :) And you know it was getting bad when even other columnists on this site were taking KJ's Take to task (as seen in the now infamous Kurt Russell rant). You can get mad for us posters not liking KJ's crap but come on, even his own guys are knocking it now.
"G.I. Joe: A Real American Hero" Single Packs - Mar 27, 2007 - 08:46am
I love the new figures. Now hopefully they sell and the line continues. GI Joe has been having it's ass handed to it as a toy line for quite awhile and I find that depressing.
I love the new figures. Now hopefully they sell and the line continues. GI Joe has been having it's ass handed to it as a toy line for quite awhile and I find that depressing.
Johnny Depp and Antonio Banderas in "Sin City 2"? - Mar 27, 2007 - 08:45am
While I respect Wessmith1966's opinion (and those of the other posters) I have to respectfully disagree. It is like a new day here without KJ's Take. He took a beating because his opinions were asinine. Wess, I think you, or Lister, or Exfan or Collector could do a take and make a heck of a lot more sense and probably actually contribute to the conversation instead of riling people up with dumb "takes". As far as KJ is concerned I believe he go his just desserts. He is more than welcome to comment in the comment section with the lot of us, and I can almost guarantee that if he does his rhetoric will taken much kinder. The main sticking point in most of the arguments wasn't just KJ's unintelligent comments but that we were forced to see them right after the news. It was like watching CNN do a report on a plane crash and having the news reporter say, "well, it really doesn't mean much to me, maybe if they all died on a boat...". It was a mockery of all readers of this site. Now, on the flip side, those that do wish to discuss the news have the option of the comments and forums. I, personally hated seeing KJ's Take, but, I never mind when he posted in the comments. In fact I enjoy reading all the comments, good, bad, angry or indifferent. For example, I couldn't agree more with your first paragraph about Sin City and I can't wait for part 2.
While I respect Wessmith1966's opinion (and those of the other posters) I have to respectfully disagree. It is like a new day here without KJ's Take. He took a beating because his opinions were asinine. Wess, I think you, or Lister, or Exfan or Collector could do a take and make a heck of a lot more sense and probably actually contribute to the conversation instead of riling people up with dumb "takes". As far as KJ is concerned I believe he go his just desserts. He is more than welcome to comment in the comment section with the lot of us, and I can almost guarantee that if he does his rhetoric will taken much kinder. The main sticking point in most of the arguments wasn't just KJ's unintelligent comments but that we were forced to see them right after the news. It was like watching CNN do a report on a plane crash and having the news reporter say, "well, it really doesn't mean much to me, maybe if they all died on a boat...". It was a mockery of all readers of this site. Now, on the flip side, those that do wish to discuss the news have the option of the comments and forums. I, personally hated seeing KJ's Take, but, I never mind when he posted in the comments. In fact I enjoy reading all the comments, good, bad, angry or indifferent. For example, I couldn't agree more with your first paragraph about Sin City and I can't wait for part 2.
Four more join "Hitman" - Mar 27, 2007 - 08:32am
Ahhhh....no KJ's Take, I feel like like can read in peace once again...
Ahhhh....no KJ's Take, I feel like like can read in peace once again...
Kurt Russell talks about the remake of "Escape" - Mar 26, 2007 - 04:37pm
KJ (karlschneider) wrote: I've seen plenty of older films, hell I've seen Suspiria, a film I bet 95% of you haven't seen. ______ Um, and that makes you what, more informed? Wow, I've seen the "ghost" in "Three Men and a Baby", does this mean I can call myself a psychic now? KJ also wrote: I was a film major at one point and my opinion regarding films is just as valid as the next guy. _______ So, um, did you graduate? It might have actually made quite the difference for a critic I'd think. I was a lot of majors at one point or another and with the exception of the one I received my degree in I wouldn't go touting that any of them gives me an edge over anyone else. I was an Economics major for a wee bit before I switched. I wouldn't call myself an economist because of it. As such, may I recommend a few new majors if you decide to go back to school one day: 1) English major (for anyone who reads KJ's take, you will understand) 2) History major (this might give you a better appreciation of the past) 3) Film major (so that you may try to elevate your opinions) 4) Journalism major (see #'s 1-3, rinse, repeat)
KJ (karlschneider) wrote: I've seen plenty of older films, hell I've seen Suspiria, a film I bet 95% of you haven't seen. ______ Um, and that makes you what, more informed? Wow, I've seen the "ghost" in "Three Men and a Baby", does this mean I can call myself a psychic now? KJ also wrote: I was a film major at one point and my opinion regarding films is just as valid as the next guy. _______ So, um, did you graduate? It might have actually made quite the difference for a critic I'd think. I was a lot of majors at one point or another and with the exception of the one I received my degree in I wouldn't go touting that any of them gives me an edge over anyone else. I was an Economics major for a wee bit before I switched. I wouldn't call myself an economist because of it. As such, may I recommend a few new majors if you decide to go back to school one day: 1) English major (for anyone who reads KJ's take, you will understand) 2) History major (this might give you a better appreciation of the past) 3) Film major (so that you may try to elevate your opinions) 4) Journalism major (see #'s 1-3, rinse, repeat)
Emma Watson done with "Harry Potter"? - Mar 19, 2007 - 09:20am
Predictions: 1) She leaves the Potter series, and the money 2) She has a minor role in a medium sized film or a major role in a minor film and either way it BOMBS. 3) She returns to her "first love" of the theater as all down and out actors do. 4) She ends up in Soft-Porn films for a few years in an effort to shake off her "kid" image. 5) She eventually ends up doing D-List TV appearances, most notably a realty weight loss show.
Predictions: 1) She leaves the Potter series, and the money 2) She has a minor role in a medium sized film or a major role in a minor film and either way it BOMBS. 3) She returns to her "first love" of the theater as all down and out actors do. 4) She ends up in Soft-Porn films for a few years in an effort to shake off her "kid" image. 5) She eventually ends up doing D-List TV appearances, most notably a realty weight loss show.
Shia LaBeouf talks "Constantine 2" - Mar 13, 2007 - 09:51am
What I liked about Constantine, and I have this regard for a few movies that were average at best was that I could rewatch it. I typically rate a movie as worth Full Admission Price (ex. The Departed), Matinee only (ex. Wedding Crashers), Rental only (ex. Terminator 3) and of course Buy (which implies rewatchability, like Deep Cover). There is crossover here obviously. I place Constantine in the Buy column b/c I want to watch it more than once (same goes for The Departed but not all Full Admin Price movies like The Ring or Schindler's List which I would pay full price, I'm glad I have seen the movie, but I never want to watch it again). Typically with a movie I want to watch again (e.g. Buy) I want to see sequels of. Many times the sequels suck (like all post-Aliens films, or Terminator 3 after the highly rewatchable first two) but occassionally they produce (Blade II after the very rewatchable Blade I). I am glad they made the sequels, even if they are rentals at best. It is for these reasons I wish to see a Constantine 2. The first was an average movie but was still fun and can be viewed more than once. I have felt this way about other average films such as Flash Gordon, Mortal Kombat and Starship Troopers. All average at best, all fun, all rewatchable, all movies I'm glad they tried sequels (except for Flash).
What I liked about Constantine, and I have this regard for a few movies that were average at best was that I could rewatch it. I typically rate a movie as worth Full Admission Price (ex. The Departed), Matinee only (ex. Wedding Crashers), Rental only (ex. Terminator 3) and of course Buy (which implies rewatchability, like Deep Cover). There is crossover here obviously. I place Constantine in the Buy column b/c I want to watch it more than once (same goes for The Departed but not all Full Admin Price movies like The Ring or Schindler's List which I would pay full price, I'm glad I have seen the movie, but I never want to watch it again). Typically with a movie I want to watch again (e.g. Buy) I want to see sequels of. Many times the sequels suck (like all post-Aliens films, or Terminator 3 after the highly rewatchable first two) but occassionally they produce (Blade II after the very rewatchable Blade I). I am glad they made the sequels, even if they are rentals at best. It is for these reasons I wish to see a Constantine 2. The first was an average movie but was still fun and can be viewed more than once. I have felt this way about other average films such as Flash Gordon, Mortal Kombat and Starship Troopers. All average at best, all fun, all rewatchable, all movies I'm glad they tried sequels (except for Flash).
Aaron Eckhart joins "The Dark Knight" - Feb 18, 2007 - 09:39pm
Hey Lister, I hear you, and you do make a good point. I think where I diverge most is that when an artist creates a work he applies his vision. The a movie gets made of the work and the characters are fundamentally changed with PC in mind. It's not that a person of a different race can't play the character but more a question of the artists vision for that character be fulfilled. I point once again to Spawn. Todd McFarlane created a character and a story revolving around an African American family and friends. Then the movie was made and the producers deemed there to be too many Black characters (by the way, I take this from a Todd McF interview, not my opinion) and thus they changed race of some of the characters. This was invoked in reverse in Daredevil. I just think it is pandering to the PC crowd and if anything demeans and degrades the audience by assuming this is a necessary step in today's world. Hollywood is one of the more diverse places on the earth so why this is is even more confusing. And to be honest, I don't want to see Ken Watanabe play the Punisher or Johnny Depp play the Black Panther because the source material says otherwise. When I enjoy the source I want to see the interpretation stick as close as possible. This is especially true when I love the source material like Watchmen in which I pray the characters don't change race. Most importantly, Dr. Manhatten better be Blue, none of this Red crap :P
Hey Lister, I hear you, and you do make a good point. I think where I diverge most is that when an artist creates a work he applies his vision. The a movie gets made of the work and the characters are fundamentally changed with PC in mind. It's not that a person of a different race can't play the character but more a question of the artists vision for that character be fulfilled. I point once again to Spawn. Todd McFarlane created a character and a story revolving around an African American family and friends. Then the movie was made and the producers deemed there to be too many Black characters (by the way, I take this from a Todd McF interview, not my opinion) and thus they changed race of some of the characters. This was invoked in reverse in Daredevil. I just think it is pandering to the PC crowd and if anything demeans and degrades the audience by assuming this is a necessary step in today's world. Hollywood is one of the more diverse places on the earth so why this is is even more confusing. And to be honest, I don't want to see Ken Watanabe play the Punisher or Johnny Depp play the Black Panther because the source material says otherwise. When I enjoy the source I want to see the interpretation stick as close as possible. This is especially true when I love the source material like Watchmen in which I pray the characters don't change race. Most importantly, Dr. Manhatten better be Blue, none of this Red crap :P
Aaron Eckhart joins "The Dark Knight" - Feb 16, 2007 - 01:36pm
I think it would have been funny if they changed Rhodey in Iron Man to a white guy and watched how the media freaks out over it. Not that anyone freaked over the race change of Kingpin in Daredevil. I just get sick of the token race change of a character to show political correctness. I mean, the characters and the stories they come from aren't racist to begin with so why change the color of a character on film to suit some misguided notion of correctness. Plain and simply, Steel is a black guy, Superman is a white guy, Apache Chief is a horribly stereotypical American Indian Guy, Sabra is a Jewish chick, Kingpin is a fat white guy, and Catwoman is a...wait...see what I'm saying? Still if you really want to stoke the ol' political correct groupies, make Captain America be portrayed by Whoppi Goldberg. I am sick of race f'ing up my memories. Spawn's best friend is black, like him. But the movie version wouldn't allow it. Same for Harvey Dent in Bats1. Weak. Pointless. Worthless. What is to be gained? Yes, a person of any race should be able to play any character. I get that argument. But that doesn't make it right. Johnny Depp is not Black Panther and Wesley Snipes is not Hal Jordan. Can they be? Of course, with make-up, but not as they are. Case in point. Ghandi. Ben Kinsley was Ghandi when they put enough color on him to make him Indian and he had the accent. But somehow if they make Samuel L. Jackson a white guy and he becomes Robin the Boy Wonder fist start flying.
I think it would have been funny if they changed Rhodey in Iron Man to a white guy and watched how the media freaks out over it. Not that anyone freaked over the race change of Kingpin in Daredevil. I just get sick of the token race change of a character to show political correctness. I mean, the characters and the stories they come from aren't racist to begin with so why change the color of a character on film to suit some misguided notion of correctness. Plain and simply, Steel is a black guy, Superman is a white guy, Apache Chief is a horribly stereotypical American Indian Guy, Sabra is a Jewish chick, Kingpin is a fat white guy, and Catwoman is a...wait...see what I'm saying? Still if you really want to stoke the ol' political correct groupies, make Captain America be portrayed by Whoppi Goldberg. I am sick of race f'ing up my memories. Spawn's best friend is black, like him. But the movie version wouldn't allow it. Same for Harvey Dent in Bats1. Weak. Pointless. Worthless. What is to be gained? Yes, a person of any race should be able to play any character. I get that argument. But that doesn't make it right. Johnny Depp is not Black Panther and Wesley Snipes is not Hal Jordan. Can they be? Of course, with make-up, but not as they are. Case in point. Ghandi. Ben Kinsley was Ghandi when they put enough color on him to make him Indian and he had the accent. But somehow if they make Samuel L. Jackson a white guy and he becomes Robin the Boy Wonder fist start flying.
Matt Marsden joins "Rambo IV: Pearl of the Cobra" - Feb 15, 2007 - 04:22pm
Bjjdenver, I have to agree with you there on Stallone and when he has good material the man can act. If the script is half as good as RB I think it will be a worthwhile movie. raulendymion, Stallone's movies tend to do well overseas even after all the years. Hell, even that old lame Hunter TV series got a follow up movie a decade later in China or some other Asian country. If it does $75 here and $250 overseas you will see more. Snally, I never heard of the allegation or the lawsuit. Good rebuttal though. Now you guys got me curious.
Bjjdenver, I have to agree with you there on Stallone and when he has good material the man can act. If the script is half as good as RB I think it will be a worthwhile movie. raulendymion, Stallone's movies tend to do well overseas even after all the years. Hell, even that old lame Hunter TV series got a follow up movie a decade later in China or some other Asian country. If it does $75 here and $250 overseas you will see more. Snally, I never heard of the allegation or the lawsuit. Good rebuttal though. Now you guys got me curious.
"Crank" - Feb 15, 2007 - 04:14pm
Snally, You have a good point. I still don't understand it but I do see what you mean.
Snally, You have a good point. I still don't understand it but I do see what you mean.
"Crank" - Feb 15, 2007 - 08:57am
Here is why I will never understand the Cinescape writers and/or critics. An "A"? You have to be kidding me. Over in movie reviews, Pan's Labyrinth and Children of Men could only squeak by with an "A-". Now to be fair BT, your movie grade is an "A-" as well with an "A+" for the disc grade so technically this is an "A-" vs. "A-" argument. But come on, are you telling me that Crank is equivalent to either of those movies. I will say that I realize these other movies are graded by other reviewers but are there no standards at Mania? I would look at your past reviews but alas you tend to only review crap movies that many have never heard of. Regardless, I don't see how this movie would rate so close to one of your other reviews, King Kong, which you gave an A+ to. Can you honestly tell me these two movies are a half grade difference?
Here is why I will never understand the Cinescape writers and/or critics. An "A"? You have to be kidding me. Over in movie reviews, Pan's Labyrinth and Children of Men could only squeak by with an "A-". Now to be fair BT, your movie grade is an "A-" as well with an "A+" for the disc grade so technically this is an "A-" vs. "A-" argument. But come on, are you telling me that Crank is equivalent to either of those movies. I will say that I realize these other movies are graded by other reviewers but are there no standards at Mania? I would look at your past reviews but alas you tend to only review crap movies that many have never heard of. Regardless, I don't see how this movie would rate so close to one of your other reviews, King Kong, which you gave an A+ to. Can you honestly tell me these two movies are a half grade difference?
Matt Marsden joins "Rambo IV: Pearl of the Cobra" - Feb 15, 2007 - 08:32am
"IMDB isn't what it used to be" Got news for you pal, IMDB ain't the only one. As for Rambo, it will probably end up in the same dollar figure as Rocky except make a bit more oversees. Thus talk of Rambo 5 will ensue (and maybe 6 in a back to back filming).
"IMDB isn't what it used to be" Got news for you pal, IMDB ain't the only one. As for Rambo, it will probably end up in the same dollar figure as Rocky except make a bit more oversees. Thus talk of Rambo 5 will ensue (and maybe 6 in a back to back filming).
DVDeparted - Feb 13, 2007 - 05:22pm
Phantasm 1 is getting rerelease with 3 in April 07. Phantasm 4 is still around but no 2 :(
Phantasm 1 is getting rerelease with 3 in April 07. Phantasm 4 is still around but no 2 :(
DVDeparted - Feb 13, 2007 - 10:21am
I myself have been dying for Phantasm 2 to come to DVD. They have 1 & 4 and now are releasing the subpar 3 but not the best in the series, 2.
I myself have been dying for Phantasm 2 to come to DVD. They have 1 & 4 and now are releasing the subpar 3 but not the best in the series, 2.
Warwick Davis joins "Prince Caspian" - Feb 08, 2007 - 04:32pm
Many of us "bitch" on how bad the editing is, the uproarious KJs Take and how most of the reviews end in the grade, "B". Maybe if they spent more time reading the critiques they might stand a better chance of increasing readership. Call it constructive criticism tough love style. And for the record, I have seen a lot more support for this than negative replies. I treye lister, eye tri reel hard :) ___________________________________ In the immortal words of Matt Dillon, "I work with retards".
Many of us "bitch" on how bad the editing is, the uproarious KJs Take and how most of the reviews end in the grade, "B". Maybe if they spent more time reading the critiques they might stand a better chance of increasing readership. Call it constructive criticism tough love style. And for the record, I have seen a lot more support for this than negative replies. I treye lister, eye tri reel hard :) ___________________________________ In the immortal words of Matt Dillon, "I work with retards".
"The Sarah Silverman Program" - Feb 08, 2007 - 04:30pm
I am afraid you are incorrect kind sir. Many of us "bitch" on how bad the editing is, the uproarious KJs Take and how most of the reviews end in the grade, "B". Maybe if they spent more time reading the critiques they might stand a better chance of increasing readership. Call it constructive criticism tough love style. And for the record, I have seen a lot more support for this than negative replies. ___________________________________ In the immortal words of Matt Dillon, "I work with retards".
I am afraid you are incorrect kind sir. Many of us "bitch" on how bad the editing is, the uproarious KJs Take and how most of the reviews end in the grade, "B". Maybe if they spent more time reading the critiques they might stand a better chance of increasing readership. Call it constructive criticism tough love style. And for the record, I have seen a lot more support for this than negative replies. ___________________________________ In the immortal words of Matt Dillon, "I work with retards".
Warwick Davis joins "Prince Caspian" - Feb 08, 2007 - 01:08pm
Hey KJ, At what point do you, as the editor, decide to stop being a "comment machine" and start actually editing? Example from Columnist Stephen Lackey's review of The Sarah Silverman Program: "Now, the one thing that will be interesting to see a is just how ridiculous The Sarah Silverman Program gets before it finally is canceled," and "Even the other comedians in the series dont real opportunities to be funny." Me edit good so not but atl east spell chek i try use. Maybe meye editer shuld do bettr job and make comment much less.
Hey KJ, At what point do you, as the editor, decide to stop being a "comment machine" and start actually editing? Example from Columnist Stephen Lackey's review of The Sarah Silverman Program: "Now, the one thing that will be interesting to see a is just how ridiculous The Sarah Silverman Program gets before it finally is canceled," and "Even the other comedians in the series dont real opportunities to be funny." Me edit good so not but atl east spell chek i try use. Maybe meye editer shuld do bettr job and make comment much less.
"The Sarah Silverman Program" - Feb 08, 2007 - 01:04pm
At what point does your editor decide to stop being a "comment machine" and start actually editing? Example: "Now, the one thing that will be interesting to see a is just how ridiculous The Sarah Silverman Program gets before it finally is canceled," and "Even the other comedians in the series don’t real opportunities to be funny." Me edit good so not but atl east spell chek i try use. Maybe meye editer shuld do bettr job and make comment much less.
At what point does your editor decide to stop being a "comment machine" and start actually editing? Example: "Now, the one thing that will be interesting to see a is just how ridiculous The Sarah Silverman Program gets before it finally is canceled," and "Even the other comedians in the series don’t real opportunities to be funny." Me edit good so not but atl east spell chek i try use. Maybe meye editer shuld do bettr job and make comment much less.
"Mummy 3" Plot details - Jan 23, 2007 - 10:53am
You all must be kidding. KJ's take is the most insipid, annoying crap. His comments add nothing to the news and in most cases take away from it. KJ has attempted to take on the role of the MST2K robots by trying to be amusing. News flash, it isn't working. Add a comment in the comment section I will be fine with it. No complaints about anything any of you guys are saying. Add a comment in the story (wheter it be prefaced with KJs take: or not) and it devalues the whole notion of "news". I realize this is entertainment news but come-on, stating, "it's not my thing", "it does nothing for me", or "well I've never actually seen it before but..." is utter BS. I wish we could all get along, but honestly, this "editor" is a nothing more than a wanna be critic. And we have enough critics in this world without having to blur the lines with this hack's crossover attempt.
You all must be kidding. KJ's take is the most insipid, annoying crap. His comments add nothing to the news and in most cases take away from it. KJ has attempted to take on the role of the MST2K robots by trying to be amusing. News flash, it isn't working. Add a comment in the comment section I will be fine with it. No complaints about anything any of you guys are saying. Add a comment in the story (wheter it be prefaced with KJs take: or not) and it devalues the whole notion of "news". I realize this is entertainment news but come-on, stating, "it's not my thing", "it does nothing for me", or "well I've never actually seen it before but..." is utter BS. I wish we could all get along, but honestly, this "editor" is a nothing more than a wanna be critic. And we have enough critics in this world without having to blur the lines with this hack's crossover attempt.
Live-action "Ghost in the Shell"? - Jan 22, 2007 - 10:48am
Boombatty's take: KJ is definitely mediocre. And I ain't talkin' anime people.
Boombatty's take: KJ is definitely mediocre. And I ain't talkin' anime people.
Rogue acquires "Couriers" - Jan 22, 2007 - 10:46am
Boombatty's take: KJ is a useless tool. By the way. Mania could also be fun if done right. Minus KJ would be a start. I'm so glad you like the premise, my day has been made.
Boombatty's take: KJ is a useless tool. By the way. Mania could also be fun if done right. Minus KJ would be a start. I'm so glad you like the premise, my day has been made.
Battlestar Galactica to upset fans? - Jan 22, 2007 - 10:43am
KJ's Take: I really can't say much as I don't watch the show ... so this news really doesn't interest me. Boombatty's take:You sir, are a tool. And a useless at that. If you have nothing tho say, WHY say it? You have to be one of the more inept editors I have ever seen. "Hey, I have an idea, let's have me say something stupid after every news item, even when I have no idea what the news means!" Riveting stuff there KJ. Maybe you should try an occupation that works for you, like Taco Bell cashier. They make snide comments a wee bit smarter than yours so you'll have to study.
KJ's Take: I really can't say much as I don't watch the show ... so this news really doesn't interest me. Boombatty's take:You sir, are a tool. And a useless at that. If you have nothing tho say, WHY say it? You have to be one of the more inept editors I have ever seen. "Hey, I have an idea, let's have me say something stupid after every news item, even when I have no idea what the news means!" Riveting stuff there KJ. Maybe you should try an occupation that works for you, like Taco Bell cashier. They make snide comments a wee bit smarter than yours so you'll have to study.
"The Departed" sequels? - Jan 22, 2007 - 10:37am
SURPRISE! KJ has yet another useless comment. "Um, No". Wow, KJ, you have the makings of a screenwriter there. Or an editor on a down spiraling website. Um...OK.
SURPRISE! KJ has yet another useless comment. "Um, No". Wow, KJ, you have the makings of a screenwriter there. Or an editor on a down spiraling website. Um...OK.
New Line chief vows never to work with Peter Jackson - Jan 11, 2007 - 02:25pm
Sounds familiar: per http://www.redballoon.net/humor/gump.txt Released last July, Paramount Pictures' "Forrest Gump" has grossed over $657 million at box offices around the world. That's not counting videocassette and sound-track revenues. It's before licensing fees on such products as "Forrest Gump" wristwatches, Ping-Pong paddles and cookbooks. Larry Gerbrandt, a senior analyst with Paul Kagan Associates, figures "Gump" could generate up to $350 million in cash flow for Paramount's parent, Viacom, Inc. But, believe it or not, the film lost money. That's right. By Hollywood standards it "lost" money, $62 million through Dec 31, 1994. How do you show a loss on one of the most profitable Hollywood properties of all time? You get yourself a Hollywood accountant. Here's what they cooked up for this movie through Dec. 31, according to a confidential net profit statement: After splitting the box office take with the theater owners, about 50-50, Paramount received $191 million in gross Gump receipts. Right off the top Paramount keeps for itself something called a "distribution fee" equal to 32% of the gross. What exactly is this distribution fee? It's not really to cover the costs of getting the movie out and to the public. That's covered with a separate category called "distribution expense," which includes advertising, making prints, holding screenings, throwing a premiere party, transporting and storing film reels. Paramount claimed these expenses came to some $67 million. No, the "distribution fee" isn't for these things. It's just a rake-off by Paramount; almost pure profit. In this case, $61.6 million through the end of the year. Paramount tacked on another charge: an advertising "overhead" fee equal to 10% of the distribution expenses. Again, this is not an expense at all, just another way of siphoning off some profits. Another $6.7 million. Okay, add up all the "distribution" charges and they come to $135 million. But so far we haven't allowed anything for the cost of making the damned thing. That was $112 million--"negative costs," the Hollywood bean counters call them. Does that sound like a lot of money to shoot a flick? Well, actor Tom Hanks and director Robert Zemeckis each got around $20 million of that $112 million (with more to come). Paramount got into the act here, too. Included in "negative costs" is $14.5 million for studio "overhead," a charge equal to 15% of the cost of making the film. And, of course, it wanted to be paid for the money tied up in making the film. That added a separate $6 million on "interest on negative costs." Pierce O'Donnell, the lawyer who represents humorist Art Buchwald in a similar dispute with Paramount, calls this "fictitious interest on money never borrowed." With this kind of bookkeeping, anyone can lose money. Sure enough, Paramount claimed Gump lost $62 million through year's end. Does anyone lose by this fanciful bookkeeping? Indeed. In the Forrest Gump case the losers include Winston Groom, who created the Forrest Gump character when he published his 1986 novel of the same name, and screenwriter Eric Roth. These two signed standard Hollywood contracts that promised them a percentage of Forrest Gump's net profits. Their mistake was that they didn't get to define what constituted "net." Performer Hanks and director Robert Zemeckis were wiser in the ways of filmtown. Their contracts guaranteed each of them an estimated 8% of Gump's gross receipts--receipts, not profits. In 1988, Art Buchwald sued Paramount, claiming the studio's 1988 blockbuster "Coming to America" was Buchwald's idea and that he and his producer, Alain Bernheim, were entitled to 19% of the film's net profits. After the court agreed with Buchwald, Paramount announced that it owed Buchwald nothing because Coming to America had lost money.
Sounds familiar: per http://www.redballoon.net/humor/gump.txt Released last July, Paramount Pictures' "Forrest Gump" has grossed over $657 million at box offices around the world. That's not counting videocassette and sound-track revenues. It's before licensing fees on such products as "Forrest Gump" wristwatches, Ping-Pong paddles and cookbooks. Larry Gerbrandt, a senior analyst with Paul Kagan Associates, figures "Gump" could generate up to $350 million in cash flow for Paramount's parent, Viacom, Inc. But, believe it or not, the film lost money. That's right. By Hollywood standards it "lost" money, $62 million through Dec 31, 1994. How do you show a loss on one of the most profitable Hollywood properties of all time? You get yourself a Hollywood accountant. Here's what they cooked up for this movie through Dec. 31, according to a confidential net profit statement: After splitting the box office take with the theater owners, about 50-50, Paramount received $191 million in gross Gump receipts. Right off the top Paramount keeps for itself something called a "distribution fee" equal to 32% of the gross. What exactly is this distribution fee? It's not really to cover the costs of getting the movie out and to the public. That's covered with a separate category called "distribution expense," which includes advertising, making prints, holding screenings, throwing a premiere party, transporting and storing film reels. Paramount claimed these expenses came to some $67 million. No, the "distribution fee" isn't for these things. It's just a rake-off by Paramount; almost pure profit. In this case, $61.6 million through the end of the year. Paramount tacked on another charge: an advertising "overhead" fee equal to 10% of the distribution expenses. Again, this is not an expense at all, just another way of siphoning off some profits. Another $6.7 million. Okay, add up all the "distribution" charges and they come to $135 million. But so far we haven't allowed anything for the cost of making the damned thing. That was $112 million--"negative costs," the Hollywood bean counters call them. Does that sound like a lot of money to shoot a flick? Well, actor Tom Hanks and director Robert Zemeckis each got around $20 million of that $112 million (with more to come). Paramount got into the act here, too. Included in "negative costs" is $14.5 million for studio "overhead," a charge equal to 15% of the cost of making the film. And, of course, it wanted to be paid for the money tied up in making the film. That added a separate $6 million on "interest on negative costs." Pierce O'Donnell, the lawyer who represents humorist Art Buchwald in a similar dispute with Paramount, calls this "fictitious interest on money never borrowed." With this kind of bookkeeping, anyone can lose money. Sure enough, Paramount claimed Gump lost $62 million through year's end. Does anyone lose by this fanciful bookkeeping? Indeed. In the Forrest Gump case the losers include Winston Groom, who created the Forrest Gump character when he published his 1986 novel of the same name, and screenwriter Eric Roth. These two signed standard Hollywood contracts that promised them a percentage of Forrest Gump's net profits. Their mistake was that they didn't get to define what constituted "net." Performer Hanks and director Robert Zemeckis were wiser in the ways of filmtown. Their contracts guaranteed each of them an estimated 8% of Gump's gross receipts--receipts, not profits. In 1988, Art Buchwald sued Paramount, claiming the studio's 1988 blockbuster "Coming to America" was Buchwald's idea and that he and his producer, Alain Bernheim, were entitled to 19% of the film's net profits. After the court agreed with Buchwald, Paramount announced that it owed Buchwald nothing because Coming to America had lost money.
M. Night Shyamalan to direct "Avatar: The Last Airbender" - Jan 09, 2007 - 04:52pm
Anyone want to take a bet what Cinesca...er...Mania will grade this film? Me thinks "B+" as 90% of the films are in the B range. Heck the DVD release of Calamari Wrestler (which, I can't believe even got reviewed) was reviewed as "No one can accuse this low budget film of being great, or even very good. The dialog is forced, the plot is absurd, and the acting only occasionally rises to the level of mediocre." and yet received a B+. And heck, we even get yet another KJ's take. Quality is job 1 here at Mania!
Anyone want to take a bet what Cinesca...er...Mania will grade this film? Me thinks "B+" as 90% of the films are in the B range. Heck the DVD release of Calamari Wrestler (which, I can't believe even got reviewed) was reviewed as "No one can accuse this low budget film of being great, or even very good. The dialog is forced, the plot is absurd, and the acting only occasionally rises to the level of mediocre." and yet received a B+. And heck, we even get yet another KJ's take. Quality is job 1 here at Mania!
Batteries Not Included - Jan 08, 2007 - 12:56pm
The one I'll never forget is the commercial for the Mon Chi Chi. A little ugly ape with a thumb and banana that could be stuck in it's pie hole to shut it up. The other one is that Hungry Hungry Hippos commercial.
The one I'll never forget is the commercial for the Mon Chi Chi. A little ugly ape with a thumb and banana that could be stuck in it's pie hole to shut it up. The other one is that Hungry Hungry Hippos commercial.
"The Calamari Wrestler" - Jan 08, 2007 - 12:49pm
What the hell? Where did you get this film, and what in the name of all that is unholy made you decide to review this? Interesting choice mind you but one review that while might be a hoot to read but would never, even if it have received an "A", would I rent, buy or watch on cable. As for the review itself, I don't understand how "No one can accuse this low budget film of being great, or even very good. The dialog is forced, the plot is absurd, and the acting only occasionally rises to the level of mediocre." translates to a "B+" grade. Not to nitpick, but this is the exact reason people on this board have often derided the reviews on Cinescape. A "B+" devalues a revue of a "B+" BT gave to Flightplan or the "B+" Fifth Element received. And while I didn't enjoy Van Helsing, it received a "B-", so this was in fact better than that? Same with Children of the Corn's "C+", Paycheck's "B" and on and on and on. So this movie was so close to being Perfect it got a "B+"? You might want to recalibrate your scale a wee bit.
What the hell? Where did you get this film, and what in the name of all that is unholy made you decide to review this? Interesting choice mind you but one review that while might be a hoot to read but would never, even if it have received an "A", would I rent, buy or watch on cable. As for the review itself, I don't understand how "No one can accuse this low budget film of being great, or even very good. The dialog is forced, the plot is absurd, and the acting only occasionally rises to the level of mediocre." translates to a "B+" grade. Not to nitpick, but this is the exact reason people on this board have often derided the reviews on Cinescape. A "B+" devalues a revue of a "B+" BT gave to Flightplan or the "B+" Fifth Element received. And while I didn't enjoy Van Helsing, it received a "B-", so this was in fact better than that? Same with Children of the Corn's "C+", Paycheck's "B" and on and on and on. So this movie was so close to being Perfect it got a "B+"? You might want to recalibrate your scale a wee bit.
George Clooney joins "36" - Jan 05, 2007 - 02:41pm
And yet throughout this debacle one thing stands clear. Karl, for god's sake, put the comments in the comments section! Since you post the article you can put it in the number one slot. Then people can actually choose to read it or not. Smack at the end of the article is unavoidable and leaves many of us annoyed as it takes away from the news itself. We all understand the COMMENT section. What is dumbfounded is your need to add YOUR comment in the news story itself. If I want comment on my DVD I load the Commentary track. If I want commentary on my news, I read the COMMENT section. Get it? Maybe your boss will understand thisas you have made this your excuse. I agree that most posters here rant, gripe and rave like I am doing right now but please don't think you don't fall into this category. "Blah. I've never been a huge Clooney fan and I don't enjoy much of De Niro's work either. I'll probably pass." sounds like a comment any other idiot could have posted here and adds nothing. Can you honestly tell me how this adds anything to the story? You're supposed to be an editor, not a disgruntled fan boy. I think you can agree here that you can do much better.
And yet throughout this debacle one thing stands clear. Karl, for god's sake, put the comments in the comments section! Since you post the article you can put it in the number one slot. Then people can actually choose to read it or not. Smack at the end of the article is unavoidable and leaves many of us annoyed as it takes away from the news itself. We all understand the COMMENT section. What is dumbfounded is your need to add YOUR comment in the news story itself. If I want comment on my DVD I load the Commentary track. If I want commentary on my news, I read the COMMENT section. Get it? Maybe your boss will understand thisas you have made this your excuse. I agree that most posters here rant, gripe and rave like I am doing right now but please don't think you don't fall into this category. "Blah. I've never been a huge Clooney fan and I don't enjoy much of De Niro's work either. I'll probably pass." sounds like a comment any other idiot could have posted here and adds nothing. Can you honestly tell me how this adds anything to the story? You're supposed to be an editor, not a disgruntled fan boy. I think you can agree here that you can do much better.
Like RISK? Play it Online. - Jan 04, 2007 - 12:47pm
What, no snappy "KJ's Take"? Thank God for small miracles.
What, no snappy "KJ's Take"? Thank God for small miracles.
George Clooney joins "36" - Jan 04, 2007 - 12:41pm
I'm with Accapellaman. Since Mania took over the info, writing and editing have hit the skids. The KJ comments are NOT APPRECIATED. Why? You might ask. Not because he choose to add comments but because they ADD NOTHING. They aren't funny unfortunately and come across as a disgruntled wannabe writer who can't do much more than spew crap about things he can't or hasn't done nor has the ability to change. Who gives a rat's ass that you don't like Clooney or De Niro? How does that add to the news item? Hey KJ, why don't you try your hand at something you might qualify a little better for? Perhaps Drive-Thru Cashier. Oh, and that's how you produce commentary.
I'm with Accapellaman. Since Mania took over the info, writing and editing have hit the skids. The KJ comments are NOT APPRECIATED. Why? You might ask. Not because he choose to add comments but because they ADD NOTHING. They aren't funny unfortunately and come across as a disgruntled wannabe writer who can't do much more than spew crap about things he can't or hasn't done nor has the ability to change. Who gives a rat's ass that you don't like Clooney or De Niro? How does that add to the news item? Hey KJ, why don't you try your hand at something you might qualify a little better for? Perhaps Drive-Thru Cashier. Oh, and that's how you produce commentary.
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Ryan vs. Borne. Affleck vs. Damon. Now, I'd pay to see that. Of course Ryan would be in an office and Borne on the street as Borne could kill Ryan with a single staple. But matching wits would be fun.