Have Hollywood Horror Movies Gone Too Far

Hollywood horror movies haven't gone far at all in recent years. To think about this in terms of going to far, is ludicrous and idiotic to say the least. The majority of horror releases in the last ten years have not been gorey, nor have they been relevant in the form of arguments. If anything, the horror genre has been saturated with lackluster pg-13 films and horrible unrated versions on DVD. Hollywood as a whole has not released a hard rated R horror film in a while, and it has not gone too far whatsoever. Yes, some of them have been brutal, but none of them have reached the gore levels of the 1980's. In fact, the most gorey horror films produced on American soil are not even major contenders for any awards, nor have they had official or lengthy releases outside of the DVD market. With Japanese horror movies, remakes, and political thrillers, Hollywood has been missing from the horror arena in regards to gore. To say they have gone too far is just stupid.

The Japanese, if anyone, should be blamed for pushing the envelope of horror cinema. They have continually pushed the realms of the unreal, and in American releases the films get toned down a lot. The American versions of Japanese films are usually only scary if you are scared by loud noises. There is little, to no gore in these films. Compare "The Ring", "The Grudge", or "Dark Waters" to their Japanese counterparts, and you see two very different films. The American releases are even given Pg-13 ratings and teenagers go in droves to see them. These films are not scary, do not focus on blood spill, and deal more with ghosts than anything truly horrifying.

The remakes of horror films can be seen as updates to the original stories. However, these films are just as gruesome and horrific as they were when they were originally made. If anything, the newer updates to these films use modern techniques, cg, make up and more sophisticated direction than their older counterparts. This is especially seen in the Halloween remake by Rob Zombie. Sure it was gruesome and bloody, and while the original "Halloween" film did not need any gore, this film only pushed the envelope to differentiate itself from the original. If you rewind time a little and compare the remake of "Psycho" by Gus Van Sant with the original Hitchcock masterpiece, you will see that a frame by frame remake is not a substantial benefit to viewers and fans of the original film. The Van Sant version, although done frame by frame and in color is a boring trot through what you've already seen. Hollywood can only push the envelope in hopes of getting viewers, and the generational gap of horror movie fans only proves that Hollywood hasn't gone too far.

Political thrillers are never pointed to in regards of going too far. With strong criticisms of the government, the Middle East, and terrorism, the political thriller has never gone into the scrutiny that horror films get. People need to take a closer look at things like political thrillers and their content, before saying Hollywood Horror films have gone too far. The majority of Horror films deal with fiction, and even those based on real events are fictionalized to an extent that they are fantasy when compared to films that talk about the current state of the war, the oil crisis, or movies that aim to show the death of the president.

Do not get me wrong, I'm not trying to say that Hollywood should stop making politically aimed movies. I'm saying that when comparing Hollywood movies, one must consider that horror is fiction above all else. For those that believe that Horror has gone too far in recent years, maybe they should see non horror films like "Mysterious Skin", or "Mean Creek", both depict the death of innocence amongst children, before pointing the finger at horror films as a genre.

Horror movie fans, ghouls, and spirits alike join Scary Film Review for discussion, reviews, and rants from Sir Jorge Orduna. 800 plus reviews can't be wrong!

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jorge_Orduna

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/8791946

Movies

From a Hawaii-Grown Japan Fan: The Mind-Whopping Truth Behind Japan's Kikaida Super Hero

My elementary-school friends and I in Hawaii in the late 70s would rush home on Wednesday afternoons to watch this show. It started at 3 p.m. and my sister Joy and I would go directly to the waiting school bus at Pearl Ridge Elementary School, sit right behind our kind and friendly driver named Ben, and start to imagine what challenge Jiro would face today.

The ascent up to my house made the yellow school-bus engine groan and the ride seemed extra long on Wednesdays. Our bus went all the way up first, round about and back down to stop in front of my crooked mailbox on Kahapili Street. Saying bye to Nancy, Sandra and Sun Kim as they hopped off and wondering if Steven was ever going to notice me as I watch him jump down in front of his house at the very top of the hill, was a nice distraction from the anticipation for Jiro's newest adventure.

A pastor on a flexible schedule, My Dad would usually be home pruning the bougainvillea cascading down our steep front lawn, mowing the back yard, or battling the crab grass in his garden. I remember shouting "Hi Dad!" as we burst through the door of our breezy house, gave a couple hugs and kisses to our terrier named "Cindy" and headed to the back room where our mini black and white TV waited soundlessly for the Kikaida festivities to come.

My Dad hated TV. He hated how we would sit glued to the screen in a daze of absorption. One year, he gave up our TV for Lent and our family life improved so much we kept it tucked in the attic for about a year. I did feel behind my friends in the current TV trends, but at the same time, the board games and fun with family more than made up for it. But... just around the time the TV was re-set in the back room where the only reason you would go was to watch it (we never had the TV as a focal point in our living room), Kikaida came to Hawaii.

I think this might be where my interest in Japan started, even though I had no idea whatsoever exactly what I was watching. The only thing I knew was, it was extremely cool, unique and absolutely "twitipated" my brain.

In 2014, I was at my hana buddah (friend from childhood) friend's wedding and she declared "There was a display of Japanese cartoon heroes at the San Francisco airport recently, and even though every hero was supposed to be there, I could not for the life of me locate Kikaida! What's up with that!!!??" Exactly right she is on that point. To us Hawaii-grown fans, more than Ultraman, Kamenraider or Godzilla, Kikaida Rules!

Or so I thought. An executive at TV Asahi who is in the know about the background of Kikaida's popularity around the world confided that he knows someone grew up in Hawaii in the 70s whenever they ask about Kikaida. Hawaii was the only place overseas the show hit the big time. It seems the popularity of the show in Hawaii even surpassed Japan. I mean, I have asked many of my Japanese friends about what they love about Kikaida and the blank stares that follow tell me the show was not as well known here as it was in my hometown Aiea.

Superstars overseas

The same thing happens when Japanese people speak lovingly of Steve Mcqueen or Agnes Lum. Although well known and loved by their respective fans, I wouldn't say that either of these starts is known universally in the States. It is intriguing how popular culture can export so well and not be fully known or appreciated by its own birthplace.

So, here is a quick rundown of Kikaida and the story behind the story for all the Hawaiian fans out there who sang along in Jumbled Japanese, learned "Change, Switch On, One-Two-Three, Toooooh!" but never really "got" the story.

1. Jiro is a Robot.

Jiro is a robot who has a "ryoshinkairo" or conscience circuit that is not perfectly functional. His enemy organization "Dark" sells high-grade weaponry and military equipment including androids to foreign countries and with a high-pitched flute can manipulate Jiro's imperfect conscience circuit. You will see Jiro holding his ears and head as he tries to fight the power of the flute. In some episodes he is unable to resist and destroys a temple ground, etc. I always thought it was just giving him a headache.

2. Jiro is able to turn into Kikaida by "switching on" the two nodes on his right and left chest (thus the "One-Two!" part of his changing shout). Once he turns into Kikaida he is no longer manipulated by the flute and can courageously fight all the evil monsters sent by Dark.

3. The story ends when Mitsuko and Masaru are finally re-united with their Father (who was kidnapped by Dark) and they decide to go overseas. Mitsuko is in love with Jiro but for obvious robot-related issues that would make it hard for Jiro to actually be in a relationship with Mitsuko, Jiro decides to stay in Japan and continue his search for how to perfect his conscience circuit in order to become more human. A pretty tearful end to a much loved robot-human, fighting against dark temptation, motorcycle riding, guitar playing drama.

4. Kikaida's design is utterly unique among the superheroes popular at this juncture in Japanese TV history. There was a great deal of uproar when it first aired alongside "Hachi Ji Da Yo, Zenin Shugo!" which was getting 26 percent ratings at the time. Viewers disliked the transparent aspect of the design and were appalled by the sexiness of some of the androids in the show. Shotaro Ishimori, in charge of the concept and design explained his interpretation of Jiro/Kikaida as being caught in a constant battle with his conscience. Most robot heroes at the time had perfectly aligned color coordination but Kikaida's red and blue half zigzags down his body and his head is off-kilter too. As Kikaida gets closer to a perfected conscience his body was slated to become 100 percent blue since the blue represented his good side and the red represented the evil side he fought against.

Maybe it was that the depth of what was going on, communicated to me despite the language barrier. There was something deep happening in Jiro, we feel that that loud and clear even without dubbed English or subtitles. He was fighting against the bad guys and against himself. Fighting for himself and for those he loved. I did not understand anything that was said on the show, but I understood Jiro was doing his best and I knew something extremely cool had come out of Japan. Many of us from Hawaii who are now nearing or just past 50 years old were introduced to Japan via this unique, eccentric and confusingly wonderful show. For me, and here in Deep Japan, that discovery continues with each new and unconventional minute in this Land of the Rising Sun.

Together With Our Incredible Japan Business Partners, We Provide You Turn-Key Services For Success In Japan.

We focus on business development for a rotating roster of complimentary and wholly unique partner companies. Each is a cutting-edge leader in a niche market and Jarman International is devoted entirely to seeing these amazing firms grow and prosper.

Jarman International KK Website - http://www.jarman-international.com/

Deep Japan Website - http://www.deepjapan.org/

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ruth_Jarman_Shiraishi

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/8793911

Movies

Glenn Campbell - I'll Be Me - A New Film Report

The six luckiest folks in the town where I live were the five folks who were in the movie theatre with me this afternoon when we saw GLENN CAMPBELL... I'LL BE ME Why more people weren't there... who knows? I can report with joy that it was a moving excellently produced documentary of Glenn Campbell's last musical tour- after he had learned that he was in the early disease stages of Alzheimer's.

The decision to make a farewell performance --over two quite challenging years of appearing in one hundred fifty cities-- was not only brave but awesome. I marveled at Glenn's strength in pulling himself up in costume and professional prowess: to give the folks in those diverse venues memorably spirited shows. Of course, it could never have happened without the devoted love of his wife, Kim. She's a star in my mind as she kept his star bright.

The doctors who examined him, periodically, expressed true wonderment that he could still do what he did: play his guitar with the verve and skill he'd mastered, and sing his songs with perfect pitch. His poor brain was hostage to a merciless ill, but somehow that part of it that had served Campbell for so many years as a singer kept giving him what he needed. Nevertheless, by the end of the two years, it was obvious he had to stop.

The last song he wrote and recorded was called "I'm Not Gonna Miss You" and I want to show you those lyrics in their entirety. Remember, this is a man who can clearly see that it won't be long before he won't even have the memory to experience what it is to miss his wife. These are the words he sang to her:

I'm still here, but yet I'm gone

I don't play guitar or sing my songs

They never defined who I am

The man that loves you 'til the end

You're the last person I will love

You're the last face I will recall

And best of all, I'm not gonna miss you.

Not gonna miss you.

I'm never gonna hold you like I did

Or say I love you to the kids

You're never gonna see it in my eyes

It's not gonna hurt me when you cry

I'm never gonna know what you go through

All the things I say or do

All the hurt and all the pain

One thing selfishly remains

I'm not gonna miss you

I'm not gonna miss you

Many may not recall the Glenn Campbell of years gone by. His life was not particularly sweet. The film shows him with his four wives-segments of home movies-and he would look at them with his wife, Kim-the last of four-and ask, "Who is that?" And his wife would say, "That was your wife, honey." Or he'd even ask-- on seeing himself on the "Glenn Campbell Show"-"Who is that?" and Kim would reply, "That's you, honey. And his kids-those from his other three wives... he could not say their names.

Some might say that showing a famous artist with Alzheimer's makes a mockery of him and simply feeds the appetite of an audience for sensational new human reversals. And in someone's hands-out to use Campbell for that purpose-no doubt that could happen. But here, director James Keach, does such a classy job with this documentary it creates the effect of both sadness and joy in Glenn's grand humanity as well as his family's. Everyone shows their love for Glenn; everyone wants him to stand up to the disease with his down-home sense of humor.

His daughter, Ashley, is by his side at every performance, and when he'd get a little confused, she would somehow steer him on point. She's a sweet girl, and to see her face become a bit strained along with her stage-smile-and manage to keep her dad safe-was quite touching to me. I was also moved by the number of celebrities who were part of this film-if only to remark on how high they held his talent and his tremendous mark on the entertainment history that he truly helped make.

Seeing Paul McCartney rush up to him after Glenn's performance in some city and just say how much he loved one of the songs he had just moved the audience with... and when Campbell stands there not sure what he should say, Paul shakes his hand and says warmly, "I just wanted to tell you how great you sounded!" With that the great Paul takes his leave.

A part of the movie lends itself to pleading for more research on Alzheimer's. We see Glenn, his wife Kim and his daughter Ashley visiting with both Congress folks-Pelosi and Boehmer-sharing Alzheimer woes-and then Ashley-practically in tears before a group of Representatives-- talking about how it feels to slowly lose your dad's love as he forgets your name.

I really can't see how the film could have been much better Even Kim telling how medication had given her husband's libido an ungovernable strength (which she needed to have reduced!) was said with such a soft modesty and humor, no one could say it sounded crass. I strongly urge seeing this movie if you can. My grade for it is a strong EIGHT.

What My Grade Grants

8.) "About as good as it could get."

7.) "Lacking that bit of excellence."

6.) "Somehow it just didn't work well."

5.) "I have to feel bad about it."

4.) "All that work and nothing to show."

Creator of "The Wizard's Outrageous Scheme For Stopping Smoking" Humbler Acts reports one film every week as relaxation from his speaking and writing on stopping smoking through dream use and Seven Forces. He's American, English-educated, residing in St. Louis, MO (USA). He can be reached: humbleracts@aol.com or telephone: 314-574-7681.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Humbler_Acts

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/8794532

Movies

Noteworthy Appearances of Swing Sets in Famous Movies

Every kid loves the excitement of a few minutes spent on swing sets. Whether you're pushing your kids on the swings or joining in on the fun yourself, they provide a comfortable outdoor setting. It doesn't matter if you're in your twenties or your sixties; they seem to bring out the playful and nostalgic side even in adults. Whether we're wishing for a simpler time, having a serious discussion, or singing at the top of our lungs, we can remember the feelings these playground additions brought us throughout our lives and the excitement it brings in our kids now. Famous films have used these playground backdrops to evoke similar emotions in the viewer. Here are some Hollywood appearances these structures have made in serious movies like The Forgotten, The Fault in Our Stars, and in musicals like Moulin Rouge.

The Forgotten

This sci-fi tale is about a woman named Telly who has lost her son, but she has trouble getting anyone else to believe her. The loss feels crushing when she runs out of answers. Here she returns to the playground where her son used to play and sits forlornly on the swing sets, thinking aloud and talking with another parent whose daughter is also missing. Nostalgic for their children, both parents choose this specific setting because it's where their kids loved to play.

Moulin Rouge

While Nicole Kidman's character doesn't sit on a traditional one, she's lowered from the ceiling on a singular swing for her number "Diamonds are a Girl's Best Friend." She's then swung around the room in a playful fashion, her arm stretched out to all the men reaching up to her. Even as an adult, a girl might like her own bejeweled and flower-decorated swing.

The Fault in Our Stars

While not children, the two main characters in this touching film who suffer from cancer aren't adults either. In one scene, they sit on a small swing set in a backyard talking about their relationship. While the content of their discussion and mention of their diseases is heavy handed, the setting is meant to remind us that they're still young and also young at heart. This is possibly one of the most endearing and heartbreaking uses for swing sets in any modern movie.

13 Going On 30

These playground additions bring out the playful side in all of us, and this couldn't be more true for Jennifer Gardner's character in the comedy 13 Going On 30. As a 13-year-old trapped in a 30-year-old's body, Jenna is still young at heart and eager to play on the playgrounds she still finds joy in. In this film, she shares a romantic moment with a man as they pump high and jump off, which we've all done before.

There's no doubt that swing sets bring out the playful and youthful side of all of us, whether we're having a heartfelt conversation about falling in love, missing our children, or belting out a musical number. Putting these characters on a playground as they go on dates and talk makes them relatable to the viewer. Even when the scenes become serious, these playground settings manage to keep the tone somewhat light-hearted.

Looking for fun and safe swing sets? MA residents can learn more by visiting http://www.hometownstructures.com/gymsets.html.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Andrew_Stratton

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/8797133

Movies

Why I Write Screenplays and Novels

Why do I want to write? The first reason is that I have something to share, ideas, experiences and a great desire to share some of the things I have learned about screenwriting and writing a new book about my career, which is almost completed.

I enjoy the creative aspects of the writing experience, and even the re-writing process that comes later and is mandatory to be successful. Screenwriting is very tough, first in completing your project and secondly in trying to sell your screenplay or even getting an agent to read your screenplay.

I have found over the last year that writing a book about my now completed IT career is far easier than writing a screenplay. I have written 3 screenplays so far, and I am most proud of my first screenplay about a high school athlete who longs for the good old days and all the glory he missed out on because of an injury that ended his football career in his senior idea. What you need first before starting a new screenplay is a great idea, for me that is by far the biggest challenge. I find writing dialog easy, but coming up with a great story is quite another matter.

You can actually pay people to read your screenplay with something that is called "script coverage", but from my experience a year ago, I just don't recommend anyone do this. Its not worth the money to have someone read your script with a 95% chance that it will get a PASS grade. If you get a Recommend then what? There is no guarantee that anything will happen even after your script is recommended. There are far cheaper ways to get someone with some knowledge of screenwriting to read your script.

Writing my book has been far easier because that has been all about writing about all the many things I had to live through over 30 years to make a living in the world of IT (Information Technology) which includes over 25 years as an independent contractor. My old field is not easy and gets harder every year because there are so many new technologies you are required to master and this list grows every day. Since 2006 for example, about 30 more JAVASCRIPT libraries has followed the invention of JQUERY which was a great new technology which simplified the writing of JAVASCRIPT code for working with the DOM (Document Object Model) which is the language of the browser. There is a ton of things to know which greatly increases the stress of working in this difficult field.

My book is in its last stages of review and editing and its about 646 pages now, of experiences both good and bad, lots of stress and dues I have paid.

Retired IT professional, Option Trader, Novelist

Screenwriting Tips

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Joe_J_Caruso

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/8794094

Movies

"The November Man" Brings Pierce Brosnan Back Into the Spy Fold

Many films are based on the premise of a man who is peacefully in retirement being coaxed out of his retirement for one last job, con or gig. In this way, "The November Man" isn't very original in its plot. What is original and quite thrilling, however, is its use of a plot that mirrors something that could happen in the volatile Eastern European political landscape of contemporary times.

The retired CIA agent in question is Peter Devereaux (Pierce Brosnan), who is living the good life in Switzerland. His former handler at the agency, Hanley (Bill Smitrovich), travels to Switzerland to ask Devereaux to help him extract a woman working for Arkady Federov (Lazar Ristovski), who has just been elected as the next President of Russia. He agrees, but the mission goes terribly wrong when Devereaux's former protégée, Mason (Luke Bracey), kills the woman first. Before she dies, she lets Devereux know that Alice (Olga Kurylenko) has information that could help them solve the mystery of why Federov's former cohorts are ending up dead all across Europe.

Mason also learns of this information, and for still-unknown reasons, he wants Alice dead before Devereaux can get to her. This sets off a cat-and-mouse chase across several countries, leading Devereaux to try to outfox the man he used to trust and teach. While trying to locate and save Alice from certain death, he must find out why Mason is doing what he is doing. He also has to contend with the CIA, which for equally unknown reasons, doesn't want Devereaux to put all the dots together and solve this international mystery. Between being thwarted by his former agency, trying to figure out who Mason is working for and locating Alice, he has his plate overly full. The tension of the movie results from the overwhelming issues facing Devereaux. Throughout the film, the audience wonders if he can get back to his old tip-top form and show the young Mason and the rest of the spy community a thing or two.

Brosnan once played another very famous spy, James Bond. Having retired from that role, it feels as though art is imitating life as he is essentially playing a character who is in a similar place in life. Due to Brosnan's past as Bond, it is a bit of a thrill to see him on the big screen once more, playing a suave, crafty and clever spy. While this time Devereaux is an ex-CIA agent instead of a British spy, that difference doesn't really matter. Brosnan left such an impression as Bond that anyone who misses him in that role is sure to love seeing him in "The November Man."

The film is based on a series of books referred to as the November Man series, but it is not based on the first book in the franchise. Instead, it is based on the seventh book, which has the potential to make the film difficult to understand for those who have not read any of Bill Granger's novels. The book in question is "There Are No Spies," which was originally published in 1987, nearly 30 years before the film was made. This has the potential to confuse those unfamiliar with the book series since the book timeline is clearly out of sync. Luckily, screenwriters Michael Finch and Karl Gajdusek explain the back story well enough for everything to make sense. Then, there is the influence of director Roger Donaldson, who is a seasoned veteran at this type of movie. He previously worked with Brosnan on "Dante's Peak," and their easy rapport clearly shows in the end result. Brosnan seems at ease and perfect for this role, and part of the credit for that has to go to Donaldson.

There are several older actors who are trying to transform their careers by reinventing themselves as action heroes. Liam Neeson is easily the most famous of these actors because he did it first, but "Taken" was also a sleeper hit that surprised many people. Kevin Costner is attempting the same thing, and Brosnan seems to be taking the same route with "The November Man." Since there is a wealth of material to develop from the book series, Brosnan may follow in Neeson's footsteps by turning himself into an unlikely elder action hero long after putting down James Bonds' martini glass. It remains to be seen if Brosnan is set to emerge again as a spy thriller hero, but "The November Man" is a fine start.

For the past 6 years, Zack Mandell has been a contributing writer for Gossip Center's general entertainment news department. In addition, he currently owns and manages the movie website, http://www.movieroomreviews.com.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Zack_Mandell

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/8714864

Buy tv online at amazon click here

Little Known Facts About Our Favorite Icons Of Horror Films - They Were Human!

Which "monster" was a decorated World War I veteran who was wounded three times and saved the lives of his fellow soldiers? Why, that was Bela Blasko, who achieved worldwide fame when he portrayed the vampire count in Universal's 1931 epic "Dracula". Of course, by that time, he had changed his last name to "Lugosi", which was derived from his hometown of Lugos, Hungary. He also never learned to drive a car.

I grew up an addict of "Creature Features" on Channel 44, WTOG-TV, out of St. Petersburg, Florida, and loved watching all of the classic horror films they screened. The host was a certain Dr. Paul Bearer (real name Dick Bennick). With so many years of regular Saturday afternoons and evenings spent with the good doctor, my brain became addled with facts and figures about all of these heroes of the dark.

Lon Chaney Sr., the renowned silent star whose most famous roles include "The Phantom of the Opera" and "The Hunchback of Notre Dame", learned his acting skills in part from his deaf mute parents. He had to learn pantomime in order to communicate, a talent that greatly improved his on-screen intensity. He also was an all-around good guy, frequently helping out fellow actors and film crew without seeking any credit. Once, Chaney saw an upcoming actor named William Henry Pratt walking home from the studios and gave him a ride. So what, you say? Well, Pratt's stage name was Boris Karloff, who went on to portray the Frankenstein monster and the original Mummy. Chaney gave Karloff indispensable advice about what he should do to make his own career improve... advice which he heeded. Karloff later co-founded the Screen Actors Guild, and was the narrator of "How The Grinch Stole Christmas", a beloved holiday cartoon.

Lon's son Creighton Chaney would go on to become Lon Chaney, Jr., and also carve his name in the horror legend book. His most famous role was that of "The Wolf Man", but he eventually played nearly every major horror character that had been created up to that point. Lon Jr. was known as a big-hearted guy, like his father, who helped anyone and everyone he could. This help even went beyond the grave. He donated his body to the University of Southern California for medical research.

Peter Lorre was well-known for a wide variety of roles, but mostly those with a dark twist, including the films "M" and "Mad Love". He fled Hungary and Nazi Germany for Hollywood, later to be invited by Adolf Hitler to return to Germany and be part of their film community. With so many roles as killers in the movies, Lorre shot back a letter to the Nazis to inform them that they didn't need his talents since they already had so many murderers in their ranks. In earlier years, Lorre studied under Dr. Sigmund Freud, which may explain his understanding of characters with, shall we say, "character flaws".

Vincent Price was a St. Louis native, though many people still believe him to be at least partly English. His grandfather invented the first cream of tarter sauce, and his father was president of the National Candy Company. Vincent was a connoisseur of all fine things, including art and cooking. He educated Americans about fine art, selling more than 50,000 items through Sears Roebuck as part of his "Vincent Price Collection", and publishing a variety of gourmet cookbooks. With his famous films including "House of Wax" and "The House on Haunted Hill", he also expanded into popular music. Price's voice can be heard on Alice Cooper's "Devil's Food / The Black Widow" and Michael Jackson's "Thriller".

Peter Cushing and Christopher Lee enjoyed years of work together for Hammer Films in England, becoming best friends. Cushing is best known as the gaunt Dr. Frankenstein and Professor Van Helsing in the Hammer remakes of many Universal classics. Other roles for Cushing included Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Who, but perhaps his favorite role was as husband to his beloved Helen. Her 1971 death haunted him for the rest of his life, and he consistently looked forward to the day he would rejoin her. His love for his wife was commemorated in the "Helen Cushing Rose", a special strain of flower created in 1986.

Christopher Lee has remained the longest purveyor of the classic horror genre, still appearing in films even into his 90's. Best known in recent years for his roles in "The Lord of the Rings" and "Star Wars" films, Lee's deep voice has also graced a variety of theater, musical, and record productions. He is related through his family to James Bond creator Ian Fleming, and appeared in Fleming's "The Man With the Golden Gun." Lee is also a World War II veteran, and was knighted by the Queen of England. He speaks English, Italian, French, Spanish, German, Swedish, Russian, and Greek.

*******

The author is a writer, musician, film producer, record producer, and musical arranger who was born in Somerville, New Jersey and grew up in Melbourne, Florida. greg@gregvadimsky.com

Learn about horror film history! Don't base your knowledge only on films made during your lifetime!! All of the best film makers in history succeeded because they had a thorough knowledge of what and who came before. This article is a great starting point in learning about the humanity of major icons of horror films, helping to bring their lives into the consciousness of today's fans.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Greg_Vadimsky

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/8709213

Buy tv online at amazon click here

The 10 Best 80's Comedies

The 80's was a decade truly defined by pop culture and the eruption of blockbuster movies. During this movie explosion, some of the best comedies of all time emerged. The top 10 comedies of the 80's could guarantee a night of laughter and fun for all. Watching them brings back memories, and creates new ones with films that did an excellent job of capturing the sentiment and humor of the over-the-top, neon-lighted decade. So, pop some popcorn, and watch a few of these gut busters!

National Lampoon's Vacation

Who can forget this quote from family patriarch, Clark Griswold: "In the car we're only 4 hours away from the world's second largest ball of twine!" Released in 1983, National Lampoon's Vacation became a box office hit. Viewers follow a family on a humorous, cross-country adventure in which the family vacation, riddled with mishaps, ends with a run in with law officials.

Revenge of the Nerds

This 1984 comedy depicts the social folly of two best friends who discover college life is much harder than they imagined. Who doesn't remember Gilbert's famous speech? "I just wanted to say that I'm a nerd, and I'm here tonight to stand up for the rights of other nerds. I mean uh, all our lives we've been laughed at and made to feel inferior. And tonight, those bastards, they trashed our house. Why? Cause we're smart? Cause we look different? Well, we're not. I'm a nerd, and uh, I'm pretty proud of it."

Better Off Dead

This teen romance comedy hit the big screen in 1985. Lane Myer, played by John Cusack, decides he would be better off dead after his high school girlfriend dumps him. As he is forced to deal with his odd family and friends, his life becomes one wrought with misery. In the process of trying to win back his girlfriend, he meets a new foreign exchange student who thinks her host family is so annoying she pretends she cannot speak English.

The Breakfast Club

On Saturday, March 24, 1984 a brain, an athlete, a basket case and a princess and a criminal meet up for detention at Shermer High School in Shermer, Illinois. This classic John Hughes teen angst film became a cult classic with themes that still stand true today. One memorable line is when John Bender comments to the school principle, "Yeah, I have a question. Does Barry Manilow know that you raided his wardrobe?"

Weird Science

A 1985 science fiction comedy in which two nerds left alone for a weekend decide to use their computer to create the perfect female. Lisa possesses special powers and is very devoted to her creators. This was every nerd's dream come true, and you know you can't get the lyrics from the Oingo Boingo produced theme song out of your head: "Bits of my creation, is it real? Its my creation, Ooh my creation, Its my creation."

Ferris Bueller's Day Off

Ferris Bueller's Day off was released in 1986, and describes the adventures of a teen and his friends as they decide to fake an illness and skip school. It was one of the year's top-grossing films. While trying to enjoy their day off, they must avoid being caught by the principle and Ferris Bueller's family with memorable scenes such as Ferris singing "Danke Schoen" on a parade float.

Spaceballs

Remember this song? "Nobody knows the trouble I've seen, nobody knows my sorrows." This 1987 science fiction comedy is a spoof of Star Wars. After Princess Vespa is kidnapped, Lone Star, his sidekick Barf, and his Mawg, who is half man have dog, are offered a reward to go retrieve her. They accept the challenge and using their Winnebago set out to rescue the princess. It goes without saying that oddball antics ensue.

Beetlejuice

Beetlejuice is a fantasy comedy that made its appearance in 1988. The story is about a deceased couple that becomes ghosts and decides to haunt their former home. The ghost couple hires Beetlejuice, a devious and obnoxious ghost, to try to scare off the family that has moved into their home. Saying "Beetlejuice! Beetlejuice! Beetlejuice!" three times brings him to life.

Big

Also released in 1988, Big depicts a 13-year-old named Josh who makes a wish at fortunetelling machine to be big. He wakes to discover his wish has come true and he has become a man over night, though his mind is still that of a 13-year -old. Josh lands a job and using his child -like mindset to bring a new view to the company quickly rises to the top. Despite his success and falling in love, he longs to return to his old self. One of the cutest quotes is when Josh describes a ring intended for his paramour: "It's a glow-in-the-dark compass ring. So you don't get lost."

Bill & Ted's Excellent Adventure

Making its appearance in 1989, Bill and Ted must travel back in time, using a time machine phone booth, in order to pass a history test. Along their journey that encounter several distractions, and humorous mishaps, but in the end are able to make it to school in time to give their report. Here is Ted describing Genghis Khan:"This is a dude who, 700 years ago, totally ravaged China, and who, we were told, two hours ago, totally ravaged Oshman's Sporting Goods."

Get your popcorn ready and have an 80's comedy binge some weekend soon!

RememberStuff.com is the place to save and remember your favorite movies, visit http://movies.RememberStuff.com. You can also save recipes, restaurants, beer, movies, books, and more. NEVER FORGET AGAIN.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Scott_Barnard

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/8710833

Buy tv online at amazon click here

JLO The Boy Next Door

I am a big fan of Jennifer Lopez. There isn't any movie (other than Gigli or however you spell it) that I didn't like. Her new movie, The Boy Next Door, is very risqué for an actress. I think she's taking a huge risk, but it might pay off. It's the female role reversal of the movie The Crush. If you haven't seen The Crush don't worry about it. Just keep reading.

In this case Jennifer Lopez is the desirable older woman who, in a moment of weakness, gives in to the advances of a teenage boy. There are commenters on the movie that state it's sleazy and the fact that it's a high school boy should not have been done. I think that's hypocritical. There are countless movies and shows about a much older man finding love with a younger and sometimes underage female.

Examples of males with underage or extremely young females in shows:

Pretty Little Liars is a show where I was personally scandalized (until I kept watching and was hooked) that the teenage student was having an ongoing affair with her teacher. The entire town knew about it and became OK with it. The show Pretty Little Liars is still on the air and more popular than ever despite the risqué topic.

Friends. The show Friends had Ross dating a female that was much younger and everyone laughed. It was comical to see his attempts to date this female.

Fast forward to this JLO movie where a handsome physically developed male is desperate to have her, which leads to a wild obsession and I'm buying my ticket as soon as it's in a theater near me. That man in the previews does not look like someone who is being taken advantage of. He's a hot, strapping lad who's looking for love in all the wrong places... mainly between Jenny from the block's thighs.

The movie doesn't condone a teacher/student relationship. On the contrary, it shows the viewer the horrifying results of an inappropriate affair. There really does not appear to be any message in the movie telling the viewer it's OK to date or sleep with a student. There's a desire that turns into obsession that borders on madness. Jennifer has to protect her family and her job while keeping her secret. She is filled with deep regret, but the student involved appears unable to control his crazy devotion to be with her. My money's on Jenny. She's going to show us in this movie why she commands top dollar for her performances as an actress.

For more articles by this author: http://www.kesispeaks.com
eBook by this author: http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00LZ7PD4U/ref=cm_sw_r_tw_dp_Ag2dub126S1PH

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Kesi_St_Omer

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/8713172

Buy tv online at amazon click here

THE HUNDRED FOOT JOURNEY - A New Film Report

Do you think you could believe that life's entirely made up of coincidences? Well, there's something to consider: THE HUNDRED FOOT JOURNEY-a film I really liked- is a drama with comedy that could make you buy it. The film starts off with a loving mother showing her son the arcane subtleties of Indian cooking. He is quite young and talented. She hands him examples to taste as well as smell, and gives him a well-worn suitcase with compartments that hold the exotic spices.

Sometime later, the restaurant-- which their family owns in Mumbai, India-- is attacked and set fire to. The protege escapes with his father and all four young siblings. But his mother perishes. By now the boy has grown to manhood-Hassan Kadam-played by Manish Dayal-and has become a remarkable chef. His father-called Papa Kadam-is played by Om Puri. He is determined to re-establish the restaurant in Europe, and sets out for England-only to find the climate there-both for his family and for the kind of plant-based food they need for cooking-doesn't please them.

Now they all load up in a broken down van and take off for France. I don't think that the father has any specific place in mind, but he's a man with a vision. I've known men just like him: they go on with their lives-- somehow sensing they will arrive at some place where they'll thrive. His kids bewail his sense; yet when their old van's brakes fail to brake and he must swerve off the road to avoid a deadly crash, the vision lives on.

Soon a young lady comes along and helps them get the van into a service place. Where are they? They don't know. Well... It turns out to be Saint-Antonin- Noble-Val in the south of France; and while Papa is pacing as work is being done on the van, he wanders about this picturesque village, and spots a FOR SALE sign... Long story, short: he purchases the property and the whole Kadam clan starts pitching in to get the place ready to become a restaurant. Papa's vision guides all action.

Interestingly, the lady who first helped them works as a sous-chef at the place that just happens to be one hundred feet across from where their new restaurant is. She is Marguerite-played by Charlotte Le Bon-and she and Hassan bond as food fans. Even though she sees that he's her 'competitor-opponent', she agrees to give him culinary tomes on French cooking-that he devours with spellbinding zeal..

Certainly, the movie becomes a story of rivals, not just of restaurants but also of owners from those two restaurants: one-the French one--Le Saule Pleureur (in English, The Weeping Willow) is devotedly run by Madame Mallory-played by Helen Mirren-and the one-Restaurant Mumbai- led by Papa Kadam. You can surely imagine what happens when the one-starred Michelin restaurant- providing first class cuisine to a community of people with French palates- is faced with a gaudily lit aggressively-seeking- new-patrons-restaurant-- that starts serving fine tasting fare.

One more coincidence comes about as follows: both the owners happen to be widow and widower. And though ruthless quarrels ensue between them, there is an incident that nudges them towards newfound respect. Both these actors are terrific. Papa Kadam has a strength and inner bearing that come across as genuine. Madame Mallory does a curmudgeonly great job playing a strict no-nonsense restaurateur. She never smiles, constantly rebukes; and I slowly speculated The Weeping WILLOW might be code for WIDOW: that her humorless demeanor was there to hide the mourning for her deceased husband.

Now along with Papa's issue: that none keeps his newborn restaurant from its life, he wants his son, Hassan,,to show the world that he is a chef as fine as they come. Coincidence plays a role here when Hassan gets a chance to advance one hundred feet to chef for the Madame-thanks to preparatory tips from friend, Marguerite. And quite soon he gets to Paris where he is world-acclaimed. ("Hold on! Where we going?") This Paris stint stretches a bit, yet it's there to teach him where his allegiance is, and it helps bring his character to a maturity that draws his close ties in.

Both Hassan and Marguerite make a great joining of youth that doesn't need nude scenes to express how they really feel. There is one scene where they are tasting and sharing spices, and it struck me as a new way of showing love. Sometimes a metaphor achieves a lot more effect than an "in your face" love scene.

The director of this special movie was Lasse Hallstrom. He took the actors here like a good jockey takes the right horses and guided them to victorious wins in each scene that I saw. The screen play was by Steven Knight, and his dialogue and sequencing delighted me throughout the entire film. The background music had a life-giving message-- created by A.R. Rahman, who has recently been called the most prominent and prolific film composer. Linus Sandgren served as the film's photographer; and his scenes have a vigor that synchronized with the plot.

But the overriding impression I had when seeing THE HUNDRED FOOT JOURNEY was a continuous affection for every scene and feeling in each one the extraordinary experience of folks striving to connect their lives to each other in a firm positive way. It gets my EIGHT.

What My Grade Grants:

8.) "About as good as it could get."

7.) "Lacking that bit of excellence."

6.) "Somehow it just didn't work well."

5.) "I have to feel bad about it."

4.) "All that work and nothing to show."

Creator of "The Wizard's Outrageous Scheme For Stopping Smoking" Humbler Acts reports one film every week as relaxation from his speaking and writing on stopping smoking through dream use and Seven Forces. He's American, English-educated, residing in St. Louis, MO (USA). He can be reached: humbleracts@aol.com or telephone: 314-574-7681.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Humbler_Acts

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/8723573

Buy tv online at amazon click here

No Good Deeds Movie Review

I recently saw the movie No Good Deeds, and I have to say I have mixed feelings. Idris Elba nailed his role as a violent psychopath that easily murdered women. Taraji Henson nailed her role as a single mom defending her family. The story centers around Idris chasing Taraji. What gives me mixed feelings is the fact that I thought this was a Tyler Perry move, but now I realize it wasn't. I can see the difference.

The movie has Idris Elba a violent psychopath that's willing to kill for the love of one white woman. This feeds into many racial stereotypes of one dark skinned male harming white women. In one scene he forces Taraji (the beautiful black actress) to take her clothes off then tells her, "Don't flatter yourself." Meaning that she's not attractive. The theme I walked away from an otherwise worthy thriller is that everyone valued white women and the successful educated black woman was less than attractive.

The cast of No Good Deed did a great job; from the best friend to the nanny. I went to see the movie because I thought it was a Tyler Perry movie, and because of the cast. Elba should get an award for his acting skills that are legendary. It's just interesting that the black was married to a black man that didn't seem to be attracted to her. My take on the perfectly flawed marriage was that Taraji's husband wasn't really into her. It would not be overreacting to state that the man playing her husband in the movie was disgusted by his black wife.

Tyler Perry movies are popular because they really resonate with the black community. They have horrible tragedy, but they also end with a great message that's uplifting. If people are trying to steal the phenomenon of Tyler Perry movies then keep the same formula. Majority all black cast + uplifting message. It doesn't have to be spiritual. Majority all black cast + mixed racial messages = nice try.

I'm all for films that are directed towards black people, but don't make it another stereotype about how bad black people are; especially dark skin black males. Here's a talented actor like Elba that gets to be the serial killer. Why couldn't he be the husband? Perhaps the makers of this movie didn't understand the significance of having a dark skinned actor play the murderer or perhaps they did? Many people of other races stereotype those of darker skin to be more menacing.

For the average person this movie was good. Many people went to see the movie that critics bashed and enjoyed it. I know people are going to *gasp* that I'm playing the "race card" as those that are unaware of the devastating implications of racism often do. I also know that as a woman of color this is simply a statement of my perception of the movie. It made me kind of queasy that the leading actress wasn't seen as desirable by her husband and at the very least a serial killer.

Thank you film makers for targeting our community and our wallets. Aim for our hearts next time.

For more articles by this author go to http://www.kesispeaks.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Kesi_St_Omer

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/8723222


Buy tv online at amazon click here

Have Better Entertainment Period With Tata Sky New DTH HD Plus Connections

Gone are the days when people had to face issues because of their cable operators now with the advent of latest technology people can take control of their lives. Now with the Direct to home or DTH connection as it is popularly known as people can get high quality visuals and direct transmission of several channels. They can even choose their desired list of channels and pay only for those channels. There are many advantages of choosing a reliable DTH service provider and some of them are mentioned below:

Fastest Activation -

For people who have newly moved to a new city or state the first connection that they look for is the cable connection. It takes about 1 week to 10 days or maybe even more depending upon the cable operator to get the cable connection. But with a DTH service they can easily get a Tata Sky DTH new connection within 24 to 48 hours. Most of the DTH service providers offer their clients with the fastest activation services.

Picture & Sound Quality -

Many people are unaware that picture and sound quality of a DTH connection is completely different to that of a cable connection. DTH is a direct connection and hence depending upon the DTH service provider the picture and sound quality is the best and of high clarity.

Dedicated Customer Support -

There are many sites online that offer the most dedicated customer support so that in case of any problem with the package or the new connection the problem can be resolved immediately. Most of the sites even offer 24/7 customer support backup.

Secure Payment Options -

Most of the cable operators have often duped people with high charges for a new connection. But with the several DTH sites available online customers will never have to face payment issues anymore. These DTH sites offer various payment options which are secure and completely reliable. Some of the most opted payment options offered by the sites are Cash on delivery option, payment with Debit or Credit cards. These sites even offer their customers with secured payment gateways for credit card or debit card payments.

Shipping Options -

Different DTH service providers are known to offer different shipping options. Customers can get a Tata SKY HD Plus within 4 hours; Videocon connection even offers the same, Airtel digital connection offers DTH connection within 24 to 48 hours. There are many popular DTH sites that even offer their customers with free shipping services. Fastest activation of DTH and free shipping services are the two biggest advantages of opting for the DTH service connection instead of the regular cable connection.

Money Saving Deals -

Many DTH service providers and DTH sites keep updating their customers about the current money saving deals and packages available on the DTH connection. This way the consumers can get the best money saving deals on a Tata Sky DTH New Connection.

Soham Sinha, an emerging writer for Entertainment category including TV, DTH service, Cable connections and HD connections, have brilliant knowledge for new generation. For further information please visit this site:- http://dealsondth.com/tata-sky.html

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Soham_Sinha

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/8722031


Buy tv online at amazon

4 Movies That Confirm Robbing Banks for a Living Is a Bad Idea

It's tough to make a living in this day and age. Jobs aren't as abundant as the number of people who need them, and layoffs and cutbacks are leaving hard-working people out of jobs. The pressure to provide for yourself or a family might cause you to consider more extreme career options. However appealing robbing banks to become an instant millionaire sounds, it's never a good idea. Here are a few Hollywood movies that demonstrate the danger of deciding to pull the ultimate heist. Consider these movies before daydreaming about becoming a criminal to solve monetary problems.

The Dark Night: People Can Betray You

Christopher Nolan's Batman sequel "The Dark Night" is an extremely compelling and entertaining film. It starts off with a bank robbery going relatively smoothly, until the true villain (the Joker) surfaces and starts killing his comrades. Unfortunately in this line of work, you'll often find your coworkers are exceedingly greedy (it's the nature of the beast). What's stopping them from eliminating you for your cut of the money? Little stands in the way of being double crossed by your own team, which makes this type of work extremely risky.

Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid: The Law is Always on Your Tail

If you can manage to escape the police after the first bank robbery you commit, you're lucky. The police are very aware of the presence of criminals attempting to rob banks, and they respond with force. Neighboring businesses will report any suspicious activity they see or hear, which increases your chances of being caught. The protagonists of "Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid" decide they have to flee to South America in order to escape the law, but ultimately end up with a massive police confrontation.

Dog Day Afternoon: Your Plan Can Go Horribly Wrong

You may believe you've planned your heist perfectly, accounting for every detail and all variables. However, this is impossible. Life is unpredictable, as demonstrated in "Dog Day Afternoon." One thing after another goes wrong in this film, leaving the main characters scratching their heads while holding hostages in the building. Needless to say, this is not an ideal position for a bank robber. Left with no escape, the main characters are sure to end up in the custody of the police.

Bonnie And Clyde's Lesson: You'll Likely Wind Up Dead

The real life couple inspired the movie "Bonnie and Clyde" about two outlaws that toured the country robbing banks during the Great Depression. Though they managed to elude police officers for three years, stretching their spree from 1931 to 1934, they eventually were cut down in a shower of bullets. Once you've committed enough robberies, the police will do anything to catch you, dead or alive.

While you might be tempted to throw caution to the wind and hold your own heist to make some fast cash, know that bank robberies are always going to end badly.

Whether you are looking to case the joint or open an account, Flemington residents can visit Somerset Savings. Learn more at http://www.somersetsavings.com/home/contact/hours/flemington_branch.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Alfred_Ardis

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/8734007


Buy tv online at amazon

Star Wars - The Real Back Story

When someone writes a hit movie or a best seller, it's easy to think it all resulted from a stroke of creative genius and it just happened organically. But in almost every case nothing could be further from the truth.

Take the Stars Wars movie franchise for instance. A number of intriguing back- stories exist about how things got to be as they were in the Star Wars movies. Here I should give a plug to a writer called Chris Taylor who discovered them and wrote a book suitably titled: How Star Wars Conquered the Universe: The Past, Present and Future of a Multi-billion Dollar Franchise.

For example, Taylor tells the story of when Star Wars creator George Lucas showed a rough cut of the movie to his mates Steven Spielberg and Brian De Palmer, Spielberg thought it was going to be a huge hit but De Palmer mocked it mercilessly. He told Lucas what is all this " Force shit? Where's all the blood when they shoot people." But sarcasm aside, De Palmer was a talent. Lucas knew it. And De Palmer wanted to help his friend. So he and Jay Cocks, another screenwriter and critic for Time magazine, agreed to re-write the opening crawler. You remember. The big words in yellow at the start of the movie, which disappear into outer space. The words give the back-story of the Empire and the rebel alliance.

And there are plenty of other intriguing and tasty morsels to be had.

How about the origin of the Han Solo Wookie? That came about after the sound editor on one of George Lucas's other projects hired a voice actor called Terry McGovern. And McGovern just happened to bring along an old army buddy called Bill Wookey.

You might be starting to get where this is going.

At some stage marijuana must have been smoked because a very stoned McGovern adlibbed during a voice-over recording "I think I just ran over a Wookey back there." Lucas who might have been equally stoned, who knows, thought what McGovern had said was hilarious and he wrote down the line in his notebook but changed the spelling of Wookey so that it ended in the letters 'I' and 'e'. Incidentally McGovern was also hired to be a voice actor on Star Wars. Remember the scene where Obi-Wan-Kenobi hypnotises one of Darth Vader's Storm Troopers into saying: "These aren't the droids we are looking for?" Well that was Terry McGovern's voice saying it. McGovern was paid the princely sum of $200 for his token bit of screen immortality. Bill Wookey, McGovern's friend never met George Lucas and had no idea his name would inspire film history. That was until Bill Wookey happened to see the movie and other people who also saw it said he must have inspired the character Chewbacca. Bill Wookey is a hairy, bearded man who is 6 foot 3 inches.

There is one back-story that Taylor tells that I particularly like. It concerns the origin of the name of the little droid R2 D2.

George Lucas was also responsible for the movie American Graffiti. He and a man called Walter Murch did the sound mix. But in order to do the job properly they needed to match the dialogue to the right reel of film. So they would write on cans of film the letters R for reel and D for dialogue. Of course each can was numbered so there would be no confusion. Apparently, one day (this is a true story) Murch yelled out: "I need R 2 D 2" and everyone on set laughed their heads off. Lucas laughed as well but he also wrote the line down in his notebook.

The Vietnam War played a major role in shaping the Star Wars trilogy. Lucas was rejected for the draft because of his diabetes. But even before he made Star Wars, Lucas wanted to create a documentary style anti-war film on Vietnam. It was to be called Apocalypse Now, a title devised by one of Lucas's friends. Instead the project was passed on to Francis Ford Coppola, who gave Lucas his first movie job working on the musical Finian's Rainbow. Taylor says in his book that in 1973, Lucas wrote a note on Star Wars: 'A large technological empire going after a small group of freedom fighters.' In some ways that was how Lucas saw the Vietnam War. The Empire being the United States and the freedom fighters the Viet Cong. Star Wars apparently had a rough time getting the required backing from a studio. It was pitched to United Artists but they rejected it. Universal had an option on the production but never bothered giving Lucas an answer. He took the project to Disney but they also said no. Finally Fox said yes and the rest is history.

In case you are interested, Fox permanently owns the rights but Disney will get a piece of the action. They bought LucasFilm for $4 billion two years ago.

But I've saved the absolute best anecdote until last. Taylor's book talks about how Han Solo got to be cast. Lucas considered Harrison Ford but initially ruled him out because he thought a potential Star Wars audience might be distracted if a cast member from American Graffiti (Ford had a small part) suddenly turned up in his next movie.

Harrison Ford, was unemployed at the time and had returned to his original job, as a carpenter. Would you believe one of his carpentry jobs just happened to be at the American Zoetrope offices where Lucas was casting for Star Wars. Ford was installing a new door. Lucas saw Ford working and decided he would, after all, invite him to cast for the role of Han Solo and Ford got the gig. It just goes to show everything happens for a reason. Imagine how different it all might have been had Lucas gone with his other choice, Christopher Walken instead of Harrison Ford? Would Star Wars still be the box office blockbuster with a very different Han Solo? I doubt it.

My new book 'Cover Up" will be published and available for sale from the 1st of October 2014. Please go to my author's page https://www.amazon.com/author/damiencomerford for more details.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Damien_J_Comerford

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/8735624


Buy tv online at amazon

Dolphin Tale 2

In these days of wars on three fronts, headlines of missiles raining down on Syria, ninety minutes of a story based upon a dedicated group of people with the single, pure and loving goal of rescue, rehabilitate and release of Dolphins and other marine animals was just what we needed yesterday.

Dolphin Tale 2 is the sequel to a movie telling the true story of a group of people in Clearwater Florida who rescued a dolphin they named Winter pictured here with the prosthetic device devised to function for the amputated lower part of her body and her tail. The acclaim of the public to the original story was overwhelming-particularly for those many veterans and children who are amputees.

The sight of this dolphin with her prosthetic tail - an animal who would be prey were she to left on her own in the ocean- brought such astonishing international attention and financial support to the small group of people that they were able to form an institution: Clearwater Marine Aquarium.

This sequel narrates another crisis for Winter when her Dolphin friend dies apparently from old age. The crisis is real: Dolphins are social to the point where another Dolphin presence is as essential as food the lives and well-being of these remarkable creatures. The story of the dilemma between the need for a Dolphin partner for Winter and the institutional mission of returning healthy Dolphins to the wild is told simply and powerfully.

The young actor and actress who play the roles of the real young people at the Aquarium are believable in their sincerity and passion for these stunning mysterious creatures who can seem so cerebral, so filled with light, these bottle-nosed Dolphins. And the cameo appearances of Morgan Freeman, and Kris Krisstoferson are added bonuses. If you do decide to see the movie, do stay long enough to see the actual filming of the rescues and of the footage of disabled children and adults who make the visit to communicate with this sympathetic being called Winter.

Lin Wilder, DrPH is a former Hospital Director. She now writes full-time.

Her web site is http://www.linwilder.com. Lin suggests that you check her recently published novel at Amazon http://www.amazon.com/The-Fragrance-Shed-Violet-Wilder/dp/1630632619

Contact Lin at lin@linwilder.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Dr._Lin_Wilder

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/8735840


Buy tv online at amazon

LOVE IS STRANGE - A New Film Report

How woeful it is when a film that is striving to show a new tolerance in civil society ratchets downwards into a feeble film where few triumph. Let me tell you about it and how I found it: Two gay partners- having lived with each other for thirty-nine years-- decide to wed-- thanks to new law permitting it-- and look ahead to the remainder of their lives in romantic matrimony. (Why a guy seventy-one and a guy ten years his junior do this... bless them!) But soon after the day's event becomes public, the Catholic Archdiocese --for whom the younger man works as music teacher-- sends down word to the head priest of the church-- where he's taught for years-- that he is now "fired".

He is George, who's played by Alfred Molina; and even though everyone there knows he and Ben (played by John Lithgow) have been cohabiting many years, the fact that they were now wed made George guilty of disobeying a church contract he once signed--which had to do with Church Doctrine-- permitting only a marriage between man and woman.

So here comes the problem: George no longer earns the money to make ends meet. Ben is retired-- on a pension. He's an artist, but is not bringing in any fresh income from his painting sales. They can't afford to keep the apartment they own, and with none that's available-- from the high of their new marriage they drop down to the low of their splitting up and living separately with family or friends.

This could have been a mighty chance to grow their characters, but instead it's a soap opera drama of their living with people who are not at all interested in creating something worthwhile. I see no reason to praise a movie that shows me only the weakest sequence of interactions with folks who are not at all in sync with the others' life style. For instance, George lives with two gay cops who have all forms of parties that George cannot relate to in the least. And while he is chatting with a detached young gay fellow and is asked why he's there, George says, "We're sitting on my couch"-I.e. ('I'm waiting for folks to leave so I can lie down on my bed and get a night's rest.') It does happen that this young man reveals the key for George and Ben to once again live together... but another twist must keep that from happening.

Ben, on the side of family assistance, is able to stay with his nephew Elliot (who's played by Darren Burrows); wife Kate (played by Marisa Tomei) and nephew Joey (Played by Charlie Tahan). Here dwells one stressed combination of folks-- hardly helpful with a houseguest: the wife's an author who is trying to write-while Ben wants to talk; and the husband is a film producer who's hardly ever home; and Joey is Ben's great nephew, who sprouts angry wings of self-determination and disdains his uncle's presence. Yet one redeeming chat between Joey and Ben sticks in my mind-- as a touching initiation towards Joey claiming manhood; and in the end... brings Joey to a scene that is as fine as any in the film. Not to give too much away: a question comes from Ben, who's bunking on the lower berth of the bed-- looking up towards Joey who is on top (trying to get some sleep): "Have you ever fallen in love?" After hemming a bit, Joey tells Ben of a girl he saw on vacation, whom he was afraid to meet, yet who lives in New York. Ben says, "Well you should get in touch." As far as I could see, that was the farthest stretch this movie made towards something grand. Everything else kept things beneath radar's love beam.

What about love's gay radar beam? What is this thing about gay couples' marrying? Is this something we need to know? I'm all for gay people loving and sharing their lives together. As an abstract concept it's beautiful. It's no different from straights--loving with each other out there. Surely the world is more beautiful with any form of love from human beings. But do I need to see two gays getting out of bed or cuddling--getting in bed, particularly two older guys with whom I have to witness intimacy? Show me love with fine words and deeply felt thoughts and gracious gestures showing folks care. But do not call it love when two guys are kissing-- or sharing spoons in their kitchen.

A producer needs to lift his talents skywards before he plans a film like this. If he is serious about showing us LOVE, then delve deeper than the showy spectacle of "handzies" that does nothing for me. The producer of LOVE IS STRANGE was Ira Sachs; and he does seek to give us the slow moving scenes, which can play well as something profound is being brought to the screen. But when those slow moving scenes are just a way to convey impatience or anger, why not just come out and speak it?

The writers were Maurice Zacharias as well as Ira Sachs. Surely a film like this is a daunting venture to undertake. I mean, they are dealing with a public that not so long ago would have balked here. Much has advanced proudly of late with gay celebrations and vows, but this film tends to disparage the whole concept by bringing in the way real estate in New York presents a coarse challenge to Ben and George who find themselves wed; one becomes jobless, suffers income loss;and both are homeless for too long to solidify their love. Love wasn't the only thing that felt strange in this movie. I would love to sing its praise, but I can't. It gets a SIX

What My Grade Grants:

8.) "About as good as it could get."

7.) "Lacking that bit of excellence."

6.) "Somehow it just didn't work well."

5.) "I have to feel bad about it."

4.) "All that work and nothing to show."

Creator of "The Wizard's Outrageous Scheme For Stopping Smoking" Humbler Acts reports one film every week as relaxation from his speaking and writing on stopping smoking through dream use and Seven Forces. He's American, English-educated, residing in St. Louis, MO (USA). He can be reached: humbleracts@aol.com or telephone: 314-574-7681.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Humbler_Acts

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/8738624


Buy tv online at amazon