The Film Thing

HEREAFTER - One Sheet

2010-09-28T09:10:00.000-04:00

I pretty much love anything Clint Eastwood turns his attention too. Naturally I'm excited to see this. I have only one question about this poster. Why is everything so blue in the hereafter? Can I wear corrective glasses to warm up the tones a bit?

UNSTOPPABLE - One Sheet

2010-09-20T09:07:00.000-04:00

I bet you that Denzel and Chris figure out a way to stop that train.

LOVE & OTHER DRUGS - One Sheet

2010-09-15T09:06:00.002-04:00

Beautiful people lounging around in bed only means one thing.... if you play your cards right you can sleep with one of them. Seeing this movie is the first step!

THE NEX THREE DAYS - One Sheet

2010-09-01T09:02:00.001-04:00

I think the Russell Crowe train is pulling into the station He'll bust out another Oscar performance in a few years, and suddenly we'll remember that he used to be a pretty powerful actor. I'll admit that THE NEXT THREE DAYS looks dumb... but also a lot of fun. The poster, here, is pretty good.

LITTLE FOCKERS - One Sheet

2010-08-25T08:57:00.000-04:00

Alright then. Not much to say about this overly obvious sequel.

SKYLINE - Trailer

2010-08-22T11:30:00.002-04:00

I'm a sucker for alien invasion themed movies, but this..... no. Just, no.

BLACK SWAN - Trailer

2010-08-21T11:15:00.005-04:00

I suppose there is a lot to be intrigued about here. Maybe it is my Midwestern upbringing but I find most of this trailer to be overblown claptrap. Equal parts ALL ABOUT EVE, THE RED SHOES, and SINGLE WHITE FEMALE only give this trailer and the film by extension the look and feeling of pastiche. For as 'cinematic' as Mr. Aronofsky is as a director, I find his grander expressions of filmmaking to be facile and leaden.

DUE DATE - One Sheet

2010-08-20T11:00:00.000-04:00

I know they are painfully hipster at this point, but I want a French Bulldog!

BLACK SWAN - One Sheet

2010-08-19T10:00:00.003-04:00

Woah!? Creepy. I know it always comes back to what I don't like about these posters but those 'Festival' tags make it look like she has an angel and a devil on her shoulder. Putting those on any poster dooms it too great reviews and terrible box office. Enter the lesbian sex scene. The widely reported rumor of an extreme lesbian sex scene is probably over blown. Even in this day and age I have to believe 'extreme' lesbian anything is code for two black silhouettes dry humping each other.

THE NEXT THREE DAYS - Trailer

2010-08-18T09:57:00.000-04:00

Mr Crowe has always been a forceful actor. If he has done anything in the last ten years it is to perfect... almost to parody... the just under the surface rage that many of his characters struggle to control. I know others dislike his brand of acting, but for me he has been a consistently reliable actor. Now ROBIN HOOD was such a flaccid turd... there is the parody part... that I almost feel that THE NEXT THREE DAYS needs to be a come back film for him. Working in the movies favor is the Director Haggis who even if you hate his message is a fine director. The funny and lovely Elizabeth Bank and of course Liam Neeson doing a version of his TAKEN and A-TEAM characters. I don't mind saying this looks pretty enjoyable.

FASTER - Trailer

2010-07-23T10:23:00.000-04:00

The Rock is a smart dude. He built a solid career on B-Movie action roles, before making a comfortable living doing kids movies. Now you may think they are terrible... and most of them are... but the thing about Mr. Johnson is that he could have a really good career in comedy. Not just because of his eyebrow arches, but primarily because the guy has a sense of humor about himself. He seems comfortable in his own skin, and that is why he is a pretty good actor.

IT'S KIND OF A FUNNY STORY - Trailer

2010-07-23T10:00:00.002-04:00

The minute you try andto market to the neuroses of the teenage mind.... you have lost them.

DUE DATE - Trailer

2010-07-21T17:22:00.002-04:00

Hmmmm...... I find this trailer to be a bit of a thinker. I have never found the 'cinema' of Todd Philips to be all that compelling. THE HANGOVER so outclasses everything he has done that I almost have to discount his involvement. Zach Galifanakis is an interesting comic, but I found his performance in THE HANGOVER to be the most obvious. Not surprisingly he was the breakout star in a movie I have no trouble admitting too liking a great deal. Secondarily.... and probably most importantly I liked this movie when it was called PLANES, TRAINS, and AUTOMOBILES. Still it looks like the film will deliver enough laughs for its 100 minute running time to not be a complete waste time.

THE TOWN - Trailer

2010-07-19T17:08:00.001-04:00

Ben Affleck is a smart dude. His first film GONE, BABY, GONE was a solid enough thriller that some people saw fit to call it one of the better films of that year. He was also smart enough to stay behind the camera. Although Mr. Jennifer Garner is the writer, director and star of THE TOWN, he is certainly smart enough to push Jon Hamm to the fore. It definitely feels like he is coming out of the 'Hollywood' forest with his sense of self intact. At some point Matt Damon got some fantastic career advice, and it looks like Mr. Affleck finally got something similar. Stay smart and stay classy. People will always respond to that. Of course I can't let it pass that the Boston Irish Boy-O "I know where you come from!' machismo verges on laughable. Don't care if it is authentic, it is just silly.

The Social Network - Trailer

2010-07-17T17:08:00.000-04:00

I'm not sure I want to spend two and half hours with a movie that might as well be called 'WHEN JERKS BECOME DOUCHES.' I don't require a sympathetic character in order to enjoy a movie but it sure helps. I'll just have to remember that (...speaking of 'reported' jerks...) Sorkin and Fincher are the real reason to see THE SOCIAL NETWORK. And having watched this specific trailer a half a dozen times now, the initial brilliance of Radiohead's 'Creep' wears out its welcome with the over the top choir interpretation. But, make no mistake I am super excited to see this film.

THE OTHER GUYS - One Sheet

2010-07-12T08:45:00.002-04:00

Amateur hour for this second version of the THE OTHER GUYS poster. First and foremost for this poster by committee is the odd placement of Eva Mendes. The rest is just a crush of desperation. The tag is lame; 'When the top cops are busy are only hope is the Other Guys.' An absolute flat turd. Clearly this title is born out of smoking too much weed. It has the feel of an inside joke for Ferrell, et.al. that just does not translate.

LET ME IN - Trailer

2010-07-11T13:45:00.000-04:00

The gigantic success of LET THE RIGHT ONE IN mandated that an American remake would come to pass. I did not happened to be one of the many who exclaimed that film to be a masterpiece. It was merely a very good film, that does what so few films do these days.... entertain. Elevating the film to a higher pedestal than that does it a disservice.

What is to be praised about the trailer, besides Elias Koteas, is the films seeming ability to capture the moody loneliness of its predecessor. I am, surprisingly, mollified that Matt Reeves is the director here. CLOVERFIELD has its faults but, it was confident filmmaking that more often than not did not sacrifice flash for story. While retaining the plot out of necessity I do wish they had gone a different direction with the production design of the American version. Stuck in another snowbound city, leaves wondering what new territory will be covered that the original did not?

FLIPPED - Trailer

2010-07-10T09:45:00.004-04:00

Rob Reiner. What can you say? The guy was solid gold until 1995. Except NORTH, everything he did was fantastic. So what happened? A shame because he should be turning out adult themed, classy dramas and comedies every few years instead of whatever FLIPPED is.

MIDDLE MEN - Trailer

2010-07-09T13:45:00.000-04:00

The trailer for MIDDLE MEN gives it a BOOGIE NIGHTS 2.0 feel. I generally prefer Luke to his busted face, ticky, brother Owen (.... too soon? Sorry the dude stared in MARMADUKE!) Unfortunately, from this trailer, it is obvious from the word go that MIDDLE MEN will not have the balls to pull of a half of what P.T. Anderson did. Not enough gravitas to pull off the drama or comic chops to pull off the satire. It also reminds me of the cocaine drama BLOW from about a decade ago, so if Ted Demme was alive I imagine a similar outcome for MIDDLE MEN.

THE OTHER GUYS - Trailer

2010-07-07T09:45:00.001-04:00

I have a strange problem with Will Ferrell. Not since that Ricky Bobby film have I found him even remotely funny in the theater. Labored, painful 'comedy' that, while I'm sure they busted a gut while making, is flaccid humor born out of actors drunk on their own hubris.

Then I watch something like SEMI-PRO on cable and proceed to laugh and giggle through all 18 viewings over the course of 3 days. Maybe SNL has me pre-programmed somehow? Maybe this is the really genius of Lorne Michaels?

THE SOCIAL NETWORK - Trailer

2010-07-06T09:45:00.000-04:00

I'm a David Fincher apologist, so even the stuff that did not quite work... PANIC ROOM... I am always intrigued. Even with this well done teaser I still feel that this Facebook project is far, far, too soon. What sense of perspective can be had while the 'revolution' is still going on? Maybe I just wish this was a Frontline Doc for PBS like TRIUMPH OF THE NERDS?

LITTLE FOCKERS - Trailer

2010-07-04T09:45:00.009-04:00

I should say that these films are a tiresome bore, but I always end up laughing whenever I catch pieces on TV. Stiller and DeNiro work as a comedic team, as preposterous as that sounds. Plus, without these movies has Robert DeNiro done anything in the last decade that approaches his 70's and 80's output? No. He. Has. Not. Ok, maybe his role as Capt. Shakespeare in the already forgotten STARDUST has some moment, otherwise.... nada.

I just can't help thinking that this would be the type of product that would have made for an excellent TV movie in the 1980's. Wilford Brimley in the DeNiro role and John Ritter in the Stiller role. Classic! Somehow these hi-jinks have been elevated to what amounts to the best example of cinematic comedy of the 21st century.

RED - Trailer

2010-07-03T14:15:00.000-04:00

I'll reserve judgment on this one until I know a bit more about it, but two things. Helen Mirren running around with a gun is pretty hot! And can someone control Johnny Malko? Is anyone interested in directing this guy instead of allowing him to chew the scenery like a jackass.

THE GREEN HORNET - Trailer

2010-07-02T08:45:00.001-04:00

I don't want to be that guy. The guy that hates everything; can't turn off their brain to enjoy a movie for the entertainment value. Maybe 13 year old me would love the hell out of this. The 38 year old me only sees the cold calculation of it all. Perhaps Michael Gondry's association will improve its prospects. As it stand now this THE GREEN HORNET looks to be LOUD and DUMB!

TRON LEGACY - One Sheet

2010-07-01T08:30:00.002-04:00

Everyone remember that the original TRON film was a stinker, right? My memory of TRON is that it is the original effects over storytelling movie. Yeah, it looked cool, but the story was idiotic. I find all of this mania surrounding it baffling. I think this movie will experience the same arc as SNAKES ON A PLANE. Hyperbole followed by empty theaters and middling box office.

SALT - One Sheet

2010-06-30T09:00:00.002-04:00

What does Pepper have to do to get some respect up here in this piece? I can only imagine that the Pepper lobby is underfunded and understaffed. Salt has the all the worlds oceans backing it. What does Pepper have? Marco Polo enthusiasts?

I AM LOVE - Trailer

2010-06-29T22:45:00.001-04:00

Ever seen a film called IL GATTOPARDO? There is nothing about this trailer I don't love. H-O-T!

NANNY McPHEE RETURNS - Trailer

2010-06-27T16:45:00.001-04:00

Alright! Who ever asked Ms. McPhee to return is gonna get their butt kicked... by this guy... and soon!

GET LOW - Trailer

2010-06-26T21:15:00.011-04:00

Other than the folksy soundtrack that accompanies the trailer... this is an amazing piece and has me really excited for this film. I smell an Oscar for Mr. Duvall... 'ya know the one he should have gotten for THE APOSTLE. This looks to be the lone piece of adult cinema this summer. Check it if you can....

THE SOCIAL NETWORK - One Sheet

2010-06-24T09:15:00.001-04:00

Visually striking yes. Jesse Eisenberg, not so much. Countering that is David Fincher directing and Aaron Sorkin writing, so this pretty much insures my attendance. The 'facebook' runner along the right edge doesn't work, and basically screams that the marketing department has no respect for the audience to understand and/or interpret what the rest of the image is pointing us toward. Plus, dude shut your mouth.... frat boy mouth breather.

THE CHRONICLES OF NARNIA: THE VOYAGE OF THE DAWN TRADER - Trailer

2010-06-23T16:30:00.002-04:00

The third NARNIA film moves over to Fox after Disney abandoned the series. The previous two films made gobs of money, but if I had to guess the vast majority would be in foreign recipients. Neither of the previous two films did much for me and the blame really must be laid at the feet of the atrociously bland cast. On story alone the Narnia films should wipe the floor against the nonsense of Harry Potter. The cast does nothing to invite you into their world and that digital Lion is just about the worst CGI effect in the last 20 years.

THE AMERICAN - One Sheet

2010-06-22T16:15:00.001-04:00

This is really great. Clean understated. Arty without being obnoxious or coy. Hearkens back to Clooney's OUT OF SIGHT, and that was a gem. More than anything the film feels European, and surprisingly given the theme of the film this is not a bad thing.

KNIGHT AND DAY - Trailer

2010-06-18T16:45:00.004-04:00

I can't believe for the life of me that I am even for a moment charmed by this trailer.... but somehow I am. Tom Cruise maybe a crazy person, but he is always super smart about his career. More or less absent for the last four years, KNIGHT AND DAY seems like a really smart play. Little a bit of action, little bit of romance... and who knew... a little bit comedy make KNIGHT AND DAY look pretty appealing in the dreck that is Summer 2010. Cameron Diaz is whatever in a role that could be played by a tube of toothpaste. Possibly the first Tom Cruise film I have wanted to see since COLLATERAL!?

SOMEWHERE - Trailer

2010-06-18T10:15:00.001-04:00

I love the band, but too much Phoenix. I know many people who really dislike her brand of cinema. I don't happen to be one of them. The recurrent theme in all her movies is loneliness, and I think she captures that heartbreaking state rather well. In a super bleak year for 'cinema' this one is right at the top of the list.

SOMEWHERE - One Sheet

2010-06-16T12:45:00.000-04:00

Stephen Dorff is one of those actors that's got something, but just has not been able to put it to use. Mr. Dorff and Skeet Ulrich have essentially lived the shadow of Johnny Depp for the last 20 years. And it is shame, because I think the guy has a lot of chrisma. He was out luck once the youth of America became more interested in designer jeans and Starbucks then leading a Generation X, Y, or Z revolution. You know who is most to blame for the conservatism right now. Bill Clinton. Because good old Bill made it ok for Liberals to be ethically and morally bankrupt like thier Conservative brothers did in the late 60's and early 70's.

Anyway, I've liked everything Ms. Coppola has done, even MARIE ANTOINETTE. That movie can only be considered a bomb. I don't think it will rise to the heights of BARRY LYNDON eventually did, but 10-15 years from now I feel that film will garner a lot more respect.

NOTRE JOUR VIENDRA - Trailer

2010-06-14T13:15:00.006-04:00

The cryptic poster is followed by a cryptic trailer. At least know I have a sense of what is possibly might happen in the the film. The title, in English, means Our Day Will Come. That seem suitably enigmatic. I guess they are building intrigue? If so, I am on the hook.

SECRETARIAT - One Sheet

2010-06-12T17:00:00.001-04:00

Ok, I know. A horse racing movie. Who can possibly care? I maintain that one of the most incredible acts in sporting history is Secretariat winning the Belmont to complete his Triple Crown. He won by 31 lengths. An astounding margin. He finished the race in 2 minutes 24 seconds. Even if these numbers mean nothing to you, just remember they are records that stand today, unbroken, almost 40 years later. I'll weep through every schmaltzy moment of this manipulative Disney product.

NOTRE JOUR VIENDRA - One Sheet

2010-06-11T13:00:00.022-04:00

The American style of bathing the actor's faces in various shades of blue has been done to death. And I can't say this poster is entirely successful for coming up with something very similar. However, this is quite striking. Very immediate. The image is probably a bit too crypt. Not only do I have no idea what this film is about... I actually have no idea what this movie is about. In fact, what I like most about this poster is the clean, clear lines of the credit block. Overall, my fantastic initial response is quickly replaced by too many questions that I am not sure I will try to answer. Of course, I'm American. The poster is designed for the French where almost purely based on Mr. Cassel's involvement with the film will entice audiences to come to theaters.

WHITE MATERIAL - One Sheet

2010-06-10T12:45:00.001-04:00

Claire Denis, I maintain, is one of those directors that snobbish film lovers point to as one of the greatest working filmmakers today. I say snobbish film lovers because the admittedly little I have seen of her work is at turns turgid or boring. Film snobs would point out to any one who can hear their high pitched whine that 'you just don't get it.' Meaning I'm smart and you're dumb.' And maybe they are right. The glory of Ms. Denis' work is the subtly of her subtext..... so subtle in fact that you can barely see anything at all. Her previous work 35 SHOTS OF RUM garnered a lot of attention, even more so than usual, in snobbish circles. So what has me intrigued by this film. There can be only one reason..... and it Christopher Lambert!

GULLIVER'S TRAVELS - One Sheet

2010-06-09T10:15:00.002-04:00

I thought we were done with Mr. Black? Here is a funny guy who got some seriously poor career guidance. About the only thing that really worked for him was KUNG FU PANADA. KING KONG is Snoresville. YEAR ONE is... not.... good. NACHO LIBRE has its moments, but is a failure. THE HOLIDAY! Ok, I forgot about SCHOOL OF ROCK. So two things he was good in. He just misses the mark to often to be reliable. Plus are they trying to make a SEX AND THE CITY reference with the tag? It is confusing no matter what.

CYRUS - Trailer

2010-06-07T10:00:00.005-04:00

Maybe it is just John C. Reilly, but this has the feel of a STEP BROTHERS sequel. What a terrible waste of time that movie was and continues to be. I'll admit that CYRUS looks a bit better than that turd, but the trailer's taste for the easy laugh.... Oh look he is going into the bathroom where his mother is showering.... is a bit strained.

UNCLE BOONMEE WHO CAN RECALL HIS PAST LIVES - Trailer

2010-06-06T09:45:00.009-04:00

Indescribably beautiful or WTF? I've seen only one of this filmmakers previous efforts, BLISSFULLY YOURS. I really liked that film's gentle patient qualities. UNCLE BOONMEE would appear to have many of the same stylistic touches. I know some find his film's to be like watching paint dry, and I aggree only the paint that is drying is the most awesome color you have ever seen. UNCLE BOONMEE won the Palme D'Or at this years Cannes Film Festival. I don't think the film hasa US distributor yet, but when it appears on VOD or Netflix at least give the film a chance. Your soul will probably thank you.

THE KILLER INSIDE ME - One Sheet

2010-06-03T10:45:00.001-04:00

This works. Maybe a touch too much David Lynch, but the airy wispy, mysteriousness of the images does a lot to dispel the what in truth is a horrible violent movie. I don't mean to use the word 'horrible' pejoratively here, but all reports are this is a brutal film. It captures, with out right stealing from, the pulp novel covers that is the film's origin. One downside is the oversized credit block. One sheets for foreign co-productions suffer this fate.

JOAN RIVERS: A PIECE OF WORK - One Sheet

2010-06-02T17:00:00.003-04:00

Great poster! Just fantastic. However, back in the 90's they tried to convince me that Jackie Mason was funny too. Fool me once shame on me. Fool me twice....

THE KILLER INSIDE ME - Trailer

2010-05-30T09:15:00.007-04:00

All reports are this film is brutal in the literally and figurative way. This begs the questions whether a 'movie' can be literally or figurative at all?

I like Casey Affleck a lot, and he has proven to be a pretty dependable actor over the last 4-5 years. He was good in GONE, BABY, GONE, and flat-out brilliant in THE ASSASSINATION JESSE JAMES BY THE COWARD ROBERT FORD.

The main issue here will be the director, Michael Winterbottom. Mr. Witterbottom's prodigious output tends to work against his film's. He is usually on to the next one before the previous is even finished. Maybe it is just me but you can really feel it in the editing of his films. Definitely less than the sum of their parts. His films leave me praising the elements, but not liking the final result. Still, I like too much of his output to write him or the film off at this stage. I tend to overlook quality when their is so much, intriguing if flawed, quantity.

THE ADJUSTMENT BUREAU - Trailer

2010-05-28T09:15:00.004-04:00

Good looking cast. Damon, Blunt, Stamp, and Slattery. They usually bring the goods to whatever they are in. The story looks suitably dark, but the trailer presents the story with only one option. The film needs to end badly. If they try to suck out an upbeat ending then what is the point of the whole exercise. And by the way.... having both Damon and Blunt dead at the end of the film so their love is eternally joined in the after life.... is still an upbeat ending. Preferable ending. Damon becomes an alcoholic Senator with a taste for the young stuff. And Blunt, crippled in an Auto accident, turns into a tyrannical dance instructor who crushes the souls of all her students

BIUTIFUL - One Sheet

2010-05-27T16:00:00.000-04:00

Striking image to be sure, but I'm left wondering if I want to see what causes Mr. Bardem look so destructive. There is a bit too much challenge in the poster. It seems to be daring us to watch the film, but not in a good way. Perhaps my impression is colored by director Inarritu's previous output, BABEL, 21 GRAMS, and AMEROS PERROS are not exactly high on the giggle meter. Mr. Bardem is one of our best actors right now, so one imagines this will be difficult to pass up when it rolls around during the holidays.

CERTIFED COPY - Trailer

2010-05-24T08:30:00.001-04:00

Abbas Kiarostami is an Iranian filmmaker, perhaps the most famous Iranian filmmaker living or dead. In the late 80's and early 90's he made three films that have been called the Koker Trilogy. WHERE IS THE FRIEND'S HOUSE, AND LIFE GOES ON, and THROUGH THE OLVIE TREES. All three of the films are simple tales of village life in Northern Iran. Really wonderful stuff. Mr. Kiarostami became a film festival star in the late 90's and early '00 as he turned out increasingly didactic works, ABC AFRICA, and TEN. These films are intriguing, but there is also a slightly patronizing tone to them as well. It felt as if Mr. Kiarostami went from making movies to making 'Cinema.'

This trailer counteracts all of that. Light, but not frivolous. Once again I wish America studios had the guts to put together a trailer like this. This trailer tells you everything you want to know about the film with out actually ramming it down your throat. Seriously does anyone even need to see LETTERS TO JULIET? How is it that encapsulating the entire story and the emotional arc of the characters into a two and half minute trailer is not seen as problem for the larger film. But I digress...... savor the possibilities, instead of the certainties, that this trailer offers.

INCEPTION - One Sheet

2010-05-23T11:00:00.000-04:00

Glad to see M.C. Esher is still getting work.

THE CHRONICLES OF NARNIA: THE DAWN TRADER - One Sheet

2010-05-15T10:15:00.019-04:00

Return to Magic. Return to Hope. Return to a boring and lazy marketing campaign that does nothing to entice its audience into seeing this movies. I get it. The Lion is the iconic image of the Narnia series, but there has to be a way to use it without being so.... on the nose. Just pedestrian dull. Don't tell me about 'Magic' and 'Hope'. Show me! Get rid of the terrible text and horrid font. Stop trying to sell us on 3D. And get rid of that mouse. The Ship in the eye of the Lion just seems tacked on. The whole things lack grace and subtlety.

LOVE RANCH - One Sheet

2010-05-14T10:30:00.000-04:00

The return of Joe Pesci. He had a cameo in DeNiro's underrated THE GOOD SHEPARD a few years ago, but before that LETHAL WEAPON 4 in 1998. My memory is that a crew member's death on GONE FISHIN' hit him quite hard, and that led to him giving up acting. But that could just be a crazy bit of fiction.

I can't decide if this poster is great or just good. I like the collage effect, but don't think it goes far enough. Helen Mirren look awesome here. The random boxer is a nice touch. It certainly does what a poster should do.... intrigue me to see this film.

THE AMERICAN - Trailer

2010-05-13T08:30:00.000-04:00

At this point George Clooney can do about anything and I will make an effort to see it. THE MEN WHO STARE AT GOATS may have been a flat-out failure, but in amongst the dreck were some admirable elements, namely Mr. Clooney's performance. It also helps that he is an actor who is making movies for an Adult audience.

One of the only worth while music bio-pics of the last 5 years was CONTROL by Anton Corbijn. He directs what looks to be his LE SAMOURAI. That film had tons of style and was so cool that as a film it didn't seem to care if people watched it our not. That is how cool that film was! It also makes for a kind of a snoozefest. So much emotional detachment from everyone involved that you wonder why you should care as well. Still my love of Mr. Clooney is pretty blinding so I'm sure I can over look whatever faults I'll find here.

JONAH HEX - Trailer

2010-05-10T09:00:00.002-04:00

Funny, I was really prepared to hate this film. Well, maybe hate is too strong a word. Uninterested is more apt here. Comic book movies ran out of steam for me about a decade ago. This trailer, and this film may prove otherwise. It looks equal parts THE OUTLAW JOSEY WALES, DJANGO, and WILD WILD WEST. Unfortunately, that is the WILD, WILD, WEST staring Will Smith. That movie was.... not good. But the DJANGO and JOSEY WALES stuff give me some kind of hope. Plus Johnny Malko is usually given free reign when he plays a villain, so he is likely to chew a ton of scenery in this movie. In a summer that is a barren wasteland of filmic delights JONAH HEX may prove to be diverting.

THE EXPENDABLES - Trailer

2010-05-06T09:00:00.008-04:00

I know everyone is getting their undies in a bunch because Stallone, Willis, and Arnie are all in the same room at some point during this movie. However, even as someone who guzzled down their late 80's early 90's movies like they were Mountain Dew, I find this actual fact to rise only to the point of stunt casting. Hard for me to get excited about something that should have happened 15 years ago. Even so the cast is too much fun to pass up. Too bad this bit of throwback filmmaking did not include an 80's stalwart director like Richard Donner. I'll see it... every humorless moment of its running time.

RESIDENT EVIL 4: AFTERLIFE - Trailer

2010-05-01T09:00:00.002-04:00

I'm gobsmacked. There are four of these movies. FOUR! I'll admit that the post-apocalyptic Las Vegas in the last film looked kind of neat, but Jesus, Mary, and Joseph. Four movies. FOUR! Unbelievable!

EAT, PRY, LOVE - One Sheet

2010-04-29T10:00:00.003-04:00

Okay. I'm not a fan of Julia Roberts. Her brand of smugness, which she calls acting, has really turned me off over the last decade or so.

However, this poster is.... well.... wonderful. Perhaps a bit cloying, but still delightful. Ms. Roberts displays an 'every woman' quality that made here a star in the first place. The tag of 'Let yourself GO' is a bit much but why quibble. More one-sheets should be this enticing.

ROBIN HOOD - One Sheet

2010-04-20T15:00:00.005-04:00

When did intensity become confused with 'I'm a humorless actor with anger management issues'? Who knows, but this poster describes it to a tee.

SALT - One Sheet

2010-04-05T08:30:00.001-04:00

This poster is the very definition of Ennui.

AFTER.LIFE - Trailer

2010-03-30T09:00:00.000-04:00

Was this movie released in the United States of America? Is it possible that this 'movie' exists only in trailer form?

PRICNE OF.... ehhh... Who Really Caresia - Trailer

2010-03-07T20:55:00.002-05:00

Ugh. Jake G is not doing himself any favors here. I think what I really dislike about this trailer is how calculated it is. Disney is not even hiding their contempt for the audience. Sadly you, and many like you, will lap this junk up and ask for a second dose. You only have yourself to blame for this.

THE GOOD, THE BAD, THE WEIRD - Trailer

2010-03-05T20:36:00.001-05:00

Over the last decade or so, Korean Cinema has come to the fore in a way that North American audiences have not seen since the influx of European Cinema of the 60's.

THE GOOD, THE BAD, THE WEIRD is like much of Korean cinema that has come along recently, wonderfully stylish. They, unlike their contemporary American brethren, seem to be able to combine their 'cinema' with good old fashioned movie making. Their is also a certain amount of restraint that Korean Cinema benefits from, because if this were a Japanese film there would be a useless cameo by Quentin Tarantino.

THE SECRET OF KELLS - Trailer

2010-03-02T08:43:00.000-05:00

Here is the US trailer for the mystery entry for the Best Animated Film Oscar. It is an Irish film. And unlike most of the trailers posted here I have actually seen this movie. As you can tell from the trailer the artwork is quite striking. But the trailer is heavy on the action scenes, and dialogues sequences in the movie render artwork flat and t.v. looking. Still well worth it though if for the art only.

The story is only compelling in fits and starts. The message contains a strong religious message that is not heavy handed, but the subtleties are lost on someone who lacks that kind of spiritual background. It is also decidedly for kids There is nothing wrong with that, but just don't be conned into the hokum that there is something here for the whole family.

KICK ASS - Trailer

2010-03-01T10:38:00.002-05:00

Teaser trailer for KICK ASS. I remember when the comic book came out. It was caused a bit of ruckus in the comic book world. I was in the midst of a rather depressing resurgent interest in comics at this time. I have since cast of the comics once again, unfortunately the depression has kind of stuck around. But worry not for this poor soul.

The trailer has promise. The film has a decent director, Matthew Vaughn. The trailer ask an intriguing question. Certainly the trailer understands its purpose. Invite the movie goer to learn more instead of pandering to lowest common denominators.

THE BACKUP PLAN - Trailer

2010-02-26T10:49:00.001-05:00

So this explains why J-Lo is hosting SNL this week. Is Betty White really so busy that she can't host SNL this week? Or anybody else for that matter....

BROOKLYN'S FINEST - Trailer

2010-02-22T21:55:00.001-05:00

Did this play at Sundance 2009? I think it did. A big cast. Tons of great names, but why the year long hold. Oh that's right American's doing New Yawk accents sound idiotic.

Maybe I'm a bit to rough on the film. To judge the trailer it looks like a pretty big film. Epic in scope, and these days I applaud that. Too many films are about achieving as little as possible... I'm looking at you Mumblecore films.

The one lingering question the trailer leaves you with... I thought Wesley Snipes was in prison for tax evasion?

SHE'S OUT OF MY LEAGUE - Trailer

2010-02-19T21:47:00.002-05:00

Ok. I know. Terrible, right? Just ridiculous. But I want to see this. I am kind of struck by the charming relationship of the two leads. The Movie Gods (yes there is more than one) will judge me harshly, but everyone loves candy right?

LEAVES OF GRASS - Trailer

2010-02-17T09:15:00.003-05:00

I have a friend who looks a lot like Edward Norton. He plays it up pretty big on occasion. I want to say he has gone as FIGHT CLUB Edward Norton to more than a couple Halloween parties. I give him a pass because he really does look a lot like Edward Norton.

This trailer looks amusing. Lacking in pretension and silly. Too things not normally associated with Edward Norton. His acting over the last handful of years has been insufferable and humorless. Nice little cast rounds out the proceedings. Keri Russell, Tim Blake Nelson, Susan Sarandon. There are some nice pull quotes from Roger Ebert. Say what you will about Mr. Ebert, but he has a great eye for good movies. One that I rarely disagree with.

I should think most of us will catch this on video. The trailer and the terrible April release date have the whiff of a distribution company that does not have a clue.

GET HIM TO THE GREEK - Trailer

2010-02-13T09:18:00.001-05:00

P. Diddy is this movie. Now before everyone rolls their collective third eye, he has was flat out brillant in MADE from a few years ago. And lets face it the trailer has little else going for it.

The movie reeks of a SNL Movie. The barest hint of an idea that has somehow been expanded into a feature film... all be it an 85 minute feature film. This is another example of how bankrupt studios are for ideas. Now I enjoyed FORGETTING SARAH MARSHALL, it had its charms. Funny when it needed to be, but can't say as I wanted to see the further adventures of Aldous Snow. It is also very unclear from the trailer if Jonah Hill is playing his SARAH MARSHALL character or if this is a brand new character which just makes it confusing.

Somehow in two years this will show up on HBO Signature and I will watch it and be surprised by how funny the film is. Apparently future me has an addiction problem of some sort. I weep for my future self as I type this.......

DIARY OF A WIMPY KID - Trailer

2010-02-11T09:37:00.000-05:00

Tween boys of the world unite. I am definitely not in the appropriate demographic. Nor do I own a child who is is in the appropriate demographic. Judging the trailer... which should be no judge at all... but when did cynicism creep into a kid's movie? Kids in this type of movie are pretty exhausting anyway, but why is bitterness the new prerequisite?

THE RUNAWAYS - Trailer

2010-02-03T12:20:00.000-05:00

One of the bigger films out of Sundance 2010 is THE RUNAWAYS. Let me say first and foremost I love this trailer. Tons of kinetic energy. The trailer is short, makes its point and lives you on a high. I wish more trailers did that. The trailer intrigues the audience rather than spelling out every single moment of the film. I know where the film is going to go, but I don't feel as if the trailer has already hit the high points thus negating the need to see the film at all. I'm only slightly worried that Ms. Stewart and Ms. Fanning appear to be mostly stunt casting. However, the actual film will be the only judge of that, and I for one can't wait to check it out.

ROBIN HOOD (2010) - Trailer

2010-02-01T20:51:00.001-05:00

This trailer encapsulates what is wrong with American studio film making. What a turgid humorless piece of crap. I know this is just a trailer, but does this movie look rousing at all? It looks a like a filthy funeral march, a 2 1/2 hour filthy funeral march at that. Didn't we learn anything from Costner's ROBIN HOOD. Apparently not. It would be foolish to recreate the '38 ROBIN HOOD, but there must be a middle ground, right?

INCEPTION - Trailer

2010-01-25T21:24:00.004-05:00

Let me state right off the bat, I love movies. But if you have read these short introductions to these many trailer over the last year or so you may have another idea. Saying that....

I know a lot of people are excited for this film. And I am to, but my god the BS in this trailer is pretty thick. 'Your mind is the scene of the crime." Can anyone say that phrase with a straight face. Jeez! I am hoping for the best, but this trailer is not doing itself any favors.

HARRY BROWN - Trailer

2010-01-20T12:00:00.002-05:00

Thing 2 here. It seems that every 10 years or so Michael Caine likes to remind us what a fabulous actor he can be. The guy clearly loves to work, and I for one don't think an actor should turn down a role just because the film is bad. You can criticize the man's taste level all you like, but I think it unfair that the actor generally bares the brunt of the abuse when a film is a stinker.

HARRY BROWN has received some comparisons to GET CARTER, but I think that is a mistake. It is a lazy comparison to make. British crime films have come... or fallen... a long way since the early 70's and so has Mr. Caine. I would prefer to look to this film and the upcoming 44 INCH CHEST as a hopeful new beginning.

44 Inch Chest - Trailer

2010-01-20T11:51:00.002-05:00

From the people that brought you SEXY BEAST. I can't imagine that sentence means much to the vast majority of film going public. In fact if SEXY BEAST is remembered for anything now it is the film where Ben Kingsley acts like a lunatic; do his best to undo every second of his Gandhi role from 20 years previous.

Still it is difficult to not feel some excitement for this film. It is full of British character actors that general outclass everyone else in the films they appear in. Plus it has the added advantage of not being directed by Guy Ritchie. I'm thing 2.

HOT TUB TIME MACHINE - Trailer

2010-01-18T12:11:00.001-05:00

Hot Tube Time Machine. Now there is a collection of words one thinks they will never utter in close proximity to one another. My feeling is that the film will be too in love with its own premise to be anything other than mildly amusing. SNAKES ON A PLANE anyone? However, I am buoyed by the fact that Mr. Cusack has seemingly extracted himself from a recent series of sad sack roles that have only worked against him. I total understand wanting to break out of the 'John Cusack' role. I mean he is the American Hugh Grant, but MARTIAN CHILD was just painful.

THE BOUNTY HUNTER - Trailer

2010-01-09T13:34:00.000-05:00

I think what I find especially absurd about THE BOUNTY HUNTER is that we are meant to believe that Butler and Aniston are now a couple in real life. If there is anything to learn from this trailer it is that Gerald Butler train is about to come into the station. And it is kind of a shame because I like his energy as an actor. A serviceable replacement for Russell Crowe has only morphed into an obnoxious third class actor.

ALICE IN WONDERLAND - Trailer

2010-01-08T14:19:00.001-05:00

Hey there buddy. Feeling better now that you vomited all over the computer screen? Have some saltines and a seltzer water. Probably best you don't watch this trailer with your nervous stomach. Just take a nap, the horror of the whole thing will be over soon.

Tim Burton seems to gone out of his way to undo the goodwill he built up in mounting SWEENEY TODD from just a few years ago. It just seems like more forced whimsy jammed down our throats. And I get that ALICE IN WONDERLAND is a 'dark' story but why does it appear to me that the whole movie is set in a coal mine? This looks dreadful.

IRON MAN 2 - Trailer

2010-01-04T14:37:00.001-05:00

I liked IRON MAN. It was an enjoyable ride. Fun. Had a sense of humor, didn't take itself to seriously. It was a good summer movie. It was also pretty forgettable, and anyone who says different is just not being honest. In any case, a sequel was inevitable. I am left a bit speechless as to the growing anticipation for the second go around. Show me someone who has been waiting two years for this movie and I'll show you a severely depressed person.

That aside, it again looks like a lot of fun. Robert Downey Jr. is a smart actor. He gets it. This is not Shakespeare. Ham it up. Don't over do it. Laugh at yourself a little bit and people will love you for it. My simple request for the film is a little perspective. Enjoy it, just don't devote yourself to it.

Percy Jackson & The Olympians: The Lighting Thief - Trailer

2009-12-30T14:30:00.000-05:00

Percy what and the who gives a crap!? People listen to me. The end of Harry Potter is in sight. We just need to weather the storm a year or two more. All of this malarkey of adapting Young Adult novels for the screen will go away. We should all pry that soon kids will no longer pry for magical powers to defeat their bullies, obesity and/or lack of self esteem. None of these movies have any real sense of adventure or creativity, they are just market researching garbage. Thank you!

THE MESSENGER - Trailer

2009-12-21T20:22:00.000-05:00

Woody Harrelson is on the verge. He needs the right movie, the right role, and he will win an Oscar. This is not that film, but it is another in an increasing long line of films that proves he has the goods. Ben Foster is another guy who has something. People loved his malicious turn in 3:10 TO YUMA. I find him to be a bit mannered and constantly performing, but still an interesting guy. I applaud any film that takes on 'Iraq' and its many tentacles. Of course if THE HURT LOCKER proved anything the movie needs to be good first and 'about Iraq' a distant, distant second.

GREEN ZONE - Trailer

2009-12-05T21:32:00.000-05:00

Call this Bourne 4 as it now appears that film will not happen anytime soon. Plus, the added value now is Greg Kinnear in the bad guy role. Super excited for this movie, and after SHUTTER ISLAND is the one to look for in the first quarter.

Now I hear the multiple complaints that Greengrass's hand-held camera is too much to take. I think it fits the aesthetic of the current 'action' film. Show me an action film with a locked down camera that works and I will happily applaud it. Right now Greengrass/Damon are making the best action films in American cinema... period.

The bigger problem I forsee is that film has taken f-o-r-e-v-e-r to get to theaters. Mr. Greengrass is known for [re]making the film in the editing suite. I seem to recall that Matt Damon made this film before INVICTUS. This maybe a case of THE HURT LOCKER beating the GREEN ZONE to the punch.

A SINGLE MAN - Trailer

2009-11-21T20:07:00.001-05:00

Tom Ford, the director of A SINGLE MAN, is a fashion designer. Gucci, I believe among others. He is also a pretty good looking man. I have no doubt that A SINGLE MAN will be a beautiful looking film. But will there be any substance, beyond the flawless set and costume design? I'm in because it is Colin Firth in the lead role and so should you. Julianne Moore not so much. She has been drinking her own Kool-aid as of late.

AN EDUCATION - Trailer

2009-11-13T19:42:00.000-05:00

Every fall you get one of those movies that seemingly springs from nowhere. AN EDUCATION is one of those films that comes out of the Telluride or Toronto Film Festival to great acclaim. The film is written by Nick Hornby. As a novelist I have great admiration for writing. He writes about characters in transition a lot so I feel like he will have a sensitive eye for this subject matter. Don't know if I am all that fired up to see a female coming of age film set in the 60s, but I'll give it a go. The lead is Carrie Mulligan, and most of the early reviews point to her wonderful performance.

Daybreakers - Trailer

2009-10-31T08:59:00.001-04:00

In honor of October 31st, I thought the DAYBREAKERS trailer might be appropriate. It is a a movie I would label 'of interest.' Yes, I t looks kind of stupid, and maybe this is where the 'adult' vampire genre taps out. But I like the premise and Ethan Hawke and Willem Defoe are good working actors. It will be a interesting to see if the film will bring off its great concept of the vampire metaphor or it will descend into a ridiculous bullet/wooden stake riddled conclusion. I'm Thing 2.

Youth in Revolt - Trailer

2009-08-14T09:18:00.000-04:00

Thing 2 here. Here is a movie that has been on the shelf for at least a year. The Weinstein Group must be emptying the pantry before they finally go out of business. Boxoffice for INGLORIOUS BASTERDS is not likely to keep them a float much past early 2010. Too bad. As a company I always liked Harvey's instincts for picking approachable indie cinema.

What works against this trailer is the star Michael Cera. Now I think ARRESTED DEVELOPMENT maybe the best TV show of the decade.... well top five anyway... but the way he plays the Nick is just cloying and gross. The Francois portion of his performance smacks of calculating actor nonsense to break with his stereotype. Here is hoping I am complete wrong about all of this.

The Informant - Trailer

2009-08-11T09:08:00.000-04:00

Matt Damon looks suitably silly in this film based on a real life event. I super excited by this film. Matt Damon is a guy I think is an underrated actor. With this comedic role and his Clint Eastwood film in December I think he is on the verge of really changing a lot of minds about what a fantastic actor this guy already is. Plus I am excited to laugh at something that is not ultimately about a pooping and farting. Dare to drama of the adult comedy!

WHERE THE WILD THINGS ARE - Trailer

2009-08-10T11:05:00.000-04:00

One of the hugely anticipated films of this Fall is WHERE THE WILD THINGS ARE. I have ambivalent feelings about this film. I did not read the book as child, so the nostalgia factor is zilch. The trailer is heavy on the Hipster aspects which is not a good thing for me. I liked Spike Jone previous work, but I am not falling down in love with them the way some seem to be. The trailer makes the imaginary world of this boy look pretty dull and dirty. I don't know. I'll see it because it is too important not too, but I am wary. I'm also Thing 2.

CIRQUE DU FREAK: THE VAMPIRE'S ASSISTANT - Trailer

2009-08-05T11:01:00.001-04:00

John C. Reilly..... NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!

WHIP IT - Trailer

2009-08-03T10:54:00.002-04:00

Is the world really waiting for Drew Barrymore's directorial debut? Probably not. But by the looks of it she has picked a project that fits right in her wheelhouse. Quirky female empowerment. I find the resurgence of female Roller Derby to be utterly baffling, but that is beside the point. What does interest me is the return of Ellen Page in a role that has many surface resemblances to her break JUNO. I am totally fine with that. I have many a friend who finds that film to be grating and incredibly stupid about the real problems of teenage pregnancy. I roll my eyes and tell them teen pregnancy is the last thing JUNO is about. WHIP IT looks to be a lot of charming silly fun.

THE MEN WHO STARE AT GOATS - Trailer

2009-08-02T10:45:00.000-04:00

Thing 2 here. Could this movie have a better cast? Clooney. Love him. Ewan. Love him. Jeff Bridges ditto. Kevin Spacey. Well poor decision as of late, but still a good actor. The farcical take on what is likely a pretty true story of American Armed forced looks like a lot of fun. Equal part American patriotism and hubris. More than anything the film looks to be taking a lot of chances. That the trailer does not scream 'Love me' works in its favor. Plus who does not love early 80's musical geniuses Boston!

BRIGHT STAR - Trailer

2009-07-29T10:35:00.004-04:00

I don't have much affection for the work of Jane Campion. I like the THE PIANO fine, but have had no reason to watch it again since I saw it in the theater. PORTRAIT OF LADY, her follow up, was the last of her work I watched. It was beyond awful. I am attracted to BRIGHT STAR for nostalgic reason. It is so reminiscent of the Miramax films of the mid-90's. All of those painterly high-brow films that poured from Miramax of that period were a golden age of Art House Cinema. I miss it. This is Thing 2.

BROKEN EMBRACES - Trailer

2009-07-28T10:28:00.000-04:00

ALMODOVAR! In what is an admittedly week Fall/Winter lineup. BROKEN EMBRACES may be the biggest film for me. Almodovar may just be my favorite director, foreign or domestic. Ms. Cruz is luminous now that she is not forced to speak English. In America she had a vacuous quality, but in here native Spain she can be a exactly who she is a wonderfully talented actress.

NINE - Trailer

2009-07-26T10:18:00.000-04:00

Who wants to see 8 1/2 remade as a musical by the guy who did CHICAGO? This screams bad idea, but then Daniel Day-Lewis shows up as the Marcello Mastroianni role and I am almost 'in.

THE ROAD - Trailer

2009-07-23T09:17:00.023-04:00

Oh, THE ROAD. I think this film wrapped production about 2 years ago. It was scheduled for release Winter 2008, but that came and went. Perhaps the studio was trying to convince the Director to go happier? The usual Cormac McCarthy tropes are all here, and it is a movie I am pretty excited about. Director Hillcoat made THE PROPOSITION a few years back. Many people praised the Australian Western as one of the best since UNFORGIVEN. I was not one of them, but I did appreciate the effort. Biggest problem maybe the inevitably of Nick Cave who never really does much for me.... singing or acting wise. Although I can't say for sure that he will pop up here. This minor worry aside, post-apocalyptic survival stories freaturing Viggo Mortensen sound nothing but awesome.

THE LOVELY BONES - Review

2009-07-20T09:09:00.003-04:00

You might remember Peter Jackson for his seminal LORD OF THE RINGS trilogy. I prefer to remember him from HEAVENLY CREATURES. I don't think time is going to do the RINGS movies any favors. i think eventually they will be remember as a fine achievement, but the gushing praise for these movies will be left to the fan-boys. It is hard not to be critical particularly after the disaster of KING KONG. It was an overlong turgid affair. THE LOVELY BONES will, hopefully for me, return to the more intimate drama of HEAVENLY CREATURES. Which in case you are not sure is Peter Jackson's masterpiece, with FORGOTTEN SILVER a close second. I'm Thing 2.

A SERIOUS MAN - Trailer

2009-07-20T09:02:00.013-04:00

Thing 2 here. I have a difficult relationship with the Coen Bros. I think they are undeniably gifted filmmakers to the extent that they are finest of this generation of filmmakers. However I find there oh-so precious snobbery to be wilting. Virtually everyone of their films leaves the audience on the outside. We are never apart of their world and worse I often feel the Coen's are laughing at us... not with us. This looks to be an improvement over last year's dreadful BURN AFTER READING.

Brothers - Trailer

2009-07-14T09:39:00.003-04:00

Thing 2 here. Smell that? Yep. Oscar bait. It is an intriguing trailer. The old chestnut of 'My husband is dead so I'm going to sleep with brother unaware that my husband is not dead' rears its head. Poor Toby Maguire looks cartoonish in this trailer. Frankenstein hair cut and scars. Yikes. Most unbelievable are those kids. Come'on I know this is the 21st century but those kids are so blase they seem more adult than the adults. Director Jim Sheridan is a pretty earnest guy, hopefully that doesn't sink the film.

The Invention of Lying - Trailer

2009-06-19T09:49:00.003-04:00

Thing 2 here. Other than his terrible stand-up at Madison Square Garden. Mr Gervais can do no wrong. This looks pretty amusing if still a little beneath his talents. Great cast. Tina Fey and Louis C.K are amazing comedians. I have slightly higher hopes than I did for the surprisingly unfunny Ghost Town from last year.

A Perfect Getaway - Trailer

2009-04-26T10:01:00.000-04:00

Thing 2 here. August is generally the movie studios dumping ground. But now I feel like it is the month where studios, or at least filmmakers with an August release date, take the more chances. Granted most of these films fail because they don't have the script or the director to carry them off. And they usually collapse under the weight of unnecessary violence, but you still see some pretty adventurous filmmaking.

500 Days of Summer - Trailer

2009-04-23T09:55:00.000-04:00

Thing 2 here. I think there is a lot to like here. Great cast. The leads actually seem to have some chemistry between them which would be a first in this decade for romantic leads it seems. The trailer plays a little too Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind. Not necessarily a bad thing, but there is whimsy and then there is forced wackiness. I have my fingers crossed for this one.