Nailing Oscar Nominations

Okay, in August of 2009 I nailed two films for Oscar nominations. Bruce, I rest my case.

Pretty Ugly People

This film was recommended to me by Del Shores. What a production! The theme centers on the reactions of each of a group of college friends who attend an "end of life" celebration. The cinematography is excellent because of the remote location, in the mountains, two or more hours from civilization. The characters' arcs are fully described and allowed to develop on the screen. Each of the characters work their way through decision-making crises that many of us might face in our own lives. Tate's use of humor, drama, sadness, and fear create moment-by-moment emotions as we witness solutions to the problems they face. I had the good fortune to spend some time with the director/writer/producer, Tate, during happy hour at the theater restaurant -- he was waiting for a Q&A session following the evening showing. What a tremendously talented guy. $700K to get it in the can and on some screens. I hope he breaks the nut. He also revealed that he acquired the rights to Kathryn Stockett's bestselling novel "The Help" and will soon begin shooting the film, hoping to release it in December 2010. At times, "Pretty Ugly People" gave him daunting challenges, because of the remote location and the fact that some of the cast were working in TV projects while the film was being shot. For example, a cast member was scheduled to shoot but was called back to "town" for work. Tate spent all night rewriting tomorrow's shoot. It all worked out, but I know what a chore that must have been. I was surprised by a question from him regarding a pivotal moment near the end. He was pleased that I agreed with his decision to keep the scene, rather than to give in to less violent action. He deserves all the kudos that were delivered by the audience during his Q&A. What a gracious gentleman.

The Hurt Locker

When a woman is involved in the direction and control of a war film, I must go see it. This film is particularly noteworthy because of its cinematography and the presentation of the story. The screenplay is magnificent, the character arcs are incredibly believable, and the acting is outstanding. When is the last time you saw a positive movie about our military in Iraq or Afghanistan? So many others have denigrated the soldiers, depicting them as mass murderers and torturers. (That's why you'll not see comments in my blogs about films at that level.) The Hurt Locker just might get some nominations, at least, for Academy Awards. It doesn't matter. It's well worth seeing, no matter what your feelings about today's political climate and your position on the ongoing wars.

Julie & Julia

My wife and I decided to see this film on opening day. What a surprise... the theater seats were almost totally filled. Age groups from 20's to 80's. It's a good feeling to see such success for a film like this. Meryl Streep does outstanding work in it. Everything from the physical mannerisms to the speech patterns of Julia Childs is spot on. Nora Ephron did a magnificent job with the screenplay and direction. Who would have thought that a story like this could ever be presented with drama? Well, she did. The cinematographer was able to frame shots that hid the means to depict Julia's six feet two inch height. You'll see what I mean when you see it. I can not say enough about the total ensemble of professionals who put this enjoyable movie on the "silver screen." I won't write a review, because there are already sufficient kudos presented by critics in the printed media, as well as the digital. Go see this film. You will certainly agree with me that it will garner some Academy Award nominations in many categories.

My Latest Project

Okay, so it's not new, but it is my Latest exciting Project. When Bruce didn't hire me as a reviewer of local theater productions for the local paper, I decided, "Why not write something for him (or the salaried person he's taken on) to review?" He won't come to the play, because I doubt that he's a golfer. I've seen him, and... well, never mind... that's not what this posting is about. My latest project is a stage play about golf. Yeah, I know, you're asking: Will that work? Sure, it will. You ask: "Will the actors be swinging golf clubs?" Sure. "Aren't you putting the audience in danger?" you ask. My answer: Their only danger is if they paid for their tickets with the last of their milk and cookie money for the month. Hey! Can't they attend at the end of the month and go without cookies and milk for a day or two? Come on. My play about bowling was successful. Didn't you see "Doubles?" Lots of laughs and much applause. I wrote a screenplay around it, too, and we did begin filming it, but -- Blah! Didn't work. I knew better. I should have paid attention to the early movies that simply filmed a production of a stage play. Ever see one of those? Yeccch! My Latest Project is called "Foursomes." So far, it's funny on paper, but I haven't yet heard applause. Maybe in a few months I can hold some cold readings and see how it's working. Maybe at least one (or maybe all) of the actors will clap -- at least in appreciation. Maybe.

Four Christmases - The Movie

Wife and I went today. I didn't want to waste my time with another Holiday movie. I thought they can't be improved upon after National Lampoon's "Christmas Vacation." WRONG! It's been a long time since I've laughed aloud during a movie (while in the theater). "Four Christmases" is so funny, I was practically rolling in the aisle. Vince Vaughn is an excellent comic. His line delivery and demeanor is so attractive that I can not take my eyes off his work. Reese Witherspoon is also good. I've seen her in more dramatic roles than comedy, but this one tops her charts. Dwight Yoakam and Tim McGraw are unidentifiable, but great in their roles. Of course, Robert Duvall always gives you the most you can get. Carrie Snodgress does well in a role stretch. Mustn't overlook Jon Voight's poignant character, either. Every character in this movie was a gem. This movie is so entertaining, it's going to be a "Holiday" movie for years to come. I'm putting "Christmas Vacation" aside, and will purchase the "Four Christmases" DVD when available. Want a good laugh? Come over next year and watch it with me.

An American Carol

A brilliant comedy that will be loved by those who love America, be hated by those who hate America, and will not be understood by those who ignore the damage being done to this great country by liberal, fascist thought. Zucker will catch hell for making this wonderful satire centered on Michael “Cheeseburger” Moore’s idiotic pseudo-documentaries. None of the moronic personalities who are part of his flock will even recognize the parodies made of them. I commend the brave souls who signed on to this hilarious outing – Kevin Farley, Tracy Adkins, Kelsey Grammer, Jon Voight, Leslie Nielson… undying patriots all. The Islamic fascists are portrayed to a “T.” Loved them for treating their roles seriously. Kevin is as good as Chris ever was – his casting was genius. Jon Voight’s George Washington is moving. Grammer’s Patton is refreshingly to the point. And Tracy… what can one say? He sings Charley’s patriotic song with a country passion – and he’s a damn good actor, too. Leslie Nielson tells the tale well, as he always does. And the kids, too, are true to form. Zounds! Why aren’t more films like this being made? I’m going to see it again on the big screen before it gets shut down. Can’t wait for the DVD to come out so I can watch it on election night. (Bruce: Eat your heart out.)

Wanted

You want action? You get it with this one. It's filled with techno-gizmo-CGI stuff that works well. The plot is okay, too. It's not just shoot-'em-up to fill the screen. It actually makes sense. But, then, I'm an action film fan, so don't take my word for it. Jolie is her cold, sex-stuffed, self with the clinched eyes, but it's okay. That's what she does best. She's not much of an actor, but she's good at action and simmering and self-assured projection. Freeman is able to take any role and play it well, in my book. From The Bucket List to Wanted, his range is unlimited. The screenplay works, too. Go see Wanted, but sit near something to hang onto during the desperate moments of slash and burn by a wide range of interesting characters.