Ex-Girlfriends Movie Review, Written by: Karen Benardello
Facing the uncertainties of trying to transition in adulthood, especially when figuring out what career to pursue and how to keep romantic relationships alive, is a challenge for many young adults. The struggles of trying to get through to the next stage in adulthood is ambitiously and realistically showcased in the new independent romance comedy-drama ‘Ex-Girlfriends.’ Set to be released on VOD and iTunes tomorrow and in select theaters on Wednesday, the feature film directorial debut from writer-director Alexander Poe is a memorable take on what young adults will do when their professional and personal lives are not going according to plan.
‘Ex-Girlfriends’ follows Graham (played by Poe), a writer who is disheartened by his latest break-up, and his attempts to rekindle the spark with one of his ex-girlfriends, Laura (portrayed by Kristen Connolly). While reconnecting with Laura and trying to win her back, Graham discovers that she’s dating Tom (played by Noah Bean), who’s also in a relationship with another one of his ex-girlfriends, Kate (portrayed by Jennifer Carpenter). Graham and Kate, who are still friends, team up to split Laura and Tom up, and end up discovering aspects about themselves along the way.
Being a first-time feature film writer-director who was looking to make his movie debut right away after graduating from from Columbia University‘s Graduate Film program, Poe expertly embraced the challenges of having an ultra-low budget. Instead of waiting several years to raise more money and sacrifice his vision of showing the characters’ uncertainly of fully embracing new work ventures and relationships in their 20′s, the filmmaker used his Columbia and New York City contacts to his advantage. From filming key scenes of Graham trying to overcome his latest relationship and him plotting with Kate to win Laura and Tom back in Poe’s actual fifth-floor walk-up apartment to shooting an emotional scene between Graham and Kate in Grand Central station, all without permits, the director bravely showed the authentic feeling of trying to move past relationships, even if its emotionally hard to do.
To continue reading this review, please visit Shockya.
Tuesday, November 27, 2012
Thursday, November 22, 2012
Interview: Tripp Vinson Talks Red Dawn
Interview: Tripp Vinson Talks 'Red Dawn,' Written by: Karen Benardello
Modernizing a cult classic film from the 1980s that launched the careers of several respected actors with impressive stunts interlaced with emotionally developed characters is a challenge for many directors, particularly for a first-time director. But helmer Dan Bradley, who served as a stunt coordinator on such action series as the ‘Bourne’ franchise and Sam Raimi’s ‘Spider-Man’ trilogy, and was a second unit director on such films as ‘Quantum of Solace’ and ‘Mission: Impossible-Ghost Protocol,’ easily sustained reality in the new remake of ‘Red Dawn,’ which marked his feature film directorial debut. Being able to create completely unique action sequences and the disillusion of the family structure in the film on a limited budget was something producer Tripp Vinson looked for while searching for a director for the film, which helped solidified Bradley’s hiring.
‘Red Dawn’ follows Jed Eckert (played by Chris Hemsworth) upon returning home to Spokane, Washington on a leave from the Marines, as he reunites with his younger brother, Matt (portrayed by Josh Peck), and their father, Tom (played by Brett Cullen). Since Matt would rather spend time with his girlfriend, Erica (portrayed by Isabel Lucas), then with Jed, as he still blames his older brother for leaving him after their mother died, Jed reunites with an old childhood friend, Toni (played by Adrianne Palicki). But the group quickly learns to bonds when the U.S. is invaded by North Korea. Without warning, the city finds itself prisoner under enemy occupation.
Jed then takes on the leadership role with Matt, Erica, Toni and several of their other friends, including tech geek Robert (portrayed by Josh Hutcherson); Daryl (played by Connor Cruise), the son of Spokane’s Mayor and Robert’s best friend; and Danny (portrayed by Edwin Hodge), Matt’s best friend and the star receiver of the high school football team. Taking inspiration from their high school mascot, the group calls themselves the Wolverines, and band together to protect each other, liberate their town from its captors and take back their freedom. Along the way, the Wolverines are helped by Col. Andy Tanner (played by Jeffrey Dean Morgan) and his men, who are just as determined to save America.
Vinson sat down during a roundtable interview in New York City’s Waldorf Astoria Hotel recently to discuss the filming of ‘Red Dawn.’ Among other things, Vinson discussed what the casting process for the main characters was like; what he and the other producers had to do in order to distribute the film after its production company, MGM, went into bankruptcy in 2010; and why the filmmakers chose to change the country that invaded America from China to North Korea during post-production.
Question (Q): You have an impressive resume. Why do you choose to produce action films-what’s the attraction? Is it for the money?
Tripp Vinson (TV): Well, it’s not about the money. Doing an action movie, in my opinion, is the most complex movie to make. There are so many different elements that go into making one, and making it well.
It’s also my taste, the things I respond to as a movie fan are usually in the action genre. It’s just a personal taste. But I love the challenge of making these movies.
Q: Why did you decide to feature North Korea as the enemy? They’re not the most belligerent country in the world to other countries.
TV: They’re not the most belligerent? I’m not sure South Korea and Japan would agree with that.
There were some changes that were made to the movie. We looked at who could ultimately invade the United States, and it’s a tough thing to come across these days. We’re not in the Cold War era.
So what we ultimately decided to do was create a fictional timeline of things that haven’t happened, but could. Some of those things did end up happening-Kim Jong-il died, and that’s in the opening sequence credits of this movie. There are other things that we allude to that set the world in a pretty dark and scary place. These things help set the stage and gets the audience ready for something like an invasion of the United States. At the end of the day, though, the movie has to be taken as a bit of a fantasy.
To continue reading this interview, please visit Shockya.
Modernizing a cult classic film from the 1980s that launched the careers of several respected actors with impressive stunts interlaced with emotionally developed characters is a challenge for many directors, particularly for a first-time director. But helmer Dan Bradley, who served as a stunt coordinator on such action series as the ‘Bourne’ franchise and Sam Raimi’s ‘Spider-Man’ trilogy, and was a second unit director on such films as ‘Quantum of Solace’ and ‘Mission: Impossible-Ghost Protocol,’ easily sustained reality in the new remake of ‘Red Dawn,’ which marked his feature film directorial debut. Being able to create completely unique action sequences and the disillusion of the family structure in the film on a limited budget was something producer Tripp Vinson looked for while searching for a director for the film, which helped solidified Bradley’s hiring.
‘Red Dawn’ follows Jed Eckert (played by Chris Hemsworth) upon returning home to Spokane, Washington on a leave from the Marines, as he reunites with his younger brother, Matt (portrayed by Josh Peck), and their father, Tom (played by Brett Cullen). Since Matt would rather spend time with his girlfriend, Erica (portrayed by Isabel Lucas), then with Jed, as he still blames his older brother for leaving him after their mother died, Jed reunites with an old childhood friend, Toni (played by Adrianne Palicki). But the group quickly learns to bonds when the U.S. is invaded by North Korea. Without warning, the city finds itself prisoner under enemy occupation.
Jed then takes on the leadership role with Matt, Erica, Toni and several of their other friends, including tech geek Robert (portrayed by Josh Hutcherson); Daryl (played by Connor Cruise), the son of Spokane’s Mayor and Robert’s best friend; and Danny (portrayed by Edwin Hodge), Matt’s best friend and the star receiver of the high school football team. Taking inspiration from their high school mascot, the group calls themselves the Wolverines, and band together to protect each other, liberate their town from its captors and take back their freedom. Along the way, the Wolverines are helped by Col. Andy Tanner (played by Jeffrey Dean Morgan) and his men, who are just as determined to save America.
Vinson sat down during a roundtable interview in New York City’s Waldorf Astoria Hotel recently to discuss the filming of ‘Red Dawn.’ Among other things, Vinson discussed what the casting process for the main characters was like; what he and the other producers had to do in order to distribute the film after its production company, MGM, went into bankruptcy in 2010; and why the filmmakers chose to change the country that invaded America from China to North Korea during post-production.
Question (Q): You have an impressive resume. Why do you choose to produce action films-what’s the attraction? Is it for the money?
Tripp Vinson (TV): Well, it’s not about the money. Doing an action movie, in my opinion, is the most complex movie to make. There are so many different elements that go into making one, and making it well.
It’s also my taste, the things I respond to as a movie fan are usually in the action genre. It’s just a personal taste. But I love the challenge of making these movies.
Q: Why did you decide to feature North Korea as the enemy? They’re not the most belligerent country in the world to other countries.
TV: They’re not the most belligerent? I’m not sure South Korea and Japan would agree with that.
There were some changes that were made to the movie. We looked at who could ultimately invade the United States, and it’s a tough thing to come across these days. We’re not in the Cold War era.
So what we ultimately decided to do was create a fictional timeline of things that haven’t happened, but could. Some of those things did end up happening-Kim Jong-il died, and that’s in the opening sequence credits of this movie. There are other things that we allude to that set the world in a pretty dark and scary place. These things help set the stage and gets the audience ready for something like an invasion of the United States. At the end of the day, though, the movie has to be taken as a bit of a fantasy.
To continue reading this interview, please visit Shockya.
Wednesday, November 21, 2012
Interview: Josh Peck Talks About His Role in Red Dawn
Interview: Josh Peck Talks About His Role in 'Red Dawn,' Written by: Karen Benardello
Recreating a cult classic action film that was the launching pad for several esteemed actors is difficult task for any director, particularly a helmer making his feature film directorial debut. But respected stunt coordinator Dan Bradley, who has coordinated stunts for the ‘Bourne’ series and Sam Raimi’s ‘Spider-Man’ trilogy, effortlessly took over the reins for director John Milius, who helmed the original movie. Actor Josh Peck, who stars as one of the main characters in the new ‘Red Dawn,’ Matt Eckert, is one such person who respects Bradley’s mixture of fight sequences and the disillusion of family structure, in the remake.
‘Red Dawn’ follows Jed Eckert (played by Chris Hemsworth) upon returning home to Spokane, Washington on a leave from the Marines, as he reunites with his younger brother, Matt (portrayed by Peck), and their father, Tom (played by Brett Cullen). Since Matt would rather spend time with his girlfriend, Erica (portrayed by Isabel Lucas), then with Jed, as he still blames his older brother for leaving him after their mother died, Jed reunites with an old childhood friend, Toni (played by Adrianne Palicki). But the group quickly learns to bonds when the U.S. is invaded by North Korea. Without warning, the city finds itself prisoner under enemy occupation.
Jed then takes on the leadership role with Matt, Erica, Toni and several of their other friends, including tech geek Robert (portrayed by Josh Hutcherson); Daryl (played by Connor Cruise), the son of Spokane’s Mayor and Robert’s best friend; and Danny (portrayed by Edwin Hodge), Matt’s best friend and the star receiver of the high school football team. Taking inspiration from their high school mascot, the group calls themselves the Wolverines, and band together to protect each other, liberate their town from its captors and take back their freedom. Along the way, the Wolverines are helped by Col. Andy Tanner (played by Jeffrey Dean Morgan) and his men, who are just as determined to save America.
Peck generously took the time to sit down and discuss the filming of ‘Red Dawn’ recently at New York City’s Waldorf-Astoria Hotel. Among other things, the actor spoke about his working relationship with Hemsworth, how he trained with Navy SEALS to prepare for the intense stunts featured in the movie and taking over the role that Charlie Sheen created in the original film.
Question (Q): Did you see the original movie before you began shooting?
Josh Peck (JP): I hadn’t seen the original, but as soon as I read the script, it came into my life and entered my dialogue with my friends. I was immediately put on notice, like don’t mess with my movie. (laughs) We were on sacred ground here. I was apprehensive to watch it, because I knew there would be parts that I loved, and would try to imitate or mimic. So I took a fresh approach. As soon as the film was done, I watched it, and really understood quickly what everyone loved about it.
Q: The original had an amazing cast. Were you a fan of its cast from other films the were in?
JP: (Patrick) Swayze from ‘Dirty Dancing’ and ‘Ghost,’ of course. I mean, Charlie Sheen and C. Thomas Howell and Lea Thompson, for sure.
To continue reading this interview, please visit Shockya.
Recreating a cult classic action film that was the launching pad for several esteemed actors is difficult task for any director, particularly a helmer making his feature film directorial debut. But respected stunt coordinator Dan Bradley, who has coordinated stunts for the ‘Bourne’ series and Sam Raimi’s ‘Spider-Man’ trilogy, effortlessly took over the reins for director John Milius, who helmed the original movie. Actor Josh Peck, who stars as one of the main characters in the new ‘Red Dawn,’ Matt Eckert, is one such person who respects Bradley’s mixture of fight sequences and the disillusion of family structure, in the remake.
‘Red Dawn’ follows Jed Eckert (played by Chris Hemsworth) upon returning home to Spokane, Washington on a leave from the Marines, as he reunites with his younger brother, Matt (portrayed by Peck), and their father, Tom (played by Brett Cullen). Since Matt would rather spend time with his girlfriend, Erica (portrayed by Isabel Lucas), then with Jed, as he still blames his older brother for leaving him after their mother died, Jed reunites with an old childhood friend, Toni (played by Adrianne Palicki). But the group quickly learns to bonds when the U.S. is invaded by North Korea. Without warning, the city finds itself prisoner under enemy occupation.
Jed then takes on the leadership role with Matt, Erica, Toni and several of their other friends, including tech geek Robert (portrayed by Josh Hutcherson); Daryl (played by Connor Cruise), the son of Spokane’s Mayor and Robert’s best friend; and Danny (portrayed by Edwin Hodge), Matt’s best friend and the star receiver of the high school football team. Taking inspiration from their high school mascot, the group calls themselves the Wolverines, and band together to protect each other, liberate their town from its captors and take back their freedom. Along the way, the Wolverines are helped by Col. Andy Tanner (played by Jeffrey Dean Morgan) and his men, who are just as determined to save America.
Peck generously took the time to sit down and discuss the filming of ‘Red Dawn’ recently at New York City’s Waldorf-Astoria Hotel. Among other things, the actor spoke about his working relationship with Hemsworth, how he trained with Navy SEALS to prepare for the intense stunts featured in the movie and taking over the role that Charlie Sheen created in the original film.
Question (Q): Did you see the original movie before you began shooting?
Josh Peck (JP): I hadn’t seen the original, but as soon as I read the script, it came into my life and entered my dialogue with my friends. I was immediately put on notice, like don’t mess with my movie. (laughs) We were on sacred ground here. I was apprehensive to watch it, because I knew there would be parts that I loved, and would try to imitate or mimic. So I took a fresh approach. As soon as the film was done, I watched it, and really understood quickly what everyone loved about it.
Q: The original had an amazing cast. Were you a fan of its cast from other films the were in?
JP: (Patrick) Swayze from ‘Dirty Dancing’ and ‘Ghost,’ of course. I mean, Charlie Sheen and C. Thomas Howell and Lea Thompson, for sure.
To continue reading this interview, please visit Shockya.
Interview: The Cast and Crew Talk About Silver Linings Playbook
Interview: The Cast and Crew Talk About Silver Linings Playbook, Written by: Karen Benardello
When adults struggling with mental illness are faced with conflicts that they have difficulty comprehending and moving past, their families often feel the straining effects on their own lives. The families often do whatever they can to try to protect and save the person trying to get over their fears and internal battles, but often times fail to understand what they’re truly going through. That’s the main motivating cause of conflict in the new comedy-drama ‘Silver Linings Playbook,’ which is based on the novel of the same name by Matthew Quick. Director David O. Russell, who made his feature film writing debut with the movie, created a memorable film offers a realistic, emotional look into the struggles families face after a member has an emotional break-down related to their mental illness.
‘Silver Linings Playbook‘ follows Pat Solatano (played by Bradley Cooper), who has been diagnosed with bipolar disorder and lost everything, including his house, his job as a teacher at the local high school and his wife, Nikki (portrayed by Brea Bee), after spending eight months in a state institution on a plea bargain. Pat’s mother, Dolores (played by Jacki Weaver), arranges for him to be released from the hospital and move with back in with her and his father, Pat Sr. (portrayed by Robert De Niro), who lost his job and has turned to gambling to make money. They want Pat to get back on his feet, and share the family obsession with the Philadelphia Eagles. But Pat is determined to rebuild his life on his own terms-his major goal is to reunite with Nikki, despite her restraining order against him and the challenging circumstances of their separation.
Pat’s road to recovery is deterred by Tiffany (played by Jennifer Lawrence), his widowed neighbor and the sister of one of his friends, Veronica (portrayed by Julia Stiles), who is still in contact with Nikki. Since Pat is determined to reconnect with Nikki, Tiffany offers to help him save his marriage, as long as he’ll be her partner in a dance competition she’s determined to enter. As their deal plays out, Pat and Tiffany form an unexpected bond with each other that they both have to learn to navigate. While Dolores and Pat Sr. are confused over where their son’s relationship with Tiffany is headed, one of Pat’s fellow patients from the hospital, Danny (played by Chris Tucker), encourages his friend to continue his new bond with the woman he has so easily connected with.
Russell, De Niro, Cooper, Tucker and Weaver all generously participated in a press conference recently at New York City’s Regency Hotel to discus ‘Silver Linings Playbook.’ Among other things, the cast reveals why they were interested in playing their respective characters; the filmmaker spoke about how he came about writing and directing the comedy-drama; and how everyone thought what a surprise it was to see De Niro become emotional on set.
Question (Q): David, as the director and writer, can you tell us a little about how the material came to you?
David O. Russell (DOR): Well, about five years ago, Sydney Pollack gave me the novel by Matthew Quick, which he owned the rights to with his partner, Anthony Mccalla and Harvey Weinstein. I would say if it weren’t for my son, who had some of these struggles with bipolarity, the book would not have grabbed me. But it did grab me, and I was very pleased to write it.
It was my first adaptation ever. The characters were fantastic and complicated, each one of them. They’re very powerful-two very powerful women, and two very powerful men. I then didn’t get to make it as expected at the time. I thought I was going to get to make it, and it didn’t work out at the time.
Then I made ‘The Fighter,’ which really turned to focus my energy on this kind of a world. I’ve come to really appreciate it as a filmmaker, and I try to do it the best as I can. I then re-wrote it for the people here.
Q: When you said you re-wrote it for the people here, did you re-write it post-casting? As you were re-writing, were you thinking of the individuals who would play them?
DOR: It’s a combination of the fact that as you approach who’s going to be in the movie, I had the privilege to get to know Mr. De Niro over a period of years. We were able to have a personal dialogue about members of our family who had various challenges that they faced. So that’s always nice to have that emotional gateway into material, it makes it specific and personal to you. You care about it, and understand it.
The fact that Bradley had gone through himself, when I met him and got to know him, I saw him as someone in ‘Wedding Crashers’ who was a very angry person to me. When I got to know him, he was only more interesting to me. (laughs) The guy was 30 pounds heavier, and was angrier at that time.
That, to me, was so interesting when I got to know him, for him to tell me that about himself, because that mirrored the journey of the character. The character was re-introducing himself to his community, and so I think is Bradley in the picture, as an actor. I don’t think people have seen that face of him in cinema.
Jacki, I absolutely loved ‘Animal Kingdom;’ she had such a strong, tense presence. She brought that anger energy to the film. I told her that she and Bob had a happy marriage, they were still close. They instantly got that chemistry, which is essential that you feel like you’re in a real home.
Chris Tucker was another great revolution for us. He’s a guy we haven’t seen enough of since ‘Rush Hour.’ That lends to the reality of a fellow who’s been in a hospital, and we haven’t seen him. He’s coming out, and he’s happy and trying to talk to people. You don’t know who he’s going to be. But that lends that energy to Bradley, with their friendship going back.
To continue reading this interview, please visit Shockya.
When adults struggling with mental illness are faced with conflicts that they have difficulty comprehending and moving past, their families often feel the straining effects on their own lives. The families often do whatever they can to try to protect and save the person trying to get over their fears and internal battles, but often times fail to understand what they’re truly going through. That’s the main motivating cause of conflict in the new comedy-drama ‘Silver Linings Playbook,’ which is based on the novel of the same name by Matthew Quick. Director David O. Russell, who made his feature film writing debut with the movie, created a memorable film offers a realistic, emotional look into the struggles families face after a member has an emotional break-down related to their mental illness.
‘Silver Linings Playbook‘ follows Pat Solatano (played by Bradley Cooper), who has been diagnosed with bipolar disorder and lost everything, including his house, his job as a teacher at the local high school and his wife, Nikki (portrayed by Brea Bee), after spending eight months in a state institution on a plea bargain. Pat’s mother, Dolores (played by Jacki Weaver), arranges for him to be released from the hospital and move with back in with her and his father, Pat Sr. (portrayed by Robert De Niro), who lost his job and has turned to gambling to make money. They want Pat to get back on his feet, and share the family obsession with the Philadelphia Eagles. But Pat is determined to rebuild his life on his own terms-his major goal is to reunite with Nikki, despite her restraining order against him and the challenging circumstances of their separation.
Pat’s road to recovery is deterred by Tiffany (played by Jennifer Lawrence), his widowed neighbor and the sister of one of his friends, Veronica (portrayed by Julia Stiles), who is still in contact with Nikki. Since Pat is determined to reconnect with Nikki, Tiffany offers to help him save his marriage, as long as he’ll be her partner in a dance competition she’s determined to enter. As their deal plays out, Pat and Tiffany form an unexpected bond with each other that they both have to learn to navigate. While Dolores and Pat Sr. are confused over where their son’s relationship with Tiffany is headed, one of Pat’s fellow patients from the hospital, Danny (played by Chris Tucker), encourages his friend to continue his new bond with the woman he has so easily connected with.
Russell, De Niro, Cooper, Tucker and Weaver all generously participated in a press conference recently at New York City’s Regency Hotel to discus ‘Silver Linings Playbook.’ Among other things, the cast reveals why they were interested in playing their respective characters; the filmmaker spoke about how he came about writing and directing the comedy-drama; and how everyone thought what a surprise it was to see De Niro become emotional on set.
Question (Q): David, as the director and writer, can you tell us a little about how the material came to you?
David O. Russell (DOR): Well, about five years ago, Sydney Pollack gave me the novel by Matthew Quick, which he owned the rights to with his partner, Anthony Mccalla and Harvey Weinstein. I would say if it weren’t for my son, who had some of these struggles with bipolarity, the book would not have grabbed me. But it did grab me, and I was very pleased to write it.
It was my first adaptation ever. The characters were fantastic and complicated, each one of them. They’re very powerful-two very powerful women, and two very powerful men. I then didn’t get to make it as expected at the time. I thought I was going to get to make it, and it didn’t work out at the time.
Then I made ‘The Fighter,’ which really turned to focus my energy on this kind of a world. I’ve come to really appreciate it as a filmmaker, and I try to do it the best as I can. I then re-wrote it for the people here.
Q: When you said you re-wrote it for the people here, did you re-write it post-casting? As you were re-writing, were you thinking of the individuals who would play them?
DOR: It’s a combination of the fact that as you approach who’s going to be in the movie, I had the privilege to get to know Mr. De Niro over a period of years. We were able to have a personal dialogue about members of our family who had various challenges that they faced. So that’s always nice to have that emotional gateway into material, it makes it specific and personal to you. You care about it, and understand it.
The fact that Bradley had gone through himself, when I met him and got to know him, I saw him as someone in ‘Wedding Crashers’ who was a very angry person to me. When I got to know him, he was only more interesting to me. (laughs) The guy was 30 pounds heavier, and was angrier at that time.
That, to me, was so interesting when I got to know him, for him to tell me that about himself, because that mirrored the journey of the character. The character was re-introducing himself to his community, and so I think is Bradley in the picture, as an actor. I don’t think people have seen that face of him in cinema.
Jacki, I absolutely loved ‘Animal Kingdom;’ she had such a strong, tense presence. She brought that anger energy to the film. I told her that she and Bob had a happy marriage, they were still close. They instantly got that chemistry, which is essential that you feel like you’re in a real home.
Chris Tucker was another great revolution for us. He’s a guy we haven’t seen enough of since ‘Rush Hour.’ That lends to the reality of a fellow who’s been in a hospital, and we haven’t seen him. He’s coming out, and he’s happy and trying to talk to people. You don’t know who he’s going to be. But that lends that energy to Bradley, with their friendship going back.
To continue reading this interview, please visit Shockya.
Tuesday, November 20, 2012
The Expendables 2 DVD review
The Expendables 2 DVD review, Written by: Karen Benardello
Releasing a successful, thrilling action movie with popular action actors from the 1980s and '90s who are largely considered past their prime is difficult undertaking. But when the film surprising includes intense stunts and memorable performances, a sequel is undoubtedly immediately put into the works. When the follow-up film, like the action sequel 'The Expendables 2,' which is now available to rent on DVD at select Long Island Redbox locations, is just as stimulating as the original, the actors prove how talented and valuable they really are.
'The Expendables 2' follows Barney Ross (Sylvester Stallone), the leader of the title mercenary group, leads his members, including his right-hand man, Lee Christmas (Jason Statham); Yin Yang (Jet Li); Gunner Jensen (Dolph Lundgren); Toll Road (Randy Couture) and Hale Caesar (Terry Crews); as they're enlisted by Mr. Church (Bruce Willis) to take on a seemingly simple job. The group, who is aided by two new recruits, Billy the Kid (Liam Hemsworth) and Maggie (Yu Nan), must seek revenge, however, when things go wrong and one of their own is killed.
In hostile territory where the odds are stacked against them, the Expendables must shut down an unexpected threat. Jean Vilane (Jean-Claude Van Damme), the leader of an opposing group of mercenaries that's responsible for the death of one of the Expendables, plans on using five tons of weapons-grade plutonium he recently discovered to change the balance of power in the world. Along with the help of fellow mercenaries Trench (Arnold Schwarzenegger) and Booker (Chuck Norris), the Expendables aim to stop Jean before he can use the plutonium to his advantage.
‘The Expendables 2’ DVD extras offer several glimpses into the camaraderie of the actors through several deleted scenes and a gag reel. Viewers can also see a glimpse into the behind-the-scenes and filming process of the action adventure thriller through several making-of features and an audio commentary by West.
To continue reading this review, please visit Examiner.
Releasing a successful, thrilling action movie with popular action actors from the 1980s and '90s who are largely considered past their prime is difficult undertaking. But when the film surprising includes intense stunts and memorable performances, a sequel is undoubtedly immediately put into the works. When the follow-up film, like the action sequel 'The Expendables 2,' which is now available to rent on DVD at select Long Island Redbox locations, is just as stimulating as the original, the actors prove how talented and valuable they really are.
'The Expendables 2' follows Barney Ross (Sylvester Stallone), the leader of the title mercenary group, leads his members, including his right-hand man, Lee Christmas (Jason Statham); Yin Yang (Jet Li); Gunner Jensen (Dolph Lundgren); Toll Road (Randy Couture) and Hale Caesar (Terry Crews); as they're enlisted by Mr. Church (Bruce Willis) to take on a seemingly simple job. The group, who is aided by two new recruits, Billy the Kid (Liam Hemsworth) and Maggie (Yu Nan), must seek revenge, however, when things go wrong and one of their own is killed.
In hostile territory where the odds are stacked against them, the Expendables must shut down an unexpected threat. Jean Vilane (Jean-Claude Van Damme), the leader of an opposing group of mercenaries that's responsible for the death of one of the Expendables, plans on using five tons of weapons-grade plutonium he recently discovered to change the balance of power in the world. Along with the help of fellow mercenaries Trench (Arnold Schwarzenegger) and Booker (Chuck Norris), the Expendables aim to stop Jean before he can use the plutonium to his advantage.
‘The Expendables 2’ DVD extras offer several glimpses into the camaraderie of the actors through several deleted scenes and a gag reel. Viewers can also see a glimpse into the behind-the-scenes and filming process of the action adventure thriller through several making-of features and an audio commentary by West.
To continue reading this review, please visit Examiner.
Monday, November 19, 2012
Red Dawn Movie Review
Red Dawn Movie Review, Written by: Karen Benardello
Combing realistic action sequences and stunts committed by characters driven by their humanity and emotions and setting them against the backdrop of potential political turmoil in a suspenseful film is a taunting task for many directors. That’s particularly true when the film is a remake of a beloved movie from an earlier generation and is being helmed by a first-time filmmaker. But helmer Dan Bradley, who made his feature film directorial debut with the upcoming action remake ‘Red Dawn’ after serving as the stunt coordinator on such action films as ‘The Bourne Ultimatum’ and ‘Spider-Man 3,’ respectfully incorporated true character development into a clever effects-driven film.
‘Red Dawn’ follows Jed Eckert (played by Chris Hemsworth) upon returning home to Spokane, Washington on a leave from the Marines, as he reunites with his younger brother, Matt (portrayed by Josh Peck), and their father, Tom (played by Brett Cullen). Since Matt would rather spend time with his girlfriend, Erica (portrayed by Isabel Lucas), then with Jed, as he still blames his older brother for leaving him after their mother died, Jed reunites with an old childhood friend, Toni (played by Adrianne Palicki). But the group quickly learns to bonds when the U.S. is invaded by North Korea. Without warning, the city finds itself prisoner under enemy occupation.
Jed then takes on the leadership role with Matt, Erica, Toni and several of their other friends, including tech geek Robert (portrayed by Josh Hutcherson); Daryl (played by Connor Cruise), the son of Spokane’s Mayor and Robert’s best friend; and Danny (portrayed by Edwin Hodge), Matt’s best friend and the star receiver of the high school football team. Taking inspiration from their high school mascot, the group calls themselves the Wolverines, and band together to protect each other, liberate their town from its captors and take back their freedom. Along the way, the Wolverines are helped by Col. Andy Tanner (played by Jeffrey Dean Morgan) and his men, who are just as determined to save America.
Bradley cleverly created well-developed, emotional characters alongside impressive stunts in his updated version of ‘Red Dawn.’ While the director didn’t have as large of a budget for his action reboot as other films he has worked on, such as the ‘Bourne’ series, he was still able to include suspense-filled, surprising sequences alongside his strongly character-driven story. One early impressive sequence in ‘Red Dawn,’ which proved Bradley’s serious intent on creating a powerful action movie, was the plane scene in which North Korean soldiers parachute over Spokane. The soldiers showed no fear as they shot down the Eckerts’ neighborhood, believing the city would easily surrender to them. But Jed and Matt immediately started their fearless retaliation as they drove out of town, picking up their friends along the way.
To continue reading this review, please visit Shockya.
Combing realistic action sequences and stunts committed by characters driven by their humanity and emotions and setting them against the backdrop of potential political turmoil in a suspenseful film is a taunting task for many directors. That’s particularly true when the film is a remake of a beloved movie from an earlier generation and is being helmed by a first-time filmmaker. But helmer Dan Bradley, who made his feature film directorial debut with the upcoming action remake ‘Red Dawn’ after serving as the stunt coordinator on such action films as ‘The Bourne Ultimatum’ and ‘Spider-Man 3,’ respectfully incorporated true character development into a clever effects-driven film.
‘Red Dawn’ follows Jed Eckert (played by Chris Hemsworth) upon returning home to Spokane, Washington on a leave from the Marines, as he reunites with his younger brother, Matt (portrayed by Josh Peck), and their father, Tom (played by Brett Cullen). Since Matt would rather spend time with his girlfriend, Erica (portrayed by Isabel Lucas), then with Jed, as he still blames his older brother for leaving him after their mother died, Jed reunites with an old childhood friend, Toni (played by Adrianne Palicki). But the group quickly learns to bonds when the U.S. is invaded by North Korea. Without warning, the city finds itself prisoner under enemy occupation.
Jed then takes on the leadership role with Matt, Erica, Toni and several of their other friends, including tech geek Robert (portrayed by Josh Hutcherson); Daryl (played by Connor Cruise), the son of Spokane’s Mayor and Robert’s best friend; and Danny (portrayed by Edwin Hodge), Matt’s best friend and the star receiver of the high school football team. Taking inspiration from their high school mascot, the group calls themselves the Wolverines, and band together to protect each other, liberate their town from its captors and take back their freedom. Along the way, the Wolverines are helped by Col. Andy Tanner (played by Jeffrey Dean Morgan) and his men, who are just as determined to save America.
Bradley cleverly created well-developed, emotional characters alongside impressive stunts in his updated version of ‘Red Dawn.’ While the director didn’t have as large of a budget for his action reboot as other films he has worked on, such as the ‘Bourne’ series, he was still able to include suspense-filled, surprising sequences alongside his strongly character-driven story. One early impressive sequence in ‘Red Dawn,’ which proved Bradley’s serious intent on creating a powerful action movie, was the plane scene in which North Korean soldiers parachute over Spokane. The soldiers showed no fear as they shot down the Eckerts’ neighborhood, believing the city would easily surrender to them. But Jed and Matt immediately started their fearless retaliation as they drove out of town, picking up their friends along the way.
To continue reading this review, please visit Shockya.
Silver Linings Playbook Movie Review
'Silver Linings Playbook' Movie Review, Written by: Karen Benardello
When adults struggling with mental illness are faced with conflicts that they have difficulty comprehending and moving past, their families often feel the straining effects on their own lives. The families often do whatever they can to try to protect and save the person trying to get over their fears and internal battles, but often times fail to understand what they're truly going through. That's the main motivating cause of conflict in the upcoming comedy-drama 'Silver Linings Playbook,' which opened Long Island's Gold Coast International Film Festival at Great Neck's Clearview Squire Cinemas last month to a sold out audience. Opening at area Long Island theaters on Wednesday, writer-director David O. Russell's memorable film offers a realistic, emotional look into the struggles families face after a member has an emotional break-down related to their mental illness.
'Silver Linings Playbook' follows Pat Solatano (played by Bradley Cooper), who has been diagnosed with bipolar disorder and lost everything, including his house, his job as a teacher at the local high school and his wife, Nikki (portrayed by Brea Bee), after spending eight months in a state institution on a plea bargain. Pat's mother, Dolores (played by Jacki Weaver), arranges for him to be released from the hospital and move with back in with her and his father, Pat Sr. (portrayed by Robert De Niro), who lost his job and has turned to gambling to make money. They want Pat to get back on his feet, and share the family obsession with the Philadelphia Eagles. But Pat is determined to rebuild his life on his own terms-his major goal is to reunite with Nikki, despite her restraining order against him and the challenging circumstances of their separation.
Pat's road to recovery is deterred by Tiffany (played by Jennifer Lawrence), his widowed neighbor and the sister of one of his friends, Veronica (portrayed by Julia Stiles), who is still in contact with Nikki. Since Pat is determined to reconnect with Nikki, Tiffany offers to help him save his marriage, as long as he'll be her partner in a dance competition she's determined to enter. As their deal plays out, Pat and Tiffany form an unexpected bond with each other that they both have to learn to navigate. While Dolores and Pat Sr. are confused over where their son's relationship with Tiffany is headed, one of Pat's fellow patients from the hospital, Danny (played by Chris Tucker), encourages his friend to continue his new bond with the woman he has so easily connected with.
Cooper, who has garnered fame from the comedic 'Hangover' series, proved what a vibrant, versatile actor he can be with his portrayal of Pat in 'Silver Linings Playbook.' The actor drastically, but believably, changed his acting approach in order to portray his detached, and at times delusional, character, who refused to fully accept the consequences of his actions in the film. When Pat is first released from the hospital, he is insistent that he will win Nikki back, and will be re-hired by the school, even when the people around him continuously tell him he has to move on with his life. After he meets Tiffany, Cooper gradually makes Pat realize that he can move on with his life, and truly be happy without the things in his old life.
While Russell offered the actors some rehearsal time before they began shooting the comedy-drama, the well-cast performers truly formed a natural, realistic bond with each other once they began filming. While he only had 33 days to shoot the entire movie, the director continuously kept the camera running and filmed many scenes several times. The actors were able stay in the moment and have their characters truly connect over, and understand, their differing views on how Pat could move on from his marriage, and how his father can come to stop his gambling and stop blaming his own problems on his son.
To continue reading this interview, please visit Yahoo! Voices.
When adults struggling with mental illness are faced with conflicts that they have difficulty comprehending and moving past, their families often feel the straining effects on their own lives. The families often do whatever they can to try to protect and save the person trying to get over their fears and internal battles, but often times fail to understand what they're truly going through. That's the main motivating cause of conflict in the upcoming comedy-drama 'Silver Linings Playbook,' which opened Long Island's Gold Coast International Film Festival at Great Neck's Clearview Squire Cinemas last month to a sold out audience. Opening at area Long Island theaters on Wednesday, writer-director David O. Russell's memorable film offers a realistic, emotional look into the struggles families face after a member has an emotional break-down related to their mental illness.
'Silver Linings Playbook' follows Pat Solatano (played by Bradley Cooper), who has been diagnosed with bipolar disorder and lost everything, including his house, his job as a teacher at the local high school and his wife, Nikki (portrayed by Brea Bee), after spending eight months in a state institution on a plea bargain. Pat's mother, Dolores (played by Jacki Weaver), arranges for him to be released from the hospital and move with back in with her and his father, Pat Sr. (portrayed by Robert De Niro), who lost his job and has turned to gambling to make money. They want Pat to get back on his feet, and share the family obsession with the Philadelphia Eagles. But Pat is determined to rebuild his life on his own terms-his major goal is to reunite with Nikki, despite her restraining order against him and the challenging circumstances of their separation.
Pat's road to recovery is deterred by Tiffany (played by Jennifer Lawrence), his widowed neighbor and the sister of one of his friends, Veronica (portrayed by Julia Stiles), who is still in contact with Nikki. Since Pat is determined to reconnect with Nikki, Tiffany offers to help him save his marriage, as long as he'll be her partner in a dance competition she's determined to enter. As their deal plays out, Pat and Tiffany form an unexpected bond with each other that they both have to learn to navigate. While Dolores and Pat Sr. are confused over where their son's relationship with Tiffany is headed, one of Pat's fellow patients from the hospital, Danny (played by Chris Tucker), encourages his friend to continue his new bond with the woman he has so easily connected with.
Cooper, who has garnered fame from the comedic 'Hangover' series, proved what a vibrant, versatile actor he can be with his portrayal of Pat in 'Silver Linings Playbook.' The actor drastically, but believably, changed his acting approach in order to portray his detached, and at times delusional, character, who refused to fully accept the consequences of his actions in the film. When Pat is first released from the hospital, he is insistent that he will win Nikki back, and will be re-hired by the school, even when the people around him continuously tell him he has to move on with his life. After he meets Tiffany, Cooper gradually makes Pat realize that he can move on with his life, and truly be happy without the things in his old life.
While Russell offered the actors some rehearsal time before they began shooting the comedy-drama, the well-cast performers truly formed a natural, realistic bond with each other once they began filming. While he only had 33 days to shoot the entire movie, the director continuously kept the camera running and filmed many scenes several times. The actors were able stay in the moment and have their characters truly connect over, and understand, their differing views on how Pat could move on from his marriage, and how his father can come to stop his gambling and stop blaming his own problems on his son.
To continue reading this interview, please visit Yahoo! Voices.
Sunday, November 18, 2012
Interview: The Filmmakers Talk Rise of the Guardians
Interview: The Filmmakers Talk Rise of the Guardians, Written by: Karen Benardello
Many fairytales and mythical figures who bring joy to children around the world are often presented as protectors of children’s imaginations and innocence. When these figures, including Santa Claus, the Easter Bunny and the Tooth Fairy, team up together to defeat evil in the world, they can help the children overcome their fears and truly enjoy the magic of the world. Their magical bond is a major motivating force in the anticipated DreamWorks animated film ‘Rise of the Guardians,’ which is set to be released in theaters on Wednesday.
‘Rise of the Guardians’ looks into what happens when Santa Claus, who’s known as North (voiced by Alec Baldwin); the Easter Bunny, who’s known as E. Aster Bunnymund (Hugh Jackman); the Tooth Fairy, who goes by Tooth (Isla Fisher); and the Sandman all know each other and team up keep children around the world happy and safe. Strong and immortal, the four childhood legends have been tasked by the Man in the Moon to protect the innocence and imagination of children of all ages to the fullest extent of their powers.
When an evil force, the bogeyman, who’s named Pitch (Jude Law), arrives with a plan to erase the Guardians from existence by robbing children of their hopes and dreams, the beloved crusaders elicit the help of Jack Frost (Chris Pine). Jack is a reluctant new recruit to the Guardians, however, as he would rather enjoy a snowy day than help save the world, as he’s upset no one believes in him. As the Guardians engage in an epic battle against Pitch, whose plan to conquer the world by spreading fear, can only be stopped by their magic and the lasting belief in young Jamie (Dakota Goyo).
The filmmakers of the DreamWorks animated family adventure film, including director Peter Ramsey; producers Guillermo del Toro, Christina Steinberg, Nancy Bernstein and Bill Joyce, who also wrote the books the movie is based on; screenwriter David Lindsay-Abaire; and composer/songwriter Alexandre Desplat, recently participated in a press conference at New York City’s Mandarin Oriental Hotel. The filmmakers discussed, among other things, how they became involved with the movie, how they chose which actors would voice the characters and why teens, as well as children, will enjoy the film.
Question (Q): How did this project come together, and how did everyone become involved in the film?
Bill Joyce (BJ): It started when my daughter was about six, and came into the kitchen with her little brother, who was three, in August, of all times, and asked, “Does the tooth fairy know Santa Claus?” I thought it was a funny question in August, but in her hand was her brother’s tooth. They had been going at it, and she had accidentally knocked his tooth out.
So I thought, okay. I said yes, the tooth fairy and Santa Claus do know each other. That opened up Pandora’s Box, that I’ve been trying to answer for 18 years. That’s why we put together this story.
Christina Steinberg (CS): Bill brought us the idea, and brought us this beautiful book of drawings that we all fell madly in love with. We pursued Bill relentlessly until he agreed to bring the movie to us.
We spent the next couple of years really figuring out how Bill was going to be working on the books while we were going to be developing the movie. We started with a team of people we thought we needed to make the film as wonderfully and spectacular as it is. Peter came aboard next, and then we started working on it.
Peter Ramsey (PR): It was pretty amazing. I had been at DreamWorks for awhile, and had heard about. I had recently completed another smaller TV short for the studio, so I had a little down time.
This idea of ‘Guardians’ was out there. Some work had been done on it, but the studio was gearing up for a new version of it I didn’t really have much thought that I would be involved. The idea had kind of taken route in my head, and I was kind of working on my ideas for it. I was waiting for them to ask if I was interested, and they asked me if I would be interested.
CS: Then David came on very soon after that, as well. We brought David in to write it.
David Lindsay-Abaire (DLA): When it was pitched to me, I liked the size of the story. It had an epic quality, and it had big things I cared about, as I had kids. I said, do I really want to make this movie, because it seems so different than a lot of the movies they’ve had released.
Everyone at DreamWorks said no, we want to make this movie and this story. Having read Bill’s story, I said, I’m in.
Nancy Bernstein (NB): I came on before Peter, and my job was to figure out how we were going to make this movie. It is kind of epic, and bigger than any kind of movie we’ve ever made at DreamWorks. The notion of all of these amazing characters, I was so excited about the opportunity.
I was head of production of DreamWorks at the time. I was asked if I’d consider it, and I said, yes, let’s go!
Guillermo del Toro (GDT): When I came back from New Zealand, I immediately made contact with DreamWorks. I went to the art room of ‘Guardians,’ and I was immediately captivated by one thing that’s still in the movie. This is not a movie that has pop references from the last 10 years, or trying to be hip and now.
It was actually trying to be timeless. It was trying to capture a sense of storytelling that is lost in most mediums right now. I was really attracted to that, and the possibility of exploring themes that are very important today, especially with kids. Like Jamie with fear, and how each of us is a guardian. Things like that, faith, belief, hope, renewal.
When we connected with all these things, we started talking about character and story and design. Then it became absolutely absorbing of my life and my family, because my whole family has become involved with this movie at some point. (laughs)
To continue reading this interview, please visit Shockya.
Many fairytales and mythical figures who bring joy to children around the world are often presented as protectors of children’s imaginations and innocence. When these figures, including Santa Claus, the Easter Bunny and the Tooth Fairy, team up together to defeat evil in the world, they can help the children overcome their fears and truly enjoy the magic of the world. Their magical bond is a major motivating force in the anticipated DreamWorks animated film ‘Rise of the Guardians,’ which is set to be released in theaters on Wednesday.
‘Rise of the Guardians’ looks into what happens when Santa Claus, who’s known as North (voiced by Alec Baldwin); the Easter Bunny, who’s known as E. Aster Bunnymund (Hugh Jackman); the Tooth Fairy, who goes by Tooth (Isla Fisher); and the Sandman all know each other and team up keep children around the world happy and safe. Strong and immortal, the four childhood legends have been tasked by the Man in the Moon to protect the innocence and imagination of children of all ages to the fullest extent of their powers.
When an evil force, the bogeyman, who’s named Pitch (Jude Law), arrives with a plan to erase the Guardians from existence by robbing children of their hopes and dreams, the beloved crusaders elicit the help of Jack Frost (Chris Pine). Jack is a reluctant new recruit to the Guardians, however, as he would rather enjoy a snowy day than help save the world, as he’s upset no one believes in him. As the Guardians engage in an epic battle against Pitch, whose plan to conquer the world by spreading fear, can only be stopped by their magic and the lasting belief in young Jamie (Dakota Goyo).
The filmmakers of the DreamWorks animated family adventure film, including director Peter Ramsey; producers Guillermo del Toro, Christina Steinberg, Nancy Bernstein and Bill Joyce, who also wrote the books the movie is based on; screenwriter David Lindsay-Abaire; and composer/songwriter Alexandre Desplat, recently participated in a press conference at New York City’s Mandarin Oriental Hotel. The filmmakers discussed, among other things, how they became involved with the movie, how they chose which actors would voice the characters and why teens, as well as children, will enjoy the film.
Question (Q): How did this project come together, and how did everyone become involved in the film?
Bill Joyce (BJ): It started when my daughter was about six, and came into the kitchen with her little brother, who was three, in August, of all times, and asked, “Does the tooth fairy know Santa Claus?” I thought it was a funny question in August, but in her hand was her brother’s tooth. They had been going at it, and she had accidentally knocked his tooth out.
So I thought, okay. I said yes, the tooth fairy and Santa Claus do know each other. That opened up Pandora’s Box, that I’ve been trying to answer for 18 years. That’s why we put together this story.
Christina Steinberg (CS): Bill brought us the idea, and brought us this beautiful book of drawings that we all fell madly in love with. We pursued Bill relentlessly until he agreed to bring the movie to us.
We spent the next couple of years really figuring out how Bill was going to be working on the books while we were going to be developing the movie. We started with a team of people we thought we needed to make the film as wonderfully and spectacular as it is. Peter came aboard next, and then we started working on it.
Peter Ramsey (PR): It was pretty amazing. I had been at DreamWorks for awhile, and had heard about. I had recently completed another smaller TV short for the studio, so I had a little down time.
This idea of ‘Guardians’ was out there. Some work had been done on it, but the studio was gearing up for a new version of it I didn’t really have much thought that I would be involved. The idea had kind of taken route in my head, and I was kind of working on my ideas for it. I was waiting for them to ask if I was interested, and they asked me if I would be interested.
CS: Then David came on very soon after that, as well. We brought David in to write it.
David Lindsay-Abaire (DLA): When it was pitched to me, I liked the size of the story. It had an epic quality, and it had big things I cared about, as I had kids. I said, do I really want to make this movie, because it seems so different than a lot of the movies they’ve had released.
Everyone at DreamWorks said no, we want to make this movie and this story. Having read Bill’s story, I said, I’m in.
Nancy Bernstein (NB): I came on before Peter, and my job was to figure out how we were going to make this movie. It is kind of epic, and bigger than any kind of movie we’ve ever made at DreamWorks. The notion of all of these amazing characters, I was so excited about the opportunity.
I was head of production of DreamWorks at the time. I was asked if I’d consider it, and I said, yes, let’s go!
Guillermo del Toro (GDT): When I came back from New Zealand, I immediately made contact with DreamWorks. I went to the art room of ‘Guardians,’ and I was immediately captivated by one thing that’s still in the movie. This is not a movie that has pop references from the last 10 years, or trying to be hip and now.
It was actually trying to be timeless. It was trying to capture a sense of storytelling that is lost in most mediums right now. I was really attracted to that, and the possibility of exploring themes that are very important today, especially with kids. Like Jamie with fear, and how each of us is a guardian. Things like that, faith, belief, hope, renewal.
When we connected with all these things, we started talking about character and story and design. Then it became absolutely absorbing of my life and my family, because my whole family has become involved with this movie at some point. (laughs)
To continue reading this interview, please visit Shockya.
Saturday, November 17, 2012
Price Check Movie Review
'Price Check' Movie Review, Written by: Karen Benardello
Director: Michael Walker (‘Chasing Sleep’)
Starring: Parker Posey, Eric Mabius (TV’s ‘Ugly Betty,’ ‘Resident Evil’) and Annie Parisse (‘How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days,’ ‘National Treasure’)
People often strive to find the right balance between having a successful, meaning career that makes them happy and being able to provide for, and spend time with, their families. This is certainly the case with thirty-something Pete Cozy, who is still aspiring to make it in the music business, while working for a supermarket chain so that he can provide for his family, in the new comedy-drama ‘Price Check.’ When his new boss challenges his beliefs and views, Pete comes to realize that the life he truly wants may just be the one he has now.
‘Price Check’ follows Pete (played by Eric Mabius), who has found himself a house in the suburbs of New York and a job in the pricing department of a middling supermarket chain. Pete’s job allows him to spend quality time with his wife, Sara (portrayed by Annie Parisse) and young son, Henry (played by Finn Donoghue) and they appear happy, despite the fact they’re drowning in debt.
Everything changes for Pete when he gets a new boss, the beautiful, high-powered Susan Felders (portrayed by Parker Posey). With Susan’s influence, Pete finds himself on the executive track, which surprises and excites him. While his salary increases, he also has to spend more time with Susan at work, however. His personal relationship with his new boss subsequently crosses the line of professional etiquette. Their growing relationship creates tension in the store and his personal home life.
Filmmaker Michael Walker, who penned, helmed and released the independent comedy-drama 12 years after making his feature film writing and directorial debut with the horror mystery thriller ‘Chasing Sleep,’ showed his versatility as a storyteller with ‘Price Check.’ Even with an 18-day shoot on a limited budget, the film effortlessly shows Pete realistically struggling with his need to provide for his family and his desire to return to working in the music business. Like many people, Pete still holds onto his longing to find success and acceptance in his chosen profession, specifically starting and running a record company. But with Sara’s constant reminding that he has to take care of their family, Pete accepts Susan’s offer of taking on more responsibilities, subconsciously knowing that this can be the way he can provide a good life for Henry.
To continue reading this review, please visit Shockya.
Director: Michael Walker (‘Chasing Sleep’)
Starring: Parker Posey, Eric Mabius (TV’s ‘Ugly Betty,’ ‘Resident Evil’) and Annie Parisse (‘How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days,’ ‘National Treasure’)
People often strive to find the right balance between having a successful, meaning career that makes them happy and being able to provide for, and spend time with, their families. This is certainly the case with thirty-something Pete Cozy, who is still aspiring to make it in the music business, while working for a supermarket chain so that he can provide for his family, in the new comedy-drama ‘Price Check.’ When his new boss challenges his beliefs and views, Pete comes to realize that the life he truly wants may just be the one he has now.
‘Price Check’ follows Pete (played by Eric Mabius), who has found himself a house in the suburbs of New York and a job in the pricing department of a middling supermarket chain. Pete’s job allows him to spend quality time with his wife, Sara (portrayed by Annie Parisse) and young son, Henry (played by Finn Donoghue) and they appear happy, despite the fact they’re drowning in debt.
Everything changes for Pete when he gets a new boss, the beautiful, high-powered Susan Felders (portrayed by Parker Posey). With Susan’s influence, Pete finds himself on the executive track, which surprises and excites him. While his salary increases, he also has to spend more time with Susan at work, however. His personal relationship with his new boss subsequently crosses the line of professional etiquette. Their growing relationship creates tension in the store and his personal home life.
Filmmaker Michael Walker, who penned, helmed and released the independent comedy-drama 12 years after making his feature film writing and directorial debut with the horror mystery thriller ‘Chasing Sleep,’ showed his versatility as a storyteller with ‘Price Check.’ Even with an 18-day shoot on a limited budget, the film effortlessly shows Pete realistically struggling with his need to provide for his family and his desire to return to working in the music business. Like many people, Pete still holds onto his longing to find success and acceptance in his chosen profession, specifically starting and running a record company. But with Sara’s constant reminding that he has to take care of their family, Pete accepts Susan’s offer of taking on more responsibilities, subconsciously knowing that this can be the way he can provide a good life for Henry.
To continue reading this review, please visit Shockya.
Friday, November 16, 2012
Lincoln Movie Review
'Lincoln' Movie Review, Written by: Karen Benardello
Director: Steven Spielberg
Starring: Daniel Day-Lewis, Sally Field, Tommy Lee Jones, Joseph Gordon-Levitt, James Spader and John Hawkes
With the recent presidential election, America is still contending with arguments and disagreements between the political parties on how to run the country. The same was true nearly 150 years ago, when President Abraham Lincoln signed the Emancipation Proclamation, giving slaves their freedom, and pushed to sign the 13th Amendment to end slavery. The new historical biography film ‘Lincoln,’ which is now playing in theaters, shows the personal and professional struggles the famed president faced during his time in the White House.
‘Lincoln’ follows the title character, the 16th president of the United States (played by Daniel Day-Lewis) as he pushes for the passage of the 13th Amendment abolishing slavery. As the Civil War rages on, the president must also contend with the continued carnage on the battlefield, and the fights he even experiences with members in his own cabinet over the decision to emancipate the slaves. The anti-abolitionist Democrats will be tested against Lincoln’s moderates and the more zealous anti-slavery radicals of the young Republican Party.
Lincoln must also deal with his wife, Mary Todd Lincoln (portrayed by Sally Field), as she struggles with the deaths of several of their sons, and the estrangement he faces with his college-age son Robert (played by Joseph Gordon-Levitt), who returns home from Harvard to join the Union army.
Screenwriter Tony Kushner, who partially based the script for the biographical drama on Doris Kerans Goodwin’s book ‘Team of Rivals: The Political Genius of Abraham Lincoln,’ emotionally showcased the true motivations behind Lincoln’s push to pass the 13th Amendment and end the Civil War. Instead of mainly focusing on the bloody fight between the Union and Confederate soldiers on the battlefields, or how the fighting affected the public, the film personalized the respected leader. The story considerably doesn’t portray the 16th president without inflated self-importance or grandeur; he takes the feelings of his black staff, and the soldiers he has spoken to on the battlefield, into consideration, and won’t end the war unless he knows for certain they will be free.
To continue reading this review, please visit Shockya.
Director: Steven Spielberg
Starring: Daniel Day-Lewis, Sally Field, Tommy Lee Jones, Joseph Gordon-Levitt, James Spader and John Hawkes
With the recent presidential election, America is still contending with arguments and disagreements between the political parties on how to run the country. The same was true nearly 150 years ago, when President Abraham Lincoln signed the Emancipation Proclamation, giving slaves their freedom, and pushed to sign the 13th Amendment to end slavery. The new historical biography film ‘Lincoln,’ which is now playing in theaters, shows the personal and professional struggles the famed president faced during his time in the White House.
‘Lincoln’ follows the title character, the 16th president of the United States (played by Daniel Day-Lewis) as he pushes for the passage of the 13th Amendment abolishing slavery. As the Civil War rages on, the president must also contend with the continued carnage on the battlefield, and the fights he even experiences with members in his own cabinet over the decision to emancipate the slaves. The anti-abolitionist Democrats will be tested against Lincoln’s moderates and the more zealous anti-slavery radicals of the young Republican Party.
Lincoln must also deal with his wife, Mary Todd Lincoln (portrayed by Sally Field), as she struggles with the deaths of several of their sons, and the estrangement he faces with his college-age son Robert (played by Joseph Gordon-Levitt), who returns home from Harvard to join the Union army.
Screenwriter Tony Kushner, who partially based the script for the biographical drama on Doris Kerans Goodwin’s book ‘Team of Rivals: The Political Genius of Abraham Lincoln,’ emotionally showcased the true motivations behind Lincoln’s push to pass the 13th Amendment and end the Civil War. Instead of mainly focusing on the bloody fight between the Union and Confederate soldiers on the battlefields, or how the fighting affected the public, the film personalized the respected leader. The story considerably doesn’t portray the 16th president without inflated self-importance or grandeur; he takes the feelings of his black staff, and the soldiers he has spoken to on the battlefield, into consideration, and won’t end the war unless he knows for certain they will be free.
To continue reading this review, please visit Shockya.
Thursday, November 15, 2012
Interview: Eric Mabius Talks Price Check
Interview: Eric Mabius Talks Price Check, Written by: Karen Benardello
Often times in life, people struggle to find the place where they belong, and try to figure out what’s best for themselves and their families. They often have to overcome a conflict with other people to figure out what matters most to them in the world. That’s certainly the case with the main character, Pete Cozy, in the new comedy-drama, ‘Price Check,’ which hits select theaters tomorrow. In writer-director Michael Walker’s second feature film, Pete strives to find a more financially stable job, and when he finally does, it comprises his family life.
‘Price Check’ follows Pete (played by Eric Mabius), who has found himself a house in the suburbs and a job in the pricing department of a middling supermarket chain. Pete’s job allows him to spend quality time with his wife and young son, and they appear happy, despite the fact they’re drowning in debt.
Everything changes for Pete when he gets a new boss, the beautiful, high-powered Susan Felders (portrayed by Parker Posey). With Susan’s influence, Pete finds himself on the executive track, which surprises and excites him. While his salary increases, he also has to spend more time with Susan at work, however. His personal relationship with his new boss subsequently crosses the line of professional etiquette. Their growing relationship creates tension in the store and his personal home life.
Mabius generously took the time recently to discuss filming ‘Price Check’ over the phone. Among other things, the actor discussed what attracted him to the role of Peter, what his working relationships with Posey and Walker were like and how his real-life marriage and children helped influenced and prepared him for his role as Pete.
ShockYa (SY): Price Check’ follows your character, Peter Cozy, who works in the pricing department of a middling supermarket chain. However, his world is quickly turned upside down when the company hires fast-talking, high-powered Susan to fix the chain. What was it about the character and the script that convinced you to take on the role of Peter?
Eric Mabius (EM): I went to an art school for college, I went to Sarah Lawrence. I have a lot of friends who are in the record business, or who are in the magazine business. They were interning, and they were all people who had dreams of starting their own label or their own magazine.
This character, Peter, is sort of that character, 15 years later, when his dream of running a record label and promoting the big bands has dried up. He has gotten married and has a child, and how does he put food on the table? There’s something that I wanted to explore there.
It’s about what we’re willing to sacrifice for the things we’re willing to get. That’s not the only thing that occurs-what are we willing to do for money? What is security, and why does that represent the simplicity in relationships?
I thought Michael Walker’s script was fantastic. His first film, ‘Chasing Sleep,’ with Jeff Daniels, I loved and respected. All of these elements culminated with (Parker) Posey being cast. I’ve always wanted to work with her. We’ve crossed paths, but never worked together.
SY: Speaking of Michael, ‘Price Check’ is the second feature film he both wrote and directed. Do you generally prefer working with directors who also wrote the script?
EM: That’s kind of a case-by-case situation. Often times, you’ll find directors who are very precious of what they’ve written. But Michael was not. He understood what had to get done for the greater good, and wasn’t too attached to things. He had a great desire to collaborate, which I think is more than half the battle.
There were things that had to go, that we didn’t think would. Then there were things that stayed, that we didn’t think would.
To continue reading this interview, please visit Shockya.
Often times in life, people struggle to find the place where they belong, and try to figure out what’s best for themselves and their families. They often have to overcome a conflict with other people to figure out what matters most to them in the world. That’s certainly the case with the main character, Pete Cozy, in the new comedy-drama, ‘Price Check,’ which hits select theaters tomorrow. In writer-director Michael Walker’s second feature film, Pete strives to find a more financially stable job, and when he finally does, it comprises his family life.
‘Price Check’ follows Pete (played by Eric Mabius), who has found himself a house in the suburbs and a job in the pricing department of a middling supermarket chain. Pete’s job allows him to spend quality time with his wife and young son, and they appear happy, despite the fact they’re drowning in debt.
Everything changes for Pete when he gets a new boss, the beautiful, high-powered Susan Felders (portrayed by Parker Posey). With Susan’s influence, Pete finds himself on the executive track, which surprises and excites him. While his salary increases, he also has to spend more time with Susan at work, however. His personal relationship with his new boss subsequently crosses the line of professional etiquette. Their growing relationship creates tension in the store and his personal home life.
Mabius generously took the time recently to discuss filming ‘Price Check’ over the phone. Among other things, the actor discussed what attracted him to the role of Peter, what his working relationships with Posey and Walker were like and how his real-life marriage and children helped influenced and prepared him for his role as Pete.
ShockYa (SY): Price Check’ follows your character, Peter Cozy, who works in the pricing department of a middling supermarket chain. However, his world is quickly turned upside down when the company hires fast-talking, high-powered Susan to fix the chain. What was it about the character and the script that convinced you to take on the role of Peter?
Eric Mabius (EM): I went to an art school for college, I went to Sarah Lawrence. I have a lot of friends who are in the record business, or who are in the magazine business. They were interning, and they were all people who had dreams of starting their own label or their own magazine.
This character, Peter, is sort of that character, 15 years later, when his dream of running a record label and promoting the big bands has dried up. He has gotten married and has a child, and how does he put food on the table? There’s something that I wanted to explore there.
It’s about what we’re willing to sacrifice for the things we’re willing to get. That’s not the only thing that occurs-what are we willing to do for money? What is security, and why does that represent the simplicity in relationships?
I thought Michael Walker’s script was fantastic. His first film, ‘Chasing Sleep,’ with Jeff Daniels, I loved and respected. All of these elements culminated with (Parker) Posey being cast. I’ve always wanted to work with her. We’ve crossed paths, but never worked together.
SY: Speaking of Michael, ‘Price Check’ is the second feature film he both wrote and directed. Do you generally prefer working with directors who also wrote the script?
EM: That’s kind of a case-by-case situation. Often times, you’ll find directors who are very precious of what they’ve written. But Michael was not. He understood what had to get done for the greater good, and wasn’t too attached to things. He had a great desire to collaborate, which I think is more than half the battle.
There were things that had to go, that we didn’t think would. Then there were things that stayed, that we didn’t think would.
To continue reading this interview, please visit Shockya.
Wednesday, November 14, 2012
The Lincoln Cast and Crew Talk About Filming the Historical Biography
The Lincoln Cast and Crew Talk About Filming the Historical Biography, Written by: Karen Benardello
With the recent presidential election, America is still contending with arguments and disagreements between the political parties on how to run the country. The same was true nearly 150 years ago, when President Abraham Lincoln signed the Emancipation Proclamation, giving slaves their freedom. The new historical biography film ‘Lincoln,’ which is now playing in select theaters and expands wide on Friday, shows the personal and professional struggles the famed president faced during his time in the White House. Filmmaker Steven Spielberg, who directed ‘Lincoln,’ was joined by actors Daniel Day-Lewis, who played the title character, Sally Field and Joseph Gordon-Levitt, as well as screenwriter Tony Kushner, recently to discuss the movie, which is already generating Oscar buzz.
‘Lincoln’ follows the title character, the 16th president of the United States (played by Day-Lewis) as he pushes for the passage of the 13th Amendment abolishing slavery. As the Civil War rages on, the president must also contend with the continued carnage on the battlefield, and the fights he even experiences with members in his own cabinet over the decision to emancipate the slaves. The anti-abolitionist Democrats will be tested against Lincoln’s moderates and the more zealous anti-slavery radicals of the young Republican Party.
Lincoln must also deal with his wife, Mary Todd Lincoln (portrayed by Field), as she struggles with the deaths of several of their sons, and the estrangement he faces with his college-age son Robert (played by Gordon-Levitt), who returns home from Harvard to join the Union army.
Day-Lewis first met with Spielberg in Ireland eight years ago to discuss accepting the title role. After Kushner convinced the director that he had to helm the biography, the filmmaker began contemplating which actor would best personify the esteemed president. As Spielberg began talking with the Oscar-winning actor, he realized he couldn’t make the film without Day-Lewis in the title role.
To continue reading this feature, please visit Shockya.
With the recent presidential election, America is still contending with arguments and disagreements between the political parties on how to run the country. The same was true nearly 150 years ago, when President Abraham Lincoln signed the Emancipation Proclamation, giving slaves their freedom. The new historical biography film ‘Lincoln,’ which is now playing in select theaters and expands wide on Friday, shows the personal and professional struggles the famed president faced during his time in the White House. Filmmaker Steven Spielberg, who directed ‘Lincoln,’ was joined by actors Daniel Day-Lewis, who played the title character, Sally Field and Joseph Gordon-Levitt, as well as screenwriter Tony Kushner, recently to discuss the movie, which is already generating Oscar buzz.
‘Lincoln’ follows the title character, the 16th president of the United States (played by Day-Lewis) as he pushes for the passage of the 13th Amendment abolishing slavery. As the Civil War rages on, the president must also contend with the continued carnage on the battlefield, and the fights he even experiences with members in his own cabinet over the decision to emancipate the slaves. The anti-abolitionist Democrats will be tested against Lincoln’s moderates and the more zealous anti-slavery radicals of the young Republican Party.
Lincoln must also deal with his wife, Mary Todd Lincoln (portrayed by Field), as she struggles with the deaths of several of their sons, and the estrangement he faces with his college-age son Robert (played by Gordon-Levitt), who returns home from Harvard to join the Union army.
Day-Lewis first met with Spielberg in Ireland eight years ago to discuss accepting the title role. After Kushner convinced the director that he had to helm the biography, the filmmaker began contemplating which actor would best personify the esteemed president. As Spielberg began talking with the Oscar-winning actor, he realized he couldn’t make the film without Day-Lewis in the title role.
To continue reading this feature, please visit Shockya.
Interview: Travis Pastrana Talks 'Nitro Circus'
Interview: Travis Pastrana Talks 'Nitro Circus,' Written by: Karen Benardello
Performing and/or watching suspenseful, death-defying stunts has always been a major adrenaline rush for many people interested in high-risk sports. The stunt performance genre has naturally become successful in the past decade with the help of MTV's popular stunt and prank television and film series 'Jackass.' Taking inspiration from the franchise's star, Johnny Knoxville, motorsports competitor and stunt performer Travis Pastrana showed off his own daring stunt abilities in his new film documentary, 'Nitro Circus,' which is based on his Fuel and MTV show of the same name.
'Nitro Circus' follows Pastrana and his tight-knit, highly-skilled, adrenaline-addicted friends as they bring their adventures to the big screen for the first time. They dream of the most dangerous stunts in the world of action sports, including back-flipping a bike between two 60-story buildings and going air-born and destroying their friends in a life size, high-speed game of Freedom Flyer. Their high risk stunts are made even more dangerous, as no safety nets were allowed during filming.
Pastrana generously took the time to answer questions about what it was like filming the action comedy documentary, which is now available on DVD. Among other things, he spoke about why he decided to shoot his stunts for a film, what it was like working with Knoxville on the movie and why he decided to co-write the script for 'Nitro Circus' with its co-directors, Gregg Godfrey and Jeremy Rawle.
Question (Q): 'Nitro Circus' follows you and your friends as you film your most dangerous stunts in action sports in your first DVD. Why did you decide to shoot your stunts and include them in a movie?
Travis Pastrana (TP): Our goal with 'Nitro Circus' is to be able to travel around the world, push our limits and have a lot of fun. A movie is something we had always wanted to do. We had a lot of stunts that we hadn't tried. We thought it would be wildly entertaining and in some cases, ground breaking. But we needed a reason to push ourselves that hard. All of that, plus the advances in 3D cameras and the timing seemed perfect.
Q: Some of the stunts you include in 'Nitro Circus' include back-flipping a bike between two 60-story buildings and going air-born in a high-speed game of Freedom Flyers. How did you decide which stunts you would include in the film?
TP: We did about three times as many stunts as we put in the film. It's frustrating when you do something that you are really proud of and it doesn't make the cut. We all had those moments, but we are all proud of the finished product. At the end of the day, we compete as athletes, but we make movies for entertainment.
To continue reading this interview, please visit Yahoo! Voices.
Performing and/or watching suspenseful, death-defying stunts has always been a major adrenaline rush for many people interested in high-risk sports. The stunt performance genre has naturally become successful in the past decade with the help of MTV's popular stunt and prank television and film series 'Jackass.' Taking inspiration from the franchise's star, Johnny Knoxville, motorsports competitor and stunt performer Travis Pastrana showed off his own daring stunt abilities in his new film documentary, 'Nitro Circus,' which is based on his Fuel and MTV show of the same name.
'Nitro Circus' follows Pastrana and his tight-knit, highly-skilled, adrenaline-addicted friends as they bring their adventures to the big screen for the first time. They dream of the most dangerous stunts in the world of action sports, including back-flipping a bike between two 60-story buildings and going air-born and destroying their friends in a life size, high-speed game of Freedom Flyer. Their high risk stunts are made even more dangerous, as no safety nets were allowed during filming.
Pastrana generously took the time to answer questions about what it was like filming the action comedy documentary, which is now available on DVD. Among other things, he spoke about why he decided to shoot his stunts for a film, what it was like working with Knoxville on the movie and why he decided to co-write the script for 'Nitro Circus' with its co-directors, Gregg Godfrey and Jeremy Rawle.
Question (Q): 'Nitro Circus' follows you and your friends as you film your most dangerous stunts in action sports in your first DVD. Why did you decide to shoot your stunts and include them in a movie?
Travis Pastrana (TP): Our goal with 'Nitro Circus' is to be able to travel around the world, push our limits and have a lot of fun. A movie is something we had always wanted to do. We had a lot of stunts that we hadn't tried. We thought it would be wildly entertaining and in some cases, ground breaking. But we needed a reason to push ourselves that hard. All of that, plus the advances in 3D cameras and the timing seemed perfect.
Q: Some of the stunts you include in 'Nitro Circus' include back-flipping a bike between two 60-story buildings and going air-born in a high-speed game of Freedom Flyers. How did you decide which stunts you would include in the film?
TP: We did about three times as many stunts as we put in the film. It's frustrating when you do something that you are really proud of and it doesn't make the cut. We all had those moments, but we are all proud of the finished product. At the end of the day, we compete as athletes, but we make movies for entertainment.
To continue reading this interview, please visit Yahoo! Voices.
Thursday, November 8, 2012
Interview: Craig Hurley Talks 27 and All Washed Up
Interview: Craig Hurley Talks '27 and All Washed Up,' Written by: Karen Benardello
Once people garner fame and fortune in their respective careers, particularly up-and-coming actors in Hollywood, their unwarranted descent back into obscurity can often be the most difficult obstacle they can overcome. But the most confident actors can find a way to find work again, even if it means having to reinvent themselves and starting over from the bottom again. This is certainly the case with former teen idol Craig Hurley, who described his reinvention in his new biography book '27 and All Washed Up.
'27 And All Washed Up' follows Hurley, who is best known for his television roles in the late '80s, on classics such as 'Nasty Boys' and 'Life Goes On,' as he chronicles his roller coaster ride of drugs, sex and excessive living as a leader of the "young Hollywood" pack. Compiled from the conversations during a four-year interview with his friend and fellow actor Zak Wilson, Hurley recounts the sometime humorous and always meaningful story of his years in the fast lane. Through a selection of photos, conversations and memorabilia from Hurley's private collection, the actor, director and writer chronicles growing up, and working, with such stars as Corey Feldman, Todd Bridges, Corey Haim, and Shannen Doherty.
Hurley took the time to discuss why he decided to write, and chronicle his life in, '27 and All Washed Up' over the phone recently. Among other things, the actor and filmmaker spoke about why he didn't worry about receiving backlash from his former co-stars and the other Hollywood heavyweights he wrote about; his writing and directing plans for the future; and what up-and-coming actors could learn from his generation.
Question (Q): In your new book, '27 and All Washed Up,' you give an unfiltered and raw insight into your years as a child and teen actor in Hollywood. Why did you decide to write the book, and give readers an understanding of your life?
Craig Hurley (CH): I was living in Chicago after living in Los Angeles for 17 years, and I moved back to Chicago to help my family out with some family business. My parents are older, and they're basically retired. So I needed to help them finalize some stuff.
While I was in Chicago, I just missed the opportunity to audition for 'One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest' for Steppenwolf when I moved back. Wheaton Drama was holding auditions for 'One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest,' and I've always wanted to do that play. It's the most amazing play ever written. So I went and auditioned, and booked the part of Billy Bibbit.
The cast is made up of 18 cast members. While we were rehearsing, somebody would talk to me and say, tell us a story about beating up Luke Perry on '90210.' Or tell us a story about meeting about Johnny Depp on '21 Jump Street.' They were constantly saying, tell us this story or tell us that story.
One of the actors, Zak Wilson, during the rehearsal process was like, Craig, you have to write this down. You have to write a book and get these stories down. I'm like, no, I'm not going to write a book. He goes, you have to. He bugged me for months, for three months during the rehearsal and during the run of the play.
He finally came up to me, and said, I really want to interview you, and I want to record it. I was like, dude, I don't want to write a book. He said, you can transcribe the tapes into a book, and I'm like, no, I don't want to go through this process. Finally, he came up to me at the end of the run of the play, and said, no interview, no book. No book, no book tour. I was like, okay, fine, I'll do it.
We sat down for literally four years about 12 different times. We were drinking at a local bar, and he was asking me questions about my resume. We went through every single job, and I would tell him stories about them. As I was transcribing all those tapes, it just became its own thing.
I was sitting there, thinking, this isn't anything, I'm just telling drunken stories. But it became this Rolling Stone-type interview. So that's how we put it together. Then when people were reading what I thought was a final copy, they were like, you have to add images and all this stuff. These were members of Scrappy Co. Productions who were helping me out who lived '27 and All Washed Up.' That was 2005, and now it's 2012, and we're finally getting it down.
To continue reading this interview, please visit Yahoo! Voices.
Once people garner fame and fortune in their respective careers, particularly up-and-coming actors in Hollywood, their unwarranted descent back into obscurity can often be the most difficult obstacle they can overcome. But the most confident actors can find a way to find work again, even if it means having to reinvent themselves and starting over from the bottom again. This is certainly the case with former teen idol Craig Hurley, who described his reinvention in his new biography book '27 and All Washed Up.
'27 And All Washed Up' follows Hurley, who is best known for his television roles in the late '80s, on classics such as 'Nasty Boys' and 'Life Goes On,' as he chronicles his roller coaster ride of drugs, sex and excessive living as a leader of the "young Hollywood" pack. Compiled from the conversations during a four-year interview with his friend and fellow actor Zak Wilson, Hurley recounts the sometime humorous and always meaningful story of his years in the fast lane. Through a selection of photos, conversations and memorabilia from Hurley's private collection, the actor, director and writer chronicles growing up, and working, with such stars as Corey Feldman, Todd Bridges, Corey Haim, and Shannen Doherty.
Hurley took the time to discuss why he decided to write, and chronicle his life in, '27 and All Washed Up' over the phone recently. Among other things, the actor and filmmaker spoke about why he didn't worry about receiving backlash from his former co-stars and the other Hollywood heavyweights he wrote about; his writing and directing plans for the future; and what up-and-coming actors could learn from his generation.
Question (Q): In your new book, '27 and All Washed Up,' you give an unfiltered and raw insight into your years as a child and teen actor in Hollywood. Why did you decide to write the book, and give readers an understanding of your life?
Craig Hurley (CH): I was living in Chicago after living in Los Angeles for 17 years, and I moved back to Chicago to help my family out with some family business. My parents are older, and they're basically retired. So I needed to help them finalize some stuff.
While I was in Chicago, I just missed the opportunity to audition for 'One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest' for Steppenwolf when I moved back. Wheaton Drama was holding auditions for 'One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest,' and I've always wanted to do that play. It's the most amazing play ever written. So I went and auditioned, and booked the part of Billy Bibbit.
The cast is made up of 18 cast members. While we were rehearsing, somebody would talk to me and say, tell us a story about beating up Luke Perry on '90210.' Or tell us a story about meeting about Johnny Depp on '21 Jump Street.' They were constantly saying, tell us this story or tell us that story.
One of the actors, Zak Wilson, during the rehearsal process was like, Craig, you have to write this down. You have to write a book and get these stories down. I'm like, no, I'm not going to write a book. He goes, you have to. He bugged me for months, for three months during the rehearsal and during the run of the play.
He finally came up to me, and said, I really want to interview you, and I want to record it. I was like, dude, I don't want to write a book. He said, you can transcribe the tapes into a book, and I'm like, no, I don't want to go through this process. Finally, he came up to me at the end of the run of the play, and said, no interview, no book. No book, no book tour. I was like, okay, fine, I'll do it.
We sat down for literally four years about 12 different times. We were drinking at a local bar, and he was asking me questions about my resume. We went through every single job, and I would tell him stories about them. As I was transcribing all those tapes, it just became its own thing.
I was sitting there, thinking, this isn't anything, I'm just telling drunken stories. But it became this Rolling Stone-type interview. So that's how we put it together. Then when people were reading what I thought was a final copy, they were like, you have to add images and all this stuff. These were members of Scrappy Co. Productions who were helping me out who lived '27 and All Washed Up.' That was 2005, and now it's 2012, and we're finally getting it down.
To continue reading this interview, please visit Yahoo! Voices.
Tuesday, November 6, 2012
Nature Calls Movie Review
'Nature Calls' Shockya Movie Review, Written by: Karen Benardello
Director: Todd Rohal (‘The Catechism Cataclysm‘)
Starring: Patton Oswalt, Johnny Knoxville, Maura Tierney, Rob Riggle, Patrice O’Neal, Darrell Hammond and Thiecoura Cissoko
Brothers often grow up fighting with each other, but when their rivalry continues well into adulthood, they often have trouble accepting the other’s seemingly foolish beliefs and antics. Such is the case with the two main characters in the upcoming comedy ‘Nature Calls,’ which will be released in select theaters on Friday. The brothers in the film are both losing things they believe in, and are experiencing crises of faith, but are still reluctant to accept that they’re old enough to at least acknowledge the other’s choices.
‘Nature Calls’ follows Assistant Scoutmaster Randy Stevens (Patton Oswalt), who is determined to honor his father’s scouting legacy and try to make one last comeback for his dwindling troop. Randy visits his his business-minded brother Kirk (Johnny Knoxville), who is throwing a television-themed slumber party with his wife, Janine (Maura Tierney), for their newly adopted 10-year-old son, Dwande (Thiecoura Cissoko), at their mansion. Randy pressures the boys to secretly leave the party and join him on a weekend scout camping trip. When Kirk discovers the boys are missing, he takes his security guard, Gentry (Rob Riggle), to look for them in the woods. The boys are met with trouble from their angry parents and the park rangers, including Ranger Deakins (Darrell Hammond), but the experience ultimately turns them into a troop to be reckoned with.
Writer-director Todd Rohal successfully created a comedy filled with hilarious mayhem that features subtle emotional lessons throughout the course of the plot. Randy means no harm when he takes the boys on the camping trip, ash e just wants them to break free from the influences of their ultra-modern parents and experience a true adolescent experience. The provocative, tongue-in-check film shows Randy coping with his crisis of faith, and despair over the dwindling number of scouts in his troop. He feels that he has to take the boys to show them that they can make their own decisions, and have fun without technology.
To continue reading this review, please visit Shockya.com.
Director: Todd Rohal (‘The Catechism Cataclysm‘)
Starring: Patton Oswalt, Johnny Knoxville, Maura Tierney, Rob Riggle, Patrice O’Neal, Darrell Hammond and Thiecoura Cissoko
Brothers often grow up fighting with each other, but when their rivalry continues well into adulthood, they often have trouble accepting the other’s seemingly foolish beliefs and antics. Such is the case with the two main characters in the upcoming comedy ‘Nature Calls,’ which will be released in select theaters on Friday. The brothers in the film are both losing things they believe in, and are experiencing crises of faith, but are still reluctant to accept that they’re old enough to at least acknowledge the other’s choices.
‘Nature Calls’ follows Assistant Scoutmaster Randy Stevens (Patton Oswalt), who is determined to honor his father’s scouting legacy and try to make one last comeback for his dwindling troop. Randy visits his his business-minded brother Kirk (Johnny Knoxville), who is throwing a television-themed slumber party with his wife, Janine (Maura Tierney), for their newly adopted 10-year-old son, Dwande (Thiecoura Cissoko), at their mansion. Randy pressures the boys to secretly leave the party and join him on a weekend scout camping trip. When Kirk discovers the boys are missing, he takes his security guard, Gentry (Rob Riggle), to look for them in the woods. The boys are met with trouble from their angry parents and the park rangers, including Ranger Deakins (Darrell Hammond), but the experience ultimately turns them into a troop to be reckoned with.
Writer-director Todd Rohal successfully created a comedy filled with hilarious mayhem that features subtle emotional lessons throughout the course of the plot. Randy means no harm when he takes the boys on the camping trip, ash e just wants them to break free from the influences of their ultra-modern parents and experience a true adolescent experience. The provocative, tongue-in-check film shows Randy coping with his crisis of faith, and despair over the dwindling number of scouts in his troop. He feels that he has to take the boys to show them that they can make their own decisions, and have fun without technology.
To continue reading this review, please visit Shockya.com.
Sunday, November 4, 2012
Interview: Tamala Jones Talks Castle
Yahoo! Voices Interview: Tamala Jones Talks 'Castle,' Written by: Karen Benardello
Maintaining the excitement and unpredictability factor of popular television series is often times a struggle once shows are on the air for several years. But the popular ABC series 'Castle' is still surprising fans, mostly notably with the developing romantic relationship between the two main characters, the title best-selling mystery novelist, Richard Castle (Nathan Fillon), and Detective Kate Beckett (Stana Katic).
Season 5 of 'Castle' follows the title character and Beckett as they decide to continue their romantic relationship. As Beckett decides to return to work after being suspended for finally proving Senator William Bracken (Jack Coleman) killed her mother, she and Castle agree to keep their relationship from their co-workers. But the medical examiner Beckett and Castle always consult, Lanie Parish (Tamala Jones), catches on that her friend is having a secret affair, and questions her about her mystery man.
Jones generously took the time recently to discuss the current fifth season of the hit ABC comedy-drama over the phone. Among other things, the actress spoke about why she enjoys playing Lanie; what her working relationships with Fillon, Katic and the rest of the cast are like; and why she thinks it's important to work with The Rosemary Children's Services and other charities.
Question (Q): You have been playing the medical examiner, Lanie Parish, on the past five seasons of 'Castle.' Why did you initially want to play the role, and what have you enjoyed about the character for the past five seasons?
Tamala Jones (TJ): I had wanted to switch up what I had been doing in my acting career. I had always played someone's wife or girlfriend, or crazy girlfriend. (laughs) So I was overjoyed when I was able to audition for a doctor role, and I actually got it.
I love playing Lanie because she's not just your average medical examiner. She is also the best friend of Detective Beckett, and you get to see her as this human, rather than this person just spewing out medical jargon. You get to see her sassiness and that she's also very serious about her job. You also get to see that she's a big fan of Castle.
Normally, when you see any of the medical examiners on the crime shows, they're just there to give you the information, and that's it. I think Lanie's a lot more interesting because there are so many different levels to her. I really enjoy that about playing Lanie.
Q: Lanie is also known for being sarcastic with Castle. Do you improve at all on the set, and what is your working relationships with Nathan and Stana like?
TJ: We don't improve, but Nathan does. (laughs) But the rest of us stick to the writing. The writing is perfect; there's nothing that I would want to change or add to the writing that Andrew (W. Marlowe) and the rest of the crew come up with. I think they're amazing.
As far as my working relationships with Stana and Nathan, they're great. I love those two people. Stana and I have our girl moments away from everybody. Nathan is like a big brother to me. He's always sharing great stories of his travels and adventures. He's also always pulling pranks on people, especially me. (laughs)
But I have a good time. This is one of the best casts I've ever worked with, and I've been doing this since I was 14. They're some of the best people I've ever worked with in this business, they're great. I love Jon (Huertas) and Seamus (Dever), and Molly's (C. Quinn) like my little sister. I love Susan (Sullivan). If you want to know anything about what the real divas did back in the day, Susan's got some stories for you. It's a treat to be able to go and work and have great relationships with the entire cast and crew.
To continue reading this interview, visit Yahoo! Voices.
Maintaining the excitement and unpredictability factor of popular television series is often times a struggle once shows are on the air for several years. But the popular ABC series 'Castle' is still surprising fans, mostly notably with the developing romantic relationship between the two main characters, the title best-selling mystery novelist, Richard Castle (Nathan Fillon), and Detective Kate Beckett (Stana Katic).
Season 5 of 'Castle' follows the title character and Beckett as they decide to continue their romantic relationship. As Beckett decides to return to work after being suspended for finally proving Senator William Bracken (Jack Coleman) killed her mother, she and Castle agree to keep their relationship from their co-workers. But the medical examiner Beckett and Castle always consult, Lanie Parish (Tamala Jones), catches on that her friend is having a secret affair, and questions her about her mystery man.
Jones generously took the time recently to discuss the current fifth season of the hit ABC comedy-drama over the phone. Among other things, the actress spoke about why she enjoys playing Lanie; what her working relationships with Fillon, Katic and the rest of the cast are like; and why she thinks it's important to work with The Rosemary Children's Services and other charities.
Question (Q): You have been playing the medical examiner, Lanie Parish, on the past five seasons of 'Castle.' Why did you initially want to play the role, and what have you enjoyed about the character for the past five seasons?
Tamala Jones (TJ): I had wanted to switch up what I had been doing in my acting career. I had always played someone's wife or girlfriend, or crazy girlfriend. (laughs) So I was overjoyed when I was able to audition for a doctor role, and I actually got it.
I love playing Lanie because she's not just your average medical examiner. She is also the best friend of Detective Beckett, and you get to see her as this human, rather than this person just spewing out medical jargon. You get to see her sassiness and that she's also very serious about her job. You also get to see that she's a big fan of Castle.
Normally, when you see any of the medical examiners on the crime shows, they're just there to give you the information, and that's it. I think Lanie's a lot more interesting because there are so many different levels to her. I really enjoy that about playing Lanie.
Q: Lanie is also known for being sarcastic with Castle. Do you improve at all on the set, and what is your working relationships with Nathan and Stana like?
TJ: We don't improve, but Nathan does. (laughs) But the rest of us stick to the writing. The writing is perfect; there's nothing that I would want to change or add to the writing that Andrew (W. Marlowe) and the rest of the crew come up with. I think they're amazing.
As far as my working relationships with Stana and Nathan, they're great. I love those two people. Stana and I have our girl moments away from everybody. Nathan is like a big brother to me. He's always sharing great stories of his travels and adventures. He's also always pulling pranks on people, especially me. (laughs)
But I have a good time. This is one of the best casts I've ever worked with, and I've been doing this since I was 14. They're some of the best people I've ever worked with in this business, they're great. I love Jon (Huertas) and Seamus (Dever), and Molly's (C. Quinn) like my little sister. I love Susan (Sullivan). If you want to know anything about what the real divas did back in the day, Susan's got some stories for you. It's a treat to be able to go and work and have great relationships with the entire cast and crew.
To continue reading this interview, visit Yahoo! Voices.
Interview: Ciaran Foy Talks Citadel
Shockya Interview: Ciaran Foy Talks 'Citadel,' Written by: Karen Benardello
People can become so distressed after surviving a traumatizing experience that they lose all faith in humanity and the will to live. But their need to protect their loved ones from experiencing the same fate can become so overpowering that they’re driven to do whatever it takes to save their lives. This is certainly the case with the main character, Tommy Cowley, in the new Irish horror thriller ‘Citadel,’ which will be released in select theaters on Friday. Tommy suffers from such extreme, continued agoraphobia after witnessing an unprovoked attack on his wife that he’s emotionally forced to consider how he’ll protect their newborn daughter.
‘Citadel’ follows Tommy (played by Aneurin Barnard), who lives a quiet life in a decaying apartment complex with his pregnant wife, Joanne (portrayed by Amy Shiels). On the day they’re set to move out, Joanne is fatally attacked by a group of feral children. Tommy becomes so traumatized by the events that he locks himself and their newborn daughter in his new flat in the dilapidated suburb of Edenstown.
Tommy soon finds himself terrorized by the same group of children, who are determined to take his daughter. He seeks the help of an understanding nurse, Marie (played by Wunmi Mosaku), and a vigilante priest (portrayed by James Cosmo), to free himself of his fears, and once again enter the place he fears the most-the abandoned tower block known as the Citadel that used to be his home.
Filmmaker Ciaran Foy, who made his feature film writing and directing debut with the horror thriller, generously took the time to sit down with us recently in New York City to discuss the movie. Among other things, the filmmaker spoke about where he came up with the inspiration for ‘Citadel,’ how having a limited budget and short shooting schedule place restrictions on what he could shoot for the film and how he reacted when he heard he won the Midnighter Audience Award at the 2012 SXSW Film Festival.
ShockYa (SY): You directed and wrote the screenplay for ‘Citadel.’ Where did you come up with the idea for the story?
Ciaran Foy (CF): The film is something I describe as a half psychological horror, half autobiography. When I was 18, I was the victim of a vicious and unprovoked attack by a gang of youths. It left me with a condition known as agoraphobia, which the main character suffers from in the movie. So it was kind of my struggles with that, and my battles with agoraphobia, and my eventual recovery from that trauma. My struggles, mixed with my nightmares and how I saw the world as a frightened 18-year-old, was really where it began.
SY: Did you mainly draw on your own experiences when you were writing the script, or did you do any kind of research as well?
CF: Well, it was mainly drawing on my own experiences, and when I was getting help for my agoraphobia. When I was at film school, there was a free counselor that I would see once a week. A lot of the stuff that she would say ended up being the catalyst for the movie.
Like we were talking about body language one day. She was saying when you’re afraid, you’re body says you’re afraid. It’s as if these street predators can see your fear. So you can walk down the worst area that you can image, but if you look like you known where you’re going, they don’t see you. I just thought that was a really creepy concept.
I was like, what if that was literally the case? What if there’s a creature that was blind, but who could see fear? So a lot of it came from that.
I did a little bit of research in that I met with people who suffer from chronic agoraphobia. Those kind of people have not left their house in 30 years. That was a real eye-opener, in that it’s a debilitating and completely irrational fear. So there was a bit of that.
The area where the movie takes place is pretty much a nightmarish collage of where I grew up. So I would say a vast majority of it is spearheaded by stuff I’ve seen or gone through.
Written by: Karen Benardello
People can become so distressed after surviving a traumatizing experience that they lose all faith in humanity and the will to live. But their need to protect their loved ones from experiencing the same fate can become so overpowering that they’re driven to do whatever it takes to save their lives. This is certainly the case with the main character, Tommy Cowley, in the new Irish horror thriller ‘Citadel,’ which will be released in select theaters on Friday. Tommy suffers from such extreme, continued agoraphobia after witnessing an unprovoked attack on his wife that he’s emotionally forced to consider how he’ll protect their newborn daughter.
‘Citadel’ follows Tommy (played by Aneurin Barnard), who lives a quiet life in a decaying apartment complex with his pregnant wife, Joanne (portrayed by Amy Shiels). On the day they’re set to move out, Joanne is fatally attacked by a group of feral children. Tommy becomes so traumatized by the events that he locks himself and their newborn daughter in his new flat in the dilapidated suburb of Edenstown.
Tommy soon finds himself terrorized by the same group of children, who are determined to take his daughter. He seeks the help of an understanding nurse, Marie (played by Wunmi Mosaku), and a vigilante priest (portrayed by James Cosmo), to free himself of his fears, and once again enter the place he fears the most-the abandoned tower block known as the Citadel that used to be his home.
Filmmaker Ciaran Foy, who made his feature film writing and directing debut with the horror thriller, generously took the time to sit down with us recently in New York City to discuss the movie. Among other things, the filmmaker spoke about where he came up with the inspiration for ‘Citadel,’ how having a limited budget and short shooting schedule place restrictions on what he could shoot for the film and how he reacted when he heard he won the Midnighter Audience Award at the 2012 SXSW Film Festival.
ShockYa (SY): You directed and wrote the screenplay for ‘Citadel.’ Where did you come up with the idea for the story?
Ciaran Foy (CF): The film is something I describe as a half psychological horror, half autobiography. When I was 18, I was the victim of a vicious and unprovoked attack by a gang of youths. It left me with a condition known as agoraphobia, which the main character suffers from in the movie. So it was kind of my struggles with that, and my battles with agoraphobia, and my eventual recovery from that trauma. My struggles, mixed with my nightmares and how I saw the world as a frightened 18-year-old, was really where it began.
SY: Did you mainly draw on your own experiences when you were writing the script, or did you do any kind of research as well?
CF: Well, it was mainly drawing on my own experiences, and when I was getting help for my agoraphobia. When I was at film school, there was a free counselor that I would see once a week. A lot of the stuff that she would say ended up being the catalyst for the movie.
Like we were talking about body language one day. She was saying when you’re afraid, you’re body says you’re afraid. It’s as if these street predators can see your fear. So you can walk down the worst area that you can image, but if you look like you known where you’re going, they don’t see you. I just thought that was a really creepy concept.
I was like, what if that was literally the case? What if there’s a creature that was blind, but who could see fear? So a lot of it came from that.
I did a little bit of research in that I met with people who suffer from chronic agoraphobia. Those kind of people have not left their house in 30 years. That was a real eye-opener, in that it’s a debilitating and completely irrational fear. So there was a bit of that.
The area where the movie takes place is pretty much a nightmarish collage of where I grew up. So I would say a vast majority of it is spearheaded by stuff I’ve seen or gone through.
Written by: Karen Benardello
Saturday, November 3, 2012
Jack and Diane Movie Review
Jack and Diane Shockya Movie Review, Written by: Karen Benardello
Director: Bradley Rust Gray (‘The Exploding Girl’)
Starring: Riley Keough (‘Magic Mike’), Juno Temple (‘The Dark Knight Rises’), Cara Seymour (‘Adaptation,’ ‘Gangs of New York’) and Kylie Minogue
Creating enthralling, unique coming-of-age romance films involving teenagers experimenting with new found emotions can pose a challenge to many writer-directors. The new romance drama ‘Jack and Diane,’ which is now playing in select theaters, not only aims to showcase the startling, emerging feelings between the two title characters, but also aspires to incorporate unexpected elements of horror. While the two well-cast main actresses in the movie emotionally show the struggles of their characters, the inclusion of the horror subplot unfortunately takes away from the otherwise intriguing story.
‘Jack and Diane’ follows tomboy Jack (played by Riley Keough) and the outgoing Diane (portrayed by Juno Temple), as they meet and fall in love over the summer in New York City. But Jack’s tough personality and Diane’s reserved innocence and hesitance over starting a romantic relationship with another girl doesn’t prepare either one for the ever growing feelings the two are developing for each other. When Diane finally reveals to Jack that her Aunt Linda (played by Cara Seymour) is sending her to Paris at the end of the summer for a school program, Jack begins to push her away. As Diane struggles to maintain their growing relationship, despite her aunt’s objections over their romance, Diane tries to conceal from Jack the dark and violent visions she’s been having of transforming into a werewolf.
Bradley Rust Gray, who both wrote and directed the horror romance drama, featured a genuine insight into the confusing and complicated romantic feelings teenagers experience as they try to navigate high school love. The title characters’ continuously conflicting emotions are intriguingly balanced between Jack’s pursuit of Diane and the latter’s subtle, but ever-growing, trust in her new girlfriend. Just when Gray tricks audiences into believing the two girls have found security with each other, he included another unexpected twist to keep them apart, from Diane’s school trip to Paris to Jack’s unwillingness to fight to make their long-distance relationship work.
To continue reading this review, visit Shockya.
Interview; Michael Steger Talks '90210'
Interview: Michael Steger Talks '90210,' Written by: Karen Benardello
Young adults are known for making questionable and self-destructive choices in their lives that unfortunately have negative effects on their personal and professional lives. That's certainly the case with Navid Shirazi, played by Michael Steger, who has been one of the main characters on the hit CW series '90210' since its launch in 2008. Even as he watches his relationships with his ex-girlfriends and friends unravel, Navid stays hesitant to improve with connections with those around him.
The current fifth season of '90210' follows Navid and his friends as they contend with the events that occurred in the season four finale in May. Navid, notably, struggles with the revelation that his ex-girlfriend, Silver (Jessica Stroup), has asked Teddy (Trevor Donovan) to be the father of her baby, so he begins lashing out to gain her attention. To forget his pain, he becomes a club promoter with Liam (Matt Lanter). The two begin a partnership with Taylor (Wes Brown), who coincidentally has a fling with another one of Navid's ex-girlfriends, Adrianna (Jessica Lowndes), while she's on her national tour.
Steger generously took the time to speak about the character of Navid, and the fifth season of the teen drama series, over the phone recently. Among other things, the actor discussed what attracted him to the role, how he relates to his character and the upcoming films he'll be appearing in.
Question (Q): You have reprised your role as Navid Shirazi in the current fifth season of '90210.' What was it about Navid that initially convinced you to take on the role when the show first started in 2008, and why do you continue to enjoy playing the character?
Michael Steger (MS): I think what interested me in the beginning was that Gabe Sachs and Jeff Judah were coming on board to re-launch the show. I liked the fact that they did something completely different, and thought the camp from 'Freaks and Geeks' was completely intriguing. I thought it could make for a really great show.
Gabe and Jeff come from a really strong comedy background, and they switched to a one-hour drama. So I thought the show was going to be very well rounded.
Q: Were you a fan of the original 'Beverly Hills, 90210' that aired in the 1990s?
MS: I watched it every once in a while. I can't say that I was a fan, but I was aware of it.
Q: You have a believable, genuine working relationship with many of your castmates, including Jessica Stroup, Tristan Wilds, Matt Lanter and Trevor Donovan. What are your working relationships with everyone like?
MS: We're all friends. We hang out on set, and work together nine months out of the year.
Q: The fourth season finale of the show featured Navid deciding that he wants to be the one to have a baby with Silver, but she ultimately decides to ask Teddy to have a child with her. Do you think Navid and Silver have a chance to rekindle their relationship?
MS: Navid doesn't think so. He doesn't react well to the whole situation. He starts acting out to grab Silver's attention. He starts acting like a jerk.
To continue reading this interview, please visit Yahoo! Voices.
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