Wednesday, November 9, 2011

Interview: Robert Duncan Talks Castle and The Entitled | Shockya.com

Read Shockya.com's exclusive interview with television and film composer Robert Duncan, who is currently working on the new season of the hit ABC police series ‘Castle,’ for which he was nominated for an Emmy Award for the show’s first season in 2009. Duncan also worked on the music for the new film ‘The Entitled,’ which is now available on Blu-ray and DVD. The composer, who produces all of his music at Hollywood’s legendary Devonshire Studios, discusses with us, among other things, what the process of working on both ‘Castle’ and ‘The Entitled’ is like, and the similarities and differences of working on television and films.

Written by: Karen Benardello


ShockYa (SY): You composed the music for the new thriller ‘The Entitled,’ which follows a man, Paul Dynan, played by Kevin Zegers, who becomes so desperate for money to save his family that he kidnaps three young socialites and holds them for ransom. Given that the movie focuses on such a dark, morbid subject, what was the process of creating the music like?

Robert Duncan (RD): When writer/executive producer Bill Morrissey first sent me the script for ‘The Entitled,’ I was very excited, as the musical opportunities were immediately apparent and it was the type of artistic canvas I had been hoping to find for a while. I knew that director Aaron Woodley and producer Dave Valleau would let me dig into deeper darker musical territory than some of my other projects allow. The whole movie is bound together with underlying threads of tension, violence and contempt between all characters. With this atmosphere as a launching pad, I called upon a motley assortment of unusual instruments and sound sources to create textures that would draw us deeper into this uncomfortable world. From the Dewanatron Swarmatron, which gives you command of a bee-like swarm of analog synthesis via two ribbon controllers, to the Ned Steinberger Omnibass, an electric bass/cello hybrid, to the recording and sonic manipulation of a shotgun loading, I built a palette that hopefully elicits curiosity from the listener’s ear.

The tone of the film changes when Paul’s partners become trigger happy, and his victims reveal surprises of their own. When his perfect plan goes horribly wrong, Paul must fight to stay ahead in his own twisted game.

SY: Did such drastic, unexpected turn of events influence the way you composed the music for ‘The Entitled?’

RD: The music does get darker and darker as the characters unravel, but one interesting factor in this movie is how unified it is thematically. From the beginning, it states very clearly that you are watching a thriller and foreshadows the dark territory ahead. It leaves you guessing as to the specifics, but you know what type of world you are venturing into emotionally. I really enjoy working on projects that pose a confident cinematic identity in this way.



To continue reading this interview, please visit: Interview: Robert Duncan Talks Castle and The Entitled | Shockya.com

Interview: Parker Young Talks Suburgatory | Shockya.com

Read Shockya.com's exclusive interview with up-and-coming actor Parker Young, who’s currently starring on the new hit ABC comedy series ‘Suburgatory.’ The show, which has been picked up for a full first season, follows a single father, George Altman, portrayed by Jeremy Sisto, who decides to move from New York City to the suburbs. George wants to give his 16-year-old daughter, Tessa, played by Jane Levy, a better life. Young plays Ryan Shay, one of the Altman’s new neighbors, who Tessa develops a crush on. The actor discusses with us, among other things, what attracted him to the role of Ryan, and what it’s like working with Sisto and Levy.

Written by: Karen Benardello


ShockYa (SY): ‘Suburgatory’ follows George as he moves Tessa from New York City to the suburbs to give her a better life. What did you find appealing about the show’s premise that compelled you to audition for the role of Ryan Shay?

Parker Young (PY): You know, I read the script, and I thought it was a creative, new take on comedy. I thought it was something that would really do great on television. My role, in particular, I thought would be a total blast to sink my teeth into. Originally, the character was written as not so dumb, just an arrogant, typical high school jock. It was a fun role, and I played football in high school. I was surrounded by these types of people.

SY: Jane Levy and Jeremy Sisto portray Tessa and George on the series. What is it like working with both of them?

PY: Oh, they’re amazing. They’re such brilliant actors, but at the same time, just truly great people. I found Jeremy especially such a pleasure to work with. He’s so seasoned, I guess would be the right word, and I learn so much from him all the time. I think our trip to Vegas last weekend really kind of solidified our relationship, just in time for some scenes that we have coming up between me and him for this next episode.

SY: Jane has expressed some romantic interest in Ryan. Is there any chance of expanding the romantic relationship between Jane and Ryan?

PY: (laughs) I think Ryan sure would like to hope so. Ryan still definitely has a place in his heart for Tessa, and I think there’s a chance that he might pursue that a little bit.


To continue reading this interview, please visit: Interview: Parker Young Talks Suburgatory | Shockya.com

Tuesday, November 8, 2011

Boxer Joe Frazier Dies at 67 From Liver Cancer | Shockya.com

Muhammad Ali’s old boxing rival, Joe Frazier, died on November 7, 2011, after a brief battle with liver cancer, Hollywood Life is reporting. Frazier, a heavyweight champion, rose to fame as he fought Ali in three famous fights between 1971 and 1975.

Frazier won the first fight against Ali at Madison Square Garden in the Fight of the Century, while the latter won the last two. Ali also called his rival a gorilla outside of the ring, and mocked him for his looks. But after hearing the news of Frazier’s death, Ali had nothing but nice things to say about his former rival.



To continue reading this article, please visit: Boxer Joe Frazier Dies at 67 From Liver Cancer | Shockya.com

Monday, November 7, 2011

Trespass DVD Review

Trespass Examiner DVD Review, Written by: Karen Benardello


The worst problems tend to arise when people make assumptions in relationships, and have no interest in solving their problems until their desperation leaves them with no other options. The psychological thriller ‘Trespass,’ which is now available to rent on DVD at select Long Island Redbox locations, aims to prove that families are only pushed to examine their deteriorating relationships when external forces physically put their lives in danger. While the film's director, New York native Joel Schumacher, succeeds in his mission to prove that all families bond when they’re threatened, the veteran filmmaker disappointingly includes character and plot cliches.

‘Trespass’ follows seemingly happy married couple Sarah (played by Nicole Kidman) and Kyle Miller (portrayed by Nicolas Cage). While the two, on outward appearances, have it all, including wealth, a newly renovated house and a lovely teenage daughter, Avery (played by Liana Liberato), the couple’s strained relationship is really plagued by secrets.
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Kyle spends a lot of time away from home as a diamond dealer, and is pretending to be more successful in his career than he really is. While Sara, an architect, is at home overseeing their home’s remodeling, she is supposedly involved in a relationship with one of the contractors, Jonah (portrayed by Cam Gigandet). Sarah and Kyle are also dealing with their rebellious daughter, who won’t listen to a word they say.

The Millers’ luck begins to change when Jonah arrives at their home with his brother Elias (played by Ben Mendelsohn), Elias’ girlfriend Petal (portrayed by Jordana Spiro) and drug and gang enforcer Ty (portrayed by Dash Mihok). Thinking the family is extremely rich, the four demand Kyle gives them all the money and diamonds he keeps in his safe. The robbers vow not to give up, despite Kyle’s reluctance to give in to their demands, as they’re on a desperate mission to get money in order to pay back a drug debt.

Despite its intriguing premise, ‘Trespass’ made the quick move from its limited theatrical release to home video in a mere two-and-a-half weeks. The psychological thriller hit theaters on October 14, 2011, and was rapidly pulled 10 days later, due to its dismal box office receipt of approximately $25,000, against a budget of $35 million. As a result, the DVD only features one extra, a simple behind-the-scenes featurette with Cage and Schumacher talking about the film’s shoot.


To continue reading this review, please click here.

Crazy, Stupid, Love DVD review

'Crazy, Stupid, Love' Examiner DVD review, Written by: Karen Benardello


Sometimes the people we thought we knew can turn around and surprise us. That can be said about both Steve Carell and his character, Cal Weaver, in the new Warner Bros. romantic comedy-drama ‘Crazy, Stupid, Love;’ not only does Cal completely change his lifestyle and personality after he found out his wife cheated on him and wants to end their relationship, but the former ‘Office’ star proved what a diverse actor he can be with the role. Both Cal and Carell were thrown into unfamiliar territory, but ultimately thrived in their new atmospheres.

‘Crazy, Stupid, Love’ follows Cal (played by Carell), who seems to be leading the perfect life with a strong marriage and family, good job and nice house. That is, until his wife of 25 years, Emily (portrayed by Julianne Moore), unexpectedly tells him that she slept with one of her co-workers, David Lindhagen (played by Kevin Bacon), and she wants a divorce.

After moving out and trying to start a new life, Cal attempts to integrate back into the dating world by going to a bar. There he meets teacher Kate (played by New York native Marisa Tomei), with whom he engages in a one-night stand with. Cal also meets player Jacob Palmer (portrayed by Ryan Gosling) at the bar, who tries to help him become more attractive to women. At the same time, Jacob starts to learn more about himself as he becomes more emotionally attracted to Hannah (played by Emma Stone), who at first resists the ladies’ man.

The DVD extras for the romantic comedy-drama are unfortunately scarce, and only feature a widescreen format and deleted scenes. With such drastic character transformations and an intriguing ensemble cast, audiences surely would be interested in hearing from Ficarra and Requa and the cast about the filming process on the film.


To continue reading this review, please click here.

Saturday, November 5, 2011

Interview: Nick Hamm Talks Killing Bono | Shockya.com

Read Shockya.com's exclusive interview with director Nick Hamm, who helmed the new comedy film ‘Killing Bono,’ which is now playing in select theaters. The movie, which is based on musician and music critic Neil McCormick’s acclaimed 2003 memoir, ‘I Was Bono’s Doppelganger,’ follows him and his brother Ivan as they strive to achieve fame as a rock ‘n’ roll band. The only problem is that Neil, played by Ben Barnes, and his brother Ivan, portrayed by Robert Sheehan, are competing against Bono, played by Martin McCann, and the rest of the members of U2, who they attended school with. While Ivan has come to terms with U2′s achievements, and doesn’t mind accepting help from Bono, Neil refuses to garner success off of someone he perceives to be his greatest rival. Hamm discusses with us, among other things, what he found compelling about Neil and Ivan’s story, and how closely he worked with them and U2 while filming the movie.

Written by: Karen Benardello


ShockYa (SY): ‘Killing Bono’ follows Neil and Ivan as they compete with their old classmate, Bono, and the success of his band, U2. What was it about the story that you found compelling, and convinced you to direct the movie?

Nick Hamm (NH): The story was compelling because it’s an everyman’s story. The main character is an everyman. Fundamentally, the story is about failure, and the notion of failure. So I was very interested in doing a music movie that didn’t end with success, but ended with the protagonist basically failing, and not succeeding. I thought the character of Neil would be representative of quite a lot of people, in the sense that which one of us, in our teenager years, hadn’t stood in front of our bathroom mirror, and said “I want to be a rock star.” So it was a movie that dealt with hubris and ambition, and the idea of really achieving fame over talent, and I just thought it was all a very, very interesting subject matter. I thought they had great comedic potential.

SY: ‘Killing Bono’ is based on Neil’s 2003 memoir, ‘I Was Bono’s Doppelganger.’ Before you began shooting the movie, how much knowledge did you have of the story, and did you read the book first, before you began filming?

NH: I read the book myself, five years ago, optioned the book and then employed the writers to write the screenplay. So it was something that I produced from the beginning. When I first read the book, I realized that this story needed good cinematic treatment. So I involved the writers in that. The script took about two or three years to get right. I was very involved. The book is a sprawling account of Neil’s journey through the rock business in the ’80s. So what we did was focus on that in a much more character (driven) way.

SY: Since ‘Killing Bono is based on Neil’s memoir, how closely did you work with him while shooting? Did he have any say in the filming process?

NH: No. He didn’t have any say, but he was very close to the project. He read all the drafts of the screenplay. He was very instrumental in helping us through, and navigated certain issues. He became a very close colleague during the process of making the movie, and was very, very happy in seeing the movie being made. He wasn’t on set until the last couple of weeks of the film. In a sense, he wanted to let the actors settle, and get it right. But he was a total supporter, and has remained since then. He has been gracious in the fact that we have treated his life in this way.

SY: Since the film focuses on Neil’s rivalry with Bono and U2, did you have any contact with the band while you were filming the movie?

NH: Yeah, we had to have quite a bit of contact with the band, because in the movie, we use quite of bit of their original artwork, some of their songs they gave us. We were interested in showing certain early moments of when the band was formed.

In the movie, there were two scenes that were part of rock history. The band did put a notice, (U2 founder and drummer) Larry Mulln did put a notice up in the school corridor, and asked for signatures for anyone who wanted to join. They were going to join U2. At that moment, they were called The Hype.

There was also another scene in the movie that was an audition scene, and it takes place in Larry’s mom’s kitchen, which is the first audition that U2 ever did for their members. It was the first time they actually got together to play.

So we talked to The Edge, we talked to their manager, Paul McGuinness. We talked with (bass guitarist) Adam (Clayton). We talked with one of the producers on the movie, who was their ex-agent. We wanted to make sure we got those early things in, those early records of U2 correct, that we got them right. So from that point of view, we had a lot of communication with the band, all the way through the process.


To continue reading this interview, please visit: Interview: Nick Hamm Talks Killing Bono | Shockya.com

A Very Harold & Kumar 3D Christmas Movie Review | Shockya.com

'A Very Harold & Kumar 3D Christmas' Shockya.com Movie Review, Written by: Karen Benardello

Director: Todd Strauss-Schulson

Starring: John Cho, Kal Penn and Neil Patrick Harris


Christmas films are primarily known for their heartwarming, family-friendly messages and innocent stories aimed at children. But when the story is aimed towards adults and includes sexual content, graphic nudity, pervasive language, violence and of course, drug use, the film is undoubtedly a follow-up in the successful ‘Harold & Kumar’ series. The second sequel in the franchise, ‘A Very Harold & Kumar 3D Christmas,’ doesn’t fail to please fans of the title characters, who once again find themselves in a crazy, illegal adventure after smoking marijuana. While some of the movie’s jokes feel recycled, the overall message that friends can reunite after life takes them in different directions is not only surprisingly touching, but also offers several amusing pranks as well.

‘A Very Harold & Kumar 3D Christmas’ picks up six years after the previous installment in the franchise, 2008′s ‘Harold & Kumar Escape from Guantanamo Bay.’ The title characters have been estranged for over two years, as their lives have taken very different courses; Kumar (played by Kal Penn) is unemployed, having failed a drug test required to enter medical school, and is still living in the same apartment he once shared with Harold (portrayed by John Cho). While Kumar has once again broken up with Vanessa (played by Danneel Harris), due to his immature ways, Harold is now married to Maria (portrayed by Paula Garges), and works on Wall Street.

The two title characters are preparing for their own respective holiday plans with their new friends, when a mysterious package mistakenly arrives at Kumar’s apartment for Harold. Kumar brings the package to Harold’s house, and accidentally burns his former friend’s Christmas tree, which was brought over by Maria’s father, Mr. Perez (played by Danny Trejo). Wanting to impress his father-in-law and keep him happy, Harold takes Kumar to find a new tree. The two naturally embark on a wild journey throughout New York City, which of course includes another chance encounter with Neil Patrick Harris.



To continue reading this review, please visit: A Very Harold & Kumar 3D Christmas Movie Review | Shockya.com