(1) Star Wars
(16) Requiem for a Dream
Showing posts with label Star Wars. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Star Wars. Show all posts
Monday, February 3, 2014
Wednesday, February 15, 2012
Theater Review: Star Wars: The Phantom Menace 3D
It's pretty much a known fact that I am a huge Star Wars fan, and although I do feel the prequel trilogy is a bit subpar compared to the original trilogy, I still find the need for them and have learned to enjoy what they do have to offer.
That being said, I know I am not going to chance anyone's feelings about the films. If you are like me and have learned to enjoy them, then you already enjoy them. But, if you like to pick things apart and truly hate the film, there is no way that I am changing your mind.
So, I was able to take my family to see Star Wars: Episode I: The Phantom Menace 3D in the theater. Say what you want, but being able to experience a Star Wars film on the large screen is truly spectacular. The first time I heard John Williams' epic score as the crawl came on the screen always gives me goosebumps. And, it did again when I heard it this time.
My son has really started to enjoy the Star Wars franchise, much like I have. This was his first experience seeing one of the films on the big screen - and I am very excited that he was able to get that experience.
I guess I will just talk about a few parts of the film. The Phantom Menace, although needed in my opinion, is probably the worst of the six films.
There are two things, however, that The Phantom Menace has that may be superior to some of the other films.
First, the pod race. That is one of the most breathtaking scenes in the entire franchise. And, seeing it on the big screen - and in 3D - was spectacular.
Second, Darth Maul. I have said it before, but it is worth repeating, Darth Maul (Ray Park) is one of the best villains ever created. And, he hardly gets any screen time - and even gets killed off (though if you follow the Clone Wars this may not be true) near the end of the film. Maul was experienced in the Force, had martial arts training, and carried a double-bladed light saber - how cool is that?
Plus, he took on two of the most powerful Jedis - killed one and was surprised by the other. That is a great villain - and I am sad that we got saddled with Count Dooku over two films while Maul was limited to part of this one.
Now, the 3D portion of the film. If you are expecting crazy 3D like light sabers coming out of the screen at you, don't bother. This is the type of 3D that I enjoy - it shows the depth of the images and I felt it worked amazingly well.
I am truly excited to see each and every film in this franchise, and it is only going to get better as the movies progress. I wasn't expecting for these releases to take six years to finish, but I guess they are trying to coincide with the 40th Anniversary of the original Star Wars when Return of the Jedi is finally released.
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That being said, I know I am not going to chance anyone's feelings about the films. If you are like me and have learned to enjoy them, then you already enjoy them. But, if you like to pick things apart and truly hate the film, there is no way that I am changing your mind.
My son has really started to enjoy the Star Wars franchise, much like I have. This was his first experience seeing one of the films on the big screen - and I am very excited that he was able to get that experience.
I guess I will just talk about a few parts of the film. The Phantom Menace, although needed in my opinion, is probably the worst of the six films.
There are two things, however, that The Phantom Menace has that may be superior to some of the other films.
First, the pod race. That is one of the most breathtaking scenes in the entire franchise. And, seeing it on the big screen - and in 3D - was spectacular.
Second, Darth Maul. I have said it before, but it is worth repeating, Darth Maul (Ray Park) is one of the best villains ever created. And, he hardly gets any screen time - and even gets killed off (though if you follow the Clone Wars this may not be true) near the end of the film. Maul was experienced in the Force, had martial arts training, and carried a double-bladed light saber - how cool is that?
Plus, he took on two of the most powerful Jedis - killed one and was surprised by the other. That is a great villain - and I am sad that we got saddled with Count Dooku over two films while Maul was limited to part of this one.
Now, the 3D portion of the film. If you are expecting crazy 3D like light sabers coming out of the screen at you, don't bother. This is the type of 3D that I enjoy - it shows the depth of the images and I felt it worked amazingly well.
I am truly excited to see each and every film in this franchise, and it is only going to get better as the movies progress. I wasn't expecting for these releases to take six years to finish, but I guess they are trying to coincide with the 40th Anniversary of the original Star Wars when Return of the Jedi is finally released.
Grade:
Tuesday, February 14, 2012
Top 10: Movie Couples
So, today is Valentine's Day. That got me thinking about the best movie couples. There are so many, and so many I have not seen. So, this is technically just a nice list of movie couples.
I tossed up a poll on Facebook and got some feedback, but I felt odd putting some couples on the list of films I haven't seen yet. So, this is a list of couple from films I have seen.
This was one of the suggestions I got on Facebook, and I felt it was far too funny not to include. This is the car that is the most difficult for Raines to boost, which is named Eleanor.
I had to put them on the list. They are the quintessential couple and are almost always brought up when thought about the top couples. I can't put them too high on the list, because they are such a boring answer.
Kind of funny that a film that is about sports, somewhat, has one of the top movie couples. But, the relationship between Jerry and Dorothy is wonderful.
A couple from opposite sides of the track, but they are dogs not humans. Lady, growing up in the well-to-do house, while Tramp is living off the streets. Together they are the cutest couple, who knew?
Just like Lady and Tramp, Jack and Rose come opposite sides of money. Rose has a ton of it and Jack has none. But, Jack has something that Rose needs, a way to have fun.
The ogre who thought he always wanted to be alone meets the beautiful princess with a secret - and they lived happily ever after.
She's a princess and he's a smuggler, but when forced together there true feelings come out and an intergalactic love story is born.
Kat hates dating and men in general. She is courted by Patrick, a loner who everyone has made rumors up about. He is paid to take her out so someone else can date her sister, but he ends up falling in love and so does she.
Buttercup is a rich, young girl while Westley works on her farm. He falls in love with her and she with her, but he is kidnapped by the dread pirate Roberts - and she is forced to marry Prince Humperdink, will they get back together?
OK, this was sort of a toss up between them and Wall-E and Eve from Wall-E. I think the final straw was just how great the first part of Up is and how much they truly loved each other.
I tossed up a poll on Facebook and got some feedback, but I felt odd putting some couples on the list of films I haven't seen yet. So, this is a list of couple from films I have seen.
10) Memphis Raines & Eleanor - Gone in 60 Seconds
9) Romeo & Juliet - Romeo+Juliet
8) Jerry & Dorothy - Jerry Maguire
7) Lady & Tramp - Lady & The Tramp
6) Jack & Rose - Titanic
5) Shrek & Fiona - Shrek
4) Leia & Han - Star Wars
3) Kat & Patrick - 10 Things I Hate About You
2) Buttercup & Westley - The Princess Bride
Buttercup is a rich, young girl while Westley works on her farm. He falls in love with her and she with her, but he is kidnapped by the dread pirate Roberts - and she is forced to marry Prince Humperdink, will they get back together?
1) Ellie & Carl - Up
OK, this was sort of a toss up between them and Wall-E and Eve from Wall-E. I think the final straw was just how great the first part of Up is and how much they truly loved each other.
Tuesday, September 13, 2011
Tuesday's With Movies: 9/13/11
Thursday, August 18, 2011
What's Your Blu?
With the release of Star Wars on blu-ray DVD just a month away my brain began to turn.
I have yet to jump onto the blu-ray bandwagon yet. I am sure I will in the future (if it remains that long), but so far I have not really had a reason - or the means - to purchase a blu-ray player.
There is one thing that appeals to me about this type of player - and that is that it sort of goes parallel. Unlike new technology of the past (read VHS/Beta) this move will still allow you to play your old DVDs.
When I made the jump from VHS to DVD 10 or 11 years ago, it took me quite a long time get all of my VHS tapes on DVD. Once I made the jump it made VHS obsolete to me - I can't even remember the last time I watched a VHS tape.
So, that is the good news. Once I do make the jump there is no reason to run out and buy a bunch of blu-ray DVDs that I already have on DVD. The old ones will still work. Which is exciting.
This sort of takes the same route that some of the new gaming systems have taken of late. By not allowing people to play their old games on the new consoles - it sort of penalizes someone for being loyal to a console maker. By making older games playable on the new consoles - it gives people a reason to make the switch and stay loyal.
So, the main reason that my mind began flowing was this: What movies out there would you absolutely have to make the switch from DVD to blu-ray?
A few jumped out to me.
Obviously, Star Wars. I have probably purchased these movies a handful of times already. I believe I owned three different versions of the original trilogy on VHS, plus I owned the Episode I on VHS before finally making the switch to DVD, which I own all six now.
Second, Back to the Future. I remember when it finally came out on DVD as a trilogy purchase how excited I was. It is one of the most iconic trilogies for me. It is an absolute upgrade for me.
Third, Indiana Jones. I know I am probably being obvious on these first three selections, but they are pretty obvious to me. I got the original trilogy on VHS and then quickly turned that around to the DVD trilogy - which I completed with the purchase of Crystal Skull.
Fourth, Toy Story. I am sorry, but the Pixar trilogy is one of my top set of films of all time. I would definitely need to upgrade these films.
Finally, Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory. This film has been my all-time favorite film since I saw it as a kid. There is something about it that draws me in every time I see it. Of course I would need to upgrade my all-time favorite film.
So - I turn the microphone to you. What films would you absolutely need (or already have) to upgrade from DVD to blu-ray?
Thursday, September 25, 2008
Happy Birthday, Mr. Skywalker!
A Happy Birthday goes out to the most famous of the Skywalker clan, Luke. Or should I say the man you portrayed him on film, Mark Hamill.
Tuesday, May 13, 2008
Top 10: Movie Franchises
The movie franchise has become pretty popular, especially nowadays. In my opinion the movie cannot formally be called a franchise, at least, until three movies are made - and are pretty successful.
This was a hard one to narrow down to just 10, as there are tons of movies out there that qualify, and a handful of others that I actually enjoy.
So here are my Top 10 (in reverse order), but first a list of honorable mentions that didn't quite make the list, but I still enjoy.
Honorable Mentions: American Pie, Lethal Weapon, Scream, Beverly Hills Cop, Batman, The Bourne Trilogy, Mighty Ducks, Austin Powers, Fast & the Furious, Shrek, Santa Clause, The Matrix, Jurassic Park, The Mummy, Police Academy, Die Hard and The Karate Kid.
This was a hard one to narrow down to just 10, as there are tons of movies out there that qualify, and a handful of others that I actually enjoy.
So here are my Top 10 (in reverse order), but first a list of honorable mentions that didn't quite make the list, but I still enjoy.
Honorable Mentions: American Pie, Lethal Weapon, Scream, Beverly Hills Cop, Batman, The Bourne Trilogy, Mighty Ducks, Austin Powers, Fast & the Furious, Shrek, Santa Clause, The Matrix, Jurassic Park, The Mummy, Police Academy, Die Hard and The Karate Kid.
10) Pirates of the Caribbean
Synopsis: The first Pirates of the Caribbean movie, Curse of the Black Pearl, was a bit of a sleeper hit, as it was not expected to do as well as it did in the theater. But, of course, once it was two more movies were rushed into production. I have to admit that Black Pearl was the best of the trilogy, but Dead Man's Chest and the finale, At World's End, were both very well done follow up movies.
Why to see them: Johnny Depp, obviously. He is truly what makes this movie what it is. His portrayal of Captain Jack Sparrow is masterfully done. Also, Keira Knightley - this was my first real glance at the British beauty, and I was very impressed.
9) Lord of the Rings
Synopsis: The movies that started this run of epic releases. The Lord of the Rings is a true work of art. The first movie really draws you in, as you start to truly develop a relationship with these characters. Two Towers sort of teases you, as there is no real beginning or end, because it is obviously the middle of a trilogy. Return of the King, really delivers as the final piece to a wonderfully constructed puzzle.
Why to watch them: The scenery is beautiful, and the battle scenes are epic. Sean Astin, who plays Sam, does an amazing job in this film - as does Ian McKellen as Gandalf.
8) Ocean's Trilogy
Synopsis: All three movies are about criminals. It's truly amazing how much you root for the bad guys. Ocean's 11 starts off the trilogy with a casino heist in Las Vegas, but not just any casino heist - three casinos at once. The first Ocean's is by far the most superior, Ocean's 12 definitely took a step backwards, but it was enjoyable nontheless. The crew heads back to Vegas for Ocean's 13, and the return really helps as the third is better than the second.
Why to see them: The heists are pretty elaborate and planned out to perfection. It's amazing to see how some things are pulled off. Plus the chemistry from such a huge group of talented actors is superb, and hard to pull off.
7) Spider-Man
Synopsis: The first Spider-Man movie is basically the creation of Spider-Man himself. The best movie of the bunch is Spider-Man 2, however, as Spidey has to battle Doc-Oc. Spider-Man 3 had all the makings to be a spectacular film, but it ended up being the worst of the three, although I still enjoyed it - it may have had too many villains at once.
Why to see them: Like the original Batman movies, Spider-Man is for the comic book fan, and fan of action movies. It's odd, going into a movie you think 'how can this actor pull this off?', but now, I can't imagine someone else taking over for Tobey Maguire.
6) X-Men
Synopsis: X-Men really surprised me. I was not a fan of the comic books growing up, but I had obviously heard of Wolverine. The movie is very well done, and it's sequel, X-Men 2, may have even surpassed it. X-Men 3, however, took a giant step back. Again, though, I am still a fan of the final movie, it just wasn't as good as it's predecessors.
Why to see them: Hugh Jackman as Wolverine is probably the main reason to watch, and most likely why there is a soon-to-be movie about the character. I also found the Magneto and Prof. Xavier mind battles to pretty enjoyable.
5) Star Trek
Synopsis: It's pretty odd that when talking about a movie franchise that you aren't really a fan of the original, but in the case of Star Trek, that is exactly what happened. The original Star Trek movie is pretty unwatchable, but they really got it right with The Wrath of Kahn. Honestly, the first movie is the only one I am not really a fan of - the rest, including those with the Star Trek: The Next Generation cast, are very enjoyable.
Why to see them: My favorite parts of all the movies are the scenes that involved William Shatner (Kirk), Leonard Nimoy (Spock) and DeForest Kelly (Bones). The battle between the villain(s) is always pretty enjoyable as well. Check out the new Star Trek film some time next year.
4) Harry Potter
Synopsis: Obviously, the movies are based off of the books. I myself am not reading the books (although I might when all the movies are finished), because I don't want to be spoiled. The movies are about a young boy, who is apparently the chosen to defeat Lord Voldemort.
Why to see them: Although the movies started off geared more towards children (ie. the first two), the movies have really taken a darker tone since Prisoner of Azkaban. Also, Rupert Grint (Ron), Emma Watson (Hermione) and Daniel Radcliffe (Harry) have developed amazing chemistry together. The Weasley twins are pretty funny as well.
3) Indiana Jones
Synopsis: Indiana Jones is a history teacher that doubles as an archaeologist/whip yielding badass. Raiders of the Lost Arc is a pretty amazing tale, that starts off Indiana's journey. I was not as impressed with Temple of Doom, but I still enjoy it. I did not like the female character in the film. The Last Crusade is probably my favorite of the three, with Sean Connery joining the crew as Indiana's father.
Why to see them: There's a pretty entertaining story in all three films. The dry wit and action really keeps you entertained throughout. It's hard to go wrong with Harrison Ford, he is at the top of his game as his portrayal of Indiana Jones.
2) Back to the Future
Synopsis: The original Back to the Future is one of my favorite movies of all time. It's a pretty interesting topic, traveling back in time and seeing your parents when they were your age. The second film heads to the near future, and is pretty well done. I like the third movie, but I feel the romance between Doc and Clara pulled the movie down a little.
Why to see them: Michael J. Fox and Christopher Lloyd, without a doubt. The casting director gets an A+ for their job in casting these two, they were outstanding in all three films. The character Biff was also done very well. The premise of the movie - time travel - has always been very entertaining.
1) Star Wars
Synopsis: Was there truly any doubt. Star Wars is without a doubt the most influential trilogy of all time. I am including all six movies in this as well. Although Phantom Menace is a bit of a downer, I think the movie was still needed to introduce Anakin - plus Darth Maul is an excellent villain. The original trilogy obviously stands out above the new one, but Revenge of the Sith is an amazing film.
Why to see them: If you haven't seen at least the original trilogy already, then you probably are never going to. The movies are iconic in so many ways. I can't really pick a favorite, because I feel each film brings something to the table. I know people were disappointed with Episodes I-III, but I was not. I enjoy all six of the movies.
Synopsis: The first Pirates of the Caribbean movie, Curse of the Black Pearl, was a bit of a sleeper hit, as it was not expected to do as well as it did in the theater. But, of course, once it was two more movies were rushed into production. I have to admit that Black Pearl was the best of the trilogy, but Dead Man's Chest and the finale, At World's End, were both very well done follow up movies.Why to see them: Johnny Depp, obviously. He is truly what makes this movie what it is. His portrayal of Captain Jack Sparrow is masterfully done. Also, Keira Knightley - this was my first real glance at the British beauty, and I was very impressed.
9) Lord of the Rings
Synopsis: The movies that started this run of epic releases. The Lord of the Rings is a true work of art. The first movie really draws you in, as you start to truly develop a relationship with these characters. Two Towers sort of teases you, as there is no real beginning or end, because it is obviously the middle of a trilogy. Return of the King, really delivers as the final piece to a wonderfully constructed puzzle.Why to watch them: The scenery is beautiful, and the battle scenes are epic. Sean Astin, who plays Sam, does an amazing job in this film - as does Ian McKellen as Gandalf.
8) Ocean's Trilogy
Synopsis: All three movies are about criminals. It's truly amazing how much you root for the bad guys. Ocean's 11 starts off the trilogy with a casino heist in Las Vegas, but not just any casino heist - three casinos at once. The first Ocean's is by far the most superior, Ocean's 12 definitely took a step backwards, but it was enjoyable nontheless. The crew heads back to Vegas for Ocean's 13, and the return really helps as the third is better than the second.Why to see them: The heists are pretty elaborate and planned out to perfection. It's amazing to see how some things are pulled off. Plus the chemistry from such a huge group of talented actors is superb, and hard to pull off.
7) Spider-Man
Synopsis: The first Spider-Man movie is basically the creation of Spider-Man himself. The best movie of the bunch is Spider-Man 2, however, as Spidey has to battle Doc-Oc. Spider-Man 3 had all the makings to be a spectacular film, but it ended up being the worst of the three, although I still enjoyed it - it may have had too many villains at once.Why to see them: Like the original Batman movies, Spider-Man is for the comic book fan, and fan of action movies. It's odd, going into a movie you think 'how can this actor pull this off?', but now, I can't imagine someone else taking over for Tobey Maguire.
6) X-Men
Synopsis: X-Men really surprised me. I was not a fan of the comic books growing up, but I had obviously heard of Wolverine. The movie is very well done, and it's sequel, X-Men 2, may have even surpassed it. X-Men 3, however, took a giant step back. Again, though, I am still a fan of the final movie, it just wasn't as good as it's predecessors.Why to see them: Hugh Jackman as Wolverine is probably the main reason to watch, and most likely why there is a soon-to-be movie about the character. I also found the Magneto and Prof. Xavier mind battles to pretty enjoyable.
5) Star Trek
Synopsis: It's pretty odd that when talking about a movie franchise that you aren't really a fan of the original, but in the case of Star Trek, that is exactly what happened. The original Star Trek movie is pretty unwatchable, but they really got it right with The Wrath of Kahn. Honestly, the first movie is the only one I am not really a fan of - the rest, including those with the Star Trek: The Next Generation cast, are very enjoyable.Why to see them: My favorite parts of all the movies are the scenes that involved William Shatner (Kirk), Leonard Nimoy (Spock) and DeForest Kelly (Bones). The battle between the villain(s) is always pretty enjoyable as well. Check out the new Star Trek film some time next year.
4) Harry Potter
Synopsis: Obviously, the movies are based off of the books. I myself am not reading the books (although I might when all the movies are finished), because I don't want to be spoiled. The movies are about a young boy, who is apparently the chosen to defeat Lord Voldemort.Why to see them: Although the movies started off geared more towards children (ie. the first two), the movies have really taken a darker tone since Prisoner of Azkaban. Also, Rupert Grint (Ron), Emma Watson (Hermione) and Daniel Radcliffe (Harry) have developed amazing chemistry together. The Weasley twins are pretty funny as well.
3) Indiana Jones
Synopsis: Indiana Jones is a history teacher that doubles as an archaeologist/whip yielding badass. Raiders of the Lost Arc is a pretty amazing tale, that starts off Indiana's journey. I was not as impressed with Temple of Doom, but I still enjoy it. I did not like the female character in the film. The Last Crusade is probably my favorite of the three, with Sean Connery joining the crew as Indiana's father.Why to see them: There's a pretty entertaining story in all three films. The dry wit and action really keeps you entertained throughout. It's hard to go wrong with Harrison Ford, he is at the top of his game as his portrayal of Indiana Jones.
2) Back to the Future
Synopsis: The original Back to the Future is one of my favorite movies of all time. It's a pretty interesting topic, traveling back in time and seeing your parents when they were your age. The second film heads to the near future, and is pretty well done. I like the third movie, but I feel the romance between Doc and Clara pulled the movie down a little.Why to see them: Michael J. Fox and Christopher Lloyd, without a doubt. The casting director gets an A+ for their job in casting these two, they were outstanding in all three films. The character Biff was also done very well. The premise of the movie - time travel - has always been very entertaining.
1) Star Wars
Synopsis: Was there truly any doubt. Star Wars is without a doubt the most influential trilogy of all time. I am including all six movies in this as well. Although Phantom Menace is a bit of a downer, I think the movie was still needed to introduce Anakin - plus Darth Maul is an excellent villain. The original trilogy obviously stands out above the new one, but Revenge of the Sith is an amazing film.Why to see them: If you haven't seen at least the original trilogy already, then you probably are never going to. The movies are iconic in so many ways. I can't really pick a favorite, because I feel each film brings something to the table. I know people were disappointed with Episodes I-III, but I was not. I enjoy all six of the movies.
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