Steelydan3, I passionately and strongly disagree with something that you said:
"Die Hard-What can I say about Die Hard, the more I watch the sequels, the more they pale in comparison. Not only the best Die Hard film, surely one of the best action films of all time too?"
I'm sorry but you're wrong. Die Hard was the best action film of all time. Forget, one of, it was the greatest action film in the history of action films!
"He’s a man way out there in the blue, riding on a smile and a shoeshine. And when they start not smiling back—that’s an earthquake. and then you get yourself a couple of spots on your hat, and you’re finished. Nobody dast blame this man. A salesman is got to dream, boy. It comes with the territory." Death of a Salesman
So I was a Best Buy today and what do I see under the new releases but a new, remastered edition of one of my favorite movies. And it was selling for a paltry $15. Needless to say, I snapped it right up.
The movie holds up really well and the setting of Los Angeles in 2019 is still one of the most striking vistas ever committed to film. This of course is the Director's edition which removes Harrison Ford's narration and the tacked on happy ending.
WB's remaster looks really really nice (especially when pumped thru an upconverting DVD player and a hi-def TV); the film is presented in a 2.35:1 anamorphic ratio; and the detail and colors just pop off the screen. The only negatives are that the model and matte shots look a little grainy when compared to the rest of the film. The sound in recorded in Dolby Pro Logic but there is no native 5.1 surround available. Also, WB did not include any no bonus materials, not even a trailer.
There's supposed to be a definitive edition coming out next year that will have all the different versions in one package. But in the meantime, and in case it doesn't pan out, I hedged my bets and picked this one up. It's miles ahead of the old DVD release and will suit me fine for the forseeable future.
Stormbreaker
Having read Anthony Horowitz's novel last year, I was tentively looking forward to seeing this film. I knew going into the cinema that it could either be quite good, or very very childish. I'm please to say that it is surprisingly quite good!
Alex Pettyfer had some good lines and was able to carry the film for the full 2 hours, and Mickey Rourke was terrific as Darrius Sayle. There are some great cameos by Ewan McGregor, Bill Nighy, Missy Pyle, Stephen Fry, Andy Serkis, Alicia Silverstone and Robbie Coltrane, who are all playing up their respective roles (with pleasure it seems) and you have one enjoyable film.
With the exception of a VERY BAD and unneccesary fight scene between Alicia Silverstone and Missi Pyle, this film was enjoyable from start to end!
Can't wait for the DVD.
Drawn Out Dad.
Independent, one-shot comic books from the outskirts of Melbourne, Australia.
twitter.com/DrawnOutDad
Intolerable Cruelty
I had previously seen it at the cinemas and it was recently on TV. I taped it and watched it for the second time in my life. I like it, although I don't think it's a great film. The film tries hard but it doesn't have that extra something which alot of the films, which it is paying tribute to, had.
Miami Vice
I really enjoyed it. It is all style and no substance, is far too long, isn't particularly logical and I couldn't understand half the things that were said, but I had a great time.
United 93
I had intitially not wanted to see this film but I'm glad I did. It is a very good film that, however accurate, shows what it must have been like on September 11th. I very much enjoyed it, if that's the right word, although I must confess I spent most of the film peeking over my arms.
"He’s a man way out there in the blue, riding on a smile and a shoeshine. And when they start not smiling back—that’s an earthquake. and then you get yourself a couple of spots on your hat, and you’re finished. Nobody dast blame this man. A salesman is got to dream, boy. It comes with the territory." Death of a Salesman
A great, ever changing plot, a cool main character, a psycotic villain and memorable dialogue. I didn't know what to expect when I saw this, but I am thankful that I did.
10/10
Heat-
A modern masterpiece. Not only are the action scenes exciting, but so are the set up scenes. A great tale told with skill. A real rare level of quality.
10/10
Apocalypse Now-
The jouney up-river is simply amazing, but I finded the final act to be anti-climatic. Maybe I just don't understand the "internal workings of the human mind"?
9/10
A Clockwork Orange-
A good story which was well told, but I couldn't help but think that it could have been done better. An enjoyable film none the less, just not as great or classic as many proclaim.
8/10
A Fistful of Dollars-
Another enjoyable film, which although it luls in parts, makes up for it in the great last 30 minutes. Great fun.
I'm quite thick, the ghost that came from the dead, I thought she was the aunt who had just died, and not the sisters' mum who had died many years previously...
If you see this, get seats not too far near the front, as you can't see the action and watch the subtitles at the same time...
One of my favorite fun times. The original Bedazzled.
With a simply marvelous performance from Peter Cook as "George Spiggott" ,(aka the devil), as he tries to acquire Dudley Moore's soul. Out of the seven wishes afforded to Stanley Moon, I'm most fond of the "pop star". But the nuns on trampolines towards the ending was hilarious. Throw in Raquel Welch as "Lillian Lust".
Haven't seen the new one yet, anybody recommend that one (?)
One of my favorite fun times. The original Bedazzled.
With a simply marvelous performance from Peter Cook as "George Spiggott" ,(aka the devil), as he tries to acquire Dudley Moore's soul. Out of the seven wishes afforded to Stanley Moon, I'm most fond of the "pop star". But the nuns on trampolines towards the ending was hilarious. Throw in Raquel Welch as "Lillian Lust".
Haven't seen the new one yet, anybody recommend that one (?)
I didn't care for the new one at all. While the general plot was the same, I found it had none of the satire and social commentary of the original and the various skits weren't nearly as funny. The ending is also quite different and is more of your "typical Hollywood ending" as Brendon Fraser gets the girl (will, sort of). And Elizabeth Hurley, while much better looking, is no George Spiggot.
Overall, the original is light years ahead, in my book at least (I always loved the scene where they tempt the old woman in the cottage). I used to have the laserdisc, I need to see if a good DVD is available.
Haven't seen the new one yet, anybody recommend that one (?)
It's not as good as the original. I think anyone who has seen both films will tell you that, but it's certainly not bad. My whole family roared with laughter when we watched it -- Brendan Fraser is an extremely articulate comic actor. The supporting actors, particularly his office 'buddies' are hilarious in every scene. It's certainly worth the watch.
Steelydan3, I passionately and strongly disagree with something that you said:
"Die Hard-What can I say about Die Hard, the more I watch the sequels, the more they pale in comparison. Not only the best Die Hard film, surely one of the best action films of all time too?"
I'm sorry but you're wrong. Die Hard was the best action film of all time. Forget, one of, it was the greatest action film in the history of action films!
Apart from the Bonds of course! No, I love Die Hard, I didn't want to go too far and suggest it was the best, but out of the action flicks I've seen, it is the best IMHO, nice to see someone who thinks the same as me, Dan
Another post from me. Watched 'Once Upon A Time In The Midlands' from Shane Meadows, whose 2004 film Dead Man's Shoes, I watched and enjoyed back in April. Humorous (and sad in parts), fantastic turns from all the cast and a great watch.
I suppose we've all met a guy like this--maybe at school or at work. At first glance, he seems really cool: stylish dresser, cocky, witty, funny, a real what-the-hell attitude. Then, after just a few minutes, you realize he's nowhere near as clever and cool as he thinks he is. It doesn't take too much longer to notice that his style and his best moves are entirely copied from better and more original sources. You try to hang in there, hoping that after his initial shallowness you'll see that there's something genuine to this guy, but you sadly acknowledge that he's just an annoying loser who's desperately crying out for attention. You think you could feel sorry for the guy, but your natural pity is drowned by a much stronger desire to kick the living $#!% out of him. Ladies and gentlemen, that guy's name is Lucky Number Slevin.
Vox clamantis in deserto
Sir MilesThe Wrong Side Of The WardrobePosts: 27,406Chief of Staff
Finally got aroung to watching The Life And Death Of Peter Sellers. I thought Geoffrey Rush did a great job of trying to capture the essence of Sellers, just got a bit carried away at looking at his prosthetic chin
Charlize Theron was good too - as were pretty much all the cast if truth be told.
The film runs at just over two hours, but it is way too short - I was certainly left wanting more anyway.
This film is a great "sample" of Sellers' life though.
YNWA 97
NightshooterIn bed with SolitairePosts: 2,917MI6 Agent
I saw the Deer Hunter... it was really boring and way too long, until they got to 'Nam and things picked up. By the end I really enjoyed it, but I would've preferred they edited out a lot from the beginning.
United 93, and might I say it was fantastically well done yet very sad at points.
They could market this and World Trade Center is some parts of the Middle East as feelgood movies.
I saw the Sellers film, the Casino Royale section was hilarious! Better overall on the small screen, as Rush's age didn't show up so much (he's older than Sellers at the time of his death).
Being There (which followed on BBC2) was okay, dragged on a bit. The inspiration for Hoffman's Rain Man, perhaps.
I loved The Life and Death of Peter Sellers. The two things I like best about it are Rush's performance (he is Sellers) and the fact that the film didn't pull any punches. Sellers was a comic genius but he wasn't a particularly nice person.
Being There (which followed on BBC2) was okay, dragged on a bit. The inspiration for Hoffman's Rain Man, perhaps.
How can you not like Being There? I have always loved that film. To me, it is evidence that Sellers was a great actor, not just a great comic actor.
"He’s a man way out there in the blue, riding on a smile and a shoeshine. And when they start not smiling back—that’s an earthquake. and then you get yourself a couple of spots on your hat, and you’re finished. Nobody dast blame this man. A salesman is got to dream, boy. It comes with the territory." Death of a Salesman
Sir MilesThe Wrong Side Of The WardrobePosts: 27,406Chief of Staff
It's a shame that Bernard Herrmann is no longer with us. Still, Elmer Bernstein did a masterful job of re-recording his original score. It is as chilling as ever.
Not as chilling as the look Max Cady (DeNiro) gives Nick Nolte's character at the film's climax; shortly before he is pulled underwater to his grisly death...
I'm left with the debate swirling around in my head; Robert Mitchum, or Robert DeNiro?
Being There (which followed on BBC2) was okay, dragged on a bit. The inspiration for Hoffman's Rain Man, perhaps.
Go wash your mouth out )
Being There is Sellers best film by a mile - in fact, a great movie all round. One that every film fan should see.
Well, yes, but it didn't seem THAT plausible that he can get such plaudits just for talking about the spring and the seasons and the fall over and over again.
Mind you, he did remind me of Sven the England manager: 'First half good, second half not so good...' 8-)
Apart from the Bonds of course! No, I love Die Hard, I didn't want to go too far and suggest it was the best, but out of the action flicks I've seen, it is the best IMHO, nice to see someone who thinks the same as me, Dan
The Bonds are of course brilliant, but when it comes to action films, I think that Die Hard is far and away the best. It is certainly the most influential, having directly influenced more than a dozen films, and having indirectly influenced countless others.
"He’s a man way out there in the blue, riding on a smile and a shoeshine. And when they start not smiling back—that’s an earthquake. and then you get yourself a couple of spots on your hat, and you’re finished. Nobody dast blame this man. A salesman is got to dream, boy. It comes with the territory." Death of a Salesman
I'm left with the debate swirling around in my head; Robert Mitchum, or Robert DeNiro?
De Niro. I'm biased as De Niro is my favourite actor but I think that De Niro's Max Cady was the superior of the two. Mitchum was great but he was IMO too much of a thug. De Niro was a terrifying monster that was the epitome of righteous vengance. De Niro's performance, whilst quite showy, was arguably among his ten best performances and was in fact oscar-nominated. What I love about De Niro's Cady was his quiet intelligence, the scene in which he killed the PI (a moment that still scares me), his conversation with Daniell about Henry Miller, his quoting of scripture, his accent and his look. I find it to be a chilling performance and a great one at that. So of the two, I would vote for De Niro.
"He’s a man way out there in the blue, riding on a smile and a shoeshine. And when they start not smiling back—that’s an earthquake. and then you get yourself a couple of spots on your hat, and you’re finished. Nobody dast blame this man. A salesman is got to dream, boy. It comes with the territory." Death of a Salesman
Well, yes, but it didn't seem THAT plausible that he can get such plaudits just for talking about the spring and the seasons and the fall over and over again.
But the twist is how the intelligentsia mistake Chance, and his simple musings, for genius.
I also find it great that Sellers is lauded for this role, a character with little-to-no personality, when he built his reputation on creating characters that were larger than life )
DeNiro's good, Deer Hunter's my fave, but no matter how many stogies he sucks on, he ain't the chameleon people think he is.
Check out Night Of The Hunter if you truly need convinving. (Love the right, Hate the left) -- R. Mitchum blows Deniro out of the water.
I can't agree with you. Night of The Hunter is great, and Mitchum is amazing in it, but IMO he isn't a third the actor that De Niro is. Due to his work in Mean Streets, Godfather 2, Taxi Driver, New York New York, The Deer Hunter, Raging Bull, Once Upon a Time in America, The Untoucables, Goodfellas, Awaknings, Cape Fear, Heat and Casino I would argue that De Niro is the greatest actor of all time. Oh, as well as a great chameleon; one need only to look at his some of the characters that he played to realise that he was enormously versatile. Nonetheless, regardless of his versatilty, I would rank him above all film actors, past and present.
"He’s a man way out there in the blue, riding on a smile and a shoeshine. And when they start not smiling back—that’s an earthquake. and then you get yourself a couple of spots on your hat, and you’re finished. Nobody dast blame this man. A salesman is got to dream, boy. It comes with the territory." Death of a Salesman
Due to his work in Mean Streets, Godfather 2, Taxi Driver, New York New York, The Deer Hunter, Raging Bull, Once Upon a Time in America, The Untoucables, Goodfellas, Awaknings, Cape Fear, Heat and Casino I would argue that De Niro is the greatest actor of all time. Oh, as well as a great chameleon; one need only to look at his some of the characters that he played to realise that he was enormously versatile. Nonetheless, regardless of his versatilty, I would rank him above all film actors, past and present.
My favorite is Peter Cushing, never gave a bad performance in his life. A true British Gentleman.
Upon hearing that distinctive voice and trademark upraised finger, my rainy day disappears forever. Now his is a performance that's uplifting to the soul, I'm telling you. And no need for "F" bombs every other minute either.
I thought the Russian Roulette sequence,(show 'em you're a man!) and return to the home-front in Deer Hunter, along with the second Godfather and his disturbed Travis Bickle, were fantastic performances, but I would hardly rate De Niro the greatest actor ever, the most over-rated maybe.
In my honest opinon, some of the most versatile on earth were people like Ralph Richardson, John Gielgud, Laurence Olivier, and Lon Chaney Sr.
De Niro's been playing the same role for ages. A gangster. (just my opinion)
Remember The Titans. Newly-integrated high school football team in Alexandria, VA in 1971. Denzel Washington plays the drill sergeant coach charged with getting the team to play as one. Reminded me a lot of Radio -- based on a true story, feel-good story, skirts most of the tough issues regarding racism. So, a little one-sided and pollyanna-ish, but enjoyable nonetheless.
Midnight Run. De Niro and Grodin in my favorite road picture ever. Yaphet Kotto, at least 30 pounds heavier than Dr. Kananga, shines.
Wrong Turn. Six teenagers get lost in the West Virginia back country and fall prey to a gang of homicidal inbred mountain men. The six make predictably dumb decisions that only people in the movies make...gory bloodshed ensues. Predictable crap.
North By Northwest. Quite simply, the greatest movie of all time, made by the greatest director of all time, starring the greatest movie star of all time.
Working Girl. Melanie Griffith's one shining moment. Wonderful film, if slightly dated.
North By Northwest. Quite simply, the greatest movie of all time, made by the greatest director of all time, starring the greatest movie star of all time.
A great film of course, and one with a discernable influence on the early Bond series. However, I am going to commit heresy and suggest that the much maligned Torn Curtain is actually better. Shocking, I know, and an opinion probably shared by only a few other individuals with little conception of what makes a technically accomplished film.
Comments
"Die Hard-What can I say about Die Hard, the more I watch the sequels, the more they pale in comparison. Not only the best Die Hard film, surely one of the best action films of all time too?"
I'm sorry but you're wrong. Die Hard was the best action film of all time. Forget, one of, it was the greatest action film in the history of action films!
So I was a Best Buy today and what do I see under the new releases but a new, remastered edition of one of my favorite movies. And it was selling for a paltry $15. Needless to say, I snapped it right up.
The movie holds up really well and the setting of Los Angeles in 2019 is still one of the most striking vistas ever committed to film. This of course is the Director's edition which removes Harrison Ford's narration and the tacked on happy ending.
WB's remaster looks really really nice (especially when pumped thru an upconverting DVD player and a hi-def TV); the film is presented in a 2.35:1 anamorphic ratio; and the detail and colors just pop off the screen. The only negatives are that the model and matte shots look a little grainy when compared to the rest of the film. The sound in recorded in Dolby Pro Logic but there is no native 5.1 surround available. Also, WB did not include any no bonus materials, not even a trailer.
There's supposed to be a definitive edition coming out next year that will have all the different versions in one package. But in the meantime, and in case it doesn't pan out, I hedged my bets and picked this one up. It's miles ahead of the old DVD release and will suit me fine for the forseeable future.
Having read Anthony Horowitz's novel last year, I was tentively looking forward to seeing this film. I knew going into the cinema that it could either be quite good, or very very childish. I'm please to say that it is surprisingly quite good!
Alex Pettyfer had some good lines and was able to carry the film for the full 2 hours, and Mickey Rourke was terrific as Darrius Sayle. There are some great cameos by Ewan McGregor, Bill Nighy, Missy Pyle, Stephen Fry, Andy Serkis, Alicia Silverstone and Robbie Coltrane, who are all playing up their respective roles (with pleasure it seems) and you have one enjoyable film.
With the exception of a VERY BAD and unneccesary fight scene between Alicia Silverstone and Missi Pyle, this film was enjoyable from start to end!
Can't wait for the DVD.
Independent, one-shot comic books from the outskirts of Melbourne, Australia.
twitter.com/DrawnOutDad
Intolerable Cruelty
I had previously seen it at the cinemas and it was recently on TV. I taped it and watched it for the second time in my life. I like it, although I don't think it's a great film. The film tries hard but it doesn't have that extra something which alot of the films, which it is paying tribute to, had.
Miami Vice
I really enjoyed it. It is all style and no substance, is far too long, isn't particularly logical and I couldn't understand half the things that were said, but I had a great time.
United 93
I had intitially not wanted to see this film but I'm glad I did. It is a very good film that, however accurate, shows what it must have been like on September 11th. I very much enjoyed it, if that's the right word, although I must confess I spent most of the film peeking over my arms.
A great, ever changing plot, a cool main character, a psycotic villain and memorable dialogue. I didn't know what to expect when I saw this, but I am thankful that I did.
10/10
Heat-
A modern masterpiece. Not only are the action scenes exciting, but so are the set up scenes. A great tale told with skill. A real rare level of quality.
10/10
Apocalypse Now-
The jouney up-river is simply amazing, but I finded the final act to be anti-climatic. Maybe I just don't understand the "internal workings of the human mind"?
9/10
A Clockwork Orange-
A good story which was well told, but I couldn't help but think that it could have been done better. An enjoyable film none the less, just not as great or classic as many proclaim.
8/10
A Fistful of Dollars-
Another enjoyable film, which although it luls in parts, makes up for it in the great last 30 minutes. Great fun.
9/10
Volver
I'm quite thick, the ghost that came from the dead, I thought she was the aunt who had just died, and not the sisters' mum who had died many years previously...
If you see this, get seats not too far near the front, as you can't see the action and watch the subtitles at the same time...
NP
Roger Moore 1927-2017
With a simply marvelous performance from Peter Cook as "George Spiggott" ,(aka the devil), as he tries to acquire Dudley Moore's soul. Out of the seven wishes afforded to Stanley Moon, I'm most fond of the "pop star". But the nuns on trampolines towards the ending was hilarious. Throw in Raquel Welch as "Lillian Lust".
Haven't seen the new one yet, anybody recommend that one (?)
I didn't care for the new one at all. While the general plot was the same, I found it had none of the satire and social commentary of the original and the various skits weren't nearly as funny. The ending is also quite different and is more of your "typical Hollywood ending" as Brendon Fraser gets the girl (will, sort of). And Elizabeth Hurley, while much better looking, is no George Spiggot.
Overall, the original is light years ahead, in my book at least (I always loved the scene where they tempt the old woman in the cottage). I used to have the laserdisc, I need to see if a good DVD is available.
It's not as good as the original. I think anyone who has seen both films will tell you that, but it's certainly not bad. My whole family roared with laughter when we watched it -- Brendan Fraser is an extremely articulate comic actor. The supporting actors, particularly his office 'buddies' are hilarious in every scene. It's certainly worth the watch.
Apart from the Bonds of course! No, I love Die Hard, I didn't want to go too far and suggest it was the best, but out of the action flicks I've seen, it is the best IMHO, nice to see someone who thinks the same as me, Dan
Charlize Theron was good too - as were pretty much all the cast if truth be told.
The film runs at just over two hours, but it is way too short - I was certainly left wanting more anyway.
This film is a great "sample" of Sellers' life though.
They could market this and World Trade Center is some parts of the Middle East as feelgood movies.
I saw the Sellers film, the Casino Royale section was hilarious! Better overall on the small screen, as Rush's age didn't show up so much (he's older than Sellers at the time of his death).
Being There (which followed on BBC2) was okay, dragged on a bit. The inspiration for Hoffman's Rain Man, perhaps.
Roger Moore 1927-2017
How can you not like Being There?
Go wash your mouth out
Being There is Sellers best film by a mile - in fact, a great movie all round. One that every film fan should see.
I doubt they'd find the time, too busy cornering the market on flammable American flags.
It's a shame that Bernard Herrmann is no longer with us. Still, Elmer Bernstein did a masterful job of re-recording his original score. It is as chilling as ever.
Not as chilling as the look Max Cady (DeNiro) gives Nick Nolte's character at the film's climax; shortly before he is pulled underwater to his grisly death...
I'm left with the debate swirling around in my head; Robert Mitchum, or Robert DeNiro?
Well, yes, but it didn't seem THAT plausible that he can get such plaudits just for talking about the spring and the seasons and the fall over and over again.
Mind you, he did remind me of Sven the England manager: 'First half good, second half not so good...' 8-)
Roger Moore 1927-2017
DeNiro's good, Deer Hunter's my fave, but no matter how many stogies he sucks on, he ain't the chameleon people think he is.
Check out Night Of The Hunter if you truly need convinving. (Love the right, Hate the left) -- R. Mitchum blows Deniro out of the water.
But the twist is how the intelligentsia mistake Chance, and his simple musings, for genius.
I also find it great that Sellers is lauded for this role, a character with little-to-no personality, when he built his reputation on creating characters that were larger than life
Upon hearing that distinctive voice and trademark upraised finger, my rainy day disappears forever. Now his is a performance that's uplifting to the soul, I'm telling you. And no need for "F" bombs every other minute either.
I thought the Russian Roulette sequence,(show 'em you're a man!) and return to the home-front in Deer Hunter, along with the second Godfather and his disturbed Travis Bickle, were fantastic performances, but I would hardly rate De Niro the greatest actor ever, the most over-rated maybe.
In my honest opinon, some of the most versatile on earth were people like Ralph Richardson, John Gielgud, Laurence Olivier, and Lon Chaney Sr.
De Niro's been playing the same role for ages. A gangster. (just my opinion)
Remember The Titans. Newly-integrated high school football team in Alexandria, VA in 1971. Denzel Washington plays the drill sergeant coach charged with getting the team to play as one. Reminded me a lot of Radio -- based on a true story, feel-good story, skirts most of the tough issues regarding racism. So, a little one-sided and pollyanna-ish, but enjoyable nonetheless.
Midnight Run. De Niro and Grodin in my favorite road picture ever. Yaphet Kotto, at least 30 pounds heavier than Dr. Kananga, shines.
Wrong Turn. Six teenagers get lost in the West Virginia back country and fall prey to a gang of homicidal inbred mountain men. The six make predictably dumb decisions that only people in the movies make...gory bloodshed ensues. Predictable crap.
North By Northwest. Quite simply, the greatest movie of all time, made by the greatest director of all time, starring the greatest movie star of all time.
Working Girl. Melanie Griffith's one shining moment. Wonderful film, if slightly dated.
Still, I really do enjoy Torn Curtain muchly.