For Your Consideration-Veda Rains

Random Thought of The Day...
I am not a film snob. Yes, I adore film and appreciate it, but I haven't seen every film on the "[insert very important organization who knows everything there is about film] and has a list of films that only 'true' film connoisseurs would love." Just because I haven't seen every film on AFI's Top 100, etc., does not make me any less of a film fan nor does it warrant others to judge my love of film or my opinion on certain films. Let's all just enjoy the movies, shall we? And respect each other's opinions.

Anyway...This time of year is very exciting for films because...it's awards season! Now, of course only a select number of people get to vote on certain awards for certain groups, but I still get excited to see which films and people connected to those films get the honor of being recognized for their work-especially when it's a film I connected with! The Academy Award and Golden Globe morning announcements are like my NFL Draft. So I was kind of disappointed I missed the Globes announcement. Did it even air this year? I know it was supposed to be announced around 7 AM Central last Thursday, but found nothing on TV, but here I am going off on another tangent...

Side Note: It drives me nuts how every year, columnists say "there's no clear front-runner this year-unlike years past." Then why is it, every year, you say the same thing? Following some of the nominees that have been announced for the Globes, SAG and Critics Choice (among others), I'd like to disagree and point out that the clear favorite this season is The Artist. I've only had a chance to watch a handful of clips and the trailer, but it appears to be a refreshing entry: Hollywood, 1927: As silent movie star George Valentin wonders if the arrival of talking pictures will cause him to fade into oblivion, he sparks with Peppy Miller, a young dancer set for a big break.

I've also noticed who's being passed over during this competitive time-some of my favorite films of the year. And so...if this wasn't long winded enough, here are a few highlights from this year's film offering-that (in my opinion) deserve to be recognized:

Andy Serkis as Caesar in Rise of the Planet of the Apes & Patrick Doyle, composer
Sure, Serkis received a much-deserved nomination from the Critics Choice, but the chances of him getting an Oscar nom are very low. It's unfortunate some voters don't fully understand how much goes into motion capture acting. Serkis has become somewhat of a motion-capture actor pioneer for films such as Avatar, and every time, he gives it his all. Caesar is no exception.

It's important for me to note, that I was a little aprehensive about another Ape movie. I'm a huge fan of the originals (spawned from Pierre Boulle's novel) and it appears filmmakers/producers/companies keep rehashing old franchises. It gets old. But after viewing the european trailer, I was intrigued, and went to the film. I'm so glad I did! Caesar is such a "real" character, and I found myself really gravitating to him. Surprisingly, I found myself tearing up the most when he is allowed to climb a redwood tree-a time lapse device to show him grow into an adult. Why? Because the music by Patrick Doyle! It soars, to aches, it triumphs. Both of these guys deserve to be recognized for making a great movie grand.


Alan Rickman as Professor/Head Master Severus Snape in Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 2 & Alexandre Desplat, Composer.
Viewers/readers of the Harry Potter franchise have grown up wondering if Snap is really all that bad, when something unspeakable happens in book 6, it throws some for a loop. This film pulls everything together. It's never easy turning a massive book into a film, and the filmmakers have done an incredible job. This film (and Part 1) has some of the best acting from its young actors in the entire franchise. But it is Rickman who steals the spotlight! Give this guy some recognition, already.

Another thing I don't particularly like about awards season, is how some really good action/fantasy films get passed over (yes, I know, sometimes they don't, see The Lord of The Rings). The entire team of Harry Potter truly deserve to be recognized for their work in this final chapter in the Harry Potter film series.

Music Note: Another scene that totally gets the waterworks going because of the excellent execution of music (courtesy of Alexndre Desplat): Harry, Ron and Hermione running through the courtyard whilst everything and everyone around them is being destroyed.


Super 8, written by J.J. Abrams, composed by Michael Giacchino.
Another action/adventure/fantasy film that deserves some love because, well, it's a love letter to film making. It has everything: heart, laughter, redemption, coming to terms with what life brings you, all while bringing back memories to those who made super 8 films or home movies when they were younger. The music is also another outstanding piece (composed by Michael Giacchino) that-along with the incredibly acting abilities of the young cast-makes this nostalgic film pure magic.

Favorite Holiday Films-Christmas Edition by Veda

Happy holidays to all! By now, you've probably spent three times as much as you'd care to admit on gifts for others-and...maybe even yourself (don't deny it. It's okay!)? Homes nearby have strung lights across their rooftops and the first snow has fallen. It's a great time! A cheerful time as the songs would like to have you believe and I'm one of the many who eat it right up! Something else I thoroughly enjoy are Christmas/Winter films! Below is a list of just a few of my favorite/memorable films to watch this time of year. If you haven't seen Adelei Idlewild's list, check it out! You'll notice we share quite a few favorites. All the more reason to check these films out!:

1. A Christmas Story - It's beloved by many and one of the few that gets 24 hours of air time devoted to it around Christmas Eve/Christmas Day. But watching it once is all you need! Follow Ralphie as he tries to convince his parents, teachers, and Santa that a Red Ryder BB is all he needs for Christmas! Darren McGavin and Melinda Dillon play the most realistic set of parents I've seen on screen and you'll love Ralphie's fantastical dream sequences. Absolutely delightful!
2. White Christmas-A classic movie musical fans will adore. Bing Crosby and Danny Kaye play singing/dancing duo Wallace & Davis who take it upon themselves to lend a hand to a struggling Vermont Inn their former commanding general runs with his family. Lots of classic songs to go around!
3. Love Actually- One of the few well-done films that follows several different story lines that all lead up to Christmas, this story tugs at the heart strings just as much as it makes you laugh.
4. You've Got Mail- This delightful retelling of The Shop Around the Corner follows two very different people in the book business (who detest each other) and how they connect over the internet, but don't really know it! Ignore the dial-up internet (we've come a long way since then-although, from personal experience living out in the country, we still have a long way to go for everyone to get access to the internet quickly) and enjoy the colorful characters, quick quips and chemistry between Meg Ryan & Tom Hanks once again!
5. The Muppet Christmas Carol-I can't believe this version of Charles Dickens' timeless tale is nearly 20 years old! Another happy heartwarming musical children and adults of all ages well love!
Other Notable Films to See:
6. The Christmas Toy-Before there was Toy Story, there was this film about toys that come to life, but if someone sees a toy out of its place, the consequences could be severe!
7. Rudolph The Red-Nosed Reindeer
8. Christmas Vacation
9. A Christmas Carol (1984-George C. Scott)- One of the scariest versions you'll come across!
10.Frosty the Snowman
More: How the Grinch Stole Christmas (animated), The Santa Clause, The Nightmare Before Christmas (love, love love!), Bridget Jones's Diary (another film for all seasons)

Neverland - Joan Finch

     It is commonly accepted that most of the original content SyFy produces is cringeworthy, however, they regularly rock the mini-series format. See Alice immediately for ample proof. Tonight they're starting the 2 night Neverland epic at 8 o'clock central and I'll be watching. Hopeful. 

Poster for Syfy's Neverland

     The internet whispers say its the origin story to the Barrie universe of Hook and Pan. Peter's first foray into the wonderland of endless childhood. Sounds lovely and the trailer is pretty impressive as well. 

     There's some intriguing casting going on here. Rhys Ifans is James Hook, Keira Knightley as Tinker Bell, the brilliant reprise of Bob Hoskins' Smee and a special treat for Pushing Daisies fans in Anna Friel as Captain Elizabeth Bonny. My nerdy senses are tingling. 

Dial M for Murder (1954) - Joan Finch

     A great film from that great era of murder mysteries when men wore coats and ties to dinner and thoughtfully planned out their wife's murder.  The American Film Institute listed Dial M among the top ten greatest mystery films of all time. Not surprising as this is a Hitchcock film, the master of suspense himself, but it surprised me to learn Dial M was adapted from a stage play by Frederick Knott.  Staged like a play the majority of the film is set in the apartment of Tony and Margot where the plot, crime and coverup are all played out.

*SPOILERS* 

     Dial M is a thinking mans murder mystery. Besides being narrated almost entirely from the murderous husbands POV the story went beyond the typical genre film of the time.  Calm & calculating Tony, having discovered some time ago of his wife's short lived affair with an American writer, decides he's too accustomed to his fortune & status to allow divorce to take it away. He spends months planning the perfect murder of his rich wife Margot, even entangling an old school mate with a shady moral compass to perform the deed, but when the perfect plan goes wrong he must quickly improvise a plan B.

     I was in awe at the dialogue and plotting of this script. It contains, in my opinion, a perfect scene. Penultimate within the film and perfectly performed by the actors. There's something almost admirable about the brilliance with which Tony, played by Ray Milland, goes about orchestrating the crime with a charming smile and relaxed manner. Having lured his unsuspecting university friend Charles Swann to his home he speaks candidly about discovering the affair, anonymously blackmailing his wife, then about stalking Mr. Swann and learning so many interesting things about him. It's too late for Swann now. He's left fingerprints on numerous things inside the apartment during the visit, which makes Tony's story of Swann's black mail of and Margot and now Tony all the more plausible. They strike a deal and Tony walks Swann through each masterful step of the murder. He even pauses to answer a call from his wife as Swann thinks it over.  

     And Dial M is just that clever from beginning to end. Watching Tony's mind work over the problem at hand is absolutely mesmerizing. 

     Dial M for Murder also marks Hitchcocks first film with Grace Kelly, his most beloved star.

Watch the trailer by clicking the link.   

Animated Frankenweenie Remake?- Joan Finch

     Next year we're going to be gifted a new Tim Burton film and its going to be animated as well. Animated in the uniquely Burton way of animation that was so striking in The Nightmare Before Christmas and Corpse Bride. Frankenweenie, if you're not familiar, is about a child who brings back his dog after he's struck by a car. A comical verson of the Frankensteins monster story. I loved the original black and white film with its whimsy and absurdism but I can't not be excited to see how Burton will bring the same story to life in clay. Winona Ryder, Catherine O'Hara and Martin Short are set to lend their voices to this fanciful and dark remake of Tim Burtons '84 film with the same name.

     I'll keep my eye out for more news to come. Keep me updated if you run across any news on your own, will you?

Veda's Fave Halloween Films

The leaves are changing, the temperature is cooling...and it's almost Halloween! Autumn (or Fall) has always been my favorite time of year. I don't know what it is that brings a sense of magic to the air, but here is a mix of a few of my favorite Halloween/Autumn/Scary films to share with you!

Children's Films
I will never get too old to enjoy these classic films. And neither should you!

The Legend of Sleepy Hollow (1949)
Bing Crosby's whimsical baritone voice narrates this Disney gem about a school teacher who falls for the wrong girl and gets scared out of his wits as he attempts to head home one creepy night.
This film not only keeps children's attention because of its subject matter, but because it's less than 40 minutes long! And adults will love the classic songs.

Wallace & Gromit in The Curse of The Were-Rabbit (2005)
Wallace and Gromit are at it again as they set out to discover the mystery behind the garden sabotage that plagues their village and threatens the annual giant vegetable growing contest! Another enjoyable film for the whole family, the animation, bright colors and semi-scary setting has all the makings of a classic.

The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993)
True, this film ends with Christmas, but it begins with Halloween! What's great about this film, is that you can watch it starting at the end of September through the beginning of January and it just "feels right" (of course, you can watch it whenever you want, too). Follow Jack Skellington as he finds new joy in Christmas! Unfortunately, he doesn't fully understand and misinterprets its meaning.

More Films:
The Pumpkin Who Couldn't Smile
Monster House
The Corpse Bride
Blackbeard's Ghost (1968)
The Canterville Ghost (There's quite a few versions, I like the John Gielgud 1987 version)
Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone (I'd include it. The colors really bring to mind Halloween and that Halloween feast looks so good-tiny parts of an all-around good film)

PG-13 and Up

Trick 'r' Treat (2007)
It's a shame this film didn't receive the proper attention it deserved. Taking place in one night, the film follows four interwoven stories: Each has more to them than what meets the eye. Sure, there's the usual horror film gags: gore & brief nudity, but their only a tiny bit of a great well-made and well-written film.

Halloween (1978)
The one horror film series that completely creeped me out as a junior high kid: Halloween. A vacant, silent, strong, psychotic man with a horrifying refashioned William Shatner mask (yes, that's right) terrorizes the town of Haddonfield, IL and his unsuspecting SPOILER! This is a great film for a horror film marathon.

The Craft (1996)
This would have been a great film to watch at a sleepover when I was younger ("in my day..."). True, the film is very representative of the time it was made (the soundtrack is a little silly looking back), but it's an entertaining story about a new girl at a Catholic High School who falls in with a few teen witches and what happens when she decides to leave the coven.

More Films:
Scream (It brought back the horror film genre!)
Urban Legend
The Shining
Nightmare on Elm Street
Halloween II (An excellent follow-up)
Carrie
Night of the Living Dead

True Timeless Classics
These will never get old...

The Body Snatcher (1945)
Not to be confused with Invasion of the Body Snatchers, this black and white film follows a doctor and his student and the creepy man who supplies them illegal cadavers. The ending of this film alone, creeps me out! And it will creep you out too! "Never get rid of me" "Never get rid of me"... That's all you need know.

The Ghost and Mrs. Muir (1947)
Who said ghost-oriented films had to be scary? This somewhat romantic film follows newly widowed Lucy Muir as she moves into a home occupied by a rather-annoyed ghost. In time, they form a caring bond and let's just say, the end will have you happily tearing up!

More Films:
The Picture of Dorian Gray (1945) - never has technicolor been used in such a dramatic way (save for The Wizard of Oz, of course)
Phantom of the Opera (1943)
Phantom of the Opera (1925)

Where's Candace: Zombie Trailer Update -Veda Rains

Not too long ago, as some of you may know, we shot some awesome footage (involving zombies and a film crew) for our new website! We've had a few set-backs, but want to let you know that we're working hard to launch the site and share the video (entitled: Where's Candace?) with you in the near future! So stay tuned on that. Also, if you're in the Columbia, MO area, please be sure to check out (in its 4th year) Citizen Jane and support film! It's this weekend, afterall: Friday - Sunday!

Pan Am Begins! -Veda Rains

Pan Am begins with a sense of adventure! Considered the stronger of the two new 60s-themed series released this fall, Pan Am's grandiose score and opening introduction to the series' main characters takes the audience right into the action with a sense of intrigue! There's more to this show than what the previews would lead you to believe, and I found it personally refreshing!
After the first block, the audience is taken through a few flashbacks to give back story: the moment fairly new stewardess Laura decides to become a Pan Am Stewardess, Colette has a lovers tryst (later she finds out he's a married man), Laura's sister Kate is approached to do undercover government work, etc. I found the placing of this to be a little distracting, but nonetheless needed.
Overall, I'm excited to see where the show will take viewers next and what we can expect from the fresh-faced cast as well as film favorite Christina Ricci (who had a much smaller role than I anticipated). The pacing slowed in parts, but it has a promising start and I will definitely tune in next week. After all, SPOILER ALERT IF YOU PLAN TO WATCH AND HAVEN'T YET:
We'll have to find out why the elusive Bridgette is keeping a distance! And what about Kate? Is she getting in over her head? Stay tuned!

So you want to move to Hollywood?- Veda Rains

Introduction
When I took the plunge two years ago (almost to the day) to move to LA, I didn't know what to expect. Perhaps, that's why it ended the way it did. Sure, I had saved money, read industry books, written out an employment plan...even called a couple places for job opportunities (either got the machine a few times, or they wouldn't even pick up the phone) before I moved. Still, I had no idea what I was getting myself into - although I was "so sure" I did.
Before I left for LA, I even wrote a note to friends and coworkers on Facebook about my choice to make the big move and said: "even if nothing professional comes of this experience, I feel it will not be a failure. If anything, it will broaden my range as a writer and better shape my character." I stand by that and believe it to be true. It was a great experience and I hope to give it a go again (yes, again) in the future. But this time, I have more knowledge behind me.
I can go back many times and say "shoulda" "coulda" woulda," but what's done is done. And I'm not bitter (although I did get a job offer at a company about 6-8 months after I tearfully moved back-dang it! But realistically-speaking, I could not have held out that long). I learned a great deal from others and gained great friends and good experience! I even got to work on a couple of films, a commercial, be an assistant, etc. There were many factors that played into my move back home. The big one: Finances. So tip #1: Save, save, save like you've never saved before!

This leads up to...
I want to share what I've learned from others who've lived there and what they've shared with me. I also want to share with you some helpful websites & blogs that have very honest and insightful information if you're thinking about taking the plunge.
I will be posting on this in the future, so stay tuned! Right now I want to share with you this cool blog by a professional script reader. Dig in:
http://aspiringtvwriter.blogspot.com/

HitRECord, Collaboration Medium - Joan Finch

So I was surfing indiewire.com for any new news and I ran across something brilliant.   Joseph Gordon-Levitt (yeah, him) heads a creative 'think tank' style production company called HitRECord where everyone and anyone is invited to contribute and collaborate on projects of all sorts together. They've already produced Tiny Book of Tiny Stories, obviously a collection of member made short stories currently being turned into "tiny films", and RECollection: Volume 1, a collection of music and films they made last year.

The article with way more info and a video intro by the main man himself can be found here.

This is a great opportunity to work on projects with people around the world and produce something complete spontanious and beautiful. Its like a much bigger all-encompassing version of what we'll be trying to accomplish at Obscura Operandi. Fantastic. Check out the article at indiewire.com with the link above. There's an interview with Gordon-Levitt about the founding and success of HitRECord.

I've also included the link to the HitRECord website. Explore.

New Aaron Sorkin Projects! - Joan Finch

Aaron Sorkin = Greatness

     The Hollywood Reporter has filled me with enough warm fuzzes to last me all of the winter season.  Aaron Sorkin has TWO New Projects in the works!  

     First off he has joined up with John Krasinski for a mini-series he'll be writing and acting as co-executive producer with Krasinski, the projects creator. Based on a popular book about The Chateau Marmont in Hollywood and its interesting roster of guests the mini-series is called Life At The Marmont and will air on HBO. Here's the link to the article I read about the project.

     Next up is More As This Story Develops which was recently picked up by none other than HBO and which imdb.com says is currently filming and headed for a 2012 release.  The hourlong series will star Jeff Daniels, Emily Mortimer, Dev Patel, Sam Waterson and several others as cable news executives and staff traversing the daily obstacles of their personal and professional lives. Which is the purely Sorkin format I love so dearly. Oh, and there was at one point rumors/talks of Marisa Tomei finding a place in the cast but thats been weeks ago and there's no confirmation yet. Here's the link on that article as well. 

     Point being not all dreams die. Aaron Sorkin is headed back to television where his brilliance can be appreciated weekly. I just wish I had HBO. Gonna have to look into that.

A New Year! A New Season! Primetime TV Kicks Off- Veda Rains

Some shows have already kicked off their season, but tonight's Emmys and the list of new shows debuting this week and the coming weeks have made it all the more exciting for this season to begin! Earlier this summer we shared with you some of the new shows coming to primetime and some of our favorite picks. What shows are you looking forward to? What shows are you excited to see back on the air? Personally, I have quite a few new shows I'm excited/interested to see. Frankly, I don't know how I'll be able to take time to see them all (probably won't), but if I could, they would be (and no judging):

ABC
Revenge-September 21st, 10/9 Central
Pan Am-September 25th, 10/9 Central
Suburgatory-September 28th, 8:30/7:30 Central
Once Upon A Time-October 23rd, 8/7 Central
Good Christian Belles (no time currently listed)

FOX
I had the opportunity to see both of the pilots for these shows. Each has a lot of potential, but I'm interested to see how they will pan out as the season continues...
New Girl-September 20th, 9/8 Central Pilot Grade: B+
Terra Nova-September 26th, 8/7 Central Pilot Grade: C

NBC
Whitney-September 22nd, 9:30/8:30 Central
Grimm-October 21st, 9/8 Central
Smash-February 6th, 10/9 Central
and even some of our

Torchwood: Miracle Day - Joan Finch

Craving Something a bit Bolder?

New Torchwood Team

Everlasting life...a curse?  One day the earth is 'blessed' and no one dies no matter how many time you kill them. Sounds pretty cut and dry but its really a free-for-all for humanity; bringing down governments, turning the health care system inside out and drawing out the very essence of what it means to be human.  In many ways the show is as much possible reality as science fiction and if thats not intriquing enough the whole situation is clouded by this mysterious force working busily in the background.  Torchwood: Miracle Day is very much like The Event, even in tone, but this series wasn't cancelled but allowed to run its course. P.S. Thank you Starz for restoring my faith in a fair network universe.  

I was completely sucked in. The unpredicability to the story, episode after episode weaving a complex tale reminded me of the detective perspective I found so interesting in Sherlock, Lost and Fringe.  There's a lot of great new characters played by some really unexpected actors like Bill Pullman, Lauren Ambrose and Mekhi Phifer.

For fans of Torchwood's UK roots you'll find a different beast in store for you. This is Torchwood at the next level in writing, style, format and pace.  Creator and genius Russell T. Davies remarked in an interview that they've done away with the 'monster of the week' format for a larger series(season in the US) long story arch.  And yeah, its still Captain Jack with the Doctor Who past, but its also just this mysterious immortal alienboy who calls himself Captain Jack and has a dark past.  And thats it.  You definitly don't need to be a fan of Doctor Who to enjoy it but then again...why aren't you?

Keira Knightley: The Duchess Oscar Snub- Veda Rains

With A Dangerous Method about to hit theaters, Keira Knightley has been garnering talk of a possible Oscar nod for her extreme portrayal of Sabina Spielrein, a patient of Dr. Carl Jung. It's been a while since Knightley has taken on such a high profile role. Known for her choice in "costume" dramas, Knightley's only nomination for the highly sought-after golden guy came about while playing Elizabeth Bennet in 2005's Pride & Prejudice. While the film, overall, was beautifully-executed, and well-acted, there's one role that Knightley has played that deserved much more recognition than she received for P&P: Georgiana, The Duchess of Devonshire.
First of all, if you haven't seen it, rent (or Netflix, Red Box, whatever you do, do) it! Knightley is in top-form and truly rises above all expectations. Longing to be loved, a modern woman trapped in a time where a man could do what he pleased (and his wife was to keep her mouth shut), Knightley gives a tender, somewhat fragile portrayal of a young woman thrust into a cold, unfeeling marriage. The viewer truly sees Georgiana grow right in front of her/his eyes. Georgiana also experiences a wide range of emotions throughout the film, and Knightley plays each one in top form, nothing forced, simply organic, real. Why she didn't get nominated, is beyond me. She truly gives it her all, and deserves to be recognized for it! So check it out! Ralph Fiennes also has a memorable role as the Duke, a man who finds it difficult to display emotion or treat others the way they deserve to be treated.

The New Girl-Joan Finch

     So I have this friend, this very quirky giggly bundle of nerdiness friend, from college whose superhero alter-ego I call Fangirl Squee. She's a great mix of hilarity, personality and goofiness which makes her a great companion for everyday adventures. And if they made a sitcom about her I don't think they could get a better likeness than of the character of Jess in New Girl.

     Itunes is offering a free (let me repeat FREE) download of the pilot episode which I've already watched twice and absolutely recommend. The premise is pretty typical rom-com or sitcom stock. Recently dumped Jess answers a craigslist ad for a new roommate and moves in with three single guys. Hilarity ensues as is usual but don't go disregarding this show before giving a fair shake. Truthfully it is funny. Jess is played by Zooey Deschanel believably with heart and a kind of carefree whimsy I haven't seen in television since they wrongfully canceled my beloved Pushing Daisies. Her three new roommates Schmit, Nick and Coach are great complementary personalities to create the shows awkward, inappropriate but sweet comedic chemistry. I know at least one other person who's going to enjoy this show besides me. 

Of course I'm going to watch this show! Spending thirty minutes a week with someone that entertaining is a must. Nothing makes you feel as good as some adorkable-ness does. 

New Girl is on Tuesdays @ 8 pm on Fox. Premieres next week.

Where Have All The Chick Flicks Gone?-Veda Rains

I was recently strolling the movie aisle in the local “ahem” super center, half-hoping to come across an awesome find (a cheap movie to watch for my night off!). As I grazed each row, I became more and more convinced there was nothing I desired. Three or four years ago, this would not have been the case. I admit, I’m a lover of “chick flick” movies, and around that time I was buying every single chick flick movie under the sun. Now the films weren’t Oscar-worthy (who am I kidding, it’s pure popcorn fare), but they were enjoyable, entertaining, and sometimes heart-warming. I would buy and watch (and rewatch) these every other month (or, in some cases, week). They were a great way to escape from reality and I’ve recently gained that yearning for them once again.

So I have to ask, where have all of the chick flicks gone? I look back at this year’s film releases. Nothing stands out…not even…well, maybe Something Borrowed, but while it was cute and dreamy (and downright backstabbing), it just didn’t feed my chick flick fix (where were the sympathetic characters-save for Ethan?). You Again was a pleasant surprise but wait, that was released in 2010! So here are some (just a few, mind you) of my personal favorite chick flicks to fill the void, until something magnificent (nay, just plain good) comes along (Yes, I know a lot of these go under “romantic comedy” as well):

When Harry Met Sally

This is the ultimate romantic comedy! If you haven’t seen it yet, I strongly suggest you do so. The chemistry, the story, everything just does it for me!

Bridget Jones’s Diary

One of my screenwriting instructors gave his students a list of devices NOT TO USE when writing a screenplay. However, he threw out his own rules when he admitted that this film is one of his favorite films of all time! When chick flicks can cross the gender line, you know you have something special! And it doesn't hurt that Colin Firth is easy on the eyes for the ladies.

A League of Their Own

I watched the VHS of this so much as a child, it broke in my uncle’s VCR. Somehow he was able to put it back together. It’s got a lot of heart and strong women!

The Women

The ultimate chick flick (Hello! The only people you will see in this film are WOMEN) has biting wit and charm-not to mention, Norma Shearer & Joan Crawford. No wonder numerous attempts at remaking the film have faltered.

And a Few More:

Romancing the Stone

Dirty Dancing

Titanic (it took me a few years-maybe 8? Before I came to enjoy this film)

Steel Magnolias

Fried Green Tomatoes

Definitely, Maybe

What are some of your favorite chick flicks?

News from the Toronto Film Fest

Its Day 4 of the Film Fest up there in Ol'Canada and maybe I didn't bring it up because I'm envious of the people who can afford to go but it was wrong of me and I'm sorry.

Hit the link to go to a blog hosted by IMDB about the Fest.  Theres also a photo gallery of all the celebs and semi-celebs who are making an appearance.  http://www.imdb.com/features/toronto/2011/blog/

Some of the films mentioned are

Ghostbusters 3 NEWS

Not that this is a democratic Hollywood we're dealing with but if there was a vote I'd be Pro-Gubler all the way.  So here's me lobbying for that very possibility!

Check this out guys. http://www.comingsoon.net/news/movienews.php?id=81518

Team Ghostbuster. Team Gubler.

Crazy Stupid Love (2011) - Joan Finch

     Beyond the obvious reasons to go see this film, like the impeccable casting, I'll give you another...its absolute in its goodness.  They never drop the ball on any aspect of the storytelling.  It is continually funny, charming, surprising, and human.  It's that kind of satisfying movie-going experience that makes you happy there's such a thing as a mega-plex. Its well worth the ticket price. And yes its a romantic comedy but its a truly great ride.

      And if you don't trust my opinion (which is just silly) there is a point B to my pro-Crazy Stupid Love argument that even you may agree with.  

Point B: Ryan Gosling shirtless, Ryan Gosling in a suit, Ryan Gosling smiling.

Letters To Juliet (2010) - Joan Finch

Those who are very easily influenced by suggestion, like me, would remember the previews for this romance flick from last year.  Beautiful scenery and an embarrassing abuse of a pop song made this a better music video than trailer.  I might not be so hard on this film had they not broken the cardinal rule(in my opinion) about trailers: Don't show the whole film in the trailer.

Yet still, in spite of your gut feeling that this is going to be no more that another in a long line of uninspired so-called “chick flicks”, you find yourself in line for popcorn with the ticket in your hand and a very excited “chick” saving you a seat. 

They wasted Gael Garcia Bernal and Vanessa Redgrave completely. I would much rather have watched a film focusing on Mrs. Redgraves storyline than what Letters To Juliet ended up being. This film is the result of a half-hearted attempt and I can't in anyway recommend it. 

Ceremony movie review

It's a rarity when a romantic comedy is smart, funny, and human. Ceremony, the feature debut of talented up-and-coming director/writer Max Winkler(son of Henry) is just that. The characters are all flawed, sure, but that's what makes them so brilliant.

On the surface, Ceremony is another romantic comedy, but it's as much a story of friendship as it is of love. Sam Davis(Michael Angarano) is a self-centered, pretentious children's book author who drags his shy, traumatized former best friend Marshall(Reece Thompson) out for a weekend getaway. It's been a year since the two friends have seen each other, and almost a year since Marshall has even been out of his house. Marshall believes that this is going to be a nice, relaxing weekend with his friend, but Sam has ulterior motives. Sam has been having an affair with Zoe(Uma Thurman), a smart, beautiful woman who announces that she is getting married to her longtime fiance, Whit(Lee Pace). What ensues is funny and heartbreaking. In the hands of a less talented cast or a broader script, this movie could have veered into either slapstick chaos or wrenching melodrama, but lucky for the audience, the movie doesn't hit a single false note.

The end of Harry Potter?

Even if you've never read or watched any of the Harry Potter books, you've probably heard about the brave and intelligent boy wizard and his incredible friends and allies. I know that we can always go back and re-read the books and re-watch the movies, but I have to say that I'm feeling kind of a fantasy void in my life now that there are no more new movies or books that are coming out. I'm glad that J.K Rowling has started Pottermore, and though I haven't had a chance to check it out yet, I'm looking forward to it. This series is smart, scary, funny, and really well-written. Not to mention, it's one of the few series where the movies did justice to the books. *cough*I'mtalkingaboutyouTwilight *cough*.

It has been incredible to watch the actors grow up over the past 1o years. Don't get me started on that because then I'll just get into how Matthew Lewis aka Neville Longbottom has become quite the little hottie, even though I could sort of start to see that happen in the fourth movie...Back to the subject at hand, I was re-watching all of the films over the past couple of weeks and I had forgotten how truly wonderful they all were.

Daydream Nation

The movie Daydream Nation is made by an up and coming writer/director Michael Goldbach. It's an independent Canadian film about a precocious teenage girl named Caroline Wexler(Kat Dennings). When her father moves them to a small, backwards town after her mother dies, Caroline decides to seduce her English teacher out of boredom. Things are going fine for awhile, until Caroline falls for local stoner and fellow high school student Thurston(the adorable Reece Thompson). At first Thurston is nothing but a front for Caroline and her teacher, Barry's relationship, but it soon becomes apparent that the right man for Caroline is right in front of her.

I know that I'm making this film sound like another romantic dramedy, but there's much more to it then that. Throw in the fact that there is an industrial fire at the edge of town that never stops burning, the local kids who do anything and everything to get high, and the fact that there's a white suited serial killer roaming around town who's picking off the young pretty high school kids and you've got an interesting and original story. The visuals in this movie are absolutely beautiful, it's a must for anyone who has an interest in cinematography or who just loves visually stunning films.

The story, however interesting and original, did have some flaws though. For instance, there were some aspects of the story which I won't get into because I don't want to spoil the film, that could've been expanded upon, and the end felt like it wrapped up too quickly.

That being said however, the acting was very good and it had one of the best soundtracks I have ever heard from a movie. Not only were the songs that were chosen amazing, they fit perfectly into the tapestry of the story. It was also cool because all of the bands were Canadian.

Honestly, this movie is worth a watch for anyone who likes such movies as Juno or Donnie Darko. Check it out and let me know what you think!

The Guard (2011) - Adelei Idlewild

This isn't the first time that I have missed New York, but this weekend I'll have yet another
reason to . . . the U.S. release of The Guard, a movie starring Brendan Gleeson and Don Cheadle. Two words are enough to make me excited about seeing this film: Ireland and Cheadle. Add a drug-smuggling ring and an "unorthodox policeman" with an amazing accent to the mix, and it sounds to me like a recipe for success!

Well, all right, make that three words that make me happy, the third being McDonagh, last name of the film's director, John Michael McDonagh. Although he's fairly new on the film scene, McDonagh is the brother of Martin McDonagh, writer/director of one of my favorite European short films, Six Shooter. Success! Success! Now . . . when can I watch it?!

The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford (2007) - Joan Finch

     My vocabulary isn't equipped to do this film justice any better than the title does for itself.  It's the log-line, the premise, the idea of the story in a reserved and open-ended statement.  Reserved is the mood of this film, captured by Roger Deakins' hauntingly beautiful cinematography and the marked editing style.  Watching this film is like walking in on a conversation already in progress.  A tense sort of dialogue that makes you instinctively step back because at any moment violence could, and does, burst in on the calm.  

     The cast is beyond star-studded as Ted Levine, Zooey Deschanel and Mary-Louise Parker are some of the actors to claim bit parts and cameo appearances. I would highly recommend The Assassination to anyone especially if you're looking to spend an afternoon in deep contemplation. 

     This film has the audience constantly wondering as we marvel at the apt and tempered production.  Though you do feel the time ticking by this rather lengthy story keeps you enraptured to the end.  As in the moment where Jesse is waiting for the train to roll up to the trap, you have to keep watching. 

More Fall Shows - Veda Rains

As we get closer to the Fall Season, Obscura Operandi has excitedly been sharing with you news on new shows! I've got a few more to add to the list from ABC. Get excited:
Suburgatory
Click HERE to see the trailer!
In the tradition of fast-talking "know what's good for 'em" smart teens (think Juno), comes 16-year-old Tessa (the delightful Jane Levy), a New York City transplant to where else? The 'Burbs.
The show looks genuinely funny and hopefully teens and adults alike will give it the time of day.
Synopsis:
Single father George (Jeremy Sisto-you know him best as Elton from Clueless) only wants the best for his 16-year-old daughter, Tessa. So when he finds a box of condoms on her nightstand, he moves them out of their apartment in New York City to a house in the suburbs. But all Tessa sees is the horror of over-manicured lawns and plastic Franken-moms. Being in the 'burbs can be hell, but it also may just bring Tessa and George closer than they've ever been.
Cheryl Hines also stars (as one of the "Franken-moms") as well as Alan Tudyk (I know aperson or two on here who will be happy to see him on TV).

Good Christian Belles
Click HERE for the trailer!
Fans of gossipy/backstabbing "Christian" women with an agenda might find a new guilty pleasure in Good Christian Belles. Another "transplant" story of sorts: Amanda Vaughn (Leslie Bibb), once the ultimate high school "mean girl," is forced to return home in disgrace after her marriage ends in scandal. There's plenty of talented women filling out this cast. Former Pushing Daisies star and (current fan favorite) Glee guest star Kristin Chenoweth plays one of the women possibly planning revenge on Amanda while Annie Potts steps into the role of Gigi Stopper.
The series is based of the books: Good Christian Bitches by Kim Gatlin. I haven't read the books, but I'm rooting for Kristin and the "belles"!

Pan Am
Click HERE for the trailer!
Hitching a ride on the Mad Men express, Pan Am follows the fabulous lives of employees of Pan Am during the 1960s. As the tagline suggests: Passion, jealousy and espionage... They do it all – and they do it at 30,000 feet. The style of the 1960s, the energy and excitement of the Jet Age and a drama full of sexy entanglements deliciously mesh in this thrilling and highly-original new series. How will it measure up to Men? Or The Playboy Club (another 1960s-set show centering on the Bunnies and patrons of the original Playboy Club in 1960's Chicago)? We'll have to wait til September 25th to find out. One thing's for certain, the opening of the trailer gives it an original spin and I'm excited to see Christina Ricci on TV!

ABC's New Shows - Veda Rains

Alright. It's time for Take 2 on Fall Lineups. ABC's got a load of new shows. Here's the list: Apartment 23, Charlie's Angels, The Chew (daytime), Good Christian Belles, Last Man Standing, Man Up, Missing, Once Upon a Time, Pan Am, Revenge, The River, Scandal, Suburgatory, Take the Money and Run and Work it! Whew! I'm tired just listing all of those. After viewing the previews for a handful of these shows, a few stood out to me:

NBC's Fall Shows - Joan Finch

NBC has announced its new fall schedule with some returning favorites and a whole slew of new shows.  Like most years theres little in the promos that I can pin my hopes on.  Follow the link for the complete list. http://collider.com/nbc-schedule-2011-2012/91015/

The first new comedy show I'm most excited about....Free Agents.  Thank you to whoever cast Hank Azaria and Kathryn Hahn.  I bow humble at their combined talents and absolutely think that Hahn is one of the most desperately underated actresses of her generation.  From what I've read and can decipher from the promo NBC released the show seems to be a grown-up version of the 'friends with benefits' premise thats so popular right now.  I heard a rumor that one of the executive producer helms a BBC version of the show.  It wouldn't be the first time the American media monster stole a premise from our friends across the pond.  And I love most of those shows so more power to them I guess.

One Day

I am beyond excited for the movie One Day to come out in August. It's based off the book of the same name by David Nichols. Since the book is one of the best I've ever read, it could either be amazing or horrible. However, the screenplay was penned by the book's author, David Nichols, which leads me to believe that the movie will be the former.

One Day is the story of Dexter and Emma, two people who meet on the eve of their graduation from college. Dexter is a handsome, arrogant Casanova and Emma is shy, bookish, and awkward, but the two of them form a connection from the moment they meet. The book explores their relationship and how they grow and change over the next twenty years. Every vignette takes place on the anniversary of the day when they first met.

Another reason I am very much looking forward to this movie is the casting of Jim Sturgess as Dexter and Anne Hathaway as Emma. Both are extraordinary actors and it's apparent from the trailer that they have incredible chemistry. It is also being directed by Lone Scherfig, who is best known for the beautifully complex film, An Education. The film comes out in August.

The New Girl

This fall, FOX is premiering a new show called New Girl with one of my all time favorite actresses, Zooey Deschanel. Judging from the preview which I'm including below, it looks funny, smart, and adorable.

As far as the premise goes, it's about a dorky, awkward, yet completely quirky and adorable woman named Jess. She goes through a bad breakup with her boyfriend so she's forced to move in with three guys, Nick, Schmidt, and Coach. They only let her move in because her best friend is a model. They all soon become friends and help each other weather the modern dating world.

I think it looks like it has great potential to be really excellent, but watch the preview and judge for yourself!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nQDc_yuX26w

Super 8 (2011) - Joan Finch

  This had everything I loved about movies growing up and it was an original screenplay which simply makes me glow with happiness.  J.J. Abrams produced, wrote and directed a charming love letter to film and I hope its not the last.  Let all who love cinema flock to see it and in that encourage more original stories to fill our multiplexes.

        The cast is fantastic and some of the best performances I've seen this year come from this talented group of teens.  The pacing is heavy at points but it's well shot, well written, well acted, and well...fun.  It's good.  It's genuinely good. 

  Its hard for science fiction themed scripts to strike the right balance between authenticity and fantasy.  Your characters usually end up spending too much time with the 'explains-it-all' scientist or they never know what's going on.  And I've seen those films and thought, “Okay, so I get the molecular bio-mechanics of the zombie transformation but why is there an armory in this high-school?”  Or I end up rooting for the plant creatures and aliens because I could care less about the lead character, Jack Randomguy, with the rifle and cocky attitude.  I'm glad to say Super 8 stayed out of the laboratory and stuck with the characters and their perspective.  

  Take the ride and like most of Abrams' projects you will be glad you trusted him, because when you walk out of the theater you'll have a new favorite film.  Super 8 is a project clearly about the love of film and I adored it.

Idlewild's Top Ten Christmas Holiday Movies

In no particular order . . .

1. White Christmas – You’ve gotta admit, it’s hard to top Irving Berlin’s songs delivered by Bing Crosby and Rosemary Clooney, director Michael Curtiz, Danny Kaye’s humor, and ex-Rockette Vera Ellen’s legs, all wrapped up in one Christmas package. In the words of Federico Fellini, “Two things always look good in film: a train and snow.” White Christmas delivers the goods.

2. A Christmas Story – And speaking of legs, Darren McGavin didn’t need Vera Ellen’s to make his Christmas light up (pun intended). A Christmas Story is classic family holiday fare, and I don’t know anyone who doesn’t get a little nostalgic watching Ralphie’s dilemma. A must-see for any kid who wants the impossible for Christmas.

Superman Reboot News - Joan Finch

Man of Steel: Good News for Super-Classic

          Bit player and current Tudors cast member, Henry Cavill, to steal the lead in next years Man of Steel.  

          Here's hoping the filmmakers on this redux of the classic franchise avoid the creative decisions behind the last disheartening release.  What a disaster that was.  I must admit I haven't paid much attention to Director Zach Snyder's previous work but his style is vibrant and he has a lot of talented support behind him.  The cast includes Amy Adams as Lois Lane, as well as, Kevin Costner & Diane Lane as Mr. and Mrs. Kent.  To top it all off the script is being helmed by David S. Goyer and is based on a story he wrote with Christopher Nolan.  This is the same team behind the successful Batman films of the past several years! 

I have real hope for this guys.  Holy smokes this could be good!

His Girl Friday (1940) - Adelei Idlewild

In the Sabrina review, this diehard Bogie fan mentioned Cary Grant three times, and she therefore decided it was time to pay some tribute to one of the most charming men that ever romanced the screen. Although I wouldn’t dare assert that Grant’s best role was as Walter Burns in Howard Hawks’ His Girl Friday (1940), the film did make the Times All-Time 100 Movie List, so I am at least somewhat justified in choosing this particular example of Grant’s work. And what a work it is!

My Top 5 Movie Endings - DeWinter

My Top 5 Favorite Movie Endings
Obviously if you haven't seen any of these movies, there will be spoilers. Read at your own risk. Also it should be noted that I have a lot of other favorite last scenes, but these are the ones that have stuck with me the most. Also, these are just my opinions, you may agree, you may not, but here they are...

Romantic Movie Moments-Emma DeWinter

Some of My Favorite Romantic Movie Moments
So here’s the background on this one. I am the world’s biggest romantic comedy freak. Not even joking. And I have TONS more favorite romantic movie moments, but these are the ones that I am thinking of right now…This might be amended later…Just sayin’. 

Top 5 James McAvoy movies - DeWinter

Okay this is a hard one. I love me some Hot Scots and Mr. McAvoy is no exception to the rule. However, I own pretty much like 75% of his movies, maybe more, not just because he’s nice to look at, but also because the man is a great actor and he makes incredible films…So here it is, folks, in no particular order. Also, it should be said I know that there are a lot of great films that didn’t make this list, and I love all of them as well, but these are the ones that have stood out to me.

About Me: Emma DeWinter

Introducing...Emma DeWinter

Who am I? I have been called many things, but the one that seems to stick most often is film nerd. Why? Well, because I am one. I love all kinds of film from comedy to drama to action to cult classics to indies. You name it: I can tell you the year, the director, the actors, the writers, everything. I get swept up in all of the cinematic, passionate glory. And that’s why I’m here to help share my cinematic, passionate glory…or maybe something a little less pretentious…Anyways, I hope you love reading about film as much as I love writing about it….Also, random fact number 28: I can do a spot on impression of a velecoraptor. Why? Because I’m awesome.

Sabrina (1954) - Adelei Idlewild

Appreciating the Contrasts in Sabrina (1954)

  In Billy Wilder’s 1954 film Sabrina, romance meets comedy in a perfect blend of contrasts: gritty, American film noir actor Humphrey Bogart and wispy, European beauty Audrey Hepburn; in terms of matrimonial ideals, we see Victorian-esque “classing off” versus twentieth century democracy; a world-weary bachelor and his world-embracing playboy brother, and the list continues. It’s a simple Cinderella story wrapped up in a post-war “La Vie en Rose” on Long Island, New York, and along with Edith Head’s delicious costumes, we “the last of the Romantics” eat it up with a fork and spoon.

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