EW Lists

I like lists... a lot. So the latest issue of EW focused on "New Classics" and other amusing lists (which is transcribed without comments here, and with comments for the Movies set displayed in four sets here) I might actually have to purchase or something.

I think the TV list is highly questionable, but the Movies list is pretty decent.

"Film school in 3 lines or less"

Love it.

Indiana Jones Fun Facts

Courtesy of the folks at EW, a little something to tide you over till May.

SMG to appear at Buffy Reunion

After years of refusing to be involved in any Buffy-related events (both during and after the show), Sarah Michelle Gellar has agreed to attend the reunion event at the Paley Festival (what I hear is TV's version of Cannes) in March. This news left me with mixed emotions. Happy that she's agreed, and sad that I'm not going! Hopefully someone puts the video on youtube!

Confirmed attendance:
- Amber Benson (Tara)
- Nicholas Brendon (Xander)
- Emma Caulfield (Anya)
- Charisma Carpenter (Cordelia)
- Eliza Dushku (Faith)
- Sarah Michelle Gellar (Buffy)
- Seth Green (Oz)
- James Marsters (Spike)
- Michelle Trachtenberg (Dawn)
- Joss Whedon

Yet to RSVP: Willow, Giles, Angel.

Worst Movies of 2007

(according to me... my apologies for the very short write-ups. at this point, if i don't do it like this, i won't do it at all.)

1. Spider-Man 3

Unfocused, contrived, a disgrace to the wonderful films that came before it.

2. Elizabeth: The Golden Age

Poor knowledge of history, over-acted, passionately awful.

3. Pirates 3: At World's End

I am one of the few that actually liked the second Pirates film. I found it driven and slightly captivating. This film resolves little, makes no sense, and is generally a waste of time.

4. Ocean's 13

Just sort of blah.

5. Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix

Perhaps my favorite book of the series, yet definitely the worst movie (so far). None of the excitement, edge-of-seat action, or epicness or the book translates.

Some things worth mentioning:
- Although in principle I don't object to the concept of sequels or reduxes, all of these films are just that.
- #3-5 I saw while on my voyages through Europe. While they were certainly a welcome respite from the heat, and a piece of home - they all sucked.
- Best lists (1-4 of 2006, and 1-10 of 2007) on the way... hopefully.
- Today I saw a film that resonated personally more than anything has since Lost in Translation. I look forward to writing about it.

Ebert's Top 10 of 2007

1. Juno
2. No Country for Old Men
3. Before the Devil Knows You're Dead
4. Atonement
5. The Kite Runner
6. Away from Her
7. Across the Universe
8. La Vie en Rose
9. The Great Debaters
10. Into the Wild

I've seen: #1,2,4,10. No particular interest in the rest, but I'm sure they're good if he says so.
As for my own list, I still have to finish 2006!

A Very Good Blogger

Diablo Cody, writer of the recent release, Juno - a film I have been very eager to see - is also a new columnist for EW.com. Here is her first post about the fantasies vs. realities of life on the road. I really enjoy her style of writing: intelligent, straightforward, and shameless. My kind of girl!

Review: No Country for Old Men

The movie opens with one of the best segments of narration you're apt to hear at the cinema all year. Tommy Lee Jones, local Texan sheriff, sets the tone for the whole piece by describing a 14-year old boy he once had convicted of the murder of a young girl.

[The following is straight from Ebert's review; I couldn't find this quote anywhere else.]

The papers described it as a crime of passion, "but he told me there weren't nothin' passionate about it. Said he'd been fixin' to kill someone for as long as he could remember. Said if I let him out of there, he'd kill somebody again. Said he was goin' to hell. Reckoned he'd be there in about 15 minutes."

The first three quarters of No Country are about what you'd expect given the setup: Josh Brolin's character (Llewelyn Moss), a poor Texan who lives in a trailer in the desert and spends most of his time hunting, stumbles across a handful of dead bodies, a truckload of heroin, and $2 million in cash. That sounds like a Coen movie, doesn't it? Unfortunately, sums of money that great do not allow their finders to live in peace. Moss soon finds himself on the run from a crazy yet uber-effective assassin, superbly portrayed by Javier Bardem. There is more suspense and tension (gore is scary, but so is pure insanity) in these scenes than one could hope for.

But then, something major happens at about the 100 minute mark and the whole tone of the movie changes. This is when you, as the viewer, must decide whether to be merely bored by the admittedly anti-climactic final quarter, or to accept that the true purpose of the film goes far beyond violence and mayhem.

Let's go back to that zinger of an opening speech. In it, the sheriff also reflects on what the older generation would have made of the incomprehensible violence happening in today's world. Later on, in a pivotal discussion with his uncle, he realizes that what's happening now is really nothing new - those characteristics have always been a part of human nature, and there's nothing he can do to stop it. This country is no place for men like him.

The ending leaves something to be desired for many who watch it, but if you haven't been overwhelmed by the fake blood and fancy stunt work, you should be able to appreciate that it is pitch-perfect. In conclusion, Fargo was a masterpiece; this is better.

Rating: ****

Martin on Alfred

Freaky/amazing.

How to predict the Oscar nominations*

*Presuming you have nothing better to do.

I really enjoyed this article as an insight into how the Academy works. (Not just trying to add to the NCFOM hype, I swear!)

http://www.ew.com/ew/article/0,,20161177,00.html

A Lack of Review

Sunday at 3pm I very excitedly made plans with my Dad and Step-Mom to see my most anticipated film of 2007 (the Coen's No Country for Old Men). I was to meet them in an hour at a cinema at Bay and Bloor. I proceeded to shower (yes, at 3pm) and get ready when I got a phone call saying that Step-Mom had already started making dinner, unbeknown to Father, and that I had to go over there to eat and we would see the 7pm show. Ok, that's fine. I can wait a few more hours.

When I arrive, Father is passed out (an exhausting week at work, apparently) and I am informed he will not be leaving the house that evening, but that we can see the movie on Monday night. Hmph, annoying, but whatever - I can wait a day, I'm adaptable.

However, upon waking, Father informs me that he is actually leaving on a business trip (that Step-Mom had forgotten about) in the morning and will not be back until NEXT WEEKEND. Gah!

It is at times like these that I miss my other parents, who do not change plans. Ever.

*Yes I could go by myself or with friends, but then I'd have to PAY!
**Was this my least relevant entry ever?

When the love will end

A handy chart to know when your favorite programs will hit reruns due to the WGA strike:

http://www.latimes.com/business/la-striketvgrid-html,0,7606966.htmlstory?coll=la-home-center

Review: 3:10 to Yuma

Westerns can be a controversial subject among movie lovers, some certain that they are complex commentaries on American life, and others unconvinced by the heartless, macho, ultra-violence.

I must confess that I have never seen a John Wayne film. My experience with Westerns has been limited to Unforgiven and films that can only reluctantly be included in the genre such as City Slickers and Blazing Saddles. So it is with little knowledge but few biases that I approached my viewing of 3:10 to Yuma. Essentially, I wanted to determine whether it was a good film, not a good Western.

I was motivated to see it when I heard the casting; Russell Crowe and Christian Bale rarely make bad movies. The story itself is fairly uncomplicated: Dan Evans (Bale), a disabled farmer sets out with the local sheriff’s crew to escort captured outlaw Ben Wade (Crowe) to the next train heading to the jail in Yuma. The convoy must fight off those who want Wade dead, his angry posse coming to reclaim their leader, and the manipulative outlaw himself. These scenes are full of action and suspense, but the depth comes in the developing relationship between Wade and Evans who both appreciate the intellect and conversation the other offers. (But don’t worry, this isn’t Brokeback or anything).

Although I much prefer Bale as an actor, this is Crowe at a career best. His role here is more suited to his talents than anything I’ve seen him play in the past – he’s charming, unpredictable, likeable, and evil all at the same time. Both lead performances are subtle, thoughtful, and nuanced – adjectives which also apply to the script and direction. There’s an energy and enthusiasm here that is unusual for a remake.

Although I did not set out to consider this film within its genre, I think this is a movie that the Western-haters can appreciate. Overall probably the best film I’ve seen so far this year.

Rating: ****

Speaking of Heroes

Want an episode-by-episode recap of Season 1 but no time to watch your DVD set before Season 2 begins?

Well here you go.

Which Hero Do You Prefer?

I know my preference! Not sure how many people are hiding under that peach thing. And now back to your regularly scheduled non-fashion blog.

(PS. Don't get too 'dirty old man' on me, please boys. )

My Most Anticipated Film from TIFF

One film that received great buzz from the almost-finished Toronto International Film Festival is Juno, a quirky story about a young girl who gets pregnant and decides to give the baby to an eager couple (played by Jennifer Garner and Jason Bateman) that she found in the Penny Saver.

It's the second film from the director of Thank You For Smoking, and the unusual screenplay was written by a former stripper. The trailer has some funny moments and hints that this is more than just Knocked Up Jr. You can watch it here, if you are so inclined. The lead actress you might recall from the last X-Men movie (or perhaps all of them? I've only see the one); she's actually a Canadian actress and looks very good from the 2 minutes I've seen!

It's great to be in Toronto during "good movie season" where I might actually get to see movies like this one!

8 Minute Abs

Since our readership seemed to enjoy Namaste yoga so much, I wonder if they'll appreciate the benefits of 8 Minute Abs! This classic workout comes to you courtesy of early 90s cheesy exercise production teams, and youtube. Beware of neck injuries if trying to simultaneously complete the movements and watch the TV.

Weeds: "Bill Sussman" (S3E05)

The latest episode of the superb Weeds was my favorite of the third season thus far.

What happened:
- Nancy attempted to remove a mass amount of blood from her backseat (she was inadventerantly involved in a hilarious drive-by shooting)
- But, she remains calm because she has nerves of steel
- Shane is sent to Christian summer camp where abortions are murder mysteries
- Silas expands his clientelle to include the old folks home
- Andy, after witnessing a pal murdered by the government, goes into hiding and adopts the title alias
- Celia, in a subplot I nearly forgot, gets a house
- Nancy's nerves of steel go shoddy when she finds a present waiting for her in the garage

Overall I thought this was a great episode. Many hilarious moments and the plot progressed nicely. Even though Nancy's world just got a bit darker, it wasn't really a depressing episode like some of the earlier ones in the season have been. Next week, Mary-Kate Olsen joins the cast ... not sure how I feel about that, but I'll wait to actually see it.

I like to rate individual TV episodes out of 10 (I find this suits the shorter, less comprehensive format better - but feel free to complain). I would never rate movies out of 10, don't you worry.

Today I Met One of My Heroes

Fate was shining on me when Mom stumbled across a newspaper ad indicating that Roger would be signing copies of his new book, Awake in the Dark, at a bookstore that is a mere 5 minute walk from my apartment.

I headed out today, a bit nervous about both potentially meeting him and the line situation, to find that there were only about 15 people in the one-room store. The intimate setting allowed me to talk to him for a few minutes (he's not able to speak yet, but was writing notes and his wife filled in the rest) and get a photo. I kept the gushing to a minimum: so glad he's writing again, looking great, etc. He's really enjoying the Film Festival so far. This is what he inscribed on my book:

For Tammy,
Movie lover.

Roger Ebert
TIFF 09/10/07.

TV Premieres 2007

For your reference, a fairly complete list of the fall premieres is below. I've tried to bold some of the shows that I know either Matt or I watch (and Ugly Betty for Mike!).

Sept. 11 (NBC) The Biggest Loser season premiere
Sept. 14 (FOX) Nashville series premiere
Sept. 17 (FOX) Prison Break season premiere
Sept. 17 (FOX) K-Ville series premiere
Sept. 17 (NBC) Deal or No Deal season premiere
Sept. 18 (CW) Beauty and the Geek season premiere
Sept. 19 (CW) America’s Next Top Model season premiere
Sept. 19 (FOX) Back to You series premiere
Sept. 19 (FOX) ‘Til Death season premiere
Sept. 19 (FOX) Kitchen Nightmares series premiere
Sept. 19 (CBS) Kid Nation series premiere
Sept. 20 (CBS) Survivor: China season premiere
Sept. 23 (FOX) Simpsons, King of the Hill and Family Guy season premieres
Sept. 23 (CBS) 60 Minutes, Cold Case and Shark season premieres
Sept. 24 (ABC) The Bachelor and Dancing with the Stars season premieres
Sept. 24 (NBC) Chuck and Journeyman series premieres
Sept. 24 (NBC) Heroes season premiere
Sept. 24 (CBS) How I Met Your Mother, Two and a Half Men, Rules of Engagement and CSI: Miami season premieres
Sept. 24 (CBS) The Big Bang Theory series premiere
Sept. 25 (CW) Reaper series premiere
Sept. 25 (FOX) Bones and House season premieres
Sept. 25 (NBC) L&O: SVU season premiere
Sept. 25 (CBS) NCIS and The Unit season premieres; Cane series premiere
Sept. 26 (ABC) Private Practice and Dirty Sexy Money series premieres
Sept. 26 (CW) Gossip Girl series premiere
Sept. 26 (CBS) Criminal Minds and CSI: NY season premieres
Sept. 26 (NBC) Deal or No Deal season premiere
Sept. 26 (NBC) Bionic Woman and Life series premieres
Sept. 27 (ABC) Ugly Betty and Grey’s Anatomy season premieres; Big Shots series premiere
Sept. 27 (CW) Smallville season premiere
Sept. 27 (NBC) My Name Is Earl, The Office and ER season premieres
Sept. 27 (CBS) CSI and Without a Trace season premieres
Sept. 28 (NBC) Las Vegas season premiere
Sept. 28 (CBS) Ghost Whisperer and Numbers season premieres; Moonlight series premiere
Sept. 30 (FOX) American Dad season premiere
Sept. 30 (ABC) Extreme Makeover: Home Edition, Desperate Housewives and Brothers & Sisters season premieres
Sept. 30 (Showtime) Dexter season premiere
Sept. 30 (Showtime) Brotherhood season premiere
Oct. 1 (CW) Everybody Hates Chris, The Game and Girlfriends season premieres; Aliens in America series premiere
Oct. 2 (ABC) Cavemen and Carpoolers series premieres
Oct. 3 (ABC) Pushing Daisies series premiere
Oct. 4 (NBC) 30 Rock season premiere
Oct. 4 (CW) Supernatural season premiere
Oct. 5 (NBC) Friday Night Lights season premiere
Oct. 7 (CW) Life Is Wild series premiere
Oct. 7 (ABC) America’s Funniest Home Videos season premiere
Oct. 12 (ABC) Men in Trees season premiere; Women’s Murder Club series premiere
Oct. 15 (ABC) Samantha Who? series premiere
Oct. 18 (CBS) Viva Laughlin series premiere
Oct. 25 (NBC) Scrubs season premiere
Nov. 27 (ABC) Cashmere Mafia series premiere