chimp talk: sleestakk's movie tally

Birthday at Cubs Game!

2011-07-15T22:00:00.013-05:00

Today is my birthday which also coincided with the company Cubs game outing. Fun way to celebrate with a bunch of people that I work with and enjoy being around. We had a rooftop this year that was much better than last year out on the scorching hot bleachers. It was much easier to mingle and enjoy the day. It was also Tara's birthday so as a special treat we were presented with a Elvis impersonator that performed magic tricks! Much to everyone's surprise, he was actually pretty damn good. This was a riot to watch and participate in the tricks.

After much drinking and eating and, oh yeah, there was a Cubs game too, we headed out to hit the Wrigleyville bars. There were several stops and more imbibing. At least it was nice to grab a photo with Yale and Shannon. The day was a blast! By the time I eventually got home I was so exhausted I couldn't even begin to queue up a movie to watch. Plus I have to drive back to the Quad Cities tomorrow for my class reunion. No movie today but it was worth it and a birthday I will never forget.

July New: 18
July Re-watch: 3
July '11 MTD: 21
July '10 MTD: 54
2011 YTD: 407

G-FEST XVIII at Pickwick Theater

2011-07-14T23:45:00.007-05:00

The annual G-Fest Convention kicked off today with a couple of double features at the Pickwick Theater. Couldn't attend the daytime screenings due to work but wasn't going to miss the nighttime programming that featured a couple of movies I've already seen but relish viewing with a captive audience of Kaiju fans.

First up was Godzilla vs. Mechagodzilla (1993), a movie I watched during a movie night at Ron's a few years ago. Wasn't crazy about it then but enjoyed it considerably more on this evening. Still has a silly final battle sequence and I just hate that made Godzilla evil in the 90s. 6.5 / 10

The second feature was another movie I may have first viewed at a movie night at Ron's Gamera: Guardian of the Universe (1995). This really could have been called Gamera Reborn because this is the first film in the trilogy of modern Gamera flicks, much darker films with the awesome flying turtle. Great to see on the big screen even if it was projected from DVD. 7.4 / 10

July New: 18
July Re-watch: 3
July '11 MTD: 21
July '10 MTD: 54
2011 YTD: 407

Trial by Fire

2011-07-13T23:37:00.003-05:00

After office day I cruised down to Portage Theater for the Northwest Chicago Film Society screening of Dante's Inferno (1935) starring Spencer Tracy. What a fabulous movie to see on the big screen! It's all about a wicked carnival show that goes horribly wrong as Tracy's Jim Carter portrays a guy with only good intentions yet at what price to achieve his goals? Yeah, the subtext is telegraphed but it's a damn good ride. 7.2 / 10

Came home for the Horror Movie Night selection of Rituals (1977) a.k.a. The Creeper, another choice pick I hadn't seen. Not a great film that recalls a bit of Deliverance but still an interesting horror mystery of isolation and fear of the unknown. Hal Holbrook carries most of this and one I will have to revisit someday. 6 / 10

July New: 18
July Re-watch: 1
July '11 MTD: 19
July '10 MTD: 54
2011 YTD: 405

Lost in a Blink

2011-07-12T22:32:00.005-05:00

The Lost World (1925), the earliest feature film adaptation of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, was expiring on NWI so it was time to give it a spin. And it works well despite some corny moments with the native manbeasts. It's cool to see what they were able to do with the fantasy adventure elements in 1925. 7 / 10

The Diving Bell and the Butterfly (2007) has been on my to-watch pile since the moment it was nominated for 4 Oscars back in 2008. And it was also on my blindspot list. No surprise here as this is one amazing film. Mathieu Amalric is incredible. This is the movie and story that I will always refer to whenever someone uses the #FML hashtag. Because most of the time people have no conception of what a fucked up life really is and misuse/abuse that notion. In this movie it's 100% appropriate and yet inspiring. Love this movie. 7.5 / 10

July New: 16
July Re-watch: 1
July '11 MTD: 17
July '10 MTD: 54
2011 YTD: 403

Vanquishing Crime

2011-07-11T23:25:00.007-05:00

Final Target (2009) a.k.a. Vanquisher (on the Instawatch) is a kinda okay martial arts action flick with a couple of great female leads that initially oppose each after a setup that kills off the elite commando force leaving only one survivor that seeks revenge. Great fight sequence to close a mostly humdrum movie. 6 / 10

Yes, Crimes and Misdemeanors (1989) is on my blindspot list (as are/were many of Woody Allen's films) but as I view each I'm reminded why Allen is revered for his earlier work. This movie is no exception. Wonderful mix of dark comedy. 7 / 10

July New: 14
July Re-watch: 1
July '11 MTD: 15
July '10 MTD: 54
2011 YTD: 401

Dumb and Dumber

2011-07-10T23:17:00.010-05:00

Waitress! (1981) is a not-so-good eighties comedy that I was hoping would provide a little more enjoyment being an early Troma flick (and one co-directed by Lloyd Kaufman). Sadly it's just forgettable. 5.5 / 10

And what could be more forgettable than Transformers: Dark of the Moon (2011)? Not much. Save for a few beautiful shots of Chicago getting blown to all hell this film is terrible and possibly the worst movie I'll see this year. What's truly unfortunate is that there could have been a decent movie in this had a couple of the characters and subplots been excised. As I tweeted, "the upside is that I will never have to watch that again." 3 / 10

Something to remove that awful taste from my eyes Gentlemen Prefer Blondes (1953) is another selection from my blindspot project. This Howard Hawks musical comedy romp is wonderful with two sparkling leads in Jane Russell and Marilyn Monroe. One I'm sure to revisit. 7.6 / 10

July New: 12
July Re-watch: 1
July '11 MTD: 13
July '10 MTD: 54
2011 YTD: 399

Can You Hear Me Calling?

2011-07-09T23:53:00.005-05:00

Oh Ki-hwan's Voices (2007) suffers from a premise that is often hard to swallow; those around you want you dead so bad things happen. The protagonist here seems to be at the center of envy from everyone including her friends and family. The evil spirit jumps from person to person trying to kill her. If you can buy the story this will work for you. 6.6 / 10

My Planet of the Apes blu-ray boxed arrived so I've been chomping at the bit to view the films again. We arranged a special movie night to do just that but not the first film (because Ron's already shown that one to his kids). Tonight I watched the original Planet of the Apes (1968) on blu-ray by myself just to prepare. The PQ is pretty nice altho not as good as I expected. Still it's a great film that really only drags at the very end. But it remains one of my favorites for everything leading up to that. 9 / 10

July New: 9
July Re-watch: 1
July '11 MTD: 10
July '10 MTD: 54
2011 YTD: 396

Clowns Cry Too

2011-07-08T22:48:00.005-05:00

100 Tears (2007) is quite a splatter-fest. A low-budget splatter-fest. Here we have a murderous clown and the reporters tracking down the story. It's not the worst thing but did I mention it's bloody? Gotta give it up for effort put into the gore but I winced at the story and acting. But some remarkable practical effects. 5.5 / 10

July New: 8
July Re-watch: 0
July '11 MTD: 8
July '10 MTD: 54
2011 YTD: 394

This is the End, My Only Friend

2011-07-07T23:43:00.007-05:00

Been on a Gregg Araki kick as of late anticipating his latest Kaboom. The Living End (1992) is an earlier film of his that still possessing many of the elements you'd expect from Araki. Here a couple of HIV guys meet and go off together on a self-destructive road trip. The low budget is evident but still an interesting watch. 6 / 10

July New: 7
July Re-watch: 0
July '11 MTD: 7
July '10 MTD: 54
2011 YTD: 393

Not So Secret Weapon

2011-07-06T22:39:00.003-05:00

Picked off another Basil Rathbone Sherlock Holmes flick from the Instawatch in Sherlock Holmes and the Secret Weapon (1943). Not one of my favorites as it's a bit bigger in scope as Holmes must prevent a secret device from falling into the hands of the enemy. Story is weak but still great performances. 7 / 10

July New: 6
July Re-watch: 0
July '11 MTD: 6
July '10 MTD: 54
2011 YTD: 392

Rabid Razorbacks

2011-07-05T23:28:00.006-05:00

Back from Rapid City and now just recuperating from the drive home to Chicago that kicked my ass. Only time for one movie and that would be Antoine Blossier's Prey (2010) a.k.a. Proie. I could easily sum this up as "killer pig" movie. But it's a little more than that as it deals with a family in France that has its own issues that is merely framed by these wild boars that have become mutated killing machines. Interesting film. 6.7 / 10

July New: 5
July Re-watch: 0
July '11 MTD: 5
July '10 MTD: 54
2011 YTD: 391

Naked Bloodsuckers

2011-07-04T23:16:00.009-05:00

Jean Rollin's The Nude Vampire (1970) is much more a visual fest than an adept story. I say this because I'm not exactly sure how to describe what I saw. Altho this is like an early (and far less executed) version of Kubrick's Eyes Wide Shut. But it's more about odd characters and their interactions with a cult. Rollin certainly has a flare for the visuals. Probably not an easy watch for most but it's one I'd like to revisit under better circumstances. It is the 4th of July after all!
6 / 10

July New: 4
July Re-watch: 0
July '11 MTD: 4
July '10 MTD: 54
2011 YTD: 390

Gore-nography!

2011-07-03T23:43:00.001-05:00

Scream Bloody Murder (1973) is actually a decent horror flick about a messed up kid with a hook for a hand that goes on a murdering spree after being released from a mental hospital. Like this probably more than it deserves but I found it entertaining. 6.6 / 10

July New: 3
July Re-watch: 0
July '11 MTD: 3
July '10 MTD: 54
2011 YTD: 389

Where's the Beef?

2011-07-02T23:39:00.005-05:00

In Rapid City, SD doing the family thing. Not much time to watch movies (nor do I really want to) but fortunately due to my father's decent internet connection I can take in one film before crashing. Decided to watch Angus (1995) tonight. It's the classic ugly duckling teen comedy and not a bad watch. 6.7 / 10

July New: 2
July Re-watch: 0
July '11 MTD: 2
July '10 MTD: 54
2011 YTD: 388

Wide-Eyed in the Dark

2011-07-01T21:56:00.004-05:00

So today I drove to Rapid City, SD. It's a long drive. Really long drive. I left last night and made it as far as Baraboo, WI. After arriving there I had zero internet but at least I had my movies on my computer including Umberto Lenzi's Eyeball (1975). It's not the best representation of a giallo but it's still quite entertaining as the killer removes an eyeball from his victims. Worth seeking out. 6.4 / 10

July New: 1
July Re-watch: 0
July '11 MTD: 1
July '10 MTD: 54
2011 YTD: 387

June Movie Tally

2011-07-01T10:49:00.019-05:00

Here's the round-up for films watched in June...

Watched 70 films in June, matching my second highest monthly total. 66 were first time views; only 4 were re-watches. Benefited from visiting Austin for BTSNAT 2.5 where we watched 8 films during a 16 hour span. Caught 8 films on the big screen (most were pretty damn great). Also worked more on my blindspot project. Currently I'm at 386 films viewed this year.

Breakdown by decade:
6 films from the thirties
1 film from the forties
5 films from the fifties
5 films from the sixties
9 films from the seventies
14 films from the eighties
7 films from the nineties
11 films from the naughts
12 films released in '10s

List of all films seen (w/my score on a 10-scale):
9 Songs (2004) 6.5
All the President's Men (1976) 7.5
Amsterdamned (1988) 6.7 Horror Movie Night
Angel of Fury (1992) 6
Antichrist (2009) 8
Barbe Bleue (2009) 4.5
Barracuda (1978) 4
Belphégor - Le fantôme du Louvre (2001) 4
Blue Valentine (2010) 7
Cop Killers (1973) 7
Cry Your Purple Heart Out (1976) 5
Dark House (2009) 6
Deadly Prey (1987) 7.5 Video Hate Squad
Duck Soup (1933) 7
Flickan som lekte med elden (2009) 7
Green Lantern (2011) 6
Henry: Portrait of a Serial Killer (1986) 7.5
Higashi no Eden Gekijôban I: The King of Eden (2009) 6.5
Hobo with a Shotgun (2011) 9
Hot Times at Montclair High (1989) 6
Hunter Prey (2009) 7
I diafanoidi vengono da Marte (1966) 5
Infested (1993) 6.5
It Happened One Night (1934) 7.4
Jûsan-nin no shikaku (2010) 9
Modern Girls (1986) 6.7
Mr. Smith Goes to Washington (1939) 8
Mr. Wong, Detective (1938) 7
Naked Vengeance (1985) 7 BTSNAT
Overlord (1975) 7.7
Payday (1973) 7 rewatch BTSNAT
Pimpin' Pee Wee (2009) 6.7 BTSNAT
Please Don't Eat the Babies (1983) 5.6
Pledge Night (1990) 7 BTSNAT
Popcorn (1991) 6.7 rewatch Horror Movie Night
Queen of Outer Space (1958) 6.7
Red Scorpion (1989) 6.5
Scandalous (1984) 6
Scavenger Hunt (1979) 6 rewatch BTSNAT
Science Crazed (1991) 5 BTSNAT
Shadow (2009) 6.5
Spellbound (1945) 7.4
Super 8 (2011) 7
Swamp Shark (2011) 6
Tarantula (1955) 6.5
The Cycle Savages (1969) 6.5
The Cyclops (1957) 6.6
The Final Sanction (1990) 6.6 BTSNAT
The Ghoul (1933) 7
The Great Mouse Detective (1986) 7
The Jungle Book (1967) 7.7
The Killer Inside Me (2010) 7
The King of Comedy (1982) 8
The Monster That Challenged the World (1957) 6.3
The Mysterious Mr. Wong (1934) 6.6
The Phantom from 10,000 Leagues (1955) 6
The Search for Animal Chin (1987) 7.5 BTSNAT
The Snake (2008) 5.5
The Time Machine (1960) 7.7
The Valley of Gwangi (1969) 6.7
Thou Shalt Not Kill... Except (1985) 6.6
Trolljegeren (2010) 8
Tucker & Dale vs Evil (2010) 8 rewatch
Uchu kara no messeji (1978) 6.6
Unstoppable (2010) 6
Valet Girls (1987) 6
Viva Riva! (2010) 7.7
White Fury (1990) 6
White Rat (1972) 5
X-Men: First Class (2011) 8

June New: 66
June Re-watch: 4
June '11 MTD: 70
June '10 MTD: 64
2011 YTD: 386

Viper Guy

2011-06-30T22:26:00.005-05:00

I wish I had something to say about the The Snake (2008) but I didn't enjoy it much. The premise is interesting but I think because I didn't care for the characters I didn't care for the film. Dude, Adam Goldstein, joins an image support group so he can fuck a girl. Meh. 5.5 / 10

June New: 66
June Re-watch: 4
June '11 MTD: 70
June '10 MTD: 64
2011 YTD: 386

Fast Times in Amsterdam

2011-06-29T23:16:00.009-05:00

Hot Times at Montclair High (1989) hit during the decline of great eighties teen sex comedies and it's evident from watching this. It's a familiar trope of three teen boys that in most circumstances should not be friends but guess what? They cross paths and bond in order to help each other out. It's not bad but hardly great. 6 / 10

Amsterdamned (1988) was this week's Horror Movie Night choice and one I've been wanting to view since GGTMC covered it on their podcast. it's a Dick Maas joint and besides being a pretty cool slasher it also features the best boat chase on screen. Good watch and glad I picked up the VHS. 6.7 / 10

June New: 65
June Re-watch: 4
June '11 MTD: 69
June '10 MTD: 64
2011 YTD: 385

Time After Time

2011-06-28T22:05:00.004-05:00

Another missed classic The Time Machine (1960) is such a wonderful film I'm sad I didn't see it as a child. It's the type that I would have loved immensely esp. since I used to have several adaptations that I would read over and over. Quality sci-fi flick. Almost erases that awful remake from 2002. 7.7 / 10

June New: 63
June Re-watch: 4
June '11 MTD: 67
June '10 MTD: 64
2011 YTD: 383

I Heart Trolls

2011-06-27T23:00:00.007-05:00

Dropped into the Music Box for a big screen assault of trolls in TrollHunter (2010), a secret screening film I missed the last Fantastic Fest. As far as found footage flicks go, this is definitely one of the finer examples. Lots to love. Already look forward to viewing it again. 8 / 10

Grabbed Blue Valentine (2010) from my library knowing it was something I had to see even if the content wasn't my thing. It's a weird film because I mostly hated it and the story-lines and the characters. But the acting here is so incredible it's hard to not recognize that achievement. Michelle Williams is terrific. 7 / 10

June New: 62
June Re-watch: 4
June '11 MTD: 66
June '10 MTD: 64
2011 YTD: 382

Killer Fish Komedy

2011-06-26T23:52:00.013-05:00

Michael Winterbottom's 9 Songs (2004) was expiring of the Instawatch so I was compelled to finally give it go despite what I had heard about it. And wowsa it's even more explicit than I imagined. I suppose that titillation is the attraction here because the story isn't that good. But a very interesting watch. 6.5 / 10

Swamp Shark (2011) premiered on SyFy and naturally I had to watch. Goes without saying that I'm sucker for killer fish flicks and this one mostly delivers. Kristy Swanson and D.B. Sweeney lead the charge to destroy the giant shark accidentally let loose in a swamp. It's dumb but fun. 6 / 10

Another blindspot film Martin Scorsese's The King of Comedy (1983) lives up to its reputation. Really didn't have much an interest to see this outside of needing to complete my project but I'm now converted. This is a stellar piece of work with an exceptional De Niro performance. Highly recommended if you haven't seen it. 8 / 10

June New: 60
June Re-watch: 4
June '11 MTD: 64
June '10 MTD: 64
2011 YTD: 380

Keep on Space Truckin'

2011-06-25T23:51:00.011-05:00

The Phantom from 10,000 Leagues (1955) was an Instawatch or maybe Hulu. It's that kind of title. Not a great one but watchable if you enjoy bad b-movies. It's very post-WWII with a monster being created from radiation but also wanted as a weapon. 6 / 10

The Valley of Gwangi (1969) is a film I've always wanted to see so was glad to pick it off NWI. And it's such a fine cowboys and dinosaurs flick with a tragic ending. It has a traveling circus too. Super enjoyable with excellent Ray Harryhausen stopmo. 7 / 10

OMG, Queen of Outer Space (1958) is riot! Credit to TCM for airing some cool old flicks on their Drive-In Thursdays. This is another misogynistic sci-fi where a group of male astronauts land on Venus inhabited by only beautiful woman including Zsa Zsa Gabor! Awesomeness. I wish to own this movie! 6.7 / 10

The War of the Planets (1966) is another gem courtesy of TCM. This one directed by one of my personal favorites Antonio Margheriti and is a loose sequel to his Wild, Wild Planet, which I adore. Unfortunately this film isn't as strong or as entertaining and rather convoluted despite the awesome cocktail party in space. 5 / 10

June New: 57
June Re-watch: 4
June '11 MTD: 61
June '10 MTD: 64
2011 YTD: 377

Scandal in Space

2011-06-24T23:15:00.018-05:00

Maybe Shadow (2009) was expiring on NWI that motivated me to view it or I was just curious. Either way Federico Zampaglione has directed a not-so-unique mountain-hostage thriller with a few genuine scares. It mostly works altho the final sequence isn't entirely clear. 6.5 / 10

Scandalous (1984), another NWI viewing, is a Rob Cohen directed, Larry Cohen written comedy that follows Robert Hays as an investigative reporter that gets the table turned on him as he's now the subject. It's a silly farce but enjoyable for what it is. Plus a punk rock concert! 6 / 10

Kinji Fukasaku's Message from Space (1978) is something to behold. This is not a good film but one I adore. And the costuming is incredible. I knew of Vic Morrow and Sonny Chiba's involvement here but didn't realize this also features Hiroyuki Sanada (Twilight Samurai!). I so want 1/6 scale figures of the Gavanas soldiers and emperor. I later learned that my friend pAT actually viewed this in the cinema when it was released. Man, how cool would that be?! 6.6 / 10

June New: 53
June Re-watch: 4
June '11 MTD: 57
June '10 MTD: 64
2011 YTD: 373

Challenging Christ

2011-06-23T23:06:00.013-05:00

The Monster That Challenged the World (1957) is yet another fifties sci-fi giant monster movie. But the monsters here are giant mollusks released below the sea after an earthquake. Mostly humorous. 6.3 / 10

Besides Bruce Dern as punk biker the best thing about The Cycle Savages (1969) is the premise: gang of bikers hellbent on destroying the hands of a sketch artist… because he draws pictures of the bikers. He draws pictures of them. So they want to crush his hands. 6.5 / 10

Yeah, I've put off watching Lars von Trier's Antichrist (2009) far longer than I should have. And for no good reason, really. Now that I've seen it I think it's a brilliant film. Willem Dafoe is so damn good. Charlotte Gainsbourg continues selecting some crazy roles. May pick it up on blu-ray some day. 8 / 10

June New: 50
June Re-watch: 4
June '11 MTD: 54
June '10 MTD: 64
2011 YTD: 370

Mystery Corn

2011-06-22T23:41:00.007-05:00

The Mysterious Mr. Wong (1934) is a different Wong than Karloff's detective Wong (yet still directed by William Nigh). Actually this is Bela Lugosi's Wong and he's not quite a nice guy either. This Wong wants to possess all the magic coins of Confucius that will allow him to rule China. Or something. 6.6 / 10

Popcorn (1991) is this week's Horror Movie Night selection and a fun one to revisit. It's another fun "set in a movie theater" flick. How can you not like those? Jill Schoelen is so cute. Here's the blurb I wrote about Popcorn on my last viewing. 6.7 / 10

June New: 47
June Re-watch: 4
June '11 MTD: 51
June '10 MTD: 64
2011 YTD: 367

Serial Detecting

2011-06-21T22:35:00.010-05:00

One of my favorite aspects of Netflix Instant Watch is the ability to watch items that I'd probably not have a chance to see otherwise. Case in point, Boris Karloff as James Lee Wong in the Mr. Wong, Detective (1938) series. Karloff is so much fun to watch, esp. his take on an Asian again (see: Mask of Fu Manchu). 7 / 10

Eden of the East the Movie I: The King of Eden (2009) was also on the Instawatch so gave it a whirl. Very convoluted anime (big surprise) and not compelling enough for me to seek out the second movie. Visually cool but meh. 6.5 / 10

Henry: Portrait of a Serial Killer (1986) is another film that's alluded me over the years. Now I know why this flick always seems to get some rave recommendations. This is solid, sadistic and damn good. Michael Rooker is lights out. 7.5 / 10

June New: 46
June Re-watch: 3
June '11 MTD: 49
June '10 MTD: 64
2011 YTD: 365

Gas on the Fire

2011-06-20T23:29:00.000-05:00

Was awarded a free pass to an advanced screening of Viva Riva! (2010) at the Music Box Theater, one of their own distributed films. From the trailer this looked to be a genuinely unique film and it is. Set in capital of Congo, it's a modern African noir about a gasoline heist gone bad and the revenge and brutality that occurs as a result. Director Djo Munga has written a group of captivating characters (in particular, Patsha Bay as Riva) that keep you invested in the twisted plot of gas gangsters and corrupt officials. Very worthy movie. 7.7 / 10

Catherine Breillat's Barbe Bleue (2009) a.k.a Bluebeard was Instawatch and expiring. Possibly the only reason to view this. The fairy tale premise should work if the execution was better but even with decent visuals this film is painful to watch. Uninteresting and lacking a compelling note to save its life. Not sure what people find good in this because it's just boring. 4.5 / 10

June New: 43
June Re-watch: 3
June '11 MTD: 46
June '10 MTD: 64
2011 YTD: 362

Mission to Moscow

2011-06-19T23:19:00.016-05:00

Since the Projection Booth recently interviewed Dolph Lundgren and covered his seminal film Red Scorpion (1989) directed by Joe Zito. Figured it was time to give my VHS a spin. It's a little long in the tooth but great nevertheless as his character transforms. Cool to watch this then immediately listen to Mike and Justin discuss it on their podcast. Check it out here: Episode Five: Red Scorpion. 6.5 / 10

Stuart Cooper's Overlord (1975) was expiring on NWI so time to watch. Mesmerizing film following this young soldier as he prepares to join the army and go to war for D-Day. Poignant and recommended viewing. 7.7 / 10

Modern Girls (1986) calls back to nostalgic interest of mid-eighties Los Angeles (think Less Than Zero). This is pure light comedy that is one of those "it happens all in one crazy night" flicks. Three girls (including hottie Virginia Madsen and Daphne Zuniga) head out for a night on the town with their bestie Clifford and antics ensue. Fun watch. 6.7 / 10

June New: 41
June Re-watch: 3
June '11 MTD: 44
June '10 MTD: 64
2011 YTD: 360

Kaa Stew

2011-06-18T23:22:00.011-05:00

The Marx Brothers' Duck Soup (1933) was on my blindspot list and I'm an ass for not seeing this brilliant comedy sooner. So much to love here. Everyone should see this film in their life. 8 / 10

Disney's animated The Jungle Book (1967) is a film I know I've watched in my childhood but having such a vague recollection I had to give it an honest watch. It holds up in every way and I enjoy this more than most of Disney's more recent animated Jungle work (ex. Lion King, Tarzan, etc.). Excellent voice acting. 7.7 / 10

Belphégor - Le fantôme du Louvre a.k.a. Belphegor, Phantom of the Louvre (2001) caught my attention on the French film shelf at the library. I wish it hadn't because this is a disaster. Sophie Marceau is haunted by a resurrected spirit in this silly mummy flick that lacks a point and adequate FX. View only as a curiosity otherwise avoid. 4 / 10

June New: 38
June Re-watch: 3
June '11 MTD: 41
June '10 MTD: 64
2011 YTD: 357

Emerald One-Eye

2011-06-17T23:12:00.012-05:00

The Cyclops (1957) ran on TCM's Drive-In B-movie night. It's another Bert Gordon flick that is essentially an alternate take on his Amazing Colossal Man, kinda like a prequel in a way but with a different origin (both films came out in the same year). I'm a fan of this and Lon Chaney Jr. 6.6 / 10

Please Don't Eat the Babies (1983) a.k.a Island Fury is a fairly weaksauce cannibal slash hostage tale that has few merits but not enough to make it memorable. 5.6 / 10

Dropped into the theater for a non-3D screening of Green Lantern (2011). Disappointment is about all I can say. I didn't think the effects were that bad but it's the story that really brings it down. That and Blake Lively. Not one I care to revisit. Maybe someday but not soon. 6 / 10

Was able to rinse my eyes later at the Music Box for a midnight screening of Hobo with a Shotgun (2011) with a few of my Chicago friends. It's as if I didn't see any other movies on this day because Hobo is so fucking good. If it's possible to fall in love with a movie in its opening minutes, this would qualify. Cannot express my passion for what Jason Eisener was able to accomplish with his love letter to 80s exploitation cinema. Look forward to many viewings of this in my future. Thank you, Rutger Hauer and Mr. Eisener. 9 / 10

June New: 35
June Re-watch: 3
June '11 MTD: 38
June '10 MTD: 64
2011 YTD: 354

Predator Politicians

2011-06-16T23:05:00.008-05:00

Ah, Mr. Smith Goes to Washington (1939). A staple Frank Capra classic with all the sentimental hallmarks you'd expect and want. If you buy into this world the movie fires beautifully on every cylinder. But it's also terribly sappy that fortunately is overcome by its charm. Jimmy Stewart is typically excellent but I really like Claude Rains the most. Yes, another blindspot film. 8 / 10

For a killer fish flick Barracuda (1978) should be much better than it is. Unfortunately the killer fish premise is nearly nonexistent and lost to a crime plot with the baddies killing off the reporters that will expose their evil plan. Terrible. Oh hey, there's Cliff Emmich again! 4 / 10

June New: 31
June Re-watch: 3
June '11 MTD: 34
June '10 MTD: 64
2011 YTD: 350

Meeces to Pieces

2011-06-15T23:58:00.011-05:00

Another recent VHS pick-up Thou Shalt Not Kill... Except (1985) a.k.a. Stryker's War caught my eyes for the evening. Decent Vietnam vet revenge on hippies thriller with some nice exploitation accents. Also features Sam Raimi as the cult leader! 6.6 / 10

Can't recall why I decided to view The Great Mouse Detective (1986) outside of not having seen it. Probably because it's another Disney animated feature that seems to go unnoticed. What really makes it great is all the things that you wouldn't see in a Disney animation today like smoking and drinking and gun violence. And for a take on Sherlock Holmes, I like the movie a lot. 7 / 10

June New: 29
June Re-watch: 3
June '11 MTD: 32
June '10 MTD: 64
2011 YTD: 348

Rock Hard Eight

2011-06-14T23:52:00.012-05:00

Dipping into VHS collection I was in need of some Rothrock so I gave Angel of Fury (1992) a spin. Not a very good flick but enjoyable simply because of Rothrock running and chasing and being chased. And kicking some ass in-between. 6 / 10

Hitchcock's Spellbound (1945) was also on my blindspot list but for some reason I thought I had seen it before. But soon I realized I had not so it made for a new watch and a good one even though you know how it's attempting to manipulate the viewer. Love Ingrid Bergman in this. 7.4 / 10

Headed out to the theater to finally catch Super 8 (2011), which I had been lukewarm in seeing based on the advanced buzz. And I gotta agree, J.J. Abrams doesn't entirely succeed with this film despite some good character moments. Still a good watch and one I'd certainly watch again. Esp. for the amazing performance by Elle Fanning, who steals the movie. 7 / 10

June New: 27
June Re-watch: 3
June '11 MTD: 30
June '10 MTD: 64
2011 YTD: 346

Ticked Off

2011-06-13T23:46:00.006-05:00

Settling in after that amazing weekend in Austin I caught up with a missed Horror Movie Night selection Ticks a.k.a Infested(1993). This a fun bug flick with a pretty good cast including Clint Howard and Seth Green. 6.5 / 10

From my blindspot project I knocked All the President's Men (1976) off the list. Such a quality film with brilliant moments throughout. Hoffman and Redford are so great together. 7.5 / 10

June New: 24
June Re-watch: 3
June '11 MTD: 27
June '10 MTD: 64
2011 YTD: 343

Yeah, Austin

2011-06-12T23:38:00.010-05:00

Still in Austin and spent the day with two of my favorite Austinites, Carolee (@leiabox) and Topher (@ThinkZombie). They were gracious to take me out for brunch then to several cool stores (Toy Joy!) and even to Topher's workplace. Afterward we had a few beers at Crown & Anchor (excellent beer bar with Sunday specials and good local beer). I also got to visit their awesome home and have dinner at John & Becky's home. What a great day in Austin with great people!

After dinner we headed down to The Ritz Alamo Drafthouse (my first visit there!) for the inaugural VIDEO HATE SQUAD event, a big screen viewing of a VHS tape! How fucking cool is that? And the movie… David Prior's Deadly Prey (1987) starring his brother Ted. Such a entertaining film in all the best ways of bad. Love this movie so much. David Campbell and Ted Prior were also on hand for a Q&A after the screening. Unreal. Seeing this film on the big screen and meeting Ted made the night and capped an already amazing day in Austin. 7.5 / 10

Huge thank you to my friends in Austin for making this an incredible weekend.

June New: 22
June Re-watch: 3
June '11 MTD: 25
June '10 MTD: 64
2011 YTD: 341

BTSNAT 2.5: BTS Bandits!

2011-06-11T23:33:00.030-05:00

Back in Austin at Brian Kelley's home for another awesome installment of BTSNAT! Different set of people for this marathon sitting but still an excellent group to watch movies together for 16+ hours.

As with the last BTSNAT in December, @Noahphex leads with his pick of Scavenger Hunt (1979), a film I had recently watched most of when I discovered it was OOP. Amazing cast yet overly long. Still a fun watch to see these actors interact. Richard Benjamin, Scatman Crothers, Cloris Leachman, Roddy McDowall, Tony Randall, Dirk Benedict, et al. 6 / 10

Next was Micah's (@ReelDistraction) choice of Daryl Duke's Payday (1973), a Rip Torn joint I had seen in recent years after GGTMC covered it. Incredible performance, good film and great ending for this pathetic honky-tonk man. 7 / 10

Josh (@VHSisthetruth) couldn't make this time but provided a hilarious video intro for his film Science Crazed (1991), which is equally hilarious for different reasons. This Canuxploitation film defies all and is nearly inexplicable with its repeated use of footage and bizarre horror. Incredible film bad in every conceivable way yet you cannot stop escape it. 5 / 10 (but one I desperately want to own!)

The only way to follow that was with a little rape-revenge, BK's favorite sub-genre, with his choice of Naked Vengeance (1985). Sleazy and brutal as expected that delivers the goods. Solid entry. 7 / 10

I did locate an adequate David Prior flick for my selection with The Final Sanction (1990), starring his brother Ted Prior along side Robert Z'Dar. Kind of a ridiculous premise to pit two warriors against each to decide a greater outcome between two nations but just go with it. Stupid but good enough for this crowd, thankfully. 6.6 / 10

Jenni, @Noahphex's wife, joined us for this outing and her film was voted next, The Search for Animal Chin (1987). I adore this film and the on-location skating and shredding including the half-pipe at Tony Hawk's home. Good fun and apparently a flick my brother watched a hella lot back in the day. 7.5 / 10

Now it was time for Damon's (@zombiefreak) movie (so glad Damon make the trip as he was missed in December). His original choice wouldn't play but his back-up proved just as worthy as we belly-laughed throughout Pledge Night a.k.a. A Hazing in Hell (1990). Damn riot of a horror flick that is great with a crowd. 7.5 / 10

The final film of the BTSNAT marathon is always a Brian Trenchard-Smith movie. We were treated to his take on the Porky's franchise, Pimpin' Pee Wee (2009) a.k.a. Porky's: The College Years. Been looking forward to this since BK mentioned it at the last BTSNAT. Turns out it's a better-than-average installment that all of us managed to remain awake and entertained. 6.7 / 10

Somehow we managed to cram in an extra film and still finish before 5AM but damn what a marathon of movies and an even better time with friends. So glad I could make it down for BTSNAT 2.5 and hope I'm there for the next one.

June New: 21
June Re-watch: 3
June '11 MTD: 24
June '10 MTD: 64
2011 YTD: 340

Tales of the Evil Side

2011-06-10T23:29:00.004-05:00

I'm back in Austin! After an evening of beer and BBQ at the great Salt Lick outside of Austin, a visit to Pinballz and Rivendell, @Noahphex threw on Tucker & Dale vs Evil (2010) to close the night. Having seen it already and loving it, I was game for another viewing. Still hilarious. 8 / 10

June New: 15
June Re-watch: 1
June '11 MTD: 16
June '10 MTD: 64
2011 YTD: 332

Furry Spider

2011-06-09T21:22:00.007-05:00

In searching for an ideal movie to take to BTSNAT 2.5 tomorrow I decided it should be a David Prior flick since he seems to be all the talk lately. White Fury (1990) is one such film in my VHS stock so I screened it to see if it was worthy. It's not bad but also not good enough despite a decent premise of crooks taking some teens hostage in a remote cabin in the mountains. Just lacks the punch. 6 / 10

Tarantula (1955) I had recorded from TCM since they started showing B-movies for their Thursday Drive-In programming this month. This is, of course, another Jack Arnold giant monster flick and also features the hotty Mara Corday. Entertaining. 6.5 / 10

June New: 15
June Re-watch: 0
June '11 MTD: 15
June '10 MTD: 64
2011 YTD: 331

Body Count

2011-06-08T23:38:00.008-05:00

A short while back I caught the trailer for Cop Killers (1973). Instantly I knew this was a film I wanted to see. It's very much a grindhouse flick featuring a couple of asshole hippies that kill some cops then go on run terrorizing others during the chase. Such a cool movie. Wish Walter Cichy had made more like this. 7 / 10

June New: 13
June Re-watch: 0
June '11 MTD: 13
June '10 MTD: 64
2011 YTD: 329

Something Happens

2011-06-07T22:36:00.005-05:00

For my blindspot project I finally viewed Frank Capra's It Happened One Night (1934). Certainly a fun film and Clark Gable is excellent. Good chemistry with Claudette Colbert. Didn't love it as much as I wanted to but still enjoyable and a classic. 7.4 / 10

June New: 12
June Re-watch: 0
June '11 MTD: 12
June '10 MTD: 64
2011 YTD: 328

Ghoulish Hunt

2011-06-06T22:29:00.010-05:00

Sandy Collora's Hunter Prey (2009) was added to Netflix Instawatch and I didn't hesitate to watch it after the viewing the cool factor of Collora's Batman: Dead End. It's a groovy sci-fi western that reverses the human / alien roles and looks great considering its low budget. Very tight. Look forward to his next endeavor. 7 / 10

The Ghoul (1933) was also on NWI and features Boris Karloff in an early take on the Mummy mythology. Enjoyed this quite a bit. 7 / 10

June New: 11
June Re-watch: 0
June '11 MTD: 11
June '10 MTD: 64
2011 YTD: 327

Housing Horror

2011-06-05T23:25:00.003-05:00

Dark House (2009), a FrightFest flick, I recently picked up for a couple of bucks from a Blockbuster sale. Was interested only because it features Jeffrey Combs and I'll watch anything he's in even if it's not so great. This isn't but an okay watch about a group of people making a haunted house in a haunted house. 6 / 10

June New: 9
June Re-watch: 0
June '11 MTD: 9
June '10 MTD: 64
2011 YTD: 325

She be Valeting

2011-06-04T22:21:00.007-05:00

Took a trip back to my hometown to visit my father who was visiting with my step-mom to care for my stepbrother (long, sad story). It was my dad's birthday and a rare opportunity to spend time with him again. While there I caught Valet Girls (1987) on NWI, another Rafal Zielinski joint. Cute comedy about a singer working as a valet girl hoping to get discovered. 6 / 10

June New: 8
June Re-watch: 0
June '11 MTD: 8
June '10 MTD: 64
2011 YTD: 324

Killing in Flames

2011-06-03T23:13:00.012-05:00

Been looking forward to Michael Winterbottom's The Killer Inside Me (2010) for quite some time. Glad my library had it on the shelf. I like Casey Affleck even tho he seems to approach his characters the same way. I appreciate his raspy delivery. Good watch with some gasping brutality. 7 / 10

Also my excellent library the blu-ray of The Girl Who Played with Fire (2009), another film I've been overdue on since watching the first installment. Heard this and Hornet's Nest weren't as good as the first film but I still found this film really enjoyable. It lacks the suspense from Dragon Tattoo but still a solid flick. Might be appreciated more if not compared to the first film. Noomi Rapace is great. 7 / 10

June New: 7
June Re-watch: 0
June '11 MTD: 7
June '10 MTD: 64
2011 YTD: 323

No Stopping the Mutants

2011-06-02T23:03:00.012-05:00

The other feature on that DVD I rented from Lion Video was White Rat (1972) another forgotten gritty crime flick from the seventies. And not any better than How to Score with Girls. It's as forgettable as it is forgotten. Again context makes it interesting. 5 / 10

Picked up the blu for Unstoppable (2010) from my library. Pretty much what I expected from Tony Scott, a somewhat engaging but entirely silly film. I like Chris Pine here but so over Denzel. 6 / 10

Hit the midnight screening at Showplace 12 for X-Men: First Class (2011) with small audience. Nothing about the trailer or early photos made this compelling to me (other than being another superhero flick) but the advanced buzz was right; this is a good film despite its flaws. Set in the early sixties along with the origin story makes it work. First third is much better than the finale. Fassbender and Bacon steal the show but Matthew Vaughn succeeded in the end. 8 / 10

June New: 5
June Re-watch: 0
June '11 MTD: 5
June '10 MTD: 64
2011 YTD: 321

Gettin' Lucky 13

2011-06-01T23:55:00.011-05:00

Now that Miike's 13 Assassins (2010) is screening at the Music Box I knew I had to pay a visit to catch this on the big screen. And fortunately they did screen it in theater one. I missed this at Fantastic Fest last year because I opted to see Jeffrey Combs live performance of Nevermore. I don't regret that decision as I knew I'd see 13 Assassins eventually. Thankful that I could see it in the theater as it definitely lives up the high praise. One of Miike's best. Amazing film. 9 / 10

From Lion Video I rented a double DVD that featured How to Score with Girls a.k.a. Cry Your Purple Heart Out (1976). Not a good film as it follows a group of sailors around NYC as they pick up women. But context makes it intriguing nevertheless. 5 / 10

June New: 2
June Re-watch: 0
June '11 MTD: 2
June '10 MTD: 64
2011 YTD: 318

May Movie Tally

2011-06-01T02:45:00.019-05:00

Here's the round-up for films watched in May...

Watched 48 films in May, another lower than usual total but not bad (still 20 less than last May). 44 were first time views and only 4 were re-watches. Worked on little on my blindspot project but was all over the place. Summer movie season has started so hit 6 films on the big screen (Attack the Block being the best and likely to end up on my Top Ten). Highlight was revisiting Toy Story 3 with my girlfriend, who hadn't seen it and loved it. Currently I'm at 316 films viewed this year.

Breakdown by decade:
2 film from the fifties
3 films from the sixties
13 films from the seventies
10 films from the eighties
2 films from the nineties
9 films from the naughts
14 films released in '10s (7 released in 2011)

List of all films seen (w/my score on a 10-scale):
A Dirty Shame (2004) 7
Almighty Thor (2011) 4
Angels' Brigade (1979) 6
Attack the Block (2011) 9 *cinema
Blacula (1972) 7
Blood Simple. (1984) 7.6
Brewster's Millions (1985) 7
Dead Man's Shoes (2004) 7
Despicable Me (2010) 6.5
Dial M for Murder (1954) 8.5
Dreamaniac (1986) 6 rewatch Horror Movie Night
Due Date (2010) 6.5
Enron: The Smartest Guys in the Room (2005) 7
Explorers (1985) 6.8
Fast Five (2011) 8 *cinema
From Paris with Love (2010) 7.5
Going to Pieces: The Rise and Fall of the Slasher Film (2006) 7
H.O.T.S. (1979) 6
Made in U.S.A. (1966) 7.5
Misterio en la isla de los monstruos (1981) 6
Paradise Lost: The Child Murders at Robin Hood Hills (1996) 8
Paranormal Activity 2 (2010) 7
Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides (2011) 6 *cinema
Priest (2011) 6 *cinema
Raptor Island (2004) 4
Salt (2010) 7 rewatch
Scorpion (1986) 6
Scream 4 (2011) 7 *cinema
Some Like It Hot (1959) 7.5
Sorority Row (2009) 5
Special Effects (1984) 6.5
Spellcaster (1992) 6.5
Splinter (2008) 7.5 rewatch
Student Bodies (1981) 6
Survival Quest (1989) 7
ThanksKilling (2009) 4
The Abomination (1986) 6.5 Horror Movie Night
The Brotherhood of Satan (1971) 6.5
The Green Slime (1968) 6
The Hidden (1987) 7.7
The Ice Pirates (1984) 7
The Naked Kiss (1964) 7.6
The Yes Men (2003) 7
Thor (2011) 7 *cinema
Toy Soldiers (1984) 6
Toy Story 3 (2010) 9.2 rewatch
Trilogy of Terror (1975) 7.5
Vampires Suck (2010) 5

May New: 44
May Re-watch: 4
May '11 Total: 48
May '10 Total: 68
2011 Total: 316

Another Piece of Meat

2011-05-31T23:43:00.017-05:00

Tackled a couple more expiring films from the Neflix Instawatch queue starting with Going to Pieces: The Rise and Fall of the Slasher Film (2006). Really not much new here in terms of material but it's always fun to hear directors and actors talk about this period of film. A little sad that one of the films mentioned I haven't seen and it's spoiled in this documentary but ah well. That's my fault for not seeing it sooner. 7 / 10

Finally. Finally knocked off Raptor Island (2004) after failing on an earlier attempt (I fell asleep). No surprise why it took more than one attempt to finish this because it's goddamn awful. Terrible CG and Lorenzo Lamas hams his way thru it. 4 / 10

May New: 44
May Re-watch: 4
May '11 Total: 48
May '10 Total: 68
2011 Total: 316

Surviving the Ghost

2011-05-30T23:31:00.032-05:00

Because it was expiring on the Watch Instantly I fired up Don Coscarelli's Survival Quest (1989), featuring my favorite Lance Henriksen. This is an more than adequate mountain survival flick with some good character moments. Enjoyed seeing the young Catherine Keener getting flustered. Good watch. 7 / 10

Paranormal Activity 2 (2010) was also on the box. I missed its theatrical debut since after the first film I just lacked any interest in the story. That said, I kinda like this film and some of the scares. In the right mindset this can be very effective. Also like that it's a prequel and sequel in one film, which I haven't seen. It just works for me. 7 / 10

Recently acquired the blu-ray for From Paris with Love (2010) during the Blockbuster sale. Heard of mix of reactions when the movie was released so I was very curious. Now having seen this movie I can say that I'm sad I didn't go out to catch it in the theater. Damn, this is fun ride, folks. Screw the naysayers and see this movie. It's balls out fun. 7.5 / 10

May New: 42
May Re-watch: 4
May '11 Total: 46
May '10 Total: 68
2011 Total: 314

Simpler Tides

2011-05-29T23:21:00.014-05:00

Ventured out to the cinema to view the next installment in the Pirates franchise, Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides (2011) directed by Rob Marshall. Despite being sufficient in continuing the story with Jack Sparrow nothing about the movie feels epic in scope compared to the others. No big set-pieces. That and Sparrow being left to carry the film really bring it down. It's just not very interesting. 6 / 10

Back to my blindspot project I finally watched the Coen's Blood Simple. (1984). Such a meaty film that I know I will have to watch again. Not sure I was in the best frame of mind to really absorb it properly but this is a damn good film. 7.6 / 10

May New: 39
May Re-watch: 4
May '11 Total: 43
May '10 Total: 68
2011 Total: 311

Dead Heat

2011-05-28T23:09:00.028-05:00

Now that the girlfriend is on her way to the Dominican Republic, I'm back to watching movies. From Instawatch I dropped in an old sex comedy H.O.T.S. (1979), which I had only seen parts of thru the years. Yeah, this is dumb film but certainly watchable for those that dig these (as I do). It's the familiar story of outcast girls starting their own sorority as some crooks fall in to steal their money from a fundraiser. Playboy Playmate Susan Lynn Kiger leads the pack, and Danny Bonaduce even has a somewhat prominent role. Dumb fun. 6 / 10

Dead Man's Shoes (2004) was twitter rec based on some Paddy Considine discussion. Another cool flick I wished I had seen sooner. And one I'd also recommend. Well crafted story of a man who returns to avenge the brutality weighed on his brother by a group of hoodlums. Very worthy Shane Meadows joint. 7 / 10

May New: 37
May Re-watch: 4
May '11 Total: 41
May '10 Total: 68
2011 Total: 309

The Toys are Back in Town

2011-05-27T22:56:00.004-05:00

My girlfriend is in town for a couple of days before her flight to Santo Domingo and she was up for viewing a film (a rarity). I suggested Beauty in the Beast on Blu that I just recently acquired but she wanted to see Toy Story 3 (2010) instead. Of course I was game because I adore that film (it did make my best of 2010 list). And as expected she loved the film. When I originally saw the movie I knew that she'd also love it because of a few plot turns and sequences. Watching this movie with her was better than seeing it in the theater. Wish we had more experiences like that. 9.2 / 10

May New: 35
May Re-watch: 4
May '11 Total: 39
May '10 Total: 68
2011 Total: 307

Not So Special FX

2011-05-26T23:46:00.016-05:00

Feeling for some more Larry Cohen I picked off Special Effects (1984) from Netflix Instant Watch despite also owning the DVD. While not one of Cohen's best films it still has some merit as Eric Bogosian as a sleazy director and Zoë Lund as his muse. A few different choices could have improved this movie but it still works as a curiosity piece in Cohen's catalog. But I still like the look and location. 6.5 / 10

May New: 35
May Re-watch: 3
May '11 Total: 38
May '10 Total: 68
2011 Total: 306

Believe, Brov

2011-05-25T22:35:00.025-05:00

Cruised down to Showplace ICON to finally get an advanced screening of the much talked about and critically hyped Attack the Block (2011). It's the rare occasion when a hyped film lives up to said hype. ATB is one of those films. Met up with Ron and Kreeplady Kristin who already had their seats behind mine, which was great because I could hear them laughing and cheering during the viewing. Hard to declare a movie perfect but ATB is pretty damn close. It'll take a few more viewings to declare it as such but for now it's an easy mark for my best of 2011 list. 9 / 10

May New: 34
May Re-watch: 3
May '11 Total: 37
May '10 Total: 68
2011 Total: 305

Empire of the Ant

2011-05-24T23:31:00.004-05:00

Spellcaster (1992) is another horror film that plays on the same old premise of "invite a bunch of people to an old house then murder them." In this twist it's an eccentric dude portrayed by Adam Ant and the attendees are hopeful contestants to win a million dollars. Not a good film by any stretch but I had fun with it. 6 / 10

May New: 33
May Re-watch: 3
May '11 Total: 36
May '10 Total: 68
2011 Total: 304

Wagner Splint

2011-05-23T22:26:00.007-05:00

Splinter (2008) was a recent used blu-ray purchase during Blockbusters close-out sales. Hadn't seen it since its initial run so it was time to revisit. Looks great on blu and I love the movie even more on my second viewing. The creature effects and gore are done so well. Excellent horror and suspense. 7.5 / 10

May New: 32
May Re-watch: 3
May '11 Total: 35
May '10 Total: 68
2011 Total: 303

People Who Died

2011-05-22T23:59:00.005-05:00

Started watching Walter Hill's Brewster's Millions (1985) on Instawatch but it expired before I could finish. Fortunately my library's catalog had it. Very entertaining Richard Pryor / John Candy film with some clever writing. 7 / 10

My blu-ray double feature disc featuring Student Bodies (1981) arrived and I couldn't wait to check it out. As an early spoof of the slasher genre (just as slashers were becoming a genre no less), I like this film much more than any modern day spoof. Probably because it still has a enough charm to make it likable. 6 / 10

May New: 32
May Re-watch: 2
May '11 Total: 34
May '10 Total: 68
2011 Total: 302

Nude Necking

2011-05-21T22:54:00.007-05:00

Sam Fuller's The Naked Kiss (1964) only came into my awareness when it was just released by Criterion with the beautiful cover art by Daniel Clowes. I was curious. Turns out Fuller's work and reputation is all that and then some. I love this film. Story, characters, and tone work so exceptionally well. I will pick this up on Blu. 7.6 / 10

May New: 30
May Re-watch: 2
May '11 Total: 32
May '10 Total: 68
2011 Total: 300

Made in France

2011-05-19T22:49:00.006-05:00

I've been getting into more Godard recently (as in the past couple of years) and Made in U.S.A. (1966) a visual treat. It's also on my blindspot project list. I can see why as it's hard not to watch the stunning Anna Karina. Marianne Faithfull is also badass. This is one that deserves more than one viewing if not to understand the plot but to stare in awe at the imagery. 7.5 / 10

May New: 29
May Re-watch: 2
May '11 Total: 31
May '10 Total: 68
2011 Total: 299

Terror Times Three

2011-05-18T23:45:00.005-05:00

Fairly certain I've seen the Trilogy of Terror films when I was a child because I do recall bits and pieces. But now that Trilogy of Terror (1975) is available on DVD I wanted to watch it since I've been slowly tackling horror anthology movies over the years. This one is quite great as Karen Black is excellent in each segment. 7.5 / 10

May New: 28
May Re-watch: 2
May '11 Total: 30
May '10 Total: 68
2011 Total: 298

Preaching in Paradise

2011-05-17T22:39:00.011-05:00

Back to @leiabox's best documentary list I finally sat down with Paradise Lost: The Child Murders at Robin Hood Hills (1996). This is a long film but I think I never bothered because this case had received so much attention at the time I didn't feel I needed to watch it. But I'm glad I did even though it just made more upset at the incompetence and ignorance of all the people involved. 8 / 10

Went out for a big screen viewing of Priest (2011), which had been on my radar since the first trailers hit. It has all the hallmarks of what I like in silly, post-apocalyptic films, including Maggie Q. Sadly it's not very good yet good enough for my tastes. I would watch this again on Blu. 6 / 10

May New: 27
May Re-watch: 2
May '11 Total: 29
May '10 Total: 68
2011 Total: 297

Exploring Space

2011-05-16T23:36:00.004-05:00

In revisiting movies from the eighties that I somehow missed I picked up Joe Dante's Explorers (1985) due to the buzz surrounding the upcoming Super 8 flick. I really wish I had seen this when I was 10 years old… or at least when it was released. It's a cute movie and I like the idea of these kids with their space adventure. 6.8 / 10

May New: 25
May Re-watch: 2
May '11 Total: 27
May '10 Total: 68
2011 Total: 295

Despising Twilight

2011-05-15T23:29:00.013-05:00

A couple of library grabs today. First up one I wasn't keen on seeing in the theater, Despicable Me (2010). For at least the first half of this film I was glad I skipped it but somehow the charm finally comes thru in the second half making it cute and watchable. 6.5 / 10

Now a much lesser in quality movie Vampires Suck (2010), which is exactly what you'd expect in a modern vampire, ahem Twilight spoof from Friedberg/Seltzer. And not really being a fan of these this one is on par with most others and not all that good. But since it is actually more entertaining than Twilight I'll give a better score. 5 / 10

May New: 24
May Re-watch: 2
May '11 Total: 26
May '10 Total: 68
2011 Total: 294

Spenser For Hire

2011-05-14T23:32:00.010-05:00

When perusing OnDemand titles I saw that The Ice Pirates (1984) was available in HD! High Def, people! Having somehow missed this treasure and loving the heck outta Robert Urich, this was a no-brainer. Man oh man do I heart this movie. It's like everything I want in a cheesy space western adventure movie. I would own this on Blu-ray. 7 / 10

Finally made it out to see Thor (2011). Parts of it I really like and other parts are just meh. It's a mixed bag that mostly works and saved by breakout performance by Chris Hemsworth. The Hawkeye cameo wasn't needed but it made me smile. Agreed that Natalie Portman's character was paper thin but she looks terrific. Sadly the Warrior Three are wasted but it's a rewatchable flick. 7 / 10

Dipped in my Greydon Clark DVDs I picked up from HorrorHound Weekend and gave Angels' Brigade (1979) a watch. Sublime silliness. Goofy entertainment. Plus Jack Palance and Jim Backus! The tagline: "Seven super sexy girls take on the bad guys in an explosion of wild action, crazy stunts, and loads of laughs!" Now doesn't that make you wanna see this film? 6 / 10

May New: 22
May Re-watch: 2
May '11 Total: 24
May '10 Total: 68
2011 Total: 292

Devil in the Details

2011-05-13T23:27:00.008-05:00

Back to @leiabox's documentary list I sat down with Enron: The Smartest Guys in the Room (2005) and became more infuriated as it went along. And it's a long film. Just disgusting what these asshats got away with and the people that suffered. 7 / 10

Due Date (2010) was a library quick pick and marginally okay despite not being a bit plausible. That is the film's biggest problem; with the setup it provides in the intro it is unlikely any of this would transpire. RDjr's character could've had money wired to him or found another way to get transportation thus avoiding the entire journey with Galifianakis. Not a smart movie but I laughed at a few the gags. 6.5 / 10

The Brotherhood of Satan (1971) was a rare OnDemand flick I decided watch after Mitch (@DoctorGore) mentioned it on twitter. Not a great movie but I always enjoy these 70s devil worship films. Plot from imdb: "A family is trapped in a desert town by a cult of senior-citizens who recruit the town's children to worship Satan." 6.5 / 10

May New: 19
May Re-watch: 2
May '11 Total: 21
May '10 Total: 68
2011 Total: 289

No Thanks to Mystery

2011-05-12T23:23:00.008-05:00

From my library I finally decided to give Sorority Row (2009) a spin. Stupid movie in a not good way and challenging to maintain any interest or care for it and the characters. Good production but lousy screenplay. 5 / 10

ThanksKilling (2009) has been in my Neflix Watch Instantly queue since the day it was added… but since it was expiring I finally clicked it. Wasn't looking forward to viewing b/c it's akin to a awful Troma flick. And I was right. Not enjoyable. 4 / 10

Mystery on Monster Island a.k.a. Misterio en la isla de los monstruos (1981) is a bizarre mash-up of Robinson Crusoe and The Lost World, a Spanish one at that. It features Peter Cushing, Terrace Stamp and Paul Naschy in small supporting roles. The main protagonist is a young man sent to survive on an island full of monsters and hidden gold. I won't say anymore because it would be giving away the main idea of the film. Not a good movie but certainly interesting. 6 / 10

May New: 16
May Re-watch: 2
May '11 Total: 18
May '10 Total: 68
2011 Total: 286

Abominable Indeed

2011-05-11T22:19:00.006-05:00

Tonight's Horror Movie Night selection was The Abomination (1986). Some might say that title is appropriate but holy shit is there a lot to love in this low budget, wacky gore fest. It's really just something that should be seen rather than explained. But I do highly recommend checking out my friend @zombiefreak's wonderful write-up for The Abomination in his Chronicles of Horror Movie Night series. 6.5 / 10

May New: 13
May Re-watch: 2
May '11 Total: 15
May '10 Total: 68
2011 Total: 283

Teenage Heroes

2011-05-10T23:16:00.005-05:00

Not sure why I had Toy Soldiers (1984) so high in my queue (maybe it was a "short wait" is red light indicator that the DVD may soon become unavailable on Netflix). Regardless, I got it and watched. Other than featuring a young Tim Robbins and hot body Tracy Scoggins, this isn't a good movie. Kids on a boating trip get separated on an island when a few get kidnapped by pirates. The remaining kids and Jason Miller as Sarge go on a rescue mission. The ending climax kinda saves the film along with some of the violence. 6 / 10

May New: 12
May Re-watch: 2
May '11 Total: 14
May '10 Total: 68
2011 Total: 282

Murder, Yes.

2011-05-09T23:12:00.007-05:00

Another smaller project I committed to starting was watching all my unseen films on Carolee's (@leiabox) awesome ABC's of her favorite documentary films. There are 26 listed, natch, and I had only seen 8 of them. The Yes Men (2003) I plopped in and enjoyed it immensely. Kinda insane these guys were able to pull off what they did but good on 'em. 7 / 10

Back to my primary blindspot project of Flickchart Top 500 unseen, I spun Dial M for Murder (1954) - ranked 368 overall. This is also another Hitchcock I haven't seen so it also works toward my Hitchcock project that I haven't officially started. Really, really like this film. More than I expected. The suspense is palpable. 8.5 / 10

May New: 11
May Re-watch: 2
May '11 Total: 13
May '10 Total: 68
2011 Total: 281

Mighty Heat

2011-05-08T23:09:00.004-05:00

Getting back to my primary blindspot project (to watch all my unseen films in Flickchart's Top 500) I queued Some Like It Hot (1959), rated 320 overall at Flickchart. This is Billy Wilder I love. Tony Curtis and Jack Lemmon are so damn good even if it's an often high suspension of belief to think they can pull off women in drag for so long unnoticed. Marilyn Monroe has some sweet scenes but it's those two guys that make this great. 7.5 / 10

The Asylum's Almighty Thor (2011) premiered on SyFy to coincide with the big budget Marvel release of Thor. Of course I had to watch it but I'll go on record stating this is not one of the better Asylum films (and that, my friends, is saying a lot). It's just not good. At all. 4 / 10

May New: 9
May Re-watch: 2
May '11 Total: 11
May '10 Total: 68
2011 Total: 279

Prepared to be Slimed

2011-05-07T23:28:00.013-05:00

Had Kinji Fukasaku's The Green Slime (1968) recorded on my DVR from TCM for at least a year and decided it was time to knock it out. What a trip that I'm not even sure I could explain it fully. But helluva catchy theme song! Wouldn't mind having this on DVD / BD someday. 6 / 10

Now out the theater for Justin Lin's Fast Five (2011). Damn. This is what all summer tent pole actioners should aspire to. Big, loud, packed to brim with testosterone and beautiful people even when they're covered in grime. I would go see it this again in a heartbeat if it weren't so damn long. Definitely will pick it up on Blu and rematch. Gal Gadot is hot. Sung Kang! Who knew Don Omar could act?! Big dumb and exciting. 8 / 10

From the Instawatch I cleared another John Waters film from my blindspot list, A Dirty Shame (2004). Had no idea what to expect and just based on the turn this film takes, it wouldn't have mattered. Fun movie and great cast. 7 / 10

May New: 7
May Re-watch: 2
May '11 Total: 9
May '10 Total: 68
2011 Total: 277

Mustaches Always Win

2011-05-06T23:18:00.002-05:00

Reached in to my VHS vault (the shelf behind my couch) to screen Scorpion (1986), an absolutely humdrum action thriller directed by William Riead. "Thriller" should be used loosely as our protagonist (Tonny Tulleners) is as milquetoast as they come despite being a serious ass-kicker. As I described on GoMiso: Mustachioed super agent Steve Woods must save the country from terrorism one terrorist at a time. But it has its moments for decent watch. 6 / 10

Picked the blu-ray of Salt (2010) from my library figuring to give it another go since seeing it in the theater. It's still a good if not wholly unbelievable ride following Angelina as she runs and kicks ass. Good looking film in HD. 7 / 10

May New: 4
May Re-watch: 2
May '11 Total: 6
May '10 Total: 68
2011 Total: 274

I Scream, You Scream

2011-05-05T22:54:00.002-05:00

Finally made my way to the cinema for the big screen viewing of Wes Craven's Scream 4 (2011). After recently screening the first three films last month I was as prepared as I could've been but not excited. The verbal thrashing online was severely decreasing my interest. However, I found myself enjoying the ride of this one up until the end reveal. It plays a dirty trick that I despise in thriller suspense flicks. But the ride is fun and I adore Alison Brie as a total bitch. 7 / 10

May New: 3
May Re-watch: 1
May '11 Total: 4
May '10 Total: 68
2011 Total: 272

In My Dreams

2011-05-04T22:49:00.001-05:00

Dreamaniac (1986) was today's Horror Movie Night pick. I watched it as recent as last year but in the spirit of HMN I watched it again this evening. It's really a fucked up movie and a good HMN selection. Read what I wrote last time I viewed Dreamaniac. For a much more thought analysis, please read @zombiefreak's write-up as he chronicles every Horror Movie Night. 6 / 10

May New: 2
May Re-watch: 1
May '11 Total: 3
May '10 Total: 68
2011 Total: 271

Hiding Out

2011-05-03T22:46:00.004-05:00

Jack Sholder's The Hidden (1987) is a movie that I will cop to having only seen in parts thru the years. It was one of those films that we'd see on TV and say, "Oh it's The Hidden!! Fuck yeah!" but never really watch all the way through. Deciding to own up to never really seeing the entire film start to finish, I pulled it from my library. It still lives up to all those "Fuck yeah"s from my youth. Brilliant film. Suspect they'll remake this one soon. 7.7 / 10

May New: 2
May Re-watch: 0
May '11 Total: 2
May '10 Total: 68
2011 Total: 270

Back in Black

2011-05-02T22:22:00.003-05:00

Blacula (1972) was a spin of the old Netflix Instant Watch. Had never seen before so figured now was a good time. Reality is that this is a pretty damn good film. Would love to do this and Scream Blacula Scream back to back. William Marshall is a great Dracula… er, Blacula. 7 / 10

May New: 1
May Re-watch: 0
May '11 Total: 1
May '10 Total: 68
2011 Total: 269

April Movie Tally

2011-05-01T02:21:00.054-05:00

Here's the round-up for films watched in April...

Watched 39 films in April, which might be my lowest monthly total since 2009. 31 were first time views and 8 were re-watches. I attribute this mainly to being out in San Jose for a 5 day vacation and my brother and his wife visiting for 4 days (didn't watch any films for 9 days so my average per day was still 2+ ;). Even thought I didn't watch many films clearly I viewed more newer films (90s+). Highlights included the Stuart Gordon/Barbara Crampton event at Portage and the Alex Winter New Cult Canon event at Music Box. Currently I'm at 268 films viewed this year.

Breakdown by decade:
4 films from the pre-eighties
8 films from the eighties
11 films from the nineties
9 films from the naughts
7 films released in '10s

List of all films seen (w/my score on a 10-scale):
2 Fast 2 Furious (2003) 6.5
Along Came Polly (2004) 7 rewatch
Castle Freak (1995) 7 Full Moon Horror Fest
Dark Angel: The Ascent (1994) 6
Death Wish 3 (1985) 7.5 New Cult Canon
Down Terrace (2009) 8 movie night
Dracula's Widow (1988) 5.5
Evil Bong 3-D: The Wrath of Bong (2011) 5 Full Moon Horror Fest
Fade to Black (1980) 7 movie night
Fast & Furious (2009) 7
Freaked (1993) 6.5 rewatch New Cult Canon
From Beyond (1986) 7.5 rewatch Full Moon Horror Fest
Guns (1990) 6
Hanna (2011) 9 *cinema
Hard Hunted (1992) 6.5 rewatch
Insidious (2010) 7.5 *cinema
Kaette kita yopparai (1968) 6.7
Kongo (1932) 7
La marche de l'empereur (2005) 6
Mandroid (1993) 5
Marwencol (2010) 8
Nemesis 2: Nebula (1995) 6
Raw Force (1982) 7.5 movie night
Re-Animator (1985) 7.7 rewatch Full Moon Horror Fest
Robot Wars (1993) 6.5
Scared to Death (1981) 6.5
Scream (1981) 5
Scream (1996) 7 rewatch
Scream 2 (1997) 6.5 rewatch
Scream 3 (2000) 6.5
Skatetown, U.S.A. (1979) 7
Source Code (2011) 8 *cinema
Sucker Punch (2011) 7.7 rewatch *cinema
Talhotblond (2009) 7.5
The Fast and the Furious (2001) 6.5
The Hills Have Eyes (1977) 7
The Shooter (1995) 6
Your Highness (2011) 6.5 *cinema
Zombie Strippers! (2008) 5

April New: 31
April Re-watch: 8
April '11 Total: 39
April '10 Total: 68
2011 Total: 268

Dark Lord Day!!

2011-04-30T23:07:00.010-05:00

Finally the day is upon us: Dark Lord Day!!

I'd love to write up an extensive post on this amazing day but I think I may save that for my beer blog on posterous. You can read more about the day over at the Three Floyds Official DLD site. Imagine 6000 beer geeks assembled at Three Floyds Brewery sharing, imbibing and celebrating beer. Having been to many beer festivals, there really isn't anything to compare to the atmosphere you'll find at Dark Lord Day. Sure, GABF may be a better event but for a one day beer release party, you'd be hard pressed to beat DLD.

Typical table full of beer. There are a dozen+ tables just like this one!

I think I tasted somewhere in the neighborhood of 50+ different craft beers from around the world. Didn't score an exclusive bottle but we did take home an extra 4-pack of standard 2011 Dark Lord that someone left sitting on the ground (?!). Just an amazing day start to finish. Glad my brother and his wife made the trip and joined in the excitement this event exudes. Already looking forward to next year!

April New: 31
April Re-watch: 8
April '11 Total: 39
April '10 Total: 68
2011 Total: 268

Chicago Beer Tour Day Two

2011-04-29T23:44:00.014-05:00

Friday meant more visits to beer haunts in Chicago and stop into Rotofugi for a look at their new store and gallery at their new location. We started in Andersonville and first hit-up Reza's buffet for some incredible middle eastern food. Their lunch buffet is the way to go!

From there we walked up to Hamburger Mary's, a nationwide boutique burger chain restaurant, but the Chicago location also brews craft beer! It's often hit or miss there but their hits are outstanding. The Black Widow black IPA (pictured) was simply amazing! This joint turned out to be Adriana's favorite place we visited. If you are familiar with the joint, you'd know why. After a few beers we stopped into In Fine Spirits and Andersonville Liquors to buy more beer.

Then we headed over to Hopleaf, one of the most renowned beer bars in Chicago. We enjoyed a few beers there from the long beer list. Then we split to head down to Rotofugi. We were all impressed with their new space and shelves of amazing toys. Really cool store and must-visit for anyone looking for designer toys.

We had dinner plans up north with Kevin and Erica, who were in the country visiting from South Africa. Before getting on the highway we stopped into Binny's Skokie for a quick tequila tasting and peruse the excellent craft beer selection. Bought a few things then headed up to Firkin in Libertyville for dinner. Because it was Friday we had a bit of a wait but it gave us more time to catch up before getting seated. Again, great conversation, food and more beer!

Another great day with good friends and good beers on the eve of Dark Lord Day!

April New: 31
April Re-watch: 8
April '11 Total: 39
April '10 Total: 68
2011 Total: 268

Beer Tour in Chicago

2011-04-28T23:22:00.011-05:00

Guess I was too burned out to watch a movie last night and just felt like playing video games (my current obsession is Lego Harry Potter). Tonight my brother and his wife arrived from Albuquerque and the agenda included a whirlwind tour of drinking establishments throughout downtown Chicago.

We hit Fountainhead first, which had an amazing beer selection to celebrate their 1-year anniversary. We had to be there and it was excellent to be in the middle of that crowd. Beers we had were Founders Canadian Breakfast Stout, Half Acre Ambrosia, Three Floyds Zombie Dust and several others. Also enjoyed one of their burgers and the bacon skewers. So damn good and great beers! Congrats to them.

Moved on from there to Goose Island Clybourn for a round then over to Revolution Brewing for a beer and another burger, which we divided between the three of us. Pretty awesome way to kick off their visit to Chicago for Dark Lord Day on Saturday!

April New: 31
April Re-watch: 8
April '11 Total: 39
April '10 Total: 68
2011 Total: 268

Four Furious

2011-04-26T23:14:00.003-05:00

Since I've seen the third film, Tokyo Drift, a couple of times I skipped revisiting (plus it's entirely out the continuity of the others). So I picked up with Fast & Furious (2009) and was once again pleasantly surprised. I feel with this installment, the world they have established is finally fleshed out with all the characters and the role they play. Yes, the CG isn't great but Justin Lin does a good job keeping all the pieces in place with some nice road action. Very entertaining. 7 / 10

April New: 31
April Re-watch: 8
April '11 Total: 39
April '10 Total: 68
2011 Total: 268

Too Faster

2011-04-25T22:12:00.001-05:00

Still working on my Fast and Furious catch-up so the second film 2 Fast 2 Furious (2003) was on deck. Surprisingly I enjoyed this one more than the original. And this is the one most people hate the most. I was reassured in my reaction when Large William left me a positive comment on my Miso check-in. I would prefer to watch this one again over the original; the John Singleton Miami vibe works. 6.5 / 10

April New: 30
April Re-watch: 8
April '11 Total: 38
April '10 Total: 68
2011 Total: 267

Stripper Hunting

2011-04-24T22:06:00.003-05:00

I'm baffled as to why my library would stock Zombie Strippers! (2008) but whatever, they (fortunately) have a diverse catalog of titles. I don't regret watching this film but it really is awful. Jenna Jameson isn't slumming here but Robert Englund sure is. 5 / 10

Diving back into my new Sidaris DVD collection, I rewatched Hard Hunted (1992), which I consider the last of the "great" Sidaris flicks. It was around this time when the changing of the guard occurred just before Fit To Kill, Dona Speir's last role as Donna Hamilton, and a new line of enhanced women entered the remaining films. 6.5 / 10

April New: 29
April Re-watch: 8
April '11 Total: 37
April '10 Total: 68
2011 Total: 266

Movie Night 2011 #3

2011-04-23T23:59:00.008-05:00

Big +1 for impromptu movie nights at Ron's home! We both had an open Saturday for a change so I headed over with a bag of films to choose from and we watched, chatted and caught up on things.

First film was another one that had some Twitter chatter, Down Terrace (2009), so I figured it be a good one since neither of us had seen it. This Ben Wheatley scripted and directed flick holds up in every way to the good word of mouth around it. It's a dark comedy crime family film with plenty of subtlety and dry wit. Excellent movie. 8 / 10

Next was a flick I'd recently picked up at HorrorHound Weekend and have been wanting to see for quite some time, Fade to Black (1980). Now I know why it's occasionally referenced among film geeks; it's horror thriller send up to classic film. Very fun film. 7 / 10

Lastly I thought we'd go farther off the deep end with Raw Force (1982) a.k.a. Kung Fu Cannibals that is mash-up of so many genres it could be hard to explain. Sex adventure comedy, boat trip, martial arts, horror, action. And with Cameron Mitchell, notch. A wild, inexplicable ride. 7.5 / 10

April New: 28
April Re-watch: 7
April '11 Total: 35
April '10 Total: 68
2011 Total: 264

I Will Break You

2011-04-22T22:56:00.001-05:00

The Shooter (1995) a.k.a. Hidden Assassin I queued up from a recent Dolph Lundgren 3-film DVD I bought on the cheap. It's actually a pretty good espionage thriller with double agents and Dolph kicking ass. 6 / 10

April New: 25
April Re-watch: 7
April '11 Total: 32
April '10 Total: 68
2011 Total: 261

Peace in Plastic

2011-04-21T23:48:00.009-05:00

Due to all the Wes Craven chatter on Twitter (ex. "what's his best film?"), I decided I needed to revisit The Hills Have Eyes (1977), a film a barely remember from my childhood. Actually I recalled so little of it I don't even count this as a rewatch. In fact, Michael Berryman is the only thing I do remember. Glad to see this as it really is a terrific horror film and definitely up there as Craven's better work. 7 / 10

Now that Marwencol (2010) is on Netflix Instant Watch I knew I had to view this with all the buzz over the last year. Had no idea what to expect outside of the book and images I've seen online (photos of 1/6 G.I. Joe action figures arranged in a static action scene). Kinda thought it might be a stopmo film but it's not. Rather it's a very poignant documentary about the struggles of Mark Hogancamp after he was violently beaten outside a bar and now finds solace in this fantasy world of action figures. Incredible film. 8 / 10

April New: 24
April Re-watch: 7
April '11 Total: 31
April '10 Total: 68
2011 Total: 260

Freaks Rule the Streets

2011-04-20T23:40:00.013-05:00

Headed down to The Music Box Theater for New Cult Canon double feature with guest Alex Winter. Was stoked to finally see Michael Winner's Death Wish 3 (1985) on the big screen. Such a hilarious mess of a film that can only be seen to be believed. Bronson returns with a serious vengeance and big gun. Glorious. 7.5 / 10

That was followed by an extensive Q&A with Alex Winter that included some memorable responses and insight. He's such a great dude. Then we were treated to a screening of Freaked (1993), a weird film directed by Winter and Tom Stern. I only had vague memories of this but always enjoyed its quirky comedy and such an ensemble cast (Brooke Shields, Bill Sadler, Deep Roy, Morgan Fairchild, Randy Quaid, et al). Great to see this again. 6.5 / 10

Overall this was a nice re-introduction to New Cult Canon at The Music Box. Glad I could make this event.

April New: 22
April Re-watch: 7
April '11 Total: 29
April '10 Total: 68
2011 Total: 258

Rumble in the Jungle

2011-04-19T23:36:00.007-05:00

Kongo (1932) was a nice pick-up from TCM that is borderline horror but more just terrorizing. A cruel, disabled white man rules a small tribe of natives in Africa using fake witchcraft and voodoo. Really cool little flick that does its job instilling fear for those trapped under this man's will. Good watch! 7 / 10

April New: 21
April Re-watch: 6
April '11 Total: 27
April '10 Total: 68
2011 Total: 256

Tall Hot Blonde

2011-04-18T23:31:00.001-05:00

I was lured to the documentary Talhotblond: (2009) by Kreepylady Kristin who recommended it after viewing Catfish. It's a similar story of how those you meet on the internet are rarely who you think they are. This ends tragically. Real good flick and I recommend it as well esp. if you've seen Catfish. 7.5 / 10

April New: 20
April Re-watch: 6
April '11 Total: 26
April '10 Total: 68
2011 Total: 255

Cybersuit Abuse

2011-04-17T23:27:00.007-05:00

Digging back into my Full Moon DVD sets I pulled out Mandroid (1993), which seemed interesting enough. This was not the case. The premise isn't bad: a Russian doctor creates super suit but his partner wants to use it for evil. But the execution and acting is horrendous. HORRENDOUS. 5 / 10

April New: 19
April Re-watch: 6
April '11 Total: 25
April '10 Total: 68
2011 Total: 254

The Screaming Never Stops

2011-04-16T23:57:00.004-05:00

In revisiting the Scream series I discovered the older horror film Scream (1981), which I hadn't seen. So I ordered from Netflix and proceeded to watch. Whoa, this is not a good film at all. A group of people go on rafting trip to a ghost town, get stranded there then begin to get killed off. All the characters do inexplicable things and ending reveal is just bad. I think I listened to part of the commentary because I was so dumbfounded by this movie. 5 / 10

Followed that with third film in Craven's franchise, Scream 3 (2000), which despite owning the DVD for at least 10 years I have never seen. Until now. And now I feel foolish for waiting for so long because I really dig this installment (more than the second film). Maybe it's Parker Posey that does it for me but it just works on a different level. 6.5 / 10

April New: 18
April Re-watch: 6
April '11 Total: 24
April '10 Total: 68
2011 Total: 253

Scream For Me, Long Beach!

2011-04-15T23:50:00.001-05:00

And like the upcoming Fast Five sequel, Scream 4 is nearing so I figured I might as well revisit the other films starting with Wes Craven's original Scream (1996), which I haven't seen since it was released on home video. Still a pretty damn fun film and everyone is so young. Aw. 7 / 10

Scream 2 (1997) didn't seem nearly as annoying as it was when I saw it in the theater w/my brother. Actually the first third is quite awesome. The middle drops and the end is just falls out. 6.5 / 10

April New: 16
April Re-watch: 6
April '11 Total: 22
April '10 Total: 68
2011 Total: 251

Marching, More Marching

2011-04-14T23:47:00.001-05:00

A strange blindspot to have but nevertheless March of the Penguins (2005) was rated highly and therefore on my project list. Grabbed the Blu-ray from my library for this (part of the motivation). Not nearly as good as I expected from all the hype. Disappointing really but it does look pretty on blu. 6 / 10

April New: 16
April Re-watch: 4
April '11 Total: 20
April '10 Total: 68
2011 Total: 249

Synthesized Gun

2011-04-13T23:38:00.001-05:00

Another long desired DVD set arrived this week: The Andy Sidaris Girls Guns & G-Strings collection (highly recommended for fans of Sidaris and/or crappy movies). Guns (1990) is one that I had missed before the original DVDs went out of print so I queued this one first. It's about the same as the others with our same heros and silly villains. 6 / 10

Scared to Death (1981) was the Horror Movie Night selection this week and the introduction of the Syngenor! I couldn't get my hands on a copy of this so I found it streaming online on some weird website. Not the best PQ but it was fine to follow the creation and terror of this Synthesized Genetic Organism! Check out @zombiefreak's write-up about Scared to Death as he chronicles Horror Movie Night. 6.5 / 10

April New: 15
April Re-watch: 4
April '11 Total: 19
April '10 Total: 68
2011 Total: 248

Angels Ascend

2011-04-12T23:20:00.006-05:00

Dark Angel: The Ascent (1994) is another film from the Full Moon DVD set. This one is only mildly entertaining as a demon woman escapes hell and comes to Earth. I think I may have seen this on cable back in the day. 6/10

April New: 13
April Re-watch: 4
April '11 Total: 17
April '10 Total: 68
2011 Total: 246

War of the Robots

2011-04-11T23:16:00.004-05:00

At the Full Moon Horror Fest, I bought a couple of DVD boxsets of Full Moon films that aren't available anywhere else. The price was better than Amazon (I checked) so I picked up both Volume 1 and 2. Robot Wars (1993) is one of the films in the set and plays out kinda like a side story to Robotjox (often considered a sequel but it is not). And it features Barbara Crampton! Yay! Silly film but I really like the stopmo robot creatures and machines. 6.5/10

April New: 12
April Re-watch: 4
April '11 Total: 16
April '10 Total: 68
2011 Total: 245

You're Furious

2011-04-10T22:10:00.009-05:00

Sunday and I'm game for another cinema screening so out to catch Your Highness (2011). Wasn't expecting too much and I think it delivered to that empty expectation. Not a very good film but at times it was okay. Several flat jokes but Natalie Portman looks delicious. 6/10

Anticipating the upcoming Fast Five, I decided I should probably watch the other Fast films having not seen any 'cept Tokyo Drift. Funny because I've own two copies of The Fast and the Furious (2001) on DVD for years. Ya know, I was a little disappointed with this first film after everything I'd heard about it. Didn't it was that good but mostly fine. 6.5/10

April New: 11
April Re-watch: 4
April '11 Total: 15
April '10 Total: 68
2011 Total: 244

Full Moon Horror Fest

2011-04-09T23:01:00.016-05:00

Today was an event I had circled on my calendar for a while: Full Moon Horror Fest at Portage Theater. In truth, I cared a lot less about the The Charles Band EVIL BONG 3-D Full Moon Roadshow w/the puppets and all that, incl. the Evil Bong flick. What really had my juices going was the addition of the Stuart Gordon/Jeffrey Combs/Barbara Crampton Trilogy on the big screen! Not to mention that both Barbara and Stuart would be there for a Q&A. Yes, I was amped for this.

It was great to see Stuart and Barbara hobnobbing in the lobby with Capone prior the event beginning. There were already big lines for the stacks of DVDs and promos that Full Moon had on display. Finally after a long delay From Beyond (1986) began after a short intro. How cool is this film? That cool. 7.5/10

Got to hear both Stuart and Barbara discuss the film and introduce the next film which I still had not watched despite owning it on DVD. Castle Freak (1995) was received well by the horror crowd on hand as it should. Really good film with some excellent character moments by Combs. I even asked a question afterward about the long bar sequence that Combs seemed to be improvising. Barbara agreed with me that it is an amazing scene! (She rocks!) 7/10

Next up was the "event" film premiere of Evil Bong 3-D: The Wrath of Bong (2011) that also including sniff-o-rama cards. I haven't seen the prior installments of this. After viewing this one, I won't be in a rush to see 'em either. Kind of a dumb film and premise in which the 3D didn't add much. The sniff cards were mostly effective but after the screening the entire theater smelled like my basement in High School. Disgusting. 5/10

Finally the one we'd all been waiting for… Re-Animator (1985). Earlier I had debated leaving before it started b/c everything was running so late and I was tired. But I stuck around after it started and I'm glad I did. This is such a great film to see on big screen in theater packed with horror fans. 7.7/10

Great night and so glad to talk to both Stuart and Barbara. She really is one of the nicest people I've met in the business. Definitely will be one of my favorite nights of the year!

April New: 9
April Re-watch: 4
April '11 Total: 13
April '10 Total: 68
2011 Total: 242

Sinner Punched

2011-04-08T23:51:00.015-05:00

Was glad that Sucker Punch (2011) was still on screens after its dismal performance at the box office. I wanted to see it on the big screen again to affirm my first reactions; yep, still love this silly flick. Look forward to the extended cut on Blu-ray. Still don't care what the critics think because even for those that didn't like it, I enjoy the discussion arising from what may or may not be happening in the movie. 7.7/10

From my Netflix I spun Nagisa Ôshima's Sinner in Paradise a.k.a. Three Resurrected Drunkards (1968). This is an interesting comedy of 3 teens that get mistaken for Koreans and find themselves running from the authorities. Overall a good film with a unique ending. 6.7/10

Then from streaming I viewed Dracula's Widow (1988) directed by Christopher Coppola. Upside it stars Sylvia Kristel. Downside it's a rather awful movie. I give it credit for some decent practical effects. 5.5/10

April New: 7
April Re-watch: 2
April '11 Total: 9
April '10 Total: 68
2011 Total: 238

Modern Fairy Tale

2011-04-07T22:43:00.000-05:00

Another film I had to see was Joe Wright's Hanna (2011). Wow. What a stunning and mesmerizing movie to soak up. I love this film and it's sure to make my Top Ten for 2011. I'll save the details because if you're reading this you've already seen it or you will. Right? 9/10

April New: 5
April Re-watch: 1
April '11 Total: 6
April '10 Total: 68
2011 Total: 235