Cloud Atlas may well be the most disappointing movie of the year. I've had the book on my to-read list for several months, and in the lead-up to the release of the movie I had numerous friends tell me this was one of the best books they'd ever read.
Author: Tippi
The New Dredd
The first film adaptation of Judge Dredd, a British comic book set in a dystopian wasteland, is described on Wikipedia as "a critical and commercial disappointment." If you appreciate a high body count, Rob Schneider's comic relief, and cyborg cannibal mutants (plus that air of gravitas a Max Von Sydow cameo affords), as I do, you might find… Continue reading The New Dredd
Mythology in Movies: The Celts
While modern adaptations of Greco-Roman mythology abound, movies with direct links to the Celtic tradition can be difficult to find. King Arthur is obviously the most well-known figure of British mythology, but he'll warrant a post of his own. In the meantime, here are a few of the lesser-known stories with roots in Celtic legend:… Continue reading Mythology in Movies: The Celts
Book vs. Movie: I Am Legend
Last night I finished reading I Am Legend. I picked it up mostly because I read about the alternate ending of the Will Smith movie, which some criticized for not following the spirit of the book. I have mixed feelings. (warning: spoilers for both the book and movie follow) In the pro-book corner: Conceptually, I'd… Continue reading Book vs. Movie: I Am Legend
Mythology in Movies: The Norse
Unlike Greek mythology, which was characterized by the meddling of gods in the affairs of mortals, Norse mythology centered more on the gods' conflicts with each other and with other mythical beings, such as giants, world-encompassing sea monsters, eight-legged horses, dwarves, and elves. While not quite as popular as Greek myths, tales of Norse gods have… Continue reading Mythology in Movies: The Norse
Mythology in Movies: The Greeks
I've always loved myths and legends - Greek, Roman, Norse, Arthurian. As a kid I read and re-read fascinating stories, punctuated by beautiful artwork, in D'Aulaire's Book of Greek Myths, Usborne's Norse Myths and Legends, Mary Stewart's Merlin Trilogy. Eventually I graduated to reading the classics, listening to Wagner's Ring Cycle, and playing Wrath of the… Continue reading Mythology in Movies: The Greeks
The selection of horror movies on Instant Watch is pretty dismal.
I spent the majority of last week buried under a pile of phlegmy tissues. Which means lots of Netflix. With the exception of two brief interludes (for Fifth Element and... Morning Glory....), for some reason those sickbed hours were spent wholly within the Instant Watch trove of horror films. In case you a) cancelled your Netflix… Continue reading The selection of horror movies on Instant Watch is pretty dismal.
The Bourne Legacy is FANTASTIC
This movie is exactly what it needed to be. I know some people are disappointed about Matt Damon's absence from the newest Bourne installment, but frankly, I don't miss him. The first three movies were great, but (particularly after TDKR) I really am not interested in seeing anymore despondent, heartbroken, angry bad-ass types beating up… Continue reading The Bourne Legacy is FANTASTIC
Why the special features of Amadeus are almost as awesome as the movie itself
I bought tickets to see Mozart's Don Giovanni today, and of course the first thing that came to mind was Amadeus. Because that is without a doubt the coolest movie ever made about Mozart. Maybe that sounds like faint praise, but I don't like to deal in absolutes ("BEST MOVIE EVERRRR!!!!!1"), it's too much pressure.… Continue reading Why the special features of Amadeus are almost as awesome as the movie itself
Total Recall is a mess.
I think we all saw this coming. On the upside, Kate Beckinsale is a badass, and when she's not hindered by the writers, with their pesky "plots" and "words," she's awesome to watch. Fans of the original, don't even play: you know Sharon Stone vs. Arnold Schwarzenegger was a joke. Not so here: Beckinsale's Michael… Continue reading Total Recall is a mess.
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