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