28 Film Discussion Threads Later

[MacGuffin]

I felt pretty indifferent to it, but I didn't feel strongly enough about it to stir up the ire of the large number of people who loved it.

That's not my intention either, if that's what you're implying.

[Spinal]

That's not my intention either, if that's what you're implying.

Nope. I'm just saying that I didn't want to deal with swimming upstream on this film because mostly I just didn't care. At the same time, I was agreeing with you that I don't really understand the accolades.

[Rowland]

I love The Assassination of Jesse James, but I suspect it's a movie that looks and plays better in the theater. Cinematography like that doesn't translate to video as well as bright, colorful cinematography, and for such a contemplative movie, the atmosphere of a theater probably works better, without the distractions that a home viewing introduces. This is why I chose to see it in the theater twice.

[Rowland]

I got sort of "suckered" in to watching the 2005 slapstick comedy Just Friends, and much of it was as unfunny and lame as I expected. But by the end, I found I had laughed and smirked at more than I thought I would. I have to give credit to Ryan Reynolds here. I know a lot about him but have not seen much by him. Here, despite the material, he has a certain "je ne sais quoi" that made much of what he does more charming and humorous. He has a little smugness in his comedy, kind of like a Chevy Chase, that, at least for a character like this, makes the flat comedy actually quite appealing. I think I'm going to check out some more of his work. He seems much more able and charming than I expected.This one has its moments, but on the whole, I found most of it too forced, the structure too predictable (complete with a hilariously lazy third act), and most of the messages rather glib and ugly. The actors all seem to commit themselves to their roles, which goes a long way towards keeping it consistently watchable, and it's their efforts more so than the writing or direction that wring some laughs out of the material. It probably helps too that you went in with low expectations whereas I went in with relatively high expectations, given some of the praise I've read for it (hey Nick Pinkerton, wtf?).

[DavidSeven]

Everybody disliked The Assassination of Jesse James... too? Far out.

I thought it was pretty severely flawed (Jesse James thread (http://www.match-cut.org/showthread.php?t=538)). I don't agree with your criticisms of the cinematography as I felt that was the one constant the film had going for it. You're correct about the train scene being the highlight though.

[Rowland]

Running Scared. Whoa.No thoughts besides whoa? :P This one has its share of fans around here, myself included.

[Sycophant]

No thoughts besides whoa? :P This one has its share of fans around here, myself included.I'm trying to come up with more than that but am kind of failing. It was certainly a film that held my attention throughout and kind of dazzled me with its visuals. It wasn't really what I was expecting (for some reason, I was expecting something more Crank-like). A strange film, but an admirable one.

Yep, still kind of failing.

[Sycophant]

A five-years-on second viewing proved what I'd long suspected: Hulk is my favorite comic book superhero movie.

[D_Davis]

So, Triangle is one bizarre film.

I definitely need to watch it again to fully process my thoughts.

Tsui's segment, the first, kicks things off and sets up the premise. It is quite good. It looks incredible. It reminds me of Tsui's film Dangerous Encounter, almost as if the actors here are playing adult versions of the kids in the previously mentioned film.

Ringo Lam takes the second part, and I don't like the direction he takes the characters. It doesn't really make much sense. His segment lacks the style of Tsui's, and he doesn't do enough to convince me of his plot twists.

Johnny To takes the final 3rd, and delivers a total To experience. His segment could almost be seen as Exiled 1.5. To is really into this theme of chance, fate, and coincidence right now, and he brings everyone together for a finale that could only come from him. It is by far the most playful of the three parts.

All in all, it is an interesting experiment, but it hardly works as a film. Each of these directors has such a recognizable style, and rather than work together to craft a whole film, it seems as though each was trying to out auteur the other.

As an example of style, Triangle is fun, exciting, and very interesting, especially for those of us who have followed the careers of these three directors. As a film though, it is messy, and definitely not for mass markets.

[Derek]

A five-years-on second viewing proved what I'd long suspected: Hulk is my favorite comic book superhero movie.

Oh, hell yeah. And Ang Lee's best film too.

[Qrazy]

Oh, hell yeah. And Ang Lee's best film too.

Good god. No, on both counts.

[megladon8]

Hulk is excellent, and a very emotional journey, as well.

Eric Bana was great in the lead, and that scene with him and Nolte facing each other in the chairs in that warehouse before the final battle is just great.

I actually quite liked that the film focused more on character development than action. The action that was there was great, but I found it les interesting than the dynamic characters.

[Derek]

Good god. No, on both counts.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/films/2003/06/30/images/sam_elliott_hulk_interview_sma ll.jpg

Sam Elliott's moustache disagrees. Take it up with him/it.

*wins argument*

[origami_mustache]

Three Hulk supporters in this thread? I didn't even know that many existed world-wide.

[ledfloyd]

i guess i should watch hulk. i like marvel and i love ang lee. i'll give er a shot.

[Rowland]

I liked Hulk a lot, but I'd have to revisit it to have a solid stance, as I think I may have been too impressed by the playful visuals to fairly judge the rest. Still, I'd rather watch it again over Brokeback Mountain.

[EyesWideOpen]

A five-years-on second viewing proved what I'd long suspected: Hulk is my favorite comic book superhero movie.


the only thing in my eyes that brings down Hulk is the Hulk dogs which are just ridiculous but besides that it's a really good film.

[Duncan]

Three Hulk supporters in this thread? I didn't even know that many existed world-wide.

It has a surprisingly strong following around here. I've yet to see it, but the consistent support it receives here have at least made me curious.

[Melville]

If you've seen them, how did you feel about the Election films? They're a lot more realistic.
I haven't seen them.



I tried to watch the Marx Brothers' Monkey Business, but the DVD crapped out just before the end. Did I miss much in the final two scenes?

[Thirdmango]

Also loved Hulk.

[MacGuffin]

So, should I see The Draughtman's Contract or A Zed & Two Naughts first?

[Wryan]

Hulk is very just ok.

[Spinal]

So, should I see The Draughtman's Contract or A Zed & Two Naughts first?

Doesn't really matter. Whichever one interests you.

[MacGuffin]

Doesn't really matter. Whichever one interests you.

They both do. The latter, though, by a bit does more. Which do you prefer personally?

[Spinal]

They both do. The latter, though, by a bit does more. Which do you prefer personally?

Zed is in my top 5 films ever.

[Rowland]

I hate to say it, but I think Charles Taylor nailed Hulk by labeling it "schlock art for the NPR set." It really is an incredibly, ostentatiously pretentious comic book movie. It sure is nice to look at though, it's batty as hell, and Nolte is a hoot (as well as the only engaging human presence). It doesn't beat any of the Spider-Man movies, but I like it more than the terminally bland X-Men movies.

[Wryan]

It doesn't beat any of the Spider-Man movies.

We're counting Spiderman 3 as a movie now?

[Watashi]

X2 is still the best comic book movie. It doesn't abandon its comic mythos and balances an array of supporting characters to keep it fresh and exciting. Also, there is the Alan Cumming factor.

[Watashi]

We're counting Spiderman 3 as a movie now?
It's better than the first.

[Rowland]

We're counting Spiderman 3 as a movie now?Absolutely. I like it a lot, despite its reputation.

[balmakboor]

So, should I see The Draughtman's Contract or A Zed & Two Naughts first?

Just go for a double bill. They are both hypnotic and fascinating and visually striking. They did both test my patience as many Greenaway films have, but that's all part of the game I guess.

Cook/Thief/Wife/Lover and Drowning by Numbers on the other hand were great fun start to finish, never outstaying their welcome.

[Rowland]

X2 is still the best comic book movie. It doesn't abandon its comic mythos and balances an array of supporting characters to keep it fresh and exciting. Also, there is the Alan Cumming factor.The only sequence I really like in this movie is Magneto's prison escape. The rest is an underdeveloped muddle. Maybe if I was a fan of the comics, I'd feel differently.

[Raiders]

Eh, I think Superman Returns is probably my favorite comic book film. I'm sure I am alone on that.

[Derek]

the only thing in my eyes that brings down Hulk is the Hulk dogs which are just ridiculous but besides that it's a really good film.

I dunno, I like that the fact that its "action centerpiece" is Hulk fighting three giant poodles. But that's exactly the kind of move a director aiming for the NPR crowd would make. :)

[Watashi]

Eh, I think Superman Returns is probably my favorite comic book film. I'm sure I am alone on that.
Matt Zoller Seitz agrees with you.

It would probably be in my Top 5.

[Derek]

Eh, I think Superman Returns is probably my favorite comic book film. I'm sure I am alone on that.

That's not a bad choice. I like it a lot more than the first two Spider-Man films and probably even more than the third.

[Lucky]

I'm with Watashi on this one, although I'm not a big fan of the superhero genre.

[Watashi]

I can feel a list coming up...

[DSNT]

I can feel a list coming up...
Here's hoping it was just acid reflux.

I keed. I keed.

[Rowland]

But that's exactly the kind of move a director aiming for the NPR crowd would make. :)Yep, that's the schlock part. The Oedipal tragedy and incessant heavy-handed symbolism is all NPR. ;)

[Raiders]

Matt Zoller Seitz agrees with you.

Awesome.

[DSNT]

Oh, and my favorite superhero movie is The Incredibles. Nothing else comes remotely close.

[Rowland]

Matt Zoller Seitz agrees with you.Walter Chaw might too. I know it placed on his top ten for that year.

I still haven't seen it. I should get on that.

[Raiders]

Oh, and my favorite superhero movie is The Incredibles. Nothing else comes remotely close.

Well, yeah, but that's not a comic book film, which is I think what we were talking about specifically.

Then again, if we're talking strictly comics and not superhero comics, I'll go with A History of Violence.

[Winston*]

I dislike Hulk less than I dislike Superman Returns.

[Philosophe_rouge]

The only comic book movie I sorta liked was Spiderman 2, and even then I can't muster all that much enthousiasm over it.

[origami_mustache]

The superhero genre doesn't interest me much and I haven't seen a lot of these films, but I guess my favorite is Miike's Zebraman haha.

[Qrazy]

I dislike Hulk less than I dislike Superman Returns.

Agreed, particularly about the part where both are not good.

[Sycophant]

Walter Chaw might too. I know it placed on his top ten for that year.

I still haven't seen it. I should get on that.Reading Chaw's review bumped it to the top of my queue. It's the first time I've really wanted to see it.

I should try the X-Men films some time, too.

Spider-Man 3 was my favorite of the trilogy.

[Rowland]

I still think Spider-Man 2 is easily the highlight of that trilogy.

While nobody talks about it much anymore since Nolan rebooted the series, I love the operatic grandeur of Burton's Batman.

[megladon8]

The only sequence I really like in this movie is Magneto's prison escape. The rest is an underdeveloped muddle. Maybe if I was a fan of the comics, I'd feel differently.


I've never been the biggest X-Men fan, and I loved X2. It's one of the very best.

My favorite comc book superhero films...

01.) (TIE) Batman Begins / Superman
02.) X2
03.) The Crow
04.) Batman Returns
05.) Superman II
06.) Batman Beyond: Return of the Joker
07.) Hulk
08.) Batman: Mask of the Phantasm
09.) Hellboy
10.) Blade II


Numbers 3 and 4 are interchangeable.

But if it was just comic book films (not necessarily superheroes), then Oldboy would be #2, and A History of Violence and possible Road to Perdition would be on there as well.

[DSNT]

Well, yeah, but that's not a comic book film, which is I think what we were talking about specifically.

Then again, if we're talking strictly comics and not superhero comics, I'll go with A History of Violence.
In that case I'll go with Spider-Man 2, although seeing Tobey Maguire going all emo in SM3 almost ruined the entire franchise for me. 2nd would be a tossup between the Nolan and Burton Batmans.

If it's just comics, I would go with American Splendor.

[Eleven]

So I'm three eps into Paranoia Agent, and this is my kind of whatever this is.

And Ron Perlman in Hellboy and Christopher Reeve in the first two Supermen are my favorite comic book performances.

[D_Davis]

My favorite comic book based film would have to be Oldboy.

[Qrazy]

In that case I'll go with Spider-Man 2, although seeing Tobey Maguire going all emo in SM3 almost ruined the entire franchise for me.

I don't understand why this is. It's the same tongue in cheek cheesiness that is present in all of Raimi's films.

[Watashi]

Don't forget about Men in Black.

[D_Davis]

Don't forget about Men in Black.

Was this a comic book first?

[origami_mustache]

I don't understand why this is. It's the same tongue in cheek cheesiness that is present in all of Raimi's films.

Spiderman 2 is the only film I fell asleep at the theater during the screening. I woke up for the final confrontation and didn't feel like I missed a thing.

[Eleven]

Only Hulk and The Rocketeer can boast of Jennifer Connelly. Keep that in mind.

[Watashi]

Would it be too DavidSevenish of me to say I was disappointed in Killer of Sheep? I appreciate the authentic and unpolished direction, but I was felt I was trapped in a bubble the entire time only acting as a drifting voyeur to the urban environment in Southern Los Angeles. I do admire Burnett's subtle touches of showing rather than telling (to show the low poverty level, a woman uses an oversized pot lid as a mirror). This is an art film (a student one at that), so it's hard to criticize the faulty acting and the poor editing, but there are some striking images even if the constant cutting to the slaughterhouse felt a bit repetitive. I can understand it's place in film history, but it was just too detaching for my tastes.

[Philosophe_rouge]

L'École des facteurs (1947) was an absolutely delightful short, laugh out loud funny with a great sense of visual humour. I really should get around to seeing Tati's feature work.

[Watashi]

Was this a comic book first?
Yep.

[MacGuffin]

Would it be too DavidSevenish of me to say I was disappointed in Killer of Sheep? I appreciate the authentic and unpolished direction, but I was felt I was trapped in a bubble the entire time only acting as a drifting voyeur to the urban environment in Southern Los Angeles. I do admire Burnett's subtle touches of showing rather than telling (to show the low poverty level, a woman uses an oversized pot lid as a mirror) This is an art film (a student one at that), so it's hard to criticize the faulty acting and the poor editing, but there are some striking images even if the constant cutting to the slaughterhouse felt a bit repetitive. I can understand it's place in film history, but it was just too detaching for my tastes.

This is a truly historical moment. Ladies and gentlemen, I agree with Wats.

[Rowland]

Spiderman 2 is the only film I fell asleep at the theater during the screening. Weird. I can't imagine.

[Rowland]

Would it be too DavidSevenish of me to say I was disappointed in Killer of Sheep? I appreciate the authentic and unpolished direction, but I was felt I was trapped in a bubble the entire time only acting as a drifting voyeur to the urban environment in Southern Los Angeles. I do admire Burnett's subtle touches of showing rather than telling (to show the low poverty level, a woman uses an oversized pot lid as a mirror) This is an art film (a student one at that), so it's hard to criticize the faulty acting and the poor editing, but there are some striking images even if the constant cutting to the slaughterhouse felt a bit repetitive. I can understand it's place in film history, but it was just too detaching for my tastes.So I take it that you don't agree with the critics arguing that this movie is better than every single new release last year, illustrating what an artistically bankrupt culture cinema has grown into over the decades? ;)

[Watashi]

So I take it that you don't agree with the critics arguing that this movie is better than every single new release last year, illustrating what an artistically bankrupt culture cinema has grown into over the decades? ;)
Yes, I believe Eddie G. is off his rocker.

[Raiders]

What was detaching? The poor acting? I'm confused. You admit the film's images (which are all it is really about, anyway) are striking and effective, but you can only give it two stars because it is detaching? What does that mean?

[Watashi]

What was detaching? The poor acting? I'm confused. You admit the film's images (which are all it is really about, anyway) are striking and effective, but you can only give it two stars because it is detaching? What does that mean?

I'm just an outsider staring into Burnett's neighborhood. This might have been the director's intention, but it just comes off as just another student film with low production values. This is why it's hard to criticize something like this, because of most of the amateur performances from the non-actors were entirely the point. If Burnett only cared about images, why not make a straight documentary. The narrative (more like vignettes) presented wasn't enough to move me.

[Raiders]

If Burnett only cared about images, why not make a straight documentary. The narrative (more like vignettes) presented wasn't enough to move me.

I guess that's the difference. I don't need the narrative to move me. I found the images powerful enough.

[Dead & Messed Up]

...top 10 comic book superhero movies...

I liked your list, but I don't necessarily agree with it.

01.) Superman
02.) Spider-Man 2
03.) Batman Begins
04.) The Crow
05.) Blade II
06.) Batman: Mask of the Phantasm
07.) Hellboy
08.) X2
09.) Blade
10.) Spider-Man 3

If we were including all comic book films, I'd also toss in Ghost World and Sin City.

[Ezee E]

It's tough deciding between X2 and Batman Begins.

[Raiders]

I guess that's the difference. I don't need the narrative to move me. I found the images powerful enough.

To add to this, I wonder what kind of film is required to make a white man from Minnesota care? I'm not attempting to be rude or undermine you, but it brings to mind Davis' constant argument that a lack of knowledge about Chinese/HK culture can limit our perception of the work. I think the same might apply here. Maybe we, as outsides to Burnett's world, require the Glory method of addressing black culture, which is to view it through white man's eyes--your eyes. Burnett isn't looking for a documentary, but a fiction film reflected by reality. I think you have it backwards that the film is looking to document this community but rather that it is a film-as-response to the blaxploitation films and those where actors like Sidney Poitier had to stand for an entire subculture and race. It's very much a socially and even politically-minded film, a direct manifestation in America of the type of neo-realism being produced over in Italy in the 40s and 50s. Instead of post-war, call it post-civil rights. Rather than the righteous indignation of blaxploitation, Burnett looks for a gentle way of allowing the fantasies of fiction to crash with the disillusioned communities all over the country. Call him King to Melvin Van Peebles' Malcolm X.

[megladon8]

I liked your list, but I don't necessarily agree with it.

01.) Superman
02.) Spider-Man 2
03.) Batman Begins
04.) The Crow
05.) Blade II
06.) Batman: Mask of the Phantasm
07.) Hellboy
08.) X2
09.) Blade
10.) Spider-Man 3

If we were including all comic book films, I'd also toss in Ghost World and Sin City.


Wow, I totally forgot Blade II.

*goes back to edit*

[origami_mustache]

To add to this, I wonder what kind of film is required to make a white man from Minnesota care? I'm not attempting to be rude or undermine you, but it brings to mind Davis' constant argument that a lack of knowledge about Chinese/HK culture can limit our perception of the work. I think the same might apply here. Maybe we, as outsides to Burnett's world, require the Glory method of addressing black culture, which is to view it through white man's eyes--your eyes. Burnett isn't looking for a documentary, but a fiction film reflected by reality. I think you have it backwards that the film is looking to document this community but rather that it is a film-as-response to the blaxploitation films and those where actors like Sidney Poitier had to stand for an entire subculture and race. It's very much a socially and even politically-minded film, a direct manifestation in America of the type of neo-realism being produced over in Italy in the 40s and 50s. Instead of post-war, call it post-civil rights. Rather than the righteous indignation of blaxploitation, Burnett looks for a gentle way of allowing the fantasies of fiction to crash with the disillusioned communities all over the country. Call him King to Melvin Van Peebles' Malcolm X.

Well put...had to rep this.

these were my initial thoughts on the film:

"Burnett's thesis film at UCLA is a response to the widely popular blaxploitation films of the era. Burnett's film made on a shoestring budget, using nonprofessionals preaches naturalism and familiarity as opposed to escapism as we see Stan battle depression and insomnia as he works in a slaughterhouse to support his family. Killer of Sheep captures a portrait of a specific time and place in history like the famous Italian neorealist films that came before it as well as the American underground filmmakers among others who embraced this aesthetic style. In my opinion the African American art films such as this, The Cool World, and Nothing But a Man comprise a core group of truly unique and original American neorealist films. The sequences of children playing and fighting in the streets, throwing dirt clods, riding bikes, and building forts are so natural and nostalgic. The fantastic soundtrack consisting of jazz, blues, soul, and popular classics including music from Louis Armstrong, Raul Robeson, Scott Joplin, and Dinah Washington, serves mostly an ironic function as we see in the scene where children play among the rubble of dilapidated buildings and "What is America To Me?" plays on the soundtrack. Sometimes the music functions more literally, as in the scene where Stan and his wife dance to "This Bitter Earth" before Stan declines his wife's sexual advances. The slaughterhouse scenes, where we see sheep herded to their brutal deaths alludes to the lack of control humanity has over our own circumstances which is especially resonant in ethnic communities. Burnett effectively conveys the everyday comedy and hardships people face, as well as family relationships and their longing for a brighter future in Watts, Los Angeles, California, in the 1970s."

[Bosco B Thug]

I'm just an outsider staring into Burnett's neighborhood. This might have been the director's intention, but it just comes off as just another student film with low production values. This is why it's hard to criticize something like this, because of most of the amateur performances from the non-actors were entirely the point. If Burnett only cared about images, why not make a straight documentary. The narrative (more like vignettes) presented wasn't enough to move me.
I think the film worked for me so well because it's not like a documentary. It's edited like a fiction film and its images are very intimate with its characters. I don't think the film is actively trying to be detached, though I see how it's lack of a driven narrative makes it seem aloof.

[Eleven]

To add to this, I wonder what kind of film is required to make a white man from Minnesota care? I'm not attempting to be rude or undermine you, but it brings to mind Davis' constant argument that a lack of knowledge about Chinese/HK culture can limit our perception of the work. I think the same might apply here. Maybe we, as outsides to Burnett's world, require the Glory method of addressing black culture, which is to view it through white man's eyes--your eyes. Burnett isn't looking for a documentary, but a fiction film reflected by reality. I think you have it backwards that the film is looking to document this community but rather that it is a film-as-response to the blaxploitation films and those where actors like Sidney Poitier had to stand for an entire subculture and race. It's very much a socially and even politically-minded film, a direct manifestation in America of the type of neo-realism being produced over in Italy in the 40s and 50s. Instead of post-war, call it post-civil rights. Rather than the righteous indignation of blaxploitation, Burnett looks for a gentle way of allowing the fantasies of fiction to crash with the disillusioned communities all over the country. Call him King to Melvin Van Peebles' Malcolm X.

Yeah. Pretty much. Can't really add anything. Uh, repped, I guess.

Although I do like To Sleep with Anger slightly more. But yeah, can't argue with the correctness up above.

[Watashi]

I don't live in Minnesota anymore, Raiders, remember? I live in SoCal with Barty.

[Ezee E]

I don't live in Minnesota anymore, Raiders, remember? I live in SoCal with Barty.
That changes everything...

[Watashi]

Sure, I'm not well-versed in African American cinema, but I'm not doubting the film's historical impact and the anti-Hollywood stance it took. It's probably the same reason why I can't get into films like Triumph of the Will. Does that make me ignorant towards these historical movements? Yes and no. It's the ole Art vs. Entertainment rule all over again. Killer of Sheep may be a fiction film reflected upon reality, but where is the motive? The slaughterhouse scenes are quite gruesome and maddening to express Burnett's counterpoint, but seeing kids play and act natural for long periods of time just adds filler for me.

[Duncan]

The scenes with the kids are the ones I remember most vividly.

[origami_mustache]

The scenes with the kids are the ones I remember most vividly.

Same here...also some of this imagery reminded me of George Washington as well as my own childhood.

[Watashi]

Yeah, George Washington was the first film to spring to my mind while watching it (another film I was lukewarm to).

[Derek]

Yep, that's the schlock part. The Oedipal tragedy and incessant heavy-handed symbolism is all NPR. ;)

Yes, because we all know superhero comic book films aren't known for their heavy-handed symbolism...

As for comic book films in general, I'd also throw my vote to A History of Violence and the hilarious Czech New Wave romp Who Wants to Kill Jessie?

[Rowland]

Yes, because we all know superhero comic book films aren't known for their heavy-handed symbolism......at the expense of a tangible sense of humanity, I should have tempered that with.

[Derek]

Spiderman 2 is the only film I fell asleep at the theater during the screening. I woke up for the final confrontation and didn't feel like I missed a thing.

You didn't miss a thing, especially if you saw the first one. You get the same tiresome superhero realism (though hopefully you didn't sleep through the exciting conclusions of Peter losing his pizza delivery job or Aunt May's banking troubles!) and, until the end, almost the same Peter/MJ arc. So yeah, I thought it was pretty terrible, which is one of the main reasons I enjoyed the third film's pissing on the first two.

[Derek]

...at the expense of a tangible sense of humanity, I should have tempered that with.

Hulk or most comic book films? Because I'd actually agree with you on the latter. If not, I disagree that Hulk doesn't have a tangible sense of humanity, especially considering so much of the film is about Banner the man.

[Rowland]

Hulk or most comic book films? Because I'd actually agree with you on the latter. If not, I disagree that Hulk doesn't have a tangible sense of humanity, especially considering so much of the film is about Banner the man.It is about Banner the man, but he is played with zero charisma by Bana, and he has no depth beyond bottled-up oedipal rage, expressed again and again through dreams involving mirrors, doors, shadowy figures, falling, etc.

[Watashi]

The only reason why I enjoy Spidey 2 the most is because of Alfred Molina. He owned his role and gave a great tragic twist on an otherwise silly villain.

[Dead & Messed Up]

I don't live in Minnesota anymore, Raiders, remember? I live in SoCal with Barty.

I didn't know that! I moved out here this past August.

:pritch:

[Winston*]

Does When the Wind Blows count as a comic book movie? That might be my favourite.

[Spinal]

OK, Mr. Syc. You're going to have to help me out with the value of Real Fiction. It struck me as little more than a shallow exercise in gratuitous violence and half-baked meta grabass. Sort of like a Korean Falling Down captured on rinky-dink camcorders. I would write it off as juvenilia except it was released the same year as The Isle.

[DavidSeven]

Would it be too DavidSevenish of me to say I was disappointed in Killer of Sheep? I appreciate the authentic and unpolished direction, but I was felt I was trapped in a bubble the entire time only acting as a drifting voyeur to the urban environment in Southern Los Angeles. I do admire Burnett's subtle touches of showing rather than telling (to show the low poverty level, a woman uses an oversized pot lid as a mirror). This is an art film (a student one at that), so it's hard to criticize the faulty acting and the poor editing, but there are some striking images even if the constant cutting to the slaughterhouse felt a bit repetitive. I can understand it's place in film history, but it was just too detaching for my tastes.

Ha! I actually am approaching this one with a bit of caution after being so disappointed with Army of Shadows. And yes, I realize these films have nothing in common besides being decades old films that are appearing on every smug critic's top ten of the year list.

[Sycophant]

OK, Mr. Syc. You're going to have to help me out with the value of Real Fiction. It struck me as little more than a shallow exercise in gratuitous violence and half-baked meta grabass. Sort of like a Korean Falling Down captured on rinky-dink camcorders. I would write it off as juvenilia except it was released the same year as The Isle.This is embarrassing. I said I liked it, but that's about the only memory I have of watching it over a year ago (not having anyone with which to discuss a film I merely "like" can really push it out of the ol' memory). I remember the very beginning, the very very end, something about some violence and the camera following around the protagonist, and a positive impression, heavily influenced by the sheer excitement of the technical exercise. But I will submit that I think it's my least favorite of Kim's films that I've seen, though I've liked everything I've seen from him.

I'd mention here that I'm planning on rewatching all of Kim's films in chronological order, therefore getting to this one sooner, rather than later, but I don't know how likely I am to follow up on such plans. If I do, I'll get back with more thoughts.

[transmogrifier]

Best Comic Book films?
Robert Rodriguez in the director consensus?

Have we officially run out of things to discuss?

[MadMan]

Best Comic Book films?
Robert Rodriguez in the director consensus?

Have we officially run out of things to discuss?We ran out of things to discuss ages ago. Everything's all reruns and old memories from here on out :P

I'm off to watch Children Of Men. I'll admit I have high expectations for this one. While I was at the video store (I had to drop off the weekend haul and re-check out Chopper) I also grabbed Fearless. Its about time I viewed more of Weir's work.

[transmogrifier]

We ran out of things to discuss ages ago. Everything's all reruns and old memories from here on out :P

I'm off to watch Children Of Men. I'll admit I have high expectations for this one. While I was at the video store (I had to drop off the weekend haul and re-check out Chopper) I also grabbed Fearless. Its about time I viewed more of Weir's work.

I really hope another "Are the tracking shots in Children of Men really necessary?" discussion breaks out. I think we've barely scratched the surface of that.

[MadMan]

I thought the tracking shots were good, but only a few stood out.

So yeah I think right off the bat that Children of Men is a masterpiece or something close to it. I'm only now collecting my thoughts, and I may have to watch the film again. Wow.

[Ezee E]

Best Comic Book films?
Robert Rodriguez in the director consensus?

Have we officially run out of things to discuss?
We got Abel Ferrera and Tsui Hark coming up. It'll all be fine.

[Raiders]

Abel Ferrera

Just watched The Funeral for this. I fully expect to get the "biggest fan" award for his week.

[Ivan Drago]

My favorite comic book films list:

1. Batman Returns
2. Batman Begins
3. Superman
4. Batman
5. X-Men
6. A History of Violence
7. Spider-Man
8. Sin City
9. The Mask
10. X2

Would Unbreakable count as a comic book movie? I've heard it called that before on here.

[balmakboor]

We got Abel Ferrera and Tsui Hark coming up. It'll all be fine.

I wonder who'll be Tsui Hark's biggest fan.

[D_Davis]

I wonder who'll be Tsui Hark's biggest fan.

Me too.

[Rowland]

Neat Japanese movie posters:

http://img299.imageshack.us/img299/4189/nocountryforoldmenposteze2.jpg

http://img299.imageshack.us/img299/9748/darjeelinglimitedposterzz2.jpg

http://img221.imageshack.us/img221/9487/penelopeposter01yt6.jpg

[ledfloyd]

My favorite comic book films list:
mine:
1. A History of Violence (only one i've seen that outdoes its source material)
2. Oldboy
3. Ghost World
4. American Splendor
5. Sin City
6. Batman Begins
7. Art School Confidential
8. Superman (1978)
9. Spider-Man 2
10. Lone Wolf & Cub

[Sycophant]

Nice crop of posters there, Rowland. Really dig that No Country one.

Hadn't heard of Penelope until just now.

[Spinal]

This is embarrassing. I said I liked it, but that's about the only memory I have of watching it over a year ago (not having anyone with which to discuss a film I merely "like" can really push it out of the ol' memory). I remember the very beginning, the very very end, something about some violence and the camera following around the protagonist, and a positive impression, heavily influenced by the sheer excitement of the technical exercise.

There does seem to be something happening with the street scenes where the bystanders may or may not be informed that a film is being shot. There's one moment in particular where a couple stands directly in front of the main character and then a third person appears to enter the scene and encourage them to move along. But as far as the content of what the film gives us ... a man is hassled on the street, goes to a theater where he meets someone who is apparently another aspect of his own personality, they rehash all the moments in his life where different people have wronged him and then he sets out to kill them. And there's also a woman following him with a camcorder, clearly an attempt to make some sort of commentary on the artist/audience relationship, but I didn't care enough to try to work out exactly what the point of it was.

And that's about all I got. I tend to find his films very resonant, so this one really was a disappointment for me. Even with The Coast Guard, I could see what he was trying to do and how it fit into his body of work, even if it didn't quite work for me. The best I can tell here is that this is some sort of misguided attempt to respond to the Dogme movement that was occurring around the same time. If you watch it again and can make more sense out of it, I'd very much enjoy reading about it.

[Rowland]

Hadn't heard of Penelope until just now.Really? It just opened in theaters last weekend.

[Sycophant]

Really? It just opened in theaters last weekend.
Yeah, I guess so. After debuting in Toronto 1.5 years ago. Crazy. Guess I haven't been paying much attention to the multiplexes lately. Not a bad cast.

[ledfloyd]

I rewatched Adaptation. last night and I'd just like to say Charlie Kaufman, and by default Spike Jonze and Michel Gondry, are the best thing to happen to cinema in the last ten years.

[lovejuice]

ok movie poster, right?

http://meathaus.com/wp-content/images/ghana-movie-posters1.jpg

http://neatorama.cachefly.net/images/2006-12/ghana-movie-posters.jpg

http://www.funnygarbage.com/flog/uploads/c.jpg

i have this big book of movie poster from ghana, and really this shit just enchants me.

[Spinal]

I rewatched Adaptation. last night and I'd just like to say Charlie Kaufman, and by default Spike Jonze and Michel Gondry, are the best thing to happen to cinema in the last ten years.

What exactly is the value of Charlie Kaufman to modern cinema? I honestly don't get why he's considered a gift from the gods. His films are generally moderately clever and entertaining, but apart from that, I don't consider his work to be terribly significant in the big picture.

[Spinal]

ok movie poster, right?


That cat is totally demonic.

[Rowland]

What exactly is the value of Charlie Kaufman to modern cinema? I honestly don't get why he's considered a gift from the gods. His films are generally moderately clever and entertaining, but apart from that, I don't consider his work to be terribly significant in the big picture.I don't know which big picture you're talking about, but I think Eternal Sunshine is one of the defining pictures of the new millennium, both in sheer quality and its thematic material. I'm not so sure about the others, it has been too long since I've seen them.

[D_Davis]

ok movie poster, right?

http://meathaus.com/wp-content/images/ghana-movie-posters1.jpg

http://neatorama.cachefly.net/images/2006-12/ghana-movie-posters.jpg

http://www.funnygarbage.com/flog/uploads/c.jpg

i have this big book of movie poster from ghana, and really this shit just enchants me.

These are AWESOME.

Is the book available here, in the states?

[D_Davis]

What exactly is the value of Charlie Kaufman to modern cinema? I honestly don't get why he's considered a gift from the gods. His films are generally moderately clever and entertaining, but apart from that, I don't consider his work to be terribly significant in the big picture.

I'm with you.

He reminds me of Rucker or PKD-lite. Transrealism for the MTV crowd.
I don't think I am the target audience.

I've never really caught on to the Kaufman, Gondry, Jonze craze. I don't dislike their films, they just leave me feeling kind of static. I can't get excited one way or the other.

Although, I do really like Block Party, and I use to really like Adaptation, but after a recent rewatch I was less than thrilled.

[Sycophant]

Awesome stuff, lovejuice. Grady Hendrix put together a piece a little while back on painted billboards from Thailand, India, and other places in Asia. These are amazing. Check it (http://www.varietyasiaonline.com/component/option,com_myblog/show,4750).

[Sycophant]

I don't know which big picture you're talking about, but I think Eternal Sunshine is one of the defining pictures of the new millennium, both in sheer quality and its thematic material. I'm not so sure about the others, it has been too long since I've seen them.
I suspect that in twenty years we'll be able to see exactly what his influence (particularly with Sunshine) will have been on film and popular entertainment and art as a whole.

Sunshine is also why I lament that Gondry is directing his own writing when he should be teaming up with a better screenwriter. I'm ignoring Human Nature.

[Duncan]

"Rambo in The Specialist" cracked me up.

[trotchky]

Neat Japanese movie posters:

Is there a website where you can order some of these?

[lovejuice]

These are AWESOME.

Is the book available here, in the states?

there's this website here.

http://www.ghanamovieposters.com/servlet/the-MOVIE-POSTERS-cln-Other-movies/Categories

and this is the book.

http://www.amazon.com/Extreme-Canvas-Movie-Poster-Paintings/dp/096642722X/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1204585830&sr=8-1

and yes, a lot of this reminds me of billboard painting of hollywood film from my childhood. very unprofessional made, cool nonetheless.

[ledfloyd]

I suspect that in twenty years we'll be able to see exactly what his influence (particularly with Sunshine) will have been on film and popular entertainment and art as a whole.

Sunshine is also why I lament that Gondry is directing his own writing when he should be teaming up with a better screenwriter. I'm ignoring Human Nature.
ignoring human nature is usually a good idea.

what i meant when i made that comment was there are no filmmakers that have surfaced in the last 10 years that excite me as much as those guys. even though there are filmmakers working today like lynch and the coen brothers that excite me equally if not moreso. it's hard to say how their work has contributed to filmmaking in general is obviously hard to do. it's much too early for it to have spawned anything but copycats, and surprisingly i can't think of many. if any.

their films just seem completely original to me. i know everyone is going to jump on that and say be kind rewind is far from original. i haven't seen it yet. but in their films up until now, particularly the ones kaufman has written, the films are cerebral in a way that i can't recall seeing prior to malkovich. they're abstract but there is a working logic within the films. lynch i suppose is the closest analogue, however his films seem more like puzzles with pieces left out. which is awesome, but in kaufman's case the pieces are all more or less right in front of you. they just fit together in weird ways.

i guess i just revel in the imagination they put on display, and typically with kaufman, knowing i'm going to get something completely original.

adaptation is my favorite film that's came from these three guys, arguably the least original, cause it does borrow quite a bit from 8 1/2. but i get completely high on it. i love how he lays the creative process that spawned the film right on the screen. the meta-ness and craziness with orlean, laroche, robert mckee and donald. it entertains me, even though i've seen it around 10 times, as much as any other film i can think of.

maybe to say they're the best thing is kind of presumptive, but they're certainly my favorite thing to happen to cinema recently.

hopefully that's somewhat coherent and doesn't come of as the ramblings of a madman.

[Rowland]

Is there a website where you can order some of these?Not that I'm aware of, sorry.

[Philosophe_rouge]

I liked The Bells of St. Mary's (1945) about as much as I thought I would, it's somewhat enjoyable but really nothing to write home about. It's a bit too unfocused for my taste, a shame because Bergman is exceptional and Crosby is good. I think the film could have been much stronger, if the central "conflict/storyline" was better. As is, the situation of one of their new students, a girl named Patsy, is generally uninteresting... although, I think a lot of this has to do with the fact that single parenthood doesn't really have the same kind of stigma now, as it seemed to have when the film was made. I did very much like the subtlety of Sister Benedict's and Father O'Malley's relationship, I think it was generally very well developed. Aside from being somewhat unfocused, most of the other films minor problems have to do with the film being dated, and I think there is one two many musical numbers. Bergman does sing a rather beautiful Swedish song though.

[Ivan Drago]

mine:
1. A History of Violence (only one i've seen that outdoes its source material)
2. Oldboy
3. Ghost World
4. American Splendor
5. Sin City
6. Batman Begins
7. Art School Confidential
8. Superman (1978)
9. Spider-Man 2
10. Lone Wolf & Cub

I still want to see Oldboy and Ghost World.

And I completely forgot about The Mask! Another one of my favorite comic book movies.

[Spinal]

hopefully that's somewhat coherent and doesn't come of as the ramblings of a madman.

Nah, the ramblings of Madman are usually about hippies and Hillary Clinton.

[Grouchy]

I tried to watch the Marx Brothers' Monkey Business, but the DVD crapped out just before the end. Did I miss much in the final two scenes?
You've already watched the Maurice Chevalier skit, which is one of the highlights. I actually don't remember what the final two scenes were all that well, but I'm saying you missed a brilliant moment just for the heck of it. Now, if you haven't already, go watch Horse Feathers.

I share Spinal and Davis sentiments on Kaufman. Not that I despise him or anything, but I think more original things have been done with deeper results on the same deconstructive vein. I still need to see Being John Malkovich, though.

Top10 comic-book based films, superhero or not:

1. Oldboy
2. Spiderman 2
3. Hulk
4. Hellboy
5. Batman: Mask of the Phantasm
6. X2
7. Batman Begins
8. Blade II
9. Fritz the Cat
10. The Punisher (Jane/Travolta version)

[Grouchy]

If Tetsuo isn't a trip, what is? With its hand-made special effects and high contrast black and white cinematography, it looks like a distant cousin of Lynch, but with its themes of voluntary body-morphing and apocalypsis, it proves to be more related (and probably inspired by) Cronenberg. Of course, it's also more a more experimental, industrial mix, which reveals its student film origins. I thought it was original and the stop-motion FX sold it for me, though the "drill cock" scene has no equal in its absurdity, but I wish it had been shorter. Overall, I remain mostly positive, it's just the storytelling fan in me complaining. I'm considering if seeing the sequel is a good option. I'll see it if someone tells me
it's about the destruction of Tokyo they're planning at the end.

The Devil Rides Out is one of the, if not THE, best Hammer films out there, and it's completely fucking bloodless! Christopher Lee's performance is a highlight of the film, as one of those Horror movie wiseguys that spit out incredibly awkward dialogue in a convincing way - think Donald Pleasance in the Halloween saga. It had the feel of vintage British TV (I'm thinking The Avengers or The Prisoner) more than vintage gore Hammer period drama - that might be because it's so inventive. Terrence Fisher fires so much fantastic stuff in the final showdown with the devil it's hard to believe your eyes. It's a shame the special effects have aged, but that doesn't make the apparitions any less awesome - Lee has been quoted as saying that he'd like to see it remade with state-of-the-art technology, but I don't think the film needs it. Let me just add that the final scene's twist is properly foreshadowed, as bizarre as it is.

[Bosco B Thug]

The Devil Rides Out is one of the, if not THE, best Hammer films out there, and it's completely fucking bloodless! Christopher Lee's performance is a highlight of the film, as one of those Horror movie wiseguys that spit out incredibly awkward dialogue in a convincing way - think Donald Pleasance in the Halloween saga. It had the feel of vintage British TV (I'm thinking The Avengers or The Prisoner) more than vintage gore Hammer period drama - that might be because it's so incredibly inventive. Terrence Fisher fires so much incredible stuff in the final showdown with the devil it's hard to believe your eyes. It's a shame the special effects have aged, but that doesn't make the apparitions any less awesome - Lee has been quoted as saying that he'd like to see it remade with state-of-the-art technology, but I don't think the film needs it. Let me just add that the final scene's twist is properly foreshadowed, as bizarre as it is. Yay!

I should see Tetsuo again (and then the director's other work).

[origami_mustache]

I'm considering if seeing the sequel is a good option. I'll see it if someone tells me


The sequel is pretty similar to the original. I'd recommend checking out some of Tsukamotos' other films such as Tokyo Fist, Bullet Ballet, A Snake of June, Haze, Vital, or Gemini before you see this one.

[Rowland]

The critical reception for The Bank Job so far is impressive. Heck, MD'A just gave it a 64, which is damn good for him. I hope it proves to be a success for my man Statham.

[Sven]

The critical reception for The Bank Job so far is impressive. Heck, MD'A just gave it a 64, which is damn good for him. I hope it proves to be a success for my man Statham.

I kind of find myself a little disgusted when I think about how much I actually kinda like him. Too bad about those god awful Transporter movies.

The Bank Job looks interesting, though I hope its trailer wasn't as super spoilerific as it appeared to be. Worst trend ever.

[Rowland]

I kind of find myself a little disgusted when I think about how much I actually kinda like him. Disgusted? By how much you kinda like him? Well that's weird.

[MacGuffin]

The Bank Job looks interesting, though I hope its trailer wasn't as super spoilerific as it appeared to be. Worst trend ever.

I figure the rule of thumb in this case is that if you can't tell whether it's a spoiler or not, then it's not a spoiler.

[Sven]

Disgusted? By how much you kinda like him? Well that's weird.

Disgusted was tongue in cheek. Kinda was understatement. Let me correct myself:

Yeah, I like him quite a bit too, surprisingly. Normally I don't go for that macho-cool-creep thing he does, but I cannot deny that there's an attraction.

How's that?

[Sven]

I figure the rule of thumb in this case is that if you can't tell whether it's a spoiler or not, then it's not a spoiler.

Well, The Bank Job's trailer definitely has spoilers, but I ponder on the extent of their reach.

[Rowland]

Disgusted was tongue in cheek. Kinda was understatement. Let me correct myself:Hard to tell this sort of thing over the internet. It read like you were genuinely embarrassed by liking him, with the two "kinda" qualifiers thrown in.

How's that?This on the other hand reads as vaguely condescending, but since this is the internet and all, it's hard to say....... :) ...

[Sven]

Hard to tell this sort of thing over the internet. It read like you were genuinely embarrassed by liking him, with two "kinda" qualifiers thrown in.

I know. The "kind of" and "sort of" motif is one of my more irritating verbal hiccups. I subconsciously try to soften everything I say by making it open for qualification. I've been trying to temper it lately, but I don't think I've been doing a very good job (obviously).

And you should know by now that I have no problem embracing potentially embarrassing pronouncements. :)


This on the other hand reads as vaguely condescending, but since this is the internet and all, it's hard to say....... ...

D'oh! Seriously, unintentional.

[Philosophe_rouge]

Everyone should see Paris qui dort (1925), it's a nice little experimental short directed by Rene Clair. The story is that a scientist uses a ray to make everyone sleep, but a few people are immune. It's really just an excuse to try a whole bunch of visual and editing tricks. It's quite stunning, and for an experiment it's actually quite restrained and simple in a very beautiful way. Plus, it's only 35 minutes.

http://i217.photobucket.com/albums/cc211/zombierouge/vlcsnap-00018.jpg

http://i217.photobucket.com/albums/cc211/zombierouge/vlcsnap-00022.jpg

http://i217.photobucket.com/albums/cc211/zombierouge/vlcsnap-00024.jpg

http://i217.photobucket.com/albums/cc211/zombierouge/vlcsnap-00025.jpg

[Sycophant]

My, my. How the times have changed. iosos then (before Crank)...


And Statham is, like... a black hole of charisma. He's one of my least favorite people to watch.

And iosos now...

Yeah, I like him quite a bit too, surprisingly. Normally I don't go for that macho-cool-creep thing he does, but I cannot deny that there's an attraction.

They grow up so fast.

[trotchky]

Billy the Kid is a shitty film that has to emphasize its subject's preciousness and precociousness to get the audience to accept him; unlike a movie like Gummo or Crumb which challenges the viewer to accept these people on their own terms, this movie holds the audience's hand and offers "come on in, the water's fine!" invitations to get close to the weird but lovable outsider. The director claims to want to show the world from his perspective but she doesn't have the balls to let go of her own, asking us to adopt her own perpetually amused, condescending viewpoint, and failing to reconcile the need for documentation with the inherit dishonesty of the camera, ignoring the issue entirely and embracing the comedic potential of every cinematic moment. The periodic interviews with an obviously camera-conscious mother serve to stabilize us, bringing us back to normalcy lest we get too (un)comfortable around Billy; it aims for sympathy but never challenges us with empathy.

[Sven]

My, my. How the times have changed. iosos then (before Crank)...



And iosos now...


They grow up so fast.

Seriously. I fully embrace my somewhat full-hearted conversion, as I do find Statham to be one of the more interestingly watchable stars nowadays. But out of curiosity, what was the context of the original quote? Was it referring to Ghosts of Mars or the Transporter films? I do still find his smugness rather off-putting sometimes.

[Sycophant]

Seriously. I fully embrace my somewhat full-hearted conversion, as I do find Statham to be one of the more interestingly watchable stars nowadays. But out of curiosity, what was the context of the original quote? Was it referring to Ghosts of Mars or the Transporter films? I do still find his smugness rather off-putting sometimes.This is where (http://matchcut.org/viewtopic.php?p=447520#447520) it came from initially. Elsewhere on the old site, I've found you talking about him in Ghosts of Mars in a way complimentary to the film but not necessarily to Statham and in the Transporter films, which were obviously pretty negative.

[Grouchy]

The Bank Job looks interesting, though I hope its trailer wasn't as super spoilerific as it appeared to be. Worst trend ever.
Seriously. I saw the trailer for In the Valley of Elah and, if I didn't care before, now I'm sure I'll never ever watch that film at least until it hits TV. They already told me everything. And it's not even the most blatant example.

Statham is the effing man. No need to be embarassed about digging the cut of his jib.

[megladon8]

I really like Statham, but I'd like to see him do something different.

He's been "the badass" for too long. My favorite role of his is still Snatch, where he did have an edge and attitude, but he wasn't a kung-fu, muscle-bound action hero.

He can actually deliver dialogue really well, so I'd like to see him do something more dramatic/sarcastically funny.

Let's see him team up with Diablo Cody!!

[Raiders]

Statham is the best thing about the otherwise awful London. He's nothing like his usual self, either. He even has hair!

[Sycophant]

Let's see him team up with Diablo Cody!!I was shaking my head at everything you were saying up until this point. Sold.

[Rowland]

I really like Statham, but I'd like to see him do something different.

He's been "the badass" for too long. My favorite role of his is still Snatch, where he did have an edge and attitude, but he wasn't a kung-fu, muscle-bound action hero.

He can actually deliver dialogue really well, so I'd like to see him do something more dramatic/sarcastically funny.Then The Bank Job should have you covered, since it appears to be the most laid-back movie he's made in ages. Apparently he wants to break out from the action typecast into more dramatic roles, and this is his bid into that arena. Of course he is still appearing in Crank 2 and Transporter 3 as well. The movie is a mixed package, but he's rather good in Revolver, in which I don't recall him appearing in a single action sequence.

[megladon8]

Then The Bank Job should have you covered, since it appears to be the most laid-back movie he's made in ages. Apparently he wants to break out from the action typecast into more dramatic roles, and this is his bid into that arena. Of course he is still appearing in Crank 2 and Transporter 3 as well. The movie is a mixed package, but he's rather good in Revolver, in which I don't recall him appearing in a single action sequence.


Awesome. I hadn't seen the trailer for The Bank Job (nor did I know anything about it - I actually thought it was the sequel to The Italian Job), so it's good to know he's doing something different.

Were you a fan of Snatch?

[Rowland]

Were you a fan of Snatch?It was entertaining, but the impression it left was fleeting. The Brad Pitt boxing sequence is the highlight of that movie for me.

[megladon8]

It was entertaining, but the impression it left was fleeting. The Brad Pitt boxing sequence is the highlight of that movie for me.


YES! That's a great sequence.

In fact I thought Brad Pitt was just all-round great in the movie. I thought his improvised, totally made-up accent was both funny and effective.

I think Pitt is a great actor when he's given material that requires him to be more than eye candy. Se7en, Fight Club, even Interview With the Vampire. And The Curious Case of Benjamin Button has me really excited.

[MadMan]

The critical reception for The Bank Job so far is impressive. Heck, MD'A just gave it a 64, which is damn good for him. I hope it proves to be a success for my man Statham.I really want to see this film. It looks like great fun.


Nah, the ramblings of Madman are usually about hippies and Hillary Clinton.I rant about other things.

But basically yeah, you hit the nail on the head. ;)

At one point I actually considered creaturing a thread where I would have a "Rant of the Day" but that's too much work and besides that's what Random Thoughts is for anyways.

[Kurosawa Fan]

Has anyone here seen The Heiress? I was really impressed. I'm not sure I've heard anyone mention it at this site, and I really just rented it on a whim to add another 1949 film for consideration. It'll probably make my list. And I have a huge man-crush on Montgomery Clift, though to be honest, I had one before this film. But it reestablished itself tonight.

[Winston*]

I watched a bit of Snatch not so long ago for the first time in years and I was amazed at how annoying I found Guy Ritchie's direction.

[origami_mustache]

Everyone should see Paris qui dort (1925), it's a nice little experimental short directed by Rene Clair. The story is that a scientist uses a ray to make everyone sleep, but a few people are immune. It's really just an excuse to try a whole bunch of visual and editing tricks. It's quite stunning, and for an experiment it's actually quite restrained and simple in a very beautiful way. Plus, it's only 35 minutes.


I second this...love this short and enjoy Clair's experimental short Entr'acte (1924) even more.

[megladon8]

The only thing that keeps me from thinking Dark City is pretty much perfect, is that final confrontation/psychic battle between Murdoch and the Strangers.

It was horribly cheesy and lame. All the wavey head powers should have been ix-nayed, and they should have just looked at objects and thrown them at each other, or something along those lines.

That could have been executed much better.

[monolith94]

Has anyone here seen The Heiress? I was really impressed. I'm not sure I've heard anyone mention it at this site, and I really just rented it on a whim to add another 1949 film for consideration. It'll probably make my list. And I have a huge man-crush on Montgomery Clift, though to be honest, I had one before this film. But it reestablished itself tonight.
I thought it was an ok Wyler. A bit too theatrically staged and framed; it felt more like a filmed play than a movie. Plus, a bit hard to imagine Olivia de Havilland as an unnatractive woman. But overall, a good film. I think Wyler's been much more impressive in other films. My favorite of his is The Big Country. I think you'd like it.

[megladon8]

Has anyone here seen The Heiress? I was really impressed. I'm not sure I've heard anyone mention it at this site, and I really just rented it on a whim to add another 1949 film for consideration. It'll probably make my list. And I have a huge man-crush on Montgomery Clift, though to be honest, I had one before this film. But it reestablished itself tonight.


I've never seen this one, but you've really made me interested!

Montgomery Clift was indeed one good looking man. I don't think I've ever actually seen one of his movies, though...

[Mysterious Dude]

Montgomery Clift is attractive alright, but there was something wrong with his sideburns in that movie.

[Qrazy]

I'm with you.

He reminds me of Rucker or PKD-lite. Transrealism for the MTV crowd.
I don't think I am the target audience.


So is PKD Dostoyevsky-lite then? Come on now. I agree these three guys aren't movers and shakers of cinema, but they're doing something new and unique for film and they're doing it with both skill and artistry. The script for Adaptation is in no way shape or form for the MTV crowd. The film is teaming with subtlety, thought and wit and if it's not on the level of a Kurosawa, Fellini, Tarkovsky et al. that doesn't mean it's not also very good in it's own right.

[Kurosawa Fan]

I thought it was an ok Wyler. A bit too theatrically staged and framed; it felt more like a filmed play than a movie. Plus, a bit hard to imagine Olivia de Havilland as an unnatractive woman. But overall, a good film. I think Wyler's been much more impressive in other films. My favorite of his is The Big Country. I think you'd like it.

It did have a bit of a stagey vibe to it, but that makes sense considering it was based on a play. It didn't bother me much.

I actually thought they did a great job making Olivia de Havilland unattractive for the film. I didn't find her appealing physically at all.

And Clift's sideburns were something to marvel at.

[lovejuice]

The only thing that keeps me from thinking Dark City is pretty much perfect, is that final confrontation/psychic battle between Murdoch and the Strangers.

It was horribly cheesy and lame. All the wavey head powers should have been ix-nayed, and they should have just looked at objects and thrown them at each other, or something along those lines.

That could have been executed much better.

did you just watch it? i love the hell of the flick. haven't watch it for a while, but i remember didn't mind that scene.

[megladon8]

did you just watch it? i love the hell of the flick. haven't watch it for a while, but i remember didn't mind that scene.


It was on TV last night in full screen with commercials, and I only caught the last half - so I don't really consider that a viewing :lol:

But I remember it very vividly, and I think I might watch it in full tonight (I have the DVD). I love it, but that final confrontation always bugged me.

I'm surprised Roger Ebert adored it as much as he did.

[Qrazy]

did you just watch it? i love the hell of the flick. haven't watch it for a while, but i remember didn't mind that scene.

The incessant score killed the film for me.

[Wryan]

Clift's cameo in Judgement at Nuremburg is heartbreaking not only cause it's a stunning little cameo but also cause of his disfigured face post-car-crash. Great actor. Striking features.

[Wryan]

I actually thought they did a great job making Olivia de Havilland unattractive for the film. I didn't find her appealing physically at all.

Seen Now, Voyager? Ahhh...the double cigarette light.

[Watashi]

Oh man, Harvey is a wonderful film. It might feature my favorite Stewart performance (though I have lots to see). It's such a magical, yet oddly romantic film in the same vein as Being There (surprisingly the two films have a lot in common).

I would love to see Stewart's later stage production of Harvey which he actually prefers to the film because it's less of a comedy and carries a much darker tone.

[megladon8]

Oh man, Harvey is a wonderful film. It might feature my favorite Stewart performance (though I have lots to see). It's such a magical, yet oddly romantic film in the same vein as Being There (surprisingly the two films have a lot in common).

I would love to see Stewart's later stage production of Harvey which he actually prefers to the film because it's less of a comedy and carries a much darker tone.


YES!!

Awesome, Wats. This has been a dear favorite of mine for many years.

[origami_mustache]

The Human Condition I: No Greater Love (Masaki Kobayashi, 1959)

http://www.filmreference.com/images/sjff_01_img0348.jpg

Both visually stunning and emotionally searing, the first installment of this nearly 10 hour epic trilogy commences the journey of Kaji as he tries to put meaning to his life, accompanied by his faithful lover Michiko. Technically the film is almost flawless, with wonderful compositions that are beautifully blocked, framed, and lit. The Human Condition explores the many facets of the human experience in fascist Japan during WW-II. Inhumane acts as well as humanitarian ideals are expressed as Kaji tries to indoctrinate his revolutionary socialist and pacifistic beliefs on an ore mine, who's authority figures only know of exploitation and brutality towards their employees and Chinese POWs. Collectively the character's experience the full palette of human emotions from love, joy, and kindness, to fear, mistrust, greed, betrayal, manipulation, sorrow, guilt, and pity. It's interesting to see the treatment of different genders, classes, and ethnicities in the film as well, with characters ranging from men, women, harlots, prisoners, intellectuals, working class, Chinese, Japanese, Korean, fascists, and military authority. This film contains so many memorable images and characters and is a true cinematic masterpiece from just about every aspect.

[Derek]

The Human Condition I: No Greater Love (Masaki Kobayashi, 1959) - 10

:pritch:

I agree with every word. It's really an astounding film and it's humanitarian ideals are never served on a golden platter, rather rendered beautifully through the struggles of its naive yet strong-willed protagonist. I especially agree with you on its technical merits, particularly the framing. It's one amazing shot after another.

[Qrazy]

I'm really unsure how I feel about Fat Girl. So, I'll give a rundown based on timecodes... after 20 minutes I thought... Mmm OK, then after 40 minutes I thought... alright this is starting to get pretty interesting, then after an hour I thought well it's interesting but not all that interesting, then at the end of the film I thought... well it re-evalutes the typical sexual politics of French cinema, and casts the family dynamic in a more realistic light. However, it does so in a fairly meandering manner, such that while it seems to espouse the futility and despair of life, it never makes that futility particularly artistically relevant. The film works somewhat well as a critique of and response to sexuality in the majority of French cinema, but it faulters as meaningful commentary on life in a broader context.

[Boner M]

The Lookout was seriously meh. It's almost sorta frustrating in how proficiently done it is while at the same time adding up to nothing. Well executed on it's own terms (except for that godawful rock score, that's straight out of a Michael Dudikoff movie) but the whole film has basically has no reason for existing. The kind of film that the attendees of a 'how to write a screenplay that sells' seminar are trained to write. So remarkably unremarkable that I will probably remember it tomorrow for being such. This is all I hope to write on The Lookout for the rest of my life.

[transmogrifier]

Is there any more trenchant way to depict the mehness of a film than a rating of 50/100? It crystalizes the mehness into a sparkling jewel of complete, delicately poised non-committal.

[Philosophe_rouge]

Has anyone here seen The Heiress? I was really impressed. I'm not sure I've heard anyone mention it at this site, and I really just rented it on a whim to add another 1949 film for consideration. It'll probably make my list. And I have a huge man-crush on Montgomery Clift, though to be honest, I had one before this film. But it reestablished itself tonight.
I really like it, but I will echo it's not among my very favourite Wyler. De Havilland is brilliant, she's one of my favourite actresses and this is probably my favourite performance hers.

[D_Davis]

So is PKD Dostoyevsky-lite then?

I don't know, is Dostoyevsky considered a transrealist?

Here is the thing. I always hear people talk about how creative and mind blowing films like John Malkovich, Adaptation, Eternal Sunshine are in terms of their narratives. People really, really like them, and these films have impacted people on a profound level.

Personally, they don't do much for me simply because I've been exposed to these kinds of narratives for a long time. I am not saying they are bad, but I get the feeling of "been there, done that," because of my early exposure to authors like Dick and Rucker.

And because 2 out of the 3 filmmakers involved here got their start by directing very hip and stylistic music videos, I don't think the MTV-crowd comparison is outrageous or faulty.

I just don't see the brilliance, and that's perfectly okay, and it is perfectly okay for others to see it.

[Morris Schæffer]

The critical reception for The Bank Job so far is impressive. Heck, MD'A just gave it a 64, which is damn good for him. I hope it proves to be a success for my man Statham.

I knew that Statham was in it and I certainly expected something along the lines of Transporter, Crank and Italian Job. Great was my surprise when I saw that Donaldson was the helmer and that it was set in the 70's. This looks like Statham's best flick by far with the exception of Snatch and Lock, Stock... which I haven't seen and One which I don't need to see. Still, the love for Statham is bewildering. I don't get it. Certainly not people who would be more amused by Transporter 2 than a bona fide action thriller such as Live Free and Die Hard. It's not personal. You're still all right.:)

[lovejuice]

I'm really unsure how I feel about Fat Girl.

at least roxane mesquida is super hot and darn naked.

[Yxklyx]

I loved Sex and Lucia (2001, Julio Medem) - odd that no one else here has ever commented on it so I probably stand alone. The movie looks great and I was surprised to learn afterwards that it was shot with a high def digital camera. It's a Romance so some of you probably wouldn't get into it.

[Sycophant]

So, Go Go Second Time Virgin was far from what I'd expected (that is to say, it wasn't really all that "fun" or "erotic"). However, it was a mesmerizing exploration of altered standards of morality, beautifully photographed and lyrically constructed. Also, deliciously short (65 minute movies forever!).

I apparently have a lot to learn about pink films. I think I've got ready access to a couple other Wakamatsu films. Is there any other pink director really worth checking out at the outset here?

[ledfloyd]

It's hard to see Bob Dylan's Eat the Document as anything but a missed opportunity. There's undoubtedly some great footage here, even more, I'm sure, on the cutting room floor, some of which was in No Direction Home. In the hands of a competent editor this could've been great. If I wasn't an avid fan of Dylan I'm sure I would call this unwatchable. As it is I find it an interesting failure.

The editing of this film is best described as schizophrenic. It's like it was edited by a 4 year old with ADHD. The only thing I can guess is that Dylan & Robertson's editing sessions were fueled by large amounts of amphetamines. Given that the first shot of the film appears to be of Dylan snorting a white powdery substance, this isn't far fetched. It's hilarious to me that he sent this to CBS. I would pay to see their faces as they watched this.

It's a shame Pennebaker's original cut isn't in circulation. It certainly couldn't be much worse, and if Don't Look Back is any indication, it might've been brilliant. That's not to suggest there's nothing of value here. When it stays on the songs (even though the copy I have is muddied and appears to be a VHS rip unfortunately via VCD) it's enjoyable. I liked the reactions of the Brits to his electric band. Hysterical. There is a hilarious scene where Rich Danko offers to trade his jacket to a Swedish guy for his girlfriend, he offers to toss in his cigarettes, his chapstick, and if she smokes cigars, even his shirt. The guy eventually says he'd let him have her for 2,000 crowns. The clips with Johnny Cash and John Lennon are cool too, if too brief.

The copy I have has a performance of Ballad of a Thin Man tacked on the end that is great. It also has a 20 minute uncut version of the John Lennon scene. Dylan is infamously fucked up and keeps wanting to go back to the hotel. It's somewhat hard to watch.

Anyhow, this is only of interest to Dylan fans, and even then your mileage may vary. I'm hoping Renaldo & Clara fares better with me.

[Qrazy]

I don't know, is Dostoyevsky considered a transrealist?

Not really, but both Dick and Rucker are heavily influenced by him.


Here is the thing. I always hear people talk about how creative and mind blowing films like John Malkovich, Adaptation, Eternal Sunshine are in terms of their narratives. People really, really like them, and these films have impacted people on a profound level.

Personally, they don't do much for me simply because I've been exposed to these kinds of narratives for a long time. I am not saying they are bad, but I get the feeling of "been there, done that," because of my early exposure to authors like Dick and Rucker.

Personally I put little to no stock in the mind blowingness of the narrative. The narrative execution is what interests me and they execute very well (for the most part). What from either of those authors particularly resembles Adaptation? Dick certainly influenced Kaufman, but Kaufman is still putting out original and interesting work.


And because 2 out of the 3 filmmakers involved here got their start by directing very hip and stylistic music videos, I don't think the MTV-crowd comparison is outrageous or faulty.

I just don't see the brilliance, and that's perfectly okay, and it is perfectly okay for others to see it.

OK, but the phrase MTV generation/crowd has different connotations than noting the background of the directors. It seems to imply an ADD and dumbed down approach to the content. For instance, I would have no qualms if you stated that Michael Bay makes films for the MTV crowd.

[Qrazy]

at least roxane mesquida is super hot and darn naked.

Wow, she's older than I am. I think she was about 20 when she did the film. She did a very good job. I was convinced she was just legal enough to appear nude in the film.

[D_Davis]

Not really, but both Dick and Rucker are heavily influenced by him.


Sweet - I'll have to read some of his stuff someday. Although I've never read of this influence before, but I am sure someone could draw the lines of literary lineage.

I didn't know you were into Rucker as well. I love the guy's stuff, and I rarely come across others who have read him.

What have you checked out by him?


I didn't mean anything scathing with the "MTV audience" thing, considering that both Jonze and Gondry made videos that appeared on MTV.

[Qrazy]

Sweet - I'll have to read some of his stuff someday. Although I've never read of this influence before, but I am sure someone could draw the lines of literary lineage.

I didn't know you were into Rucker as well. I love the guy's stuff, and I rarely come across others who have read him.

What have you checked out by him?


I didn't mean anything scathing with the "MTV audience" thing, considering that both Jonze and Gondry made videos that appeared on MTV.

Only White Light so far, good stuff... prob. check out the tetrology next.

[D_Davis]

Only White Light so far, good stuff... prob. check out the tetrology next.

White Light is my favorite.

I'm going to read Saucer Wisdom next.

His non-fiction is good too.

Oh well, back to film discussion!

[ledfloyd]

the fourth dimension is one of my favorite books.

we're way off track here. haha.

[D_Davis]

the fourth dimension is one of my favorite books.

we're way off track here. haha.

Massive thread jack.

:)

Well, could speculate about Gondry's adaptation of Master of Space and Time, if this ever happens...

[Qrazy]

Halfway through Darjeeling Limited and I'm really liking it so far. It seems like a return to form after the disappointing Life Aquatic. However, Wes Anderson really needs to eschew those slow motion takes. They're starting to feel obligatory rather than functional, and the overly fabricated reality they encapsulate not only completely derails all narrative momentum but severely undercuts the film's tonal integrity as well.

[megladon8]

I'm really tempted to get the Haneke boxed set by Kino.

I've never seen anything by him, and I have the opportunity to get the set brand new for $30.

[lovejuice]

* take a deep breath *

i don't see much difference between charlie kaufman and diablo cody. both are quirkiness for quirk-sake. while kaufman's subject is meta-fiction, cody is more teenage angst.

* run and hide *

[ledfloyd]

* take a deep breath *

i don't see much difference between charlie kaufman and diablo cody. both are quirkiness for quirk-sake. while kaufman's subject is meta-fiction, cody is more teenage angst.

* run and hide *
wow. just... wow.

[Kurosawa Fan]

* take a deep breath *

i don't see much difference between charlie kaufman and diablo cody. both are quirkiness for quirk-sake. while kaufman's subject is meta-fiction, cody is more teenage angst.

* run and hide *

:confused:

I'm not even a Kaufman fanboy, but this is just ridiculous. I see no similarity whatsoever.

[megladon8]

While I don't agree with lovejuice's comparison - I see no similarity between Cody and Kaufman - I am getting quite tired of the screenwriters who are heralded for their "quirky", "indie-like" efforts, and they all seem to be cut from the same cloth.

Little Miss Sunshine, Juno, Running With Scissors, etc. They've all got that whole "look how quirky we are, and we're SO much like real life...even though we're really not at all" feeling.

[Qrazy]

While I don't agree with lovejuice's comparison - I see no similarity between Cody and Kaufman - I am getting quite tired of the screenwriters who are heralded for their "quirky", "indie-like" efforts, and they all seem to be cut from the same cloth.

Little Miss Sunshine, Juno, Running With Scissors, etc. They've all got that whole "look how quirky we are, and we're SO much like real life...even though we're really not at all" feeling.

True, indie has become the new pop.

[Spinal]

* take a deep breath *

i don't see much difference between charlie kaufman and diablo cody. both are quirkiness for quirk-sake. while kaufman's subject is meta-fiction, cody is more teenage angst.

* run and hide *

Yeah, I'm not jumping on this crazy train.

I also think it's a mistake to lump together an enormous group of artists under the label of 'indie' or 'quirk' and think you can make a blanket statement that applies to all of them.

[Ezee E]

I'd say Diablo Cody is more of a mainstreamed version of this writer/director who had a movie out a couple years ago. I forgot everything about it too, it's the one where the guy lights his hand on fire. Loved/hated on this site as well, only more loved in the end.

I'll wait for a second script by Cody before I put her in a certain position. Her next script is a horror movie, so who knows.

[Spinal]

I'd say Diablo Cody is more of a mainstreamed version of this writer/director who had a movie out a couple years ago. I forgot everything about it too, it's the one where the guy lights his hand on fire. Loved/hated on this site as well, only more loved in the end.

No, no, no, stop right there, mister. :evil:

[Qrazy]

Yeah, I'm not jumping on this crazy train.

I also think it's a mistake to lump together an enormous group of artists under the label of 'indie' or 'quirk' and think you can make a blanket statement that applies to all of them.

Well I think the popular definition of indie has changed from what it used to mean such that it has now come to refer to a particular brand of quirk. Now in everyday conversation indie often refers to that tonal and aesthetic quality rather than to independent cinema itself. And I don't see anything wrong with grouping arists together who share aesthetic and tonal similarities unless of course those similarities don't exist, in which case it ought to be argued on a case by case basis.

However, I think there are rather distinct similarities between say... Garden State, Juno, Little Miss Sunshine, Chumscrubber, etc, etc, etc.

[D_Davis]

No, no, no, stop right there, mister. :evil:

:lol:

No, please keep going.

Miranda July and Diablo Cody...I like it, I like it!

[Ezee E]

:lol:

No, please keep going.

Miranda July and Diablo Cody...I like it, I like it!
Ah right. Miranda July. I will go there.

Both have only done one project right? I don't know... I think I'm on to something Spinal. :)

[Watashi]

I kinda agree with E on this one. Though I think Miranda is cuter than Diablo.

[D_Davis]

Ah right. Miranda July. I will go there.

Both have only done one project right? I don't know... I think I'm on to something Spinal. :)

Both annoy the hell out of me...

[Sycophant]

* take a deep breath *

i don't see much difference between charlie kaufman and diablo cody. both are quirkiness for quirk-sake. while kaufman's subject is meta-fiction, cody is more teenage angst.

* run and hide *
I didn't even know that neg-repping was a reflex I had. Glad to see I have the power to control it.

[Spinal]

I didn't even know that neg-repping was a reflex I had. Glad to see I have the power to control it.

I know how you feel.

Seriously, E ... Davis ... Watashi ... see me in my office right now.

[Sycophant]

Ah right. Miranda July. I will go there.

Both have only done one project right? I don't know... I think I'm on to something Spinal. :)Diablo Cody's projects: stripping, blogging, Juno screenplay

Miranda July's projects: performance art, fiction, writing and directing Me & You & Everyone We Know

Well, I guess they are both women...

[ledfloyd]

i'm not a huge fan of july but that's a terrible comparison. she is an artist in tons of different mediums. cody is a stripper and a hack writer.

[Spinal]

Both annoy the hell out of me...

So does Sleater-Kinney. Case closed.

[megladon8]

Well I think the popular definition of indie has changed from what it used to mean such that it has now come to refer to a particular brand of quirk. Now in everyday conversation indie often refers to that tonal and aesthetic quality rather than to independent cinema itself. And I don't see anything wrong with grouping arists together who share aesthetic and tonal similarities unless of course those similarities don't exist, in which case it ought to be argued on a case by case basis.

However, I think there are rather distinct similarities between say... Garden State, Juno, Little Miss Sunshine, Chumscrubber, etc, etc, etc.


Exactly, which is why I made the grouping of those movies.

They are undeniably similar, and even though they're not actually "indie" films, they have this fake indie veneer, and quirkiness lathered on so thick you couldn't cut through it with a chainsaw.

[Spinal]

Diablo Cody's projects: stripping, blogging, Juno screenplay

Miranda July's projects: performance art, fiction, writing and directing Me & You & Everyone We Know

Well, I guess they are both women...

Repped!


i'm not a huge fan of july but that's a terrible comparison. she is an artist in tons of different mediums. cody is a stripper and a hack writer.

Repped!

[D_Davis]

Striping is a kind of performance art.

[Winston*]

I like Diablo Cody. I appreciate presence on the filmmaking scene. I haven't seen Juno, I don't really want to see Juno, but I appreciate the fact that if and when I do want to see Juno, it exists for me to see.

[ledfloyd]

gah i've been quoted typing "mediums." gotta work on that grammar.

[D_Davis]

So does Sleater-Kinney. Case closed.

Exactly.

It's like the trinity of annoyingnessness.

[Watashi]

I don't see what being in performance arts makes one a better writer. They're both hacks, just from different backgrounds.

[Watashi]

I like Diablo Cody. I appreciate presence on the filmmaking scene. I haven't seen Juno, I don't really want to see Juno, but I appreciate the fact that if and when I do want to see Juno, it exists for me to see.
*head explodes*

[Winston*]

I'd say Miranda July was pretty objectively not a hack.

[D_Davis]

I don't see what being in performance arts makes one a better writer. They're both hacks, just from different backgrounds.

Performance art is like theatre for loners, or stand up comedy without the intentional comedy.

;)

[Raiders]

Isn't stripping performance art?

[D_Davis]

Striping is a kind of performance art.


Isn't stripping performance art?

Yes.

:)

[megladon8]

So...is that Haneke set worth getting at that price?

*referring to query from last page*

[Spinal]

Performance art is like theatre for loners, or stand up comedy without the intentional comedy.

;)

There is lots of comedy in performance art.

[Stay Puft]

So...is that Haneke set worth getting at that price?

*referring to query from last page*

For $30? I'd buy it. Hell, I'd pay $30 just for The Piano Teacher.

[Raiders]

Yes.

:)

I guess I should start reading your posts.

[Sycophant]

For $30? I'd buy it. Hell, I'd pay $30 just for The Piano Teacher.
Seems a low-risk investment. I'd do it in a heartbeat. If you hate the films, I can't imagine you'd get too screwed on resale.

[Winston*]

You should totally buy that set, meg.

[megladon8]

Sweet. Sold.

It contains:

-The Piano Teacher
-Code Unknown
-The Castle
-Funny Games
-71 Fragments
-Benny's Video
-The Seventh Continent

[Spinal]

Isn't stripping performance art?

Yes, much like recording yourself having intercourse with your wife could be considered cinema.

[DavidSeven]

Diablo Cody's projects: stripping, blogging, Juno screenplay

Miranda July's projects: performance art, fiction, writing and directing Me & You & Everyone We Know

Well, Diablo Cody also wrote for a newspaper, Jane Magazine, and published a non-fiction book. Let's not make her out to be some IMDB poster who got a film deal out of nowhere.

[Watashi]

Yes, much like recording yourself having intercourse with your wife could be considered cinema.
I'd buy that for a dollar.

[D_Davis]

There is lots of comedy in performance art.

I'm just goofin'.

Some of my best friends are performance artists.

[D_Davis]

I guess I should start reading your posts.

I wouldn't go that far.

[Ezee E]

Well, Diablo Cody also wrote for a newspaper, Jane Magazine, and published a non-fiction book. Let's not make her out to be some IMDB poster who got a film deal out of nowhere.
And she aspires to be a director in a few years as well.

I don't know of Miranda's performance art, but most performance art seems to have nudity involved somewhere. That's one art I'll never be able to appreciate or understand.

[Spinal]

I'm just goofin'.

Some of my best friends are performance artists.

That's fine. It just seems that most people are content to criticize it based on a very shallow sterotype.

[D_Davis]

That's fine. It just seems that most people are content to criticize it based on a very shallow sterotype.

I just do it because it's fun.

Kind of like how people make fun of us D&D nerds.

We're all nerds, we just wear different masks.

[megladon8]

I'm very proud of my nerd-dom.

I think I'm cool.

:cool:

[Spinal]

We're all nerds, we just wear different masks.

Respeck.

[MadMan]

Yes, much like recording yourself having intercourse with your wife could be considered cinema.Huh. I could have sworn it was. ;)


So does Sleater-Kinney. Case closed.:|

I'm a movie and history nerd. The former doesn't do me much good aside from here. The latter I use for my political science major.

[Qrazy]

Striping is a kind of performance art.

More like a poleformance art.

I'm so sorry.

[Qrazy]

I'm just goofin'.

Some of my best friends are performance artists.

Heh.

Some of my best friends are... gotta love that line in all its iterations.

[megladon8]

Some of my best friends are MatchCutters.

[Ezee E]

Some of my best friends are MatchCutters.
awwwww

[Sycophant]

More like a poleformance art.

I'm so sorry.I nearly repped you to shame you further. Instead, I'll just draw more attention to it

[Sycophant]

Some of my best friends are MatchCutters.Everyone says this when all they really have is a token Match Cut friend. If I could find that picture of Stephen Colbert embracing and pointing to Wats, I'd post it.

[MadMan]

Everyone says this when all they really have is a token Match Cut friend. If I could find that picture of Stephen Colbert embracing and pointing to Wats, I'd post it.So that's why I'm allowed to post here :P

I wonder who my token Match-Cut friend is.

[megladon8]

Everyone says this when all they really have is a token Match Cut friend. If I could find that picture of Stephen Colbert embracing and pointing to Wats, I'd post it.


Actually there are about 5-7 MatchCut posters who I talk to on a regular (daily) basis, and I consider really great friends.

I think that's why I often carelessly make inappropriate jokes/comments that few find funny, because I forget that not everyone here "knows" me.

[EvilShoe]

awwwww
He just wants to get into your pants.

[MadMan]

He just wants to get into your pants.I had no idea that E was that kind of girl :eek:

[Duncan]

Pabst recommendations? I've seen nothing.

[Watashi]

Everyone says this when all they really have is a token Match Cut friend. If I could find that picture of Stephen Colbert embracing and pointing to Wats, I'd post it.
What?

[D_Davis]

Heh.

Some of my best friends are... gotta love that line in all its iterations.

:lol:

Yes, I was being derogatory, but also truthful...

One of my old best friends was a performance artist. Really.

[Sycophant]

What?
I picked a random Match Cutter. It was you.

If I were at home, I would have found a picture of a Match Cutter (maybe you) and photoshopped it onto the described picture.

This joke doesn't work at all if you haven't seen any of Colbert's "Black friend" segments or whatever.