We Are Movie Geeks

Chris Columbus’ PIXELS Coming To Theaters May 15, 2015

Sony Pictures Entertainment announced today that the studio has brought together an extraordinary number of iconic video game companies, whose classic characters – including PAC-MAN, Donkey Kong, Centipede, Galaga, Frogger, Q*bert, and Space Invaders – will be featured in the highly-anticipated action comedy PIXELS, starring Adam Sandler, Kevin James, Michelle Monaghan, Peter Dinklage, Josh Gad, and Brian Cox, and directed by Chris Columbus. The film will be released on May 15, 2015.

In Pixels, when intergalactic aliens misinterpret video-feeds of classic arcade games as a declaration of war against them, they attack the Earth, using the games as models for their various assaults. President Will Cooper (James) has to call on his childhood best friend, ’80s video game champion Sam Brenner (Sandler), now a home theater installer, to lead a team of old-school arcaders (Dinklage and Gad) to defeat the aliens and save the planet. Monaghan plays the team’s unique weapons specialist.

The action-comedy is directed by Chris Columbus from a story by Tim Herlihy and a screenplay by Tim Herlihy and Timothy Dowling, based on the original short film of the same name by Patrick Jean.

The film is produced by Adam Sandler, Chris Columbus, Mark Radcliffe, and Allen Covert. Executive Producers are Barry Bernardi, Michael Barnathan, Jack Giarraputo, Heather Parry, Tim Herlihy, Steve Koren, Patrick Jean, Benjamin Darras, Johnny Alves, Matias Boucard, Seth Gordon, and Ben Waisbren. The film, a Columbia Pictures presentation in association with LStar Capital, is a Happy Madison / 1492 Films production in association with One More Production.

Companies with classic arcade games that are teaming with Sony Pictures on the film include:

Atari® Interactive: (Asteroids®, Breakout®, Centipede® and Missile Command®)
Konami Digital Entertainment Co., Ltd. (Frogger)
BANDAI NAMCO Games Inc. (PAC-MAN, Galaga, and Dig Dug)
Nintendo (Donkey Kong)
Columbia Pictures Industries, Inc. (Q*bert)
Taito Corporation (Space Invaders)
Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment (Joust, Defender, Robotron and Wizard of Wor)

Commenting on the announcement, the film’s director, Chris Columbus, said, “There would be no way to make the movie without these legendary characters – they are as important to the film as the roles that Adam, Kevin, Michelle, Peter, Josh, and Brian are playing. It was a real thrill to see everything come together exactly as we envisioned it, and we’re grateful to have all of these fantastic companies on board.”

Producer Allen Covert added, “These classic characters are part of the DNA of the project, so it was critical that we work together to bring them on board. Fortunately, they were all extremely receptive. We approached them with a deep love for their characters and a respect for the elements that make them unique and iconic, and we’ve worked with the companies to incorporate those elements into the film.”

At Comic-Con San Diego, from July 24-27, arcaders 13 years of age and older with Comic-Con badges will have the chance to engage with many of these classic original arcade games and try them out again as the studio features a Pixels Electric Dreams Factory arcade at the Hard Rock Hotel, 209 5th Ave., San Diego.

EVERGREEN: THE ROAD TO LEGALIZATION – The DVD Review

Review by Kathy Kaiser

Producer/Director Riley Morton takes on his first documentary film, jumping straight into the frying pan, as he covers the legalizing of marijuana in the State of Washington.

After 40 years of the drug war that has plagued our country, Washington State becomes the emblazoned battleground for legalizing cannabis. EVERGREEN takes you deep into both sides of the equation so you can see first-hand the unwavering convictions of each side.

Although medicinal marijuana has been available in Washington for years now, activists for complete legalization share their convictions as to why the substance should be legalized, as they bring forth Initiative 502, hoping to have it placed on the ballot in November of 2012.

Those opposed to legalization are just as head strong, proposing that 1-502 is going to do nothing but add DUI convictions, new taxes and additional penalties and restrictions on the citizens of Washington – all things that will negatively affect their youth, and the patients and providers who have been supplying marijuana for medicinal purposes – bringing further stress and pain into their lives.

EVERGREEN gives you the hard facts of the changes in policy that resulted from the legalization of marijuana in the state of Washington, and adds the personal touch of conveying both sides to truly tell it all. Morton does an incredible job of bringing to the forefront this heated debate and continuing fight for legalizing nationwide, as our country continues to struggle with tackling the issue state by state.

Whether you are for or against marijuana’s legalization – EVERGREEN will put it all into perspective for you, as it brings to life both opposing views. If your state decides to travel the path to legalization, you will know the facts and principles of each side after viewing this film – thanks to Morton and his team of filmmakers – thus educating yourself before you too have to place your vote for-or-against on election day.

First Look At THE HOBBIT: THE FIVE ARMIES; Warner Bros. Pictures At Comic Con 2014

Warner Bros. Entertainment will plant its flag at Comic-Con International: San Diego this year with a huge presence, with each individual division touting its upcoming offerings, including Film, Television, Interactive and Home Entertainment, as well as a variety of product from DC Entertainment, whose celebrations in honor of 75 years of one of the world’s most beloved Super Heroes—Batman—will be in full swing.

On Saturday, July 26th, beginning at 10 a.m., Warner Bros. Pictures brings to Hall H three of its most hotly anticipated films to this year’s Con:

Peter Jackson will be on the main stage with “The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies”
From New Line Cinema and Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Pictures, and George Miller will be on hand to present a first look at “Mad Max: Fury Road,” from Warner Bros. Pictures and Village Roadshow Pictures.
The Wachowskis’ original sci-fi actioner “Jupiter Ascending,” also from Warner Bros. Pictures and Village Roadshow Pictures.

In addition to the Studio’s Hall H presentation, Warner Bros. will also host a pre-Con fan screening of New Line Cinema and Village Roadshow Pictures’ upcoming “cli-fi” thriller “Into the Storm,” directed by Steven Quale. The screening will take place on Wednesday, July 23rd, at 10 p.m. at the Gas Lamp Theatre.

©2014 WARNER BROS. ENTERTAINMENT INC. AND METRO-GOLDWYN-MAYER PICTURES INC. (US, CANADA & NEW LINE FOREIGN TERRITORIES) ©2014 METRO-GOLDWYN-MAYER PICTURES INC. AND WARNER BROS. ENTERTAINMENT INC. (ALL Photo Credit: Mark Pokorny)

From Academy Award-winning filmmaker Peter Jackson comes “The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies,” the third in a trilogy of films adapting the enduringly popular masterpiece The Hobbit, by J.R.R. Tolkien.

“The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies” brings to an epic conclusion the adventures of Bilbo Baggins, Thorin Oakenshield and the Company of Dwarves. Having reclaimed their homeland from the Dragon Smaug, the Company has unwittingly unleashed a deadly force into the world. Enraged, Smaug rains his fiery wrath down upon the defenseless men, women and children of Lake-town.

Obsessed above all else with his reclaimed treasure, Thorin sacrifices friendship and honor to hoard it as Bilbo’s frantic attempts to make him see reason drive the Hobbit towards a desperate and dangerous choice. But there are even greater dangers ahead. Unseen by any but the Wizard Gandalf, the great enemy Sauron has sent forth legions of Orcs in a stealth attack upon the Lonely Mountain.

As darkness converges on their escalating conflict, the races of Dwarves, Elves and Men must decide – unite or be destroyed. Bilbo finds himself fighting for his life and the lives of his friends in the epic Battle of the Five Armies, as the future of Middle-earth hangs in the balance.

Ian McKellen returns as Gandalf the Grey, with Martin Freeman in the central role of Bilbo Baggins, and Richard Armitage as Thorin Oakenshield. The international ensemble cast is led by Evangeline Lilly, Lee Pace, Luke Evans, Benedict Cumberbatch, Ken Stott, James Nesbitt, with Cate Blanchett, Ian Holm, Christopher Lee, Hugo Weaving, and Orlando Bloom.

The film also stars, in alphabetical order, John Bell, Manu Bennett, Jed Brophy, Adam Brown, John Callen, Billy Connolly, Stephen Fry, Ryan Gage, Mark Hadlow, Peter Hambleton, Stephen Hunter, William Kircher, Sylvester McCoy, Graham McTavish, Dean O’Gorman, Mikael Persbrandt and Aidan Turner.

The film will be released worldwide on December 17, 2014.

(L-r) CHARLIZE THERON with director GEORGE MILLER on the set of Warner Bros. Pictures’ and Village Roadshow Pictures’ action adventure MAD MAX: FURY ROAD.

Oscar-winning filmmaker George Miller’s “Mad Max: Fury Road” revisits his own post-apocalyptic trilogy featuring the anti-hero known as Mad Max. Tom Hardy stars in the role of Max Rockatansky, alongside Charlize Theron, Nicholas Hoult, Zoe Kravitz, Riley Keough, Hugh Keays-Byrne and Rosie Huntington-Whiteley. Miller directed from a screenplay he wrote with Brendan McCarthy and Nico Lathouris. Miller also produces, along with Doug Mitchell and P.J. Voeten. Iain Smith, Graham Burke and Bruce Berman serve as executive producers. “Mad Max: Fury Road” is a Kennedy Miller Mitchell production.

The film will be presented by Warner Bros. Pictures, in association with Village Roadshow Pictures. Scheduled for release on May 15, 2015, it will be distributed worldwide by Warner Bros. Pictures, a Warner Bros. Entertainment Company, and in select territories by Village Roadshow Pictures.

(L-r) NICHOLAS HOULT as Nux, COURTNEY EATON as Fragile, RILEY KEOUGH as Capable, CHARLIZE THERON as Furiosa and ABBEY LEE KERSHAW as Wag.

Photo Credit: Jasin Boland

Caption: TOM HARDY as Max Rockatansky in Warner Bros. Pictures’ and Village Roadshow Pictures’ action adventure “MAD MAX: FURY ROAD,” a Warner Bros. Pictures release.

“Jupiter Ascending” is written and directed by the Wachowskis and produced by Grant Hill, Lana Wachowski and Andy Wachowski. Roberto Malerba and Bruce Berman served as executive producers. The film stars Channing Tatum and Mila Kunis, with Sean Bean, Eddie Redmayne, Douglas Booth, Tuppence Middleton, Doona Bae, James D’Arcy and Tim Pigott-Smith.

Set for release February 6, 2015, “Jupiter Ascending” is a Warner Bros. Pictures presentation, in association with Village Roadshow Pictures, in association with Anarchos Productions. It will be distributed by Warner Bros. Pictures, a Warner Bros. Entertainment Company, and in select territories by Village Roadshow Pictures.

Warner Bros. Television Group returns to Comic-Con with 15 series in 2014, holding panels throughout the four days of the Con for fan-favorite series including “The Big Bang Theory,” “The Following,” “Supernatural,” “The Vampire Diaries” and “Teen Titans Go!,” among many others, as well as once again kicking off the Con with screenings of new series “The Flash,” “Constantine” and more on Wednesday’s Preview Night.

On Saturday night, July 26^th, it’s all DC Entertainment all night in Hall H when Warner Bros. Television treats attendees to a three-hour special event designed specifically for DC Comics fans and featuring some of DC Comics’ greatest characters. The event will run from 8:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. and will feature the world premiere public screening of the highly anticipated new drama series “Gotham” (the only screening of “Gotham” at this year’s Comic-Con), followed by a screening of the complete pilot of “The Flash,” and exclusive video presentations from returning hit “Arrow” and new thriller “Constantine.” Cast members and producers from all four shows will make special appearances throughout the three-hour event.

For complete information on Warner Bros. Television’s plans for Comic-Con and for real-time updates during the convention, please follow us on Twitter at @warnerbrostv—official hashtag #WBSDCC—and visit http://comiccon.thewb.com.

In concert with all the WB divisions, DC Entertainment continues to fête Batman’s 75^th year, making the icon the centerpiece of their offerings, including all-star panel appearances by Batman talent as well as a rare display of some of the canon’s most famous film costumes in history—those worn by Christian Bale, George Clooney, Val Kilmer and Michael Keaton—on display in the DC Entertainment booth. The character will also appear on the cover of the Con’s official souvenir book, and on a Con-exclusive T-shirt designed by DC Entertainment Co-Publisher and legendary artist, Jim Lee.

Lee will also participate in the Batman 75: Legends of the Dark Knight panel discussion with veteran Batman creatives Frank Miller, Grant Morrison, Denny O’Neil, Neal Adams, current series writer Scott Snyder and artist Greg Capullo, and DC Entertainment Chief Creative Officer Geoff Johns. The panel will take place at 3:30 p.m. on Thursday, July 24^th.

Johns and artist John Romita, Jr., the new creative team behind Superman, will explore their upcoming plans for the Super Hero, as will the husband-and-wife creative team behind comics’ most beloved heroine, Wonder Woman, writer Meredith Finch and artist David Finch.

In addition to their numerous other activities, including 20 panels over the course of the Con, the company will also reveal plans for numerous upcoming titles for DC Comics, Vertigo and MAD Magazine imprints, as well as unveiling new action figures from DC Collectibles, including those commemorating The CW and WBTV’s “Arrow” and “The Flash,” as well as a stellar new line based on the upcoming videogame “Batman: Arkham Knight,” from WBIE.

Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment, in celebration of the upcoming release of Rocksteady Studios’ “Batman: Arkham Knight,” will host the Cape/Cowl/Create art exhibit, open to the public daily from July 25^th through the 27^th, 12 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Hard Rock San Diego Hotel’s Legends Room. This free public exhibition will feature true-to-scale replicas of the game’s cape and cowl used as a blank canvas by top contemporary artists to produce their own original interpretations.

On Friday, July 25^th, at 12:30 p.m., WBIE and Monolith Productions will host a panel for the anticipated game “Middle-earth: Shadow of Mordor,” discussing how the game’s innovation evolves storytelling while exploring the history of the Rings of Power. Panelists will include Monolith’s Michael de Plater and Phil Straub, as well as the game’s lead writer, Christian Cantamessa, and voice actor Troy Baker, moderated by Professor Janet Croft.

And Sunday, July 27^th, at 1:00 p.m., WBIE will also host a panel for “LEGO^™ Batman 3: Beyond Gotham,” developed by TT Games, with an exclusive gameplay demonstration, character reveals, special announcements and a lively panel discussion with several members of the voice cast featured in the game. Also, throughout the Con, the game will be available for the first time for hands-on play by consumers.

Blanketing the Con from start to finish with entertainment and activities for fans, Warner Bros. Home Entertainment celebrates its coming release of Warner Bros. Pictures’ and Legendary Pictures’ summer blockbuster “Godzilla” with a four-day interactive display on the lawn behind Hall H. From Wednesday through Sunday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. each day, view the 24-foot tall sculpture of the king of the monsters, along with fan art and a graffiti wall where visitors can memorialize their favorite Godzilla moments. Giveaways and photo opportunities will also be available.

From 6:00 to 7 p.m. on Thursday, July 24^th, WBHE hosts Batman ’66, reuniting pop icons Adam West, Burt Ward and Julie Newmar on the Hall H stage for “Batman: The Complete Television Series.” Moderated by Ralph Garman, the actors behind Batman, Robin and Catwoman will give the audience an inside look at the exclusive content contained in the Home Entertainment release due out later this year, as well as present dazzling high-definition re-mastered footage from the landmark series.

On Friday, July 25^th, from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m., it’s the world premiere of “Batman: Assault on Arkham,” the next entry in the ongoing series of DC Universe Original Movies, due out on Digital HD on July 29^th and as a Blu-ray^TM Combo Pack on August 12^th. Produced by WBHE, DC Entertainment and Warner Bros. Animation, the full-length animated film is based on the best-selling “Batman: Arkham” videogame series. Lucky attendees at the Ballroom 20 event will also be treated to a panel discussion featuring Kevin Conroy of “Batman: The Animated Series,” Matthew Gray Gubler, Troy Baker and John DiMaggio, and the filmmaking team of producer James Tucker, director Jay Oliva, dialogue director Andrea Romano, screenwriter Heath Corson, and moderator Victor Lucas. There will also be special announcements, exclusive prizes and a few potential surprises.

The final day of the Con, Sunday, July 27^th—Kids’ Day—will see WBHE’s world premiere of the family animated film “Scooby-Doo! Frankencreepy” at 10:00 a.m. in Room 6BCF. The story follows everyone’s favorite Great Dane and the Mystery Inc. gang on a trip to a cursed castle inhabited by a terrifying ghost. Attendees can stay for a panel discussion among several of the voice actors, including Mindy Cohn and Grey Griffin, director/producer Paul McEvoy and screenwriter Jim Krieg. The feature will be available August 5^th on Digital HD, and on Blu-ray^TM Combo Pack and DVD on August 19^th.

On the same day in Room 6A, at 2:15 p.m., animation fans can also watch the world premiere of the beloved cat-and-mouse duo Tom and Jerry in “Tom and Jerry: The Lost Dragon,” an hour-long feature filled with song, sorcery and slapstick. Filmmakers Spike Brandt and Tony Cervone will be on hand to present the film, which will be released on Digital HD on August 19^th, and on DVD on September 2^nd.

And fans of the extensive WBHE library will be able to enjoy panels discussing some of their newest and greatest classic offerings: on Saturday the 26^th at 1:00 p.m., Warner Archive Collection presents Trailers From Hell Live! A match made in classic movie heaven, the gurus of TFH, paired with the fan-centric trio of WAC podcasters, make a detailed, often humorous dissection of trailers from some of the great films in the fanboy spectrum. From sci-fi and horror to action and noir, it’s an education on current and upcoming releases in the WAC catalog and Warner Archive Instant, from a panel that includes Josh Olson and WAC Podcast hosts George Feltenstein, Matthew Patterson and DW Ferranti. In Room 25ABC.

At 12:00 p.m. on Sunday, WAC presents A Batman for all Seasons. Join respected producer/author Michael Uslan, producer James Tucker, producer/director Brandon Vietti, WAC Podcast hosts Patterson and Ferranti and surprise guests, as they examine Batman iterations and oddities throughout history, from early films like “Public Defender” and the Batman cartoons, to new versions of the character, the off-kilter takes and new media. Attendees who stick around to the end will be privy to a special WAC announcement that will excite fans both “Young” and old. Room 7AB.

TCM Remembers James Garner with All-Day Marathon on July 28

Turner Classic Movies (TCM) will remember award-winning actor James Garner on Monday, July 28, with an all-day marathon featuring 12 of his films. The Oscar nominated actor passed away on Saturday in Los Angeles at age 86.

TCM’s lineup features Garner’s performances in such movies as Toward the Unknown (1956), which marked his film debut; the racing drama Grand Prix (1966); the popular romantic comedy The Thrill of It All (1963); the Paddy Cheyefsky-penned The Americanization of Emily (1964); the groundbreaking drama The Children’s Hour(1961); and the gender-bending Victor/Victoria (1982).

The following is the complete schedule for TCM’s tribute to James Garner.

TCM Remembers James Garner – Monday, July 28

6 a.m. – Toward the Unknown (1956) – starring William Holden, Lloyd Nolan, Virginia Leith and James Garner

8 a.m. – Shoot-Out at Medicine Bend (1957) – starring Randolph Scott, James Craig, Angie Dickinson and James Garner

9:30 a.m. – Grand Prix (1966) – starring James Garner, Eva Marie Saint, Brian Bedford and Yves Montand

12:30 p.m. – Cash McCall (1960) – James Garner, Natalie Wood, Nina Foch and Dean Jagger

2:15 p.m. – The Wheeler Dealers (1963) – starring James Garner, Lee Remick, Phil Harris and Chill Wills

4 p.m. – Darby’s Rangers (1958) – starring James Garner, Etchika Choureau and Jack Warden

6:15 p.m. – Mister Buddwing (1966) – starring James Garner, Jean Simmons, Angela Lansbury and Suzanne Pleshette

8 p.m. – The Thrill of It All (1963) – starring Doris Day, James Garner and Arlene Francis

10 p.m. – The Americanization of Emily (1964) – starring Julie Andrews, James Garner, Melvyn Douglas and James Coburn

Midnight – The Children’s Hour (1961) – starring Audrey Hepburn, Shirley MacLaine, James Garner and Miriam Hopkins

2 a.m. – Victor/Victoria (1982) – starring Julie Andrews, James Garner, Robert Preston and Lesley-Ann Warren

4:30 a.m. – Marlowe (1969) – starring James Garner, Rita Moreno, Sharon Farrell and Bruce Lee

Go TMNT & Check Out The New TEENAGE MUTANT NINJA TURTLES Poster

Calling all Turtle Fans!

Upload your picture and personalize it with a TMNT Mask!
http://www.teenagemutantninjaturtlesmovie.com/tmntyourself/

The heroes in a half shell, Donatello, Raphael, Michelangelo and Leonardo, are altogether in this brand new poster for Paramount Pictures’ TEENAGE MUTANT NINJA TURTLES.

Which Turtle are you? Take the quiz here: http://www.teenagemutantninjaturtlesmovie.com/

The city needs heroes. Darkness has settled over New York City as Shredder and his evil Foot Clan have an iron grip on everything from the police to the politicians. The future is grim until four unlikely outcast brothers rise from the sewers and discover their destiny as Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. The Turtles must work with fearless reporter April O’Neil (Megan Fox) and her wise-cracking cameraman Vern Fenwick (Will Arnett) to save the city and unravel Shredder’s diabolical plan.

Based on the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Characters Created by Peter Laird and Kevin Eastman with a Screenplay by Josh Appelbaum & André Nemec and Evan Daugherty, Producer Michael Bay (the blockbuster Transformers franchise) and director Jonathan Liebesman (Wrath of the Titans) bring Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, the popular franchise that has captivated audiences of all ages for decades, into the 21st century.

TMNT hits theaters August 8

Official Site: http://www.teenagemutantninjaturtlesmovie.com

Official Twitter: https://twitter.com/tmntmovie

Official Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TMNT

Official Tumblr: http://tmntmovie.tumblr.com/

#TMNTMOVIE

THE IMITATION GAME International & US Trailers Hit – Stars Benedict Cumberbatch & Keira Knightley

Keira Knightley, Matthew Beard, Matthew Goode, Mark Strong, Charles Dance and Benedict Cumberbatch star in the brand new trailers for THE IMITATION GAME.

The film will open the 58th BFI London Film Festival on Wednesday, October 8.

Norwegian filmmaker Morten Tyldum, 2012 BAFTA nominee for Headhunters, directs from a screenplay by Graham Moore, based on the book “Alan Turing: The Enigma” by Andrew Hodges.

THE IMITATION GAME will be in theaters on November 21st in the US; UK cinemas on November 14.

In THE IMITATION GAME, Benedict Cumberbatch stars as Alan Turing, the genius British mathematician, logician, cryptologist and computer scientist who led the charge to crack the German Enigma Code that helped the Allies win WWII.

Turing went on to assist with the development of computers at the University of Manchester after the war, but was prosecuted by the UK government in 1952 for homosexual acts which the country deemed illegal.

Behind-the-camera talent includes director of photography Óscar Faura (The Impossible), editor William Goldenberg (three time Oscar nominee and winner for Argo), production designer Maria Djurkovic (BAFTA nominee Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy), costume designer Sammy Sheldon Differ (Kick-Ass), hair and make-up designer Ivana Primorac (six time BAFTA nominee including Anna Karenina), casting director Nina Gold (Les Miserables) and composer Alexandre Desplat (six time Oscar nominee including Argo).

Before watching the film this Fall, check out director Michael Apted’s 2001 ENIGMA starring Dougray Scott, Kate Winslet, Saffron Burrows and Jeremy Northam.

For more on Turing, read the BBC article HERE.

https://www.facebook.com/ImitationGameUK

https://twitter.com/ImitationGameUK

THE PLEASURES OF BEING/ OUT OF STEP – The DVD Review

Review by Kathy Kaiser

What do you get when you combine a love for jazz from a very young age – a prolific journalistic talent – and a civil rights libertarian who will let you know exactly where he stands on any issue, including being pro-life – you get the story of the man – THE LEGEND – whose life of work has touched both the cultural and political sides of our mere existence in this country for over 65 years – NAT HENTOFF.

David L Lewis, a journalistic and broadcast media talent himself for over 30 years, brings the man himself along for this ride – exposing Hentoff’s life’s work – and mostly in his own words – with this new documentary – THE PLEASURES OF BEING/ OUT OF STEP. Stepping into the limelight of his career, Hentoff emerged as the Jazz critic of all critics, being named The Jazz MASTER and gaining fame and recognition by the musicians he critiqued – how often does that happen? Interviewing Jazz talents like Duke Ellington, Miles Davis, even the 60’s alternative artist, Bob Dylan, bringing their talent and music to the mainstream, Henhoff became beloved for his own “alternative journalistic style”, and innate way to transform any musician’s music and life, just by covering their music. From his one line critiques, to his inexhaustible and high-volume explanations of their work, strategically placed on the back of their album covers, Nat Hentoff became “the voice” of generations of Jazz musicians the world over – bringing this music and its significance in our society, to light.

As much as Jazz was a part of Nat’s life, so was having the ability to express his views and thoughts as it pertained to many civil rights issues from the 1940’s through the 1980’s – which he published as a contributing writer for such publications as Down Beat, The Village Voice, The New Yorker, The New York Times, and the Washington Post. These outlets gave Hentoff the opportunity to shape more than one cultural revolution with his alternative views and heavy handed penning, professing and reminding each of us, of our unalienable right to the 1^st amendment in this country – freedom of expression – which Hentoff never wavered from. This film also makes a point to let you hear about the man and legend through the words of the individuals who were along for the ride of Hentoff’s creative passions – including stage presence and funny man Lenny Bruce, his second wife and greatest fan Margot, First amendment Council Floyd Abrams, fellow journalist and editor of the Village Voice, Karen Durbin, and writer Amiri Baraka.

Even if you have never listened to Mr. Ellington’s music, or have been intrigued by our countries Civil Rights movements, the Aids epidemic or ROWE vs. WADE, it doesn’t matter – you need to see this documentary. Pleasures of Being Out of Step is a true masterpiece –Nat Hentoff and his life are truly fantastic documentary material, and Lewis did a superb job of bringing the man, and his effect on our society over decades, to life. Fascinating and Intriguing is how I would describe this film of how one man, and his vision, can change countless lives and aid in breaking down cultural stereotypes to become the voice of reason – this is NAT HENTOFF ‘s story.

The Weinstein Company To Release ONE CHANCE On Yahoo Screen Before It Hits Theaters

On the night of June 9th 2007, a new television reality show called ‘Britain’s Got Talent’ went on air in the UK. On its first ever broadcast, a shy, unassuming man opened his mouth to sing the famous operatic aria ‘Nessun Dorma’, delivering a beautiful, stirring rendition that would change his life from that moment forward.

Swept up in the contagious emotion of Giacomo Puccini’s stunning aria, and the unlikely figure with crooked teeth and diluted confidence who had crooned it for them, the show’s three judges – Simon Cowell, Amanda Holden and Piers Morgan – stared in awe at what they had just witnessed, while the audience of 2,000 at the Wales Millennium Centre in Cardiff erupted in a standing ovation.

Britain was instantly won over by Paul Potts, who was then working as a manager at the Port Talbot branch of The Carphone Warehouse, and followed him on his journey to becoming the first ever winner of the new talent show and, subsequently, a world-famous opera singer.

Potts’ unanticipated vocal prowess didn’t stay confined to UK shores for long, blazing a scorched trail around the globe as news of his improbable audition went viral and millions watched it for themselves on YouTube.

But despite his own admission before going on stage that he was lacking in confidence, few knew the herculean effort it had taken for Potts to reach that point, and the trials, tribulations and monumental setbacks he had suffered along the way.

As thrilling as Potts’ on-air success was to behold, it was the story leading up to his ‘Britain’s Got Talent’ appearance that the filmmakers of ONE CHANCE wanted to tell: the tale of a steelworker’s son from south Wales who fell in love with opera at an early age and, despite bullying, skepticism and physical hardship, never gave up on trying to achieve his dreams. And by the way, it’s a comedy.

Today, Yahoo and The Weinstein Company have announced that the U.S. pre-theatrical release of the film ONE CHANCE will be exclusively on Yahoo Screen beginning this fall.

“We’re so thrilled to be partnering with Yahoo on this first venture in bringing ‘One Chance’ to audiences online before it hits theaters. In today’s digital era, technology has developed and changed the landscape of how many people watch movies and TV. Our partnership with Yahoo has allowed us to adapt and expand our reach to limitless audiences,” said David Glasser, COO and President of The Weinstein Company.

From the director of “The Devil Wears Prada,” ONE CHANCE is the remarkable and inspirational true story of Paul Potts, a shy, bullied shop assistant by day and an amateur opera singer by night.

Fresh from celebrating his Tony Award-winning Broadway run in ‘One Man, Two Guvnors’, BAFTA winner James Corden (THE HISTORY BOYS) stars as Paul Potts. The cast also includes Julie Walters (MAMMA MIA!, CALENDAR GIRLS, BILLY ELLIOT), Mackenzie Crook (THE PIRATES OF THE CARIBBEAN), Colm Meaney (GET HIM TO THE GREEK), Jemima Rooper (KINKY BOOTS), Valeria Bilello (PAZZE DI ME) and rising star Alexandra Roach (THE IRON LADY).

Directed by David Frankel (THE DEVIL WEARS PRADA, MARLEY & ME, HOPE SPRINGS) and written by Justin Zackham (THE BUCKET LIST), ONE CHANCE is produced by Mike Menchel, Brad Weston, Kris Thykier (KICK-ASS, THE DEBT, I GIVE IT A YEAR), Simon Cowell, and executive produced by Bob and Harvey Weinstein.

J.J. Abrams Reveals X-Wing Fighter From STAR WARS: EPISODE VII

In the second video from STAR WARS: EPISODE VII, director J.J. Abrams was interrupted by an X-Wing pilot and rogue robot as he announced the chance for fans to win an advance private screening of the film.

The movie bows December 18, 2015.

“We are so grateful for the support that the fans from over 119 countries have shown for Force for Change,” said Abrams. “As we close this final week, we’ve added an additional prize that allows the fans the opportunity to see the movie early as a thank you for supporting such a great cause as UNICEF’s innovative, lifesaving work for children.” By contributing at any level by July 25th, participants will be eligible for all prizes including a chance to be in the movie.

Star Wars: Force for Change impressively raised over one million dollars within the first 24 hours of its launch—a record for Omaze, the fundraising platform. So far contributors from 119 countries around the world have backed Force for Change, in support of the United Nations Children’s Fund’s (UNICEF) Innovation Labs and programs. UNICEF’s network of 14 Innovation Labs help create sustainable solutions to critical issues facing children around the world in the areas of nutrition, water, health, and education. The funds raised through Star Wars: Force for Change will impact the lives of children around the world, through projects like MobiStation, a portable, solar-powered educational kit to ensure children have access to quality learning anywhere, and Rapid FTR (Family Tracing and Reunification), a mobile phone application that helps reunite separated and unaccompanied children with their families in natural disasters. Fans can continue to pledge support and enter for a chance win until 11:59pm on July 25.

The Star Wars: Force for Change Grand Prize includes:

Airfare and accommodations to London for one winner and a guest
Behind-the-scenes access on the closed set of Star Wars: Episode VII as VIP guests of J.J. Abrams
Winner will have the opportunity to meet members of the cast
Winner and their guest will then be transformed by makeup and costume teams into a Star Wars character and filmed for a scene in Star Wars: Episode VII

Disney committed US $1 million to support the launch of Star Wars: Force for Change. Star Wars continues to inspire generations of dreamers and doers to use their creativity to accomplish great things. Star Wars and Lucasfilm were built on the belief that in uniting creativity with innovation, you can make the impossible possible.

Visit StarWars.com/ForceForChange to learn more about this new charitable initiative and the work of UNICEF’s Innovation Labs and programs, and be sure to enter through contribution or free entry for your chance to win at Omaze.com/StarWars.

May the Force be with you!

CLUE – With All Three Endings! – Screens Midnights This Weekend at The Tivoli

“Life after death is as improbable as sex after marriage!”

CLUE plays midnights this weekend (July 25th and 26th) at The Tivoli Theater as part of the Reel late at The Tivoli Midnight series.

Way back in 1985, before we were translating literally every board game, video game, or action figure into a movie, there was CLUE.

As in the Parker Brothers board game, seven suspects find themselves in a mysterious mansion with the body of someone who has been murdered by one of them. Was it Colonel Mustard (Martin Mull) with the revolver in the conservatory? Or was it Miss Scarlett (Lesley Ann Warren) with the rope in the billiards room?

Could it be both?

CLUE was filmed with three possible endings. That’s 321 fewer endings than the board game permits, but two endings more than offered by most movies.

“What are you afraid of, a fate worse than death?” Professor Plum (Christopher Lloyd) asks.

“No, just death,” replies Mrs. Peacock (Eileen Brennan). “Isn’t that enough?”

When I first saw this film back in 1985, I found it a tiresome retread of Neil Simon’s MURDER BY DEATH with director Jonathan Lynn’s pratfall-heavy jokiness a poor substitute for Neil Simon’s scriptwork. Even the cast seemed a bit of a comedown, though Eileen Brennan was in both films. It was not a box-office success then, but time has done funny things to CLUE. Not only has it developed a huge cult following, but my own eyes have been opened to the slow-burning cleverness of Lynn’s well-presented concept and a cast that, perhaps because it had no A-list stars, felt more need to dig into the material and get every last bit of funny out of it. You might miss Mrs. White (Madeline Kahn) the first time she says her husband just “lies around on his back all day”, but you know enough to laugh the second time.

“Husbands should be like Kleenex, soft, strong, and disposable,” says Mrs. White.

“You lure men to their death like a spider with flies!”

“Flies are where men are most vulnerable.”

The lines are seldom as good as that – though the late Ms Kahn seems to get the best ones, and there’s some weak business involving pseudonyms and minor characters that only gets in the way of the central business. I still groan at the line “Communism was just a red herring“.

But CLUE succeeds in its central mission of merry-making, aided by the multiple-ending gimmick and Tim Curry’s central role as the zany butler Wadsworth who recaps the entire movie in five minutes. The pratfalls are a lot better than I thought the first time, too.

Now you can see CLUE, and ALL THREE of its endings on the big screen when it screens midnights this weekend ( July 25th and 26th) at The Tivoli as part of their Reel Late at the Tivoli Midnight series.

The Tivoli’s located at 6350 Delmar Blvd., University City, MO. Admission is a mere $8!

The Tivoli’s website can be found HERE

http://www.landmarktheatres.com/market/st.louis/tivolitheatre.htm

Here’s the Reel Late at the Tivoli Line-up for the next few weeks:

Aug. 1-2 THIS IS SPINAL TAP 30^th anniversary, digitally restored

Aug. 8-9 AKIRA

Aug. 15-16 TEENAGE MUTANT NINJA TURTLES – The Original!

Aug. 22-23 ARMY OF DARKNESS

Aug. 29-30 BLAZING SADDLES

Sept. 5-6 PURPLE RAIN – 30^th anniversary

Sept. 12-13 GHOST IN THE SHELL

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TMNT hits theaters August 8

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