“I’d frankly prefer not die for anything. And that includes sickness, old days or choking on a bagel.”
Woody Allen’s RIFKIN’S FESTIVAL starring Wallace Shawn, Gina Gershon, and Cristoph Waltzopens in St. Louis Friday January 28th at Landmark’s Plaza Frontenac Theater(1701 South Lindbergh Boulevard # 210 PLAZA, Frontenac, MO 63131). Check their website for times HERE.
Mort Rifkin (Wallace Shawn – Manhattan, My Dinner with Andre), a retired film studies professor, accompanies his publicist wife Sue (Gina Gershon New Amsterdam, Killer Joe) to the San Sebastian Film Festival in Spain. He goes not for the films, but because he’s worried that Sue’s fascination with her young buzzed-about film director client, Philippe (Louis Garrel – Little Women, An Officer and a Spy), might be more than professional. In addition, Mort hopes the change of scenery will provide a respite from his struggle to write a first novel that lives up to his impossibly exacting standards. With Mort’s relentlessly dismissive opinions of Philippe, and Sue’s sharp focus on her career as well as Philippe, their already frayed relationship becomes more strained. Mort’s mood lightens when he meets Jo Rojas (Elena Anaya – The Skin I Live In), a kindred spirit whose marriage to tempestuous painter Paco (Sergi López – Pan’s Labyrinth) is causing her pain as well. While Mort’s personal tastes have sometimes pushed people away, Jo’s intellect and shared sensibility draw them together. While Sue spends her days with Philippe, Mort’s relationship with Jo deepens.
THE SPOOKTACULAR SEQUEL FEATURING EVERYONE’S FAVORITE KOOKY FAMILY IS AVAILABLE TO OWN WITH EXCITINGNEVER-BEFORE-SEEN BONUS CONTENT WITH CAST AND CREW
SHOWCASING AN INCREDIBLE VOICE CAST INCLUDINGOSCAR ISAAC, CHARLIZE THERON, CHLOË GRACE MORETZ, NICK KROLL, JAVON ‘WANNA’ WALTON, WALLACE SHAWN, WITH SNOOP DOGG, BETTE MIDLER AND BILL HADER – OWN IT ON BLU-RAY AND DVD JANUARY 18, 2022
Get ready for more finger snaps! The eccentric and unconventional Addams family is back in the all-new full-length animated comedy, THE ADDAMS FAMILY 2, available to own for the first time on Blu-ray and DVD January 18, 2022 from Universal Pictures Home Entertainment. Hailed by critics as “creepier and kookier than the first” (Owen Gleiberman, Variety), MGM’s hilarious sequel brings the beloved macabre squad closer than ever before as they squeeze into the family RV and embark on a cross-country road trip. Packed with family-friendly laughs and spooky hijinks, THE ADDAMS FAMILY2on Blu-ray, DVD and Digital is filled with brand-new exclusive bonus features for all ages to enjoy including a road trip checklist and featurettes with cast and crew, taking audiences behind the scenes of the wonderfully weird world of the Addams family and the film’s messages of family, love and acceptance. THE ADDAMS FAMILY 2-MOVIE COLLECTION is also available to own on DVD on January 18, 2022.
Now you can win the Win the Blu-ray of THE ADDAMS FAMILY 2 We Are Movie Geeks has three to give away. Just leave a comment below telling us what your favorite movie starring Charlize Theron is (I’d say MONSTER. It’s so easy!)
1. YOU MUST BE A US RESIDENT. PRIZE WILL ONLY BE SHIPPED TO US ADDRESSES. NO P.O. BOXES. NO DUPLICATE ADDRESSES.
2. WINNER WILL BE CHOSEN FROM ALL QUALIFYING ENTRIES. NO PURCHASE NECESSARY
From directors Greg Tiernan (Sausage Party, “Thomas & Friends”) and Conrad Vernon (Shrek2, Madagascar 3), THE ADDAMS FAMILY 2 boasts a star-studded and critically acclaimed voice cast including Golden Globe-winner Oscar Isaac (Star Wars: The Last Jedi, X-Men: Apocalypse), Oscar-winner Charlize Theron (Long Shot, Kubo and the Two Strings), Chloë Grace Moretz (Kick Ass, The 5th Wave), Emmy-nominee Nick Kroll (The Secret Life of Pets 2, Sing), Javon ‘Wanna’ Walton (“Euphoria,” “Utopia”), Wallace Shawn (the Toy Story franchise, The Princess Bride), music icon Snoop Dogg, Oscar-nominee Bette Midler (HocusPocus, The First Wives Club),Emmy®-winner Bill Hader (Inside Out, Trainwreck)and more!
Morticia (Charlize Theron) and Gomez (Oscar Isaac) are distraught that their children are growing up, skipping family dinners, and totally consumed with “scream time.” To reclaim their bond, they decide to cram Wednesday (Chloë Grace Moretz), Pugsley (Javon ‘Wanna’ Walton), Uncle Fester (Nick Kroll) and the crew into their haunted camper and hit the road for one last miserable family vacation. What could possibly go wrong?
With the purchase of THE ADDAMS FAMILY 2 on disc, fans are eligible to earn points towards special rewards via the Universal All-Access Rewards program. Members can redeem their points for digital movies, signed collectables, box sets, win exclusive prizes and more! For FREE registration and details please visit www.MyUniversalRewards.com.
BONUS FEATURES EXCLUSIVE TO BLU-RAYTM & DVD:
We’re Altogether Addams:Meet the people behind the voices.
Courage to be Kooky: See why it’s okay to be different (even kooky) with a little help from the cast of THE ADDAMS FAMILY 2.
THE ADDAMS FAMILY Road Trip Checklist: In this “How To” vignette, we’ll show you everything you need for a successful road trip with the family. From essentials to games, we’ve got you covered.
” I’d frankly prefer not die for anything. And that includes sickness, old days or choking on a bagel.”
Woody Allen’s latest work, RIFKIN’S FESTIVAL (which was shot in 2019 and premiered at last year’s Sebastian Film Festival), is now arriving in the U.S. in theaters and on digital platforms on January 28, 2022 from MPI Media Group.
Here’s the trailer:
RIFKIN’S FESTIVAL stars Elena Anaya, Louis Garrel, Gina Gershon, Sergi López, Wallace Shawn, and Christoph Waltz,
Mort Rifkin (Wallace Shawn – Manhattan, My Dinner with Andre), a retired film studies professor, accompanies his publicist wife Sue (Gina Gershon New Amsterdam, Killer Joe) to the San Sebastian Film Festival in Spain. He goes not for the films, but because he’s worried that Sue’s fascination with her young buzzed-about film director client, Philippe (Louis Garrel – Little Women, An Officer and a Spy), might be more than professional. In addition, Mort hopes the change of scenery will provide a respite from his struggle to write a first novel that lives up to his impossibly exacting standards. With Mort’s relentlessly dismissive opinions of Philippe, and Sue’s sharp focus on her career as well as Philippe, their already frayed relationship becomes more strained. Mort’s mood lightens when he meets Jo Rojas (Elena Anaya – The Skin I Live In), a kindred spirit whose marriage to tempestuous painter Paco (Sergi López – Pan’s Labyrinth) is causing her pain as well. While Mort’s personal tastes have sometimes pushed people away, Jo’s intellect and shared sensibility draw them together. While Sue spends her days with Philippe, Mort’s relationship with Jo deepens.
This summer, Disney and Pixar’s “Toy Story 4” took audiences on a hilarious and heartwarming road trip with Woody, Buzz Lightyear and the whole gang, earning a 98 percent critics rating on Rotten Tomatoes and more than $1 billion at the global box office. Packed with old friends and new faces, the fourth film in the beloved Toy Story series, which leads Woody to an unexpected fork in the road, arrives home on Digital in 4K Ultra HD, HD, and Movies Anywhere Oct. 1, and on 4K Ultra HD, Blu-ray, DVD Oct. 8.
Now you can win the win the Blu-ray of A TOY STORY 4. We Are Movie Geeks has one copy to give away. All you have to do is leave a comment below telling us what your favorite movie in this TOY STORY series is. (mine’s Part 3). It’s so easy!
1. YOU MUST BE A US RESIDENT. PRIZE WILL ONLY BE SHIPPED TO US ADDRESSES. NO P.O. BOXES. NO DUPLICATE ADDRESSES.
2. WINNER WILL BE CHOSEN FROM ALL QUALIFYING ENTRIES.
Fans who bring home “Toy Story 4” will be treated to over an hour of bonus features celebrating the film’s iconic characters, Pixar’s filmmaking team and the legacy of “Toy Story,” which began as the world’s first fully computer-animated feature film released nearly 25 years ago. Extensive extras includes deleted scenes such as an alternate ending, an all-new featurette with an endearing look back on Woody and Buzz’s legendary friendship throughout the years; entertaining studio stories shared by members of the Pixar team; a nostalgic look back at the creation and first storyboard screening of “Toy Story” with filmmakers; and the pioneering efforts of Pixar artists who created the sets, characters, look and feel of the original film and much more.
In “Toy Story 4,” Woody (voice of Tom
Hanks) has always been confident about his place in the world, and that his
priority is taking care of his kid, whether that’s Andy or Bonnie. So, when
Bonnie’s beloved new craft-project-turned-toy Forky (voice of Tony Hale) calls
himself “trash,” Woody decides to teach Forky how to embrace being a toy. But a
road-trip adventure, including an unexpected reunion with his long-lost friend
Bo Peep (voice of Annie Potts), shows Woody how big the world can be for a toy.
In addition, carnival prizes Ducky (voice of Keegan-Michael Key) and Bunny
(voice of Jordan Peele) bring a new level of fun to the film.
The must-own, fourth installment in the Toy Story series will be packaged several ways to ensure families get the most out of their in-home entertainment experience. “Toy Story 4” arrives home a week early on Digital 4K Ultra HD™, HD and SD with two exclusive extras including a deleted scene, “Bonnie’s Playtime”. A physical copy of the film is available as a 4K Ultra HD™ Combo Pack (4K Ultra HD, Blu-ray, and Digital Code), a Multi-Screen Edition (Blu-ray, DVD and Digital Code) and a single DVD. Fans who wish to relive all four Toy Story adventures may opt for a Digital bundle, which is available for pre-order.
BONUS FEATURES (may vary by retailer)
Blu-ray
& Digital:
‘Toy
Stories– The Toy
Story 4 cast and crew share their love of toys!
Woody
& Buzz – Take a look at the relationship between these two legendary
characters.
Bo
Rebooted – Discover how Team Bo reimagined all aspects of Bo Peep’s
identity to arrive at the fully realized character seen in the film.
Toy Box – Enjoy
a collection of mini-docs on the film’s memorable new characters, featuring the
voice actors, director Josh Cooley and Pixar artists talking about the many
elements that make these characters fun and lovable
Let’s
Ride With Ally Maki – Ally Maki, voice of Giggle McDimples,
learns all about Pixar’s dialogue recording process from director Josh Cooley
and his team.
Deleted Scenes
introduced by director Josh Cooley including:
Scamming Playtime
Bo Knows Hippos
Desperate Toys
Knock-Offs
Recruit Duke
She’s The One
Audio Commentary, Trailers and more!
Digital
Exclusive:
Anatomy
of a Scene: Prologue – Filmmakers and crew review key
scenes of the movie and dissect the practical and technological methods used to
bring them to life.
Additional
Deleted scene –Bonnie’s Playtime
“Toy Story 4” Cast and Crew
“Toy Story 4”
welcomes both veteran and new voices, including Tom Hanks as Woody, Tim Allen
as Buzz Lightyear, Annie Potts as Bo Peep, Tony Hale as Forky, Keegan-Michael
Key and Jordan Peele as Ducky and Bunny, Madeleine McGraw as Bonnie, Christina
Hendricks as Gabby Gabby, Keanu Reeves as Duke Caboom, Ally Maki as Giggle
McDimples and Joan Cusack as Jessie. The voice cast also includes Jay
Hernandez, Lori Alan, Bonnie Hunt, Kristen Schaal, Emily Davis, Wallace Shawn,
John Ratzenberger, Blake Clark, the late Don Rickles and Estelle Harris.
“Toy Story 4” is directed by Josh Cooley, and produced by Mark Nielsen and Jonas Rivera. Andrew Stanton, Lee Unkrich and Pete Docter are executive producers, and Stanton and Stephany Folsom wrote the screenplay. Longtime “Toy Story” collaborator Randy Newman composed the score and wrote two new original songs, “I Can’t Let You Throw Yourself Away,” performed by Newman, and “The Ballad of the Lonesome Cowboy,” which is performed by Chris Stapleton for the end credits.
Football fans tuning into the big game just caught an all-new sneak peek at “Toy Story 4.” Check out the new spot below.
Woody (voice of Tom Hanks) has always been confident about his place in the world, and that his priority is taking care of his kid, whether that’s Andy or Bonnie. So when Bonnie’s beloved new craft-project-turned-toy, Forky (voice of Tony Hale), declares himself as “trash” and not a toy, Woody takes it upon himself to show Forky why he should embrace being a toy. But when Bonnie takes the whole gang on her family’s road trip excursion, Woody ends up on an unexpected detour that includes a reunion with his long-lost friend Bo Peep (voice of Annie Potts). After years of being on her own, Bo’s adventurous spirit and life on the road belie her delicate porcelain exterior. As Woody and Bo realize they’re worlds apart when it comes to life as a toy, they soon come to find that’s the least of their worries.
Directed by Josh Cooley (“Riley’s First Date?”), and produced by Jonas Rivera (“Inside Out,” “Up”) and Mark Nielsen (associate producer “Inside Out”), Disney·Pixar’s “Toy Story 4” ventures to U.S. theaters on June 21, 2019.
Some Fun Facts about the films –
“Toy Story,” originally released on Nov. 22, 1995, was the first fully computer animated feature film and the highest grossing movie of the year. It was nominated for three Oscars® and two Golden Globes®.
“Toy Story 2” is the first film ever to be entirely created, mastered and exhibited digitally. It was also the first animated sequel to gross more than its original, breaking opening weekend box office records in the U.S., UK and Japan, becoming the highest grossing animated release of 1999. It won the Golden Globe for best motion picture – comedy or musical. It won a Grammy®for best song written for a motion picture, television or other visual media (Randy Newman, “When She Loved Me”).
Released in 2010, “Toy Story 3” won Oscars® for best animated feature film and best achievement in music written for motion pictures, original song (Randy Newman/“We Belong Together”). The film also won a Golden Globe® and BAFTA for best animated film. It was the second Pixar film to be nominated for the best picture Oscar. It’s also Pixar’s second highest-grossing film of all time behind “Incredibles 2.”
The 2015 short “Riley’s First Date?” was helmed by director Josh Cooley and produced by Mark Nielsen.
Bo Peep is back! This long-lost friend of Woody, Buzz and the gang always shared a special connection with Woody, but they have not seen each other in years, and Bo has become chipped and faded over time. Bo’s strength and sarcasm always belied her delicate porcelain exterior, and it turns out she’s an adventure-seeking free spirit who feels right at home on the road. When she and Woody are reunited under unlikely circumstances, they realize they’ve grown worlds apart when it comes to life as a toy.
“Bo’s taken control of her own destiny,” said “Toy Story 4” director Josh Cooley. “While Woody was watching Andy grow up, Bo gathered dust until she took it upon herself to head out into the world. And when Woody shows up, they can’t believe that they’ve found each other again.”
Annie Potts returns as the voice of Bo Peep. “She is modern, independent, capable and confident,” said Potts of her character. “Bo is written and conceived to be inspiring as she has weathered life’s ups and downs with grace. I aspire to that.”
Woody (voice of Tom Hanks) has always been confident about his place in the world, and that his priority is taking care of his kid, whether that’s Andy or Bonnie. So when Bonnie’s beloved new craft-project-turned-toy, Forky (voice of Tony Hale), declares himself as “trash” and not a toy, Woody takes it upon himself to show Forky why he should embrace being a toy. But when Bonnie takes the whole gang on her family’s road trip excursion, Woody ends up on an unexpected detour that includes a reunion with his long-lost friend Bo Peep (voice of Annie Potts). After years of being on her own, Bo’s adventurous spirit and life on the road belie her delicate porcelain exterior. As Woody and Bo realize they’re worlds apart when it comes to life as a toy, they soon come to find that’s the least of their worries.
Directed by Josh Cooley (“Riley’s First Date?”), and produced by Jonas Rivera (“Inside Out,” “Up”) and Mark Nielsen (associate producer “Inside Out”), Disney·Pixar’s “Toy Story 4” ventures to U.S. theaters on June 21, 2019.
Did you know:
“Toy Story,” originally released on Nov. 22, 1995, was the first fully computer animated feature film and the highest grossing movie of the year. It was nominated for three Oscars® and two Golden Globes®.
“Toy Story 2” is the first film ever to be entirely created, mastered and exhibited digitally. It was also the first animated sequel to gross more than its original, breaking opening weekend box office records in the U.S., UK and Japan, becoming the highest grossing animated release of 1999. It won the Golden Globe for best motion picture – comedy or musical. It won a Grammy®for best song written for a motion picture, television or other visual media (Randy Newman, “When She Loved Me”).
Released in 2010, “Toy Story 3” won Oscars® for best animated feature film and best achievement in music written for motion pictures, original song (Randy Newman/“We Belong Together”). The film also won a Golden Globe® and BAFTA for best animated film. It was the second Pixar film to be nominated for the best picture Oscar. It’s also Pixar’s second highest-grossing film of all time behind “Incredibles 2.”
The 2015 short “Riley’s First Date?” was helmed by director Josh Cooley and produced by Mark Nielsen.
Disney•Pixar’s “Toy Story 4” ventures to U.S. theaters on June 21, 2019 and here’s your first look at the brand new trailer and poster.
Woody and the rest of the toys are back for an all-new adventure in “Toy Story 4,” welcoming new friends to Bonnie’s room, including a reluctant new toy called Forky. “Like most people, I assumed that ‘Toy Story 3’ was the end of the story,” said director Josh Cooley. “And it was the end of Woody’s story with Andy. But just like in life, every ending is a new beginning. Woody now being in a new room, with new toys, and a new kid, was something we have never seen before. The questions of what that would be like became the beginning of an entertaining story worth exploring.”
Catch the hilarious preview now.
But Forky insists that he is NOT a toy! An actual spork-turned-craft-project, Forky is pretty sure that he doesn’t belong in Bonnie’s room. Unfortunately, every time he tries to get away, someone yanks him back into an adventure he’d rather skip. “The world of Toy Story is built upon the idea that everything in the world has a purpose,” said Cooley. “A toy’s purpose is to be there for its child. But what about toys that are made out of other objects? Forky is a toy that Bonnie made out of a disposable spork, so he’s facing a crisis. He wants to fulfill his purpose as a spork, but now has a new toy purpose thrust upon him.”
Filmmakers called on comedian Tony Hale to provide the voice of Forky. “It’s a huge thrill to be part of the Toy Story family,” he said. “But it’s going to take a while for it to really sink in.”
Said Cooley, “When we thought up this character, Tony was the first actor that came to mind and I’m thrilled he accepted. Tony’s performance as Forky is a comedy salad of confidence, confusion, and empathy… served by hilarious spork.”
How were filmmakers able to convince Hale to give voice to Forky? “A utensil’s existential crisis?” he asked. “I’m in!”
“Toy Story,” originally released on Nov. 22, 1995, was the first fully computer animated feature film and the highest grossing movie of the year. It was nominated for three Oscars® and two Golden Globes®.
“Toy Story 2” is the first film ever to be entirely created, mastered and exhibited digitally. It was also the first animated sequel to gross more than its original, breaking opening weekend box office records in the U.S., UK and Japan, becoming the highest grossing animated release of 1999. It won the Golden Globe for best motion picture – comedy or musical. It won a Grammy®for best song written for a motion picture, television or other visual media (Randy Newman, “When She Loved Me”).
Released in 2010, “Toy Story 3” won Oscars® for best animated feature film and best achievement in music written for motion pictures, original song (Randy Newman/“We Belong Together”). The film also won a Golden Globe® and BAFTA for best animated film. It was the second Pixar film to be nominated for the best picture Oscar. It’s also Pixar’s second highest-grossing film of all time behind “Incredibles 2.”
The 2015 short “Riley’s First Date?” was helmed by director Josh Cooley and produced by Mark Nielsen.
Fly over the moon. Sing in the rain. Fasten your seatbelts. Make an offer no one can refuse. See classic movies on the big screen!
Gene Kelly will sing in the rain, Bette Davis will fasten her seatbelt for a bumpy night, Marlon Brando will make an offer no one can refuse, Cary Grant and Eva Marie Saint will scurry across Mount Rushmore, and Elliott and E.T. will fly over the moon – and they’ll do it all on the silver screen in 2017. Today, Fathom Events and TCM announce their continuing partnership to bring monthly screenings of their “TCM Big Screen Classics”series to movie theaters nationwide throughout the year.
For the second consecutive year, “TCM Big Screen Classics” offers film fans an amazing journey into the magic of movies year-round. Beginning in January, the series presents one or more films each month in movie theaters – all accompanied by specially produced commentary from TCM host Ben Mankiewicz or Saturday-afternoon host Tiffany Vazquez, giving unique insight and behind-the-scenes tidbits that enhance the movie-going experience. Each title returns for four showings only, making the “TCM Big Screen Classics” series a monthly must-see for movie buffs of all ages.
Each of these cinematic treasures will be digitally projected in its original aspect ratio at 2:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. local time each day (Sundays and Wednesdays).
Tickets for the 2017 “TCM Big Screen Classics”series can be purchased online by visiting www.FathomEvents.com, or at participating theater box offices. For a complete list of theater locations visit the Fathom Events website(theaters and participants are subject to change).
“TCM and Fathom are proud to announce some of the greatest feature films of all time in the 2017 TCM Big Screen Classics series. These 14 titles were released over five decades and include Best Picture winners, epic storytelling, astounding direction, legendary star-power and memorable soundtracks, all of which have captured the hearts of film lovers and defined moviemaking magic,” said Fathom Events Vice President of Studio Relations Tom Lucas.
“The TCM Big Screen Classics series presents a unique opportunity for movie lovers to experience some of the most beloved classics of all time, on the big screen and with a live audience, as they were originally intended to be shown,” said Genevieve McGillicuddy, vice president of partnerships and brand activation, Turner Classic Movies. “Expanding our long-term relationship with Fathom Events and our studio partners makes it possible for TCM to directly engage with a community of movie fans in a meaningful and memorable way, and share our love of classic film in local markets across the country.”
From January to December 2017, here’s a month-by-month look at the amazing films that comprise this year’s “TCM Big Screen Classics” series:
Silent film movie star Don Lockwood (Gene Kelly) finds his muse in Kathy Selden (Debbie Reynolds) just as Hollywood discovers talking pictures, but mega-star Lina Lamont (Jean Hagen) isn’t going to stand for it – she’s bigger “than Calvin Coolidge, put together!” With the help of Cosmo Brown (Donald O’Connor), Don and Kathy will find a way to overcome the scheming Lina. Co-directed by Kelly and Stanley Donen, Singin’ in the Rain is a glorious, grin-inducing example of the Hollywood studio system at its finest, one of the happiest of musicals ever made.
The perfect Valentine’s Day event for romantics and movie-lovers alike, this CinemaScope classic remains as much a tearjerker today as it was 60 years ago, when its misty-eyed tale was first released. Cary Grant and Deborah Kerr star as the two lovers who meet by chance on a trans-Atlantic voyage and fall in love despite their existing relationships. When they agree to meet six months later atop the Empire State Building, they cannot foresee the tragic circumstances that will test the limits of their devotion – and of the tear ducts of millions of moviegoers who have fallen in love with this swooning story of love, fate and circumstance.
Backstage backstabbing and treachery has never been as deliciously fun or as intensely dramatic as it is in All About Eve – which is tied only with Titanic for the most Academy Award® nominations for a single film. Director Joseph L. Mankiewicz’s black-and-white masterpiece also stars a young Marilyn Monroe in one of her first important roles. With a record-breaking four nominations in female acting categories (Bette Davis and Anne Baxter as Best Actress and Celeste Holm and Thelma Ritter as Best Supporting Actress), it remains one of the most riveting dramas ever made, a movie often imitated but never duplicated.
From its dazzling opening credits sequence by Saul Bass, set to a wild scherzo by Bernard Hermann, to its cliffhanging finale atop Mount Rushmore, director Alfred Hitchcock’s cross-country adventure offers non-stop thrills. It stars Cary Grant as Roger O. Thornhill, a man wrongly accused of murder, who hops on to a train … and into the lap of Eve Kendall (Eva Marie Saint). All the while, he’s pursued by the sinister Philip Vandamm (James Mason), who is convinced that Thornhill is a spy. He’s not – but he’s about to become one. Few films are as effortlessly delightful as Hitchcock’s grandest adventure ever.
Dustin Hoffman delivers a Hollywood rarity: a true star-making performance as the confused, floundering Benjamin Braddock. He’s a new college graduate who seems to have no ambition in life until he crosses paths with the very married Mrs. Robinson (Anne Bancroft). The biggest box office surprise of the decade, The Graduate was an Oscar winner for director Mike Nichols (among its seven nominations), and Simon & Garfunkel’s score started a new trend in movie soundtracks. The Graduate may be celebrating its 50th anniversary, but it remains as insightful, relevant and sharply funny as ever, and comes back to movie screens just in time for a new generation of graduates to learn the secret to success: Plastics.
The summer of 1977 might be best known for a certain intergalactic adventure, but Smokey and the Bandit was the year’s second highest-grossing movie, a gleefully silly romp that grossed the adjusted box-office equivalent of nearly $500 million. The plot is almost non-existent – the Bandit (Burt Reynolds) has 28 hours to drive a truckload of Coors beer from Texas to Georgia while avoiding the relentless “Smokey,” Sherrif Buford T. Justice (Jackie Gleason) – and takes a backseat to the stunt-driven action of director Hal Needham and the still-sizzling on-screen chemistry of Reynolds and Sally Field.
There is the sheer perfection of the performances by such legendary names as Brando, Pacino, Keaton and Duvall; the impeccable direction of Francis Ford Coppola; the haunting musical theme by Nino Rota; and the stunning cinematography by Gordon Willis. Any one of these elements would make The Godfather a classic, but this epic crime drama combines them all into a towering achievement in American filmmaking celebrating its 45th anniversary, an epic saga that redefined cinema.
This hysterical comedy from director Billy Wilder finds Tony Curtis and Jack Lemmon masquerading as women inorder to elude irate Chicago mobsters while befriending a beautiful singer, Sugar Kane (Marilyn Monroe). One of the most influential movies ever made, Some Like It Hot is one of the greatest comedies of all time, still generating laughs nearly sixty years later.
Director Amy Heckerling’s adaptation of Cameron Crowe’s book (he also wrote the screenplay) didn’t simply capture a moment in time – it defined a generation by observing the behaviors and habits of teenagers in the early ‘80s with sharpness and an endless wellspring of humor. Pitch-perfect performances and a soundtrack filled with hits of the ‘70s and ‘80s, make Fast Times at Ridgemont High one of the quintessential cinematic experiences of the era – a nostalgic look back for those who lived through it and an eye-opening revelation for younger audiences.
1968 file photo of Faye Dunaway and Warren Beatty in the movie BONNIE AND CLYDE. Courtesy of Warner Home Video.
Faye Dunaway is Bonnie Parker and Warren Beatty is Clyde Barrow in Arthur Penn’s violent, sexually charged and deeply influential crime drama, a nostalgic look back at notorious outlaws filmed with the passion and zeal of filmmakers who were beginning to explore the boundaries of their craft. With a legendary screenplay by writers Robert Benton and David Newman, Bonnie and Clyde features supporting performances by an exemplary cast that includes Gene Wilder, Gene Hackman, Michael J. Pollard and Estelle Parsons and became a pop-culture sensation. A movie about legends that became a legend itself, Bonnie and Clyde made international superstars out of its cast and influenced generations of filmmakers and audiences.
Thirty-five years since its release, E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial remains a singular achievement, a movie that enchanted a generation with its sheer moviemaking prowess and its simple, exquisite story of the bond between a little boy and an alien. Directed by Steven Spielberg from a screenplay by Melissa Mathison, it’s one of the rare movies that can be universally defined by a single shot: Elliott and E.T. flying on a bicycle against a full moon. Set to a lush, unforgettable score by John Williams, E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial mesmerizes everyone who sees it – including the United Nations, who, in September 1982, awarded Spielberg the U.N. Peace Medal for his creation of one of Hollywood’s most enduring movies.
Fencing, fighting, torture, revenge, giants, monsters, chases, escapes, true love, miracles – doesn’t sound too bad! Director Rob Reiner’s charming fantasy-adventure, from a screenplay by William Goldman (and based on his novel) is a fairy tale like no other, a movie that is as beguiling to adults as it is to children, infused with magic and beauty. Robin Wright stars as Princess Buttercup, with Cary Elwes as her dashing Westley, and Mandy Patinkin is the revenge-seeking Inigo Montoya – just the beginning in an adventure that’s as fresh, fun and tongue-in-cheek as ever. The perfect cast also includes Christopher Guest, Wallace Shawn, Andre the Giant, Peter Falk, Billy Crystal, Carol Kane and, as the young boy who gets the best bedtime story ever, Fred Savage.
As time goes by, some movies age – but Casablanca remains timeless. Perhaps no other movie has become as beloved and as synonymous with Hollywood glamour as Casablanca. Humphrey Bogart is Rick Blaine, owner of Rick’s, the nightclub that everyone in Casablanca attends – including resistance leader Victor Laszlo (Paul Henreid) and his wife, Ilsa (Ingrid Bergman), whose sudden appearance leads to some of the best dialogue ever written for the movies. The screenplay by Julius J. Epstein, Philip G. Epstein and Howard Koch took an unproduced stage play and turned it into a movie unlike any other, which received the Academy Award® for Best Picture and became one of the most classic films of all time.
Fifty years ago, Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner scandalized audiences with its bold depiction of interracial romance – a poignant subject at this time in history, and its depiction of prejudice overcome by love remain powerful and moving. Sidney Poitier delivers a commanding performance as John Prentice, who accompanies his fiancée, Joey, (Katharine Houghton) to her parents’ home – without telling them that he is black. As her parents, Katharine Hepburn and Spencer Tracy star in their final film together. Produced and directed by Stanley Kramer and written by William Rose, Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner was a box-office sensation across the country, including in the South, where the studio worried that audiences would shy away from its subject. It is, in the words of TheNew York Times, “a deft comedy and – most of all – a paean to the power of love.”
A MASTER BUILDER screens as part of the 23rd Annual Whitaker St. Louis International Film Festival on Saturday, November 22 at 2:30 PM at Landmark’s Tivoli Theatre. Get ticket information here. It’s the reunion over thirty years in the making. Andre Gregory and Wallace Shawn, the stars of Louis Malle’s 1981 cult hit MY DINNER WITH ANDRE, are together again (briefly) in Jonathan Demme’s version of Henrik’s Ibsen stage classic, that’s been adapted for the screen by Shawn. Oh, and he’s the title character, celebrated architect Havald Solness, who, as the film begins, appears to be on his deathbed. He’s hooked up to machines as sister/nurses scurry about in his opulent estate. As he drifts in and out of sleep, his aging mentor Knut (Gregory) pleads with him to give his work requests to Havald’s eager young intern Ragnar (Jeff Biehl), in order to start his own business and finally marry the old master’s secretary Kaia (Emily Cass McDonnell). But even in his weakened state, Havald is cantankerous and egotistical. Once the trio leaves, Havald’s brusk wife Aline (Julie Hagerty) brings her doctor (Larry Pine) in for a visit. But the cure to make Havald spring back to life lies not in the doctor’s bag, instead it’s provided by a visitor to his home. Twenty-something free spirit Hilde (Lisa Joyce) glides in through the front door. As a child, she was dazzled by Havald when he designed a building in her village. And now she re-unites with her first crush. Havald invites her to stay in a spare room, an unused children’s bedroom, much to Aline’s dismay. The older architect and young admirer spend the next days discussing, life, art, and family secrets.
Demme films the story in long, leisurely takes in order to capture the intimacy of the dialogue-heavy scenes. And, aside from some shots of Havald’s work, everything takes place inside the spacious mansion. Shawn is full of charm, and a bit of lechery, as the invorgated near-invalid imbued with energy by this unexpected guest. Joyce sparkles as the pixie-like, giggly fan , whose motivations are often a mystery. And Hagerty makes a welcome return to the movies as the wife whose stern distraction hides years of heartbreak. All the actors help bring this iconic work vibrantly into the modern era. Demme has given fans of the stage and screen a compelling and captivating gift.
For the sake of full disclosure, I would like to begin by declaring that I am not now, nor have I ever been, a participant of the pot smoking culture. Why am I declaring this, you may ask? Simple. This movie is, essentially, all about smoking pot. Wonderful. Another DAZED & CONFUSED you say? Wrong. With that said, DON PEYOTE is also much more, but the weed certainly plays a major role.
Please, do not misinterpret my opening remarks. I hold no personal or political grudge against anyone for partaking in this extra-curricular activity. I only bring it up to make a point, as indulging in the great green pastime may certainly influence how the film is experienced. So, as you read this review, keep in mind these are merely the opinions of a critic who was not under the influence during the viewing.
In so many ways, watching DON PEYOTE is like watching Terry Gilliam’s FEAR & LOATHING IN LAS VEGAS, only a bit more insane and with a definite indie flair. Instead of the central character being a gonzo journalist who thrives on anarchy, Warren is a struggling graphic novelist who thrives on paranoia. Both characters share a relentless taste for getting high, but after doing so, Warren delves into the colorful world of conspiracy theory, sinking deeper into its crippling grasp with each hit on his improvised apple bowl.
I’m sure you can already sense what’s in store with this film. Whatever you’re thinking, you’re not wrong. Or, you are. It all depends on how far removed from reality you currently claim to be. That, my friend, best describes DON PEYOTE and how best to determine where you may stand at the film’s completion. Just food for thought. Beware, and enjoy.
DON PEYOTE is about Warren, played by Dan Fogler, who fills the unknown void in his life with marijuana. He enjoys a relatively modest life, albeit with a borderline career and a relationship built on an unstable footing. His fiance wants a child, but fails to recognize she’s about to marry one, then when she does finds Warren completely surprised by her willingness to abandon their bond. Warren surrounds himself with friends, all of whom are equally out of touch and similarly self-destructive on a subconscious level, as he makes his way through this psychotic warm and fuzzy trip.
Let me stop you here, before we go any further. If you’re seeking a clearly structured, linear film with a concise story in three simple acts and a well-defined, low mess ending… turn around. Just, stop. Go home. Give up now. These things, you will not receive. DON PEYOTE, more or less, breaks all the rules of conventional filmmaking, but does so with such energy and bravado. The film appeals to just about every genre. Comedy, drama, mystery, horror… it even has a musical number.
DON PEYOTE is many things, but it is not a low-budget half-ass mockery designed only to get your money. Well, actually, it is, but the difference is that Fogler’s film delivers instead of just luring you in and then letting you down. The cast alone is as amazing as it is overwhelmingly surprising. Each moment of the film is like finding one prize after another, all within the same box of Cracker Jacks!
Allow me to elaborate. Anne Hathaway. Need I say more? Fine. Anne as a mysterious dream agent. Not hooked yet? Josh Duhamel returns* along side Dan Fogler. [*Please refer to SCENIC ROUTE (2013).] Jay Baruchel plays a drug dealer. Topher Grace plays Fogler’s agent, that’s right. Fogler, not Warren. (See the film for clarification.) Wallace Shawn plays Warren’s psychotherapist. Abel Ferrara plays a taxi driver… alright, this one’s not much of a stretch, but still… Abel Ferrara!
Perhaps my favorite moments in the film occur once Warren is committed. Mentally, not emotionally. For an indie film, DON PEYOTE has some incredibly imaginative imagery and the production value follows suit without straying from the indie core of the film’s appeal. Fogler is clearly having fun with this film, but worked extremely hard at making it so. Aside from starring as the cuddly, yet troubled central character, Dan Fogler also co-wrote and co-directed DON PEYOTE with Michael Conzoniero. Fogler is so confident with his vision that he frequently breaks the fourth wall, addressing the audience directly. Ballsy.
Fogler himself, as an actor and comedian, I am beginning to see him as something of a modern-day Chaplin. Talented, funny and smart, hard working and yet playfully driven. That’s impressions I get from watching his work, but DON PEYOTE really gets to the heart of this notion for me. The film oozes pet project, a labor of love. These are the kinds of films I love to see being made. Kudos, Mr. Fogler.
Personally, I enjoyed the frantic, disjointed nature of this film. I was refreshed by the utter lack of accurate expectations I had for DON PEYOTE, but with that may come a limit to its adoring audience and to the level of its viewers’ understanding. Try and look past this, if you will. Live a little. Enjoy the ride.Warren is a character that endures a lot of chemically-induced hardships for your entertainment.
DON PEYOTE is available through Video On Demand and opens theatrically on Friday, May 16th, 2014.
