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From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia - View original article
Meconium is the earliest stools of a mammalian infant. Unlike later feces, meconium is composed of materials ingested during the time the infant spends in the uterus: intestinal epithelial cells, lanugo, mucus, amniotic fluid, bile, and water. Meconium had been thought to be sterile until the team of researchers from the University of Valencia in Spain found bacterial communities in it so developed that they seemed to fall into two categories. Around half of the samples appeared to be dominated by bacteria that produce lactic acid, such as lactobacillus, while the other half mostly contained a family of so-called enteric bacteria, such as Escherichia coli.[1] Meconium, unlike later feces, is viscous and sticky like tar, its color usually being a very dark olive green; it is almost odorless. When diluted in amniotic fluid, it may appear in various shades of green, brown, or yellow. It should be completely passed by the end of the first few days of life, with the stools progressing toward yellow (digested milk). The Latin term meconium derives from the Greek μήκων, mēkōn, poppy, in reference either to its tarry appearance that may resemble some raw opium preparations, or to Aristotle's belief that it induces sleep in the fetus.[2]
A symptom of both Hirschsprung's disease and cystic fibrosis is the failure to pass meconium.
Meconium is normally stored in the infant's bowel until after birth, but sometimes it is expelled into the amniotic fluid (also called "amniotic liquor") prior to birth or during labor and delivery. The stained amniotic fluid (called "meconium liquor" or "meconium stained liquor") is recognised by medical staff as a sign of fetal distress, and puts the neonate at risk of meconium aspiration. Medical staff may aspirate the meconium from the nose and mouth of a newborn immediately after delivery in the event the baby shows signs of respiratory distress to decrease the risk of meconium aspiration syndrome.[citation needed]
Meconium can be tested for various drugs, to check for in utero exposure. Using meconium, a Canadian research group at the Hospital for Sick Children, University of Toronto, showed that by measuring a by-product of alcohol (FAEE) they could objectively detect babies exposed to excessive maternal drinking of alcohol in pregnancy.[3] In the USA, the results of meconium testing may be used by child protective services and other law enforcement agencies to e.g. determine the eligibility of the parents to keep the newborn.[4]
Most of the time that the amniotic fluid is stained with meconium it will be homogeneously distributed throughout the fluid making it brown. This indicates that the fetus passed the meconium some time ago such that sufficient mixing occurred as to establish the homogenous mixture. Terminal meconium occurs when the fetus passes the meconium a short enough time before birth/caesarean section that the amniotic fluid remains clear, but individual clumps of meconium are in the fluid.
The meconium sometimes becomes thickened and congested in the ileum, a condition known as meconium ileus. Meconium ileus is often the first sign of cystic fibrosis.[5] In cystic fibrosis, the meconium can form a bituminous black-green mechanical obstruction in a segment of the ileum. Beyond this there may be a few separate grey-white globular pellets. Below this level, the bowel is a narrow and empty micro-colon. Above the level of the obstruction, there are several loops of hypertrophied bowel distended with fluid. No meconium is passed, and abdominal distension and vomiting appear soon after birth. About 20% of cases of cystic fibrosis present with meconium ileus, while approximately 20% of one series of cases of meconium ileus did not have cystic fibrosis.[6] The presence of meconium ileus is not related to the severity of the cystic fibrosis.[7] The obstruction can be relieved in a number of different ways.[8]
Meconium ileus should be distinguished from meconium plug syndrome, in which a tenacious mass of mucus prevents the meconium from passing and there is no risk of intestinal perforation. Meconium ileus has a significant risk of intestinal perforation. In barium enema, meconium plug syndrome rather shows normal or dilated colon as compared to micro-colon in meconium ileus.


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County gets emergency food/shelter funding
Tunica County has been chosen to receive $7,505 to supplement emergency food and shelter programs in the county.
The selection was made by a National Board that is chaired by the U. S. Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency and consists of representatives from the Salvation Army; American Red Cross; The Jewish Federations of North America; Catholic Charities, USA; National Council of the Churches of Christ in the U.S.A. and United Way Worldwide. The Board was charged to distribute funds appropriated by Congress to help expand the capacity of food and shelter programs in high need areas around the country.
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Best Indian Buffet in Baltimore
- l
- Let's Eat Jun 11, 2006 06:50 PM
Everyone has an opinion, and they seem so widely divergent when it comes to Indian cuisine. I guess, like so many things, it all depends on personal preference. So, what's your favorite Indian buffet in Baltimore, and, more importantly, why? Although I'm particularly interested in what you thought of buffets in this post, comments about other Indian meals are welcome. Here are my impressions to get things started:
Akbar - A frequent best-of winner, our experience there was appalling. Sauces tasted like they came right out of a can of condensed soup. My dining companion ordered a cheese dessert and pronounced it rancid. Thinking he was exaggerating, I tasted it myself. I'm sorry I did. The management was positively brusque when he complained. Note that this was dinner and not a buffet. I'm interested to know if anyone has had a recent good meal here, and what it was that you liked.
Ambassador - A beautifully appointed dining room in one of Baltimore's lovely historic neighborhoods, but the food was mediocre on my one visit. I can see choosing this place if ambience is more important to you than flavor. Again, this was a lunch experience and not a buffet.
India Rasoi - Another best-of winner, this place is very small; their dining room is about the size of . . . well . . . yours. They seem to have few visitors, but that could be due to the "hey, let's go to Little Italy for . . . Indian" problem. Because there is so little room, the buffet has very few selections. I haven't sampled it, but I have come here for dinner and for takeout. I found the food pleasant but bland. In case you are not sure, that is not a hearty endorsement. Lamb dishes were best, along with the mulligatawny soup, although I prefer more spice.
Mehek - In Fells Point on Broadway near Thames, this is my choice for the true best of Baltimore. A nice selection of dishes with complex sauces, including a few items I have not seen anywhere else. I would like to see lamb on there, but that's a quibble. Their mulligatawny soup is very nice, although I can't help smiling wryly when I see they have tossed in a bit of pasta and labeled it "chicken noodle." The service is attentive and pleasant. Another nice touch: no soggy pile of bread in a sterno-heated tray here; they bring fresh, piping-hot naan to your table as soon as you sit down with your food.
Mem Sahib - The location, right next to Lexington Market, is a bit funky. I tend to eat here only when I am using the metro, as it is a block away. But the buffet is reasonably priced, and the food is above-average. The standout here is the attentive service, and the charming owner makes you feel like a friend. An interesting selection of desserts not found on most buffets, and a pretty good lamb. And let's not forget the Indian music videos on a large screen, if that turns you on. Overall, a very good value.
Mughal Garden - I found this buffet unremarkable in most respects. Not too good, not too bad. A decent value if you happen to be in Mt. Vernon.
Great post. Anyone have thought on this topic in the Wash DC area (including the burbs). My personal fav. is the Minerva. I find the location in reston a bit better than the one in fairfax.
re: Hal Laurent
I think it depends on what's in the buffet. Something that is meant to be prepared, then served and consumed immediately (most stir-fry dishes, for example) are a bad candidate for buffets. At the opposite end of the spectrum would be soups and stews, which actually may benefit from long simmering.
As another poster has noted, Indian food does lend itself to buffet serving, being mostly of a stew-like consistency, and given that Indian food lends itself to an approach of "a little of this, a little of that", as is evidenced by the thali choices available at many Indian restaurants.
The fact remains, though, that in *most* cases, what goes onto a buffet does suffer in comparison to dishes prepared to order.
My favorite Indian lunch buffet spots are Mem Sahib and House of India in Columbia. With respect to the "mini-chains", I prefer the various Bombay spots to Akbar. I have found that Indian food is better suited to the steam table that other cuisines and find a good Indian buffet enjoyable.
re: Let's Eat
The one on Lombard closed.
re: Let's Eat
The Bombay Grill at Mt. Vernon Place ( Madison and Charles) closed about four years ago and it's owner/chef,Tony Chemmanoor, opened across the street next to Donna's Cafe on Charles Street in a space previously known as the Ruby Lounge. The atmosphere and the cuisine is temendously improved. He specializes in a fusion of european and far east cuisines. The address is 802 Charles Street, Baltimore, Md.
re: ko
Saffron has now closed, and Kim is gone. Chemmanoor has reopened the space as "Indigma." It's now classified as a contemporary Indian cuisine. They do tapas at lunch time, and more innovative dishes in the evening. The prices are much more affordable than Saffron. It's worth trying if you haven't given it a shot!
My favorite Indian food in this area is at Indian Delight on Frederick Road in Catonsville. It's also BYOB!
There's actually a good buffet in Towson called Kathmandu. As the name would imply, it's a mix of Nepalese and traditional Indian.
"Ambassador .... Again, this was a lunch experience and not a buffet"
So, they no longer have a lunch buffet?
I haven't been there in almost a year, and that for dinner.
Yes, I've heard on this board that their food doesn't stack up to others in town, but I'm a fan for the overall dining experience: the food, the patio and the service.
Also, did anyone mentioned Bombay Garden (?) in Govans?
I haven't tried Mehek, but I have tried all the others in the original posting. My favorite is Mem Sahib. The food is very good, just the right amount of spice. The lamb curry is great. The cold salads always seem very fresh. The owner is a nice young man who understands the importance of polite and friendly customer service.
I'm no connoisseur, but I've recently discovered the Indian restaurant called Sapphire in Laurel, right on Route 197. The price is fabulous and the food is delicious!
Time for an update:
Mehek - This place changes management more often than some people change diapers. In the past, the managers have always been very interested in improving the dining experience. Not any more. The bread is still piping hot, but in most other respects, the food has gone downhill with the latest management change. The soups are gone, along with the complex sauces. Couldn't find a hint of saffron on my last visit. The trays are no longer changed frequently, resulting in dry chicken and overcooked everything else. Can no longer recommend.
Kumari - This is the Nepalese/Indian place on Charles Street in Mt. Vernon. For $8 weekdays and $10 weekends, there is a nice selection of dishes, including a best-in-class okra (and this from a guy who has to be taunted to try that slimy stuff). The tandoori chicken was the best I've had, moist and full of flavor. Here, too, they bring naan fresh to your table. And if you like your mango lassi sweet and bursting with mango flavor (rather than sour and tasting mostly of yogurt and salt), this is the place to try. I'd like to see lamb on the buffet, and soup would be a welcome addition, but those are quibbles. This one is my new favorite, and it's been there for years.
re: Lettuce Eat
If Mem Sahib is the place next to lexington with the multi-layered levels and the large screen in the back, then I went to Mem Sahib a few weeks ago. It was an overall good experience: cheap (about 8.50 per person) and comfortable setting. The food selection was a tad small, but most of it was quite well done. The naan and puri (I think it was puri) were both very fresh. They had chicken, beef, and lamb options as well.
re: Lettuce Eat
great! thanks for the update
Cafe Spice has an awesome lunch buffet, they're on York Road in Towson, caddy corner to the Towson Library. Their lunch buffet changes daily and has a great selection. I believe the weekday buffet is $7.99.
Cafe Spice
321 York Rd
Towson, MD 21204
(410) 583-7770
The restaurant is below ground so relatively 'unatmospheric' but the food is fresh, the service good and I've taken many guests there and we've gone back for dinner. Highly recommend.
re: aussiewonder
I will have to try Cafe Spice. I've been to the buffets at The Ambassador Dining Room (really great atmosphere), Akbar, Mehek and the Kitchen of India. My Fiance and I like the buffet at Kitchen of India on Joppa Road in Towson the best. Their Chicken Teka Masala seems unbeatable.The decor is not nice, but the food and service make up for it.
re: Whitemarshjohn
I went to Kitchen of India today... I have very mixed feelings.
I found the flavors in ALL dishes VERY bland. The chicken tikka masala looked very promising when I was spooning it out of the tray, but when I ate it, sad to say, I was disappointed. Granted, I don't have a good reference point on what "authentic" Indian cuisine is (I think you can only say you have that point if you have a good Indian friend) because it seems that most Indian food in Baltimore is adjusted to the American palette (creamy but flavorful). Just was not my cup of tea. Same goes for the rest of the dishes. No lamb dishes on the buffet. I did appreciate Tandoori chicken in the buffet which I don't see very often (haven't been to many Baltimore Indian places, but have been to several outside of Baltimore). Overall, a good selection, but after awhile I felt like I was eating mush... just very bland.
The thing I did like though was the fact that all the meat (chicken) was very tender. You could tell that they break down whole chickens and use the meat rather than using prepackaged chicken breasts (which is easier to marinate and work with). I appreciated that all the chicken was very moist and tender and stewed well.
They brought out fresh naan, but I found it had a very floury taste. Not bad, but not good either.
I look forward to trying out the rest of these places. So far I have tried Akbar, Ambassador, and Kitchen of India, and haven't really been that impressed. So far, I have liked Ambassador the best (but I think it's a bad value price wise relative to all the other places).
re: aussiewonder
I went to Cafe Spice on Saturday (on the recommendation of a post on this site), and thoroughly enjoyed it. They didn't have lamb the day I went, and it was more expensive than I was expecting (it was $12; a little overpriced, I think), but good. My wife is a vegetarian; I am not. We both left stuffed and happy.
re: brats_n_curds
I will definitely give Cafe Spice a try. Will report back soon!
re: OscarTehGrouch
I went to Cafe Spice today and it was overall good...
I got in right before the buffet closed so the food wasn't fresh fresh but here's a general review.
Rice (not like you can screw this up), and Naan were solid. The vegetable pakora was nice and crunchy but still too much batter (I don't see why Indian places can't make this like Japanese tempura). The vegetable makhani was great... wasn't too impressed with the other veggie dishes.
Meat wise, no lamb on the buffet. The tandoori chicken was in my opinion overcooked... granted I got their late, but it was visibly overcharred and dry. The other chicken choices were chicken madras which I thought was good overall, but not great... ultimately... the flavor balance was not there... it was very spicy (don't mistake this for hot) and the spices lingered for the rest of the meal... I had to clean my palette quite a few times with some raita. The chicken korma was solid.
Overall... everything was decent to good, and at least the flavors were not bland. The owners are friendly, and I appreciated the lady letting me in at the last minute and letting me help myself before closing it off.
I would go again, but am not so blown away that I would go out of my way every single time. I'll have to keep looking and tryign the other places... maybe Baltimore Indian is bound for mediocrity.
re: hotel
Lumbini. Elizabeth Large wrote about it a while ago in her blog: http://weblogs.baltimoresun.com/enter...
re: hotel
I went there this week...fabulous...
OscarTehGrouch: "I'll have to keep looking and tryign the other places... maybe Baltimore Indian is bound for mediocrity."
Oscar, What is your basis for comparison? Have you moved here from another area where there was good Indian? The reason I am asking is because you seem very inclined to try many different Indian restaurants to find a good one and I happen to travel all the time so I am always intrested in restaurants outside the area as well - I travel a lot to Washington DC, Philadelphia, Delaware, New York City and Connecticut. Any help in those areas (especially Indian and red sauce Italian) would be appreciated. BTW, sorry that Kitchen of India was not to your liking (It is one of my favorite restaurants). Have you ever had Southern Indian food? I understand that it is different then regular Northern Indian food - the food is somewhat more spicy and can be hotter and they use lots of cocunut juice/oil or something. I've only had Southern Indian once at a place named Coromandel in Connecticut and it was different, but good. I think it would be hard to find Southern Indian food around here.
re: Whitemarshjohn
My basis for comparison is many many Indian restaurants I have tried nationwide, (well west coast vs. east coast). I have several Indian friends, cook Indian food at home, and try to be objective as possible. I have tried Southern Indian cuisine several times at several places across the nation. It is starkly different than Northern.
There is absolutely no location bias in my evaluations. One of my best Indian experiences is an Indian restaurant I frequent when back home in Washington State (I'm in Baltimore for school). Out of all places in the US, some of the best Indian I've tasted is this whole in the wall in Washington State. It is Northern Indian, and is home to the best biryani I have ever tasted.
What I look for in Indian food is this. Balance and flavor. After learning some Indian dishes, I have learned that cooking Indian food is very unforgiving. Any uncareful measuring, flawed cooking technique, shortcuts taken, are errors that are enormously compounded in the end result.
re: OscarTehGrouch
I guess part of the fun of the whole thing (at least the way I feel) is the continued search for the best Indian food. I have not even ventured down to the Washington D.C. area yet for Indian food (at least not in the past 3-4 years), but from what I've read they have more Indian restaurants then the Baltimore area. Another thing that D.C has that Baltimore does not have are very high-end haughty Indian restaurants such as Rasika in Penn Quarter where dinner for two can run from $100 - $200 and they do not even offer a buffet. They have a Chef's tasting menu that offers several vegetarian and non-vegetarian courses. I've never been to a haughty Indian restaurant, but it kind of makes you wonder.
Here is another high-brow place:
I'm sure some of the D.C. area Chowhounds are familiar with these places.
re: Whitemarshjohn
for indian buffet in the DC Metro area, Minerva is BY FAR the best
Wow, my Fiance and I tried the new Mt Everest on Belair Road in the shopping center with Kmart and Salvo Auto Parts and really enjoyed it. We arrived early for dinner and started off with a vegetable combination appetizer and then had chicken tika masala and a lamb dish with vegetables. Everything was very tasty, the decor is very nice and the staff was particularly helpful and nice. We will be back again and probably try the buffet which they serve 7 days a week at lunch time. Mt Everest specializes in Indian, Nepalese, South Indian and American foods. I've heard that they have another location somewhere on Frankford Ave.
re: Whitemarshjohn
Whoa - I'm terribly late to the thread, but "Mt. Everest" caught my eye. Is this perchance a re-opening of the restaurant with the same name that used to be on E. Joppa Road in Parkville (where Kitchen of India is now)?
*That* Mt. Everest was our absolute favorite Indian place and I was quite unhappy when they closed/changed ownership. I would love to hear that the Mt. Everest on Belair is the same place!
re: MDS
I have great news for you MDS. Mt Everest on US 1 in the shopping center with Kmart and Salvo Auto Parts IS the same Mt Everest. I found out that they have a location on Frankford and use to be located on Joppa Road where Kitchen of India now stands which they closed and this is there new location. I've been to the brunch buffet once and also had dinner there and both my Fiance and I really enjoyed the experience both times.
re: Whitemarshjohn
Oh, wow, that *IS* great news!!! I really missed them. We are definitely going to have to make a trek out there ASAP. Out of curiosity - did you happen to notice on the menu a tomato soup item? That was delicious stuff. Perhaps better once the fall weather comes around again...
We tried Cafe Spice for the lunch buffet and it was a little too spicy for what we like. Some dishes were very good - especially the desserts, the decor is very nice and the Hostess/Waitress was the greatest. I was a little dissapointed that there were no lamb dishes and they did not have Chicken Tika Masala - they had a dish sort of similar but without much chicken and it had bones in it. Our favorites Indian places currently are Kitchen of India, Mt Everest and The Ambassador Dining Room (we like the atmosphere here - the garden and old world charm and all). Other places we have tried aside from the above mentioned were Akbar, Mehek and India Palace. None of the Indian places we have tried so far were bad - just some were more to our liking then others.
re: Whitemarshjohn
No lamd? Really? Ergo, no red meat?
re: MrIncognito1
Keep walking. I was there today with a few other chowhounds to check it out. Crosby_p wrote about it a couple of days ago on another thread as well. Overall, I'd say it is average to slightly below average for local Indian buffets. I'd still head to Mem Sahib for downtown Baltimore Indian buffet (located at Lexington Market.)
The cost of the lunch buffet is $9.99, which I think is a couple bucks more than Mem Sahib. No a la carte was offered.
Starting off inauspiciously on the buffet was a very mundane salad plate - iceberg lettuce leaves, carrot and cucumber coins and a plastic squirt bottle labled "Ranch dressing" next to it. There was a divided platter consisting of chutneys, tamarind sauce, raita etc. that were somewhat anemic too, but no pickle. As crosby_p pointed out, a good vegetable pakora, a couple kinds of rice, palek paneer (lots of palek, not a lot of paneer), channa or toor dal (wasn't sure), stewed goat, shrimp "chilly," vegetable makani, tandoori chicken, and chicken tikka masala were all in the trays. Nothing really stood out - although the shrimp did pack a good bit of heat. The naan brought to the table was thin and floppy with no discernable char - basic stuff. No other kinds of breads were available. The only dessert was a concoction of sweet shredded carrots - garjarela without much cardamom? I enjoyed most the goat and the shrimp. The dal, while thin, also had a good amount of spicing.
I would suggest trying this place in the evening and ordering off the menu.


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is a turn-based space strategy game, based in a distant solar system, with up to thirty orbiting planets. Starting with your home world, build up your ships and strategy. Scout out nearby worlds, send fleets of ships to attack or send annihilation bombs. Destroy opponents by setting hidden proximity bombs or pulse bombs.
Play in single player mode, with computer opponents, or multiplayer mode, over the Internet. See how fast you can eliminate your opponents and dominate the entire solar system!
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HAMPTON CHASE AT FOXMOOR Quinn & Storey, Inc. Managing agent
As of September 1, 2013 Quinn & Storey, Inc. will be the Managing agent for Hampton Chase residents. The contact information is as follows:Judith Quinn, AMS, CMCP.O. Box 6622Lawrenceville, NJ 08648609-896-0347 phone609-896-9329 faxemail: email@example.com Board of Directors has changed the monthly meetings to be held on the second Tuesday of every month to be held at the clubhouse at 6PM.Please remember to report any damages or complaints to the Management Office as soon as possible. Any exterior issues, ex. siding, chimneys, roofs, breezeways, etc., please let us know and we will direct the repairs to the appropriate party. If you have any complaints regarding neighbors, contractor problems, noises, parking, etc. please either attend the Board Meeting or contact Management @ 609-896-0347.Dog Walking:As a Hampton Chase resident, you are required to clean up after your pets immediately. The Management Office has been hearing multiple complaints regarding pet owners in ALL buildings not cleaning up after their pets. Not only is this un-sanitary, but it is against the Rules and Regulations of the Hampton Chase Condominium Association. The Rules and Regulations state, All pet droppings must be picked up immediately, and placed in a plastic bag and deposited inside the dumpster. Please make note that if you do not comply with the Rules of this Community, you may face possible violation fines which will be attached to your maintenanace statement.Trash:Trash has been another concern among residents. Please make sure that you are disposing of your trash correctly and in a responsible manner. Trash must be secured in a leak proof bag and placed inside the dumpster. Trash may also not be left in the breezeways, balconies or patios. Doing so, creates not only a messy appearance, but may also result in spilled trash and an unmistakable stench. Please take note to keep our Community looking its best and keeping Hampton Chase neat and clean.Updated 9/3/13
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Movie News
Moriarty's GEEK STATE OF THE UNION Address!! Plus Sylbert Remembered!! Julia's MONA LISA SMILE!!
Hey, everyone. "Moriarty" here with some Rumblings From The Lab.
I want to editorialize a bit today, then eulogize a bit, then discuss a few things winding their way through development right now. That's a lot to accomplish, so let's dig right in, eh?
Savor it.
Take this moment to stop and look around you. Realize that you are living in a golden age. Appreciate this remarkable time, and understand that it doesn't happen often. The stars don't always align. The wind doesn't always blow just right. It's a rare privilege, this sort of avalanche of realized dreams, and you're up to your neck in right now.
So savor it.
Today, I want to look at just why this moment has the potential to be so great for fans of film, why I feel that we've hit a stretch here that will be discussed and enjoyed and debated for years to come. I want to take the moment for what it is, and no matter what comes to pass, I want to mark this as a milestone of optimism, a vantage point from which the future looks rosy and amazing and limitless in what can be. Right now, today, more than anything, I hope.
I'd be going nuts waiting for the summer to start if I didn't think there was so much worth seeking out in the weeks between now and STAR WARS. For example, I'm excited about both AMADEUS and Martin Scorsese's ass-kicking rockumentary THE LAST WALTZ coming back to theaters this weekend, and plan to make events out of both. The week after that, Lions Gate unleashes a one-two punch that I think furthers the idea that they're the new Miramax, the one indie out there that's really stretching, with THE CAT'S MEOW and FRAILTY offering radically different rides to viewers. USA is finally releasing the debut film from Michel Gondry, HUMAN NATURE, which I'm excited about because of Charlie Kaufman. He's one of those names you'll see again and again in this article because he's one of the guys who makes this such an exciting time for viewers. His is a voice worth paying attention to, and we're very fortunate, because studios seem to have figured this out. And speaking of singular voices, you can also see THE RETURN OF THE SECAUCUS SEVEN by John Sayles in theaters that weekend, a wonderful early film by one of the most integrity-drenched men in independent cinema. Sayles is the real deal, and if you're familiar with THE BIG CHILL but not SECAUCUS, you owe it to yourself to get to a theater and see this while you can. A week later, a very different type of classic gets a rerelease when MASTER OF THE FLYING GUILLOTINE roars into theaters with a restored print. You jonesing for THE MATRIX or the Jedi action of STAR WARS? Try GUILLOTINE and see if you can handle the kick. Or, if you're in the mood for something else that weekend, you can also try MY BIG FAT GREEK WEDDING or NINE QUEENS, an indie buzz hit and an Argentine import that are both garnering some serious praise already. You can continue to overdose on eclectic pics like DOGTOWN & Z-BOYS (a phenomenal documentary about skateboarding in the '70s), JASON X (as dumb as fun can be), NIGHT AT THE GOLDEN EAGLE (Adam Rifkin's dark and grimy new indie about life in low places in the heart of LA), THE SALTON SEA (DJ Caruso's kick-ass crime noir thriller that I screened recently at the Egyptian Theater), and VULGAR (A View Askew curiousity about a very filthy clown) as the spring finally wraps up, all in an attempt to cleanse the palette before summer begins.
And isn't this the part of the year where NOTHING is supposed to come out? Looks like things are finally changing for the better.
When May arrives, the very first weekend promises both SPIDER-MAN and HOLLYWOOD ENDING. I'll be honest; I want to see both about equally. SPIDER-MAN looks like damn good fun, but HOLLYWOOD ENDING looks like one of the funniest Woody Allen films in a while. I've been waiting for this Dreamworks deal to yield something special, and it may have finally happened. The nice thing is that these are aimed at such different audiences that I don't think Raimi and Co. are going to poach whatever audience Woody would normally have on an opening weekend, and spillover may actually mean a few extra asses in seats.
So often, I hear film fans complain that the summer belongs to children and is only for the infantilized pop culture cartoons that fanboys adore. Nonsense. One of this year's nominees for Best Foreign Language Film comes out the weekend after SPIDER-MAN, and you can bask in all four hours of LAGAAN: ONCE UPON A TIME IN INDIA for yourself. There's also some actual buzz building for UNFAITHFUL, Adrian Lyne's new film about people who fuck. I don't think it's for me, but WARM WATER UNDER A RED BRIDGE by Imamura just might be.
The weekend after that, it's STAR WARS: EPISODE II - ATTACK OF THE CLONES as far as most of us are concerned, and the more I know and the more I see and the more I hear, the more sure I am that this film is going to rock all serious SW fans in a way that we're just starting to fathom. That soundtrack album is incredible, featuring some of the best work that John Williams has done in a long time. If the film can live up that score, we're up for a real treat. And if you're one of those film fans who aren't interested in STAR WARS (yes, I think they exist) or you just don't feel like fighting with crowds that weekend, then both ABOUT A BOY and THE BELIEVER offer decidedly different choices. I saw Henry Bean's THE BELIEVER at Sundance last year, and I love the film and the lead performance by Ryan Gosling. It's been on Showtime already in the interim, but for a lot of audiences, this theatrical run will be their first chance to see the movie. ABOUT A BOY is from the same producers as FOUR WEDDINGS AND A FUNERAL and NOTTING HILL, the film that did so well as counter-programming opposite THE PHANTOM MENACE when it was released in '99, and the early buzz on the movie is strong.
Memorial Day weekend means we get a new film from Christopher Nolan, who won over so many hearts and minds with MEMENTO last year, and I personally love the script for the INSOMNIA remake. I think it's a really effective retelling of the same basic story as the original, but with great star turns for Robin Williams and Al Pacino. Family audiences will no doubt embrace SPIRIT, the new Dreamworks animated epic about the life of a horse in the American West. Lorna Cook, the film's director, has been working her way towards this for a long time, ever since her days at Don Bluth's company, and I'm betting she's produced something personal and even somewhat poetic. The nice thing about SPIRIT is that it will speak in large part to an audience that hasn't had an animated film of their own for a while, the young girl audience that has been proven to be a powerful ticket-buying base when properly inspired. There's something timeless about the connection that girls have to horses, and this should connect in a big way.
And the rest of this summer is packed with films that I genuinely want to see. I don't have any sort of deep emotional attachment to the work of Tom Clancy. I think he spins good yarns. As a result, I think THE SUM OF ALL FEARS looks pretty good. Besides, I'm always hoping for a good Phil Alden Robinson film every time he works. If you're a stickler for the details in an adaptation, I'd say you should probably skip this entirely, because it'll just give you a headache, but I love this kind of big action film set against the background of the intelligence community. That's the same reason I hope that Doug Liman's THE BOURNE IDENTITY is a winner. Matt Damon's a good choice for this type of film precisely because it's not what you'd expect. Franke Potente also goes a long way towards convincing me to see a movie... any movie... and the script for this was good, with a lame ending that I hear got reworked extensively before it was shot.
I plan to go see THE KID STAYS IN THE PICTURE with my buddy Patton, who is obsessed with Robert Evans and does a gaspingly funny impression of him, and am pleased to have a documentary to turn to when I get overloaded on blockbusters like MINORITY REPORT or MEN IN BLACK 2 or Disney's sure-to-hit LILO & STITCH. I am going to wish on every star in the sky that John Woo's WINDTALKERS turns out to be something akin to his classic A BULLET IN THE HEAD, and not the miserable train wreck I've been told it is by people who have seen it. I am going to hope that Warner Bros. is smart enough to somehow cut a film that is nothing but Matt Lillard and the spooky talking dog, turning SCOOBY-DOO into something that works despite Raja Gosnell's presence and the hideous James Gunn script. I am going to pray that Jackie Chan delivers playful fun with THE TUXEDO. I want to have a great summer. I want to be able to enjoy all of these films and more.
As the rest of this year unfolds, much of the class of '99 is back with new films. Alexander Payne and Jim Taylor, who worked so well as the creative team behind ELECTION, are back with ABOUT SCHMIDT, a Jack Nicholson film that is quite beautiful and knowing and funny on the page, and which features a Kathy Bates performance that is already building early Oscar buzz for next spring. Likewise, Spike Jonze and Charlie Kaufman are following up their brilliant BEING JOHN MALKOVICH with the challenging and deranged ADAPTATION, a film that was fearless and terrifying and ferociously funny on the page. And I even confess a desire to see what Jay Roach and Mike Myers have cooked up for the latest AUSTIN POWERS installment. They may not be telling radically different stories each time out, but neither does the Bond franchise, which they're still ribbing mercilessly. Besides, I hear that the MGM maneuvering that forced New Line to drop the GOLDMEMBER title has pissed off Roach and Myers so much that they went back and rewrote the film to be more savage, more pointed. They've turned it up and this time, they're looking for blood. That's when great comedy can happen, fuelled by anger, and I look forward to seeing what they've done. Then there's Sam Mendes, winner of Best Picture that year for his debut feature, AMERICAN BEAUTY. We're going to see if he can do it again, working with Tom Hanks this time on a gangster-era riff on LONE WOLF & CUB, a film with one of the most striking one-sheets I've seen in a while, THE ROAD TO PERDITION. The pressure is on for him to deliver again, just like it is for M. Night Shyamalan, who blew up in August of '99 when THE SIXTH SENSE was released. I had been a fan of his for a while by that point, thanks to my reading of his scripts (thanks again, Den, for pointing the way so early), but no one has had a look at any of SIGNS. He's turned into a security freak now, and is guarding every detail of his crop circles mystery. Are there aliens involved? What do the crop circles mean? On the surface, those questions bore the piss out of me, but it's Shyamalan... I'll give the guy the benefit of the doubt every time out. PTA has been MIA since MAGNOLIA, but he's back this fall with his mysterious Adam Sandler film, and I'm dying to know what the hell it's all about. And, of course, the guys behind the wonderful OUT OF SIGHT are back, both together and apart. Soderbergh's got FULL FRONTAL coming out at the end of the summer, while Clooney's making his directorial debut with CONFESSIONS OF A DANGEROUS MIND, a film that was already long-stalled by '99, and which is just now finally making its way to the screen. Then they're working together again on SOLARIS, a new adaptation of the Stanislaw Lem novel, a film I personally can't wait to see. It's a brutally sad and adult film featuring some strong sexual material that really paints a picture of what it is that we all attempt to find in intimacy. It's less SF than inner journey, and I'm dying to see how they slip this by the mainstream.
It's no accident that I mention 1999, either. That was the last really great year of film that we had, and working here at AICN, I turned out over 400,000 words of coverage that year. I was drunk on movies all year long, in love with what was going on. Picking a favorite film from that year is next to impossible for me. And at this point in 1999, we were just starting to realize what sort of year we were in for. I'm getting that same feeling now, and it's got me excited all over again to be writing this coverage for you.
As for the rest of the year, I have no idea how everything's going to turn out, since much of the stuff is still shooting, but I know that I plan to dunk myself headfirst into BULLETPROOF MONK, STARK RAVING MAD, ONE HOUR PHOTO, ECKS VS. SEVER, TREASURE PLANET, WELCOME TO COLLINWOOD, KILL BILL, REIGN OF FIRE, HOUSE OF 1,000 CORPSES, SIMONE, and XXX. Will they all work? Who knows? They might all stink. But they've all got something about them... a director, or a writer, or a concept, or an actor... that makes me want to see them, that makes me want to believe they'll be great. At least they're all originals. It's nice to have the choice when we're also getting so many franchise pictures this year. A new Bond film (DIE ANOTHER DAY), a new Jackson/Tolkein epic (THE TWO TOWERS), another visit to Hogwart's (HARRY POTTER AND THE CHAMBER OF SECRETS), a new Mariachi action epic (ONCE UPON A TIME IN MEXICO) as well as the return of Carmen and Juni (SPY KIDS 2), and, to top everything off, the final voyage of the Next Generation crew in STAR TREK: NEMESIS.
I am a hopeless sucker for "dream projects." I always root for people when they are finally getting a chance to do their "dream projects." I'm incredibly primed at this point to see Martin Scorsese's GANGS OF NEW YORK. That script by him and Jay Cocks and Kenneth Lonergan is a thing of beauty, and the reports from early screenings have been great. If he delivers with this one, then let's hope Hollywood finally takes the opportunity to reward Scorsese with its highest honors. I think it's insanity that right now, Scorsese and I are tied for how many times we've won Best Director. James Toback has been struggling to make HARVARD MAN for a lot of years, and despite the fact that Toback is a lunatic, he's a talented guy who has made some very good films. He's been carrying this around with himself for a while, and maybe that's paid off in something great. Last year, we watched Steven Spielberg interpret Stanley Kubrick's longtime obssession, A.I., and this year, rising German star Tom Tykwer is bringing the last script of the late, great Kryztof Kieslowski to the screen as HEAVEN, a film co-starring Cate Blanchett and Giovanni Ribisi that premiered to hot debate at this year's Berlin Film Festival.
And I know I've railed about remakes on this site, to the point of starting a column just to discuss them as they're announced. But I have to admit an intense curiousity about Dreamworks's remake of RING, the Japanese horror film. I thought that movie was long on mood and concept, and short on delivery. Who knows? They might actually come up with something that improves on the original. The studio's big holiday season release looks to be Steven Spielberg's CATCH ME IF YOU CAN, and I am curious to see what becomes of this Leonardo Di Caprio vehicle based on a very strong script by Jeff Nathanson. Last time Spielberg did the big summer movie/smaller more personal Christmas films in one year, it was 1993 and the one-two punch of JURASSIC PARK and SCHINDLER'S LIST. If this year is anywhere near as good as that one for him, he'll be on top of the world by the start of 2003.
And what of next year and beyond? Is this going to be one of those cycles that burns out within a year? Or could it be that we've caught a wave that might last? DAREDEVIL kicks off 2003, and I don't care what any embittered fanboy says: I've read the script, I've seen the storyboards, I like the casting, and I think this movie's going to rock. I am sticking my neck out there right now and saying that you are going to change your tunes when you see what Mark Steven Johnson's up to. No matter what you think of his work before now, this is one of those "dream projects" I mentioned. This is a guy who remembers being a kid, sitting outside a local store, waiting for it to open because it's the day DAREDEVIL is due, a guy who's been carrying around this movie for 20 years in his head. Hey... if Kevin Smith is excited about it, I'd say he knows his stuff, wouldn't you?
Lawrence Kasdan is a long time fave of mine, and even when he's off his game, he's better than a lot of guys out there. Working from a novel by Stephen King that's been adapted by William Goldman, I'm rooting for him to turn DREAMCATCHER into something great, just like I'm praying that the casting of Adam Sandler and Jack Nicholson pays off in ANGER MANAGEMENT in the same way that De Niro and Stiller in MEET THE PARENTS worked so well. Of course, we'll be seeing MEET THE FOKKERS at the same time, so we'll see which combo audiences embrace more.
That's just the tip of the iceberg for sequels in 2003. There's a new X-MEN film, a new CHARLIE'S ANGELS film, and the combined impact of not one, but TWO big sequels to THE MATRIX in the space of six months. RELOADED is in the summer and REVOLUTIONS is in the fall, at least as far as Warner Bros. says right now. We'll see if the Wachowskis are able to pull off this minor miracle; at least Peter Jackson gave himself a year between films. I don't know what I think about TERMINATOR 3: RISE OF THE MACHINES, but I know that hiring Jonathan Mostow, as good a B-filmmaker as there is working right now, looks like a step in the right direction since Cameron's not involved in the thing. Now that Nick Stahl is onboard to play John Connor, I'm expecting them to cast William Mapother as the new Terminator any day. We'll see if Universal can get a franchise out of THE CHRONICLES OF RIDDICK, Vin Diesel's return to the world that was established in PITCH BLACK. I'm hoping early reports aren't true about how Riddick is facing another alien species that likes the dark. In a limitless SF galaxy, it would be a shame if their scope of vision was so limited, no pun intended. SAHARA is Rob Bowman's attempt to give Paramount a big action franchise by adapting Clive Cussler's successful Dirk Pitt character to the bigscreen. I've always thought these books were borderline parody to begin with, so I'm dying to see how they play them onscreen. And the idea of an EXORCIST prequel didn't mean much to me until I read the script that tells the story of Father Merrin's first encounter with the Devil in the sands of Africa. It could well be a powerful, scary film that's worthy of the EXORCIST name if properly shot, and I've certainly got no complaints about someone trying to make good horror films. And, of course, 2003 closes out Peter Jackson's LORD OF THE RINGS series with THE RETURN OF THE KING, the film I've always thought was going to be the real powerhouse of the three. If the last forty minutes or so don't break your heart into a million pieces, you may not have one. Isn't that worth looking forward to?
If DAREDEVIL works, here's hoping we are also lucky enough to get a HULK that rampages ably and a FANTASTIC FOUR that delivers the goods. Those properties are better known than THE LEAGUE OF EXTRAORDINARY GENTLEMEN, but sometimes lesser-known comic book titles loan themselves to adaptation more easily. Stephen Norrington certainly has his work cut out for him, and I hope he's able to realize Alan Moore's extravagant and delightful vision of a Victorian world full of adventure and mystery. Hiring someone like Norrington or Ang Lee seems like the first important step in making these projects work. Strong artists have a better chance of giving us something memorable and worthwhile, something worth rooting for.
The same could be said about Anthony Minghella's COLD MOUNTAIN or Kevin Smith's JERSEY GIRL or Terry Gilliam's GOOD OMENS or Darren Aronofsky's THE LAST MAN or Francis Ford Coppola's MEGALOPOLIS or PJ Hogan's PETER PAN. These are films made by filmmakers with singular voices, guys who have proven themselves to be the real deal at some point. In each of these cases, there's passion behind the projects, and that could translate to films that really speak to viewers, the kinds of films that become favorites, dearly loved, hotly debated at times. Knowing that there's a new Pixar film (FINDING NEMO) or a new Aardman film (TORTOISE VS. HARE) or a new Fincher film (RENDEZVOUS WITH RAMA) or a new Coen Bros. film (INTOLERABLE CRUELTY) or even a Jim Carrey film that reuinites him with Tom Shadyac and Steve Oderkirk (BRUCE ALMIGHTY) or that pairs him with Charlie Kaufman and Michel Gondry (ETERNAL SUNSHINE OF THE SPOTLESS SOUL) just makes me giddy. It's the anticipation that makes this fun. It's knowing that these projects are brewing, out there in the ether right now... that's what keeps me coming back to this page and to CHUD and Coming Attractions and Dark Horizons and every other site I visit in my daily rounds. It's hoping for little bits and pieces of info, puzzle pieces that I can add to my understanding of these nebulous celluloid promises.
I look beyond 2003 and see movies like IRON MAN or WALLACE & GROMIT IN THE GREAT VEGETABLE PLOT or HARRY POTTER AND THE PRISONER OF AZKABAN or WHERE THE WILD THINGS ARE or THE POLAR EXPRESS or Brad Bird's THE INVINCIBLES or Quentin Tarantino's GLORIOUS BASTARDS or even McG's SUPERMAN, and I root for them. I root for this to just go on and on, this warm and fuzzy glow I've been feeling.
I want it to last through 2005 and the release of STAR WARS EPISODE III. I want it to last through the release of KING CONAN: CROWN OF IRON and INDIANA JONES 4 and BATMAN YEAR ONE and TRUE LIES 2. I want to be surprised all along the way by the little films I never see coming. I want to learn more about international cinema each year, and I want to see guys like Takashi Miike and Kiyoshi Kurosawa and Danis Tanovic and Jean Pierre Jeunet and Alejandro Almenebar all grow into their voices even further and continue to challenge us in ways that American cinema can't.
I stand here today, screaming at the top of my lungs like Veruca Salt, greedy for all of this, even as I acknowledge that I'll be lucky if I really love even 20 of the films I've mentioned here. Damn lucky. I know that. Rationally, I know that despite the best of intentions and the best of source material and the best of ideas and financing and creative elements, things can go wrong. Films are magic because they are an imprecise science. When they work, it's effortless, lighter than air, like it was meant to be. And when they don't, there's nothing you can do about it. They just lay there, beached and bloated, and all you can do is move on to the next thing. I know that, but I choose to look at the future through rose-colored glasses. I hope. I hope with every bit of my being. I refuse to be like so many of the people I see littering our Talk Backs and other message boards around the Web. I refuse to be like the people I talk to in town who just can't find anything to like in films. I refuse to be overwhelmed by the casual cynicism that is so easy to embrace within the industry.
And that's because when I see all the things we have to look forward to, I don't see any reason to close myself off to possibility. Instead, I see every reason in the world to open myself up. No matter what changes occur in my professional life in the days ahead, I'll always return to AICN as an outlet to discuss these things I love, these shared dreams in the dark. As far as I can tell, the state of the Geek Nation is healthy, and there's nothing but blue skies ahead.
And maybe all of this makes me the biggest April Fool of all today, but I plan to enjoy the ride ahead. Here's hoping you all decide to join me.
And now let's turn, having taken a look forward, and take a look back at the career of a truly legendary film artist who passed away Saturday, March 23, finally giving in after a fight with cancer. He was 73 years old, and he's one of those guys whose contribution to film is hard to measure in simple credits. He trained as a painter originally, but was lucky enough to apprentice to one of film's true early visionaries, William Cameron Menzies, eventually becoming a production designer.
He didn't just dress sets, though. Sylbert was one of those collaborators who made every film better by his involvement. His fingerprints are evident on such genuine classics as ROSEMARY'S BABY, BABY DOLL, A FACE IN THE CROWD, THE MANCHURIAN CANDIDATE, FAT CITY, CARLITO'S WAY, SPLENDOR IN THE GRASS, LONG DAY'S JOURNEY INTO NIGHT, THE GRADUATE, CARNAL KNOWLEDGE, THE PAWNBROKER, WHO'S AFRAID OF VIRGINIA WOOLF?, as well as the sizzling six color comic book look of DICK TRACY, the iconic cool of CHINATOWN and SHAMPOO, and the epic winter frost of REDS.
He even spent a brief stint as head of production at Paramount, where he was responsible for greenlighting THE BAD NEWS BEARS. How can you not love this guy?
Sylbert is one of those guys who don't exist in today's film world. He will be deeply missed, and his influence will continue to be felt on films for as long as those movies I listed are available. For that reason, I don't mourn him, so much as I celebrate him, and offer this small testimonial as to how important his influence has been.
I'd like to wrap today up by saying how surprised I was when I read the script for MONA LISA SMILE last week. All I knew going in was that Revolution Studios had purchased the script for Julia Roberts to star in, and a little poking around turned up Mike Newell's name as director. Newell is one of those guys who has been around forever, first working on British television in the '60s. I had no idea what the film was about, though, and the title gave nothing away.
It would be easy to dismiss the script by Larry Konner & Mark Rosenthal as DEAD POET'S SOCIETY in a girl's school, and that's what I started to think as I read the set-up for the piece. Katherine Ann Willis (the Roberts role) is the new teacher at Wellesley, and it's the fall of 1953. Right away, I started thinking of all the cliches in the genre, all the predicatble MR. HOLLANDs and DANGEROUS MINDs that I've sat through, and I wandered for a moment if I even wanted to keep reading.
She's an art history teacher, too, giving her ample opportunity to talk about all of life's big subjects. I decided to read the first 30 pages only and set it aside if the familiarity was too strong.
But after that 30, I read the next 30. Then the next. And before I knew it, I'd burned through all 126 pages, and I found myself genuinely impressed by it as a look at a particular time and place when women were forced to struggle with their roles in the world in a way more direct than anything they face now. The specificity of the setting is what gives this script a real kick, and Julia's role was written smart. Hers is not the journey I thought it would be. She doesn't have all the answers. In a lot of ways, she is learning just as much as the girls in her care, and the fact that she's still young enough to remember being where they were, facing the choices they were, and old enough to regret some of the decisions she made, is what makes her believable, real. She makes mistakes. She tries to live through these girls instead of helping them to find their own way. And eventually, she realizes just how little it is she actually knows, something that many people never achieve. I found myself rooting for Katherine and liking her immensely. I hope the supporting cast around Roberts is filled with fresh faces, actresses who springboard from these great roles into bigger films. It's a true ensemble piece that manages to transcend its subject matter to become more than just "another chick flick," at least on the page. It's a film about how all of us need our particular dreams to survive, and about how unpredictable those dreams can be for anyone else observing us.
On that note, I'm going to take off. I am preparing to try and bring one of my own dreams to fruition a little later this week, and the stress of it has made me a complete freak for days now. Hopefully, I'll be working on some more articles to entertain you and distract me until then. Either that or slamming my head in a door. Whatever does the trick.
Until then...
"Moriarty" out.
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April 1, 2002, 11:26 a.m. CST
by TarantinoWebsite
no word about Kill Bill? was it an april fools joke or not what you posted today about QT's role about Pei Mei?
April 1, 2002, 11:30 a.m. CST
by Goonie
Awesome update--Right now really is a great time for film geeks. However, please never mention Charlie's Angels 2 again!
April 1, 2002, 11:31 a.m. CST
by dp4m
... the April Foolin'?!? And am I first?
April 1, 2002, 11:35 a.m. CST
Nicely put
by Explody
Optimism is so much more fun than cynicism. Sometimes.
April 1, 2002, 11:38 a.m. CST
k....sounds good to me
by TheManOnTheMoon
exxcept wheres X4...i thought for sure a film by paul thomas anderson would definately be a must see anticipation builder for 2002
April 1, 2002, 11:43 a.m. CST
by spideyman1218
April 1, 2002, 11:51 a.m. CST
Mori, you Glorious Bastard!!
by Justicer
I can't believe I actually read through all of that. Actually, I thought it might've been a good read since Mori penned it, but BLAZING BITCHES, MAN, that was Long! Anyway - Looking forward to The "YEAR of Great Movies", like you all are. Ah, What the Hell! I'm no Optimist. I'm Biting my Fist to steel myself against Lucas's Latest just like the rest of my Pessimistic, Cynically Glorious and Bastardly like Ilk. God Help us All if we're Right. God Help Us even if We're wrong. God Knows we could use it.
April 1, 2002, 11:57 a.m. CST
When Drew Gets On A Roll....
by EricAlan69
....he brings the goods. I really miss these insane Moriarty rants! Also, I'm really fucking disturbed by that damnable 'Chicken Run' Harry up in the corner there, squooting an egg from his posterior. That, my friends, is April Fucked. // e.
April 1, 2002, 11:57 a.m. CST
by Chaka_Not_Fraid
You mean they're actually going to be releasing movies in May besides Spiderman & Episode II?????
April 1, 2002, 11:59 a.m. CST
After reading these rumblings the only thing I can say is...
by Edward Rooney
HOLY SHIT! that boy can write like a motherfucker. Kick ass way to start my day. And to think I was planning to jump off a cliff and end it all!
April 1, 2002, 12:04 p.m. CST
The State of an Industry.
by rabid_republican
This was an exhaustive list of things to come. I am harkened back to Moriarty's LOTR:FOTR review and it occurs to me that for a man that said we should "demand better", because of the somewhat mediocre state of the industry, it seems we're poised to receive just that. Or we could be deceiving ourselves. Who's to say? Certainly not I, having failed to get my sorry hide to the indie theater a little more often. Given the list here, I might be playin' a little hooky from my social life to catch up on what I've missed and what is yet to come.
April 1, 2002, 12:06 p.m. CST
Kaufman Triptych
by carouselambra
Can't wait for all these! "Human Nature" seems a bit TOO bizarre, but "Adaptation" sounds f---ing brilliant. And of course "Dangerous Mind" should be top notch. Kaufman rules. It would've been nice if more actual release dates were included here. I'm not sure when any of these movies are coming out, especially the ones in the next few months.
April 1, 2002, 12:09 p.m. CST
400,000 words in 1999?
by Hawq
We just got that much in one article! I'm mostly looking forward to LOTR, SW, and CONAN. Thank Peter Jackson for raising the bar on cool movies! (And of course Lucas for raising it back in '77)
April 1, 2002, 12:09 p.m. CST
At Long Last.......
by MithrilDave
This sums up what I've been thinking and feeling for a while now, drooling anticipation for a the possibilities of goodness coming our way. Bring it on baby.
April 1, 2002, 12:13 p.m. CST
Thanks for the subtle way..............
by MithrilDave
of telling all the cynics to shove it and love it. You rock Mori.
April 1, 2002, 12:25 p.m. CST
While there's no doubt this summer will be exciting,
by JoeLove
It's not looking like anything special enough to write what basically reads like an annotated calendar, Snoriarty. You keep referring to '99 which by all accounts was a fantastic year for movies, but I just can't see the same potential here. Yes, there's a lot of good movies. But really, how can you look at any of the upcoming releases and say they have the same strength as films like The Matrix, Three Kings, Being John Malkovich, American Beauty, Insider, Hurricane? Please!
April 1, 2002, 12:33 p.m. CST
amadeus and john woo
by pparker
it was 20 minutes or so longer than the first theatrical release, with better picture and sound. i also think that it will be rated r in the usa because the additional footage features a shot of konstanze webers (i dont know the acresses name) tits. although i havent seen the old version of the movie for a while, i think that the don giovanni opera scene is longer, as well as the scene where the comedians make fun of classical pieces. but the movie would have been a lot more fun without this little moronic bitch sitting behind me, constantly asking her boyfriend when the movie would be over, so that everybody could hear it, starting with that shit at the 90-minute mark, testing my patience for another 90 minutes. during the whole movie, my back was treated by one of her legs because she was pressing it against my seat. but otherwise, it was a perfect movie experience. like moriarty, i also hope that windtalkers will be a fine movie, but i think its unfair expecting a masterpiece like bullet in the head. in his good old hongkong days, woo was the king and could realize most of the things he wanted to do. there is no way mgm allows him to make a movie like that, a hyperkinetic,ultraviolent and depressing action/drama/warfilm without a happy end. instead, we will get a patriotic piece of shit, suitable for the mass audiences, but disappointing for fans expecting a movie as intense as bullet in the head. its all hollywoods fault, they are holding woo back, and everybody who disagrees is an idiot. john woo hasnt lost it, and reading posts here insulting him because his movies are shit makes me angry, most of these people have no idea. if they only know movies like broken arrow, mission impossible 2 and hard target, they should shut the fuck up. he has not made one decent movie in hollywood yet (face off was not bad, but only john woo light in my opinion), not one good movie in 9 years! in hongkong, he made a better tomorrow 1 and 2, the killer, bullet in the head and hard boiled within 6 years and without huge budgets, and all this movies are fucking masterpieces, movies that inspired tarantino and other great directors. look what happened to him, look what happened to chow yun-fat. this man was also a king in hongkong, but just a poor little fuck in hollywood, starring in farces like the replacement killers. fuck hollywood!
April 1, 2002, 12:50 p.m. CST
Here Here! Here Here!
by Z-Man
April 1, 2002, 12:51 p.m. CST
I miss the old style 'Rumblings'.....
by Manaqua
......thanks Mori, for the massive editorial piece. As usual, I take notes and look out for those titles.........You da man!!
April 1, 2002, 1 p.m. CST
Movies Mori ISN'T Looking Forward To...
by Buzz Maverik
Let's see, there's Kevin Costner's plan to take over Clint Eastwood's old role as Philo Beddoe in WHICHEVER WAY YOU WANT. They're planning to go with an unknown for the part of Clyde and now that Lyle Lovett's been trampled by a bull, who knows who'll get the part of Orville. They'd better cast quickly, or they'll lose Dame Maggie Smith who is playing the Ruth Gordon role of Ma Boggs... Speaking of redneck movies, does anybody really want to see another episode of ASS MCGRAB? That's getting so old, although it could round out a redneck triple feature with David Fincher's MACON COUNTY LIBRARY...And with Episode 2, it is inevitable that we get continuations of bad STAR WARS rip offs. Jake Lloyd in THE LAST STARFIGHTER FIGHTS BACK? Lucas Black in BATTLE BEYOND BATTLE BEYOND THE STARS? I don't think so.
April 1, 2002, 1 p.m. CST
What about Bad Santa?
by sjen
Great rundown, but what about Bad Santa? It's directed by Terry Zwigoff, written by the Coen brothers, and stars Bill Murray. It's supposed to come out around Christmas. Also, what about Shanghai Knights and I Spy, you know Owen Wilson will be hilarious in both.
April 1, 2002, 1:16 p.m. CST
"Anticipation... anti-ci-pay-aay-shun...""
by Carson Dyle
Golly, there sure are lots of big, brightly wrapped presents under the box office tree this year. Most will no doubt disappoint once opened, but the few that don't will keep us coming back for more. For example, I'm pretty sure "Signs" will be a long, dull, anti-climactic stage play about an alien invasion in which all the exciting parts occur off screen -- but maybe I'm wrong... maybe it'll be great!... the best thriller since "The Sixth Sense"! Either way, hope will continue to spring eternal for this particular geek.
April 1, 2002, 1:32 p.m. CST
Minor Spielberg-related correction
by Rollo Tomassi
Actually, Spieleberg did the Summer/Christams one-two punch thing one more time after the glorious year that was '93: In 1997, he gave us "Lost World" in the summer, and the underrated "Amistad" at Christmas. Certainly not up there with '93, but "Lost World" was still fun in it's own dumb way, and, as I said, "Amistad" (while of course not as good as "Schindler") is highly underrated.
April 1, 2002, 1:36 p.m. CST
Argh!!! Too much....information!!!!! Too many movies! Bra
by General Idea
April 1, 2002, 2:08 p.m. CST
What you missed Moriarty...
by KID AB
It's All About love, new film from Thomas Vinterberg (Festen). Coming May!!!
April 1, 2002, 2:11 p.m. CST
Nice one MORIARTY. Thats how you keep your viewers with you (har
by wak15
Someone once said Moriatry should have his own site. If thats how he would do it I would be there like a shot. Very eloquent very good.
April 1, 2002, 4:03 p.m. CST
star wars`(or star wars`s) april fool
by drjones
ok... i guess it is a joke lucasfilm plays to the fans. the release date for star wars has now been changed to a tentative december 20. release date says a letter sent to fox employees. jeeesus chrriiiiiist. i think it HAS to be a joke. december 20th...that would mean a direct "competition" to TTT..no it HAS to be a joke...it`s impossible. ohhh i can`t go sleeping without knowing the truth.....aren`t there some INSIDERS who could know anything????
April 1, 2002, 4:31 p.m. CST
That's the most joy-inducing piece I think I've ever rea
by Vegas
I keep forgetting how much is coming out in the next few years, mainly because of my "carrot philosophy" that I contracted from Nordling (pick the next movie that's coming out that you want to see, hang it in front of you like a carrot in front of a mule, find new carrot after movie comes out). It's a sort of tunnel vision that I use to pass the drudgery of work, and it keeps me surprised and always looking forward to things without burning myself out on them, but sometimes you just have to be shocked into all that is coming out. All this, and I heard Richard Linklater might be doing FRIDAY NIGHT LIGHTS (a book any Texan should know), and there's always future work from Wes Anderson to inspire me. Damn, this is a good day indeed.
April 1, 2002, 4:33 p.m. CST
Of Spiderman and Star Wars
by EliCash
I want both of these films to rock the geek nations, BUT my prediction is that Spiderman, despite the great Sam Raimi behind the camera, will be another one of those souless blockbusters we all complain about. (I hope I'm wrong.) On the other hand, the movie everyone is expecting to fail based on Episode 1, Attack of the Clones will be surprisingly good, and restore the faith of Star Wars fans around the world.
April 1, 2002, 5:06 p.m. CST
Actually, 'Signs' has already had some test screenings..
by togmeister
Consensus so far : it's a winner. August 2nd, i'm there and so will you be. Is anyone else getting the slightest whiff of another 'Godzilla' with Spidey? Even Raimi admitted to 'Empire' magazine that he may have made 'some mistakes' on the GG character.
April 1, 2002, 6:12 p.m. CST
See how Mori can make us all feel good about Hollywood, instead
by Lenny Nero
True, the last two years have been sub-par, but I think every fifteen years there's a huge boost in film. 1985 (most of my favorite films come from this year). 1970 (read Easy Riders, Raging Bulls). 1955. 1940 (1941 is Citizen Kane, nuff said). For a while I thought it started early this time in 1999, but then 2000 and 2001 were major disappointments. Maybe Hollywood has hit something great now with 2002-2005. Who knows? I don't want to build anything up so I can be disappointed again, but here's to hoping for a good time.
April 1, 2002, 6:13 p.m. CST
Great Job M. I've been waiting 20+years for MOTFG-That'
by SpanishPantlones
Master of the flying G is the greatest and rarest Kung Fu movie ever. I'm so fired up about that! As for the slate: If only the golden era began with Episode 1 but The Matrix is the official starting point to the new film utopia. Lots of good stuff on the way. If 25% of them are good I'd be pleased! Let's hope SWE2 is a great redemption! And I'll try to keep an open mind about Daredevil.Collin Farrel as Bullseye? It's hard dude...
April 1, 2002, 6:35 p.m. CST
by MrCere
Mort - Not bad. I will leave the gushing to others, but this is the kind of piece that the site really needs. A lot of folks here lose a lot of perspective and this kind of thing helps. A state of the union was in order. Now then, you will never find a bigger 'Daredevil' fan than me and those are the first good words I have heard about this movie, so it at least gives me hope. Garner at least will be amazing. Thanks, today you contributed something cool to the geek world.
April 1, 2002, 6:37 p.m. CST
"...milestone of optimism..." - on AICN? HA I say, HA.
by exPFCWintergreen
Ya, that'll be the day. The people - on this site - optimism - HAhAAh. This is one of the top most pestimistic sites on the web. And the funny thing is, the writers, Harry and Moriarty, are usually optimistic and enthused. But the readers here nearly usually always have something up their collective asses.
April 1, 2002, 6:57 p.m. CST
Thanks a lot Morty
by JAGUART
What? No cunnilingus metaphors or bottled fuck juice? How am I supposed to read this dry tripe? I come here expecting to get frosted face lessons and I get this bullshit about movies. Would someone please pass the clitoris?
April 1, 2002, 7:34 p.m. CST
Todd Haynes has a new flic in 2002
by Edward Rooney
Far from Heaven. There's a nice little article on it in the new Film Comment with FFCoppola on the cover.
April 1, 2002, 7:38 p.m. CST
Its time to reap the benifits of 1999
by charliechaplin
Three years ago we were blessed by an anomoly, movies that were not only good, but good in ways that were new and innovative, good in ways that we didn't know movies could be. After walking out of movies like BEING JOHN MALKOVICH, AMERICAN BEAUTY, FIGHT CLUB, MAGNOLIA and RUN LOLA RUN, I felt disoriented, almost stoned, I couldn't focus on things, I had been so absorbed into a new and different world that I couldn't immediatedly come back, instead I sat dazed as the credits rolled, replaying images in my head. That is the power of a good film. The fact that many of the risk taking films of 1999 were financially and critically sucessful (Magnolia exepted), studios and distributer can be more confidant that risk taking films can be succesful (to go out on a limb, I would say that even BLAIR WITCH from 1999 was a boon to film making, a shoe-string indie, filmed intireley in subjective camera, that ended up as a blockbuster). Being that the film production pipe line takes about 2 to 5 years to make a movie from concept to product, it looks like in the next couple of years we will be treated to more risk taking mainstream fare and more distribution for risk taking independent and foreign fare (we have already begun to see this in MEMENTO and AMELIE). 1999 made me feel good about movies. It gave me faith that through all the sludge and waste of the industry pipe line, a movie can still come out the other end fresh and smelling like a rose.
April 1, 2002, 7:59 p.m. CST
by Seaweed
Arrogant as usual, but the last timne Spielberg did the Summer/Christmas thing was 1997 (Lost World/Amistad) not '93...
April 1, 2002, 8:25 p.m. CST
I'd kill to find out about the new pta material....
by TheMatarife
If it tops magnolia ill be surprised. He is coming off a real high on magnolia. Hope he does well.
April 1, 2002, 8:42 p.m. CST
Now look, Mori...
by Zarles
...if you're going to do things like this, you really gotta start doing your homework. I need details, dammit, and I need them now! :)
April 1, 2002, 10:06 p.m. CST
The state of the geek nation . . .
by PoliMan4
Indeed, now is a great time to be a geek. Whenever I'm called a geek by classmates or my sister, I always respond with a ". . .and proud of it!" and Mori, you have captured that feeling perfectly. You're right about the last forty minutes of The Return of the King. That's what I'm basically living for right now. SPOILER! When I finally hear "I will not destroy it! The Ring is mine!" It will be the finest moment in my life as a proud geek.
April 1, 2002, 10:21 p.m. CST
by TomVee
Not a bad rundown. Better than anything I read in print these days. Too bad the site cannot maintain this level of quality all the time. I would drop all of my print publication subscriptions in an instant if it could. No more EW! No more MOVIELINE! No more FILM COMMENT! No more MAXIM or STUFF! Wait a minute. That's taking things too far.
April 1, 2002, 11:44 p.m. CST
You forgot Spike Lee's "The 25th Hour"
by Jack D. Ripper
It's based on the fantastic novel by David Benioff and it's got Edward Norton and Phillip Seymour Hoffman. Pick it up if you get a chance because this is material Spike Lee was born to do. It'll be more like "He Got Game" or "Clockers" Spike Lee than say, "Bamboozled" or "Jungle Fever", i.e. reserved instead of over the top. Although Spike's over-the-top stuff has always worked for me.
April 2, 2002, 1:31 a.m. CST
I suppose there's no truer embodiment of geekdom
by Wino-Forever
than someone who lives their life release date to release date. Except, possibly, someone with the last name "McWeeny." And I'm not sure whether I mean that as a compliment, or what.
April 2, 2002, 2:28 a.m. CST
"screaming at the top of my lungs like Veruca Salt" - is he talk
by Tall_Boy
cuz that's the only Veruca Salt I know. I saw
April 2, 2002, 2:32 a.m. CST
This is going to be the best year ever!
by Woody Tobias Jr
Starting with 'Hardee Hamburger the Jizz Lolbbing Man', then we get 'Robot Invaders from the Year 3000', followed by the surefire family hit 'My Dog Cries When I Fuck Him' and Steven Spielberg's highly anticipated 'I've Lost My Mind, and I Don't Know Where I Put it (Of Course! It Was Right In Front of Me all Along!)' Then with Christmas tidings comes 'Dancing Midgets: Dark Obsession'(If the last half hour doesn't make you cry, you're not human) and 'The Littlest Wizard Hears the Caged Bird Sing'! You know, about those civil rights workers in Montgomery! And the best of them all? Quentin Tarantino's 'Racism is Funny'! It's so good to be alive!
April 2, 2002, 4:21 a.m. CST
Uhhum, Moriarty, aren't you forgetting something?
by Physicist
The Scorpion King is coming out April 19! How could you *not* be excited by that? (sarcasam, sarcasam)
April 2, 2002, 11:05 a.m. CST
Answer for Tall Boy Re: Veruca Salt
by James Bond
Veruca Salt was the name of the spoiled brat girl in "Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory", who wanted everything and wanted it NOOOWWWWW! The former Chicago band you speak of got their name from this movie as well.
April 2, 2002, 2:08 p.m. CST
you`re both right ED209 and PoliMan4!!!
by drjones
oh yeah ED209! i live in germany and here i guess it is even worse than in the us...maybe...that`s sad...very sad... and PoliMan4...i aggree with you. i totally aggree with you. being a geek is great..fantastic:) :)
April 2, 2002, 4:35 p.m. CST
Veruca Salt...
by CapnZebbie
was an obnoxious girl in Charlie and the Chocolate Factory which book became the movie Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory. Her favorite phrase was, "I WANT IT NOW!!!" The band is named after her.
April 2, 2002, 6 p.m. CST
Not a bad list..but there's a something major missing
by PR_GMR
Not a bad list..but there's something major missing. Moriarty looks forward to the future of cinema but yet doesn't see the whole picture.. and here's why? The grand majority of films he lists are franchise films, sequels, adaptations of books, comic book films and big hollywood blockbusters... What is missing are the independent films that audacious filmmakers, many of them unknown, will make in the years ahead. Also missing, are those films which are pure cinematic endeavors.. not adaptations of best selling books and comic books.. or sequels.. or remakes.. but pure films and projects that have no precedent. Films such as MEMENTO.. THE ROYAL TENENBAUMS.. MULHOLLAND DRIVE..WAKING LIFE... works that can't be prognosticated. If the future of filmmaking is a bunch of sequels, remakes, and adaptations...It's going to be googly eyed future for the multiplex cinemas but a depressing future to cinema as an art.
April 2, 2002, 8:01 p.m. CST
Richard Sylbert
by Brother Putney
I wasn't aware he'd passed. Gosh, the guy was involved with so many great movies, I'm surprised his notice got kinda buried in the middle of a lot of less serious items. Hell, even Dudley Moore got a page to himself and, as much as I liked the guy, in the world of cinema, Sylbert's working a whole different ballgame. Though it wasn't mentioned above, his work in "Catch-22" is truly astonishing.
April 2, 2002, 11:14 p.m. CST
good lord that's a lot of good movies to look forward to...
by bswise
...but I don't have the time, money OR 420 to see them all! How are we going to survive this onslaught of good movies? For the love God! Can't someone please spare perhaps the best unkown writer in North Americana a measily $200,000 so he can see all these great flicks?! Hey, you lika my screenplay, everybody cry, big stars, oscah, oscah. but seriously cowpokes... waittaminute, the new Star Wars movie is coming out this summer?! Geez louise, time must be streaming by here in New York. Ah to be young again and arising from my midtown hotel room at 3:am to room service delivering a latte and hopping a cab to see the opening of TPM , with caffeine and melatonin blending, a moving experience! Actually crying when young Annie leaving his Bergmanesque mother... of course, I went and saw it again a week later, awake, and realized it was a maudlin stump of b-trash, phantomly racist and menacingly cutesy-poo - ok, and everyone's so heard it. Still what a moment and all right I'll see II too. Gravity, may distort time, but Spiderman, Spiderman, does whatever a spider can.
April 2, 2002, 11:46 p.m. CST
Spider Man and Chicken Run
by tbrosz
I just noticed when I call up AICN on Internet Explorer I get the Harry Gif of him as a chicken from Chicken Run laying an egg. When I call up AICN on Netscape, I get him as Spider Man. What does it all mean?
April 3, 2002, 9:23 a.m. CST
Tall Boy
by Johnny Bacardi
Veruca Salt: Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory-spoiled little British girl and all around bad egg-screamed "I want it Daddy, I want it NOW" a lot.
April 3, 2002, 10:46 a.m. CST
Re-releasing Master of the Flying Guillotine (1975) = WOOHOO!!!!
by IAmLegolas
The first kung-fu movie I ever saw, and it's probably my favorite. Who is re-releasing this? Is it Miramax? Is it going to be all Americanized and f*cked up? I really hope not because it's out-of-print as far as I know. I only have a "archived VHS copy" that I "borrowed indefinitely". It's AWESOME even if it's dubbed. At least it's widescreen and it has Kraftwerk's AUTOBAHN album used as the soundtrack with a great multicolored image punk rock like opening credits.
April 3, 2002, 12:07 p.m. CST
Are you kidding?
by Newhuman
This is the "golden age" of film? I really hope you're being sarcastic because I honestly think we've been set back to the Dark Ages for the past 5 years or so. Toby McGuire as Spiderman?? That's just awful, I'm sorry. "Lord of the Rings" was entertaining but let's not pretend that it's the 2nd coming of the 1977 Star Wars. Obviously there are some exceptions like "Ghost World" and "Sexy Beast" but those get buried and go unnoticed. The way of the American Hollywood blockbuster is just downright embarassing. Golden Age? Maybe Brown.
April 3, 2002, 12:26 p.m. CST
The geek nation will be complete when John Norman's Gor seri
by Tarl_Cabot
I never saw the 2 80's adaptions but I know that technology has caught up and those films could now be done right-A Gor film has the elements of great sci-fi-fantasy-action-adventure entertainment: It has elements of Conan, LOTR, Indianna Jones, Star Wars/Trek and Gladiator. It would need to be modernized because John Norman was very sexist but The spirit of the books could remain. This could be awesome- The Watchowski's could do this justice.
April 3, 2002, 3:14 p.m. CST
This one's optimistic...
by Billy Brown
Nice piece, Moriarty. Good for you. Look for the best, rather than expecting the worst.
April 3, 2002, 7:33 p.m. CST
TallBoy, he means the character Veruca Salt from "Willy Wonka" w
by Lenny Nero
April 3, 2002, 7:35 p.m. CST
And Evil Reader, do not doubt the drawing power of geeks to wome
by Lenny Nero
I'm such a damned geek, but I have a gorgeous woman to call my fiancee. I'm kinda ripping Harry off, because this was a part of his book, but the term "Geek" does not imply a poor social standing and ugliness, such as "Dork" or "Nerd." "Geek" merely means means we have an obsession. Hell, McWeeny has someone. Don't be a pessimist, dude. Live the good life. It does no good to try and make other people feel bad. All you're doing is dragging yourself further down with your esteem.
April 3, 2002, 8:59 p.m. CST
I don't get it...
by ArPharazon
Why is Harry with chicken-feet crapping his pants? Is he trying to lay an egg or something?
April 4, 2002, 1:18 a.m. CST
hey D. - read me.
by m. singer
i thought this may the (clever) way to get your attention. i miss you. i'm leaving soon. only have roughly 2 more months in LA. find me. sincerely, marla singer (you know who)
April 4, 2002, 2:09 p.m. CST
Well that just goes to show you; I talk about McWeeny having som
by Lenny Nero
So whatcha gonna do Mori?
April 5, 2002, 11:30 a.m. CST
Yeah man, we've also seen the sheet, naysayer talkbacker, an
by Lenny Nero
April 11, 2002, 11:29 a.m. CST
MORIARTY - a geek........
by TarantinoWebsite
this goes out to all the movie lovers out there (including me): movies rule!
April 11, 2002, 4:55 p.m. CST
Happy Birthday John Milius
by LCD
Well I can't find a John Milius fan club on the net - so I'm posting it here, 'cause Moriarty is a big Conan fan! John, I hope this message will reach you. Happy Birthday You
April 11, 2002, 5:01 p.m. CST
ALABAMA -- the next Sundance? the next Great Movie Mecca?
by Roguewriter
Well, no. I'll get 13 screens of HARRY POTTER, two screens of SUM OF ALL FEARS, lousy pee-smellin popcorn and that'll be about it...... But goddamn, the rest of you bastards back in the world have some unholy goodness to look forward to!!! So who's pad can I come crash at for, oh, say... 12-16 months? ;) BTW, Moriarty, you and Miz Alexandra DVD Goddess are the primary reasons this movie lover comes back to this site again and again. Keep up the phenomenal work!!
April 13, 2002, 12:08 a.m. CST
If this is a Golden Age, then why did I just stub my toe?
by exPFCWintergreen
And I'm goddamned serious.
April 14, 2002, 1:48 a.m. CST
yo all you homeboys on the Bronx, this one's for you
by OsamaBinPlayaH8a
Why doesn't "countingdown.com" feature Steve The Crocodile Hunter's movie? My man just scored a Subway Kid's Meal Tie-In AND Radio Shack radio-controlled alligator. Stuff that up your jango fett!
April 14, 2002, 12:04 p.m. CST
2002 - Best Year For Movies Since 1999
by Xocxoc
Last year at this time when some one asked if there were any good movies to see, I could only mention "Amores Perros", "Memento", and "The Dish", and that was only if you could find them in theaters anywhere. Now if someone asked me if there are any good movies out now, I can mention "Panic Room", "We Were Soldiers", "Kissing Jessica Stein", "Monsoon Wedding", "Y Tu Mama Tambien", "Ice Age", "The Rookie", "Changing Lanes", "Frailty" and "Harrison's Flowers". That's 10 good critically acclaimed movies out right now! Last year we were deep into July before you could find 10 movies released in 2001 of equal merit. If half of the potentially great films coming out later in the year actually turn out that way, we are in for one heck of a great year for movies!!
April 14, 2002, 4:15 p.m. CST
And no mention of Resident Evil 1 or 2
by CTP
You guys suck! I mean how can you call this a Geek manifesto and not say you are looking forward to a Species Star playing Jill Valentine, Zombies, Mila Jovovich trapped in Racoon City, Zombies, Claire Redfield brought to screen along with J, zombies, and perhaps thus far the best video game adapation. ZOMBIES Ugh on all of you
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text:
A Tishomingo County woman is dead after driving the wrong way on the highway.
The highway patrol says 78-year-old Sybil Haber was going west in the east bound lanes, when the car collided with Nanetta Shoemaker's vehicle, near Fulton Friday.
A child traveling with Shoemaker was airlifted to Lebonheur Children's Hospital in Memphis.
The 36-year-old driver and two other children were taken to a Tupelo hospital.
That accident resulted in another crash.
Troopers say a teenager swerved to miss the collision and ran off the road.
The teen had minor injures.
The crashes remain under investigation.
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Critics' Choice: Top Movies of 2006
- Tuesday, December 05, 2006
Genre: Animation, comedy, adventure
Run Time: 116 min.
Director: John Lasseter
Voice Talents of: Owen Wilson, Paul Newman, Bonnie Hunt, Larry the Cable Guy, Cheech Marin, George Carlin, John Ratzenberger, and Michael Keaton
Directed by John Lasseter, the guy who brought us classics like "Toy Story," "Finding Nemo," and "The Incredibles," "Cars" has all the elements of an Oscar-winning movie: a perfect script with humor and heart, an all-star cast, an adorable love story, and a gripping score by a number of talented musicians. Hot-shot racecar Lightning McQueen learns some valuable lessons about pride and humility. We are beginning to think the Pixar storytellers are incapable of making a bad film. Hat's off to this creative team that continues to prove good movies start with a good story, not mind-blowing special effects. This is not to say the visuals in "Cars" aren't stunning, because this CGI film do not disappoint.
Click here for a full review.
Theatrical Release Date: October 20, 2006
Rating: PG-13 (for violence and disturbing images)
Genre: Drama
Run Time: 128 min.
Director: Christopher Nolan
Actors: Hugh Jackman, Christian Bale, Michael Caine, Scarlett Johansson, David Bowie, Andy Serkis, Piper Perabo, Rebecca Hall, Samantha Mahurin
This mesmerizing tale of two rival Victorian-era magicians bent on revenge proves once again that Director Chris Nolan (with the help of his screenwriting brother Jonathan) is one of the world's most innovative filmmakers. Viewers will puzzle over the films mysteries along with the stellar cast. Full of twists and turns, this morality play will keep you riveted and guessing until the end.
Click here for a full review.
DVD Release Date: October 17, 2006
Theatrical Release Date: May 19, 2005
Rating: PG (for some rude humor and comic action)
Genre: Cartoon, Family
Run Time: 90 min.
Directors: Tim Johnson, Karey Kirtpatrick
Actors (Voices): Bruce Willis, Gary Shandling, Steve Carrell, Thomas Hayden Church, Nick Nolte, William Shatner, Wanda Sykes, Avril Lavigne, Eugene Levy, Catherine O'Hara, Allison Janney, Omid Dajlili
Usually in a given year you will see one stellar CGI film (usually from Pixar) and a handful of others that attempt to be as good. This year that computer animated field of play got especially dense, and the end result was a list of largely mediocre films. Rising above the fray, however, was Dreamworks entry, "Over the Hedge." Both clever and hilarious, "Hedge" pulled off the rare feat of being both great for kids, and interesting for adults. In this film, a merry band of forest critters wakes from winter hibernation to discover suburbia has arrived at their front door. This subtle dig at American materialism, through the eyes of these wonderful characters, never gets too heavy handed to distract from the high-jinks, when animal-kind have to deal with their new two-legged neighbors.
Click here for a full review.
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Cleaning up: Paul Edwards seconding Mirage (E3 6a/b), Avon Gorge
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Kershaw leads the entire MLB in ERA, wins, WHIP, strikeouts per nine innings, complete games, and winning percentage, while also placing in the top-5 in strikeouts, average allowed, strikeouts per walk ratio, and hits per nine innings. He picked up wins in each of his last seven starts.
An all-West Coast World Series, a distinct possibility at this point, would present an image of baseball that is young, new and forward-looking, despite the inconvenient time zone for many in the East Coast.
From the moment I could walk, talk or understand the spoken word, there was only one voice that was in my house, in my parents' cars, even in my ear when I went to camp or snuck a transistor radio into school -- Vin Scully.
Fox hunting. Why is that fun? I don't get it. The hounds do all the work. Why do they need you?
Ryan Vogelsong got off to a great start. He retired the first nine batters he faced but unraveled in the fourth. Again he got no run support as the Giants got shutout 5-0 by the Dodgers.
Baseball is halfway through the season and the All-Star Break is upon us. This lull in the normal game routine gives me my own hiatus to reflect upon what I love about baseball.
Clayton Kershaw just pitched the best month in MLB history in June, going 6-0 with a 0.82 ERA with 61 strikeouts in 44.0 innings of work. Kershaw is the only pitcher in MLB history to be unbeaten with that many wins, that many strikeouts, and an ERA that low in a single calendar month.
Yes, I know we have of the games left in the 2014 MLB regular season. But still, somebody has to predict who will taking home baseball's biggest awards by season's end (and who'd deserve these awards if the season ended today).
Over the last five years, no team in baseball has been more successful than the San Francisco Giants, who have won two World Series. The Giants have done it in a strange way, winning the World Series in 2010 and 2012 while missing the playoffs entirely in 2011 and 2013. 2014 is another even-numbered years so Giants' fans expectations are high.
The Los Angeles Dodgers are taking a beating, and I am not talking about their uneven on-field performance. Yes, given that they have the most expensi...
It is, of course, not fair to blame the Dodgers' and Reds' shortcomings entirely on their leadoff hitters, but it is also unfair to overlook the player who has been the leadoff hitter on the team with the best record in the National League thus far.
I first moved here 21 years ago. To the hills of Echo Park.
In honor of Dodgers baseball season, Chef Uchimura has created the Tommy Lasorda Burger and he aims to "knock it out of the park" with his bad boy burger.
Sports programming is different than any other kind of programming because it is publicly subsidized, by far the most highly rated, and therefore critical to robust competition in the video market.
Recent reports in ESPN Magazine and LA Magazine about LA Dodgers slugger Yasiel Puig's perilous journey out of Cuba highlights the risks facing Cuban ...
Over his time with the Dodgers, Vin has seen 11 Dodger managers, 12 U.S presidencies, 14 expansion teams, 22 Yankee platy-by-play announcers, and 33 Olympic games.