Top 5: Movies You're Not Cool If You Don't Own.

Every once in a while I like to make Top 5 Lists of the bests and worsts, the subjects range from anywhere to "Most Ridiculous Video Game Characters" to "Best Death Scene In A Movie". So if you're a big fan of giving your insight on what might make the list and what might now, stop on by and drop a line. Todays' "TOP 5" is "Movies You're Not Cool If You Don't Own". The list goes from least to greatest. Enjoy.


5) Star Wars Episode 5: The Empire Strikes Back: The best science-fiction film of all time and arguably the best film of the 1980's this film is a classic to any film buff "Star Wars" fan or not. A crazy plot line, twisted love story, and a insane ending this movie redefined cool. What's more important is that sequels were looked down upon in that day and age, so for a sequel to not only live up to it's predecessor but to also surpass it with such intensity says a lot. Lucas and fans alike have all named this the best film of both trilogies and it probably stands to be one of the most unique blockbusters of all time. More drama than action, better effects, and dark subject matter Empire took audiences on the ride of a life time - asteroid field or not.

4) Office Space: A dud in box-office but a classic on video and dvd, this movie kicks ass for anyone who spent a day in the real world of 9-5 work. Beavis and Butthead creator Mike Judge took a break from the fart and boner jokes and brought us something more wry and sarcastic. And now, nobody can mention a Swingline Stapler without smirking and making reference to this comedy classic. Check it out!

3) High Fidelity: Okay, everything about this movie is cool. This is the romantic comedy for guys who hate romantic comedies; not only that, but it made Jack Black a household name as the sarcastic rock jock who loves to jam. Lovesick John Cussack (Yes, him as the heartbroke protagonist once again) owns a vintage record store in the back streets of Chicago and finds love, redemption, and self-acceptance in it's confined walls. His two music geek employees help him along the way as they countdown their Top 5's (Yes, Top 5's) "with a bullet".

2) Ferris Buellers Day Off: The best teen comedy of all time and a thought provoking movie this a film I watch whenever I'm down and I need a laugh. I've seen it well over 100 times and I have it all memorized word for word, but it still gets me every time I see it. More importantly it's my 2nd most favorite film growing up. I only wish High School was more like it. If you don't own it, what's wrong with you? I have 2 copies, the first released dvd and the "Special Bueller.... Bueller... Edition" which has tons of great features and is the better of both versions.

1) Pulp Fiction: If you haven't seen or don't own this movie you're just not cool, end of story. It's a classic. Travolta, Willis, and Sam Jackson at their best; plus Uma Thurman makes a sexy debut and hasn't looked just as good since, syringe or not. I haven't walked into a diner or pawn shop feeling 100% comfortable since the first time I watched this movie and I probably never will. Tarantino is truly the man.



Now this is not an official post, just some of my opinions that I threw around. Yes there are plenty of other films that can make this list, but they just didn't. We have plenty of honorable mentions like Better Off Dead, Goodfellas, Animal House, Die Hard, and Mallrats but those are honorable mentions and not Top 5's. Anyways if you agree or disagree shout me out and leave some feedback, you might have a point. Later on guys.

-Chris
5/30/07

Some Murders Are Best Left Unsolved

I know this is a little bizarre reviewing a movie that's hardly new, however I feel that this particular film is a rare exception. Not many films this good get so overlooked and underrated as I feel Hollywoodland did. Barely making back its budget and only doing lukewarm with critics this rare gem was beaten by many in the Oscar race, but still managed to have a loyal following (I proudly am one of those). So with that being said; and this being my first blog, movie review I feel it's time for me to tell you about what I felt was the Best Picture of 2006: Hollywoodland.

For those of you not familiar with this masterpiece, lets first divulge into what this film actually is. A directorial debut for Allen Coulter whose TV credits include Rome and The Sopranos we get into a more Gumshoe type of noir-film somewhat similar of and LA Confidential and Chinatown. This film, as opposed to those other two is based on a true story; more than that, a true story of one of the most infamous unsolved murders in history: the murder/suicide of actor George Reeves (Yes, the Superman of the '50's). Seen through the eyes of down on his luck PI Louis Simo, "S-I-M-O" (Brilliantly portrayed by Adrien Brody), we see the very mysterious and alternate side of the legend of George Reeves (Ben Affleck in the film) that we never heard growing up. Was he murdered in rage, killed by an assassins bullet, or was it indeed Reeves himself? Hollywoodland gives insight to all three theories as well as telling the backstory of Reeves' rise and fall to fame, his many romances, his enemies, and his legacy - Superman.

Dealing with his own personal demons, Simo uncovers a possible conspiracy afoot and evidence that may prove that Reeves was murdered instead of taking his own life. However, the evidence doesn't come easy and people with a lot to loose are out to stop Simo from finding out the truth, including mob boss Eddie Mannixx (Bob Hoskins in the film). Trying to solve the murder, gain acceptance from his son, and maintain a relationship with his ex-wife and teenage girlfriend, Simo enters a long journey of organized crime, betrayal, and self-acceptance in this truly gripping film.

The film is brilliant mostly because it is true, but more than that it tells a different side of the truth while still not going crazy at the same time. Oliver Stone's JFK is a perfect example of sometimes pushing the limit of arguing fact from folklore and pointing the finger. However, this film doesn't do that; instead, it lays all the theories out on the table in front of you and lets you decide for yourself on what you believe is the truth. I've seen this film 9-10 times so far, including once with the commentary and it's still a thrill to watch. The Oscars definitely overlooked this great film and it is a must-watch for anyone whose a fan of movies.
-Chris Turton
5/24/07

Introduction

Hey guys,

Chris Here. Yes, that's me on the right. This will be my new blog spot for now, so feel free to stop by, drop a line, read a blog, or even comment (only if it's good). I'll be posting when I can, no routine schedule so check in regularly. Bye for now.

-Chris