Author: UncaScroogeMcD

  • Win THE COMEBACKS on DVD!

    We’re giving away, in conjunction with Warner Bros. Home Video, five (5) copies of THE COMEBACKS on DVD.

    Spoofing some of the most inspirational sports films of all, The Comebacks is the story of an out-of-luck coach (David Koechner, Anchorman, Thank You for Smoking) trying to lead a ragtag team of fumbling footballers to victory before his long-suffering wife (Melora Hardin, The Office, 27 Dresses) leaves him and his sexy gymnast daughter (Brooke Nevin) gets bent out of shape.

    Contest ends at midnight EST on Wednesday, February 6th.

    CLOSED! THANKS FOR ENTERING!

    Official Rules

    No member of Quick Stop Entertainment or their immediate families may enter.

    No Purchase necessary to win.

    Must be 18 years of age or older to enter.

    All submitted entries must be received by 11:59pm EST on Wednesday, February 6th.

    The winner must allow 4-6 weeks after notification of win to receive the product.

  • Quick Stop Thingamabobs: 1/30/2008

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    The web. It’s a big place, full of plenty of distractions ““ some funny, some informative, some ludicrous, some disturbing, some inane, some profound. Each and every weekday, we present links to a few of our favorite finds”¦

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    • Prepare for Chuck Jones Tuesday… And where better than with “Rabbit Seasoning”… (Thingamabob)
  • The Greatest Movie Blog Of All Time: No Joke

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    It’s No Joke

    When I first heard that Heath Ledger would be playing The Joker in the upcoming Batman movie, “The Dark Knight” I was less than thrilled. He seemed too serious, his voice was too deep, too grounded, too brawny. To me this wasn’t ideal casting for a character we’ve often thought of as lanky, psychotic, and with a high-pitched giggle. Really? Ennis Del Mar is the Joker? I didn’t see. Then I saw the trailer and realized I knew nothing and Christopher Nolan knew everything. In those 2 ½ minutes Ledger’s Joker was everything I thought he wouldn’t be and more. And that was just 2 ½ minutes! I was stoked (and still am).

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    This week Heath Ledger gave us a reason to be so serious.

    Last Tuesday afternoon, on the day the Oscar nominations were announced, the man who I was now eagerly awaiting to see play the clown prince of crime was found dead in his NYC apartment. He was only 28 years old.

    I’ll admit it the first thing that popped into my head was what a cruel publicity campaign Warner’s was trying to run. Now I wish that had been true. He was truly becoming a master of his craft. He was just beginning to produce some truly remarkable work. Sadly, thats all gone now. And more importantly, a family has lost a father and a son.

    Warner’s has said that all of Ledger’s work on “The Dark Knight” was completed before his death. So come July we’ll all get to enjoy his complete performance and try to forget that it was his last. Life is sadly temporary, but film is immortal. My thoughts go out to his friends and family. He will be missed.

    The 2007 Oscar Nominations

    As I said above, the Oscar nominations came out last Tuesday. I can’t say I’m surprised by any of the nominations. Two of my favorite films of 2007, “Gone Baby Gone” and “Charlie Wilson’s War”, only managed get 1 nomination each (well deserved supporting nods for Amy Ryan and Philip Seymour Hoffman). “300” was shut out completely (a film I would’ve thought would be a shoo-in for technical awards at the very least).

    But none of it truly bothers me. I still dig the movies I put on my top 10 list and stand by them. The Academy Awards are a very political process because studios believe that an Oscar nomination gives their film credibility (“Transformers” got three nominations, by the way). Nominations and awards are stamped onto DVD packaging so the average consumer will be “informed” as to what are the “good” movies. It’s ridiculous.

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    Star of a 3-time Oscar nominated film.

    Steven Spielberg didn’t win a Best Director award until 1993. Martin Scorsese got his first last year. Alfred Hitchcock never won an award for one of his films (he was given a lifetime achievement award).

    It’s impossible to choose one great film over another as being the best (or one actor or actress, or one screenplay, and so on). Some years, one film or performance truly does stand above the rest but most years there are easily a half dozen films that are all on the same level. Just because your favorite film of the year wasn’t nominated for an award doesn’t mean it wasn’t a good film. It entertained the hell out of you, didn’t it? That should be success enough for you. Besides, might not even be an Academy Awards show this year.

    The Room

    Onto the lighter side of things. There’s an odd phenomenon going on at the Sunset 5 theaters here in LA on the last Saturday of every month. At midnight, one of their theaters is packed for this little (and quiet terrible) movie called, “The Room” which was made in 2003. I set out in a rare Los Angeles monsoon to give it a look.

    Make no mistake, this movie is AWFUL. A true vanity project for writer-director-star Tommy Wiseau. Wiseau plays Johnny, a creepy looking guy with long black hair and pale skin whose fiancee Lisa cheats on him. Plot elements and characters come out of left field. The dialogue is cringingly bad, the performances even worse. Wiseau’s Johnny looks easily 20 years older than his costars and appears sedated through most of the movie. It’s misogynistic. It’s discombobulated. It’s often out of focus. I’ve rarely had a better time watching a movie.

    This is a rare film that you HAVE to see it in a crowded theater. It’s an experience where shouting at the screen is downright encouraged (don’t worry, you won’t miss any crucial plot twists, there aren’t any). Most of the loyal fans have seen the movie dozens of times. They shout out lines, point out obvious plot holes, and inexplicably throw plastic spoons in the air. And they cheer from the moment the film starts and stay right through the end credits. It’s really a great time.

    All the best.

    (and Godspeed, Heath).

    Brett Deacon has spent much of his spare time this week in Los Angeles lining up animals two by two.

  • Win AQUA TEEN HUNGER FORCE on DVD!

    We’re giving away, in conjunction with Warner Bros. Home Video, three (3) copies of AQUA TEEN HUNGER FORCE: SEASON 5 on DVD.

    Contest ends at midnight EST on Tuesday, February 5th.

    CLOSED! THANKS FOR ENTERING!

    Official Rules

    No member of Quick Stop Entertainment or their immediate families may enter.

    No Purchase necessary to win.

    Must be 18 years of age or older to enter.

    All submitted entries must be received by 11:59pm EST on Tuesday, February 5th.

    The winner must allow 4-6 weeks after notification of win to receive the product.

  • Quick Stop Thingamabobs: 1/29/2008

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    The web. It’s a big place, full of plenty of distractions ““ some funny, some informative, some ludicrous, some disturbing, some inane, some profound. Each and every weekday, we present links to a few of our favorite finds”¦

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    • Today, we’ve got Donald Duck Tuesday… Starting with Donald & his nephews in “Sea Scouts”… (Thingamabob)
  • The Fred Hembeck Show: Episode 103 – Once Bitten

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    Today’s episode was for all you folks who’ve said, “The Fred Hembeck Show sucks!!”. Yes, this time around it did. Well, at least, it pretended to…

    Now, about those links mentioned above. If you want to know more about the impending Image Comics’ publication, The Nearly Complete Essential Hembeck Archives Omnibus – including how to get either a simple autographed copy or one with my signature AND a custom drawing!–just use that link! And as always, check out my blog, Fred Sez, or my whole gosh darn website, Hembeck.com!! And before you know it, we’ll see you all back here at the Quick Stop corral!
    Copyright 2008 Fred Hembeck

  • Win THE INVASION on DVD!

    We’re giving away, in conjunction with Warner Bros. Home Video, two (2) copies of THE INVASION on DVD.

    Contest ends at midnight EST on Monday, February 4th.

    CLOSED! THANKS FOR ENTERING!

    Official Rules

    No member of Quick Stop Entertainment or their immediate families may enter.

    No Purchase necessary to win.

    Must be 18 years of age or older to enter.

    All submitted entries must be received by 11:59pm EST on Monday, February 4th.

    The winner must allow 4-6 weeks after notification of win to receive the product.

  • Quick Stop Thingamabobs: 1/28/2008

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    The web. It’s a big place, full of plenty of distractions ““ some funny, some informative, some ludicrous, some disturbing, some inane, some profound. Each and every weekday, we present links to a few of our favorite finds”¦

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    • What the hell… Let’s make it Gonzo Monday, starting with some dancing cheese… (Thingamabob)
    • I’m Going To Go Back There Someday… (Thingamabob)
  • Weekend Shopping Guide 1/25/08: All-Starr

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    The weekend’s here. You’ve just been paid, and it’s burning a hole in your pocket. What’s a pop culture geek to do? In hopes of steering you in the right direction to blow some of that hard-earned cash, it’s time for the Quick Stop Weekend Shopping Guide – your spotlight on the things you didn’t even know you wanted…

    The persnickety relationship between divorcees Oscar & Felix continues in the complete third season of the original Odd Couple (Paramount, Not Rated, DVD-$38.99 SRP), featuring another 23 episodes fully remastered and just as funny as always. This is the season that found the duo arrested and put on trial, and even getting Murray the Cop as a temporary roommate.

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    Long the most artistically underappreciated of the Beatles, I’m tired of people slagging on Ringo Starr. Frankly, his albums have been the most consistently enjoyable and fun. Not every piece of music has to be an artistic opus, and Ringo always comes back to remind us that sometimes you just want a strong backbeat and a sing-along. There’s plenty of that to be found on his new album, Liverpool 8 (Capitol, $18.98 SRP). Also, there’s a very touching tribute track to the equally underappereciated Harry Nilsson, who was a good friend of Ringo’s.

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    Newly remastered and with new bonus materials, the 40th Anniversary Edition of Gerry Anderson’s Thunderbirds (A&E, Not Rated, DVD-$129.95 SRP) rockets onto DVD at a reduced price, in a smaller package, and just as wonderfully kitschy as it’s always been. The 12 disc box-set features all 32 episodes, plus an exclusive pop-up episode, making-of featurettes, an interview with Anderson, and still galleries. Fab!

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    I can give or take the modern colorization process, but I appreciate the fact that it requires an often pristine restoration of the original black & white print. Such is the case with the new 2-disc editions of Ray Harryhausen’s sci-fi classics It Came From Beneath The Sea & Earth Vs The Flying Saucers (Sony, Not Rated, DVD-$24.96 SRP each), which feature both pristine black & white and the colorized versions, plus audio commentaries, featurettes, interviews, and more.

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    As light as a bubble and just as dense intellectually, I admit that the modern teen comedy take on Snow White – Sydney White (Universal, Rated PG-13, DVD-$24.98 SRP) – is watchable only because the oddly effervescent presence of star Amanda Bynes. Bonus features include featurettes, deleted scenes, a gag reel, and more.

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    Things are heating up as story elements begin to come together in the second volume of Avatar: The Last Air Bender – Book 3: Fire (Paramount, Not Rated, DVD-$16.99 SRP) with the invasion of the Fire Nation and the Day of Black Sun. Bonus materials include audio commentaries and a packed-in mini comic.

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    If catching a wave is unreasonable, at the very least you can catch the complete third season of Hawaii Five-O (Paramount, Not Rated, DVD-$49.99 SRP). The 6-disc set features all 24 of Steve McGarrett’s crime-solving adventures in the land of the luau. Bonus features are limited to the original episode promos.

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    It’s been years, but the second season of Barney Miller (Sony, Not Rated, DVD-$29.95 SRP) has finally dropped. The 3-disc set features all 22 episodes from the classic cop comedy’s sophomore outing. If you’ve yet to discover Barney Miller, now the time to pick up both sets.

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    The clever cons of the UK’s Hustle (BBC, Not Rated, DVD-$34.98 SRP) are back with a 4th season and a potential new addition to the team when Mickey Bricks goes on sabbatical. The 6 episodes are full of the usual robbing from the filthy rich to feed themselves, this time including a porn baron, a charity crook, and a nasty nursing home owner – and even make their way to LA and Vegas. The sole bonus feature of the 2-disc set is a behind-the-scenes featurette.

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    Setting action pics aside, Dwayne Johnson (aka The Rock) steps into the family comedy milieu in The Game Plan (Walt Disney, Rated PG, DVD-$29.99 SRP), starring as an egotistical pro footballer living la vida single whose bacchanal gets a dose of cold water when the 8-year-old daughter he never knew existed shows up on the doorstep of his bachelor pad. What follows is inoffensive, affable hijinks and heartwarming developments aplenty. Bonus materials include behind-the-scenes featurettes, bloopers, deleted scenes, and more.

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    If you were expecting the soundtrack to Juno (Rhino, $13.98 SRP) to be a goofy collection of indie tunes, then you’re expectations have been met, as the disc features tracks from Belle & Sebastian, The Moldy Peaches, Antsy Pants, Kimya Dawson, and Cat Power – but there’s also tunes from The Kinks, Sonic Youth, and Buddy Holly.

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    Erudite and dryly, slyly witty, the British TV adaptations of Noel Coward have been brought together in one box via The Noel Coward Collection (BBC, Not Rated, DVD-$79.98 SRP). The 7-disc set features 7 of Coward’s plays, and 6 dramatized short stories. Bonus features include a documentary interview with Coward, additional interviews and performances, radio plays, and more.

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    The next generation of Hong Kong action star arrives in the US in Fatal Contact (Genius, Not Rated, DVD-$24.95 SRP), and that man is Jacky Wu Jing. After watching this tale of a Kung Fu Olympian who finds himself competing in an underworld fighting circuit, I think we may have the next Jet Li on our hands. The 2-disc special edition features an audio commentary, interviews, featurettes, and more.

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    Not nearly the camp nightmare of the second film but not quite the gothic beauty of the comic in its golden period, the first season of Swamp Thing (Shout! Factory, Not Rated, DVD-$39.99 SRP) is still a relatively faithful – and respectful – adaptation of the avenging spirit of the swamp. The first season set contains all 22 episodes, plus exclusive interviews with co-creator Len Wein and actor Dick Durock.

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    As offbeat and passionate as the flick itself, the soundtrack to Wristcutters: A Love Story (Lakeshore Records, $18.98 SRP) features select cues from Bobby Johnston’s score, as well as tracks from Gram Parsons, Gogol Bordello, Artie Shaw, and Joy Division.

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    For the most part, I’ve enjoyed the relaunch of Doctor Who. I think it’s fun science fiction, even if it’s a bit hamfisted and plothole-ridden at times. With that in kind, was looking forward to the spinoff series Torchwood (BBC, Not Rated, DVD-$79.98 SRP), which brought the character of Captain Jack Harkness (John Barrowman) to the forefront as the head of the Cardiff, Wales branch of the super-secret extraterrestrial investigation unit that was formerly a big baddie in the Who-niverse. Think of it as a cross between MI5 and The X-Files with a much more adult slant towards it’s storytelling than Who, which is aimed for a more family-friendly level of storytelling. Unfortunately, in reality, Torchwood wound up being a poorly written, poorly executed mishmash of contrived characters in convoluted, often contradictory stories that lacked any internal logic. It’s like a slow motion trainwreck, stretched across 13 episodes. The only saving grace – and it’s not enough to save the series – is Barrowman, who deserves a much better show than this. Here’s hoping they can pull this out if the pit in series 2. The 7-disc set features all 13 episodes, plus audio commentary, behind-the-scenes featurettes, outtakes, video journals, and deleted scenes.

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    I dig that the soundtrack to the upcoming Mama’s Boy (Lakeshore Records, $18.98 SRP) focuses almost exclusively on a New Wave vibe. What that means is we’ve got The Jam, Scanners, The Rheostatics, Billy Bragg, and Mark Mothersbaugh. Excellent.

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    Finally, if you want to make sure your weekend viewing contains a bit o’ culture, there’s the recent BBC adaptation of Jane Austen’s Persuasion (BBC, Not Rated, DVD-$19.98 SRP), starring Rupert Penry-Jones and Sally Hawkins as starcrossed lovers Frederick Wentworth and Anne Eliott.

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    So there you have it… my humble suggestions for what to watch, listen to, play with, or waste money on this coming weekend. See ya next week…

    -Ken Plume

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  • Quick Stop Thingamabobs: 1/25/2008

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    The web. It’s a big place, full of plenty of distractions ““ some funny, some informative, some ludicrous, some disturbing, some inane, some profound. Each and every weekday, we present links to a few of our favorite finds”¦

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    • Mel Brooks Friday begins with “The Spanish Inquisition”… (Thingamabob)
  • The Greatest Movie Blog Of All Time: Prepare For Greatness

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    Okay, maybe it’s not the greatest of all time. It may very well be the worst, but it’s the one you’re reading now so you can decide how ironic the title is. I’m a movie freak (a movie super-freak actually). I’m such a movie freak that a few months ago I did the unthinkable: I packed up all of my belongings and moved them west from Chicago to Los Angeles. I know, unheard of right? But films have been a big part of my life and for a film junkie there is no better town to live in.

    There’s a quote from Lawrence Kasdan’s underrated film, “Grand Canyon” in which the character of Davis (a film producer played Steve Martin) imparts these words of advice to a friend: “That’s part of your problem: you haven’t seen enough movies. All of life’s riddles are answered in the movies.” I’ve always taken those words to heart (probably to a fault).

    In this column I’ll provide many unsolicited opinions, you’ll just have to deal with it. There’ll be reviews, commentary, observations, and whatever else they get away with (hopefully I won’t have to resort to hard core nudity). So as they say in the business, on with the show.

    CLOVERFIELD
    Director: Matt Reeves

    “Cloverfield” is a high-concept movie which claims to be simply an unedited tape found in the area that used to be known as Central Park. And we know it’s a used tape because it begins with footage a month prior to the events that apparently wiped out Central Park, a simple morning between young Manhattenites Rob and Beth. Cut to (or rather the tape jumps to) one month later and it’s Rob’s going away party. We learn Rob and Beth have broken up and he’s been promoted to a new job in Japan. His best friend Hud begrudgingly takes on the task of recording testimonials from Rob’s friends. A clever device that enables us to be introduced to most of the main characters before a 200 foot creature quite literally crashes the party. From then on, it’s a survival story as we follow these young 20-somethings as they try to escape the island of Manhattan (a task that is much harder than “I Am Legend” would lead you to believe).

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    The Cloverfield Monster. Maybe.

    The execution of the concept is a little too slick. We’re lead to believe that the footage is presented to us unedited and if this was really the case, the in-camera editing is way too convenient. Plus, at several points during the film, the tape “cuts back” to Rob & Beth’s date on Coney Island. And the events take place over 7 hours, yet there is only one tape lasting 84 minutes. In the midst of a monster attack on New York City, Hud manages to capture every key dramatic moment. But hey, it’s a movie about yuppies trying to survive a monster attack, these are the least of the logistical problems.

    The movie is genuinely entertaining, gripping, and the effects are nothing short of jaw-dropping. The script is smart and the characters are likeable. I particularly enjoyed the party scene at the beginning (which would’ve been an entertaining film if itself it weren’t for the monster attack and all.) And I liked how they never explain what the monster is or why it came to wreak havoc (it doesn’t really matter). “Cloverfield” is never boring and the concept does make the events seem more personable than any other monster attack in cinema history.

    THE BUCKET LIST
    Director: Rob Reiner

    Auto mechanic Carter Chambers (Morgan Freeman) has been diagnosed with terminal cancer, but has the good fortunate to be roomed with the hospital’s owner Edward Cole (Jack Nicholson). Edward has lived a selfish, greedy life but rooming with Carter and facing his own death makes him become quick friends and when Edward learns of Carter’s “Bucket List” he encourages Carter to accompany on a once in a lifetime (and as it so happens last of a lifetime) trip around the world to see and do everything they wanted to do in their lives before kicking the bucket.

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    “We’re too talented for this shit.”

    The Bucket List is the cutest movie about death I’ve ever seen. And therein lies the problem because it lacks the depth and sadness that a film dealing with terminal illness should carry. Morgan Freeman is rock solid (as always), but always seems to be running away from his problems rather than dealing with them. Jack Nicholson is entertaining but a bit of a goof. Their trip doesn’t reveal any great truths about life and death, but rather plays like a travelogue show you’d see on The Discovery Channel (though I suspect such a show would deal with more human insight). There are some genuinely funny moments in the film, but again it’s too cute for its own good.

    Speaking of lists, and this may seem odd seeing as how this is my first column, here are my top 10 favorite films of 2007.

    1. No Country For Old Men – As close to perfect as any film has been in recent memory (though I still have a few issues with the third act, they’re minor quibbles at best.) And Javier Bardem’s Anton is perhaps the most terrifying and cold-blooded villain in recent film history.

    2. Juno ““ In a year that seemed to be dominated by fantastic male performances, Ellen Page’s effort in this film’s title role was as good if not better than any of them. This is a rare film that manages to balance honest humor, sharp dialogue, and heart. We need more of these.

    3. Gone Baby Gone ““ A brilliant debut by Ben Affleck and terrific performance by his brother Casey Affleck. A lot has been said about it’s gritty, realistic depiction of Boston, but I appreciated the overall tone of the film, which in my opinion is the hardest thing for a director to pull off and Affleck did a phenomenal job.

    4. There Will Be Blood ““ A great film anchored by an iconic performance by Daniel Day-Lewis, old-fashioned direction by Paul Thomas Anderson (who remembers that this guy directed “Boogie Nights”?) and a mesmerizing original score from Radiohead’s Johnny Greenwood. It’s perhaps a bit too long, but it does have my favorite last line in any movie this year.

    5. Charlie Wilson’s War ““ It’s great to see Aaron Sorkin back writing screenplays, though the script may be a little too glib for its own good. A highly entertaining film. Tom Hanks and Phillip Seymour Hoffman had fantastic chemistry.

    6. 3:10 to Yuma ““ One of my favorite trends of 2007 was the return of the Westerns and the remake of “3:10 to Yuma” pulled off the rare achievement of being better than the original, anchored largely by an incredible performance by Russell Crowe as one of cinema’s bad guys you like to root for.

    7. 300 ““ Visually the most impressive film of the year also the most ass-kickiest (see now if I had an editor, he would’ve flagged that word). This is the film I hoped Gladiator would’ve been.

    8. Ratatouille ““ I went into this film with low expectations. I know, it’s Brad Bird and it’s Pixar, but it’s also a film about a rat in Paris who can cook. But I should’ve known better as it has a lot of heart, great voice performances, and features incredible animation (Pixar still produces far and away the best computer animation out there). And Anton Ego’s solemn monologue about criticism was particularly memorable.

    9. The Kingdom ““ Some may dub it “CSI: Saudi Arabia”, but I thought it was the best political thriller of the year. The first and last 20 minutes of this film were absolutely fantastic. I know, that’s only 40 minutes, but they were really that good and the bits in the middle weren’t half bad either.

    10. Michael Clayton ““ Another strong directorial debut this year, this one from Tony Gilroy (writer of this film along with the Bourne films). Who knew he had this in him? Anchored by a strong cast, George Clooney continues to show a knack for finding the right projects for him, something which more actors should take note.

    I also really enjoyed “Live Free or Die Hard” (in a very weak summer for so-called blockbusters, this was one that really delivered), “Knocked Up”, “The Bourne Ultimatum”, “Sicko”, “Seraphim Falls” (another great and overlooked Western this year), “Hot Fuzz”, “Waitress” (outstanding performance from Keri Russell and a heartbreaking reminder of Adrienne Shelly’s tragic death), “American Gangster”, and “The Savages”.

    A few films that I did not see that may very well have made this list include: “The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford”, “Once”, “Rescue Dawn”, “In The Valley of Elah”, “Into The Wild”, and “I’m Not There”. Give me a break, I just started. I’ll get to them eventually.

    Anyway, that’s all I’ve got for a first swing. I hope you dug it and I hope you continue checking back in with this inappropriately named column.

    All the best.

    Brett Deacon continues to plug away in Los Angeles despite having the foresight to arrive in the middle of the Writer’s Strike. He spends his ample free time ducking deadlines, spending way too much time in line waiting for In-N-Out burgers, and trying to remember where he left his Thomas Guide.

  • Quick Stop Thingamabobs: 1/24/2008

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    The web. It’s a big place, full of plenty of distractions ““ some funny, some informative, some ludicrous, some disturbing, some inane, some profound. Each and every weekday, we present links to a few of our favorite finds”¦

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    • Today is Groucho Marx Thursday, just because. Starting with the 7 cent nickel… (Thingamabob)
  • Quick Stop Thingamabobs: 1/23/2008

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    The web. It’s a big place, full of plenty of distractions ““ some funny, some informative, some ludicrous, some disturbing, some inane, some profound. Each and every weekday, we present links to a few of our favorite finds”¦

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    • And now, it’s Orson Welles Wednesday – starting with a few drunken takes… (Thingamabob)
  • Quick Stop Thingamabobs: 1/22/2008

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    The web. It’s a big place, full of plenty of distractions ““ some funny, some informative, some ludicrous, some disturbing, some inane, some profound. Each and every weekday, we present links to a few of our favorite finds”¦

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    • How about Neil Innes Tuesday? Here’s “I’m The Urban Spaceman”, jazz-style… (Thingamabob)
    • “Mr. Eurovision Song Contest Man”… (Thingamabob)
  • SModcast 44

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    Your TextSModcast is the meandering palaver of a pair of dudes whose voices are so dull, they don’t deserve to be on the radio (and, hence, aren’t). Kevin Smith and Scott Mosier are SModcast.

    The best thing about SModcast? It don’t cost nothing.

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    SModcast 44: Thuffering Thucotash –

    In which one of our heroes is accompanied by a special guest making his triumphant return with tales of orthodontia, long distance love, the bare necessities, cultural understanding, and talk of “Zack and Miri”. Plus, a quiz!

    [CONTENT WARNING] SModcast features harsh language and even harsher notions of propriety. Listener discretion is advised.

    DOWNLOAD: (right click to save)
    SModcast 44 (MP3 format) – 47.42 MB

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    SUBSCRIBE
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    Wanna add your two cents? Spend it here, in the SModcast mailbag.

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    CLICK HERE FOR THE SMODCAST ARCHIVES

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  • Quick Stop Thingamabobs: 1/21/2008

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    The web. It’s a big place, full of plenty of distractions ““ some funny, some informative, some ludicrous, some disturbing, some inane, some profound. Each and every weekday, we present links to a few of our favorite finds”¦

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    • “Bitchin’ In The Kitchen” from Shock Treatment(Thingamabob)
  • Weekend Shopping Guide 1/18/08: Ship Ahoy

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    The weekend’s here. You’ve just been paid, and it’s burning a hole in your pocket. What’s a pop culture geek to do? In hopes of steering you in the right direction to blow some of that hard-earned cash, it’s time for the Quick Stop Weekend Shopping Guide – your spotlight on the things you didn’t even know you wanted…

    As a fan of Mystery Science Theater 3000 from “back in the day”, for years I’ve hoped for the return to performing of MST creator Joel Hodgson and writer/performer Trace Beaulieu (Dr. Forrester & Crow T. Robot). Though we’ll probably never see MST return for various intractable reasons, Both Joel and Trace have returned – along with fellow alums Frank Conniff, Mary Jo Pehl, and Josh Weinstein – to form Cinematic Titanic. For all intents and purposes, it’s pretty much MST – only all 5 members are silhouetted onscreen at the same time, stationed on a tiered series of platforms on either side of the screen and commenting on the flick. Speaking of their first flick, it’s the delightfully awful The Oozing Skull ($15.94 SRP). Skull and all forthcoming titles are available via www.cinematictitanic.com. The magic is back, my friend. Snap it up, post haste.

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    It’s been a long time coming – 20 years, in fact – but the history of Pixar has been laid down in print courtesy of To Infinity And Beyond!: The Story Of Pixar Animation Studios (Chronicle Books, $75.00 SRP). As one would expect from Chronicle, it’s an impressive, massive, well-crafted tome that draws upon the interviews and notes from filmmaker Leslie Iwerks’s documentary about the studio. If you’re a fan of Pixar and want to read the official take on their rise and success, this is it.

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    Following close on the heels of it’s holiday wrap-up, you can pick up Ricky Gervais & Stephen Merchant’s Extras: The Complete Series (HBO, Not Rated, DVD-$49.99 SRP). The set features the previously released first and second seasons, plus the special series finale (which they claim is exclusive to this set, but which Ricky Gervais has said will be made available separately in a few months, in response to fans’ cries that they were being bilked). There aren’t any new bonus features that weren’t already on the already-available sets, so consider this the perfect time to jump in and catch up if you’re unfamiliar with the trials and tribulations of jobbing actor Andy Millman… But if you’ve already got both seasons, it’s probably best to hold off until the separate release of the holiday special.

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    Family Guy‘s big character-recast send-up of Star Wars gets a rather speedy DVD release courtesy of the uncensored 2-disc Family Guy: Blue Harvest (Fox, Not Rated, DVD-$22.97 SRP) – featuring an audio commentary, a making-of featurette, an animatic version, a Family Guy Star Wars clip show, a fight scene in 3-D, and even a conversation with George Lucas. Also available is a deluxe box-set ($34.98 SRP), which features the 2-disc set, 3-D glasses, a t-shirt (XL) a collector’s booklet, and trading cards done in the style of the classic Star Wars cards.

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    Swap Paul Rudd for Chuck Heston and The State‘s David Wain & Ken Marino for Cecil B. DeMille and you’ve essentially got The Ten (City Lights, Rated R, DVD-$26.98 SRP) – a loopy comedy about one flawed man’s quest to introduce the world to the contents of two massive stone tablets. Packed with more cameos than you can shake a bundle of sticks at, it’s worth a spin. Bonus materials include an audio commentary, interviews, alternate/deleted scenes, featurettes, and more.

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    Brian Froud is the man responsible for the visual look that defined both The Dark Crystal and Labyrinth, and for years his artwork detailing the world of Faeries has been collected in this book or that. The ultimate tome exploring his work is now available, titled appropriately enough Brian Froud’s World Of Faerie (Insight Editions, $40.00 SRP), and it’s a lavish hardcover packed full of Froud’s illustrations. It’s a visual treat, and well worth snagging.

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    As one of the many kids that absolutely loathed the demoralizing embarrassment of PE class, I found much that familiar about the enjoyable if marginal comedy Mr. Woodcock (New Line, Rated PG-13, DVD-$28.98 SRP), which stars Sean William Scott as a formerly chubby kid whose school PE years were made hellish by the demonic Mr. Woodcock (Billy Bob Thornton). As a slim adult, he returns home to find that his mother (Susan Sarandon) is now dating his old nemesis – a development he decides must be undone. Bonus features include featurettes and deleted scenes.

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    Still a downer – albeit a classy downer – all these years later, Leo McCarey’s An Affair To Remember (Fox, Not Rated, DVD-$19.98 SRP) gets a snazzy 2-disc edition in celebration of its 50th anniversary. The new set features an audio commentary (with Marnie Nixon and film historian Joseph McBride), a clutch of newly-produced featurettes, AMC Backstory‘s spotlight on the film, Fox Movitone News, galleries, and the original theatrical trailer.

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    So far, Julia Louis-Dreyfus has been the only castmember to chalk up a post-Seinfeld success on TV, and she’s done it with The New Adventures Of Old Christine (Warner Bros., Not Rated, DVD-$29.98 SRP). The title comes from the fact that her ex husband is now dating a woman with the same first name, which he has dubbed “New Christine” – leaving her with the not quite flattering sobriquet of “Old Christine”. Louis-Dreyfus is endearing in her attempts to adjust to her new life of single motherhood and what her new nickname means in her life. The first season set features an interview with Julia, unaired scenes, and a gag reel.

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    What’s New Scooby-Doo? continues to be a nicely faithful updating of the adventures of Mystery, Inc. – as you can see in the complete 3rd season (Warner Bros., Not Rated, DVD-$19.98 SRP). The 2-disc set features all 13 episodes, including run-ins with cowboy robots, gargoyles, sea monsters, and more. The set also contains a bonus episode, “A Scooby-Doo Christmas”.

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    Often treated as an odd bastard child of his oeuvre, Martin Scorsese’s New York, New York (MGM, Rated PG, DVD-$19.98 SRP) – his big band tale starring Robert DeNiro & Liza Minnelli – gets the 2-disc special edition treatment with a brand new introduction from Scorsese, an audio commentary, alternate takes/deleted scenes, a two part documentary, an interview with Minnelli, select scenes commentary by cinematographer, and a photo gallery.

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    Every so often, a comedy aimed at teens also manages to pose some interesting questions about our society, wrapped beneath a funny wrapper. The indie comedy Zerophilia (TLA Releasing, Not Rated, DVD-$24.99 SRP) certainly fits that bill. First and foremost, it is a fun watch, as Luke – a virgin – discovers that upon losing his virginity one night (to Kelly LeBrock, no less), he starts exhibiting some decidedly feminine characteristics. Come to find out Luke is a “Zerophiliac” – a person who changes sex upon achieving orgasm… Which complicates his burgeoning love affair with the comely Michelle… Particularly when his female incarnation begins exhibiting feelings for Michelle’s brother. The DVD features a behind-the-scenes featurette, deleted scenes, an interview with Kelly LeBrock, and the theatrical trailer.

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    Also getting a special edition is Rob Reiner’s perennial Rom-Com, When Harry Met Sally (MGM, Rated R, DVD-$19.98 SRP). The new edition features an audio commentary (with Reiner, Nora Ephron, & Billy Crystal), deleted scenes, 7 featurettes, and the theatrical trailer.

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    In an age where sci-fi has largely turned to crap (I’m looking at you, JJ), it’s nice that a flick like Sunshine (Fox, Rated R, DVD-$29.99 SRP) can come down the pike. Sadly, it was largely ignored at the box office, but I have no doubt that this tale – of a brave crew sent to reignite a dying sun and save humanity who are faced with a life or death struggle of their own – will have a nice second life on video. Bonus features include a pair of audio commentaries (one with director Danny Boyle and the other a scientific track with University of Manchester Professor Brian Cox), production diaries, deleted scenes, and an alternate ending.

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    Although the flicks vary greatly in quality, it’s nice to know that there’s finally a Bob Hope: MGM Movie Legends Collection (MGM/UA, Not Rated, DVD-$39.98 SRP) available. The 7 films included in the set are Alias Jesse James, Boy, Did I Get A Wrong Number!, The Facts Of Life, They Got Me Covered, I’ll Take Sweden, The Princess And The Pirate, and The Road To Hong Kong. Sadly, no bonus features.

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    Another remastered Peanuts special edition is here, and just in time for the holiday it addresses. Be My Valentine, Charlie Brown (Warner Bros., Not Rated, DVD-$19.98 SRP) has been fully remastered, and the new disc also contains the specials It’s Your First Kiss, Charlie Brown and You’re In Love, Charlie Brown, as well as a new featurette (“Unlucky In Love: An Unrequited Love Story”).

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    James Garner’s ex-con-turned-P.I. Jim Rockford returns in the 5th season of The Rockford Files (Universal, Not Rated, DVD-$39.98 SRP). The 5-disc set features all 22 episodes, but why oh why can’t we have bonus features with Garner?

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    So there you have it… my humble suggestions for what to watch, listen to, play with, or waste money on this coming weekend. See ya next week…

    -Ken Plume

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  • Win MR. WOODCOCK on DVD!

    We’re giving away, in conjunction with New Line Home Entertainment, five (5) copies of MR. WOODCOCK on DVD.

    Just when you thought the humiliation of grade school gym class was over, MR. WOODCOCK arrives on DVD IN STORES January 15, 2008. The sadistic comedy stars Seann William Scott (Southland Tales, American Pie films) as a self-help author who returns home to learn that his beloved mother (Susan Sarandon; Shall We Dance, Thelma & Louise) is dating the one man he truly despises ““ his degrading childhood gym teacher and nemesis, Mr. Woodcock (Billy Bob Thornton; Bad Santa, Friday Night Lights). Featuring a hilarious supporting cast including Amy Poehler (Blades of Glory, TV’s Saturday Night Live) and Ethan Suplee (TV’s My Name is Earl, Blow).

    Contest ends at midnight EST on Friday, January 25th.

    CLOSED! THANKS FOR ENTERING!

    Official Rules

    No member of Quick Stop Entertainment or their immediate families may enter.

    No Purchase necessary to win.

    Must be 18 years of age or older to enter.

    All submitted entries must be received by 11:59pm EST on Friday, January 25th.

    The winner must allow 4-6 weeks after notification of win to receive the product.

  • Quick Stop Thingamabobs: 1/18/2008

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    The web. It’s a big place, full of plenty of distractions ““ some funny, some informative, some ludicrous, some disturbing, some inane, some profound. Each and every weekday, we present links to a few of our favorite finds”¦

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    • TV Heaven, Telly Hell with guest Bill Bailey, Part 1… (Thingamabob)
    • Peter Cook & Dudley Moore – In The Pub… (Thingamabob)
    • Peter Cook & Dudley Moore – Goodbye… (Thingamabob)
  • Win WEDDING DAZE on DVD!

    We’re giving away, in conjunction with MGM Home Entertainment, five (5) copies of WEDDING DAZE on DVD.

    After losing the woman of his dreams, Anderson (Jason Biggs) is convinced he’ll never fall in love again. But at the urging of his best friend, he spontaneously proposes to a dissatisfied waitress named Katie (Isla Fisher). The newly engaged couple must now try to find a way to get along.

    Contest ends at midnight EST on Thursday, January 24th.

    CLOSED! THANKS FOR ENTERING!

    Official Rules

    No member of Quick Stop Entertainment or their immediate families may enter.

    No Purchase necessary to win.

    Must be 18 years of age or older to enter.

    All submitted entries must be received by 11:59pm EST on Thursday, January 24th.

    The winner must allow 4-6 weeks after notification of win to receive the product.

  • Quick Stop Thingamabobs: 1/17/2008

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    The web. It’s a big place, full of plenty of distractions ““ some funny, some informative, some ludicrous, some disturbing, some inane, some profound. Each and every weekday, we present links to a few of our favorite finds”¦

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    • More Mock The Week – Season 2 Episode 1, Part 1… (Thingamabob)
  • Quick Stop Thingamabobs: 1/16/2008

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    The web. It’s a big place, full of plenty of distractions ““ some funny, some informative, some ludicrous, some disturbing, some inane, some profound. Each and every weekday, we present links to a few of our favorite finds”¦

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    • More Mock The Week – Season 1 Episode 6, Part 1… (Thingamabob)
    • And Ed Byrne’s take on Alanis Morrissette… (Thingamabob)
  • Win BE MY VALENTINE, CHARLIE BROWN on DVD!

    We’re giving away, in conjunction with Warner Home Video, two (2) copies of BE MY VALENTINE, CHARLIE BROWN on DVD.

    Valentine’s Day is fast approaching, and the Peanuts gang have their hopes for the day – Charlie Brown, that he will receive a valentine; Linus, that he will be able to find a great Valentine gift for his favorite teacher, Miss Othmar; Lucy, that she will finally get Schroeder to notice her. Unfortunately, none of their plans work out.

    The DVD features 2 bonus specials – YOU’RE IN LOVE, CHARLIE BROWN and IT’S YOUR FIRST KISS, CHARLIE BROWN, plus a featurette (“Unlucky in Love: An Unrequited Love Story”).

    Contest ends at midnight EST on Monday, January 21st.

    Enter the contest!
    Email:
    First name:
    Last name:
    Street Address:
    Address Line 2 (if needed):
    City:
    State/Province/Whatever:
    Zip Code/Postal Code:
    Country:
    Birth Month:
    Birth Day:
    Birth Year:

    Official Rules

    No member of Quick Stop Entertainment or their immediate families may enter.

    No Purchase necessary to win.

    Must be 18 years of age or older to enter.

    All submitted entries must be received by 11:59pm EST on Monday, January 21st.

    The winner must allow 4-6 weeks after notification of win to receive the product.

  • Quick Stop Thingamabobs: 1/15/2008

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    The web. It’s a big place, full of plenty of distractions ““ some funny, some informative, some ludicrous, some disturbing, some inane, some profound. Each and every weekday, we present links to a few of our favorite finds”¦

    ————————————————

    • More Mock The Week – Season 1 Episode 5, Part 1… (Thingamabob)
  • Ken P. D. Snyde-Cast #31: Photographs and Memories

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    Adult Swim’s Dana Snyder and FRED’s Ken Plume set out to have a literate conversation between two pals, but inevitably devolve into a verbal, and funny, free-for-all full of bickering, infighting, and the special kind of male bonding that comes from conflict expressed through the podcast medium.

    Actor/comedian/raconteur Dana Snyder, you’re certainly aware, is Aqua Teen Hunger Force’s Master Shake, Squidbillies‘ Granny, Minoriteam’s Dr. Wang, and The Venture Bros.‘ Alchemist. Available for weddings and bar mitzvahs (bat availability pending), you can keep tabs on him via his website, www.eyeofthesnyder.com.

    Ken Plume is the editor-in-chief here at FRED. He is a friend of Dana’s, as well as his arch-nemesis.

    VISIT THE SNYDECAST EXPERIENCE

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    KEN P.D. SNYDECAST #31: Photographs and Memories – Ken & Dana return for their first regular episode in almost 6 months, loaded with apologies and promises for a much smoother and more regular schedule for a brand new year, plus loads of other assorted stuff you’ve come to expect from their award-winning podcast.

    [CONTENT WARNING]: This podcast may contain some foul language and horribly off-color jokes. Don’t say we didn’t warn you.

    DOWNLOAD: (right click to save)
    Episode #31 (MP3 format)

    [audio:http://traffic.libsyn.com/snydecast/ken_p_d_snyde_cast-31.mp3]

    SUBSCRIBE
    Subscribe to this Podcast via iTunes

    Got something to say? E-mail Dana & Ken at the Snydecast mailbag.

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    CLICK HERE FOR THE SNYDECAST ARCHIVES

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