Aquaman (2018)


Saw in the theater 12/21/18 (2D)




I enjoyed this movie. It was not a Spider-man:Into The Spider-verse, but it went well with my bottle of breathable water and navigable popcorn.



I just want to FLOAT an opinion, sometimes a good popcorn movie is just a good popcorn movie.

Spider-man: Into the Spider-Verse (2018)

PG      l hour 57 min.


Seen in a theater (2D) 12/14/2018

The film technique does take a little acclimation. I can appreciate the "living" comic book look that the creators were going for, I just wish my visual learning curve was as fast. Oh well, maybe I will see this movie again...in 3D. The casting agent for the voices should get an Oscar. Many lead voice actors seem to be chosen based on their popularity score, but these individuals were chosen with imagination and intelligence.


There is a tribute to Stan Lee at the beginning of the closing credits and a stinger (a short extra scene) at the conclusion of these credits.

Fav Netflix Binges - 2018:


Not in any order (and I have probably forgotten some films/series) these are shows that I most enjoyed on Netflix in 2018: The Christmas Chronicles (just for that jail concert scene alone!) ,  Chilling Adventures of Sabrina (in spite of that copyright infringement), Disenchantment (plot makes no sense but is sooo funny), Happy! (should be NC-17, but is what that Melissa McCarthy/puppet movie yearned to be...a defiantly and politically incorrect hysterical fun view), Nailed It (all seasons), The Great British Baking Show (all seasons and specials), MST 3000 (both seasons), Lost In Space (2018 version), The Haunting of Hill House and Castlevania (both seasons).

Ralph Breaks The Internet
(2018)

Watched at a theater on 11/27/2018

While I liked it (admittedly I did check the time during the movie's 3rd act), I did not like it as much as the first one. The dialogue was more simplistic, more child-like. There was one scene with lots of familiar female characters that could probably hold a child's attention had tons of innuendo that probably would only resinate with an adult about the relation of women in determining their "roles". There was so much corporate name placement in this film, that I laughed not sure if that was the desired reaction. While the audience demographic might have been young, I wish the story had been more mature and fully formed. One quick non-speaking cameo of a recently deceased (in our reality) individual gave me pause and sadness,




 I saw the relationship with Vanellope looking up to Shank as a mother/hero (like oh maybe, WONDERWOMAN?) figure.

Posted to the Screen Junkies -- Honest Trailer Commentary of "ELF"

published 11/27/2018



Posted 11/27/2018:

Some of my favorite/modern classic Christmas/holiday movies (ok TV, but many made it to the big screen via Fathom series) are from the modern era (our 21st century) of Doctor Who. In order of importance (to me):  The Doctor, the Widow and the Wardrobe (S7--12/25/2011), A Christmas Carol (S6--12/25/2010), Last Christmas (S9--12/25/2014), The Christmas Invasion (S2--09/29/2006), The Next Doctor (2008-the one with David Morrissey), The Snowmen (S7E6--12/25/12).

Bill Maher on the death of Stan Lee

(November 11-22, 2018)

Posted to Double Toasted video published 11/22/18:

I have in the past found Bill Maher's bluntness and humor entertaining, even informative. I just wish he voiced his opinions when Stan Lee was alive and able to respond. Kind of ignorant and arrogant to chose this time and place to unload his own prejudices. Wonder what Bill Maher's opinion is on Greek Mythology, Aesop's Fables, and Hans Christian Andersen? Since Bill Maher is so fond of books without images, let me give him a suggestion: The Power of Myth by Joseph Campbell and Bill Moyers. Might be informative, should he be willing to increase his understanding of literature, history and imagination.

Fantastic Beasts 2: The Crimes of Grindelwald

PG-13       2 hours 14 minutes

This movie could have been better, but (as a long time fan of HP) I was entertained. I have a feeling that this movie's major problem was series-its. I base my assumption on news that there will be 3 more of these in our future. So Warner probably took 3 square pegs (aka sensible scripts not an ancient tv show) and pounded them into 5 round holes (aka we need to build an addition at Wizarding World). And as for the Star Wars prequels being better than we thought, 2 words: Jar-Jar. Let's not forget Anakin's problem with sand (and personal boundaries).


I enjoyed Fantastic Beasts:The Crimes of Grindelwald. While not my favorite movie, I was not bored or checking the run time. I think the problems started, not with the Director, but with the format. The Fantastic Beasts series is scheduled to be (total) 5 films. I think what we just saw was the "sophomore slump" or using another analogy, an early move in a long chess match. While I would rate this movie as Fresh (Rotten Tomatoes), I could not in good conscience recommend this film to someone unfamiliar with the books and movies of this world so maybe my fandom is affecting my rating.

I enjoyed this movie, admittedly not as much as the Harry Potter movies or even the 1st Fantastic Beasts. I think the problem probably began with studio instructions to expand Fantastic Beasts to 5 parts (aka movies and/or cash-grabs). The truly scary (and muggle) thought that occurs to me is that if next 3 are even a moderate success, will the studio order more screenplays further diluting this world? Ironically that would be the opposite of the definition of (slightly magical) concept of alchemy (making ordinary metal into gold).


While I was entertained (no time checks) I can see this movie's flaws, too many people, too many subplots, too much action/exposition and not enough magic. I wonder if the decision to make this series run 5 films was the studio's idea? Possibly it also was the studio's idea to throw in all that exposition. Sadly (or perhaps through greed) they do not want to "force" people to allot the time to read the Harry Potter novels and to watch all the Harry Potter movies.  Those books (and movies) not only had magic as a theme, but made me long for a real-life Hogwarts (and I did not even want to go to sleep-away summer camp). May the magic return in part 3 (and 4 and 5).


This panel said it, without the assistance of books absorbed into our brains, it is hard to follow the logic concerning some of the plot and characters. With 5 films (and potentially having no magical abilities) we are left in the middle of a journey without GPS only our trust in J. K. Rowling. I will continue on the journey, but many may not.



No extra scenes in closing credits, just some animation.

No zinger, short scene at the end of closing credits.

Bohemian Rhapsody
(2018)



This biopic is for Queen fans only (I belong to that group) as beyond Rami Malek everyone and everything else (excepting the songs of course) are just interesting backdrops. Ironic, as throughout the film the term family was used almost as much as in a Fast and Furious movie. Full disclosure I did get a bit misty towards the end of the movie in a non-musical moment at Freddie Mercury's family home. No minds blown by this film, except why Mike Myers...why?  Yes this film could have been better and perhaps with Sasha Baron Cohen in the title role along with another director much darker.However, all the way home I listed to Queen, and truth be told I would see this movie again.

Even though I walked into the movie theater knowing that Freddie Mercury died all those years ago, it was still hard watching events unfold. There was no death bed scene and several upbeat songs so I was a sodden mess exciting the theater.

This is an ordinary bio pic, with a couple of impressive video touches, but if you don't like Queen going in, then you probably will not like Queen when exiting the theater.

My expectations were low going into to see this film. As a fan of Queen I wanted the music and the band. I did not expect to see the best bio-pic of the decade. I did like Rami Malek in this part, everyone else was more background than fully developed characters. However I wonder what this movie would have been like, with a different director and Sacha Baron Cohen in the lead.

Joe Rogan Experience #1191 - Peter Boghossian & James Lindsay
published on 10/30/2018




Comment posted 11/01/2018:

I listen (and laugh) to a podcast, "Dumb People Town" (http://www.supersklars.com/). This podcast highlights and details the dumbest behavior of everyone--at least everyone who makes the news. Now I am wondering if I should not be crying.when I listen. Sounds like students are being taught by "zombie" professors (sooo tired after having to publish their 5th article or book) whose audience is composed of somnolent acolytes. Probably am being too harsh however, political correctness almost seems to be inversely proportional to critical thinking or humor.  All that being said these guys should write for Comedy Central.

Philip DeFranco "The Ridiculously Strange & Confusing Mueller Conspiracy Mess, WWF.....
published on YouTube on 10/31/18




My comment posted 10/31/18:

WWF Study shows that climate change may not be our biggest problem, habitat destruction due to agricultural or industrial reasons may impact everyone much much sooner than global climate issues. No idea what to do, except to study the "entities" (individual, corporate or government) and provide more promising alternatives to earning their money. As for rhino horns or tiger bones, "China you are better and smarter than this!" The Mueller morass is amusing, scary and (in view of the ability to connect so many dots with novice-ability level internet research) rather STUPID.

Safiya Nygaard -- Mixing Every Beauty Guru's Eyeshadow Palette Together
published 10/31/18



Comment posted 10/31 to safiya pinned comment:

Only into the beginning (@3:00) of this video, but kudos (seriously, not trolling) in really getting full disclosure of methods, manner, materials used. Being OCD I appreciate attention to detail.  Random query, will you read the latest iteration of iTunes/Apple software rules that I keep agreeing to (unexamined) every update?  I have a bad feeling that I have surrendered my first born child, my home and probably my soul to a monolithic corporation. Yes I am also slightly...wait, what's that?😉

Castlevania
Season 2 - 8 episodes 2018*

on Netflix October 26, 2018



Posted to Jeremy Jahns review published on 10/30/2018

Writing, voice acting, animation, story, its all amazing. This story is truly epic with wild abilities, super strength and more time (but none of it boring) in a library than a Harry Potter movie. Jeremy Jahns is right, binge the 2 seasons, even if you saw season 1 when it first streamed. While the subject, vampires and magic may be like "been there seen that", this series is different. The animated faces, body language and voice acting takes this series to a much more exclusive place...an excellent video game based movie.




*Season 1 - 4 episodes   July, 2017

Philip  DeFranco You Tube Video published 10/29/2018


My comment posted 10/29/2018:

Who knew that I would be pleased to see everyone online wound up about Justin Bieber's purported food consumption habits (almost as much fun as Jenner/Vogue hair styles). I could not believe that I heard the President say had there been an armed guard.... These murders, whether at a school, church, temple or mall needs to start with identifying and treating  the confused, unmedicated, narcissistic individuals. These people should to be noticed, helped or isolated before acting out. I have no answers, except perhaps better (or ideally free) mental health care, more attention paid to comments by caregivers (parents, teachers) and maybe decriminalization and legalization of a certain substance known to help with seizures, certain eye conditions, pain management and oh yes, a mood stabilizer.

Philip DeFranco Video published on You Tube 10/25 regarding proposed Title IX defining sex as to the sex designated at birth.

Comment posted on 10/25/18

My immediate reaction is that there are better areas to focus our laws/action on: (1) Why Puerto Rica has not been helped since their last big hurricane (2) What those thousands marching want, that seemingly they cannot find in Honduras, (3) What the Saudis are doing in Yemen, (4) What the Saudis are doing period (5) Why do airlines hate their passengers. The road that a transgendered person travels (Caitlyn Jenner excluded) is hard enough without diminishing their legal, economic and employment rights. Maybe I am being pessimistic and the final bill will be more inclusive.

Bodyguard

a British TV series (2018) on Netflix
6 episode limited series

Very well-acted, with a soundtrack that accentuates the stress and stain on screen. The lead Richard Madden handles the gravitas and the emotions of PTSD (from his service in Afghanistan) without dialogue, just with this posture and face. The editing and directing is concise, the dialogue to the point without too many words.

Interesting as to how all the security problems seem to originate from within several different governmental and military agencies against one another. Episode one began with a more typical threat, a suicide bomber from an unnamed middle eastern country with an unnamed cause. By the end of Episode 1 and onward appears to be more conspiracies and threats from within, than without.



Currently on episode 3 (of 6)

Posted to Philip DeFranco YouTube Channel published 10/24/2018



I am guessing that this individual was given a background check before being employed?  I do not know what to do. I had heard of an MRI test that showed test subjects certain images and see what parts of their brains light up on the display. Sounds a bit invasive and probably not legal for the general population. So we are left with questioning our children without alarming them concerning improper behavior from adults you know, adults in charge of your sports team,  adults in charge of your scout troop, adults who teach, adults who provide after-school care/activities. It is just so depressing and exhausting. Maybe this is why people like horror and superhero movies so much, the monsters are easily identified and dealt with.

Joe Rogan Experience # 1187 - Kyle Kulinski - published 10/23/18





Comment posted to the above You Tube video on 10/14/18

Regarding the FB and Twitter removal of accounts, I am sure that there is some truth in that it was due to the examples presented of one site using multiple accounts. My hypothesis is that social media sites are doing this primarily to avoid having any government regulation/involvement in their corporations. They are trying to avoid federal regulation by regulating from within. Not a bad idea, however these removals should be decided per individual account. Again, I think that FB and Twitter felt rushed in that they had to deliver the account removals to the news media (ironically) and US government very quickly. Unfortunately the outcome of this behavior may end in kind of a generic, superficial presentation of national and international news.

The Haunting of Hill House
(2018)

A 10 episode series on Netflix
watched 10/17/18

The Haunting of Hill House series is beautifully filmed, expertly acted. There are no weak players in this limited series. Even the children were believable. While the ending is somewhat sentimental, I appreciated the tying up of loose ends. Due to some violence, sexual content and drug use, this is a series best viewed by older teens and adults.This is a series based on a Shirley Jackson (1959) novel. There are also 2 other film (1963 and 1999) incarnations. This series is a vast improvement over the forgettable 1999 version. The 1963 film takes a different route from this series, remains a classic on its own. The set design of the locations used in this series reflects many moods and tones. Hill House becomes an actor. I am guessing that many of the special effects were practical not CGI. That becomes a positive in lending a true feeling of dread or fear. Although this series flirted with being maudlin, it rights itself quickly with the use of flashbacks. However this technique is not overused or misused. Being familiar with the novel and the 2 films, I did see twists coming. However, the dialogue, acting and cinematography was worth the 10 episode binge.

-------------------
Posted 10/22/18 on You Tube - Perri Nemeroff's The Witching Hour - published 10/16/18

I have seen the whole series. I am ok with the conclusion, still processing it. Just wondering if the creators of this series made it conclude in that manner to open up the chance for a season 2? The acting is off the charts. It has been a very long time since I read the Shirley Jackson novel that this series is based upon, so I cannot speak to what has changed. However, the 1999 film (called The Haunting) was a disaster, more funny (inadvertently) than suspenseful. The 1963 film (also called The Haunting) was good, but very different from the Netflix series. The 1963 movie is a classic, at least for its time, for being a good representation of suspense and dread.

-------------------
Posted 10/23/18 on You Tube - Perri Nemeroff's The Witching Hour-SPOILERS - pub.10/23/18

Thanks to Perri and Haleigh for doing this spoiler ep. My least favorite episode was #9. There was one particular character in that episode with behavior that was deliberately exaggerated, but drove me almost as crazy as the character was. However as a singular entity (the series not me), I enjoyed the entire series. This series was scary and enlightening (with the family conflicts and addiction themes). While I have not read the Shirley Jackson (1950's) novel, this series is a vast improvement over the 1999 movie and extremely different, in a good way,  from the 1963 movie. To make a future anthology have more of a variety, it might treat the central character (the house) as diseased not evil. It is something which can infect people relative to their "immune system" (aka moral center/psyche). There then would be more opportunity for a variety of stories, some ending well, some ending badly.

Bad Times at the El Royale
(2018)


This is an intense, very violent film.  This is also a film full of main characters, all with an arc and all with a personality. While most of the action either happens inside or in the dark, I never lost sight of the characters or their actions.

Darlene Sweet (played by Cynthia Erivo) was my favorite through the first 2/3 of the movie. However for the last third of the film, Miles Miller (played by Lewis Pullman) was really really good. There was a scene where he acted so strongly that dialogue was not even necessary (or possible) to make that scene work beautifully.

I left this film feeling that I needed to decompress as this film stays with you.

Venom (2018)
PG-13
Seen in a theater (regular 2D format) on 10/05/18


(comment made on MovieBob review on You Tube):

The humor in Venom saved it for me. The night-time (because daytime CGI is more expensive ?) CGI vehicle chase scenes and fight scenes were at an ineffectual, disappointing level. I saw this is regular (not 3D) format. I give this movie 2.5 stars. My generosity may be due to that fact that I held Venom to a very very low bar due to the RT score (at 30% as of this comment) and other reviews. I probably should lower my score by .5 as Michelle Williams' long blond wig was the worst I have seen since Kate Mara's wig in Fantastic Four (2015).

(comment made on Double Toasted review on You Tube):

I call your bad red wig in Venom's extra scene, and raise you a Michelle Williams' bad blond wig in this movie. She is a decent actress, but that wig was more distracting than Venom. All I could think of was Kate Mara's (as Sue Storm) wig in the Fantastic Four (2015) movie. As for the accuracy of MPAA system, even with Venom's  PG-13, I saw 2 boys looking between 7 - 10 years old in the audience at the theater I attended. I never heard any disturbance from them, so I guess they made it through the movie, sanity intact. Just to show how weird the rating system is, while Venom was PG-13 (with its language, violence and head eating), A Star is Born is rated R. I plan to see A Star is Born in the next few days, be interesting to see all that R-rated maturity.

(comment made on Jeremy Jahns review on You Tube):

I agree, not as bad as everyone said it was or as good as we all hoped.  I did laugh many times through this movie. I am not familiar with this character from the comics (just from a wiki read), so I cannot say whether or not Venom and Eddie Brock were true to their "roots". The movie was a bit choppy, studio editing? The night-time chase and violence scenes were not as well imaged as I would have hoped (saw this movie in regular format, not in 3D). I got nostalgic when I remembered how good that night chase scene and railroad fight scene were in Black Panther...sigh.

(comment made on SJnews Spoiler review on You Tube):

The humor in Venom made all the difference for me providing an entertaining experience. Thanks to Roth for mentioning that WIG, omg only Michelle Williams' talent kept me from staring only at that WIG every time she came onto the screen. Definitely in the Sue Storm Wig Hall of Infamy. Oh and add that brightly colored wig shown in a certain scene of Venom. All that being said (admittedly from the point of view of someone who never read those comics), this movie deserves more love than it is currently getting on RT. It is not a classic, but Venom is enjoyable.

(comment made on Andre/Black Nerd review on You Tube):

While Upgrade is a better, darker movie, I laughed a lot during Venom. I have not read the comic series so I cannot speak to what is canon. Just from entertainment value, this movie made me laugh. I did find the concept and visuals of Venom more believable than Eddie Brock as a famous but disgraced NYC journalist with an uber-popular SF news show who then steals some data with the finesse of an older elementary school student from his girlfriend. Thanks to Andre for verbalizing what I have been feeling, it is ok for a movie just to entertain us, even if CGI is a main player.

Thoughts on 09/28/2018



Comment posted to Philip DeFranco video published on You Tube on 09/27/2018

'Social Experiment' Parents should get their child back (with a mandatory parental counseling course for both parents and at least 3 "surprise" visits from social services over the next 3 months), because basically they were felony-stupid not criminally negligent. I have read the Harry Potter series (except The Cursed Child which I just could not get through). Yes minorities are not widely used as main characters, but having Nagini be of Asian descent is mythologically accurate as JK Rowling tweeted. We are all either a bit or a lot prejudiced. Hopefully time, immigration and travel will make humanity evolve. Mr. Musk is not having a good month is he. What still really bothers me about the Kavanaugh/Dr. Ford Hearings, is the lack of any memory of the incident with Dr. Ford and others. Having never been a teenage boy, I cannot really say, but after the onset of puberty is there a period of amnesia through the teens in males? While my memory of the behavior of school-age bullies in my sphere is admittedly colored by time and emotion, it is still a memory.



Comment posted to Philip DeFranco video published on You Tube on 09/28/2018

When this mess started, I felt that bringing up events that occurred when Kavanaugh was in his teens was specious and irrelevant as his history as a judge along with employees and assistants was far more relevant. However Judge Kavanaugh's complete lack of memory of this culture of mistreatment of females of his classmates whether or not he admits or was involved, does give considerable pause. People can change, evolve and become better, but I wonder just how "evolved" Judge Kavanaugh is when he seems not to remember these parties and the effect on some of the participants. Has that phrase "Renate Alumni" (see: https://www.vox.com/2018/9/26/17902214/brett-kavanaugh-yearbook-accusers-renate-schroeder-male-bonding) ever been addressed by Judge Kavanaugh?

The House with a Clock in its Walls (2018)


(saw at a theater 09/24/18)


Imaginative set design, great acting by Cate Blanchett and Jack Black





The Jack Black baby scene was horrific, but I think that Eli Roth did it on purpose in order to give the audience a kind of a body horror effect while staying within a PG format. It reminded me of one of the final scenes in a really old movie, The Fly (1958).



I saw this as a matinee. It was me and 10 other adults. That transformation scene towards the end of the movie was, well kind of disturbing for me. I flashed back to another concluding scene in a 1958 horror movie  (starring Vincent Price), also with a disturbing transformation. The dialogue in this film, even with a few "big" words, still seemed a bit simplistic but entirely appropriate given the PG rating. I heard a reviewer refer to this movie as having a very hard PG rating. After seeing this film, I agree.

A Simple Favor (2018)




I enjoyed this movie. It actually had smart dialogue, great pace and coherent editing.Paul Feig should write a user's manual for avoiding studio interference when making a movie.

Thoughts on 09/17/18




Comment posted to the Philip DeFranco video published on You Tube 09/17/2018

Elon Musk needs a much more effective PR person. Mr. Musk really set himself up for this lawsuit. Regarding the gas explosions in Massachusetts, living in an area (not affected by explosions) with one of my utilities being Columbia Gas disturbs me. Over-pressurized gas released into an area with questionable pipes (due to age and repair) seems like this company epic-failed Gas Care and Usage 101. I am nervous, but in much better shape than citizens of Lawrence, Andover and North Andover.  The Kavanaugh accusation does not bother me as much as his denial or "memory lapse" of this incident. To not remember that behavior at all, or even differently from his accuser, to me indicates that his (teen) arrogance and sense of privilege may still exist under that mature intellectual surface. As a possible supreme court justice, I would be concerned that these personality traits might reappear during important legal decisions. That being said, maybe he has changed. I would put his post-prep school history and judicial record under the microscopic view of an independent group (aka no one from DC).

Films Releasing in December, 2018

Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse

Mortal Engines

Mary Poppins Returns

Aquaman

Bumblebee

Alita: Battle Angel

Holmes and Watson

Welcome to Marwen

Did not even remember that Mortal Engines, Holmes and Watson, Welcome to Marwen and Alita: Battle Angel were releasing in December 2018. Guess the movies that I am seeing first (and maybe only) in a movie theater.  Somehow I have to fit in Alita, as it should be more immerse in a theater experience.

The Predator (2018)


Comment to Reel Reject spoiler video review for The Predator 09/16/2018

I love that Reel Rejects' attitude. So many reviewers seemed SO angry about this movie. Being a Predator completist, I will probably see this either streaming or at a matinee (aka discount). My expectations will be small and my popcorn will be large.

Thoughts on 9/13/2018





Posted to SJnews on You Tube video published 09/13 regarding EU Articles 11 & 13

My general impression is that these laws, as currently written, will end with us having to pay more for videos and channels that currently are either at a nominal cost or free. Ideally, video should be the same as songs online. You can use a partial song in a video, but it cannot be the entire song. You should be able to post that 2 minute touchdown on your own Instagram account with no penalty to the account holder or Instagram/FB. Although isn't UK out of EU? So that timey-whimey project of Honest Trailers should still be safe.



Posted to Double Toasted on You Tube video published 09/13 regarding Henry Cavill and Ben Affleck leaving DC

Now we need a Superman, Batman and Bond--ok Craig's List here is your chance to become relevant again. As for improving DC? The studio tried to run a marathon without training for a 5K. Time to return to the beginning or close to it.With all the stacks of comic books written and illustrated over the decades, why can't DC construct a timeline and use that material for movie format? Their (excluding The Killing Joke) animated movies have been fairly successful. Input all their comic books to one data base, and let AI do the screenwriting, editing and storyboarding.

Thoughts on 08/31/2018


Comment made on Lindsay Ellis video published on You Tube 08/31/18 regarding the Death of Hollywood Musical.


I just saw Moulin Rouge...The Musical. And I loved it. I am so confused as in the 21st century I have just seen and loved a (financially) successful broadway show taking place in the 19th century based on an almost 20th century movie (yeah I know it is actually 2001 but I am "sure" that pre-production began in 1990's?) with songs from the 21st century. Time to drink some chamomile tea and lie down in a darkened room. BTW this good analysis by Lindsay Ellis , always love these videos.

Searching (2018)

PG-13




I believed the positive buzz, albeit grudgingly (saw Searching as a matinee),,  was riveted for the entire length of this movie. Performances, cinematography (really a surprise), directing, editing and of course acting was the best I have seen in a long time. SEE IT and my opinion adds, in a theater.

The quality of this movie amazed me. Saw this as a matinee, because I thought that this movie couldn't work.  While it sounds odd to see this movie at least once, in a theater. When it streams, we can all use pause, rewind, fast forward to micro-analyze this movie.  For now, let's enjoy it, plus (at least for me) John Cho was a revelation. He is truly an ACTOR.

Crazy Rich Asians (2018)

Watched in theater on 08/27/2018


I enjoyed this movie. No watch checking required. It had plenty of crazy and plenty of rich. I wanted a smart, funny well-directed movie with impressive cinematography and that is exactly what I got. I cannot speak to the Asian-ness of this movie. However the cast was attractive, talented, had good dialogue so I was satisfied.  My only complaint was the super wide range of ratings of the trailers, we got G (Smallfoot - not too impressive) to R (A Star is Born - why is this R?) with a couple of odd (maybe it's the trailers' fault) PG-13s:   (1) Night School with Tiffany Haddish and Kevin Hart,  (2) What Men Want with Taraji P. Henson.

Thoughts on 08/25/18:



Comment posted to moviebob @geek.com on You Tube published

(regarding Guardians of the Galaxy 3 being delayed)

Actually if Disney corporate comes forward and admits their error, learns about the internet and excoriates the trolls, their glittery starry persona might be partially restored (except for that snap decision maker, Alan "what's a tweet" Horn). I use the word "partially" as we will all be fairly grumpy (and not in a cute Snow White way) when we see the new streaming service fee levels for Disney ,Pixar, Marvel, Lucas Film and Fox movies.

Thoughts on August 23, 2018

Comment posted to a Philip DeFranco video on You Tube published on 08/23/2018:

If any South African farmers can prove ownership, they should be paid even if the government has to put the money in an account for said farmers. This deposit along with a date of eviction accompanied by a face to face meeting informing the current owner of that eviction, preferably in a courtroom environment. Proof of ownership could be problematic in situations were there have been several white to white farmland purchases. I believe that apartheid was begun sometime between 1948 - 1950, so interviews with former owners, neighbors of these white farmers, historical records, tax payments, computer searches should be of some assistance. If these farmers can prove ownership that predates apartheid, then they should be exempt from redistribution. The South African government, if only to show fairness, should perform due diligences on these ownership searches. The German government has been returning stolen property (admittedly sometimes reluctantly) for years to survivors of genocide, it is the ethical thing to do.

Thoughts on August 22, 2018




Posted to WTF  on You Tube pubished on 08/22/18 regarding a discussion of allegations regarding Asia Argento


Sometimes I think that news media gets too wound up in profit/click baiting. The allegations regarding Asia Argento's behavior, whether true or false, does not vindicate or excuse Harvey Weinstein (Google his name and see the encyclopedic list of his accusers) nor negate the #metoo movement's goals. While the popular concept of an accuser exposing wrongdoing is an image of an individual who is candid, innocent and ethically pure, unfortunately humans are not built that way. In order to find that idealized accuser check out mythology, legends and fables.

Disenchantment (2018)

Season 1 - 20 episodes on Netflix
binged watched on August 21, 2018


I liked Disenchantment. For the first episode or so, the Simpson-animation style did take me out of the story, but by episode 3 I had acclimated to this story. While the ending was a bit lame and disappointing, maybe season 2 will redeem it. Actually I thought that the character of Luci even had a arc with a demon-centric viewpoint evolving to a more expansive view and allegiance to a group.

Thoughts on 08/21/2018



Comment posted to Philip DeFranco on You Tube video published on 08/21/2018:

Tinder - exactly as Philip DeFranco said, flip the sexes involved and see if it is still funny or acceptable behavior. I do not find "Gotcha" videos/situations funny or particularly engrossing, just gross.  Logan Paul - next topic.   Regarding Asia Argento, I was shocked to hear about the accusations. The picture sounds incriminating, but having not seen it, I cannot give a valid opinion. However whether Asia Argento has been maligned or was a predator in this child actor incident, I think that Harvey Weinstein's reputation is beyond being expunged by the alleged activities of one accuser.  Flint was a disaster since day 1 of the decision to alter its water supply,. Why this has not been addressed more quickly and effectively is sad. The only passion seems to be in the courts, which is draining even more money away from changing this situation and helping the (surviving) citizens of Flint, Michigan.

Thoughts 08/18/2018:




Comments posted to Collider Movie Talk video published 08/16/2018 on You Tube:

Disney bought Marvel in 2009. James Gunn was hired to write and direct GotG in 2010. Assuming the accuracy of those dates---Disney knew of tweets/subsequent apology, Marvel most certainly knew of tweets/subsequent apology. Even if Disney and Marvel weren't up-to-date on a decade of Twitter, just looking at James Gunn's IMDb would have given them an idea that Mr. Gunn ,historically speaking, wasn't directing conservative movies rated G. Guessing Disney might have to go to a film school for the next director of GotG 3.  Probable qualification #1 no Twitter account allowed.

Regarding: The Right Hook, a short by Luke Greenfield (2000), yeah the part that I saw (was not able to stream the entire short) did offend me. Quite possibly that is just me. However there should have been some sort of discussion of the film in that USC class. If the discussion started to be too heated, it should have been postponed to the next day or the next week. College is supposed to grow us up, in maturity, viewpoints and analytical ability. Since I was not there, it is hard to say what happened. Maybe the professor should only lecture, with the discussion handled by someone more familiar with discourse. As for the film itself, the concept was intriguing, but its implementation seemed clumsy, heavy-handed and repetitive. Satirical comedy needs intelligence even more than pratfalls and right hooks.

Thoughts on August 17, 2018






Comment posted to moviebob published on 08/16/18 to You Tube (What Happens Now? IN BOB WE TRUST)

Very good episode. I think I understand the rippling effects of the troll-stone. While the original James Gunn tweets were horrendous, his apology and evolution is well-documented. What I still do not understand is why Mr. Horn made his decision so fast without due process, checking the sources and looking towards the future. I think that he has already lost credibility, no matter what size certain portions of his anatomy may be.

Thoughts on August 16, 2018:



Comment posted to SJ News video on You Tube published on 08/16/18

Disney unfortunately, but predictably, issued the expected result. Disney corporate might want to rethink and reformat for the future. Twitter holds all kinds of "stuff" about all of us. Come up with a plan/mission statement NOW. Before anyone fools around with AI, I would download Isaac Asimov's 3 Laws of Robotics, some Thoreau and Rousseau before acting lessons. Aretha Franklin was unique with a soul way stronger than her body. She leaves an imprint on all of us.

The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society (2018)

an original Netflix movie - watched 08/14/2018


This movie is beyond romantic with humor, smart dialogue, beautiful cinematography, an evocative score, with full dimensional (aka character) acting from 100% of the cast and most importantly, a very satisfactory not sappy conclusion. While the movie does start slow, it never bores, but lightly draws in the attentive viewer. Watch the faces, the body language and even the locations, there is so much to see...just watch and listen.

Lily James is the acting standout, but amazingly every performance, every bit of dialogue made me feel that these people were real and I knew all of them. The most unique, powerful message of reading and loving the classics is sprinkled throughout this movie. Message movies often use a heavy hand while giving the viewer almost a virtual headache from the enormity of the theme or message that it blasts into a viewer's consciousness.  This movie's themes are much more easily absorbed and understood. Stay with this movie, it is worth the time.

Thoughts on August 13, 2018



Comment posted to SJ News video published on 08/13/18 on YouTube:

Recently World Health Organization added to their ever burgeoning tome of disorders,  "video game addiction". While I do not agree with giving this item its own category (I am addicted to dark chocolate and do not see a chapter for the specific addiction), logically if that were correct, they should also add Social Media Madness as a disorder with Twitter Twits being an important subcategory in that chapter.

The Meg (2018)

Saw this move at the theater is 3D

I also had fun with this movie. 3D was worth it. The characters played by Jason Statham and the (CGI) creatures did not disappoint. Loved the actress who played the little girl. She emoted, acted, read her lines with precision, something I did not see in the character that Ruby Rose portrayed. Oh that crying scene, whew!


Never read the book, but the movie entertained me. Yes I was able to predict some things, but I still had a good time. Two things that I did not like, the fate of Morris's (Rainn Wilson) character...so stupid and the crying scene of the character of Jaxx (Ruby Rose). The actress (Shuya Sophia Cai) who played Meiying as the daughter (and granddaughter) of two of the scientists seemed much better trained than some of the adults.


Fun movie. While not heavily intellectual, The Meg was still moderately entertaining.  Two things I did not like, a dramatic scene with Rainn Wilson that was written SO badly. I cringed. I was not fond of Ruby Rose's performance, especially in a crying scene. Her effort reminded me of a rather weak performance that I gave in a school play (thankfully before the popularity of YouTube). That little girl (Shuya Sophia Cai) was one of the most charismatic actors in this movie and that includes Jason Statham.

The Meg was fun. It did have a few problems. Rainn Wilson's climatic scene came off a bit silly, like it belonged more in a Sharknado genre than in an action thriller. When there was no megalodon on screen, the charisma factor fell into the human hands of Jason Statham or Shuya Sophia Cai (the actress that played the small  granddaughter of the scientist who was running the underwater base.)

Like Father (2018)

a Netflix movie ---- watched 08/07/2018


Kristen Bell and surprisingly (to me) Kelsey Grammer kept me watching this movie. This Netflix movie was just ok and fine. It did not confuse me (aka Bright) and did not make me mad (aka The Ridiculous 6)  I agree that the characters were tropes, but they were amiable tropes. I was disappointed and yet fascinated regarding how bad Seth Rogan was in this movie. If I did not know he could act, I would wonder why he was hired. Wondering if he was a "last minute" replacement? What really turned me off was how this movie felt like a flashy mindless infomercial for a certain cruise line. However with some really clueless employees (the vapid girl at the check-in desk and the master of ceremonies so grating that I felt the need for shredded mozzarella) and unentertaining ship entertainment, I will not be booking a cabin any time soon.

Thoughts on 08/06/2018:


Comment posted to Philip  DeFranco video published on 08/06/18 on YouTube.

What I have heard or briefly seen of Alex Jones seems offensive in regards to views he holds and the dialogue he spews. While I agree with his podcast removal, I just do not like all of this us vs. them stuff going on lately. This planet is our only home (Mars rumors to the contrary). Most of us are all more or less stuck here. Let's try more for the "flying car" concept of life not the "flying s**t" concept...sorry, just saying. Whoa Bangladesh sounds like the US wild west, anything goes. Amazing it took such huge demonstrations to get anything accomplished from the government. However it does sound like it is degenerating into a kind of "Purge"-type situation Be safe Bangladesh.

Collider Town Hall #2 Programming Updates & Your Questions

published on You Tube 08/01/2018



I took a screen shot at 48:10 as I need a cheat sheet. Beyond trying not to miss live shows or miss the return/debut of missed personalities, I'm good.  However along with on camera faces, please get Cody and Cobbster some interns. I would keep Heroes as the name for that show. On FB-Schmoeville a Jon Schnepp Funko Pop was proposed. Make it so, keep it in the on the set of Heroes, it would have made him smile. Just having fans purchase this item could fund a show...MAKE IT SO COLLIDER CREW❤️

Thoughts on 7/31/18:





Posted to Lindsay Ellis You Tube video "The Time Disney Remade Beauty and the Beast" published 07/31/18:

I did not hate the live action version of Cinderella or Beauty and the Beast, these films were just unnecessary duplicates. I liked The Jungle Book quite a lot, maybe due to the fact I was not fond of its animated predecessor. As for Maleficent, the dialogue was cheesy, but I appreciated its alt version of the Sleeping Beauty story. Hard to say what future live action versions, such as Aladdin, Dumbo and The Lion King will bring. I just hope that the films contain well-written dialogue, incisive editing and beautiful cinematography. That being the case yes I will pay money to re-see a product already out there because sometimes I just want to be entertained  not challenged (less calories than ice cream).

Thoughts on 7/30/2018



Comment posted to Philip DeFranco You Tube video published 07/30/18:

While on a personal level yes, I would like to see James Gunn rehired. It is much more depressing (and relevant to our future) regarding how many people do not see how giving Twitter/social media trolls power will ultimately sink us all. Regarding the Logan Paul/KSI "fight", I would be much more interested in seeing both take a MENSA test with real-time results and reactions. Maybe loser has to attend a course in Ethics and The Media at a local college? Sacha Baron Cohen can be crude, rude and a pain, but I love having him in this world exposing (ironically) posers.

Thoughts on 07/27/18


Posted to Joe Rogan You Tube video #1147 with Dr. Debra Soh published 07/26/2018

So gender is a fluid changing process fine, but ideas/opinions are sunk into concrete with no hope or chance of any changes. Well, now I am depressed.

James Gunn fired

I do not agree with Disney corporate's decision to fire James Gunn, but I do agree they had the right to make that decision. Disney knew about these tweets years ago. James Gunn apologized for these tweets years ago. This termination seems more about Disney appeasing stockholders and attorneys than any indignation concerning the content of these tweets. I do feel James Gunn does have some responsibility as these tweets (and they are BAD) were made by a 40+ year old not a 20 year old You Tuber trying to get more subscribers. Yet somehow this firing seems more reflexive than thoughtful. James Gunn has evolved to realize how horrific his comments were. However is Disney capable of the same evolution, both privately and publicly? Check social media history, many of us have evolved to sentience, we did not begin that way.

The biggest loser in this firing is Disney. In protecting their IP, they have allowed our collective goodwill towards Disney to be attacked, diminished and maybe abandoned. Of course it could be argued that we, the viewing public will be the greatest loser. As mediocre, unimaginative and bland movies written and directed by mediocre, unimaginative and bland individuals will not make a trip to the theater worth it for anyone.

I go from irritated to angry and finally to sad to see how we just seem to be unable to learn from history. Witch-hunts never turn out well, obviously not for the victims however, certainly not for the instigators and the rest of us just standing around watching it unfold.   For huge amount of irony AND enlightenment read this history:
https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/lists/hollywood-ten-men-who-refused-839762

Moviebob published on YouTube 07/25/18 -- "In Bob We Trust - SHOULD DISNEY REHIRE JAMES GUNN?"
My comment:
Thank you Moviebob. This was a literate, comprehensive and quite fair description of this situation. Although admittedly I am a fan of GotG series generally and James Gunn specifically that is not the true issue. This action which de-evolved Disney to the ironic status of a puppet, is a preliminary symptom of a potentially much more serious illness. Consider James Gunn the canary in the coal mine (google it, this is an apt analogy). Check out the Salem Witch Trials, The Spanish Inquisition, postWW1 Germany with its rampant nationalism along with intolerance for citizens not of 100% Aryan descent and of course The Army--McCarthy Hearings. While it may seem melodramatic to reference those humungous wrong turns into crazy-town, they all started as small movements/issues.  Someone did not watch, someone did not understand and a lot of someones suffered.

Thoughts on 07/16/18







Comment posted to Philip DeFranco video published on You Tube 07/16/2018

Sacha b Sacha, as for everyone else  on that Showtime series, I am guessing probably a mix of CGI, ego and being socially tone-deaf.  Elon Musk: All I know is that Twitter has an effect on literally everyone (including actors, politicians and billionaire inventors) drastically lowering IQ points.  Trump is predictable in almost anything he does. It will be that way until 2020 or 2024 or until the planet implodes.

Thoughts on 07/12/2018




My comment posted to: Funhaus channel on You Tube  published 07/12/18--LAWRENCE FELL OFF A ROOF - Dude Soup Podcast #182

Even if not originated by Dude Soup, I like the term, "Netiquette". This is a concept and skill that should have been taught the day after Robert E. Kahn and Vint Cerf  (hey that is who the internet says) invented the internet. If nothing else, everyone should get the concept that contrary to that aged expression "Sticks and stones can break my bones (Lawrence remember this), but words can never hurt me." Not only can words hurt you, virtually they exist FOREVER on said internet.

Potential Projects for Dwayne Johnson


My post on Double Toasted video published on You Tube 07/12/2018

My choice for potential Dwayne Johnson projects:  (remakes, yeah I know but if done well..., of ) Outland (1981) as Marshall O'Niel and The League of Extraordinary Gentlemen (2003) as Allan Quatermain, however take more plot and character details from the Alan Moore graphic novel series than the 2003 version failed to do successfully. 

As for the action/thriller, Skyscraper (2018) even with The Rock it looks too derivative. I will check it out when this movie is on a streaming service.


Every review that I find on this movie seems to be burying the lead (conspiracy theory). Based on that jump, with that leg, can anyone say "Bionic Man -- THE REBOOT "?   Apologies to all for my very weak, even if funny,  pun.

Ant-man and the Wasp (2018)







While I do think that Scott/Ant-Man sacrificed one or two IQ points for the tone of the film, I still liked this movie. I agree that Janet Van Dyne, Dr. Foster and even Ava/Ghost seemed to not have enough screen time. Perhaps I will have to buy the blu-ray for that data.


I liked this film a lot. Palate cleanser or not, Ant-man and the Wasp was fun (with or without popcorn). Actually what I found most funny in the "truck as skateboard" scene was the lack of any interest by the hipsters/patrons at a local coffee shop in what was going on just outside the window.  Definitely stay for the first stinger occurring as the closing credits begin. As for the 2nd stinger, you do not have to stay. Actually in the first few seconds of the 2nd stinger, there is a quick image of a device which emphasizes the event seen in the FIRST stinger.


This movie was fun. I am glad that it was mostly free from world-wide apocalyptic events. My only negative is that I wanted more explanation on how Janet Van Dyne survived for all that time (and got a very comic con ready outfit) in the Quantum Realm.







SPOILERS:

The end of credit scene, while mostly in the trailer, did add to story a bit: (1) notification on TV showed continuity with the previous extra scene at beginning of the closing credits and (2) obviously the musical ant still lives.

Bombshell: The Hedy Lamarr Story

watched on Netflix 07/08/2018



This documentary shines in its intelligent presentation of a luminous person. I knew little of Hedy Lamarr beyond knowing some of  Hedy Lamarr's movies along with a brief bit of personal knowledge concerning her association with an invention used by the military. I knew little of this person. I incorrectly assumed the title of this documentary was strictly on concerning Hedy Lamarr's status as a movie star of mid-20th century. Bombshell details the life of a woman whose intellect did not permit her to suffer fools or their foolishness, whose "hobby" was staying home inventing things and was the most beautiful woman of her time. While this documentary has the usually amount of "talking heads" none over stayed his or her welcome. This documentary contains portions of World War 2 period history, the early movie industry in the U.S. along with actual technical data from Lamarr's part in an innovative concept called, Frequency Hopping. The director moves the scenes along quickly, but not rushed way. The soundtrack emphasizes not overpowering the story. More than just a life, this documentary details a large portion of history that should have much more awareness. After viewing Bombshell: The Hedy Lamarr Story,  I may the full meaning of the title. Frequency Hopping has exploded into all of our lives changing them forever.

A Very English Scandal

a limited mini-series of 3 episodes

watched on  Amazon Prime 07/07/2018



This is an amazing story. The 3 episodes of this mini series details the events leading up to and including the trial of former MP and Liberal Party Leader, Jeremy Thorpe and his companions in a murder conspiracy regarding Mr. Thorpe's (alleged) male lover, Norman Scott. The outcome could have only happened within its time period, just before homosexuality was decriminalized in the UK. Hugh Grant (as Jeremy Thorpe) was a revelation. I have enjoyed seeing him in comedies, but never realized the full extent of his talent. Ben Whishaw (as Norman Scott) was alternately infuriating, clever and sad. His performance was also expertly done. There were no bad performances in this film. While I did find that A Very English Scandal had a slow beginning,  due to quickly accelerating circus of dumbness, utter arrogance and unbelievable incompetence of the major characters involved I think the director made the right choice. Had it begun crazy, the later scenes would have been not as dramatic. The date/location tags added to the screen were helpful and in no way took me out of the story. The actors were uniformly believable while bringing unbelievable (yet true) characters to life. Do not leave before this series concludes. There are some final notes that give the fate of most of the real life participants.  The almost fantastical irony comes with the last character. That brief description, sums up this wild occurrence with a concise statement proving British irony has no equal.

Violet  Evergarden

anime - on Netflix - 13 episodes (viewed 07/07/18)


This is a lushly animated film, in the sense of its art, vibrancy of color and even to the physical movements of the characters. This anime is for adults or older teens. The plot concerns a nation divided by war, trying to commit to peace. Violet Evergarden is an Auto Memory Doll. A Doll is a ghostwriter who writes letters for clients seemingly unable to express themselves. Violet's previous occupation during wartime was something akin to a Special Forces operative. Both her abilities and her physicality made her almost a super-soldier. The soundtrack is a little manipulative in pulling emotions out, to me a negative quality. However the format of having different stories for each episode elevates this anime with its writing.  Do not be put off by the first episode. It begins as most anime do, with a very young character, very attractive with unusual abilities. While this anime is violent, the violence is not gratuitous. The violence has effects seen on the bodies of individuals but also on the quality of life concerning locals who live near or within the violence.  In an almost stealth way, the viewer is moved towards concept of the futility and illogic of war and conflict.  Many of the characters have a definitive arc. The last 10 minutes does unfortunately fall into typical anime trap of being a bit silly, sappy and  presenting an ending that may diminish the drama of the rest of the series. However, Violet Evergarden is an anime that is worth the time investment of its 13 episodes.

Greenfingers (2000)

R    1 hr 31 min

Watched on Amazon Prime 06/06/18

I kept passing by this movie on my queue multiple times. While this film starts slowly, the story held my attention. I enjoyed this movie more for the interaction of the prisoners than the romantic subplot. Greenfingers seems almost like an alternate universe where certain prisoners with serious crimes in their past are sent to a prison which encourages change for the better rather than reinforcing the brutality of their pasts. This movie is based on a true story of celebrated inmate gardeners, I suspect that the love angle inserted in this story is fabricated as it appears to be the weakest portion. However the arc of the prisoners and their characters are much more interesting. Either by luck or design the prison and its inmates are the major portion of this movie. The cinematography is beautiful. How could it not be with English gardens being almost a main character.  The standout human actors are Clive Owen (as prisoner, Colin Briggs) and Helen Mirren (as an expert as familiar with PR as she is with gardening, Georgina Woodhouse). Supporting players David Kelly (prisoner, Fergus Wilks), Warren Clarke (as Governor (aka head of Edgefield Prison) Hodge, Adam Fogerty (as prisoner, Raw) and Paterson Joseph (as prisoner, Jimmy) hold their own against the professionalism and talent of Owen and Mirren. The ending is uplifting, yet not too obviously clichéd. 

A Picture of You (2013)
1 hr 23 min


I was going through Amazon Prime looking for a movie to take my mind off "things" and came across this film.

This movie is a hidden gem. While seemingly contradictory, this is a funny film about a death. However, there is nothing morbid or depressing about this story. It has intelligent conversation and even an action scene done in a very believable way. The actors were expert in portraying quirky, interesting characters that I would actually want to meet in reality.  The 4 main characters (Jo Mai as Jen, Andrew Pang as Kyle, Teyonah Parris as Mika and Lucas Dixon as Doug) made me forget they were acting,  The standout was Andrew Pang who portrayed anger, bemusement and even being in an altered state, all equally well. As Andrew Pang's ancestry is Korean and Jo Mai is of  Chinese descent, I was taken out of the film (mother was of Chinese descent). It was only for the first few minutes and that is on me. We never were introduced to the identity of the father, so who knows? The movie starts slowly, as the 2 main characters estranged siblings Jen and Kyle, come to learn an interesting aspect of their late mother's life. I laughed many times. The cinematography was beautiful with many non-CGI'd outdoor scenes. A few of the scene transitions were a bit abrupt, as though there was some cut lines of dialogue. However every individual scene of this film was so good,  that those editorial decisions never bothered me for long. The soundtrack was at times subtle and at times on the nose, but was never out of place. This movie has character arcs, humor, adventure and a satisfying conclusion. Plus due to this film, I have learned to appreciate a very old, previous very ordinary children's song in an entirely new light.

Sorry To Bother You (2018)

Only viewed trailer



This review has persuaded me to see this movie in a theater. It looks very funny and I need more of that in my life. I love that this movie uses practical effects, although that was probably a budget decision. It is obvious that this is an alt-reality as robo-callers aren't nearly as relatable, personable or...breathing.

The First Purge (2018)

Only viewed trailer



The First Purge seems well-directed and written. Also is oddly (for a sequel/prequel) coherent in explaining previous Purge movie details. It is just a personal thing, but I like my satire less homicidal and more verbal.

Thoughts on 07/03/2018





Comment posted to Joe Rogan Show published 07/02/18 on You Tube #1139 with Jordan Peterson:

I always felt highlighting or haranguing individual biases was a waste of time. We need to acquire more intelligent discourse and listening techniques along with a very healthy dose of basic empathy.

Thoughts on July 1 2018







Comment posted to You Tube video "Collider MailBag" published 07/01/2018


So curious about what might have been with the Lord and Miller version. That being said canon giveth and canon taketh away. Icons, whether Han Solo or Harrison Ford come with many if "this" then "that" loops. Unless we can find some MIB with "flashy-thingys" we have to either forgive or forget and move on. One thing that unites all Star Wars' fans is that we all want more Star Wars.

BTW love this duo on MailBag, it is fun to see debates that do not end with court cases or someone being removed from their situation.

Floyd Norman: An Animated Life (2016)

a documentary watched on Netflix 06/28/2018

5/5 STARS

This movie gave me everything I could want from a documentary. I learned new things, was entertained and found a role model. I was just passing through Netflix looking for something, anything and came across this film. It began slowly, with the usual talking heads motif, but Floyd Norman's attitude, talent and lack of filter began to grab my attention. Interest in Disney, Pixar and general animation is a plus, but not necessary to enjoy this movie. An Animated Life manages to give the viewer data on Floyd Norman, Disney's early animation years (while Walt Disney was still alive) and even what makes an artist. There are discussions on corporate employment that will surprise the viewer in their direction. These discussions are as real and as vital as Floyd Norman himself. This is a well-edited and directed movie. Of course, that the primary attraction becomes Floyd Norman which as the film says, is an animator, a storyteller and a troublemaker.

Thoughts on 6/27/2018





John Campea video published 6/27/2018 on You Tube  RE: What should theaters do when mistakes happen?


I usually get blank looks on my initial report of a problem. When I restate the problem,  I see the lights go back on in the employee's eyes resulting in immediate assistance or a free pass.  I think that the job lends itself towards a hypnotic type state. So I recommend kindness and patience as these guys are TIRED and a little bored. Excepting an occasional clueless and classless audience member, I have never been disrespected in a theater.

Thoughts on June 24, 2018


Comment posted to TYT video published 06/24/18
     RE:    Sarah Huckabee Sanders Booted From Red Hen Restaurant

While I would not wish to be her server or even be a customer in the same restaurant, letting her eat there would probably be the easiest act. I read the interview with the owner of the restaurant. Seems like everyone, including Sarah Sanders, acted in a civil manner. I think that people are just so frustrated with administration policies, that any one supporting these policies who appear in a public location such as a restaurant, can be a triggering factor. Maybe The White House should just issue a memorandum stating that federal employees just avoid restaurants...especially those serving Mexican food. I would pay major dollars for an image of a highly placed official parked at a Taco Bell drive-through. Remember November 3, 2020 edges ever closer.

Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom (2108)

It was fun sit (once I moved to get away from a blinding cell phone). Chris Pratt did kind of exude super power in several action scenes, but I did not attend this movie expecting a documentary. I wanted fun and popcorn. While I overpaid for the popcorn, I still had an entertaining time. My movie ranking:
(1) Jurassic Park (1993)
(2) Jurassic World (2015)
(3) Jurassic World:Fallen Kingdom (2018)
(4) Jurassic Park: The Lost World (1997)
(5) Jurassic Park III (2001)  <----reasons for low ranking: Téa Leoni's annoying screaming and the talking  ("Alan") velociraptor.

The pachycephalosaurus (in 3rd Act of movie back at Lockwood Mansion) had some of the best comic scenes in the movie.  (SPOILER: during jail break scene and auction riot scene)

The carnotaurus was kind of  the "dick" and bully who in one or two scenes was kind of like the Wily Coyote to the tyrannosaurus rex's Roadrunner.

As perfunctory as it was, listen to the prologue and epilogue delivered by Ian Malcolm (Jeff Goldblum). Badly paraphrasing, this cataclysm began when the first bit of DNA was extracted from the amber, altered and grown w/o any ethics or concern for the future.


This is a big dumb fun popcorn movie. I am told that trailers spoiled a lot of this movie. Glad that I avoided them. The direction was good, soundtrack acceptable, writing problematic and CGI excellent on dinosaurs, but laughable on lava. While this movie did show flashes of themes that I wanted to explore and see expanded, like any theme park ride it just went full speed without deviation until the end. However there was a scene, (in the movie's middle act) which oddly went on far too long, wringing emotion in an unpleasant way, even though the cinematography was breathtaking. Problematically, this scene is almost a visual whiplash, stopping the movie's momentum in an emotionally painful way. With cartoony villains, odd plot twists, Wily Coyote/Roadrunner humor and ethical disputes, there seemed to be many ideas with odd tonal shifts. It does make me wonder about if J. A. Bayona was in 100% control. While the movie itself was showed signs of expert direction, there was also a bipolar feel in that this film did not know if it was an action/adventure fantasy, a commentary on corporate greed, an animal rights discussion or bio-ethics in our time.

Some flashes of fun: (1) news (?CNN) crawl in early scene of this movie...check out a quote by a certain upper level USA government official, (2) Deux ex machina...via T-Rex and (3) there is a dinosaur (pachycephalosaurus) in the third act who was an unofficial action star.

Fallen Kingdom has dinosaurs, I went, adding a tub of (unbuttered) popcorn my experience was good. Will I be disappointed if it does not win best picture, no. Will I go to 3rd (aka 6th) one in 2020...maybe, only if they do not rip off Planet of the Apes.

Thoughts -- June 19 2018





Comment posted to Philip DeFranco video published on You Tube June 19

RE: new WHO addition of compulsive video gaming to their manual
       separating children from their families in illegal immigration

I am wondering how many of those suggesting a video game disorder own smart phones, tablets or pads. Also what is their work schedule vs time at home. I could go on, but you get the point that addiction can choose many targets and basically should just be filed in their tome as "Addiction".  Perhaps they will be able to add lots of new chapters, when those children separated from their parents grow up showing all kinds of psychological disorders. Listening to those cries make me nauseous, I wonder what chapter that puts me in.

Anthony Bourdain died from suicide at age 61 -- June 8, 2018



It breaks my heart that he couldn't share his burden with anyone. Watching him on his various shows has cheered me on many occasions. Thank you to Rocha for sharing that sensitive personal story. We need to keep people talking and sharing. That may be one way to keep as many as possible from tragedy.




Anthony Bourdain's presence was a gift that I selfishly took for granted.  Kate Spade's death shook me, however Anthony Bourdain's death makes me almost doubt reality. He seemed invincible, courageous and such a vibrant participant in this world. He used food to show us, that globally we all have so much in common, no matter where we live or what we eat. That his emotional pain was so great that he could not go on almost makes it hard for me to breathe. I am glad the media is posting suicide hotlines and repeating that talking to someone is so important.

Thoughts (06/07/2018) on Mystery Illness affecting diplomats in Cuba and China 


https://af.reuters.com/article/worldNews/idAFKCN1J232K


Hypothesis: possible cause container of frozen nitrogen released into rooms while inhabitants slept. The metal noise could be the tank being accessed and gas released.  High concentrations of nitrogen can produce "the bends" in divers. Theoretically nitrogen released into a closed room could produce similar symptoms of "the bends" involving fatigue, achiness, mental confusion and brain injuries especially with individuals sleeping in a relatively closed confined place.


Selection from linked article:

https://www.aafp.org/afp/2001/0601/p2211.html

"Decompression sickness is caused by the release of inert gas bubbles (usually nitrogen) into the bloodstream and tissues after ambient pressure is reduced.2–5,10 At depth, the partial pressures of gasses in the breathing mixture increase in proportion to the ambient pressure, according to Dalton's law.6 Although oxygen is actively metabolized, nitrogen is inert and becomes dissolved in body tissues until saturation, proportional to the ambient pressure as defined by Henry's law.6 The propensity for the formation of nitrogen bubbles depends on the depth of the dive, the length of time at depth and the rate of ascent. If ambient pressure is released too quickly, the dissolved nitrogen gas that cannot remain in solution will form air bubbles within the blood, interstitial fluids and organ."


My Conclusions:
My education in chemistry, physics, even biology is only at 1st year college level. Thus my conclusions are no doubt in error. However, not sure how nitrogen could be accidentally accessed and released. However as this gas is not considered a weapon, international laws against chemical/gas  poisons would probably not be legally applicable. As there is no use to large concentrations nitrogen being pumped into rooms (air conditioning malfunction?) that would mean that this activity would unfortunately equate to a military attack on non-combatants. If so, what is the end game of this unfriendly action? Would authorities in Cuba and China be aware of this activity?

Thoughts on 06/07/2018



SJU (Screen Junkies) panel talks about the story surrounding Star Wars fan reactions towards Kelly Marie Tran and has a discussion about the big picture of fandom in the digital world - it's SJ Universe!

Above video posted on 06/07/2018 on You Tube------------My comment:

I noticed an increased amount of vitriol and slimy online posts around August 2013 at the beginning of the Gamergate controversy which I am not linking to here as I do not want to dredge up any names. The second big jump seemed to ignite on November 8 2016, changing to a tsunami of questionable posts by 01/01/2017 (I will let others make that connection). I have no solutions. I do not expect Rian Johnson to have any solutions. However something we should all be aware of, if we do not police ourselves others will do it for us. Given the current climate in DC, I think that we should all shape up quickly.


I agree with a comment Dan said (maybe in jest or even frustration), let's retrain humanity.  Next time a questionable noun is used, just use the comment field to simply link to the word in a dictionary.  For example "snob" http://www.dictionary.com/browse/snob?s=t     
Definition does not seem to be complimentary, but maybe that is just my viewpoint?

Thoughts on 06/06/2018





Star Wars (00:06), David Hogg (2:51), Brock Turner (5:27), Kim Kardashian(9:16)
 My comment made on Philip DeFranco video published on YouTube 06/06/18

(1) Still not on twitter and glad of it. A lack of impulse control is endemic to that particular platform.(2) Yes, that is definitely a crime. I hope that individual(s) involved were stupid enough to use their own phone(s). (3) Didn't have Brock Turner have "connections", so judgement is not a surprise? However, the court's decision that Brock Turner is not a danger to the public, may be true...for about 1/2 the public. As for Aaron Persky recall, I agree with it as long as it does not result in future misuse. (4) We have tried punishment of drug offenders via jail for decades, it is not working. Time to try something else. As for KK personally requesting a pardon for this woman, I think at least one of the Kardashians may be growing up.

Thoughts - 06/04/2018


Comment posted to moviebob video on Geek.com published 06/04/18 on You Tube (Solo)

I love tech, fantasy sagas and giant creatures running around (someone else's) town, but the binary nature of all news is becoming annoying.  I think that I have lost some vital IQ points in the last few years. So thank you moviebob for trying, you are appreciated...and needed.




Comment posted to TYT video published 06/ 01/18-You Tube (Samantha Bee "c***" word)

Joe Sanberg was right. Samantha Bee diminished her point, power and talent by using that word. As for Rosanne Barr's latest twitter rant, Rosanne Barr obviously has issues that would better be addressed by medical means than social media. BTW celebrities, politicians and anyone consider Twitter a quadrant of electronic space that should only be attempted by expert pilots.

Comment posted to TYT video published 05/31/18 on You Tube (man killed in own FL garage)

I read a  news article on this incident. The article indicated multiple parents called and music which was more than loud but also had questionable language. So calling local authorities was not unreasonable. However the escalation of violence by said authorities was beyond reason. The local laws behind the civil suit may not have allowed for a finding of zero dollars resulting in a nonsensical amount.


Comment posted to Jeremy Jahns video published 05/04/18 on You Tube (trailer#2)

The trailer did make me laugh, especially the Princess scene. However even though Disney owns/will own everything, I do not really want to pay money to watch a Disney infomercial. Guess that I am hesitantly hopeful for Ralph Breaks The Internet: Wreck-It Ralph 2 and later  Ralph Reformats The Internet: Wreck It Ralph 3.0 (yeah, I made up that last one).

Thoughts - 06/03/2018


Comment posted to Collider Movie Talk video published on You Tube 06/01/18

I like the 3-person panel format (vs 4+). Seems to allow for more individual expressions of both relevant and irreverent discussion points. Jojo Rabbit sounds a little close to THE line, but if anyone can do it (and be entertaining), it is Taika Waititi. Peppermint seems too trope-ridden. However, Jennifer Garner's performance might save it. Not sure about the films, but Perri (Power Rangers faction) vs Rocha (Transformers faction) is always entertaining. Great panel!

Upgrade (2018)

R  1 hour 35 minutes


I liked, but  not loved Upgrade. The strongest part was the humor in the middle act. Grey Trace (acted by Logan Marshall-Green) had good timing both with the comedy elements and the physicality of both injury and marital arts. I agree with this panel, the end was very predictable with some logic flaws when thinking back to behavior of some of the major characters, especially Eron (acted by Harrison Gilbertson). While I had problems with the script the acting was fun with just a little bit of scenery chewing which actually added to the humor element.



Never had to look at the time and even forgot to eat my popcorn (that is major) during this movie. I had not thought of the upcoming Venom movie until MovieBob's review. Logan Marshall-Green, with the slightly spoiler name of Grey Trace in Upgrade along with a more than passing resemblance to Tom Hardy, made this movie work equally as much as the script and directing.



I did like this movie. I think that the "divisive" aspect for some viewers is the movie's changing mood. Act 1 is a dark thriller, Act 2 is comedic and then Act 3 becomes a cold horror with its concluding scene.



It is a very good film with the lead (Logan Marshall-Green) making this movie exceptional. I kind of wish the humor had been carried to the end, but that is more personal preference than for any other reason. Kudos to Leigh Whannell (director/writer) for being courageous enough to end this movie as he did.

Thoughts on 05/31/2018





Comment posted to video published 05/30/18 to What The Flick?! on You Tube

(regarding weird science fiction/general combination)

Actually I thought that one tv show, Doctor Who on BBC, made the random and the weird seem entertaining and fun. It was Season 7 episode 2 (September 8, 2012) "Dinosaurs on a Spaceship".  However thinking about a bats*** crazy combo, what about Coming to America (1988) plus Predator (1987) with a possible tag line for the poster: "They're here, hunting for a...relationship."

Solo: A Star Wars Story (2018)
PG-13   2hrs 23 min.
Saw in theater 05/25/2018





Comment posted onto SJ News video review of Solo published 05/26/2018 on You Tube:

Ironically, this is not the movie that I was looking for. However this movie was a lot more coherent and flowed better than all the backstage drama would indicate. I was entertained, never bored. Full disclosure though, I saw Solo in MX4D format so maybe my enjoyment level was enhanced by the tech.



Comment posted onto Chris Stuckmann video review of Solo published 05/21/2018 on You Tube:

Not that I need another Solo movie (I am kind of 50-50 on a continuation of a Solo Saga), but with the way this movie ends I assume that Han's grumpy pessimism and skill set occurs (aka arc) in the years between the end of this film and the beginning of Star Wars Episode 4 - A New Hope. I am not into the animated series nor the books, so I do not know those details of  Solo's personality evolution. However I would rate this movie more as a B or at worst B-.


Comment posted onto Jeremy Jahns video discussion of Solo and Disney published 05/30/18 on You Tube:

Disney is primarily a business, no matter how many appearances of castles, fireworks and magic sprinkles that explode in the  opening credits of their eponymous movies and subsidiaries. A business produces products to be sold to customers. Sometimes ART can get lost in a financial forest. All that being said, there was no massive clamoring for a Han Solo movie which probably should have been released in December anyway. Full disclosure; I saw this film in MX4D (a little pricey but worth it) format and had a great time.  I enjoyed this movie...as a movie. I do not wish to debate its existence to either being a deviation or clone (yes I went there) regarding the holy writ of CANON. Jeremy Jahns said it best, "It is just a movie."

Thoughts - 05/28/2018




Posted to a SJU video on You Tube published 05/24/2018

They cancelled a Transformers movie, Morgan Freeman is a what? and dog show judges get a lot closer to the animal contestants than I ever imagined.  What I want to know is what idiot killed a butterfly around November 8 2016 and caused all these fractures in our reality.

Howard Bloom (on Joe Rogan Experience #1119--You Tube video published 5/21/2018)
Posted to this video -- 05/22/2018



Chronic Fatigue Syndrome is real, however I wonder if Mr. Bloom's problem on that flight when he began to travel again wasn't just a full blown panic attack exacerbated by his realization that he had forgotten his routine dosage. When the item(s) that helped him in the past was/were taken, he returned to health (aka in control). I would be interested to know, if Mr. Bloom has isolated himself at home (or wherever he feels the most safe) for several days and tried to wean himself off these items. If nothing else, results supporting his deterioration and subsequent improvement would indicate this program's efficacy both for him and others. Ideally this regimen would then go mainstream to be used by physicians and accepted by insurers.

Deadpool 2 (2018)

R

This film has echoes/beats of the first film. Deadpool is an iconoclast. He is defined by his few companions and by the villains. This movie did actually show a difference, maybe even qualifies as an arc with Deadpool's attitude in regards to a particularly combustible individual. Reynolds is smart, he knows that people will tire of smart-ass Deadpool quickly. Most likely this is why he suggested that the next movie be Deadpool AND X-Force.


I am not into the Deadpool comics, but speaking just from the 2 film versions, I liked the DP2 a tiny bit better than DP1. The extra credit scenes pushed DP2 ahead for me. Deadpool humor is my (usually hidden) humor as I have no superpowers to defend myself from recipients of my snarky, rude, basically puerile jokes.

Thoughts:  05/15/2018




Comment posted on Casey Neistate video published 05/15/18 regarding testing 2 drones (1 crashed in lake) and eating a pepper infused candy with a high scoville (hotness of pepper) rating:

Now this is my kind of reality programming. Success is fun,  but failure is more interesting with its teachable moments. EXCEPTION: consuming anything with the word scovilles on the cover.

Room 237 (2012) - documentary

Watched on You Tube 05/09/2018


Comment posted to SJ News video published on You Tube 05/09/18

This panel got me curious. Am going to view Room 237 doc.

Just viewed the doc   ---->  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6S_n8CQBpRs         
Wow a lot of people had a copious amounts of time to check continuity errors, posters on the wall and really really ugly carpeting. I did not research Stanley Kubrick's opinions on this film, but I did note that (per the internet⁉️) his IQ was 200. Along with filming the moon landing (😳), I would not put it past Kubrick to laden this movie with "easter eggs" and anomalies to keep his brain entertained. BTW the end credit techno music was very catchy and quirky.

Thoughts on MoviePass






My comment posted to SJnews published on 05/09/2018 on You Tube:

I agree with Roth. Unless MoviePass is playing the loooooonnng game and wants/is able to grow up to become the Cambridge Analytica (albeit less dastardly) of consumer entertainment data or the Netflix of current studio-made movies, they will probably become the graphic next to the definition of unbelievable.

Thoughts - May 2, 2018


Philip DeFranco video published 05/02/18 on You Tube
But be honest... where would you wear those "jeans" besides for an Instagram pic?! >.<
“Jeans”(00:06), Paul v D'Elia(1:17), Cambridge Closing(3:52), Clementine Backlash(5:41), Charlottesville Update(7:55), Trump's Doctor(10:17), Trump v DOJ(12:46)
My comment posted to above:

(1)Jeans: NO. These are not jeans never were jeans never will be jeans...only profit. (2) Chris D'Elia and Logan Paul: Why would Paul take on D'Elia? Guess that 25 year old brain has not quite reached that maturation level. (3) Cambridge Closing: Makes sense. However someone should keep an eye on its CEO and board, because poison by any other name is still poison (shout out to Shakespeare or whomever wrote those plays). (4) Clementine: Hard to judge this situation without seeing a complete journal with ALL tweets. If Twitter were a mathematical equation, its solution would be an imaginary number with a huge negative value. (5) Charlottesville: The Civil War ended May 1865, come on guys. (6) Trump's Doctor: He thinks his correspondence should resemble the scripts of "Fargo", really? (7) Trump vs. DOJ: It does not seem to matter who we elect, whether a statesman or not. We spend 4 - 8 years looking at tax returns, birth records, sexual affairs and the various expressions on the first lady's face.


Comment posted to Jenny Nicholson"Thanos has a great plan" You Tube video published 05/02/18:

Oh that Thanos (sounds like a bad sitcom)!  So in several generations, the shell-shocked/remaining 1/2 populations have regained or come close to regaining former population levels. However, they are now without a percentage of their leaders, scientists, inventors and artists. Is that tumultuous Titan going to reuse those pesky stones again? So in a millennia or two, we will all be sleeping in fetid caves, rubbing 2 sticks together for fire and hanging off trees? Nice job Thanos.