Spending a lot of time working on house and work type things. Unfortunately not pulling in enough money to do this full time, but hey a few suggestion for your time.
Go see Cowboys Vs Aliens. It looks dumb, the concept seems a bit out of the ordinary (I mean who really wants to see a movie about cowboys fighting aliens), but I assure you it's awesome. It has it's slow bits, but well worth seeing. Daniel Craig and Harrison Ford are awesome as usual. And I'd like to point out, like usually, Daniel Craig is a complete badass (citing the bond films he did as well as Defiance (if you haven't seen that see it too, it's on Netflix). The movie eventually moves to a solid plot, has a diverse cast, and amazing effects. Check it out if you get a chance.
Also, try to catch the Fright Night remake. It's a movie I wanted to see because I think David Tennant is awesome, and I'm a huge Doctor Who fan (also on Netflix, hint, hint). I actually ended up really enjoying the movie. It was action packed, it was suspenseful, it was humorous and was all and all a good movie. One I'd even consider paying seeing again. Not being a big Colin Farrell, I was surprised at how much I enjoyed his performance. The man plays a great monster. Anyways, it's a fun movie, and I suggest seeing, even though it's a remake and they are usually terrible. I don't think you'll regret this one.
Both movies are iffy on being for children, but 13 and up will like them just fine. Possibly younger depending on what your children watch. Both contain violence, blood, and strong language and some sexual situations. Also, neither are on Netflix (obviously, since they are both in theaters). But, I'm sure both will be out of theaters fast, so catch them while you can. Enjoy!
Tuesday, August 23, 2011
Wednesday, August 3, 2011
30 Rock (2006-Present)
30 Rock is fantastic. I missed out on watching it on TV, so I'm trying to catch up now. After watching the first 3 seasons, the show is still delivering hilarity in every episode. 30 Rock takes place in 30 Rockefeller where NBC is located. The show revolves around Liz Lemon (Tina Fey) who is runs a show called the Tracey Jordan Show, and her crazy life. Her boss (Alec Baldwin) is an insane business man, her best friend Jenna (Jane Krakowski) is the former star of the show, and an attention hog, and Tracey Jordan (Tracey Morgan) who is the new lead of the show, and my possibly be clinically insane.
The show really focuses on a few select characters. Most of the episodes are about Lemon, who is a middle aged women, working almost all the time, and who really doesn't have a solid grasp on her life. This really pulls her into some crazy situations. She tries to please everyone on the show, but in the process has trouble making herself happy. A large amount of the episodes revolve around Jack Donaghy (Alec Baldwin) and his attempt to climb the corporate ladder. Donaghy is smart, a genius in business, but let's business stand in his way of other activities that make him happy. This makes Lemon and Donaghy become very relate-able to each other, despite being very different characters.
The rest of the episodes and the B-stories really revolve around Tracey, Jenna, and the rest of the writers on the show. Tracey has some of the best B-stories, like when he goes crazy before being on the Conan O'Brien show, which is a big problem for Conan, as the last time Tracey was on the show, he pretended to be a robot and tried to stab O'Brien. Jenna, Kenneth (Jack Betrayer) and the writers of the show tend to end up in B-stories with each other that very loosely tie to the main plot, but are usually just as funny, of not funnier than the main story line.
What the show really brings is something I haven't seen for a while, and that's a Prime Time comedy series that I actually enjoy. The show is amazingly well written, the episodes always have more than enough humor to keep anyone entertained and it contains plenty of smaller, clever references to previous episodes and other forms of pop culture (especially random star wars references.) The show was created by Tina Fey, who spent a good amount of time on Saturday Night Live, which means she had to know a thing or two about being funny. The show is well cast, well written, well put together, and well there isn't much else to say about it.
It is rated TV-14, but could be suitable for younger children at parental discretion. It contains a lot of adult situations, but is also full of jokes that are appropriate for even preteens. The show is available on Netflix instant queue, but unfortunately only up to season 4. It's still a good start to a fantastic show. Go watch a few episodes and enjoy it.
I unfortunately could not find a trailer, or even a decent clip. But I still greatly suggest checking out the show.
The show really focuses on a few select characters. Most of the episodes are about Lemon, who is a middle aged women, working almost all the time, and who really doesn't have a solid grasp on her life. This really pulls her into some crazy situations. She tries to please everyone on the show, but in the process has trouble making herself happy. A large amount of the episodes revolve around Jack Donaghy (Alec Baldwin) and his attempt to climb the corporate ladder. Donaghy is smart, a genius in business, but let's business stand in his way of other activities that make him happy. This makes Lemon and Donaghy become very relate-able to each other, despite being very different characters.
The rest of the episodes and the B-stories really revolve around Tracey, Jenna, and the rest of the writers on the show. Tracey has some of the best B-stories, like when he goes crazy before being on the Conan O'Brien show, which is a big problem for Conan, as the last time Tracey was on the show, he pretended to be a robot and tried to stab O'Brien. Jenna, Kenneth (Jack Betrayer) and the writers of the show tend to end up in B-stories with each other that very loosely tie to the main plot, but are usually just as funny, of not funnier than the main story line.
What the show really brings is something I haven't seen for a while, and that's a Prime Time comedy series that I actually enjoy. The show is amazingly well written, the episodes always have more than enough humor to keep anyone entertained and it contains plenty of smaller, clever references to previous episodes and other forms of pop culture (especially random star wars references.) The show was created by Tina Fey, who spent a good amount of time on Saturday Night Live, which means she had to know a thing or two about being funny. The show is well cast, well written, well put together, and well there isn't much else to say about it.
It is rated TV-14, but could be suitable for younger children at parental discretion. It contains a lot of adult situations, but is also full of jokes that are appropriate for even preteens. The show is available on Netflix instant queue, but unfortunately only up to season 4. It's still a good start to a fantastic show. Go watch a few episodes and enjoy it.
I unfortunately could not find a trailer, or even a decent clip. But I still greatly suggest checking out the show.
Tuesday, July 26, 2011
More appologies for the limited posts.
It's been a crazy month between work and moving and haven't actually had time to watch anything new but some of 30 rock. It's good. A better review will come up once I have more time though. Keep checking back, I'll be writing more soon.
Wednesday, July 20, 2011
Top Gear (2002-Present)
I've been trying to avoid doing this one, but I can't help it. Partly because I can't find time to watch anything new still and partly because I love this show more than anything that has ever come from England aside from the Aston Martin DBS. Top Gear is a talk show. Top Gear is car show. But more importantly, Top Gear is a show that anyone can sit down and enjoy. You don't have to like talk shows or cars to really find it interesting or funny, and you will sit down and watch every episode just to see what trouble the three host can get themselves into.
Speaking of which, let's talk about the hosts. Jeremy Clarkson, Richard Hammond, and James May (as of season 2) along with their faceless tamed racing driver the Stig make up the cast of Top Gear. Clarkson (aka Jezza) is loud, annoying, rude, and a writing genius. Hammond (aka Hamster) is sort of the runt of the group, but he has a lot of heart, and finally James May (aka Captain Slow) really pulls the group together with is sense of right and wrong, and is quite anal attention to detail. The Stig is a man who never speaks, never acts, but is there for one reason, and one reason only, to drive cars around their test track.
The show generally follows a solid format (aside from some specials) where they do a few car reviews, speak to a guest of the week, and they usually do some sort of special tribute or challenge. Challenges are the best part of the show usually. They do things like "Who can by the best super car for under £10,000" or "Who would win between a Bugatti Veyron and a Plane in a race across Europe". The stunts they pull, and the things they are allowed to get away with is astounding. They do not use stunt men in these either, it's all the hosts. All the driving, the insane races, the challenges, all complete by the hosts. A great example is in the preview I plan on posting, so I won't go into too much detail, but I think you will be impressed at their stupidity.
You might wonder where the talk show part really comes in. Every week there is a guest as I've said. This guest comes and promotes movies, albums, plays and what not, and Jeremy talks to them and they joke and it's usually pretty entertaining. Then, every star goes through a segment called "Star in a Reasonably Priced Car". During this segment, the star runs the Top Gear reasonably priced car around their test track as fast as they can. At the end, their fastest time goes up on a board with all the other guests who have been on the show. The show features a wide range of guests, from comedian Jimmy Carr to singer Tom Jones, to Actors Tom Cruise and Cameron Diaz (same episode). In the earlier seasons, some of the people are a bit less recognizable if you don't see a lot of British TV, but bigger and bigger stars end up on the show.
So, I've been ranting and ranting and so on about the show. The fact is, is that it's a show you should not miss. It's not just one of the best shows in England, it's one of the best shows in the world. It is not rated on Netflix, but I would say it's between PG and PG-13. You may not want some of your younger children to hear the bit of foul language and some of the references, but honestly, kids will love the fast cars, and enough of the jokes to be entertained. The best thing is, you don't have to be a fan of cars to like it. It's filmed, written and presented is such a manner that you won't even know you're learning about cars. It's may as well be a show about three middle aged men bickering back and fourth with one another. Unfortunately, Netflix only offers series 2-15 on instant queue, and series 16 is on DVD. Series 17 is currently being aired in England, so if you like it, you can download it if you're good with the internet. Otherwise it will probably be available by Christmas. Sit back and enjoy Top Gear.
I leave you with Jeremy Clarkson doing a tribute to the Reliant Robin.
Speaking of which, let's talk about the hosts. Jeremy Clarkson, Richard Hammond, and James May (as of season 2) along with their faceless tamed racing driver the Stig make up the cast of Top Gear. Clarkson (aka Jezza) is loud, annoying, rude, and a writing genius. Hammond (aka Hamster) is sort of the runt of the group, but he has a lot of heart, and finally James May (aka Captain Slow) really pulls the group together with is sense of right and wrong, and is quite anal attention to detail. The Stig is a man who never speaks, never acts, but is there for one reason, and one reason only, to drive cars around their test track.
The show generally follows a solid format (aside from some specials) where they do a few car reviews, speak to a guest of the week, and they usually do some sort of special tribute or challenge. Challenges are the best part of the show usually. They do things like "Who can by the best super car for under £10,000" or "Who would win between a Bugatti Veyron and a Plane in a race across Europe". The stunts they pull, and the things they are allowed to get away with is astounding. They do not use stunt men in these either, it's all the hosts. All the driving, the insane races, the challenges, all complete by the hosts. A great example is in the preview I plan on posting, so I won't go into too much detail, but I think you will be impressed at their stupidity.
You might wonder where the talk show part really comes in. Every week there is a guest as I've said. This guest comes and promotes movies, albums, plays and what not, and Jeremy talks to them and they joke and it's usually pretty entertaining. Then, every star goes through a segment called "Star in a Reasonably Priced Car". During this segment, the star runs the Top Gear reasonably priced car around their test track as fast as they can. At the end, their fastest time goes up on a board with all the other guests who have been on the show. The show features a wide range of guests, from comedian Jimmy Carr to singer Tom Jones, to Actors Tom Cruise and Cameron Diaz (same episode). In the earlier seasons, some of the people are a bit less recognizable if you don't see a lot of British TV, but bigger and bigger stars end up on the show.
So, I've been ranting and ranting and so on about the show. The fact is, is that it's a show you should not miss. It's not just one of the best shows in England, it's one of the best shows in the world. It is not rated on Netflix, but I would say it's between PG and PG-13. You may not want some of your younger children to hear the bit of foul language and some of the references, but honestly, kids will love the fast cars, and enough of the jokes to be entertained. The best thing is, you don't have to be a fan of cars to like it. It's filmed, written and presented is such a manner that you won't even know you're learning about cars. It's may as well be a show about three middle aged men bickering back and fourth with one another. Unfortunately, Netflix only offers series 2-15 on instant queue, and series 16 is on DVD. Series 17 is currently being aired in England, so if you like it, you can download it if you're good with the internet. Otherwise it will probably be available by Christmas. Sit back and enjoy Top Gear.
I leave you with Jeremy Clarkson doing a tribute to the Reliant Robin.
Christopher Titus: Love is Evol
What is there really to say about this special other than it's hilarious. One of the best comedy specials out there. Some may remember Titus from his short running show by the same name, and you may remember that he was funny back then, almost 10 years later he's still funny.
The documentary even has a bit of a timeline to it. It starts with a discussion of his evil ex-wife who abused, used, humiliated, and terrified him. He talks about their time together, their divorce, and how it effected his psyche. Sounds a bit depressing I know, but the stories, the movement and the facial expression make it into about an hour of laughs on the subject. He eventually switches over to talk about his current girlfriend at the time, who he claims is his perfect women. He spends about another 30 minutes telling stories of their time together and how he continuously embarrasses himself in front of his new girl.
The entire special is really about love. Titus talks about how it makes people do insanely stupid things and regales us with stories from his life experiences. It's both hilarious and educational so pay attention. It's really pretty impressive for a comedian to stick to a single broad topic for so long and keep the jokes coming. It really makes this a must see special, especially for you couples out there. You'll either love it together, or hate each other afterwards, but either way you'll have a good time while you're watching.
Netflix does not have this video rated currently, but if anything it would probably be at least PG-13. There is strong sexual content and and some bad language throughout the special. It's still appropriate for young teenagers, some people may still want to view it before allow there teens or younger to watch it. I can almost guarantee that you will love it though. Now go watch and enjoy Love is Evol.
The documentary even has a bit of a timeline to it. It starts with a discussion of his evil ex-wife who abused, used, humiliated, and terrified him. He talks about their time together, their divorce, and how it effected his psyche. Sounds a bit depressing I know, but the stories, the movement and the facial expression make it into about an hour of laughs on the subject. He eventually switches over to talk about his current girlfriend at the time, who he claims is his perfect women. He spends about another 30 minutes telling stories of their time together and how he continuously embarrasses himself in front of his new girl.
The entire special is really about love. Titus talks about how it makes people do insanely stupid things and regales us with stories from his life experiences. It's both hilarious and educational so pay attention. It's really pretty impressive for a comedian to stick to a single broad topic for so long and keep the jokes coming. It really makes this a must see special, especially for you couples out there. You'll either love it together, or hate each other afterwards, but either way you'll have a good time while you're watching.
Netflix does not have this video rated currently, but if anything it would probably be at least PG-13. There is strong sexual content and and some bad language throughout the special. It's still appropriate for young teenagers, some people may still want to view it before allow there teens or younger to watch it. I can almost guarantee that you will love it though. Now go watch and enjoy Love is Evol.
Thursday, July 14, 2011
Apologies for the Limited Posts
Sorry for not posting much over the last week. I've been busy moving. You can expect updates on movies and shows as soon as tomorrow night.
Thanks for reading
Thanks for reading
Friday, July 8, 2011
The Producers (1968)
I swear, this is the last Gene Wilder or Mel Brooks movie I will talk about for a while (probably). So, let's get this show on the road. The Producers, it's old, it's funny, it's crazy, and there have been a musical, and a remake since it's original release. The movie stars Zero Mostel as Max Bialystock, a washed up Broadway producer who now makes bad plays and swindles old women out of money to fund them. One day, Leo Bloom (Gene Wilder), an accountant, shows up at Bialystock's office to check his books. While looking over them, he notices Bialystock's last play only cost $58,000 and he raised $60,000. This left Max profiting with $2000 on a play that only lasted 1 day on Broadway. Using this information, Bloom discovers a way for Bialystock to make a million dollars off of one bad play by producing it cheaply, and profiting off it not doing well.
Though not enthused with the idea, Bloom is talked into taking part with some encouragement from Bialystock. The two then plan to make the worst play ever imagined, based on the "softer" side of Hitler, written by an ex-Nazi. The two pick the worst script, the worst director, and the worst actors they could find, all in the pursuit of cash. The plot twists when the play does surprisingly well despite it's main focus, and the two producers fret for their freedom as they face jail time for fraud.
The movie is fairly dated, but the characters are still well written and fun to watch. Mostel is a bit crazy and an excellent con man. On the other hand, Wilder plays a neurotic, twitchy man, who was easily conned and has plenty of odd quirks about him. Mel Brooks really puts together a winner in this film that goes back over 40 years. It's a movie that predates Wilder's appearance as Willy Wonka (1971), and look at how well that movie has aged. The Producers certainly is in no way as timeless of a classic as Wonka, but Wilder's acting is on par with his role as Willy Wonka.
The Producers is rated PG and Netflix suggests it should be investigated by parents before they let their younger children attend. It's doubtful a lot of younger children will really be interested, but the zany characters may capture their attention long enough for them to finish the film.The older you are, the more likely you are to enjoy this film. If you like Mel Brooks, you will catch some of his trademark movie making with this one, and you will not be disappointed. Enjoy the film!
Though not enthused with the idea, Bloom is talked into taking part with some encouragement from Bialystock. The two then plan to make the worst play ever imagined, based on the "softer" side of Hitler, written by an ex-Nazi. The two pick the worst script, the worst director, and the worst actors they could find, all in the pursuit of cash. The plot twists when the play does surprisingly well despite it's main focus, and the two producers fret for their freedom as they face jail time for fraud.
The movie is fairly dated, but the characters are still well written and fun to watch. Mostel is a bit crazy and an excellent con man. On the other hand, Wilder plays a neurotic, twitchy man, who was easily conned and has plenty of odd quirks about him. Mel Brooks really puts together a winner in this film that goes back over 40 years. It's a movie that predates Wilder's appearance as Willy Wonka (1971), and look at how well that movie has aged. The Producers certainly is in no way as timeless of a classic as Wonka, but Wilder's acting is on par with his role as Willy Wonka.
The Producers is rated PG and Netflix suggests it should be investigated by parents before they let their younger children attend. It's doubtful a lot of younger children will really be interested, but the zany characters may capture their attention long enough for them to finish the film.The older you are, the more likely you are to enjoy this film. If you like Mel Brooks, you will catch some of his trademark movie making with this one, and you will not be disappointed. Enjoy the film!
Wednesday, July 6, 2011
See No Evil, Hear No Evil (1989)
If you read my review of Blazing Saddles (1974), then you'll remember that I think Gene Wilder is awesome. I think the only way to improve his acting is to partner him with an equally amazing comedian, and Richard Pryor fills those shoes perfectly in See No Evil, Hear No Evil. This is a hilarious team up I would have loved to see more often, and this film really takes full advantage of both of these legends.
See No Evil, Hear No Evil is about Wally (Richard Pryor) who is a blind man down on his luck, and Dave (Gene Wilder), a former actor who runs a small shop in the lobby of a building. Wally makes due with the help of his sister Adele (Kirsten Childs), and Dave has the ability to read lips, helping him function in society. The two meet when Wally comes in for a job interview. After being hired, the two witness a murder while working in the shop. Wally hears the gunshot from outside the building while waiting for an aquaintance, and Dave see's the murderer as she's leaving (having not heard the gunshot). The police quickly arrive and arrest the two for murder. They soon escape from the police and spend the rest of the movie hunting down the real killer so they can clear their names.
The two get into about as many crazy adventures as you could put a blind and a deaf man. The two steal cars, run from the police, fist fight, steal guns, break into a home, and all without being able to hear/see what's going on. Most of this is pretty frightening for at least one of the men. The two really do meld well comedicly as well. It's a shame their weren't more movies featuring these two together. Both characters are very outspoken and confident, despite their disabilities, making for a large amount of hilarious situations.
See No Evil, Hear No Evil is rated R because it may include adult themes, adult activity, hard language, intense or persistent violence, sexually-oriented nudity, drug abuse or other elements Biggest thing I would hit it for, if it really bothers you, is language. Richard Pryor spends a lot of the movie cursing and Gene Wilder doesn't avoid it, but instead joins in on the action. Like I said though, That part is really the worst thing about the movie. It really is a hilarious film though. One you'd probably catch on Comedy Central on a lazy Saturday afternoon, but luckily it's available on Netflix instantly, so you can check it out whenever you get a chance. See No Evil, Hear No Evil is definitely a must see, especially for any fans of the late Richard Pryor and the great Gene Wilder. Check it out tonight!
See No Evil, Hear No Evil is about Wally (Richard Pryor) who is a blind man down on his luck, and Dave (Gene Wilder), a former actor who runs a small shop in the lobby of a building. Wally makes due with the help of his sister Adele (Kirsten Childs), and Dave has the ability to read lips, helping him function in society. The two meet when Wally comes in for a job interview. After being hired, the two witness a murder while working in the shop. Wally hears the gunshot from outside the building while waiting for an aquaintance, and Dave see's the murderer as she's leaving (having not heard the gunshot). The police quickly arrive and arrest the two for murder. They soon escape from the police and spend the rest of the movie hunting down the real killer so they can clear their names.
The two get into about as many crazy adventures as you could put a blind and a deaf man. The two steal cars, run from the police, fist fight, steal guns, break into a home, and all without being able to hear/see what's going on. Most of this is pretty frightening for at least one of the men. The two really do meld well comedicly as well. It's a shame their weren't more movies featuring these two together. Both characters are very outspoken and confident, despite their disabilities, making for a large amount of hilarious situations.
See No Evil, Hear No Evil is rated R because it may include adult themes, adult activity, hard language, intense or persistent violence, sexually-oriented nudity, drug abuse or other elements Biggest thing I would hit it for, if it really bothers you, is language. Richard Pryor spends a lot of the movie cursing and Gene Wilder doesn't avoid it, but instead joins in on the action. Like I said though, That part is really the worst thing about the movie. It really is a hilarious film though. One you'd probably catch on Comedy Central on a lazy Saturday afternoon, but luckily it's available on Netflix instantly, so you can check it out whenever you get a chance. See No Evil, Hear No Evil is definitely a must see, especially for any fans of the late Richard Pryor and the great Gene Wilder. Check it out tonight!
The trailer has Spanish subtitles, but was the best one I could find. More power to the bi-lingual readers!
Spider-Man (1994-1997)
Talk about a great show you can enjoy with your kids (or on your own if you like Spider-Man). Watching Spider-Man now on Netflix makes me wish I would have payed it more attention when I was a kid. The show picks up after Spidey has been already received his powers, but before he knows he really has any enemies besides his boss J. Jonah Jameson. From what I've watched so far the show slowly but surely introduces many of Spider-Man's foes in great adventures, sometimes spanning more than one 21 minute segment.
The thing I hate about writing about shows is that there really isn't much to say about the plot, and that's especially apparent in this review. Spider-Man spends the show dealing with his villains as well as his own life as a college student who lives with his aunt. It pretty much follows the comic in that sense, or even the feature films.
What I can say about this cartoon, is that it's pure entertainment. The show portrays Spider-Man's sense of humor very well. He spends probably 75 percent or more of the show making jokes about what's going on. Since he jokes on what's going on in the show, it keeps the humor from being too dated as well. A big plus to this is that's it's appropriate for kids; it better be since it's a kids show originally aired on Fox Kidz. This means you have something you may remember from your past to share with your children, or you may be like me and might have not watched the show when it first came on. This is great opportunity to check it out and share it. You won't be disappointed.
Spider-Man is rated TV-Y7-FV, probably because of the animated violence, and some adult situations. I'd say their are probably worse cartoons out there for children to watch though, with more violence. The show has a very lighthearted feel to it, even in more serious situations, and is nowhere near as cold as similar cartoons like X-Men (1992)or Batman: The Animated Series.
I sadly could not find a good trailer for the show. I'll leave you with the intro so you can at least see some scenes from the show. Happy watchings!
The thing I hate about writing about shows is that there really isn't much to say about the plot, and that's especially apparent in this review. Spider-Man spends the show dealing with his villains as well as his own life as a college student who lives with his aunt. It pretty much follows the comic in that sense, or even the feature films.
What I can say about this cartoon, is that it's pure entertainment. The show portrays Spider-Man's sense of humor very well. He spends probably 75 percent or more of the show making jokes about what's going on. Since he jokes on what's going on in the show, it keeps the humor from being too dated as well. A big plus to this is that's it's appropriate for kids; it better be since it's a kids show originally aired on Fox Kidz. This means you have something you may remember from your past to share with your children, or you may be like me and might have not watched the show when it first came on. This is great opportunity to check it out and share it. You won't be disappointed.
Spider-Man is rated TV-Y7-FV, probably because of the animated violence, and some adult situations. I'd say their are probably worse cartoons out there for children to watch though, with more violence. The show has a very lighthearted feel to it, even in more serious situations, and is nowhere near as cold as similar cartoons like X-Men (1992)or Batman: The Animated Series.
I sadly could not find a good trailer for the show. I'll leave you with the intro so you can at least see some scenes from the show. Happy watchings!
Sunday, July 3, 2011
The IT Crowd (2006-Present)
I've reviewed a few shows that are off the air now, but let's talk about one that you may get hooked on (not that you can watch it in America, or possibly other countries). The IT Crowd is a British sitcom featuring Roy (Chris O'Dowd), and Moss (Richard Ayoade) and their frustrations at work as the two IT employees, as well as their struggle to function outside of their own small basement office world. The series kicks off with them getting a new manager, Jen (Katherine Parkinson), who they quickly discover knows nothing about computers. They end the episode with Moss and Roy having to accept Jen as more of a gateway to the outside world, than a manager, and decide to continue working with her.
The first season really only focus's on Roy, Moss, and Jen, and their lives at work. In seasons 2-4 however, they get more involved in life outside of work. This makes for much better episodes, such as accidentally getting mixed in with footballers (soccer players) who happen to be bank robbers, or Moss becoming friends with a cannibal after misunderstanding a personal add. The plots of each episode are fairly outlandish, but they are filled with humor from beginning to end.
The show is unfortunately only 24 episodes total at this time (6 episodes a season). This makes a for a great show for the person who doesn't have a lot of time though. I worked my way through all 24 episodes while I was sick one week, the only problem is that it's a show that will keep you wanting more. I can't honestly think of a character or episode that I didn't like. For some people, a few of the reference will be somewhat hard to follow. And for those who don't know a lot about British culture and customs, some of the dialog can be a bit confusing. Many times things are explained fairly well though, so it's not hard to catch on. A good example of this is when Jen starts dating a man named Peter File. It's not a funny name in America really, but in England, they pronounce pedophile, peedophile, with a long e sound, making it quite possibly the worst name to have. And of course, they spend a good portion of time poking fun at this man's name.
The show also helps less computer savvy people enjoy it by using Jen as sort of their way into the realm of IT. Jen know what most people know, how to check the internet, how to check e-mails, and generally how to do some smaller things on the computer. Jen functions well however out of the office, which Moss and Roy greatly lack. And on the upside to that, they all work for a company ran by someone who should never be in charge of anything, especially a company. I think a dumb boss is something almost every can relate to at least at one point in their life.
IT Crowd is rated NR, but if I were to rate it I would probably give it at least a TV-PG, if not higher in the states. It contains quite a bit of adult content and foul language, and some violence you may not find suitable for you're children. Other than that, I honestly think it's a show you can watch with friends and family and all enjoy. The IT Crowd is finally available on Netflix with all four seasons available for streaming. Check it out, and look forward to season 5 sometime later in 2011 or 2012.
The first season really only focus's on Roy, Moss, and Jen, and their lives at work. In seasons 2-4 however, they get more involved in life outside of work. This makes for much better episodes, such as accidentally getting mixed in with footballers (soccer players) who happen to be bank robbers, or Moss becoming friends with a cannibal after misunderstanding a personal add. The plots of each episode are fairly outlandish, but they are filled with humor from beginning to end.
The show is unfortunately only 24 episodes total at this time (6 episodes a season). This makes a for a great show for the person who doesn't have a lot of time though. I worked my way through all 24 episodes while I was sick one week, the only problem is that it's a show that will keep you wanting more. I can't honestly think of a character or episode that I didn't like. For some people, a few of the reference will be somewhat hard to follow. And for those who don't know a lot about British culture and customs, some of the dialog can be a bit confusing. Many times things are explained fairly well though, so it's not hard to catch on. A good example of this is when Jen starts dating a man named Peter File. It's not a funny name in America really, but in England, they pronounce pedophile, peedophile, with a long e sound, making it quite possibly the worst name to have. And of course, they spend a good portion of time poking fun at this man's name.
The show also helps less computer savvy people enjoy it by using Jen as sort of their way into the realm of IT. Jen know what most people know, how to check the internet, how to check e-mails, and generally how to do some smaller things on the computer. Jen functions well however out of the office, which Moss and Roy greatly lack. And on the upside to that, they all work for a company ran by someone who should never be in charge of anything, especially a company. I think a dumb boss is something almost every can relate to at least at one point in their life.
IT Crowd is rated NR, but if I were to rate it I would probably give it at least a TV-PG, if not higher in the states. It contains quite a bit of adult content and foul language, and some violence you may not find suitable for you're children. Other than that, I honestly think it's a show you can watch with friends and family and all enjoy. The IT Crowd is finally available on Netflix with all four seasons available for streaming. Check it out, and look forward to season 5 sometime later in 2011 or 2012.
Thursday, June 30, 2011
Clerks (1994)
Clerks is a movie I could talk about all day, so I'll try my best to keep this short and to the point. Clerks is Write/Director Kevin Smith's first movie. It's very low budget (around $30,000), it's in black and white (cheaper film), and the acting really isn't great. And you know what, I don't care about any of that, because this movie will make you wet your pants with laughter.
Clerks is the story of two convenience/video store employees, Dante Hicks (Brian O'Halloran) and Randal Graves (Jeff Anderson) and the trials and tribulations of their daily lives as a store clerk in New Jersey. The movie starts with Dante opening the Quick Stop after being called in on his day off. Randal, being the ever vigilant employee that he is, eventually shows up late for his shift at the video store next door. The movie's focus is on these employees, and the misery that ensues at their dead end job. The film lacks a lot of movement from location to location (aside from a short hockey game on the roof, a car scene, a short stint at a funeral home), and really grasps at the brains of these two individuals. Both characters contrast well with one another. They are best friends, but are very different entities. Randal is an outspoken, outgoing, "do as I feel" sort of man, while Dante is somewhat shy and timid. He hate's his job, but also hates the idea of change.
The film is full of memorable movies, including the introduction of two well known and popular characters Jay (Jason Mewes) and Silent Bob (Kevin Smith). Smith uses this movie to eventually build a long series of movies including Mallrats, Chasing Amy, Dogma, Jersey Girl, and Clerks II, which all tie into one universe. He's much like John Hughes (Pretty in Pink, Breakfast Club, ect.) in that all his movies focus around the same town and similar characters, but all have very different plots. Unlike Hughes however, Smith practices his right of free speech a great deal more. Sexual jokes and crude language are abundant in all of his films, and more present in Clerks than anywhere else. It may offend some, but the wittiness of the writing proves to make a hilarious movie.
The movie is rated R as it may include "adult themes, adult activity, hard language, intense or persistent violence, sexually-oriented nudity, drug abuse or other elements" according to Netflix. Although I agree with most of this, the nudity and violence isn't really present at all aside from the hockey game and a short fight with Randal and Dante. This movie is however a true masterpiece, despite what it looks like, or how the acting is. It focuses on solid characters in a very relate-able theme (at least if you've ever worked in a retail store of any type). If I was giving movies a star rating on here, it would easily be a 7 out of 4. That's 175% awesomeness. Be sure to check it out while it's on instant queue. Hopefully you like it as much as I do. Happy watching!
Clerks is the story of two convenience/video store employees, Dante Hicks (Brian O'Halloran) and Randal Graves (Jeff Anderson) and the trials and tribulations of their daily lives as a store clerk in New Jersey. The movie starts with Dante opening the Quick Stop after being called in on his day off. Randal, being the ever vigilant employee that he is, eventually shows up late for his shift at the video store next door. The movie's focus is on these employees, and the misery that ensues at their dead end job. The film lacks a lot of movement from location to location (aside from a short hockey game on the roof, a car scene, a short stint at a funeral home), and really grasps at the brains of these two individuals. Both characters contrast well with one another. They are best friends, but are very different entities. Randal is an outspoken, outgoing, "do as I feel" sort of man, while Dante is somewhat shy and timid. He hate's his job, but also hates the idea of change.
The film is full of memorable movies, including the introduction of two well known and popular characters Jay (Jason Mewes) and Silent Bob (Kevin Smith). Smith uses this movie to eventually build a long series of movies including Mallrats, Chasing Amy, Dogma, Jersey Girl, and Clerks II, which all tie into one universe. He's much like John Hughes (Pretty in Pink, Breakfast Club, ect.) in that all his movies focus around the same town and similar characters, but all have very different plots. Unlike Hughes however, Smith practices his right of free speech a great deal more. Sexual jokes and crude language are abundant in all of his films, and more present in Clerks than anywhere else. It may offend some, but the wittiness of the writing proves to make a hilarious movie.
The movie is rated R as it may include "adult themes, adult activity, hard language, intense or persistent violence, sexually-oriented nudity, drug abuse or other elements" according to Netflix. Although I agree with most of this, the nudity and violence isn't really present at all aside from the hockey game and a short fight with Randal and Dante. This movie is however a true masterpiece, despite what it looks like, or how the acting is. It focuses on solid characters in a very relate-able theme (at least if you've ever worked in a retail store of any type). If I was giving movies a star rating on here, it would easily be a 7 out of 4. That's 175% awesomeness. Be sure to check it out while it's on instant queue. Hopefully you like it as much as I do. Happy watching!
The One (2001)
The one is awesome. That's all that needs to be said. Looking for a futuristic, super human, martial arts flick, then look no further. Jet Li star as Gabriel law, a law abiding police officer who, and as a duplicate of Law (Yulaw) who is bent on killing himself? A bit confusing perhaps, but it's awesome watching Jet Li fight himself.
Yulaw comes from another dimension. He is a former dimensional crime fighter turned rogue after discovering he could become stronger by killing off his alternate versions. After escaping prison, he has one ultimate goal, kill the final version of himself to gain immense power and become the One. Unfortunately for him, he is being pursued by two inter-dimensional police, agents Rodecker (Delroy Lindo) and Funsch (Jason Statham). Both are seeking to stop Yulaw once and for all. Gabe is eventually told about what's going on, the other dimensions, and about how Yulaw became so powerful. Gabe also noticed himself becoming more powerful as his counterpart was picking off their alternate versions. With this knowledge, Gabe wages a battle with Yulaw to determine who will be the One. It's a classic tale of good versus evil.
This movie is action packed. It combines two of the worlds greatest action stars (three if you really want to count Jet Li twice), and uses them to it's full advantage. Jet Li fighting himself has some of the best choreography of any movie, and the martial arts performed is stunning. Coupled with great special effects makes this futuristic movie really stand out from most. The plot is old underneath (good versus evil), but on top it's given an amazing new look and feel. Great acting, great action, memorable plot, and some comedy what more could you ask for of a film.
The movie is rated PG-13 for intense action violence and some language. It's a must see film, and fortunately, it's viewable instantly on Netflix, so check it out.
Yulaw comes from another dimension. He is a former dimensional crime fighter turned rogue after discovering he could become stronger by killing off his alternate versions. After escaping prison, he has one ultimate goal, kill the final version of himself to gain immense power and become the One. Unfortunately for him, he is being pursued by two inter-dimensional police, agents Rodecker (Delroy Lindo) and Funsch (Jason Statham). Both are seeking to stop Yulaw once and for all. Gabe is eventually told about what's going on, the other dimensions, and about how Yulaw became so powerful. Gabe also noticed himself becoming more powerful as his counterpart was picking off their alternate versions. With this knowledge, Gabe wages a battle with Yulaw to determine who will be the One. It's a classic tale of good versus evil.
This movie is action packed. It combines two of the worlds greatest action stars (three if you really want to count Jet Li twice), and uses them to it's full advantage. Jet Li fighting himself has some of the best choreography of any movie, and the martial arts performed is stunning. Coupled with great special effects makes this futuristic movie really stand out from most. The plot is old underneath (good versus evil), but on top it's given an amazing new look and feel. Great acting, great action, memorable plot, and some comedy what more could you ask for of a film.
The movie is rated PG-13 for intense action violence and some language. It's a must see film, and fortunately, it's viewable instantly on Netflix, so check it out.
Rocko's Modern Life (1993-1996)
One of the saddest times for me when I was a kid was when they canceled Rocko's Modern Life. This show is a classic for Nickelodeon views from the 90's. The show stars Rocko, a young wallaby trying to make it on his own in O-Town. Rocko, his best friends, a steer named Heffer, who was literally raised by a pack of wolves, and Philbert, a turtle with a bad case of OCD, together with Rocko's dog, Spunky, spend each episode surviving zany, wild, hilarious situations.
"Rocko" has a vast array of other characters that really hold the show together as well. He has two neighbors, Mr. and Mrs. Bighead. The Bigheads are always pushing Rocko's generous, polite attitude, with Mrs. Bighead's being the lesser evil of the two, only using Rocko when it's convenient for her. Mr. Bighead is the truly mean one of the two. He hates Rocko being his neighbor, and genially takes a lot of pleasure in others pain. The chameleon brother are the two employees of every small business in O-town it seems. Dr. Hutchinson is a dentist, who eventually marries Philbert, which is a fantastic episode.
The show is one of the few older cartoons on Nickelodeon that really pushed what they could get away with while still being a kids show; Nowhere near as raunchy as say, Ren & Stimpy, but still more adult themed than say, Rugrats, or Doug. The show contains a bullet train to heck, numerous scenes nudity (when you were allowed to show butts on TV), throwing up, blood, and situations that are really more focused on young adults more than children. However, Rocko's Modern Life makes all of these not so childish situations seem childish with it's bright art style, and crazy, slapstick, silly humor. It has a large amount of randomness to it, like when the boys make their own cartoon, but the cartoon is about deli products, or when Rocko meet's people in town that can only be explained as insane (the driving instructor who tells Rocko, "Don't step on the white ones.... hooooot laaavaaa. PINEAPPLES!" while Rocko is trying to take his drivers course/test). The show is by far one of the better cartoons to have been made, especially in the last two decades. It's one you, or your children will not want to miss out on.
Rocko's Modern Life is rated TV-Y7 for nudity, language, and adult situations, but most of that stuff will be funnier to you than any child. Children will still love the sillyness and as always, pictures of butts. Let's face it, butts are funny when you're 7. The trailer is for the DVDs of season one, but all four seasons are available on Netflix instantly.
"Rocko" has a vast array of other characters that really hold the show together as well. He has two neighbors, Mr. and Mrs. Bighead. The Bigheads are always pushing Rocko's generous, polite attitude, with Mrs. Bighead's being the lesser evil of the two, only using Rocko when it's convenient for her. Mr. Bighead is the truly mean one of the two. He hates Rocko being his neighbor, and genially takes a lot of pleasure in others pain. The chameleon brother are the two employees of every small business in O-town it seems. Dr. Hutchinson is a dentist, who eventually marries Philbert, which is a fantastic episode.
The show is one of the few older cartoons on Nickelodeon that really pushed what they could get away with while still being a kids show; Nowhere near as raunchy as say, Ren & Stimpy, but still more adult themed than say, Rugrats, or Doug. The show contains a bullet train to heck, numerous scenes nudity (when you were allowed to show butts on TV), throwing up, blood, and situations that are really more focused on young adults more than children. However, Rocko's Modern Life makes all of these not so childish situations seem childish with it's bright art style, and crazy, slapstick, silly humor. It has a large amount of randomness to it, like when the boys make their own cartoon, but the cartoon is about deli products, or when Rocko meet's people in town that can only be explained as insane (the driving instructor who tells Rocko, "Don't step on the white ones.... hooooot laaavaaa. PINEAPPLES!" while Rocko is trying to take his drivers course/test). The show is by far one of the better cartoons to have been made, especially in the last two decades. It's one you, or your children will not want to miss out on.
Rocko's Modern Life is rated TV-Y7 for nudity, language, and adult situations, but most of that stuff will be funnier to you than any child. Children will still love the sillyness and as always, pictures of butts. Let's face it, butts are funny when you're 7. The trailer is for the DVDs of season one, but all four seasons are available on Netflix instantly.
Tuesday, June 28, 2011
The Good, The Bad, The Weird (2008)
Tonight is definitely foreign film night, but the next movie I'm reviewing is the complete opposite of the one I just did... which will be displayed under this post.... silly blog formats. Anyways, let me talk about The Good, The Bad, The Weird. This is a movie from Korea and at the time of release was the most expensive movie ever produced in South Korea.
The movie stars an outlaw (the Bad), a lawman (the Good), and a strange robber with impossible luck (the Weird). The three meet while the Bad is trying to rob a train, the Good is their to stop him and collect his bounty, and the Weird is coincidentally also trying to rob the train. The discover a treasure map that will lead the men to great riches. The Weird manages to make off with the map, only to be captured by the Good. The Good continues to try and capture the Bad in order to collect his bounty, while the Weird persists on finding the great treasure of the Qing Dynasty.
The Weird sets off for the treasure, continuously escaping capture, with the Good chasing after him. Little to their knowledge, the Bad is also on their trail, attempting to claim the map and treasure for himself. A group of bandits and the Japanese army also find out about the map and make their way towards it's holder, and the treasure.
The movie is a constant chase for the map, and by proxy, the fortune. Everyone who learns on it becomes infatuated with seizing it's vast wealth. Epic battles ensue from all five forces. Each involving amazing gun fights, knife fights, martial arts, and even cavalry and cannons. The three end up fighting a daring battle with each other for possession of the map in a final dramatic stand off.
This movie was a little slow at parts, but all around was fun to watch. The comedy melds well with the action. My favorite part being where the Weird is running around a gun fight with a scuba helmet on, continuously be shot in his head. The action sequences are simply astonishing. Impressive effects and choreography make each battle memorable and exciting. The film does partake in a few dramatic moments, which really keeps it on track and stops it from just being an action comedy and really makes it an award winning film.
This flick is rated R for nonstop violence (according to Netflix, not me) and some drug use. It's definitely suitable for being PG-13 in my personal opinion. It's a fairly long movie at over 2 hours and plays out a bit more like an entire TV series more than a movie, as it keeps you guessing throughout the movie, waiting for them to reveal secrets and holding your attention for action, comedy, and plot twists. It's a must see for anyone really. It is in Korean, and that means more reading, but the story is well written making it easy to follow, like any good book. Check out The Good, The Bad, The Weird on Netflix instantly and enjoy this work of art.
The movie stars an outlaw (the Bad), a lawman (the Good), and a strange robber with impossible luck (the Weird). The three meet while the Bad is trying to rob a train, the Good is their to stop him and collect his bounty, and the Weird is coincidentally also trying to rob the train. The discover a treasure map that will lead the men to great riches. The Weird manages to make off with the map, only to be captured by the Good. The Good continues to try and capture the Bad in order to collect his bounty, while the Weird persists on finding the great treasure of the Qing Dynasty.
The Weird sets off for the treasure, continuously escaping capture, with the Good chasing after him. Little to their knowledge, the Bad is also on their trail, attempting to claim the map and treasure for himself. A group of bandits and the Japanese army also find out about the map and make their way towards it's holder, and the treasure.
The movie is a constant chase for the map, and by proxy, the fortune. Everyone who learns on it becomes infatuated with seizing it's vast wealth. Epic battles ensue from all five forces. Each involving amazing gun fights, knife fights, martial arts, and even cavalry and cannons. The three end up fighting a daring battle with each other for possession of the map in a final dramatic stand off.
This movie was a little slow at parts, but all around was fun to watch. The comedy melds well with the action. My favorite part being where the Weird is running around a gun fight with a scuba helmet on, continuously be shot in his head. The action sequences are simply astonishing. Impressive effects and choreography make each battle memorable and exciting. The film does partake in a few dramatic moments, which really keeps it on track and stops it from just being an action comedy and really makes it an award winning film.
This flick is rated R for nonstop violence (according to Netflix, not me) and some drug use. It's definitely suitable for being PG-13 in my personal opinion. It's a fairly long movie at over 2 hours and plays out a bit more like an entire TV series more than a movie, as it keeps you guessing throughout the movie, waiting for them to reveal secrets and holding your attention for action, comedy, and plot twists. It's a must see for anyone really. It is in Korean, and that means more reading, but the story is well written making it easy to follow, like any good book. Check out The Good, The Bad, The Weird on Netflix instantly and enjoy this work of art.
Shiver (2008)
Let's talk about a movie that's truly frightening, Shiver. 2008's Shiver is a film by Mexican director, producer, screenwriter, novelist and designer, Guillermo Del Toro (most known for Pan's Labyrinth), about a young boy Santi (Junio Valverde) who's skin is photosensitive, impairing his ability to go out in the Sun. Due to this odd and rare disease, doctors suggest Santi and his mother Julia (Mar Sodupe) move to a town in a valley where there is more shade to protect Santi from the Sun. Somewhat unwillingly, Julia decides to do what's best for her son's condition; however, it turns on not to be what's best for health.
Upon arriving at the small valley town, Santi and Julia rent a house and start moving in. They soon start hearing of murders happening around the village. The villagers are, or course, quick to blame Santi for the murders and dismemberment. Santi, hoping to prove his innocence takes a few of his friend into the woods in search of what's causing these mysterious killings. What they find will shock and terrify you.
This movie gets some pretty mediocre reviews from places like IMDB and even on Netflix the ratings only a 3.3. I was blown away with how suspenseful it was. I started watching it one afternoon while I was playing something and ended up turning away from my game to watch this movie. There are a large number of twists and turns in the plot, the acting is fantastic, as is the filming and sound. It's a movie that will have you jumping in your seat and checking behind you to make sure nothing else is in the room. If you're in the mood for something scary, this film is for you.
The movie is rated NR, ironically for Not Rated. If I had to give it one, it would probably be R for the violence, dark content, and some language. Speaking of which, this movie is in Spanish. Great for Spanish speakers, bad for you if your more afraid of a bit of reading than of the movie. Regardless of what language it's in, it's well worth taking a look at. Check it out tonight!
Upon arriving at the small valley town, Santi and Julia rent a house and start moving in. They soon start hearing of murders happening around the village. The villagers are, or course, quick to blame Santi for the murders and dismemberment. Santi, hoping to prove his innocence takes a few of his friend into the woods in search of what's causing these mysterious killings. What they find will shock and terrify you.
This movie gets some pretty mediocre reviews from places like IMDB and even on Netflix the ratings only a 3.3. I was blown away with how suspenseful it was. I started watching it one afternoon while I was playing something and ended up turning away from my game to watch this movie. There are a large number of twists and turns in the plot, the acting is fantastic, as is the filming and sound. It's a movie that will have you jumping in your seat and checking behind you to make sure nothing else is in the room. If you're in the mood for something scary, this film is for you.
The movie is rated NR, ironically for Not Rated. If I had to give it one, it would probably be R for the violence, dark content, and some language. Speaking of which, this movie is in Spanish. Great for Spanish speakers, bad for you if your more afraid of a bit of reading than of the movie. Regardless of what language it's in, it's well worth taking a look at. Check it out tonight!
Sunday, June 26, 2011
Arrested Development (2003-2005)
Here's a piece of comedic genius to keep you entertained for a little while. Arrested Development is a remarkable show about young business man Michael Bluth (Jason Bateman) who is forced (by his own will) to take charge of his father's company and his insane family after his father George Bluth (Jeffrey Tambor) is sent to prison. In order to preserve his family and the company, Michael makes some serious sacrifices, including moving into a non-functioning model home where he houses his sister, her husband, their daughter, his own son George Michael Bluth Jr. (Michael Cera), and at times his bothers Gob (pronounced Jobe)(Will Arnett) and Buster (Tony Hale).
The show mostly focuses on Michael trying to control his family and keep their company running smoothly while his father is in prison. His family makes it very difficult. Buster is attached to their somewhat unloving mother and lives with her most of the show. Gob is a magician who just can't seem to put a solid act together. Lindsay, their sister, his an activist who tries to avoid the grunt work of being active in the community. Tobias, her husband, is a failed therapist who can't quite get a grip of what's acceptable in society. Their daughter may be the only semi-normal character in the entire series, but she is a bit of a troublemaker. Together they become an unorganized nightmare of a family, but they do stick together through thick and thin.
The show highlights some of the most foolish behavior you can imagine. It's hilarious, witty, cooky, and down right funny. The performers push themselves 110% of the time to make the characters they play seem believable and real. They will leave you asking yourself, "can they really be that stupid?" Each episode builds off of the previous one, bringing back running jokes in the serious, and making almost a continuous stream of evens with many subplots strung about between. This unfortunately makes the show a little hard to follow if you miss it from the beginning (which I always assumed was one of the reasons it didn't last very long). Thankfully, you can stream it from beginning to end on Netflix right now.
After rereading this over and over, I can't find a better way of reviewing what's going on in the show. Not because it's complicated, just because just change so suddenly. Their are a lot of characters (at least 11-12 main characters), but each is so different and well written, you will have no trouble following their antics. All I can really say is that this is a must see show. I know a large amount of people missed out on it when it originally aired, and some people had a hard time catching on by the second season. However, I've yet to find a person who went back and watched it from the beginning who didn't simply love this show.
The show is rated TV-PG and contains sexual content, adult situations and language, and some violence.
And now I leave you with the best trailer I could find for it. Enjoy the show!
The show mostly focuses on Michael trying to control his family and keep their company running smoothly while his father is in prison. His family makes it very difficult. Buster is attached to their somewhat unloving mother and lives with her most of the show. Gob is a magician who just can't seem to put a solid act together. Lindsay, their sister, his an activist who tries to avoid the grunt work of being active in the community. Tobias, her husband, is a failed therapist who can't quite get a grip of what's acceptable in society. Their daughter may be the only semi-normal character in the entire series, but she is a bit of a troublemaker. Together they become an unorganized nightmare of a family, but they do stick together through thick and thin.
The show highlights some of the most foolish behavior you can imagine. It's hilarious, witty, cooky, and down right funny. The performers push themselves 110% of the time to make the characters they play seem believable and real. They will leave you asking yourself, "can they really be that stupid?" Each episode builds off of the previous one, bringing back running jokes in the serious, and making almost a continuous stream of evens with many subplots strung about between. This unfortunately makes the show a little hard to follow if you miss it from the beginning (which I always assumed was one of the reasons it didn't last very long). Thankfully, you can stream it from beginning to end on Netflix right now.
After rereading this over and over, I can't find a better way of reviewing what's going on in the show. Not because it's complicated, just because just change so suddenly. Their are a lot of characters (at least 11-12 main characters), but each is so different and well written, you will have no trouble following their antics. All I can really say is that this is a must see show. I know a large amount of people missed out on it when it originally aired, and some people had a hard time catching on by the second season. However, I've yet to find a person who went back and watched it from the beginning who didn't simply love this show.
The show is rated TV-PG and contains sexual content, adult situations and language, and some violence.
And now I leave you with the best trailer I could find for it. Enjoy the show!
Remember, there's always money in the banana stand.
Saturday, June 25, 2011
The Boondock Saints (1999)
Let's talk about an amazing movie, or perhaps a movie you still haven't watched, or almost for certain a movie you missed when it was released in 1999. The Boondock Saints is a hilarious, heroic, cleaver suspenseful action/thriller/comedy about two Irish brothers, their Italian mobster friend, and their quest to rid their city (Boston) and the world of evil.
After a bar encounter on Saint Patty's day with two Russian mobsters, there is a murder attempt on the two Irishmen Conner (Sean Patrick Flanery) and Murphy (Norman Reedus). Conner and Murphy barely escape with their lives, the Russians are much less lucky. After turning themselves in, they are awaken in the middle of the night by what seems to be a spiritual presence. The brothers then decide they should start a crusade to rid the world of evil men. The twins team up with their Italian friend Rocco, a member of the Italian Mafia, who helps them find and kill corrupt men through Boston.
The threesome is hunted by FBI Special Agent Paul Smecker (Willam Dafoe) as they rampage through the city on a hunt of their own for criminals. Smecker starts the movie as an amazing homicide detective, but slowly starts to question whether the crimes committed by the brothers are really criminal, or if it is justice being served that the legal system could not deliver.
The movie continues as the brothers work their way up the chain of Italian and Russian mobsters, as well as their henchmen and mercenaries.This movie leaves a nice open ending that concludes the current plot, but leaves you wanting more. A sequel is available: Boondock Saints II: All Saints Day, but unfortunately is no longer available on Netflix instantly.
The movie packs in a ton of action and comedy. It helps build a strong bond between the characters and the viewer, and keeps you eagerly waiting for the next scheme the brothers can come up with to stop evil men. The major performance however comes from Willam Dafoe. He completely encases himself in the roll of Special Agent Smecker. His acting is by far the pinnacle of the movie, as he is the most surprising and outrageous character and possible the harder to portray. I can't think of another actor that could have pulled off this roll.
The sequel picks up a bit after the first movie leaves off, so if you love the first movie like I did, I highly recommend you check out the second one on DVD. It's not quite as good, but it fills a void that the first movie leaves for you; wanting more of the saints.
After a bar encounter on Saint Patty's day with two Russian mobsters, there is a murder attempt on the two Irishmen Conner (Sean Patrick Flanery) and Murphy (Norman Reedus). Conner and Murphy barely escape with their lives, the Russians are much less lucky. After turning themselves in, they are awaken in the middle of the night by what seems to be a spiritual presence. The brothers then decide they should start a crusade to rid the world of evil men. The twins team up with their Italian friend Rocco, a member of the Italian Mafia, who helps them find and kill corrupt men through Boston.
The threesome is hunted by FBI Special Agent Paul Smecker (Willam Dafoe) as they rampage through the city on a hunt of their own for criminals. Smecker starts the movie as an amazing homicide detective, but slowly starts to question whether the crimes committed by the brothers are really criminal, or if it is justice being served that the legal system could not deliver.
The movie continues as the brothers work their way up the chain of Italian and Russian mobsters, as well as their henchmen and mercenaries.This movie leaves a nice open ending that concludes the current plot, but leaves you wanting more. A sequel is available: Boondock Saints II: All Saints Day, but unfortunately is no longer available on Netflix instantly.
The movie packs in a ton of action and comedy. It helps build a strong bond between the characters and the viewer, and keeps you eagerly waiting for the next scheme the brothers can come up with to stop evil men. The major performance however comes from Willam Dafoe. He completely encases himself in the roll of Special Agent Smecker. His acting is by far the pinnacle of the movie, as he is the most surprising and outrageous character and possible the harder to portray. I can't think of another actor that could have pulled off this roll.
The sequel picks up a bit after the first movie leaves off, so if you love the first movie like I did, I highly recommend you check out the second one on DVD. It's not quite as good, but it fills a void that the first movie leaves for you; wanting more of the saints.
Remember, everyone's a little bit Irish on Saint Patty's day.
Thursday, June 23, 2011
Blazing Saddles (1974)
There's one thing that's amazing about Mel Brooks, and that's that he can make a hilarious movie during any time period, about just about everything. I'm a huge fan of Young Frankenstein, and if you grew up in the 90's like me, you've probably seen Robin Hood: Men in Tights more times than you care to mention. But, I'm not talking about those (at least not today). No, tonight I'm going to talk about Blazing Saddles. One of his best movies, and by far the best (only?) insane westen comedy to ever be made.
Blazing Saddles start with poor railroad worker, Bart (Cleavon Little), who is down on his luck after hitting his boss with a shovel. The same rail road he's building is set to run right through the town of Rock Ridge, making it a very profitable piece of land. Hedley Lamarr (Harvey Korman) is trying to frighten the inhabitants of Rock Ridge off their land to claim it all for himself. Right as Bart is about to be hung, Hedley decides the best way to scare off the town is to make Bart Sheriff of Rock Ridge, in-turn making him the first black sheriff of the West.
Bart soon finds himself in a town full of angry in-breeders. The town drunk Jim/the Waco Kid (Gene Wilder) quickly accepts Bart and the two begin to build a reputation throughout the town. Bart and Jim use their wits and skills to battle marauders and outlaws in order to foil Hedley's plans and preserve the town of Rock Ridge.
The movie has some dated humor in it, but for the most part is still as funny as the first time I saw it when I was 9 (not that I caught a lot of the humor back then). Mel Brooks has an amazing style of making slapstick, insane comedies. He especially has a knack for writing great roles for Gene Wilder, and let's face it, he's been an amazing actor since he was Willie Wonka. This movie is filled with none stop, sometimes witty, sometimes low-brow comedy suitable for anyone. It's one of Mel Brooks' masterpieces and is a must see for anyone.
The movie is rated R for including adult themes, adult activity, hard language, intense or persistent violence, sexually-oriented nudity, drug abuse or other elements. It is available on instant queue, and is a must see for anyone who is a fan of silly comedies.
Blazing Saddles start with poor railroad worker, Bart (Cleavon Little), who is down on his luck after hitting his boss with a shovel. The same rail road he's building is set to run right through the town of Rock Ridge, making it a very profitable piece of land. Hedley Lamarr (Harvey Korman) is trying to frighten the inhabitants of Rock Ridge off their land to claim it all for himself. Right as Bart is about to be hung, Hedley decides the best way to scare off the town is to make Bart Sheriff of Rock Ridge, in-turn making him the first black sheriff of the West.
Bart soon finds himself in a town full of angry in-breeders. The town drunk Jim/the Waco Kid (Gene Wilder) quickly accepts Bart and the two begin to build a reputation throughout the town. Bart and Jim use their wits and skills to battle marauders and outlaws in order to foil Hedley's plans and preserve the town of Rock Ridge.
The movie has some dated humor in it, but for the most part is still as funny as the first time I saw it when I was 9 (not that I caught a lot of the humor back then). Mel Brooks has an amazing style of making slapstick, insane comedies. He especially has a knack for writing great roles for Gene Wilder, and let's face it, he's been an amazing actor since he was Willie Wonka. This movie is filled with none stop, sometimes witty, sometimes low-brow comedy suitable for anyone. It's one of Mel Brooks' masterpieces and is a must see for anyone.
The movie is rated R for including adult themes, adult activity, hard language, intense or persistent violence, sexually-oriented nudity, drug abuse or other elements. It is available on instant queue, and is a must see for anyone who is a fan of silly comedies.
Hackers (1995)
There's been some talk over the last few months about hacking between the new Antisec campaign, and Sony's PSN being hacked, so I thought this was as good of a time as any to talk about one of my favorite movies, Hackers. Hackers is about Dade Murphy, A.K.A Zero-Cool/Crash Override, a child computer prodigy who is bared from using computers until his 18th birthday after being caught taking down over 1000 government systems at the age of 11. At the age of 18, Dade gets back to his old tricks in a new city, at the start of a new life. He quickly makes a few good friends with the common interest of hacking at his new school.
As Dade and his friends spend their time playing pranks, a bigger evil is transpiring, threatening to sink an oil tanker off the coast if their ransom demand isn't met. The plot to sink the tanker is quickly thrown onto the shoulders of hackers, and it's up to Dade and his friends to prove their innocence.
The movie is beyond outdated, and is constantly described as campy and cheesy, but it still has a bit of truth to it. If anything it's a great look back at things that were cool in the 90's that people wouldn't be caught dead doing nowadays. It's a fun movie to watch with friends and family and is even better for anyone who's spent some time around computers and the internet.
The movie also features a few star actors in very early roles. Angelina Jolie play Acid Burn, Dade's love interest/rival. Matthew Lillard plays Cereal Killer, one of Dade's closest friend. Both actors of course go on to have amazing careers after this movie, and even had some work before 'Hackers'.
The movie is a must see for anyone young or old. It's filled with fun pranks, decent acting, great characters, a decent plot of cyber good versus evil, and at worst a funny look back into some of the hacking lifestyle from days of old (although it's blown way out of proportion).
The movie is rated PG-13 for some sexuality and brief strong language. It is currently available on Netflix instant queue, and is great watch.
HACK THE PLANET!
Wednesday, June 22, 2011
Futurama (1999-Present)
You may have watched Futurama, you may have heard of it, you may have no idea what Futurama is, what it's about, or why anyone would want to talk about it. Well trust me, if you haven't seen it by now, you're missing out.
Futurama is a show by creators Matt Groening (Creator of The Simpsons) and David X. Cohen (Writer, Producer, Show Runner on The Simpsons), and is about a team of misfit delivery company employees, and the adventures they get into. The shows main focus is Phillip J. Fry (Billy West) who accidentally stumbles into a cryo chamber freezing him for 1000 years. When he awakes, he finds himself in the 31st Century. He quickly finds a relative of his, Professor Farnsworth, who runs a delivery service. Fry becomes a crew member of Planet Express delivery and so begins the tale of zany, crazy, idiotic things he and the other crew members will do.
I could discuss the show for hours and hours and hours, but I'd really like to touch on something the show brings that you really don't find in most cartoons. The show has many touching and heartfelt, award winning episodes. A few of the best episodes are: Naturally the first episode, which explains how fry get's to the future; which, while not heartwarming, is hilarious. 'The Devil's Hands are Idle Playthings', where Fry makes a deal with the Robot Devil for his hand to play the instrument the Holophoner (Instrument makes music and animations to create beautiful works of art, but in the show is very difficult to play, let alone master). Fry writes an amazing piece about his love interest and co-worker Leela, but in a horrible turn of fate, the Devil prevents her from enjoying it. Finally, the episode 'Jurassic Bark', perhaps the saddest episode of a cartoon ever made. The episode based on the movie Hachi, where Fry discovers his fossilized dog and pleads with his shipmates to help him clone the beloved dog. I make the episode sound a little lame, but it's one I avoid watching, because it's just too sad to sit through. I would easily consider it the best episode of the series so far though.
The entire series so far, including the 4 made for TV, straight to DVD movies are available on the instant queue on Netflix. If you haven't seen this series, if you aren't watching the new episodes, if you missed it's original airing on Fox or the reruns on Adult Swim, I highly recommend you start now. You will not be disappoint with Futurama.
Futurama is rated TV-PG and contains foul language, sexual references, drug references, violence and partial nudity. Amounts vary from episode to episode.
I leave you with the best trailer I could find which is for the Season 1 DVDs. Netflix does not offer the special features listed on instant queue, but if you'd like to seem them, they will be on the DVDs that come in the mail.
Futurama is a show by creators Matt Groening (Creator of The Simpsons) and David X. Cohen (Writer, Producer, Show Runner on The Simpsons), and is about a team of misfit delivery company employees, and the adventures they get into. The shows main focus is Phillip J. Fry (Billy West) who accidentally stumbles into a cryo chamber freezing him for 1000 years. When he awakes, he finds himself in the 31st Century. He quickly finds a relative of his, Professor Farnsworth, who runs a delivery service. Fry becomes a crew member of Planet Express delivery and so begins the tale of zany, crazy, idiotic things he and the other crew members will do.
I could discuss the show for hours and hours and hours, but I'd really like to touch on something the show brings that you really don't find in most cartoons. The show has many touching and heartfelt, award winning episodes. A few of the best episodes are: Naturally the first episode, which explains how fry get's to the future; which, while not heartwarming, is hilarious. 'The Devil's Hands are Idle Playthings', where Fry makes a deal with the Robot Devil for his hand to play the instrument the Holophoner (Instrument makes music and animations to create beautiful works of art, but in the show is very difficult to play, let alone master). Fry writes an amazing piece about his love interest and co-worker Leela, but in a horrible turn of fate, the Devil prevents her from enjoying it. Finally, the episode 'Jurassic Bark', perhaps the saddest episode of a cartoon ever made. The episode based on the movie Hachi, where Fry discovers his fossilized dog and pleads with his shipmates to help him clone the beloved dog. I make the episode sound a little lame, but it's one I avoid watching, because it's just too sad to sit through. I would easily consider it the best episode of the series so far though.
The entire series so far, including the 4 made for TV, straight to DVD movies are available on the instant queue on Netflix. If you haven't seen this series, if you aren't watching the new episodes, if you missed it's original airing on Fox or the reruns on Adult Swim, I highly recommend you start now. You will not be disappoint with Futurama.
Futurama is rated TV-PG and contains foul language, sexual references, drug references, violence and partial nudity. Amounts vary from episode to episode.
I leave you with the best trailer I could find which is for the Season 1 DVDs. Netflix does not offer the special features listed on instant queue, but if you'd like to seem them, they will be on the DVDs that come in the mail.
The Breaks (1999)
Switching it up a little bit from the last to reviews is a movie that's a little over a decade old. The Breaks starring and written by Mitch Mullany is about a young Irish boy who was adopted by a family in South-Central and what a day in the life of Derrick King (Mitch Mullany) is all about. After getting caught with a women in bed when his family comes home from church one Sunday morning, Derricks mom threatens to throw him out. He pleads with her to let him stay and in a fit of rage, she agrees, but only if he can bring home some milk by the end of the day.
Derrick spends the remainder of the movie getting in as much trouble as possible. Rivaling a drug dealer, gang members, two police officers who insist on harrassing him (played by Chris Farley's brothers), on top of being broke, Derrick struggles to manage to bring him milk for his family.
The movie gets a lot of comparison to other 90's comedies like Friday and House Party, but it's really in a category of it's own. All the roles are well written, the comedy is pretty consistent (although a bit dated), and all in all it makes for a good watch. I found it to be an even better movie to talk about with friends. The key comedy points seem to really kick in after you've seen the movie (which sounds bad, but trust me it's well worth watching).
The movie is rated R for strong crude sexuality and language, and for violence and drug content and is currently available to on instant queue on Netflix. If you're a fan of movies like Friday, or Trippin', then I highly suggest you don't miss out on this film.
Derrick spends the remainder of the movie getting in as much trouble as possible. Rivaling a drug dealer, gang members, two police officers who insist on harrassing him (played by Chris Farley's brothers), on top of being broke, Derrick struggles to manage to bring him milk for his family.
The movie gets a lot of comparison to other 90's comedies like Friday and House Party, but it's really in a category of it's own. All the roles are well written, the comedy is pretty consistent (although a bit dated), and all in all it makes for a good watch. I found it to be an even better movie to talk about with friends. The key comedy points seem to really kick in after you've seen the movie (which sounds bad, but trust me it's well worth watching).
The movie is rated R for strong crude sexuality and language, and for violence and drug content and is currently available to on instant queue on Netflix. If you're a fan of movies like Friday, or Trippin', then I highly suggest you don't miss out on this film.
Tuesday, June 21, 2011
Pandorum (2009)
Pandorum is an intense Sci Fi thriller that will keep you guessing til the very end. The movie starts with Corporal Bower, played by Ben Foster, waking up from his hyper-sleep about the ship Elysium. He wakes up not remember anything about the journey, why he's there, who is is, and has no idea how long it's been. He then proceeds to wake his commanding officer Lieutenant Payton, portrayed by Dennis Quaid. The two of them device a plan to find out what's causing the power surges on the ship which woke up Bower.
As Bower begins searching the ship, he begins to remember his past, and has vivid memories of his wife who he believes to be on the ship. Bower continues searching the ship for more crewmen, for answers, and for his wife.
From this point on the movie follows the two characters, Bower and Payton, as they both begin to remember why the were on the ship and what has happened to the rest of the 60,000 passengers that are supposed to be on their ship. Met with many plot twists, and a mysterious group of creatures that seem to have inhabited the ship.
The movie originally was met with poor reviews through places like Rotten Tomatoes. I myself was pretty skeptical of it when I first saw the trailers in theaters. I finally decided to watch it one afternoon and was blown away. The plot is pretty thrilling and wraps up nicely. The acting is great, especially for a Sci Fi thriller, and the best part is the movie will keep you guessing until the very end. The ending is somewhat open ended to what happens to the crew, but I think the most important part is that the main story comes to a solid conclusion.
This movie is still available on instant queue on Netflix, and I definitely advice you to watch if your looking for something a little spooky, a little scary, and filled with action and a solid plot.
The film is rated R for strong horror violence and language.
As Bower begins searching the ship, he begins to remember his past, and has vivid memories of his wife who he believes to be on the ship. Bower continues searching the ship for more crewmen, for answers, and for his wife.
From this point on the movie follows the two characters, Bower and Payton, as they both begin to remember why the were on the ship and what has happened to the rest of the 60,000 passengers that are supposed to be on their ship. Met with many plot twists, and a mysterious group of creatures that seem to have inhabited the ship.
The movie originally was met with poor reviews through places like Rotten Tomatoes. I myself was pretty skeptical of it when I first saw the trailers in theaters. I finally decided to watch it one afternoon and was blown away. The plot is pretty thrilling and wraps up nicely. The acting is great, especially for a Sci Fi thriller, and the best part is the movie will keep you guessing until the very end. The ending is somewhat open ended to what happens to the crew, but I think the most important part is that the main story comes to a solid conclusion.
This movie is still available on instant queue on Netflix, and I definitely advice you to watch if your looking for something a little spooky, a little scary, and filled with action and a solid plot.
The film is rated R for strong horror violence and language.
Monday, June 20, 2011
Moon (2009)
The first movie I plan on reviewing on here is one I watch a while ago, which unfortunately is no longer on Netflix to watch instantly (which I realize completely deletes the purpose of making a site about movies you can watch instantly). None the less, I think it proves how amazing I though this movie was, so let's get on with it.
Moon is a movie about Astronaut Sam Bell, played by Sam Rockwell, who's employer has posted him on the moon to harvest rocks which are shipped to earth and processed to create fuel. His only friend is the company robot GERTY voiced by Kevin Spacey.
While on the moon, Sam lives a boring life filled with day to day chores doing things such as monitoring harvesting equipment, exercising, cleaning, and so on. While on a routine inspection to fix a problem with some of the harvesting equipment, Sam wrecks and is presumed to be dead. He awakens inside his moon base to find everything a little out of place. Sam starts to begin wondering what his company's real intentions are for him and if he is ever going to make it home to see his family.
The movie really focuses on the thought of being alone in a place where no one can reach you, and the terror that can ensue when your all by yourself, roughly 250,000 miles from home. The movie features remarkable acting and intense plot twists. Sam Rockwell really pushes you into feeling the psychosis his character is falling into, and makes you wonder what is really going on outside of your own little world you live in.
I greatly recommend this movie to anyone who is interested in watching an amazing Thriller/Drama that will keep you guessing and hold your intention until the very end. The movie is rated R for adult situations, language, and if I remember correctly, some brief nudity. I leave you with an official trailer for Moon and hope you watch and enjoy this movie as much as I did.
The Purpose of this Site.....
Every site has some sort of purpose. You might browse them to laugh or to buy things, but a good portion of the sites you probably visit are used to learn. Even if it's something you simply forgot how to do, or need a better understanding of, you probably user website as one of your main sources for information.
This site is no different, but my purpose is to help you decide what you should check out on Netflix. If you enjoy movies, and you don't have a Netflix account, I first have to ask you, "Why?". It's about $9 a month and that includes unlimited streaming (which is fantastic if you have PlayStation Network or Xbox Live or even a Wii), but you also get 1-2 movies in the mail.
If you do have Netflix, I'm sure you've sat around browsing for hours trying to figure out what to watch. I know I have on more than one occasion. I'm here to help you avoid this situation. I'm going to post reviews of movies and TV shows I know will be enjoyable for almost everyone.
I'll try to update at least 3 times a week with new movies of different genres, and I'll even through in a few movies at a time if I think of anything that really catches my eye. So, I hope you enjoy and find some new favorite movies along the way.
This site is no different, but my purpose is to help you decide what you should check out on Netflix. If you enjoy movies, and you don't have a Netflix account, I first have to ask you, "Why?". It's about $9 a month and that includes unlimited streaming (which is fantastic if you have PlayStation Network or Xbox Live or even a Wii), but you also get 1-2 movies in the mail.
If you do have Netflix, I'm sure you've sat around browsing for hours trying to figure out what to watch. I know I have on more than one occasion. I'm here to help you avoid this situation. I'm going to post reviews of movies and TV shows I know will be enjoyable for almost everyone.
I'll try to update at least 3 times a week with new movies of different genres, and I'll even through in a few movies at a time if I think of anything that really catches my eye. So, I hope you enjoy and find some new favorite movies along the way.
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