Saturday, June 21, 2008

AFTER EARTH: The Dark Side of the Sun

Author(s): James Somerton
Location: NS, Canada

"AFTER EARTH: The Dark Side of the Sun"

Directed By: James Cameron
Written By: James Cameron
Produced By: James Cameron and Peter Jackson
Score By: Howard Shore
All Digital Effects by: WETA Digital

Main Cast

Johnny Depp as King Salcazar
Johnny Depp as Prince Eridos
Nicole Kidman as Senika
Daniel Day Lewis as Christopher
Andrea Bowen as Lauren
Alan Rickman as Lanord
Christina Ricci as Tayleen

Tagline: "Things Once Lost May Soon Come To Light"

Synopsis: Colbyoto is dead. Pluto is forever lost. The Galaxy is in utter darkness and ruling brothers are nowhere to be found. Anarchy is rising as the darkness seeps it's way into people's minds. How can one cope with darkness at all hours with not even a moment of light to lift the weight. Colbyoto's father, Lanord, has risen as a force of revolution in the galaxy as searches take place for the brothers.

Salcazar and Eridos know nothing of any of this as they travel to the dead planet of Earth. Nothing is left alive on this planet after the war that decimated it some millennia ago. There is one thing left though; oil, an energy resource known only to those who have read the ancient histories of earth. But the thick cloud cover left over from the nuclear winter blocks out the rays of the sun and the prince's solar ship loses power. They crash land some miles away from the ruined empire of Emarika. Some are sent to find the oil, some are sent to find ways to repair the ship, the rest are left alone. Among them are the two princes and their aunt, Senika. But they are being watched.

The party is attacked by a group of remnants, people left alive after the war. They have lived off of the limited resources remaining on the planet. They gather the Royals as prisoners and interrogate them. When they hear the word "Oil", the shudder. One young girl names Lauren, collapses into a panic attack at the mere mention of the word. These people want nothing to do with oil and are more than happy to see it drained from their planet under one stipulation; no one is to ever know that Earth still has life. The other parties are coming back now though, and they have weapons.

Lanord''s power grab has been successful and he is now ruling the galaxy as Emperor. He finally receives word of the prince's location. He has finally gained power and he will not let it slip away if they somehow return from the dead planet. He sends the Colbyonotic Military Guard to Earth to find the brothers and destroy them.

When comes next is a battle without limits, and the rediscovery of Earth may just mean the final fait of the entire galaxy is near.

What the Press would say:

"After Earth" is finally in the hands of it's creator, James Cameron. As writer, director, and producer, Cameron's talent can be seen all over the screen in this sci-fi epic that brings a close to one of modern cinema's greatest technical achievements. "The Dark Side of the Sun" is a simpler film than it's two predecessors. Cameron rips into the mythology previously nurtured by Tim Burton and Peter Jackson, and he gives us the grand finale. Bringing us back down to Earth, literally, this movie is an action packed thrill ride guaranteed to leave the audience thinking. There has always been the not-so-subtle message of energy conservation in this series, but never is it more apparent and relevant than in AE3. The convoluting of the past two films is stripped away and we are left with a clear story that makes the first make sense.

The acting, as always, is disturbingly top notch for a special FX extravaganza like this. Johnny Depp gives an amazing performance as both brothers, Salcazar and Eridos, adding to their nuances and giving, by far, the most diverse dual roll performance in film history. Alan Rickman, Nicole Kidman, and Christina Ricci, all return (with Ricci only appearing in the begging montage) and all gives fantastic performances by a revelation in this film is Andrea Bowen ( of TV's Desperate Housewives) as the shell-shocked teenaged earthling who nearly turns suicidal at the mention of oil. She gives a deep performance brought to life by her scenes with Nicole Kidman. These are probably the least impressive scenes visually in the film but gives this character so much depth that they are impossible to write off. We learn of her childhood and the horror stories she has been told by her family about oil. Bowen rises from the ranks of TV supporting player to a scene steeling performance in one of the year's biggest films.

"After Earth: The Dark Side of the Sun" is one of the best looking films I have ever seen. It is eye popping at almost all times. But the grand finale of this film, and the entire series, takes place when Lanord's army invades Earth and the earthlings are forced to relive what they have heard about for thousands of years. This is a science fiction film that shows the real affect of war on people. We see it in the faces of every last extra, we hear it in their cries and we feel it in Lauren's last moments of life. This battle is mind blowing. It does not detach the viewer as many battles of it's scale do, but works extra hard to engage us and succeeds in doing so. I was not awed by the explosions, but terrified by them. I didn't sit waiting for the next body to go flying across the screen, I sat dreading it. This is not an excessively violent film, but the violence is more poignant than other films of it's kind. It shakes the most jaded movie goer to their core.

"The Dark Side of the Sun" is not the next "Gone With The Wind" or "Citizen Kane". But it isn't trying to be. It is trying to be a fun science fiction ride with a vaguely concealed message for the world of today. But, in trying to be less than the greats, is nearly becomes one of them. This film draws together the confusion it's first two parts and gives us an ending that some may find simple and fun, and others will see poignancy in. It is the end of an epic story and we should take it as that. As a whole, After Earth may become a sci-fi classic and will definitely become a benchmark for special fx, but taken on it's own, "The Dark Side of the Sun" is a powerful work of filmmaking and no one deserves more credit for this than James Cameron. He once was King of the World; the only thing left to concur is space and he has done it.

Possible Nominations...

Best Picture
Best Director - James Cameron
Best Supporting Actress - Andrea Bowen
All Technical Categories

Audrey's Girls

Author(s): Brian
Location: Arizona

"Audrey’s Girls"

Written and Directed by Terry George
Produced by Terry George and Robert Wolders

Main Cast

Juliette Binoche (Audrey Hepburn)
Claire-Hope Ashitey (Zema)
Sahara Garey (Kassa)
Keke Palmer (Alem)
George Clooney (Robert Wolders)
Sissy Spacek (Christa Roth)
John C. Reilly (John Isaac)

Tagline: "N/A"

Synopsis: It is 1988, and an aging Audrey Hepburn stuns the world when she announces that she plans on retiring from making movies. Instead, she will devote all of her time to The United Nations’ Children’s Fund (UNICEF), with which she will travel the globe to feed starving children. The first of these missions was to Ethiopia. Traveling with her partner, Robert Wolders, her best friend, Christa Roth, and photographer John Issac, Hepburn is greeted by 500 emaciated children—nearly 200 more than she brought food for. Shortly after her arrival, she is pick-pocketed by a 14-year-old girl. She follows after her, until the girl is confronted by her two sisters. She gives back the money she took and invites her back to her home. Of course, the term “home” is used lightly. They live in a filthy, torn apart house that is missing a wall and has only one bed. Audrey talks to the girls, and gets to know them. The eldest is Zema, a wise but bitter 18-year-old woman that is the primary caregiver in the family, but is unkind to strangers. When she was 16, their parents were killed, and she has since been a prostitute to provide for the family. She has had a miscarriage, an abortion and, although she does not know it, she is infected with AIDS. The middle child is Kassa. Kassa saw her parents being murdered, and she has since been traumatized and has attempted suicide, cut herself and had unprotected sex. And yet, underneath it all, she is a sweet, caring young woman. The youngest is Alem, who, at 11, is smart, entirely optimistic and witty. Audrey feels an instant affection towards them, and, for the duration of her trip, she makes it her duty to look after them and provide for their long-term well being. However, the workers at UNICEF advise her to stop favoring the children, as they do not want such an image. But she cannot stand to see such lovely girls falling victim to poverty. As the film continues, Audrey and the three young women begin to bond and form a mother-daughter like connection. Soon, her friends that she is traveling with start to become suspicious of her intentions with the girls, and start to question her; as though she is committing a crime. The pressure grows, until, in the climax of the film, Kassa commits suicide after she finds out about Zema’s occupation. Audrey, stricken with grief, can barely move on. Her month in Ethiopia is reaching closure. But, when it seems as though she has lost everything, Zema delivers a moving speech explaining how Audrey’s trip has changed the lives of her and her sisters. Hepburn leaves not only with a feeling of accomplishment, but also with a strange, yet comforting feeling that the two girls will turn out alright.

What the Press would say:

I have just seen the most inspiring film of the year. I am talking, of course about the triumph that is Terry George’s “Audrey’s Girls.” The film tells the somewhat fictionalized story of Audrey Hepburn’s (Juliette Binoche) first trip with UNICEF to Ethiopia, where she meets three orphaned girls (Claire-Hope Ashitey, Sahara Garey and Keke Palmer). This simple plotline is the foundation for a story of life, death, friendship, family and hope. With its exquisite writing and visuals, this is the best film of the year by miles.

It is also the best acted. The young starlet from “Children of Men”, Claire-Hope Ashitey, is absolutely marvelous as Zema, the troubled mother figure. A typical young actress would have taken this role and relentlessly try to make the audience sob. But Ashitey, being wise, portrays the character as an actual human being with real-life qualities. As a result, we empathize with her more than anyone in the film. This performance will not only lead her to superstardom, but also to her first of many Oscar statuettes. It would seem as though no one would be able to top Miss Ashitey, but we are proven wrong when we see the lovely Juliette Binoche as the also lovely Audrey Hepburn. Only 43, Binoche has the task of playing a 59-year-old woman, and does so in the most genuine, believable way possible. Portraying such a widely known character must be very difficult, but she is able to do it with accuracy and style. Of course, it would be beating a dead horse to continue talking about Binoche’s performance, because unless you’ve been living under a rock, you’ve heard the rave reviews, so all I will say is that she is well on her way to Oscar #2.

This moving, sometimes funny (thanks to Keke Palmer’s adorable performance), always interesting film is, simply put, the best of the year. With simply astounding writing and directing and Oscar worthy performances from Claire-Hope Ashitey and Juliette Binoche, “Audrey’s Girls” can expect Academy Award nominations (and wins) in the following categories…

Best Picture
Best Director (Terry George)
Best Actress (Juliette Binoche)
Best Supporting Actress (Claire-Hope Ashitey)
Best Original Screenplay (Terry George)
Best Film Editing
Best Cinematography
Best Makeup
Best Art Direction

The Banality of Evil

Author(s): Alex S.
Location: Mexico

"The Banality of Evil"


Directed by Billy Ray
Produced by Barry Mendel & Frank Marshall & Kathleen Kennedy
Written by Tony Kushner & Billy Ray
Based on the book “Eichmann in Jerusalem” by Hannah Arendt
Executive Producers Colin Wilson & Rick Shwartz
Edited By Michael Kahn
Cinematography by Robert Richardson
Music by Mychael Danna
Costume Design by Sandy Powell
Production Design by Dante Ferretti
Art Direction by Jeannine Claudia Oppewall & Gretchen Rau
Set Decoration by Leslie E. Rollins

Main Cast

Gary Oldman – Adolf Eichmann
Hayden Christensen – Danny Spitzer
Helena Bonham Carter – Hannah Arendt
Alan Alda – Gideon Hausner
Michael Constantine – David Ben-Gurion
Ben Gazzara – Yitzhak Ben-Zvi
Lynn Cohen – Golda Meir

Tagline: "Our greatest evil flows from ourselves"

Synopsis: Usually when people write their memoirs they basically tell their whole lives, well in my case, my life is not that exciting, but something happened to me that changed me forever, this is my story. I was born into a Jewish family in 1933 in Berlin, Germany. As the Nazi party came into power my mother, sister and I were able to escape to America when I was 4. I don’t know why but I still remember those early years in my life, I still remember the hatred I felt as a little boy, just for being what I was. My whole family was killed in the Holocaust. After I graduated, one of my professors at Princeton offered me a job as her assistant, her name was Hannah Arendt, she was one of the most important political theorists of that time. In 1961 she was offered a job that would change our lives forever; she was asked to report the Eichmann trial in Jerusalem, she asked me to come with her.

When we arrived to Jerusalem we went directly to the building where Eichmann was held prisoner, I remember walking through those doors and meeting a simple man, he was wearing thick glasses and a dark suit, when he opened his mouth he talked calmly and intellectually, he exchanged some words with Hannah and after a few moments I couldn’t believe that this man, sitting right in front of me was the architect of the biggest genocide in world history.

After Hannah finished talking with him she left crying and angry, I was overwhelmed by her reaction. After she was gone I stood there, suddenly this man in front of me asked for my name and told me to sit down, I was in shock, as I sat down he started talking to me; it was an experience I would never forget, we talked during an hour before the guard took him, I was amazed by his mind and his words, he had an encyclopedic knowledge of the Jewish religion but he failed to understand the Jewish people. I left that building, and later that night I wasn’t able to sleep, I was awake all night thinking about everything he said.

The following days we spend more time together, in a way he couldn’t stand being near me, but he needed to explain himself to someone. His mere presence provoked great conflict in me, this man was the responsible of the pain of million of persons, but I was able to understand him and his actions, even if I didn’t wanted to. We bonded in an odd way, he wanted to say something, and I needed answers from him.

During the trial, Gideon Hausner was the chief prosecutor, in this sessions Eichmann was fighting for his life and even if he appeared calmed, you could sense his fear and pain, he knew this were his last days and that his fight was futile. He was eventually condemned, but I will never forget our last meeting. After the verdict we met one last time, he was different; he had a new perspective, suddenly he wasn’t afraid anymore, he had faced his demons and he finally made peace with himself, his last words are written in my memories like if they were carved in stone, always so formal he stood up after our last meeting and said “To sum it all up, I must say that I regret nothing. We shall meet again. I have believed in God. I obeyed the laws of war and was loyal to my flag”. After the execution I sat down with Hannah and I told her about my meetings with him, she told me about her impressions and her article, after she finished, I said nothing, her last words were “Under conditions of tyranny it is far easier to act than to think. The sad truth is that most evil is done by people who never make up their minds to be good or evil”. I would like to say that he was redeemed for his actions, but he wasn’t, in my eyes he knew what he was doing and it were his actions what made him what he was, at the end all I can say is the world is a dangerous place to live, not because of the people who are evil, but because of the people who don't do anything about it.

What the Press would say:

The film, directed by Billy Ray, is a visceral, emotionally exhausting work that dares to ask questions and gives no easy answers. A film of uncommon depth, intelligence, and sensitivity, “The Banality of Evil” defies easy labeling. It’s an eye-opener - a motion picture that asks difficult questions, presents well-developed characters, and keeps us white-knuckled throughout. It’s based on Hannah Arendt's book Eichmann in Jerusalem, claims to have been "inspired" by true events, which places it into the category of fiction. Key events occurred, but all of the character interaction is made up.

The screenplay succeeds in exposing a dreaded historical figure as a human being. Ray's directing is brilliant; he assembles the story and the characters uniformly and proves himself to be an expert in creating realistic relationships between the characters while he succeeds in telling a story. An impressive achievement by a man in touch with his art and his soul. Kushner and Ray's script is thoughtful and provocative. The acting is uniformly excellent. Christensen shines as a young journalist in the search for explanations and meaning to his life, he’s able to portray an evolution that allows his character to feel real and human. He makes Danny Spitzer fun, funny, vulnerable and poignant while never letting us forget his pain and search for answers. Oldman’s Eichmann is calculating and scary, he portrays him as a harsh man with great intelligence and cleverness, he perfectly captures his ¬nature, he puts in one of the most amazing acting performances of the year making Eichmann appear to be equally likable and detestable all at the same time. When both characters interact, the screen sizzles with intensity, the dialogue is so powerful and the movie's real power, and true greatness, comes from these magnificent performances. Bonham-Carter also shines as Arendt; she provides her best performance yet and adds heart and emotion to a difficult and serious movie. Impressively directed, sharply written and beautifully shot drama with superb performances from the entire cast. Gritty and compelling, the film transports the viewer unlike any other film in recent memory. A movie like none we've seen before a searching, soul-sick piece of work. It does not pretend to have any answers. It only wants to remind us how much we've lost.


Batman: Scars of Tomorrow

Author(s): Tony
Location: Pittsburgh

"Batman: Scars of Tomorrow"


Directed by Jean-Pierre Jeunet
Written by Timothy J. Sexton and Bob Kane (characters)
Music by Clint Mansell
Produced by Bonnie Curtis

Main Cast

Billy Crudup as Batman/Bruce Wayne
Ralph Fiennes as Two-Face/Harvey Dent
Benicio Del Toro as Black Mask/Roman Sionis
Ian McKellen as Alfred Pennywood
William H. Macy as Commissioner Jim Gordon
Laurence Fishburne as Lucious Fox
David Strathairn as Sal Maroni
Luke Goss as Tattoo
Eva Green as Circe Sionis

Tagline: "Behind every scar is the answer to ones actions"

Synopsis: The sunset turned the smog that hung over Gotham city a fiery red, and from a plane it looked like the city was on fire. On this plane was a very brash, wealthy, and confident Bruce Wayne. Coming back from a trip, Wayne was scheduled to meet with District Attorney Harvey Dent. However, Harveys war on crime came to end when Dent was prosecuting crime boss Sal Maroni, and unexpectedly Maroni would toss sulphuric acid onto the left side of Dents face and left hand. Dent, a charming, clean cut man was now a disfigured savage, and had gone missing for days.

Meanwhile, Roman Sionis, owner of Janus Cosmetics, the company in which he inherited from his parents who died in a tragic, yet suspicious fire in the family mansion, was onto new things. With his newly earned fortune, Roman wanted to create the make-up of the century. Without proper testing, Roman rushed the product which turned into a revolting toxin which would disfigure his workers and himself. The company was as sure as dead until Roman gave all control to Bruce Wayne who brought in his own workers for the company. Circe, Romans adored wife, decided to leave him in front of his staff. Humiliated and broke, Roman believed all his work went for nothing, and would soon get his revenge on Gotham.

With two disfigured names of power missing, the Bat knew the streets were about to get dangerous. With his servant for 30 years, Alfred Pennywood, and reliable Commissioner Gordon, Batman was prepared for the worst, but it wasn't what he expected. Roman Sionis took on a different identity where he carved the tombstone of his deceased mother and made a mask of it, calling himself Black Mask. Mask had a great eye for crime, and had the biggest known gang on Gotham, the False Face Society. His fantasies of torture and pain would come to reality when he'd torture his victims, physical and psychological. With his sidekick Tattoo, Black Mask was front page material. He made his biggest impression after capturing CEO of Wayne Enterprises Lucious Fox, torturing him to a near death until a late save from the Bat.

A panting Black Mask found himself a dark alley way where the sound of a flipping coin echoed throughout. The quirky, psychotic Two-Face came from the shadows. He proposed to Mask that with his extensive knowledge of law enforcement and Masks street power they would be unstoppable. Meanwhile, Bruce is dealing with scars of his own. For a moment his thoughts flashed back to that fateful night. He hadn’t shed a tear for his parents in years, and with Two-Face and Black Mask on the verge of running Gotham, Bruce must stay strong and remember why he chose the life he has.

Two-Face now had control. He'd flip his coin to choose a good or evil deed, the good side indicated that Mask would let his victim go or to their doom. Their focus now was on Bruce Wayne. After returning from the office, Wayne noticed his butler not around. The duo awaited for Bruce to return as a gagged, tied up, and severely bruised Alfred laid between the evilness that was Two-Face and Black Mask. "Is it his turn to die?" Black Mask says, as the coin goes in the air. How can Batman overcome the odds? Is Bruce about to relive his scars with another close loss from a deadly fiend?

What the Press would say:

Batman is a persona that was created to inspire fear into the hearts of criminals. A creature of the night that hunts from the shadows, strikes without warning, and vanishes into the darkness like a nightmare. The character is never meant to be seen by the general public, he is merely meant to exist in their whispers, an urban myth that is talked about in hushed tones throughout Gotham City. Remember that? Jean-Pierre Jeunet does. The brilliant director of The City of Lost Children, Delicatessen, and Amelie brings you the latest of the Batman series, "Scars of Tomorrow", and how fitting. Scars of Tomorrow is well written, well-shot and combines amazing special effects, set design and acting to form a perfect final package, it's untouchable. Billy Crudup has redefined the character known as Batman. Without a doubt has the most charming smile of all of the rest, the perfect Bruce Wayne look and attitude, but when it comes to put on the suit, Crudup is convincing as the all-action hero. The thing that stands out from all the other Bat films are the villains, starting with Ralph Fiennes. To put it quite simply, Feinnes portrayal of Two-Face makes the Red Dragon look like Ghandi. It's terrific, and honestly frightening. His transition to the multiple personality, deranged man affected by the young child abuse and his hideous disfiguration is outstanding. Speaking of outstanding, Benicio is dead on once again as a great supporting actor. Perhaps the best supporting actor of the last few decades. Like Fiennes, Del Toro had to take on a distraught character, but when the camera is on him, the scene glows. The evil in his eyes are very evident. Both men had superior chemistry, both scarred and demented, and it's up to one man to stop them.

Typically the Oscars pass up on the "super hero" genre, but SOT is something not for the Academy to look over. It's unlike any hero movie we've ever seen, every scene with a deep and hard emotion attached to it, we get a feel for all the characters and what they're going through, good or evil. With a great cast, great director, and the piece of gold known as film itself is just yelling out to be noticed by the Academy. Perhaps not the one to take the young ones too, but for the much more mature Batman fans out there, a tribute to the old comics of the vigilante and the evil he must face.

FYC:

Best Picture - Jean-Pierre Jeunet, Timothy J. Sexton and Bonnie Curtis
Best Director - Jean-Pierre Jeunet
Best Actor - Billy Crudup
Best Supporting Actor - Ralph Fiennes
Best Supporting Actor - Benicio Del Toro
Best Adapted Screenplay
Best Cinematography
Best Make-up
Best Sound
Best Editing


The Bluxomi Sisters

Author(s): Ryan
Location: NY

"The Bluxomi Sisters"

Directed by Barbet Schroeder
Written by Christopher Nolan & Terry Rossio
Music by David Arnold

Main Cast

Paula Patton (Kelly and Jocelyn Bluxomi)
Jennifer Tilly (Beth Stalton)
Christina Ricci (Claire Stalton)
Connie Nielsen (Officer Paula Handler)
Joy Bryant (Carrie Lister)
Kevin Bacon (Officer Henry Patton)
Denzel Washington (Fred Bluxomi)
Elijah Wood (Tom Nix)
Tyrese Gibson (Gerald Benjamin)

Tagline: "Which Twin Was It?"

Synopsis: Kelly Bluxomi (Paula Patton) and Jocelyn Bluxomi (Paula Patton) are identical twin sisters to the point that even their father, Fred Bluxomi (Denzel Washington) can’t tell them a part; same goes with their boyfriends.

Kelly and Jocelyn live in an apartment in Philadelphia with their aging father living a few blocks down. Kelly is dating Gerald Benjamin (Tyrese Gibson) and Jocelyn is dating Tom Nix (Elijah Wood), both for over a few years now. However a girl in the apartment complex, Claire Stalton (Christina Ricci), a mutual friend of the Bluxomi’s, goes missing until found dead behind the building. The police have an image of who did it by a surveillance camera…one of the Bluxomi sisters.

Beth Stalton (Jennifer Tilly), who lives two floors up is raising hell, always hating the sisters and now she knows one killed her only daughter. Officer Paula Patton (Connie Nielsen) and her partner Officer Henry Patton (Kevin Bacon) are trying to put the pieces together of which one did it, but they hit a standstill when even the psychiatry tests come back the same for both sisters, leading them to believe both were involved.

To make matters worse the sisters’ best friend Carrie Lister (Joy Bryant) thinks she knows what one did it.

Now the sisters are fighting with each other trying to figure out which sister that they have spent their whole life with did it. And the results may be deadly…and not just for them.

What the Press would say:

“Two thumbs up!”-Ebert & Roeper

“A heart-pounding dramatic thriller.”- People

“A+! With great visuals and performances this is a film not to miss.”-Entertainment Weekly

“One of the best cinematic thrills in history.”-Rolling Stone Magazine

The Bluxomi Sisters is a psychological thriller that keeps you on the edge of your seat, even after the credits. Barbet Schroeder is great, reminiscing of his film, Single White Female. Paula Patton is terrific and the visual effects were terrific having her in the same scenes as herself playing both sisters. Patton brings charisma to each character, differentiating her performances which can be tricky for any actor, role to role, but in the same film together it is astonishing. Jennifer Tilly was outstanding as the mother and gives a heart-breaking performance with hatred and tears in her eyes which lets the audience feel her heartbreak as well. Joy Bryant shines holding the secret of which sister did it, though she isn’t a 100% sure. Connie Nielsen gives a withstanding performance who just seems on the verge of something before it gets away.. Elijah Wood and Tyrese Gibson bring to the table great emotion knowing one of their beloved girlfriends killed someone. Denzel Washington has a strong performance as a father knowing one of his daughter’s is a cold-blooded murder, watching them grow apart, wondering if he raised his girls wrong. Kevin Bacon has an interesting character, thinking both sisters did it but has his doubts as well. With a well written script, in the end you will be shocked. This isn’t a movie…this is a cinematic adventure.

Best Picture
Best Director: Barbet Schroeder
Best Screenplay: Christopher Nolan & Terry Rossio
Best Original Score: David Arnold
Best Actor: Denzel Washington
Best Supporting Actor: Kevin Bacon
Best Actress: Paula Patton, Jennifer Tilly
Best Supporting Actress: Connie Nielsen, Joy Bryant

Border Man

Author(s): Pat
Location: NY

"Border Man"

Directed by Alejandro Gonzalez Inarritu
Written by Guillermo Arriaga
Music by Gustavo Santaolalla
Cinematography by Rodrigo Prierto
Produced by Alejandro Gonzalez Inarritu, Brad Pitt, Steven Soderbergh

Main Cast

Tom Berenger (Dennis Fourman)
Maribel Verdu (Rosa Rodriguez)
William Petersen (Kenny Jackson)
Richard Roundtree (Davis Montgomery)
Kate Burton (Olivia Jackson)
Diego Luna (Alberto Juarez)
Dario Grandinetti (Benito Alverez)
Gary Sinise (James Schlosnck)
Jeanne Tripplehorn (Miranda Fourman)

Tagline: "In the land where law and order rule over everything, one secret will shatter it all"

Synopsis: The acclaimed team behind “Amores Perros” and “Babel” creates a story about love that knows no borders, literally. Dennis Fourman (Tom Berenger) is a Border Patrol officer in New Mexico who has just been given a new assignment by his boss (Richard Roundtree) to root out illegal immigrants who have been transporting heroin in their thighs across the border. Alverez (Dario Grandinetti), the Mexican drug lord, becomes aware of the sting and is forced to send his own girlfriends when he runs out of willing illegals. He sends Rosa (Maribel Verdu), who evades the Border Patrol but gets lost in the desert only to be found two days later by Dennis, who takes her into his own care for two reasons, one being the infected wound in her thigh and the other being his attraction to the girl. They begin a torrid, yet illegal, love affair that comes under scrutiny by Dennis’ ex-wife (Jeanne Tripplehorn) and a DEA agent (Gary Sinise), who suspects that Dennis is aiding Alverez. Things get worse when Dennis loyal partner with an alcohol problem, Kenny (William Petersen), also becomes suspicious of his best friend at the request of his overbearing wife (Kate Burton). Alverez soon gets wind of the affair and sends an assassin (Diego Luna) to take out Dennis and bring Rosa back to him. Dennis’ world seems to be coming to a crashing halt but he does not want to end his relationship with Rosa. He loves her too much. “Border Man” is a moving tale of love and the law under the desert sun.

What the Press would say:

After critical successes like “Babel” and “21 Grams”, Alejandro Gonzalez Inarritu and Guillermo Arriaga sculpted a new movie about life in the Mexican desert in “Border Man”, the story of a Border Patrol officer who falls in love with an illegal immigrant he was supposed to turn over to the DEA. Arriaga’s masterful script and Inarritu’s golden standard directing offer up a film that breaks all barriers and manages to twist the viewer’s hearts and minds in a way that has never been experienced on screen. Tom Berenger stands out in the comeback performance of the year as the title character. His subtle performance as a desperate man with a secret breaks your hearts, especially in the film’s tragic climax as his character faces demise. Maribel Verdu plays his lover in a truly sympathetic role that slowly becomes villainous as her character manipulates the Border Man to satisfy her desires. Dario Grandinetti of Almodovar’s “Habla con ella” is exceptionally evil as the drug lord who wants his girlfriend back and will do whatever it takes to get her back. But the true emotional power comes from Kate Burton and William Petersen, who play friends of Berenger’s character who slowly become aware of his affair and decide to use it as leverage to get more power. Burton excels as the master manipulator and Petersen shines as an alcoholic trying to choose between love and loyalty. “Border Man” is one of the best films in years and deserves as much awards attention as it can get.

FYC

Best Picture
Best Director-Alejandro Gonzalez Inarritu
Best Original Screenplay
Best Actor-Tom Berenger
Best Supporting Actor-Dario Grandinetti
Best Supporting Actor-William Petersen
Best Supporting Actress-Kate Burton
Best Supporting Actress-Maribel Verdu

Can't Stop the Press!

Author(s): Lee
Location: NJ

"Can't Stop The Press!"

Directed by George Clooney
Written by George Clooney
Score by John Williams

Main Cast

Liam Neeson as William Randolph Hearst
Kevin Kline as Robert Harrison
Henry Winkler as Mike Wallace
George Clooney as Generoso Pope Jr.
Alan Alda as Rupert Murdoch

Tagline: "Five highly influential men, all born in one century (1850-1950) unknowingly influenced one another"

Synopsis: American Newspaper Magnate William Randolph Hearst controlled much of the world's media in the early 20th Century. Meanwhile, four youngsters, Rupert Murdoch, Robert Harrison, Generoso Pope and Mike Wallace were busy being children. As they each grow up, they begin to read about Hearst and develop a thirst for similar power.

"Can't Stop the Press," links the lives of these influential men. In the film, Hearst influences all four boys, but Harrison most of all (who reads the Hearst papers religiously). Harrison in turn influences Pope (who reads his magazine, Confidential, and reads about Harrison's courage in putting Hollywood's biggest stars on trial). Following in Harrisons' footsteps, Pope starts a National Enquirer Magazine which is later read by Mike Wallace, who goes on to host "Night Beat," a provocative program on television. Rupert Murdoch follows all of these men and assumes the total media takeover. The demise of each (save for Murdoch), is also explored, and each suffers a great deal when they try to report on the most difficult of issues. But the constant shift and rise of newspaper men influenced by other men of the past proves, you just “Can’t Stop the Press!”

What the Press would say:

"Five talented actors take on the difficult challenge of portraying men who knew a lot about people and the world, but of whom little was personally known."

"The film is a meticulous study of the men who changed the world through courageous journalism. Making the approach chronological and connecting the men's lives ads luster to the story's credibility. Incredible!"

FOR YOUR CONSIDERATION:

Best Actor: Liam Neeson & Kevin Kline
Best Supporting Actor: Alan Alda
Best Original Screenplay: George Clooney
Best Director: George Clooney

Conquistador

Author(s): Maia
Location: LA

"Conquistador"

Produced by Mel Gibson
Directed by Alfonso Cuaron
Written by Alfonso Cuaron and Timothy J. Sexton
Edited by Pietro Scalia and Alfonso Cuaron
Cinematography by Dean Semler
Art Direction by John Myhre
Visual Effects by Tim Burke
Original Score by Elliot Goldenthal

Main Cast

Eduardo Noriega as Hernan Cortes
Laura Elena Harring as Mallintzin
Benjamin Bratt as Emperor Moctezuma
Rudy Youngblood as Prince Cuitlahuac

Tagline: "His Mission. Her Treason… Their War"

Synopsis: Commissioned by the New World governors and driven by his own thirst for glory, prestigious conqueror Hernan Cortes has successfully persuaded most of the indigenous tribes on the Mexican territory to rebel against the prevailing control of the Aztec Empire (in order to continue the expansion of the Spanish kingdom to South America). First step on his mission is conquering Tenochtitlan, the majestic capital of the Aztecs, but are they willing to lose their sovereignty so easily?

Between the walls of Emperor Moctezuma’s Palace, the Aztec nobles are whispering… Cortes and his army have been sheltered by their neighbors and they are quickly approaching Tenochtitlan. The weak-willed Moctezuma has struggled to hide his fears but his younger brother and counselor Cuitlahuac has come to a resolution: Moctezuma must welcome Cortes to the city and pursue an alliance to prevent the fall of their empire… Cuitlahuac has reasons to fear, he knows Cortes’ army, along with his local allies, outnumber their own and to make things worst; Mallintzin, a talented and well known interpreter, is now serving Cortes as his main counselor.

Cortes has in fact developed a strong bond with Mallintzin, one that even his men seem unable to understand. He has converted her into Catholicism and it has being implied on many letters sent to the New World that they share the same bed… Despite animosities, Mallintzin has advised the Spanish well: she has taught them the Aztec tactics and modus-operandi; and now Cortes is ready to fulfill his mission…

When the Aztecs cannot contain Cortes and his troops anymore, Moctezuma welcomes him and his men to his sacred city… The Aztecs quickly acknowledge him as their ancient Winged Serpent God, who has reborn to claim his throne on Earth, and in the other hand; they have threatened to murder Mallintzin for what they consider a betrayal to her roots.

Cortes is pleased… It seems peace between both worlds will indeed happen but sadly, not in the way Emperor Moctezuma had hoped and even worst, just like the spanish conqueror wanted from the beginning…

What the Press would say:

It is cruel, it is heartbreaking and it is human… Man’s hunger for world domination is captivatingly portrayed by Alfonso Cuaron’s emotional epic “Conquistador,” one of the best thought and artistically crafted films in recent memory. Based on the acclaimed historical novel “The Eagle and The Serpent,” Cuaron and writing partner Timothy J. Sexton vividly bring the Aztec civilization back to life in a more intellectually challenging way than producer Mel Gibson’s vision of the Mayans in the gory “Apocalypto.” To avoid obvious comparisons, Cuaron stays away from as much graphic violence as he can and instead, the gifted director develops the rudimentary political and diplomatic tactics of both the locals and their colonizers (wisely opting to shoot the film entirely on English to keep it accessible). By contrasting the intrigues emerging around the characters on both sides of the conflict with the realistic battle sequences at the film’s climatic point; Cuaron takes this project to a higher point where it’s hard to tell what type of human violence is worst.

Open Your Eyes’ Spaniard star Eduardo Noriega (comfortably nuanced and engaging as Cortes) willingly accepts the role of the sympathetic villain who won’t stop until he gets what he wants and as metaphorically expressed by the screenwriters; a multilayered character that strikes many resemblances to some of our world leaders. Laura Elena Harring (finally landing a prominent role), makes Mallintzin the perfect match for Cortes: the intelligence and fierce ambition in Harring’s performance makes easy for us to understand how a strategist like Cortes would be willing to place all his trust in a woman and most importantly, see beyond her dark skin and allow himself to love her. Their chemistry and their perseverance against odds are satisfying to watch just as much as Benjamin Bratt’s moving performance as Moctezuma. Bratt provides menacing insecurity to the one man not allowed to have any in a ruthless society; and he is able to bare his soul as the legacy trusted upon him collapses in front of his eyes. An irresistible supporting turn from Rudy Youngblood as the slippery Cuitlahuac reminds us why wars are not always won on the battlefield.

Ultimately, Cuaron’s deep sensibility and Gibson’s adequate practicality blend to perfection in “Conquistador,” a film that just like the renowned Hernan Cortes, wanted to be larger than life from the beginning, and actually succeeded…

Expect AMPAS to honor this grand epic with the following nominations:

Best Picture (Drama)
Best Director – Cuaron
Best Adapted Screenplay
Best Actor – Eduardo Noriega
Best Supporting Actress – Laura Elena Harring
Best Supporting Actor – Benjamin Bratt
Best Supporting Actor – Rudy Youngblood
Technical Categories
Creativity Awards

Crimes against a City

Author(s): Ryne
Location: Portland

"Crimes against a City"

Directed by Jonathan Demme
Written by Brian Helgeland

Main Cast

Mark Ruffalo as Lt. Evan Fuller
Terrence Howard as Damien Lambert
Chiwetel Ejiofor as Jake White
Omar Gooding as Demetrius Young
Dustin Hoffman as Lt. Eric Cayton

Tagline: "In a city doomed by crime, deceit is the only way to stay on top"

Synopsis: Detroit- Present

In a city riveted by drug use and crime, Lt. Eric Cayton (Hoffman) and Lt. Evan Fuller (Ruffalo) are the driving force to clean up the city once and for all. Together, they have seized more than one million dollars worth of illicit drugs and contraband. Most of this success is due to a mole the police bureau has inside the inner workings of the city’s most prominent drug ring. Only Cayton knows the true identity of the informant and he refuses to utter his identity for fear that the city’s major drug lord, Damien Lambert (Howard), has a spy inside the agency. Cayton meets his informant once a week for orders and inside information, but this time something is different. After Cayton returns from the meeting, Fuller recognizes something is unusual with him…

Damien Lambert is without doubt the city’s dominant drug lord. A former high school narc, Labbert knows the in’s and out’s of the drug trafficking. He has the entire city under his control and nothing seems to be capable of bring him down except one Lt. Eric Cayton. Jake White (Ejiofor) and Demetrius Young (Gooding) are constantly by his side. Both have aspirations of succeeding Lambert whenever he decides to leave the business, but lately Lambert has been favoring the young Demetrius when it comes to decision-making. The newly formed bond between Demetrius and Lambert has Jake jealous and vengeful. He understands he must do something drastic if he wishes to take over for Lambert. While Jake plots his retaliation, Demetrius enjoys the perks of being Lambert’s right hand man. Women, money, drugs follow his every move. His life could not get any better and only one thing stands between him and glory: Jake. Lambert, however, has recently come across some troubling information. He has suspicions that he has a mole inside his inner circle and it is believed to be either Jake or Demetrius. Jake could potentially want revenge on him because of his new relationship with Demetrius and Demetrius could be faking his friendship towards Lambert to unexpectedly turn against him. Lambert decides that to weed out the mole, he should make his move on Lt. Cayton. He sends both Jake and Demetrius to follow Cayton to his house and kill him…

The next day Cayton is found dead in his apartment with two bullet wounds: One in his forehead and one in his back. Fuller inspects the scene and finds a note inside Cayton’s pocket. The note reads, “It had to happen” in messy handwriting and continues on to list both an address and a date. Fuller decides to investigate the case’s only lead. He goes to the address on the date listed and finds a package for Cayton. The package is full of enough evidence to bring Lambert down and a letter, which states the location and time of Lambert’s next big drop. Fuller sees this as maybe the last opportunity to bring Lambert to justice. A few days later, Fuller and his team emerge from the darkness of the shadows to discover a surprised Lambert and his team of stooges. In the movie’s climatic battle, many of the audience’s questions are answered. Will good triumph over evil? Will Cayton’s death be avenged? And the most important question…who is the mole?

What the Press would say:

Move over “The French Connection” there is a new contender for title of best drug trafficking movie. That would be Jonathan Demme’s Crimes against a City. He directs this crafty tale of drug trafficking in Detroit to absolute perfection. He plays with audience’s head by not revealing crucial information until the final scene of the movie and WOW is that an intense scene. Sure, some may draw comparisons to “The Departed”. In the new world of Oscar material, it’s easy to understand how some may draw these comparisons, but Demme honestly makes it his own. The scene I mentioned earlier maybe the best scene in cinematic history. The credit for that scene and for that, the entire film, must go to the perfectly assembled cast. Each member of this small cast give amazing performances and this is truly the definition of a great ensemble. Mark Ruffalo and Terrence Howard are superb as the film’s lead characters. Both Ruffalo and Howard give potentially the best performances of their careers. Mark Ruffalo masterfully depicts Lt. Evan Fuller. He is able to stay strong and courageous in the tough, emotional world of crime fighting. Ruffalo portrays Fuller as the everyday man that the audience will be able to relate with. Terrence Howard is magnificent as the film’s main antagonist. His ability to make Damien Lambert the man everyone hates to love is just stunning. Never in my wildest dreams did I think at the end of the movie, I would be yelling at Lambert to run away as the police emerge from the shadows. I suppose if I had to choose just one, it would be Howard, but both are so good, it could go either way. The two leads are perfectly complimented by the supporting cast of Chiwetel Ejiofor, Omar Gooding, and Dustin Hoffman. Ejiofor proves again, why he is one of Hollywood’s most underrated actors. He superbly conveys Jake’s jealous, yet subdued nature. Omar Gooding, the brother of Cuba Gooding, give a flawless performance as Demetrius Young. Gooding depicts Demetrius’ cocky and arrogant personality as if he was, in fact, Demetrius. I truly believe that this will be his breakout performance and is a sign of things to come from him. Dustin Hoffman gives a sufficient performance as Lt. Eric Cayton. He takes a back seat to allow the younger actors to control the screen. Overall, Crimes against a City is a masterpiece and can be mentioned in the same breath as “Traffic” and “The French Connection”.

FYC:
Best Picture
Best Director (Jonathan Demme)
Best Actor (Mark Ruffalo)
Best Actor (Terrence Howard)
Best Supporting Actor (Chiwetel Ejiofor)
Best Supporting Actor (Omar Gooding)
Best Original Screenplay

Dark Ages

Author(s): Iñaki
Location: Spain

"Dark Ages"



Directed by Peter Jackson
Written by Fran Walsh
Music by John Williams
Costumes by Richard Taylor
Editing by Thelma Schoonmaker
Art direction by Grant Major
Make-up by Richard Taylor

Drama / Adventure

Main Cast

Cate Blanchett (Aphrodite)
Christian Bale (Apollo)
Meryl Streep (Hera)
Michael Gambon (Zeus)
Ralph Fiennes (Poseidon)
Vince Vaughn (Dionysus)
Abbie Cornish (Artemis)
Natasha Whightman (Athena)
Eddie Jemison (Hermes)
Casey Affleck (Ares)
Marton Csokas (Hades)
Bruce Willis (Titan's voice)

Tagline: "What you thought was correct might be the worst choice you have ever made"

Synopsis: 897 B.C.- Greece was suffering from the wrath of Hades, the god of hell, who had sent the titans to mount Olympus. What Hades desires most is the great power of Zeus, but he needs the help of some other gods to fulfill his wish. He believes that if he get the power of Aphrodite, the goddess of love, she could fool Ares, the god of war, with her beauty and make him help achieve Hades’ goals. While Hades was pondering about it, the war in Mount Olympus was becoming worse. The titans had already entered in the sacred area and some lesser gods had perished. Hermes, the messenger, was captured and Athena, the wisdom goddess, was fighting with the ice titan who had taken her capture. Everyone in the Mount Olympus was fighting with the titans except Aphrodite and Ares. They had a hidden relationship because Aphrodite’s mother, Hera, didn't want her to fall in love because of the impact it could have on her. When the titans ate the principal door of the mount Olympus, all gods realize that they only could kill them with the strength of the earth so they began to summon their powers to put an end to the Titans. The power of the sea, the strength of plants, the confusing power of love came together and beat the titans. But the problem didn't finish there.

Hades still preferred to continue with his plan so one night he met Aphrodite in Athens' temple. He tried to convince her about his plan so he made a cursed speech that changed her point of view about the Olympians. She accepted to help him and she returned to Mount Olympus to persuade Ares to kill Zeus. Ares was confuse about the plan but Aphrodite's grace swayed him easily. While they where talking, Hera was listening. When they finish, she surprised Aphrodite. They discussed about the betrayal and Hera realized Aphrodite was cursed so she decided to imprison her to stop the plan, but it was too late. Ares, with his army, and Hades with hell's devils were going to attack Mount Olympus. All gods, who were not recovered, had many difficulties to fight with that great army. Then, Athena decided to ask the Greek for help in exchange of wisdom and prosperity. They helped her to fight against the enemy. While that took place, Hera was making a brew to put and end to the curse upon Aphrodite. When she recover her, Hera explained the situation and realized that she was the only one who could convince Ares to finish the attack to the mount Olympus. When she appeared in the sacred area, Ares look at her, and she decided to kiss him because it was the only solution to the problem. Finally, Ares army attack Hades with the support of the Olympians and the fear ended with the defeat of Hades. After the war, Aphrodite realized that she couldn't fall in love with anybody because it could provoke serious problems to the stability of the world. Finally she decided to turn into a mortal woman because it was the only way to prevent future wars.

What the Press would say:

"Not just another adventures film". The press loves this film because it recreates to perfection what the greek population thought Mount Olympus was, with its problems and the environment. The casting in this tremendous film is great. Each actor achieves a great performance with the characteristics of their god/goddess. Cate Blanchett's leading performance is memorable, her beauty and sensuality make her the best option to be Aphrodite, the love goddess who desires to win the heart of Ares. Casey Affleck delivers a great leading performance as Ares perfectly depicting his strength and wrath, but also with his great heart when he is in the presence of Aphrodite. The change of humor makes his character mysterious and interesting because you don't really know what is he going to do. Also, we have to complement the great supporting performances which make the story more intriguing and without them we couldn't understand the plot. They are the other gods of Mount Olympus: Athena, Hera, Zeus, Poseidon, and Dionysus. Meryl Streep's performance is one of the most fascinating performances. She marvelously portrays the strength of a goddess along with the weakness of a mother. Her elegant movement through Aphrodite and Ares relationship has to be emphasized.

We can’t forget Natasha Whigthman's supporting performance as Athena. She is a sensational new actress who fills the role of Athena perfectly with her youth and her strong attitude. Her call to arms to the Greek population is her most memorable intervention in the film. Furthermore, the angry Ralph Fiennes fill the Poseidon character with an iron fist for the funny Vince Vaughn make us laugh with her performance as Dionysus, the drunk god. Furthermore, the environment, the buildings, costumes, make-up and visual effects are great and they make the film more real and fascinating.

Categories

Best Picture
Best Director: Peter Jackson
Best Original Screenplay: Fran Walsh
Best Original Score: john Williams
Best Actress: Cate Blanchett
Best actor: Casey Affleck
Best Supporting Actress: Natasha Whightman
Best Supporting Actress: Meryl Streep
Best Make-up
Best Costumes
Best Art Direction
Best Visual Effects
Best Sound
Best Cinematography
Best Film-Editing
Best Score


Dear Mr. President

Author(s): James Somerton
Location: NS, Canada

"Dear Mr. President"


Directed By: Oliver Stone
Written By: Oliver Stone
Produced By: Oliver Stone
Edited By: Robert Richardson
Score By: John Williams

Main Cast

Susan Sarandon as Margy Hamilton
Nicholas Cage as Greg Hamilton
Jared Leto as Mark Hamilton

Tagline: "We Are The People!"

Synopsis: "Dear, Mr. President...

Six months ago, my family and I were devastated by the news that our oldest son, Private Robert Hamilton, had been killed serving his country in Iraq. His death still haunts me to this day. But now, what is on my mind, is the fact that my other son, Mark, is missing in Iraq and the military will give us no word other than that. Apparently he had been on a private mission that we are not allowed to know about.

My husband and I are greatly worried. We have avoided becoming active in the campaigns to remove American soldiers from Iraq because of our son's military involvement, but lately it is nearly impossible to keep this up. You refuse to give us any word on when the troops will be coming home. In fact, it seems you refuse to even entertain the notion of this happening.

I do not wish for you to give me an answer to this question, as I sincerely doubt I would get one anyway. I only wish to speak with you on this matter, either in person or over the telephone, which ever way suits you best. I would greatly appreciate a response.

Yours truly, Marge Hamilton"

This was the letter sent to president George W. Bush by Margie Hamilton two years ago. She has yet to receive an answer. Her son, Mark, is home but is severely traumatized by his mission in Iraq and his therapist bills are not being covered by the government. With no answer in sight as to when young men and women like her son's will be coming home, Margie Hamilton is going to Washington to get one...

What the Press would say:

"Dear, Mr. President" is the moving and heart-wrenching story of Margie Hamilton, a woman to whom the war in Iraq has been excessively harsh. One son was killed by a land mine and the other has returned with shell shock and is now being denied treatment because of a dishonorary discharge. She had watched her family be crippled by the war in Iraq and now wants answers. Susan Sarandon gives a show-stopping performance as the lead character. We, unfortunately, never get to see her smile in this film. The role takes her to such emotional places that it is almost impossible for the character to smile near the end of the movie. Sarandon is supported by Nicholas Cage, a father so fed up with the United States that it is only his wife that keeps him from moving to a different country. Although his role is limited to supporting, Cage gives a magnificent performance. The audience follows him just as much as Sarandon but we abandon him, or at least I did, when he leaves his wife because he can't handle it anymore; all the time and energy spent on seeing a man who won't even write ten words to them. Margie ends up losing everything in the end. After one son dying, and another being lost to a mental disorder, and finally her husband leaving her. Margie is left with nothing but her ambition. This isn't you typical story though. Margie never does get to see the president and she never does get the answer she so longs for. After countless protests, several TV appearances, and endless amounts of letters, Margie is left broke and without her family. The saddest part of this story is that it is based on real events.

Oliver Stone directs the film with an odd amount of subtly. Much of the film is played without a score, allowing us to hear the pain that Margie is going through. Stone tells about 30% of the story through news stories and television interviews. Anytime we feel like we may be lost, he cuts to a CNN news broadcast that brings us back to the front of the story. This is a brilliant way of keeping the audience informed as the film jumps forward in time. He is careful not to let us get too lost. Something that I found odd with this film was it's lack of political agenda. Margie Hamilton is not against the war in Iraq, or any other policies of the Bush administration as far as I can see. She is, however, against how the administration treats the war. This is not an anti-war film. This is the true story of one woman trying to get answers to questions that should have been answered immediately. What is the real reason he son lost his life? If it's over oil, or a vendetta, fine! She just wants an answer. An answer. And she never gets one. And neither do we.

Possible Nominations...

Best Picture
Best Director - Oliver Stone
Best Actress - Susan Sarandon
Best Supporting Actor - Nicholas Cage
Best Original Screenplay


Devil on my Heels

Author(s): Michael
Location: Oklahoma

"Devil On My Heels"

Directed by Taylor Hackford
Adapted by Akiva Goldsman
Produced by Reese Witherspoon and Denzel Washington
Distributed by 20th Century Fox

Main Cast

Evan Rachel Wood- Dove Alderman
Hunter Parrish- Chase
Loretta Devine- Delia
Larenz Tate- Gator
Ed Harris- Dad
John Glover- Travis
Harry J. Lennix- Gus

Tagline: "N/A"

Synopsis: Dove Alderman has a very privileged life. She wakes up every morning to the smell of freshly baked Cinnamon Rolls and bacon sizzling on the stove made by her loving house maid Delia. Her dad has his own orange grove in which she grew up in, playing with her now boyfriend Chase. Working in her Dad’s orange grove are migrant workers who include one of Dove’s best friends Gator and Delia’s deceased husband Gus. One of her Dad’s closest friends is Travis who is in charge of the migrant workers and runs their store.

All of the sudden fires start popping up all over of Dove’s hometown of Benevolence, Florida including the family barn. The town is convinced that it is the migrant workers who are starting the fires and this prompts the appearance of the KKK in Dove’s town.

While Dove is starting to expose the KKK drift that is going through the town she discovers that her father, Travis, and Chase are all attending the KKK meetings.

Along the way of exposing the group she will come across the truth to the murder of Delia’s husband Gus, and that everyone thinks that Gator has kidnapped her.

What the Press would say:

Devil On My Heels is based upon the novel written by Joyce MacDonald and the film is just as good if not better than the already classic young adult book. It tells the story of Dove Alderman, played by the always brilliant Evan Rachel Wood, who is trying to expose the racism going on in her hometown. The story while complete Oscar bait is absolutely compelling and perfectly directed, written, acted, and produced as well. Taylor Hackford directs his actors and the story to perfection and you can tell he was the perfect director to aim this film in the right direction. He crafts the film so well that I was on the edge of my seat the whole time and sobbing by the end. Evan Rachel Wood is absolutely superb in the role of Dove Alderman and brings depth to the role that wasn’t written in the already fantastic script. If there is any justice in this world, Wood’s performance will earn her an Academy Award. The supporting cast is incredible and I don’t have time to mention them all, but I’ll mention a few. Loretta Devine is first-rate as Delia the house-maid. She really brings the mother quality that is missing in Dove’s life and is really on key when she needs to be emotional. John Glover, who is mainly known from his television role on Smallville, is superior as the villain of the film Travis who is in charge of the migrant workers. He was made for the role and is unbelievably great in his role. Ed Harris who is one of the bigger names in the cast is just great in the role of Dove’s two-faced Dad and really deserves recognition that I’m afraid may not occur. The script is faultlessness and brings out the best in each of the actors. Overall the film is one of the best of the decade, full of great performances, direction, and written, it is way beyond deserving of the Best Picture Oscar. A+

FYC

Best Picture
Best Director- Taylor Hackford
Best Actress- Evan Rachel Wood
Best Supporting Actor- Ed Harris
Best Supporting Actor- John Glover
Best Supporting Actress- Loretta Devine
Best Adapted Screenplay
Best Editing
Best Costume Design
Best Art Direction

Divine Poker

Author(s): Alex
Location: Washington State

"Divine Poker"

Directed by Mike Nichols
Written by Alexander Payne

Main Cast

Jeff Goldblum (Daniel Ellis)
Michelle Pfeiffer (Kylie Ellis)
Whoopi Goldberg (God)
Sean Connery (The Devil)
Joel Grey (Steve the Angel)
Kathy Griffin (Joanne the Demon)

Tagline: "The term "Celebrity Poker" has just been completely redefined"

Synopsis: Kylie and Daniel Ellis are stars in the professional poker world. This couple has won more poker championships than anyone in the world. They usually never play against each other to avoid the idea that they might be helping each other. They are where they've always wanted to be in life; making a living by playing poker. But their lives are about to get turned totally upside down.

The Devil, with the help of his assistant and head Demon Joanne, has decided that he's tired of living down in hell. He wants to take another shot at ruling the world, so he challenges God to an all-out winner takes all poker match for control of the world. The only problem is that he hasn't played poker since losing a match to Michael the Archangel a long time ago that first banished him to Hell, so he's a little shabby. But then again, so is God. God hasn't played since he lost to the Devil in who got to chat with Eve first. So as we can see, they're going to need some help.

God sends Steve, her head Angel, to ask Daniel if he would help her brush up on her skills. Steve is very good at this sort of thing, having had to break some big news to a carpenter's wife in Bethlehem awhile ago. When he asks Daniel if he would do this, Daniel of course can't believe what he's hearing, but Steve offers to take him to heaven and meet God to show that he's telling the truth.

While Daniel is in Heaven (literally), Joanne has gone to earth to see if Kylie would help out her employer. Like her husband, she can't believe what's going on, but Joanne takes her down to Hell to see what it's like and meet the big guy himself.

After weeks of training, the power couple still has no idea that they the other is working for their latest boss' archenemy…and they don't find out until the day of the big match. Although they've both been working hard, it all boils down to one question…who will rule the world?

What the Press would say:

Mike Nichols' latest comedy, "Divine Poker", is set around a couple who has to teach God and the Devil how to play poker. When I first read this one thing popped into my mind…"WHAT?!?". I couldn't believe that this was the subject of his latest film. I went into the theatre not expecting much, but I came out completely proven wrong. Not many directors could handle this subject matter, and Nichols pulls it off beautifully. What you would expect to be completely outrageous turns out to be simply perfect. Not only does this film display perfection behind the camera, but there's plenty of it onscreen as well. This fabulous ensemble is one of the best I've seen in a comedy for years. No, actually, it's one of the best ensembles I've seen in any film in years. Jeff Goldblum and Michelle Pfeiffer play Daniel and Kylie Ellis, the Warren Beatty and Annette Bening of the poker world. Goldblum is finally back in a leading role on the big screen. He is absolutely perfect as the poker player recruited by God to teach her how to play. This performance is his best since "The Fly". Pfeiffer is solidifying this year as her official comeback with "Hairspray" and now "Divine Poker". This is definitely the best performance she's ever given, surpassing many great roles she has played in the past.

This brilliant kick of comedy is just what the doctor ordered, as Pfeiffer is at the absolute top of her game. If you thought Goldblum and Pfeiffer gave excellent performances, Whoopi Goldberg and Sean Connery are simply a master class. These fabulous Academy-Award winning performers give even better performances than the ones given in "Ghost" and "The Untouchables". Whoopi Goldberg as God and Sean Connery as the poker laying supernatural beings is the best casting I've seen in years. They come off perfectly, beating anyone who has ever played God or the Devil ever before. These two are locks for a nomination, if not a win. Joel Grey and Kathy Griffin are also great as their assistants but the performances just aren't as good as Whoopi's or Connery's performance to get them a nomination. I wouldn't be surprised if my favorite comedy of the year gets nominations in the following categories.

Best Picture
Best Director (Mike Nichols)
Best Actor (Jeff Goldblum)
Best Actress (Michelle Pfeiffer)
Best Supporting Actor (Sean Connery)
Best Supporting Actress (Whoopi Goldberg)
Best Original Screenplay (Alexander Payne)

Dr. Death

Author(s): Tony
Location: Pittsburgh

"Dr. Death"


Directed by Gregory Hoblit
Written by Brian Helgeland

Main Cast

Peter O'Toole as Dr. Jack Kevorkian
James McAvoy as Mark Quinn
Peter Sarsgaard as Rodney Moldonado
Richard Schiff as Thomas Youk
Stephen Rea as Geoffrey Fieger
James Cromwell as D.A. Arthur Stanton
Martin Donovan as Richard Thompson

Tagline: "Dying is not a crime"

Synopsis: Is dying a crime? According to the words of Jack Kevorkian, it isn't. Director Gregory Hoblit brings you the true story on Americas controversial pathologist. Kevorkian held strong to his beliefs, mainly on death and the right to die. The film begins in 1999, the opening trial to the Kevorkian case. In the hands of lawyer Geoffrey Fieger was Kevorkians livelihood and prosecuting was Richard Thompson. With hollow eyes, Kevorkian flashed back to where it began.

The film back tracks to the late 1980's, the start of his reign. It was then Jack started his campaign to people of illness that he would provide them "assisted suicide", to be their savior. At the start Kevorkian was laid to dry, his medical license was revoked. However, throughout the decade of the 90's Kevorkian was involved with over 100 deaths of people claiming to be ill. Most of them weren't ill, but suffered from depression. Kevorkian was clean due to his device where the push of a button would inject chemicals through an IV into his patient, the patient would push the button themselves.

The date, November 23rd, 1998. The show, 60 Minutes. Kevorkian decided to abuse his power by allowing the show to air one of his patients to their death. The patient, Thomas Youk, victim of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. On this tape Youk gave his consent to Kevorkian to allow the procedure to go on, and since Youk wasn't psychically able to push the button, Kevorkian did it for him. He looked into the camera and dared the authorities to try to stop him. This was enough for D.A. Arthur Stanton to put Kevorkian on trial for murder charges. Throughout the trial Kevorkian gained public support and protesters that wanted to free him. Mark Quinn, a human right activist, led this cult. Rodney Moldonado was on the opposing side mostly because of his late uncle who was a patient of the doctors. Moldonado found the doctor responsible for his uncles death.

The scene before the last consist of Kevorkian talking to himself in his cell early 2007, knowing he'll die in a short period of time (victim of Hepatitis C), realizing his ironic position in this stage of his life. The last scene is the real footage of Jack Kevorkian on Larry King Live on June 4th, 2007, three days after his release. Kevorkian stated his beliefs stay the same, but he'll never do it again.

What the Press would say:

"Dr. Death" is the years new leading candidate for many different categories, but to shorten it, controversy and brilliancy. The film bounces back and forth from the trial to Kevorkians early stages, to his last stages, and along with the side story of the 2 fresh characters representing one side to the devestating case. You'll find yourself in a theater with half the audience against and for our leading character. That's the beautiful nature of this film, that our mind and our belief choose the films protagonist and antagonist. Gregory Hoblit puts all his talent in a blender, mixes it up and out comes Dr. Death, the brilliant dialogue of Primal Fear, the haunting vibe of Fallen, the intellect of Fracture, it's all there. Peter O'Toole takes on one of his most challenging roles to date, the charismatic and controversial Jack Kevorkian. O'Toole warms your heart then rips it out with this mind blowing performance of a devoted doctor believing what he feels is right. No matter what side you're on there is evilness in this role. James McAvoy and Peter Sarsgaard put the cherry on top to complete this lively film. McAvoy is the well spoken, smooth activist whose dialogue and pitch cannot be replaced, while Saarsgard plays the part of the emotionally distraught, mourning the death of his uncle, a "victim" or "patient" of Dr. Kevorkians. Together the two create an incredible charge. A good amount of the film focuses on these 2 characters and their devotions. Their rivalry and battle towards each other. In closing, it's without a doubt a film that one can debate on for days, a film thats power, drive, acting, and well roundness can push it for Oscar contention, an instant classic.

FYC:

Best Picture
Best Director - Gregory Hoblit
Best Actor - Peter O'Toole
Best Supporting Actor - Mark Quinn
Best Supporting Actor - Peter Sarsgaard
Best Original Screenplay - Brian Heldgeland
Best Editing

Dwight - Wuthering Heights

Author(s): Lee
Location: NJ

"Dwight-Wuthering Heights"

Directed by Joe Wright
Written by Jan Sardi
Based on the novel “Wuthering Heights” by Emily Bronte
Music by John Williams

Main Cast

Emile Hirsch (Heathcliff)
Romola Garai (Catherine “Cathy” Earnshaw)
Mike Vogel (Edgar Linton)
Mamie Gummer (Isabella Linton)
Jesse Eisenberg (Hindley Earnshaw)
Zac Effron (Young Heathcliff)
Ellen Page (Young Cathy)

Tagline: "An impossible romance they couldn’t live without"

Synopsis: Posh Manhattan high school, “Dwight-Wuthering Heights,” is home to some of the richest kids in the world & certainly, the most privelaged. Catherine “Cathy” Earnshaw (Romola Garai) is President of the school’s student body and a member of the student chorale; her brother, Hindley, (Jess Eisenberg) is an all-state football player with excellent college prospects. Their best friends Edgar (Mike Vogel) and Isabella Linton, (Mamie Gummer) are siblings whose wealth exceeds all others in school & whose parents are members of the school’s prestigious Board of Trustees. When an unknown senior enrolls at Dwight on the first day of their senior year, the Earnshaws and Lintons are intrigued, but no one is more curious than Cathy, who admires the stranger’s chiseled features and apparent confidence. Heathcliff notices Cathy too. The two develop an intense, passionate, real relationship and spend the year together.

As graduation nears, however, Cathy must decide between staying with Heathcliff, and attending Harvard where she has been accepted to study education. Heathcliff is not interested in college or in any kind of substantial future. With nothing to offer her, Cathy chooses the latter. Heartbroken, and distraught, Heathcliff realizes what matters in the world is class, money & education. Edgar Linton, who has been accepted to virtually every school in the country, & always secretly longed for Cathy, follows her to Harvard, enrolling in her very program. Meanwhile, Isabella enrolls at New York University where she studies Poetry, while Heathcliff works days and studies nights at a local state school, which he pays for himself. During his senior year of college, Heathcliff visits NYU to hear a lecture. There, he bumps into Isabella Linton. Always a hopeless romantic, Isabella was always in love with Heathcliff, and he wasn’t oblivious to the fact. Both depressed, the two share a cup of coffee following the lecture, and embark on a lustful one-night stand. Much to Isabella’s dismay, the two do not speak for several months, until she calls Heathcliff a week before their respective graduations from college and informs him he is going to be a dad. Stunned, Heathcliff reacts hastily, ignoring her phone calls and emails, and pretending the whole thing never happened. But when he learns that Edgar and Cathy have similar news (they are expecting a baby girl), Heathcliff decides to ask for Isabella’s hand in marriage.

A year later (on year out of college), Heathcliff graciously accepts a position as professorship of history at Dwight-Wuthering Heights. Cathy becomes a guidance counselor at the school, and Edgar and Isabella follow in their parents’ footsteps and become honorary members of the Board of Trustees at Dwight. Heathcliff and Cathy rarely speak to one another in their first few years at the school.

Another 16 years pass, and Cathy and Heathcliff’s children (named Heathcliff and Cathy like their parents) are seniors at Dwight, engaging in a secret love affair that’s well hidden from their parents. Meanwhile, at family functions with Edgar and Isabella’s parents, Heathcliff and Cathy don’t address one another at all, though she secretly misses and love him. Several months later, Cathy becomes gravely ill and Heathcliff is told about her illness. A tormented Heathcliff then decides to leave Isabella, (who later finds kindness in Hindley and marries him). At Cathy’s bedside, Cathy confesses to being angry with him forever for having a child with Isabella and not with her. “It broke my heart,” she says to Heathcliff. “And you broke mine,” he confesses. Cathy dies. Meanwhile, the young Heathcliff and Cathy continue their romance and are married for several years until he is killed in a tragic car crash. More than 20 years pass and Heathcliff is aged. The two loves of his life, Cathy and his son have died tragic deaths. He is living with Catherine the younger whom he offered a home when she became widowed by his son’s death. One night, in his bedroom, Heathcliff peers out of his window, which overlooks the Hudson river, and sees Cathy’s ghost. He wants to be with her and dies that night near the river. Finally, what was impossible in a class conscious, complicated society becomes possible in the afterlife, and Heathcliff and Cathy are finally together.

What the Press would say:

“A work of style & substance. “Dwight-Wuthering Heights,” feels fun, and contemporary, but also holds many of the values which made Bronte’s novel a classic & a masterpiece,” Richard Roeper-Chicago Sun Times

“Hirsch and Garai share undeniable chemistry, and deliver convincing, wonderful performances,” Ebert, Sun-Times.

An early campaign is gunning for these nods:

Best Picture
Best Director: Joe Wright
Best Actor: Emile Hirsch
Best Actress: Romola Garai
Best Supporting Actor: Mike Vogel & Jesse Eisenberg & Zac Efron
Best Supporting Actress:Mamie Gummer & Ellen Page
Best Adapted Screenplay-Jan Sardi