Post by Cristo on Sept 24, 2008 17:40:03 GMT -5
Casablanca and the Movies
Episode #8
casablanca3491 - Casablanca
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Hello, MR Directors and patrons, and welcome to the eighth episode of "Casablanca and the Movies”. As I keep getting closer and closer to the 10th episode the work keeps piling up, so please forgive me if episodes 8 and 9 aren’t as good as some of the others, though I’ll do my best. For the next two episodes, they will be fairly typical, with tonight’s including a review to Indy’s new film “The Punisher”, and then cut to Trailer Analysis here, as there is more to do later. After that, we have an interview with T-Mac, in which we will take a look at his films following that, and then 2 reviews followed by an interview with HellBlazer, and, of course, a look at his films. This ends a rather short episode; however, tacked onto the end will be updates and reminders about the 10th episode, as well as news about when to expect the next few shows.
So, with nothing else, let’s get started.
First, the new film that just came out, “The Punisher” continues a stretch of superhero films, all of which have been pretty good so far, many of them great. Let’s see if this continues the cycle:
The Punisher
** 3/4 out of **** [NOTE AT BOTTOM]
This semi-succeeds and semi-doesn’t. First, how it doesn’t. It is quite short, it doesn’t really have a large ambition or scope and doesn’t try to be great, or even make a feeble attempt at greatness. Now how it succeeds, it knows this. It knows it and it doesn’t do anything about it. It is content with being trashy entertainment, and it makes us content with it, and while it is no masterpiece or nothing to write home about, it supplies some good entertainment and some cheap thrills, and overall, isn’t that what we are looking for in films like this, not high art. Why see “The Punisher” if you want to see Picasso?
The reason this doesn’t have a 2.5 can be narrowed down to one reason. The pacing of it is set at such a rate where you can’t get lost in the plot, because there really isn’t too much of a plot to speak of. Everything happens at a breakneck speed and the action, or action manner, is almost non-stop. Even in the conversations, it is hard to find a calm moment. Notice this exchange:
SAM
What did you do?
FRANK
One of the Gnucci boys got me in
the shoulder.
SAM
Gnucci?
Frank pulls the bandage tighter and he grunts.
SAM
Frank, the police said they did
everything possible.
FRANK
Bullshit.
It’s almost exhilarating just listening to him. And that is what it’s like the whole film. So, obviously, it has flaws, but the sheer dumbness of it takes over and this makes cheesy action look like an art. If it is, we have a master in this film.
The screenplay is hardcore almost as if a parody. It is Serve and Protect if it was left on the grill, and Serve and Protect was enough! Swearing is customary and if you go a few lines without mentioning violence, you have no place in The Punisher. Everyone and everything is shot at one time or another and you have to respect the guts it took to cram it so full of this, as any lesser director would have taken out half the violence and crammed in some cheap drama or worse, a love story. (Ouch!) However, this doesn’t, and that is a benefit working for it.
The imagery is simple, there are none. There are no images that came into my head, besides a few of the action scenes, not because of the detail, but because of how jam packed it is. I can just picture the biggest man ever (let’s just call him Mr. Universe), running around in a hailstorm of bullets and explosions. MR. Universe gets shot, but he doesn’t care, it just made him mad. That is what to expect from a film like this. No one ever dies, and if they do, it doesn’t matter; death is like a handshake in this film, both a greeting and a good bye.
In conclusion, sure it’s not perfect, but do you have a better way to waste some time?
NOTE- It is a favorable ** ¾, tempted to put ***.
Now it’s time fore Trailer Analysis. It seems odd doing it so early, doesn’t it? However, everything will be a little odd for now until the 10th Anniversary episode, so we’ll just have to bear it. To start to ball rolling, let’s look at a rather new trailer, one to The 18th Road, an upcoming film by Daz. It starts:
BLACK SCREEN
DISCLAIMER: THE THOUGHTS AND OPINIONS EXPRESSED IN THIS TRAILER ARE NOT THOSE OF THE CREATORS, AND ARE USED AS COMIC DEVICES. IF YOU ARE OFFENDED BY ANY OF THE CONTENT HEREAFTER, PLEASE DIAL 1800-WE-DON’T-CARE.
Odd way to start a trailer, isn’t it? Now, am I safe in assuming this film will have comical undertones, anyone disagree? I’m expecting some dirty comedy, some dirty jokes. In a previous episode I was mentioning a film that had comedy “ran through the washer”, however, in this case, I am thinking we will have some comedy dragged through the mud. It probably has sex, perhaps drugs, swearing is a must, and as for the story, I can expect a teen comedy revolving around the listed above. It continues:
INT. DVD STORE - DAY
WORKER
That will be £34.97
CIA
For a DVD and magazine? Do we look jewish? We're not made of money.
Daz looks extremely embarrassed as people notice the high tone of Cia's voice.
CIA (CONT’D)
I want to see your superior.
CUT TO:
INT. DVD STORE - MOMENTS LATER
The manager of a store lifts an adult magazine off the counter and looks at Cia.
MANAGER
Does your mother know you're trying to buy this?
CIA
Does your mother know you work at a second rate, non-branded video shop?
I’m not one to say “I told you so”, but…Let’s go on. Now, I see some freshness in all of this dirt, some comedy that we read, we skim through, we enjoy, and which supplies us with a chuckles to go along with the side dish of entertainment. The thing I don’t see, however, is any thrills of any sort, any suspense that would carry a mature story, and that isn’t always a bad thing. Maybe we have ourselves a screwball comedy, witless and lacking intelligence. Let’s see:
INT. SHOPPING MALL, FOOD COURT - DAY
Daz and Cia sit at a table.
CIA
Look -- it's about time I got you out of the comic books and into the real word man. We need to do something special -- we got to do something completely out of this world. We got to commemorate the day I came --
Daz looks at him slightly disturbed.
CIA (CONT’D)
-- of age. We gotta celebrate this landmark moment -- achievement if you will --
DAZ
It is a bloody achievement, the way you drink I was surprised you made it to fifteen.
CIA
I’m thinking Road Trip.
DAZ
Road Trip?
Oh, a road trip movie! I was wrong on both counts, in fact, it was something in between. It was a screwball with intelligence, a witty comedy with half a brain. Now, I expect stupid comedy from, no offense to Daz, stupid people. I have some high hopes for some goofy fun, revolving around two goofy people, and a lot of interesting characters on the way. The best thing this movie could do is go episodic, something which is usually a fault in other, more serious, films. Then:
Cia pulls up to Swaps house, he is standing on the lawn with an unidentified blonde, JENNIFER. Cia rolls down his window as the car comes to a smooth stop.
CIA
What the?
SWAP
Don't worry, she's cool
CIA
It was supposed to be a guy thing, unless she has a dick under that leather I don't think she counts as one of us.
SWAP
She's had enough dick in her to count.
Swap and Jennifer enter the car.
INT. CIA’s DAD’S CAR - NIGHT
Cia hands Swap his phone.
CIA
Ring the fag, tell him we're on the way.
JENNIFER
So is that all you do, make gay jokes?
CIA
I'm also pretty good at handling a gear stick.
I think I was right. I think this will just be episodes of comedy. One of the two has a girl, she may come along or not, it doesn’t really matter, as it will just be scene after scene, which is good, fine for what the film is. It could be funny, very funny maybe. I’m going to end it here, as the rest of the trailer just reinforces what we already know.
Overall, expect a good comedy and a nice film. A delight and a joyous read, though not the next best picture winner of the year.
With that over, and the laughs over, let’s turn to Brunch a film by…Daz. Quite productive this year! It starts off:
Three men pull masks onto the heads.
ROBBER #1
Remind me again, why we’re doing this is.
ROBBER #2
Because we need the money.
As if the “Robber” in the character spot doesn’t give us enough hints, it is pretty easy to guess what kind of film this is. A crime. What kind of crime, I don’t really know yet. That’s right, there are different types of crime. There is crime with comedy, crime with deep drama, crime with non-stop action, and crime with a horror twist. I haven’t seen a crime sci-fi yet, though. I don’t know how this is going to play out, but maybe some of my questions can be answered as we progress forward after a scene of them bursting in a coffee shop:
Three cops cars come to sudden stops outside the coffee shop. Police Officers exit their vehicles, they take cover behind the car
doors as they draw their weapons and aim for the building.
A man, not in uniform gets out last. He is JACOBS and he is in charge.
INT. COFFEE SHOP, SHOP FLOOR - DAY
ROBBER #1
I thought you said they’d be to busy?
Still can’t tell. However, I think I have a good idea of what story the film will follow. I think the majority, if not all of it, will take place in this coffee shop. The thieves will be barricaded in with hostages and the police outside. Picture “Dog Day Afternoon” in a coffee shop. What I don’t know yet, is if it retains “Dog Day’s” sense of humor. Let’s go forward:
JACOBS
(Through Megaphone)
This is Captain, Christian Jacobs. You re out of options -- put your weapons on the ground, open the shutters and come out slowly with the your hands raised.
CUT TO:
INT. COFFEE SHOP, SHOP FLOOR - DAY
Robber #2 has his arm wrapped around a young woman’s neck. Her name is CASSIE. He drags her across the shop floor. Cassie kicks and screams.
He throws her face first into the steel shutters. Her lip is cut.
She falls to her knees, in tears. Robber #2 grabs her by the hair, he violently pulls her to her feet, his gun pushed firmly to her skull.
While I still cannot say 100%, I now have suspicions that this won’t be a comedy. I think we have that thrilling crime film, with perhaps a mix of lightness, which is why I had the trouble of placing it, but still, don’t expect great laughs. Then:
ROBBER #2
(To Jacobs)
You want this girl to die?
Cassie whimpers, terrified.
CASSIE
Please, just give them what they want.
Jacobs, still motionless, silent.
CASSIE (CONT’D)
Please, don’t let them kill me!
Now, here is where it gets weird. It looks like we sympathize with Jacobs, the police officer. Since the robbers entered first, wouldn’t you expect a film where you see their point and are trapped in with them? Maybe this film will be from the police’s view, in which, the trailer is quite misleading. I suppose the killers will be ruthless and mean, as we can’t split our sympathy with two people. Now:
ROBBER #1
Look lady, this wasn’t my idea alright. I’m not up to my neck in it with a possible prison stretch because I bloody want to be. I’m here because I don’t have any other options.
The room is silent for a beat.
ELIZABETH
You make your own options, when you have none, you create more. You don’t walk into a coffee shop waving a gun around threatening people’s lives.
Boy, I was wrong! I guess we do understand both sides. There is deepness to the robbers, a human side, but when it is followed by:
ROBBER #2
You’re running out of time Captain! The clock is ticking.
It really messes me up! Perhaps one robber has an understanding and one doesn’t. Since robber 1 was talking to the lady, my only guess would be that a hostage “teaches” some sense, some humanity to robber 1 and robber 2 remains mean throughout. I don’t know, maybe the trailer is made to leave us clueless, in which I’d call it a teaser.
With that mind boggling teaser, let’s go to the interview with T-Mac.
Q: Hello T-Mac, and thanks for coming here and agreeing to do an interview. First off, I notice that you are practically the best person for comedy on Movie Reels. Is this what you think your specialty is? Can we ever expect a film from you that is drama, or even action?
A: Thanks for having me - it's a real honor. And I like to think that my forte is comedy, but I have some adaptability to my work. And yes, I am currently writing snippets for an action/crime drama that will be released next year.
Q: Your previous film John and Becca’s Love Story was quite a nice film, and, as always, you used your trademark mix of comedy and a light dramatic structure. Were you pleased with the results of John and Becca’s Love Story, or do you think it could have been better? What is your ultimate film?
A: I like to think it was a fun read, but if you look at it from a critical standpoint, it definitely could've been much better. A lot more 'filler' could've been used, a few people who have read it have told me that it "feels like a movie full of major scenes," which is right on the money. It really has no structural foundation.
Q: Do you watch any of the other comedies on Movie Reels? Are there any you like a lot? What do you feel is the difference between your comedy and others comedy?
A: I try to read as many movies on here as I can - comedy or not.. But Xplay's The Comic Shop is obviously the one that stands out. I think the difference between my work and Xplay's is that his dialogue has that.. 'something' that mine doesn't. Another example is what we've seen so far of Blaggers' g. I'm striving to release something with that nature of variety and range. I mean, g looks as if it has many sub-plots and characters as well as the beefy stuff.
Q: How long do you take to work on a script? Do you often pour yourself into 1 film, or do you work on multiple projects at the same time? If so, does it get confusing transitioning from story to story?
A: I like to do one film at a time, because I feel that I wouldn't produce my best if I'm kicking around ideas and thinking about other projects. I like to have my blinkers on for the one project, which would usually take me a few full days tops depending on my school schedule. I'm going to try and space the writing of Mad as Rabbits out much further so it will be longer than my previous projects and have more depth.
Q: Also, you are making a new film “Mad as Rabbits”, which sounds pretty good actually. However, in my last episode I was in debate rather it was a sheer comedy or if it had thriller elements? What type of film is it like?
A: I know I'm using too many examples [laughs], but Judd Apatow's upcoming film Funny People is a prime one. I've read the script, and it's no secret that he's looking for a much bigger blend of drama and comedy. I'm hoping Mad as Rabbits still has its comedic charm, but I'm going to try and hit it with some strong dramatic points too.
Q: Two more questions. First, what do you feel the role of advertising for a film. Is it quite vital? Do you use a lot of it, or do you try to keep it toned down? Which do you think better advertises a film, posters or trailers?
A: For my comedies, I don't put much effort in. I mean, I release a trailer, poster and put in those smartass comments in several threads - but I think the hardcore viral stuff is more for blockbuster films, personally. That being said, expect some viral marketing for Mad as Rabbits in the form of a web site . No doubt it works, just look at The Dark Knight. I mean, I was suckered in big time by the viral stuff because I thought Batman Begins was boring as sin. It definitely is effective.
Q: And finally, what do you think of “Casablanca and the Movies”? Is there anything that can be better? Anything you see missing?
A: It's the total package! If you've missed a trailer, just tune in to your show and not only do you get the trailer, it's accompanied by comments from a man who has movie knowledge in the bucket fulls. It's what I look for when I initially log in now. Keep up the good work man, and thanks for letting me be on!
Thanks for the interview T-Mac. What a fun and funny guy, no wonder he makes so much good comedies! And I like how he admitted that John and Becca’s Love Story was flawed, because it was, it lacked filler like he said, and it takes a great director to admit that. However, his upcoming film Mad as Rabbits, doesn’t look as flawed, in fact, it looks quite good, and I’ll be interested in how it is, especially how he mentioned that the length of the film would be longer then some of his earlier works, and the depth would be considerably more. Notice, too, how he limits himself to one, or maybe two, films at a time, and he fins this quite effective. So do I. It can get confusing with 5 or more projects, and I think, though he has made no masterpiece of cinema, it makes his films as good as they are.
Thus, another fine interview from another fine director, who is only going to get better as his ambition rises.
Now time for the short reviews of older films. Starting with, “Local Hero”
** out of ****
If longer, with more subplots, and with more drama and interaction, this could have been a very good movie! However, for some unknowable reason and with some unusual ideas, it turns into an attempt at art which, embarrassingly, falls flat on its face.
There are some good lines, some nice emotion, and some intensity of some sort, so I know it had the craft and the talent to be good, however the scope wasn’t too short, it was just swayed in the wrong direction. It tried to be something it shouldn’t have been. It tried to be a little gem, a nice treat, an artistic pleasure which is a fine read in its short time. It failed on every account I just mentioned, and more, it failed on the levels of a film. It ended up being a mindless barrage of “stuff” set to a story.
There is not much to write on it, as it didn’t write much either, but before departing, may I give you a piece of advice, to all the director’s who want to attempt something like this? Don’t. Don’t shorten something down to try to make a little film with the pleasures of an epic. Think it out, plan it, run through it in your head, other-wise you’ll end up in the obscurity, overshadowed by much better films. You want proof? Just look at the director. I’ve never heard of Carter in my life!
With that done, let’s move on the review number 2, “Death at Sunset”.
*** out of ****
Whoever Carter was, his style is quite odd indeed. However, this film actually succeeds, better then Local Hero anyways. Granted, Local Hero had some ambition, some effort, however, this film actually picks up that effort and runs. I’d say it got half way across the field, and then fumbled the ball.
It has nice moments, is quite thrilling, and does have something going with that cutting the film into sections, however, it cut too many times for its own good. The film feels butchered. It feels cut up, as if someone took a knife to it. It gets tedious after a while, and I found myself yawning a little too often.
It drags, it seems to repeat itself, and is quite unforgettable as there isn’t anything which pushes it or really makes it excel at any rate.
Overall, it is a pointless read that may be pretty good, but isn’t worth revisiting as it can be quite a bore. There are finer ways to spend your afternoons, believe me.
With those two movies over (thank god), let’s go to an interview with HellBlazer.
Q: Hello HellBlazer and its nice to see you. I’d like to welcome you to the show and start of by getting an idea of what we can expect in Resident Evil: Raccoon. Will it be more horror or action, more dramatic or adventurous?
A: Hey Casa thanks for letting me on. And I would have to say it’s a horror-action at times and a horror-drama at other times. There are some scenes with some survivors that definitely lean more towards drama then action yeah. So it’s a mix I guess.
Q: Whatever it will be, will it be particularly in your style? For example, does the dialogue and directions sound like some of your past films? Does it have a lighthearted exterior, or is it dark all around?
A: Actually this is my first film on Movie Reels. But it definitely is dark all around. There’s a few wisecracks and the like during it but it’s primarily dark.
Q: What is, in your opinion, the most important part of a film? The writing? Imagery? Action, or emotions?
A: It depends on the film I guess heh. But the writing and imagery are important for sure.
Q: Since you are making a film on Resident Evil, am I safe in assuming you like video games? Can we expect more video games adaptations in the future? Do you try to stay close to your source?
A: I love video games. And I don’t know if you can expect more. I guess it depends on if Raccoon does good. I would love to do a movie based on a game like Mass Effect or Assassin’s Creed. And I definitely try to stay close to the source. Raccoon is based on Resident Evil 2 but I also put in scenes featuring Albert Wesker and the Arkley Mansion survivors (None of which appeared in RE 2) So yeah I think staying close to the source is important for a movie like this while also inserting just a smidge of new stuff to add to the backstory.
Q: Do you watch many of the films on here? Are there any that strike a special cord with you, or have you yet to be really impressed?
A: I’ve watched a few yep. I still need to buy a few tickets to some I really want to see. But Captain Scarlet 2 definitely hit that cord with me. It was well-written and just plain good and I hope to write a film that does good and is good like that.
Q: Two more questions. First, Resident Evil has gotten some good exposure, some nice trailers and such. Do you feel confident in your advertising? Can you picture this film doing well? How vital is marketing to a film, do you think?
A: I do feel pretty confident in how I’m doing. I’m going to try and space things out to keep interest up. And yeah I hope this does well. I think there are enough horror movie fans on here to expect a decent turnout. And yeah marketing is REALLY vital since without no one would really know your film’s coming out.
Q: And finally, what do you think about “Casablanca and the Movies”? Is there anything missing, anything that can change?
A: Nothing really. I think your show is awesome. But if there was a way you could make it so we can tell what your stuff is in the episode would be cool as when reading your part on trailers it usually took me a sec to tell what was your stuff and what was the trailer.
Thanks for the interview and I fixed your problem with telling what’s mine and what’s the trailer, as you can tell. Well, his first film. By seeing the trailer I must say that I hope he makes more. He seems like a very able director and has a nice tone in his films, which he said, are quite dark. And he is right, his film does sound dark, it sounds thrilling and suspenseful as well. Obviously he feels confident enough to not worry, so I can assume that the film will be fine, form what I’ve seen, it has been fine. I will watch out for it, and I recommend that everyone watches for it, as it may mark the start of a good director.
With this episode coming to a close I would like to go over a few things. First off, episode 9 is right around the corner, so I have to get episode 10 prepared. I still need a few things, so please check out the Lounge to see what you have to send in, and please send it with plenty of time, as I have to review and organize it.
Also, please, also in The Lounge, check out the rules for the contest regarding my 8 Months of Theater Time. I wouldn’t want anyone to miss out, just because they didn’t know what to do.
Thus marks the end of another episode.
Thank you for watching, and I hope to see you next time on “Casablanca and the Movies”.
Episode #8
casablanca3491 - Casablanca
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Hello, MR Directors and patrons, and welcome to the eighth episode of "Casablanca and the Movies”. As I keep getting closer and closer to the 10th episode the work keeps piling up, so please forgive me if episodes 8 and 9 aren’t as good as some of the others, though I’ll do my best. For the next two episodes, they will be fairly typical, with tonight’s including a review to Indy’s new film “The Punisher”, and then cut to Trailer Analysis here, as there is more to do later. After that, we have an interview with T-Mac, in which we will take a look at his films following that, and then 2 reviews followed by an interview with HellBlazer, and, of course, a look at his films. This ends a rather short episode; however, tacked onto the end will be updates and reminders about the 10th episode, as well as news about when to expect the next few shows.
So, with nothing else, let’s get started.
First, the new film that just came out, “The Punisher” continues a stretch of superhero films, all of which have been pretty good so far, many of them great. Let’s see if this continues the cycle:
The Punisher
** 3/4 out of **** [NOTE AT BOTTOM]
This semi-succeeds and semi-doesn’t. First, how it doesn’t. It is quite short, it doesn’t really have a large ambition or scope and doesn’t try to be great, or even make a feeble attempt at greatness. Now how it succeeds, it knows this. It knows it and it doesn’t do anything about it. It is content with being trashy entertainment, and it makes us content with it, and while it is no masterpiece or nothing to write home about, it supplies some good entertainment and some cheap thrills, and overall, isn’t that what we are looking for in films like this, not high art. Why see “The Punisher” if you want to see Picasso?
The reason this doesn’t have a 2.5 can be narrowed down to one reason. The pacing of it is set at such a rate where you can’t get lost in the plot, because there really isn’t too much of a plot to speak of. Everything happens at a breakneck speed and the action, or action manner, is almost non-stop. Even in the conversations, it is hard to find a calm moment. Notice this exchange:
SAM
What did you do?
FRANK
One of the Gnucci boys got me in
the shoulder.
SAM
Gnucci?
Frank pulls the bandage tighter and he grunts.
SAM
Frank, the police said they did
everything possible.
FRANK
Bullshit.
It’s almost exhilarating just listening to him. And that is what it’s like the whole film. So, obviously, it has flaws, but the sheer dumbness of it takes over and this makes cheesy action look like an art. If it is, we have a master in this film.
The screenplay is hardcore almost as if a parody. It is Serve and Protect if it was left on the grill, and Serve and Protect was enough! Swearing is customary and if you go a few lines without mentioning violence, you have no place in The Punisher. Everyone and everything is shot at one time or another and you have to respect the guts it took to cram it so full of this, as any lesser director would have taken out half the violence and crammed in some cheap drama or worse, a love story. (Ouch!) However, this doesn’t, and that is a benefit working for it.
The imagery is simple, there are none. There are no images that came into my head, besides a few of the action scenes, not because of the detail, but because of how jam packed it is. I can just picture the biggest man ever (let’s just call him Mr. Universe), running around in a hailstorm of bullets and explosions. MR. Universe gets shot, but he doesn’t care, it just made him mad. That is what to expect from a film like this. No one ever dies, and if they do, it doesn’t matter; death is like a handshake in this film, both a greeting and a good bye.
In conclusion, sure it’s not perfect, but do you have a better way to waste some time?
NOTE- It is a favorable ** ¾, tempted to put ***.
Now it’s time fore Trailer Analysis. It seems odd doing it so early, doesn’t it? However, everything will be a little odd for now until the 10th Anniversary episode, so we’ll just have to bear it. To start to ball rolling, let’s look at a rather new trailer, one to The 18th Road, an upcoming film by Daz. It starts:
BLACK SCREEN
DISCLAIMER: THE THOUGHTS AND OPINIONS EXPRESSED IN THIS TRAILER ARE NOT THOSE OF THE CREATORS, AND ARE USED AS COMIC DEVICES. IF YOU ARE OFFENDED BY ANY OF THE CONTENT HEREAFTER, PLEASE DIAL 1800-WE-DON’T-CARE.
Odd way to start a trailer, isn’t it? Now, am I safe in assuming this film will have comical undertones, anyone disagree? I’m expecting some dirty comedy, some dirty jokes. In a previous episode I was mentioning a film that had comedy “ran through the washer”, however, in this case, I am thinking we will have some comedy dragged through the mud. It probably has sex, perhaps drugs, swearing is a must, and as for the story, I can expect a teen comedy revolving around the listed above. It continues:
INT. DVD STORE - DAY
WORKER
That will be £34.97
CIA
For a DVD and magazine? Do we look jewish? We're not made of money.
Daz looks extremely embarrassed as people notice the high tone of Cia's voice.
CIA (CONT’D)
I want to see your superior.
CUT TO:
INT. DVD STORE - MOMENTS LATER
The manager of a store lifts an adult magazine off the counter and looks at Cia.
MANAGER
Does your mother know you're trying to buy this?
CIA
Does your mother know you work at a second rate, non-branded video shop?
I’m not one to say “I told you so”, but…Let’s go on. Now, I see some freshness in all of this dirt, some comedy that we read, we skim through, we enjoy, and which supplies us with a chuckles to go along with the side dish of entertainment. The thing I don’t see, however, is any thrills of any sort, any suspense that would carry a mature story, and that isn’t always a bad thing. Maybe we have ourselves a screwball comedy, witless and lacking intelligence. Let’s see:
INT. SHOPPING MALL, FOOD COURT - DAY
Daz and Cia sit at a table.
CIA
Look -- it's about time I got you out of the comic books and into the real word man. We need to do something special -- we got to do something completely out of this world. We got to commemorate the day I came --
Daz looks at him slightly disturbed.
CIA (CONT’D)
-- of age. We gotta celebrate this landmark moment -- achievement if you will --
DAZ
It is a bloody achievement, the way you drink I was surprised you made it to fifteen.
CIA
I’m thinking Road Trip.
DAZ
Road Trip?
Oh, a road trip movie! I was wrong on both counts, in fact, it was something in between. It was a screwball with intelligence, a witty comedy with half a brain. Now, I expect stupid comedy from, no offense to Daz, stupid people. I have some high hopes for some goofy fun, revolving around two goofy people, and a lot of interesting characters on the way. The best thing this movie could do is go episodic, something which is usually a fault in other, more serious, films. Then:
Cia pulls up to Swaps house, he is standing on the lawn with an unidentified blonde, JENNIFER. Cia rolls down his window as the car comes to a smooth stop.
CIA
What the?
SWAP
Don't worry, she's cool
CIA
It was supposed to be a guy thing, unless she has a dick under that leather I don't think she counts as one of us.
SWAP
She's had enough dick in her to count.
Swap and Jennifer enter the car.
INT. CIA’s DAD’S CAR - NIGHT
Cia hands Swap his phone.
CIA
Ring the fag, tell him we're on the way.
JENNIFER
So is that all you do, make gay jokes?
CIA
I'm also pretty good at handling a gear stick.
I think I was right. I think this will just be episodes of comedy. One of the two has a girl, she may come along or not, it doesn’t really matter, as it will just be scene after scene, which is good, fine for what the film is. It could be funny, very funny maybe. I’m going to end it here, as the rest of the trailer just reinforces what we already know.
Overall, expect a good comedy and a nice film. A delight and a joyous read, though not the next best picture winner of the year.
With that over, and the laughs over, let’s turn to Brunch a film by…Daz. Quite productive this year! It starts off:
Three men pull masks onto the heads.
ROBBER #1
Remind me again, why we’re doing this is.
ROBBER #2
Because we need the money.
As if the “Robber” in the character spot doesn’t give us enough hints, it is pretty easy to guess what kind of film this is. A crime. What kind of crime, I don’t really know yet. That’s right, there are different types of crime. There is crime with comedy, crime with deep drama, crime with non-stop action, and crime with a horror twist. I haven’t seen a crime sci-fi yet, though. I don’t know how this is going to play out, but maybe some of my questions can be answered as we progress forward after a scene of them bursting in a coffee shop:
Three cops cars come to sudden stops outside the coffee shop. Police Officers exit their vehicles, they take cover behind the car
doors as they draw their weapons and aim for the building.
A man, not in uniform gets out last. He is JACOBS and he is in charge.
INT. COFFEE SHOP, SHOP FLOOR - DAY
ROBBER #1
I thought you said they’d be to busy?
Still can’t tell. However, I think I have a good idea of what story the film will follow. I think the majority, if not all of it, will take place in this coffee shop. The thieves will be barricaded in with hostages and the police outside. Picture “Dog Day Afternoon” in a coffee shop. What I don’t know yet, is if it retains “Dog Day’s” sense of humor. Let’s go forward:
JACOBS
(Through Megaphone)
This is Captain, Christian Jacobs. You re out of options -- put your weapons on the ground, open the shutters and come out slowly with the your hands raised.
CUT TO:
INT. COFFEE SHOP, SHOP FLOOR - DAY
Robber #2 has his arm wrapped around a young woman’s neck. Her name is CASSIE. He drags her across the shop floor. Cassie kicks and screams.
He throws her face first into the steel shutters. Her lip is cut.
She falls to her knees, in tears. Robber #2 grabs her by the hair, he violently pulls her to her feet, his gun pushed firmly to her skull.
While I still cannot say 100%, I now have suspicions that this won’t be a comedy. I think we have that thrilling crime film, with perhaps a mix of lightness, which is why I had the trouble of placing it, but still, don’t expect great laughs. Then:
ROBBER #2
(To Jacobs)
You want this girl to die?
Cassie whimpers, terrified.
CASSIE
Please, just give them what they want.
Jacobs, still motionless, silent.
CASSIE (CONT’D)
Please, don’t let them kill me!
Now, here is where it gets weird. It looks like we sympathize with Jacobs, the police officer. Since the robbers entered first, wouldn’t you expect a film where you see their point and are trapped in with them? Maybe this film will be from the police’s view, in which, the trailer is quite misleading. I suppose the killers will be ruthless and mean, as we can’t split our sympathy with two people. Now:
ROBBER #1
Look lady, this wasn’t my idea alright. I’m not up to my neck in it with a possible prison stretch because I bloody want to be. I’m here because I don’t have any other options.
The room is silent for a beat.
ELIZABETH
You make your own options, when you have none, you create more. You don’t walk into a coffee shop waving a gun around threatening people’s lives.
Boy, I was wrong! I guess we do understand both sides. There is deepness to the robbers, a human side, but when it is followed by:
ROBBER #2
You’re running out of time Captain! The clock is ticking.
It really messes me up! Perhaps one robber has an understanding and one doesn’t. Since robber 1 was talking to the lady, my only guess would be that a hostage “teaches” some sense, some humanity to robber 1 and robber 2 remains mean throughout. I don’t know, maybe the trailer is made to leave us clueless, in which I’d call it a teaser.
With that mind boggling teaser, let’s go to the interview with T-Mac.
Q: Hello T-Mac, and thanks for coming here and agreeing to do an interview. First off, I notice that you are practically the best person for comedy on Movie Reels. Is this what you think your specialty is? Can we ever expect a film from you that is drama, or even action?
A: Thanks for having me - it's a real honor. And I like to think that my forte is comedy, but I have some adaptability to my work. And yes, I am currently writing snippets for an action/crime drama that will be released next year.
Q: Your previous film John and Becca’s Love Story was quite a nice film, and, as always, you used your trademark mix of comedy and a light dramatic structure. Were you pleased with the results of John and Becca’s Love Story, or do you think it could have been better? What is your ultimate film?
A: I like to think it was a fun read, but if you look at it from a critical standpoint, it definitely could've been much better. A lot more 'filler' could've been used, a few people who have read it have told me that it "feels like a movie full of major scenes," which is right on the money. It really has no structural foundation.
Q: Do you watch any of the other comedies on Movie Reels? Are there any you like a lot? What do you feel is the difference between your comedy and others comedy?
A: I try to read as many movies on here as I can - comedy or not.. But Xplay's The Comic Shop is obviously the one that stands out. I think the difference between my work and Xplay's is that his dialogue has that.. 'something' that mine doesn't. Another example is what we've seen so far of Blaggers' g. I'm striving to release something with that nature of variety and range. I mean, g looks as if it has many sub-plots and characters as well as the beefy stuff.
Q: How long do you take to work on a script? Do you often pour yourself into 1 film, or do you work on multiple projects at the same time? If so, does it get confusing transitioning from story to story?
A: I like to do one film at a time, because I feel that I wouldn't produce my best if I'm kicking around ideas and thinking about other projects. I like to have my blinkers on for the one project, which would usually take me a few full days tops depending on my school schedule. I'm going to try and space the writing of Mad as Rabbits out much further so it will be longer than my previous projects and have more depth.
Q: Also, you are making a new film “Mad as Rabbits”, which sounds pretty good actually. However, in my last episode I was in debate rather it was a sheer comedy or if it had thriller elements? What type of film is it like?
A: I know I'm using too many examples [laughs], but Judd Apatow's upcoming film Funny People is a prime one. I've read the script, and it's no secret that he's looking for a much bigger blend of drama and comedy. I'm hoping Mad as Rabbits still has its comedic charm, but I'm going to try and hit it with some strong dramatic points too.
Q: Two more questions. First, what do you feel the role of advertising for a film. Is it quite vital? Do you use a lot of it, or do you try to keep it toned down? Which do you think better advertises a film, posters or trailers?
A: For my comedies, I don't put much effort in. I mean, I release a trailer, poster and put in those smartass comments in several threads - but I think the hardcore viral stuff is more for blockbuster films, personally. That being said, expect some viral marketing for Mad as Rabbits in the form of a web site . No doubt it works, just look at The Dark Knight. I mean, I was suckered in big time by the viral stuff because I thought Batman Begins was boring as sin. It definitely is effective.
Q: And finally, what do you think of “Casablanca and the Movies”? Is there anything that can be better? Anything you see missing?
A: It's the total package! If you've missed a trailer, just tune in to your show and not only do you get the trailer, it's accompanied by comments from a man who has movie knowledge in the bucket fulls. It's what I look for when I initially log in now. Keep up the good work man, and thanks for letting me be on!
Thanks for the interview T-Mac. What a fun and funny guy, no wonder he makes so much good comedies! And I like how he admitted that John and Becca’s Love Story was flawed, because it was, it lacked filler like he said, and it takes a great director to admit that. However, his upcoming film Mad as Rabbits, doesn’t look as flawed, in fact, it looks quite good, and I’ll be interested in how it is, especially how he mentioned that the length of the film would be longer then some of his earlier works, and the depth would be considerably more. Notice, too, how he limits himself to one, or maybe two, films at a time, and he fins this quite effective. So do I. It can get confusing with 5 or more projects, and I think, though he has made no masterpiece of cinema, it makes his films as good as they are.
Thus, another fine interview from another fine director, who is only going to get better as his ambition rises.
Now time for the short reviews of older films. Starting with, “Local Hero”
** out of ****
If longer, with more subplots, and with more drama and interaction, this could have been a very good movie! However, for some unknowable reason and with some unusual ideas, it turns into an attempt at art which, embarrassingly, falls flat on its face.
There are some good lines, some nice emotion, and some intensity of some sort, so I know it had the craft and the talent to be good, however the scope wasn’t too short, it was just swayed in the wrong direction. It tried to be something it shouldn’t have been. It tried to be a little gem, a nice treat, an artistic pleasure which is a fine read in its short time. It failed on every account I just mentioned, and more, it failed on the levels of a film. It ended up being a mindless barrage of “stuff” set to a story.
There is not much to write on it, as it didn’t write much either, but before departing, may I give you a piece of advice, to all the director’s who want to attempt something like this? Don’t. Don’t shorten something down to try to make a little film with the pleasures of an epic. Think it out, plan it, run through it in your head, other-wise you’ll end up in the obscurity, overshadowed by much better films. You want proof? Just look at the director. I’ve never heard of Carter in my life!
With that done, let’s move on the review number 2, “Death at Sunset”.
*** out of ****
Whoever Carter was, his style is quite odd indeed. However, this film actually succeeds, better then Local Hero anyways. Granted, Local Hero had some ambition, some effort, however, this film actually picks up that effort and runs. I’d say it got half way across the field, and then fumbled the ball.
It has nice moments, is quite thrilling, and does have something going with that cutting the film into sections, however, it cut too many times for its own good. The film feels butchered. It feels cut up, as if someone took a knife to it. It gets tedious after a while, and I found myself yawning a little too often.
It drags, it seems to repeat itself, and is quite unforgettable as there isn’t anything which pushes it or really makes it excel at any rate.
Overall, it is a pointless read that may be pretty good, but isn’t worth revisiting as it can be quite a bore. There are finer ways to spend your afternoons, believe me.
With those two movies over (thank god), let’s go to an interview with HellBlazer.
Q: Hello HellBlazer and its nice to see you. I’d like to welcome you to the show and start of by getting an idea of what we can expect in Resident Evil: Raccoon. Will it be more horror or action, more dramatic or adventurous?
A: Hey Casa thanks for letting me on. And I would have to say it’s a horror-action at times and a horror-drama at other times. There are some scenes with some survivors that definitely lean more towards drama then action yeah. So it’s a mix I guess.
Q: Whatever it will be, will it be particularly in your style? For example, does the dialogue and directions sound like some of your past films? Does it have a lighthearted exterior, or is it dark all around?
A: Actually this is my first film on Movie Reels. But it definitely is dark all around. There’s a few wisecracks and the like during it but it’s primarily dark.
Q: What is, in your opinion, the most important part of a film? The writing? Imagery? Action, or emotions?
A: It depends on the film I guess heh. But the writing and imagery are important for sure.
Q: Since you are making a film on Resident Evil, am I safe in assuming you like video games? Can we expect more video games adaptations in the future? Do you try to stay close to your source?
A: I love video games. And I don’t know if you can expect more. I guess it depends on if Raccoon does good. I would love to do a movie based on a game like Mass Effect or Assassin’s Creed. And I definitely try to stay close to the source. Raccoon is based on Resident Evil 2 but I also put in scenes featuring Albert Wesker and the Arkley Mansion survivors (None of which appeared in RE 2) So yeah I think staying close to the source is important for a movie like this while also inserting just a smidge of new stuff to add to the backstory.
Q: Do you watch many of the films on here? Are there any that strike a special cord with you, or have you yet to be really impressed?
A: I’ve watched a few yep. I still need to buy a few tickets to some I really want to see. But Captain Scarlet 2 definitely hit that cord with me. It was well-written and just plain good and I hope to write a film that does good and is good like that.
Q: Two more questions. First, Resident Evil has gotten some good exposure, some nice trailers and such. Do you feel confident in your advertising? Can you picture this film doing well? How vital is marketing to a film, do you think?
A: I do feel pretty confident in how I’m doing. I’m going to try and space things out to keep interest up. And yeah I hope this does well. I think there are enough horror movie fans on here to expect a decent turnout. And yeah marketing is REALLY vital since without no one would really know your film’s coming out.
Q: And finally, what do you think about “Casablanca and the Movies”? Is there anything missing, anything that can change?
A: Nothing really. I think your show is awesome. But if there was a way you could make it so we can tell what your stuff is in the episode would be cool as when reading your part on trailers it usually took me a sec to tell what was your stuff and what was the trailer.
Thanks for the interview and I fixed your problem with telling what’s mine and what’s the trailer, as you can tell. Well, his first film. By seeing the trailer I must say that I hope he makes more. He seems like a very able director and has a nice tone in his films, which he said, are quite dark. And he is right, his film does sound dark, it sounds thrilling and suspenseful as well. Obviously he feels confident enough to not worry, so I can assume that the film will be fine, form what I’ve seen, it has been fine. I will watch out for it, and I recommend that everyone watches for it, as it may mark the start of a good director.
With this episode coming to a close I would like to go over a few things. First off, episode 9 is right around the corner, so I have to get episode 10 prepared. I still need a few things, so please check out the Lounge to see what you have to send in, and please send it with plenty of time, as I have to review and organize it.
Also, please, also in The Lounge, check out the rules for the contest regarding my 8 Months of Theater Time. I wouldn’t want anyone to miss out, just because they didn’t know what to do.
Thus marks the end of another episode.
Thank you for watching, and I hope to see you next time on “Casablanca and the Movies”.
Oh dear...
