After a busy last couple of months, I welcome you the triumphant return of The Spin.
After dealing with the last couple of months of a dreadful pro football season, I was happy to see a couple of flicks and was only disappointed once (thank you Paranormal Activity). Couples Retreat, 2012, Old Dogs, and New Moon were all pretty decent (plus I saw "The Hangover" again, which was even funnier the second time around). Here's a quick rundown:
Couples Retreat - A pretty decent comedy with a pretty eclectic cast. Vince Vaughn and crew travel to a Sandals style resort to help distressed couples and the hilarity ensues. Plenty of sick jokes and crazy humor.
2012 - Great effects and an okay story. This one actually scared the crap out of my wife and actually caused me a sleepless night. This end of the world stuff can be pretty crazy, but somehow you never see Cleveland get destroyed. I'd say we live in a pretty safe place.
Twilight: New Moon - The second in the Twilight series, this film made a boat load during the opening weekend, but has since tailed off. I actually enjoyed it more that the first film. I think that some certain film sagas (i.e. - Harry Potter, Star Wars, LOTR, etc.) are in safe territory as far as popularity and this one will not be nearly as memorable one it is complete.
Old Dogs - The critics hated it, but I thought it was pretty mindless fun. Robin Williams plays the father of twins he knew nothing about. John Travolta and Kelly Preston are along for the ride as his best friend and former flame. It was cool to see Bernie Mac in his last role.
I had a great experience last Thursday night. It was spent enjoying the music of a galaxy far, far away. Star Wars: In Concert was phenomenal. The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra did an amazing job with the iconic John Williams score and Anthony Daniels (C3PO) was an excellent host. The HD version of the videos cut for this special event only makes me want to see these films released on Blu-Ray. I know that I am a fanatic, but the better part of my life has been being a devoted fan of all 6 films. I highly recommend event for anyone - young or old. You will have a truly enjoyable night.
Please have a safe and happy holiday season and I will check in soon with some more movie updates and the year in review.
Ryno
This Blog Is The Opinion Of One Guy And Does Not Reflect On Any Member Of The Entertainment Industry
Monday, December 7, 2009
Saturday, September 12, 2009
It's been awhile
Unfortunately I have been so busy in the last couple of weeks that I haven't been able to post. The cool thing is that a lot has happened in the last two weeks that I have some things to talk about.
First and foremost congratulations to my fellow blogger Adam (Throwing Quarters) and his wife Jen on their new arrival, Addison Mackenna Gercak. We are very excited for them.
The movie industry is a buzz with the news that New Line, Warner Bros., and the Tolkien estate have settled their lawsuits and now Peter Jackson and Guillermo Del Toro can move forward with "The Hobbitt." If you are a fan of "Lord of the Rings," then you are absolutely stoked by this announcement.
Many people are excited about the release of "Beatles - Rock Band" for all the gaming systems. This will make a great gift for any gamer and music fan as the Fab Four are probably the greatest band in history.
There are a lot of great music releases coming out during the latter part of the year including new albums from Carrie Underwood, John Mayer, Toby Keith, and Michael Buble. The one I personally am waiting for is the new album from Jamie Cullum. For those who like fun, funky music, Jamie is a great listen. His previous albums have been fantastic and he has such a different sound from most current artists.
As we all are aware, the new fall TV season has begun to arrive. So with that in mind, here is my Top Ten Favorite New & Returning Shows
10 - The Cleveland Show - Cleveland from "Family Guy" gets his own spinoff. The previews have been funny and FOX is know for its Sunday Animation Block.
9 - Law & Order: SVU - This show is still going strong entering its 11th season. The finest ensemble cast on TV led is by Mariska Hargitay and Christopher Meloni.
8 - The Simpsons - The 21st season of this hit show may have something to prove since it has never been nominated for an Emmy.
7 - Melrose Place - It feels like 1990 all over again with this series back in business along with 90210. Rumors are flying that Heather Locklear will be returning to Melrose, which could make this show "Must-See" once again.
6 - House - Is it me or does this series need a kick in the ass. While Hugh Laurie is still TV's top doc, the 5th season was not much to write home about. Let's hope for a better written season and enough of the overbearing drama.
5 - Lie To Me - This was the second best new series of last year. Tim Roth showed why he is one of the finest actors out there and the show kept you on the edge of your seat. The addition of Mekhi Phifer to the cast is an A+ move.
4 - Fast Forward - This is the most interesting looking new show to debut. The plot is cool and could take you in a million different directions. This should be a hit for ABC.
3 - Fringe - The head of the class of last years new shows. The cast is phenomenal and the story telling is superb. I can't wait for the new season to begin.
2 - Family Guy - My favorite show and fresh off an Emmy nomination, we should see a great effort in the new season. Also, there will be a new "Star Wars" themed episode as well. If this is my favorite show, then what is #1?
1 - Glee - After an awesome sneak peek episode last spring, I couldn't wait for fall to get here. Being a guy who likes to do karaoke, I never tried out for my glee club in high school. The cast choices are perfect and the music will help carry this show. Call me corny, but I can't help it.
The next blog will have the summer movie wrap up and a preview of the biggest hits coming your way this fall.
Til Next Time,
Ryno
This Blog Is The Opinion Of One Guy And Does Not Reflect On Any Member Of The Entertainment Industry
First and foremost congratulations to my fellow blogger Adam (Throwing Quarters) and his wife Jen on their new arrival, Addison Mackenna Gercak. We are very excited for them.
The movie industry is a buzz with the news that New Line, Warner Bros., and the Tolkien estate have settled their lawsuits and now Peter Jackson and Guillermo Del Toro can move forward with "The Hobbitt." If you are a fan of "Lord of the Rings," then you are absolutely stoked by this announcement.
Many people are excited about the release of "Beatles - Rock Band" for all the gaming systems. This will make a great gift for any gamer and music fan as the Fab Four are probably the greatest band in history.
There are a lot of great music releases coming out during the latter part of the year including new albums from Carrie Underwood, John Mayer, Toby Keith, and Michael Buble. The one I personally am waiting for is the new album from Jamie Cullum. For those who like fun, funky music, Jamie is a great listen. His previous albums have been fantastic and he has such a different sound from most current artists.
As we all are aware, the new fall TV season has begun to arrive. So with that in mind, here is my Top Ten Favorite New & Returning Shows
10 - The Cleveland Show - Cleveland from "Family Guy" gets his own spinoff. The previews have been funny and FOX is know for its Sunday Animation Block.
9 - Law & Order: SVU - This show is still going strong entering its 11th season. The finest ensemble cast on TV led is by Mariska Hargitay and Christopher Meloni.
8 - The Simpsons - The 21st season of this hit show may have something to prove since it has never been nominated for an Emmy.
7 - Melrose Place - It feels like 1990 all over again with this series back in business along with 90210. Rumors are flying that Heather Locklear will be returning to Melrose, which could make this show "Must-See" once again.
6 - House - Is it me or does this series need a kick in the ass. While Hugh Laurie is still TV's top doc, the 5th season was not much to write home about. Let's hope for a better written season and enough of the overbearing drama.
5 - Lie To Me - This was the second best new series of last year. Tim Roth showed why he is one of the finest actors out there and the show kept you on the edge of your seat. The addition of Mekhi Phifer to the cast is an A+ move.
4 - Fast Forward - This is the most interesting looking new show to debut. The plot is cool and could take you in a million different directions. This should be a hit for ABC.
3 - Fringe - The head of the class of last years new shows. The cast is phenomenal and the story telling is superb. I can't wait for the new season to begin.
2 - Family Guy - My favorite show and fresh off an Emmy nomination, we should see a great effort in the new season. Also, there will be a new "Star Wars" themed episode as well. If this is my favorite show, then what is #1?
1 - Glee - After an awesome sneak peek episode last spring, I couldn't wait for fall to get here. Being a guy who likes to do karaoke, I never tried out for my glee club in high school. The cast choices are perfect and the music will help carry this show. Call me corny, but I can't help it.
The next blog will have the summer movie wrap up and a preview of the biggest hits coming your way this fall.
Til Next Time,
Ryno
This Blog Is The Opinion Of One Guy And Does Not Reflect On Any Member Of The Entertainment Industry
Friday, August 28, 2009
A New Perspective
This will be a little different spin than most of you are used to. I will get to some Hollywood items later. It is a time of change this week.
A new school year has begun and I had to say goodbye and good luck to my little brother this week. The crazy thing is that he is not so little anymore and he is headed off to grad school at Oregon State. It is unfortunately going to be difficult on my mom because he is the youngest and she is not used to him being more than a couple of hours away in Columbus (home of the real OSU). I thank God that he has two great friends in Craig and Ben who will be making the cross country trek with him. A new adventure begins and I wish him well.
In 5 weeks I will be celebrating my first anniversary with my wife Christin. It has been one heck of a first year and I can't wait for the next 50. She is the love of my life and I can't imagine being with anyone else. We have a great weekend away planned and I can't wait for some time away and alone with her.
To all the students out there. I wish you all the best of times in the next school year. Whether you are in grade school, high school, or college, take it all in and take advantage of the time you have. Right now the real world sucks and I wish I was in your shoes. Hard work and effort will lead you to the promised land.
Enough of the serious stuff for now and here is your new top ten:
My Favorite Top Ten School Comedy Movies (High School & College) Of All Time
Honorable Mention - EuroTrip, The Girl Next Door, Clueless, Weird Science, & Juno.
10 - Back To School - One of the last great Rodney Dangerfield movies. Thornton Mellon joins his kid at college. Chaos and parties ensue. A young Robert Downey Jr. plays the best friend and Thornton saves the day at the swim meet by doing the most ridiculous dive in history.
9 - Porky's - The original screwball high school comedy. The only place where a guy named Pee-Wee can get into a strip club. Then again when the owner is named Porky, anything goes.
8 - Old School - Three guys in their 30's decide to start their own frat house and recruit the craziest cast of characters to be brothers. Will Ferrell as Frank the Tank is one of his best roles ever - WE'RE GOING STREAKING.
7 - Road Trip - Four guys at college take the trip of a lifetime to try and save their buddy's hide after one of their roommates mails the "wrong tape" to his buddy's girlfriend. Grandpa on viagra is the funniest sight gag in the movie.
6 - National Lampoon's Van Wilder - Ryan Reynolds as the 7 year "King of Coolidge" in the only movie of this generation to deserve the Lampoon name. This is one of the funniest movies of the last ten years.
5 - Fast Times At Ridgemont High - Sean Penn as Jeff Spicoli in this 80's classic is only the tip of the iceberg in this comedy from Amy Heckerling. A great cast shows the perfect comedic angst of the high school years.
4 - Accepted - Maybe the biggest surprise on this list, but this movie is hilarious. What happens when a slick slacker who gets rejected from every school and decides to create his own college - you name it, it happens. A brilliant cast led by Justin Long, Blake Lively, Columbus Short, Jonah Hill, and Lewis Black as the wacked out Dean let us know that it is ok to be yourself and get away with it.
3 - American Pie - The leader of the new generation of school comedies. Four pals make a pact to lose their virginity by the prom. New avenues are tried to get dates and the band geek turns out to be the biggest nympho of all of them. This is truly a new classic and launched the careers of many of the hot faces in Hollywood.
2 - Ferris Bueller's Day Off - I have discussed this one before, but it's greatness could only be eclipsed by one - and that is!!!
1 - Animal House - I need not say anymore - you already know why.
See ya soon,
Ryno
This Blog Is The Opinion Of One Guy And Does Not Reflect On Any Member Of The Entertainment Industry
A new school year has begun and I had to say goodbye and good luck to my little brother this week. The crazy thing is that he is not so little anymore and he is headed off to grad school at Oregon State. It is unfortunately going to be difficult on my mom because he is the youngest and she is not used to him being more than a couple of hours away in Columbus (home of the real OSU). I thank God that he has two great friends in Craig and Ben who will be making the cross country trek with him. A new adventure begins and I wish him well.
In 5 weeks I will be celebrating my first anniversary with my wife Christin. It has been one heck of a first year and I can't wait for the next 50. She is the love of my life and I can't imagine being with anyone else. We have a great weekend away planned and I can't wait for some time away and alone with her.
To all the students out there. I wish you all the best of times in the next school year. Whether you are in grade school, high school, or college, take it all in and take advantage of the time you have. Right now the real world sucks and I wish I was in your shoes. Hard work and effort will lead you to the promised land.
Enough of the serious stuff for now and here is your new top ten:
My Favorite Top Ten School Comedy Movies (High School & College) Of All Time
Honorable Mention - EuroTrip, The Girl Next Door, Clueless, Weird Science, & Juno.
10 - Back To School - One of the last great Rodney Dangerfield movies. Thornton Mellon joins his kid at college. Chaos and parties ensue. A young Robert Downey Jr. plays the best friend and Thornton saves the day at the swim meet by doing the most ridiculous dive in history.
9 - Porky's - The original screwball high school comedy. The only place where a guy named Pee-Wee can get into a strip club. Then again when the owner is named Porky, anything goes.
8 - Old School - Three guys in their 30's decide to start their own frat house and recruit the craziest cast of characters to be brothers. Will Ferrell as Frank the Tank is one of his best roles ever - WE'RE GOING STREAKING.
7 - Road Trip - Four guys at college take the trip of a lifetime to try and save their buddy's hide after one of their roommates mails the "wrong tape" to his buddy's girlfriend. Grandpa on viagra is the funniest sight gag in the movie.
6 - National Lampoon's Van Wilder - Ryan Reynolds as the 7 year "King of Coolidge" in the only movie of this generation to deserve the Lampoon name. This is one of the funniest movies of the last ten years.
5 - Fast Times At Ridgemont High - Sean Penn as Jeff Spicoli in this 80's classic is only the tip of the iceberg in this comedy from Amy Heckerling. A great cast shows the perfect comedic angst of the high school years.
4 - Accepted - Maybe the biggest surprise on this list, but this movie is hilarious. What happens when a slick slacker who gets rejected from every school and decides to create his own college - you name it, it happens. A brilliant cast led by Justin Long, Blake Lively, Columbus Short, Jonah Hill, and Lewis Black as the wacked out Dean let us know that it is ok to be yourself and get away with it.
3 - American Pie - The leader of the new generation of school comedies. Four pals make a pact to lose their virginity by the prom. New avenues are tried to get dates and the band geek turns out to be the biggest nympho of all of them. This is truly a new classic and launched the careers of many of the hot faces in Hollywood.
2 - Ferris Bueller's Day Off - I have discussed this one before, but it's greatness could only be eclipsed by one - and that is!!!
1 - Animal House - I need not say anymore - you already know why.
See ya soon,
Ryno
This Blog Is The Opinion Of One Guy And Does Not Reflect On Any Member Of The Entertainment Industry
Wednesday, August 19, 2009
It's Almost Fall & It's Time For Football
Sometimes I will make a sports statement when it seems a good time too and this weeks events provided some much needed ammunition, so here we go -
Hey Brett Farve, please make a decision and stick with it. You are one of the all time greats and you are beginning to tarnish (and some say you already have) your legacy. How you are respected by the players and coaches in this league right now is beyond me due to the fact that you don't put in the training camp time flip-flopping in and out of retirement. Yet, here you come in riding a white horse thinking you are God. Brett, for your sake and the Vikings, I hope you win the Super Bowl this year so you can finally leave us alone.
Y.E Yang aka The Tiger Slayer, welcome to the PGA. Congrats on winning the PGA Championship and making Tiger look human. In what could only be called the greatest upset in Golf, we saw Tiger falter on the back nine of a major that he led for the first time in 15 tournaments. If I was the rest of the PGA, I would gear up for a Tiger Grand Slam next year.
Shaq Vs. ? - God I hope he doesn't hurt himself - enough said.
Patrick Kane - Wrong place, wrong time. I hope his career doesn't suffer.
Mike Vick - Everyone deserves a second chance, but this may be the exception. As a dog owner, I was appalled by the actions of Mr. Vick and Bad News Kennelz. How does a guy who had the world at his feet do something so despicable. Al least he did his time (unlike Donte Stallworth, who did less than a month in jail for vehicular homicide), but the fans in Philly will eat him alive. Good luck Mike, you're gonna need it.
And now another star-studded Top Ten - My Top Ten Favorite Sports Movies
10 - The Mighty Ducks - A fun kids flick that almost saved Emilio Estevez's career and launched the career of Joshua Jackson. Hockey has never been more fun.
9 - Mystery, Alaska - A great underdog movie. I am not a big hockey fan, but for some crazy reason the last two movies were great. This had a great ensemble cast and a great story.
8 - For The Love Of The Game - Kevin Costner + baseball = greatness (also see Bull Durham)
7 - Tin Cup - The 2nd funniest golf movie (sorry Happy Gilmore) with a great cast led by Kevin Costner and Renee Russo. Roy "Tin Cup" McElroy has the greatest flame out in US Open history, but the build up to it is priceless.
6 - Rocky Balboa - No one expected this movie to be as good as the best in the series (the original), but Sly delivered a great story and some more inspiration from his best character ever. Kudos.
5 - Remember The Titans - Great Cast, fantastic story, and a true classic in every sense of the word. Denzel Washington and Will Patton deliver in this gem.
4 - Brian's Song - The original still gets me. James Caan and Billy Dee Williams in the best football film ever. Inspirational, touching, and classic.
3 - Major League - Being a lifelong Indians fan, this movie was the best in all facets. It almost seems like art imitating life with the trainwreck of a season that we have had here. Thanks Charlie, Tom, Wesley, and Corbin for giving all Indians fans hope.
2 - The Karate Kid - A personal favorite - deal with it.
1 - Caddyshack - The jewel in the golf trilogy crown (with Happy Gilmore & Tin Cup). If you can't laugh at this movie, you need to check your pulse (my wife excluded). Bill Murray alone makes this a classic and then you add in Chevy Chase and Rodney Dangerfield. Great times.
See you next week,
Ryno
This Blog Is The Opinion Of One Guy And Does Not Reflect On Any Member Of The Entertainment Industry
Hey Brett Farve, please make a decision and stick with it. You are one of the all time greats and you are beginning to tarnish (and some say you already have) your legacy. How you are respected by the players and coaches in this league right now is beyond me due to the fact that you don't put in the training camp time flip-flopping in and out of retirement. Yet, here you come in riding a white horse thinking you are God. Brett, for your sake and the Vikings, I hope you win the Super Bowl this year so you can finally leave us alone.
Y.E Yang aka The Tiger Slayer, welcome to the PGA. Congrats on winning the PGA Championship and making Tiger look human. In what could only be called the greatest upset in Golf, we saw Tiger falter on the back nine of a major that he led for the first time in 15 tournaments. If I was the rest of the PGA, I would gear up for a Tiger Grand Slam next year.
Shaq Vs. ? - God I hope he doesn't hurt himself - enough said.
Patrick Kane - Wrong place, wrong time. I hope his career doesn't suffer.
Mike Vick - Everyone deserves a second chance, but this may be the exception. As a dog owner, I was appalled by the actions of Mr. Vick and Bad News Kennelz. How does a guy who had the world at his feet do something so despicable. Al least he did his time (unlike Donte Stallworth, who did less than a month in jail for vehicular homicide), but the fans in Philly will eat him alive. Good luck Mike, you're gonna need it.
And now another star-studded Top Ten - My Top Ten Favorite Sports Movies
10 - The Mighty Ducks - A fun kids flick that almost saved Emilio Estevez's career and launched the career of Joshua Jackson. Hockey has never been more fun.
9 - Mystery, Alaska - A great underdog movie. I am not a big hockey fan, but for some crazy reason the last two movies were great. This had a great ensemble cast and a great story.
8 - For The Love Of The Game - Kevin Costner + baseball = greatness (also see Bull Durham)
7 - Tin Cup - The 2nd funniest golf movie (sorry Happy Gilmore) with a great cast led by Kevin Costner and Renee Russo. Roy "Tin Cup" McElroy has the greatest flame out in US Open history, but the build up to it is priceless.
6 - Rocky Balboa - No one expected this movie to be as good as the best in the series (the original), but Sly delivered a great story and some more inspiration from his best character ever. Kudos.
5 - Remember The Titans - Great Cast, fantastic story, and a true classic in every sense of the word. Denzel Washington and Will Patton deliver in this gem.
4 - Brian's Song - The original still gets me. James Caan and Billy Dee Williams in the best football film ever. Inspirational, touching, and classic.
3 - Major League - Being a lifelong Indians fan, this movie was the best in all facets. It almost seems like art imitating life with the trainwreck of a season that we have had here. Thanks Charlie, Tom, Wesley, and Corbin for giving all Indians fans hope.
2 - The Karate Kid - A personal favorite - deal with it.
1 - Caddyshack - The jewel in the golf trilogy crown (with Happy Gilmore & Tin Cup). If you can't laugh at this movie, you need to check your pulse (my wife excluded). Bill Murray alone makes this a classic and then you add in Chevy Chase and Rodney Dangerfield. Great times.
See you next week,
Ryno
This Blog Is The Opinion Of One Guy And Does Not Reflect On Any Member Of The Entertainment Industry
Thursday, August 13, 2009
Yo Joe & Goodbye To A Great
All I have to say is WOW!!! "GI Joe: The Rise of Cobra" was everything I thought it would be and more
. While some of the story went away from what we know from the comics and cartoons, it was awesome nonetheless. Great story, awesome action, and some pretty mind-blowing special effects. You have to understand that not many movies can take the liberties that Joe & Transformers have and still deliver to the die hard fans. I will not spoil the fun for everyone, but Snake Eyes delivers in every way that the fans would have hoped for and the accelerator suits seen in the previews were actually really cool. I would say that this is a great way to end the summer, but wait there's more.
The summer movie season is now reaching full tilt with the release this Friday of "District 9." This movie is generating so much buzz that it has now become a must see. When all the critics are raving, you know it could be something special. The trailers for this have been appetizing and anything that has Peter Jackson's name on it has to be good. Also, what could be the second comedy sleeper hit of the season opens this weekend with "The Goods - Live Hard, Sell Hard". Jeremy Piven leads an eclectic cast of characters on a ride to save his used car dealership. The trailers have been a trip and it should make some noise in the weeks to come.
For some reason this has been a summer of goodbyes. The latest being the great John Hughes (1950 - 2009). Being a child of the 80's, I have seen most his films at least once. He directed such classics as "The Breakfast Club," "Weird Science," and "Ferris Bueller's Day Off." Little did I know that he was a screenwriter for "Animal House" and 3 of the 4 "Vacation" Movies. For those who think there is not enough comedy in the world, please check out his filmography as I guarantee you will not stop laughing for days.
And Now For Another Top Ten - This Is Dedicated To John Hughes
My Favorite Top Ten John Hughes Movie Moments (Directing, Producing, or Screenwriting)
10 - The Breakfast Club - As the credits roll and Judd Nelson is walking towards the football field, you hear Anthony Michael Hall tell the story of the Rebel, the Geek, the Jock, the Princess, and the Outcast coming together for that one morning and forever remembering "The Breakfast Club"
9 - Vacation - I'll never forget when the Griswolds arrived at Wallyworld only to find the park closed and Clark (Chevy Chase) taking the security guard (John Candy) hostage for a day of amusement park chicanery.
8 - Uncle Buck - When Buck (John Candy) has the meeting with his nieces school principal (the one with the mole) and after a heated argument he tosses her a quarter and tells her to go downtown and have a rat gnaw that thing off her face - priceless.
7 - Home Alone - Kevin's (Macauley Caulkin) defense of the house against Harry and Marv (Joe Pesci and Daniel Stern) made the entire movie, especially the little girl scream Marv gives when Kevin puts the tarantula on his face.
6 - Planes, Trains, and Automobiles - When Steve Martin invites John Candy back to his home at the end of the movie. After all the trouble caused and craziness shared, it was a great way to end it.
5 - Weird Science - Gary (Anthony Michael Hall) and Wyatt's (Ilan Mitchell-Smith) first night on the town with Lisa (Kelly Lebrock) and the conversation about Gary's ex at the bar when she "kicked him in the nuts and called him a faggot" was hilarious. I have seen people that drunk and it was dead on accurate.
4 - The Great Outdoors - The boat ride when Dan Aykroyd ends up on the skis. It was scenes like this that make me miss John Candy.
3 - Christmas Vacation - When Clark (Chevy Chase) realizes that his "bonus" was the jelly of the month club and one of the most hilarious diatribes in movie history ensues. Hallelujah - Holy Shit - Where's the Tylenol? Indeed.
2 - Ferris Bueller's Day Off - The "Save Ferris" campaign that causes all his enemies to lose it. For anyone looking to skip school, this is where you learn to do it properly.
1 - Animal House - Bluto's (John Belushi) speech to the Delta's after Wormer (John Vernon) drops the big one, Bluto being a peeping tom, the horse in the dean's office, oh forget it - just go buy the movie - it is the greatest comedy of all time.
See you next week,
Ryno
This Blog Is The Opinion Of One Guy And Does Not Reflect On Any Member Of The Entertainment Industry
. While some of the story went away from what we know from the comics and cartoons, it was awesome nonetheless. Great story, awesome action, and some pretty mind-blowing special effects. You have to understand that not many movies can take the liberties that Joe & Transformers have and still deliver to the die hard fans. I will not spoil the fun for everyone, but Snake Eyes delivers in every way that the fans would have hoped for and the accelerator suits seen in the previews were actually really cool. I would say that this is a great way to end the summer, but wait there's more.The summer movie season is now reaching full tilt with the release this Friday of "District 9." This movie is generating so much buzz that it has now become a must see. When all the critics are raving, you know it could be something special. The trailers for this have been appetizing and anything that has Peter Jackson's name on it has to be good. Also, what could be the second comedy sleeper hit of the season opens this weekend with "The Goods - Live Hard, Sell Hard". Jeremy Piven leads an eclectic cast of characters on a ride to save his used car dealership. The trailers have been a trip and it should make some noise in the weeks to come.
For some reason this has been a summer of goodbyes. The latest being the great John Hughes (1950 - 2009). Being a child of the 80's, I have seen most his films at least once. He directed such classics as "The Breakfast Club," "Weird Science," and "Ferris Bueller's Day Off." Little did I know that he was a screenwriter for "Animal House" and 3 of the 4 "Vacation" Movies. For those who think there is not enough comedy in the world, please check out his filmography as I guarantee you will not stop laughing for days.
And Now For Another Top Ten - This Is Dedicated To John Hughes
My Favorite Top Ten John Hughes Movie Moments (Directing, Producing, or Screenwriting)
10 - The Breakfast Club - As the credits roll and Judd Nelson is walking towards the football field, you hear Anthony Michael Hall tell the story of the Rebel, the Geek, the Jock, the Princess, and the Outcast coming together for that one morning and forever remembering "The Breakfast Club"
9 - Vacation - I'll never forget when the Griswolds arrived at Wallyworld only to find the park closed and Clark (Chevy Chase) taking the security guard (John Candy) hostage for a day of amusement park chicanery.
8 - Uncle Buck - When Buck (John Candy) has the meeting with his nieces school principal (the one with the mole) and after a heated argument he tosses her a quarter and tells her to go downtown and have a rat gnaw that thing off her face - priceless.
7 - Home Alone - Kevin's (Macauley Caulkin) defense of the house against Harry and Marv (Joe Pesci and Daniel Stern) made the entire movie, especially the little girl scream Marv gives when Kevin puts the tarantula on his face.
6 - Planes, Trains, and Automobiles - When Steve Martin invites John Candy back to his home at the end of the movie. After all the trouble caused and craziness shared, it was a great way to end it.
5 - Weird Science - Gary (Anthony Michael Hall) and Wyatt's (Ilan Mitchell-Smith) first night on the town with Lisa (Kelly Lebrock) and the conversation about Gary's ex at the bar when she "kicked him in the nuts and called him a faggot" was hilarious. I have seen people that drunk and it was dead on accurate.
4 - The Great Outdoors - The boat ride when Dan Aykroyd ends up on the skis. It was scenes like this that make me miss John Candy.
3 - Christmas Vacation - When Clark (Chevy Chase) realizes that his "bonus" was the jelly of the month club and one of the most hilarious diatribes in movie history ensues. Hallelujah - Holy Shit - Where's the Tylenol? Indeed.
2 - Ferris Bueller's Day Off - The "Save Ferris" campaign that causes all his enemies to lose it. For anyone looking to skip school, this is where you learn to do it properly.
1 - Animal House - Bluto's (John Belushi) speech to the Delta's after Wormer (John Vernon) drops the big one, Bluto being a peeping tom, the horse in the dean's office, oh forget it - just go buy the movie - it is the greatest comedy of all time.
See you next week,
Ryno
This Blog Is The Opinion Of One Guy And Does Not Reflect On Any Member Of The Entertainment Industry
Monday, August 3, 2009
What A Week & Congrats Are In Order
Being a diehard sports nut from Cleveland, you sometimes have to take the good with the bad. This last week however was ridiculous. Trading a Cy Young winner and your All Star captain in 48 hours is downright heartbreaking. Then to take two of three from the division leader is typical of the Indians. I somehow digress. Thank god the Cavs are less than two months from starting the season.
I am so looking forward to this weekend and GI Joe. This was one of my favorite cartoons as a kid and I collected the toys as well. I understand some of the fans are ticked that they messed with the uniforms that the Joes wear, but the more previews I see, the more hyped I get. It very well could be the second sleeper hit of the summer after "The Hangover". If it does half as well, we could have a franchise on our hands.
I have to throw a shout out and a congrats to fellow blogger and good friend Adam and his "Throwing Quarters" blog. He has a blog of note on this site and is getting major traffic because of it.
Speaking of "Throwing Quarters," I had a blast last Thursday night being a contributor to the new podcast. Our thanks go out to Dave Ritz for stepping in at the last minute as our musical guest. It was a great time.
Keep the faith and I will be back next week with a couple of reviews and a new top ten list.
Ryno
This Blog Is The Opinion Of One Guy And Does Not Reflect On Any Member Of The Entertainment Industry
I am so looking forward to this weekend and GI Joe. This was one of my favorite cartoons as a kid and I collected the toys as well. I understand some of the fans are ticked that they messed with the uniforms that the Joes wear, but the more previews I see, the more hyped I get. It very well could be the second sleeper hit of the summer after "The Hangover". If it does half as well, we could have a franchise on our hands.
I have to throw a shout out and a congrats to fellow blogger and good friend Adam and his "Throwing Quarters" blog. He has a blog of note on this site and is getting major traffic because of it.
Speaking of "Throwing Quarters," I had a blast last Thursday night being a contributor to the new podcast. Our thanks go out to Dave Ritz for stepping in at the last minute as our musical guest. It was a great time.
Keep the faith and I will be back next week with a couple of reviews and a new top ten list.
Ryno
This Blog Is The Opinion Of One Guy And Does Not Reflect On Any Member Of The Entertainment Industry
Monday, July 27, 2009
A Major Upset & A New Face
The Jerry Bruckheimer / Disney collabaration "G Force" knocked Harry Potter from the top spot of this weeks box office. I have a feeling that will change this upcoming weekend with the release of the Adam Sandler/Seth Rogan/Judd Apatow movie "Funny People." However the next major release on the docket is "G.I. Joe - The Rise of Cobra" on August 7th. The more previews I see the more jacked up I am getting about this movie.
I know a majority of fans would be upset if Paula Abdul is not on American Idol next season, but with the music industry in flux and lower ratings last season, I am beginning to wonder if Idol has run its course. In other Idol news, I am extremely happy for Daughtry. The new album is awesome and is at the top of the charts. Justification for a guy who finished fourth to a top two who do not have a label at this time. My condolences to the family of Idol tryout Alexis Cohen, who died in a car accident over the weekend. Her potty mouthed rant againt Simon Cowell two seasons ago was a highlight.
My hats off to Danny Ferry for getting Jamario Moon under contract. This forward from Miami could be just what the L-Train ordered. His defensive skill set is way better than any of the other forwards (besides LeBron) that we had in the Orlando series last year. Shaq looks in shape for the first time in years and we now have a guard in Anthony Parker that can spell Mo and Delonte without any falloff in production.
I know that Top 10 lists are cliche, but what the hell:
My Top 10 Favorite "Under The Radar" Movies:
10 - Reign Over Me - This Adam Sandler / Don Cheadle drama is not what you expect from Adam Sandler. It is very poignant and touching. The story of a man who lost everything in the 9/11 attacks when his wife and kids were aboard one of the planes that crashed in to the World Trade Center. Sandler portrays a man sent to the brink and Cheadle portrays the best friend who brings him back. A definite must see.
9 - The Girl Next Door - This is the new coming of age comedy for this generation. Emile Hirsch stars as the guy who never did anything until he meets the new girl next door, the always unforgettable Elisha Cuthbert. She shows him how to have fun and adventure until he finds out about her former career and ends up having to make a decision - the girl of his dreams or his future.
8 - Be Cool - Great cast and a truly fun flick. The Rock (Dwayne Johnson) steals the film as the gay bodyguard to an over the top gangster wanna-be played by an equally funny Vince Vaughn. How can you beat a cast led John Travolta, Harvey Keitel, and Uma Thurman (Pulp Fiction all star team).
7 - Deja Vu - This Denzel Washington time travel movie was an unexpected surprise. With a great supporting cast, including Val Kilmer, this film moves at a frenetic pace from start to finish, with Denzel going back in time to try and stop a madman.
6 - Clerks 2 - A lot of people were pissed off that Kevin Smith would sell out his masterpiece. I was not one of them. This movie was hilarious from start to finish and provided an ending worthy of the acclaimed filmmaker. Thanks Kevin - I am forever a fan.
5 - National Lampoons Van Wilder - This movie is one of the greatest underdog comedies of all time. No critic or fan paid any attention to this movie in the theaters, but it found a huge fan base on DVD. Ryan Reynolds is the best comedic actor of our generation. The story of the greatest 7 year collegian in history, this movie is truly a gem.
4 - Glory Road - Another one of those great Disney sports movies, this one follows the Mighty Miners of West Texas with their coach Don Haskins uniting to overcome the fear and bigotry to reach the NCAA Mens Basketball Championship. A gem of a movie lead by the always great Josh Lucas.
3 - Love Actually - The ultimate romantic comedy and where I found respect for the comedic skills of Hugh Grant. Nuff Said.
2 - Green Street Hooligans - From the Shire to the mean streets of England, Elijah Wood give the performance of a lifetime as a Harvard student framed by his roommate during a drug bust and taking off to visit his sister in England, only to be pulled in to the phenomenon of the soccer hooligan lifestyle. He learns to stand on his own two feet and stand with his friends.
1 - Beautiful Girls - The perfect cast set against the perfect backdrop - your 10 year high school reunion. How much has changed and where does your future lie? Natalie Portman steals the movie from the great cast as the girl next door with the youthful crush on the conflicted Tim Hutton. Above all, this movie has heart and shows the true meaning of friendship.
Hope you take a chance on just one of these movies and I'll see ya next week.
Ryno
This Blog Is The Opinion Of One Guy And Does Not Reflect On Any Member Of The Entertainment Industry
I know a majority of fans would be upset if Paula Abdul is not on American Idol next season, but with the music industry in flux and lower ratings last season, I am beginning to wonder if Idol has run its course. In other Idol news, I am extremely happy for Daughtry. The new album is awesome and is at the top of the charts. Justification for a guy who finished fourth to a top two who do not have a label at this time. My condolences to the family of Idol tryout Alexis Cohen, who died in a car accident over the weekend. Her potty mouthed rant againt Simon Cowell two seasons ago was a highlight.
My hats off to Danny Ferry for getting Jamario Moon under contract. This forward from Miami could be just what the L-Train ordered. His defensive skill set is way better than any of the other forwards (besides LeBron) that we had in the Orlando series last year. Shaq looks in shape for the first time in years and we now have a guard in Anthony Parker that can spell Mo and Delonte without any falloff in production.
I know that Top 10 lists are cliche, but what the hell:
My Top 10 Favorite "Under The Radar" Movies:
10 - Reign Over Me - This Adam Sandler / Don Cheadle drama is not what you expect from Adam Sandler. It is very poignant and touching. The story of a man who lost everything in the 9/11 attacks when his wife and kids were aboard one of the planes that crashed in to the World Trade Center. Sandler portrays a man sent to the brink and Cheadle portrays the best friend who brings him back. A definite must see.
9 - The Girl Next Door - This is the new coming of age comedy for this generation. Emile Hirsch stars as the guy who never did anything until he meets the new girl next door, the always unforgettable Elisha Cuthbert. She shows him how to have fun and adventure until he finds out about her former career and ends up having to make a decision - the girl of his dreams or his future.
8 - Be Cool - Great cast and a truly fun flick. The Rock (Dwayne Johnson) steals the film as the gay bodyguard to an over the top gangster wanna-be played by an equally funny Vince Vaughn. How can you beat a cast led John Travolta, Harvey Keitel, and Uma Thurman (Pulp Fiction all star team).
7 - Deja Vu - This Denzel Washington time travel movie was an unexpected surprise. With a great supporting cast, including Val Kilmer, this film moves at a frenetic pace from start to finish, with Denzel going back in time to try and stop a madman.
6 - Clerks 2 - A lot of people were pissed off that Kevin Smith would sell out his masterpiece. I was not one of them. This movie was hilarious from start to finish and provided an ending worthy of the acclaimed filmmaker. Thanks Kevin - I am forever a fan.
5 - National Lampoons Van Wilder - This movie is one of the greatest underdog comedies of all time. No critic or fan paid any attention to this movie in the theaters, but it found a huge fan base on DVD. Ryan Reynolds is the best comedic actor of our generation. The story of the greatest 7 year collegian in history, this movie is truly a gem.
4 - Glory Road - Another one of those great Disney sports movies, this one follows the Mighty Miners of West Texas with their coach Don Haskins uniting to overcome the fear and bigotry to reach the NCAA Mens Basketball Championship. A gem of a movie lead by the always great Josh Lucas.
3 - Love Actually - The ultimate romantic comedy and where I found respect for the comedic skills of Hugh Grant. Nuff Said.
2 - Green Street Hooligans - From the Shire to the mean streets of England, Elijah Wood give the performance of a lifetime as a Harvard student framed by his roommate during a drug bust and taking off to visit his sister in England, only to be pulled in to the phenomenon of the soccer hooligan lifestyle. He learns to stand on his own two feet and stand with his friends.
1 - Beautiful Girls - The perfect cast set against the perfect backdrop - your 10 year high school reunion. How much has changed and where does your future lie? Natalie Portman steals the movie from the great cast as the girl next door with the youthful crush on the conflicted Tim Hutton. Above all, this movie has heart and shows the true meaning of friendship.
Hope you take a chance on just one of these movies and I'll see ya next week.
Ryno
This Blog Is The Opinion Of One Guy And Does Not Reflect On Any Member Of The Entertainment Industry
Monday, July 20, 2009
An Interesting Week That Was
For anyone who wants a true entertaining experience Hilarities is the place to go. Tucked into the heart of the East 4th district inside of Pickwick & Frolic, this little comedy club that could is the best entertainment value for your dollar next to the House of Blues. Also, if you're lucky, like I was, you get the show for free. The stand up is usually touch and go, but it still is an enjoyable time especially if the acts start getting into it with the front row.
I really feel for my fellow fans here in Cleveland. Not only do we get to look forward to another "rebuilding year" from the Browns, but we also have to deal with the garbage that is being marketed as baseball at the Jake (it will always be the Jake because the Prog sounds ridiculous). When is someone going to put the Dolans out to pasture and bring in a real owner? We have some all-star talent, but the management has really laid an egg. Come on Wedge - we have one of the best offensive teams in baseball - you stated this after a 10-1 loss. If scoring one run a game is good offense, then I am better looking than Brad Pitt. Only 10 weeks Cavs fans til training camp begins and a real championship contending team for the city will be revealed.
Ok, now that is out of the way and on to some cool stuff - I hope the readers of the News Herald in Lake County saw the article in Sidetracks yesterday about Dave Ritz & The Riders. This band is ready to explode on to the national stage. If you want to hear some truly great music, then head out to The Avenue on Thursday night.
I know that I seem to be rambling, but the week was that crazy. I did get an opportunity to catch both "Harry Potter & the Half Blood Prince" & "Night at the Museum: Battle for the Smithsonian" yesterday. The latest adventure for Harry and the gang from Hogwarts was amazing. I will not spoil it for anyone who hasn't read the books. All I can say is see this movie. The second adventure for Ben Stiller and his museum artifacts was a fun jaunt. Check out Amy Adams as Amelia Earhart - she steals the movie.
R.I.P. - Walter Cronkite - The voice of America during some of our most troubling times and a true gentleman. I am proud to say that he was a Senior DeMolay and that he will be missed.
Til Next Week
Ryno
This Blog Is The Opinion Of One Guy And Does Not Reflect On Any Member Of The Entertainment Industry
I really feel for my fellow fans here in Cleveland. Not only do we get to look forward to another "rebuilding year" from the Browns, but we also have to deal with the garbage that is being marketed as baseball at the Jake (it will always be the Jake because the Prog sounds ridiculous). When is someone going to put the Dolans out to pasture and bring in a real owner? We have some all-star talent, but the management has really laid an egg. Come on Wedge - we have one of the best offensive teams in baseball - you stated this after a 10-1 loss. If scoring one run a game is good offense, then I am better looking than Brad Pitt. Only 10 weeks Cavs fans til training camp begins and a real championship contending team for the city will be revealed.
Ok, now that is out of the way and on to some cool stuff - I hope the readers of the News Herald in Lake County saw the article in Sidetracks yesterday about Dave Ritz & The Riders. This band is ready to explode on to the national stage. If you want to hear some truly great music, then head out to The Avenue on Thursday night.
I know that I seem to be rambling, but the week was that crazy. I did get an opportunity to catch both "Harry Potter & the Half Blood Prince" & "Night at the Museum: Battle for the Smithsonian" yesterday. The latest adventure for Harry and the gang from Hogwarts was amazing. I will not spoil it for anyone who hasn't read the books. All I can say is see this movie. The second adventure for Ben Stiller and his museum artifacts was a fun jaunt. Check out Amy Adams as Amelia Earhart - she steals the movie.
R.I.P. - Walter Cronkite - The voice of America during some of our most troubling times and a true gentleman. I am proud to say that he was a Senior DeMolay and that he will be missed.
Til Next Week
Ryno
This Blog Is The Opinion Of One Guy And Does Not Reflect On Any Member Of The Entertainment Industry
Monday, July 13, 2009
Welcome To The Big Show
I will kick off this brand new adventure with a few things about me:
1 - If you are looking for opinions about art house films, horror flicks, or someone who is looking to kiss the ass of the critics - YOU'VE COME TO THE WRONG PLACE!!!!
2 - I welcome constructive feedback. If you have an opinion make sure you can back it up with intelligent thought, not mindless babbling.
3 - Last, but not least, this is my opinion. You are welcome to yours.
On with the show.
One year ago this week Warner Bros. debuted the top grossing movie of the year - The Dark Knight. Hoping to catch lightning in a bottle they made a very controversial move in pushing out the 6th Potter Film - The Half Blood Prince - to this week instead of November last year. As with all the Harry Potter films, you can expect a high box office tally and I for one am looking forward to seeing this movie.
Let's recap the summer so far with the Good, the Bad, and Will Ferrell
The Good:
1 - Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen - Amazing sequel and the #1 film of the year so far. All the so-called critics can kiss my ass on this one. It averaged a D+ grade from those mindless morons and the fans have responded to the tune of 340 million and counting. Memo to the critics - most people enjoy mindless fun. It takes away from the stress of everyday life.
2 - The Hangover - The summer's funniest movie and biggest hit. I will see this movie again before the summers out.
3 - Star Trek - Note to JJ Abrams - Thank you for doing what Gene Roddenberry tried for years to accomplish - a truly awesome and fun Star Trek film. I look forward to the many sequels that will sure follow this hit
Honorable Mentions - X-Men Origins: Wolverine, UP, & The Proposal
The Bad:
1 - Year One - I couldn't force myself to watch this turd of a movie. I respect Jack Black & Michael Cera, just not their choices.
2 - Angels & Demons and Terminator: Salvation - A tie for the movies most destined to fail. The numbers were fair, but not for the hype they received.
3 - Teen Comedies - Save this stuff for the back to school season. It works better and would make more room for spreading out the summer calendar
Will Ferrell - Please go back to being a supporting player. You were much funnier as Frank the Tank, Chaz in Wedding Crashers, and Mustaffa - the fez wearing villian in the Austin Powers movies. Your movies get continually worse and whatever cred you had is now gone after the Land of the Lost.
The Academy Awards announced that they will now nominate 10 films for Best Picture - anyone want to bet that UP will still probably get ignored as well as The Hangover.
I wish I had HBO right now because of Entourage Season 6, plus the growing phenomenon of True Blood. I will say this though, TNT has some of the best original shows on TV - Raising The Bar & Leverage are fantastic.
That's all for now. Let me know what you think and I shall return next week with a different take on the sports industry.
This Blog Is The Opinion Of One Guy And Does Not Reflect On Any Member Of The Entertainment Industry
1 - If you are looking for opinions about art house films, horror flicks, or someone who is looking to kiss the ass of the critics - YOU'VE COME TO THE WRONG PLACE!!!!
2 - I welcome constructive feedback. If you have an opinion make sure you can back it up with intelligent thought, not mindless babbling.
3 - Last, but not least, this is my opinion. You are welcome to yours.
On with the show.
One year ago this week Warner Bros. debuted the top grossing movie of the year - The Dark Knight. Hoping to catch lightning in a bottle they made a very controversial move in pushing out the 6th Potter Film - The Half Blood Prince - to this week instead of November last year. As with all the Harry Potter films, you can expect a high box office tally and I for one am looking forward to seeing this movie.
Let's recap the summer so far with the Good, the Bad, and Will Ferrell
The Good:
1 - Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen - Amazing sequel and the #1 film of the year so far. All the so-called critics can kiss my ass on this one. It averaged a D+ grade from those mindless morons and the fans have responded to the tune of 340 million and counting. Memo to the critics - most people enjoy mindless fun. It takes away from the stress of everyday life.
2 - The Hangover - The summer's funniest movie and biggest hit. I will see this movie again before the summers out.
3 - Star Trek - Note to JJ Abrams - Thank you for doing what Gene Roddenberry tried for years to accomplish - a truly awesome and fun Star Trek film. I look forward to the many sequels that will sure follow this hit
Honorable Mentions - X-Men Origins: Wolverine, UP, & The Proposal
The Bad:
1 - Year One - I couldn't force myself to watch this turd of a movie. I respect Jack Black & Michael Cera, just not their choices.
2 - Angels & Demons and Terminator: Salvation - A tie for the movies most destined to fail. The numbers were fair, but not for the hype they received.
3 - Teen Comedies - Save this stuff for the back to school season. It works better and would make more room for spreading out the summer calendar
Will Ferrell - Please go back to being a supporting player. You were much funnier as Frank the Tank, Chaz in Wedding Crashers, and Mustaffa - the fez wearing villian in the Austin Powers movies. Your movies get continually worse and whatever cred you had is now gone after the Land of the Lost.
The Academy Awards announced that they will now nominate 10 films for Best Picture - anyone want to bet that UP will still probably get ignored as well as The Hangover.
I wish I had HBO right now because of Entourage Season 6, plus the growing phenomenon of True Blood. I will say this though, TNT has some of the best original shows on TV - Raising The Bar & Leverage are fantastic.
That's all for now. Let me know what you think and I shall return next week with a different take on the sports industry.
This Blog Is The Opinion Of One Guy And Does Not Reflect On Any Member Of The Entertainment Industry
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