'After Earth,' 'Movie 43' sweep Razzies; Sandler left empty-handed

(Reuters) - Big budget sci-fi flop "After Earth" and ensemble comedy
"Movie 43" led the Razzie Awards on Saturday while annual favorite Adam
Sandler went home empty-handed at the ceremony that mauled Hollywood's
worst films and performances of the year.


"After Earth," starring Will Smith and his teenage son Jaden, picked
up three gold spray-painted raspberry accolades: Jaden Smith for worst
actor, Will Smith for worst supporting actor and worst screen combo for
the father-son stars.

The
$130 million film, co-written by Will Smith and directed by M. Night
Shyamalan, was a major flop for Sony Corp's Columbia Pictures last year,
grossing just $60 million at the U.S. and Canadian box office.

Relativity
Media's "Movie 43," which features 16 off-beat comedy sketches with
stars such as Halle Berry, Kate Winslet and Hugh Jackman, won worst
picture, worst screenplay for its 19 screenwriters, and worst director
for its 13 filmmakers.

The
Razzies, created in 1980 as an antidote to the backslapping of
Hollywood's awards season and now in its 34th year, is held on the
evening before the glitzy Oscars ceremony, the biggest night of honors
for the film industry.

The
Razzie awards are selected by about 800 members of the Golden Raspberry
Award Foundation, who can purchase a membership for online voting
rights in the annual panning of films. Eight of the nine categories are
voted by members, while the ninth for worst screen combo was determined
by more than 80,000 votes on movie review website RottenTomatoes.com.

The
award winners rarely attend to collect their statuettes in person,
although Sandra Bullock notably attended in 2010 to collect her worst
actress and worst screen couple awards for "All About Steve," the night
before she won the best actress Oscar for "The Blind Side."

Sandler,
who has earned more than 20 Razzie nominations over the course of his
career, failed to win any of his seven Golden Raspberries nods this year
for comedy "Grown Ups 2," which was bludgeoned by critics.

The
"Wedding Singer" star won two Razzies last year for the father-son
comedy "That's My Boy" and pulled off the only "Razzie sweep" for his
film "Jack and Jill" in 2012, winning all 10 awards handed out that year.

This
year's worst actress went to another Razzie regular, actor-director
Tyler Perry in drag for the lead character of "A Madea Christmas." Reality TV personality Kim Kardashian was named worst supporting actress for her role in "Tyler Perry's Temptation."

Disney's
"The Lone Ranger" film starring Johnny Depp and Armie Hammer, one of
last summer's notable big-budget flops, was named worst remake/rip-off
or sequel. The film, made for more than $200 million, failed to perform at the box office and lost $190 million for the studio.

The Night That Changed America Beatles Tribute | Pictures

The Grammys Have Nothing on This Star-Studded Beatles Concert 

The Grammys may have drawn a lot of stars to LA on Sunday, but it had nothing on the award show's special tribute to the Beatles on Monday night. The two remaining Beatles, Paul McCartney and Ringo Starr, were joined by a slew of A-listers, both from film and music, to tape a special concert called, The Night That Changed America, in honor of the 50th anniversary of the Beatles' performance on The Ed Sullivan Show. The concert will air on CBS on Feb. 9, which marks the actual anniversary, but fans can get a sneak peek at the performances and collaborations through these pictures. Katy Perry and John Mayer didn't perform together, but they both got a chance to take over the stage during the night. Meanwhile, Pharrell Williams, who was still wearing his bizarre-yet-awesome hat from the Grammys , teamed up for performances with country star Brad Paisley and Stevie Wonder. Sean Penn , Johnny Depp , andKate Beckinsale also made appearances throughout the night to introduce various musical acts. And let's not forget about the musician/model couple summit between Chrissy Teigen, John Legend , Adam Levine, and Behati Prinsloo! Keep reading to see all those stars and more.

Source: Getty

0 0 0 0 0 0

John Legend , Chrissy Teigen, Behati Prinsloo, and Adam Levine hung out backstage.

Source: Getty / Larry Busacca

0 0 0 0 0 0

Pharrell performed with Brad Paisley.

Source: Getty / Lester Cohen

0 0 0 0 0 0

Katy Perry and John Mayer got cozy behind-the-scenes.

Source: Getty / Larry Busacca

0 0 0 0 0 0

Paul McCartney and Ringo Starr reunited for a performance.

Source: Getty / Kevin Mazur

0 0 0 0 0 0

Sean Penn presented at the show.

Source: Getty / Kevin Mazur

0 0 0 0 0 0

Source: Getty / Larry Busacca

0 0 0 0 0 0

Ed Sheeran performed during the special night.

The 10 Most Annoying Movie Star Behaviors

We've ripped into annoying concert goers and rock stars in recent months, but irritating behavior extends way outside of the rock universe. In fact, Hollywood actors are just as annoying. Often times, they are significantly more annoying. They do all kinds of things that piss us off. Here's ten of them.
Random Notes: Hottest Rock Pictures
1. Going Family Friendly
There's absolutely nothing wrong with a good family film. Some of the greatest movies of all-time - from The Wizard of Oz to Willy Wonka & The Chocolate Factory - were aimed directly at children. Still, sometimes one-time edgy actors start churning out family friendly schlock to soften their image and pad their wallets. Eddie Murphy surely knew that Dr. Dolittle 2 was a shitty movie. He just didn't give care as long as the check cleared. Imagine if he poured the time and energy he put into Dr. Doolittle into a new stand-up tour and film. It would have been difficult and potentially calamitous, but at least he would have challenged himself. Likewise, surely Ice Cube could have found a better project than Are We Done Yet?. We're not saying great actors and rappers shouldn't make family movies. They just shouldn't make bad ones.

2. Becoming A ScientologistThis is a sensitive one, because it's not cool to judge someone based on their religion. Also, many actors are born into Scientology, and it seems unfair to judge them for that. That said, anyone who has read Lawrence Wright's new book Going Clear: Scientology, Hollywood, and the Prison of Belief knows just how many horrible things the Church of Scientology has done to women, children and anyone they deem a "suppressive person." You can probably say that about many other religions, but only Scientology would have made John Travolta think that Battlefield Earth was a worthy project. Beyond the simple fact that it's one of the worst movies ever, it's also a two-hour Scientology recruitment film.

Leah Remini recently quit the church of Scientology amid reports she was "blacklisted" after questioning the church's leadership. Tom Cruise is unlikely to ever follow her example, but if he does, many of his fans will be overjoyed. It's hard to argue it's been a positive thing for his career.

3. Getting Too Political
Actors should be encouraged to speak their mind on any subject close to their hearts, but sometimes they go so far in a political direction that it's hard to ever look at them in the same way. Take Clint Eastwood. He's one of the greatest actors and directors of the past sixty years. But in the course of a few minutes at the 2012 Republican National Convention, he seriously damaged his reputation by speaking to an empty chair and pretended that President Obama was sitting in it. It was so over the top and embarrassing that even the Romney campaign was horrified. Imagine how the rest of us felt.

This isn't only a problem with Republicans. Countless liberals fly around the country in their private jets and lecture people about reducing their carbon footprint. The public sees right through the hypocrisy, and the more they talk down to us, the harder it becomes to enjoy their movies. We're NOT saying "shut up and act," but we are saying practice what you preach -  and stay away from the Republican National Convention.

4. Only Doing Blockbusters
It's hard to turn down $20 million. Actors like Johnny Depp and Will Smith can get even more than that for a huge blockbuster, especially if they get a percent of the worldwide gross. It's easy to understand why they swing for the fences every time, but all too often they fall short and we're left watching dreck like The Lone Ranger or After Earth. These are talented actors. Back in the mid-1990s, Johnny Depp was willing to make a great film like Ed Wood, and Will Smith took a role in the art house flick Six Degrees of Separation. They must get scripts like those on their desks all the time, but they turn them down in favor of yet another Men In Black or Pirates of the Caribbean.  

Both should learn from Bruce Willis. He's happy to sign onto to The Expendables 2 and Red 2, but he maintains his credibility by agreeing to smaller paychecks for the chance to appear in things like Moonrise Kingdom. That's why he's still a big star while most his 1980s action flick peers are now punchlines. It's important to balance your projects between big and small. If only Will Smith realized this. Remember, this is the guy who turned down the lead in Django Unchained because he didn't feel that Django was the lead role. It's the ultimate proof that his ego is out of control. Maybe he's feeling a little humble after his newest movie bombed, but he's probably just plotting how to maximize his money on Men In Black 4.
5. Blaming Everything On Exhaustion
Sometimes it's hard to wake up in the morning, let alone drag our asses to the office and work all day. Day-to-day life is exhausting. As we all know, 99.9% of the time movie stars cite "exhaustion," they are lying. They're usually on drugs, booze or trying to bounce back from some insane, racist meltdown. That looks bad in a press release, so suddenly they're "exhausted."  It's an insult to our intelligence. Do you know what we've never done?  Go the hospital or check into a rehab center. It's never even entered our heads, yet actors seem to blame most of their hospital and rehab vistas on "exhaustion." Having private jets, millions of dollars and personal assistants must be so incredibly draining.
The Hottest Live Photos of 2013

6. Churning Out Way Too Many Movies
Remember when a new movie with Al Pacino, Robert De Niro or Dustin Hoffman was an event? You walked into the theater pretty confident you were seeing something special. What the hell happened? Did Robert De Niro really think that New Year's Eve, Little Fockers and Red Lights were good projects? He's released twelve movies in the past three years. What's the rush? Al Pacino doesn't work quite at that pace, but in the 2000s he did give us S1m0ne, Gigli and Jack and Jill. We can thank Dustin Hoffman for Perfume: The Story of a Murderer, Mr. Magorium's Wonder Emporium and, once again, Little Fockers. Guys, if the script sucks, don't take the movie. You used to be good at selecting the right projects. What happened? Mark Wahlberg, you're getting into this territory now, too. Slow it down. Pick your projects slowly, and do whatever you can to get out of your contract for Transformers 4. Seriously, what were you thinking when you agreed to that one?

7. Casting Your Real-Life ChildrenNot to pick on Will Smith, but right now he's emblematic of what's wrong with Hollywood. You'd think he'd realize that early fame has destroyed many childhoods, but that doesn't seem to be the case. Before his kids were out of middle school, they were recording bubblegum rap songs and appearing alongside him in movies. After Earth was created by Smith largely as a vehicle to showcase his teenage son Jaden. He was so blinded by the desire to turn Jaden into a superstar that he didn't realize the movie sucked. Matthew Weiner was so blinded by love for his son Marten that he couldn't understand why so many Mad Men fans found him creepy. (He finally seemed cool in his last appearance, though.) There's a simple lesson here: don't cast your kids. You have no idea how much their presence warps your creative judgement.

8. Destroying A Sacred Franchise With Horrid Sequels
John McClane, Indiana Jones and The Terminator are three of the greatest characters in film history. The first three Indiana Jones and Die Hard movies are pretty amazing, even if the second one in each case is a little weak. The Terminator had two near-flawless movies. Then everyone got greedy and reckless. That last Die Hard sucked on a truly historic level. The last two Terminator movies were embarrassing to everyone involved, and the last Indiana Jones - while not quite as bad as many felt -  was still a huge disappointment. We know the money is huge (and you go into these things with mostly good intentions), but please stop destroying our favorite franchises. Everyone should draw inspiration from Bill Murray. Not only did he leave the blockbusters behind many years ago, he's single-handedly saving the world from having to sit through Ghostbusters 3. This has frustrated his co-stars and fans to no end, but he knows the truth. If only Bruce Willis, Harrison Ford and Arnold Schwarzenegger were so bold. But we know we're talking to a brick wall here – there are new Terminator movies in the works right now, and at least one more Die Hard is inevitable.

9. Turning Off The Funny
Some comedians have the dramatic range to excel in serious dramas. Not to keep mentioning Bill Murray, but. . . take Bill Murray. If he'd pulled a Chevy Chase and refused to leave his tiny comedic box, we would have missed out on so many great performances. That said, some comedians should stick to comedy. Jim Carrey's best movies are things like Dumb & Dumber and Ace Ventura: Pet Detective. His worst movies are uber-serious flicks like The Number 23 and The Majestic. Yes, he's amazing in Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind, but that has comedic elements and it's genuinely weird. Thankfully, he's finally doing Dumb and Dumber To now.

10. Suffering From The Delusion They're Rock Stars
This one is a major, major problem that only seems to be getting worse as the years go by. Jeff Bridges is one of the greatest actors of our time. But he's about to launch a West Coast tour with his band The Abiders. The music isn't terrible, but if he wasn't Jeff Bridges, he wouldn't be able to draw ten people to his shows. He's hardly alone. Bruce Willis, Johnny Depp, Kevin Costner, Keanu Reeves and many others have also convinced themselves they are rock stars. They aren't. All of them are talented actors. That should be enough. To be fair, it works both ways. Bob Dylan's musical talent is undeniable, but it sure didn't make his 2003 movie Masked & Anonymous anything other than an embarrassing vanity project. Of course, he was able to snag Jeff Bridges, John Goodman, Mickey Rourke, Jessica Lange, Luke Wilson and Angela Bassett into the film.

Read more: http://www.rollingstone.com/movies/news/the-10-most-annoying-movie-star-behaviors-20130716#ixzz2ZEGiFLzG
Follow us: @rollingstone on Twitter | RollingStone on Facebook

Edge of Tomorrow Poster and Still: Tom Cruise Film Get's a New Title and a New Poster

Stars may be speaking out against Leah Remini and her Scientology departure, but Scientology poster boy, Tom Cruise, is talking only one thing these days... his new film, Edge of Tomorrow.

Originally titled, All You Need Is Kill, the film is based on the novel by Hiroshi Sakurazaka of the same name but has since changed the title to Edge of Tomorrow. With the new name, we get a new Edge of Tomorrow poster!

Edge of Tomorrow Poster
I'll give them credit - a poster of presumably the star without showing the star's face? Bold move.

Click through the jump to see Cruise and costar Emily Blunt in action!

Emily Blunt and Tom Cruise in Edge of Tomorrow
Tom Cruise in Edge of Tomorrow Still
The premise of Edge of Tomorrow is not to unlike that of Bill Murray's Groundhog Day, just with a lot more bullets and hellfire. Tom Cruise's character, Lt. Col. Bill Cage, has found himself stuck in a time loop during a war against aliens.

Starring alongside Cruise and Blunt are Bill Paxton and Charlotte Riley.


That time loop is going to be repeating for quite awhile before we get to see it as Edge of Tomorrow is not scheduled to open until June 6th of 2014. Think Warner Bros. is banking hard on this one? All signs point to yes.



Speaking of studios banking on films, Johnny Depp is in talks for an Alice in Wonderland sequel!

- See more at: http://www.thehollywoodgossip.com/2013/07/edge-of-tomorrow-poster-and-still-tom-cruise-film-gets-a-new-tit/#sthash.xy43VCqy.dpuf

Actor Channing Tatum dubbed People's sexiest man alive

 

NEW YORK | Wed Nov 14, 2012 9:17am EST

NEW YORK

(Reuters) - Actor Channing Tatum, who set female hearts fluttering in the summer movie hit "Magic Mike", was named the sexiest man alive by People magazine on Wednesday.  

"My first thought was, 'Y'all are messing with me," Tatum told the magazine after hearing the news.

 

The 32-year-old actor, who is married to actress Jenna Dewan-Tatum, is training to play an Olympic athlete in his upcoming film, "Foxcatcher".

 

The couple, who have been married since 2009, are ready to start a family, according to People.

 

"The first number that pops into my head is three, but I just want one to be healthy and then we'll see where we go after that," he told the magazine.

 

Tatum joins a long list of Hollywood heartthrobs who also have also received the "sexiest man" title from the magazine including Brad Pitt, Johnny Depp, Ryan Reynolds, George Clooney and Matt Damon.

(Reporting by Patricia Reaney; Editing by Maureen Bavdek)

 

via reuters.com

 

Is Jennifer Aniston an A Lister or a Falling B Star?

via eonline.com

How is Jen Aniston still relevant as an A-list actor when she only does B movies?
—S.T. Alsop, via Facebook

With the nonstop coverage of Aniston's engagement—the ring! The announcement! That what's-his-name guy who popped the question!—it can definitely seem like Jen is one of the world's biggest stars. But don't let the incessant coverage fool you.

Get all the deets on the new engagement!
PlayThe E! “Fashion Police” host makes a surprise splash with Olympic winner Ryan Lochte. Watch the funny moment.
PlayMcCarthy and Brian Urlacher are ending their romance. Hear all the details.
PlayThe recently divorced actress is spotted holding hands with a handsome mystery man. Find out who he is

From a strict business viewpoint, Aniston isn't an A-list star. And before all you Team Jennifer fans freak out in the comments, hear me out.

In Hollywood, the definition of "A-list" has nothing to do with the number of magazines a star covers, or the number of Twitter followers she has, or whether she belongs to a portmanteau couple like Brangelina or Kimye. Your bedroom could be filled, floor to ceiling, with posters of Miley Cyrus. But Miley Cyrus isn't A-list either.

A-list means that a star can get a movie financed pretty much on her name alone. A-listers can sell a movie to fans without any of us really caring what the movie is about. Think Johnny Depp, Brad Pitt, George Clooney, Angelina Jolie, Robert Downey, Jr., Denzel Washington, maybe.

Learn how Jen and Justin fell in love

In contrast: Jennifer Aniston may garner plenty of hits on gossip websites. But unless those clicks translate into a flood of film financing, ticket sales, DVD rentals or Netflix streams, she ain't A-list.

Now, that isn't to say that Aniston is totally worthless. Far from it! She putts butts in movie seats. A lot of them. The result?

"She's not A-list anymore but is a strong B-plus for mid-budget romantic comedies," says James Ulmer, whose Ulmer Scale tracks the bankability of major stars. "Even then, she needs to be paired with an A-minus male star to be bankable internationally."

Movie Review: Dark Shadows' Johnny Depp Rises With Throwback Laughs

Warner Bros. Entertainment

Grade - B

Review in a Hurry: After 200 years in a casket, vampire Barnabas Collins awakens to the swinging 1970s. Unfortunately, the witch who cursed (and buried) him is also still around. Through Michelle Pfeiffer teaming up with Burton for the first time since she slipped into that skintight Eva Green) got him into trouble since she turned out to be a witch. Spells are cast, true love was lost and a vampire Barnabas became.

Flash forward to 1972 with plenty of jokes about lava lamps, Alice Cooper and bellbottoms.

 

 

    Johnny Depp Slams Split Rumor

 

Depp's take on Barnabus is much more grounded than his eccentric Jack Sparrow-types. He is in white makeup the whole time with a severe ye olde English accent, but it works because Depp is quite funny playing everything deadpan. He's less a vampire and more a really old dude, which is what most vamps really are anyway.

The rest of the cast, which includes Jonny Lee Miller, each get a moment to be eccentric or glum, whichever is his or her preference. The standout is Eva Green as Angelique. Green's enthusiasm toward her witchy ways is wicked.

But the script by Seth Grahame-Smith (who also wrote the upcoming Burton-produced

Johnny Depp & Eva Green do high camp in the ‘Dark Shadows’ trailer” links

via celebitchy.com

Oscar Predictions: THR's Awards Expert Scott Feinberg and Critic Todd McCarthy on Who Will Win, Who Should Win

Who will win vs. who should win? THR awards analyst Scott Feinberg has read the tea leaves to declare early victors at the 84th Academy Awards, while THR chief film critic Todd McCarthy declares who actually deserves to go home with Oscar that night.

 our editor recommends

 

Oscars 2012: 5 Burning Questions About the Awards Telecast

BEST PICTURE

Who Will Win: Having claimed virtually every major precursor honor -- including the two strongest Oscar bellwethers, the Producers Guild of America and the Directors Guild of America -- The Artist, the French-financed, Los Angeles-shot, Harvey Weinstein-distributed love letter to the movies has gone on to seduce Hollywood since being unveiled at Cannes in May. It is now poised to become the first silent film in 83 years and the first black-and-white film in 18 years to win the top Oscar.

Who Should Win: I voted for The Descendants, Alexander Payne's masterful, mirthful drama in the various critics' groups awards competitions in December and have not been the least bit tempted to change my mind since. Not only is the film outstanding in all the essential conventional departments -- directing, writing, acting, narrative conviction, surprise and depth -- but its embracing and yet bemused attitude toward humans' groping manner of dealing with life, love and death represents a strongly articulated authorial voice.

BEST DIRECTOR

Who Will Win: Before this year, few outside of France had even heard of Michel Hazanavicius, though he had scored commercial hits in Europe with his OSS 117 spy parodies. Then the 44-year-old auteur behind The Artist made a splash at Cannes. His funny and moving film has since won him widespread notice, and he has testified to his love for old movies. Most important, The Artist earned him the DGA Award, which has correctly predicted the best director Oscar in 57 of the past 63 years.

PHOTOS: Backstage At the 2012 Oscars

Who Should Win: Alexander Payne, for the reasons noted above. Beyond those, however, is the demonstrable point that Payne has done nothing but grow and mature as a filmmaker. While so many directors do their best work in their first, second and/or third films, Payne has the almost unique distinction of having only taken forward steps, beginning with Citizen Ruth and on through Election, About Schmidt, Sideways and now The Descendants, a film that injects even the grimmest, toughest moments with humor.

BEST ACTOR

Who Will Win: Charming and debonair, The Artist's leading man, Jean Dujardin, has been called the "Clooney of France" and now finds himself in a tight race with George himself -- both won Globes, with Dujardin taking the prize for comedy/musical actor.  Since then, he also has won the SAG Award (the past seven winners of which repeated at the Oscars) and picked up the BAFTA Award, and so he is on track to become the first Frenchman to win a best actor Academy Award.

Who Should Win: George Clooney, for the very reasons that people now bemoan the fact that a great actor like Cary Grant never won a competitive Oscar because he was too charming and made it seem too easy. Guys like Grant, Clooney, Newman and Redford can skate through on looks to make an impact. But as the father and about-to-be widower in The Descendants, Clooney illuminated every dimension of his character that I could want to know about -- and was charming (and self-deprecating) in the bargain.

BEST ACTRESS

Who Will Win: Look for The Help's Viola Davis to hold off Meryl Streep's bid and take home the best actress prize. Several factors fall in her favor: She has not previously won (Streep has picked up trophies twice, albeit not in 29 years); she is up for a well-liked film (which, unlike Streep's, is nominated for best picture); by becoming only the second black best actress winner, she would be making history; and she has already beaten Streep on the latter's home turf with the BFCA critics and actors of SAG.

STORY: 5 Burning Questions About The Oscars Telecast

Who Should Win: I have adored Viola Davis onscreen and onstage in many roles and would be happy to see her win for any number of reasons. But strictly on the basis of their nominated performances, Davis did what I knew she could do in The Help, while Meryl Streep pulled off something I wasn't sure she or anyone could accomplish in The Iron Lady; she somehow channeled Margaret Thatcher to the point where I believed I was beholding the real thing even in a film that comes up short in a host of ways.

SUPPORTING ACTOR

Who Will Win: Revered 82-year-old Christopher Plummer, having won every major precursor award, will cap his half-century screen career with his first Oscar for playing a widower who enthusiastically comes out as gay late in life in Beginners. Since he has been nominated just once before, for 2009's The Last Station, the accolades are long overdue. The only person standing in his way is fellow Oscar-less octogenarian Max von Sydow, nominated for Extremely Loud & Incredibly Close.

Who Should Win: Christopher Plummer, then Max von Sydow, a virtual toss-up. If the winner is either of these great veterans, the award will in large measure be regarded as a life achievement award, so stellar are not only both men's careers but how creatively vital they remain into their 80s. I'll be delighted either way. Plummer has the showier, more full-bodied emotional role here, while von Sydow's performance is entirely silent (a top Oscar strategy this year).

SUPPORTING ACTRESS

Who Will Win: An established character actress, Octavia Spencer really came into her own this year, playing the subversive Minny Jackson in The Help. She has swept the awards field (including the SAG Award, the winner of which has repeated at the Oscars eight of the past 10 years) and should have enough momentum to win despite having to compete with a co-star -- prolific ingenue Jessica Chastain -- in the same category. And that didn't keep The Fighter's Melissa Leo from winning in 2011. 

Who Should Win: Janet McTeer broke onto the film scene a number of years ago, then receded to a point where I rather forgot about her until -- wham!-- in walks this character in Albert Nobbs who looks, talks and postures like a big, swaggering guy, though there is something unusual about him. Hmmm. One soon sees why. To say this outstanding actress steals such a modest film is to say not nearly enough, so galvanizing, convincing and funny is she in this period cross-dressing context.

ORIGINAL SCREENPLAY

Who Will Win: The prolific Woody Allen hasn't waited for the Academy's validation to keep turning out new films year in and year out. Although his latest nomination extended his record for most screenplay Oscar noms to 15, he hasn't actually won an Oscar in 25 years. That should change since his Paris-set fantasy Midnight in Paris not only grossed more than any of his previous films, nearly $150 million worldwide, but its screenplay already has won Critics' Choice and Golden Globe awards.

Who Should Win: With the skill of a practiced playwright, first-time writer-director J.C. Chandor placed a group of high-finance executives and analysts in the hothouse of an investment firm on the brink of the 2008 meltdown to withering effect in Margin Call. It's tough to convey, much less make gripping, the intricacies of high-stakes finance, but Chandor used tart dialogue and an array of vividly drawn characters to pump blood into a dry numbers game, resulting in the best screen drama to date about the Wall Street calamity.

ADAPTED SCREENPLAY

Who Will Win: The Descendants, written by director Alexander Payne and the writing team of Nat Faxon and Jim Rash, has five nominations as it arrives at this year's Oscars, but the adapted screenplay category is where the Academy is likely to bestow recognition on the domestic drama adapted from Kaui Hart Hemmings' novel. Payne himself won this category seven years ago for Sideways, and in January the National Board of Review bestowed its best adapted screenplay prize on Descendants.

Who Should Win: I tried reading the Kaui Hart Hemmings' novel that served as the basis for The Descendants I like so much and I couldn't do it; on the page, the story seemed a bit banal, the narrative approach too dawdling. So it makes the achievement of Alexander Payne, Nat Faxon and Jim Rash even greater to have transformed a work into something so pointed, observant and emotionally engaging. Everything that seemed diffuse on the page had been sharpened and made pertinent by the time it hit the screen.

FOREIGN-LANGUAGE FILM

Who Will Win: Virtually every awards group that already has handed out its honors has lined up behind A Separation, Asghar Farhadi's stirring Farsi-language drama about people struggling to communicate with one another. The Academy has taken notice as well, not only nominating it for best foreign-language film, but also including Farhadi among the list of original screenplay nominees. Just the second Iranian film nominated in this category, it would become the first to win the foreign-language prize.

Who Should Win: Just as war drums are beating louder where Iran is concerned, here is the Iranian film that makes Iranians, and even Iranian society, more accessible and comprehensible than anything seen on these shores before. The way writer-director Asghar Farhadi peels back layer after layer of the story, and with them reveals insights into the characters and the social fabric, is masterful. The competition in this category is nothing to sneeze at, but A Separation has the weight of a completely achieved work.

ANIMATED FEATURE

Who Will Win: Rango, Gore Verbinski and Johnny Depp's post-Pirates reunion, is something of an anomaly among the features being turned out by major animation houses: An homage to the Western, it's a 2D film based on original material in an era when animation is dominated by 3D sequels. But it has grossed nearly $250 million worldwide and won the Annie Award, and a big competitor failed to materialize when Steven Spielberg's The Adventures of Tintin, which won PGA and Globe awards, didn't get a nom.

Who Should Win: It's possible that, second by second, no film filled its frames with more density and crazy imagination than this one. Perhaps feeling liberated after his years on the Pirates of the Caribbean leviathan, Gore Verbinski and his collaborators obviously had a blast mashing, mixing and otherwise combusting movie lore, Western and other-wise, giving Rango a hyper-realistic edge while feeding it through a cock-eyed surrealist blender. The result was surprisingly coherent and often madly entertaining.

SCORE

Who Will Win: Since the Academy reverted to having just one category for musical scores, this contest has been carried by the film that went on to win best picture only twice in the past 12 years. But Ludovic Bource's score for The Artist is likely to buck those odds, because the movie isn't totally silent -- its score is always front and center. It already has taken home its share of hardware from the Golden Globes, the Broadcast Film Critics and the BAFTAs, so the Academy almost certainly will name that tune.

Who Should Win: Although The Artist incorporates the influences of film composers of the sound era and therefore doesn't entirely represent the way silent films were musically accompanied, there is no reason to be fanatically purist on this count. Ludovic Bource's multifaceted score wonderfully elicits and magnifies all the desired emotions of the story and in a charming, dextrous manner. And one can't hold Bource responsible for the extended lift from Vertigo, which was the director's choice.

CINEMATOGARPHY

Who Will Win: Best picture and best cinematography have gone to the same film 27 times in the 83-year history of the Oscars and just twice in the past 13 years, but Guillaume Schiffman's beautiful black-and-white work in The Artist will be seen as too distinct and beautiful to ignore (even if Emmanuel Lubezki's The Tree of Life lensing has its champions).

Who Should Win: If there's a no-brainer among my choices, this is it. After Roger Deakins, Emmanuel Lubezki is probably the greatest cinematographer working on major U.S./international films who hasn't won an Oscar, and even those who don't buy into Terrence Malick's The Tree of Life readily admit to its stunning visual quality. Having been shot predominantly with natural light, this is what I like to call "pure" cinematography in the old sense -- work achieved during the shooting and not heavily manipulated in postproduction.

(Click here for Scott's picks in and analysis of all 24 categories!)

via hollywoodreporter.com

 

Edgar Wright and Johnny Depp to make The Night Stalker

 

Rejoice! Johnny Depp is going to do a movie without Tim Burton. I know, I know, he has done plenty without Burton. It just seems that lately they have done many films together and none of the recent ones have worked for me.

Last year came word that Depp was going to be involved in the big screen adaptation of the 1970s show, Kolchak: The Night Stalker.

That was the show where Carl Kolchak, a reporter, would investigate strange happenings that ended up having supernatural or sci-fi type antagonists. I always remember watching one with my Grandad that had a vampire in it.

Deadline have the news that Edgar Wright (Spaced, Hot Fuzz, Shaun of the Dead, Scott Pilgrim) has come on board to direct the film and help shape the story as it has yet to get a writer.

I feel Wright is a great choice for the film. His work on Shaun of the Dead shows he can bring a fresh spin to some of these monsters. Having him direct Depp may help bring back some of Depp’s indie sensibilities which seem to have left him in recent years.

The film is being developed with Disney so it will probably be a family friendly film. That could still work.

Definitely a project to keep an eye on. How about you?

   

 

via liveforfilms.com

 

Best Christmas Movies: Top 15 ‘Not so Christmas’ Movies List

While it is true that Christmas wouldn’t be Christmas without the classic A Christmas Carol or The Grinch type movies, there are many fantastic Christmas themed movies that everyone can enjoy.

As December 25^th approaches and Christmas songs begin playing in the mall I have been thinking about what my favourite none Christmas, Christmas themed films are.  Sometimes you want to celebrate the holidays without actually having to watch the same five films over and over again. Whether you need a break from the classics or you are looking for a new holiday favourite, here are my top 15 “not so Christmas” Christmas movies (in no particularly order):

Love Actually (2003, Romantic Comedy)

This isn’t only one of my favourite of favourites Christmas themed films; it’s also one of my favourite all around movies of all time. With a stellar cast and brilliant characters left, right and maybe all too close and centre, you really can’t let this movie slip by you. The writing is fantastic and everyone can relate to at least one story or one character in this movie, even the kids and even the man folk. I don’t really suggest this as a family film though as there is some slight nakedness and a few sexual slams (aka jokes) but I think it’s very PG-13 worthy. A great laugh and a great heart warmer for all!

The Holiday (2006, Romantic Comedy)

That’s right, another romantic comedy! Who doesn’t feel a little more succumbed to rom coms this time of year? For me nothing makes me want to cuddle on the couch with a cup of tea more than 30 below freezing. Even if you are spared the harshness of winter, there is something about the holidays that makes your heart warm. One of those things may be this movie, The Holiday. If Kate Winslet and Jack Black don’t make you want to watch this already, how about being shocked by how much you will like Judd Law and Cameron Diaz. I’m not usually a Judd fan but I love him in this role. He makes me grin like an idiot. A big, girly idiot. Jack is fantastic in this movie and really shows you a side of him that I am still stunned by every time I watch this movie. A little more couple-ie than Love Actually but I think the man will be pleased with Jack Black being involved. Once again, not so family friendly but I’ll leave that to you.

The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, The Witch and the Wardrobe (2005, Family/Fantasy)

Such an amazing story with generally good acting and the animals that steal the show (I love when they do that). Narnia is such an amazing family movie. Everyone loves something about these stories. There’s snow, there’s polar bears, there’s good and evil and what not, but there’s also something very Christmas like about it all. Plus, Mr. Tumnus. Come on. That’s worth it right there. And there’s a lion. Brilliant. Not super scary but I’m not sure how younger kids would handle this movie. There are quite a bit of tears, some blood and fighting. Once again, I leave that to you.

Babes in Toyland (1986, Family/Musical)

This movie is hilarious! It’s one of my all time favourites. Keanu Reeves and Drew Barrymore when they were really young is amazing enough but over all it’s just a very entertaining movie. It’s got “written for television” all over it. Yet, it’s a quirky adventure flick and a good one to put on while decorating or baking. If all else fails at least it will take you back to those crazy 80’s. Family friendly for sure!

Planes Trains and Automobiles (1987, Comedy)

A man is trying to get home for Thanksgiving and ends up with the worst travel partner ever. Nothing says the holidays or comedy quite like John Candy. Already you know it’s good. This is another classic John Candy film. So if that isn’t enough incentive: Steve Martin. End. It’s great! Not so family friendly but it will guarantee to make you giggle.

 

National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation (1989, Family/Comedy)

I wasn’t sure if this fell along the same classic lines as The Grinch for anyone else so I thought I would put it in here. I love this movie. To me and many others it is as classic to the holidays as any other Christmas flick but I know it’s sometimes forgotten. Don’t forget. It’s hilarious. It’s entertaining. It’s pretty family friendly too in my books.

Die Hard (1988, Action)

How could I not put this one in here?  Not only is it one of the best action movies of all time but it’s Christmas themed! Win for everyone! I don’t have much else to say about it as I’m sure you’ve all seen it before but you can have some gun fights while still keeping the Christmas spirit alive and warm. Yippee-Ki-yay! I watched this when I was really young but there is some swearing here and there, nothing crazy though.

Lethal Weapon (1987, Action)

If Die Hard wasn’t enough action for you and you’re feeling traditional still why not continue your festivities towards this classic flick. Such a great movie. Not as good as Die Hard (in my books) but it will do. Oh yes, put this movie on and you will remember the good old days…when Mel wasn’t crazy yet. I mean, when you would sit on the couch Christmas Eve with the family and feel the holiday joy. I also watched this when I was young but once again, caution.

Edward Scissorhands (1990, Drama/Fantasy)

Such an amazing film and perfect for the holidays. It’s all about family, love, cheerfulness and Johnny Depp. What more is there to life really? I’m sure you’ve seen this but, once again, it is a nice break from the normal Christmas flicks but doesn’t stray too far away to make you feel like you’re skipping the classics on purpose. I think it’s family friendly but Edward is pretty darn scary as it is so best judge that for yourself.

The Shining (1990, Horror)

A little Jack Nicholson for the holidays is just what the doctor ordered. Plus, nothing says Christmas like hiding in the arms of someone you love, or maybe just that favourite pillow/blanket on the couch. It’s family friendly…for a bit. Really though, not a family flick. Something good when you’re enjoying a night cap though! Baileys anyone?

Kiss Kiss, Bang, Bang (2005, Action/Comedy)

If Jack and John aren’t enough to bring the holiday cheer why not add a little Robert to the mix? One of my new favourites and with just enough Christmas in it to make it to my list, the whole thing is hilarious and amazing. Val Kilmer is fantastic in this role and with Robert Downey Jr. added in this movie is a must see during the holidays. The action is amazing and the comedy is pure. Hear those sleigh bells ringing…

Ghostbusters II (1989, Action/Comedy)

Another classic. Man I love these movies! Plus I think this is my favourite of Ghostbuster series, mainly because it has Sigourney Weaver in it. Win. This movie was definitely part of my traditional Christmas programs while growing up. Pretty hilarious and with some ghost. Think of it as A Christmas Carol but with Bill Murray and a lot more jokes. You just can’t go wrong.

Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind (2004, Drama/Romance)

This is one of my all time favourite movies. The fact that it has some snow and maybe mentions the holidays and/or Christmas at some point (at least I think it does) was enough to make me put it on this list. It’s wintery for most of it so it counts. Kate Winslet and Jim Carey are fantastically amazing in this movie. It’s a little heavy and will probably be boring for kids but there isn’t anything too awful in it. It’s not entirely a feel good movie but it is when you take the time to think about it. It’s a thinking movie, I mean it’s entertaining but it’s more intense than any of the other films on this list. It’s still amazing. A nice change from the other holiday flicks.

Bridget Jones’s Diary (2001, Romantic Comedy)

Another of my all time favourites, these movies make me laugh and laugh and laugh some more. I love Renee Zellweger as Bridget; it’s my favourite role for her. Colin Firth is a deliciously handsome touch and Hugh Grant is tolerable in this role. It suits him, I’ll say that (sorry Hugh fans). It’s got some Christmas stuff here and there and is all about love and family and isn’t that just what the holidays are all about! Definitely a feel good flick. Not so much for the whole family but I didn’t think it was that bad. I suppose it has a lot of swearing though. Best to take caution, it’s a good afternoon-while-wrapping-presents kind of film.

Happy Feet (2006, Family/Comedy)

You know what they say, save the best for last! I love heart love this movie. I always have. Penguins and dancing and singing. It’s so amazing! A well done film with such a great story. Robin Williams is hilarious. The cast for this is actually really intense: Elijah Wood, Hugh Jackman, Nicole Kidman, Hugo Weaving….The list goes on and on. Happy Feet is super awesome for the family. The whole family will love this movie. It will easily be a new holiday favourite if it isn’t already.

Well there you have it. Get some hot chocolate in your favourite Christmas mug and grab a few holiday treats while you snuggle up to some of the best “not so Christmas” Christmas movies! Merry Christmas and happy holidays to all!

 

 

AND MAY I ADD THE HOME ALONE MOVIES