Caspian one sheet

The one sheet for Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian has dropped online, and I think it looks great. Check it out below, and click to enlarge.

Yes that is our first view of Reepicheep, to be voiced by Eddie Izzard, in the corner. TCON: Prince Caspian come out May 16th, '08.
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Sanctuary to the small screen

You know those stories that just catch you totally off guard? Well this is one of those. I had a really pleasant surprise today as a little corner of the interweb uncovered that I'd previously known nothing about. Sanctuary is a web series that started last year and at least for me has flown totally under the radar. Filmed in Vancouver, the series has probably the highest production value of any web series I've ever seen (more than Quarterlife).

The show stars Amanda Tapping, of Stargate SG-1 fame, and chronicles the adventures of a cryptozoologist and her comrades on a quest to track down and help the monstrous and mythical creatures of the dark corners of the world. She maintains The Sanctuary, a part shelter, part veterinary clinic, and part quasi-magical research laboratory for the creatures she administers to. The two hour pilot, which is broken up into eight 15-20 minute long webisodes is available for purchase on the official Sanctuary website, or you can watch the first 4 parts on YouTube and Google Video for free.

Having just watched the first two free sections of the show, I have to say I am really impressed. The series uses almost 90% green screen technology and is stylistically reminiscent of 300 or Sin City, but it has this great Doctor Who kind of fantasy feel to it as well. And it seems like I'm not the only one who appreciates the show, as it was announced today that Sci Fi channel will be picking up the web series for further development and broadcast next season. While the pilot will be re-tooled for the network, the main actors will all remain cast as they are, and the show only looks to expand on the really engaging story of the web series.

I highly encourage you to watch at least these first two episodes below. If you're anything like me, I think you'll really enjoy them.

Sanctuary - Episode 1


Sanctuary - Episode 2


And check here for Episode 3, and here for Episode 4. I hope you enjoyed the show as much as I did. I'll definitely be interested to see how this develops in the months to come. As I said Sanctuary is scheduled to hit the air this Fall on Sci Fi.
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The Fringe of tv

I'm not sure why I didn't mention this newly developing show before, but if the men behind it are any indication Fringe should be a really solid new show. Created by J.J. Abrams, with Roberto Orcci and Alex Kurtzman, the show, which has been described as a bit like a cross between the X-Files, Altered States, and The Twilight Zone is just in the casting and pilot stage now.

The show, according to Wikipedia, follows "a research scientist named Walter Bishop (who Orci describes as "Frankenstein mixed with Albert Einstein"), his son, and a female FBI agent who brings them back together." It will have an over-arching mythology, and the $10 000 2 hour pilot being produced, begins with Walter in a mental hospital. The Fringe division, is the arm of the FBI that investigates paranormal activities, and presumably they recruit Walter Bishop to their cause.

Ok, well that really does sound a lot like X-Files... I know this is Abrams so I'm going to try to be positive about it, but haven't we seen this kind of show many times before? Anyhow, I really just wanted to get up to speed on this show. Recently they've cast John Noble, Lance Reddik, and Anna Torv in the lead roles. And who are they you ask? exactly.

Abrams will I'm sure deliver something decent though. Despite my misgivings about a premise that seems unoriginal, I know I just need to see more to get totally convinced. And really, even if Fringe is X-Files redux, I'm sure it could be interesting. I'll keep my eyes open for more on this show as it develops.
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Flashpoint to CBS

While it may look like a simple knee jerk reaction to the lengthening WGA strike, I think today's news may be a sign of really changing times in the US television industry. CBS has partnered with Canadian network CTV to produce a new scripted crime drama Flashpoint. With a 13 episode commitment, and all writing and production to be executed in Canada, CBS has both the time and the luxury to hopefully create a really interesting new series with a decidedly different perspective. CBS claims that this foreign expansion plan has been in the works for a while now, and that they also intend to venture into production in England, Australia, and Israel. The significance of the deal might not seem like too much at the moment, but this kind of production outsourcing is a really new move for CBS. Following not just this strike, but the continuing lackluster, or more importantly slow, response to the extremely expensive crop of pilots each season, networks may see this kind of move as more and more viable. NBC CEO Jeff Zucker recently said that they intend to reduce the number of scripted pilots produced by his network, to possibly only 2 or 3 a year. And they also have a series in the works to be produced in the UK.

This move doesn't portend the end of tv as we know it, but it is a sign that things are changing. This writers strike will have a larger impact on the shape of American television that one might expect, new business models are being thrown into action on a seemingly daily basis; and despite the offical resolution to the strike, I don't thinnk things will ever return to exactly the way they were before. Let's just hope that these more systemic changes can spark creativity, and we get more unique voices on our screens in the near future.

Then again, we might just get a mountain of reality tv to wade through.
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American Gladiators: the spinoffs

I am really enjoying the new American Gladiators. It's mindless, fun, has a few good legitimate athletic moments, and has some great over-the-top characters. Not to say I'm super invested in it, but I definitely enjoy it, and as far as mindless entertainment / reality / game shows go it is definitely one of the better ones. As for the two recently announced spinoffs in development.... well that just might be a step too far.

Firstly, for all you classic Hulk Hogan Rock N Wrestling fans out there, which I consider myself one, American Gladiators isn't far behind with it's own proposed cartoon series in development. No word on the content of the show but, I suggest that the Gladiators travel the country solving mysteries and fighting crime... ah I can picture the awesomeness now :)

Also, announced just today, American Gladiators 2000 will be returning to your television screens this Fall. What? You say you don't remember AG 2000?!? Why it was only one of the greatest shows on Earth. Hosted by non other than Ryan Seacrest, this teen version of American Gladiators featured pared down events from the big version as well as trivia questions on such enlightening edutainment subjects on health, diet and fitness.

Although I can't say I have too much faith that these new ventures will work long term, I suppose if the writers strike continues we can only expect this kind of stuff. And hey, if they're half as fun as the new American Gladiators, I'll at least check them out.

As a sidenote, from IGN, NBC has launched an American Gladiators classic webpage "which will feature clips of the original series which have all been re-digitalized. Clips will reintroduce original Gladiators and give fans an update on where they are today. Featured segments will also include "best hits," and stunts performed on the vintage show." Very cool. :)
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Del Toro on the Hobbit

There is another exciting piece of rumor-ey news today as The Hollywood Reporter claims that renowned filmmaker Guillermo del Toro is in talks to direct both of the proposed Hobbit films.

While delayed by the strike, writing is expected to be fast-tracked on these films as soon as it ends. If this deal goes through, Peter Jackson and Guliiermo will oversee the writing process together, and production should begin on the proposed $150 (a piece) films by the end of 2009. Both films are scheduled to shoot back to back, with the first one tentatively scheduled for release in 2010, and the second in 2011.

Del Toro rocks, this is good news if it comes to pass officially.
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Tatum lands Duke

As I mentioned a few days ago, Latino Review and /Film were reporting the various casting rumors surrounding the lead role of Duke in the G.I. Joe movie. While still technically falling into the rumor category, Ain't it Cool News is now saying that the decision has been made and the tole of Duke has gone to 27 year old actor, Channing Tatum.

This pic was garnered from Tatum's official (?) fansite Channing Tatum Unwrapped, and is from Tatum's upcoming film Stop-Loss.

As I said before. Of the rumored actors up for the role, he was my first choice, so good this is good news in my opinion.
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Imaginarium to Depp

With the recent death of Heath Ledger, a few practical considerations had to be addressed in terms of the work he was doing.

Firstly, yes his work on The Dark Knight was totally complete. The only effect Heath's death will directly have on the film is on its marketing which reportedly was supposed to continue along a vein of Joker-centric ads until a bit closer to the release when it would shift to the caped crusader himself. This strategy has, out of respect, been changed since the tragic events last week.

Heath's 'other' film though, the one he was actually working on when he died, a Terry Gilliam pic call The Imaginarium of Dr Parnassus has a bigger problem. Having already filmed for a month in London, and recently moving production to Vancouver for the final two-thirds of production, Heath was an integral part of the film, and a large part of the reason the film received the budget it did. So what is to happen to this film? Will it be scrapped? recast? or perhaps can Heath be edited around?

Well, AICN is now reporting the rumor that Heath's role will most likely be re-written to accommodate another actor. No, he's not being written out. Reportedly the character will now change physically upwards of 4 times throughout the film. As a story device already in the film involves falling through a magical mirror; the character will now fall through the mirror as played by Heath Ledger and if the rumor holds, fall out of the mirror as played by Johnny Depp.

I think this is a pretty good idea considering the circumstances. It would also be a nice way to honor Heath's memory. Carrying this film to completion, with Heath's work intact, is kind of like a bittersweet cinematic requiem. Hopefully this is more than just a rumor.
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Smart People trailer

A cute trailer for a cute looking film. Happy Monday.



Smart People is scheduled for release on April 11th, '08.
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New deals with the WGA

Two great new deals were announced today between studios and the WGA. Both classified as interim deals I've no doubt these will be supplanted once the major studios and consequently the AMPTP gives up their stubborn ways and accepts the WGAs terms. I'm still very excited about these deals, because it means not only that some writers will be able to get back to work, but that these studios will be able to move forward on their films; and these are probably my two favorite studios. The first deal was struck with Lionsgate, creators of such esteemed new films as Rambo, Punisher: War Zone, and The Spirit. And the second with Marvel Studios, makers of all things comic and great. Their projects that have been currently stalled by the strike include Thor, Captain America, Ant Man, and more. So from my perspective, this is really just great news all around.

Here's hoping this will help the AMPTP realize that they need to shape up. Either that, or face a time in the very near future when their colleagues at studios who have made deals are raking in the money from an entertainment starved public and they are still sitting on their stubborn hands.
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Breaking Bad review

So, in this strike addled tv wasteland , new scripted tv shows are few and far between. But even more surprising than finding one, is finding one that's actually worth watching. With that said, I would like to seriously recommend Breaking Bad, a new original series from AMC. This is only AMC's second original tv show, the first being the highly acclaimed Mad Men, and while I won't jump to saying this is equal to that esteemed offering, Breaking Bad looks to offer a high quality of story telling that is becoming quite rare.

Since the first episode has only just aired this week, you should definitely still have time to catch up. And although I can't seem to find it online, I suspect AMC will be rebroadcasting it, as they did continually for Mad Men. There are some clips and previews for it though over at the AMC website.

The show itself follows a middle-America down on his luck high school science teacher named Walter White, played in some ingenious counter-casting by Bryan Cranston, who you might remember as the dad from Malcolm in the Middle. In the pilot episode, we find Walter pretty dwon on his luck. He's in financial trouble, have had to take on another job aside from his teaching, and seems to kind of hate a lot of his life. He has just turned 50, and found out that he has terminal lung cancer. With only a year or two left to live, he is on the verge of a severe mental break. But through a strange twist of fates he ends up running into one of his former students, who has never amounted to much and become a local drug dealer. After some darkly funny, and other odd turns, Walter decides to partner up with this former student and start dealing crystal meth. With his science background he manages to make some top grade stuff, but of course nothing is as easy as it seems. One assumes the story will proceed swiftly from there.

It's actually kind of reminiscent of Weeds in that it takes someone who doesn't know anything about the drug business and throws them right in the midst of it. Walter is definitely an interesting characters though, and the pilot was really pretty fun. I'm definitely intrigued to see where they take this show. Its quirky and dark, and looks like it really could be something cool.

Anyhow, that's my two cents, check it out if you get a chance. We probably won't be getting much else new on the tube for a while. According to Wikipedia 7 episodes were filmed and complete before the strike hit.
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Some non-news news

So I'm not sure exactly how interesting this post will be. Welcome to a series of non-update updates :)

A few to start from Jessica Alba. Recently in interviews while promoting her new film The Eye, which I have zero interest in, she addressed questions on her upcoming projects. These are the kind of questions that while they don't explicitly give any solid new info are the kind of notes that reveal more on what she's thinking, knows, or suspects about her upcoming projects. And interestingly enough Alba really does have a few projects we should care about.

Firstly, she was asked about the status of Fantastic Four 3. In stride Alba, told reporters that with the writers strike there is currently no movement. She says that the FF films take at least 6 months of prep work, which I can definitely believe, and that she unfortunately didn't expect the sequel anytime too soon. She also said that it would be fun to see Franklin Richards in the films. In the comics he's Reed and Sue's very precocious super-powered son. For the record, I would like to see FF3 follow our heroes into the Negative Zone and feature Annihilus as the villain, although I have a feeling they want to do a Mole Man story.

She also addressed questions on Sin City 2, saying that she has no solid update on it. And that Robert Rodriguez hasn't even talked to her at all yet. It makes me wonder whats really going on with that film...

Finally, kind of out of the blue if you ask me, she talked about a possible Dark Angel movie. If you'll remember, this is where Alba got her big break. It was a sci fi series created by James Cameron that lasted two seasons and featured Alba as a genetically engineered super soldier chick who is just trying to lead a peaceful life in post-apocalyptic Seattle, but gets drawn into a all sorts of government conspiracies and adventures. It is also the tv series that I worked on the entire second season of... Ahh, yes, my illustrious career in the film industry. On the best of days I was getting people coffee, not Alba's mind you, she had the 3rd A.D. to do that, but maybe for like... the key grip. Oh the memories.... Anyhow, the prospects of a Dark Angel movie are news to me. Alba says that yes, she has talked about it with Cameron, and they've kicked around some ideas. Nothing is set, but if he (Jim) wants to do it, Alba will definitely be up for it.

In other non news news, Jason Statham has been at it again, this time care of IESB.net, promoting the abysmal looking In the Name of the King: A Dungeon Siege Tale, and more. He talked about a lot of projects he's working on, from The Bank Job, to Transporter 3, and Crank 2: High Voltage (yes, they're really going to do a sequel...) But the oddest most totally out of the blue thing he mentioned, was his response to when they asked him if he's like to do a superhero film. His answer was that he'd actually already taken a meeting with Marvel about Namor The Sub Mariner, but doesn't know if he's up for it. He actually sounded like he wasn't really too interested specifically in that character, but he would be up for something if the right role came along. The really interesting thing though is the hint that maybe Marvel is looking to actually move forward on this film. Last we had heard, the Namor movie was scheduled to be directed by Jonathan Mostow of Terminator 3 fame based on a screenplay by David Self. I don't know where it was, but back two years ago or so I remember reading about how this film was on the Marvel fasttrack with a script that everyone loved, and a proposed trilogy of films. I think that Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson's name was even bandied about some. But somewhere along the line, Namor fell by the wayside, so this news of possible movement is definitely interesting. While I was never a massive fan of the character I definitely think that a good movie could be made with him. Have we ever even seen an underwater film starring mer-people with today's CG technology? I think it could be very cool. Although I might say as with Silver Surfer, he should probably be introduced in Fantastic Four, and then spun off into his own films. Whatever they decide to do though, I'll be keeping my eyes open for further news.

Finally, in Shia Labeouf news, as he was out stomping for Indy 4, and Eagle Eye he talked a bit about the proposed Y the Last Man film, and Transformers 2. Regarding Y, Labeouf says that he has been talking about it with director DJ Caruso, and they are both big fans of the comic. They want to make it happen, but just need to find time to schedule it. And as for Transformers 2, while it already has a tentative release date of July 26th, 2009, considering the WGA strike Labeouf says that there hasn't been any significant movement on the film. That said, I suspect that pretty much as soon as the strike ends Bay and co will get right on it. As we know Bay is already doing what pre-production he can. So we'll definitely hear more on that in the near enough future.

And that's all I've got for the non-news updates. Kinda nice to get a status check on a few things in the pipeline, despite the fact that there isn't really much to report. More to come on all of these projects as it develops.
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You want a Quantum of what?!?

Umm, you know I'm not too sure what to say; I don't normally talk about the Bond films here. And not because I don't enjoy them, but more because I just get too tired trying to keep up with it all, and some things simply have to fall by the wayside. Sure I'll go see it, and probably enjoy it but I'm not invested enough to stay ontop of every little bit of news as it comes out.

That said, some news items just cannot be ignored. Yesterday it was announced that the title of the new Bond film, that's 22 for those of you that are counting, will be 007: Quantum of Solace.... umm what?! Whatever happened to the good old days when we had titles like "Die Another Golden Yesteryear"... And "You Only Kill Forever". Quantum of Solace??? seriously? Does that even mean anything?

Ok, technically I suppose it means a very small amount of aloneness and I guess that could be what Bond is searching for or something, but the title still sounds super goofy.

The film is set to begin literally 1 hour after Casino Royale ended and will pick up the story with Bond trying to get to the bottom of Vesper's betrayal and death. After finding out that the same terrorists have other agents in the employ of Mi6, Her Majesty's Government and the CIA, Bond travels to Haiti and then Latin America to stop a greedy businessman's plot to financially endorse a coup in .. Bolivia (I believe) ... Or something like that. I'm sure it'll all be tied together and make sense when we see it. Or more likely, as I found with Casino Royale, the plot will be incredibly convoluted that we can just tune out and enjoy the action. Either way, I'm sure it'll be fun; Bond is always fun.

Although the release date has already been pushed back a bit, Quantum of Solace is scheduled to be released in N, America on November 7th, '08.
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my Iron Man concern

Ok, so click on this new image (care of SHH) from Iron Man to get a bigger view then come back here.

Is it just me or is something just slightly off? I mean don't get me wrong, I love the character. I'm loving what I'm seeing from the film. And ultimately I think its great that Marvel keeps releasing these Iron Man teaser pictures (here and here), but when you really look up close, yes it looks damn cool; but I can still tell that its CG. And if I have one apprehension about Iron Man it's that there will be a great scene with a physical suit followed by a scene with a CG suit and everyone will be able to tell. That's my worry.

I know that if it happens I wont hold it against Favs or Marvel. I know everyone is doing what they can, and I'm sure a boat load of cash is going into Post to make sure that very thing does not happen, but I just sincerely hope the movie making technology is really there for this movie to kick all sorts of ass.

I'm probably just being paranoid anyhow, take a look back at something like T2. I was totally able to suspend my disbelief back then; this should be no different, regardless of the final product. That said, fingers crossed for a great final product.

Iron Man opens on May 2nd.
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so long Heath Ledger

Like pretty much everyone I was shocked and honestly saddened by the news yesterday about Heath Ledger's untimely death. It's so sad to see this happen to a really talented young actor in the prime of his career and life. I don't wan to say too much or anything; others have already eulogized him very well. I just wanted to express how much I enjoyed so much of his work. He seemed like a really grounded guy, despite what TMZ has been implicitly speculating about suicide and pills. The jury's still out on that, but I sure hope its not the case. In my, and I'm sure a lot of other people's eyes Heath had a lot to live for. Sigh, ok, I'm not going to talk about that. The important and tragic thing is that he's gone and will be definitely missed.

I love a lot of his films, but the one that I really enjoy that sticks out in my mind has to be The Order. I know it has some problems, but I just really really dig it, and I was just waiting on the day when Ledger became a big enough star to jump on for a sequel. But he never got the chance... I recommend you go check out The Order; its kind of like a lot of other religious/action/horror/mystery films (think Stigmata, Bless the Child, End of Days) but it has some really nice twists that give it a fresh feel; and the ending is just badass. I'm unhappy I'll never get to see a sequel, and more unhappy that Heath wont ever get a chance to step back into The Sin Eater world.

If he had stayed I know we would've gotten some more fantastic performances from him. Brokeback was great, but I think he could've honestly reached even more heights. Sorry Heath, you'll really be missed.

AICN is reporting that all Heath's post production as the Joker on The Dark Knight has been completed, so we'll get one more totally intact film from the man, however his follow up. Terry Gilliam's The Imaginarium of Doctor Parnassus is another story though. I'm sure we'll find out what the plan on that film is in the coming days and weeks.

For now, I think we should just remember what a great talent we've lost.
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Oscar nominations announced

Despite the continuing uncertainty of the Writers Strike in Hollywood, the show must at least try to go on. And that includes award shows. After the debacle that was the Golden Globes I'm not sure anyone wants to relive that with the oscars, but for now lets just enjoy todays announcement of the Oscar nominees. As usual I'll put my picks in orange. See you after the jump.

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ACTOR -- LEADING

George Clooney - MICHAEL CLAYTON
Daniel Day-Lewis - THERE WILL BE BLOOD
Johnny Depp - SWEENEY TODD THE DEMON BARBER OF FLEET STREET
Tommy Lee Jones - IN THE VALLEY OF ELAH
Viggo Mortensen - EASTERN PROMISES

ACTOR -- SUPPORTING

Casey Affleck - THE ASSASSINATION OF JESSE JAMES BY THE COWARD ROBERT FORD
Javier Bardem - NO COUNTRY FOR OLD MEN
Philip Seymour Hoffman - CHARLIE WILSON’S WAR
Hal Holbrook - INTO THE WILD
Tom Wilkinson - MICHAEL CLAYTON

ACTRESS -- LEADING

Cate Blanchett - ELIZABETH: THE GOLDEN AGE
Julie Christie - AWAY FROM HER
Marion Cotillard - LA VIE EN ROSE
Laura Linney - THE SAVAGES
Ellen Page - JUNO

ACTRESS -- SUPPORTING

Cate Blanchett - I’M NOT THERE
Ruby Dee - AMERICAN GANGSTER
Saoirse Ronan - ATONEMENT
Amy Ryan - GONE BABY GONE
Tilda Swinton - MICHAEL CLAYTON

ANIMATED FEATURE

PERSEPOLIS
RATATOUILLE
SURF’S UP

CINEMATOGRAPHY

THE ASSASSINATION OF JESSE JAMES BY THE COWARD ROBERT FORD
ATONEMENT
THE DIVING BELL AND THE BUTTERFLY
NO COUNTRY FOR OLD MEN
THERE WILL BE BLOOD

COSTUME DESIGN

ACROSS THE UNIVERSE
ATONEMENT
ELIZABETH: THE GOLDEN AGE
LA VIE EN ROSE
SWEENEY TODD THE DEMON BARBER OF FLEET STREET

DIRECTING

THE DIVING BELL AND THE BUTTERFLY
JUNO
MICHAEL CLAYTON
NO COUNTRY FOR OLD MEN
THERE WILL BE BLOOD

DOCUMENTARY FEATURE

NO END IN SIGHT
OPERATION HOMECOMING:
WRITING THE WARTIME EXPERIENCE
SICKO
TAXI TO THE DARK SIDE
WAR/DANCE

FOREIGN LANGUAGE FILM

BEAUFORT
THE COUNTERFEITERS
KATYŃ
MONGOL
12

ORIGINAL SCORE

ATONEMENT
THE KITE RUNNER
MICHAEL CLAYTON
RATATOUILLE
3:10 TO YUMA

ORIGINAL SONG

"Falling Slowly" - ONCE
"Happy Working Song" - ENCHANTED
"Raise It Up" - AUGUST RUSH
"So Close" - ENCHANTED
"That’s How You Know" - ENCHANTED

DOCUMENTARY SHORT

FREEHELD
LA CORONA (THE CROWN)
SALIM BABA
SARI’S MOTHER

ART DIRECTION

AMERICAN GANGSTER
ATONEMENT
THE GOLDEN COMPASS
SWEENEY TODD THE DEMON BARBER OF FLEET STREET
THERE WILL BE BLOOD

MAKEUP

LA VIE EN ROSE
NORBIT
PIRATES OF THE CARIBBEAN: AT WORLD’S END

FILM EDITING

THE BOURNE ULTIMATUM
THE DIVING BELL AND THE BUTTERFLY
INTO THE WILD
NO COUNTRY FOR OLD MEN
THERE WILL BE BLOOD

VISUAL EFFECTS

THE GOLDEN COMPASS
PIRATES OF THE CARIBBEAN: AT WORLD’S END
TRANSFORMERS

SOUND EDITING

THE BOURNE ULTIMATUM
NO COUNTRY FOR OLD MEN
RATATOUILLE
THERE WILL BE BLOOD
TRANSFORMERS

SCREENPLAY -- ADAPTED

ATONEMENT
AWAY FROM HER
THE DIVING BELL
AND THE BUTTERFLY
NO COUNTRY FOR OLD MEN
THERE WILL BE BLOOD

SCREENPLAY -- ORIGINAL

JUNO
LARS AND THE REAL GIRL
MICHAEL CLAYTON
RATATOUILLE
THE SAVAGES

SOUND MIXING

THE BOURNE ULTIMATUM
NO COUNTRY FOR OLD MEN
RATATOUILLE
3:10 TO YUMA
TRANSFORMERS

SHORT FILM -- LIVE ACTION

AT NIGHT
IL SUPPLENTE (THE SUBSTITUTE)
LE MOZART DES PICKPOCKETS
(THE MOZART OF PICKPOCKETS)
TANGHI ARGENTINI
THE TONTO WOMAN

BEST PICTURE

ATONEMENT
JUNO
MICHAEL CLAYTON
NO COUNTRY FOR OLD MEN
THERE WILL BE BLOOD


SHORT FILM -- ANIMATED

I MET THE WALRUS
MADAME TUTLI-PUTLI
MÊME LES PIGEONS VONT
AU PARADIS
(EVEN PIGEONS GO TO HEAVEN)
MY LOVE (MOYA LYUBOV)
PETER & THE WOLF

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Since its late at night, and I'm tired, I don't want to 100% commit to those choices, but for the moment, they'll definitely do...

Check out more at the official Oscar site, The Oscars, for the time being at least, will air live on ABC, Sunday February 24th at 5pm Pacific Time. Until next time, lates everyone.
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Duke casting rumors

A few days ago I saw a great rumor over at /Film that I meant to post; but honestly just never got a chance to. Until now of course.... but even better, having waited I have yet another conflicting rumor to spread. Ah the fun of blogging :)

As we all know casting for the G.I. Joe movie is well underway, but the biggest role of all has yet to be announced, that of Joe team leader Conrad "Duke" Hauser. Well look no further than the rumor mill and you shall find your answers. /Film reports, I believe based off this Latino Review story, that the role of Duke has been narrowed down to 3 likely candidates. And no, one of them is NOT Sam Worthington as rumored before. He is officially locked up filming Avatar for James Cameron. No, Duke is apparently floating around the careers of Chris Evans, Channing Tatum and Matthew Fox. Which one might nab the role is anybody's guess. But IGN Movies has thrown yet another name into the mix, that of Mike Vogel, who if you've seen Cloverfield is Rob's brother Jason who has a very memorable scene on the Brooklyn bridge.

My choice for Duke, if it has to be one of these three is Channing Tatum. I think he has the look, and while I haven't actually seen him in anything, I think he looks great as an army guy in the trailer for the upcoming Stop-Loss. hmmm, maybe I should see Supercross, it looks like Tatum and Vogel are both in it. Anyhow, as long as they don't go with Chris Evans I'll be cool. That guy definitely needs some acting lessons.

Who would you pick, and why?
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Trek teaser and viral beginnings

Since I posted last week with that crappy quality Youtube clip of the new Star Trek trailer a few developments have arisen. Firstly , the official Trek website has been updated with the trailer in glorious HD for your viewing pleasure. You can also, as before, register for updates on the film there.

Secondly, and I wonder if maybe more or less importantly, Bad Robot are up to their old Cloverfield tricks again, launching the first of what I assume will be many Trek viral sites. This one, NCC-1701.com has four viewing panes that, after tuning in, will reveal various views of the construction dock where the Enterprise is being built. Check it out if you get a chance and keep an eye out, Camera 2 is currently offline.

Oh, let the games begin :) I'll leave you with a much better quality version of the teaser trailer off of Youtube. adios muchachos.


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A final Cloverfield update... for now

It seems despite my strange and slightly hesitant enthusiastic endorsement of Cloverfield it looks like the masses have spoken. This film is a hit. Unqualified success. A monster movie smack dab 'on the map' as it were. ComingSoon reports that Cloverfield earned a whopping $46 million in it's four day opening weekend, shattering the previous MLK holiday weekend record set by Blak Hawk Down of $33 mil, and ultimately went on to score the biggest opening in January ever. And Paramount is thrilled lauding Cloverfield, and specifically its viral marketing campaign, as Vice Chairman Rob Moore said "this movie defines what we want to do at Paramount." High praise, but considering these are the kind of numbers any studio would be proud of in the summertime, it's well earned.

And what of the future? Are we going to get more Cloverfield? A sequel perhaps? I mean, I know the movie just came out, but I have to think they're considering it in light of its success. I'm sorry I can't find the interview now, but I know I read somewhere J.J. Abrams or director Matt Reeves saying how they'd kicked a few ideas around during post production, but nothing has been set in stone yet. If I remember correctly they were talking more about what it would be like to film the same attack, and tell the same story from another group of characters perspectives. Anyhow, I'm sure Paramount will be on top of that as soon as humanly possible.

One thing I didn't mention in my review is that if you do go and see Cloverfield there is one little easter egg sitting right at the end of the credits. So if you are going, I encourage you to stay until the very end. For me though I went and saw the easter egg and was still confused. So if like me you wanted to understand that treat better, just click on this link to reveal the BIG SPOILER. I encourage you not to look if you haven't seen the film yet though.

As a well timed license, probably with the dvd release, Hasbro has listed on their toyshop webpage that they will be offering what sound like a fantastic Cloverfield movie monster toy featuring a huge 70 points of articulation. The 14" tall toy will also come with some great accessories like the Statue of Liberty head, and should be available around the beginning of October. Just in time for Christmas, which is maybe a good thing as the one downside to the toy is the hefty pricetag of $99... anyone up for a group gift?

My final note on Cloverfield, is regarding the Slusho video contest. I have to suspect that I did NOT in fact win one of the top 5 spots, as no one has called me and the contest winners should've been notified by this past Friday. The Slusho website has been updated to say that the winners have been chosen and we should await their appearance online soon. The only odd thing about the whole shenanigan is that no one has stepped forward to tell the waiting throngs of fans that they have won. Or at least no one has said anything on the two best fan sites I visit, cloverfieldclues.com, and cloverfieldnews.com. That seems odd to me. Anyhow, I'm sure they would've told me if I won, so I'm going to assume I didn't :( I did however have a good time making my Very Slusho Xmas video, and have to admit that currently sitting on 2,359 Youtube views isn't such a bad place to be.

I will probably be back with more on Cloverfield one day, but for now I'm done. That is, until the sequel...
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Ryan playing Ryan?

Falling squarely in the rumor category for now, Moviehole reports that Phillip Noyce, director of such illustrious films as The Saint, The Bone Collector, and my personal favorite Dead Calm is not in the running to direct the next installment in the escapades of Jack Ryan. Although Noyce did quite well directing the two Harrison Ford installments, Patriot Games and Clear and Present Danger, Noyce himself tells Moviehole that he has other commitments.

But here comes the juicy rumor part. From what he's heard, Noyce claims that Paramount is indeed planning a relaunch of sorts for the franchise, with a young hot star in the role of Jack Ryan. And that the actor being eyed up for the part is none other than Ryan Gosling.

Now while I support Gosling on principle as a talented young Canadian actor working in the harsh world of American entertainment, I am legitimately impressed with what I've seen from him and think he could definitely do this role justice. Just look at Half Nelson and you can see what talent this guy has, pair that to a good 'thinking mans' action film and I think you've got a winner on your hands. Of course for now this is officially just speculation, but here's hoping that this time they've got it right.
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Wild Things at sunset

So admittedly I can't remember where exactly I found this picture. I know I was reading a quick article about the upcoming Where the Wild Things Are film, and I saw it. Probably the article was something about Karen O, of the Yeah Yeah Yeahs working on the soundtrack for Spike Jonze. It's a nice picture that makes me feel like this film will have a sweet tone to it.

Despite recent announcements that Lauren Ambrose will be doing voice work for the film, Where the Wild Things Are has unfortunately been pushed from October back into a 2009 release. But I think we'd all would rather that Jonze and crew take the time needed to make an awesome film than rush into anything with a property beloved by so many. So I for one encourage the extra time.

More as it develops. Until then, I stumbled across this nice looking fan site on the film. Check it out for regular updates, or stick with me for the big news as it comes in.
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Meth Minute 39

In case you're not familiar with it I wanted to take a quick second and recommend Channel Frederator. It is a cartoon video podcast network, that while working mostly online now, is responsible for such famed Cartoon Network and Nickelodeon shows as The Fairly OddParents, and Dexter's Laboratory. It is a great source for funny new and almost always irreverent indie cartoons on the web. If you have a video ipod or some spare time on your hands to surf, I would definitely recommend you check them out as a whole. But specifically I wanted to recommend one of their ongoing short programs called The Meth Minute 39, as created by Dan Meth.

You've probably heard his hugely successful web-sation Internet People. And if you haven't and you're at all interested in pop culture and web phenoms you're definitely missing out. His show is really fun all the time though. Every week it's something new, and every week he tries to use a different kind of animation or style, and best of all it's syndicated for your convenience. I personally like P-Cock from a few weeks ago. Check it out, and then go check out the other Meth Minutes online.



Later all.
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Cloverfield review

After all the hype, and all the crazed Slusho fueled nights it's finally here. Cloverfield has landed, and Bad Robot has delivered on exactly what it promised us the first time we saw that head fly down the street so many months ago. A pretty kickass monster movie, with amazing effects, a few good jolts, and the unforgiving pulverizing destruction of downtown Manhattan.

Cloverfield delivers a great honest to god edge of your seat action film. The shocks are riddled throughout, and I was legitimately worried when I saw some of the things I won't spoil by talking about here. Maybe most immediate on everyone who has seen the film yet's mind though, is yes the monster itself is unbelievably awesome and destructive and you get lots of great and grisly views of it. This film never pretends to be something its not. It gives you just enough character investment and emotional story to string together what I consider a suitably plausible plotline where our heroes feel its necessary to travel directly into the path of mayhem, and then it lets loose with the extremely fucked up consequences of that decision.

I don't want to feel like I have to defend this film, but I do think that other people might have a decidedly different reaction to it than me. My advice, don't go into Cloverfield expecting it to be a weighty drama, don't expect always super logical situations, characters, or motivations. The biggest complaints I've heard from people who see this movie are that it wasn't this or it wasn't that, it didn't meet their lofty expectations, but let's try to look at what it is because I honestly don't think this film needs any more than it has.

Think of the technical work done here. It's amazing the effort that obviously went into making this film. The effects on the whole are SO good, you honestly don't even realize your not watching the real city in ruins, until of course you run across the literally one or two scenes that are obvious set pieces. But those are totally forgivable, because everything else seems to be the real deal and it's the fact of the work, planning, and execution I know must've gone into of the hundreds of other shots that I barely had time to absorb, that were so real I just innately believed them, that this film deserves huge accolades. The camera work, which while not as bad as Blair Witch, might make some viewers a bit nauseous (try sitting a bit further back), is overall great and extremely organic feeling. As is most of the acting; at least in their expression of terror and determination. Yes, I understand how incredulous the story is, but other than some clunky dialogue here and there, especially at the beginning, and a few extremely convenient camera angles, this film feels totally real. And that is a feat that should not be undervalued.

Overall I really enjoyed this film. It was immensely satisfying to finally see it after all of my ponderous film-stalking, and thankfully it did not disappoint. For me, Cloverfield managed to be exactly what I was expecting, and hoping for. Does it make my list of top films ever? no probably not... But if I were to rank it among the various giant monster movies I've seen, I would easily put it up alongside Gojira, and Kong, as one of the best, and it's certainly the best monster film of recent years.

If you do get a chance I'd highly recommend checking out Cloverfield. For me it was really a cool film that was well worth the wait. If you can go in expecting a fun ride, with a lot of monstrous action, and just let the craziness take over I think you'll enjoy yourself a lot too.
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Star Trek trailer

I put a better version of this Star Trek trailer up once it surfaces online, but for now, just enjoy...



Oh and for you die hards out there, head over to IESB.net where they scored some really good but quick video interviews with most of the cast of Trek on the carpet at the Cloverfield premiere.
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AMPTP deals with the DGA

In a surprising case of good news, the Directors Guild of America and the AMPTP have come to a quick resolution to their contract negotiations. A quick yet nonetheless groundbreaking resolution.

It was feared that in the currently hostile Hollywood environment that tensions from the WGA-AMPTP strike would spill over into the DGA negotiations, as is expected with the SAG-AFTRA talks to come this summer; however it thankfully did not. And its made all the more noteworthy in that many of the concessions the AMPTP seem to have made for the DGA are similar if not identical to what the WGA are asking for.

Read all about it here. According to the announcement the most significant points include:

- Increases to both wages and residual bases for each year of the contract.

- Establishment of DGA jurisdiction over programs produced for distribution on the Internet.

- Establishment of a new residuals formula for paid Internet downloads (electronic sell-through) that essentially doubles the rate currently paid by employers.

- Establishment of residual rates for ad-supported streaming and use of clips on the Internet.

Great news. So does this hurt? help? hinder? the WGA cause? I mean, while I want to take this as really good news, does it mean that the AMPTP can now say 'look writers, the DGA agreed to this, you better take this deal too'. even though just because its right for the Directors Guild doesn't mean it necessarily is for the writers? Frankly I could see this weakening the writers case. BUT... and it really is a big but, the simple admittance by the AMPTP that these things: proprietary internet content, value of those online goods, and online ad revenues, not only exist but are legitimately worth something speaks volumes. If the were even thinking of continuing to play the 'there's no value to online content' card, they've just destroyed their argument.

And hot on the heels of today's DGA news, the AMPTP has announced that it will be going back to the discussion table with the WGA. I would presume they will try to offer the WGA something similar to what they've given the directors. And hopefully, it will be enough. The writers themselves seem cautiously optimistic.

I stand by the writers regardless. If they don't think that the AMPTP is making them offers in good faith, or to the level that they want I would definitely want them to wait it out... will the rest of the public?

Lets hope it doesn't come down to that, and just be happy that this writers strike might finally be starting to come to an end.
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Enterprise under construction

With the release of Cloverfield nationwide tomorrow, JJ has dropped a great little tidbit of Star Trek on us plebes. Check out this picture of the Enterprise being built. Click to enlarge. Sure thats nice, but shouldn't that be in space? I'll have to wiki that at some point and figure out...

Also hitting the interweb today, the official Star Trek movie site has gone live. Not too much to look at for the moment, but at least there's a nice little logo graphic. Enjoy it people, Christmas Day is a mere 11 and a half months away.

Although advance reviews for Cloverfield are surfacing online, I have yet to see a good description or better yet a bootleg of the Star Trek trailer that is supposedly attached to it. Hopefully tomorrow.

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Justice League on hold

Well it's official now, and thank goodness, The Justice League movie has been put on "indefinite hold", until at the very least after the writers strike ends. Hopefully that will give everyone time to think things through and for everyone to realize that their approach was all wrong from the get go.

I do feel bad for George Miller who seemed to genuinely think he was headed in the right direction, but I applaud Warner for not rushing headlong into something like this.

Whats to become of the stand alone Flash and Green Lantern movies? Will the rumored Megan Gale still don the star-spangled swimsuit? And what does this really mean for Superman: The Man of Steel?

Those are questions that we will be left wondering for now...

UPDATE - The Hollywood Reporter and Variety make note specifically of which actors contracts has been allowed to lapse, and hence we have finally an actual semi-official listing of the cast that was to be. And since Warners has said, at least for now, that they want to make this movie with these actors at some point, this list could be something we'll be seeing more of. As the man of steel Superman, we find D.J. Cotrona, as the dark knight Batman, Armie Hammer Jr., as Wonder Woman, Megan Gale, as The Flash, Adam Brody, and as john stewart Green Lantern, Common. their lists also include Anton Yelchin, and Teresa Palmer. I think Anton was going to play The Martin Manhunter, and Teresa was going to play Lois Lane, but I could be off base there as those roles specifically aren't mentioned. Anyhow, it definitely is interesting to see where they were going with this film, and it's still quite clear to me that this delay is a good thing for everyone. Well everyone except the actors.
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Doomsday trailer

Check out this trailer for Doomsday. The movie opens March 14th stateside. While yes, I agree it looks cool, really nothing seems too groundbreaking. I mean, I don't like the word cliche, because sometimes cliched stuff is just good 'genre film', but this movie sure does look like a lot of other stuff I've seen before...


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WWNPHD?

Harold and Kumar: Escape from Guantanamo Bay is set to open on April 25th.

Check out the trailer

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The Road on film

Variety reports that Charlize Theron has just signed on to a film that I have to say sounds very intriguing in a Mad Max meets Midnight Nation sort of way. The movie called The Road is set to start shooting next month and will star Viggo Mortenson as a man who "embarks on a nightmarish road trip after a nuclear explosion in an attempt to transport his son to safety while fending off cannibals"....

I know what your thinking now; do we really need another cannibal movie? but the answer of course is yes! Especially when the book was awarded the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction in 2006! For real.

Theron, specifically will play Viggo's wife and will most likely only been seen in flashbacks to 'happier times' but I have to say I like the set up for this film. It sounds very desolate and beautiful, we need more of that.
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Bale hunts Dillinger

Having just finished watching Rescue Dawn this very morning on my way into work I have to say I am really really impressed with the versatility that Christian Bale has shown in his career. His choices are consistently interesting. And I really get the sense that he chooses roles that he thinks will challenge him. That is very refreshing to see in an actor. And so the news that he is teaming up with another highly respected actor, Johnny Depp, is very good news indeed.

Christian Bale has joined onto the cast of Michael Mann's, John Dillinger biopic Public Enemies. Bale will play FBI agent Melvin Purvis who famously hunted down Dillinger (to be played by Depp) along with other famous criminals of the day.

Sounds like this could be another really cool Mann film in the works.
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Conan the moviestar...

Here's some news from late last week.

Lionsgate has agreed to fund a reported $100 million Conan movie! While there was some indication that this was in the works, the announcement has been made official now, as Variety reports that writers Thomas Dean Donnelly and Joshua Oppenheimer of Sahara infamy have been hired on to pen the film. While the timeframe will depend on what happens with the writers strike, the thought is for this to kick off a series of Conan the Barbarian films that will hopefully begin shooting by the end of the year.

Hopefully they pull this off. Conan is a great character that definitely deserves another look. We'll see what becomes of this all in the weeks and months ahead...
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Golden Globe winners

While I wisely avoided the Golden Globe Press Conference (haha) last night, in order to go see Persepolis (fantastic); I thought it might be interesting to check out the winners. Straight from the HFPA to you, here are your 2008 Golden Globe winners!

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65th Golden Globe Award Winners

Hollywood Foreign Press Association
2008 Golden Globe Award Winners
for the year ended December 31, 2007

BEST MOTION PICTURE – DRAMA

ATONEMENT
Working Title Films Limited; Focus Features

BEST PERFORMANCE BY AN ACTRESS IN A MOTION PICTURE – DRAMA

JULIE CHRISTIE
Away From Her

BEST PERFORMANCE BY AN ACTOR IN A MOTION PICTURE – DRAMA

DANIEL DAY-LEWIS
There Will Be Blood

BEST MOTION PICTURE – COMEDY OR MUSICAL

SWEENEY TODD: THE DEMON BARBER OF FLEET STREET
Parkes/MacDonald and Zanuck Company; DreamWorks/Paramount Distribution /
Warner Bros. Pictures

BEST PERFORMANCE BY AN ACTRESS IN A MOTION PICTURE – COMEDY OR MUSICAL

MARION COTILLARD
La Vie En Rose

BEST PERFORMANCE BY AN ACTOR IN A MOTION PICTURE – COMEDY OR MUSICAL

JOHNNY DEPP
Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street

BEST ANIMATED FEATURE FILM

RATATOUILLE
Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures; Pixar Animation Studios

BEST FOREIGN LANGUAGE FILM

THE DIVING BELL AND THE BUTTERFLY – FRANCE AND USA
A Kennedy/Marshall Company and Jon Kilik Production; Miramax

BEST PERFORMANCE BY AN ACTRESS IN A SUPPORTING ROLE IN A MOTION PICTURE

CATE BLANCHETT
I’m Not There

BEST PERFORMANCE BY AN ACTOR IN A SUPPORTING ROLE IN A MOTION PICTURE

JAVIER BARDEM
No Country for Old Men

BEST DIRECTOR – MOTION PICTURE

JULIAN SCHNABEL
The Diving Bell and the Butterfly

BEST SCREENPLAY – MOTION PICTURE

ETHAN COEN & JOEL COEN
No Country for Old Men

BEST ORIGINAL SCORE – MOTION PICTURE

DARIO MARIANELLI
Atonement

BEST ORIGINAL SONG – MOTION PICTURE

“GUARANTEED” — INTO THE WILD
Music & Lyrics by: Eddie Vedder

BEST TELEVISION SERIES – DRAMA

MAD MEN
Lionsgate; AMC

BEST PERFORMANCE BY AN ACTRESS IN A TELEVISION SERIES – DRAMA

GLENN CLOSE
Damages

BEST PERFORMANCE BY AN ACTOR IN A TELEVISION SERIES – DRAMA

JON HAMM
Mad Men

BEST TELEVISION SERIES – COMEDY OR MUSICAL

EXTRAS
BBC and HBO Entertainment; HBO

BEST PERFORMANCE BY AN ACTRESS IN A TELEVISION SERIES – COMEDY OR MUSICAL

TINA FEY
30 Rock

BEST PERFORMANCE BY AN ACTOR IN A TELEVISION SERIES – COMEDY OR MUSICAL

DAVID DUCHOVNY
Californication

BEST MINI-SERIES OR MOTION PICTURE MADE FOR TELEVISION

LONGFORD
A Granada Production in association with Channel 4 and HBO Films; HBO

BEST PERFORMANCE BY AN ACTRESS IN A MINI-SERIES OR MOTION PICTURE MADE FOR TELEVISION

QUEEN LATIFAH
Life Support

BEST PERFORMANCE BY AN ACTOR IN A MINI-SERIES OR MOTION PICTURE MADE FOR TELEVISION

JIM BROADBENT
Longford

BEST PERFORMANCE BY AN ACTRESS IN A SUPPORTING ROLE IN A SERIES, MINI-SERIES OR MOTION PICTURE MADE FOR TELEVISION

SAMANTHA MORTON
Longford

BEST PERFORMANCE BY AN ACTOR IN A SUPPORTING ROLE IN A SERIES, MINI-SERIES OR MOTION PICTURE MADE FOR TELEVISION

JEREMY PIVEN
Entourage


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My reaction honestly is one of surprise. I guess according to my own predictions I got 10/25 correct, which isn't horrible, but doesn't it seem like a lot of these winners are not the typical kind of shows and people who win these awards? I mean, 30 Rock I understand; but Mad Men? Damages? And I've never even heard of Longford. Maybe I'm just getting the Golden Globes mixed up with The Emmys... Anyhow, overall I'm pretty happy with these choices. It's great to see quality entertainment recognized as opposed to whatever cheap trick plays to the lowest common denominator. Good choices Hollywood Foreign Press.
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New Tube

Hey so I know I haven't been blogging a lot lately. Thats really just the price you pay for a new job :( I plan to catch up one of these days, but for now I think everyone will have to suffice with sporadic updates.

I do have some good news though. As some of you may know, my tv broke at the beginning of December. Well this weekend Erica and I took the plunge and got ourselves a new one. Not just any new one either. We've finally gotten ourselves an HDTV. It's really nothing super fancy but so far I have to say I'm really liking it.

The Dynex 32" flat-panel LCD HDTV.

Dynex is one of the Best Buy house brand, so while it's nothing too fancy it really has what were looking for, including 2 HDMI ports, and a S-video input connection (so we can string our PC through the tv), even though its only 720p it should serve us well enough. You can see more specs here if you're interested. With the Superbowl quickly approaching the sales have started and we got a pretty solid deal of a $459.99 in store price.

Additionally we have our brand new "naked DSL" internet service (we got the 3.0 mbps down plan) starting with AT&T on the 15th. This should be a very good tech week in our household.

More posts as soon as I can. Until then have a good one.
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New Knight Rider trailer

Coming in February on NBC; unlike the recently released teaser, this trailer for Knight Rider actually gives us a good look at KITT. Check here for more on the show, including some great high rez photos by a bunch of gearheads. Anyhow, enjoy the trailer. I know I'm definitely looking forward to seeing what happens with this one.


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It stings doesn't it...

Oh that's right Hollywood. Feel the burn. Because your precious Golden Globe Awards show has been CANCELED!!!

After negotiations between the HFPA and the WGA to find a common ground for the awards ceremony that would permit writers to work on the show fell through last week it became clear that there were serious problems afoot. But then when SAG president Alan Rosenberg urged union actors across LALAland to boycott the ceremony, and show their solidarity by not crossing picket lines we went into crisis mode.

And now as reported here it looks like NBC have crumbled under the weighty proposal of a starless telecast. And what pray tell do they have planned in place of the GG awards? What will be put up against FOX's premiere of The Sarah Connor Chronicles? Why a series of super exciting News Telecasts that will reveal the GG winners!!! Wow, the glamor is almost too much to take...

Here's the schedule:
-- At 7 PM, we will air a Dateline with clips and interviews with nominees. (Currently scheduled to air for two hours on Saturday night.)
-- At 8 PM, we are negotiating with Dick Clark Enterprises for a one-hour retrospective/clip show.
-- At 9 PM there will be a press conference covered by NBC News announcing the Golden Globe winners. (9pm-10pm)
-- At 10 PM, we will broadcast an "Access Hollywood" style, Golden Globes party show...visiting the various parties in Hollywood

Wow. When you talk about Hollywood magic I definitely think Brian Williams announcing the Golden Globe winner for best make up in a Lifetime movie...

I hope this makes the AMPTP wake up some, I mean Jesus Murphy, is this what I can expect from my Oscars too???

All this hot on the heels of official word that Tom Cruise and Paula Wagner's United Artists production company has struck a deal with the WGA along a similar lines to Letterman's Wold Wide Pants to become the second production company able to get back to work. And while it may effectively be only a temporary agreement before a larger reaching one is hammered out, it does absolutely nothing to strengthen the studios position.

This news just makes me more and more unhappy with the AMPTP. They need to get back to the table and cut a friggin' deal asap. If this strike bleeds into a SAG strike this summer we probably won't even remember what real television looks like by the time we get anything back.

Watch Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles premiere on 01/13.
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Power of the Dark Crystal update

Wizard has posted a story about a few upcoming animated features and one of their segments concerns none other than The Power of the Dark Crystal film. While I did post about this film once or twice before, a little refresher is probably in order.

Set to come out this winter (that's '08 people) the film, a sequel to the original Dark Crystal will feature a mix of puppets and CGI backgrounds. It is being directed by cartooning mastermind Genndy Tartakovsky of Samurai Jack / Clone Wars fame. The plot according to Wizard is "Set on the mythical planet Thra, the follow-up takes place years after the ending of the original and begins with Jen and Kira welcoming to their castle a guest from the center of the planet, Thurma the fire girl, who, in a desperate attempt to save her people, re-shatters the Crystal. "

The article also mentions how Genndy, Lisa Henson, and the rest of the creative team really tried to find the original puppeteers to reprise their roles and even hired on original screenwriter David Odell. It seems they are really treating this with the reverence it deserves, and for that I think we can all be happy.

On a side note, I got the Legends of the Dark Crystal vol 1 manga for Christmas and really enjoyed it. I would definitely recommend it to anyone who likes the Dark Crystal world. its an original story taking place before the events of the first film, And is an adventure tale concerning a young gelfling trying to survive after his entire village was slaughtered by the vile Skeksis. Check it out if you can.

We'll keep our eyes out for more on the Power of the Dark Crystal film as it comes out I'm VERY interested to see what the puppetry / CG mix finally looks like.
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More Joe casting

One new star confirmed, and another on the way. According to Variety none other than Marlon Wayans, the last and so far third (?) most successful Wayans brother to make his way in the world has been cast as Ripcord in the G.I. Joe movie. While Ripcord was decidedly not black in the comics and and action figures I guess changing that up isn't a big deal. What I wonder is why they didn't just have Wayans play Stalker. Now Stalker is definitely black, and he kicks ass. Odd, but whatever. Variety claims Ripcord is the "leader of the military unit"... ummm what the heck does that mean?! Is Ripcord in charge then? What about Duke? Obviously there are some facts that need to be clarified. Because seriously, Ripcord by his very name alone is a parachuter, and yes I understand that Airborne guys kick all sorts of ass. But is that really the guy who you put in charge of your elite special agent team of multi-backgrounded soldiers? I don't think so...

The other name that's come up as "in negotiations" for an unnamed role, is Joseph Gordon-Levitt, who has really bulked up lately. He is a really likable guy that I definitely hope gets a part. He's just someone I'd like to see succeed in this world and he definitely looks like he could be a soldier.

So pretty good news all around for the Joe team I'd say. More casting means the closer we are to seeing this thing get going. Oh, and one final tidbit from that short Variety article that I hadn't realized before. Apparently the G.I. Joe movie will take place 10 years in the future. which seems to fit pretty well if you ask me.

Looking forward to more as it comes.
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Tagruato - Chaui Station

Cloverfield is coming...

Slusho parent company Tagruato has had an incident at their Chaui drilling station.

According to their official press release "There has been an altercation at the Chaui Station. Although details are limited at present time, be assured that Tagruato is taking every measure necessary to ensure the safety and well being of all staff and crew. Specialty teams have been deployed, and are working aggressively to restore harmony at the site.

The cause of the problem is currently being investigated, although it is suspected that an eco-terror cell is responsible for the disturbance.

We have top investigators on our side. Everything will be resolved shortly, and all problems will be fixed. If you have any questions, please contact us at +81-3-5403-6318 for further instructions."

Altercado Tagruato alemán
Uploaded by UrulokiBlog

or in Italian, or in Spanish...

1-18-08.
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Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles review

So I meant to blog about this a few days ago, but as those of you who listen to my podcast know, I've been sans internet for a little while now. Intermittently, like now, I seem to be able to steal it from a nearby coffee shop but for the most part my household is currently unplugged.... A truly sad and shocking state of affairs. That said, forgive my semi tardiness.

I recently saw the pilot for Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles and I thought I'd share some thoughts. There will be some minor spoilers here, but nothing more than what I've gleaned from the first episode. Read on at your own risk.

So this new series , as I've discussed at some length here, follows the adventures of John and Sarah Connor alongside a new terminator ally, played by Summer Glau of Firefly fame, as they evade a new baddie Terminator from the future who, as usual want to stop John from ever becoming the leader destiny foretells. The story takes place in between the films Terminator 2 and 3 although through an odd set up twist at the end of the first episode it will actually be in current day (2008) as opposed to 1997 or whenever would make sense for John to be a teenager by the films timeframe. I think in the Terminator timeline the film Terminator 3 takes place in 2013 though, so they're all good for a few years of television. And I guess by their own time travel logic of T2 they can technically change the events of Terminator 3, but I definitely don't think that is the intention here. Terminator: TSCC is as far as I know, squarely in "canon" for the film series; past and future. Sorry if that sounds confusing, but it'll make more sense once you actually see the episode and how the 'twist' plays out at the end of the pilot.

That's all kind of beside the point though. The question remains, is this new series any good? Does it live up to what the Terminator franchise is, or can be, all about? Well I have top say yes, for the most part I quite enjoyed the show. The core actors are all well cast. Lena Headey as Sarah Connor is especially great, and while I don't know that I buy Summer Glau as a Terminator any more than I did Kristina Loken, at least shes nice to look at, and as her past on screen experience shows, is good to go on the action. The action is top notch for television and I believed all of the effects, at last within the established Terminator universe. Since this is going to be an action heavy show, I'll just hope they can maintain this kind of quality level and not fall prey to the cheaper episode syndrome of say Painkiller Jane. I have faith that it probably won't though. This is FOX and I think they know how big a series like this could be for them if played out right. Let's hope they invest in it like it needs.

My only real complaints regarding the show so far are the writing and believability of both the good and bad Terminators. That is something they'll need to refine as the show progresses, but I think that its definitely possible. As for the show overall, I'd give it a solid 8/10. Maybe develop a bit more mystery, throw in a few more monkey wrenches, that sort of thing. But I understand that it's pretty hard to contain everything in a pilot. From here on out though, I'll be interested to see how much more 'substance' develops. This is a show that I feel should definitely be action heavy as on par with the Terminator movies; but ultimately pattern itself more along the lines of a tv series like the short lived, mystery fueled Surface than the freak of the week, inconsequential villains and action of Smallville.

We'll see how it fares when the show officially premieres next week. Look for it on FOX on January 13th.
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