There is nothing like a surprise at the holiday time of year. Mine is "Kick-Ass"(2010). I never paid any attention to it. Not much of a super hero fan other than the Japanese reels of Ultraman and the weirdly wonderful Batman T.V. show from childhood. Big mistake! "Kick Ass" is a black comedy worthy of late night cult status. I thought it was simply a Coming of Age flick. Fun but not worth the time. Wrong! This is an absolutely strange and brilliant film. In the tradition of "Harold & Maude", "Eating Raoul" and many others. A MUST see. Brilliant Nicloas Cage as " Big Daddy" is actually over shadowed by his onscreen daughter named "Hit Girl". Other surprises for film history fans are everywhere!. I'm not going to tell....
Well done.
Monday, December 19, 2011
Thursday, December 15, 2011
Pick of the Week
Classified X (1998)- A documentary tracing the history of stereotypical portrayal of African Americans in the movies. Written and narrated by writer/director/actor Melvin Van Peebles. Van Peebles is best know for his groundbreaking 1971 film "Sweet Sweetback's Bad Asssss Song". Yes, the title is spelled that way. "Sweetback" broke the mold of stereotyped and assimilated black Americans in the cinema. His characters spoke like the people in the streets of the 1970's. They were strong, defiant and sexual. We will get back to that film in another posting. Classified X is entertaining and edged by the delivery of Van Peebles. He also wrote but did not direct this fascinating look into mirror for us all.
Film Crew Slang
"Bracketing"-Shooting the scene several times with different F-stops/T-stops to create a range of exposure effects.
F-stop-The amount of light transmitted by a lens based on a simple mathematical calculation. Focal Length of lens divided by the diameter of the aperture.
But different lenses will take in different amounts of light depending on the number of elements in them. So two lenses with an aperture of f4 may actually allow different amounts of light to pass through them. One might create a brighter image than the other.
T-stop-Similar to F-stop but a T-stop is measurement of the actual amount of transmitted light for a particular lens as opposed to the theoretical calculation of an F-stop.
T-stops are used mostly in the motion picture industry.
F-stop-The amount of light transmitted by a lens based on a simple mathematical calculation. Focal Length of lens divided by the diameter of the aperture.
But different lenses will take in different amounts of light depending on the number of elements in them. So two lenses with an aperture of f4 may actually allow different amounts of light to pass through them. One might create a brighter image than the other.
T-stop-Similar to F-stop but a T-stop is measurement of the actual amount of transmitted light for a particular lens as opposed to the theoretical calculation of an F-stop.
T-stops are used mostly in the motion picture industry.
Tuesday, December 13, 2011
Pick of Last Week
Catching up on the posts. I neglected to post a Pick last week, so here it is:
"Paradise Now" (2005)- A disturbing but humanistic film about two Palestinian friends in the occupied Western Bank. They have been recruited to become suicide bombers in Tel Aviv. It's more about people than politics, but the two cannot be separated. It won a Golden Globe and was Oscar nominated.
"Paradise Now" (2005)- A disturbing but humanistic film about two Palestinian friends in the occupied Western Bank. They have been recruited to become suicide bombers in Tel Aviv. It's more about people than politics, but the two cannot be separated. It won a Golden Globe and was Oscar nominated.
Monday, December 5, 2011
Ghost Hunter
"A Christmas Carol" (1938)- My favorite version of the Dickens tale. Reginald Owen is the greatest Scrooge, as Sean Connery is the greatest James Bond. Owen shows mastery of his craft as the bitter, angry, and sad man who lashes out at the world and covets all. He must do so or admit to his own faults and terrible life. The Ghost of the Past admonishes him "It's men of greed like you who have long forgotten gratitude". His response of confusion, realization and insult is pure gold. See this one. It's nostalgia and brilliance wrapped in a present. Additionally, the Lockhart family is half the cast. They were much like the Barrymore family. Anyone who knows "Lassie" or "Lost in Space" will be surprised to see Bob Cratchit's daughter.
Saturday, December 3, 2011
It's A Wonderful Life
It's on NBC right now. As I get older I realize how everyone whose life I've touched and whose touched my life in however slight or grand way has steered me to where I am today, for good or ill. This movie really drives home how we all make a difference in so many peoples lives and never even realize it! And under the direction of Capra it's a classic!
Tora, Tora Tora
I usually don't watch war movies, but this one caught me off guard. It actually tells of all the missed signs of the people who could've prevented it. Reminded me a lot of 9/11. However, I can see why it did not do well when it was released. Deep in the screw-up called the Vietnam War, the country was not ready for this movie at this time.
Tuesday, November 29, 2011
Film Crew Slang
Hero- A special item, prop or accessory. As in “Gimme the Hero Bomb, we are shooting the close-up.”
This is a request for the best looking bomb. We are about to cut the blue wire….or is it the red wire? Television commercials have Hero as the star. The big juicy burger that is 6 inches tall, steaming hot is the “Hero” or “Hero Product”. The Hero “Product Shot “is usually the last shot of the day.
This is a request for the best looking bomb. We are about to cut the blue wire….or is it the red wire? Television commercials have Hero as the star. The big juicy burger that is 6 inches tall, steaming hot is the “Hero” or “Hero Product”. The Hero “Product Shot “is usually the last shot of the day.
Monday, November 21, 2011
A guy walks onto a film set....
Q: How many Studio Development Executives does it take to screw in a light bulb?
A: Hmm...first let's talk about the concept behind this whole "light bulb" thing.
A: Hmm...first let's talk about the concept behind this whole "light bulb" thing.
Radio Talk continued
Essential radio codes to remember for working on set.
10-1: To go to the restroom to do “number 1"
10-2: To go to the restroom to do “number 2"
10-4: I understood the message
10-20 (or 20): Location as in "What's your 20?"
Thursday, November 17, 2011
Stand up Proudly Filmmakers
Haskell Wexler, Director of Photography (One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest, Mulholland Falls, Who's Afraid of Virginia Wolf?") is involved in the below site.
http://12on12off.com/
Actors, crew and anyone working on or near a film set might want to look at it.
http://12on12off.com/
Actors, crew and anyone working on or near a film set might want to look at it.
Tuesday, November 15, 2011
Be On The Look-Out For....
Corman's World: Exploits of a Hollywood Rebel
Watch the trailer at trailers.apple.com
Corman's World: Exploits of a Hollywood Rebel stars Martin Scorsese, Jack Nicholson, Ron Howard, Jonathan Demme, Robert DeNiro and Peter Fonda. It's in theaters on December 16th, 2011.
Roger Corman was the man that gave first gigs to the likes of Coppola, Scorcese, Hopper, Nicholson, Cameron, Demme, etc. Because he had an output (distribution) deal through his company AIP, he became one of the most profitable filmmakers (according to Roger he has never lost a dime). He gave a new generation of filmmakers who were ready to break the mold of now corporate run studios and the devil may care attitude towards the Hays Code, thanks to the new MPAA rating system.
This man was a game changer and I am proud to have actually worked on a Corman film, “Stripped To Kill II” back in the late 1980’s. It was during the writers strike of 1988, and Rogers company was one of the few companies in town making movies, despite the strike.
Hopefully this movie will show somewhere here in Orlando. I’m guessing if it does it will either be at the Enzian or the Regal in Winter Park. Or if you don’t live in the Orlando area, I would look toward your local “art” movie theatres to see if it might be playing.
I know I will definitely be seeing it if it comes to Orlando. Color me there!
--
Lori M. Turchin
Watch the trailer at trailers.apple.com
Corman's World: Exploits of a Hollywood Rebel stars Martin Scorsese, Jack Nicholson, Ron Howard, Jonathan Demme, Robert DeNiro and Peter Fonda. It's in theaters on December 16th, 2011.
Roger Corman was the man that gave first gigs to the likes of Coppola, Scorcese, Hopper, Nicholson, Cameron, Demme, etc. Because he had an output (distribution) deal through his company AIP, he became one of the most profitable filmmakers (according to Roger he has never lost a dime). He gave a new generation of filmmakers who were ready to break the mold of now corporate run studios and the devil may care attitude towards the Hays Code, thanks to the new MPAA rating system.
This man was a game changer and I am proud to have actually worked on a Corman film, “Stripped To Kill II” back in the late 1980’s. It was during the writers strike of 1988, and Rogers company was one of the few companies in town making movies, despite the strike.
Hopefully this movie will show somewhere here in Orlando. I’m guessing if it does it will either be at the Enzian or the Regal in Winter Park. Or if you don’t live in the Orlando area, I would look toward your local “art” movie theatres to see if it might be playing.
I know I will definitely be seeing it if it comes to Orlando. Color me there!
--
Lori M. Turchin
Saturday, November 12, 2011
Film Crew Slang
"Crossing" – Say this to the camera operator before you walk in front of the lens. Just because the camera is not rolling does not mean that the camera op is not working on the shot.
Pick of the Week
"The Party" (1968)- Peter Sellers at his best in another Blake Edwards film. Hrundi V. Bakshi (Sellers) a stage actor from New Dehli is cast in the big Hollywood film "Son of Gunga Din". In that special Peter Sellers way, he manages to destroy the most expensive set on the Picture. The head honcho immediately orders him fired. Through a clerk's error he is instead accidentally invited to an exclusive Hollywood party at the film executive's mansion. Sellers and Edwards teamed with their "Pink Panther" composer Henry Mancini to rip the swingin' Hollywood party scene to shreds.
Best scene: There are so many great "bits" it's tough to nail down the best. I will name two:
First----"The White Shoe". On his arrival at the party, Hrundi's (Sellers) white shoe is dirty. He attempts to clean it by dipping it in a fountain that flows throughout the house.
Next----Socially uncomfortable at the party, Hrundi has a conversation with"Birdie Num Num", the studio exec's parrot.
Much of Seller's performance is without dialogue. Hrundi doesn't want to draw attention. It's amazing to see him in silent mode. We are used to the bumbling words & actions of Inspector Clouseau. Or the multiple characters in Dr. Strangelove. In contrast, Hrundi is subtle, extremely self-conscious and has a true sense of humor. He messes with socially savvy people in his own "innocent" but purposeful way. Is there a social message? You decide for yourself. Maybe see "Gunga Din" (1939).
Even if you don't ever choose to watch "The Party", I suggest that you Google "Birdie Num Num" and "Peter Sellers The White Shoe" to watch these scenes.
First----"The White Shoe". On his arrival at the party, Hrundi's (Sellers) white shoe is dirty. He attempts to clean it by dipping it in a fountain that flows throughout the house.
Next----Socially uncomfortable at the party, Hrundi has a conversation with"Birdie Num Num", the studio exec's parrot.
Much of Seller's performance is without dialogue. Hrundi doesn't want to draw attention. It's amazing to see him in silent mode. We are used to the bumbling words & actions of Inspector Clouseau. Or the multiple characters in Dr. Strangelove. In contrast, Hrundi is subtle, extremely self-conscious and has a true sense of humor. He messes with socially savvy people in his own "innocent" but purposeful way. Is there a social message? You decide for yourself. Maybe see "Gunga Din" (1939).
Even if you don't ever choose to watch "The Party", I suggest that you Google "Birdie Num Num" and "Peter Sellers The White Shoe" to watch these scenes.
Thursday, November 10, 2011
West Side Story - 50th Anniversary on the big screen
Last night I went to the 50th anniversary presentation of "West Side Story" and saw it on the big screen for the first time in my life. Prior I had always watched it on television.
What a stunning film. How could they lose with players like Robert Wise, Jerome Robbins, Harold Prince, Stephen Sondheim, Leonard Bernstein, etc. All were giants in their fields. The use of color, lighting, wardrobe, set design/art direction, etc. as narrative tools are seamless.
However, one thing that stood out as odd to me was how bad everyones teeth looked. It kept popping out at me. I guess because we live in a day and age where even the most average of us have beautiful straight and white teeth. In the movie the teeth looked like chiclets. Just another sign of the times.
Just thinking out loud!
What a stunning film. How could they lose with players like Robert Wise, Jerome Robbins, Harold Prince, Stephen Sondheim, Leonard Bernstein, etc. All were giants in their fields. The use of color, lighting, wardrobe, set design/art direction, etc. as narrative tools are seamless.
However, one thing that stood out as odd to me was how bad everyones teeth looked. It kept popping out at me. I guess because we live in a day and age where even the most average of us have beautiful straight and white teeth. In the movie the teeth looked like chiclets. Just another sign of the times.
Just thinking out loud!
More Dialogue Greatness
Michele: "You know, even though I had to wear that stupid back brace and you were kind of fat, we were still totally cutting edge." ----- Romy & Michelle's High School Reunion (1997)
Tuesday, November 8, 2011
Film Crew Slang
"Jack Lord"- Slang for a 50 mm lens. Why? Jack Lord was the cowlick-haired star of the 70's t.v. show "Hawaii Five-O". 50 ! Crew slang evolves over time, is created and passed along to the rest of the tribe. Other nicknames for a 50mm are: "The Deuce" and "Half a Buck."
Friday, November 4, 2011
Pick of the Week
"Stop Making Sense" (1984) Director Jonathan Demme's ("Silence of the Lambs") rock concert documentary of "The Talking Heads" in their heyday.The pacing and pure stage presence of David Byrne and the other T Heads brings the show into full gear. Not to mention the beautiful photography by the Cinematic god Jordan Cronenweth (ever heard of "Blade Runner" or "Altered States"?). "Stop Making Sense" is more than a film, it is a party favor guaranteed to rock the house.
Thursday, November 3, 2011
You Calling Me Short?
"The Brain Washers" (2002), Short animated film directed by Patrick Bouchard - Two chimney sweeps are injected into a man's skull to clean house. Strange, a bit gory and definitely odd, this Canadian claymation is a well crafted journey down the rabbit hole. You might consider it a dark, ethereal "Robot Chicken". Find it at the National Film Board of Canada website www.onf-nfb.gc.ca
Wednesday, November 2, 2011
Radio Talk
Walkie talkie radios are used as a primary source of communication on a film set. Slang for a radio is a "Walkie. Important note of etiquette and efficiency: You should answer all radio requests by repeating what was requested and then acknowledging that it is on the way. In other words, if the 2nd AD asks you for a cooler of water, an extra radio and a director's chair brought to set, the reply is: "Copy, a cooler of water, an extra radio and a director's chair, flying in". You have told them that you are getting everything requested and that you have acknowledge that it is "flying in" a.k.a on it's way. Before flying in, you also quickly make sure that the cooler is full of COLD water bottles, check the radio to make sure it transmits and receives, and bring an extra radio battery in case anyone needs it. Communication and efficiency are the key. I've used an example of a request a Production Assistant might receive, but the etiquette is to be practiced by all crew, no matter what department they are in.
A guy walks onto a film set
Q: How many Screenwriters does it take to screw in a light bulb?
A: The bulb is IN and it's staying IN!
Monday, October 31, 2011
Ouch
Hot Set- After the master shot is complete, everything in view is now "Hot". Don't touch or move anything lest you mess up the continuity of future shots. A chair in the wrong place, a closed book that was previously open, a missing ashtray etc.
Master Shot- We film a master shot to capture all of the key dialogue, action and plot points of a scene. Usually it is a somewhat wide frame (but not always). Once the scene has been established in this way, we can shoot coverage, the many and varied specialty shots to enhance the edit and tell the story.
Master Shot- We film a master shot to capture all of the key dialogue, action and plot points of a scene. Usually it is a somewhat wide frame (but not always). Once the scene has been established in this way, we can shoot coverage, the many and varied specialty shots to enhance the edit and tell the story.
Saturday, October 29, 2011
TCM has horror for everyone
TCM is running classic scary this weekend and beyond. A few suggestions:
The Haunting (1963) Robert Wise directs a chilling script based on the Shirley Jackson novel, “The Haunting of Hill House. “ There have been many imitators but this is the real deal. Creepy.
The Abominable Dr. Phibes (1971) A black comedy/horror about revenge. The cast includes multiple academy award nominee Joseph Cotton and the great Vincent Price.
Diary of a Madman (1963) Vincent Price as a police detective who kills a murderous criminal only to be possessed by the evil spirit that haunted the man.
Martin Scorsese Presents Val Lewton: Man in the shadows (2007) I have never seen this documentary and can hardly wait. Scorsese produces and narrates a film about the poet and novelist turned horror director, Val Lewton.
Check the TCM schedule for multiple listings.
Pick of the Week
"The Re-Animator"(1985) Directed by Stuart Gordon
Med school student Herbert West experiments with re-animating dead tissue. His professor dies in the lab under weird circumstances and Herbert is forced to continue his "re-agent"work at a new university. Gore and humor propel us through a Frankenstein/Jekyle & Hyde/Zombie hybrid flick based on an original story by master of horror H.P. Lovecraft. On a relatively low budget this picture provides excellent production value, performances and direction. It is deftly designed for hardcore horror fans who revel in the absurdly gross. Popularity led to a series of re-animator films. If you enjoy "The Evil Dead","Dead Alive" and the "Living Dead" films, "The Re-Animator" belongs in your Netflix cue. Happy Halloween.
Med school student Herbert West experiments with re-animating dead tissue. His professor dies in the lab under weird circumstances and Herbert is forced to continue his "re-agent"work at a new university. Gore and humor propel us through a Frankenstein/Jekyle & Hyde/Zombie hybrid flick based on an original story by master of horror H.P. Lovecraft. On a relatively low budget this picture provides excellent production value, performances and direction. It is deftly designed for hardcore horror fans who revel in the absurdly gross. Popularity led to a series of re-animator films. If you enjoy "The Evil Dead","Dead Alive" and the "Living Dead" films, "The Re-Animator" belongs in your Netflix cue. Happy Halloween.
Wednesday, October 26, 2011
A guy walks into a film set
Crew jokes are a staple of the industry. There are many jokes and many versions of the same ones. Once you are no longer "green" on a set, they tend to make sense. Lets ease in for starters:
How many Stuntmen does it take to screw in a light bulb?
Five. One to screw it in and four to tell him how bitchin' he looked doing it.
How many Camera Assistants does it take to screw in a light bulb?
Five. One to do it and four to tell you how they did it on the last job.
Are you seeing a pattern here?
How many Stuntmen does it take to screw in a light bulb?
Five. One to screw it in and four to tell him how bitchin' he looked doing it.
How many Camera Assistants does it take to screw in a light bulb?
Five. One to do it and four to tell you how they did it on the last job.
Are you seeing a pattern here?
Tuesday, October 25, 2011
Indie
Bellflower (2011)- Two drinking, smoking college pals build muscle cars & modified weapons hoping that Armageddon happens. Their goal? To rule the roads just like in their all-time favorite film "Mad Max". That's enough for me...I'm in.
Film Crew Slang
| M.O.S. Slate / "Bursting the Slate"- When shooting film without |
| recording sound you can slate the shot before we actually shoot it. A |
| quick "burst", turn the camera on, wait a beat and then turn off with |
| the slate (clapper board ) in frame. No clapping the slate for sound necessary. |
No respect
"On Halloween, parents sent their kids out looking like me!"
Rodney Dangerfield (Comedian/movie star best known for "Caddyshack"1980)
Rodney Dangerfield (Comedian/movie star best known for "Caddyshack"1980)
Monday, October 24, 2011
Pick of Last Week
I failed to post a movie pick last week so this will have to be a doozy. "Perfume"(2006). The story of a man born with super human olfactory senses. Jean-Baptiste's sense of smell is better than a red bone hound on the hunt for Dexter Morgan. Jean grows up to be a perfume expert seeking the "perfect scent". His search leads to unmentionable depravity.
"Perfume"was directed by Tom Twyker (Run Lola Run, The Princess & the Warrior), perhaps the David Lynch of Europe. His films are worth any aficionado's attention. Kudos to baby Jean-Baptiste in the opening scene. A star performance for sure. That kid must be related to the child in "Trainspotting". Enjoy.
"Perfume"was directed by Tom Twyker (Run Lola Run, The Princess & the Warrior), perhaps the David Lynch of Europe. His films are worth any aficionado's attention. Kudos to baby Jean-Baptiste in the opening scene. A star performance for sure. That kid must be related to the child in "Trainspotting". Enjoy.
Friday, October 21, 2011
Film Crew Slang
"Kit Rental"-Personal equipment or supplies that crew members charge the production company for as part of their deal. Hair/make up supplies, carts, rigging, etc. are all potential kit rentals.
Old Hollywood
"Old Hollywood: Silent Stars, Deadly Secrets" on Biography Channel today 10am.
If you thought the silent stars were corny and innocent...think again. A litany of scandal, debauchery & murder in pre-Hayes Code tinsel town.
If you thought the silent stars were corny and innocent...think again. A litany of scandal, debauchery & murder in pre-Hayes Code tinsel town.
Thursday, October 20, 2011
Vietnam Documentary
Currently viewing The Anderson Platoon (1967) directed by Indochine War veteran Pierre Schoendoerffer.Shot in Vietnam in1966, it is a portrait of 33 GIs led by black West Point graduate Lieutenant Joseph Anderson. Schoendoerffer follows them for 6 weeks through search and destroy missions, downtime and back in again. It won the 1967 Academy Award for Documentary Feature and several other prestigious awards including Cannes.
What's Up Doc?
"That's All Folks!"
The Man of a Thousand Voices
-Epitaph on Mel Blanc's Gravestone
(Hollywood Memorial Park; Hollywood, California)
The Man of a Thousand Voices
-Epitaph on Mel Blanc's Gravestone
(Hollywood Memorial Park; Hollywood, California)
Wednesday, October 19, 2011
Halloween viewing
October 29th9:30 PM | Martin Scorsese Presents, Val Lewton: The Man In The Shadows (2007) |
| This TCM original documentary looks at the imaginative producer who fashioned a lasting body of beautiful and unsettling films on meager budgets. Dir: Kent Jones October 31st 11:15 PM: TCM Night at the Movies: Horror (2011): Hosted by stephen king
|
Halloween
Oct. 30th on TCM
9:30 PM | Martin Scorsese Presents, Val Lewton: The Man In The Shadows (2007) |
| This TCM original documentary looks at the imaginative producer who fashioned a lasting body of beautiful and unsettling films on meager budgets. Dir: Kent Jones 11:15 PM : TCM Night at the Movies: Horror (2011) Hosted by Stephen king |
Halloween is near
Chef: I've seen this kind of thing before. It's the living dead. Observe.
( he pulls a patient's arm off)
( he pulls a patient's arm off)
Eye Doctor: Mr. Phillips was in here for a routine exam.
South Park, Pink Eye episode(1997)
Tuesday, October 18, 2011
Film Crew Slang
Hollywood Stand-up-When an actor rises from a seat a little more slowly than normal. It gives the camera crew a little help following the action. Camera gear can be very heavy & bulky, especially when following the actor in close. The Hollywood stand-up is one of the ways an actor "dances" with the camera crew to make a shot work.
Monday, October 17, 2011
Wednesday, October 12, 2011
Who the heck is Paulie Walnuts?!
The Sopranos ruled the Bing! & Nucky runs the Boardwalk, but before those gavones Ray Luca and his Chicago gang battled Lt. Mike Torello in "Crime Story" (1986-88)
It's 1963 and the true Mad Men are Luca and Torello facing off mano a mano, This short lived Michael Mann series is the precursor to today's cable hits. As a network show it had to please the censors but still managed to have legs. Outstanding performances by Dennis Farina (Torello), Anthony John Denison (Ray Luca) and especially Stephen Lang as attorney David Abrams. The opening sequence uses Del Shannon's "Runaway" in that very Michael Mann style. Check it out.
It's 1963 and the true Mad Men are Luca and Torello facing off mano a mano, This short lived Michael Mann series is the precursor to today's cable hits. As a network show it had to please the censors but still managed to have legs. Outstanding performances by Dennis Farina (Torello), Anthony John Denison (Ray Luca) and especially Stephen Lang as attorney David Abrams. The opening sequence uses Del Shannon's "Runaway" in that very Michael Mann style. Check it out.
Film Crew Slang
Video Village-Area on a film set where people cluster around the monitors showing what the camera sees. Director's chairs are placed in a group where clients, investors and anyone else talk on cell phones, chat and annoy the hard working crew.
Video Assist-Video Assist crew record video off of a film camera through the camera operator's viewing system and display it on TV monitors to use as reference for the filmmakers. Film normally needs to be delivered, processed, developed and transferred by a lab before it is available for viewing. Video assist provides a sort of preview. In today's digital world, Video Village is still useful as a reference for the producer, clients, investors and anyone talking on cell phones, chatting and annoying the hard working crew.
Video Assist-Video Assist crew record video off of a film camera through the camera operator's viewing system and display it on TV monitors to use as reference for the filmmakers. Film normally needs to be delivered, processed, developed and transferred by a lab before it is available for viewing. Video assist provides a sort of preview. In today's digital world, Video Village is still useful as a reference for the producer, clients, investors and anyone talking on cell phones, chatting and annoying the hard working crew.
Words to live by...
“They’ve done studies, you know. Sixty percent of the time, it works every time.” — Anchorman (2004)
Tuesday, October 11, 2011
Noooooo! Not Math!
Inverse Square Law (Law of Inverse Squares)- If you want to work as a dp, cameraman or lighting crew, you must learn this simple concept. The amount of light coming from any light source varies according to the square of the distance of that source. Relax, it's still not math. Physics actually! In other words: When you move a lamp twice as far away from the subject, you'll get 1/4 the intensity. Now go try it. You can even use the light meter on an SLR camera to prove it.
Monday, October 10, 2011
More Dialogue Greatness
"There's no reason to become alarmed, and we hope you'll enjoy the rest of your flight. By the way, is there anyone on board who knows how to fly a plane?"
Airplane (1980)
Flesh
"The Walking Dead" season 2 premiers Sunday 9pm (EDT) on AMC. Stock up on gummy worms and candy hearts. Winchester!!
Friday, October 7, 2011
Pick of the Week
"Decoy for Terror" (A.K.A. "The Playgirl Killer" A.K.A "Portrait of Fear) 1968- A deranged artist kills and freezes women for the sake of his art. Not only is this fun Canadian schlock, but 50's-60's teen popstar Neil Sedaka (famous for..."I love, I love my little calender girl..! Yeah, yeah,yeah!) breaks into song several times. Best Scene-The artist has frozen a girl as a statue posed with a strung bow and arrow. Guess what happens when the power goes out and the room warms up?
Dialogue Greatness...
"A census taker once tried to test me. I ate his liver with some fava beans and a nice Chianti."
The Silence of the Lambs (1991)
The Silence of the Lambs (1991)
Film Crew Slang
Downstage- A director may use this term to tell an actor to move closer to the camera. Originally a theater term meaning the front of the stage closer to the audience.
Camera Left or Camera Right- More directorial verbiage for actor movement. It is movement from the perspective of the camera. Thereby if an actor is facing the camera and is told to move a little camera left, they move to their own right. Got it?
Camera Left or Camera Right- More directorial verbiage for actor movement. It is movement from the perspective of the camera. Thereby if an actor is facing the camera and is told to move a little camera left, they move to their own right. Got it?
Thursday, September 29, 2011
New Ken Burns Documentary
Starting this Sunday, Ken burns new 3 part documentary, "Prohibition" on PBS. Check it out! Would be interested in what everyone thinks about it!
Wednesday, September 28, 2011
BUSTER KEATON SILENT MOVIE MANIA
FYI...Starting Sunday, October 2nd with “The General” through Monday, October 3rd @ 8AM, AMC is featuring a bunch of Buster Keaton silent movies. We show “The General” in the brick and mortar class! It’s a great piece of cinema and well worth the watch!
Wednesday, September 21, 2011
Thing 1, Thing 2, Thing 3
Dr. Seuss doesn't want any part of this.
A new version of "The Thing" is hitting theaters in October. The original "The Thing" (1951) was directed by both Howard Hawks (uncredited) and his Academy Award winning editor Christian Nyby. Not sure what the ruckus there was. It is also know as "The Thing From Another World". This picture is most famous for starting the "it came from outer space" craze. A good scary 50's flick but not overly remarkable.
"The Thing"(1982) by Wes Craven is much creepier. Lots of gore too, if that floats your boat. Kurt Russell stars in this version and puts in a solid performance. The 1982 version should be considered a cult classic in my book.
And Thing 3? Well, why don't you check it out and give us a review. I might save my pennies for netflix.
A new version of "The Thing" is hitting theaters in October. The original "The Thing" (1951) was directed by both Howard Hawks (uncredited) and his Academy Award winning editor Christian Nyby. Not sure what the ruckus there was. It is also know as "The Thing From Another World". This picture is most famous for starting the "it came from outer space" craze. A good scary 50's flick but not overly remarkable.
"The Thing"(1982) by Wes Craven is much creepier. Lots of gore too, if that floats your boat. Kurt Russell stars in this version and puts in a solid performance. The 1982 version should be considered a cult classic in my book.
And Thing 3? Well, why don't you check it out and give us a review. I might save my pennies for netflix.
Pick of the week
"Kitten With a Whip"(1964)- A pre-Viva Las Vegas Anne-Margaret is a seductive teen delinquent on the run. She holes up with a Senator (John Forsythe, the voice of Charlie in the original Charlie's Angels t.v. series) and threatens to cry rape if he turns her in.
Best Scene- Kitten lays down the law and takes over. The ever so stunning Anne-Margaret seethes with anger, sexual tension and a sadistic pleasure in making the Senator realize he's caught in her trap. In the background a t.v. set shows a cartoon of a cat stalking a mouse.
Best Scene- Kitten lays down the law and takes over. The ever so stunning Anne-Margaret seethes with anger, sexual tension and a sadistic pleasure in making the Senator realize he's caught in her trap. In the background a t.v. set shows a cartoon of a cat stalking a mouse.
Film Crew Slang
"On a Bell "- Rolling on a Sound Stage, a bell will ring telling us:
One Ring-Rolling
Two Rings-Cut
Wednesday, September 14, 2011
Film Crew Slang
"Cowboy" Shot- No, not a dead high plains drifter. A cowboy is a shot framing both an actor and his guns, even if he isn't wearing any, it's where they would be. It describes a shot that is wider than a close-up or medium shoot but not quite a full shot.
Full Shot- Framing an actor that shows them from head to toe. Also can be referred to as a head to toe. Imagine that....?
Full Shot- Framing an actor that shows them from head to toe. Also can be referred to as a head to toe. Imagine that....?
Saturday, September 10, 2011
Bad Judge of Talent...
"Can’t act. Slightly bald. Can dance a little"- Screen Tester about Fred Astaire
Friday, September 9, 2011
Film Gear has Funky Names
Taco Cart- No it's not lunchtime. There is no food on this cart. It is a wheeled cart that Grips use to keep certain equipment within easy reach. Flags, stands, apple boxes and other essential equipment are staged on it for quick access. There are several different types and configurations but all serve the same purpose.
2 picks this week
The 2nd pick:
"Swimming To Cambodia" (1987): I'm not normally one to recommend watching a 90 minute monologue, but this film is the exception. Actor Spalding Gray spins a tale about working on Roland Joffe's film "The Killing Fields"(1984). He has just a small role in the film and his tale is more about the experience of working and playing in southeast Asia just 6 or 7 years after the end of the Vietnam war. From depravity in Bangkok to arguments with his neighbor in New York City, Gray is spellbinding. No small credit goes to director Jonathan Demme in turning a one man stage play into a feature film. Filmed during what I consider to be Demme's golden period, "Swimming To Cambodia" is right at the top. Performer/musician Laurie Anderson's score syncs perfectly with Gray's humor and self effacing dialogue which swings from absurd to sad and back again.
See it.
"Swimming To Cambodia" (1987): I'm not normally one to recommend watching a 90 minute monologue, but this film is the exception. Actor Spalding Gray spins a tale about working on Roland Joffe's film "The Killing Fields"(1984). He has just a small role in the film and his tale is more about the experience of working and playing in southeast Asia just 6 or 7 years after the end of the Vietnam war. From depravity in Bangkok to arguments with his neighbor in New York City, Gray is spellbinding. No small credit goes to director Jonathan Demme in turning a one man stage play into a feature film. Filmed during what I consider to be Demme's golden period, "Swimming To Cambodia" is right at the top. Performer/musician Laurie Anderson's score syncs perfectly with Gray's humor and self effacing dialogue which swings from absurd to sad and back again.
See it.
Thursday, September 8, 2011
Film Crew Slang
"Last through the line": When the 1st Asst. Director calls lunch (or a meal), the clock does not start until the last person in the food line is served. Gives everyone a relatively equal amount of time to eat. Filmmaking is one of the few jobs that usually feed you on site at company cost.
P.S.: There are exceptions to this and a variety of incarnations depending on the gig. We will discuss "Grace" later.
P.S.: There are exceptions to this and a variety of incarnations depending on the gig. We will discuss "Grace" later.
2 picks this week
Labor Day weekend had me playing in Northern California. I neglected to give us a pick of the week. So there will be 2 this week. The first..
Kentucky Fried Movie (1977)- John Landis directs an off kilter set of skits spoofing film genres, television and pop culture in the late 70's.While the production value & skill is less than we see in Landis's following films like Animal House and The Blues Brothers, the spark of his irreverent sense of comedy jumps right out. Kentucky Fried Movie possesses that chaotic sense of true freedom & verve, like hanging out with your college friends late, late at night after the party.
Best Scene: The T.V. News is watching you....
I wish Mr. Landis would get back to work.
Kentucky Fried Movie (1977)- John Landis directs an off kilter set of skits spoofing film genres, television and pop culture in the late 70's.While the production value & skill is less than we see in Landis's following films like Animal House and The Blues Brothers, the spark of his irreverent sense of comedy jumps right out. Kentucky Fried Movie possesses that chaotic sense of true freedom & verve, like hanging out with your college friends late, late at night after the party.
Best Scene: The T.V. News is watching you....
I wish Mr. Landis would get back to work.
Tuesday, August 30, 2011
There 4 emergency exits on this aircraft
"Zero Hour" (1957) was just recently on cable. It is one of the main films that "Airplane"(1980) parodies. Other influences on "Airplane" were of course the "Airport" disaster pictures of the 1970's, but "Zero Hour" seems to be the model. As a matter of fact, the hero is a former WWII fighter pilot named Stryker and the flight crew gets food poisoning. If you can quote lines from "Airplane" then this is the picture for you. Sterling Hayden, most famous for playing General Jack Ripper in "Dr. Strangelove", plays the hardcore traffic tower man that has to talk the plane down. You'll want to play both films simultaneously to compare Hayden and Robert Stack. Highly recommended.
Film Crew Slang
"Second Sticks"- If the clapper on the slate was not visible when the shot was being marked, the cameraperson might call out “second sticks!” to tell the 2nd AC or Loader to mark it a second time.
Sunday, August 28, 2011
More Dialogue Greatness
"Repo Man" (1984)- 80's Punk Rock sci-fi classic from the warped mind of Director Alex Cox. We'll take a look at Cox's "Straight To Hell" (1987) a little later
Parnell (mad scientist) : Ever been to Utah? Ra-di-a-tion. Yes, indeed. You hear the most outrageous lies about it. Half-baked goggle-box do-gooders telling everybody it's bad for you. Pernicious nonsense. Everybody could stand a hundred chest X-rays a year. They ought to have them, too. When they canceled the project it almost did me in. One day my mind was full to bursting. The next day - nothing. Swept away. But I'll show them. I had a lobotomy in the end.
Otto: Lobotomy? Isn't that for loonies?
Parnell: Not at all. Friend of mine had one. Designer of the neutron bomb. You ever hear of the neutron bomb? Destroys people - leaves buildings standing. Fits in a suitcase. It's so small, no one knows it's there until - BLAMMO. Eyes melt, skin explodes, everybody dead. So immoral, working on the thing can drive you mad. That's what happened to this friend of mine. So he had a lobotomy. Now he's well again.
Otto: Lobotomy? Isn't that for loonies?
Parnell: Not at all. Friend of mine had one. Designer of the neutron bomb. You ever hear of the neutron bomb? Destroys people - leaves buildings standing. Fits in a suitcase. It's so small, no one knows it's there until - BLAMMO. Eyes melt, skin explodes, everybody dead. So immoral, working on the thing can drive you mad. That's what happened to this friend of mine. So he had a lobotomy. Now he's well again.
Friday, August 26, 2011
Film Gear has Funky Names
Snot Tape- Thin, clear, double-sided tape often used to attach lighting gels to their frames. Camera Assistants may use it carefully & sparingly to attach gel filters to the rear of lenses. Also known as ATG tape.
Paper Tape- Paper tape is similar to masking tape. It is photographic masking tape if you will. Usually ordered in black (though it comes in other colors for various purposes). The big difference is that it has a matte finish instead of a shiny finish so that it is less noticiable on camera and reflects light a lot less. Grips, electrics (lighting crew) and art department rely heavily on this stuff. It also has the benefit of being easier than other tapes to pull off without taking a layer of paint or finish with it.
Both of these items are considered expendables, i.e. items that you use up regularly and have to replace.
Paper Tape- Paper tape is similar to masking tape. It is photographic masking tape if you will. Usually ordered in black (though it comes in other colors for various purposes). The big difference is that it has a matte finish instead of a shiny finish so that it is less noticiable on camera and reflects light a lot less. Grips, electrics (lighting crew) and art department rely heavily on this stuff. It also has the benefit of being easier than other tapes to pull off without taking a layer of paint or finish with it.
Both of these items are considered expendables, i.e. items that you use up regularly and have to replace.
Film Crew Slang
"Last Looks"- The A.D. might announce, “Last looks!” just before calling the roll . The hair, makeup & wardrobe people hurry in, quickly touch up the actors and check for any problems, continuity issues or discrepancies.
More Dialogue Greatness
The Anchorman: The Legend of Ron Burgundy (2004)
Ron Burgundy: Everyone just relax, all right? Believe me, if there's one thing Ron Burgundy knows, it's women.
Brian Fantana: I don't know, Ron.
Ron Burgundy: Guess what, I do. I know that one day Veronica and I are gonna to get married on top of a mountain, and there's going to be flutes playing and trombones and flowers and garlands of fresh herbs. And we will dance till the sun rises. And then our children will form a family band. And we will tour the countryside and you won't be invited.
Ron Burgundy: Everyone just relax, all right? Believe me, if there's one thing Ron Burgundy knows, it's women.
Brian Fantana: I don't know, Ron.
Ron Burgundy: Guess what, I do. I know that one day Veronica and I are gonna to get married on top of a mountain, and there's going to be flutes playing and trombones and flowers and garlands of fresh herbs. And we will dance till the sun rises. And then our children will form a family band. And we will tour the countryside and you won't be invited.
Thursday, August 25, 2011
Words to live by...
"My movies were the kind they show in prisons and airplanes, because nobody can leave."
Actor/Director- Burt Reynolds
Pick of the Week
Koyaanisqatsi (1982)- Who cares how you pronounce it?! It means life out of balance or unbalanced life in the Hopi Indian language. Ok...don't get bored on me yet. "K" is a real cinematographer's and editor's delight. They call it a documentary but it is more of a piece of visual art with environmental and societal themes. I climb trees, rarely hug them. Give Koyaanisqutsi a shot. Incredible time lapse photography set to an eery musical score. Great for late night.
See it for no other reason than it was almost impossible to view for an entire decade due to copyright issues.
See it for no other reason than it was almost impossible to view for an entire decade due to copyright issues.
Fancy words for down to earth filmmakers
Proscenium approach to shooting is fancy, schmancy wordage for filming as if it was a play and the camera is the audience. The actors are within the context of a large wide frame or proscenium arch as in the theatre.
In the early days, filmmakers began to realize the limitations of the proscenium approach and invented new techniques of separating into shots and sequences. ( pro·sce·ni·um)
In the early days, filmmakers began to realize the limitations of the proscenium approach and invented new techniques of separating into shots and sequences. ( pro·sce·ni·um)
Wednesday, August 24, 2011
Film Crew Slang
Cans & Bags: Empty film cans and small black plastic bags with film cores provided by the film lab to the camera crew for packaging and transporting exposed film. Very important to make sure that this very expensive footage is protected.
Friday, August 19, 2011
Pick of the Week
"Little Murders"(1971)- Alfred (Elliott Gould), a professional photographer dissatisfied with the commercialism of his art decides to opt out. The new subject of his photography is dog poo, representing the values of the world around him. Poo everywhere. He meets Patsy(Marsha Rodd) who saves him during a mugging, but his reaction to her intervention is unique. Set against the stark lunacy of city life, a romance begins while New Yorkers are being randomly picked off by a sniper. Black comedy at it's best. If you don't like the dark side of comedy, rent Alvin & the Chipmunks instead and leave me alone.
Best Scene: Has to be the mugging scene. It introduces us to both Alfred and Patsy and their weirdness.
Best Scene: Has to be the mugging scene. It introduces us to both Alfred and Patsy and their weirdness.
Thursday, August 18, 2011
Dialogue Greatness...
"Monty Python and the Holy Grail" (1975)
King Arthur and his Knights search for the Holy Grail in arguably the most famous English comedy of a generation.
(Sir Bedevere has come upon villagers getting ready to burn a girl they say is a witch)
King Arthur and his Knights search for the Holy Grail in arguably the most famous English comedy of a generation.
(Sir Bedevere has come upon villagers getting ready to burn a girl they say is a witch)
Sir Bedevere: There are ways of telling whether she is a witch.
Peasant 1: Are there? Oh well, tell us.
Sir Bedevere: Tell me. What do you do with witches?
Peasant 1: Burn them.
Sir Bedevere: And what do you burn, apart from witches?
Peasant 1: More witches.
Peasant 2: Wood.
Sir Bedevere: Good. Now, why do witches burn?
Peasant 3: ...because they're made of... wood?
Sir Bedevere: Good. So how do you tell whether she is made of wood?
Peasant 1: Build a bridge out of her.
Sir Bedevere: But can you not also build bridges out of stone?
Peasant 1: Oh yeah.
Sir Bedevere: Does wood sink in water?
Peasant 1: No, no, it floats!... It floats! Throw her into the pond!
Sir Bedevere: No, no. What else floats in water?
Peasant 1: Bread.
Peasant 2: Apples.
Peasant 3: Very small rocks.
Peasant 1: Cider.
Peasant 2: Gravy.
Peasant 3: Cherries.
Peasant 1: Mud.
Peasant 2: Churches.
Peasant 3: Lead! Lead!
King Arthur: A Duck.
Sir Bedevere: ..Exactly. So, logically....
Peasant 1: If she weighed the same as a duck... she's made of wood.
Sir Bedevere: And therefore...
Peasant 2: ...A witch!
Peasant 1: Are there? Oh well, tell us.
Sir Bedevere: Tell me. What do you do with witches?
Peasant 1: Burn them.
Sir Bedevere: And what do you burn, apart from witches?
Peasant 1: More witches.
Peasant 2: Wood.
Sir Bedevere: Good. Now, why do witches burn?
Peasant 3: ...because they're made of... wood?
Sir Bedevere: Good. So how do you tell whether she is made of wood?
Peasant 1: Build a bridge out of her.
Sir Bedevere: But can you not also build bridges out of stone?
Peasant 1: Oh yeah.
Sir Bedevere: Does wood sink in water?
Peasant 1: No, no, it floats!... It floats! Throw her into the pond!
Sir Bedevere: No, no. What else floats in water?
Peasant 1: Bread.
Peasant 2: Apples.
Peasant 3: Very small rocks.
Peasant 1: Cider.
Peasant 2: Gravy.
Peasant 3: Cherries.
Peasant 1: Mud.
Peasant 2: Churches.
Peasant 3: Lead! Lead!
King Arthur: A Duck.
Sir Bedevere: ..Exactly. So, logically....
Peasant 1: If she weighed the same as a duck... she's made of wood.
Sir Bedevere: And therefore...
Peasant 2: ...A witch!
Wednesday, August 17, 2011
Film Crew Slang
"Moving On": More Assistant Director lingo. When a shot is fully completed and the director wants to go to the next, the AD will say "Moving On". It tells the crew to immediately set up for the next shot, but is also meant as praise. You might also hear "New Deal" or a couple of other versions.
Monday, August 15, 2011
Wu not FU
Watching Lon Chaney in “Mr. Wu” (1927)-Silent
I have only seen parts of it before. Pretty heavy film. Relations out of wedlock, racism, illegitimate pregnancy, misunderstanding, tragedy, tenderness, revenge & cruelty. And they said folks in the 1920’s just played ukulele, drank out of flasks and yelled "Sis-boom-bah!".
Side note: I worked at the media center/tv studio in college. Dr. Fu, a brilliant Genetic Scientist would come in for camera equipment. Every time he came in, was the same routine: He'd look me dead in the eye like a cop and say "You have equipment for me!?", then break into a slow grin, " For Dr. Fu,.. F. U. !
It continued for 4 years. Bless you, mad old scientist.
I have only seen parts of it before. Pretty heavy film. Relations out of wedlock, racism, illegitimate pregnancy, misunderstanding, tragedy, tenderness, revenge & cruelty. And they said folks in the 1920’s just played ukulele, drank out of flasks and yelled "Sis-boom-bah!".
Side note: I worked at the media center/tv studio in college. Dr. Fu, a brilliant Genetic Scientist would come in for camera equipment. Every time he came in, was the same routine: He'd look me dead in the eye like a cop and say "You have equipment for me!?", then break into a slow grin, " For Dr. Fu,.. F. U. !
It continued for 4 years. Bless you, mad old scientist.
Sunday, August 14, 2011
Film Crew Slang
"Lock It Up"- The process by which an area is secured for sound and picture is" locking it up". The 1st Assistant Director will usually call it out. It could be on the sound stage, at a door or on location...anywhere.Your battle station, especially as a Production Assistant (P.A.) may be to "lock it up."
"Bogie"- a person not affiliated with the production who enters the shooting area. A Production Assistant on lock up may call on the radio"We have a bogie coming around the corner of Smith St." in order to warn the shooting crew.
"Lookie-Loo"- a gawking bogie who may potentially ruin a shot. Although sometimes they are handy if you need crowd reactions.
"Bogie"- a person not affiliated with the production who enters the shooting area. A Production Assistant on lock up may call on the radio"We have a bogie coming around the corner of Smith St." in order to warn the shooting crew.
"Lookie-Loo"- a gawking bogie who may potentially ruin a shot. Although sometimes they are handy if you need crowd reactions.
Saturday, August 13, 2011
Choo Choo
"Trainspotting" (1996) is on BBC America today. This film is famous for 2 things, the creepiest baby ever and the "dirtiest toilet in Scotland". My skin crawls just thinking about it. Ewan Mac Gregor's star began to rise due to his portrayal of Renton, a drug addict in Edinburgh trying/not trying/trying to get straight. His addict friends are all at once funny, disgusting and savage. Adapted from the novel by Irvine Welsh and directed by "Slum dog Millionaire"s Danny Boyle.
FYI--Welsh's prose is worth checking out. I never read "Trainspotting" but I did read his book "Filth" and well...you decide for yourself. Let's just say it involves English cops on vacation, Amsterdam and an insatiable, talking tapeworm. Go ahead...I dare you....
FYI--Welsh's prose is worth checking out. I never read "Trainspotting" but I did read his book "Filth" and well...you decide for yourself. Let's just say it involves English cops on vacation, Amsterdam and an insatiable, talking tapeworm. Go ahead...I dare you....
Friday, August 12, 2011
Famous Last Words
When asked if he thought dying was tough, actor Edmund Gwenn replied:
Yes, it's tough, but not as tough as doing comedy.
Most of us have heard about that before but the interesting part is that Gwenn was most famous for playing Kris Kringle in Miracle on 34th Street (1947). Thus is the wisdom of Santa.
Yes, it's tough, but not as tough as doing comedy.
Most of us have heard about that before but the interesting part is that Gwenn was most famous for playing Kris Kringle in Miracle on 34th Street (1947). Thus is the wisdom of Santa.
Film Crew Slang
"10-100" (Ten-one-hundred): This is a walkie-talkie radio code for a visit to the restroom.
**Alternative Hand signal-Put both balled fists together in front of you. Twist each fist, one towards your body, one away. The signal means "wringing it out, like a towel. There are several version of these codes.
**Alternative Hand signal-Put both balled fists together in front of you. Twist each fist, one towards your body, one away. The signal means "wringing it out, like a towel. There are several version of these codes.
Thursday, August 11, 2011
More Dialogue Greatness
For the more sophisticated of you all....
"Let us drink, gentlemen. Let us drink, till we roll under the table in vomit and oblivion!"
Peter O'Toole as King Henry II in "Becket" (1964)
Big props to Marcus Asparagus Screwdriver III for sending in this quote.
"Beckett" also stars a sodden Richard Burton and the impeccable Sir John Geilgud.
Burton and O'Toole (what's in a name?) party like medieval rock stars until a rift in loyalties and duty set them apart. Some of their shenanigans could be right out of the celebrity pages of London's swingin' 60's, much like Burton & O'Toole themselves.
"Let us drink, gentlemen. Let us drink, till we roll under the table in vomit and oblivion!"
Peter O'Toole as King Henry II in "Becket" (1964)
Big props to Marcus Asparagus Screwdriver III for sending in this quote.
"Beckett" also stars a sodden Richard Burton and the impeccable Sir John Geilgud.
Burton and O'Toole (what's in a name?) party like medieval rock stars until a rift in loyalties and duty set them apart. Some of their shenanigans could be right out of the celebrity pages of London's swingin' 60's, much like Burton & O'Toole themselves.
Pick of the Week
"Twisted Brain" otherwise titled as "Horror High" (1974)
A Jeckle & Hyde story predating "Halloween" by a few years. Nerdy High school kid wreaks revenge on those who tortured him. No one is safe. Not even his pet Guinea Pig. Poor production value, acting and wardrobe design. A must see! Pure 70's schlock. I first saw this late night a few years after it came out.
Best Scene: Nerd does very bad things to his cruel Gym teacher while wearing metal cleats.
A Jeckle & Hyde story predating "Halloween" by a few years. Nerdy High school kid wreaks revenge on those who tortured him. No one is safe. Not even his pet Guinea Pig. Poor production value, acting and wardrobe design. A must see! Pure 70's schlock. I first saw this late night a few years after it came out.
Best Scene: Nerd does very bad things to his cruel Gym teacher while wearing metal cleats.
Wednesday, August 10, 2011
"Thank You Mask Man"
I discovered this animated film years ago in college. It was in the extras on a video (that's right, vhs tape) of the Lenny Bruce biopic "Lenny" starring Dustin Hoffman. Extra material wasn't common in the late 80's like it is today, so this gem is special. Thank You Mask Man was actually created after Lenny Bruce died. John Magnuson and Jeff Hale utilized recorded audio from"Dirty Lenny's" stand-up act. It explores prejudice/bigotry, hero worship, religion, sex & society. All of the things Lenny was famous for discussing when no one else would. Check it out. It's a great 7 minute ride.
***Slight use of adult language
***Slight use of adult language
Dialogue Greatness...
“So you’re gonna tell me that you don’t have no black cats, no roman candles or screamin’ mimis? Oh, come on man, you don’t got no lady fingers, buzz buddies, sneaker bombs, church burners, finger blasters, gut busters, zippity doo das or crap flappers? You’re gonna stand there owning a fireworks stand, and tell me you don’t have no whistling bungholes, no spleen splitters, whisker bisquits, honkey lighters, hoosker dos, hoosker don’ts, cherry bombs, nipsy daisers, with or without the scooter stick or one single whistling kitty chaser?”---------------David Spade in Joe Dirt (2001)
Film Crew Slang
“Picture’s Up”- Commonly used phrase that the First Assistant Director (1st AD) calls out on the set just prior to filming, which indicates rehearsal is over and the next shot will be committed to film. The long version is “This is for Picture”.
Tuesday, August 9, 2011
The Original Bad Azzzz
Jack Webb was the producer and star of the radio & then television cop show "Dragnet". As police detective Sgt. Joe Friday, his dead pan delivery of lines was so square it was hip. Here are some of my favorites:
------------------------------
---------------------------
The original television show aired from 1951 to 1959. Webb then brought it back in a new form 1967-1970. These "new" episodes are the shows that I remember from childhood. In it, all hippies said "groovy" and "far out" & were so blasted out of their minds that they committed heinous crimes! The moderately funny 1987 film "Dragnet" starring Dan Akroyd and Tom Hanks pays homage to it.
Still, nothing beats Jack Webb's campy, self-righteous, truly weird dialogue.
Friday: Next time you want to make the news, step in front of a bus.
Witness (refusing to testify because he doesn't want to get involved): "Mr. Friday, if you were me, would you want to get involved?
Friday: Can I wait a while?
Witness; "Huh?"
Friday: Before I'm you. ---------------------------
Police Captain: Shotgun, extreme close range, double-O. Starkey was hit four times, first two cut him in half.
Friday: The second two turned him into a crowd.
Still, nothing beats Jack Webb's campy, self-righteous, truly weird dialogue.
Saturday, August 6, 2011
Pick of the week
Thunder Road (1958)- Soldier turned bad boy moonshiner Robert Mitchum battles gangsters and the police.
Best scene: Some thug tries to run Mitchum off the road. Ol' Bob casually flicks his cigarette out the window where it lands in the other driver's lap. The car flies off the embankment while the driver screams like a little girl.
Best scene: Some thug tries to run Mitchum off the road. Ol' Bob casually flicks his cigarette out the window where it lands in the other driver's lap. The car flies off the embankment while the driver screams like a little girl.
Friday, August 5, 2011
Film Crew Slang
Apple Box: A plywood box that is a standard piece of gear on a film set. They are used as platforms to raise or lower furniture, equipment or even actors. Lights and other gear can be mounted on them or dolly track leveled.There are literally hundreds of uses for this item. They also come in different sizes....full apple (8"×20"×12"), 1/2 apple (4" x 20" x12"), 1/4 apple (2"×20"×12") and an 1/8 apple also known as a pancake (1"×20"×12")
Extra: Grip to Ground Adapter: An apple box being used as a seat by one of the grips.
Extra: Grip to Ground Adapter: An apple box being used as a seat by one of the grips.
One for the Kids....
In "Toy Story, the carpet pattern in Sid's hallway is the same as the carpet pattern in Kubrick's ultimate creep-you-out film "The Shining". It's just a different color. Heeeeere's Woody!
Turner Classic Movies has Orson Wells on Monday 8/8
MONDAY, AUGUST 8 ---ORSON WELLES
6:00 AM The Tartars (’61)
7:30 AM Tomorrow is Forever (’46)
9:30 AM Moby Dick (’56)
11:30 AM The V.I.P.s (’63)
1:30 PM The Stranger (’46)
3:15 PM Journey Into Fear (’42)
4:30 PM Trent’s last Case (’53)
6:15 PM Mr. Arkadin (’62)
8:00 PM The Third Man (’49)
10:00 PM Citizen Kane (’41)
12:15 AM Touch of Evil (’58)
2:15 AM The lady from Shanghai (’48)
4:15 AM Immortal Story (’68)
Extra: Don't miss Touch of Evil!!
6:00 AM The Tartars (’61)
7:30 AM Tomorrow is Forever (’46)
9:30 AM Moby Dick (’56)
11:30 AM The V.I.P.s (’63)
1:30 PM The Stranger (’46)
3:15 PM Journey Into Fear (’42)
4:30 PM Trent’s last Case (’53)
6:15 PM Mr. Arkadin (’62)
8:00 PM The Third Man (’49)
10:00 PM Citizen Kane (’41)
12:15 AM Touch of Evil (’58)
2:15 AM The lady from Shanghai (’48)
4:15 AM Immortal Story (’68)
Extra: Don't miss Touch of Evil!!
Thursday, August 4, 2011
Film Crew Slang
Additional Pages: Last minute script changes/rewrites handed out to the various departments on set. They are printed on colored paper to track the changes. The pages are usually numbered in order to be traceable so as to dissuade anyone from giving away the plot to their blogger friends or paparazzi.
Pick of the week
Thunder Road (1958)- Soldier turned bad boy moonshiner Robert Mitchum battles gangsters and the police.
Best scene: Some thug tries to run Mitchum off the road. Ol' Bob casually flicks his cigarette out the window where it lands in the other driver's lap. The car flies off the embankment while the driver screams like a little girl.
Best scene: Some thug tries to run Mitchum off the road. Ol' Bob casually flicks his cigarette out the window where it lands in the other driver's lap. The car flies off the embankment while the driver screams like a little girl.
Lets start off with the Silents....
Silent Movie (1976), Directed by Mel Brooks
A modern day silent film about the making of a modern day silent film. Say that again, please?
Film Director Mel Funn (Mel Brooks) convinces his producer (Sid Caesar) to make a modern day silent film in order to save the studio from a hostile takeover. Extra Butter- The only person in the film to actually have a spoken line is Marcel Marceu, the famous mime. He says "Non!" when asked to be in their film.
A modern day silent film about the making of a modern day silent film. Say that again, please?
Film Director Mel Funn (Mel Brooks) convinces his producer (Sid Caesar) to make a modern day silent film in order to save the studio from a hostile takeover. Extra Butter- The only person in the film to actually have a spoken line is Marcel Marceu, the famous mime. He says "Non!" when asked to be in their film.
Extra Extra- Look for the scene where they set up a cardboard cutout of starlet Vilma Kaplan (Bernadette Peters) in the boardroom.
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