Monday, August 4, 2008

An Actress Named Vivien Leigh

Author(s): Harry
Location: Colombia

“An Actress Named Vivien Leigh"
A Warner Bros. Pictures Release

Directed by Milos Forman
Written by John Logan and James L. White
Produced by Saul Zaentz
Music by Howard Shore
Cinematography by Pawel Edelman
Costume design by Sandy Powell

Principal Cast:

Kate Beckinsale as Vivien Leigh
Johnny Depp as Laurence Olivier
John C. Reilly as David O. Selznick
Martin Scorsese as George Cukor
David Strathairn as Elia Kazan
Adrien Brody as Kenneth Tynan
Jeff Bridges as Victor Fleming
Philip Seymour Hoffman as Myron Selznick

Featuring special cameo appearances of:

Cate Blanchett as Kim Hunter
Chris Cooper as Herbert Leigh Holman
Leonardo DiCaprio as Marlon Brando
Robert Downey Jr. as Clark Gable
Queen Latifah as Hattie McDaniel
Ryan Phillippe as Leslie Howard
Liv Tyler as Olivia de Havilland
Naomi Watts as Jill Esmond

Tagline: “Her success/Her illness/Her depression/Her Legend"

Synopsis: “Lights, Camera, Action”. The film begins with the shooting of “Fire over England”. Vivien Leigh and Laurence Olivier played the roles of two lovers. As they continued with the shooting, a desperate attraction grew between them and ended with them have an affair. After finding out, Leigh’s husband, the barrister Herbert Leigh Holman and Olivier’s wife, the actress Jill Esmond refused to grant either a divorce. Leigh and Olivier was a happy couple, but Olivier was offered a part in the film “Wuthering Heights” in the States and left Leigh alone in London.

At this time, Hollywood was in the search of an actress that could portray Scarlett O’Hara in David O. Selznick’s production of “Gone With the Wind”. Leigh’s American agent was the London representative of Myron Selznick Agency (Myron was David’s brother). Vivien Leigh wanted the role of Scarlett O'Hara more than anything in the world. Selznick and George Cukor, the director of the film, saw her latest films and after that, she became a serious contender for the role. After various fights, she finally received the role and began shooting alongside Clark Gable, Leslie Howard, Olivia de Havilland and Hattie McDaniel. Sadly, Cukor was dismissed from the film and replaced by Victor Fleming, but Leigh and de Havilland went in secret to ask Cukor for coaching. “Gone With the Wind” brought Leigh immediate attention and fame as well as an Oscar for Best Actress.

Leigh and Olivier continued making various films and plays together, some successful and others terrible. In a New Zealand and Australia theater tour, Leigh was plagued with insomnia. During that, Olivier and Leigh had extremely nasty and violent fights. After the success of the tour, the couple made their first West End appearance together. Leigh’s next role was Blanche Dubois in the Tennessee William’s polemic play “A Streetcar Named Desire”. After 326 performances, Leigh signed for a film version of the play, co-starring Marlon Brando and Kim Hunter. Leigh’s performance in the film was extremely successful and earned her amazing reviews as well as a second Oscar. However, the role tipped her into madness. Leigh and Olivier continued performing together but Leigh had many periods of incoherence. Leigh recovered sufficiently to play “The Sleeping Prince” with Olivier and after other productions, she became pregnant. A few weeks later, she had a miscarriage and entered a stage of terrible depression that lasted for months. Here is where the film takes a tragic end.

What the press would say:

One thing is for sure, “An Actress Named Vivien Leigh” is this year’s awards season biopic delivered in the best writing, directing and acting possible. Milos Forman’s directing is so fascinating and so unique that it’ll probably earn him a fourth Oscar nomination. The screenplay was also delivered in the most realistic way possible. John Logan and James L. White make you suffer and cry with their amazing scenes and strong dialogues. But what really makes this film a sure Oscar contender is its strong cast, destined to be a contender for various awards. The best of the supporting cast is Adrien Brody as the critic and film’s villain Kenneth Tynan, who destroys the main character with his terrible reviews. Johnny Depp is sensational as Laurence Olivier, a role he was born to play and that will earn him a Best Supporting Actor nomination. But ladies and gentlemen, the person you must all applaud the most is Kate Beckinsale in her lifetime and born to play role as the beautiful Vivien Leigh. Not only does she look very much like her, but she also shows us how terrific she can play such a complex and desperate character. She was definitely possessed by the spirit of Vivien Leigh at the shooting of the film. It really is a performance I can see perfectly winning an Oscar. So please, go see this film for its directing, its screenplay and its tremendous cast but most of all, for Beckinsale’s portrayal of a desperate actress.

Awards Potential:

Best Picture – Saul Zaentz
Best Directing – Milos Forman
Best Actress in a Leading Role – Kate Beckinsale
Best Actor in a Supporting Role – Johnny Depp
Best Actor in a Supporting Role – Adrien Brody
Best Original Screenplay – John Logan and James L. White
Best Original Score – Howard Shore
Best Cinematography – Pawel Edelman
Best Costume design – Sandy Powell
Best Makeup

Alma

Author(s): Al
Location: NY

“Alma"

Directed by: Clint Eastwood
Written by: John Logan
Original Score by Jan A. P. Kaczmarek

Principal Cast:

Jonathan Reynolds: Paul Giamatti
William Forester: John C. Reilly
Ellen Breslin: Annette Bening
Sidney Shepard: Djimon Hounsou
Mary Shepard: Tracie Thoms
Jacob Forester: Daryl Sabara
Morris Fitzgerald: L.Q. Jones
Eve Shepard: Keke Palmer
Anne Forester: Julianne Moore
Sam Ratcliff: Clint Eastwood
Lisa Breslin: AnnaSophia Robb
Florence Lang: Joan Cusack

Tagline: “Learn to defy tradition"

Memorable Quote: "These children are our future, Mr. Ratcliff. And if you keep them like this, our future is doomed."

Synopsis: 1963. Alma is a sleepy little town in the heartland of Arkansas. With upheavals, protests and new ideas developing all over the country during this turbulent period of time, the closed-minded and corrupt mayor Sam Ratcliff helps keep Alma shut off from the changes of this era, and most of the town wants things to stay the way they are. That all changes when a new 7th grade teacher comes to town: Jonathan Reynolds. Reynolds is a closeted homosexual, and has just come back from teaching at Berkeley. After participating in one too many student demonstrations, Reynolds was fired and the town of Alma was happy to take him with barely any background check. Reynolds proceeds to expose the children of Alma to the upheavals and new ideas in the rest of the country. He teaches them ideals of independence, self-confidence, and defiance-none of which their guardians want them to learn. Many of the parents grow angry, and Ratcliff tries to have Reynolds fired, but he lacks a proper reason. Meanwhile, an African-American family moves in, disrupting the racial structure of the town and causing another upset. Another teacher at the school, Florence Lang, is shocked at what she sees going on across the hall and wants Reynolds removed immediately. Drawing upon Reynolds' questionable sexual orientation, she spreads a rumor that Reynolds is molesting a young boy in his class, Jacob Forester. While Reynolds has to fight these vicious allegations with the help of his students, this small, innocent town must deal with change both in Alma and in all of America.

What the press would say:

I just came out of "Alma", and all I can say to describe this movie is that it's just amazing. Famed actor/director Clint Eastwood has put together one of the best ensemble dramas in recent memory, which is big considering the surplus we've had of them. This film will definitely be going for the Oscar, and with the help of a deep, thoughtful screenplay by John Logan, it certainly has a chance. I cannot say enough about the actors in this film. Usually in an ensemble drama, there are a few standouts, but many performances fall flat. That is definitely not the case here. Every actor (including the children) turns in a creditable performance for "Alma". Clint Eastwood is dark and disturbing as the corrupt mayor of Alma (he's always good in his own movies). As a black couple facing extreme prejudice and hate as they move to Alma, Djimon Hounsou and Tracie Thoms both are great, especially Tracie. Another couple of good actors are John C. Reilly and Julianne Moore as the parents of the Forester family. Faced with possible sexual abuse of their son, these two react remarkably, with all the traits of good actors. Their son himself is played also very poignantly by Daryl Sabara, who handles such serious material so well. He isn't a Spy Kid anymore! I also loved Joan Cusack as the concerned but closed-minded and racist teacher, Annette Bening as a struggling single mom trying to raise her daughter well, and veteran actor L.Q. Jones in a small but important role as the earnest and kind owner of a candy shop with secret homophobic violence in his past. But the real standout in this movie is Paul Giamatti, the leading actor. Giamatti has been robbed of awards in the past, but now the Academy cannot avoid his portrayal of an edgy, closeted schoolteacher who opens children's minds to the possibilities and fallacies of the world. However, while Giamatti's character is a catalyst of new values and ideals, his performance at times suggests that he has learned responsibility from the children too. Overall, this is a great, poignant, and thought-provoking film. The studio is waging an aggressive campaign for the following awards:

Best Picture (AMPAS)
Best Picture: Drama (HFPA)
Best Ensemble Cast (SAG)
Best Director: Clint Eastwood
Best Original Screenplay: John Logan
Best Actor: Paul Giamatti
Best Supporting Actor: John C. Reilly
Best Supporting Actor: L.Q. Jones
Best Supporting Actress: Julianne Moore
Best Supporting Actress: Joan Cusack
Best Supporting Actress: Annette Bening

At the Wire

Author(s): Evan
Location: N/A

“At the Wire”

Directed by Clint Eastwood
Produced by Clint Eastwood, Robert Lorenz, and Larry McMurtry
Screenplay by Larry McMurtry
Cinematography by Tom Stern
Art Direction by Jack G. Taylor, Jr.
Score by Clint Eastwood

Principal Cast:

Joaquin Phoenix as Tom Hanson
Renee Zellweger as Jill Hanson
Chris Cooper as Bill Hanson
Sissy Spacek as Janet Hanson
Randy Quaid as Dr. Al Morris
Gary Stevens as Danny Sparrow
Peter Sarsgaard as Nick Townsend

Tagline: "It’s not the finish that counts; it’s how you run the race"

Synopsis: Bill Hanson is a horse racing legend, a two-time winning trainer of the Kentucky Derby. When his son Tom starts his own stable with great success, it looks like the Hanson dynasty has found a charming heir... that is, until Tom enters rehab for a cocaine addiction. A few months after leaving rehab, Tom has lost most of his clients, leaving his family in rough financial times and his father refusing to talk to him. His marriage to his wife Jill is on the rocks and he still faces mindnumbing cravings for his drugs. Then, all of a sudden, Tom starts to win races once again. His comeback story grabs the attention of the media, his marriage is back on track, and he resumes contact with his father. With a star three-year-old colt preparing for the Kentucky Derby, Tom has returned to prominence. But then, one night, Jill catches her husband with a bottle in his stable—one containing a new performance-enhancing steroid. Furious with him, she packs up her children and leaves. Just a few days later, the story breaks; several of Tom’s horses, including his star colt, have tested positive for steroid usage. His friends and the press turn against him while the racing industry launches an investigation into the situation. Tom loses his permit to be a trainer and is now without a job and his family until, upon the urging of his wife, Bill Hanson reluctantly allows his son to return to work for him as an assistant. As Tom struggles to make ends meet, he begins talks with his wife and children to get his life in order if they will just be family once again.

What the press would say:

Clint Eastwood´s new film At the Wire brings to memory 2003´s Seabiscuit but with the third act twist of Eastwood´s own Oscar-winning Million Dollar Baby. In the film, Eastwood builds up his protagonist Tom Hanson (Phoenix) as the hero for which everyone cheers—a man returning from adversity to earn money to support his family—, but then tears him down as a cheater, casting him back to the world of failures. Joaquin Phoenix plays Tom, a man torn between fair play and regaining the trust of his wife and father through dark means. Phoenix as Tom is a nuanced work of highs and lows, a spectacular follow-up to his performance of Johnny Cash in Walk the Line that could perhaps earn the actor a well-deserved Oscar. Renee Zellweger does a great turn as Tom´s wife Jill who, aftering discovering her husband´s secret one night, can no longer handle his many problems and leaves him with her two children. Chris Cooper plays Tom´s famous father Bill, deeply upset by his son´s embarassing actions, but who reluctantly allows his son to return to work with him after the urging of his wife Janet (played by Sissy Spacek), who as a mother is the only one who truly understands her son. Randy Quaid and horse racing hall-of-fame member Gary Stevens turn in roles as Tom´s veterinarian and his usual jockey, respectively, who are forced to turn against their friend to keep their own careers. Peter Sarsgaard shines in the role of the sly reporter who releases the story about the steroid usage, relentlessly destroying the credibility of his old friend Tom to get a better story. With its marvelous script by Larry McMurtry (Terms of Endearment, Brokeback Mountain), vivid colors that turn to haunting shades of gray after the steroid story breaks, and a plot turn as suprising as any since 1999´s The Sixth Sense, At the Wire is an unforgettable film that will have audiences questioning what they would do to win the stability of their family.

For Your Consideration:
Best Picture
Best Director- Clint Eastwood
Best Actor- Joaquin Phoenix
Best Actress- Renee Zellweger
Best Supporting Actor- Chris Cooper, Peter Sarsgaard
Best Supporting Actress- Sissy Spacek
Best Original Screenplay- Larry McMurtry
Best Art Direction- Jack G. Taylor, Jr.
Best Cinematography- Tom Stern
Best Score- Clint Eastwood

Available Now

Author(s): Zgamer
Location: Eagle, ID

“Available Now”

Distributed by: Warner Independent Pictures
Produced by: Karen Murphy
Directed by: Christopher Guest
Written by: Christopher Guest and Eugene Levy

Principal Cast:

Harry Shearer as Michael Finnegan
Fred Willard as Reggis Newman
Colin Mochrie as Lawrence Porter
Mena Suvari as Betty Goodman
Catherine O’Hara as Alice Robertson
Eugene Levy as Peter Washington
Christopher Guest as Gary Taylor

Tagline: "As probably seen on TV"

Release Date: February 15, 2007

Genre: Comedy

Rating: Pg-13 for sexual references, language, and some partial nudity

Synopsis: It’s the 1950’s. The entertainment industry continues its barrage on the public. Theater is the pinnacle of visual entertainment and radio continues to broadcast its music and advertisements to the public. However, this would all soon change with the invention of a new device that will put all of those mediums in their place. A small wooden box capable of both visual and audio proficiency. A device called the television.

This leads to the dilemma of one Michael Finnegan (Shearer). For many years, Finnegan Advertising has been the leader in radio commercials, providing many catchy jingles and witty banter to great commercials all over the airwaves. Unfortunately, this changed with the arrival of his producer Peter Washington (Levy) to be the bearer of bad news. Finnegan has been hired to produce a new string of commercials for a new entertainment device known as the T.V. However, not only is he not prepared for this new medium of advertising, he has to do it for one of the most unmarketable products out there…liver.

To make matters worse, the boss of the liver company (Willard) and his new T.V. producer (Guest) have caused a bit of a predicament for him. Providing him a shoestring budget and a strange assortment of actors; including a narcissistic former radio news anchor (Mochrie), a no talent beauty (Suvari) and a woman who can sing great but is has an unmarketable face (O’Hara), Finnegan has a week to come up with a new marketing campaign for his new sponsor. Can he make it work?

What the press would say:

Yeah, we’ve all seen the movie about the pressure of those with power and the hell that is the entertainment world. However, no movie so far has been able to show it in such a way like this. Only a director like Guest could blend these negatives with a delicious amount of offbeat humor and a great sense of time in its 50’s setting. Guest and Levy’s script is full of witty dialogue that would catch those without humor off-guard.

One of the best aspects of the film is the cast. As usual, the Guest regulars give great performances, whether in big or small roles. Shearer and Willard in particular do a great job. Shearer, as the lead character, gives us a character to laugh at and to sympathize with his plight, even if it is kind of pathetic. Willard on the other hand single handedly tears at the corporate world as the wittily sarcastic and merciless boss of the worse possible food to try and advertise for. Surprisingly, some of the best performances are given by newcomers to the Guest crew, especially from “Who’s Line Is It Anyways” veteran Colin Mochrie, who is a riot as an obnoxiously funny character who could well be a character in any of the “Weird Newscaster” games from his show.

Guest has returned to the public to show why he rules when it comes to offbeat comedy.

Possible Nominations

Best Picture (Karen Murphy)
Best Director (Christopher Guest)
Best Actor (Harry Shearer)
Best Supporting Actor (Fred Willard)
Best Supporting Actor (Colin Mochrie)
Best Original Screenplay (Christopher Guest and Eugene Levy)

Beaumont

Author(s): Pat
Location: New York

"Beaumont”

Directed By Sam Mendes
Written By Josh Olson and Robert Rodat
Music By John Williams

Principal Cast:

Heath Ledger (Edward Morton)
Denzel Washington (Ray Jones)
Morgan Freeman (Samuel Biggins)
Sharon Warren (Mary Jones)
Larenz Tate (Marc Gelder)
Laurence Fishburne (Jordan Smith)
Michael Clarke Duncan (Joe Diggsmore)
Wes Bentley (Xavier De Brada)
Lucas Black (Eli Rivera)
Kerry Washington (Ida Harrison)
Kyla Pratt (Lyla Jones)
Irma P. Hall (Olivia Biggins)
Clifton Powell (Q.B. Watkins)
Tyler James Williams (Jeff Smith)
Liv Tyler (Samantha Morton)

Tagline: "In 1957, one man will enter Beaumont and will change it forever”

Synopsis: Set in a fictional town in 1957 Louisiana, “Beaumont” tells the story of a young white man who comes to an impoverished black town with hopes to save them from the onslaught of the KKK. Heath Ledger plays emotionally troubled Edward Morton, a Harvard graduate who has just left his pregnant wife (Liv Tyler) to watch over the town of Beaumont, Louisiana, after reading an article in the papers about the KKK in that area. He hopes to save the town from the evils that it faces while trying to discover what his own purpose in the world is. In Beaumont, he becomes friends with the leader of the community and pastor (Denzel Washington) and his wife (Sharon Warren) while living at the doctor’s (Morgan Freeman) house with the physicians overbearing yet gentle wife of 50 years (Irma P. Hall). In his first week in Beaumont, Edward encounters the local KKK members (Wes Bentley, Lucas Black) who claim that a young man (Larenz Tate) raped a white girl in the next town over. Edward refuses to hand over the accused and soon becomes a target of the fundamentalist group. Quickly after, Edward inadvertantly sparks a battle between white and black, right and wrong, good and evil, that leads Edward to learn more about himself and humanity.

Laurence Fishburne and Michael Clarke Duncan co-star as members of the town who want to use violence to get the KKK to back off. Kerry Washington, Kyla Pratt, Clifton Powell, and Tyler James Williams also appear as various citizens of Beaumont.

What the press would say:

Not for a while has there been a movie that addresses racism during the 1950s and 1960s like Sam Mendes’ “Beaumont”. Set in a fictional town in 1957 Louisiana, this film stars Heath Ledger as a troubled Boston lawyer who decides that he wants to make a difference in the world and decides to battle racism in the Old South, much to the dismay of his wife (Liv Tyler). He soon becomes entralled in the war between white and black in this small town. Standouts in the cast include: Heath Ledger, Morgan Freeman as a Beaumont doctor who seems to be the only one willing to get something done, Irma P. Hall as Freeman’s eccentric wife of 50 years, Sharon Warren as the town leader’s devoted wife, Laurence Fishburne as a townsman who uses force to push the KKK away, and Wes Bentley as a creepy hillbilly KKK member who accuses a Beaumont citizen of raping a white girl.

Awards
Best Picture
Best Director-Sam Mendes
Best Original Screenplay
Best Actor-Heath Ledger
Best Supporting Actor-Morgan Freeman
Best Supporting Actor-Laurence Fishburne
Best Supporting Actress-Irma P. Hall
Best Supporting Actress-Sharon Warren
Best Cinematography
Best Film Editing
Best Art Direction
Best Costume Design

Brando

Author(s): Josh P.
Location: Chicago, IL

"Brando"

Directed by Ron Howard
Written by Akiva Goldsman and Sophia Coppola
Produced by Ron Howard, Brian Grazer and Francis Ford Coppola
Music by Thomas Newman
Cinematography by Tom Stern
Makeup by Rick Baker and Ve Niell

Principal Cast:

Mark Ruffalo (Marlon Brando)
Jake Gyllenhaal (Wally Cox)
Adrien Brody (Al Pacino)
F. Murray Abraham (Elia Kazan)
Brandon Routh (Christopher Reeve)
Charlize Theron (Anna Kashfa)
James Gandolfini (Francis Ford Coppola)

Tagline: "He made us an offer we could never rufuse”

Synopsis: Ron Howard directs an A-list cast in this bold biopic about the wild life of Marlon Brando (Ruffalo), one of cinema’s greatest film icons. The film details the shooting of Brando’s many films, such as A Streetcar Named Desire, On the Waterfront and The Godfather. The movie also addresses the unsettling rumors of the questionably strong friendship between Brando and long time companion Wally Cox (Gyllenhaal). Also, during the making of his movies, there were many complications. He refused to learn lines and was always a pain to work with, which almost cost him being cast in The Godfather. Directors never wanted to work with him. In his later life, he would up gaining much weight and, once again, being a horror for the crew. Even his wife, played by Charlize Theron, had to lock the refrigerator at night while Brando slowly deteriorated. After a long battle with a combination of illnesses such as diabetes, lung disease and dementia, Brando finally died on July 1, 2004. However, the legacy Brando left behind will never be forgotten.

What the press would say:

A triumph is what the critics are saying. Ron Howard applies a masterful touch as director. He can create big, glamorous scenes of Hollywood life as well as the gentle, quite moments of the everyday. His sense as a filmmaker explode and every frame is fussed with his genius. Akiva Goldsman and Sophia Coppola provide a great screenplay filled with emotion and energy of all the characters and create a true human interest story. While there are great supporting players, like Charlize Theron as the anguished wife who fears for her husband’s life and Jake Gyllenhaal as the longtime friend who might just be involved in a homosexual affair with the celebrity, it is Mark Ruffalo’s brilliant performance that is note worthy. Working with a dialogue coach and watching Brando’s old films for many months, Ruffalo has perfected Brando’s persona. Still, he is more than just imitating. He still creates a magnificent character through great acting. Brando was not a happy figure and the discontent and anguish that existed in him Ruffalo plays out perfectly. Technical points are also achieved for a hauntingly beautiful score by Thomas Newman, breathtaking cinematography by Clinft Eastwood’s regular cameraman Tom Stern and a very convincing makeup process by the master Rick Baker for turning Ruffalo into Brando’s later years. The campaign consideration:

Best Picture
Best Director: Ron Howard
Best Actor: Mark Ruffalo
Best Supporting Actress: Charlize Theron
Best Original Screenplay: Sophia Coppola and Akiva Goldsman
Best Cinematogrpahy
Best Original Score
Best Makeup

Cannon

Author(s): Dpac
Location: Appleton

“Cannon"

Directed by Bennett Miller
Produced by Chris Cooper and William Vince
Screenplay by Dan Futterman
Music by Danny Elfman

Principal Cast:

Bishop James Cannon Jr. - Alan Alda
Al Smith - Chris Cooper
Senator Carter Glass - Peter O'Toole
Bishop's Secretary - Catherine Keener
Miss Lura Virginia Bennet- Sally Field

Tagline: “He plunged from the heights as America's moral mentor to obscurity as one of
America's fallen angels"

Synopsis: Born in Maryland, U.S.A, in 1864, James Connor Jr. was the son of James and Lydia Connor. He completed his education by 1888 and married Miss Lura Virginia Bennet in the same year.

In the late 1920s and early 1930s "Bishop Cannon" became a household word in much of America. Methodist bishop James Cannon, Jr., was probably the most influential southern churchman between the Civil War and World War II and certainly the most controversial. A paradoxical figure, he seemed as comfortable in the secular world of business and public affairs as in the church, and critics condemned him as an exemplar of the materialistic values of the 1920s.

He then plunged into politics to protect prohibition and went on to become the most powerful leader of the temperance movement. He also gained popularity in leading the revolt against Al Smith in the presidential election of 1928 which sparked a feud between the two.

He was celebrated by his followers but at the same time he was denounced by critics for his anti-Catholicism and nativism. Political enemies arose and accused him of stock gambling, adultery long before his wife's death, hoarding, conspiracy and embezzling campaign funds, especially Senator Carter Glass. The next few years of his life were hell for him but it created sensational headlines for the newspapers.

This movie takes a comprehensive look on the long and controversial career of one of the most fascinating figures in twentieth-century American history, as a churchman, reformer, and politician. And that man's name is Bishop James Cannon Jr.

What the press would say:

Today the memory of Bishop James Cannon Jr. is dim, but in the 1920's many considered him as the most powerful cleric in America. He was so powerful that even his long time foe Henry Louis Mencken said, "Congress was his [Bishop Cannon's] troop of boy scouts and Presidents trembled whenever his name was mentioned...." But that power of his was short-lived and Cannon witnessed the rapid erosion of all his power, reputation and influence. And this movie is about that man, Bishop Cannon and shows us his life from birth to death and also shows us how deep his fall from his pinnacle of glory to the ground was.

The team that brought you the Oscar-winning movie Capote brings you another biopic about Bishop James Cannon Jr. The man behind the camera, Bennett Miller does an amazing job directing one of the best movies this year that has an equally good screenplay by Dan Futterman. The supporting performances in 'Cannon' are, well, magnificent. Chris Cooper's (Adaptation) performance as presidential candidate Al Smith is worth a nomination. Sally Field is magnificent as the very faithful wife of the Bishop who doesn't live long enough to find out that her husband cheated on her. But special attention should be given to the subtle performance of Peter O'Toole (Venus) as Senator Carter who is set on destroying Bishop Cannon's career. The scenes where they confront each other and accuse each other are simply, in one word, perfect! If Peter O'Toole isn't nominated, I will never forgive the Academy. But the whole show lays in Alan Alda's (Aviator) performance. He undertakes the complex role of Bishop Cannon, with such intelligence. He shines in the role that I bet, was made just for him. Playing a man of such power is difficult and who would've thought Alan Alda could do it? It was a very good move by the casting directors and Alan will be surely rewarded for this performance come Oscar time. Catherine Keener rounds up the perfect cast. Cannon is that kind of movie which the Academy will not resist and am sure will go on to win a handful of Oscars....

Possible Nominations-

Best Picture
Best Director
Best Original Screenplay
Best Actor - Alan Alda
Best Supporting Actor - Peter O'Toole and Chris Cooper
Best Supporting Actress - Sally Field
Best Cinematography
Best Sound Editing
Best Song – ‘Fall’ by Annie Lennox
Best Editing
Best Original Score

Cardboard Palace

Author(s): Douglas Hall
Location: N/A

“Cardboard Palace”

Directed by Jonathan Demme
Written by Ted Tally
Produced by Jonathan Demme, Steven Soderbergh, and Ted Tally

Principal Cast:

Shannyn Sossaman … Becky, troubled young woman with a much older husband and pregnant with her first child, suffers from past memories from her abusive father and suffers from depression Tessa Allen … Sarah, the promiscuous young girl

Edward James Olmos … Randy, much older husband to Becky, determined to discover who killed his sister

Helena Bonham Carter … Natalie, Randy’s slaughtered and butchered sister, drug-addicted woman who married her own stepson

Jared Leto … Brandon, Natalie’s almost always drugged-up, anger problematic husband who is having an affair

Jennifer Lopez … Veronica, Brandon’s lover, sluttish and trite model who wants a divorce from her writer husband to marry Brandon and help him from his drug-induced ways

Russell Sams … Alex, writer who is shocked when wife Veronica wants a divorce for the drug-addicted Brandon

Other Characters:

Tessa Allen … Natalie’s promiscuous daughter planning to run away with a convicted child molester

Randy Quaid … Leonard, Becky’s sick-minded father, convicted child molester who raped Veronica, beat on and molested Becky when she was younger and is now planning to run away with Sarah after he becomes the prime suspect in Natalie’s death

Debbie Reynolds … May, grandmother to Becky who always has wisdom-warm advice, sort of conscience and helps Becky through to the light a little

Tagline: "Everyone has secrets. Even if they aren’t secrets at all"

Synopsis: Becky is a depressed, pregnant, young housewife who realizes her grandmother May has a few weeks to live. Randy is Becky’s much older husband who is looking for clues to discover who was the man who raped, butchered, and dumped his sister Natalie’s body in a small town creek bed. Suspects turn out being numerous from writer Alex, his wife Veronica, and her lover Brandon who happens to be Natalie’s abusively drug-addicted husband. Another suspect is one with far darker secrets. Becky’s own father Leonard, a convicted child molester who is sleeping with Natalie’s barely teenaged daughter Sarah. When the mystery begins to clear up to it’s finale, there is one question left. Who killed Natalie and Veronica?

What the press would say:

Violently disturbing in many of the film’s dramatic moments, ‘Cardboard Palace’, is a beautifully rendered realistic drama that is the best bluntly life-changing picture since ‘Requiem for a Dream’. Filled with exquisitely three-dimensional characters and performances by some actors and actresses critics have doubted on, ‘Cardboard Palace’ is a sad and provocative portrayal of some dark topics of human nature. Deserving Oscars are Edward James Olmos as Randy who realizes that he may be just as crazy as the madman behind the killing of his sister when he breaks down into insanity. Shannyn Sossaman deserves an Oscar for her dramatically powerful role as woman tortured with what many have steered her life towards as she becomes emotionally disrupted and plans a suicide. Jared Leto deserves gold for his fascinating performance as drug addict who is the one behind the slaughter of Natalie. And Jennifer Lopez stuns many critics with her exceptional portrait of Veronica. She scares you with her blank stares and her voice of sweetness when deep down, she is a despicable monster waiting for its prey. ‘Cardboard Palace’ is a one-time ticket to a movie that may change your life. And for a movie to do that, it MUST deserve an Oscar.

For Your Consideration:
Picture
Director: Jonathan Demme
Original Screenplay
Actor – Edward James Olmos
Actress – Shannyn Sossaman
Supporting Actor – Jared Leto
Supporting Actress – Jennifer Lopez
Film Editing

Charm

Author(s): Pierre Davis
Location: Columbus, Ohio

"Charm”

Directed by Woody Allen
Written by Woody Allen
Produced by Woody Allen and Rob Reiner
Score by Marc Shaiman
Original Song by Randy Newman

Principal Cast:

Will Ferrell as Lance Holdman
Jack Black as Sam Saxon
Judi Dench as Alice Franklin
Jack Nicholson as John O’Neil
Ashley Judd as Sarah Foster
Scarlett Johansson as Justine Harris
Woody Allen as The Narrator

Tagline: "With a little charm down the street and love on the way magic is around the corner”

Synopsis: Love, a four letter word that could equal disaster in the city of the great New York City . With flowers blooming and spring around the corner love is blossoming. Woody Allen Narrates this story of how love blossoms between 3 couples who find out that the right kind of charm could find you the person that you have been looking for.

Chapter 1: Computer Love
Lance Holdman (Golden Globe nominee Will Ferrell) is a red headed slinky neurotic middle aged man who is addicted to a website called www.lovehungry.com. When he comes across the profile of a beautiful young lady by the name of Justine Harris (Golden Globe nominee Scarlett Johansson) he finds that he is the smoothest person in the world while typing. Talking for more than a year on the internet they become what some people say an internet company. What Lance doesn’t know is that the waitress who he talks to and gets his food from everyday is Justine the woman of his dreams. The only thing is that Lance has no picture to show Justine and with that Justine wants so desperately to meet him thinking that his personality fits his looks. Will Lance find a way to obtain the woman of his dreams?

Chapter 2: Knock, Knock: Candy gram
Sam Saxon (Golden Globe nominee Jack Black) is a man who lives by his own boundaries. When he sees that there are some new neighbors moving in next door to his house he sees an angel in the form of a woman. When the woman comes next door to introduce herself along with her son Sam begins to leave notes and flowers on her doorstep with notes ending in from you secret admirer. Sam finds out that he has all the charm in the world when he writes the letters. What Sam doesn’t know is that the woman whose name is Sarah Foster(Golden Globe nominee Ashley Judd) knows that Sam is doing this but goes along with it because she think it is sexy for a man to show enough courage to go after what he wants. Can Sam come up with the charm he puts in his letters and impress the woman of his dreams?

Chapter 3: A Wonderland for Alice
Alice Franklin (Academy Award winner Judi Dench) is woman who lives life in daze. Her friends call her Alice in Wonderland because of the fact she daydreams all the time. She is addicted to movies about love especially “ Casablanca ” which she knows every line by heart. She thinks that love has passed her by. One day she decides to put destiny into her own hands and the city she loves which is New York . Putting an ad in the newspaper for a spouse in her 60s looking for someone she lives out the rest her life with. Thinking that there has to be no hope she gets a returning phone call. Attracted to the confidence in the voice of this man by the name of John O’Neil (Academy Award Winner Jack Nicholson) who has left her a message she immediately calls him. When she finally meets him and begins to talk to hem she thinks it is love at first site. After a couple of dates and kisses Alice thinks she has found the man of her life. Can the charm of old John convince Alice that love cares nothing about age?

What the press would say:

Woody Allen has brought another love story for our time and is sure to get recognition for it also. There could have not been a better narrator than Woody Allen in this film. He brings the angst, guilt, and pessimism to life for Lance, Sam and Alice he has shown in his characters in the past. He takes you on a journey of 3 people looking for a thing called love. Scarlett Johansson is brilliant while portraying a young lady looking for a mature man to treat her right. Will Ferrell brings another comedic masterpiece in the form of Lance who is looking for love while it is right in front of his face. He brings hope to people who think there is no chance for love. While Sam comes of as a man who is desperately looking for a woman to shape him up literally and mentally. Jack Black and Ashley Judd are brilliant in their scenes together with enough chemistry to steam the movie theatres. Old Jack has done it again bringing something to a role that people thought wasn’t baity enough by just bringing the kind of charm he has to for a character like. While Academy Award winner Judi Dench beautifully acts out the role of the daydreaming Alice who makes the viewers believes that she is falling for the old Jack! With a fantastic song sung by Randy Newman along with an upbeat score by Mark Shaiman movie goers will be nodding their heads through this romantic-comedy. Believe it or not there could be a possible 10 nominations including Best Picture:

Awards

Best Picture: Woody Allen and Rob Reiner
Best Director: Woody Allen
Best Actor: Will Ferrell
Best Supporting Actor: Jack Nicholson
Best Supporting Actress: Ashley Judd
Best Actress: Judi Dench
Best Original Screenplay: Woody Allen
Best Film Editing
Best Score
Best Song by Randy Newman “Love comes a long way”
Best Cinematography

Class

Author(s): Pierre Davis
Location: Columbus, Ohio

"Class”

Directed by: Paul Haggis
Produced by: Clint Eastwood and Stephan Spielberg
Written by: Paul Haggis
Score by: Hanz Zimmer

Principal Cast:

Halle Berry as Suzanne Freeman
Michael Douglas as Michael Smith
Thomas Haden Church as Charles Paige
Rachel Weisz as Brenda Paige
Dakota Fanning as Nicole Paige
Catherine Zeta-Jones as Laura Smith
Denzel Washington as Keith Reynolds
Jamie Foxx as Mark Freeman
Lindsay Lohan as Janice Smith
Amanda Bynes as Elizabeth Smith
Jade Yorker as Rashade Freeman
Jaden Smith as Rakeem Freeman

Tagline: "Money doesn’t determine class, actions do”

Release date:
November 2, 2007

Synopsis: What do the upper class; middle class and the lower class have in common? Their actions speak louder than words. Michael Smith (Academy Award winner Michael Douglas from Wall Street) is a Caucasian wealthy doctor who has a beautiful wife and 2 children. His 2 children treat life for granted and his wife Laura (Academy Award winner Catherine Zeta-Jones from Chicago ) tries to dig up every penny out of him. His successfulness comes to a halt when he finds out he’s being fired because a patient finally comes out and tells what he has been doing for year which is sexual harassment. Outraged because of the media attention he walks out to his car and begins to speed out of the parking garage in his luxurious car that he begins to realize that he probably won’t be able to pay for anymore. While he is driving still mad at the fact he is fired he sees a little girl come out of the middle of nowhere and he hits her. Noticing that the girl is still alive he speeds off before anyone notices him. His two children by the names of Elizabeth (Amanda Bynes) and Janice (Lindsay Lohan) who are 16 and 18 are kids who hate school and skip every chance that they get. While skipping school and coming out of a designer store a man attempts to kidnap them. With this experience will they finally realize what they have and what they could ultimately lose?

Suzanne Freeman (Academy Award winner Halle Berry from Monsters Ball) is a middle aged African American who is considered to be in the middle class. She’s raising 2 kids and her brother Mark (Academy Award winner Jamie Foxx from Ray and Collateral) who has Down syndrome without any help from the father who is serving a life sentence. Now that her mother has died she has to become the leader of a family that is drifting apart due to drugs and violence. With a successful job she is happy and proud until one day everything seemed to go wrong when a doctor attempted to rape her. Scared at the fact of losing her job because the doctor is a veteran in the hospital she says nothing to anyone. When one day she finally shows strength and courage when she tells her boss what he has done. When her boss doesn’t believe her, Suzanne does what Americans love to do which is hire a lawyer and sue him. With an aspiring lawyer by the name of Keith Reynolds (Academy Award winner Denzel Washington Glory and Training Day) the case becomes worldwide news and she believes that she can win the case until she becomes accused for the kidnapping of the doctor’s children. Her children are two young men by the age of 17 and 12. Her 17 year old whose name is Rashade (Jade Yorker from The Gridiron Gang) is the perfect child in the eyes of Suzanne because of the grades he brings home. What his mother doesn’t know is that Rashade talks about children less fortunate than him and it is beginning to rub off on his little brother Rakeem (Jaden Smith son of Will Smith) because she is getting phone calls from his teacher for talking about a little girl that is less fortunate than others.

Charles ( Academy Award Nominee Thomas Haden Church from Sideways) and Brenda Paige (Academy Award winner Rachel Weisz from The Constant Gardener) are considered lower class Caucasians. Coming from nothing they never really had the will to live. Becoming married at a young age due to arrogance and the desire to move out on their own to have children they realize that life is not that easy. Living from one minimum wage paycheck to another due to not graduating high school life couldn’t be harder. Having only enough money for a 1 bedroom apartment and barely enough money to eat the only thing that keeps them living is their strong willed little girl Nicole (Dakota Fanning).
Nicole hopes for a better life and is one of the brightest little girls in her classroom. While she is in her classroom one day she begins to be made fun of because of the clothes that she wears. Crying because of a day of misery she begins running home. While running home the only thing that keep Charles and Brenda going is fatally ran over by a car. Without enough money for surgery to save her little girl Charles decides to try and kidnap the wealthy kids of a doctor that he has seen on TV due to a sexual harassment charge.

What the press would say:

Six academy award winners, one academy award nominee and a nominated director makes an outstanding portrayal of survival and courage coming from actors in their prime. With a great screenplay and fantastic direction by Paul Haggis, who has already has Oscar notoriety for his 2005 academy award winner for best picture Crash, brings another branch of stories connected somehow. Playing the role that was made for her; Halle Berry brings the part of the struggling mother to life which stands out in a fantastic ensemble. Denzel Washington plays another Oscar worthy portrayal as a lawyer standing up for an woman who already is going through hard times raising two kids and a little brother with Down Syndrome played to perfection by Jamie Foxx. A mentally disabled person hasn’t been played this well since Dustin Hoffman in Rain Man; Jamie Foxx is a true scene stealer. Michael Douglas plays the part that he loves to play as a greedy doctor that everyone loves to hate. Playing at the side of her husband Catherine Zeta-Jones plays what she does best which is a greedy wife and plays it as well as seen in recent history. Thomas Haden Church and Rachel Weisz are the perfect pair on screen and shows it. Thomas Haden really stands out in the scene with the kids that he kidnaps. With these roles they could both earn their second academy award nomination. The real surprise of the movie is Dakota Fanning who really comes off as an inspiring little girl looking for a better future. If she doesn’t get the nomination that she deserves for this movie then there will be an outrage. With strong performances by Lindsay Lohan, Amanda Bynes, Jade Yorker, Jaden Smith and a classic score by Hanz Zimmer that guides movie goers through this journey this movie is sure to sweep at the Golden Globes and the Academy Awards.

“A classic, two thumbs way up” – Roger Ebert and Richard Roeper.
“Paul Haggis has done it again” – Entertainment Weekly
“ Halle Berry ’s portrayal of struggle and love proves to be one of the best seen in recent history.” –Paul Travers
“Sure to sweep at the Academy Awards”- Oscarigloo.com
“A story that is sure to inspire others to do something with their lives” – New York Times

Possible Academy Award nominations:

Best Picture: Clint Eastwood, Stephan Spielberg and Paul Haggis
Best Director: Paul Haggis
Best Original Screenplay: Paul Haggis
Best Original Score: Hanz Zimmer
Best Actor: Michael Douglas and Thomas Haden Church
Best Actress: Halle Berry and Rachel Weisz
Best Supporting Actress: Dakota Fanning and Catherine Zeta Jones
Best Supporting Actor: Denzel Washington and Jamie Foxx
Best Film Editing
Best Cinematography

La Corrida

Author(s): Josh P.
Location: Chicago, IL

"La Corrida"

Directed by Ridley Scott
Written by John Logan
Music by Ennio Morricone
Production Designed by Arthur Max and Crispin Sallis
Costume Design by Sandy Powell
Cinematography by Robert Richardson

Principal Cast:

Gael García Bernal (Ernesto Sillo)
Javier Bardem (José Guarez)
Tom Wilkinson (Henry Mayor)
Matt Damon (Tom Mayor)
Catalina Sandino Moreno (Juanita Perez Mayor)
Edward James Olmos (Carlos Diego)
Joaquin Phoenix (James Reynolds)
Jake Gyllenhaal (Richard Pennie)
Freddy Rodriguez (Miguel Saltera)

with special appearances by
Antonio Banderas (Presidente Simón)
Ed Harris (William Bradfellow)
Jean Reno (Gerard André)
Ken Wantanabe (Hared Kamusoto)
Jeremy Irons (Charles Enger)

Tagline: "Death is charging and you must grab it by the horns"

Synopsis: Set in the early 1920s, the story tells that of a young man living in Spain (Bernal) and his aspiring dream to be a bullfighter. Ernesto’s father was once a bullfighter and worked along side Ernesto’s idol, José Guarez (Bardem), who is known as the most famous matador in the country. When his father died in an incident at the bullfighting ring, Ernesto pledges himself to the art form. When he joins in the ranks at a young age, he struggles at first. But he finds help. One fellow bullfighter (Rodriguez) has been in the game for many several years and teaches him basic skills. The other source is a retired one (Olmos). Diego had been bullfighting for over twenty years but had to bow out due to slower reaction time and a battle with alcoholism. Diego is tough, but decisive. Slowly, but surely, Ernesto builds up his skill. Soon he is performing in front of larger crowds and is even hired at a private event for the birthday of an American business tycoon (Wilkinson), as well as some other rich friends from around the globe (Harris, Reno, Wantanabe, Irons), and his son (Damon). The elder Mayor is married to a young Spanish bride named Juanita (Moreno) and she and Ernesto fall in love, continuing a secret affair kept in dark corners. Henry suspects something but cannot prove anything, and likes Ernesto too much to fire him. Tom has hated Ernesto from day one, due to his apparent prejudice against Spaniards and his father’s quickie, lust fueled marriage to Juanita. He soon finds out about Ernesto and Juanita’s affair and he, along with his friends (Phoenix, Gyllenhaal) take it upon themselves to make Ernesto’s life a living hell. It all concludes with an extravagant bullfight, entitled “La Corrida” which pits Ernesto with his idol, Guarez, in front of the judge (Banderas) for the top championship prize. Who will emerge victorious on that day?

What the press would say:

Ridley Scott provides an enthralling and masterful work of art. His extravagant and epic touches which have made him so famous are present in the piece as its capitalization on set and costume design do not disappoint. Richardson is also excellent behind the camera and creates that delicate balance of light and shadows with the actors and sets which is truly amazing. The cast is as much breathtaking as the scenery. Bernal gives a standout performance and provides an intense dramatic appeal, being able to acquire it on many different intensity levels. The supporting cast has been hailed as sublime. Ranging from a wide variety of actors, they all match up their acting skills marvelously. Standout supporting players are Olmos, who nails the teacher character flawlessly and Matt Damon’s evil incarnate is deviously delicious. These are all excellent reasons why the film’s cast has garnished numerous ensemble precursors. As the Oscar nominations near closer, the campaign is hoping for these awards and possible wins for what critics are calling “A work of art” and “Ridley Scott and company’s best film”:

Best Picture
Best Director: Ridley Scott
Best Actor: Gael García Bernal
Best Supporting Actor: Edward James Olmos
Best Supporting Actor: Matt Damon
Best Original Screenplay: John Logan
Best Art Direction
Best Costume Design
Best Cinematography
Best Film Editing
Best Original Score
Best Makeup

Countdown to Murder

Author(s): Matthew LaRusso
Location: New Jersey

"Countdown to Murder"

Directed By: Oliver Stone
Written by: Andrea Berloff and Oliver Stone
Music by: John Williams

Principal Cast:

Omar Epps as O.J. Simpson
Charlize Theron as Nicole Brown Simpson
Jake Gyllenhall as Ron Goldmann
Christian Bale as Kato Kailin
Paul Giamatti as Allan Park

Tagline: "1 knife, 2 victims, 1 suspect…This Fall, the countdown begins"

Synopsis: Based on actual events, this is the story of the final hours leading up to arguably the most infamous murder of our time.

What the press would say:

Oliver Stone directs this thrilling portrayal of the final hours before the murders of Nicole Brown Simpson and Ronald Goldmann. Omar Epps is stunning as the suspected O.J. Simpson. Cinematography and the editing are phenomenal and John Williams score will keep you on the edge even after you leave the theater

Best Picture
Best Director
Best Actor: Omar Epps
Best Cinematography
Best Editing
Best Original Score

Curtain Call

Author(s): Matt / Michael
Location: Illinois / Oklahoma

“Curtain Call”

Directed by Steven Sonderbergh
Written by William Broyles Jr.
Music by Jan A.P. Kaczmarek
Costumes Designed by Sandy Powell
Edited by Mike Hill and Daniel Hanley

Principal Cast:

Alexis Bledel as Jennifer James
Ryan Phillippe as Eric Flemming
Elijah Wood as Drew Broderick
Emmy Rossum as Lorraine Ravefort
Richard Gere as Franklin Pierce
Julianne Moore as Mrs. Stevenson
Marcia Gay Harden as Cindy Trouvers

Tagline: "In a time of war, they’re not ready to break a leg"

Synopsis: World War II did more than just damaged the United States economically, but the event had tragic effects socially, as well. After the World War II began, Eric Flemming and his longtime friend, Drew Broderick, were drafted into the army to travel overseas. The news was devastating to their families, girlfriends, and teachers. The two young men seemed to have bright futures, which included a family and a stable job. Both of the boys had a love for theater, too, and were involved in a local production. Jennifer James and Lorraine Ravefort, the girlfriends, had roles in the show, which was being organized by the drama coordinator, Mrs. Stevenson. Eric was not excited about having to leave Jennifer and the production behind, but he felt it was his duty. Drew, on the other hand, was completely against the aspects of war, and refused to follow Eric into training and eventual shipment to Europe. Instead, he planned to flea with Lorraine to Canada where he and she could start a life together. This left Jennifer alone. Mrs. Stevenson canceled the show. Jennifer didn’t know what to do with herself, so she asked her teacher for some advice. The two decided that she could follow Eric and help the war effort. Jennifer went to an enlistment office and applied to become a nurse for the troops. She was accepted, trained, and then sent across the Atlantic. Jennifer’s work was challenging and hectic, since many soldiers were wounded and the hospital was usually over-flowing with patients. Cindy Trouvers, a professional nurse, took Jennifer under her wing and helped her with her stressful job and her loneliness. One busy day at the hospital, a soldier was brought in. He was burned by a land mine explosion, and was wrapped in gauze. He was Eric. Jennifer was assigned to treat and care for the man, who she could not recognize. Eric was too incapacitated to reach out to his lover. Daily treatments were the only contact between Jennifer and Eric. Soon after Eric was admitted into the care center, the War was resolved. Jennifer was sent home. Eric remained overseas until he was well enough to make the journey home. Once the couple was home, they shared stories with one another. They felt closer than ever, but never realized that they had been together at the hospital. Lorraine and Drew eventually returned to their hometown. They had endured many hardships, including making money and having a baby, while in Canada. Mrs. Stevenson was so pleased to see the group together again. She prepared another production, and the group performed like they should have before the war tore them apart.

A Critic for the local newspaper, Franklin Pierce, shares his thoughts on the show: “The performances were exquisite, and it seemed as though the four main actors shared a chemistry that was undeniable. This is exactly what the world needed after a time of grief and war. Love and unity seemed to prevail.”

After receiving so much acclaim for their performances, Jennifer, Eric, Drew, and Lorraine wanted to set up their own theater company. With money from nursing and fighting in the war, and donations from the critic, Franklin Pierce, and their instructor, Mrs. Stevenson, the task was completed. The theater company was set up just outside Chicago, in the group’s hometown. It is still up and running today.

What the press would say:

Curtain Call is the story of a group of young adults that adore acting and are about to perform in a community show. However, before the show could debut, the two male members of the group are called to duty in World War II. Curtain Call is the stunning, must-see drama of the year. It drives in the force that love and passion prevail, which is one of the best messages a film could feature. It has the ability to suck the audience in and make them care about the characters. Not many films can do that nowadays. The film is inspiring and moving, not only through its touching dialogue but also through the actions that are shown on the screen. Some of the greatest scenes contain no dialogue whatsoever. Such scenes are only elevated by the beautiful Original Score. For example, the scene in which Alexis Bledel treats her lover, Ryan Philippe is exquisite. Because she is unaware of who he is, there is an absence of dialogue. The scene is lifted by the great performances, too.
Alexis Bledel is an actress who has grown so much through her career. She was a great casting choice, and she plays her role to perfection. Bledel, who has been great on Television in Gilmore Girls and in films like Sin City, finally had a chance to establish herself as a leading lady. She succeeded.

Ryan Phillippe is another young actor that has developed over the years. He gives a performance that is the prime example of “brave boy depressed” stereotype. It is so well acted that the audience feels for his character and wants him to get home safe. Both of the actors become their characters. Julianne Moore needs some recognition. She was rightly cast and gives one of the best performances in the film. After giving great performances in Oscar-nominated films, like The Hours, she is due. Moore is great as a motivator and it a true joy to watch. The Supporting Actress trophy should be hers. Emmy Rossum and Elijah Wood give two more great performances, and are believable as the struggling couple in Canada. Elijah played a part, which any other actor may have portrayed as cowardly, with pride. The audience will sympathize with him, and Emmy. Marcia Gay Harden gives a performance that tops her work in Mystic River and Pollock. She is a great role model, in the film and in the movie business.

The crew also deserves some rave reviews. The costumes are flawless, and are a perfect reflection of the setting of the film. The editing is amazing, as the film juggles multiple storylines. The Original Screenplay, which is written by the same author as Flags of Our Fathers and Apollo 13, displays a nice balance of war scenes, dialogue, and a great, uplifting conclusion. Steven Sonderbergh pulls off this film like nobody else could. He is an actor’s director, and he brought the best out of Bledel, Rossum, Phillippe, Wood, and Moore. Sonderbergh puts out his best work, with Curtain Call.

Overall, Curtain Call is the best film of the year. It is pure drama, and is just as inspiring as it is tragic. It is a masterpiece, and is destined to become a classic.

Possible Oscar Nominations

Best Picture
Best Director: Ron Howard
Best Original Screenplay: William Broyles, Jr.
Best Actor: Ryan Phillippe
Best Supporting Actor: Elijah Wood
Best Actress: Alexis Bledel
Best Supporting Actress: Julianne Moore
Best Supporting Actress: Marcia Gay Harden
Best Editing
Best Costume Design
Best Original Score

Dimension of Imagination

Author(s): Pat
Location: New York

"Dimension of Imagination"

Directed By Steven Spielberg
Written By David Koepp And Eric Roth
Based Upon The Book “In The Zone: The Twlight World Of Rod Serling” By Peter Wolfe
Music By John Williams
Produced By Steve Spielberg, Kathleen Kennedy, Joe Johnston, Oliver Stone

Principal Cast:

Matt Dillon (Rod Serling)
Carla Gugino (Carol Serling)
Betty White (Helen Foley)
Walton Goggins (Rob Serling)
Nora Dunn (Esther Serling)
Ciaran Hinds (Sam Serling)
Patrick Warburton (William Shatner)
Jet Li (George Takei)
Steve Carell (Jack Warden)

Tagline: "This is the Twilight Zone”

Synopsis: Steven Spielberg directs “Dimension Of Imagination”, a new biopic of The Twilight Zone’s creator Rod Serling penned by David Koepp and Eric Roth. The film follows the life of TV legend Rod Serling (Matt Dillon) from his childhood in central New York to his life fighting as a paratrooper in WWII to his boxing career to the beginning of his television stardom and to his death in 1975. Throughout the movie, we see Rod’s problems with addiction to tobacco and his relationship with his wife (Carla Gugino). We also see his early years under the mentorship of his high school English teacher (Bette White). Ciaran Hinds and Nora Dunn play Serling’s oppressive parents who favor his brother Rob (Walton Goggins). Patrick Warburton, Jet Li, and Steve Carell play Hollywood legends who made guest appearances on The Twilight Zone over its five years on TV.

What the press would say:

Rod Serling, creator of “The Twilight Zone”, becomes immortalized in cinema in this new film from Oscar-winner Steven Spielberg. Matt Dillon gives an amazing yet tragic performance as the TV personality as the character travels through successes and pitfalls until his abrupt death in the mid-1970s. Dillon is heartbreaking and mimics Serling perfectly. Betty White also gives a good performance as Serling’s English teacher who inspired him to write and was his mentor during rough patches. Ciaran Hinds and Nora Dunn play Serling’s parents who dislike their son’s chosen career path and both portray it with creepy accuracy. Carla Gugino is the best of the supporting cast, playing Serling’s wife who defends him when it comes to family and pushes him to strive for greatness. But the best performance in the film comes from Matt Dillon, which might be his best ever and one of the best portrayls of a real person in film history. All in all, “Dimension of Imagintion” is a heartbreaking tale about one man’s dream to bring a new aura of terror to television.

Awards
Best Picture
Best Director-Steven Spielberg
Best Adapted Screenplay
Best Actor-Matt Dillon
Best Supporting Actor-Ciaran Hinds
Best Supporting Actress-Nora Dunn
Best Supporting Actress-Carla Gugino
Best Original Score
Best Cinematography
Best Film Editing
Best Costume Design
Best Art Direction

Ends of the Earth

Author(s): Matthew LaRusso
Location: New Jersey

"Ends of the Earth"

Directed by: Ridley Scott
Written by: David Franzoni
Music By: Iva Davies, Christopher Gordon, and Richard Tagnetti

Principal Cast:

Liam Neeson as Ferdinand Magellan
Gael Garcia Bernal as Juan de Aranda
Antonio Banderas as Serrano
Christian Bale as Carvalho
Djimon Housou as Gonzalo
Michael Pena as Diego Barbosa
Alfred Molina as Cardinal Juan Rodriguez de Fonseca

Tagline: "This Summer, Conquer the Unknown…"

Synopsis: This is the story of the greatest expedition in history, the first circumnavigation of the globe. Led by Ferdinand Magellan (Neeson), this movie follows him and his crew on their conquests of the unknown, Magellan’s death in the Phillippines, the deaths of most of the crew from Scurvy and the arrival of the ship Victoria manned by Carvalho (Bale) and Gonzalo (Hounsou) back to Portugal.

What the press would say:

Ridley Scott brings his next big budget adventure to the big screen in the form of “Ends of the Earth”. A combination between “Gladiator” and “Master and Commander”, this movie packs a powerful punch both verbally and visually as it is sure to garner the academy’s recognition in many categories.

Best Picture
Best Cinematography
Best Director
Best Sound Editing
Best Actor- Liam Neeson
Best Costume Design
Best Original Screenplay
Best Art Direction
Best Editing
Best Sound

The Fairy Godfather

Author(s): SeaSpin
Location: New York, New York

“The Fairy Godfather”

Directed By: John Waters
Written By: John Waters

Principal Cast:

Nathan Lane as Don Lon (The Fairy Godfather)
Sarah Bernhardt as Testy Treat (The Rival Crime Lord)
Ru Paul as Valeur (The Drag Queen Hit Woman)
Brent Corrigan as Billy Bones (The Escort With An Agenda)
Ellen DeGeneres as Mayor Finster (The Truthful Public Servant)
Sara Gilbert as Molly Polly Pocket (The Mayor's Assistant)
Alan Cumming as Tommy Fingerdinger (The Victimized Designer)

Tagline: "Sprinkle Some Fairy Dust On Your Typical Mob Movie And You Get..."

Synopsis: The cold wind blows hard in December on the tiny little island of Manhatten. So cold that Don Lon needs a new fur coat but he is in for a rude awakening. When he sends his escort out to get him one at the Tommy Fingerdinger store, they find that all the fur coats are gone. Tommy Fingerdinger is left tied up in the back of the store. Who could have done this? Who could have committed such a heinous (giggle) act? None other than Testy Treat herself! Testy is sitting in her manhatten loft with her girlfriend Molly Polly Pocket when she hears the news that Don Lon is cold. She laughs so hard that her cat's run from the building. The next morning she sends Molly Polly Pocket back to her normal job as assistant to Mayor Finster, a good uptight citizen. Don Lon is losing his mind from the cold in his perfectly heated apartment so he sends Valeur, the best hitwoman/man in the business after Testy Treat. What he doesn't know though is that Valeur is also working for Testy. Valeur is simply pocketing all the money and getting ready to move to Hawaii. When Don Lon finds out, he sends his escrot, Billy Bones, after Valeur and they get into a bitch-slapping fight in the middle of toyrs-r-us. Who can possibly win this mob war?

What the press would say:

"The Fairy Godfather" is the most hilarious movie I have seen this year. Nathan Lane is so perfect as the Don of the Gay Mafia. His rival, played to juicy perfection by Sarah Bernhardt, is so funny in her scenes with Valeur that they had my side splitting many times. Ellen DeGenerous plays the straight laced mayor of New York who is single and lives with 13 cats. When Don Lon enters her apartment and sees the cats he stops and looks at his companion, the ecsort Billy Bones, and says "Do you think she's componsating for something?" This is John Waters as his best. He tosses joke after joke at you and you never stop laughing. The is the best cast he has assembled in his career, all well known names. But he brought on controversial gay porn star Brent Corrigan to play the escort. Corrigan actually pulls off a pretty convincing performance as the money hungry male escort. Sara Gilbert's Molly Polly pocket is probably the funniest character in the film because she's the only one that isn't intentionally funny. She has no jokes but the faces she makes when she is with both Testy Treat and Mayor Finster had the audience cracking up. This is deffinately the funniest movie of the year.

POSSIBLE NOMINATIONS:
Best Actor - Nathan Lane
Best Actress - Sarah Bernhardt
Best Supporting Actress - Ellen DeGenerous
Best Original Screenplay - John Water

The Family

Author(s): Stefano
Location: Italy

“The Family"

Directed by Martin Scorsese
Written by Martin Scorsese, James Toback
Original music by Ennio Morricone
Cinematography by Dante Spinotti
Art direction by Dennis Gassner
Costume design by Ruth Myers
Produced by Francis Ford Coppola

Principal Cast:

The Partannas Family:

Robert Loggia – Don Corrado Partanna (Partannas Godfather)
Vanessa Redgrave – Elaine Partanna (Don Corrado’s wife)
Robert De Niro – Anthony “Tony” Partanna (Don Corrado’s younger brother)
Leonardo DiCaprio – Thomas “Tommy” Partanna (Anthony’s son)
Sean Penn – Richard Partanna (Don Corrado’s younger son)
Annette Bening – Katharine Partanna (Richard’s wife)
Tim Robbins – Michael “Mike” Partanna (Don Corrado’s older son)
Lorraine Bracco – Liliana “Lilly” Partanna (Don Corrado’s daughter)

Other Characters:

Scarlett Johansson – Mary Jane Adams (Tommy’s girlfriend)
David Strathairn – William Hickner (Partannas family lawyer)
Harvey Keitel – Charley Santini (Partannas hit-man)
F. Murray Abraham – Don Bernardo Garrone (Garrones Godfather)

Tagline: “Honor. Power. Ambition. Everything that’s worth killing for"

Synopsis: “The Family” is a Martin Scorsese crime-drama about a fictional italian-american Mafia family. The film’s story spans ten years, from early 1980’s to 1990, telling the chronicle of Richard Partanna’s rise and fall in the world of crime. In 1980, don Corrado Partanna (Robert Loggia) is the old Godfather of Partannas family, a powerful organization which members control politics, finance, racket, gambling-houses and the drug-market all over America. But when don Corrado is shot dead by a killer hired by don Bernardo (F. Murray Abraham), the boss of the rival Garrones family, everything is inevitably destined to change. Michael (Tim Robbins), don Corrado’s first son and natural successor, is going to take the lead of the family; but Richard (Sean Penn), his younger brother, an ambitious and ruthless man, is ready to do anything in order to steal the power from Michael’s hands. Pushed by his scheming and astute wife Katharine (Annette Bening), Richard commissions Michael’s death and so he becomes the new Godfather, to the great disappointment of his uncle Anthony (Robert De Niro), don Corrado’s younger brother. Now that he’s got all the family business under his own control, Richard can prepare his cruel revenge against the Garrones family. At the same time, 30-years-old Thomas Partanna (Leonardo DiCaprio), Anthony’s young son, is considered the only one who can compete with Richard for the lead of the family; and although his father doesn’t want to see him involved in the same world he comes from, Thomas is as much ambitious and resolute as Richard. Soon, the terrible rivality between the two opposite factions of the family will give rise to the most violent and sanguinary Mafia-war ever. At the end of the movie, Thomas will finally kill his uncle Richard and will become the new Godfather of the Partannas.

What the press would say:

Academy Award nominee and celebrated director Martin Scorsese is the creator of this dark, majestic, three-hour long epic drama about the Mafia-world, the tin grey area between good and evil and the effects of power, violence and ambition on the human soul. Produced by Francis Ford Coppola and written for the big screen by James Toback and the director himself, “The Family” is a new chapter in Scorsese’s production of great gangster-movies as “Goodfellas”, “Casino” and “The Departed”.

The film stars a wonderful ensemble of award-winning actors. Sean Penn is at his best as Richard Partanna, a man obsessed with power and who’s fightin’ for his own rise to the top of the crime-kingdom; thanks to Penn’s breathtaking performance, his character is destined to become one of the most disturbing villains of the big screen. Co-star Leonardo DiCaprio, in his fourth collaboration with Scorsese, gives also an excellent performance as the young gangster Thomas Partanna. And Robert De Niro proves he’s still one of the greatest actors of all-time with his memorable and ambiguous role as Thomas’ father, Anthony Partanna.

Talking about the female cast, Annette Bening is terrific as Katharine Partanna, Richard’s determined wife, a modern Lady Macbeth who wants to be the Mafia first-lady and who shares the same desperate ambition of his husband. And Scarlett Johansson plays the key-role of Mary Jane Adams, Thomas’ young and charming girlfriend, an innocent character extraneous to the crime-world, who soon becomes Richard’s secret object of lust and desire, contributing to increase the rivality between Thomas and Richard Partanna.

Among the several members of the cast there are also Robert Loggia, in the brief but impressive role of the old Partannas Godfather don Corrado; Tim Robbins as Richard’s brother Michael, who’s killed just before the first half of the film; Lorraine Bracco as Lilly, don Giacomo’s daughter, who pushes Thomas into fight against Richard; David Strathairn as William Hickner, the family’s lawyer and Richard’s most devoted “consigliere”; Harvey Keitel as the ferocious hit-man Charley Santini; F. Murray Abraham as the boss don Bernardo Garrone; and Vanessa Redgrave in the role of Elaine Partanna, don Corrado’s devoted wife.

For your consideration:
Best Picture
Best Director – Martin Scorsese
Best Actor – Sean Penn
Best Actor – Leonardo DiCaprio
Best Supporting Actor – Robert De Niro
Best Supporting Actress – Annette Bening
Best Original Screenplay
Best Original Score
Best Cinematography
Best Editing

Fetish

Author(s): Marcus Dennis
Location: N/A

“Fetish”

Directed by Stephen Daldry
Written by Pedro Almodovar
Score by Alexandre Desplat

Principal Cast:

Naomi Watts-Jane Merriweather
Clive Owen-Clyde Merriweather
Johnny Depp-Philip Lincoln
Sophie Okonedo-Linda

Tagline: "What's your fantasy?"

Synopsis: Jane (Naomi Watts) is a bored housewife. She doesn¢t show her unhappiness in fear that it will break up her marriage with her overly-traditional husband, Clyde (Clive Owen). One day, her depression leads her to the ghettos of London , where she is brutally raped. But she doesn¢t react to this traumatic experience like the average person. She regards it as the best sexual experience she¢s ever had. After the rape, she tries to have more interesting sex with Clyde , who quickly dismisses anything that isn¢t missionary. She becomes an outcast of the town, after an awkward lesbian encounter with her best friend, Linda (Sophie Okonedo). Her sexual frustrations reach the boiling point and she sets out to find the man who raped her.

What the press would say:

Fetish is a hell of a film. It¢s one of the most provocative and sexual films of all-time. This is Stephen Daldry¢s most intense film. His direction and Naomi Watts¢ provocative performance gives the film a heart, where otherwise it¢d be considered artsy porn. Naomi¢s emotions are all over the place, but this is an extremely controlled performance. Clive Owen isn¢t a prick, but he plays a great one in this film. Johnny Depp gives a sickening performance as a rich rapist. Alexandre Desplat¢s seductive score oozes sexuality and gives the film a steady pace that advance whenever it feels like it.

Best Picture
Best Director: Stephen Daldry
Best Orig. Screenplay: Pedro Almodovar
Best Actress: Naomi Watts
Best Supp. Actor: Clive Owen
Best Supp. Actor: Johnny Depp
Best Cinematography
Best Editing
Best Score: Alexandre Desplat

Fighters

Author(s): Juan
Location: Mexico

“Fighters"

Directed by: Jim Sheridan
Written by: Jim Sheridan and Ron Nyswaner
Music by: Rachel Portman
Cinematography by: Edward Lachman

Principal Cast:

Ralph Fiennes- Kyle Norman
Natalie Portman- Joanne Gunter
William Dafoe-Nathan Dawnay
Julianne Moore- Beatrice Norman
Ellen Burstyn-Ava Tabor
James Franco-Jason Gunter
Diane Kruger- Helen Safford
Joseph Cross- David Norman

Tagline: “The hardest battles are always won with love"

Synopsis: Kyle is an American diplomat whose life is relatively perfect; he has an interesting job, knows lots of people and maintains a stable relationship with a smart beautiful woman, Helen. He is a divorced man who tries to forget a troubled marriage with an alcoholic woman, Beatrice, who tries really hard to be a role model to their confused teenage son, David. Kyle’s life changes dramatically when his son committed suicide because he had acquired the HIV after a night of wild party. Beatrice falls into a deep depression and drinks alcohol in an excessive way; on the other hand, Kyle realizes how empty his life is and decides to dedicate his life to help AIDS victims. That’s reason why he moves to New York and breaks up with Helen, who doesn’t believe he will make the change.

Meanwhile, in a Michigan poor suburb, a young nurse, Joanne, mother of a lovely boy, discovers that she has been infected because of her husband’s promiscuity. When her boss realizes she is infected she fires her, and she gets totally submerged in misery. Desperate for this situation she moves to New York to live with her supporting aunt, Ava. She is forced to hide her secret in order to get a good job. One day, while working as a waitress in a luxury restaurant she meets Kyle, who feels attracted by her hopeful but sad appearance that remind him all those people he could have helped but that before his son’s death were indifferent to him.

Kyle gets to know Joanne and discovers her sad case. That became his inspiration to start an AIDS fighting campaign. Kyle tries to convince important politicians to help him but influential and insensitive Senator Nathan D. becomes his biggest obstacle. The Senator thinks military actions in Middle-East are more necessary. Joanne and his son’s living fight will motivate Kyle to carry on with his. Joanne faces poverty and social discrimination and her husband harassed constantly. Kyle commits to support her, which conduces him to fall in love with her; a totally unrealistic feeling because she gets closest to death every day.

What the press would say:

\One of the most devastating problems in our planet is the AIDS epidemic, that has killed millions of people and that needs to be solved immediately to avoid more deaths. Jim Sheridan treats this theme in one of the most human pictures of all time, a very sensitive and realistic story about the fight of two characters to survive in a chaotic world, trusting that good will and perseverance can make the change. The team directed by Sheridan is at the same time unusual and great, every actor giving a very touching representation of human feelings, and everybody succeeding in capturing their characters that are rich and complex in their own way.

Joseph Cross plays a powerful but small role in which he plays a young man that nobody expects to acquire the HIV being a teenager, especially if your life is difficult, your mother is alcoholic and you hate your father, Joseph Cross’s performance achieves in transmitting sadness and a feeling of depth loneliness. Diane Kruger is perfect and delightful as Kyle’s intellectual girlfriend; the magic of her performance is that she is able to be nice but selfish at the same time. She is insecure, confused and frightened, and her character doesn’t want to face reality because she knows it is hard.

James Franco surprises with his performance. He is amazing, turning into a disgusting person, someone who does not care about his family and that lives submerged in a total immaturity. He makes us hate him, he has made the best performance of his career. Ellen Burstyn plays one of the tenderest roles of the story, and she plays it majestically, she is great in everything, her maternal instinct is present in every moment. Her “Ava” is always there to help her niece and her son, she is another “fighter”, a woman who tries to bring hope and love to the life of someone that really needs them; her performance set her in the spotlight, a respected actress playing a very sensitive character is pure Oscar-bait.

Two big performances of this film are Julianne Moore’s and William Dafoes, who almost steal the show (which is impossible because of the incredible leading performances). Julianne’s role is totally different to everything she has done before, her performance is entirely heartbreaking, she suffers a lot and she only want something that gives her strength, the way she portray this feeling is remarkable, she becomes a sad vulnerable woman, this performance is one of the best of the season, she truly deserves an Oscar nomination in the supporting category. William Dafoe is also astonishing, he offers a very special performance in this film. His insensitivity and excessive pride shock the audience, it is unbelievable there can be someone like “Nathan Dawnay”, He adds a cruel bitterness to the story in a marvelous way, he captured completely the politic essence of his character it is impossible to imagine this film without his acting quality, he is another big Oscar contender that emerges from this film.

Natalie Portman is wonderful the first moment she appears on screen, her character is the most complex of the film, her performance is breathtaking, she show how much she has matured, she has become a big actress. Natalie Portman, the actress, is gone, but instead we have an authentic woman, a woman that tries to get ahead knowing she is destined to death; her character represent the spirit of perseverance and hope, the way she portray it is magnificent, words are not enough to describe how brilliant she is in this film. Natalie Portman will be one of these year’s Best Actress nominees, and why not, an Oscar-winner.

Ralph Fiennes plays the hero of the film, his “Kyle” is very interesting, he lives submerged in a sea of incontrollable emotions, he wants to help people but the are many obstacles in his way and he looks so weak and hopeless, but always trying to overcome and share his will. This performance is one the best Ralph has made in his career, he let us feel his confusion ad despair, he is a “fighter” that needs help to carry on. There is no doubt that Ralph Fiennes will be recognized by the A.M.P.A.S., performances like his are memorable.

“Fighters” is master-piece, Jim Sheridan delivers his best work, the screenplay is extraordinary and his directing capacity is reflected in every scene. When someone gets to understand human tragedy and tries to transmit a message of hope, the result is marvelous. “Fighters” is a movie about valuating life, about fighting for every moment and discover ourselves. It is one the best films of the season and a real frontrunner for the next Academy Awards.

AWARDS FOR CONSIDERATION:

Best Picture
Best Director: Jim Sheridan
Actor in a leading role: Ralph Fiennes
Actress in a leading role: Natalie Portman
Best supporting actor: William Dafoe
Best supporting actress: Julianne Moore
Best supporting actress: Ellen Burstyn
Original Screenplay
Original Score
Original Song ( A song by U2)
Cinematography
Best Editing

The Film-Mongers

Author(s): Al
Location: NY

“The Film-Mongers"

Directed by: James L. Brooks
Written by: Jason Reitman

Principal Cast:

Nathan Burke: Philip Seymour Hoffman
Harry Brackells: Don Cheadle
Kate Walker: Zooey Deschanel
Sally Brightman: Kristin Chenoweth
Dave Nichols: John C. Reilly
Anne Burke: Cloris Leachman
James Burke: Alan Arkin
Francis Fotros: Kurt Russell
Nora Nichols: Melora Hardin
Mark Walker: David Koechner
Jackson Morton: Paul Walker

Tagline: “Everyone's a critic. But these guys know how it's done"

Synopsis: Nathan Burke is quite possibly one of the most famous film critics in the country. But boy, has he got problems. Relentless advertising exec Harry Brackells is desperately hounding Nathan to give awards buzz to "Dandelion", the new Oscar bait by quirky director Francis Fotros. He's locked in a constant battle to put his malcontent parents in an assisted living home. And he's fallen into a May-September romance with Kate Foley, the liberal, vegan movie critic from the local independent newspaper. But Nathan is still "technically" with Sally Brightman, the hard-right conservative Christian who writes "family-oriented" reviews for her website. Sally is cheating on her deadbeat husband Mark just to be with Nathan. When she finds out that he's moved on, she feels jilted and wages absolute war on him. An exhausted Nathan gives in and reluctantly accepts a bribe from Brackells. This pits him against his best friend and fellow critic Dave, who feels that Nathan betrayed him. Meanwhile, Kate and Nathan find that they just don't seem to fit into each other's worlds. And as "Dandelion" premieres, Kate is tempted by her ex-boyfriend Jackson, and Nathan has to deal with his newfound lack of credibility in the film world. Can Nathan reconstruct his life before the credits roll?

What the press would say:

There isn't enough I can say about "The Film-Mongers". Nothing I can say will do it justice. The comedic brilliance of all the actors involved and the skill of screenwriter Jason Reitman and famed director James L.Brooks propel this dramedy to great heights. Phillip Seymour Hoffman plays a disillusioned film critic, and this performance should finally put him into the mainstream. He has real comedic talent, and it shines through here. I also loved Zooey Deschanel as the quiet, liberal film critic who Nathan falls for. Finally, she has graduated into lead roles in big pictures, and we welcome her with open arms. She really knows when to be serious in this movie, and when to be funny, a tough balance to strike with dramedy. Alan Arkin and Cloris Leachman are both laugh-out-loud brilliant as Nathan's cantankerous old parents who resist any attempts to be "institutionalized". John C. Reilly is also good as Nathan's best friend, facing the aftermath of a homophobic comment while reviewing a movie about a gay romance. Melora Hardin, fresh from "The Office", is also good as his uptight wife. Kurt Russell is great as the semi-insane director of "Dandelion", and so is Don Cheadle as the press agent hounding Nathan about the movie. This is the first time Cheadle has tried a comedic role, and it works very well. I liked the fit, though some may not. Of course, how could I forget Kristin Chenoweth? As the far-right movie critic who doesn't practice what she preaches, she makes her scenes sparkle. She parlays her character's jealous rage into small, controlled, passive-aggressive outbursts that are hilarious. David Koechner also adds some (at times much-needed) comic relief as her deadbeat husband. All in all, this is an entertaining but insightful film (James L. Brooks' hallmark) that will have you walking out of the theater satisfied. I promise.

Best Picture (AMPAS)
Best Picture- Musical or Comedy (HFPA)
Best Ensemble Cast (SAG)
Best Director: James L. Brooks
Best Actor: Philip Seymour Hoffman
Best Actress: Zooey Deschanel
Best Supp. Actor: Don Cheadle
Best Supp. Actor: John C. Reilly
Best Supp. Actor: Alan Arkin
Best Supp. Actress: Kristin Chenoweth
Best Supp. Actress: Cloris Leachman
Best Original Screenplay: Jason Reitman

Freak Show

Author(s): Tony
Location: Pittsburgh

"Freak Show"

Directed by Christopher Guest
Written by Michael Arndt and Christopher Guest
Produced by Michael Hertzberg
Music by Ray Cooper

Principal Cast:

Colin Firth as Biff Baroni
Gregg Henry as "Priceless" Pat Corso
Robin Tunney as Penny Corso
AnnaSophia Robb as Gabriella Corso
Scott Wilson as Stan Gordon
Johnny Messner as Rat Murphy
Hugh Laurie as Thad Kent
Jean Reno as Bertrand Newbury
Wayne Brady as J-Qwik
Kal Penn as Kailish Lahari

Tagline: "Reality TV has met its match, and it comes in 8 different sizes"

Synopsis: The family is the Corso's. Husband (and business man) Pat Corso, wife Penny Corso, and daughter Gabriella. Little Gabriella turns 12 on November 31st, and what she wants more than anything else is a clown for her birthday party, but not just any clown, the PERFECT clown. "Priceless" Pat works his magic to assemble a contest to find the perfect performer in big red shoes. The television media is fascinated by the subject and decides to make a documentary of it. They assign Biff Baroni, a small time game show host, to host this national event. The performers will go through a certain amount of tests to see who is more qualified to be the star of little Gabriellas party, and be the winner of the grand prize, $500,000. An open invitation is made and people from all over the country have tried out, and have been narrowed down to 6 completely random people, which is where our documentary starts. The remaining 6 will be put through aseries of tests and will perform in front of a live audience and random children from the city to determine the winner. The contestants will be frequently interviewed and have a camera follow them 24/7 until the contest is complete. They will also be ordered to wear their outfit and make-up at all time during the contest. Six contestants, and he who laughs last...well, laughs.

Stan Gordon, Trademark: Motivational Speaker. Stan is an old time vet at the clown business who's been retired for several years now. He was always known for giving the kids high spirits and teaching them moral values. Now at age 64, Stan is staring down the road to the mid-life crisis and wants to entertain again.

Rat Murphy, Trademark: Story Telling. Rat is an ex-con that's been in the joint for grand theft auto, arson, a trunk full of DUIs, and several other crimes. He's a lost soul that needs direction in his life, and during time in prison he read many children's books to brighten his attitude towards life, but with a name like Rat, is it possible? Pat and Penny are forgiving people, and obviously saw something in Rat to keep him in the contest. He likes walks, the rain, sand, and hates perverts.

Thad Kent, Trademark: Magic Show. Thad is a former magician that jumped on this scene quickly. He has great personality and attitude. But what the viewers at home or everyone involved with the competition don't know is Thad has a "special liking" for children, a dark secret of his. Many times during the contest Rat suspects Thad of looking at kids the wrong way, and the two have heated confrontations.

Bertrand Newbury, Trademark: Animal Balloons. Bertrand has traveled from country to country searching for a place to call home, and he's finally found it, the Freak Show! Bertrand needs money badly and uses his special balloon tricks to win over the audience. His trademark animal balloon is the blue nose dolphin.

J-Qwik, Trademark: Singing. Straight from the Bronx comes J-Qwik, the whitest black man to date. J-Qwik was the name given to him by his hoodlum family, when he's with them and his friends he acts completely street, but it's not the real him. Although his singing and ebonic-free attitude is truly remarkable, he feels he lets his family down, and believes the white paint on his face is a symbol for what he hides, his true race and identity.

Kailish Lahari, Trademark: Impressions. Kailish is the youngest of the competitors, and is also Indian, which many don't know. Post 9-11 Kailish has been looked down on by all, people giving him funny looks, odd gestures, even if he's not Arabian. Kailish has the habit of breaking down during the contest from the children keeping their distance from him. Like the kids say "Daddy doesnt want me talking to Arabs". Aside from his color conflict, he makes them laugh from his dead on impressions, his most famous being the 28th president of the United States, Warren Harding.

Rated R for offensive language and thematic elements
Runtime: 1 hour and 50 minutes (Comedy)

What the press would say:

Hold your applause and drop your drawers, the "Freak Show" is in town. "Freak Show" delivers a riotous style of humor from legendary mockumentary director/writer Christopher Guest. To add on to the brilliancy of the film is new up and coming writer of "Little Miss Sunshine" Michael Arndt. This is by far Guest's most raunchiest film to date, excelling limits sufficiently. Once again, with the help of Arndt, Guest serves up a dish of fresh, corky characters. Each one of them having a certain significance. Although each actor brings it all to the table there are certain actors to take note of, Colin Firth being one. He brings the rickety attitude that comes with the territory of being a television host. Another would be Johnny Messner, who in my opinion out of all the contestants was the most lively and gut busting. Next after him is Hugh Laurie and together these two put on a clinic on what comedy should be these days. They take the dialogue with a mockumentary style to the max and provide some of the best laughs in the film. Wayne Brady puts on a performance no one has seen before, exclude Whose Line is it Anyway, this is a more fierce Wayne Brady than we've seen, and perhaps the most complexed character, although it's all intended to make us laugh, Brady shows emotion in his role. It'll be hard to welcome him back on the Whose Line cast. A hint to the viewers before watching this film, if you find yourself offended at any time during the feature, you've already missed the entire purpose of the film, so don't be sour and spoil the party. This is a film you and your buddies go to see and laugh until you fall out of your chair. I left the theater after watching this one, and I felt better about myself, you should too.

Possible Nominations:

Best Picture - Michael Hertzberg, Michael Arndt, and Christopher Guest
Best Director - Christopher Guest
Best Actor in Leading Role - Colin Firth
Best Actor in Supporting Role - Johnny Messner
Best Actor in Supporting Role - Hugh Laurie
Best Actor in Supporting Role - Wayne Brady
Best Original Screenplay - Michael Arndt and Christopher Guest
Best Original Score - Ray Cooper
Best Film Editing
Best Cinematography

Gangster 101

Author(s): Brian
Location: Arizona

“Gangster 101”

Written and Directed by Wes Anderson
Produced by Martin Scorsese and Graham King
Music by David Julyan

Principal Cast:

Steve Buscemi (Luther King)
Julianne Moore (Julie Adams)
Bebe Neuwirth (Jamie Worth)
Alan Arkin (Anthony King)
Anthony Hopkins (Principal Rodney Slater)
Justin Berfield (Scott Worth)

Tagline: "Gunplay. Drug Dealing. 7th Period"

Synopsis: Luther King is the worst person in the world. He cheats, he lies and he resorts to violence as the answer to everything. What’s even worse is that, for the countless number of times he’s been on trial, he is always found not guilty. That is probably because his lawyer, Julie Adams, is at the top of her game. She has developed a strong relationship with Luther, mainly because about 90% of her cases involve him in some way. Luther is head of The Blood-Shredders, one of Chicago’s most prominent street gangs. All seems to go well, until a massive gang, led by the notorious Jamie Worth, who uses her body as a way to get out of everything, murders generally everyone in The Blood-Shredders, except for Luther and his best friend Sam Richards. Luther moves in with his father, Anthony, who is completely oblivious to his son’s criminal record, and is left with no idea where to go. He has lost his job and nearly all his friends. So, he resorts to the last straw: teaching. He earned a teaching degree in college, as a cover-up for his life as a criminal. He finds a job as an English teacher at Cornerstone High School, an uptight, high-class public school with the neurotic and compulsive principal Rodney Slater. After a few months at that job, Luther discovers that he can teach his students the methods he has learned from the street and take them to the classroom to re-form his failed gang and eventually get back at Jamie. He has to do this extremely subtly, not only because it is painfully illegal, but also because Jamie’s son, problem-child Scott Worth, is in his class. Meanwhile, Jamie is unfolding a plan to finally get Luther, and starts an affair with his father and Sam. And, to top all off, Julie finds herself falling for Luther. We watch as this it all comes together in this crime farce.

What the press would say:

When I first heard that Martin Scorsese would be co-producing a comedy, I, like most, was apprehensive. But, after seeing this, I can truly say that he made the right choice. “Gangster 101” is not only the funniest films this year, but is also the cleverest. Steve Buscemi is absolutely phenomenal as Luther King, a retired gangster. He uses the exact same methods he does when he plays the creepy-criminal-guy in dramas, only with a comedic script. Bebe Neuwirth is also fabulous as Jamie, Luther’s long-time rival. It is hilarious to watch this glamorous star as an all-out gangster in one scene, and a total whore in another (the chemistry between Buscemi and Neuwirth is also amazing, as displayed in the riotous parent-teacher conference scene). Julianne Moore also turns in phenomenal work, as one of the only characters in the film with no dirty laundry. But, let’s be honest, the real show-stealer here is Alan Arkin. He gives without question the best performance of the year as Luther’s light-headed father, taking everything with a positive attitude. I laughed myself breathless when Neuwirth’s character asks him “Do you like naughty girls?” as she begins to seduce him, and he responds “Dictionary naughty or slang naughty?” To compliment these wonderful performances, Wes Anderson makes his best film yet, with his compelling and extremely smart screenplay and edgy style of direction. All I can say is that this could be a dark horse Oscar contender, with a strong campaign in the following categories…

Best Picture (Martin Scorsese and Graham King)
Best Directior (Wes Anderson)
Best Actor (Steve Buscemi)
Best Actress (Bebe Neuwirth)
Best Supporting Actor (Alan Arkin)
Best Supporting Actress (Julianne Moore)
Best Screenplay (Wes Anderson)
Best Film Editing
Best Cinematography