A few days ago, it was announced that Happy Gilmore would be getting a new 4K Blu-ray release from the Kino Lorber video label. The ultra-high-definition transfer of the Adam Sandler comedy is due to hit retailers sometime early next year, presumably to coincide with the release of the Netflix sequel. It has now been announced, per Blu-ray.com, that Sandler’s previous breakout film, Billy Madison, will also be getting a 4K release from Kino Lorber that is scheduled to become available to consumers also early next year.
Billy Madison stars Adam Sandler, Darren McGavin, Bridgette Wilson-Sampras, Bradley Whitford, and Josh Mostel. The description reads, “Man-child Billy Madison has been a spoiled rich kid all his life, and spends his days drinking and partying. When his father, hotel magnate Brian, becomes fed up with his son’s irresponsible ways, he issues an ultimatum. Since Billy passed all his schooling...
Billy Madison stars Adam Sandler, Darren McGavin, Bridgette Wilson-Sampras, Bradley Whitford, and Josh Mostel. The description reads, “Man-child Billy Madison has been a spoiled rich kid all his life, and spends his days drinking and partying. When his father, hotel magnate Brian, becomes fed up with his son’s irresponsible ways, he issues an ultimatum. Since Billy passed all his schooling...
- 9/30/2024
- by EJ Tangonan
- JoBlo.com
Matthew McConaughey is opening up about the dynamic between him and Kate Hudson on the set of How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days.
The Oscar winner sat down with People to celebrate the publication’s 50th anniversary, during which he talked through some of his most iconic roles, including his stint as the rom-com heartthrob. He recalled meeting his co-star before production began on the film.
“I remember we met on the Paramount lot — I believe it was the time — and those casting sort of meeting couches, especially for rom-coms, you want to see the chemistry between the two leads,” he said. “You want to see how the jive is. We’re not reading through the script. We’re not reading lines.”
He continued, “Immediately, we were comfortable with each other, and we jacked with each other, and we busted each other’s chops, and we laughed a lot.
The Oscar winner sat down with People to celebrate the publication’s 50th anniversary, during which he talked through some of his most iconic roles, including his stint as the rom-com heartthrob. He recalled meeting his co-star before production began on the film.
“I remember we met on the Paramount lot — I believe it was the time — and those casting sort of meeting couches, especially for rom-coms, you want to see the chemistry between the two leads,” he said. “You want to see how the jive is. We’re not reading through the script. We’re not reading lines.”
He continued, “Immediately, we were comfortable with each other, and we jacked with each other, and we busted each other’s chops, and we laughed a lot.
- 4/13/2024
- by Christy Piña
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
The episode of Best Horror Movie You Never Saw covering Gothika was Written and Edited by Paul Bookstaber, Narrated by Kier Gomes, Produced by John Fallon and Tyler Nichols, and Executive Produced by Berge Garabedian.
Back in the late 90’s, early 2000s the horror genre was in that weird phase of encapsulating what it truly wanted to be. Hot off the heels of Scream, horror movies focused much more on the teenage angst, and lifestyle. But there comes a time when some hidden gems make their way to the silver screen that branch off the beaten path with a more adult-themed tale, drenched in psychological/mental horror. What if one day you’re living your average life, working your 9-5, and suddenly black, out only to wake up, institutionalized and accused of committing a crime you can’t seem to remember doing? In 2003, director Mathieu Kassovitz gave us a True...
Back in the late 90’s, early 2000s the horror genre was in that weird phase of encapsulating what it truly wanted to be. Hot off the heels of Scream, horror movies focused much more on the teenage angst, and lifestyle. But there comes a time when some hidden gems make their way to the silver screen that branch off the beaten path with a more adult-themed tale, drenched in psychological/mental horror. What if one day you’re living your average life, working your 9-5, and suddenly black, out only to wake up, institutionalized and accused of committing a crime you can’t seem to remember doing? In 2003, director Mathieu Kassovitz gave us a True...
- 1/2/2024
- by Cody Hamman
- JoBlo.com
Bridgette Wilson-Sampras, who brought Sonya Blade to life in 1995’s Mortal Kombat and proved the object of Billy Madison’s juvenile affection, has been diagnosed with ovarian cancer.
In a statement, Bridgette Wilson-Sampras’ husband, tennis legend Pete Sampras, wrote, “This past year has been an exceptionally challenging time for my family…Last December, my wife, Bridgette, was diagnosed with ovarian cancer. Since then, she has had major surgery, pushed through chemotherapy and continues with targeted maintenance therapy…It is hard to watch someone you love go through a challenge like this. However, seeing our boys step up and be such strong supports of Bridgette, myself and each other has been amazing. Watching Bridgette continue to be an incredible mom and wife through it all has been inspiring.”
That Bridgette Wilson-Sampras was diagnosed nearly one year ago shows just how difficult it must be for her and her family to discuss the topic openly.
In a statement, Bridgette Wilson-Sampras’ husband, tennis legend Pete Sampras, wrote, “This past year has been an exceptionally challenging time for my family…Last December, my wife, Bridgette, was diagnosed with ovarian cancer. Since then, she has had major surgery, pushed through chemotherapy and continues with targeted maintenance therapy…It is hard to watch someone you love go through a challenge like this. However, seeing our boys step up and be such strong supports of Bridgette, myself and each other has been amazing. Watching Bridgette continue to be an incredible mom and wife through it all has been inspiring.”
That Bridgette Wilson-Sampras was diagnosed nearly one year ago shows just how difficult it must be for her and her family to discuss the topic openly.
- 10/30/2023
- by Mathew Plale
- JoBlo.com
Pete Sampras is getting personal in a new statement.
The 52-year-old tennis champion revealed that his wife of 23 years, Bridgette Wilson-Sampras has ovarian cancer, and she has undergone surgery and chemo treatments over the past year.
In a statement posted through the Atp Tour’s Twitter/X account, Pete noted being a “pretty quiet and private person,” but thought it was time to share what his family has been going through.
Keep reading to find out more…
“This past year has been an exceptionally challenging time for my family and I have decided to share what’s been going on,” he shared in the statement. “Last December, my wife, Bridgette, was diagnosed with ovarian cancer. Since then, she has had major surgery, pushed through chemotherapy and continues with targeted maintenance therapy.”
“It is hard to watch someone you love go through a challenge like this. However, seeing our boys step...
The 52-year-old tennis champion revealed that his wife of 23 years, Bridgette Wilson-Sampras has ovarian cancer, and she has undergone surgery and chemo treatments over the past year.
In a statement posted through the Atp Tour’s Twitter/X account, Pete noted being a “pretty quiet and private person,” but thought it was time to share what his family has been going through.
Keep reading to find out more…
“This past year has been an exceptionally challenging time for my family and I have decided to share what’s been going on,” he shared in the statement. “Last December, my wife, Bridgette, was diagnosed with ovarian cancer. Since then, she has had major surgery, pushed through chemotherapy and continues with targeted maintenance therapy.”
“It is hard to watch someone you love go through a challenge like this. However, seeing our boys step...
- 10/29/2023
- by Just Jared
- Just Jared
Former tennis star Pete Sampras revealed his wife, actress Bridgette Wilson-Sampras, has ovarian cancer.
In a statement posted on the Atp Tour’s official social media account, Sampras shared a lengthy statement explaining that though he is typically a quiet and private person, he wanted to share the news of his wife’s cancer diagnosis.
“This past year has been an exceptionally challenging time for my family,” the statement read. “Last December, my wife, Bridgette, was diagnosed with ovarian cancer. Since then, she has had major surgery, pushed through chemotherapy and continues with targeted maintenance therapy.”
He continued, “It is hard to watch someone you love go through a challenge like this. However, seeing our boys step up and be such strong supports of Bridgette, myself and each other has been amazing. Watching Bridgette continue to be an incredible mom and wife through it all has been inspiring.”
Sampras concluded...
In a statement posted on the Atp Tour’s official social media account, Sampras shared a lengthy statement explaining that though he is typically a quiet and private person, he wanted to share the news of his wife’s cancer diagnosis.
“This past year has been an exceptionally challenging time for my family,” the statement read. “Last December, my wife, Bridgette, was diagnosed with ovarian cancer. Since then, she has had major surgery, pushed through chemotherapy and continues with targeted maintenance therapy.”
He continued, “It is hard to watch someone you love go through a challenge like this. However, seeing our boys step up and be such strong supports of Bridgette, myself and each other has been amazing. Watching Bridgette continue to be an incredible mom and wife through it all has been inspiring.”
Sampras concluded...
- 10/29/2023
- by Christy Piña
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
This article contains Mortal Kombat (2021) spoilers.
“Test your might.” These are the words of a minigame in the original Mortal Kombat arcade fighter from 1992. They were meant to signal an interlude between the simple pleasures of digitized sprites spilling buckets of blood. Yet they’ve also become synonymous with a franchise that’s arguably the most popular video game fighter of all-time. The phrase is also a pretty apt description for the various filmmakers who’ve attempted the challenge of taming this crazy dragon on screen.
More than any other video game series, Mortal Kombat has seen a plethora of live-action adaptations, from Hollywood movies to syndicated television. This weekend marks another milestone in that history, too, with Warner Bros. and New Line Cinema’s hotly anticipated Mortal Kombat reboot opening in theaters and premiering on HBO Max. It’s the third Mortal Kombat movie released under the New Line banner,...
“Test your might.” These are the words of a minigame in the original Mortal Kombat arcade fighter from 1992. They were meant to signal an interlude between the simple pleasures of digitized sprites spilling buckets of blood. Yet they’ve also become synonymous with a franchise that’s arguably the most popular video game fighter of all-time. The phrase is also a pretty apt description for the various filmmakers who’ve attempted the challenge of taming this crazy dragon on screen.
More than any other video game series, Mortal Kombat has seen a plethora of live-action adaptations, from Hollywood movies to syndicated television. This weekend marks another milestone in that history, too, with Warner Bros. and New Line Cinema’s hotly anticipated Mortal Kombat reboot opening in theaters and premiering on HBO Max. It’s the third Mortal Kombat movie released under the New Line banner,...
- 4/24/2021
- by David Crow
- Den of Geek
As it turns out, Mortal Kombat 11 fans haven’t had to wait long in order to get their hands on the popular fighting game’s latest update.
Earlier today, NetherRealm head Ed Boon finally confirmed previous leaks outing the existence of new skins based on the classic 1995 movie, all of which are available in-game as a standalone purchase. The Klassic Mk Movie Skin Pack is up for download right now for $5.99 and contains three alternate costumes, one for Sonya Blade, Johnny Cage and Earthrealm’s protector, Raiden. As the name suggests, these outfits are particularly special as they swap current in-game models for each character for those that bear the likeness of Bridgette Wilson-Sampras, Linden Ashby and Christopher Lambert, respectively.
Unsurprisingly, what with Mk 11 being by far the most visually impressive brawler on the market right now, NetherRealm has perfectly recreated every actor as they appeared 25 years ago, and you...
Earlier today, NetherRealm head Ed Boon finally confirmed previous leaks outing the existence of new skins based on the classic 1995 movie, all of which are available in-game as a standalone purchase. The Klassic Mk Movie Skin Pack is up for download right now for $5.99 and contains three alternate costumes, one for Sonya Blade, Johnny Cage and Earthrealm’s protector, Raiden. As the name suggests, these outfits are particularly special as they swap current in-game models for each character for those that bear the likeness of Bridgette Wilson-Sampras, Linden Ashby and Christopher Lambert, respectively.
Unsurprisingly, what with Mk 11 being by far the most visually impressive brawler on the market right now, NetherRealm has perfectly recreated every actor as they appeared 25 years ago, and you...
- 11/24/2020
- by Joe Pring
- We Got This Covered
I don’t know if you’re anything like me, but I can often spend hours upon hours trawling through iTunes looking for new movies to buy… Usually I’ll randomly come across a title I haven’t seen in years and use the “Cast & Crew” links to make my way down the rabbit hole to the more obscure side of Apple’s digital movie service.
Now whilst many will decry that iTunes is a terrible VOD service due to Apple’s desire to lock its audience to their platforms, if you have an Apple TV or iPad be aware – there are some truly obscure films hidden away in the depths of the vast collection of movies. Some of which have been made available in the UK for the first time since VHS and a Lot that have been added to the service in their original uncut form!
So, with...
Now whilst many will decry that iTunes is a terrible VOD service due to Apple’s desire to lock its audience to their platforms, if you have an Apple TV or iPad be aware – there are some truly obscure films hidden away in the depths of the vast collection of movies. Some of which have been made available in the UK for the first time since VHS and a Lot that have been added to the service in their original uncut form!
So, with...
- 1/30/2017
- by Phil Wheat
- Nerdly
Commercial director Simon McQuoid is in talks to direct the “Mortal Kombat” reboot for New Line, TheWrap has confirmed. Greg Russo penned the most recent draft of the script. Based on the classic ’90s arcade game, “Mortal Kombat” was made into a feature film directed by Paul W.S. Anderson in 1995. It told the story of Liu Kang (Robin Shou), Johnny Cage (Linden Ashby) and Sonya Blade (Bridgette Wilson-Sampras), who were invited to a mysterious island, where they fought for the fate of humanity in a life-or-death tournament. Also Read: 'Mortal Kombat' Is Suspiciously Similar to Bruce Lee Classic...
- 11/19/2016
- by Umberto Gonzalez
- The Wrap
It's more violent than a kebab shop after the pubs kick out, and has caused more controversy than Katie Hopkins on an episode of This Morning. It's spawned a couple of movies, a TV show, comic books, techno albums and card games. It is, of course, Mortal Kombat.
As the franchise's first major motion picture prepares to celebrate its 20th anniversary, now seems like as good a time as any to look back at the series' best brawlers.
From young pretenders like Cassie Cage and Erron Black to old favourites like Raiden and Sonya Blade, here are the top 20 Mortal Kombat kharacters characters.
Why Mortal Kombat is the greatest game movie ever made
20. Ferra/Torr
First appears in: Mortal Kombat X
There was a spell when new additions to the Mortal Kombat series were either masked ninja clones (Rain) or just a bit crap (Stryker). The development team made much...
As the franchise's first major motion picture prepares to celebrate its 20th anniversary, now seems like as good a time as any to look back at the series' best brawlers.
From young pretenders like Cassie Cage and Erron Black to old favourites like Raiden and Sonya Blade, here are the top 20 Mortal Kombat kharacters characters.
Why Mortal Kombat is the greatest game movie ever made
20. Ferra/Torr
First appears in: Mortal Kombat X
There was a spell when new additions to the Mortal Kombat series were either masked ninja clones (Rain) or just a bit crap (Stryker). The development team made much...
- 8/18/2015
- Digital Spy
Get over here! From the movie's memorable theme to some killer fight choreography, "Mortal Kombat" was a force to be reckoned with when it opened on this day 20 years ago. Sure, the performances were stiff and the fatalities didn't match the bloody extremes of the games, but the film adaptation was still a major hit for New Line Cinema, raking in over $120 million off of an $18 million budget. Fans of the brutal games finally got to see favorites like Liu Kang, Sonya Blade, Johnny Cage, Scorpion, Sub-Zero, Raiden and Goro brought to life, the women sporting slightly less revealing outfits than their arcade counterparts. Fun Fact: Did you know Cameron Diaz was originally supposed to play Sonya? According to the game's co-creator, Ed Boon, she broke her hand during karate lessons and was replaced by Bridgette Wilson-Sampras shortly before filming. With a rumored reboot in development with "The Conjuring" director James Wan producing,...
- 8/18/2015
- by tooFab Staff
- TooFab
Video game movies don't have the best reputation, but there are a few shining diamonds in the rough.
Weak on plot and characters, Silent Hill nevertheless has a deliciously creepy atmosphere that echoes the unsettling vibe of the game that inspired it. Lara Croft: Tomb Raider is obviously rubbish, but wins points for embracing the absurd madness of the whole affair.
Ranking the Mortal Kombat characters: Who scores a flawless victory?
Not that you'd guess from the interminable Resident Evil series, but the greatest ever video game movie was directed by Paul Ws Anderson - 1995's Mortal Kombat, celebrating its 20th anniversary today.
It's got a proper, simple storyline that - and why the hell not? - is based on the wafer-thin plot of the game itself.
Ne'er do well and bad guy sorcerer Shang Tsung (Cary-Hiroyuki Tagawa) is looking to take over the Earth, and needs his gang to...
Weak on plot and characters, Silent Hill nevertheless has a deliciously creepy atmosphere that echoes the unsettling vibe of the game that inspired it. Lara Croft: Tomb Raider is obviously rubbish, but wins points for embracing the absurd madness of the whole affair.
Ranking the Mortal Kombat characters: Who scores a flawless victory?
Not that you'd guess from the interminable Resident Evil series, but the greatest ever video game movie was directed by Paul Ws Anderson - 1995's Mortal Kombat, celebrating its 20th anniversary today.
It's got a proper, simple storyline that - and why the hell not? - is based on the wafer-thin plot of the game itself.
Ne'er do well and bad guy sorcerer Shang Tsung (Cary-Hiroyuki Tagawa) is looking to take over the Earth, and needs his gang to...
- 8/18/2015
- Digital Spy
Mortal Kombat
Paul W.S. Anderson
Kevin Droney
1995, USA
After Street Fighter laid the groundwork for the fighting game, Mortal Kombat hit the scene, setting a high-water mark for realistic digitized graphics and pushing boundaries with its high levels of bloody violence, including, most notably, its Fatalities. It sparked so much controversy for its depiction of extreme violence and gore that it led to the creation of the Esrb (the video game rating system). The release of Mortal Kombat for home consoles by Acclaim Entertainment was one of the largest video game launches of all time, with a $10 million marketing campaign that dubbed the date “Mortal Monday.” No surprise, then, that a game this controversial and popular would pique the interest of money-hungry Hollywood executives looking to cash in. Mortal Kombat the movie enjoyed a 3-week run at the top of the Us box office, earning over $122 million worldwide. In addition to toys,...
Paul W.S. Anderson
Kevin Droney
1995, USA
After Street Fighter laid the groundwork for the fighting game, Mortal Kombat hit the scene, setting a high-water mark for realistic digitized graphics and pushing boundaries with its high levels of bloody violence, including, most notably, its Fatalities. It sparked so much controversy for its depiction of extreme violence and gore that it led to the creation of the Esrb (the video game rating system). The release of Mortal Kombat for home consoles by Acclaim Entertainment was one of the largest video game launches of all time, with a $10 million marketing campaign that dubbed the date “Mortal Monday.” No surprise, then, that a game this controversial and popular would pique the interest of money-hungry Hollywood executives looking to cash in. Mortal Kombat the movie enjoyed a 3-week run at the top of the Us box office, earning over $122 million worldwide. In addition to toys,...
- 8/15/2015
- by Ricky
- SoundOnSight
Mortal Kombat
Written by Kevin Droney
Directed by Paul W. S. Anderson
USA, 1995
Self-exiled Shaolin monk and martial arts pupil Liu Kang (Robin Shou) awakens one night from a nightmare in which a strange and powerful sorcerer named Shang Tsung (Cary-Hiroyuki Tagawa) brutally murders Kang’s younger brother before looking directly into the camera and claiming Kang’s very soul. Shaken by the experience, the hot-headed youth returns to his former home among the temples to learn the truth of his brother’s demise. Much to his surprise, there is more at stake than family matters, or so explains the god of lightning, Raiden (Christopher Lambert), who magically makes an appearance. His brother’s death granted Shang Tsung, ambassador of an evil dimension called Outworld, a ninth consecutive victory in an ancient tournament named Mortal Kombat. A tenth successive win for the vile Outworld grants Tsung and his minions ownership of the Earth realm.
Written by Kevin Droney
Directed by Paul W. S. Anderson
USA, 1995
Self-exiled Shaolin monk and martial arts pupil Liu Kang (Robin Shou) awakens one night from a nightmare in which a strange and powerful sorcerer named Shang Tsung (Cary-Hiroyuki Tagawa) brutally murders Kang’s younger brother before looking directly into the camera and claiming Kang’s very soul. Shaken by the experience, the hot-headed youth returns to his former home among the temples to learn the truth of his brother’s demise. Much to his surprise, there is more at stake than family matters, or so explains the god of lightning, Raiden (Christopher Lambert), who magically makes an appearance. His brother’s death granted Shang Tsung, ambassador of an evil dimension called Outworld, a ninth consecutive victory in an ancient tournament named Mortal Kombat. A tenth successive win for the vile Outworld grants Tsung and his minions ownership of the Earth realm.
- 2/15/2014
- by Edgar Chaput
- SoundOnSight
From period-piece grifter to a Charlie's Angel, Cameron Diaz has taken on an interesting mix of roles. But in this week's "The Counselor," she's a whole different breed -- almost literally.
In Ridley Scott's new crime thriller, Diaz plays Malkina, a cheetah print-loving, tattooed vixen. With a gold tooth, a Skrillex-esque haircut, and a whole lot of bling, Diaz is nearly unrecognizable.
Sure, you know she's been known to substitute body fluids for hair gel, and she plays an obsessive ex-girlfriend with aplomb, but there's likely a lot about Diaz you don't know. From her legally questionable activities with Snoop Dogg to her MTV reality show, here are 15 things you may not know about the blond bombshell.
1. Diaz was a member of the Polyettes dance-drill team at her high school. We can totally imagine Diaz cheering in half-time shows, "Bring It On"-style.
2. Before hitting the big time, Diaz...
In Ridley Scott's new crime thriller, Diaz plays Malkina, a cheetah print-loving, tattooed vixen. With a gold tooth, a Skrillex-esque haircut, and a whole lot of bling, Diaz is nearly unrecognizable.
Sure, you know she's been known to substitute body fluids for hair gel, and she plays an obsessive ex-girlfriend with aplomb, but there's likely a lot about Diaz you don't know. From her legally questionable activities with Snoop Dogg to her MTV reality show, here are 15 things you may not know about the blond bombshell.
1. Diaz was a member of the Polyettes dance-drill team at her high school. We can totally imagine Diaz cheering in half-time shows, "Bring It On"-style.
2. Before hitting the big time, Diaz...
- 10/25/2013
- by Erin Whitney
- Moviefone
House on Haunted Hill (1959) vs. House on Haunted Hill (1999)
Shared Plot: A wealthy weirdo offers five strangers a large sum of money if they'll spend the night in a notoriously haunted mansion. Near-deaths abound, but are they caused by the host's devious nature -- or something much more supernatural?!? (mwahaaaa)
Notable Differences: The original was a "gimmick" flick by the lovable William Castle (he actually ran skeletons on wires through the auditorium at the end of the flick!) and the remake was an early entry in the period now known as the "Let's Remake Ever Horror Film Ever Made" epoch. And while both films have amusingly bitchy dialogue and a few legitimate scares, neither are what you'd call a brilliant horror movie. It's just that one is a quaint and chaste little relic from the late '50s and the other is a loud and gory relic from the late '90s.
Shared Plot: A wealthy weirdo offers five strangers a large sum of money if they'll spend the night in a notoriously haunted mansion. Near-deaths abound, but are they caused by the host's devious nature -- or something much more supernatural?!? (mwahaaaa)
Notable Differences: The original was a "gimmick" flick by the lovable William Castle (he actually ran skeletons on wires through the auditorium at the end of the flick!) and the remake was an early entry in the period now known as the "Let's Remake Ever Horror Film Ever Made" epoch. And while both films have amusingly bitchy dialogue and a few legitimate scares, neither are what you'd call a brilliant horror movie. It's just that one is a quaint and chaste little relic from the late '50s and the other is a loud and gory relic from the late '90s.
- 11/20/2012
- by Scott Weinberg
- FEARnet
At this year's Cannes Film Festival, a steady stream of chatter swirled around "The Paperboy" due to a scene in which Nicole Kidman pees on Zac Efron's face.
"Dear Lord, why?" you might ask. Well, aside from the fact that an Oscar winner urinating on your head grants you thespian superpowers and cures migraines, the starlet's saintly spray also cured the searing pain of a jellyfish sting.
We're sure you're all now bursting to witness this degrading spectacle, and, thankfully, "The Paperboy" opens in select theaters this Friday. So while waiting to go — and you gotta go — let's revisit some timeless tinkles from tinseltown. Because while these golden moments might be listed as our Top 9, but they're all #1 in our book.
Steve Carrell's Proud as a Peacock in 'The 40 Year Old Virgin' (2005)
No man's morning would be complete without a man's morning wood. And in...
"Dear Lord, why?" you might ask. Well, aside from the fact that an Oscar winner urinating on your head grants you thespian superpowers and cures migraines, the starlet's saintly spray also cured the searing pain of a jellyfish sting.
We're sure you're all now bursting to witness this degrading spectacle, and, thankfully, "The Paperboy" opens in select theaters this Friday. So while waiting to go — and you gotta go — let's revisit some timeless tinkles from tinseltown. Because while these golden moments might be listed as our Top 9, but they're all #1 in our book.
Steve Carrell's Proud as a Peacock in 'The 40 Year Old Virgin' (2005)
No man's morning would be complete without a man's morning wood. And in...
- 10/4/2012
- by Ben Freiburger
- NextMovie
Ryan Phillippe turns 38 today -- and to celebrate, we're taking a look back at the film that helped make him a breakout star: "I Know What You Did Last Summer."Though he first burst onto the scene playing gay teen Billy Douglas on "One Life to Live," the 1997 horror flick was one of Ryan's first major movie roles.And he's not the only one whose career the success of the freaky flick helped!Sarah Michelle Gellar and Jennifer Love Hewitt were hardly household names when the movie started filming in March 1997. The first episodes of "Buffy the Vampire Slayer" hadn't even aired yet when Gellar was cast and Hewitt was only known for her TV roles on "Kids Incorporated" and "Party of Five."The movie also starred Freddie Prinze Jr., Anne Heche, Bridgette Wilson-Sampras and, randomly, Johnny Galecki.Check out the gallery above to see how the cast has aged...
- 9/10/2012
- by tooFab Staff
- TooFab
Mortal Kombat isn't the most esteemed video game franchise, but its coterie of bloodthirsty fighters is one of the most beloved in gaming history. Sure, the 1995 movie adaptation was a dud, but it was a magnificent dud with a throbbing Jock Jams soundtrack and a provocative cast. (Where have you gone, Bridgette Wilson-Sampras?) Since the 2013 reboot has a chance of reigniting interest in the age-old series, let's cast our dream players in five of the main roles.
- 10/3/2011
- Movieline
It goes without saying that some of the big blockbuster video games are becoming more profitable than some of the biggest films of the year and I know myself, I have sat through cut scenes and thought, “This should be a movie.” So it’s understandable why there are so many games that become films, the transition seems logical.
For some reason though, the majority of these films never seem to live up to its gaming counter part. Weak plots, awful acting, no emotion? Just something that seems to happen constantly when games make the transition, but why is it almost always this way?
We take a brief look at the history of video games as movies.
Super Mario Bros. (1993) Estimated Gross $20,915,465 (USA)
For many gamers, this was their first encounter with a video game getting the Hollywood treatment, and their first encounter as to why this can go horribly wrong.
For some reason though, the majority of these films never seem to live up to its gaming counter part. Weak plots, awful acting, no emotion? Just something that seems to happen constantly when games make the transition, but why is it almost always this way?
We take a brief look at the history of video games as movies.
Super Mario Bros. (1993) Estimated Gross $20,915,465 (USA)
For many gamers, this was their first encounter with a video game getting the Hollywood treatment, and their first encounter as to why this can go horribly wrong.
- 8/15/2011
- by Dom McKenzie
- Obsessed with Film
Mortal Kombat (1995)
Stars: Robin Shou, Christopher Lambert, Linden Ashby, Talisa Soto, Cary-Hiroyuki Tagawa, Bridgette Wilson | Written by Kevin Droney | Directed by Paul W.S. Anderson
Based on the video game of the same name, Mortal Kombat tells the story of a group of martial artists plucked from Earth by the mysterious Lord Rayden to fight in an ancient tournament that sees otherworldy realms compete for the right to conquer the losing realms. So far Outworld has nine wins against Earth, so… so what!
To hell with a synopsis. Just know this: a bunch of good guy martial artists take on a bunch of bad guy martial artists in a collection of some of the best videogame-inspired fight scenes ever committed to celluloid. All the key characters from the game are here – Liu Kang, Sonya Blade, Rayden, Johnny Cage, Kano, Scorpion, Sub-Zero, Reptile, even the ridiculous Goro.
One of the best movies ever made from a videogame,...
Stars: Robin Shou, Christopher Lambert, Linden Ashby, Talisa Soto, Cary-Hiroyuki Tagawa, Bridgette Wilson | Written by Kevin Droney | Directed by Paul W.S. Anderson
Based on the video game of the same name, Mortal Kombat tells the story of a group of martial artists plucked from Earth by the mysterious Lord Rayden to fight in an ancient tournament that sees otherworldy realms compete for the right to conquer the losing realms. So far Outworld has nine wins against Earth, so… so what!
To hell with a synopsis. Just know this: a bunch of good guy martial artists take on a bunch of bad guy martial artists in a collection of some of the best videogame-inspired fight scenes ever committed to celluloid. All the key characters from the game are here – Liu Kang, Sonya Blade, Rayden, Johnny Cage, Kano, Scorpion, Sub-Zero, Reptile, even the ridiculous Goro.
One of the best movies ever made from a videogame,...
- 8/4/2011
- by Phil
- Nerdly
Starring: Adam Sandler, Darren McGavin, Bridgette Wilson, Bradley Whitford
Director: Tamra Davis
The Scoop: (1995) "Saturday Night Live" comedians frequently attempt to break into films and just as frequently crash and burn in spectacular fashion. But every so often one of them breaks out. Such was the case with Sandler thanks in large part to the popularity of this film, which helped introduce the world to Sandler's signature unrepentant man-child shtick.
Special Features: Commentary, deleted scenes, outtakes
Rated PG-13, 89 min. | Watch the trailer...
Director: Tamra Davis
The Scoop: (1995) "Saturday Night Live" comedians frequently attempt to break into films and just as frequently crash and burn in spectacular fashion. But every so often one of them breaks out. Such was the case with Sandler thanks in large part to the popularity of this film, which helped introduce the world to Sandler's signature unrepentant man-child shtick.
Special Features: Commentary, deleted scenes, outtakes
Rated PG-13, 89 min. | Watch the trailer...
- 6/10/2011
- by NextMovie Staff
- NextMovie
Chicago – The video game world of “Mortal Kombat” has been reinvigorated for a new generation through Warner’s excellent new release and the company wisely saw the opportunity to provide something for fans who need to put the controller down every once in a while but don’t want to leave the universe with Blu-ray releases for Paul Anderson’s “Mortal Kombat” and John R. Leonetti’s “Mortal Kombat: Annihilation.”
Blu-Ray Rating: 2.5/5.0
1995’s “Mortal Kombat” hasn’t aged particularly well but, then again, it was never that great to begin with. Fighting games, even ones with character backgrounds as potentially rich as Johnny Cage and Sonya Blade, don’t exactly translate to the big screen and the cast of Paul Anderson’s action flick is lackluster at best. No offense meant to Bridgette Wilson or Christopher Lambert, but there’s a reason that “Mortal Kombat” wasn’t exactly a breakout hit.
Blu-Ray Rating: 2.5/5.0
1995’s “Mortal Kombat” hasn’t aged particularly well but, then again, it was never that great to begin with. Fighting games, even ones with character backgrounds as potentially rich as Johnny Cage and Sonya Blade, don’t exactly translate to the big screen and the cast of Paul Anderson’s action flick is lackluster at best. No offense meant to Bridgette Wilson or Christopher Lambert, but there’s a reason that “Mortal Kombat” wasn’t exactly a breakout hit.
- 5/11/2011
- by [email protected] (Adam Fendelman)
- HollywoodChicago.com
In 1992, there may have been nothing bigger and more exciting than the video game Mortal Kombat. Wisely, Midway Games created their own universe with six realms which have unique backstories, all created by the Elder Gods. Players could manipulate their favorite surviving warrior — Johnny Cage, Sonya Blade, Liu Kang, and Jax, — and fight for survival in do-or-die tournaments.
The phenomenon was huge, spawning follow-up games, merchandise, and, of course, movies. Now available for download this week is the first Mortal Kombat film from 1995. The movie can be downloaded from iTunes and played on your iPod, phone, or tablet.
Released on August 18, it grossed $23 million and was proven critic proof. After earning over $70 million, it gave birth to 1997’s Mortal Kombat: Annihilation. The first film had the benefit of Paul W. S. Anderson’s early work, showing us what the director can do with action and other realities.
Warner Digital describes...
The phenomenon was huge, spawning follow-up games, merchandise, and, of course, movies. Now available for download this week is the first Mortal Kombat film from 1995. The movie can be downloaded from iTunes and played on your iPod, phone, or tablet.
Released on August 18, it grossed $23 million and was proven critic proof. After earning over $70 million, it gave birth to 1997’s Mortal Kombat: Annihilation. The first film had the benefit of Paul W. S. Anderson’s early work, showing us what the director can do with action and other realities.
Warner Digital describes...
- 4/21/2011
- by Robert Greenberger
- Comicmix.com
Mortal Kombat is now avaiable for download on iTunes: http://bit.ly/DD_Mortal and to help celebrate this digital release we are giving away one Free download of the cool-ass movie! All you need to do is tell us who your favorite character is from Mortal Kombat (movie or game) and why.
The contest ends this Friday (April 22nd) and we'll pick our winner and get you hooked up! Plot:
For nine generations an evil sorcerer has been victorious in hand-to-hand battle against his mortal enemies. If he wins a tenth Mortal Kombat tournament, desolation and evil will reign over the multiverse forever. To save Earth, three warriors must overcome seemingly insurmountable odds, their own inner demons, and superhuman foes in this action/adventure movie based on one of the most popular video games of all time. Starring Christopher Lambert ("Highlander," "Greystoke: The Legend of Tarzan"), Bridgette Wilson (“Shopgirl,...
The contest ends this Friday (April 22nd) and we'll pick our winner and get you hooked up! Plot:
For nine generations an evil sorcerer has been victorious in hand-to-hand battle against his mortal enemies. If he wins a tenth Mortal Kombat tournament, desolation and evil will reign over the multiverse forever. To save Earth, three warriors must overcome seemingly insurmountable odds, their own inner demons, and superhuman foes in this action/adventure movie based on one of the most popular video games of all time. Starring Christopher Lambert ("Highlander," "Greystoke: The Legend of Tarzan"), Bridgette Wilson (“Shopgirl,...
- 4/20/2011
- by brians
- GeekTyrant
It is Mortal Kombat week as the new video game arrives from Warner Bros. Taking advantage of the buzz, the two theatrical films based on the game are being re-released on Blu-ray as well.
The first Mortal Kombat was directed by Paul W.S. Anderson and stars Christopher Lambert, Robin Shou, Linden Ashby and Bridgette Wilson while the sequel, Mortal Kombat: Annihilation, was directed by John R. Leonetti and stars Robin Shou, Talisa Soto and James Remar.
If you need help with the gameplay, don't forget the Mortal Kombat Prima Official Game Guide, both paperback and hardcover editions.
Don't fret; there are a couple other less-than-notable horror titles dropping this week, too. You can decide for yourselves if Tokyo Gore Police and Hyenas are worth the space on your library shelf.
Mortal Kombat (Video Game)
By Warner Bros
The newest chapter of the iconic fighting franchise marks a triumphant return to...
The first Mortal Kombat was directed by Paul W.S. Anderson and stars Christopher Lambert, Robin Shou, Linden Ashby and Bridgette Wilson while the sequel, Mortal Kombat: Annihilation, was directed by John R. Leonetti and stars Robin Shou, Talisa Soto and James Remar.
If you need help with the gameplay, don't forget the Mortal Kombat Prima Official Game Guide, both paperback and hardcover editions.
Don't fret; there are a couple other less-than-notable horror titles dropping this week, too. You can decide for yourselves if Tokyo Gore Police and Hyenas are worth the space on your library shelf.
Mortal Kombat (Video Game)
By Warner Bros
The newest chapter of the iconic fighting franchise marks a triumphant return to...
- 4/19/2011
- by kwlow
- DreadCentral.com
Whatever happened to Lisanne Falk and Kim Walker, the other two Heathers, who weren't Shannon Doherty in Heathers?
What ever happened to Joanne Whalley, Val Kilmer's co-star (and ex-wife) in Willow?
What ever happened to Vanity, the woman who starred opposite Carl Weathers in Action Jackson?
What ever happened to Bonnie Bedalia, John McClane's wife in Die Hard?
Oh, wait. This is what happened to her! She's on "Parenthood." Weird.
Whatever happened to Nancy Travis, the wife in So I Married an Axe Murder and the mom in the Three Men and a Baby movies?
Whatever happened to Julie Warner, the love interest in Doc Hollywood?
Whatever happened to the awesomeness that was Lori Petty, from Point Break and Tank Girl?
Whatever happened to Heather Langenkamp from NIghtmare on Elm Street?
I wonder whatever happened to Bridgette Wilson, from I Know What You Did Last Summer and the love interest in Billy Madison?...
What ever happened to Joanne Whalley, Val Kilmer's co-star (and ex-wife) in Willow?
What ever happened to Vanity, the woman who starred opposite Carl Weathers in Action Jackson?
What ever happened to Bonnie Bedalia, John McClane's wife in Die Hard?
Oh, wait. This is what happened to her! She's on "Parenthood." Weird.
Whatever happened to Nancy Travis, the wife in So I Married an Axe Murder and the mom in the Three Men and a Baby movies?
Whatever happened to Julie Warner, the love interest in Doc Hollywood?
Whatever happened to the awesomeness that was Lori Petty, from Point Break and Tank Girl?
Whatever happened to Heather Langenkamp from NIghtmare on Elm Street?
I wonder whatever happened to Bridgette Wilson, from I Know What You Did Last Summer and the love interest in Billy Madison?...
- 3/9/2011
- by Dustin Rowles
Dear Adam Sandler, Way back in 1995, I worked in a movie theater. One day, we put up a .coming soon. poster that had you seated hunched-over at a small school desk with a disapproving Bridgette Wilson standing next to a blackboard in the background. .Hey, a new comedy starring that funny guy from SNL!. everyone thought. We were all so excited. and you did not disappoint! We.d constantly sneak in the theater during our shifts to watch Billy Madison. Though the movie wasn.t a huge hit...
- 2/16/2011
- by Mike Catalano
- JoBlo.com
Heading into its 18th year in 2011, the Chicago Underground Film Festival is the longest-running underground film festival in the world. It used to be tied with the New York Underground Film Festival — both were started in 1994 — until Nyuff closed up shop in 2008.
In 1994, the Internet wasn’t the big promotional tool it is today so neither Nyuff nor Cuff that year had a website; or, if they did, those pages have since vanished off the web. So, details about what these fests screened in their first years have been sketchy. Well, until now for Cuff.
I’m not sure how I stumbled upon it, but I recently discovered that the alternative newsweekly the Chicago Reader had posted up the entire, full lineup of the first annual Chicago Underground Film Festival.
So, I copied that info and reformatted it into the style of Bad Lit’s traditional film festival lineups, which...
In 1994, the Internet wasn’t the big promotional tool it is today so neither Nyuff nor Cuff that year had a website; or, if they did, those pages have since vanished off the web. So, details about what these fests screened in their first years have been sketchy. Well, until now for Cuff.
I’m not sure how I stumbled upon it, but I recently discovered that the alternative newsweekly the Chicago Reader had posted up the entire, full lineup of the first annual Chicago Underground Film Festival.
So, I copied that info and reformatted it into the style of Bad Lit’s traditional film festival lineups, which...
- 12/9/2010
- by Mike Everleth
- Underground Film Journal
I've long talked about the Sandler curse, but with Grown Ups coming out today, and poor Salma Hayek playing the love interest opposite Sandler, I thought it might be instructive to look back at the wake of career destruction that Sandler has wrought since he became an A-list movie star. It's not pretty. In fact, with two exceptions -- Marisa Tomei and Drew Barrymore -- no actress that has starred as a love interest in a Sandler film has even come close to duplicating the box-office success of that Sandler film, save for Liv Tyler, who had a small blip with The Incredible Hulk, but has otherwise molsty disappeared from the film scene. In fact, in most cases, the actress playing opposite Sandler began a usually steep descent into relative obscurity or ultimately resorted to television work. Her film success has never been the same.
I'm not being hyperbolic here,...
I'm not being hyperbolic here,...
- 6/25/2010
- by Dustin Rowles
Aonika, Lola and Sean – Courtesy Thomas Family
With their second child — a baby boy to be named Luc — due Saturday, June 12, Sean Patrick Thomas and Aonika Laurent Thomas toasted his imminent arrival with a shower at the Luxe Hotel in Beverly Hills, Calif.
Joined by 45 of their closest friends and family, along with daughter Lola Jolie, 2, the Lie to Me and Fantastic Four actors celebrated the latest addition to their family with a Southern-style shower honoring Aonika’s New Orleans hometown.
“Everyone knows that I’m worse than Dorothy in the Wizard of Oz when it comes to ‘home,’” laughs Laurent Thomas,...
With their second child — a baby boy to be named Luc — due Saturday, June 12, Sean Patrick Thomas and Aonika Laurent Thomas toasted his imminent arrival with a shower at the Luxe Hotel in Beverly Hills, Calif.
Joined by 45 of their closest friends and family, along with daughter Lola Jolie, 2, the Lie to Me and Fantastic Four actors celebrated the latest addition to their family with a Southern-style shower honoring Aonika’s New Orleans hometown.
“Everyone knows that I’m worse than Dorothy in the Wizard of Oz when it comes to ‘home,’” laughs Laurent Thomas,...
- 6/9/2010
- by Sarah
- People - CelebrityBabies
The old Hollywood studio-hand W.S. Van Dyke -- who directed, amongst countless other things, "The Thin Man" -- once advised a young Orson Welles to "just keep it close, and keep it moving." And an unlikely inheritor of this wisdom is Paul W.S. Anderson, whose latest work to hit screens is this week's "Pandorum," which he executive produced, leaving the directing to German up-and-comer Christian Alvart. Rivaled only by Uwe Boll for the title of worst-reviewed director of the past decade, Anderson's also been one of the most resourceful. Working with the flimsiest material (video game adaptations and remakes) in the least respectable of genres (sci-fi, horror), he's managed to construct a remarkably coherent body of work. With his longtime producer Jeremy Bolt and a loose coterie of actors, he's created a series of films that focus on the expressiveness of claustrophobic spaces and the physical grace of his (mainly) female protagonists.
- 9/24/2009
- by R. Emmet Sweeney
- ifc.com
Screen Media Films is proud to announce the acquisition of Robert Townsend’s Phantom Punch to be released first quarter 2010 on DVD. Starring Ving Rhames (“Kojak,” I Now Pronounce You Chuck and Larry), Stacey Dash (I Could Never Be Your Woman, Clueless), Nicholas Turturro (World Trade Center), Alan Van Sprang (“The Tudors,” Saw III), Bridgette Wilson (Shopgirl, Billy Madison) and David Proval (“The Sopranos,” Irene in Time), Phantom Punch is based on the true story of Sonny Liston and the future Mohammed Ali’s knock out punch that would change his life forever. The deal was brokered with Abhi Rastogi, Managing [...]...
- 8/27/2009
- by The Critic
- SmartCine.com
After the divisive first “Mortal Kombat” film and its subsequently messy sequel “Mortal Kombat: Annihilation,” it felt like a foregone conclusion that the video game franchise had received it’s final film fatality. A new rumor floating around on the Interwebs is suggesting that a third movie could happen sooner than you can shout “Get over here!”
In an interview with the Sgv Tribune, martial artist Chris Casamassa, who played Scorpion in the first two movies, said that he’ll be on hand when the third installment in the franchise starts shooting this September. The remark is offered rather off-handedly, and could be completely off-base for all I know. Still, the possibilities of another “Mortal Kombat” film certainly get the wheels turning.
For one, Warner Bros. recently acquired Midway Games, the very company that created the “Mortal Kombat” franchise. That presumably puts the film rights in the WB’s hands.
In an interview with the Sgv Tribune, martial artist Chris Casamassa, who played Scorpion in the first two movies, said that he’ll be on hand when the third installment in the franchise starts shooting this September. The remark is offered rather off-handedly, and could be completely off-base for all I know. Still, the possibilities of another “Mortal Kombat” film certainly get the wheels turning.
For one, Warner Bros. recently acquired Midway Games, the very company that created the “Mortal Kombat” franchise. That presumably puts the film rights in the WB’s hands.
- 7/8/2009
- by Josh Wigler
- MTV Movies Blog
Roger Federer stands alone in tennis history after downing Andy Roddick at Wimbledon in the longest fifth set in Grand Slam history to claim his record 15th major.
The win — Federer's sixth in seven years at SW19 — propels the Swiss past Pete Sampras' tally of 14 majors. Sampras, along with his wife, actress Bridgette Wilson-Sampras, made a last-minute trip across the pond from California to watch the historic win. "I have to give it to him," Sampras said afterwards. "He's won all the majors. He's won 15 now. He's going to win a few more here. So in my book he is [the greatest]."
Relive all the tennis action from this year's Wimbledon
In a four-hour, 18-minute epic, Federer registered a 5-7, 7-6 (6), 7-6 (5), 3-6, 16-14 win over a new and improved Roddick, who also lost the 2004 and 2005 Wimbledon finals and the 2006 U.S. Open final to Federer. In terms of games, it...
The win — Federer's sixth in seven years at SW19 — propels the Swiss past Pete Sampras' tally of 14 majors. Sampras, along with his wife, actress Bridgette Wilson-Sampras, made a last-minute trip across the pond from California to watch the historic win. "I have to give it to him," Sampras said afterwards. "He's won all the majors. He's won 15 now. He's going to win a few more here. So in my book he is [the greatest]."
Relive all the tennis action from this year's Wimbledon
In a four-hour, 18-minute epic, Federer registered a 5-7, 7-6 (6), 7-6 (5), 3-6, 16-14 win over a new and improved Roddick, who also lost the 2004 and 2005 Wimbledon finals and the 2006 U.S. Open final to Federer. In terms of games, it...
- 7/6/2009
- by Joyce Eng
- TVGuide - Breaking News
I was watching TV the other night and saw a commercial for Sandler's new Disney film, Bedtime Stories, coming out next week on Christmas Day. It looks to be "the" family film of the holiday season, but I couldn't help but notice two crazy-hot stars opposite Sandler in his new flick. Sandler turned 42 this September and it hard to see him as the same young comedian we grew up watching. Dude is getting up there in the age department. Yet he still gets thrown opposite complete and utter hotness.
Because we like to spice things up here at Boosh, we're going to go ahead and call the old man out – Adam Sandler you are outkicking your coverage. Is Sandler really that attractive? Does he deserve the hotness he is given? Don't think this is a new thing, Sandler has been outkicking since he got off the SNL train. Take a...
Because we like to spice things up here at Boosh, we're going to go ahead and call the old man out – Adam Sandler you are outkicking your coverage. Is Sandler really that attractive? Does he deserve the hotness he is given? Don't think this is a new thing, Sandler has been outkicking since he got off the SNL train. Take a...
- 12/19/2008
- BooshMagazine.com
'CSI' actress nabs ABC pilot lead
Louise Lombard has landed the title role in ABC's drama pilot "Judy's Got a Gun".
Additionally, Sarah Clarke has been cast in NBC's untitled Shore/Blake drama pilot, Bridgette Wilson-Sampras has been added to ABC's drama pilot "Mr. and Mrs. Smith", Lucy Lawless has been tapped for one of the leads in ABC's drama pilot "Football Wives", Miriam Shor has joined CBS' drama pilot "Swingtown", and Fran Kranz has landed the lead in CBS' ensemble comedy pilot "The Captain".
"Judy", from Touchstone TV, centers on Judy (Lombard), a suburban woman who balances being a single mother with being a detective investigating bizarre suburban crimes. Lombard, who co-stars on CBS' "CSI: Crime Scene Investigation", is repped by Paradigm and Nine Yards Entertainment.
The untitled Shore/Blake project, from NBC Universal TV Studio, is a light ensemble drama with procedural elements that centers on a female cop (Famke Janssen). Clarke will play her younger sister and best friend who sometimes gives her advice about cases. Clarke (Gersh, Levine Management) is best known for her role as Nina Myers on Fox's "24."
"Mr. and Mrs.
Additionally, Sarah Clarke has been cast in NBC's untitled Shore/Blake drama pilot, Bridgette Wilson-Sampras has been added to ABC's drama pilot "Mr. and Mrs. Smith", Lucy Lawless has been tapped for one of the leads in ABC's drama pilot "Football Wives", Miriam Shor has joined CBS' drama pilot "Swingtown", and Fran Kranz has landed the lead in CBS' ensemble comedy pilot "The Captain".
"Judy", from Touchstone TV, centers on Judy (Lombard), a suburban woman who balances being a single mother with being a detective investigating bizarre suburban crimes. Lombard, who co-stars on CBS' "CSI: Crime Scene Investigation", is repped by Paradigm and Nine Yards Entertainment.
The untitled Shore/Blake project, from NBC Universal TV Studio, is a light ensemble drama with procedural elements that centers on a female cop (Famke Janssen). Clarke will play her younger sister and best friend who sometimes gives her advice about cases. Clarke (Gersh, Levine Management) is best known for her role as Nina Myers on Fox's "24."
"Mr. and Mrs.
- 2/12/2007
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Thank You for Smoking
Thank You for Smoking, a satire about a D.C. lobbyist for Big Tobacco, takes pot shots at just about everything and everybody -- tobacco, guns, liquor, liberals, red-necks, anti- and pro-smoking advocates and self-serving politicians.
It's really about the Age of Spin, where with the right TV spokesperson even Adolph Hitler might come off as a misunderstood individual. If there is a problem with the feature debut of Jason Reitman, it's that the tone and tenor of the movie is far removed from the real world of a D.C. lobbyist. Put it this way: How many times do you suppose MPAA's Jack Valenti got kidnapped during his tenure in Washington?
The movie is amusing and clever but only skin deep. It lacks the acidity and rage of a satire such as Network. While often entertaining, the film keeps hitting the same comic notes. Smoking will find its audiences in upscale and university venues, although it may founder in, say, North Carolina.
Reitman's script, which derives from Christopher Buckley's 1994 novel, delves into the world of Nick Naylor (Aaron Eckhart), a superb practitioner of spin. And what greater challenge than to lobby for the cigarette industry, which kills upward to 1,200 Americans daily? One of the movie's grand touches is frequent lunch sessions Nick has with fellow lobbyists, who speak on behalf of alcohol (Maria Bello) and guns (David Koechner). The group dubs itself the MOD Squad, as in Merchants of Death.
David is divorced from his wife Jill (Kim Dickens) and too often absent from the life of his 12-year-old son Joey Cameron Bright). When Nick takes a keener interest in Joey, especially on a trip to Hollywood, the two begin to bond over their discussions of strategies for making effective arguments in any debate. As Nick tells his son, "If you argue correctly, you're never wrong."
This is the one area where the movie feels real as the father presents his job in a way that makes sense to the boy. The rest of the movie indulges in implausible subplots involving a newspaper reporter (Katie Holmes), who uses sex to get a scoop; a kidnapping in which Nick receives an overdose of nicotine; a Godfather of Tobacco (Robert Duvall) with a dumb ticker; a Vermont senator (William H. Macy), who never has a snappy answer for opponents; and a Hollywood superagent (Rob Lowe), a transparent dig at former agent Mike Ovitz.
Under Reitman's direction, the acting is energetic and scenes flow smoothly and swiftly. Eckhart and Bright are convincing in their father and son roles, but most of the other actors fall back on caricatures, albeit pretty deadly ones. Sam Elliott has a solid sequence as a Marlboro Man dying of cancer.
Jams Whitaker's cinematography and Dana E. Glauberman's editing are sharp while the sound track makes clever use of vintage songs about smoking.
THANK YOU FOR SMOKING
Room 9 Entertainment presents a David Sacks production in association with Content Film
Credits:
Writer/director: Jason Reitman
Based on the novel by: Christopher Buckley
Producer: David O. Sacks
Executive producers: Peter Thiel, Elon Musk, Max Levchin, Mark Woolway, Edward R. Pressman, John Schmidt, Alessandro Camon, Michael Beugg
Director of photography: James Whitaker
Production designer: Steve Saklad
Costumes: Danny Glicker
Music: Rolfe Kent
Editor: Dana E. Glauberman
Cast:
Nick Naylor: Aaron Eckhart
Polly Bailey: Maria Bello
Joey: Cameron Bright
Jack: Sam Elliott
Heather: Katie Holmes
Bobby Jay Bliss: David Koechner
Jeff Megall: Rob Lowe
Sen. Finistirre: William H. Macy
BR: J.K. Simmons
Captain: Robert Duvall
Running time -- 92 minutes
No MPAA rating
Shopgirl
Buena Vista Pictures
Touchstone Pictures and Hyde Park Entertainment present
An Ashok Amritraj production
Credits:
Director: Anand Tucker
Screenwriter: Steve Martin
Producers: Ashok Amritraj, Jon Jashni, Steve Martin
Executive producer: Andrew Sugarman
Director of photography: Peter Suschitzky
Production designer: William Arnold
Editor: David Gamble
Costume designer: Nancy Steiner
Music: Barrington Pheloung
Cast:
Ray Porter: Steve Martin
Mirabelle Buttersfield: Claire Danes
Jeremy: Jason Schwartzman
Lisa Cramer: Bridgette Wilson-Sampras
Catherine Buttersfield: Frances Conroy
Dan Buttersfield: Sam Bottoms
Christie Richards: Rebecca Pidgeon
MPAA rating R
Running time -- 106 minutes...
It's really about the Age of Spin, where with the right TV spokesperson even Adolph Hitler might come off as a misunderstood individual. If there is a problem with the feature debut of Jason Reitman, it's that the tone and tenor of the movie is far removed from the real world of a D.C. lobbyist. Put it this way: How many times do you suppose MPAA's Jack Valenti got kidnapped during his tenure in Washington?
The movie is amusing and clever but only skin deep. It lacks the acidity and rage of a satire such as Network. While often entertaining, the film keeps hitting the same comic notes. Smoking will find its audiences in upscale and university venues, although it may founder in, say, North Carolina.
Reitman's script, which derives from Christopher Buckley's 1994 novel, delves into the world of Nick Naylor (Aaron Eckhart), a superb practitioner of spin. And what greater challenge than to lobby for the cigarette industry, which kills upward to 1,200 Americans daily? One of the movie's grand touches is frequent lunch sessions Nick has with fellow lobbyists, who speak on behalf of alcohol (Maria Bello) and guns (David Koechner). The group dubs itself the MOD Squad, as in Merchants of Death.
David is divorced from his wife Jill (Kim Dickens) and too often absent from the life of his 12-year-old son Joey Cameron Bright). When Nick takes a keener interest in Joey, especially on a trip to Hollywood, the two begin to bond over their discussions of strategies for making effective arguments in any debate. As Nick tells his son, "If you argue correctly, you're never wrong."
This is the one area where the movie feels real as the father presents his job in a way that makes sense to the boy. The rest of the movie indulges in implausible subplots involving a newspaper reporter (Katie Holmes), who uses sex to get a scoop; a kidnapping in which Nick receives an overdose of nicotine; a Godfather of Tobacco (Robert Duvall) with a dumb ticker; a Vermont senator (William H. Macy), who never has a snappy answer for opponents; and a Hollywood superagent (Rob Lowe), a transparent dig at former agent Mike Ovitz.
Under Reitman's direction, the acting is energetic and scenes flow smoothly and swiftly. Eckhart and Bright are convincing in their father and son roles, but most of the other actors fall back on caricatures, albeit pretty deadly ones. Sam Elliott has a solid sequence as a Marlboro Man dying of cancer.
Jams Whitaker's cinematography and Dana E. Glauberman's editing are sharp while the sound track makes clever use of vintage songs about smoking.
THANK YOU FOR SMOKING
Room 9 Entertainment presents a David Sacks production in association with Content Film
Credits:
Writer/director: Jason Reitman
Based on the novel by: Christopher Buckley
Producer: David O. Sacks
Executive producers: Peter Thiel, Elon Musk, Max Levchin, Mark Woolway, Edward R. Pressman, John Schmidt, Alessandro Camon, Michael Beugg
Director of photography: James Whitaker
Production designer: Steve Saklad
Costumes: Danny Glicker
Music: Rolfe Kent
Editor: Dana E. Glauberman
Cast:
Nick Naylor: Aaron Eckhart
Polly Bailey: Maria Bello
Joey: Cameron Bright
Jack: Sam Elliott
Heather: Katie Holmes
Bobby Jay Bliss: David Koechner
Jeff Megall: Rob Lowe
Sen. Finistirre: William H. Macy
BR: J.K. Simmons
Captain: Robert Duvall
Running time -- 92 minutes
No MPAA rating
Shopgirl
Buena Vista Pictures
Touchstone Pictures and Hyde Park Entertainment present
An Ashok Amritraj production
Credits:
Director: Anand Tucker
Screenwriter: Steve Martin
Producers: Ashok Amritraj, Jon Jashni, Steve Martin
Executive producer: Andrew Sugarman
Director of photography: Peter Suschitzky
Production designer: William Arnold
Editor: David Gamble
Costume designer: Nancy Steiner
Music: Barrington Pheloung
Cast:
Ray Porter: Steve Martin
Mirabelle Buttersfield: Claire Danes
Jeremy: Jason Schwartzman
Lisa Cramer: Bridgette Wilson-Sampras
Catherine Buttersfield: Frances Conroy
Dan Buttersfield: Sam Bottoms
Christie Richards: Rebecca Pidgeon
MPAA rating R
Running time -- 106 minutes...
- 9/12/2005
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Actress after Martin's eye in 'Shopgirl'
Bridgette Wilson-Sampras has joined the cast of Shopgirl, the Hyde Park Entertainment comedy that stars Steve Martin. Wilson-Sampras will play a makeup counter worker who competes for Martin's attention in the film, which is based on the Martin novella. Touchstone Pictures is distributing the film domestically, while 20th Century Fox has picked up the majority of international territories. Shopgirl centers on a girl who sells gloves and other accessories at Neiman Marcus. Feeling useless in her job and unfulfilled by a romantic relationship, she is bowled over when a rich, divorced older man enters her life. The film is being directed by Anand Tucker and co-stars Claire Danes and Jason Schwartzman. The Shopgirl role marks a return to acting for Wilson-Sampras, who had taken some time off after having a baby. Her credits include such comedies as The Wedding Planner and Billy Madison. Wilson-Sampras is repped by Brillstein-Grey Entertainment and Endeavor.
- 10/14/2003
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Look Who's Watching
Tennis champion Pete Sampras was a vigilant onlooker at his bride Bridgette Wilson's new film Buying the Cow (2000) - because it was a little too saucy. Bridgette gets hot and heavy in the romantic comedy with co-star Jerry O'Connell (photos), who was a little worried about her hot-headed husband. He says, "It was great, except Sampras was right there. We had this running joke when we were getting ready to shoot the scene. I kept saying, 'Look out for low-flying Spauldings!'"...
- 11/17/2000
- WENN
Film review: 'House on Haunted Hill'
"House on Haunted Hill" has plenty of trick 'n' treats in store for horror film fans and cinema buffs. This remake of William Castle's 1958 campy horror movie was not only produced by such filmmaker-fans as Robert Zemeckis and Joel Silver but co-produced by Castle's daughter Terry. The homage displays an affection for the scary tricks of Castle's old movies and enough modern twists for today's enthusiasts.
The best trick in the film is the casting of Geoffrey Rush. As was learned with "Mystery Men", Rush has the acting chops to anchor comic nonsense. Rush plays Stephen Price -- a tip of the hat to Vincent Price, who starred in the original film -- a malevolent billionaire theme park owner. As in the original, Stephen Price offers a substantial amount of money to a group of people if they can survive a night in a spooky mansion. (Interestingly, the amount has increased since 1958 to $1 million from $10,000.)
The twist here is that the night is also a birthday party for his wife, Evelyn (a cynical and sinister Famke Janssen), with whom he shares a love/hate relationship -- i.e., they love to hate one another. Price uses his theme park expertise to booby trap the house with all kinds of scary devices, and his wife has made her own plans to eliminate, once and for all, her troublesome husband.
What neither realize, of course, is that the joint is truly haunted. The house, once an insane asylum, is possessed by the spirits of those who suffered horrifying medical experiments at the hands of a demented doctor and his staff.
The house's owner (Chris Kattan), the grandson of the original owner, keeps insisting that everyone is going to die before the night is through. But the couple look on him as a mere party pooper. What puzzles them, though, are the guests. They are neither his nor hers. Who -- or what -- has selected this group of victims, er, guests? What links them together?
Eddie (Taye Diggs) is an ex-pro baseball player and Sara Ali Larter) is a former personal assistant pretending to be her ex-boss. Melissa (Bridgette Wilson) dreams of being a TV talk show host, while Dr. Blackburn (Peter Gallagher), curiously enough, doesn't appear to be on anyone's guest list.
Dick Beebe's clever script nicely builds ambiguity into all the big scares. Which are the fake chills and which are the real ones? And since several of the haunted house occupants have a trick or two up their sleeves, the audience isn't always certain if a character has truly died. Some get to die more than once.
Refusing to take themselves seriously, Beebe and director William Malone treat all their spooky effects with tongue-in-cheek humor. Malone has directed several episodes of "Tales From the Crypt" and the spirit of that TV show spills over into this fun-house flick. He never lingers on bloodiness, rather he relies on imagination instead of gross-out effects.
Visually, the picture is terrific. Production designer David Klassen creates a haunted house whose exterior borrows from the monolithic design of the 1930s, but whose interior is a maze of decrepit chambers, ancient machinery, rusted medical equipment and a blood bath.
Cinematographer Rick Bota's camera glides through these sets with a nimble ease, and the visual effects by Bob and Dennis Skotak give the house a life of its own.
HOUSE ON HAUNTED HILL
Warner Bros.
Dark Castle Entertainment
Producers: Robert Zemeckis, Joel Silver, Gilbert Adler
Director: William Malone
Screenwriter: Dick Beebe
Story by: Robb White
Executive producers: Dan Cracchiolo, Steve Richards
Director of photography: Rick Bota
Production designer: David F. Klassen
Music: Don Davis
Co-producer: Terry Castle
Costume designer: Ha Nguyen
Editor: Anthony Adler
Special make-up effects: Robert Kurtzman, Gregory Nicotero, Howard Berger
Color/stereo
Cast:
Stephen Price: Geoffrey Rush
Evelyn: Famke Janssen
Eddie: Taye Diggs
Dr. Blackburn: Peter Gallagher
Pritchett: Chris Kattan
Sara: Ali Larter
Melissa Marr: Bridgette Wilson
Running time -- 92 minutes
MPAA rating: R...
The best trick in the film is the casting of Geoffrey Rush. As was learned with "Mystery Men", Rush has the acting chops to anchor comic nonsense. Rush plays Stephen Price -- a tip of the hat to Vincent Price, who starred in the original film -- a malevolent billionaire theme park owner. As in the original, Stephen Price offers a substantial amount of money to a group of people if they can survive a night in a spooky mansion. (Interestingly, the amount has increased since 1958 to $1 million from $10,000.)
The twist here is that the night is also a birthday party for his wife, Evelyn (a cynical and sinister Famke Janssen), with whom he shares a love/hate relationship -- i.e., they love to hate one another. Price uses his theme park expertise to booby trap the house with all kinds of scary devices, and his wife has made her own plans to eliminate, once and for all, her troublesome husband.
What neither realize, of course, is that the joint is truly haunted. The house, once an insane asylum, is possessed by the spirits of those who suffered horrifying medical experiments at the hands of a demented doctor and his staff.
The house's owner (Chris Kattan), the grandson of the original owner, keeps insisting that everyone is going to die before the night is through. But the couple look on him as a mere party pooper. What puzzles them, though, are the guests. They are neither his nor hers. Who -- or what -- has selected this group of victims, er, guests? What links them together?
Eddie (Taye Diggs) is an ex-pro baseball player and Sara Ali Larter) is a former personal assistant pretending to be her ex-boss. Melissa (Bridgette Wilson) dreams of being a TV talk show host, while Dr. Blackburn (Peter Gallagher), curiously enough, doesn't appear to be on anyone's guest list.
Dick Beebe's clever script nicely builds ambiguity into all the big scares. Which are the fake chills and which are the real ones? And since several of the haunted house occupants have a trick or two up their sleeves, the audience isn't always certain if a character has truly died. Some get to die more than once.
Refusing to take themselves seriously, Beebe and director William Malone treat all their spooky effects with tongue-in-cheek humor. Malone has directed several episodes of "Tales From the Crypt" and the spirit of that TV show spills over into this fun-house flick. He never lingers on bloodiness, rather he relies on imagination instead of gross-out effects.
Visually, the picture is terrific. Production designer David Klassen creates a haunted house whose exterior borrows from the monolithic design of the 1930s, but whose interior is a maze of decrepit chambers, ancient machinery, rusted medical equipment and a blood bath.
Cinematographer Rick Bota's camera glides through these sets with a nimble ease, and the visual effects by Bob and Dennis Skotak give the house a life of its own.
HOUSE ON HAUNTED HILL
Warner Bros.
Dark Castle Entertainment
Producers: Robert Zemeckis, Joel Silver, Gilbert Adler
Director: William Malone
Screenwriter: Dick Beebe
Story by: Robb White
Executive producers: Dan Cracchiolo, Steve Richards
Director of photography: Rick Bota
Production designer: David F. Klassen
Music: Don Davis
Co-producer: Terry Castle
Costume designer: Ha Nguyen
Editor: Anthony Adler
Special make-up effects: Robert Kurtzman, Gregory Nicotero, Howard Berger
Color/stereo
Cast:
Stephen Price: Geoffrey Rush
Evelyn: Famke Janssen
Eddie: Taye Diggs
Dr. Blackburn: Peter Gallagher
Pritchett: Chris Kattan
Sara: Ali Larter
Melissa Marr: Bridgette Wilson
Running time -- 92 minutes
MPAA rating: R...
- 11/1/1999
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Film review: 'Love Stinks'
There are just enough hilarious, well-executed sequences in "Love Stinks" to help one get past the less-funny bits and not-so-fresh material in debut writer-director Jeff Franklin's comedy about a TV writer and his sexy but demanding new girlfriend.
A wide release from tyro distributor Independent Artists, "Love Stinks" stars French Stewart ("3rd Rock From the Sun") as Seth, a sitcom creator who meets vixenish Chelsea (Bridgette Wilson) at the marriage of friend and writing colleague Larry (Bill Bellamy). With mainstream appeal, the low-budget film should stick around theaters long enough to turn a profit and then perform well in ancillary engagements.
Chelsea's girlfriend Holly (Tyra Banks) is Larry's betrothed, and the gals zero in on how to hook Seth. It doesn't take much; he's busy and self-confident but is flattered at shapely, seemingly fun-spirited Chelsea's advances. From the outset, she is determined to marry him; he, however, is in no hurry.
The perfect new lover (she even does a nifty rendition of Elvis Presley's performance of "C'mon Everybody" from "Viva Las Vegas") turns into the nightmare girlfriend when Chelsea's dreams of a swift courtship and marriage are dashed by easygoing Seth. When she threatens to leave him, they strike a bargain that she accepts grudgingly: They'll live together for a year and then reconsider marriage.
From annoying everyday conflicts and miscommunication to mean-spirited antagonism, the rift between Chelsea and Seth becomes a chasm when a year later he still isn't popping the question. She serves him with a palimony suit in front of co-workers yet refuses to move out of his house, starting a minor war. Eventually, he hits on a scheme to get her out of his life that involves a climactic trip to Las Vegas and a date with an Elvis impersonator at the altar.
The movie's most delightful surprise is Stewart's charming performance as a reasonable man driven to acts of desperation. Wilson's character is decidedly less sympathetic, and the actress hits all of the right marks as a shrew who thinks she's a swan.
Franklin (creator of TV's "Full House" and screenwriter-producer of director Rob Reiner's "Summer School") indulges in a few too many sophomoric jokes and visual gags, but overall, "Love Stinks" is well-executed and pleasingly restrained.
LOVE STINKS
Independent Artists
A Baumgarten/Prophet Entertainment production
Director-screenwriter: Jeff Franklin
Producers: Adam J. Merims, Todd Hoffman
Executive producers: Craig Baumgarten, Jeff Franklin
Director of photography: Uta Briesewitz
Production designer: Pamela A. Marcotte
Editor: Richard Candib
Costume designer: Ileane C. Meltzer
Music: Bennett Salvay
Casting: Ferne Cassel
Color/stereo
Cast:
Seth Winnick: French Stewart
Chelsea Turner: Bridgette Wilson
Larry Garnett: Bill Bellamy
Holly Garnett: Tyra Banks
Running time -- 93 minutes
MPAA rating: R...
A wide release from tyro distributor Independent Artists, "Love Stinks" stars French Stewart ("3rd Rock From the Sun") as Seth, a sitcom creator who meets vixenish Chelsea (Bridgette Wilson) at the marriage of friend and writing colleague Larry (Bill Bellamy). With mainstream appeal, the low-budget film should stick around theaters long enough to turn a profit and then perform well in ancillary engagements.
Chelsea's girlfriend Holly (Tyra Banks) is Larry's betrothed, and the gals zero in on how to hook Seth. It doesn't take much; he's busy and self-confident but is flattered at shapely, seemingly fun-spirited Chelsea's advances. From the outset, she is determined to marry him; he, however, is in no hurry.
The perfect new lover (she even does a nifty rendition of Elvis Presley's performance of "C'mon Everybody" from "Viva Las Vegas") turns into the nightmare girlfriend when Chelsea's dreams of a swift courtship and marriage are dashed by easygoing Seth. When she threatens to leave him, they strike a bargain that she accepts grudgingly: They'll live together for a year and then reconsider marriage.
From annoying everyday conflicts and miscommunication to mean-spirited antagonism, the rift between Chelsea and Seth becomes a chasm when a year later he still isn't popping the question. She serves him with a palimony suit in front of co-workers yet refuses to move out of his house, starting a minor war. Eventually, he hits on a scheme to get her out of his life that involves a climactic trip to Las Vegas and a date with an Elvis impersonator at the altar.
The movie's most delightful surprise is Stewart's charming performance as a reasonable man driven to acts of desperation. Wilson's character is decidedly less sympathetic, and the actress hits all of the right marks as a shrew who thinks she's a swan.
Franklin (creator of TV's "Full House" and screenwriter-producer of director Rob Reiner's "Summer School") indulges in a few too many sophomoric jokes and visual gags, but overall, "Love Stinks" is well-executed and pleasingly restrained.
LOVE STINKS
Independent Artists
A Baumgarten/Prophet Entertainment production
Director-screenwriter: Jeff Franklin
Producers: Adam J. Merims, Todd Hoffman
Executive producers: Craig Baumgarten, Jeff Franklin
Director of photography: Uta Briesewitz
Production designer: Pamela A. Marcotte
Editor: Richard Candib
Costume designer: Ileane C. Meltzer
Music: Bennett Salvay
Casting: Ferne Cassel
Color/stereo
Cast:
Seth Winnick: French Stewart
Chelsea Turner: Bridgette Wilson
Larry Garnett: Bill Bellamy
Holly Garnett: Tyra Banks
Running time -- 93 minutes
MPAA rating: R...
- 9/10/1999
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Film review: 'The Real Blonde'
A jazzy ensemble sex comedy with a strong cast playing eccentric showbiz types in New York, the fourth film of independent filmmaker Tom DiCillo ("Box of Moonlight") is a bit cluttered with name actors and subplots, but overall, the Paramount release is insightful and entertaining.
Needing real good reviews and word-of-mouth to make a splash, "The Real Blonde" should garner some of both and generate healthy business in major markets. With a potent appeal to adult women, DiCillo's often hilarious, poignantly honest portrayal of the sexual attitudes of urban couples and diverse singles is probing but nonjudgmental.
What is real and what is not? In keeping with the movie's theme, "The Real Blonde" is far from perfect, but it's adept storytelling not dependent on narrative hooks. Humor arises from the engaging characterizations, and there are a few outlandish gags that work beautifully ("Il Piano"?), while there's satisfaction in watching the performers have fun with the sharp-witted dialogue and sometimes-terrific comic flourishes.
The lead couple is Joe (Matthew Modine) and makeup artist Mary (Catherine Keener), lovers for seven years who are not interested in children or marriage. Indeed, their sex life is stalled, along with his acting career, and she is growing frustrated. Their minor and major spats, in and out of bed, are among the film's best moments, with his moneyless situation and her hostility fueling ugly-but-over-quick shouting matches.
Meanwhile, Joe's fellow actor and friend Bob (Maxwell Caulfield) gets a job on a soap opera, starts earning good money and pursues an ideal of womanhood, though he's not exactly the girl toy he wants. His career starting to take off, Bob backs off from a relationship with a sweet, sensitive model (Bridgette Wilson) and starts a fling with his seductive co-star (Daryl Hannah).
The most ironic development is that likable rogue Bob is unhappy searching for perfection, but hapless Joe encounters an unreal blonde on the prowl (Elizabeth Berkley), first as an instant-fantasy object on the street and later as a stand-in for Madonna on the set of a video shoot.
How cocky, persistent Joe gets his first acting job is a story involving a crabby casting agent (Kathleen Turner). How tough, tender Mary takes the advice of her demure shrink (Buck Henry) and enrolls in a self-defense course taught by a rugged hunk (Denis Leary) is likewise a plot line with surprises and crowd-pleasing moments.
Other veterans in small-but-memorable roles include Marlo Thomas as the commanding fashion photographer Mary Works for -- who creates erotic tableaus using Wilson's character -- and Christopher Lloyd as the dour catering-service owner.
THE REAL BLONDE
Paramount Pictures
Lakeshore Entertainment
A Marcus Viscidi production
Writer-director: Tom DiCillo
Producers: Marcus Viscidi, Tom Rosenberg
Executive producers: Sigurjon Sighvatsson,
Ted Tannebaum, Terry McKay
Director of photography: Frank Prinzi
Production designer: Christopher Nowak
Editors: Camilla Toniolo, Keiko Deguchi
Costume designer: Jennifer Von Mayrhauser
Music: Jim Farmer
Casting: Avy Kaufman
Color/stereo
Cast:
Joe: Matthew Modine
Mary: Catherine Keener
Kelly: Daryl Hannah
Bob: Maxwell Caulfield
Tina: Elizabeth Berkley
Blair: Marlo Thomas
Sahara: Bridgette Wilson
Dr. Leuter: Buck Henry
Ernst: Christopher Lloyd
Dee Dee Taylor: Kathleen Turner
Doug: Denis Leary
Running time -- 106 minutes
MPAA rating: R...
Needing real good reviews and word-of-mouth to make a splash, "The Real Blonde" should garner some of both and generate healthy business in major markets. With a potent appeal to adult women, DiCillo's often hilarious, poignantly honest portrayal of the sexual attitudes of urban couples and diverse singles is probing but nonjudgmental.
What is real and what is not? In keeping with the movie's theme, "The Real Blonde" is far from perfect, but it's adept storytelling not dependent on narrative hooks. Humor arises from the engaging characterizations, and there are a few outlandish gags that work beautifully ("Il Piano"?), while there's satisfaction in watching the performers have fun with the sharp-witted dialogue and sometimes-terrific comic flourishes.
The lead couple is Joe (Matthew Modine) and makeup artist Mary (Catherine Keener), lovers for seven years who are not interested in children or marriage. Indeed, their sex life is stalled, along with his acting career, and she is growing frustrated. Their minor and major spats, in and out of bed, are among the film's best moments, with his moneyless situation and her hostility fueling ugly-but-over-quick shouting matches.
Meanwhile, Joe's fellow actor and friend Bob (Maxwell Caulfield) gets a job on a soap opera, starts earning good money and pursues an ideal of womanhood, though he's not exactly the girl toy he wants. His career starting to take off, Bob backs off from a relationship with a sweet, sensitive model (Bridgette Wilson) and starts a fling with his seductive co-star (Daryl Hannah).
The most ironic development is that likable rogue Bob is unhappy searching for perfection, but hapless Joe encounters an unreal blonde on the prowl (Elizabeth Berkley), first as an instant-fantasy object on the street and later as a stand-in for Madonna on the set of a video shoot.
How cocky, persistent Joe gets his first acting job is a story involving a crabby casting agent (Kathleen Turner). How tough, tender Mary takes the advice of her demure shrink (Buck Henry) and enrolls in a self-defense course taught by a rugged hunk (Denis Leary) is likewise a plot line with surprises and crowd-pleasing moments.
Other veterans in small-but-memorable roles include Marlo Thomas as the commanding fashion photographer Mary Works for -- who creates erotic tableaus using Wilson's character -- and Christopher Lloyd as the dour catering-service owner.
THE REAL BLONDE
Paramount Pictures
Lakeshore Entertainment
A Marcus Viscidi production
Writer-director: Tom DiCillo
Producers: Marcus Viscidi, Tom Rosenberg
Executive producers: Sigurjon Sighvatsson,
Ted Tannebaum, Terry McKay
Director of photography: Frank Prinzi
Production designer: Christopher Nowak
Editors: Camilla Toniolo, Keiko Deguchi
Costume designer: Jennifer Von Mayrhauser
Music: Jim Farmer
Casting: Avy Kaufman
Color/stereo
Cast:
Joe: Matthew Modine
Mary: Catherine Keener
Kelly: Daryl Hannah
Bob: Maxwell Caulfield
Tina: Elizabeth Berkley
Blair: Marlo Thomas
Sahara: Bridgette Wilson
Dr. Leuter: Buck Henry
Ernst: Christopher Lloyd
Dee Dee Taylor: Kathleen Turner
Doug: Denis Leary
Running time -- 106 minutes
MPAA rating: R...
- 2/20/1998
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Film review: 'I Know What You Did'
Having successfully persuaded horror audiences to "Scream" again, fright scribe Kevin Williamson follows up on that initial promise with "I Know What You Did Last Summer," a good old-fashioned scarefest that relies on smartly constructed suspense, not buckets of gore or CGI overload, to coax viewers to the edge of their seats.
Backed by sharp direction from Scottish filmmaker Jim Gillespie and solid performances by "Party of Five"'s Jennifer Love Hewitt and "Buffy the Vampire Slayer"'s Sarah Michelle Gellar, the Columbia picture may be a mouthful for the marquee, but is certain to scare up potfuls of moolah when it opens the weekend after next.
There certainly isn't anything particularly groundbreaking going on -- horror aficionados will easily spot a little "Friday the 13th" here and a little "Texas Chainsaw Massacre" there, not to mention "Halloween" and "A Nightmare on Elm Street" around the edges -- but Williamson and Gillespie know a thing or two about effective packaging.
Set against the mist-laden backdrop of a seaside South Carolina village, the action centers on four high school friends celebrating their final Fourth of July together before heading off in different directions.
There's aspiring actress Helen Shivers (Gellar), who has just been crowned the coveted Croaker Queen; her cocky, rich kid boyfriend Barry (Ryan Phillippe); her best friend Julie (Hewitt), who's off to Boston to pursue a career in law; and Julie's beau Ray (Freddie Prinze Jr.), who dreams of escaping his working-class roots to become a successful writer.
But their big summer blowout hits a roadblock when Barry's new BMW runs head-on into a large, dark object in the middle of a remote stretch of highway. When their target turns out to be a human casualty, panic sets in, and realizing their blood-alcohol levels will no doubt result in a career-ending charge of vehicular manslaughter, they dump the body in the ocean.
Flash-forward one year later, when Julie receives an anonymous note bearing the words "I KNOW WHAT YOU DID LAST SUMMER." Before you can say "slasher picture," she and her accomplices find themselves being pursued by a ghostly figure in a black slicker with a mean, "Candyman" right hook.
Gillespie and Williamson push all the requisite scare-tactic buttons, admirably forgoing the ever-popular latex and optical effects in favor of traditional lighting and camera angles.
The cast is definitely above-par for this course. Although Hewitt and Gellar are required to provide all the obligatory scantily clothed screaming, they're a lot more self-sufficient and take-control than their '80s counterparts. Philippe and Prinze are also fine in a limited capacity.
I KNOW WHAT YOU DID LAST SUMMER
Sony Releasing
Columbia Pictures
Mandalay Entertainment presents
A Neal H. Moritz production
Director Jim Gillespie
Screenwriter Kevin Williamson
Producers Neal H. Moritz, Erik Feig,
Stokely Chaffin
Executive producer William S. Beasley
Director of photography Denis Crossan
Production designer Gary Wissner
Editor Steve Mirkovich
Music John Debney
Music supervisor Alex Steyermark
Costume designer Catherine Adair
Casting Mary Vernieu
Color/stereo
Cast:
Julie James Jennifer Love Hewitt
Helen Shivers Sarah Michelle Gellar
Ray Bronson Freddie Prinze Jr.
Benjamin Willis/fisherman Muse Watson
Elsa Shivers Bridgette Wilson
Max Johnny Galecki
Barry Ryan Phillippe
Running time -- 100 minutes
MPAA rating: R...
Backed by sharp direction from Scottish filmmaker Jim Gillespie and solid performances by "Party of Five"'s Jennifer Love Hewitt and "Buffy the Vampire Slayer"'s Sarah Michelle Gellar, the Columbia picture may be a mouthful for the marquee, but is certain to scare up potfuls of moolah when it opens the weekend after next.
There certainly isn't anything particularly groundbreaking going on -- horror aficionados will easily spot a little "Friday the 13th" here and a little "Texas Chainsaw Massacre" there, not to mention "Halloween" and "A Nightmare on Elm Street" around the edges -- but Williamson and Gillespie know a thing or two about effective packaging.
Set against the mist-laden backdrop of a seaside South Carolina village, the action centers on four high school friends celebrating their final Fourth of July together before heading off in different directions.
There's aspiring actress Helen Shivers (Gellar), who has just been crowned the coveted Croaker Queen; her cocky, rich kid boyfriend Barry (Ryan Phillippe); her best friend Julie (Hewitt), who's off to Boston to pursue a career in law; and Julie's beau Ray (Freddie Prinze Jr.), who dreams of escaping his working-class roots to become a successful writer.
But their big summer blowout hits a roadblock when Barry's new BMW runs head-on into a large, dark object in the middle of a remote stretch of highway. When their target turns out to be a human casualty, panic sets in, and realizing their blood-alcohol levels will no doubt result in a career-ending charge of vehicular manslaughter, they dump the body in the ocean.
Flash-forward one year later, when Julie receives an anonymous note bearing the words "I KNOW WHAT YOU DID LAST SUMMER." Before you can say "slasher picture," she and her accomplices find themselves being pursued by a ghostly figure in a black slicker with a mean, "Candyman" right hook.
Gillespie and Williamson push all the requisite scare-tactic buttons, admirably forgoing the ever-popular latex and optical effects in favor of traditional lighting and camera angles.
The cast is definitely above-par for this course. Although Hewitt and Gellar are required to provide all the obligatory scantily clothed screaming, they're a lot more self-sufficient and take-control than their '80s counterparts. Philippe and Prinze are also fine in a limited capacity.
I KNOW WHAT YOU DID LAST SUMMER
Sony Releasing
Columbia Pictures
Mandalay Entertainment presents
A Neal H. Moritz production
Director Jim Gillespie
Screenwriter Kevin Williamson
Producers Neal H. Moritz, Erik Feig,
Stokely Chaffin
Executive producer William S. Beasley
Director of photography Denis Crossan
Production designer Gary Wissner
Editor Steve Mirkovich
Music John Debney
Music supervisor Alex Steyermark
Costume designer Catherine Adair
Casting Mary Vernieu
Color/stereo
Cast:
Julie James Jennifer Love Hewitt
Helen Shivers Sarah Michelle Gellar
Ray Bronson Freddie Prinze Jr.
Benjamin Willis/fisherman Muse Watson
Elsa Shivers Bridgette Wilson
Max Johnny Galecki
Barry Ryan Phillippe
Running time -- 100 minutes
MPAA rating: R...
- 10/10/1997
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
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