Red Tails

RED TAILS is an outstanding film about American heroes: the Tuskegee Airmen. The Tuskegee Airmen are a group of African American pilots who fought in World War II. In the movie, as in real life, there is resistance to having them participate in the war, but after the gentlemen display their excellent skills they earn respect.

The cast of RED TAILS is very good. In addition to the exciting combat scenes, the characters’ personal lives are shown. The actors’ great performances make all the scenes fascinating. In the following interview Terrence Howard discusses his role, the special effects used, and the historical significance of RED TAILS:  http://video.pbs.org/video/2189885982.

For more information about RED TAILS, visit the official Web site at http://www.redtails2012.com/.

Anonymous

“All the world’s a stage,
And all the men and women merely players;”
(Jaques, II. vii. 139-140, from As You Like It by William Shakespeare)

The new film ANONYMOUS may define the quote above. The story suggests that William Shakespeare is not the author of his plays, sonnets, or poems. Instead Edward de Vere, Earl of Oxford (played by Rhys Ifans) is the true scribe.

Since being a writer embarrasses the family, de Vere chooses someone to name as an originator of his work. Initially he selects writer Ben Jonson (played by Sebastian Armesto), but Jonson has too much integrity to participate in such an exercise. Jonson expresses this to his actor friend, William Shakespeare (played by Rafe Spall), who publicly clings to the idea of being a clever playwright. As a result, de Vere’s only option is to write that each work is penned by “William Shakespeare.” This is the plot of ANONYMOUS.

In the film Shakespeare is referred to as an illiterate. One character even says he cannot spell. On the contrary, the real William Shakespeare is known as brilliant and one of the best writers of all time. As someone who has earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in English with an emphasis in literature and teaches the subject, Shakespeare is esteemed as the genuine author of his works. However, one can read miles of research on the subject in books and on the Internet to develop a foothold on the matter.

ANONYMOUS is excellent filmmaking. The story, a political thriller, is very fast paced in the beginning with short scenes, and as the tale unfolds the scenes become longer. The film has superior direction, acting, cinematography, and costumes. It also includes an intriguing storyline about the succession of Queen Elizabeth I and the Essex Rebellion against her.

ANONYMOUS is currently in theatres. To learn more about the film visit http://www.anonymous-movie.com/.

Film News Briefs

Each weekday I look forward to reading Film News Briefs (http://filmnewsbriefs.com/). As stated on the Web site, the reason for reading the daily newsletter is "To Stay in the Know." Anyone interested in the film industry will appreciate the project announcements and updates, acquisition and film festival information, business news, etc.

Film News Briefs was started in 2007 as a daily executive memo for a movie mogul, detailing the day’s most important entertainment, media and technology news. Since the newsletter’s debut, the subscriber list has grown exponentially and continues to be a ‘must read’ for influential industry insiders from film studios, top agencies, management firms and filmmakers. FilmNewsBriefs.com re-launched in September 2009 with new re-design and functionality, becoming the destination for cutting edge entertainment, media and technology news.

In order to continue, the staff must build its subscriber base to 20,000. The newsletter is free and sent via e-mail. To subscribe visit http://filmnewsbriefs.com/contact/?utm_source=Film+News+Briefs&utm_campaign=c6f6bfd5df-WEDNESDAY_OCTOBER_19_201110_18_2011&utm_medium=email.

The Way

The movie THE WAY is an inspirational story about individuals who walk El Camino de Santiago in Spain. Emilio Estevez has written, produced, and directed a simple story with a profound plot. Martin Sheen gives an exquisite performance.

Anyone who has lost someone close to him or her, and especially parents certainly understand Sheens’ character’s motivation for taking the trek. One may assume that for each of the characters’, the adventure is a spiritual journey, even though they give other reasons. For the most part, the characters are authentic. When referring to his life one character says, “I’m not sorry. It’s the life I chose.” Instead of being regretful and complaining about his past, he is honest and realistic.

It seems like more movies should be like THE WAY. The story is refreshing. This film is why I appreciate independent moviemaking.

THE WAY is in theatres now. For more information visit the official Web site at http://theway-themovie.com/.

Footloose

Paramount invited me to a screening of FOOTLOOSE. At first I was apprehensive about seeing the movie because I enjoyed the original. To my surprise, this new film is awesome! I had so much fun watching it. From the beginning I was entertained because the actors enthusiastically dance.

For those of us who have seen the 1984 film the story is familiar, but there is originality, and even modern updates with the music. Songs from the 1984 movie have been redone. My favorite FOOTLOOSE song has always been “Let’s Hear It for the Boy” by Deniece Williams. I am so happy her version is in this film. However, this song has also been updated. The very talented Jana Kramer provides an excellent rendition that also plays in the movie. Thanks to Jana, “Let’s Hear It for the Boy” is still my favorite FOOTLOOSE song.

In addition, the film has a great cast: the acting and dancing are very good. Kenny Wormald’s (‘Ren’) performance is entertaining, along with Julianne Hough (‘Ariel’), and Miles Teller (‘Willard’). Thanks to Miles, ‘Willard’ is my favorite character. The movie also stars Dennis Quaid and Andie MacDowell. Overall, this film has a diverse cast.

For more information about FOOTLOOSE, visit the Web site at http://www.footloosemovie.com/en_us/. FOOTLOOSE will be in theatres on October 14.

Old Sacramento

This past weekend I visited Old Sacramento (http://oldsacramento.com/), rediscovering what a wonderful place it is and why people travel from all over the world to see it. The theme was “Gold Rush Days.” People walked around in period dress, soldiers rode on horseback, historical re-enactments took place, and bombs went off.

First, I toured the California State Railroad Museum (http://www.csrmf.org/), which is always a pleasure, because the exhibits are fun and informational. One exhibit featured films that involve trains titled, Rails and Reels: Hollywood, Trains and the Making of Motion Pictures.

Second, I stopped by the Sacramento History Museum (http://www.historicoldsac.org/shm.asp) where there is an entire room dedicated to educating visitors about Susan B. Anthony and her campaign for women to vote in government elections. I also observed several other interesting exhibits displaying the history of Oak Park (a Sacramento community) and gold mining.

Lastly, I ate lunch at Fanny Ann’s Saloon, made a candy purchase at a taffy store, and strolled along the Sacramento River. I appreciated all of the upgrades and renovations the city has made to this area. It was relaxing being able to stop, sit, and watch boats go by while enjoying a peaceful atmosphere.

The Help

THE HELP is a wonderful movie. It is based on a novel by author Katheryn Stockett. The film is written and directed by Tate Taylor.

Praise is in order since THE HELP displays positive female characters. Emma Stone, Viola Davis, and Octavia Spencer each portray their roles with dignity. In fact, the entire cast is excellent–Allison Janney, Cicely Tyson, Sissy Spacek, and Mary Steenburgen co-star, and are always a joy to watch perform.

For more information about THE HELP, visit http://thehelpmovie.com/us/. As stated on the official Web site, THE HELP is “deeply moving, filled with poignancy, humor and hope…a timeless and universal story about the ability to create change.”

The Hustle

Last night I attended the premiere of a Deon Taylor film called THE HUSTLE, starring Charlie Murphy, Al Shearer, David Alan Grier, Tamala Jones, Kym Whitley, David Faustino and Ling Bai. Tommy ‘Tiny’ Lister, John Witherspoon, and Brigitte Nielsen make appearances.

THE HUSTLE is a very funny movie, and the large audience I viewed it with laughed a lot. For more information about THE HUSTLE visit http://www.deontaylorenterprises.com.

Hatley Castle

I recently visited Victoria, British Columbia, Canada. A highlight was seeing Hatley Castle in person, which is located at Royal Roads University.

I wrote about the television series, Poltergeist: The Legacy, in my May 18, 2009 blog post -http://terridawnarnold.blogspot.com/2009/05/poltergeist-legacy.html. That show was filmed at Hatley Castle and Hatley Park.

For more information about Hatley Castle, visit http://www.hatleycastle.com/.

Wise Women Speak

This week I watched the documentary, GET REAL! WISE WOMEN SPEAK, at the Sacramento International Film Festival. The film is uplifting and confirms the importance of living each day to its fullest by living your dream and pursuing your passions. Overall, each of the women expresses what it means to age wisely.

Various topics are discussed: career, faith, spirituality, relationships, body image, plastic surgery, etc. The ladies candidly share their perspectives. In addition, director Joni Steele Kimberlin does an excellent job of showing at least two sides of subjects like marriage and grandparenting. Lastly, I applaud Kimberlin on the selection of women in the documentary. They range from actress/author Jane Fonda to oceanographer Sylvia Earle.

For more information about GET REAL! WISE WOMEN SPEAK and to watch the trailer, visit: http://www.cowgirlfilms.com/.

Growing Pains Is Now An Ebook

My book, GROWING PAINS: 10 short stories about growing up, is now available as a Kindle ebook. You may purchase for Kindle devices and Kindle apps for iPad, iPhone, iPod touch, PC, Mac, Blackberry, and Android-based devices. For more information about GROWING PAINS, visit: http://www.tdaentertainment.com/growingpainsbook.htm.

You can purchase GROWING PAINS as an ebook here: http://www.amazon.com/Growing-Pains-stories-growing-ebook/dp/B004QTOOFS/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&m=AG56TWVU5XWC2&s=books&qid=1299546348&sr=1-2.

Thurgood

Tonight I attended a special screening of the HBO Film, THURGOOD, starring Laurence Fishburne as Thurgood Marshall. Thurgood Marshall was one of the most influential lawyers in the United States. He later became an Associate Supreme Court Justice.

Laurence Fishburne is absolutely awesome as Thurgood Marshall! The film is an adaptation of the play, THURGOOD, written by George Stevens, Jr., and premieres on HBO Thursday, February 24th. For more information about THURGOOD, visit http://www.hbo.com/movies/thurgood/index.html.

Stasis

STASIS stars Reshad Strik, Beau Bridges, Ernie Hudson, and Rachel Specter. This short film is very well done. The cinematography and lighting are great. You may watch it here: https://vimeo.com/14795455.

The Drummer

A friend told me about this short film: http://www.thedrummershort.com/ (click Watch THE DRUMMER). It is good, has beautiful music, and many artists may relate.

Sacramento Horror Film Festival 2010

This weekend I attended the Sacramento Horror Film Festival. I mostly watched short films. The common theme amongst filmmakers in attendance was that they make a short film to attract financing for a feature film. I noticed some highlight technical talent and others are superb storytellers.

ALICE JACOBS IS DEAD stars Adrienne Barbeau as a woman with a horrific virus. Her husband is a scientist and desperately researches a cure. The acting is very good in this story. I just wish it were longer; however, it does have a beginning, middle, and an end. Some short films are so short, before I can get involved drastic things happen and the movie ends. This film is not like that. It is well-paced, and has all the ingredients for a feature. Here is the film's trailer: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=101-gf2AJy8.

WICK is another short film that I think will make an excellent feature. In this movie a young woman has nightmarish visions that reveal her mysterious past. The story takes place in a mental hospital, and this film provides a way for viewers to develop an interest in finding out why the lady is a patient. Here is the film's official Web site: http://www.wickthemovie.com/.

THE CURSE OF MICAH ROOD reveals an old legend from Norwich, Connecticut in a clever way. Ron Palillo plays Micah Rood, a man who cherishes his privacy and precious apple orchard. When a peddler stops by and asks to stay the night, Micah is not too kind, but complies, only to later accuse the peddler of stealing his apples. This leads to Micah committing a violent deed and taints the fruit of his orchard with the blood of guilt. THE CURSE OF MICAH ROOD is a period piece, and it is enjoyable watching Ron Palillo in the lead role. Here is the film's trailer:

LIMIKKIN RANCH is a great short (impressive student film). While watching this movie, just as it ends, most viewers want more. The setting is a mysterious ranch. A man is summoned to the ranch to hunt and kill a violent pack of marauding coyotes. He discovers the true threat is far more ancient and evil. You may watch the movie here: http://vimeo.com/8750304.

One feature that is unique and interestingly intriguing is THE MAN WHO COLLECTED FOOD. A loner chooses collecting food as his hobby. Most people collect stamps, baseball cards, or coins, but this guy collects food. Since he collects food, do you think he eats it? The answer is no. He resorts to the atrocious act of cannibalism. I know this seems nauseating, but the film will draw you in. Here is the trailer: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q-HVKkm3EGQ.

Wall Street: Money Never Sleeps

I like the plot of the film, WALL STREET: MONEY NEVER SLEEPS (good title). The story offers some unexpected turns, and that kept me intrigued. Once again Michael Douglas is a joy to watch as “Gordon Gekko;” viewers want to sympathize with his character.

Overall, this is an excellent film directed by Oliver Stone and the entire cast is wonderful. Josh Brolin is spectacular as always, Shia LaBeouf has a lot of talent, and Susan Sarandon is fantastic. In addition, Frank Langella’s performance is outstanding, and I like Carey Mulligan as “Winnie Gekko.”

Get Low

I have seen several excellent independent films this year (LA MISSION; BLACK, WHITE, AND BLUES), and GET LOW is one of them. This film is worthy of Academy Award recognition. The screenplay is very good and there is a stellar cast: Robert Duvall, Bill Murray, Sissy Spacek, Bill Cobbs, Lucas Black, and Gerald McRaney.

Duvall plays a hermit who wants to attend his own funeral. The local pastor (McRaney) balks at the idea of presiding over such an "event," but the funeral home director, played brilliantly by Murray, needs the business and is prepared to help. Beyond this, the story offers a major internal conflict for Duvall's character that a pastor friend (Cobbs) wants him to share so he can let go and move on and an external conflict involving Spacek's character. These conflicts provide more layers to the hermit concept.

For more information about GET LOW visit http://www.sonyclassics.com/getlow.

Black, White, and Blues

Last night at the Sacramento Film & Music Festival I watched a special movie called BLACK, WHITE, AND BLUES starring Michael Clarke Duncan and Morgan Simpson (also a producer), with appearances by Tom Skerritt and Luke Perry, and a cameo by Melvin Van Peebles. Perry’s performance was fun to watch, as the character he plays in this film is different from any other I have seen him portray. Each of the actors gave great performances, which can be attributed to the movie’s director, Mario Van Peebles.

The unpredictable story with its surprising twists takes place in Texas, Mississippi, and Tennessee. (According to producers, the filming took place in Memphis.) The setting is significant to the story because the music is all blues and country. There is more blues because the main character, "Bailey" (Simpson), is a blues man. The music is superb throughout the film as the characters visit various blues bars (and a country one), and blues bands/singers have their talent showcased. I am hoping there is a soundtrack from this film that I can purchase. For more information about BLACK, WHITE, AND BLUES visit http://www.blackwhiteandblues.com/.  (New title: REDEMPTION ROAD)

Oscar Micheaux Commemorative Stamp

Now available at the post office:

The back of the stamp reads:

Pioneering filmmaker Oscar Micheaux (1884-1951) wrote, directed, produced, and distributed more than 40 movies during the first half of the 20th century, when African-American filmmakers were extremely rare and support for their work was scarce. His entrepreneurial spirit and independent vision continue to inspire new generations of filmmakers and artists.

Afraid For Your Life - Best Script Nomination

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wAkJp5Si22U