2008 July 21 « Entertainment Today and Beyond

MORE CASH FOR THE DARK KNIGHT AND EBERT and ROEPER NO MORE!

The Wonder Twins

Box-office totals have been adjusted on the upside for Warner Bros The Dark Knight, giving the film a final weekend total of 158.4 mill adding to its new record, up from the previously announced 155.3. I have to wonder how many studio executives sat in their offices Monday morning thinking about what other comic and superhero properties they could turn into a feature film. With many ideas having been explored and a few good ones probably left, I’ll know when this hot genre peaks after a major studio gives the greenlight to a big screen movie based on the WONDER TWINS. Don’t laugh, it will probably happen.

Richard Roeper and Roger Ebert

I have to admit I’m feeling pretty bummed after reading that legendary film critic, Roger Ebert, announced on his site that he will follow Richard Roeper and leave the long running movie review show Ebert & Roeper. I remember watching the program in its original format when it was called Sneak Previews. That program, hosted by Ebert and then partner, the late Gene Siskel, aired on PBS starting in 1975 (Their review of John Carpenter’s Halloween still sticks in my mind). Eventually the two went on to host the syndicated Siskel & Ebert program before it turned into Ebert & Roeper after Siskel passed away in 1999. While Ebert hasn’t been on the air for the last two years due to illness, Roeper has done a great job as Gene’s replacement, first with guest hosts and now with Chicago Tribune film critic Michael Phillips who appeared to become permanent. In a statement by Roeper it appears he is leaving the program because Disney, who owns the property, wants to take it in a new direction. Ebert apparently feels the same way as he said farewell today. Roeper also speculated that he’ll be back on the air in some other format which he will shortly announce. I watch the show every week and really look forward to it. I’ve been a dedicated viewer since the concept was born in ‘75 and feel like the program is part of my life routine. Again, I’m feeling bummed out and wish it weren’t so! Here’s a few links for more on the story.
IHT.com Roger Ebert

July 21, 2008 Posted by Entertainment Today & Beyond | And Beyond - Trailers & News | Ebert & Roeper, Richard Roeper, Roger Ebert | Leave a Comment

Of Note: Friday the 13th, Star Trek and Wargames

Here’s a look at the first Still released from the Michael Bay produced remake of the popular horror film FRIDAY THE 13th. Jason slashes into theaters Feb 13, 2009.

Jason

the new Spock

Here’s a look at one of the first Poster’s for Paramount’s new Star Trek Re-boot. This is actor Zachary Quinto (Heroes) who plays Spock in the JJ Abrams directed movie. Star Trek hits theaters May 8, 2009. I have total trust in Abrams to deliver something pretty special with this production in the long running franchise.

Wargames Anniversary

Here’s an interesting article for fans of The 1983 thriller, WARGAMES This terrific film ,starring Matthew Broderick, will get a one day theatrical re-release for its 25th anniversary. One has to wonder if Wargames might be on the studios radar screen as possible remake material. It certainly would be a great candidate. READ MORE

July 21, 2008 Posted by Entertainment Today & Beyond | And Beyond - Trailers & News | JJ Abrams, Matthew Broderick, star trek, Wargames, Zachary Quinto | Leave a Comment

MAMMA MIA! – INFECTIOUS FUN AT THE MOVIES!

While I’ve never seen the stage version of this popular musical composed of ABBA songs I must admit I had a terrific time with the film, despite the fact that it’s cheese factor is pretty high. The movie, produced by the same creative team as the stage play, follows the story of a young girl (Amanda Seyfried) who decides to find out who her real father is on the eve of her wedding in the Greek isles by inviting all three of her mother Donna’s (Meryl Streep) former lovers to the ceremony. Once the three men (Pierce Bronson, Colin Firth and Stellen Skarsgard) arrive things get quite hectic as Steep’s character must juggle their sudden reappearance with her daughters impending nuptials. The ABBA songs (including Dancing Queen) come at a fast and furious pace with Streep, Jessica Walters, and Christina Baranski fairing the best (the two playing Steep’s best friends) while all having a blast. I wish I could say the same for Bronson who looks a tad bit uncomfortable when bursting out in song. I have a feeling his vocal efforts will be playing heavily on You Tube for many years to come and not because they’re good. One other standout is 20 year-old actress Amanda Seyfried who has unlimited screen appeal. She has the rare quality of remaining interesting even if she doesn’t utter a word. Overall, a bit goofy and nowhere near as polished as last summer’s “Hairspray” but I still had a fun time with it all and I think most people will feel the same.