CD Review: The Devil Wears Prada “Dead Throne”

The Devil Wears Prada
“Dead Throne”
Ferret Records
Producer: Adam Dutkiewicz
Tracks: 13

Our Score: 3 out of 5 stars

“Dead Throne” is the follow up release to The Devil Wears Prada 2009 album “With Roots Above and Branches Below”. “Dead Throne” features 13 new tracks by the 6 piece metal-core band and was produced by Killswitch Engage guitarist Adam Dutkiewicz. “Dead Throne” is being released via Ferret Records.

After listening to “Dead Throne” the first time through I immediately hit repeat and listened through the entire album a second time. “Dead Throne” has so much to listen to that I needed to play the album again just to take it all in. Each track on “Dead Throne” features a wide array of instrumentation which ranges from break neck shredding to groove filled break downs. Songs like “Mammoth”, “Vengeance”, and the album’s first single “Born to Lose” are shining examples of what the band is capable of. From a production stand point Adam Dutkiewicz did a great job giving the tracks an extremely heavy and full sound making each tack contained on “Dead throne” worthy of cranking from your car while driving in a residential neighborhood.

The Devil Wears Prada’s “Dead Throne” was an interesting listen as you never knew what you were going to hear next. I found the album to be quite versatile and more than just your typical metal-core album. Fans of the bands 2009 release will be more than happy listening to The Devil Wears Prada’s latest release “Dead Throne”.

Track Listing:
•    Dead Throne
•    Untidaled
•    Mammoth
•    Vengeance
•    R.I.T.
•    My Questions
•    Kansas
•    Born To Lose
•    Forever Decay
•     Chicago
•     Constance
•     Pretenders
•     Holdfast

 

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CD Review: Mobile Deathcamp “Clear and Present Anger”

Mobile Deathcamp
“Clear and Present Anger”
Turkey Vulture Records
Producer: Jason Z.
Tracks: 10

Our Score: 3 out of 5 stars

“Clear and Present Anger” is the second release from the Toledo, Ohio based metal group Mobile Deathcamp. The trio consists of former Gwar/Green Jelly member Todd Evans on guitar/vocals, bassist Boe Skadeland and drummer Dave Martin. “Clear and Present Anger” features 10 all new original tracks produced by Jason Z. and is being released via Turkey Vulture Records

The album picks up right where Mobile Deathcamp’s previous release “Black Swamp Rising” left off. “Clear and Present Anger” is classic speed metal with a modern twist. Tracks such as “Emerald” and “Earth Metal” are relentless in their approach as each track contained on “Clear and Present Anger” is filled to the brim with intensity. Casual listeners might not connect right away with this album however long time metal fans and supporters of Todd Evan’s previous bands will appreciate this album.

“Clear and Present Anger” is a solid album that showcases Mobile Deathcamp’s growth as a band. Each members performance is tight and in sync with the direction of each song. Fans of the bands previous release will surely want to pick up a copy of “Clear and Present Anger”.

Track Listing:
•    Sesquac
•    Point Taken
•    Field General
•    Cover Judge
•    Emerald*
•    Warheit
•    Uhyusti
•    Earth metal
•    Vicious Smile
•     Vocable Assemblage

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CD Review: Black Label Society “Glorious Christmas Songs That Will Make Your Black Label Heart Feel Good” EP

Black Label Society
“Glorious Christmas Songs That Will Make Your Black Label Heart Feel Good” EP
eOne Music
Tracks: 3

Our Score: 2 out of 5 stars

“Glorious Christmas Songs That Will Make Your Black Label Heart Feel Good” is the Newest EP by the Zakk Wylde fronted group Black Label Society. The EP consists of 3 classic Christmas songs performed by Zakk and his band. The album is being released via eOne Music and available today via iTunes.

I found this CD to be somewhat of a letdown. The tracks feature minimal performances of 3 Christmas Classics by Zakk Wylde and company. I really struggled to find something that stood out and was different. I am a huge Zakk Wylde fan and have quite a collection of his material however the only thing that was somewhat interesting about this EP was the ridiculously long title.

Black Label Society’s “Glorious Christmas Songs That Will Make Your Black Label Heart Feel Good” is nothing that hasn’t been done before. However for those BLS chapter members looking for something to listen to during the holiday season the 3 tracks contained on “Glorious Christmas Songs That Will Make Your Black Label Heart Feel Good” should help get you in the Christmas mood.

Track Listing:
•    I’ll Be Home For Christmas
•    Oh Little Town of Bethlehem
•    It’s A Wonderful World

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CD Review: Steel Panther “Balls Out”

Steel Panther
“Balls Out”
Universal Republic
Producer: Jay Ruston
Tracks: 14

Our Score: 3.5 out of 5 stars

“Balls Out” is the second release by the Los Angeles based band Steel Panther. “Balls Out” features 14 all new tracks by the spandex clad band that were produced by Jay Ruston. The album is being released via Universal Republic and is the follow up to Steel Panthers 2009 release “Feel The Steel”.

“Balls Out” seems to lack the catchiness of the bands first release “Feel The Steel”. It’s as though the band went more for a shock approach with their lyrics rather than concentrating on making a good album as a whole. “Balls Out” is still good and packed full classic 80’s inspired riffs that will make you want to tease your hair to epic proportions. Tracks like “Tomorrow Night” and “Critter” were the highlights for me while tracks like “It Won’t Suck Itself” featuring Chad Kroeger of Nickelback and the album’s first single “17 Girls In A Row” are definitely worth mentioning.

Though “Balls Out” doesn’t measure up to the bands previous release its still a fun and upbeat album that you can sing along to. Steel Panther fans new and old should be able to find something of “Balls Out” that they will enjoy.

Track Listing:
•    In The Future
•    Supersonic Sex Machine
•    Just Like Tiger Woods
•    17 Girls In A Row
•    If You Really Really Love Me
•    It Won’t Suck Itself
•    Tomorrow Night
•    Why Can’t You Trust me
•    That’s What Girls Are For
•     Gold Digging Whore
•     I Like Drugs
•     Critter
•     Let Me Cum In
•     Weenie Ride

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CD Review: Dreams Will Fade “Before The Dawn”

Dreams Will Fade
“Before The Dawn”
Turkey Vulture Records
Producer: Jason Z.
Tracks: 10

Our Score: 3 out of 5 stars

“Before The Dawn” is the debut album from the 5 member Wisconsin based band Dreams Will Fade. The album feature 10 original hard rock tracks produced by Jason Z. “Before The Dawn” is being released via Turkey Vulture records.

“Before The Dawn” was a fairly decent listen as the album had several high lights. I felt the band did a good job of blending melodic vocal lines with heavy riff driven instrumentation. Tracks such as “Before The Dawn”, “Watch You Fall” and “Whatever” were personal highlights and in my opinion and featured some great arrangements and performances. I would have liked the overall mix of the album to be a little more up front and in your face however each track still sounded good.

Dreams Will Fade’s “Before The Dawn” as a whole is a good album. I could have done with a little less screaming as I don’t think it’s the bands strong suit. If you are a fan of bands like Killswitch Engage, Breaking Benjamin and Pierce The Veil then you will definitely want to check out Dreams Will Fade’s debut album.

Track Listing:
• Against a Wall
• Before The Dawn
• Hard To See
• Last Time
• Losing It
• On The Edge
• Pressure
• Swallow
• Watch You Fall
• Whatever

 

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DVD Review “Aftershock”

Directed by: Xiaogang Feng
Starring: Daoming Chen, Chen Li, Yi Lu
Distributed by: China Lion
Rated: N/A
Runtime: 2 hr. 15 min.

Our Score: 3 out of 5 stars

“Aftershock” is a film based around one family’s actions during the Tangshan earthquake of 1976. During the earth quake a mother is forced to choose which of her two children she is going to save. After the mother makes her choice we find out that both children in fact end up surviving this horrific event. 32 years after the earth quake the siblings are unexpectedly reunited and learn of the drama each has endured during their time apart.

“Aftershock” is a very real and heartfelt film. Being a foreign film I was unfamiliar with the cast however all those involved put on stellar performances. The earth quake scenes at the beginning of the film were very well done and featured some great special effects. “Aftershock” also featured some really nice wide shots which were filled with what looks like thousands of extras. These big scenes really showed just how many people were affected by this natural disaster. Though the film was quite dark making some of the scenes difficult to watch “Aftershock” was still an enjoyable film.

Director Xiaogang Feng and his cast did a great job telling the story of these two siblings and their chance meeting some 32 years later after another devastating earth quake takes place. Even if you are not a fan of foreign cinema “Aftershock is worth checking out as the film is more than just your standard drama.

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Orlando’s 12 Days of “Arthur Christmas” Announced

Welcome to the 12 Days of Arthur Christmas!

Between November 12 and running for 12 days, Arthur Christmas will be touring throughout Orlando on his way to the theaters when ARTHUR CHRISTMAS opens on Wednesday, November 23.

All of the events are open to the public. Some events may require a ticket.

Complete Schedule:

11/12 ARTHUR CHRISTMAS is Coming to Town
Central Florida Zoo
10:00AM-3:00PM
It’s a winter wonderland at the Central Florida Zoo! Don’t forget your cameras and get ready to participate in some fun activities with the chance to win prizes!

11/13 Sugar and Spice and Science Time Nice
Orlando Science Museum
12:00PM-4:00PM
Come to the Orlando Science Museum for some science time fun! Kids get in free with a regular priced paid adult during Arthur Christmas promotion on Sun, (limit 1 kid per 1 paying adult). The promotional code is AC2011.

11/14 Deck the Lanes with Boughs of Holly
World Bowling Center
4:00PM-6:00PM
Head on over to World of Bowling for some bowling fun and free pizza! The first fifty kids receive an afternoon of free bowling.

11/15 Holly Jolly Dance Party
Arthur Murray Ballrooms in Winter Park
5:00PM-7:00PM
Put on your dancing shoes and come out to the Arthur Murray ballrooms in Winter Park for some jingle bell rock and some milk and cookies!

11/16 Arthur’s Holiday Bonanza
UPS Store on 3208 E Colonial Drive
4:00PM-6:00PM
Come by the UPS store at 3208 E Colonial Drive in Orlando to donate money and write letters to the kids of the Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children and ship your gifts to loved ones from 4-6 pm!

11/17 Operation Elf
Fashion Square Mall
4:00PM-7:00PM
Prove that you can be one of Santa’s helpers! Become a certified Junior Christmas Expert at the Fashion Square Mall.

11/18 A Berry Merry Christmas
Menchies in Winter Park
3:00PM-7:00PM
Come out to Menchies in Winter Park for some frozen yogurt fun and ARTHUR CHRISTMAS prizes!

11/19 Grand Santa’s GRAND Screening!
Premiere Fashion Square
10:30AM
Grab your pajamas and grandparents, because it’s time for Grand Santa’s GRAND Screening! Attend a very special breakfast and screening of ARTHUR CHRISTMAS! Visit www.gofobo.com/rsvp and enter the code: TBD to download passes while supplies last!

11/20 Operation North Pole Post
Sony Style Store in the Mall at Millenia
1:00PM-4:00PM
Drop off your letter to Santa at the Sony Style store at the Aventura Mall and receive a 5% discount on your purchase as well as some prizes!

11/21 Santa’s Workshop
Fashion Square Mall
4:00PM-7:00PM
Make memories and come create Christmas cards and holiday ornaments.

11/22 Arthur’s CANdemonium
Food drive at Little Fish Huge Pond in Sanford
4:30PM-6:00PM
Experience the holiday season by dropping off a can of food to Little Fish Huge Pond in Sanford. While you’re here decorate an ornament and receive ARTHUR CHRISTMAS prizes!

11/23 It’s Beginning To Look A Lot Like Christmas
Opening day of ARTHUR CHRISTMAS
THEATER: TBD
TIME: TBD
ARTHUR CHRISTMAS is finally here and we are celebrating with carolers, cookies, and more!

==========

STUDIO
Columbia Pictures, Sony Pictures Animation Inc., Aardman Animations Limited

GENRE
Animated Family Comedy

RELEASE DATE
In Theaters November 23, 2011

RATING DETAILS
This film has been rated PG by the MPAA for SOME MILD RUDE HUMOR.

SYNOPSIS
The 3D, CG-animated family comedy Arthur Christmas, an Aardman production for Sony Pictures Animation, at last reveals the incredible, never-before seen answer to every child’s question: ‘So how does Santa deliver all those presents in one night?’ The answer: Santa’s exhilarating, ultra-high-tech operation hidden beneath the North Pole. But at the heart of the film is a story with the ingredients of a Christmas classic – a family in a state of comic dysfunction and an unlikely hero, Arthur, with an urgent mission that must be completed before Christmas morning dawns.

CREDITS
Directed by :
Sarah Smith

Written by :
Peter Baynham & Sarah Smith

Produced by :
Peter Lord
David Sproxton
Carla Shelley
Steve Pegram

Co-Producer :
Chris Juen

Co-Executive Producer :
Peter Baynham

Co-Director :
Barry Cook

Cast :
James McAvoy
Hugh Laurie
Bill Nighy
Jim Broadbent
Imelda Staunton
Ashley Jensen

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Filed Under: Film Headlines Tagged With: 12, announced, arthur, christmas, days, orlandos, ...

Maya Entertainment Acquires Domestic Rights to “La Hora Cero”

MAYA ENTERTAINMENT ACQUIRES DOMESTIC RIGHTS TO “LA HORA CERO” (Aka THE ZERO HOUR) FROM HSI FILMS

VOD and Home Video Release Slated for 2012

“La Hora Cero” Set Box Office Record As Highest Grossing Film In Venezuelan Film History

LOS ANGELES, CA – Maya Entertainment has acquired from Los Angeles based HSI Films the domestic rights to “La Hora Cero”, a non-stop action/thriller shot entirely on location in the streets of Venezuela.   The deal for domestic rights includes plans for a 2012 VOD on Maya’s Comcast and Time Warner branded folders, Blu-Ray/DVD, and iTunes and other digital platforms.

Quickly becoming the highest grossing local film in Venezuelan history, “La Hora Cero” (aka The Zero Hour) is a gritty, fast-paced heist film.  Set in Caracas during the 24 hours of a controversial medical strike, it follows Parca, a tattooed hit man as he takes a private hospital hostage in order to save his girlfriend.  What seemed like a perfect plan will end in a frenetic outcome, as Parca is forced to come to terms with his past, and as he discovers that his worst enemies are much closer than he ever imagined.  A love story told in the midst of chaos, “La Hora Cero” is a timely and universal story about the mythic rise to power and the inevitable fall from grace.

“Maya Entertainment is extremely proud to have acquired the in-your-face action picture “La Hora Cero”, and even more thrilled to be working with the talented writer/director Diego Velasco and writer/producer Carolina Paiz,” said David Rand, EVP of Home Entertainment for Maya Entertainment.

Hollywood Studios International (parent company to HSI Films) Chairman and CEO Steven Saxton said, “We’re extremely pleased to have found the perfect partner in Maya Entertainment for the US release of one of the most exciting and influential films to come out of Latin America this past year.”

“La Hora Cero” was produced by Open Studios and Factor +RH in association with Anonimo Studio and Centro Nacional Autonomo de Cinematografia (CNAC). The deal was negotiated by Tonantzin Esparza, Director of Acquisitions on behalf of Maya and Eric Christenson of HSI Films on behalf of Executive Producer Sergio Aguero and producers, Diego Velasco and Carolina Paiz.

MAYA ENTERTAINMENT | www.maya-entertainment.com

Based in Los Angeles, Maya Entertainment Group, Inc. is an independent multi-platform content and distribution company that has established itself as the leader of media product that appeals to the “new mainstream” of American Latino and Multi-cultural audiences.  Led by entertainment industry pioneers, Moctesuma Esparza (Selena, Gettysburg) and Jeff Valdez (Sí TV, QuePasa.com), Maya Entertainment produces, acquires and distributes entertainment programming and has established a library of over 100 titles, which are available at retail, for rental, and on VOD through Time Warner Cable, Comcast, iN DEMAND, and TVN.

Maya International Distribution, headed by Elias Axume, sells rights to its entertainment properties worldwide and has a presence at key markets including Berlin Film Festival/European Film Market, Hong Kong FILMART, Cannes Film Festival, MIP-TV, Toronto International Film Festival, MIPCOM and AFM. Currently, Maya International is selling rights to La Mission, starring Benjamin Bratt; The Jesuit, starring Michelle Rodriguez and Willem Dafoe; Café, starring Jennifer Love Hewitt and Jamie Kennedy; Without Men starring Eva Longoria Parker, Christian Slater and Oscar Nunez; Across the Line, starring Aidan Quinn and Mario van Peebles; and The Last Rites of Joe May, starring Dennis Farina, among others.

Maya’s recent theatrical and home video releases include the Official 2010 Sundance selection The Dry Land, starring America Ferrera, Jason Ritter, and Wilmer Valderrama; the action-drama Across the Line starring Aidan Quinn, Mario Van Peebles, and Andy Garcia; and Sins of My Father (Pecados de mi Padre), the true story of Pablo Escobar, the infamous boss of Colombia’s Medellin drug cartel, as told through the eyes of his son; Sympathy for Delicious, directed by and starring Mark Ruffalo, Orlando Bloom, Laura Linney and Juliette Lewis; Without Men, starring Eva Longoria Parker, Christian Slater and Oscar Nunez; and Café, starring Jennifer Love Hewitt.

ABOUT HSI FILMS

HSI Films is a worldwide theatrical motion picture financing, production and distribution division of Hollywood Studios International. The company handles all aspects of marketing and distribution for both its own internally developed motion pictures, as well as acquired films. HSI Films Distribution is led by Eric Christenson, who has licensed films that represent more than 50 Academy Award nominations, including: Academy Award “Best Picture” winners “The Hurt Locker” and “The Departed,” as well as “Traffic”, “The Aviator,” and “Gangs of New York”. HSI Films Production is overseen by Producer Paul Schiff. Schiff has an in-house first-look production deal with HSI. Some of the films produced by Schiff include “Young Guns I & II,” “My Cousin Vinny,“ “The Vanishing,” “Rushmore,” “Maid in Manhattan,” “Mona Lisa Smile,” and “Solitary Man.”

ABOUT HOLLYWOOD STUDIOS INTERNATIONAL

Hollywood Studios International is a media holding company focused on the intelligent deployment of capital in the entertainment industry. The company has developed a portfolio of fee-based businesses ranging from talent representation to international distribution.

 

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Disney•Pixar’s “Cars 2” Blu-ray Giveaway [ENDED]

THANK YOU FOR ENTERING, THE CONTEST HAS ENDED. WINNERS HAVE BEEN CHOSEN AND NOTIFIED VIA EMAIL. PLEASE CHECK BACK EVERY WEEK FOR NEW GIVEAWAYS!

©Disney

Available on Blu-ray™ Combo Pack + DVD + Digital Copy Tuesday,November 1th

Disney•Pixar’s fast-action summer hit “Cars 2” comes home on Blu-ray Combo Pack, Blu-ray 3D, Movie Download and DVD — November 1, 2011. Celebrating the 25th anniversary of Pixar Animation Studios, the high octane in-home release invites families and fans of all ages to come along on a journey around the world with the #1 animated film of the year and introduces an exclusive all-new animated short “Air Mater,” featuring the fan favorite character spinning his tales in an exciting adventure high above Radiator Springs. The must-own animated release also includes fascinating commentary from award-winning director John Lasseter and “Hawaiian Vacation,” the delightful animated short that accompanied the film in theatres.

To celebrate Disney•Pixar’s Blu-Ray™ release of “Cars 2”, Media Mikes would like to giveaway 10 copies of the Blu-ray™ Combo Pack (Blu-ray™ + DVD). If you would like to win one of these great prizes, please leave us a comment below or send us an email and let us know your favorite character from “Cars” series. This giveaway will be open until Monday November 14th at Noon, Eastern Time and is only open to residents of the United States. Only one entry per person, per household; all other entries will be considered invalid. Once the giveaway ends, Movie Mikes will randomly pick out winners and alert the winners via email.

Bonus Features:
Cars Toon “Air Mater” – Exclusive All-New Short
Toy Story Toon “Hawaiian Vacation” – Theatrically Released Short
Director John Lasseter Commentary

“Like” the Facebook page at www.facebook.com/pixarcars
Follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/disneypixar
Visit the website and mobile site: www.Disney.com/cars

Film Synopsis:
Star racecar Lightning McQueen and the incomparable tow truck Mater take their friendship to exciting new places in “Cars 2” when they head overseas to compete in the first-ever World Grand Prix to determine the world’s fastest car. But the road to the championship is filled with plenty of potholes, detours and hilarious surprises when Mater gets caught up in an intriguing adventure of his own: international espionage. Mater finds himself torn between assisting Lightning McQueen in the high-profile race and towing the line in a top-secret mission orchestrated by master British super spy Finn McMissile and the stunning rookie field spy Holley Shiftwell. Mater’s action-packed journey leads him on an explosive chase through the streets of Japan and Europe, trailed by his friends and watched by the whole world. The fast-paced fun includes a colorful new all-car cast, complete with menacing villains and international racing competitors.

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Filed Under: Giveaways Tagged With: 2, cars, disneys

“Michael Jackson: The Life of an Icon” DVD Giveaway [ENDED]

THANK YOU FOR ENTERING, THE CONTEST HAS ENDED. WINNERS HAVE BEEN CHOSEN AND NOTIFIED VIA EMAIL. PLEASE CHECK BACK EVERY WEEK FOR NEW GIVEAWAYS!

To celebrate the release of “Michael Jackson: The Life of an Icon”, Media Mikes would like to giveaway EIGHT copies of the film on DVD. If you would like to win one of these great prizes, please leave us a comment below or send us an email and let us know your favorite Michael Jackson song. This giveaway will be open until Monday November 14th at Noon, Eastern Time and is only open to residents of the United States. Only one entry per person, per household; all other entries will be considered invalid. Once the giveaway ends, Movie Mikes will randomly pick out winners and alert the winners via email.

See Michael Jackson, one of the most recognizable and popular entertainers of all time, like never before in the feature-length tribute Michael Jackson: The Life of an Icon. Known to millions of fans worldwide for his record-breaking albums, groundbreaking music videos, mesmerizing dance moves and humanitarian efforts, his true story has never really been told…until now. This unprecedented look into the King of Pop’s fascinating life includes all-new interviews with his mother Katherine Jackson as well as siblings Tito and Rebbie Jackson, family, friends and music legends such as Smokey Robinson, Dionne Warwick and many more.

Bonus Features:
Katherine Jackson Additional Interview Footage
Tito Jackson Additional Interview Footage
Rebbie Jackson Additional Interview Footage
Additional Contributors Interview Footage

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Filed Under: Giveaways Tagged With: dvd, giveaway, icon, jackson, life, michael, ...

Interview with Leonard Stone (1923-2011)

Leonard Stone is known best for his role as Sam Beaurgarde in 1971’s “Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory”. Leonard has worked on over 100 TV shows. Movie Mikes had a chance to travel back to the 70’s with Leonard to discuss his role in “Willy Wonka and The Chocolate Factory”.

Click here to purchase “Willy Wonka” merchandise
Click here to view our “Willy Wonka and The Chocolate Factory” Interview Series

Mike Gencarelli: How did you originally get the role of Mr. Sam Beaurgarde in “Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory”?
Leonard Stone: Mel Stuart (the film’s director) called me in because I had worked with him before on another picture (1970s “I Love My Wife”) He knew me…knew my work and he said “if you want to do it we can do it.” It was that quick. I didn’t have to keep coming back. I did ask if I could bring my wife along (to Germany for the shoot) and he said “yes.” When we got there my wife found out there was a small part in the film for a woman to play my on-screen wife. Just one quick scene at the auto lot. She asked Mel if she could play it and he told her “No. You’re not right for the part!” (laughs) It’s now years later and Mel’s divorced and she and I have been together for over forty years.

Mike Gencarelli: What was your fondest memory working on “Willy Wonka” Most of the other cast members we’ve interviewed point to the unveiling of the main chocolate room.
Leonard Stone: Oh yes. It was very exciting. They didn’t allow us to see it until it was time to shoot it. So when we walk through the door and see the room for the first time, we really are seeing the room for the first time. The reactions they got on film were real….we were stunned it was so beautiful. Plus a lot of the things we did off set. We would go bowling on our off days. And the studio got us a tent at the Octoberfest which was a great time. And Gene (Wilder) my wife and I would often go out to dinner together. Gene was just getting into wines and he would “discover” one that he would loved and that is what we would have for dinner. Another thing that amused me so much was that Roald Dahl (author of the book the film is based on) didn’t like some of the things Mel was doing with the film. They were always butting heads. Now Dahl was nice and tall…very thin…he stands like the letter “S”. He’s got great British bone structure…a very handsome man, speaks with an impeccable English accent. And he would swear at Mel in that accent and it would break me up because it sounded so funny coming out of his mouth.

Mike Gencarelli: Do you still keep in touch with any of the cast or crew from the film?
Leonard Stone: No, not really. I know that Mike Teevee (Paris Themmen) left acting and became a cameraman. And I just saw Denise Nickerson at a photo signing in New Jersey. But I’m here in San Diego so if they want to they can find me. (laughs)

MG: How do you feel about the 2005 remake with Johnny Depp?
LS: I liked some of the film. And I think Johnny Depp is a wonderful actor. But I didn’t like some of his choices as Wonka. I personally think he gave a lot of the story away from the get go by the way he played it. I didn’t understand some of the changes. Like why Violet had a mother and not a father. Mike Teevee had a father and not a mother. I know Roald Dahl jumped on Mel a lot because he wanted the movie to be darker. I’m sure he would have liked the new one because it’s much darker than ours. When I heard about the new version I thought it would be great to have a walk on in it, just for the hell of it. So I contacted them. I even called the over in London and said I’d be happy to do it but they said they weren’t using anybody from the other one.

MG: Besides “Wonka”, you have worked in over 100 TV shows, any favorites?
LS: One of my favorite television roles was on “Lost in Space.” I played a con man in outer space by the name of Farnum. It’s one of my favorites because the director let me create the performance. One of the associate producers didn’t like it but the director, who I’d worked with many times before, knew it was the right way to go. And that episode is one of the highest rated shows in the series. It was so popular that the network told the producers to “write another show for this guy!” I’m just an old fashioned character actor. A lot of people don’t even know my name but they know my work.

MG: Are you working on anything now?
LS: I’m hoping to have a children’s book out soon. The publishers think it will be out by the end of the year. They’re aiming for that. I’ve got a great illustrator. Joe Sable is his name. He’s worked for Disney…Hanna-Barbara…a bunch of places. We got together and he loved my story. He says he’s having so much fun doing the illustrations. It’s called “Keepy: The Kangaroo That Never Grew” He’s a kangaroo that never grew who was raised by a mouse family and thinks he’s a mouse. It has a moral in it, as will any of the follow up stories. I’ve already written a couple of them. I wrote it because I’m tired of all of the violence that kids see. The young kids see so darn much of it. Everything has to be sharp and bloody and shoot-em-up. In fact, a few of the publishers I showed it to said it was “too soft” or “too old fashioned.” And I told them I intended it to be.

Click here to purchase “Willy Wonka” merchandise
Click here to view our “Willy Wonka and The Chocolate Factory” Interview Series

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Filed Under: Film Interviews, Interviews Tagged With: 19232011, interview, leonard, stone

Interview with GWAR’s Cory Smoot (1977-2011)

Michael Derks and Cory Smoot are their given names however most GWAR fans know them as the guitar wielding duo made up of Balsac the Jaws of Death and Flattus Maximus. Movie Mikes had a chance to interview Michael (Balzac) and Cory (Flattus) about the bands recent Australian tour and the band’s new album “Bloody Pit of Horror”.

Click here to purchase GWAR’s music and new CD “Bloody Pit of Horror”

Adam Lawton: How is everything going today guys?
Michael Derks: Ugh I am jet lagged as hell from Australia! (Laughs)
Cory Smoot: Pretty good man.

AL: How did each of you come to join the band?
MD: I was going to VCU and I had been playing guitar with Mike Bishop,who played Beefcake on the GWAR album “Hell-O.” Just as I started jamming with him, Steve Douglas who played Balsac was kicked out of the band. From there they asked me to join the band.
CS: Back in 2002, GWAR had lost their previous guitar player Zack Blair. I had always been a local guy in Richmond. I was playing in a band called Misguided which had opened for Rawg a few times and I was friends with Dave Brockie. One day they called me up and asked me to join the group. I think I am now the longest lasting person to play the Flattus character.

AL: Michael, what did you think initially about having to where the Balsac costume?
MD: (Laughs) it was fun. I wasn’t really excited about having to wear it but it wasn’t horrible. The costume has actually gotten bigger and bigger over the years. So back when I was asked to join it really wasn’t too big of a deal. At first there was really just a mask and some boots. Now I have huge legs and shoulders pads.

AL: How was it touring Australia for the first time?
MD: It was a lot of fun. The Aussies went crazy!
CS: It was really beautiful and awesome. It was summer time there which beats the weather we are having here right now.

AL: Were you guys surprised by how great the reception was?
MD: Everyone goes crazy for us we are fucking GWAR! (Laughs). If we had gotten anything less they would not have survived!
CS: The crowds were really great and the promoters really want us to come back again soon!

AL: What’s your favorite track off the new album?
MD: The opening track “Bloody Pit of Horror” which is actually just about the entire first half of the album. That song or songs really encompasses a lot of different styles. It covers a lot.
CS: I like “KZ Necromancer” as well as “Bloody Pit of Horror” which we get to change it up a bit and play eight string guitars.

AL: What was it like using an eight string guitar on that track?
MD: It was fun! At first I hated it. When I picked it up I thought it was ridiculous. It was a really weird feeling but after using it this whole tour it’s actually still ridiculous. (Laughs) I have gotten used to it and its kind of fun to hit that low F string.
CS: It was different but it wasn’t too hard to get used to. I had some experience on the last album using one so I knew what I was in for.

AL: You both worked as producers on GWAR’s latest DVD release “Lust in Space: Live at the National” correct?
MD: I actually did more of the engineering work of the audio mixes than the visual production side of things. Cory was more of the producer. As a band, we produce the songs collectively.
CS: Besides producing the DVD I also have produced the last two GWAR records “Lust in Space” and “Bloody Pit of Horror”. I also co-produced “Beyond Hell” and “War Party.” So I kind of have a dual role as artist and producer.

AL: What are your plans for when the tour wraps up?
MD: As soon as I get home I have to go back to work as a bartender because it costs a lot to be a big rubber monster (Laughs).
CS: I have a recording studio at home called Karma Productions that I plan to start spending a lot more time on. The wife and I have started to look for land which we can build a house and studio on.

AL: Any funny stories from this year’s tour?
CS: Oh there were some fun and crazy moments. Nothing was however too crazy other than the fact that we are GWAR and a certain amount of that stuff comes with the territory. The customs officers had a good time going through are stage gear (Laughs).

Click here to purchase GWAR’s music and new CD “Bloody Pit of Horror”

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Filed Under: Interviews, Music Interviews Tagged With: 19772011, cory, gwars, interview, smoot

Interview with Knight Area’s Mark Smit

Mark Smit is the vocalist for the Progressive Rock group Knight Area. The band has just released their 4th studio album titled “Nine Paths”. Media Mikes had a chance to chat briefly with Mark about the new album.

Adam Lawton: Can you tell us about the new album “Nine Paths”?
Mark Smit: “Nine Paths” is our fourth studio album, the title refers to an interpretation of the tarot where the cards are grouped into nine groups with one theme each. Each song on the album deals with one of the themes.

AL: How does this album differ from the bands previous releases?
MS: Previously only Gerben Klazinga composed, this time we have two compositions from the other band members. In general the song writing has become more of a group process which makes this album more than ever a product of the entire group. This has introduced some new influences, which has contributed to the richness and variety.

AL: How was it working with producer Neil Kernon?
MS: He is very professional, very friendly and open to suggestions. Neil is great to work with.

AL: What is your favorite track off the new album?
MS: I find it difficult to pick a favorite, perhaps The River because of its atmosphere.

AL: What are the bands upcoming tour plans?
MS: We will be playing some shows in Germany and hopefully more tour dates will follow.

 

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Filed Under: Interviews, Music Interviews Tagged With: areas, interview, knight, mark, smit

Interview with Keong Sim

Keong Sim has appeared in a variety of different television series such as “Law & Order: Criminal Intent” and “Southland”. Keong currently plays the role of Mike Chang Sr. on Fox’s hit television series “Glee”. Media Mikes had a chance to talk with Keong about his role on the show as well as what it was like working with M. Night Shyamalan.

Adam Lawton: Can you tell us about your role on “Glee”?
Keong Sim: I play Mike Chang Sr. He is your typical tiger parent. He doesn’t want his son involved in glee club or anything else that may hurt his chances of getting into Harvard. In Mike Chang Sr.’s eyes the only role his child should have is to get into Harvard.

AL: How did the role come about?
KS: Like a lot of auditions we get them the day before we are needed to shoot. I got asked to audition for “Glee” while I was shooting an episode of “Ringer”. I went in a couple hours later and had a great audition. I thought I had read maybe a little too young to have a high school student as a son but that’s not my place to judge. I just went in and went with my gut.

AL: Had you watched any episodes of the show prior to your audition?
KS: I had definitely seen some of the episodes. I wasn’t someone who watched every episode but I knew of the show. I remember saying to my girlfriend that maybe one day I will play a father when I look older. It’s kind of weird. (Laughs)

AL: You have shot two episodes so far. Has there been any talk of you appearing in more episodes?
KS: I haven’t heard of anything. I am guessing there is going to have to be a third episode. In terms of what I know related to arc/story structure it would be a little different for there not to be some sort of resolution or understanding. I’m trying to convince them that in my younger days I did some play performance singing. I may not be a fully legit singer but I have done some singing and dancing.

AL: What has it been like working with the cast and crew?
KS: It has been very welcoming. I have been on a lot of different television crews and this one was just really nice to be a part of. Everyone involved with that production is wonderful. It was fun not to have to add an accent to the character. Not adding the accent is more reflective of today’s Asian/American culture.

AL: What was it like working with M. Knight Shyamalan on “The Last Airbender”?
KS: It was a great experience. That was the first big budget film I had been a part of. Knight was super cool and the whole experience was great. If there was anything that was stressful it was me wanting to do a really good on a specific scene. I put a lot of pressure on myself. When we did the first read through I hadn’t met Knight yet as I was cast out of Los Angeles. Knight came up to me and introduced himself and I told him who I was. He then says “Yeah I know. I cast you.”(Laughs)

AL: Can you tell us about any other upcoming projects?
KS: I am appearing in an episode of “Grey’s Anatomy” this season. I also have been doing a lot of sketch writing as of late.

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Filed Under: TV Headlines Tagged With: interview, keong, sim

Film Review “A Very Harold and Kumar 3D Christmas”

Starring: John Cho, Kal Penn and Neil Patrick Harris
Directed by: Todd Strauss-Schulson
Rated: R
Running time: 1 hour 30 mins
Warner Brothers

Our Score: 4 out 5 stars

I’ve found out over the years that the best of the adult-humored raunchy comedies have one thing in common. The unquestionable bond of friendship. Dante’ and Randall in “Clerks.” Seth and Evan in “Superbad.” Now add to that list Harold and Kumar.

It’s been two years since we last saw the title characters. We find Harold (Cho) working on Wall Street, married and anticipating spending the holidays hosting his wives’ family. Kumar (Penn) has grown a beard, lost Vanessa and spends his time sampling the finest holiday themed marijuana his Santa Claus-playing dealer (Patton Oswald) can provide. When a package meant for Harold arrives at Kumar’s apartment, he decides to personally deliver it. And so begins the season of giving.

Funny to its core and filmed in gloriously rendered, over the top 3D, “A Very Harold and Kumar 3D Christmas” is full of the humor fans of the previous films have come to expect. And like the previous films, the story’s success revolves around it’s supporting cast. Danny Trejo plays Harold’s father-in-law, a rough and tough character who has a soft place in his heart for Christmas. He has brought along his own tree, which he has spent the last eight years growing just for the big holiday. Throw in a waffle-cooking robot, a crazed Russian gangster and the always funny Neil Patrick Harris and you’ve got a film that keeps you laughing from start to finish.

Unlike so many other films advertised in 3D, this one not only utilizes the process but takes it to its intended level. Eggs, traffic barrels, shattered glass…even a clay-mated rendering of an important body part hurl towards the audience with seemingly nothing to contain them. The jokes come fast and are definitely of the adult variety. And another extended musical cameo by “NPH” is a true highlight. The two leads have developed a genuine bond between them, one the audience can feel. For Harold and Kumar, Christmas without each other is…well, definitely not Christmas!

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Filed Under: Film Reviews Tagged With: 3d, christmas, film, harold, kumar, review, ...
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