Blu-ray Review “Assassin’s Creed: Lineage”

Directed by: Yves Simoneau
Starring: Romano Orzari
Distributed by: New Video Group
Running time: 36 minutes

Overall Score: 4 out of 5 stars

If you are fan of the video game series “Assassin’s Creed”, you shouldn’t even be reading this review. This is a must purchase for any fan of the series. If you are not familiar with the series than this is a good starting point especially since it is a prequel to “Assassin’s Creed II” and “Assassin’s Creed Brotherhood”. This film is complied of three short films made by Ubisoft, so you know it is loyal to the series and it is not just fan films. The production value is very well done and the prequel story is a great setup for the game.

The story centers on Giovanni Auditore, the father of the game’s main character, Ezio Auditore. Giovanni is an Assassin get involved with a government conspiracy that is being plotted to overthrow the powerful Medici family and destroy a unified Italy. Giovanni finds that the plot is deeper that expected and could even go as far at the Vatican. I was totally digging this film and I only wish (as I am sure everyone does) it was longer. This could have been a really kick ass feature. I guess we will have to see what Sony does with their hopefully-upcoming big budget live action adaption. But for now, this is what we have and it certainly kicks some ass.

Now I am sure you are asking if this is really worth purchasing just for the 36 minute film, well the answer is no…it is also jammed packed with extras. The extras are really the main draw for this Blu-ray for sure. “The Making of Assassin’s Creed Lineage” delves into the production of these short films and how they were created with focus on visuals. There is a eight minute motion-comic called “Assassin’s Creed: Ascendance”, which was really cool and also comes with an making of it as well. There also is a sneak preview for the upcoming “Assassin’s Creed: Revelations” game.

Next up there are two separate sections for “Assassin’s Creed” game bonus features. There are three “Developer Diaries” featurettes focusing on Artistic Direction, Freedom and Story. There are various trailers like the TV Launch, E3, Templar and Ubidays trailer. The “Assassin’s Creed II” game bonus features contains six “Developer Diaries”. The first is called “Ezio: A New Assassin”, “Power to the People”, “All Roads Lead To”, “All’s Fair in Love and War”, “Clothes Make the Man” and “Home Sweet Home”. There are two focus features on “Assassination Arsenal” and Factions”. There also is an interview called “Renaissance” featuring Margaret Meserve, Historian from Notre Dame. Lastly there are many trailer from the Teaser/Launch, E3 and Gamestop trailers.

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Filed Under: DVD/Blu-Ray Reviews Tagged With: assassins, bluray, creed, lineage, review

Blu-ray Review “God Bless Ozzy Osbourne”

Directors: Mike Fleiss, Mike Piscitelli
Starring: Ozzy Osbourne
Distributed by: Eagle Rock Entertainment
MPAA Rating: Not Rated
Running Time: 135 minutes

Overall Score: 4 out of 5 stars

Growing up listening to Ozzy Osbourne definitely changed the way I appreciated music in the 80’s. Ozzy has always been one my favorites. This documentary takes an honest look into the life of one of the most iconic figures in rock and also one of the founding fathers of heavy metal. If you are an Ozzy lifelong fan like myself or just discovering this music…this is the documentary to watch. “God Bless Ozzy Osbourne” covers his from Black Sabbath through through his solo success. It also goes into Ozzy’s extreme drug and alcohol issue due to his fast rise to the top, to his appetite for biting the head animals to the tragic death of Randy Rhoads to the reality TV show “The Osbournes” to the sober-still rocking Ozzy today.

The film is packed with new revealing/up close and personal interviews with Ozzy and his family. There are also new interviews from members of Black Sabbath, Sir Paul McCartney, Tommy Lee, Henry Rollins, and others. I did really enjoy that the film wasn’t just covering the positive of his career and really delved into the negative as well. Honestly Ozzy looked really good and better than we have ever seen him on this film. Most people just remember him MTV’s exploitative “The Osbournes” but he is in shape and seems very stable mentally (or at least for Ozzy). He spends a lot of the film reflecting on many different aspects of his career and it just seems very real and brutally honest.

The video on the Blu-ray is good and the archive footage looks decent. The sound is key for a music Blu-ray and definitely is solid. The concert footage definitely sounds great. The bonus features are decent overall. First off we get a pretty cool Q & A with Ozzy and Jack Osbourne. There are eight deleted Scenes, some included are:  Ozzy fighting with the film’s directors, there is a tattoo PSA and an alternate ending. Lastly there is footage from the Tribeca Film Festival.

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Filed Under: DVD/Blu-Ray Reviews Tagged With: bless, bluray, god, osbourne, ozzy, review, ...

Blu-ray Review “Tucker and Dale vs. Evil”

Directed by: Eli Craig
Starring: Alan Tudyk, Tyler Labine, Katrina Bowden, Jesse Moss, Chelan Simmons
Distributed by: Magnolia Pictures
MPAA Rating: R
Running time: 88 minutes

Overall Score: 4 out of 5 stars

Usually when you mix horror and comedy together it is either hit or miss. This definitely falls into the hit category. It delivers some great laughs, good suspense and great gore. In fact, the gore is very over the top and has tons of it. This is not your typical horror movie and that is why I think I really enjoyed it. It is very unique and is really fun to watch especially after numerous viewings. Alan Tudyk and Tyler Labine delivers a great performance as the clueless hillbillies and play off each other really well. If you are looking for a great time and some great laughs, be sure to check out this film.

The story is about two hillbillies, Tucker and Dale, that are heading to their recently purchased cabin in the woods summer home and while doing they have a run in with a pack of college kids doing the same thing. While fishing the hillbillies end up save one of the girls who gets injured and take her back to their house to help her but the rest of the college kids take it as her being kidnapped. That is when all things get out of out of control and the college kids wage war on the hillbillies. Tucker and Dale finds themselves in deeper that then can handle.

The video on the Blu-ray is sharp and very impressive. The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 surround track is also impressive also and worked well with the action. The special features on the Blu-ray release are worth checking out. There is a very funny but also insightful audio commentary with director Eli Craig and stars Tyler Labine and Alan Tudyk. “Making of Tucker and Dale Vs. Evil” is a decent featurette that covers behind- the-scenes footage and key interviews. “Tucker and Dale ARE Evil: The College Kids’ Point of View” is a really funny shortened cut of the film turned around from the kids POV. There are quite of bit of outtakes from this film and they are FUNNY! There are just shy of 100 storyboard drawings also included. Like all Magnolia Picture releases. there is an “HDNet: A Look at Tucker & Dale Vs. Evil”, which is a short version of the making of featurette. Lastly there is a theatrical trailer for the film and also previews from Magnolia Home Entertainment Blu-ray.

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Interview with John Fang

John Fang works with Cartoon Network and is the Supervising Producer for it’s hit show “Generator Rex”. He is recently the supervising producer on the new crossover “Ben 10/Generator Rex: Heroes United” which aired on Cartoon Network on November 25th. Mefia Mikes had a chance to chat with John about working on “Generator Rex” and its new crossover with “Ben 10”.

Mike Gencarelli: What can you tell us about “Ben 10/Generator Rex: Heroes United”?
John Fang: Ben enters the Rex universe and teams up to fight an evil force so powerful, only their combined efforts has a chance for victory. Fans of both properties, and fans of action, should eat this special up!

MG: You are no stranger to either series, having directed episodes of both Ben 10: Alien Force” and “Generator Rex”, how did the mash-up come about?
JF: Not much to say here since everyone involved knew this would happen at some point. Not really a question of “how” but “when” are we going to do the cross over. Working so closely on both properties, I was also a huge fan of both, so getting a chance to have Rex and Ben fight side by side was way too much fun.

MG: How does working on both shows compare?
JF: Loved working on both, but being the show runner for Generator Rex, I’m obviously more attached to Rex. Our goal for “GenRex” has always been about bringing a stylized point of view to action. We stylize the storytelling, push designs, stylize music, SFX, and so on. Stories are always interesting and the acting is amazing.

MG: Can we expect Ben 10 and Generator Rex to meet up again?
JF: Definitely left that door open. Another team-up in our universe or in Ben’s universe? We’ll have to wait and see.

MG: Season three of “Generator Rex” just started, what can we expect this season?
JF: We just had our series game changers in episodes 40 and 41 with the big shake up at Providence . Season 3 will have bigger reveals about the nanite event and the original group behind it. Besides the encompassing epic storyline, we’ll still have plenty of episodes of Rex just having fun.

MG: What else are you currently working on?
JF: “Rex” keeps me plenty busy.

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Filed Under: Interviews, TV Interviews Tagged With: fang, interview, john

Interview with Robert Kenner

Robert Kenner is known for directing the following documentaries the Oscar Nominated “Food Inc.” and the recent “When Strangers Click”. Media Mikes had a chance to chat with Robert about working on his new documentary “When Strangers Click” as well as “Food Inc.” and also what he has planned next.

Mike Gencarelli: Can you give us some background on your newest film?
Robert Kenner: After doing “Food Inc.” which was a very serious topic I was sort of hijacked by the food world. It’s a great world and I think “Food Inc.” is about a lot more than just food. The film is more so about how the world of food has been industrialized. In a way “Food Inc.” taught you about how the world of food has changed and “When Strangers Click” is teaching about how the world of love has been changed. On one hand the film is about how we fall in love and on the other it’s about how the world has become a different place. For me some of the stories in the film are jaw dropping.

MG: How did you find the five people in the film?
RK: Marc Weiss had found a lot of these stories and he brought them to me. Marc was the guy who started “P.O.V.”. I initially wasn’t interested in the stories until I started to see how powerful they were. We had kept talking to people but the ones in the series really jumped out at us. They are amazing stories and characters that you could never write.

MG: How long did it take to complete the project?
RK: It was all pretty quick. We did the first pieces on spec and we added the last interview which we thought was the most unbelievable towards the end of the project. That interview was a whole new way of looking at the world.

MG: Production wise how do you feel this project differs from that on “Food Inc.”?
RK: These were much more self contained stories. Technically we broke some new ground and went to some different places. Shooting on second life was a brand new experience for me. I was amazed at how beautiful it. I was thrilled by this experience.

MG: What is the first thing you do when you decide to do a project?
RK: This project sort of snuck up on me. I went out and shot a few stories that were handed to me. We shot them all relatively quick. In the midst of shooting I thought the stories were just so great. I never really committed to making the film. We brought the stories to HBO and they fell in love with them the same way we had. The next thing I know we were making a movie. I thought I was just out there having some fun.

MG: Did you have to cut a lot of footage to get the movie to its final run time?
RK: No. That’s just where we were. I actually had one story that wasn’t going to be included but it was so well liked in ended up in the film. This was a film I never committed to making I just got sucked in. We shot for a few days and then we had a movie. It all happened so quick and easy. The film turned into so much more than I was anticipating.

MG: Do you have any upcoming projects you can tell us about?
RK: I have two projects. One is titled “Fixfood.org”. I will be small little videos about how we can change the food system combined with some very active political campaigns. The other film is about how doubt is created by tobacco companies telling you that cigarettes aren’t really bad for you. That film is titled “Merchants of Doubt”.

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Filed Under: Film Interviews, Interviews Tagged With: interview, kenner, robert

BBC Ultimate Holiday 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!

This Holiday season the BBCAmericaShop.com invites you to discover the perfect gift from DVDs to traditional UK Holiday collectibles a : http://bit.ly/BBC_Gifts; and to enter for a chance to win a pair of $500 Gift Cards for you and a friend: https://bitly.com/BBC_Sweeps.

To celebrate BBC America’s newest DVD releases this holiday season, Media Mikes would like to a bunch of great DVD from BBCAmericaShop.com (see below). If you would like any of these DVD’s, please leave us a comment below or send us an email and let us know your favorite BBC show. This giveaway will be open until Monday December 5th 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.

Here is a list of the DVD’s we are giving away:

BBC Holiday Gift Set (DVD)
BBC Holiday Drama Collection (DVD)
Being Human: Season 3 (DVD)
Planet Earth: Special Edition (DVD)
Top Gear 16 (DVD)
BBC Holiday Comedy (DVD)


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Filed Under: Giveaways Tagged With: bbc, holiday, sweeps, ultimate

Media Mikes’ Holiday Movie Preview

Once again it’s time to put the turkey in the oven, loosen our belts and plan our weekly trips to the multiplex. Its holiday time and the studios are pulling out some of the big guns to keep you entertained. Once again, MediaMikes is pleased to preview some of the films you can look forward to seeing in the next two months. As always, opening dates are subject to change at the studio’s whim.

THIS WEEK

A DANGEROUS METHOD
Starring: Michael Fassbender, Viggo Mortensen and Keira Knightley.
Directed by: David Cronenberg

It’s a battle of great minds when Sigmund Freud (Mortensen) and Carl Jung (Fassbender) duel over a disturbed patient (Knightley). Cronenberg and Mortensen have teamed up twice and produced some great films (“A History of Violence” and “Eastern Promises”). I’m expecting a hat trick here.
OSCAR CHANCES: Mortensen earned a Best Actor nod for “Eastern Promises” and Fassbender is coming off a career making performance in “X-men: First Class.”

ARTHUR CHRISTMAS
Starring the voices of: James McAvoy, Jim Broadbent and Bill Nighy
Directed by: Sarah Smith

When Santa Claus accidentally misses one child on his rounds his youngest son, Arthur, attempts to correct the problem.
OSCAR CHANCES: Don’t see it on the short list for Best Animated Feature.

THE ARTIST
Starring: Jean Dujardin, Berenice Bejo and John Goodman
Directed by: Michel Hazanavicius

In the 1920s an actor (Dujardin) falls for an upcoming actress (Bejo). This film is silent and was nominated for the Palme d’Or at this year’s Cannes Film Festival, where Dujardin was named Best Actor.

OSCAR CHANCES: The last silent film to win an Oscar was the first, “Wings.” Look for that to change soon.

HUGO
Starring: Asa Butterfield, Chloe Grace Mortez and Christopher Lee
Directed by: Martin Scorsese

In 1930’s Paris, a young boy who lives in the train station hopes to unravel a secret involving his late father and an automatron. Scorsese plus 3D? Can’t wait.

OSCAR CHANCES: With a director like Scorsese you can’t count this film out.

THE MUPPETS
Starring: Jason Segel, Amy Adams and Chris Cooper
Directed by: James Bobin

A fan of the felt covered group (Segel, who also wrote the screenplay) tries to reunite the Muppets in an attempt to stop a greedy oil tycoon (Cooper) from buying and demolishing their old theatre. Some of the original Muppet performers, including Frank Oz, declined to work on this film. But Segel has been a lifelong fan and I don’t think he’d do anything to harm the franchise. Director Tobin is making his feature film debut after having helmed many episodes of “Da Ali G Show” and “Flight of the Conchords.”

OSCAR CHANCES: To quote Johnny Carson while addressing Miss Piggy, the only Oscar award she’d ever win would be from Oscar Meyer.

MY WEEK WITH MARILYN
Starring: Michelle Williams, Kenneth Branagh and Eddie Redmayne
Directed by: Simon Curtis

A young man working on his first film is assigned to look after Marilyn Monroe.
Williams totally immerses herself in the role as does Branagh, who co-stars as Laurence Olivier.

OSCAR CHANCES: A possible nod to Williams for Best Actress.

DECEMBER 2

CORIOLANUS
Starring: Ralph Fiennes and Gerard Butler
Directed by: Ralph Fiennes

Fiennes makes his directorial debut with a modern-day retelling of the Shakespearean story of a Roman war hero who loses his power and must eam up with his enemy to lead an attack on those who betrayed him.

OSCAR CHANCES: Fiennes could be a double threat.

SHAME
Starring: Michael Fassbender, Carey Mulligan and James Badge Dale
Directed by: Steve McQueen

A sex addicted man (Fassbender) has to come to terms with who he is when his younger sister comes for a visit. The film has been rated NC-17 so you may be hard pressed finding it. Director McQueen is English and no relation to the late actor.

OSCAR CHANCES: NC-17 means not a lot of theatres will be playing it so unless everyone in Hollywood gets a screener it doesn’t appear likely.

DECEMBER 9

I MELT WITH YOU
Starring: Thomas Jane, Rob Lowe and Jeremy Piven
Directed by: Mark Pellington

When four friends from college have a reunion they are reminded of an old pact they once made with each other.

OSCAR CHANCES: Mmmmmmmmmm NO.

NEW YEAR’S EVE
Starring: Lea Michelle, Jon Bon Jovi and Halle Berry
Directed by: Garry Marshall

From the people that brought you “Valentine’s Day” comes another celebration day. Can “Cinco de Mayo: The Movie” be far behind?

OSCAR CHANCES: Nada.

THE SITTER
Starring: Jonah Hill, Ari Graynor and Sam Rockwell
Directed by: David Gordon Green

Hill stars as a college student on suspension who is coaxed into babysitting the kids next door. Foolishly, he takes the kiddies with him to New York City. For fans of Hill, this is the last “chubby” film you’ll be seeing him in. If you’ve seen his video game commercial or the trailer for “21 Jump Street” you’ll notice he’s dropped some serious poundage.

OSCAR CHANCES: Unless they give them for weight loss, no.

TINKER, TAILOR, SOLDIER, SPY
Starring: Gary Oldman, Tom Hardy and Colin Firth
Directed by: Tomas Alfredson

Retired from Britain’s MI6, George Smiley (Oldman) embarks on a mission to expose a mole in the organization. Oldman takes over the role played by Sir Alec Guinness in the 1979 film.

OSCAR CHANCES: Oldman is always worth watching.

W.E.
Starring: James D’Arcy and Abbie Cornish
Directed by: Madonna

Madonna directs this romantic drama focusing on the affair between King Edward VIII and American divorcée Wallis Simpson as well as a contemporary romance between a married woman and a Russian security guard. Madge also wrote the screenplay with her “Truth or Dare” collaborator Alex Keshishian.

OSCAR CHANCES: Judging from the early reviews I’d have to say no. However, there’s always the Golden Raspberry awards.

WE NEED TO TALK ABOUT KEVIN
Starring: Tilda Swinton, John C. Reilly and Ezra Miller
Directed by: Lynne Ramsay

When her teenage son (Miller) goes on a killing spree at school, his mother (Swinton) must deal with her grief and her feelings of responsibility.

OSCAR CHANCES: Strong subject matter, which the Academy likes.

DECEMBER 14

LOOSIES
Starring: Peter Facinelli, Jaimie Alexander and Michael Madsen
Directed by: Michael Corrente

A New York City pickpocket learns he has a child from a long ago romance. Star Facinelli also wrote the screenplay.

OSCAR CHANCES: None

DECEMBER 16

ALVIN AND THE CHIPMUNKS: CHIPWRECKED
Starring: Alvin, Simon, Theodore
Directed by: Mike Mitchell

On a luxury cruise the boys and their Chipettes find themselves marooned on a not-so deserted island. Director Mitchell helmed the last “Shrek” film.

OSCAR CHANCES: Director Mitchell also helmed “Duece Bigalow: Male Gigolo.”

CARNAGE
Starring: Kate Winslet, Christoph Waltz, Jodie Foster and John C. Reilly
Directed by: Roman Polanski

The parents of two school boys, one family upscale the other middle class, meet to discuss their son’s schoolyard fights.

OSCAR CHANCES: Hell Yes! With the exception of Reilly, who was nominated for “Chicago,” everyone I’ve mentioned above has at least one Oscar on their mantle.

MISSION: IMPOSSIBLE – GHOST PROTOCOL
Starring: Tom Cruise, Jeremy Renner and Paula Patton
Directed by: Brad Bird

After the IMF has been disavowed by the government, Ethan Hunt (Cruise) leads a new group of agents to investigate a bombing of the Kremlin. Director Bird tries his hand with live action after having directed the animated masterpieces “The Iron Giant” and “The Incredibles.”

OSCAR CHANCES: Possibly in the technical areas.

SHERLOCK HOLMES: A GAME OF SHADOWS
Starring: Robert Downey, Jr., Jude Law and Jared Harris
Directed by: Guy Ritchie

Holmes does battle against his greatest nemesis, Professor Moriarty. Also stars the original “Girl in the Dragon Tattoo,” Noomi Rapace.

OSCAR CHANCES: Visual effects.

DECEMBER 21

THE ADVENTURES OF TINTIN
Starring the voices of: Jamie Bell and Daniel Craig.
Directed by: Steven Spielberg

Master Spielberg tries his hand at motion-capture animation, throwing in a little 3D for good measure. There are over 20 “TinTin” classic comics so if this is a hit I’d expect more.

OSCAR CHANCES: Since the Academy ruled recently that motion capture films don’t qualify for the Animated award, unless John Williams’ score gets a nod I’d say no.

ALBERT NOBBS
Starring: Glenn Close, Mia Wasikowska and Aaron Johnson
Directed by: Rodrigo Garcia

In order to make a living in 19th century Ireland, a woman disguises herself as a man. Thirty years later she is still living a lie.

OSCAR CHANCES: Critics who have seen this film call it Close’s greatest performance.

THE GIRL WITH THE DRAGON TATTOO
Starring: Rooney Mara, Daniel Craig and Stellan Skarsgard
Directed by: David Fincher

The director of “The Social Network” and “Fight Club” takes on one of the most popular novel series in history. He’s also taking on the audiences pre-conceived ideas as to how the story will unfold.

OSCAR CHANCES: I haven’t read the books or seen the previous films. The trailer has had me excited for quite awhile. I’m saying at least two nominations. Do I hear three?

DECEMBER 23

IN THE LAND OF BLOOD AND HONEY
Starring: Zana Marjanovic and Goran Kostic
Directed by: Angelina Jolie

Two people fall in love during the 1990s civil war in Bosnia. Not only is Jolie making her directorial debut she also wrote the script.

OSCAR CHANCES: None to speak of.

WE BOUGHT A ZOO
Starring: Matt Damon, Scarlett Johannson and Thomas Haden Church
Directed by: Cameron Crowe

A widower decides to purchase a run-down zoo and move his family to run it. Good news: from the director of “Jerry Maguire” and “Almost Famous.” Bad news: from the director of “Elizabethtown.”

OSCAR CHANCES: Good pedigree but unusual subject.

DECEMBER 25

EXTREMELY LOUD AND INCREDIBLY CLOSE
Starring: Tom Hanks and Thomas Horn
Directed by: Stephen Daldry

After his father is killed on 9/11 a young boy finds a mysterious key and must find out where it goes.

OSCAR CHANCES: NEVER bet against Tom Hanks or Stephen Daldry.

WAR HORSE
Starring: Jeremy Irvine, Emily Watson and David Thewlis
Directed by: Steven Spielberg

An adaptation of the children’s novel and the currently running Broadway show, the story revolves around a farm horse sent into battle during World War I and the young boy who tries to get him back.

OSCAR CHANCES: Across the board.

DECEMBER 28

PARIAH
Starring: Adepero Oduye and Kim Wayans
Directed by: Dee Rees

A Brooklyn teenager must deal with disappointing friends and family when she attempts to embrace her lesbian identity.

OSCAR CHANCES: This film has been raved about since it premiered at Sundance earlier this year. It could be this year’s “Precious.”

DECEMBER 30

ANGELS CREST
Starring: Thomas Dekker, Mira Sorvino and Lynn Collins
Directed by: Gaby Dellal

A small town father tries to care for his young son and alcoholic wife. Tragedy strikes when the young boy disappears in a snow storm.

OSCAR CHANCES: Maybe

THE IRON LADY
Starring: Meryl Streep, Jim Broadbent and Richard E. Grant
Directed by: Phyllida Lloyd

A look at Margaret Thatcher, the former English prime minister.

OSCAR CHANCES: Streep holds the record with 16 previous acting nominations (two Oscars). Can number 17 be far behind?

 

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Filed Under: Film Headlines Tagged With: holiday, media, mikes, movie, preview

Interview with Kate Mara

Kate Mara has appeared in several television series and films. Most recently she plays the role of Hayden McClane in the FX series “American Horror Story”. Media Mikes had a chance to talk with Kate about her work on the series and her role in the upcoming film “Kin”.

Adam Lawton: Can you tell us about your character Hayden?
Kate Mara: Hayden is the student that Ben had an affair with. She is the reason Ben and his family move from Boston out to Los Angeles. Ben goes back to Boston after finding out Hayden is pregnant and they plan to have Hayden get an abortion. After Ben leaves Hayden goes out to Los Angeles to tell Ben that she didn’t have an abortion like they had planned. While Hayden is at the house she ends up getting killed. Hayden is a very vengeful ghost and is taking it upon herself to haunt Vivian and cause other problems in the house.

AL: What was it that drew you to the script?
KM: I had worked with Ryan Murphy and Brad Falchuk on “Nip Tuck”. I think I was 19 at the time and that was one of my first jobs after moving out to Los Angeles. I have known Ryan ever since. One day he called and asked if I would be interested in doing a couple episodes of this and Brad’s new show. My agent sent me the script and I really didn’t know what to expect. I am not normally a fan of the horror genre but I love Ryan’s work and I was pleasantly surprised after reading the script. Ryan then gave me an over view of what my character would be doing but, he really didn’t tell me what all was going to happen. I was just under the impression that I was going to be on a few episodes to cause some mischief. I didn’t know I was going to die and end up haunting the house. I was lucky to know a little bit about the role prior to shooting. Generally we only have the first act of a script and we have no clue what else we will be doing. The writers on the show are really great and I trust Ryan and Brad. Normally this type of situation would make me very anxious. This is really exciting!

AL: What do you think has been your favorite part of working on the show?
KM: I have done so many different things with my character emotionally. She starts out as being a little on the innocent side and appears to be somewhat taken advantage of. Hayden then turns into a very unpredictable and emotional type character. When we see Hayden as a ghost you can tell there is a lot of evil there but with some vulnerability. To be able to portray all those things is definitely a challenge but it is so much fun. Typically it’s hard to find roles like this even in movies. It’s so out there with some of the things we get to say. It’s a really great role to be able to play with on such a great show.

AL: how does working on “American Horror Story” compare to other television shows you have worked on?
KM: Each show tends to have a little different feel from one another. “American Horror Story” tends to shoot more like a movie. It is just as much work if not more. We cram so much screen time into one week that it can be pretty intense. I don’t generally like to do a lot of television because it can be unpredictable and you don’t have a lot of control over what’s going to happen with your character.  I generally only ever do arcs or reoccurring roles because then I know I am only going to be on for 5 or so episodes. You can kind of get a sense of what’s going to happen then. I love films because you get to see the script and have some control over your character. With television you really don’t get that. Being this show is done by Ryan and Brad I didn’t have to really worry. I was excited about the script especially after seeing the first episode. It’s really about who is in control of where the story lines are going.

AL: Do you have a favorite episode from this season?
KM: I have to say that I am obsessed with Jessica Lange’s character. Her role is just so well written. Jessica’s entire acting career has been brilliant. The more of her character we can see the more I like the episode. It’s hard to choose just one episode but the more Jessica the better. (Laughs)

AL:Have you been told anything about being a part of Season 2?
KM: I don’t know yet. I don’t think anyone really knows what’s going on. I like to think that if you’re a ghost there is always a possibility of coming back.

AL: What can you tell us about your upcoming film “Kin”?
KM: I wish I knew more of what was going on with that film. I think there was mention of taking it to some festivals but we will have to see. The film was directed by Stefan Ruzowitzky who won an Oscar a few years back for his film “The Counterfeiters”. Eric Bana, Olivia Wilde and Charlie Hunnam had already been cast so I was excited to be a part of the film. The character was also something that I hadn’t done before. I play a cop in a small town. The film centers around Eric Bana and Olivia Wilde who play siblings that have just robbed a casino. There was a lot of action involved and we got to do a lot of ski-do riding. We also went to a shooting range which I was terrified of at first. It’s always fun to do new and different stuff.

AL: Do you have any other upcoming projects you can tell us about?
KM: I am finishing up “American Horror Story” as we speak. I have an idea of what I am going to be doing next however I can’t really say anything about that just yet. I do know that I will probably start working on that in January.

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Filed Under: TV Interviews Tagged With: interview, kate, mara

Film Review “The Descendants”

Starring: George Clooney, Shailene Woodley and Beau Bridges
Directed by: Alexander Payne
Rated: R
Running time: 1 hour 55 mins
Fox Searchlight

Our Score: 5 out of 5 stars

Officer, I’d like to report a crime. In 2004 Alexander Payne gave us the award winning film “Sideways.” I’d like you to arrest whoever made us wait seven years for his next one.

Matt King (Clooney) is a real estate lawyer in Hawaii. He is also the executor of his family’s estate: 25,000 untouched acres of paradise. While sorting through bids for the property Matt’s wife, Elizabeth, is injured in a boating accident. While she lays in a non-reversible coma Matt learns that his wife has been having an affair. Filled with grief over her inevitable death, he must also face the anger he feels because of her betrayal. And he must do this while caring to the needs of his two daughters: 10 year old Scottie (Amara Miller) and wise beyond her years 17 year old Alexandra (Woodley). It’s not a situation I’d wish on anyone.

Adapted from the book of the same name, this is the first film Payne has directed where he didn’t collaborate on the script with Jim Taylor (the two won an Oscar for “Sideways.” Still, writing has always been Payne’s strong suit and his work here with writers Nat Faxon and Jim Rash (the television film “Adopted”) shines. In voice-over King explains how his ancestors have been quite wealthy but frugal. Quoting his late father he advises that parents should “give their children enough money to do something…but not enough to do nothing.” Still, Matt does well enough to send Alexandra to private school and indulge his wife’s love for racing boats. Learning that Elizabeth was in love with the other man, Matt decides to track him down with the intent of letting him know her condition and allowing him to say his goodbyes. This turn of events could have easily slipped into standard “movie of the week” mode. But thanks to Clooney’s performance, you find yourself agreeing with Matt’s decisions, no matter how awkward they appear. This is one of Clooney’s strongest performances and he may have to clear space on his mantle for Oscar number two. He is at the top of his game in his scenes alone with the comatose Elizabeth. Asking questions that are unable to be answered his pain at his loss and her betrayal is heartbreaking.

As Matt’s young daughters, both Woodley and Miller shine. This is Miller’s first role and she shows that she’s a natural. Supporting work by Nick Krause, Robert Forster and Bridges add to the enjoyment. Throughout the film I kept pointing to a tan, curly haired gentlemen and saying to myself, “that looks like Michael Ontkean.” Guess what? It IS Michael Ontkean. Nice to see him on the big screen again. And yes, he looks good.

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Film Review “The Muppets”

Starring: Jason Segel, Amy Adams and Chris Cooper
Directed by: James Bobin
Rated: PG
Running time: 1 hour 38 mins
Walt Disney Pictures

Our Score: 4 out of 5 stars

As someone born in 1960, I grew up with the Muppets. From “Sesame Street” to their appearances on “Saturday Night Live” to their own television show and films, if the stars of the show were made of felt I made sure I saw it. One of my prize possessions is a photograph of Jim Henson and Kermit that Jim Henson signed for me in 1983. It would be fair to say that I’m a devoted Muppet-arian. In fact, my son and I were once asked to leave the gift shop at the Disney/MGM Studios because we loudly protested that Elmo is not a Muppet. This began a long running feud with Elmo that was patched up last year in New York City. But I digress.

It’s been twelve years since the gang have been on the big screen. An absence noticed by Gary (Segel) and his younger brother, Walter (voiced by Peter Linz). They have loved the Muppets since they were little. But no one loves them more than Walter. He has collected every toy, DVD and knick knack relating to the group and dreams only of one day taking a tour of Muppet Studios. When Gary and his girlfriend of 10 years, Mary (Adams), take a trip to Los Angeles they take Walter along. His wish of seeing Muppet Studios is about to come true. But some wishes may be better off un-granted.

Capturing the flavor of the old television series while featuring guest stars more popular with today’s younger generation, “The Muppets” is a fun ride down the nostalgia highway. When they arrive in California the trio learn that Muppet Studios is about to be purchased by rich oil baron Tex Richman (Cooper), who has promised to use the land to build a Muppet Museum. But there’s oil under them there buildings and Richman’s real plan is to drill for it. When Walter finds this out, and discovers that for $10 million the studio can be saved, he tracks down Kermit the Frog (voiced by Steve Whitmire) in the hopes of convincing him to put on a show to raise the money. Kermit is up for it but has lost contact with the gang. Fozzie Bear (Eric Jacobson) is now performing in a tribute review called “The Moopets.” Gonzo (Dave Goelz) is a plumbing magnate. And Miss Piggy is in Paris overseeing the plus-size edition of Vogue magazine. Eventually everyone agrees to come together for one last gig. But will it be enough?

Finally Friends!

You have to give credit to Disney for attempting any Muppet project. Long time Muppet-eers Frank Oz and Jerry Nelson declined to be a part of the project. But they pushed forward and have done the Muppets, and the memory of Jim Henson, justice. Much of the credit has to go to Segel, a long time Muppet fan who also co-wrote the screenplay. His Gary is so bright and full of light, it’s easy to see how Segel himself can easily get lost in this fantasy world. Adams, whose done her share of singing as the princess in “Enchanted,” is so wide eyed sometimes that you’d think she’d never seen the Muppets before they came on set. And young Walter is a fine edition to the Muppet family. Credit too must go to the Muppet-eers, who eschewed using CGI to give the characters legs, allowing them to walk down the street or participate in a musical number without the help of a computer. Speaking of music, if there’s a drawback to the film it’s the original songs. With the exception of “Life’s a Happy Song” the songs are pretty much undistinguishable. This fact is hammered home when Kermit reprises “The Rainbow Connection” from “The Muppet Movie.” Granted, Paul Williams is one of the great lyricists of the 20th Century but the producers of the new film could have tried harder. Muppet takes on contemporary hits come off better, including a barbershop quartet rendition of Nirvana’s “Smells Like Teen Spirit.” And any film that allows Chris Cooper to rap can’t be all bad.

I would also urge you to get to the theatre early to catch the new PIXAR “Toy Story” short film that precedes the film.

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Filed Under: Film Reviews Tagged With: film, muppets, review

Film Review “My Week With Marilyn”

Starring: Michelle Williams, Kenneth Branagh and Eddie Redmayne
Directed by: Simon Curtis
Rated: R
Running time: 1 hour 41 mins
The Weinstein Company

Our Score: 4 1/2 out of 5 stars

There are some things that can never be explained. In Hollywood, actors are a dime a dozen. But there are very few STARS. And one of the biggest of them all was Marilyn Monroe.

1956. In a film studio in England, two of the film world’s greatest attractions have contracted to star in a film together. Representing England, Sir Laurence Olivier (Branagh), still considered to this day one of the greatest actors EVER. From the United States, newly married to husband number three, Ms. Marilyn Monroe (Williams). And her entourage of publicity men, handlers and acting coach. Olivier wants to be a movie star. Monroe wants to be a great actress. And when the cameras began to roll on what would become “The Prince and the Showgirl,” young Colin Clark (Redmayne) was there to watch it all.

Full of outstanding performances, “My Week With Marilyn” gives viewers a small look inside the life and very fragile psyche’ of an actress who, with just a glance or a whisper, could turn strong men into jelly. But in spite of her worldwide fame, Monroe was a sad, damaged woman who used her beauty as a way to attract men that she hoped would protect her. Her third husband, the playwright Arthur Miller (Dougray Scott) stayed in the marriage for five years, but like husband number two, Joe Dimaggio, could not handle the constant spotlight his wife was under. A spotlight that reached across the pond to England and, really, the entire world. Williams is excellent as Monroe. Though she is made up some to resemble her, Williams eschews doing a strict impersonation, instead letting us see inside the real Marilyn. While visiting Buckingham Palace she is immediately surrounded by fans. “Shall I be her,” she asks her companion. In a split second gone is Norma Jean Mortensen, replaced by MARILYN MONROE. It’s a rare ability to completely switch gears that quickly and successfully but Williams pulls it off.

Equally good is Branagh who, thanks to his fame on the London stage, is his generations’ Olivier. The torch continues to be passed with Dame Judi Dench playing Dame Sybil Thorndike, an actress whose distinguished career on stage ran for more then six decades. Other famous names are brought to life, including Vivien Leigh (Julia Ormond), Olivier’s wife and promotions genius Arthur P. Jacobs (Toby Jones), who would go on to produce the “Planet of the Apes” films. And it’s a pleasure to see Emma Watson in a film that doesn’t have “Harry Potter” in the title. As movie loving Colin, who is made 3rd Assistant Director (mostly because they “didn’t have one yet”) Redmayne is as wide eyed and innocent as a child being set loose in a candy story. He wants to be strong but, like countless men before and after, he allows himself to fall in love. The actors are led through their paces by veteran television director Curtis, making his feature film debut. Curtis has wisely studied many of the most iconic photos of Monroe and then incorporated those images in the film. As the film unfolds you suddenly find yourself remembering an image you’d seen from your past, realizing only after you’ve moved on that your memory is as crystal clear as a fine set of china. The pacing is leisurely, allowing you to get lost in the past, which the period detail truly allow you to do.

 

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“Super 8” 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!

To celebrate release of “Super 8”, Media Mikes would like to giveaway 5 copies of the film on Blu-ray. If you would win one of these great prizes, please leave us a comment below or send us an email and let us know your favorite Amblin Entertainment film. This giveaway will be open until Monday December 5th 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.

JJ Abrams and Steven Spielberg join forces in this extraordinary tale of youth, mystery, and adventure. Super 8 tells the story of six friends who witness a train wreck while making a Super 8 movie, only to learn that something unimaginable escaped during the crash. They soon discover that the only thing more mysterious than what it is, is what it wants.

– Includes over two hours of behind-the-scenes special features:
– Deconstructing the Train Crash: Uncover the secrets behind filming the astonishing scene
– 8 Exclusive Featurettes: Explore the origins of the story, casting, creating the alien and more!
– 14 Deleted Scenes
– Director JJ Abrams & Filmmakers’ Commentary
– And MUCH more!

 

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FX’s “American Horror Story” Interview Series

“American Horror Story” revolves around the Harmons, a family of three who moved from Boston to Los Angeles as a means to reconcile past anguish. The all-star cast features Dylan McDermott as “Ben Harmon,” a psychiatrist; Connie Britton as “Vivien Harmon,” Ben’s wife; Taissa Farmiga as “Violet,” the Harmon’s teenage daughter; Jessica Lange in her first-ever regular series TV role as “Constance,” the Harmon’s neighbor; Evan Peters plays “Tate Langdon,” one of Ben’s patients; and Denis O’Hare as “Larry Harvey.” Guest stars for the series include Frances Conroy as the Harmon’s housekeeper; Alexandra Breckenridge as the Harmon’s housekeeper; and Jamie Brewer as Constance’s daughter.

Media Mikes had a chance to chat with a few cast members from this show.  We hopefully be adding to this list over the next few months so stay tuned!  Please leave comments if you enjoy this show as well!

AMERICAN HORROR STORY INTERVIEWS:


Alexandra Breckenridge
Evan Peters
Jamie Brewer
Kate Mara
Shelby Young

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Filed Under: Featured, Film Interviews, Interviews Tagged With: amer

Interview with Shelby Young

Shelby Young has appeared in several movies and television series. Most recently she plays the character of Leah on the FX series “American Horror Story”. Shelby was nice enough to take time out of her schedule to talk with Media Mikes about the show and some of her other work.

Adam Lawton: What initially prompted you to get into acting?
SY: When I was younger I did this pageant with my mom. There happened to be a modeling agent there who was interested in me. I started doing modeling and commercials around Florida which is where I am from originally. I must have at some point gone to my Mom and told her I wasn’t getting enough dialogue in the commercials. When we moved out to New York I started doing some theater and indie films. We moved out to Los Angeles when I was 13 and things have gone from there.

AL: Can you tell us about your character on “American Horror Story”?
SY: When you first see my character Leah she is the leader of the mean girls at Violet’s school. She and Violet have a run in and Leah automatically doesn’t like her. The two end up fighting one another and to get Leah back Violet lures her back to her house where she is attacked by a demon type character. After the attack Leah becomes a completely different person. Leah is a little freaked out and not as mean. She has also noticed her hair has begun to turn white.

AL: What was it about the role that appealed to you?
SY: I love dark and gritty projects. When I read the script for the show I had to be a part of it! When I found out I got the role I completely freaked out. The show is just so well written and there is nothing else on television like it.

AL: What was your impression from reading the first script?
SY: I love Ryan Murphy’s other work. I am a huge “Glee” fan which is completely different from “American Horror Story”. I knew in Ryan’s hands this show was going to be amazing. The script just really jumped out at me and I didn’t want to put it down.

AL: Were you a fan of the horror genre prior to working on the show?
SY: Yes definitely! Even though I say this I generally end up watching them with my eyes closed for half the movie. (Laughs) I love the feeling of being scared.

AL: How has it been working with the rest of the cast?
SY: Everyone is amazing. I have work mostly with Evan Peters and Taissa Farmiga who are both really talented. Working with them has been fantastic and I am glad I have got to know them.

AL: Will we be seeing more of your character in the coming episodes?
SY: I can’t say anything about that as I don’t want to give anything away.

AL: You also have done some film work as well as voice over work. Is there that stands out as a favorite for you?
SY: I love film a lot and I would like for my career to go in that direction but, then you have something come along like “American Horror Story” that is so fantastic. Each episode is like a mini movie. I would be very content being a lead on a show like “American Horror Story”. Voice work is something fun for me to do on the side. For me the work is a little easier. I enjoy doing the funny voices.

AL: Do you have any other upcoming projects you can tell us about?
SY: I don’t have anything I can tell you about just yet. I have a few interesting projects I am waiting to hear back on but I don’t want to jinx it by giving too much away.

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Filed Under: TV Interviews Tagged With: interview, shelby, young

Blu-ray Review “The Exterminator”

Director: James Glickenhaus
Starring: Robert Ginty, Christopher George, Samantha Eggar, Steve James
MPAA Rated: R
Studio: Synapse Films
Run Time: 104 minutes

Overall Score: 3.5 out of 5 stars

This film was called “One of the most cold-blooded and controversial revenge films ever made, this is a sick example of the almost unbelievable descent into gruesome savagery in American movies” from Roger Ebert during it’s original release. Those words definitely still hold true today and hits Blu-ray in its newly re-mastered uncut version. I have to say that extra violence and gore restored in this release add a lot to the film itself. The video is fantastic for a film made in 1980 and the sound contains a restored DTS-HD MA 2.0 Stereo track. Once again this is a fine release from the great studio, Synapse Films.

This film tells the story of Vietnam vet John Eastland (Robert Ginty), who takes on the scum of the New York underworld when his best friend is brutally beaten by a vicious street gang. John becomes known as The Exterminator. John become higher than the law and is feared by both cops and criminals as his falls deeper and deeper in his revenge-driven murderous rage.

The special features are a little light but include a decent commentary track from James Glickenhaus. Also includes are some TV spots and the original theatrical trailer. I would have liked to see some current features like new cast/crew interviews or a new featurette like the recent Synapse Films release of “Intruder”. But the main sell of this release is definitely the new uncensored version, which is worth the purchase alone for this Blu-ray. If you are a fan of classic 80’s films, this one is not to be missed.

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Filed Under: DVD/Blu-Ray Reviews Tagged With: bluray, exterminator, review
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