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Mark Margolis talks about his role in “American Horror Story: Asylum”

Mark Margolis talks about his role in “American Horror Story: Asylum” playing the role of Sam Goodman. He appeared as a Nazi hunter introduce in the episode “I Am Anne Frank, Part 2”. Mark is also known for his role of Tito in “Breaking Bad”. Media Mikes had a chance to chat with Mark about his role on the show.

Adam Lawton: How did working on this set of “American Horror Story” compare to maybe the work you did on “Breaking Bad” or one of the other series that you’ve been involved with?
Mark Margolis: Well, they took the bell away from me.
AL: Ding, ding.
MM: I had to actually speak, so that was tough. They soon discovered that the guy is better with a bell, but it was too late because they had already employed me. I mean, Breaking Bad is a whole other thing. It’s in a whole other locale, in New Mexico, which is a whole other feeling and this was a strange 1964 kind of shabby motel room. It was just a whole other–it was something about working in American Horror Story; everything was very brown and gray, which is the complete opposite of New Mexico, even though my character in New Mexico was sometimes in a grim nursing home; whatever. It was completely different. It was a whole other kind of man with a whole other demeanor, a whole other world, and had come from a whole other world etc., etc.

AL: Do you find the character of Tio being–obviously it had to be a little bit more of a challenge without speaking much compared to the Sam Goodman character?
MM: Not really because all of it is–in both cases, it’s just like in life, we’re responding to what’s coming at us. Even though Tio can’t speak, his mind works well, and he’s responding to what’s coming at him. In this case, my character was able to speak and respond. There is an equivalence in that area of acting, I guess I would say.

AL: What was it about maybe portraying a Nazi hunter, what lured you to the role of “Sam Goodman”?
MM: Nazi hunters are kind of fascinating characters. I was actually–about a year and a half ago, I was up for a film with Sean Penn, the part of a Nazi hunter, and it was a marvelous character. I think the film is coming out in a couple of months called This Must Be the Place. The part eventually went to Judd Hirsch, but I was really hot to do it. Those are fascinating characters. I’ve read over the years–I’ve read a great deal about Simon Wiesenthal, who is probably the world’s most famous Nazi hunter. I think he’s the one that located Eichman in Argentina, or he’s located others. They’re fascinating people with a certain kind of a mission of devoting their lives to catching these people who are aging and dying–I think that world is almost disappearing at this point. If there’s anybody left, they’re in their 90s. When I heard that it was a Nazi hunter, I was quite excited about that.

AL: What is the reason why people really enjoy “American Horror Story”? Maybe it’s the format, or maybe it’s just something inside of us that we just love to be subjected to this kind of visual trauma?
MM: Well, it’s got wonderful actors on it, the principles. The regulars on the show are quite incredible. I mean Jessica Lange is amazing. Cromwell is amazing. There’s a whole group of them that are quite terrific; the regulars. I’ve never seen a show like that. I worked in all of Darren Aronofsky’s films. On some level I find a lot of the way that they cut from one thing to another to an eyeball. They’re always going to eyeballs. It’s very reminiscent of what Aronofsky did in his first film Pi where there were these very quick cuts. You know; you’d see a needle, an arm, and then an eyeball expand. They seem to have–I mean I don’t know, they seemed to have gotten some inspiration from the way that Aronofsky’s films cut from one thing to another. That also used in other films of his, but I don’t know, I’m sure there are other people that have possibly done what Aronofsky did, and that kind of movement is pretty exciting I think in a way as opposed to things that go on for five minutes and nothing much changes. It’s kind of exciting. It’s a jump from one thing to another thing to another thing; it’s like pop, pop, pop.

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Filed Under: Interviews, TV Interviews Tagged With: american, asylum, horror, margolis, mark, role, ...

Chloë Sevigny talks about co-starring in FX’s “American Horror Story: Asylum”

Chloë Sevigny is known best for her iconic roles in films like “Boys Don’t Cry” and TV show’s like “Big Love”. In FX’s “American Horror Story: Asylum” Chloë plays the role of “Shelley,” one of the inmates at Briarcliff Manor committed because of nymphomania. Media Mikes had a chance to chat with Chloë about the show and what we can expect this season.

Adam Lawton: What drew you to the project “American Horror Story: Asylum”?
Chloë Sevigny: I guess it was having watched the first season and just being a fan of the show. I just thought it was so rich, the production design and costumes and how much detail went into it and I just thought it was wildly entertaining. I was hoping the second season would be as much so. I didn’t get to read any scripts prior to signing on, so I was kind of going in on blind faith hoping that it would be what I wanted it to be and it’s proven so.

AL: Were you able to work with Ryan [Murphy] with your character and develop Shelley” along, or was everything kind of fed to you week by week?
CS: Yes, it was more week to week. I mean I think that’s mostly how television works. It’s a real writer’s medium and it’s not so much collaborative. It’s not like a film, so it’s pretty much all on the page. There were some bits where I asked Ryan for more lines, so that seemed to beef it up here and there and they tried to do that for me. That was probably the extent of it.

AL: What is it working with James Cromwell? I don’t know what he’s doing to you, but it’s really scary.
CS: Oh, it gets much scarier. He was good. I mean I was a huge fan of his. I actually saw him in a café right before we started shooting and I went up to him introduced myself and he just like, “I’m so looking forward to chopping off your legs.” Yes, he was great. I mean you know he was really into rehearsing the scenes before and really exploring it to its fullest, so that was kind of nice. Sometimes people just go in and just hit their marks and he really wanted to work everything out before. He was really … in that regard.

AL: Can give us some insight into preparation you do with James Cromwell, who’s “Dr. Arden,” and if you discuss the scene ahead of time. These are not just typical scenes. There’s a lot of almost physical abuse, and if you can give us some insight into your conversations with these actors to prepare?
CS: Well, yes, there’s always a stunt guy on set also, and you go through all the motions. You kind of block out the physical bits, the throwing and the pulling and tugging and if it gets too rough, because sometimes an actor can lose himself in a scene and so I always remind them I’m supposed to sell it. Whoever is getting the brunt of it is supposed to do all the acting, do all the selling of the violence and whatnot, so there’s a lot of—especially in the scene in the office with Tim and I, there was a lot of—I think we blocked that scene for like three hours, far longer than it took us to shoot it even just getting all the action down. I mean it’s quite scary because James was so big and he was wielding this big kind of paperweight at me. He was getting really close and it was pretty frightening actually doing that scene. I was really exhausted at the end of that day, and it was quite scary while we were in it. His arms are so long I was so afraid he was actually going to knock me out.

AL: Could just talk about the challenge of acting with no legs?
CS: Well, the prosthetic pieces that they put on made it impossible to straighten my legs, so I had to keep my legs bent all day and I had to be wheeled around in a wheelchair and I was feeling quite helpless. It was a strange feeling to have to need assistance to do lots of different things. And that was probably the most challenging part, feeling kind of helpless in that way.

AL: Can you give your take on Shelley’s character. She’s obviously billed as a nympho, but then there’s that question of whether she truly is addicted to it, or she just likes it more than other people. What’s your take on that?
CS: I don’t know if people truly are addicted to that. There’s so much talk about it as of late. I think that she was a little wild and her husband had it within his power to commit her and I think kind of once she’s in there, she kind of goes with it to come to who she is and how she identifies herself. So I think that she probably yes really likes sex. All the reaction, I don’t know if she’s quite a real nymphomaniac.

AL: You’re playing a very specific character here, an inmate in a sanitarium and then for your next role you’re playing a driven detective, and that seems like a more grounded part. I’m wondering how you shift as an actor from one role to another? Do you have to shake off Shelley before you play Catherine in “Those Who Kill”, or you find moving between roles to be an easy transition?
CS: I find it pretty easy. I’ve already wrapped “American Horror Story” a couple of months ago. I think they might have me come back for something else. I’m not sure, so I’ll have plenty of time and then of course delving into the scripts and research and … with playing “Catherine” they’ll probably be some training involved also, so just trying to immerse yourself in whatever you’re doing at the time. While we were shooting “American Horror Story”, I was also shooting “Portlandia”, so I was going from one set to the next, and I’d never really done that before. And “Portlandia” was so new for me because it’s all improvisation and trying to be funny and all that, so it was quite difficult when you’re shooting two at the same time. But I think having basically … is a better way to go.

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Filed Under: Interviews, TV Interviews Tagged With: american, asylum, horror, story

Book Review “Alien – The Illustrated Story (Original Art Edition)

Author: Archie Goodwin
Illustrator: Walt Simonson
Hardcover: 96 pages
Publisher: Titan Books
Release Date: October 30, 2012

Our Score: 5 out of 5 stars

Product Dimensions: 13 x 0.7 x 16.9 inches

When I first heard that “Alien – The Illustrated Story” was being released by Titan Books, I was sure excited because I am both a fan of Ridley Scott’s film “Alien” and also comic book artist Walt Simonson. But I got much more than I expected (in a good way). This good in the words of Buddy the Elf is “GINORMOUS”. But that is the charm of it I think, it clocks in at 13.8″ x 1 x 19.9″. If you can’t imagine it…just take my word its oversized. Though there is a reason for it, since it is scanned directly from Walt’s original art and reproduced at the same size. Since the pages are in fact scanned from the originals they even include all the corrections, paste-ups and even coffee stains. I was blown away that they would release this and very impressed.

But wait there is more. The story itself is only 64 pages. Also included is Archie Goodwin’s original script for the story, as well as Walt’s two page try-out for Fox (which actually featuring a very different alien). There is a great interview with Walt and letterer John Workman and closing with an afterword by Walt. If you don’t want the GIANT hardcover edition, then you can opt out for the totally not as cool softcover “Facsimile Cover Regular Edition”, which is also in color. I highly recommend this “Original Art Edition” it is an amazing companion piece to this movie book.

The book was written by the late Archie Goodwin, the comic book writer, known best for his Warren and Marvel Comics work. He was also the chief writer and editor of landmark horror anthology titles Creepy and Eerie. On a graphic novel, the illustrator is really the star of the show. Walt Simonson is the man behind this one and he has written, penciled or inked Batman, Fantastic Four, The Hulk and Superman just to name but a few!

Premise: Vacant. Two space helmets resting on chairs. Electronic hum. Lights on the helmets begin to signal one another. Moments of silence. A yellow light goes on. Electronic hum. A green light goes on in front of one helmet. Electronic pulsing sounds. A red light goes on in front of the other helmet. An electronic conversation ensues. Reaches a crescendo. Then silence. And when the silence is broken… the crew of the Nostromo must grapple with a terrifying life force they cannot leash, nor even comprehend – the Alien!

This book has been out of print for over thirty years, so this brand new edition timed perfectly with “Prometheus”, is a welcomed treat. It has been very carefully restored from original artwork in Walt Simonson’s studio and is presented here for the very first time in this definitive artist’s edition of the greatest sci-fi horror ever produced. So if you are a fan of “Alien”, sci-fi or event art…then this is a the book for you. Just make sure you have a very large coffee table – very large – because you will need it.

Black Veil Brides to Unleash “Wretched and Divine: the Story of the Wild Ones” on January 8th

BLACK VEIL BRIDES TO UNLEASH

WRETCHED AND DIVINE: THE STORY OF THE WILD ONES ON JANUARY 8^th

VIA LAVA RECORDS/UNIVERSAL REPUBLIC

Pre-Order For Band’s Third Album Set For October 31^st via iTunes

The Church Of The Wild Ones World Tour Kicks Off January 4^th

(New York, NY – October 29, 2012) – Los Angeles based hard rockers Black Veil Brides return with their third album Wretched And Divine: The Story Of The Wild Ones. The album is being released on January 8^th via Lava Records/Unviersal Republic. The album marks the band’s first full length release since 2011’s Set The World On Fire which debuted at #1 on the iTunes Rock chart, #4 on the iTunes overall album chart and #17 on the Billboard Top 200. The 19 track opus builds upon the signature sound the Black Veil Brides have created since their debut We Stitch These Wounds while showcasing their growth as musicians and songwriters. The pre-order for the new album goes live on iTunes on October 31^st and fans who pre-order the whole album will be treated to an instant download of the first single “In The End” which was the theme song for WWE’s Hell In A Cell Pay-Per-View event recently. Wretched And Divive: The Story Of The Wild Ones was produced by John Feldmann known for his work with The Used, Neon Trees, Panic! At The Disco, and The Veronicas, among others.

Black Veil Brides will also be heading out on The Church Of The Wild Ones World Tour in support of the new album. The tour, which kicks off January 4^th in Las Vegas, will cover two continents and four different countries before it ends on March 8^th in San Francisco. The first leg will make stops in Denver, Houston, Philadelphia and New York to name a few before heading over to the United Kingdom. There, the band will make stops in Manchester, Bristol, Liverpool and Glasgow and more before returning to the States for the second US leg of The Church Of The Wild Ones Tour. The band will also make a return to Mexico on February 23^rd during this leg.

The tracklisting for Wretched And Divine: The Story Of The Wild Ones is:

1) Exordium
2) I Am Bulletproof
3) New Year’s Day
4) F.E.A.R. Transmission 1: Stay Close
5) Wretched And Divine
6) We Don’t Belong
7) F.E.A.R. Transmission 2: Trust
8) Devil’s Choir
9) Resurrect The Sun
10) Overture
11) Shadows Die
12) Abeyance
13) Days Are Numbered
14) Done For You
15) Nobody’s Hero
16) Lost It All
17) F.E.A.R. Transmission 3: As War Fades
18) In The End
19) F.E.A.R. Final Transmission

Black Veil Brides is Andy Biersack (vocals), Jake Pitts (guitars), Jinxx (guitars/violin), Ashley Purdy (bass) and Christian “CC” Coma (drums).

* TOUR DATES ATTACHED *

THE CHURCH OF THE WILD ONES WORLD TOUR

DATE	CITY, STATE	VENUE
Jan 4^th	Las Vegas, NV	Hard Rock Café
Jan 5^th	Phoenix, AZ	Nile Theatre
Jan 7^th	Denver, CO	Ogden Theatre
Jan 9^th	Odessa, TX	Dos Amigos
Jan 10^th	Dallas, TX	The Palladium
Jan 11^th	San Antonio, TX	Backstage Live
Jan 12^th	Houston, TX	House Of Blues
Jan 14^th	Tampa, FL	State Theatre
Jan 15^th	Jacksonville, FL	The Edge
Jan 16^th	Atlanta, GA	The Masquerade
Jan 18^th	Baltimore, MD	Rams Head Live
Jan 19^th	Philadelphia, PA	The Trocadero
Jan 20^th	Sayreville, NJ	Starland Ballroom
Jan 22^nd	Cleveland, OH	Peabody’s
Jan 23^rd	Buffalo, NY	Infinity
Jan 25^th	New York, NY	Best Buy Theatre
Jan 26^th	Worcester, MA	The Palladium
Jan 27^th	Manchester, NH	Armory
Jan 29^th	Pittsburgh, PA	Altar Bar
Jan 30^th	Toronto, ON	Opera House
Feb 3^rd	Cardiff, UK	Cardiff University Great Hall
Feb 4^th	Manchester, UK	Academy
Feb 5^th	Bristol, UK	O2 Academy
Feb 7^th	Southampton, UK	Guild Hall
Feb 8^th	Norwich, UK	UEA
Feb 9^th	Liverpool, UK	O2 Academy
Feb 10^th	Glasgow, UK	O2 Academy
Feb 12^th	Newcastle, UK	O2 Academy
Feb 13^th	Sheffield, UK	O2 Academy
Feb 14^th	Birmingham, UK	O2 Academy
Feb 15^th	London, UK	O2 Academy Brixton
Feb 17^th	Allentown, PA	Crocodile Rock
Feb 19^th	Louisville, KY	Headliners
Feb 21^st	Chicago, IL	House Of Blues
Feb 22^nd	Detroit, MI	Crofoot Ballroom
Feb 23^rd	Mexico City, MX	El Plaza Condesa
Feb 27^th	Salt Lake City, UT	The Complex
Feb 28^th	Boise, ID	Knitting Factory
Mar 1^st	Spokane, WA	Knitting Factory
Mar 2^nd	Seattle, WA	Studio Seven
Mar 4^th	Chico, CA	Senator Theatre
Mar 5^th	Reno, NV	Knitting Factory
Mar 6^th	Sacramento, CA	Ace Of Spades

CD Review “A Christmas Story: The Musical”

Music and Lyrics: Benj Pasek and Justin Paul
World Premiere Recording
Release Date: October 22, 2012
Tracks: 18
Label: Masterworks Broadway

Our Score: 4 out of 5 stars

What is the holidays without “A Christmas Story”? This film has been the highlight of all of my holiday seasons since I was a young kid. You can always tell when holidays are around when the “A Christmas Story” quotes start flowing my house. When I heard that one of my favorite films was coming to Broadway, I was very excited and also very nervous. Well if the songs have any bearing on the play itself, it is going to be a huge success. “A Christmas Story: The Musical” will arrive on Broadway this holiday season at The Lunt-Fontanne Theatre from November 5 – December 30, 2012. Be sure to pick up this album as well so you can sing along with the songs or enjoy then again after seeing the play.

“A Christmas Story” is turning 30 next year and yet shows no signs of fading. This film’s fan base only gets bigger and bigger easy year. Masterworks Broadway is behind this release of the World Premiere Recording and they did a wonderful job of delivering the play to the homes of its fans. Of course since this is a play a needs to be expanded a bit, it is based off the book by Joseph Robinette and the writings of radio humorist Jean Shepherd and it works really well. Since it is Broadway musical, the songs have to be amazing. The music and lyrics are from Richard Rodgers Award-winning newcomers Benj Pasek and Justin Paul and they do not let us down. The 18-tracks included are all great with each one outdoing the next. I heard some sample of these tracks back in 2008 and they have only gotten better and better.

“A Christmas Story: The Musical” is not only fun but also extremely clever with their songs. I can imagine the audience faces in the theaters as they jump from song to song to the next. They are also almost guaranteed to get you into the holiday spirit. From the moment that “Counting Down to Christmas” starts, it is a really great kick-off and puts you in the mood. “Red Ryder Carbine Action BB Gun” is really funny and sharp. “A Major Award” is simply epic and leaves you laughing. Lastly one of the best track is the irresistible “Somewhere Hovering Over Indiana”. To ensure that this play was done right it is also being produced by the film’s original Ralphie, Peter Billingsley. So get ready to hear some of the characters that you watch every year but in a completely new way through the beauty of song. But be warned, you will find yourself singing along right away as these songs are very catchy.

Track Listings
1. Overture
2. Counting Down to Christmas
3. At Higbee’s
4. Red Ryder Carbine Action BB Gun
5. Counting Down to Christmas (Reprise)
6. The Genius on Cleveland Street
7. When You’re a Wimp
8. Ralphie to the Rescue
9. What A Mother Does
10. Sticky Situation
11. A Major Award
12. Act One – Finale
13. A Kid At Christmas
14. Just Like That
15. Up On Santa’s Lap
16. Before the Old Man Comes Home
17. Somewhere Hovering Over Indiana
18. A Christmas Story

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Filed Under: CD Reviews Tagged With: cd, christmas, musical, review, story

DVD Review “The First Christmas: The Story of the First Christmas Snow”

Directed by: Rankin/Bass
Starring Angela Lansbury
Rated: NR (Not Rated)
Studio: Warner Home Video
DVD Release Date: October 2, 2012
Run Time: 22 minutes

Our Score: 5 out of 5 stars

Even though it is not Halloween yet, I am never going to turn down watching a Christmas film. In fact, I like to watch Christmas films all year long, it puts you in a certain mood that you get are “suppose” to be in once a year. “The First Christmas: The Story of the First Christmas Snow” is made from the legendary duo Rankin/Bass (“Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer”). The film is so sweet and really delivers a wonderful message. The music/songs in the film are also so memorable and leave you humming the rest of the day. If it wasn’t good enough, we get the wonderful voice and narration from Angela Lansbury. Must purchase for all fans of Rankin/Bass.

The only issue I have of this film is the idea that it is being called a deluxe edition. There is only one special feature called “Celebrate and Create: Holiday Cards That Kids Can Make”. It is cute for kids but doesn’t warrant the title of deluxe. Nonetheless, the fully remastered transfer of this film does look very nice and delivers. I would have like to see this put out on Blu-ray though, like a few recent other Rankin/Bass releases. I mean these films are never going to look perfect with there age and their type of animation. I am looking forward to sharing this film with my daughter for many years to come making it a must-watch each holiday season!

Synopsis: Unwrap a Christmas miracle with this new deluxe edition DVD! Give your family a holiday to remember with this unforgettable story about the true meaning of Christmas from the animation powerhouse Rankin/Bass (Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer)! After Sister Theresa (voiced by Angela Lansbury) rescues an orphan shepherd boy from a lightning storm, she lovingly nurses him back to health. However, the boy suffered injuries during the storm and wakes up blind and discouraged in his new surroundings. With Sister Theresa’s help, the pint-sized shepherd with the king-sized heart learns that seeing goes deeper than what your eyes show you. Together, they discover that unconditional love can overcome any obstacles. Celebrate the gift of love with your family this holiday as you experience this fully remastered deluxe edition DVD!

The First Christmas: The Story of the First Christmas Snow is available on DVD 10/2 at http://bit.ly/RQqRNr
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Filed Under: DVD/Blu-Ray Reviews Tagged With: christmas, dvd, review, snow, story

Blu-ray Review “American Horror Story: The Complete First Season”

Created by: Ryan Murphy and Brad Falchuk
Actors: Connie Britton, Dylan McDermott, Taissa Farmiga, Jessica Lange, Evan Peters, Frances Conroy, Kate Mara.
Distributed by: 20th Century Fox
Rated TV-MA
Release Date: Sep 25, 2012
Running Time: 534 minutes

Season: 4 out of 5 stars
Extras: 3.5 out of 5 stars

When I first saw a promo for “American Horror Story”, I thought to myself that it was going to be absolutely amazing but not going to last. Before shows like “The Walking Dead”, horror does not have a good track record. To my surprise this show became one of the best shows of last year. It was nominated for 17 Emmy’s and brought Jessica Lange home a Golden Globe. Well it really did deserve it…every bit of it. This show is really sharp writing, fantastic acting and really sticks with you after watching each episode. It there is a definition of must-see TV, this is it.

Official Premise: Brace yourself for an addictive thrill ride! American Horror Story is TV’s most original new drama, a deeply stylish psychosexual haunt devised to keep you on the edge of your seat. The Harmon’s (Dylan McDermott, Connie Britton) fresh start in a new home deviously twists to reveal discoveries of love, sex and murderous revenge. Featuring a Golden Globe-winning performance by Jessica Lange, Season 1 scares up a host of engrossing extras.

The Blu-ray presentation of the the show delivers, thanks to 20th Century Fox. The three-disc set presents the show in 1080p transfers with its 1.78:1 broadcast aspect ratio, as well as it’s very effective DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 tracks. The music and score in the film is just as haunting as the show itself and it plays well on this release. The show was in HD on TV but only 1080i (and if you ever DVRed the show, it would be lower), so this is a nice upgrade from broadcast to high-def TV.

The special features are great but could have used just a little more umph. They add up to over sixty minutes of additional content, but luckily all of it is actually impressive. ?There is a commentary track on the pilot episode by Ryan Murphy, must listen for fans. There is a tour of the “The Murder House” presented by Eternal Darkness Tours of Hollywood, good for a laugh. Then there are four very in-depth behind-the-scenes featurettes including “Behind the Fright: The Making of American Horror Story”, “On the Set of American Horror Story Season One”, “Overture to Horror: Creating the Title Sequence” and “Out of the Shadows: Meet the House Ghosts”. I liked learning about the ideas that went into the show’s creation and hearing from all the cast/crew about their experiences. I think if you are a fan of this show this release is going to leave you very satisfied and at least hold you off until season two begins this Fall.

Book Review “The Toy Story Films: An Animated Journey”

Author: Charles Solomon
Hardcover: 192 pages
Publisher: Disney Editions
Release Date: August 7, 2012

Our Score: 5 out of 5 stars

The “Toy Story” franchise is simply the best animated series in history. It spans over the course of 15 years, has two 2 sequels each one more amazing than the last and is loved by “kids” young and old. It is rare that each film outdoes the one before it and this franchise did just that. It also helped Pixar become the juggernaut that it is today. If “Toy Story” would have flopped, things might have been a lot different for the studio. The author of this book Charles Solomon, also authored “The Art of Toy Story 3” back in 2010, which still sits on my coffee table through today. This book is so much more than just the “Art of” the film, it dives into the development and the stories of what went into creating this wonderful franchise.

Disney Editions has released some really amazing books over the years but still one quite frankly may be their best yet. “The Toy Story Films: An Animated Journey” tells the story of select group of incredibly talented visionaries used their imaginations and created, developed and shared with the us – Woody, Buzz, and the world behind “Toy Story”. There are many interviews with the animators, directors, and voice actors that brought these films and characters to life. There is also the production artwork showcased that was the inspiration behind them. If that all isn’t cool enough there is also a few untold details about originally proposed non-Pixar “Toy Story 3”, which is something I never knew. This book is definitely a must for those who love animation and the inside look into the story of about how this franchise was created to be what it is today.

If the book isn’t great enough it has a wonderful foreword from Studio Ghibli’s Hayao Miyazaki, director of films like “Spirited Away” and “Howl’s Moving Castle”. There is also a very encouraging afterword by Pixar’s own John Lasseter. After “Toy Story 3” wrapped up the trilogy, I was upset with the idea of no more installments but who knows what the future will hold. At least for the time being we get new “Toy Story Toons” shorts every year or two. If for nothing else this book definitely reminds us that we are never too old to use our imagination. Congrats Disney Editions and Charles Solomon for delivering my favorite book of the year.

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Filed Under: Book Reviews Tagged With: animated, book, films, journey, review, story, ...

Book Review “Alien – The Illustrated Story”

Author: Archie Goodwin
Illustrator: Walt Simonson
Paperback: 64 pages
Publisher: Titan Books
Release Date: September 4, 2012

Our Score: 4 out of 5 stars

From the moment that I opened this book, I was in love. I was immediately transported back to my childhood days of comic book readings. There was just something about this that immediately captured me. I am not sure if it was the design style, the animation or maybe just colors. This book was original done back in 1979 and has been out of print for over thirty years. This edition is brand new and has been completely and meticulously restored using the original Simonson’s original artwork.

I remember watching this film sneaking behind my parents back and being absolutely terrified. I have found that this excitement and terror was immediately brought back after reading this stunning color graphic novel of Ridley Scott’s legendary sci-fi thriller! Overall if you are looking to get transported through time back to your childhood, then this is for you at at a low price of around $10. If you are looking for the Original Art Hardcover Edition, it will also be released by Titan Books on October 30, 2012 timed with the Blu-ray release of “Prometheus”.

Digital Film Review “Home: The Horror Story”

Directed by: Temístocles López
Starring: Richard Beymer, Grace Zabriskie and Tracy Nelson
MPAA Rating: Not Rated
Running Time: 90 minutes

Our Score: 1 out of 5 stars

Let me start with the fact, that it takes a lot if anything to really offend me and this one is no different. Though if you get easily offended, I would think try about this film because its primary objective is to attempt to offend you. Even though the film is subtitled “The Horror Story”, it plays like a strict comedy (although not funny at all) with no actually horror aspects. Of course unless you consider racism, pedophilia, incest, rape, and murder…aspects of horror. “Home” really does not leave anything untouched. But it is not paritcular vulgar since it approaches each issue with satire. Still I think it tries to hard to offend that it doesn’t focus on one issue to succeed in.

The film’s premise follows Bob Parkinson, a very conservative family, who after getting into a car accident ends up having to get a brain operation. After returning home he realizes that things are a lot different since he left and it is a mix between a very vivid experiences to a horrifying nightmare. He finds out his daughter was kidnapped and is being ransomed off piece by piece, his wife has turned into a sex maniac, his son is a closet homosexual who has been sleeping with a priest and much more madness.

If you are a fan of this film, originally released in 2000, you might enjoy this newly re-mastered version. It is currently available on iTunes to rent or purchase. I wouldn’t recommended it at all to be honest but to each is own. “Home” was compared to the work of John Waters but if you go that far you just might as well watch a John Waters film, since you will be met with better quality.

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Filed Under: DVD/Blu-Ray Reviews Tagged With: film, home, horror, itunes, review, story, ...

Book Review “The Hammer Story”

Author(s): Marcus Hearn, Alan Barnes
Hardcover: 192 pages
Publisher: Titan Books
Revised edition
Release Date: September 25, 2007

Our Score: 4.5 out of 5 stars

Hammer Films, legendary British company, has been release some of the best genre films in the last fifty years. It is also responsible for making international stars out of Peter Cushing and Christopher Lee and many other actors. This book is that story of this amazing company that is still making great films today like “Let Me In” and “The Woman in Black”. I have read many other book about the legacy of Hammer but they are usually about the posters art or the woman of Hammer. This gets to the real heart of Hammer’s history.

Marcus Hearn, known for his work with Hammer, is the author on the title and he got some really great insight into the history of the company and was nice enough to allow us to take a rare look into their archives. “The Hammer Story” gives a very thorough film-by-film breakdown and is jam packed with amazingly rare promotional material and previously unpublished photographs. It is really amazing to get a chance to view this material and you really get taken into this book and take a journey through its history.

The great thing about this release is that it is put out by Titan Books and they have always impressed me. The pages are so crisp and contain such beautiful high quality images. There is a forward by Mr. Christopher Lee himself. It is fantastic to get Hammer’s main star to tell his experiences but the only issue is that it was written in 1997, which was for the first edition of this book. I wish that when this book was revised in 2007 that they would have gotten Lee to update his forward. Nonetheless, this is a real treat for all horror fans and especially fans of Hammer. It is a no-brainer purchase and will make a fantastic spot on your coffee table for sure.

Film Review “Everyday Sunshine: The Story of Fishbone”

Director: Lev Anderson and Chris Metzler
Starring: Fishbone
Pale Griot Films
MPAA Rating: Not Rated
Running Time: 1 hr 47 minutes

Our Score: 5 out of 5 stars

“Everyday Sunshine: The Story of Fishbone” directed by Lev Anderson and Chris Metzler is a documentary film chronicling the legendary black punk/ska band Fishbone. The film spans the bands entire career and is filled with performance footage both new and old. Combined with archival footage and candid interviews with both the band as and fans of the group including Gwen Stefani, Ice-T and Flea of the Red Hot Chili Peppers. To top off this already stellar production the film is packed with colorful animation and is narrated by none other than actor Laurence Fishburne.

I have been a fan of Fishbone since first being exposed to the group during their energetic appearance in the 1987 cult classic “Back to the Beach” which starred Frankie Avalon and Annette Funicello. Upon hearing that someone was going to be brave enough to tackle the feet of telling this bands story I was instantly drawn in. Chris Metzler and Lev Anderson left no stone unturned no matter how sensitive the issue may have been. I felt this only added to the films appeal. I really enjoyed the films soundtrack which featured a slew of Fishbone staples. However I think what really impressed me the most about the film was the animation and still art which was heavily featured throughout the film. These visual elements really brought something different to the film and added a new take to documentary film making.

Even if you have no idea who Fishbone is I still highly recommend watching or picking up a copy of “Everyday Sunshine: The Story of Fishbone”. It is much more than just a documentary about the career and struggles of your not so typical rock and roll band. It is a must for all music fans.

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DVD Review “Under the Boardwalk: The Monopoly Story”

Directed by: Kevin Tostado
Narrated by: Zachary Levi
MPAA Rating: G
Distributed by: New Video
Running Time: 88 minutes

Film: 3.5 out of 5 stars
Extras: 3.5 out of 5 stars

Who doesn’t love “Monopoly”? Everyone has played this game at least once in their lives. This movie is a great showcase of the game and its biggest fans behind it. This game has been around for the last 75 years and I am sure that it will continue to be successful for many more years. If you are ever wondering what is the back story to how this game came to where it is today, this is the movie for you.

The film is told in two parts. One part focuses on the history of the game and how it started and spread like a virus worldwide during the depression. The second part focuses on the competitive nature of the game. It takes us through stories during the 2009 Las Vegas and World Championships of Monopoly. I never even knew that these events took place, prior to watching this. We get to meet the people that compete for these events and some of them are laughable for there devotion to the game but some are normal people like lawyers and teachers.

The special features on the disc are very impressive for a documentary. There is a thorough commentary from director Kevin Tostado. They have completed match from the 2009 World Championship final game. I enjoyed most the featurette “The Methods, Math & Myths of Monopoly”, which into mythology behind the game. In case you didn’t realize, Zachary Levi (“Tangled”, “Chuck”) narrated this film and they have a great outtake reel of this work on the film. There are a few extended scenes included but I felt the film was already paced well. Lastly there is a fun (but challenging) interactive Monopoly quiz included.

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Blu-ray Review “The Doors: Mr Mojo Risin’ -The Story of L.A. Woman”

Directors: Martin R. Smith
Starring: The Doors
Rated: NR (Not Rated)
Studio: Eagle Rock Entertainment
Run Time: 94 minutes

Film: 3.5 out of 5 stars
Extras: 3.5 out of 5 stars

“Mr Mojo Risin’” focuses on Jim Morrison’s last album “L.A. Woman” with The Doors. The special itself run about 60 minutes and feels a little short but still entertains. This goes into great depth on the band, how the album was made track by track and also about its recording. 2011 was actually the 40th anniversary of the album’s release and Morrison’s death, so it is definitely relevant. If you are fans of The Doors this definitely leave you satisfied.

Some of tracks included in the special are “The Changeling”, “Love Her Madly”, “Hyacinth House”, “Crawling King Snake”, “Riders On The Storm”, “Light My Fire”, “People Are Strange” and “Hello, I Love You”…plus many more. This film included new interviews with the three surviving members of the band included Ray Manzarek, Robbie Krieger and John Densmore. There are also new interviews from Jac Holzman (founder of their label Elektra Records), Bill Siddons (ex-manager), Bruce Botnick (co-producer of the album). I also enjoyed the archive footage of the Doors performing, as well as new musical performances from the remaining members.

The special features included about 30 minutes of additional interviews. Not sure why they were not cut back into the film, since I think it would have enhances the film. Some of the extra footage includes John Densmore talks further L.A. Woman, more on the making of “Riders On The Storm” and “Crawling King Snake”, live performance of “Thoughts On Performing” and The Doors Guide To LA. Overall the extras are impressive and worth checking out.

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DVD Review “Tall Story”

Directed by: Joshua Logan
Starring: Anthony Perkins, Jane Fonda, Murry Hamiliton
Distributed by: Warner Bros. Archive
Run Time: 91 minutes

Our Score: 4 out of 5 stars

This film is such a classic and thanks to WB Archive, you are able to own this gem on DVD. It stars a very young Anthony Perkins and Jane Fonda (in her first role ever). They are amazing together in the film and really give wonderful performances. Murry Hamilton (Mayor Vaughn from “Jaws”) also gives a funny performance. This film definitely packs the star power and is a real treat to watch. The story of the film is just so simple and sweet…don’t forget to mention funny as well. If you are looking for a good trip back to 1960, this is a must to purchase for sure.

The restored film looks amazing on DVD and shines in its black and white picture. The film is presented in widescreen format 16×9 1.85:1. The sound is also superb restored as well. I really enjoy this classics being restored and I look forward to future releases from WB Archive. Like all release though know from WB Archive there are no special features but at least we finally get this film restored on DVD.

Click here to purchase “Tall Story” at the WB Shop.

Synopsis: Jane Fonda wants a man she can look up to: a basketball player. In her debut movie, Fonda plays a college coed with a clear-cut goal: convince all-American hoopster Anthony Perkins that a bachelor’s degree doesn’t mean unmarried! From the moment the future two-time Academy Award® winner* spins her bicycle across campus (and headlong into two professors) to the romantic fadeout, it’s clear she possesses that quality called starpower. Footlight legend and longtime Fonda family friend Joshua Logan directed this frisky farce. The polished supporting cast includes the always engaging Ray Walston, Anne Jackson and Pulitzer prize-winning playwright Marc Connelly (recreating his Tony®-nominated Broadway turn). Fonda has grown into an extraordinarily tall Hollywood legend. And it all started with her in Tall Story. * Best Actress for Klute (1971) and Coming Home (1978).

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Tag: story

Mark Margolis talks about his role in “American Horror Story: Asylum”

Chloë Sevigny talks about co-starring in FX’s “American Horror Story: Asylum”

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DVD Review “Tall Story”