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1996Presidential ElectionNovember 1 - 3 Watching movies is probably a better way to prepare yourself for the pending elections. At least it keeps you from having to suffer through the endless barrage of character assassinations (funny that word has two asses in it) that crop up as TV commercials. Plus, if you watch the movies listed below, you might just be able to imagine a nation with a quality commander in chief, rather than the empty suits currently wagging their tails for a vote.
November 8 - 10 Any hack could come up with a list of movies about football (Semi-Tough, North Dallas Forty, The Longest Yard), but it takes a Doctor to dissect the topic down to five good movies starring former professional football players in roles where they're not cast primarily as a football player. Take this snap and run with it.
November 15 - 17 Any true movie buff holds a place in their heart for a dang good character actor -- and they don't come any dang gooder than Burgess Meredith, celebrating his birthday this weekend on November 16th. Here are highlights from his legendary career. Any or all are worth a first or repeat visit:
Hungry Yet? November 22 - 24 With Thanksgiving on the way, we start to get primed for that all-day food fest. Turkey, dressing, pumpkin pies and such taking us on that express train to Coronary County. Here's a handful of worthy watchables where food and the consumption thereof plays a major role.
Thanksgiving
For the long weekend of November 28 - Dec. 1 This is the one time of year where we should tuck away our cynicism and show some gratitude for the cinematic arts and the movies that made us fans in the first place. Here's a list of ten movies (a few extras for the long weekend) that we're very thankful to have seen. Gobble up these tapes early before they're gone.
Pearl Harbor Day December 6 - 8 Pearl Harbor Day is Saturday, the 7th, marking the 35th anniversary of the start of the United States' forced entry into WW2. Why not reflect with some memorable military moments collected on film?
December 13 - 15 Alright, if the Japanese had won the big war, we surely would've seen the end of Hollywood as we know it. And instead of honoring big stars like Clint Eastwood and Paul Newman, we'd might be handing Godzilla and Rodan lifetime achievement Oscars. As many movie fanatics know, a good Japanese monster movie is an acquired taste. Here're a few to get those tastebuds buzzing:
December 20 - 22 It's that hectic, gift-givin', shop-til-ya-drop season. While you're out shopping for everybody else, don't forget to buy something for your own self. These fine films would look great on your video shelf -- and are the kind of movies you can watch over and over and always dig.
Deck the Movie Halls For the week of December 23 - 28 Digging up "Christmas Movies" is one thing. But coming up with a list of movies that take place at Christmas, but really have nothing to do with Christmas is another. If you find yourself fed up with those visiting relatives, slip away to the VCR for some rip-roarin' relief with any of these enjoyable playables.
1997Psychic Film ConnectionFor the week of December 29 - January 5 As we look ahead at the new year, we start to think of what's to come. Watch these futuristic flicks for a vision of tomorrow. Some good. Some bad. All possible.
King for a Weekend January 10 - 12 Elvis Presley is decidedly the King of Rock & Roll, but he also carved out quite a niche for himself as a star of the silver screen. Most modern-day film critics dismiss these efforts as a waste of celluloid, but we disagree. There's no more powerful kitsch than an Elvis movie -- fast cars, fabulous babes, implausible scenarios, and more music than you can shake a hip at. In honor of the King's birthday (January 8, 1935), here's a taste of the best.
Snow Blind January 17-19 Winter is wielding an ugly stick these days, dropping snow and ice all around the Northern hemisphere. Here are some movies where the cold weather is a major antagonist.
Alternative Sports January 24-26 Okay, it's Super Bowl Weekend, but not everybody wants to spend it overloading on pigskin. Below are five movies that give us a picture of sports other than football.
Clark Gable January 31 - February 2 Gable was nicknamed "the King" (before Elvis usurped his title,) underscoring his stature as one of the first truly global movie stars. He was legendary among film fans as a dashing hero, despite the fact that he was legendary among his co-stars for wicked cigar breath. Nevertheless, he did win a Best Actor Oscar for It Happened One Night and made an indelible mark as Rhett Butler, so let's send him a posthumous birthday wish (Feb. 1st) and watch five of his best.
He Shoots, He Scores February 7 - 9 The NBA All-Star game is on Sunday, so the Doc suggests an all-basketball weekend. Choose some of these roundball classics, and watch your VCR go for a triple double.
St. Valentine's Day Massacre February 14 - 16 Al Capone did a dirty deed on Valentine's Day back in 1927, lining up seven of his least-favorite enemies against a wall and gunning them down. Since then, the traditional day of love has been tainted with the echo of a gangster's machine gun. Here are five memorable mafia movies to mark the weekend.
To Your Dental Health February 21-23 It's Dental Health Week, and your pearly whites will probably need some attention after eating all those Valentine candies. Here are five flicks you can really sink your teeth into.
A Short Order February 28 - March 2 Just when we're learning how to spell it, February up and splits on us. Since it's the shortest month, let's put the spotlight on some of Hollywood's shortest male stars. As they say in Hollywood, "It's not the height of the actor, but the weight of his box office...."
March 7 - 9 Women rule! The Doc is hoping to counteract his reputation as a "he-man woman hater" (earned from too many sweaty hours spent in divorce court) by recommending five classic representations of the female in her finest hour. And actually, I do love women. It's their mothers I can't stand.
A Day for Patricks March 14-17 While everyone else is getting sick on green beer and rubbing up against stinkin' drunks singing Irish limericks, you can be tucked away safe in your home theater, conducting your own tribute to the saints of cinema, the Patricks. Each of these movies is sure to make you dance a jig.
The Best Pix Picks March 21-23 As you get warmed up for Oscar Night, why not pop a few of these Best Picture winners into the ol' tape eater. Maybe the Academy does know how to pick a deserving winner now and then.
Good Eggs March 28-31 It's Easter time, and instead of spending your weekend coloring and hunting eggs, why not watch some "good eggs" from the movies. These films feature good actors playing good guys in good films.
Daylight Savings April 4-6 Well, we're setting our clocks forward here in the U.S., trying to squeeze an extra hour of light out of the day, but the best cinematographers know how to create light whenever they need it. Check out these films, known for some of the most memorable lighting ever captured on celluloid.
April Showers April 11-13 Well, it's the season of raindrops, umbrellas, and yellow slickers. Why not take the wet and sloppy feelin' into the house, and watch one or more of these flicks with classic shower scenes.
Friday birthday greetings to Honey's Hubby, Rick Moranis, famous for his days on "SCTV" and for film roles in the Honey, I Shrunk... movies and as Louis Tully in the Ghostbusters films. Let's wish this unsung hero of the big screen a happy day by viewing a few of his films.
The Cruelest Month April 25-27The writer T. S. Elliot called April "the cruelest month." If you want to really get into the meaning of the month, try watching some of these selections, notable for having severe cruelty on display.
May 2 - 4 It's May Day, and that phrase always brings to mind the international distress call, made famous by crashing war pilots. In the spirit of the verbage, check out one of history's greatest disaster pictures. Here are five of 'em to get you thinking. And remember, buckle up for safety.
Mother May I? May 9 - 11 Sunday is Mother's Day, and in honor of this special day, we spotlight five movies where the mom of the house isn't always a model citizen. Quite frankly, these dames ain't June Cleaver, but they sure are fun to watch.
Birthday Bill May 16-18 Back at the first of the year, when I was marking up my prescription calendar, Bill Paxton was one of Hollywood's unsung heroes, having offered stellar performances in the shadow of bigger stars and huge special effects. Well, ol' Bill is celebrating a birthday on Saturday, and his horoscope is looking up, as he continues to climb toward the ranks of the A-list. 1997 finds him in the high-profile U. S. Marshals and Titanic, as well as the independent special Traveller, which he helped produce.
Unforgettables Memorial Day - For the long weekend of May 23-26 Bio pics are designed to help us remember the memorable people and their accomplishments. For this U. S. holiday weekend, we spotlight ten biographical studies, that also happen to be entertaining movies.
May 30 - June 1 Menacing insects make for good movie material, and this weekend we've collected the best specimens available. Here's hoping they give you a good buzz.
June 6 - June 8 The summer's starting to really kick in, and some of us are getting quite good at the movie theatre mambo. Here are movies about moviegoing. Got it? Good.
June 13 - 15 Here we use "father" in the biblical sense, as it were (priests, preachers, reverends -- you know, the leader of the flock.) Check out these on-screen ministers in memorable cinematic missives.
Happy Birthday, John Goodman (June 20) June 20-22 The Big Man, always underappreciated amid the pretty boy lead actors of our time, seems to consistently trot out some really good film work, despite spending the past decade putting up with Roseanne on his day job. Let's blow some birthday candles his way and watch a sampling of his onscreen stuff.
June Brides June 27-29 This summer month is the traditional time for gettin' hitched, and who are we to object? In the spirit of the season, here are five decent wedding movies for married and single folk alike.
Independence Day July 4-7 In the U.S. we celebrate our independence by grilling dogs and shootin' off fireworks. But what could we add to the joyous occasion that would make it all just perfect? How 'bout watching some of the best independent movies to hit the screen from recent years. Here's a healthy sampling to help you through the holiday.
July 11-13 There's nothing like some sweat and steam to add to the tension of a dramatic scene. Here are five films that make you yearn for a big glass of iced tea and a chilly roll in the snow.
July 18-20 This weekend we're drawn to that oasis up there on the ridge ahead. Doh! It's a mirage. Anyway, if we're stuck in the desert, we might as well watch a good movie with a ton of sand, heat, and those dust-encrusted crows-feet stains made famous by many a movie makeup artist.
July 25-28 Okay, so I've tortured you two weekends in a row with those hot, hot flicks. Now, here's something to relieve you -- five movies famous for their snowy surroundings.
August 1 - 3 Take off for a bit of virtual fun and frolic, with these famous vacation movies.
Aug 8-10 In recognition of the 20th anniversary of Elvis Presley's death, I thought I'd hold an all-weekend vigil and watch only Elvis movies. Then, I realized my colon couldn't stand that much cheese. So, instead, I thought I'd watch a weekend's worth of Elvis concerts. Problem is, though I do love the King, I can only take so many renditions of "C.C. Rider." Alright, a compromise -- here are five of the best rock n' roll concert movies ever made. Thankyouverymuch.
August 15-17 Since it's too hot to get out and do anything, why not make yourself feel better by watching other folks who aren't really doing anything. Check out these flicks famous for folks just sittin' around talking.
August 22-24 Hit the pavement and don't look back. Fill up the tank, check the air pressure, and...what the heck, just watch these famous "roadtrip" movies instead and save yourself some gas money.
Labor Day For the long weekend of Aug. 29 - Sept. 1 Well, it's not often that I get "Labor Day" as a paid vacation. In fact, one year during a full moon, we had five Carver Point newborns hatched on Labor Day, so in honor of those birthdays, here are ten films where being born is a plot point.
Back to School September 5-7 Well, it's back to school time, in more ways than one. Once the kiddies head back to the classroom, I get a few weeks of peace from summertime tetanus shots and stitches before the cold weather turns and we start treating whoopin' cough and the latest influx of foreign flu. So, to stay in the spirit of education, I usually spend time with a school of my own -- the one that gathers in old man Willowbee's catfish pond. If you're not the outdoorsy type, here are some seaworthy movies to suit the season.
Indian Summer September 12-14 At harvest time, the nights start to cool down, the leaves start to change colors, and we start sniffin' around for fall, but for the original North American settlers, it's still summer. Or at least that's what we've been customarily led to believe. So now, we call it "Indian Summer" though it's the start of autumn in the minds of many. Confused, yet? Whatever the case, let's just watch some good Indian flicks this weekend.
Happy Birthday, Sophia Loren September 19-21 For someone celebrating her 63rd birthday this Saturday, Ms. Sofia Villani Scicolone, a.k.a. "Sophia Loren," still looks quite fetching. See her "striptease" in Ready to Wear (it's the only thing good about the film). In addition to her ageless beauty, this femme can certainly act, as proven by her handful of Oscars®.
Sept. 26-28 The pennant races are heatin' up to the boiling point, and the national pasttime makes for some riveting drama. But, for some folks out there, the fat lady's already singing, and they're looking for a new distraction. So, if your team's already been mathematically eliminated from the picture, try some of these great baseball flicks as a substitute.
Happy B'day, Susan Sarandon October 3-5 She's played a cello-playing witch, a death row nun, and did the time warp with a cross-dressing Tim Curry. All that range deserves more recognition than just an Oscar, so we've devoted a whole weekend to her on her birthday (October 4th).
World Series (Foreign Films) October 10-12 As the National and American League champs battle to the death for baseball's ultimate glory, the other countries around the world have to watch in curious envy...how can this be a world series, if we're not playing for the title too? Okay, as an olive branch, here are some past title holders in the world film series of years past.
National Bosses Day (Oct. 16th) October 17-19 Ever had a wonderful boss who you just wanted to lavish with gifts and affection on a day named especially in his honor? Me neither. Instead of supporting a bogus honorary day like this week's Bosses Day, why not watch five films that show things with a bit more truth: bad bosses on film.
Daylight Savings Ends October 24-26 Here in the U. S., we've been enjoying those well-lit evenings of fall frisbee, chicken suppers on the lawn, and the Great Forest Munchkin Races. And, now that we're setting the clocks back to standard time, I guess they're all over. Back inside to the VCR, troops. It's dark outside -- let's watch some great black comedies.
Tricks and Treats Oct. 31-Nov. 2 Anybody can come up with a list of scary movies for Halloween, but if you stumble into the store a little late, they've all been rented already. So, instead, how 'bout this list of movies about magic and candy?!
Leaves like an Artist's Palette Nov. 7-9 As Mother Nature paints her colorful canvas with the glowing harvest spread...Bah! Who am I kidding? I'm no Robert Frost. Let's just watch some brightly colored animated films while we melt cheese by the microwave.
No...vember Nov. 14-16 Movies with the word "no" in the title. 'Nuff said.
Leather Weather Nov. 21-23 Geez. This morning I went out and had to scrape ice off my truck windshield. Whatsup wi' dat?! We don't have ice in Georgia 'til late December at the earliest! It's that dang El Niño crap, screwin' around with my weather habits. Well, I won't fight it; I'll just break out the leather jacket. In that vein, here's a handful of flicks where the cowskins are on cinematic display.
Turkey Day Nov. 27-30 - For the long Thanksgiving weekend Gobble up these lousy, but lovable movies. It's ten of the worst films ever constructed, replete with inane dialogue, continuity errors, and plots so thin you won't miss a thing if you stroll into the kitchen to make another Turkey sandwich.
Disney on Ice Dec. 5-7 Friday is Walt Disney's birthday, and the legendary Mickey mogul may show up again up some year to blow out his birthday candles. You see, according to rumor, he's been cryogenically frozen, awaiting the day that science can bring him back to life. Well, when he wakes up, here are five flicks that he'll be able to identify with -- each one involving aged ice as a plot point.
Christmas Packages Dec 12-14 No mere paper cuts here; we're talking serious explosives wrapped up for delivery in a most violent way. Here are five flicks armed and ticking.
Now is the winter of our discontent Dec 19-21 Shakespeare's Richard III is this week's erudite inspiration. But what I'm really talking about is just a bunch of grumbling, unhappy, ticked-off people trudging through their lives and making us laugh in the process.
Year in Review - Flashback movies Dec 24-28 As the year draws to a close, we're apt to look back and remember. These ten films are so busy looking back, they oughta come standard equipped with a rear-view mirror.
1998Happy Mel-DayJanuary 2-4 Mad Max himself is celebrating a birthday this Saturday, so let's honor the actor/producer/director by watching five of his finest flicks.
The Big 2K Jan. 9 - 11 We're one week closer to the future, the big 2K, the year 2000. It's only fitting that we celebrate the New Year by spending the weekend with some "2000" movies.
Equality Is Job One Jan. 16 - 18 This long weekend is bracketed by Martin Luther King's birthday, born on the 15th and celebrated on the 19th. Take a sec to think about the man's message, and check these films about other leaders in the cause of equality.
The Bogie Bowl Jan. 23 - 25 It's Super Bowl Weekend! Football, halftime shows, expensive commercials! And probably another boring blow-out. Instead, let's celebrate another super event that happened on Jan. 23. A legend was born that day, one who still commands respect. He gave us the antihero, the good guy that wasn't too good, and the bad guy that wasn't too bad. If football ain't your cup of lukewarm beer, sip on a quart of Humphrey Bogart films. Happy Birthday, Bogie.
Rodents R Us Jan. 30 - Feb. 1 We're knocking on the door of the funkiest little holiday to ever grace a calender. Yes, dear fans of furry creatures, it's almost Groundhog Day. Why not spend the weekend getting into the spirit with some other little huggable rodents?
Hot Hot Hot Feb. 6 - 8 We're halfway through winter now. El Niño has battered and beaten us to death, we're all grumpy and tired of soggy shoes and muddy walks with the dog. Sniffling, sneezing, coughing, aching, stuffy-head, fever, so-you-can-rest medicine has left your tongue green and your tastebuds scalded. Here's a thought to brighten up the grey days. Throw on your Hawaiian shirt, your Bermuda shorts, and your flip-flops, grab a bottle of margarita mix, and turn the sunlamp to "griddle," while you watch these "hot hot hot" movies.
Feb. 13 - 15 This is one forevermore interesting weekend. We got a Friday the 13th, then Valentine's Day, then President's Day, all in the space of four days. It's only fitting that we hit every piece of the pie, I suppose, so enjoy this tailor-made weekend, cut to fit for everyone's pleasures.
Nada Feb. 20 - 22 With all due respect all you guys birthdays, anniversaries, and what have you, this is a truly remarkable weekend in that absolutely NOTHING is going on! What better reason to have a party? If "Seinfeld" can thrive as a show about nothing, why not have a "nothing" weekend, and watch these "nothing" movies.
Opie Cunningham Feb. 27 - March 1 He's been with us forever, it seems. Two generations of folks grew up with him on television, another grows up to his films. It's Ronnie Howard's birthday on March 1, and ol' Opie Cunningham deserves a tribute. Take a few minutes and watch these films featuring Ron Howard the actor, and Ron Howard the director, producer, and writer.
King George March 6 - 8 Twenty-three years ago this weekend, the film business lost a legend. George Stevens was a writer, a producer, a cinematographer, and a director for five decades in Hollywood. His visions graced everyone from James Dean to Laurel and Hardy, from Elizabeth Taylor to Katharine Hepburn. Few in the business could give such scope to his work. If you don't quite remember his name, you'll definitely remember his films.
Don't Say Mafia March 20 - 22 Some 26 years ago, on March 21, 1972, a movie was released that not only changed movie history forever, but gave us a bushel-basket full of new talent that still graces our screens today, in acting and in directing. There's no film fanatic alive that can argue that it was and still is one of the greatest movies ever made. It will require a little time, but, a true fan can always find the time to see The Godfather, and the rest of the Corleone saga.
Put Me In Coach March 27 - 29 It's here! IT'S FINALLY HERE!!! BASEBALL!!! The sport beyond all sports, the sport that has birthed a thousand legends, and a thousand or so movies. Get primed up for the pinetar with these classics. Pick any four, grab a bag of roasted peanuts, and play ball!
Happy Birthday, Spencer Tracy and Bette Davis! April 3 - 5 Believe it or not, two of the finest stars in the Hollywood galaxy were born on the same day, April 5. Spencer Tracy was the epitome of the hard-working actor, and Bette Davis was the first "queen" of Hollywood. Neither will ever be equalled, both are missed more and more every day. Prepare to bow before the gods of Hollywood's golden years. Spencer Tracy:
Bette Davis:
Sugar-cured Hams April 10 - 12 Easter Weekend! Fancy clothes, colored eggs, jelly beans, yadda-yadda-yadda. And what would Easter be without a few HUGE hams to snack on throughout the weekend. Here's some of Hollywood's biggest hams, porking through their Sugar-cured roles.
Master of Disaster April 17 - 19 On April 15th, 1912, the Titanic sideswiped an iceberg and sunk in the North Atlantic. That disaster we know about. The ones we didn't know about, but somehow should have, are the ones that Disaster King Irwin Allen gave us. He's killed more people than DeMille, Peckinpah, and John Woo combined, and for a point in movie history, he made disasters the coolest thing in town. Revel in the misery of others, and watch these three Allen disaster greats, and one from the competition.
And One to Grow On April 24 - 26 Another obscure holiday is upon us -- Arbor Day. Redwood, cedar, oak and pine, movies about wood are doggone fine. (What do you want from me? Joyce Kilmer?) Here are some movies about trees, wood, and other wood-type stuff.
May Day May 1 - 3 May 1st is a big day in many countries, but nowhere is it bigger than in Russia. Parades, celebrations, feasting, the whole enchilada, er...the whole borscht, as it were. So, how about some Russian-flavored movies to get us in the spirit of May Day.
Unsung Heroes May 8 - 10 The unsung heroes finally get their due on National Teacher's Day (May 6). And with that should come memories of some special teacher that got under your skin and made an impression on your soul. Remember those great educators, and watch these movies that celebrate the passion and hard work that goes into teaching.
Sayonara Seinfeld May 15 - 17 The some-called 'best sitcom ever' is abandoning new episodes this week, leaving behind a vast emptiness among us diehard "Seinfeld" fans. As a final send-off, why not fill out the weekend watching the supporting cast in action on celluloid?
Memorial Day Weekend May 22 - 25 A long weekend is always a good thing, and one that pays tribute to those who fell in battle fighting for their country is even better. Memorial Day weekend deserves a big selection of war movies, and this one's no exception.
Pay the Vincent Price May 29 - 31 Humor me this weekend, and help me remember my namesake, the late great Vincent Price, born May 27. He was a class act, and deserves to be thought of as more than just a horror actor. This was one outstanding renaissance man. Here are six of his best, and for more on this great thespian I encourage you to read my essay.
Happy Birthday, Liam Neeson June 5-7 Forklift operator-turned-movie star, Liam Neeson turns 46 on Sunday. We're all chomping at the bit for his upcoming project, Stars Wars: Episode I, but until then, let's reflect on snippets from his impressive resume.
Flag Day June 12-14 June 14th is Flag Day in the old U.S. of A., and here's a handful of films to bring out your patriotic best.
Father John June 19-21 You know him best as Frasier Crane's dad, Marty, on TV's "Frasier", but he's John Mahoney -- one of the best supporting actors in filmdom today. He made a memorable mark playing another dad -- in Cameron Crowe's 1987 teen angst classic, Say Anything. And he pulled the trick again in Ed Burns' She's the One, but he's done more than just dad. Here are a few from his catalog.
Birth of the Dark Knight June 26-28 On this week back in 1989, Warner Bros. finally backed up the hype with the release of its much-anticipated Batman, brought to the screen by quirky auteur Tim Burton. Not only did it clean up at the box office, but it launched a parade of splashy comic book flicks that still continues today.
Fireworks July 3-5 This weekend while we American-types are doing the independent thing, we're sure to witness a few impressive fireworks displays. If you don't like loud noises though, you might just stay in, keep the volume low, and watch these fireworked videos instead.
Happy Birthday, Indiana Solo July 10-12 The super action king, Harrison Ford, celebrates his birthday on Monday. Throw your own little party for the man by watching a few of his other movies. They may not have all been box office gold like his Lucas/Spielberg projects, but whenever Harrison's at work there's acting nuggets in them their hills.
Going Bananas July 17-18 Some folks think we evolved from them; others don't. Some folks think we'll evolve into them. Some folks think they make good astronauts. Some just like to watch them throw stuff at the windows in the zoo. I don't have a strong opinion on any count, but I do say this much -- ain't nothing like a good monkey movie.
Home Sweet Home July 24-26 For some reason, I've been craving candy lately. M&Ms, Whoppers, Snickers, Milky Way -- you name it, I want it. But this weekend, instead of loading up on the sweets and launching my caloric intake like a bottle rocket, I think I'll just watch movies where they take centerstage. In the immortal words of Homer Simpson: "Ooooooh...choc-o-late."
Happy Birthday, Ah-nold! July 31- Aug. 2 Who woulda thought that an Austrian bodybuilder would evolve into one of filmdom's biggest stars? It's Arnold Schwarzenegger's birthday weekend (8/30). In his honor, why not flex your eye muscles and watch a few of Arnold's best.
Sturges Resurgence Aug. 7 - 9 Writer-Director Preston Sturges died this weekend back in 1959. Not only did this legendary filmmaker invent "kiss-proof lipstick," he also helped invent the 'screwball comedy' genre. Unfortunately, many folks these days don't even remember his name. Do yourself a favor and stop by the classics section of your video store for one or more of these entertaining Sturges' treats.
Gallop Poll Aug. 14 - 16 Six years ago this week, Clint Eastwood's Unforgiven was all the rage having opened to wide acclaim and a fat box office. The pic would go on to clean up at the Oscars, punctuating the revisionist trend begun in 1990 by Kevin Costner's Dances with Wolves. Here are a few other offbeat Western tales worth saddling up for.
Drive, He Said Aug. 21 - 23 On occasion we combine seemingly discordant things and come up with something new and wonderful. Tony Curtis and Janet Leigh merged to create the remarkable and enjoyable Jamie Lee Curtis. Of course, there's the chocolate and peanut butter collison that brought about Reese's Cups (free plug = free candy? it's worth a shot....), but who would have thought that cars would combine so wonderfully with movies. We have the drive-in, the drive-through video drop box, and best of all, the driving movie! Floor it to your local rental spot and test drive a few of these excellent road movies.
Troman Holiday Aug. 28 - 30 Many moons ago, a young filmmaker named Lloyd Kaufman decided to avoid the Oscar rat race, and just make goofy, outrageous, over-the-top movies to please the masses. Now, after over 150 of those low-budget blasterpieces, Kaufman's Troma Entertainment still delivers the goods. Here are a few Troma classics to keep you busy this weekend.
Labor Disreputes Sept. 4 - 7 There's nothing like big business to make a good villain, and thus give us a gripping conflict-filled drama. Nothing, that is, except a big union. Or maybe a big business is more villainous. Or maybe a big union...? I can't decide. Either way, they make for some big movies.
Fab Four Minus Three Sept. 11 - 13 It's a fact that the Beatles made some great music. But those moptops made their share of good movies too: A Hard Day's Night, Help, and, the ultra-experimental Magical Mystery Tour. Though you won't get an argument that they did their best work as a foursome, both on wax and on screen, their cinematic solo efforts, like their solo discs, weren't all that bad either. Here are a handful of their films, featuring involvement from a solitary Beatle.
Sept. 18 - 20 Granted, stand-up comic concert films aren't what you think of when you think 'cinema', but in a sense, it's in that genre that you'll find some of the best comedy performances ever captured on film. In the nonexistent category of Best Performance by a Stand-Up Comic in a Concert Film, the Oscars go to....
We Have Liftoff! Sept. 25 - 27 When John F. Kennedy decided that the USA was aiming for a moon landing, little did he know he was creating a new genre of sci-fi movie in the process. Here's a handful of films where NASA and the whole astronaut thing takes center stage.
The Rat Pack Oct. 2 - 4 An exclusive club like no other -- just a quintet of cool playboys prowlin' that jazzy, Vegas scene. Sinatra, Martin, Davis, Bishop, and Lawford. Nobody could swing like those cats. And hey, they could act a little too.
Wayan In Oct. 9 - 11 Nobody knows nepotism like Keenen Ivory Wayans. Few writer-director-producer types have brought so many relatives into the business than this New York born hyphenate. Lucky for him -- and fans of film comedy -- his siblings are as talented as he is. Here is a selection from the "Wayans Genre."
Lean on Me October 16-18 When it came to epics, few filmmakers could hold court with the late great David Lean. Sure, some of his lesser fare should be viewed after a refreshing nap, but his best films, no matter how long, are riveting masterpieces.
The Write Stuff October 23-25 Some great sage once advised: "Write what you know." And in the film business, a lot of screenwriters know...writing. And as a result, we get a lot of movie characters who write for a living. Here are four flicks to rent where the advice paid off with spectacular results.
Hallow-queen October 30 - Nov. 1 Monster movies are a dime a dozen, but harder to find is the film where a female character gives us a fright. Here's a quartet of scary flicks with a feminine twist.
Carpenter's Nails Nov. 6 - 8 With the release of Vampires, camp horror master John Carpenter is back in his element. Few directors have elevated the B-movie to A-list status like the inventor of Michael Myers and Snake Plissken. And he even writes and plays his own music!
You Can Call Him Ray Nov. 13 - 15 The Welsh-born Ray Milland doesn't come to mind when people think of great movie stars, but his appeal provided him a career chock full of terrific performances and entertaining movies. He won an Oscar for Best Actor in 1945's The Lost Weekend and in later years turned to directing as well.
Twelve O'Clock Low Nov. 20 - 22 For some reason, the witchin' hour -- twelve o'clock midnight -- seems to be dead center in a bunch of film plots...and film titles. And, discounting the array of soft-core sex flicks copping the word, midnight appears in the title of a surprising lot of high-caliber movies. Set your clock and get started.
Pass the dressing... Nov. 27 - 29 Okay, it's Thanksgiving in the U.S., so I coulda recommended some 'turkey' movies, or movies that I'm "thankful" for, but I've done that in years past. Instead, how 'bout holding the turkey, and passing the "dressing." This short list features movies where big-name stars made headlines by doffing their clothes.
By the way, if you're into this sort of thing, check out the Bare Facts Video Guide. Not as sleazy as you'd think, this "revealing" book is an amusing and well-documented work by Craig Hosoda. Tapped Out Dec. 4 - 6 As most of you know, one of my all-time favorite movies is the Rob Reiner classic This Is Spinal Tap. Well, the Fab Four Minus One -- Chris Guest, Michael McKean, and Harry Shearer -- have also busied themselves through the year in a host of other funny features. Here are a few of the best, involving at least one of the Tapsters.
Happy Birthday, Malkovich Dec. 11 - 12 If I'm ever audited by the IRS, I know of one guy who I'd like to have by my side. John Malkovich. I have no idea whether the guy knows a thing about taxes; it really doesn't matter 'cause I just know that his twisted intimidation would be enough to escort me through any troubles. December 9th is the man's birthday, so why not check out a few of his more memorable movies.
Happy Hitchcock Holidays Dec. 18 - 20 We film fans deserve to treat ourselves now and again to a gift-wrapped specialty. And what better way to wind down the year than with a fearsome foursome of classic thrillers from the master, Alfred Hitchcock.
A Bowlful of Jelly Dec. 25 - 27 Well, Santa Claus may have been the original tubby superstar, but in its hundred year history, the movie industry has launched a few hefty fellas into the world of celebrity. There was Orson Welles, Oliver Hardy, Fatty Arbunkle, Charles Laughton, and others. And in this age of style over substance, it's refreshing to see a big 'un break out of the pack and make a cinematic cannonball splash. As you're nibbling on Christmas cookies and tossing back a third helping of roast beast, you might consider popping one of these scale-tipping videos into the VCR.
A Sack of Cusacks Jan. 1 - 3 It's not uncommon for families to spit out a home team full of acting siblings -- we've got the Baldwins, the Wayans, and the Arquettes to name a few. But few families pack the sheer acting whallop of the Cusacks, namely John and Joan (there are also up-and-comers Ann and Bill, and father Dick, a filmmaker and sometime actor). Here are a few memorable entries from the Cusack family filmography.
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