Nerd 5 Presents: The 12 Days of Christmas Day 12!

Day 12. The Muppet Christmas Carol – There are landmark films in everyone’s life, films that you can remember the first time you watch them, they make you laugh or cry just like it’s the first time each time you watch them, and no matter how many times you’ve seen it the movie still affects you. This is the joy of filmmaking; landmark films are why we continue to watch, why the art form has thrived, and why movies are an essential core of American culture. These films usually make a personal connection and their actual quality, though usually high, matters very little.

It is my extreme pleasure to talk about The Muppet Christmas Carol, one of my landmark films. The songs are as emotional as ever, the jokes never get old, and Michael Caine’s Ebenezer Scrooge is wonderfully cruel yet compassionate. I can remember this first time I saw the film in small theatre in Pasco, WA (a theatre that sadly no longer exists) with my Dad. I can remember the awe and joy I felt that day, as well as my silly notion that I could meet the actors after the movie. As a kid I thought that that movie played out live behind the screen, so when the film was done I rushed toward the exit door by the movie screen looking to meet all my favorite Muppets. Luckily, my Dad beat me to the door and kept me from rushing out and ruining the illusion; instead he went through the door, signed a napkin with all the Muppet’s names and came back and told me “that The Muppets were so happy I enjoyed the movie, but they were getting ready to do it again and wished me a merry Christmas.” It’s moments like these that last a lifetime and why a gleefully look forward to watching The Muppet Christmas Carol every year.

As for the film itself, this is a glorious rendition of a classic tale, it’s faithful and unique at the same time; it feels scary and hopeful while at the same time being full of Christmas spirit and Muppet mayhem. It’s weird to say that what works about this film is its perfect casting yet that’s exactly what puts it over the top. Caine gives one of the best performances of Scrooge ever put on film, its honest and grounded, which is always needed when dealing with fantasy elements and puppets. Caine is the emotional through line of this film and understands not only the layers and depth of his character but how it works within the context of the film that he’s in. The Muppets themselves take a back seat to Caine, which is rare for a Muppet film, yet, it work in every way. Kermit the Frog is one of the big screen’s best everymen and is the easy to choice to play Bob Cratchit, while the littlest frog Robin is simply heart wrenching as Tiny Tim. I could ramble on about why each part is perfectly played by Muppets that almost seem built for the roles and yet I digress.

But what makes this version of Dickens’ Christmas Carol different from the others? What sets it aside as a genuine Christmas classic and classic film in general? It’s Dickens’ himself, played by The Great Gonzo (Dave Goelz, muppiteer and voice) and his sidekick Rizzo the Rat (Steve Whitmire, muppiteer and voice) that push this film to the top of the pile. Gonzo plays Dicken as the narrator of the story; he guides us through the adventure while never talking down to his audience but talking with them, and seamlessly using lines from the book with his own interpretation to make the story endlessly accessible. Rizzo serves as a surrogate for us, the modern audience, allowing for more humor in the story than ever before and keeps this train chugging along at all times, while breaking the fourth wall at every possible moment.

The Muppets were meta before it was cool to be meta, referencing themselves as actors, speaking to each other in private moments and addressing the audience on several occasions; all of this is used to great effect. While the script is not an entirely word for word adaptation, nor should it be. A few examples of these changes are Fuzzwig’s Rubber Chicken Factory and the song “Marley and Marley” are just some of the small but appropriate changes. Jerry Juhl’s script and Paul Williams’ songs are faithful to the spirit of the book while becoming completely unique and special all in their own right.

I can’t recommend this film enough, its great addition to any holiday season and a film that I certainly could be without. And remember, wherever you find love, it feels like Christmas! Merry Christmas, dear readers, and happy new year. Thanks for a great 2013 and an even better 2014!

Nerd 5 Presents: The 12 Days of Christmas Day 11!

Day 11. Little Women – This is one of my all-time favorite movies, yeah… I’m admitting that. But it’s sooooo good. Okay, fan gushing aside I do love Little Women. The book, the classic film and yes the 1994 version starring Winona Ryder, Claire Danes, Kirsten Dunst, Samantha Mathis, Gabriel Byrne, Eric Stoltz, Christian Bale, Trini Alvarado, and Susan Sarandon is one of favorite films.

Ryder in the role of Jo March earned an Oscar nomination for best actress and the film is a beautiful telling of the story. Writer Robin Swicord adapts Louisa May Alcott’s novel with precision allowing all of the characters to flourish in their screen time. Director Gillian Armstrong delivers an amazing backdrop for this film to take place in and each moment hits honestly and accurately. The American Civil War is the perfect framework for this story of early female independence and strength.  Also earning Oscar nominations for Colleen Atwood’s costume design and Thomas Newman’s score Little Women is worthy of your attention any time of year.

So why does it appear on my Christmas list? Most crucial scenes of the piece take place around the holiday season. It serves as marker for the March family, showing time passing and giving them the reason to come together as family. While Christmas itself plays a vital role in the story, it’s the sense of giving, holiday spirit, and most importantly family that make this film a perfect watch the holiday season.  

Happy Christmas Eve Everyone! See you tomorrow for my number one all time Christmas film, can you guess what it is?

Nerd 5 Presents: The 12 Days of Christmas Days 4-9!

Oh… dear readers, it’s been a very busy week at work and with life, so as you can see the 12 days of Christmas count down has been interrupted. But I’m back! And hopefully going to make sure that we finish on a strong note. Tonight’s article is a catch up on days 4 through 9, not quite as in depth as some of the other in this series but just as packed with holiday joy.

Day 4. Jingle All the Way – Now, am I going to tell you that 1996’s Jingle All the Way staring the dynamic duo of Arnold Schwarzenegger and Sinbad is a good film? No. But I will tell you that it’s hard to look away. Much like a car crash that you can’t help but stare at Jingle All the Way is so bad, it’s entertaining. For a bit of a change of pace this holiday season pop in this piece of 90s of gold and enjoy some of the most nonsensical, demented, and forced family fun of the season.

Day 5. The Man Who Came to Dinner – Based on the 1939 play by Kaufman and Hart The Man Who Came to Dinner is a hilarious film starring Monty Woolley, Bette Davis, and Ann Sheridan. The play has become a community theatre standard and the ’42 film has become a classic in its own right. The Man Who Came to Dinner tells the story of Sheridan Whiteside, an acerbic critic, who slips on the front steps of an Ohio businessman’s home and breaks his hip, then he and his eccentric entourage take over the home for the holidays. This film was first introduced to me a couple of years ago by my good friend Nick, one of the stories biggest fans, and I thoroughly enjoyed the film and it only gets better with every watch. Enjoy this classic piece of Hollywood cinema.   

Day 6. It’s A Wonderful Life– Speaking of classic Hollywood cinema, It’s a Wonderful Life is a film that has found eternal life. Made in 1946 this film is more popular today than it was upon its release. Featuring James “Jimmy” Stewart, Donna Reed, Lionel Barrymore, Thomas Mitchell, and Henry Travers It’s a Wonderful Life originally opened to mix reviews and got lost in the end of year shuffle of 1946, although it went on to gross quite a bit of money in 1947 the film found a home, years later, on TV. Where it has been shown for decades upon decades and has become beloved by many generations. Stewart would later go onto say that George Bailey was his most favorite part. This film has become one of the most parodied films of all time, by other films, countless TV shows (including this season’s Christmas episode of The Big Bang Theory), plays, and music videos have all done variations on George Bialiey’s story. If for some reason you’ve not see It’s a Wonderful Life, take this holiday season to fix that problem.

7. Batman Returns – Everyone has a film or two that they watch around Christmas time that’s not really a holiday film but it happens to take place around the holiday season. For a lot od people that film is Die Hard, and while I do love Die Hard, the film that fits my non-holiday holiday film is 1992’s Batman Returns. Tim Burton’s dark tale (a most redundant phrase) finds Gotham City under siege from a gross penguin (Danny DeVito), and unscrupulous businessman (Christopher Walker) and, of course, Catwoman (Michelle Pfeiffer) and only Michael Keaton’s Batman can save the day. This is a fun, old-school superhero film that holds up well today and is my favorite of the 80s-90s batman series. Take a trip back to 1992’s Gotham City and get lost in the cold, dark world of Batman Returns 

Day 8. The Family Stone – A highly underrated film The Family Stone is a perfect blend of dramatic, comedic, and emotional moments. Telling the story of what happens when the Stone family gets together for Christmas this film features a great ensemble cast that includes: Claire Danes, Diane Keaton, Rachel McAdams, Dermot Mulroney, Craig T. Nelson, Sarah Jessica Parker, Luke Wilson, Tyrone Giordano, Brian White, and Elizabeth Reaser. While it’s not a perfect film it hits all the right emotional moments and really lets us care about every member of the Stone family. 2005’s The Family Stone is a great watch for any holiday season.

Day 9. White Christmas– The best of the classic Christmas musicals is Irving Berlin’s White Christmas featuring Bing Crosby, Danny Kaye, Rosemary Clooney, and Vera-Ellen and some of the best dancers ever put on film. This fun frolicking film focuses on a successful song-and-dance team who become involved with a sister act, then the four mismatched lovers team up to save the Vermont Inn. It’s a wonderful film that is both honest and endearing while at the same time witty and self-aware. Crosby is on top of his game here and this film is one of the simple traditional joys of the holiday season.

Nerd 5 Presents: The 12 Days of Christmas Day 3!

Day 3. Home Alone/Home Alone 2 Lost in New York – How do you pick between Home Alone and Home Alone 2: Lost in New York? You don’t choose. You watch them both. Now, if The Wet Bandits have you backed into a corner and were forcing you to choose, then you say “keep the change, ya filthy animal!” hit them in the head with paint cans, then watch both films! Home Alone is a film that every 90’s kid grew up watching because it was everywhere and it made us laugh and it was what we all dreamed, to not have our parents around (even though secretly we wouldn’t want them to be gone long). Written by John Hughes and directed by Christopher Columbus Home Alone became a genuine holiday smash hit and made Macaulay Culkin a house hold name, so much so that in 1992, just two years after the film, Home Alone 2: Lost in New York made its way to the big screen. Both films feature Joe Pesci, Daniel Stern, and Catherine O’Hara and find a way to show that the most important thing about Christmas is family. The third acts of both Home Alone films are modern day Three Stooges sketches and as I’ve grown older, their “comedic” value has fallen; however, that doesn’t mean that these films don’t have anything to offer an older audience.

Both films have moments of pure holiday joy, sadness, fear and catharsis. Now, I’m not saying these are the greatest, most perfect films you will ever see; but I am saying that they don’t deserve to be lumped into the “child’s film” category. The epitome of these moments is featured in the first film and features Culkin and Roberts Blossom as Old Man Marley meeting face to face for the first time, and Culkin’s character Kevin McCalister realizing that he’s not totally alone this holiday season.

Home Alone and Home Alone 2: Lost in New York are great films for the holiday season, to gather up your family and relive the joyous times of the past, as well as pass the tradition on the next generation. 

Nerd 5 Presents: What We Learned Today at the Movies: The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug & The 12 Days of Christmas Day 2!

Get ready for a double article! Two quick reviews, as we look at the second day of Christmas and two versions of Miracle on 34th Street as well as another edition of What We Learned Today at the Movies: The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug 

Today’s Lesson: Get Out While You Still Can! – No matter how often you go to the

movies it’s an experience. You have to leave your home, carve out at least two hours of your day, turn off your phone, and watch the story that is about to unfold in front of you. Whether or not you hold the art form of filmmaking in high reverence there is no question that going to theater is an experience. There a very few times where you attend a movie and enjoy your trip in spite of the film itself. The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug is one of those times, for me. Did I have a great time at the movies? Yes. Did that have anything to do with Peter Jackson’s newest film? No. Did that have to do with the awesome company I saw it with and a great theater to see it in? You bet’cha! But this blog isn’t a review of my trips to the movies; it’s a review of movies. With that being said I begin my desolation of Smaug.  

First and foremost Smaug is clearly a sequel because it doesn’t stand on its own; it feels incomplete since it lacks a beginning, middle, and end – Smaug is the middle of the story and nothing more. Due to this fact, it’s a highly unsatisfying film that is only good for the hardest of hardcore fans. I’m not going to (nor am I trying to) convince any J.R.R Tolkien fan that this film is bad. It’s a faithful adaptation to the work of Tolkien, most aspects of the film are well-made, and there is a few good acting performances; this is all you need to appease a fan base. I’m mean, there’s no one who’s going to convince me that Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2 was not one of the best of 2011, but that’s not the point here.

Diving a little deeper into what doesn’t work about Smaug we find our bow and arrows pointed squarely at director Jackson. In a case of “what have you done for me lately” Jackson’s new trilogy gets harder to watch at every turn. Usually you can count on a Lord of the Rings film to be at the very least visually stunning and groundbreaking, the second Hobbit film is neither. The sad part is that as other films have caught up to Jackson’s standard he’s not continued to push forward, to the point where this films CG character designs are downright bad, with the biggest issues being Azog (the white orc) and Smaug the dragon. Apart from that Jackson seems to have forgotten that there are actual human actors in this film and has left them to fend for themselves. Actors such as Ian McKellen (Gandalf), Evangeline Lilly (Tauriel), Luke Evans (Bard), Sylvester McCoy (Radagast), and, surprisingly, Orlando Bloom (Legolas) give good performances within the film; yet if you notice there’s one key part missing from this list, Martin Freeman as Bilbo. The title character of the film gets lost in the epic world created by Jackson and we are not able to connect with him, follow his journey, or really care about anything to do with Bilbo; basically Freeman seems lost in the role and that’s hard to see considering the great work Freeman has done in the past.

This however is only the tip of the real issue of The Hobbit trilogy; Jackson doesn't seem to understand the material. For someone who bleeds Middle Earth it’s hard to see what he’s thinking. Bilbo is the heart of this story and should be one of the main focuses, but instead he spends time trying to get us to fall for a Dwarf-Elf love triangle, make Thorin the next great king to rise to power, and follow Gandlaf on a journey that we already know what will happen. The worst choice that ever could have been made was to split this 330 page book into three films. I know Jackson says it was his choice and not the studios (take a listen to the audio clip here to find out more) which only makes the loss of story even worse; proving that Jackson lost his way very early in the process. If Jackson would have focused on Bilbo’s story and not tried to release three, three-hour-extended-edition films into theaters, then may this Hobbit trilogy would be watchable by everyone not just by the hardcore fans. As I’ve said before, I still recommend the 1977 animated version of the The Hobbit over these bloated attempts to regain former glory.

Day 2. Miracle on 34^th Street – Either, honestly pick either. It’s very rare that I even consider watching a remake over the original but in the case of Miracle of 34^th Street both the 1947 and 1994 versions are equally watchable. It just depends on which version you can get your hands on.

Written and produced by John Hughes (yes the Sixteen Candles, Preety In Pink, Ferris Bueller’s Day Off John Hughes) and starring Richard Attenborough, Elizabeth Perkins, Dylan McDermott and Mara Wilson, this 1994 remake of a classic film focuses a bit too much on the story between Perkins and McDermott but never loses the heart and soul of the story. Although longer than its predecessor this version of Miracle on 34^th Street uses that time to explore the more interesting characters of Kris Kringle (Attenboroguh) and Susan Walker (Wilson). Their relationship and fantastic performances are the glue that holds this film together, and although this is a good movie let’s move on to the version of the film I most prefer.

The classic 1947 version starring Edmund Gwenn, Maureen O’Hara, John Payne, and Natalie Wood(!) is an endlessly watchable film and is not only a good Christmas film, but a good film for anytime of the year. Nominated for 4 Oscars and winning 3 of them, Best Supporting Actor for Gween as Kris Kringle, Valentine Davies for best original story, George Seaton best screenplay; Miracle on 34^th Street holds up and is as much a joy to watch today as it was in 1947, I can only assume. Natalie Wood is beyond adorable and at the age of 9 proves why she’s a great movie star. But this film wouldn't be a classic without Gween, he plays a genial, honest, and caring St. Nick and who is the ideal version of the character. If you can get a hold of this holiday classic, do so, because it’s more than worth the watch. 

Nerd 5 Presents: The 12 Days of Christmas

            Happy Holidays to one and all!!! I hope December is treating you well, and since we are coming down the home stretch of 2013, it’s time to start running down the Nerd 5 12 Days of Christmas; over the next 12 days we will present twelve of our favorite holiday time films, in particular order. Just because we are doing the 12 days of Christmas doesn't mean that we are abandoning our regular columns, it just means more to read, to share, and to enjoy! Thanks for making this a great year at Nerd 5, enjoy the countdown and have a great holiday season.

Day 1. Elf – Jon Favreau finds the perfect character for Will Ferrell’s over-grown, naïve, man-child character (you know, the one he plays in every one of his films); but as Buddy the Elf Ferrell is fearless and shameless; his earnest nature, loving sensibility, positive outlook on every situation make this film a treat to kick off the holiday season. James Caan (in a rear comedic role) leads an amazing cast of supporting players including the fantastic Bob Newhart, Ed Asner, Mary Steenburgen, Faizon Love, and a blonde fresh-faced Zooey Deschanel. It’s hard to not fall head-over-heels for Deschanel in this part as she is flawless as Jovie, one of her first leading roles. Elf also features great cameos by Peter Dinklage, Amy Sedaris, Michael Lerner, Andy Richter, Kyle Gass, and director Favreau, this cast keeps getting stronger as time goes by.

There are not too many modern day Christmas classics but Elf has managed to melt our hearts and earn its spot. Buddy the elf is so unaware of how off-putting his endless joy is, that’s enduring. Elf is a rare combination of a Christmas films that is smart and funny, innocent with a wicked sense of humor, and family treat for the holiday season. And keep in mind “the yellow don’t stop!”  Also, Deschanel and Leon Redbone singing "Baby It's Cold Outside" is a great version of the song and an amazing listen.

Nerd 5 Presents: The 6 Most Entertaining Characters for the 16th Coen Brothers Film

         

  Opening limited this week into theaters is the newest film from Joel and Ethan Coen, The Coen Brothers. Inside Llewyn Davis is the 16^th feature film released by the Coen Brothers and it is entering theaters with solid buzz, abundant amounts of awards talk, and a string of festival successes in its wake.  To say that all 15 of the Coen Brothers previous films are amazing would be a lie; to say that 13 of the 15 are amazing is nothing shy of a true fact. Any rankings of the Coen Brothers films are mostly based upon personal taste as most of the films in their cannon are very high quality. Jeff and I always speak about an artist or filmmaker having a quality threshold, meaning that no matter how bad something is from the artist it will never be below high quality. In other words, even the worst Coen Brother’s film is better than most Hollywood films. Here’s a quick look at my ranking of the Coen’s filmography.

         Masterpieces

1.      O Brother, Where Art Thou?

2.      Barton Fink

3.      No Country for Old Men

4.      Fargo

         Supremely Entertaining

5.      Raising Arizona

6.      The Hudsucker Proxy

7.      True Grit

8.      Miller’s Crossing

9.      Burn After Reading

         Better than Most

10.  The Big Lebowski

11.  A Serious Man

12.  The Man Who Wasn’t There

13.  Blood Simple

         The Bottom of the Barrel

14.  The Lady killers

15.  Intolerable Cruelty

      The Coen’s are known for stunning visual, great stories, quick and witty dialogue, brilliantly shot films, outstanding soundtracks, and memorable characters Their films are full of characters who are witty, fast talking (when needed), quirky, intelligently designed, full-fledged character with flaws to overcome, and are the heart and soul of The Coen’s films. You can tell a Coen Brother’s film from the moment it comes up on screen and a lot of that is the characters they put on screen. There are enough wonderful characters for several lists, and, honestly this could be the first of many lists, I’ll see you all soon for the next 7 characters of the 17^th Coen Brother’s film, but before we get to that let’s at the 6 most entertaining characters in honor of the release of Inside Llewyn Davis the 16^th Coen Brothers film.

6. Delmar O’Donnell – Tim Blake Nelson – O Brother Where, Art Thou (2000) – Delmar O’Donnell is a complex simpleton and a joy to watch. Tim Blake Nelson brings this characters to life with such heart, kindness, and joy that it’s hard to believe that he was ever in prison. One of the most entertaining things about escaped convict Delmar is his never ending loyalty for Pete (John Turtturo) and Everett (George Clooney) and his willingness to follow them blindly. There are many great scenes with Delmar from the “We thought you was a toad” scene in the movie theater, to his great musical performance of “In the Jailhouse Now” (yes that’s Nelson singing, he won a Grammy Award for it), but in the clip below you really get a glimpse into what makes Delmar great and Nelson’s performance amazing.  

5. H.I. McDunnough – Nicolas Cage – Raising Arizona (1987) – Raising Arizona is the second film the Coen Brothers made, and it stands as one of their best. Arizona is carried by H.I. McDunnough and Nicolas Cage’s stunning performance. Cage has fallen greatly in recently years but at one point he was a great, dare I say well-respected, actor and this is possibly his greatest role. H.I. and his wife Edwina “Ed” McDunnough (Holly Hunter) have one simple goal; get a baby, by any means necessary—including helping themselves to one of four babies born to the Arizona family. With relentless honestly and a never ending drive to make Ed happy, H.I. wins his way on the this list, and is certainly one of the most memorable Coen Brother’s creations. The clip that follows is a fantastic representation of ex-con H.I. and what happens when baby Arizona needs dippers.  

H.I. Goes Shopping 

4. Bernie Bernbaum – John Turtturo – Miller’s Crossing (1990) – The Coen Brother’s films are littered with amazing, outstand, and wonderful performances by Turtturo but in Miller’s Crossing is where he proves why he’s one of the best actors ever. Bernie is one of the most layered and compelling lowlifes in all of film history and the only thing that worse than Bernbaum begging for his life halfway through the film is what happens after that scene. In lessor hands this character could have come and gone, and just been another gangster in another gangster film but Turtturo coupled with the visual style and masterful storytelling of Joel and Ethan Coen prevent that from happening. Sadly the internet is lacking of clips of Bernie begging for his life, but the clip that follows is Turtturo speaking of that scene and the film in general with clips from Miller’s Crossing.

3. Marge Gunderson – Frances McDormand – Fargo (1996) – The Coen’s films are more often than not a boys club, with the almost constant exception Frances McDormand, a very talented actress who populates plenty of Coen films. But her best work comes from her Academy Award nominated role of Marge Gunderson in Fargo. Marge is a pregnant police officer who’s on a murder case in the small town of Brainerd, Minnesota. She’s determined, dedicated, and kind (don’t ya know). Marge is a representation of what good people doing good things and how hard it is to get them done. The following clip is one of the many great scenes of McDormand as Gunderson; here she is finding a body that puts her story in motion.

2. Charlie Meadows – John Goodman – Barton Fink (1991) – Barton Fink is a criminally under viewed amazing film. It’s full of life, vibrancy, hope, and joy all at the backdrop of hell, falsehood, disaster, and failure, there’s a lot going on here. Visually capturing classic Hollywood esthetic and using it to contrast the underside of the film industry and of Barton himself. John Turttruo plays Barton Fink and is masterful in the part but is easily out shined by John Goodman playing fellow resident of the Hotel Earle Charlie Meadows. Goodman is genius piece of casting by the Coen’s, using his good natured and friendly outward persona to contrast the characters dark side, his what-the-hell-did-I-just-see side, his who-is-he-really side that perfectly encapsulates the film as a whole and it’s insanely captivating to watch. What follows is a great clip of Goodman as Meadows apologizing to his neighbor Barton.

Charlie Apologizes to Barton

1. Anton Chigurh – Javier Bardem – No Country for Old Men (2007) – A character so vile, so disgusting, so revolting you can’t help but watch him. A cold calculating murderer played to Academy Award winning perfection by Javier Bardem. One of the most endlessly fascinating things about Anton Chigurh is you never know what he’s going to do next. An outstanding performance delivered by Bardem because of its layers, his understanding of the character, and his belief that Chigurh is not a bad guy, he plays Chigurh as if he totally in the right and everything he does is justified and deserved. This captivating and amazing performance is the highlight of this Best Picture winning film. The clip below is Chigurh at his absolute most unpredictable.

What We Learned Today at the Movies: Thor: The Dark World

Today’s Lesson: Thor: The Almost Dark World – I’ve seen Thor: The Dark World twice in theatres and I enjoyed it the first time; but it gets better upon second viewing. This is a surprisingly layered film and most scenes, dialogue, and shots have a reason for being. I qualify “most” because Thor: The Dark World has some pretty severe tonal issues. Some of the failures of the film are its attempts for broad comedy; comedy should come from a natural place not a forced jokey place. A lot of reviews have pointed to Kat Denning’s character Darcy as being the main comedic issue; however, I thoroughly enjoy what she brings to the film. The issue for me is Stellan Skarsgard’s Dr. Eric Selvig, a character that has vital information and serves a purpose yet is constantly and continuously played for comedy even when a more dramatic moment is needed. Come on man, just put your pants on. Although Thor: The Dark World tires for some darker themes these overtly failed comedic tones cause it to never quite reaches the darkness referenced in the title.

On the whole this movie really works, director Alan Taylor (Game of Thrones, Mad Men, The Sopranos) understands that he’s a part of a much bigger story and still makes this film completely stand on its own; not shocking as he’s coming from a TV background. Taylor also plays well in the visual style set up by Thor and the other Marvel Cinematic Universe films, while at the same time exploring Asgard, and the other planets of the 9 realms deeper than in previous films.  

What started out to be a troubled script ends up with a very strong core, saved in part by script doctor and series over lord Joss Wedon. Focusing on Thor (Chris Hemsworth) and his relationships with his girlfriend Jane Foster (Natalie Portman), his father Oden (Anthony Hopkins), and most interestingly his brother Loki (Tom Hiddleston) Thor: The Dark World never loses its way, even though it has plenty of chances to.

The film kicks into high gear when Loki becomes a full participant. Hiddleston steals every moment of screen time he has, making Loki flawlessly evil, kind, and brilliant at every turn. It’s not that the other actors in the film are bad; in fact quite the opposite, everyone in this film is on top of their game. It’s just that Hiddleston goes so far above and beyond that his performance can only be called awards worthy. In terms of acting awards and acting recognition blockbuster, mainstream, popular films are more often than not over looked. Nevertheless, there are actors that give amazing performances and bring their characters to life with such vivid realism, brutal honestly, and insane charisma that they are burned into the pop culture stream of consciousness. Does anyone know off the top of their head who won best supporting actor of 1977? No. But, most people could tell you who Darth Vader is and who voiced the iconic character. Hiddleston’s Loki is a character that will stand the pop culture test of time. Even though this is a packed year for male acting performances Hiddleston deserves to be talked about with the best of the best, if no other reason then he turned the villain of the piece into the most beloved character.

Thor: The Dark World is not a perfect film, but it is a great addition to the Marvel Cinematic Universe and a very fun trip to movies.

For those who are curious, the best supporting actor of 1977 was Jason Robards for playing Dashiell Hammett in Julia and Darth Vader is voiced by James Earl Jones. 

Nerd 5 Presents: The Top 5 Films I’m Most Thankful For, 2013 Edition

            Happy Thanksgiving weekend to all, I couldn't let this weekend go by without speaking on the obvious subject; the things that I am thankful for. Since this blogs’ focus is usually film it gives me a good reason to write The Top 5 Films I’m Most Thankful For, 2013 Edition. This, if I’m being honest, is nothing more clever rouse to talk about the people, places, and things I’m most thankful for secretly wrapped up in discussion about films that I adore.

             How does a film become one that I am thankful for? First off it has to be a film that I endlessly enjoy. Second, I need to have watched or purchased the film this year. Finally, it needs to be more than just a good film, it needs to remind me of the things that I am thankful for. I whole hearted recommend each of the following five films and send out my sincerest thanks for everyone who made this year special. This week’s films are in particular order. This blog post is very much about me, Josh, and less about the films; just a quick heads up this one gets personal for a more traditional review or top 5 check back next week.

5. 10 Things I Hate About You (1999) – This year I am thankful for the city of Seattle. It has been a very welcoming new home for me (in spite of a day three car-break-in incident). It’s been a
wonderful new playground for me to explore artistically, professionally, personally. Seattle has quelled my allergies! (As much as they can be.) I can’t think of place I’d rather be at this moment. If there is one quintessential Seattle film for this 90s kid it’s 10 Things I Hate About You. In the summer of 1999 I was 14 years old, that summer I discovered a love for film, theatre, and a ton of things that would define me to this day; and along comes 10 Things I Hate About You based upon Shakespeare’s play Taming of the Shrew featuring a cast list that would grow up together and take Hollywood by storm; Heath Ledger, Julia Styles, and Joseph Gordon-Levitt to name a few. 10 Things I Hate About You is 90s magic and captures a generation very well. In 2013 I’m thankful for 10 Things because of the remembrance of the past and joy the future.   

4. Toy Story 3 (2010) – This year I am thankful for my Tri-City Family. Yes, that’s a lot of people. From family in the traditional since, family in the non-traditional since, and family in the since of there’s no other words to describe how I feel about them, I am very thankful all for you. I am super blessed to have an amazing support system in my hometown of people who love and care for me, and when I visit make me feel like a returning superhero. I learn so much from my students, care so much for my family and miss what I left behind, I find myself searching for it every day now. I keep you all in my heart every moment of every day and you help me strive to become a better person. There’s a reason why we refer to the past as the good old days. Leaving is never easy, change is hard, and growing up and moving on are necessary parts of life; these are life lessons that I’ve learned this year and all of them are themes within the entire Toy Story franchise. But the final scenes of 2010’s Toy Story 3 are a perfect encapsulation of what we all feel when we have to leave behind things and people we love. If you’d prefer to not be spoiled for the end of Toy Story 3 skip to the next section. It feels like the franchise has been building to the final scene of Toy Story 3 ever since the first scene of Toy Story, which is amazing filmmaking. When Andy drives up to Bonnie’s house and prepares to give his toys to Bonnie it’s a beautiful and emotional moment that should have the best of us reaching for the tissues. We see Andy giving away a very loved part of his life, so he can make room for the new part of his life; even knowing the love and care that Woody, Buzz, Jessie, and all his friends are going to get it’s a painful for Andy; a moment that is meant for the adults in the audience and that kids will understand even more upon rewatch. I am thankful in 2013 for Toy Story 3 because on the eve of my move to Seattle I found myself finishing cleaning, packing, and watching the Toy Story Trilogy. By the end of the very long night, my apartment was clean, all my stuffed packed and I was sleeping on an air mattress, with only my laptop and the end of Toy Story 3 in front of me. It was an unplanned poignant moment, that somewhere my brain had to know would happen, yet, was amazingly spontaneous and had me in massive amounts of tears, these tears are the reason I’m thankful for Toy Story 3

3. Wet Hot American Summer (2001) – This year I am thankful for my fellow SCT Interns. Guys, I love you and this summer was made by seeing you every day; such a talented, kind, and awesome group of people. I worried about finding a connection with the people I was going to be working with, I worried about finding a support system in a new city – I worried… pointlessly because after the first day I knew that I was in an amazing group of people I was with, who would help shape the next chapter of my life. For those who aren’t in Seattle anymore, I miss your face, hope to see you soon, and that all is well. For those who are still here in Seattle, you’ve been the greatest group of friends a sloth could ask for! There’s one film in particular I found myself returning to this summer, (in fact, I watched it three times including once in theatres at the awesome Central Cinemas) Wet Hot American Summer is a great parody of 80s teen comedies, set a summer camp and follows a group of counselors who are surviving and thriving on the last day of camp. Written, directed and staring members of the comedy troupe The State, this film encapsulates everything that 80s teen cinema tried to be, while also being a great film, with character you care about and root for. It’s the perfect kind of satire because it works as a film and it also works as a parody.  The films themes of friendship, inside jokes, and survival are what makes me thankful for Wet Hot American Summer.   

2. The Odd Couple (1968) – This year I am thankful for my roommate, co-blog partner and one of my best friends, Jeff. A person who welcomed me with open arms into his apartment knowing that I couldn’t afford to a full share of rent and that my initial job was only three months long, and if it extended the pay check would not be much higher; a person who is always willing to listen when I need a friend and a person who opened his life to me and never once questioned it. Thanks Jeff. I couldn’t possibly think of a better film to represent the last 6 months then Neil Simon’s The Odd Couple. Staring Walter Matthew as Oscar (the sports loving, slobbish guys guy) and Jack Lemon as Felix (an uptight, down on his luck neat freak) and the two of them become roommates. Although Jeff and I are not perfect comparisons to Oscar and Felix we are an odd couple, the yin and yang that make up a great team. I’m thankful for The Odd Couple because it reminds me of everything that is great with my roommate, we may not always see eye to eye on things (you know the important things like if James Cameron is a good director) but we always have each other’s backs, through thick and thin and this is what matters and that is what I am thankful for.    

1. Say Anything… (1989)– This year I am thankful for love. I warn you right now this paragraph is going to be me gushing about how much I love my Ann and how lucky I am to have her in my life. Through all the change and all the ups and downs of 2013 there’s been one consistent, one goal, and thing that keeps me keeping on. Ann. From day one with her there’s been one word that has been a constant, hope. Hope in the future, hope for the present and hope from the past and I hope beyond all hopes that I don’t have to spend one day without her in my life. How does this tie into Say Anything…? (Besides the fact that, that also happens to be the name of her favorite band) Lloyd Dobler (John Cusack) is a psychical representation of hope in one of the greatest love stories of modern times. Dobler has no reason to think that he can get Diane Court (Ione Skye) and yet goes for it anyway. Some of us get lucky and get the girl, if you’ve not seen Say Anything… do yourself a favor, find it and see it. If you’ve seen it Say Anything… is worth a rewatch as it’s a wonderful film, with a beautiful story that holds up all the way through today. But Mr. Dobler and hope are the reasons I’m thankful for Say Anything…

Happy Thanksgiving Everyone!     

-          Josh