La Vie en Rose's Recent Activity

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Title: La Vie en Rose
Year: 2007
Director: Olivier Dahan
Plot: Writer/director Olivier Dahan (Crimson Rivers II) helmed La Vie en Rose, the screen biopic of tragic French songstress Edith Piaf. Marion Cotillard portrays Piaf, the superstar once raised as a young girl by her grandmother in a Normandy bordello, then discovered on a French street corner -- as a complete unknown -- by cabaret proprietor Louis Leplée (Gérard Depardieu). The film segues breezily between various episodes from Piaf's life -- such as her lover, French boxer Marcel Cerdan's (Jean-Pierre Martins) championship bout in mid-'40s New York; her period in Hollywood during the '50s; Piaf's abandonment as a young girl by her contortionist father (and earlier by her mother, a street singer); her brushes with the law as an adult; and her 1951 car accident and subsequent morphine addiction that caused her to age well beyond her years and left her barely mobile; and, through it all, her ability (like Billie Holiday) to funnel personal tragedy and emotional struggles into her vocalizations -- dazzling audiences in the process. ~ Nathan Southern, All Movie Guide
Times Tagged: 33
Number of Lists: 16
Number of blog posts: 8
Number of discussion threads: 1
SpoutRating: 4
]]>Tue, 17 Feb 2009 18:08:37 GMTLa Vie en Rose2007Olivier DahanWriter/director Olivier Dahan (<a href=/films/241811/default.aspx style='text-decoration:underline'>Crimson Rivers II</a>) helmed La Vie en Rose, the screen biopic of tragic French songstress Edith Piaf. <a href="/players/P___195575/default.aspx" style='text-decoration:underline'>Marion Cotillard</a> portrays Piaf, the superstar once raised as a young girl by her grandmother in a Normandy bordello, then discovered on a French street corner -- as a complete unknown -- by cabaret proprietor Louis Leplée (<a href="/players/P____87517/default.aspx" style='text-decoration:underline'>Gérard Depardieu</a>). The film segues breezily between various episodes from Piaf's life -- such as her lover, French boxer Marcel Cerdan's (Jean-Pierre Martins) championship bout in mid-'40s New York; her period in Hollywood during the '50s; Piaf's abandonment as a young girl by her contortionist father (and earlier by her mother, a street singer); her brushes with the law as an adult; and her 1951 car accident and subsequent morphine addiction that caused her to age well beyond her years and left her barely mobile; and, through it all, her ability (like <a href="/players/P____94661/default.aspx" style='text-decoration:underline'>Billie Holiday</a>) to funnel personal tragedy and emotional struggles into her vocalizations -- dazzling audiences in the process. ~ Nathan Southern, All Movie Guide33Tag Target (>10)16814http://www.spout.com/ProductImages/s282893.jpghttp://www.spout.com/films/La_Vie_en_Rose/282893/default.aspxFilm Spout Post: Re:Collaboration - Best Films of 2007 http://www.spout.com/groups/Community_Recommendations/Re_Collaboration_Best_Films_of_2007/643/38187/1/ShowPost.aspx

Post By: dibot
Post To: Community Recommendations
Post Date: 12/10/2008 1:36:01 PM
Body: Many good films have been listed. My ulitmate favorite for 2007 is There Will Be Blood. But I have a few others: 1. 30 Days of Night 2. Black Snake Moan 3. Breach 4. Eastern Promises 5. Gone Baby Gone 6. La Vie En Rose 7. No Country for Old Men 8. Sunshine 9. The Mist 10. Waitress
]]>Wed, 10 Dec 2008 18:36:01 GMTdibotCommunity Recommendations12/10/2008 1:36:01 PMMany good films have been listed. My ulitmate favorite for 2007 is There Will Be Blood. But I have a few others: 1. 30 Days of Night 2. Black Snake Moan 3. Breach 4. Eastern Promises 5. Gone Baby Gone 6. La Vie En Rose 7. No Country for Old Men 8. Sunshine 9. The Mist 10. Waitress Spout Post: 10 Actresses Who’d Be Great as Catwoman http://www.spout.com/blogs/spoutblog/archive/2008/8/4/33522.aspx

Post By: SpoutBlog
Post To: SpoutBlog on spout.com
Post Date: 8/4/2008 3:01:15 PM
Body: It’s funny how out of control a rumor can spin on the web. The Angelina Jolie as Catwoman “news” has to be at the top of the list of most reported unconfirmed rumors ever. And it’s sad that it’s not actually true, because after seeing Jolie in the dominatrix outfit she wears at the beginning of Mr. and Mrs. Smith, I’d be perfectly fine seeing her wear another tight black costume for a possible third Christopher Nolan-directed Batman movie. But who instead could play the part, if Jolie is indeed not interested, or not even offered the role (or, obviously, if Catwoman is not in the movie, as screenwriter David Goyer has apparently hinted)? One theory says that Maggie Gyllenhaal will return in the follow-up to The Dark Knight, this time donning a catsuit (Graeme at io9 strongly disputes the idea). Another terrible suggestion is to cast the too-cute Zooey Deschanel as the villainess. A far more interesting recommendation, from Catherine Bray, is Tilda Swinton. But I think the character needs to be a little sexier. Plus, I want to dismiss Bray’s idea on the principle that it’s included in the DenOfGeek list, which consists mostly of the usual hot young actress ideas that probably get thrown around for every casting decision like this. I’m actually shocked that Eva Green wasn’t anyone’s pick, as she’s one of those hot young actresses, and she’s done the “good and bad at the same time” thing in Casino Royale. She was even part of my list until a better candidate edged her out, mostly on the idea that we don’t need to see her replay Vesper Lynd in a Catwoman costume. So, who did make the cut? Check out my 10 favorites, in descending order, after the jump: 10. Halle Berry - She is a good actress, and she was a great sport in accepting her Razzie for playing the character in Catwoman, so wouldn’t it be neat if Nolan gave her a second chance at the part? It certainly fits with the nine lives thing. Plus, with a better script, better direction and, most importantly, a better outfit, the Oscar winner would do a much better job. 9. Cate Blanchett - Another Bob Dylan vs. Bob Dylan showdown! (The Dark Knight’s Christian Bale and Heath Ledger each portrayed Dylan in I’m Not There, as did Blanchett). And Nolan can round out the villain casting with Ben Whishaw as Riddler, Richard Gere as the Penguin and Marcus Carl Franklin as Anarky (or he could be Robin?). Seriously, though, after Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull, I’m not sure we ever need to see her as another blockbuster villain. Besides, there’s other Oscar-caliber actresses who would be more enjoyable. 8. Penélope Cruz - Like this sexy Spanish lady, who I thought of for the role based on her line from Vanilla Sky, “I’ll see you in another life, when we are both cats.” Wait, would that mean Tom Cruise would have to appear as Catman? Hell, I’d deal with that if I got to see Cruz prance around with a tail attached to a form-fitting bodysuit. 7. Maggie Cheung - It’s been 12 years since Cheung wore a tight black catsuit for Assayas’ Irma Vep, but she’d still be damn hot as Catwoman. Unfortunately, she has retired from acting, last appearing in Wong Kar-Wai’s 2046 and Assayas’ Clean back in 2004. 6. Rachel Weisz - Something about her wonky eyes makes me think she’d be a good Catwoman. I can’t quite explain what I mean by that. She did a fine job as an attractive yet ultimately evil character in Neil LaBute’s The Shape of Things, so there’s another point for her. 5. Emily Blunt - A well-meaning bitch in The Devil Wears Prada, I’d love to see Blunt do more of the same, only in a catsuit. In a way, she’s like my fill-in for the excluded Eva Green, since I continually mix up their names, and Prada costar Anne Hathaway, who too many people think is as good a choice. 4. Emily Mortimer - Basically my choice for the obscure, indie-cred slot, since I don’t agree with the Deschanel suggestion. Plus, I can see her building off her short stint as the two-faced “Phoebe” on 30 Rock in order to play a terrific villainess. 3. Emily Watson - The last of three candidates named Emily, Watson has always been my favorite love interest for Christian Bale (she’s played opposite “Batman” in Metroland and Equilibrium). Third time’s the charm, I say. 2. Marion Cotillard - I know, I’m probably including too many Oscar nominees and winners in this list, but after Ledger’s performance as The Joker, the role of Catwoman requires talent along with beauty. Besides, Michelle Pfeiffer was nominated for two Academy Awards prior to playing the part in Batman Returns and Halle Berry won an Oscar before giving her Razzie-winning performance in Catowman. So, as the most recent recipient of the Best Actress trophy, the chameleon-like star of La Vie en Rose seems the most appropriate. Oh, and some guy already did a rendering of what she’d look like. 1. Sean Young - The part she always wanted. And what fun it would be for Catwoman to be an older woman. You know, as in a cougar. Which is a kind of cat. There have been crazier ideas — though maybe not crazier actresses. However, Young’s unstable personality should make for an unpredictable and unbeatable performance. Originally posted on:SpoutBlog
]]>Mon, 04 Aug 2008 19:01:15 GMTSpoutBlogSpoutBlog on spout.com8/4/2008 3:01:15 PMIt’s funny how out of control a rumor can spin on the web. The Angelina Jolie as Catwoman “news” has to be at the top of the list of most reported unconfirmed rumors ever. And it’s sad that it’s not actually true, because after seeing Jolie in the dominatrix outfit she wears at the beginning of Mr. and Mrs. Smith, I’d be perfectly fine seeing her wear another tight black costume for a possible third Christopher Nolan-directed Batman movie. But who instead could play the part, if Jolie is indeed not interested, or not even offered the role (or, obviously, if Catwoman is not in the movie, as screenwriter David Goyer has apparently hinted)? One theory says that Maggie Gyllenhaal will return in the follow-up to The Dark Knight, this time donning a catsuit (Graeme at io9 strongly disputes the idea). Another terrible suggestion is to cast the too-cute Zooey Deschanel as the villainess. A far more interesting recommendation, from Catherine Bray, is Tilda Swinton. But I think the character needs to be a little sexier. Plus, I want to dismiss Bray’s idea on the principle that it’s included in the DenOfGeek list, which consists mostly of the usual hot young actress ideas that probably get thrown around for every casting decision like this. I’m actually shocked that Eva Green wasn’t anyone’s pick, as she’s one of those hot young actresses, and she’s done the “good and bad at the same time” thing in Casino Royale. She was even part of my list until a better candidate edged her out, mostly on the idea that we don’t need to see her replay Vesper Lynd in a Catwoman costume. So, who did make the cut? Check out my 10 favorites, in descending order, after the jump: 10. Halle Berry - She is a good actress, and she was a great sport in accepting her Razzie for playing the character in Catwoman, so wouldn’t it be neat if Nolan gave her a second chance at the part? It certainly fits with the nine lives thing. Plus, with a better script, better direction and, most importantly, a better outfit, the Oscar winner would do a much better job. 9. Cate Blanchett - Another Bob Dylan vs. Bob Dylan showdown! (The Dark Knight’s Christian Bale and Heath Ledger each portrayed Dylan in I’m Not There, as did Blanchett). And Nolan can round out the villain casting with Ben Whishaw as Riddler, Richard Gere as the Penguin and Marcus Carl Franklin as Anarky (or he could be Robin?). Seriously, though, after Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull, I’m not sure we ever need to see her as another blockbuster villain. Besides, there’s other Oscar-caliber actresses who would be more enjoyable. 8. Penélope Cruz - Like this sexy Spanish lady, who I thought of for the role based on her line from Vanilla Sky, “I’ll see you in another life, when we are both cats.” Wait, would that mean Tom Cruise would have to appear as Catman? Hell, I’d deal with that if I got to see Cruz prance around with a tail attached to a form-fitting bodysuit. 7. Maggie Cheung - It’s been 12 years since Cheung wore a tight black catsuit for Assayas’ Irma Vep, but she’d still be damn hot as Catwoman. Unfortunately, she has retired from acting, last appearing in Wong Kar-Wai’s 2046 and Assayas’ Clean back in 2004. 6. Rachel Weisz - Something about her wonky eyes makes me think she’d be a good Catwoman. I can’t quite explain what I mean by that. She did a fine job as an attractive yet ultimately evil character in Neil LaBute’s The Shape of Things, so there’s another point for her. 5. Emily Blunt - A well-meaning bitch in The Devil Wears Prada, I’d love to see Blunt do more of the same, only in a catsuit. In a way, she’s like my fill-in for the excluded Eva Green, since I continually mix up their names, and Prada costar Anne Hathaway, who too many people think is as good a choice. 4. Emily Mortimer - Basically my choice for the obscure, indie-cred slot, since I don’t agree with the Deschanel suggestion. Plus, I can see her building off her short stint as the two-faced “Phoebe” on 30 Rock in order to play a terrific villainess. 3. Emily Watson - The last of three candidates named Emily, Watson has always been my favorite love interest for Christian Bale (she’s played opposite “Batman” in Metroland and Equilibrium). Third time’s the charm, I say. 2. Marion Cotillard - I know, I’m probably including too many Oscar nominees and winners in this list, but after Ledger’s performance as The Joker, the role of Catwoman requires talent along with beauty. Besides, Michelle Pfeiffer was nominated for two Academy Awards prior to playing the part in Batman Returns and Halle Berry won an Oscar before giving her Razzie-winning performance in Catowman. So, as the most recent recipient of the Best Actress trophy, the chameleon-like star of La Vie en Rose seems the most appropriate. Oh, and some guy already did a rendering of what she’d look like. 1. Sean Young - The part she always wanted. And what fun it would be for Catwoman to be an older woman. You know, as in a cougar. Which is a kind of cat. There have been crazier ideas — though maybe not crazier actresses. However, Young’s unstable personality should make for an unpredictable and unbeatable performance. Originally posted on:SpoutBlog Spout Post: A Bunch of Reviews http://www.spout.com/blogs/dibot/archive/2008/2/11/24972.aspx

Post By: dibot
Post To: dibot Blog
Post Date: 2/11/2008 1:00:17 PM
Body: Pixar's latest Oscar contender, Ratatouille, is an interesting story of a rat who wants to be a chef, a man who can't cook and how they become a team. The animation and voice work are, of course, top notch. The characters and voice acting are also well done. However, I felt that the movie lagged a bit in the middle. And I just wasn't that into it. Maybe I'm prejudiced against rats.Surf's Up, another Oscar nominated animated film, this time from Sony, follows a penguin who longs to be a great surfer. The film is set up like a documentary, with the film crew interviewing friends, family and rivals of the main character, Cody. I really enjoyed this device, something I don't think I've seen in an animated film before. There were many parts where I laughed out loud, especially at the young penguins. But I didn't really feel the connection between Cody and his idol. Cool animation, though.La Vie En Rose is a biography of sorts of French singer Edith Piaf. Her life was anything but easy. However, she managed to find a way to turn her voice into greatness. Star Marion Cotillard ("A Good Year") is amazing. She falls into Edith and never lets us go. Even when Edith is ailing, the brightness in Cotillard's eyes still shines. I enjoyed the look of the film. It often made me depressed. But my one complaint is that the film is in French, which is okay. I don't mind subtitles. But Edith's songs are not translated. Sure, you can feel the music, but she sings so often, I would very much have liked to know the words to the songs.I would not have picked Michael Clayton for a Best Picture nominee. It's good, but I don't think it's that good. George Clooney ("Ocean's 13") turns in a performance where I felt he was actually acting instead of just playing himself. Clooney plays the title role, a fixer for a large law firm. He gets sent in to clean up a mess and things just spiral out of control. Tilda Swinton ("The Man from London") and Tom Wilkinson ("Cassandra's Dream") also give excellent performances. But the movie is too long. Too long.I caught Brubaker on AMC one morning and was immediately sucked in. Robert Redford ("Lion's for Lambs") stars as a warden who poses as an inmate to discover the corruption at the prison farm of which is about to take over. Then he tries to change stuff. And all the people who were benefiting from the corruption don't like it. You know where this is going. It's still good. May or may not be based on a true story. I wasn't really clear on that part.
]]>Mon, 11 Feb 2008 18:00:17 GMTdibotdibot Blog2/11/2008 1:00:17 PMPixar's latest Oscar contender, Ratatouille, is an interesting story of a rat who wants to be a chef, a man who can't cook and how they become a team. The animation and voice work are, of course, top notch. The characters and voice acting are also well done. However, I felt that the movie lagged a bit in the middle. And I just wasn't that into it. Maybe I'm prejudiced against rats.Surf's Up, another Oscar nominated animated film, this time from Sony, follows a penguin who longs to be a great surfer. The film is set up like a documentary, with the film crew interviewing friends, family and rivals of the main character, Cody. I really enjoyed this device, something I don't think I've seen in an animated film before. There were many parts where I laughed out loud, especially at the young penguins. But I didn't really feel the connection between Cody and his idol. Cool animation, though.La Vie En Rose is a biography of sorts of French singer Edith Piaf. Her life was anything but easy. However, she managed to find a way to turn her voice into greatness. Star Marion Cotillard ("A Good Year") is amazing. She falls into Edith and never lets us go. Even when Edith is ailing, the brightness in Cotillard's eyes still shines. I enjoyed the look of the film. It often made me depressed. But my one complaint is that the film is in French, which is okay. I don't mind subtitles. But Edith's songs are not translated. Sure, you can feel the music, but she sings so often, I would very much have liked to know the words to the songs.I would not have picked Michael Clayton for a Best Picture nominee. It's good, but I don't think it's that good. George Clooney ("Ocean's 13") turns in a performance where I felt he was actually acting instead of just playing himself. Clooney plays the title role, a fixer for a large law firm. He gets sent in to clean up a mess and things just spiral out of control. Tilda Swinton ("The Man from London") and Tom Wilkinson ("Cassandra's Dream") also give excellent performances. But the movie is too long. Too long.I caught Brubaker on AMC one morning and was immediately sucked in. Robert Redford ("Lion's for Lambs") stars as a warden who poses as an inmate to discover the corruption at the prison farm of which is about to take over. Then he tries to change stuff. And all the people who were benefiting from the corruption don't like it. You know where this is going. It's still good. May or may not be based on a true story. I wasn't really clear on that part. Spout Post: Come drink my milkshake: This year's Oscar picks http://www.spout.com/blogs/usesoap/archive/2008/2/10/24944.aspx

Post By: usesoap
Post To: usesoap Blog
Post Date: 2/10/2008 9:20:58 PM
Body: Even though the writers have apparently settled on a deal to end the strike, there is still a great deal to fear on the Oscar broadcast set for Feb. 24, that can be summed up in three simple words (two if you hyphenate correctly):Oscar-winner 'Norbit'.That's right. While many wrestle with the fact that their favorite films have been left off the nominee list (I understand, though don't agree with, the love-fest called Juno, but even my friends who are the most ardent supporters of the film agree that it has no place in the Best Picture and Best Director category) a film that was universally loathed like 'Norbit' has a shot at earning the most coveted trophies in the biz.Here to give you an edge on the office ballots, I have opted to fill this column with a handy guide to this year's nominees, chock-full of winner predictions. (Plus, you can check out some of the shorts on your computer, links provided, free of charge. You're welcome!)Best picture“Atonement”“Juno”“Michael Clayton”“No Country for Old Men”“There Will Be Blood”Winner: “No Country for Old Men. A sweeping 86 wins from various awards programs, coupled with the Academy's love for the Coens, means the “Old Men” should have a lot of life in them on Oscar night. Best Director“The Diving Bell and the Butterfly” Julian Schnabel“Juno” Jason Reitman“Michael Clayton” Tony Gilroy“No Country for Old Men” Joel Coen and Ethan Coen“There Will Be Blood” Paul Thomas AndersonWinner: The Coens again will be awarded, not only for this film, but for their decades of impressive contributions to cinema, whereas the runner-up, Anderson, seems to be just beginning his remarkable run.Best ActorGeorge Clooney in “Michael Clayton”Daniel Day-Lewis in “There Will Be Blood”Johnny Depp in “Sweeney Todd The Demon Barber of Fleet Street”Tommy Lee Jones in “In the Valley of Elah”Viggo Mortensen in “Eastern Promises”Winner: Daniel Day Lewis. Of the film's 45 award wins, the majority have gone to Lewis, whose Daniel Plainview could have easily been the embodiment of evil, were it not for the actor who shades the character with the tiniest sliver of humanity. Best ActressCate Blanchett in “Elizabeth: The Golden Age”Julie Christie in “Away from Her”Marion Cotillard in “La Vie en Rose”Laura Linney in “The Savages”Ellen Page in “Juno”Winner: Christie. Winning nods from coast (New York, D.C.) to coast (San Francisco, San Diego), to all parts in between (Arizona, Houston, Phoenix), as well as a BAFTA from overseas, Christie is a lock. Best Supporting ActorCasey Affleck in “The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford”Javier Bardem in “No Country for Old Men”Philip Seymour Hoffman in “Charlie Wilson’s War”Hal Holbrook in “Into the Wild”Tom Wilkinson in “Michael Clayton”Winner: Bardem. Who knew a bowl-cut could be so bad-ass? Bardem's emotionless killing machine is the embodiment of evil in “No Country.” Best Supporting ActressCate Blanchett in “I’m Not There”Ruby Dee in “American Gangster”Saoirse Ronan in “Atonement”Amy Ryan in “Gone Baby Gone”Tilda Swinton in “Michael Clayton”Winner: Blanchett. Unless her two nominations this year cancel each other out, Blanchett is the best thing in an otherwise decent, but rather convoluted movie. Best animated feature“Persepolis”“Ratatouille”“Surf's Up”Winner: “Ratatoille.” Unless the Academy chooses to show its indie credibility with selecting “Persepolis,” the little guy should go to Pixar's latest masterpiece, and one of its most technically lavish and emotionally mature works in its canon. Best documentary feature“No End in Sight”“Operation Homecoming: Writing the Wartime Experience”“Sicko”“Taxi to the Dark Side”“War/Dance”Winner: “No End in Sight.” My only hope is that an Oscar win will bolster this film's chances of being seen, since it is far and away one of the most insightful documentaries concerning the war in Iraq out there. Art direction“American Gangster”“Atonement”“The Golden Compass”“Sweeney Todd The Demon Barber of Fleet Street”“There Will Be Blood”Winner: “There Will be Blood.” Only because “No Country for Old Men” didn't make it, the Academy will toss “Blood” a bone here. Cinematography “The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford” Roger Deakins“Atonement” Seamus McGarvey“The Diving Bell and the Butterfly” Janusz Kaminski“No Country for Old Men” Roger Deakins“There Will Be Blood” Robert ElswitWinner: “There Will Be Blood.” For true cinema geeks, this is the most exciting category of the evening. Deakins, whose work in “Jesse James” is nothing short of poetic, adequately captures the harsh dust bowls in “No Country.” But in “Blood,” there are entire stretches of time where not a word is uttered and we can drink in the sumptuous images captured by Elswit. Costume design“Across the Universe” Albert Wolsky“Atonement” Jacqueline Durran“Elizabeth: The Golden Age” Alexandra Byrne“La Vie en Rose” Marit Allen“Sweeney Todd The Demon Barber of Fleet Street” Colleen AtwoodWinner: “Atonement.” After sweeping up at the BAFTA awards last weekend, the period piece that is perhaps more notable for its costume over its content. In particular, Kiera Knightly's green dress in act one may cinch the prize alone.Best documentary short subject“Freeheld”“La Corona (The Crown)”“Salim Baba”“Sari’s Mother”Winner: “Sari's Mother.” Look for director James Longley's tale of a mother in Iraq trying to get health care for her young AIDS-afflicted son to take the prize. It helps that he's earned such prior praise with his doc “Iraq in Fragments.' Editing“The Bourne Ultimatum” Christopher Rouse“The Diving Bell and the Butterfly” Juliette Welfling“Into the Wild” Jay Cassidy“No Country for Old Men” Roderick Jaynes“There Will Be Blood” Dylan TichenorWinner: “No Country for Old Men.” Perhaps more than any other technical category, “No Country” earns its stripes for its near-perfect slicing. Foreign language film“Beaufort” Israel“The Counterfeiters” Austria“Katyń” Poland“Mongol” Kazakhstan“12” RussiaWinner: “Beaufort.” In a rather weak field, “Beaufort” is the only film that seems to be making any critical waves. And if Borat had done enough to sully the name of Kazakhstan, “Mongol” has been doing a bang-up job on its own. Makeup“La Vie en Rose”“Norbit”“Pirates of the Caribbean: At World’s End”Winner: “Pirates.” So help me, Rick Baker has been a pioneer in real-life visual effects, but if he walks with one for transforming Eddie Murphy into a gargantuan shrew, I'm out, man. Game over. Original score“Atonement”“The Kite Runner” Distributed by Paramount Classics) Alberto Iglesias“Michael Clayton”“Ratatouille”“3:10 to Yuma”Winner: “Michael Clayton.” Where the hell was Jonny Greenwood's eclectic, haunting orchestration for “There Will Be Blood”? Because of some lame technicality, it was left off. None of the other candidates here are even in the same league, but Clayton's is the only score that I can still recall after seeing the film, so it gets my vote. Original song“Falling Slowly” from “Once”“Happy Working Song” from “Enchanted”“Raise It Up” from “August Rush”“So Close” from “Enchanted”“That’s How You Know” from “Enchanted”Winner: “Falling Slowly.” Sure, there's overwhelming odds that “Enchanted” could pick it up here, and it deserves some love, but more for a nomination for its lead Amy Adams, not in its cheeky, but slight, soundtrack. Best animated short film“I Met the Walrus” (trailer)“Madame Tutli-Putli” (full film)“Même les Pigeons Vont au Paradis (Even Pigeons Go to Heaven)” ( full film)“My Love (Moya Lyubov) for Natalie” (Channel One Russia) (full film, part 2's link is provided after film)“Peter & the Wolf” (BreakThru Films)Winner: My Love. Like a Renoir painting come to life, this is one of the most lavish 2-D animated films in quite some time.Best live action short film“At Night” (clip)“Il Supplente (The Substitute)” (full film)“Le Mozart des Pickpockets (The Mozart of Pickpockets)” (full film)“Tanghi Argentini”“The Tonto Woman” (trailer)Winner: “Il Supplente.” Comic gold and a great punchline.Sound editing“The Bourne Ultimatum”“No Country for Old Men”“Ratatouille”“There Will Be Blood”“Transformers”Winner: “No Country for Old Men.” It could be a toss up with “There Will Be Blood,” but I have a feeling that the cold thud of Javier Bardem's pneumatic air gun gives it a slight edge. Sound mixing“The Bourne Ultimatum”“No Country for Old Men”“Ratatouille”“3:10 to Yuma”“Transformers”Winner: Transformers. Kevin O'Connell and Greg P. Russell have a combined 32 nominations in their career. It's time Oscar paid them for their labor for their work literally making heavy metal. Visual effects “The Golden Compass”“Pirates of the Caribbean: At World’s End”“Transformers”Winner: Transformers. Was there a part of this film that was not a visual effect? “Compas” flopped, “Pirates” sailed off with the trophy last year, plus, wouldn't it be cool to have a statue that morphed into a robot that would blow up screenwriter Diablo Cody's prize?Adapted screenplay“Atonement” Christopher Hampton“Away from Her” Sarah Polley“The Diving Bell and the Butterfly” Ronald Harwood“No Country for Old Men” Joel and Ethan Coen“There Will Be Blood” Paul Thomas AndersonWinner: “No Country for Old Men.” This one will be swept up in the Coen fever that will take hold on Oscar night, though I think “Blood” will have a longer shelf life with repeated viewings. Original screenplay“Juno” Diablo Cody“Lars and the Real Girl” Nancy Oliver“Michael Clayton” Tony Gilroy“Ratatouille” Brad Bird“The Savages” Tamara JenkinsWinner: Diablo Cody for Juno. I think the Academy members have a stake in the merchandising of the T-shirts, since the entire script seems ready to be ironed on to the front of clothing, line by agonizing line.
]]>Mon, 11 Feb 2008 02:20:58 GMTusesoapusesoap Blog2/10/2008 9:20:58 PMEven though the writers have apparently settled on a deal to end the strike, there is still a great deal to fear on the Oscar broadcast set for Feb. 24, that can be summed up in three simple words (two if you hyphenate correctly):Oscar-winner 'Norbit'.That's right. While many wrestle with the fact that their favorite films have been left off the nominee list (I understand, though don't agree with, the love-fest called Juno, but even my friends who are the most ardent supporters of the film agree that it has no place in the Best Picture and Best Director category) a film that was universally loathed like 'Norbit' has a shot at earning the most coveted trophies in the biz.Here to give you an edge on the office ballots, I have opted to fill this column with a handy guide to this year's nominees, chock-full of winner predictions. (Plus, you can check out some of the shorts on your computer, links provided, free of charge. You're welcome!)Best picture“Atonement”“Juno”“Michael Clayton”“No Country for Old Men”“There Will Be Blood”Winner: “No Country for Old Men. A sweeping 86 wins from various awards programs, coupled with the Academy's love for the Coens, means the “Old Men” should have a lot of life in them on Oscar night. Best Director“The Diving Bell and the Butterfly” Julian Schnabel“Juno” Jason Reitman“Michael Clayton” Tony Gilroy“No Country for Old Men” Joel Coen and Ethan Coen“There Will Be Blood” Paul Thomas AndersonWinner: The Coens again will be awarded, not only for this film, but for their decades of impressive contributions to cinema, whereas the runner-up, Anderson, seems to be just beginning his remarkable run.Best ActorGeorge Clooney in “Michael Clayton”Daniel Day-Lewis in “There Will Be Blood”Johnny Depp in “Sweeney Todd The Demon Barber of Fleet Street”Tommy Lee Jones in “In the Valley of Elah”Viggo Mortensen in “Eastern Promises”Winner: Daniel Day Lewis. Of the film's 45 award wins, the majority have gone to Lewis, whose Daniel Plainview could have easily been the embodiment of evil, were it not for the actor who shades the character with the tiniest sliver of humanity. Best ActressCate Blanchett in “Elizabeth: The Golden Age”Julie Christie in “Away from Her”Marion Cotillard in “La Vie en Rose”Laura Linney in “The Savages”Ellen Page in “Juno”Winner: Christie. Winning nods from coast (New York, D.C.) to coast (San Francisco, San Diego), to all parts in between (Arizona, Houston, Phoenix), as well as a BAFTA from overseas, Christie is a lock. Best Supporting ActorCasey Affleck in “The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford”Javier Bardem in “No Country for Old Men”Philip Seymour Hoffman in “Charlie Wilson’s War”Hal Holbrook in “Into the Wild”Tom Wilkinson in “Michael Clayton”Winner: Bardem. Who knew a bowl-cut could be so bad-ass? Bardem's emotionless killing machine is the embodiment of evil in “No Country.” Best Supporting ActressCate Blanchett in “I’m Not There”Ruby Dee in “American Gangster”Saoirse Ronan in “Atonement”Amy Ryan in “Gone Baby Gone”Tilda Swinton in “Michael Clayton”Winner: Blanchett. Unless her two nominations this year cancel each other out, Blanchett is the best thing in an otherwise decent, but rather convoluted movie. Best animated feature“Persepolis”“Ratatouille”“Surf's Up”Winner: “Ratatoille.” Unless the Academy chooses to show its indie credibility with selecting “Persepolis,” the little guy should go to Pixar's latest masterpiece, and one of its most technically lavish and emotionally mature works in its canon. Best documentary feature“No End in Sight”“Operation Homecoming: Writing the Wartime Experience”“Sicko”“Taxi to the Dark Side”“War/Dance”Winner: “No End in Sight.” My only hope is that an Oscar win will bolster this film's chances of being seen, since it is far and away one of the most insightful documentaries concerning the war in Iraq out there. Art direction“American Gangster”“Atonement”“The Golden Compass”“Sweeney Todd The Demon Barber of Fleet Street”“There Will Be Blood”Winner: “There Will be Blood.” Only because “No Country for Old Men” didn't make it, the Academy will toss “Blood” a bone here. Cinematography “The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford” Roger Deakins“Atonement” Seamus McGarvey“The Diving Bell and the Butterfly” Janusz Kaminski“No Country for Old Men” Roger Deakins“There Will Be Blood” Robert ElswitWinner: “There Will Be Blood.” For true cinema geeks, this is the most exciting category of the evening. Deakins, whose work in “Jesse James” is nothing short of poetic, adequately captures the harsh dust bowls in “No Country.” But in “Blood,” there are entire stretches of time where not a word is uttered and we can drink in the sumptuous images captured by Elswit. Costume design“Across the Universe” Albert Wolsky“Atonement” Jacqueline Durran“Elizabeth: The Golden Age” Alexandra Byrne“La Vie en Rose” Marit Allen“Sweeney Todd The Demon Barber of Fleet Street” Colleen AtwoodWinner: “Atonement.” After sweeping up at the BAFTA awards last weekend, the period piece that is perhaps more notable for its costume over its content. In particular, Kiera Knightly's green dress in act one may cinch the prize alone.Best documentary short subject“Freeheld”“La Corona (The Crown)”“Salim Baba”“Sari’s Mother”Winner: “Sari's Mother.” Look for director James Longley's tale of a mother in Iraq trying to get health care for her young AIDS-afflicted son to take the prize. It helps that he's earned such prior praise with his doc “Iraq in Fragments.' Editing“The Bourne Ultimatum” Christopher Rouse“The Diving Bell and the Butterfly” Juliette Welfling“Into the Wild” Jay Cassidy“No Country for Old Men” Roderick Jaynes“There Will Be Blood” Dylan TichenorWinner: “No Country for Old Men.” Perhaps more than any other technical category, “No Country” earns its stripes for its near-perfect slicing. Foreign language film“Beaufort” Israel“The Counterfeiters” Austria“Katyń” Poland“Mongol” Kazakhstan“12” RussiaWinner: “Beaufort.” In a rather weak field, “Beaufort” is the only film that seems to be making any critical waves. And if Borat had done enough to sully the name of Kazakhstan, “Mongol” has been doing a bang-up job on its own. Makeup“La Vie en Rose”“Norbit”“Pirates of the Caribbean: At World’s End”Winner: “Pirates.” So help me, Rick Baker has been a pioneer in real-life visual effects, but if he walks with one for transforming Eddie Murphy into a gargantuan shrew, I'm out, man. Game over. Original score“Atonement”“The Kite Runner” Distributed by Paramount Classics) Alberto Iglesias“Michael Clayton”“Ratatouille”“3:10 to Yuma”Winner: “Michael Clayton.” Where the hell was Jonny Greenwood's eclectic, haunting orchestration for “There Will Be Blood”? Because of some lame technicality, it was left off. None of the other candidates here are even in the same league, but Clayton's is the only score that I can still recall after seeing the film, so it gets my vote. Original song“Falling Slowly” from “Once”“Happy Working Song” from “Enchanted”“Raise It Up” from “August Rush”“So Close” from “Enchanted”“That’s How You Know” from “Enchanted”Winner: “Falling Slowly.” Sure, there's overwhelming odds that “Enchanted” could pick it up here, and it deserves some love, but more for a nomination for its lead Amy Adams, not in its cheeky, but slight, soundtrack. Best animated short film“I Met the Walrus” (trailer)“Madame Tutli-Putli” (full film)“Même les Pigeons Vont au Paradis (Even Pigeons Go to Heaven)” ( full film)“My Love (Moya Lyubov) for Natalie” (Channel One Russia) (full film, part 2's link is provided after film)“Peter & the Wolf” (BreakThru Films)Winner: My Love. Like a Renoir painting come to life, this is one of the most lavish 2-D animated films in quite some time.Best live action short film“At Night” (clip)“Il Supplente (The Substitute)” (full film)“Le Mozart des Pickpockets (The Mozart of Pickpockets)” (full film)“Tanghi Argentini”“The Tonto Woman” (trailer)Winner: “Il Supplente.” Comic gold and a great punchline.Sound editing“The Bourne Ultimatum”“No Country for Old Men”“Ratatouille”“There Will Be Blood”“Transformers”Winner: “No Country for Old Men.” It could be a toss up with “There Will Be Blood,” but I have a feeling that the cold thud of Javier Bardem's pneumatic air gun gives it a slight edge. Sound mixing“The Bourne Ultimatum”“No Country for Old Men”“Ratatouille”“3:10 to Yuma”“Transformers”Winner: Transformers. Kevin O'Connell and Greg P. Russell have a combined 32 nominations in their career. It's time Oscar paid them for their labor for their work literally making heavy metal. Visual effects “The Golden Compass”“Pirates of the Caribbean: At World’s End”“Transformers”Winner: Transformers. Was there a part of this film that was not a visual effect? “Compas” flopped, “Pirates” sailed off with the trophy last year, plus, wouldn't it be cool to have a statue that morphed into a robot that would blow up screenwriter Diablo Cody's prize?Adapted screenplay“Atonement” Christopher Hampton“Away from Her” Sarah Polley“The Diving Bell and the Butterfly” Ronald Harwood“No Country for Old Men” Joel and Ethan Coen“There Will Be Blood” Paul Thomas AndersonWinner: “No Country for Old Men.” This one will be swept up in the Coen fever that will take hold on Oscar night, though I think “Blood” will have a longer shelf life with repeated viewings. Original screenplay“Juno” Diablo Cody“Lars and the Real Girl” Nancy Oliver“Michael Clayton” Tony Gilroy“Ratatouille” Brad Bird“The Savages” Tamara JenkinsWinner: Diablo Cody for Juno. I think the Academy members have a stake in the merchandising of the T-shirts, since the entire script seems ready to be ironed on to the front of clothing, line by agonizing line. Spout Post: Top 10 Favorite Films of 2007 http://www.spout.com/blogs/the1theonlyjp/archive/2008/1/2/23451.aspx

Post By: The1TheOnlyJP
Post To: The Paxton Log
Post Date: 1/2/2008 10:51:05 PM
Body: Here it is, one final post relating to the movies of 2007. This in my opinion is really the only list that counts. Here I'm not talking about the supposed best films of the year (although some certainly are) but rather which ones I personally loved most. This time I'm actually going to place them in order though. So sit back and relax as I unveil my top ten favorite films of 2007. (Sadly, 'Bratz' is not one of them.)[10] 'Black Snake Moan'I love Samuel L. Jackson. He's the only reason I'm even interested in the upcoming action-flick 'Jumper.' His role in 'Black Snake Moan' as the bluesman Lazarus was something completely different for him. This was a movie which basically boils down to being about a black man reaching out to a lust driven white girl in an attempt at helping her with her sickness. Sounds a little dirty when in fact their relationship in the film is anything but. The sad thing is this turned out to be a defining role for Jackson and most people have never even heard of the film. Kudos to Craig Brewer for creating such a different story for us to experience.[09] 'Pirates of the Caribbean: At World's End'After the disgusting fiasco in 2006 better known as 'Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest' I must say I was taken back by the fact I actually enjoyed 'At World's End.' This guilty pleasure not only is one of my favorite films of 2007, but is also my greatest theater-going experience of the year. For me there has always been something about being at large showings that just gets me excited. The sold out premiere that took place on Thursday May 24 did just that. Seeing this surprisingly fun flick with my dad in a theater packed to the brim with lovers, haters & newcomers to the 'Pirates' franchise was fantastic.[08] 'Across the Universe''Across the Universe' was definitely the film I anticipated most of all in 2007. After months and months of waiting I was rewarded with an additional three weeks of waiting due to the ridiculous snobs at Revolution Studios. I bet they sure had their share of laughs once the film failed at the box office. To them I say, fuck you. Even though it turned out to not quite be as amazing as I had envisioned it still remains to be among my favorites. From the creative army induction scene to Mr. Kite's whimsical circus almost every moment of it is pure gold. Plus, now every time my ears are filled with Joe Anderson and Salma Hayeks rendition of "Happiness Is a Warm Gun" I'm instantly transported to another place located somewhere between joy and delight.[07] 'Atonement''Atonement' is an interesting movie. I liked how it was artsy enough to be considered among the Oscar front-runners and mainstream enough to feature an ending that only had me reminiscing about 'Titanic' despite very large differences. I also liked how it was able maintain a balance of almost every genre. It had its funny moments, anger streaks, thrilling sequences, dramatic tone, & of course romance. Honestly, I liked it so much I'm anxious to read the novel it's based on which I'll begin once I finish with 'The Mist.'[06] 'Hairspray'Never would I have guessed that a movie starring Zac Efron would end up as being one of my favorites of the past year. I have to admit though, it was just so much fun to watch. And watch I did; five times while it played in theaters to be exact. One of those viewings was even at 10:40 in the evening after a storm had knocked out the power at my house during mid-August. There I was all alone in that big auditorium seeing John Travolta shimmy and shaking on screen to his hearts content as "You Can't Stop the Beat" played. Scarier things can't even be seen within the darkest of nightmares I guarantee.[05] 'Ratatouille'Going into 'Ratatouille' I wasn't really sure what to expect. Yes, it was directed by Brad Bird who created another highly acclaimed Disney-Pixar film titled 'The Incredibles' a few years prior so it had that going for it. But one has to question just how good a film about a rat who aspires to cook in Paris could be. Once it was all over and I had seen it, my only question from then on which I pondered many times was will any other film top that this year? The answer remains the same to this day: no. It was a perfect example of Disney at it's finest and I've yet to see a film released in 2007 that managed to be better than it in terms of movie making.[04] 'Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street'Another Tim Burton movie, another time Johnny Depp is cast as its lead. We've been down this road before except this time it was truly great. Since the ending wasn't a jaw-dropper it would only be necessary for there to be other reasons why it turned out to be so. Hence why such emphasis and recognition is required regarding the flair and style exhibited by the cast. Burton's wife Helena Bonham Carter as Mrs. Lovett proved to hold her own with her not-so-smooth but rather rough vocals required to pull off the performance. Depp who wasn't exactly awe-inspiring in the singing department but not dreadful either per say was equally impressive. The only real problem I had with 'Sweeney Todd:' was the CGI-heavy opening credits. I've always loved how Burton takes the audience on a ride through the world in which his film takes place. Here though I just didn't understand why it was needed to feature so much CGI in the sequence when the remainder had little to none. No biggie though, like I said I thought it was great.[03] 'Juno'This movie which was inspired by Jamie Lynn Spears' recent headlines (ha, ha, ha) was for me the funniest of the year. The dialogue in it is so smart and so honest I had a smile so wide I was poking the people sitting beside me in their each of their cheeks. The fact the little thirteen year-olds that were behind me on the way out after it was finished were spouting aloud how they liked 'Knocked Up' better filled me with complete and uncontrollable rage. Thus I was not at fault when I spun around and pummeled them to the floor leaving them drenched in a lukewarm puddle of Coke from their half-drank sixty-four ounce cups they bought at the concession stand earlier. Well, not really, but I would have immensely enjoyed doing so.[02] 'La Vie en Rose'No actress was more on point or convincing in 2007 than Marion Cotillard in this bio-pic. She was beyond beautiful to watch. Then there was the scenery which was almost as mesmerizing as she was. I'm a sucker for backgrounds and such, and boy let me tell you 'La Vie en Rose' delivered. The city of Paris was fascinatingly smutty and grungy (in a good way) while New York was alluring and gorgeous. The way the lights sparkled behind Cotillard and Martin before they depart for the first time at the hotels entrance was lovely. Anyone who has any interest in the life of Edith Piaf should absolutely see this movie.[01] 'Grindhouse'Amazing. Kickass. Awesome. Mind-blowing. Incredible. Marvelous. Wahootastic. Are there any other words that more perfectly describe my favorite film of the year? It really sucks that people just didn't get this great piece of cinema. I mean seriously how hard is to understand that Rose McGown sporting a machine-gun leg plus Kurt Russell killing people with a car equals three hours and twelve minutes of crazy cool? OH, POOR LITTLE TONY!!! MOMMY TOLD YOU TO BE CAREFUL WITH THAT GUN!!! Just great. Now I've gone and confused people who haven't seen it even more because they're not going to know what the hell that last bit even referred to. Oh well, here's to my involuntary continuing of the problem. Okay, I'm done. No more posts about 2007 I promise. All posts about movies from here on out will only pertain to that of releases of 2008. Once again, thank you to those that took the time to read. I love you all. Dedicated to all of my friends: those very special people who put up with my non-stop jabbering about movies.
]]>Thu, 03 Jan 2008 03:51:05 GMTThe1TheOnlyJPThe Paxton Log1/2/2008 10:51:05 PMHere it is, one final post relating to the movies of 2007. This in my opinion is really the only list that counts. Here I'm not talking about the supposed best films of the year (although some certainly are) but rather which ones I personally loved most. This time I'm actually going to place them in order though. So sit back and relax as I unveil my top ten favorite films of 2007. (Sadly, 'Bratz' is not one of them.)[10] 'Black Snake Moan'I love Samuel L. Jackson. He's the only reason I'm even interested in the upcoming action-flick 'Jumper.' His role in 'Black Snake Moan' as the bluesman Lazarus was something completely different for him. This was a movie which basically boils down to being about a black man reaching out to a lust driven white girl in an attempt at helping her with her sickness. Sounds a little dirty when in fact their relationship in the film is anything but. The sad thing is this turned out to be a defining role for Jackson and most people have never even heard of the film. Kudos to Craig Brewer for creating such a different story for us to experience.[09] 'Pirates of the Caribbean: At World's End'After the disgusting fiasco in 2006 better known as 'Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest' I must say I was taken back by the fact I actually enjoyed 'At World's End.' This guilty pleasure not only is one of my favorite films of 2007, but is also my greatest theater-going experience of the year. For me there has always been something about being at large showings that just gets me excited. The sold out premiere that took place on Thursday May 24 did just that. Seeing this surprisingly fun flick with my dad in a theater packed to the brim with lovers, haters & newcomers to the 'Pirates' franchise was fantastic.[08] 'Across the Universe''Across the Universe' was definitely the film I anticipated most of all in 2007. After months and months of waiting I was rewarded with an additional three weeks of waiting due to the ridiculous snobs at Revolution Studios. I bet they sure had their share of laughs once the film failed at the box office. To them I say, fuck you. Even though it turned out to not quite be as amazing as I had envisioned it still remains to be among my favorites. From the creative army induction scene to Mr. Kite's whimsical circus almost every moment of it is pure gold. Plus, now every time my ears are filled with Joe Anderson and Salma Hayeks rendition of "Happiness Is a Warm Gun" I'm instantly transported to another place located somewhere between joy and delight.[07] 'Atonement''Atonement' is an interesting movie. I liked how it was artsy enough to be considered among the Oscar front-runners and mainstream enough to feature an ending that only had me reminiscing about 'Titanic' despite very large differences. I also liked how it was able maintain a balance of almost every genre. It had its funny moments, anger streaks, thrilling sequences, dramatic tone, & of course romance. Honestly, I liked it so much I'm anxious to read the novel it's based on which I'll begin once I finish with 'The Mist.'[06] 'Hairspray'Never would I have guessed that a movie starring Zac Efron would end up as being one of my favorites of the past year. I have to admit though, it was just so much fun to watch. And watch I did; five times while it played in theaters to be exact. One of those viewings was even at 10:40 in the evening after a storm had knocked out the power at my house during mid-August. There I was all alone in that big auditorium seeing John Travolta shimmy and shaking on screen to his hearts content as "You Can't Stop the Beat" played. Scarier things can't even be seen within the darkest of nightmares I guarantee.[05] 'Ratatouille'Going into 'Ratatouille' I wasn't really sure what to expect. Yes, it was directed by Brad Bird who created another highly acclaimed Disney-Pixar film titled 'The Incredibles' a few years prior so it had that going for it. But one has to question just how good a film about a rat who aspires to cook in Paris could be. Once it was all over and I had seen it, my only question from then on which I pondered many times was will any other film top that this year? The answer remains the same to this day: no. It was a perfect example of Disney at it's finest and I've yet to see a film released in 2007 that managed to be better than it in terms of movie making.[04] 'Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street'Another Tim Burton movie, another time Johnny Depp is cast as its lead. We've been down this road before except this time it was truly great. Since the ending wasn't a jaw-dropper it would only be necessary for there to be other reasons why it turned out to be so. Hence why such emphasis and recognition is required regarding the flair and style exhibited by the cast. Burton's wife Helena Bonham Carter as Mrs. Lovett proved to hold her own with her not-so-smooth but rather rough vocals required to pull off the performance. Depp who wasn't exactly awe-inspiring in the singing department but not dreadful either per say was equally impressive. The only real problem I had with 'Sweeney Todd:' was the CGI-heavy opening credits. I've always loved how Burton takes the audience on a ride through the world in which his film takes place. Here though I just didn't understand why it was needed to feature so much CGI in the sequence when the remainder had little to none. No biggie though, like I said I thought it was great.[03] 'Juno'This movie which was inspired by Jamie Lynn Spears' recent headlines (ha, ha, ha) was for me the funniest of the year. The dialogue in it is so smart and so honest I had a smile so wide I was poking the people sitting beside me in their each of their cheeks. The fact the little thirteen year-olds that were behind me on the way out after it was finished were spouting aloud how they liked 'Knocked Up' better filled me with complete and uncontrollable rage. Thus I was not at fault when I spun around and pummeled them to the floor leaving them drenched in a lukewarm puddle of Coke from their half-drank sixty-four ounce cups they bought at the concession stand earlier. Well, not really, but I would have immensely enjoyed doing so.[02] 'La Vie en Rose'No actress was more on point or convincing in 2007 than Marion Cotillard in this bio-pic. She was beyond beautiful to watch. Then there was the scenery which was almost as mesmerizing as she was. I'm a sucker for backgrounds and such, and boy let me tell you 'La Vie en Rose' delivered. The city of Paris was fascinatingly smutty and grungy (in a good way) while New York was alluring and gorgeous. The way the lights sparkled behind Cotillard and Martin before they depart for the first time at the hotels entrance was lovely. Anyone who has any interest in the life of Edith Piaf should absolutely see this movie.[01] 'Grindhouse'Amazing. Kickass. Awesome. Mind-blowing. Incredible. Marvelous. Wahootastic. Are there any other words that more perfectly describe my favorite film of the year? It really sucks that people just didn't get this great piece of cinema. I mean seriously how hard is to understand that Rose McGown sporting a machine-gun leg plus Kurt Russell killing people with a car equals three hours and twelve minutes of crazy cool? OH, POOR LITTLE TONY!!! MOMMY TOLD YOU TO BE CAREFUL WITH THAT GUN!!! Just great. Now I've gone and confused people who haven't seen it even more because they're not going to know what the hell that last bit even referred to. Oh well, here's to my involuntary continuing of the problem. Okay, I'm done. No more posts about 2007 I promise. All posts about movies from here on out will only pertain to that of releases of 2008. Once again, thank you to those that took the time to read. I love you all. Dedicated to all of my friends: those very special people who put up with my non-stop jabbering about movies. Spout Post: The 10 Best Films of 2007 http://www.spout.com/blogs/the1theonlyjp/archive/2008/1/1/23392.aspx

Post By: The1TheOnlyJP
Post To: The Paxton Log
Post Date: 1/1/2008 5:35:28 AM
Body: Hello, my name is JP Paxton and I love movies. What began in mid 2004 has since became my uncontrollable obsession that can now be considered nothing less than an incurable sickness. Seriously, I probably think of a movie or something movie-related once every ten seconds. Because of this, I am propelled to constantly see, write & talk about movies. Those of you who are my friends or at least know of me already know this. For the ones that don't, now you know. Here it is New Year's Eve which means that yet another year has passed. Of course though that also means I'm here to let you all know what films I consider the best of 2007. This year certainly had its share of disappointments including but not limited to 'Bee Movie', 'Underdog' & 'Mr. Magorium's Wonder Emporium.' I still can't recall what made me even think 'Underdog' might have possibly had a shot at being even half-decent. With the bad though there's always some good. For example 'Once'; the independent musical starring actual musical artists as the films two leads instead of actors resulting in real on-screen emotion. Also this year featured the thrilling crime-drama 'Zodiac' depicting the merciless murderers that started in the 60's by the infamous serial killer of the same name. Then there was the film that would inevitably become my favorite of 2007: 'Grindhouse.' The throwback to the gritty, low-budget exploitation double features of the 70's caused confusion among audiences nationwide due to marketing that didn't quite reveal its true nature. For those of that did understand it though we were able to appreciate it's kick-ass style and utter awesomeness. However, not one of the films I just mentioned are included in the list that follows and neither are 'Michael Clayton', 'Away From Her', 'Before the Devil Knows You're Dead' or 'Gone Baby Gone.' They all had some great qualities but just fell short in the end. With that, here they are in all their glory in no particular order, the ten films deemed by yours truly as the best of 2007.'La Vie en Rose'The passionate and troubled life of Paris singer Edith Piaf features one of if not the most captivating performances of the year. Written with her in mind by director Olivier Dahan, Marion Cotillard is flawless. I imagine she'll be a shoe-in for a nomination of best actress at this years Oscars.'Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street'Tim Burton and Johnny Depp's sixth collaboration together is a "bloody" good Gothic feast for the eyes. It's true, it is repetitious of Burton's previous works in terms of style but it's also a smooth and elegant telling of the macabre brought to life by its great music.'Juno'This was actually the final film I saw this year and how glad I am that ended up getting the chance to do so. It is an immensely funny, clever & sweet comedy starring the fantastic Ellen Page. Its greatest strength resides in the smart screenplay written by Diablo Codybest known for memoir titled "Candy Girl: A Year in The Life of an Unlikely Stripper."'The Kite Runner'One of three book adaptations featured in this best of list 'The Kite Runner' brings to the big screen Khaled Hossenini's gripping novel of friendship and betrayal. While many will argue the exact opposite, I found it to be an amazing story that will touch your heart.'Ratatouille'Take one ambitious rat named Remy, an array of astounding visuals that could only be created by Pixar studios and then mix them with the delightful storytelling and directing skills of Brad Bird. Let it simmer for a few years and what do you get? A delicious film that reinforces the fact that even after all these years magic has yet to leave the imaginative Walt Disney Pictures.'Sicko'Oh, how patriotic Michael Moore is. He returned this year with his documentary voicing the horrors of the healthcare system in America. The surprisingly interesting and entertaining two hours and three minutes and will make you cringe and leave you in complete awe.'Atonement'The opening film at this year's Venice Film Festival and adaptation of Ian McEwan's novel brought to the table a wondrous tale of longing which featured magnificent cinematography and an equally lovely score composed by Dario Marianelli. It's such a shame it's not playing in more theaters here in the U.S.'Superbad'Written by Seth Rogan and Evan Goldberg when they were just thirteen years old 'Superbad' turned out to be super good. The Judd Apatow produced comedy is hands down one the years funniest films that offers a truthful glimpse of teenage anxiety and has a groovy soundtrack to boot including cuts from composer Lyle Workman as well as tracks from The Bar-Kays and Rick James.'I'm Not There'The bio-pic formed and executed in a way that resembled one of its subjects own songs 'I'm Not There' gave an interesting look at the life of Bob Dylan. While it wasn't quite what I had envisioned beforehand it still is probably the best put together and creative film of 2007.'No Country for Old Men'The most compelling film of the year is brought to us by The Coen brothers. It gives us a front row seat to the violent game of cat and mouse portrayed by Josh Brolin and a extraordinarily crafty Javier Bardem as Anton Chigurh from the bestseller by Cormac McCarthy. There is no doubt in my mind a best picture nomination in store for this flick.So there you have it. You may agree or disagree with my choices, it doesn't really matter to me. Just be aware that if you don't agree with me you are wrong. DEAD WRONG. Right now I'm typing this as my face sports a disturbingly angry expression... Seriously though, I wish you all a safe and happy new year. Thanks for reading.
]]>Tue, 01 Jan 2008 10:35:28 GMTThe1TheOnlyJPThe Paxton Log1/1/2008 5:35:28 AMHello, my name is JP Paxton and I love movies. What began in mid 2004 has since became my uncontrollable obsession that can now be considered nothing less than an incurable sickness. Seriously, I probably think of a movie or something movie-related once every ten seconds. Because of this, I am propelled to constantly see, write & talk about movies. Those of you who are my friends or at least know of me already know this. For the ones that don't, now you know. Here it is New Year's Eve which means that yet another year has passed. Of course though that also means I'm here to let you all know what films I consider the best of 2007. This year certainly had its share of disappointments including but not limited to 'Bee Movie', 'Underdog' & 'Mr. Magorium's Wonder Emporium.' I still can't recall what made me even think 'Underdog' might have possibly had a shot at being even half-decent. With the bad though there's always some good. For example 'Once'; the independent musical starring actual musical artists as the films two leads instead of actors resulting in real on-screen emotion. Also this year featured the thrilling crime-drama 'Zodiac' depicting the merciless murderers that started in the 60's by the infamous serial killer of the same name. Then there was the film that would inevitably become my favorite of 2007: 'Grindhouse.' The throwback to the gritty, low-budget exploitation double features of the 70's caused confusion among audiences nationwide due to marketing that didn't quite reveal its true nature. For those of that did understand it though we were able to appreciate it's kick-ass style and utter awesomeness. However, not one of the films I just mentioned are included in the list that follows and neither are 'Michael Clayton', 'Away From Her', 'Before the Devil Knows You're Dead' or 'Gone Baby Gone.' They all had some great qualities but just fell short in the end. With that, here they are in all their glory in no particular order, the ten films deemed by yours truly as the best of 2007.'La Vie en Rose'The passionate and troubled life of Paris singer Edith Piaf features one of if not the most captivating performances of the year. Written with her in mind by director Olivier Dahan, Marion Cotillard is flawless. I imagine she'll be a shoe-in for a nomination of best actress at this years Oscars.'Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street'Tim Burton and Johnny Depp's sixth collaboration together is a "bloody" good Gothic feast for the eyes. It's true, it is repetitious of Burton's previous works in terms of style but it's also a smooth and elegant telling of the macabre brought to life by its great music.'Juno'This was actually the final film I saw this year and how glad I am that ended up getting the chance to do so. It is an immensely funny, clever & sweet comedy starring the fantastic Ellen Page. Its greatest strength resides in the smart screenplay written by Diablo Codybest known for memoir titled "Candy Girl: A Year in The Life of an Unlikely Stripper."'The Kite Runner'One of three book adaptations featured in this best of list 'The Kite Runner' brings to the big screen Khaled Hossenini's gripping novel of friendship and betrayal. While many will argue the exact opposite, I found it to be an amazing story that will touch your heart.'Ratatouille'Take one ambitious rat named Remy, an array of astounding visuals that could only be created by Pixar studios and then mix them with the delightful storytelling and directing skills of Brad Bird. Let it simmer for a few years and what do you get? A delicious film that reinforces the fact that even after all these years magic has yet to leave the imaginative Walt Disney Pictures.'Sicko'Oh, how patriotic Michael Moore is. He returned this year with his documentary voicing the horrors of the healthcare system in America. The surprisingly interesting and entertaining two hours and three minutes and will make you cringe and leave you in complete awe.'Atonement'The opening film at this year's Venice Film Festival and adaptation of Ian McEwan's novel brought to the table a wondrous tale of longing which featured magnificent cinematography and an equally lovely score composed by Dario Marianelli. It's such a shame it's not playing in more theaters here in the U.S.'Superbad'Written by Seth Rogan and Evan Goldberg when they were just thirteen years old 'Superbad' turned out to be super good. The Judd Apatow produced comedy is hands down one the years funniest films that offers a truthful glimpse of teenage anxiety and has a groovy soundtrack to boot including cuts from composer Lyle Workman as well as tracks from The Bar-Kays and Rick James.'I'm Not There'The bio-pic formed and executed in a way that resembled one of its subjects own songs 'I'm Not There' gave an interesting look at the life of Bob Dylan. While it wasn't quite what I had envisioned beforehand it still is probably the best put together and creative film of 2007.'No Country for Old Men'The most compelling film of the year is brought to us by The Coen brothers. It gives us a front row seat to the violent game of cat and mouse portrayed by Josh Brolin and a extraordinarily crafty Javier Bardem as Anton Chigurh from the bestseller by Cormac McCarthy. There is no doubt in my mind a best picture nomination in store for this flick.So there you have it. You may agree or disagree with my choices, it doesn't really matter to me. Just be aware that if you don't agree with me you are wrong. DEAD WRONG. Right now I'm typing this as my face sports a disturbingly angry expression... Seriously though, I wish you all a safe and happy new year. Thanks for reading. Spout Post: SIFF Film Review: “La vie en rose” : June 1, 6:30pm, Neptune Theatre http://www.spout.com/blogs/indieflix/archive/2007/7/17/15159.aspx

Post By: IndieFlix
Post To: IndieFlix Blog
Post Date: 7/17/2007 4:47:24 PM
Body: Admittedly, I had no idea who Edith Piaf was, and as the theatre filled to the brim with excited filmgoers tittering excitedly about the singer, my anticipation and curiosity were seriously piqued by the time the film began.There is no disappointment to be had by this biopic film. Whether one’s knowledgeable about the intense life of Edith Piaf or not, it’s beauty and art as portrayed by Olivier Dahan and starred by the brilliant Marion Cotillard is incorrigible. The time periods range from Edith’s youth, to her prime, and finally to her last days, in no particular order. While such time-jumping in other films has thrown off an audience or made for difficult comprehension of the plot, Dahan does so seamlessly, each scene enriching its follow-up as it goes along.However, the heavy intensity and range of emotions the audience felt wouldn’t have been possible without the talent of Marion Cotillard, who had seemed to completely become immersed in the character, the woman, of Edith Piaf herself. Compared to archival footage of the real Edith Piaf, it seemed as though she had been brought back to life for this film, and the effect was staggering.Though more serious and drama-filled than carefree, “La vie en rose” is a powerful movie with all the makings of a classic.
]]>Tue, 17 Jul 2007 20:47:24 GMTIndieFlixIndieFlix Blog7/17/2007 4:47:24 PMAdmittedly, I had no idea who Edith Piaf was, and as the theatre filled to the brim with excited filmgoers tittering excitedly about the singer, my anticipation and curiosity were seriously piqued by the time the film began.There is no disappointment to be had by this biopic film. Whether one’s knowledgeable about the intense life of Edith Piaf or not, it’s beauty and art as portrayed by Olivier Dahan and starred by the brilliant Marion Cotillard is incorrigible. The time periods range from Edith’s youth, to her prime, and finally to her last days, in no particular order. While such time-jumping in other films has thrown off an audience or made for difficult comprehension of the plot, Dahan does so seamlessly, each scene enriching its follow-up as it goes along.However, the heavy intensity and range of emotions the audience felt wouldn’t have been possible without the talent of Marion Cotillard, who had seemed to completely become immersed in the character, the woman, of Edith Piaf herself. Compared to archival footage of the real Edith Piaf, it seemed as though she had been brought back to life for this film, and the effect was staggering.Though more serious and drama-filled than carefree, “La vie en rose” is a powerful movie with all the makings of a classic. Spout Post: Enjoyable film http://www.spout.com/blogs/calvero/archive/2007/6/26/12262.aspx

Post By: calvero
Post To: calvero Blog
Post Date: 6/26/2007 4:05:24 PM
Body: I always enjoyed Edith Piaf's music, and so was quite excited when I saw a trailer for this movie. This movie did not disappoint either. This was the first film by Dahan I've seen, and I thought he did a very good job, however, I feel that his story telling limited his audience. Piaf is a well known figure throughout the French speaking world, but beyond that, I feel that knowledge about her might be so widespread. So, in that sense, the film is lacking, since it seems to assume some knowledge of the subject. Aside from that, I think that Dahan did an excellent job, esperically with his use of a fractured timeline to juxtapose points in Edith's life which made for a much more entertaining and poignant experience. The entire movie was also beautifully shot, with many moving images left in my mind as I exited the theater.I felt the acting was superb; Marion Cotillard's portrayal of Edith matched all the manerisms of Edith and she even managed to make her lip-syncing believable.I think this movie will be quite a contender in the awards race and highly recommend this movie, but do a bit of research before hand if you don't know so much about Edith Piaf, chances are, it will only make the movie more enjoyable.
]]>Tue, 26 Jun 2007 20:05:24 GMTcalverocalvero Blog6/26/2007 4:05:24 PMI always enjoyed Edith Piaf's music, and so was quite excited when I saw a trailer for this movie. This movie did not disappoint either. This was the first film by Dahan I've seen, and I thought he did a very good job, however, I feel that his story telling limited his audience. Piaf is a well known figure throughout the French speaking world, but beyond that, I feel that knowledge about her might be so widespread. So, in that sense, the film is lacking, since it seems to assume some knowledge of the subject. Aside from that, I think that Dahan did an excellent job, esperically with his use of a fractured timeline to juxtapose points in Edith's life which made for a much more entertaining and poignant experience. The entire movie was also beautifully shot, with many moving images left in my mind as I exited the theater.I felt the acting was superb; Marion Cotillard's portrayal of Edith matched all the manerisms of Edith and she even managed to make her lip-syncing believable.I think this movie will be quite a contender in the awards race and highly recommend this movie, but do a bit of research before hand if you don't know so much about Edith Piaf, chances are, it will only make the movie more enjoyable. Spout Post: Movie with bold direction http://www.spout.com/blogs/dicethrower/archive/2007/5/13/8677.aspx

Post By: dicethrower
Post To: dicethrower Blog
Post Date: 5/13/2007 12:15:52 PM
Body: I very much enjoyed Dahan's direction and his choice of shots including some interesting tracking shots. This movie will not cover every detail of Piaf's life but does include quite a bit about her childhood which I favored after seeing the entire film.This movie would seem to be a lock for the French choice for the Foreign Language film Oscar and probably has a good chance to win the whole thing next year.
]]>Sun, 13 May 2007 16:15:52 GMTdicethrowerdicethrower Blog5/13/2007 12:15:52 PMI very much enjoyed Dahan's direction and his choice of shots including some interesting tracking shots. This movie will not cover every detail of Piaf's life but does include quite a bit about her childhood which I favored after seeing the entire film.This movie would seem to be a lock for the French choice for the Foreign Language film Oscar and probably has a good chance to win the whole thing next year. Spout Tag:love http://www.spout.com/members/0/tags/love/MemberTagFilms.aspxlove
Number of films tagged: 12478

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]]>Fri, 11 Dec 2009 01:28:29 GMT124783381480Tag Spout Tag:Great http://www.spout.com/members/0/tags/Great/MemberTagFilms.aspxGreat
Number of films tagged: 231

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]]>Fri, 04 Dec 2009 17:11:49 GMT231202371Tag Spout Tag:romance http://www.spout.com/members/0/tags/romance/MemberTagFilms.aspxromance
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]]>Fri, 18 Dec 2009 22:43:48 GMT260150417Tag Spout Tag:music http://www.spout.com/members/0/tags/music/MemberTagFilms.aspxmusic
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]]>Tue, 01 Dec 2009 19:51:44 GMT4341144481Tag Spout Tag:drugs http://www.spout.com/members/0/tags/drugs/MemberTagFilms.aspxdrugs
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]]>Sun, 20 Dec 2009 18:42:19 GMT1643130489Tag Spout Tag:it http://www.spout.com/members/0/tags/it/MemberTagFilms.aspxit
Number of films tagged: 101

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]]>Mon, 06 Jul 2009 12:42:42 GMT101106117Tag Spout Tag:film http://www.spout.com/members/0/tags/film/MemberTagFilms.aspxfilm
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]]>Tue, 22 Sep 2009 20:35:41 GMT65782190Tag Spout Tag:intense http://www.spout.com/members/0/tags/intense/MemberTagFilms.aspxintense
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]]>Mon, 12 Oct 2009 04:07:45 GMT16281249Tag Spout Tag:addiction http://www.spout.com/members/0/tags/addiction/MemberTagFilms.aspxaddiction
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]]>Tue, 15 Sep 2009 19:57:35 GMT55359117Tag Spout Tag:father http://www.spout.com/members/0/tags/father/MemberTagFilms.aspxfather
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]]>Wed, 11 Nov 2009 20:51:56 GMT358051213Tag Spout Tag:relationship http://www.spout.com/members/0/tags/relationship/MemberTagFilms.aspxrelationship
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]]>Sat, 24 Oct 2009 19:18:01 GMT109050189Tag Spout Tag:emotional http://www.spout.com/members/0/tags/emotional/MemberTagFilms.aspxemotional
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]]>Mon, 30 Nov 2009 02:02:06 GMT6645106Tag Spout Tag:loved http://www.spout.com/members/0/tags/loved/MemberTagFilms.aspxloved
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