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Natalie Portman brightens up the Late Show with David Letterman

2010-11-29T16:28:00.000-08:00

Last night, BLACK SWAN's Natalie Portman graced the couch of the Late Show With David Letterman -- and if you missed it, you're in luck: we have the whole thing after the jump.

Now we know why that physical therapy scene in the movie was for real--ouch. We're not sure what a "displaced rib" feels like, but we're pretty confident that we never want to find out.

Here's the full interview, for your viewing pleasure:

On the Waterfront (1954)

2010-11-29T16:14:00.000-08:00

Brief Synopsis
A young stevedore takes on the mobster who rules the docks.

Synopsis
The Waterfront Crime Commission is about to hold public hearings on union crime and underworld infiltration. As workers are turned against each other, Terry Malloy inadvertently participates in the murder of fellow longshoreman Joey Doyle. Union boss Johnny Friendly orchestrates the murder along with other illegal dockside activities, aided by Terry's brother Charley. Terry begins to feel pangs of conscience. When Joey's sister Edie sees more in Terry than he sees in himself and Father Barry urges him on, Terry reassesses his past and begins to regain responsibility for his actions.

Cast & Crew
Director: Elia Kazan
Marlon Brando as Terry Malloy
Karl Malden as Father Barry
Lee J. Cobb as Johnny Friendly
Rod Steiger as Charley "the Gent" Malloy
Pat Henning as Kayo Dugan
Leif Erickson as Eddy Glover
James Westerfield as Big Mac
Tony Galento as Truck
Tami Mauriello as Tillio
John Hamilton as Pop Doyle
John Heldabrand as Mott

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows (2010)

2010-10-25T08:40:00.000-07:00

In theaters: November 19th, 2010
Copyright © 2010 Warner Bros. Pictures

Synopsis:
Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, the seventh and final adventure in the Harry Potter film series, is a much-anticipated motion picture event to be told in two full-length parts. Part 1 begins as Harry, Ron and Hermione set out on their perilous mission to track down and destroy the secret to Voldemort's immortality and destruction--the Horcruxes. On their own, without the guidance of their professors or the protection of Professor Dumbledore, the three friends must now rely on one another more than ever. But there are Dark Forces in their midst that threaten to tear them apart. Meanwhile, the wizarding world has become a dangerous place for all enemies of the Dark Lord. The long-feared war has begun and Voldemort's Death Eaters seize control of the Ministry of Magic and even Hogwarts, terrorizing and arresting anyone who might oppose them. But the one prize they still seek is the one most valuable to Voldemort: Harry Potter. The Chosen One has become the hunted one as the Death Eaters search for Harry with orders to bring him to Voldemort...alive. Harry's only hope is to find the Horcruxes before Voldemort finds him. But as he searches for clues, he uncovers an old and almost forgotten tale--the legend of the Deathly Hallows. And if the legend turns out to be true, it could give Voldemort the ultimate power he seeks. Little does Harry know that his future has already been decided by his past when, on that fateful day, he became "the Boy Who Lived." No longer just a boy, Harry Potter is drawing ever closer to the task for which he has been preparing since the day he first stepped into Hogwarts: the ultimate battle with Voldemort.

Genre: Family
Official Site: www.harrypotter.com
Director: David Yates
Cast: Daniel Radcliffe, Rupert Grint, Emma Watson, Helena Bonham Carter, Robbie Coltrane, Tom Felton, Ralph Fiennes, Brendan Gleeson, Richard Griffiths, John Hurt, Jason Isaacs, Helen McCrory, Bill Nighy, Miranda Richardson, Alan Rickman, Maggie Smith, Timothy Spall, Imelda Staunton, David Thewlis, Julie Walters, Bonnie Wright
Writers: Steve Kloves

Trailer:

Circle (2010)

2010-10-25T08:29:00.000-07:00

In theaters: August 27th, 2010
Copyright © 2010 Indican Pictures
Synopsis

CIRCLE is a clue driven race against time that takes us on a labyrinth ride of knowledge into the unraveling motives of a serial killer. In this thriller, the FBI teams up with the U.S. Marshals in a hunt for escaped sociopath James Bennett, after he commits a series of meticulously planned murders. Unfortunately, Bennett is going back to his childhood home, where six graduate students are studying his surroundings for their thesis. The movie takes us through the history of James Bennett and slowly into his mind as well; justifying his murders with ancient Greek philosophies to try and see the soul. A tug of war ensues between the FBI and the U.S. Marshals as the FBI scrambles to understand Bennett's modus operandi, and the U.S. Marshals try to rationalize it.

Genre: Horror, Thriller
Official Site: www.circlethemovie.com/
Director: Michael W. Watkins
Cast: Gail O'Grady, Silas Weir Mitchell, America Olivo

Trailer:

Undertow (2010)

2010-10-25T08:25:00.000-07:00

In theaters: November 26th, 2010
Copyright © 2010 The Film Collaborative

Synopsis

In this unique ghost story set on the Peruvian seaside, a married fisherman struggles to reconcile his devotion to his male lover within his town's rigid traditions. Miguel (Cristian Mercado), a handsome young fisherman, and his beautiful bride, Mariela (Tatiana Astengo), are about to welcome their first child. But he's in love with Santiago (Manolo Cardona). After an accident, Miguel must make a choice that could reveal his secret relationship.

Genre: Drama, Foreign
Official Site: www.undertowfilm.com
Director: Javier Fuentes-Leon
Cast: Cristian Mercado, Manolo Cardona, Tatiana Astengo
Run Time: 100 minutes

Trailer:

127 Hours (2010)

2010-10-25T08:21:00.000-07:00

In theaters: November 5th, 2010
Copyright © 2010 Fox Searchlight Pictures

Synopsis:
127 HOURS is the new film from Danny Boyle, the Academy Award winning director of last year's Best Picture, SLUMDOG MILLIONAIRE. 127 HOURS is the true story of mountain climber Aron Ralston's (James Franco) remarkable adventure to save himself after a fallen boulder crashes on his arm and traps him in an isolated canyon in Utah. Over the next five days Ralston examines his life and survives the elements to finally discover he has the courage and the wherewithal to extricate himself by any means necessary, scale a 65 foot wall and hike over eight miles before he is finally rescued. Throughout his journey, Ralston recalls friends, lovers (Clemence Poesy), family, and the two hikers (Amber Tamblyn and Kate Mara) he met before his accident. Will they be the last two people he ever had the chance to meet? A visceral thrilling story that will take an audience on a never before experienced journey and prove what we can do when we choose life.

Genre: Action and Adventure, Drama
Official Site: http://www.127hoursmovie.com
Director: Danny Boyle
Cast: James Franco, Amber Tamblyn, Kate Mara, Clemence Poesy, Kate Burton, Lizzy Caplan
Writers: Danny Boyle, Simon Beaufoy

Trailer:

Client 9: The Rise and Fall of Eliot Spitzer (2010)

2010-10-25T08:16:00.000-07:00

In theaters: November 5th, 2010

Synopsis:
This documentary feature takes an in-depth look at the rapid rise and dramatic fall of New York Governor Eliot Spitzer. Nicknamed "The Sheriff of Wall Street," when he was NY's Attorney General, Eliot Spitzer prosecuted crimes by America's largest financial institutions and some of the most powerful executives in the country. After his election as Governor, with the largest margin in the state's history, many believed Spitzer was on his way to becoming the nation's first Jewish President. Then, shockingly, Spitzer's meteoric rise turned into a precipitous fall when the New York Times revealed that Spitzer - the paragon of rectitude - had been caught seeing prostitutes. As his powerful enemies gloated, his supporters questioned the timing of it all: as the Sheriff fell, so did the financial markets, in a cataclysm that threatened to unravel the global economy. With unique access to the escort world as well as friends, colleagues and enemies of the ex-Governor (many of whom have come forward for the first time) the film explores the hidden contours of this tale of hubris, sex, and power.

Genre: Documentary
Official Site: www.client9themovie.com
Director: Alex Gibney
Writers: Alex Gibney

Trailer:

Rewind With A 'Romeo + Juliet' Blu-Ray EXCLUSIVE 'Making Of' Clip!

2010-10-25T08:02:00.000-07:00

Today we bring you the first of (hopefully) many in a series of nostalgic looks back at movies we loved as kids/teens. This premiere installment, in honor of "Romeo + Juliet" arriving on Blu-ray tomorrow (Oct. 19) is dedicated to the teenage girl in all of us, brought to you by the year 1996.

Pre-"Titanic" Leonardo DiCaprio + Post-"My So-Called Life" Claire Danes + Baz Luhrmann + Shakespeare's most famous tragedy = the stuff that a hopeless romantic's dreams are made of. Luhrmann's stunning, innovative, heartbreaking take on William Shakespeare's "Romeo and Juliet" not only sparked thousands of Leo obsessions, but elevated Luhrmann's Hollywood status into "visionary" territory.

Here's a little behind-the-scenes clip from the Blu-ray to jog your memories. It features the making of one of the film's most memorable moments: the fish tank scene. In the clip, cinematographer Donald M. McAlpine explains the tricks he used to get the lighting just right.

Trailer:

Oh, the fish tank scene. Sigh and swoon. I also loved the trailers and the amazing soundtrack. But what I remember most was being REALLY ticked that Luhrmann had his Juliet wake up just after Romeo poisoned himself and that horrified, heartbreaking expression on Leo's face when she opens her eyes and smiles at him...that was the moment that broke me. I mean, I was prepared for their deaths! We all know it's coming. I was NOT prepared for that artful, yet agonizing addition. Cried. my. eyes. out.

And the best part? I know I'm not alone here. Case in point, I sent out a request to a few of my equally-obsessed friends and they came back with tales of tears, Leo poster-collecting and general obsession.

"Ommmg I cried for like 30 min straight after I saw it. We watched it at a sleepover at my house and I couldn't stop crying (I was 12 and in 7th grade) and my friends were so concerned about me. It started the Leo obsession!!"—Leanne

"Umm, well, there's the fact that I would run around during basketball practice reciting the lines. Basketball/Shakespeare combo, nothin' else like it."—Amy

"You mean like the life sized posters that hung in my room and how I still have the VHS??? I also began clipping out [Leo's] picture from every source possible and kept them in a shoe box under my bed."—Marieke

"I remember becoming obsessed with that little boy who sang the solo in the church scene. SO good."—Tracey

What say you Crushers? What's your "Romeo + Juliet" memory?

Sin City 2 Movie Updates.. Script Changes

2010-07-07T15:18:00.000-07:00

From DigitalSpy comes word that Sin City 2 is once again trapped in delays and rewrites. They quote Robert Rodriguez as saying;

“We’re still working on Sin City, I want to do it so we’ll see. It’s just a matter of when… We have a script… a rewritten script that we still have to write and it’s just finding the right time slot to do it.”

Hopefully the project will get off the ground sooner rather then later but at least at this point we have PREDATORS and his other upcoming project MACHETE. I am not sure if Robert is still planning to co-direct the film with Frank Miller but considering how bad The Spirit was.. lets hope not.

'Star Wars' Actor Sues USA Network for 'Stealing' Show Idea

2010-07-07T15:11:00.000-07:00

April 2, 2005: Actor Hayden Christiansen arrives at Nickelodeon's 18th annual Kids' Choice Awards at UCLA's Pauley Pavilion in Westwood, California.

The Force apparently was not with "Star Wars" actor Hayden Christensen when he pitched an idea for a new television series to the USA Network, the New York Post reported Wednesday.

Canadian-born Christensen and his older brother filed suit Tuesday in New York's Manhattan federal court against the cable outfit, charging that it stole their idea for a comedic drama about a "concierge" doctor who makes house calls to the rich and famous.

The brothers claim that the network's "Royal Pains" -- which is in its second season -- is a shameless rip-off of "Housecall," which they offered to the NBC subsidiary in 2005.

They claim a USA Network executive told them "that, prior to learning about 'Housecall,' he was unaware of concierge doctors and that he thought it was a fascinating idea."

A USA Network spokeswoman declined to comment.

There Will Never Be A "Wonder Woman" Movie

2010-07-07T15:07:00.000-07:00

DC Comics radically altered the costume of their most popular female character. Here's the real reason why.

Women will not watch a stripper fight crime.

With the media world throwing around the "are they nuts?" question following the announcement from DC Comics that they are dramatically redesigning Wonder Woman's iconic costume, keep this fact in mind. But make no mistake - a covered-up Wonder Woman is as much about selling movie tickets as it is pushing comics.

Wonder Woman movie rumors have been floating around Hollywood for decades, but there's a reason why Princess Diana of Themyscira remains the only member of DC's "Big Three"--the other two being a certain clean-cut alien farmboy and a brooding dark avenger--still waiting for a go on the silver screen.

It's not about casting, it's not about finding the right director, and it's not about picking the proper time period setting. No, it all comes down to red Go-Go boots, star-spangled panties, and cleavage-launching corset armor. You see, unlike Marvel, which spent years spreading its characters among various studios before creating their own umbrella company, DC and Warner Bros have been married for years under the banner of AOL/Time Warner. There is never a question about who is going to produce and release a Wonder Woman movie. It's always going to be WB. And since familiarity breeds interference, it's not a completely ridiculous notion to suggest that perhaps Wonder Woman's new leggings and sporty half-jacket didn't start in the DC bullpen, but rather in the WB boardroom.

Joel Silver - the producer behind The Matrix who has been as tightly linked to Wonder Woman as her golden lasso for the past few years - has been through enough Comic Con panels to know that if he stood up in 2010 and revealed the movie Wonder Woman in this radical new get-up, his head would be carried out of Hall H on a free-giveaway spear. So what better way to sell them on the idea than to get the comics to do it first? Sam Raimi didn't have to worry about taking Spider-Man black, because Secret Wars had already done it for him in 1984.

Sure, this is a cynical reading of the events - maybe Wonder Woman comic sales really were slumping enough to warrant the comic book equivalent of a sitcom family adopting a new baby. (Remember when they made Superman two separate entities colored red and blue?) But it seems reasonable to assume that removing the greatest hurdle to a Wonder Woman movie - convincing any actress worth a damn to prance around looking like the world's most patriotic drag queen - is a boon to both WB and DC, so why wouldn't they lend each other a helping hand?

And don't even mouth the words "Lynda Carter," television’s Wonder Woman. All memories of that show are irrevocably clouded by nostalgia and the false assumption that creating deliberate cheesecake is the same thing as being good. The truth of the matter is, Wonder Woman's appeal is not evenly weighed between the sexes and this is death for a potential blockbuster movie franchise.

WHY WOMEN LIKE WONDER WOMAN

- She's a female who holds a position of authority in the Justice League. When Superman and Batman aren't around.

- She comes from a society of warrior women who have no use for men. Except when the writers need them to.

- She is the most respected woman in the DC universe, which, given the likes of the fishnet-clad Black Canary, the mini-skirted Supergirl, and the essentially topless Power Girl, is kind of like being the most respected mom on Toddlers and Tiaras.

WHY MEN LIKE WONDER WOMAN

- Her costume is just one long butt crack-and-cleavage celebration.

- Her main weapon is a rope that forces men to open up and tell her exact what they're thinking.

- Said rope is also frequently used against her in constant variations on bondage fetishism.

- Her every interaction with Superman and Batman is ripe with fanboy-fueling "Will they, won't they, or will all three of them?" double entendre.

- Her main mode of transport is an invisible jet, which apparently exists in the hopes that "severe craning of the neck" will incapacitate most criminals.

So the next time you hear a fanboy rant about how they have "ruined" Wonder Woman, consider the source. Movie studios have tried to (like comics) appeal to the emotionally-stunted fanboy fantasy, only to see the likes of Elektra and Catwoman fail miserably at almost every level. In order for Wonder Woman to truly be taken seriously, she has to look the part. This is why Christopher Nolan put Batman in a functional suit of armor and not grey knickers, and why Bryan Singer avoided the urge to put a large yellow cowl on Hugh Jackman in X-Men. It's also why you should expect to see some serious movement on a Wonder Woman movie now that she's got a costume that Jessica Biel...or Theres Palmer...or Gina Carano...or whoever else is allegedly up for the role would be caught wearing in public. See you at San Diego Comic Con 2011!

Pornstar Belladonna Will Attempt To Mainstream In The Horror Movie Stripped

2010-06-09T14:03:00.000-07:00

Back in 2008, world famous adult film actress Jenna Jameson made the leap into mainstream film by doing a film called Zombie Strippers!. The next year, director Steven Soderbergh decided to cast Sasha Grey, another adult film star, in his film The Girlfriend Experience. Neither film did particularly well in theaters - largely due to lack of exposure (puns!) - but both stand as examples of the minor things people can do to outrage other people. So who will be the next porn star to make the leap?

Michelle "Belladonna" Sinclair, that's who. According to a press release from Wildworks Productions, Sinclair has been cast in the upcoming horror film Stripped, directed by first-timer John Wildman. In the film, which follows three young boys as they are "trapped in a house with a 'family' of malevolent women," Sinclair will play Ginger, a new girl to the house. Production is set to begin in Dallas this fall.

It doesn't take an idiot to see that this casting move was done to draw attention to a small independent film, but some credit is due to Sinclair for choosing the role. In their films, Jameson played a stripper while Grey played a prostitute. At least this adult film actress is trying to show some range.

Centurion Poster: Michael Fassbender Writes History With Blood

2010-06-09T14:00:00.000-07:00

The world knows Michael Fassbender from his roles in arthouse gems like Hunger and Fish Tank or as the debonair film critic-turned-spy Archie Hicox in Inglourious Basterds, but we're all in for a big change of pace. Fassbender is starring in Neil Marshall's Centurion, a sweeping war movie set during the Roman Empire's attempt to settle the reaches of northern England in the year 117 AD. It's brutal, it's intense, it's pretty over the top, and it's all the proof you might need that Fassbender can handle action star duties as well as everything else.

Centurion hits theaters in late August after a July bow on video-on-demand, and to ramp up the excitement, IGN has the first official poster for the film. It's actually pretty impressive, and a nice break from the usual floating heads similarly "epic" movies get. Fassbender looms over a blur of soldiers and axes, wielding a sword and looking ready to kick some ass. Take a look below.

Megan Fox Post-'Transformers': What's Next?

2010-06-09T13:57:00.000-07:00

After leaving 'Transformers 3' behind, upcoming roles for the actress include 'Jonah Hex,' 'Passion Play' and more.

There are conflicting reports regarding exactly why "Transformers 3" will proceed without Megan Fox in the passenger seat, with some indicating that Fox was dropped from the picture, while representatives for the actress insist that "it was her decision not to return." Regardless of the reason, Fox is out of the picture — no more Mikaela Banes for Shia LaBeouf's Sam Witwicky.

Megan Fox in a poster for "Jonah Hex"

But even with the "Transformers" franchise out of her life, Fox still has plenty of work in the pipeline. From high-profile action flicks to lower-budget indie fare and even a few rumored projects, the 24-year-old actress won't be wanting for work now that her Michael Bay days are behind her.

Fox is heading back to the big screen sooner than you might realize with next month's "Jonah Hex," director Jimmy Hayward's adaptation of the DC Comics series about a scarred gunslinger (Josh Brolin) seeking vengeance on the man who killed his family. Fox plays Leila, a gun-toting prostitute and confidant of Brolin's Hex who finds herself entangled in the Civil War veteran's quest for revenge. "Jonah Hex" hits theaters on June 18.

Additionally, Fox has already finished filming a considerably smaller-scale project called "Passion Play," written and directed by "Scrooged" screenwriter Mitch Glazer. Fox stars as Lily, a caged circus freak with angelic wings growing from her back. A troubled trumpet player (Mickey Rourke) saves Lily from the clutches of gangster Happy Shannon (Bill Murray), provoking a relationship Fox described to MTV News as "clearly not going to be a typical [love story]."

The actress is attached to other projects as well, including "The Crossing," a thriller from writers Byron Willinger and Philip de Blasi. Fox will star as part of a couple returning from a vacation in Mexico when their car is jacked and her husband is kidnapped. Fox's character is subsequently forced to smuggle heroin across the border in order to save her husband's life.

Perhaps the film with the most personal investment for Fox is "Fathom," based on the Aspen Comics series created by the late Michael Turner. The story focuses on Aspen Matthews, a marine biology graduate who unknowingly comes from a race of humanoid ocean dwellers known as the Blue. Fox has repeatedly stated that she's a lifelong fan of "Fathom," telling MTV News: "I want someone who loves her and loves the comic to play her. ... I was sort of fiercely protective of it, because I didn't want it played by someone who doesn't give a sh-- about it."

Beyond her actual commitments and attachments, Fox has been rumored for a wide variety of other movies including "Red Sonja," a comic book adaptation about a fierce female warrior. The project was previously developed by Robert Rodriguez with Rose McGowan in the title role, though recent reports suggested Fox would take over the role. The actress' representatives have denied her involvement with the project.

'Prince Of Persia' Stars Recall Old Hollywood At Red-Carpet Premiere

2010-06-09T13:52:00.000-07:00

'It's time to have a little fun,' Jake Gyllenhaal says of being in a blockbuster epic.

Why Did Jake Gyllenhaal Take The 'Prince Of Persia' Role?

Warm and wet conditions greeted the cast of the desert epic "Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time" at the red-carpet premiere of their big-budget action flick in Los Angeles. But after shooting the movie in the brain-melting heat of summertime Morocco, a little rain outside Grauman's Chinese Theatre on Monday night didn't seem like a big deal to Jake Gyllenhaal and his co-stars.

It wasn't just the weather that marked a welcome change of pace for Gyllenhaal. After a series of movies geared more toward the art-house set than the blockbuster-hungry masses ("Brokeback Mountain," "Rendition," "Brothers," to name just a few), the 29-year-old jumped at the chance to let loose in front of the camera.

"I've seen a lot of my peers starting to not take themselves so seriously and make really fun, big films, and I was itching to try my hand at it," he told MTV News on the carpet. "I think maybe as I've gotten a little bit older, I feel like I don't want to take myself so seriously anymore. I think before, as much as those movies mean to me, and they continue to mean to me, it's time to have a little fun too."

Thus, Gyllenhaal became Prince Dastan, a guy who isn't as interested in hanging out at the palace as he is getting his hands dirty out in the world. "I thought he was the perfect guy for the role for all sorts of reasons," director Mike Newell said of his star. "I thought he had a fabulous sense of humor and he was a real anarchist under the skin. And you wanted that. The guy is not a royal prince; he's a real worker prince. He's a bad boy."

Filling out the cast are Gemma Arterton as Gyllenhaal's love interest and Sir Ben Kingsley as the villain Nizam. Arterton, who just starred in "Clash of the Titans," returns for another swords-and-sandals epic, one that she says has more in common with classic silver-screen flicks than with her earlier work.

"I always loved those old Hollywood, swashbuckling movies from the '40s — 'Lawrence of Arabia' — and Elizabeth Taylor is one of my icons, and I can so see her playing this role if it were 60 years ago," the actress said. "I just love those theatrical, romantic movies."

Kingsley, a four-time Oscar-nominated legend who has dabbled in every conceivable cinematic genre, said he signed on to "Prince of Persia" for one simple reason: a quest for the unknown.

"If a role surprises me, if I think, 'Ooh, fancy thinking of me for that part,' then I get a little buzz of excitement and it gives me the energy to learn my lines and get on the set," he explained.

Rosamund Pike Up To Play Emma Frost In X-Men: First Class?

2010-06-09T13:47:00.000-07:00

With a British director on board and at least one British actor (and maybe two) starring, it's no surprise to hear yet another English name rumored for a role in X-Men: First Class. According to Forces of Geek and a source they trust, Rosamund Pike has met with Matthew Vaughn about potentially playing Emma Frost in the X-Men origin story.

Pike would be joining James McAvoy (as Professor X) and possibly Michael Fassbender (as Magneto) in the film, which has a release date of June 3, 2011 and therefore needs to start filming really, really soon. Forces of Geek's source has no idea how close Vaughn might be to casting Pike or anyone else in the role, nor is there info on how big a role Frost might play in the origin story about Professor X and Magneto founding the school for young mutants. You may remember the character showed up briefly near the end of X-Men Origins: Wolverine, so the character may play a key role in tying all these X-Men universes together. Pike isn't exactly a major star, but with substantial roles in Pride & Prejudice, An Education and even the dismal Surrogates, she's too big to be signing on for just a bit part. If she takes the role, it seems fair to expect some serious action from Emma Frost coming up.

'Iron Man 2' Set Visit Reveals New Suit And 'Energy Crisis' Plot

2010-04-29T07:19:00.000-07:00

'This time around, everybody is a lot wider and deeper,' Robert Downey Jr. tells MTV News of the characters.

MANHATTAN BEACH, California — It's hard to believe that it's only been three years since MTV News visited the set of the original "Iron Man" movie and declared "Iron Man is getting his own movie. And what a movie it's shaping up to be!"

A short while later, the world finally saw the film and seemed to agree, as Robert Downey Jr.'s superhero debut went on to become one the biggest hits in recent memory. So when we went back to the set of "Iron Man 2," even though Tony Stark's digs had been moved from Playa Vista, California, to Marvel's dazzling new soundstages in Manhattan Beach, there was definitely a sense of déjà vu.

"I think that was the big buy last time around," Robert Downey Jr. said of the scene at the end of the last film that had billionaire industrialist Tony Stark bucking hero tradition by announcing to the world's media that yeah, he is Iron Man. "We weren't sure if we were going to do that or not."

"It was Kevin [Feige]'s thing," remembered series director Jon Favreau, referring to the Marvel honcho as he sat alongside Downey outside a re-created set depicting Stark's basement headquarters. "It was a funny ha-ha as an out [at the time], and now the exciting action of the whole [sequel] is him dealing with the repercussions of revealing that. What does that really mean to a real person in a real world? Then we heighten it for our superhero reality."

We'll get an answer to those questions May 7, when "Iron Man 2" finally hits theaters. The action picks up six months later, as Tony grapples with a new life that has no secrets, a post-warmongering attitude, and new characters including the deadly Ivan Vanko (Mickey Rourke), sexy but mysterious Natasha Romanoff (Scarlett Johansson) and trigger-happy arms dealer Justin Hammer (Sam Rockwell).

"Ivan Vanko is our dark character, and we also have Justin Hammer, so we have a bit of a mélange of characters that come together that are different combinations of elements from the books," Favreau explained, promising fans that even if they've read every Iron Man comic ever made, they may still be in for a surprise. "We like to spin it against expectations sometimes, against what the books say. We definitely take into consideration what the comics had and then know that our core audience is going to be aware of what was written — and we'll either play into that or against it."

"As far as Rhodey [now played by Don Cheadle] and even Pepper [Gwyneth Paltrow], this time around, everybody is a lot wider and deeper," Downey said of the sequel's intention to further flesh out the franchise's beloved characters. "Mickey, we're about to come into a big sequence that we have together — our initial meeting, which doesn't end too favorably."

Ultimately, Favreau said, his "Iron Man" films are trying to carve out a unique corner of the superhero market that falls somewhere between the too-silly shortcomings of something like the "Fantastic Four" films and the darker-than-ever mentality of the Batman films. "We definitely like the absurdity of it all," the actor/filmmaker explained. "If we go for the heaviness of it over the absurdity, well, that market got cornered by [Batman filmmaker Chris] Nolan and his crew. And you're just not going to plumb deeper [into darkness] than that."

"There's this whole energy-crisis thing, and he's having his own energy crisis of sorts," Downey explained of the sequel's basic plot. "Stark's [suit] is always a spectacular energetic source, but [in the first film], it's not a Duracell; it's more of a Rayovac. So there's this crisis of energy [as he's trying to upgrade his technology], and there's this legacy of his dad and these expos occurring every decade or so. [His father's energy innovations] are kind of the grail of the movie, isn't it?"

"Yeah, technical innovation that takes everything that he's involved with to the next level," Favreau agreed. "Because it's still a flawed technology that he's working on, and it's still a life-support system of sorts."

As for the new Iron Man suit that all this yields, Favreau said much has been improved, both in real life and on the silver screen. "From my perspective, we did everything we could to make it lighter, easier, more flexible," he explained. "And we shot more with [the Iron Man suit], but he's the guy that has to strap into the thing."

"It's fine," Downey said of his new suit, before teasing his director with the promise of a scene where he'll throw down with Favreau's cameo-ing limo driver. "You're going to like it when you see me and Happy Hogan slugging it out; that's all I've got to say."

EXCLUSIVE: Boba Fett Chases R2-D2 In Slave I In This Clip From Friday's 'Star Wars: The Clone Wars'

2010-04-29T07:15:00.000-07:00

Last Friday, "Star Wars: The Clone Wars" had the most exciting reveal yet in the life of the series: Boba Fett. Between last week's "Death Trap" and this week's two-parter, fans are finally going to learn just how a young boy, angry over the loss of his father at the hands of a Jedi, became the most fearsome bounty hunter in the galaxy. In the exclusive clip below, you can see him piloting his iconic ship, Slave I, with fellow hunters Bossk and Aurra Sing serving as crew. Their target? R2-D2. Looks exciting... I'm counting the hours until Friday.

Trailer:

Spring film & TV music

2010-04-15T11:03:00.000-07:00

Writing music for the summer blockbuster presents -- well, blockbuster-size hurdles.

When John Debney came to score "Iron Man 2," he faced a particular challenge: Being consistent with the first outing in the franchise, while adding his own distinct voice.

"It's quite different from the first score, but it retains a lot of the same cool elements," Debney says. "There's a lot of guitar in it, but most of it is couched with the orchestra, so we never lose sight of that whole thing."

"That whole thing" means the vast enterprise referred to as a tentpole or summer blockbuster. Composers tasked with scoring these movies not only have to contend with super-heated action, rapid-fire editing and overpowering sound mixes; they also have to cope with schedules that can be in flux right up to the end of postproduction -- and convey a sense of bigness that belongs with budgets reaching $200 million and more.

Ramin Djawadi scored the first "Iron Man" with a strong dose of metal guitar, and director Jon Favreau wanted to keep some of that while exploring a new direction. He also wanted to maintain the continuity of the rock guitar aspect that characterized the hell-raising persona of Tony Stark (Robert Downey Jr.) and his "metal man" alter ego, Iron Man.

"As Iron Man has evolved from his scrappy beginnings, we want to establish him as being more comfortable with the mantle of a superhero," the director says.

A blend of classic orchestral film scoring from Debney; rock stylings courtesy of guitarist Tom Morello of Rage Against the Machine; AC/DC songs -- and even a surprising touch of Walt Disney -- contributed to that.

"What I like about Tom's guitar is that he tunes it down, doubles up, sometimes double-records and triple-records the guitars, and the orchestrations are built around his guitar work," Favreau adds. "It was interesting to see John collaborate with Tom, people who come from two different sides of the music business."

That collaboration extended from the music team to the sound department.

"What Debney brings to the table is how to write music around that (the sound effects), so you're not competing," Favreau notes. "Understanding what range to use, what tones to use, and how to time it so you're reinforcing the effects and you're not muddying things up and the music can be played at a high level without competing with the sound effects -- he's pretty masterful at that."

Debney is also masterful at incorporating the classic songs that will allow the studio to issue a compelling soundtrack when the movie opens. While Sony Classical will put out Debney's "Iron Man 2" score, the lion's share of attention may go to the Columbia Records soundtrack that will consist entirely of AC/DC songs.

"They've never done something like this, with all of their big songs together," says Dave Jordan, music supervisor on all the Marvel Studios productions. "Jon is a huge AC/DC fan and they're an expensive band to use. Here he could use any song in their catalog any way he wanted to. It's a very unique situation."

Blockbusters have the budgets to get such songs. But songs can present their own problems.

"At one of our test screenings, we put a rock song over a big action sequence as an exercise and on the cards it got completely trashed," notes Brian Tyler, composer of Sylvester Stallone's upcoming "The Expendables." "People really hated it and asked why were we trying to make this into a rock video. We replaced it with orchestral music and the numbers for the film shot up and the notes on the music were great."

Unless the songs are already classics, Tyler says, the results can seriously date a film. "You can imagine what it would be like watching 'North By Northwest' and having the train go into the tunnel at the end and going into a contemporary song of that period. It just would have destroyed it."

Perhaps to avoid that, for "Iron Man" Favreau and Debney also used the music of Dick Sherman, the prolific songwriter who did a lot of the early Disney theme park material and even "Mary Poppins."

"We brought him onboard and had him write a song for the Stark Expo, which in our movie lore has been going on since the '30s, much like the World's Fair," Jordan says.
Debney interpolated Sherman's song melody into the "Iron Man 2" score, making it play as the theme for Tony Stark's father. The tune's origins will likely be revealed in the new "Captain America" film, set in World War II.

"We're laying a lot of seeds for other films to explore musically as well as in other ways," Jordan continues.

It's easier to lay such seeds when the director has already done one outing on a franchise. But dealing with directors has its own special challenges with blockbusters, whose helmers frequently have to marshall staffs of a thousand or more. Debney was fortunate to have plenty of face time with Favreau; but other key players can also play an important role.

"Even if you're working with the same director, producers may change, film executives may change," Tyler says.

Schedules may change, too. Trevor Rabin, who scored Jon Turtletaub's "The Sorcerer's Apprentice," says the "race to the end" is becoming more prevalent in film. "It's such a bottleneck mentality: You start off, get ideas and kind of relax and then suddenly you've got three weeks left. There are picture changes all the time. You write a cue that you think is really tailored well to the picture, and three days later you see the music editor with the best intentions has chopped it to fit the picture and there goes the music."

In the case of "Iron Man 2," Debney says that while the overall amount of time did not change, the amount given for demo'ing and adjusting to picture changes -- even on the dub stage -- did. "The process has become more technically oriented," he notes. "We're becoming so concerned with versions of scenes that we're constantly cutting and lengthening and shortening, that we can lose a vision of the overall work. This film is on a scale times five or 10 of what the original film was -- we have a lot of characters, we find out more about Tony and his relationship with his father and there are lot of other plot elements so it's a much more elaborate film than the first one and that presents a lot of challenges."

At least Debney had the money to do what he needed. Or did he?

"Marvel is very careful with what they want to spend on the music, so it was a rather tight budget," he says. "You can't run off willy nilly, doing session after session."

"You make budget decisions in a different way," Rabin argues with regard to blockbusters. "It used to be, 'Whatever you need.' But those days are gone. Today, if you say you need a choir, the question is: 'What size choir do you need?' Now there is an increasing request to size down the orchestra and do less days. There's definitely a nip-and-tuck going on."

"Clash of the Titans"

Rabin also had to budget time for research on "The Sorcerer's Apprentice" in order to musically reference one of the film's inspirations. "Part of the challenge is John Turtletaub's done an extraordinary nod to the (Walt Disney's) 'Fantasia' film, and the Paul Dukas piece, which inspired the original, is what I had to look at and utilize within the context of this cue. So it was really exciting going in and analyzing that piece of music. The weird thing is that kind of has nothing to do with the rest of the film -- it's just that one area where they've done this nod to it and it's pretty extraordinary."

With a big budget, however, there is at least time to perfect the details, the kind of details most composers only get time for with commercials.

"I remember doing a Marlboro commercial for Tony Scott years ago and being quite shocked at the amount of detail required and how long it took him to sign off on the music -- something like 10 days or two weeks," says Harry Gregson-Williams ("Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time"). "And I remember thinking, 'How would this be with two hours of music?' I'm still asking myself the same question."

In the case of "Prince of Persia," the film's release date wound up giving Gregson-Williams more time to hone his work -- far more time than he expected. "It was supposed to come out last summer, and they shot it 18 months ago, and it didn't quite look like it was going to make it. There were a lot of special effects, a lot of reformatting and quite a lot of recutting of the movie. And we made it and had it been a winter-type movie we would have been ready to release it at Christmas last year. But it's a summer blockbuster so they had to put it in a can and wait for the next summer. So with all that extra time they said, 'Well, let's beat up on the composer some more!' To be truthful I was on that picture longer than anything I've ever done. It was a pretty long time to be on a Jerry Bruckheimer film, I can tell you."

A bigger problem for Gregson-Williams is how to contend with big overall sound mixes. Luckily, he says, producer Bruckheimer is "very interested in the whole sonic tapestry, but he's also very supportive of the music, which is good because he invests a lot of his time helping to create the musical soundtrack."

Djawadi ("Clash of the Titans") has his own solution when it comes to dealing with booming special effects. "Sometimes if the sound effects are ready I try to get them into my studio and lay them into the picture in a proper 5.1 sound mix to see what I'm up against," he says. "For 'Clash' there are areas with Medusa where I knew there would be voices in the background, so I tried to stay away from that in the score so we wouldn't clash."

Handling such tasks has become incomparably more difficult than it was in the days of the first big blockbuster -- "Jaws" and "Star Wars" -- not because of all the software but because those films had far fewer minutes of music.

"There's so much music (today) that the challenge is to try and prevent it from sounding like wallpaper," Rabin says. "If you look back at 'Psycho,' there was 30 minutes of music. Now it's, 'How long is the picture? Two hours?' Well, that's probably how long the score will be."

Hollywood vet launches dream with 'Sex Tax'

2010-04-15T10:58:00.000-07:00

David Landsberg found way to make movie on his own terms

When writer-producer David Landsberg invited friends to join distributors, sales agents and exhibitors for Thursday's screening of the low-budget, high-concept comedy "Sex Tax," his pitch wasn't just come to see the film but also to celebrate his life and the launch of his indie production company.

"What I told everybody is, 'Don't come to my funeral. Don't come see me when I'm dead,' " Landsberg said. " 'Come when I'm alive, when I'm doing something, not when I'm a little box of ashes.' "

It was pure Landsberg. After 35 years in Hollywood as a commercials and TV actor before moving behind the camera as producer and writer on "Herman's Head," "The Cosby Show," "Love Boat" and other series, Landsberg had suffered through several heart attacks -- an experience that changed his views about himself and the world.

"As a writer, I had been Tony Thomas' voice, Aaron Spelling's voice, Dudley Moore's voice, but I had never been mine," he said. "After the illness, I decided it was time to put myself out there, my own plays, my own writing, my own movies. I decided to spend the money this industry has allowed me to attain on my own projects."

After doing a TV series pilot that didn't sell and several plays in his friend Garry Marshall's Falcon Theater in Burbank, Landsberg decided when he turned 65 last fall that it was time to make a movie. He pulled out a script he had been working on for five years, a fictional take on the true story of a short period in 1999 when the IRS took over a Nevada brothel.

In real life, it was sold quickly. In "Sex Tax," an IRS auditor goes there to run the whorehouse, and it changes his life.

Landsberg spent $50,000 to convert his ranch-style home and guesthouse in North Hollywood into a movie studio, complete with state-of-the-art digital technology. Then he put up $350,000 more to shoot in HD with a creative team of energetic newcomers including director John Borges and editor Sean McPherson, along with industry vets who wanted to make a comeback including director of photography Mark Woods and casting director Fern Champion.

"I didn't give people jobs," Landsberg said. "I gave people opportunities. I said, 'If you have a dream, come with me. I'll help make your dream come true, and while I'm doing that, you will help make my dream come true.' "

Landsberg shot under SAG guidelines, paying minimums but with the promise that when the movie was sold and his costs were recovered, they would receive an amount equal to their entire pay for the movie plus a share of any profit. That went for everyone from the stars to the extras and even included musicians whose music he licensed for the soundtrack.

"My star (John Livingston, who plays the IRS auditor) will make as much money as any big star if this is a hit," Landsberg said.

Landsberg already has two other projects for his Landsberg Studios and hopes to shoot two or three movies a year as long as he is able. First up is the romantic comedy "Leading Man," followed by a comedy about the Vietnam War, "The Last Man Drafted," which he has been trying to sell for years.

The Vietnam movie is based on his own experiences. Landsberg, who grew up in New York, was drafted at 22 and sent to Southeast Asia. After his discharge and college, he worked for an ad agency in New York before deciding he wanted a different life. He became an actor and, during the 1970s, did more than 300 commercials and more than 1,000 radio ads. He was a series regular on NBC's "CPO Sharkey," guested on dozens of series and appeared in a handful of movies, including "The Jerk," before moving behind the camera.

He wrote and produced movies for Cannon before serving as head writer and executive producer on "Cosby Show" and "The Love Boat: The Next Wave."

Although Landsberg is the sole backer, the movie is no mere vanity project but the culmination of years as a successful writer and producer. Given his puckish personality, it promises to be witty.

So why didn't Landsberg seek outside financing or a distribution deal, which he now hopes will result from Thursday's screening?

"Because that means opinions," he said. "I'm done with other people's opinions. There were no notes on this. I did this all on my own."
Hollywood vet launches dream with 'Sex Tax'
David Landsberg found way to make movie on his own terms

By Alex Ben Block

April 13, 2010, 11:00 PM ET
When writer-producer David Landsberg invited friends to join distributors, sales agents and exhibitors for Thursday's screening of the low-budget, high-concept comedy "Sex Tax," his pitch wasn't just come to see the film but also to celebrate his life and the launch of his indie production company.

"What I told everybody is, 'Don't come to my funeral. Don't come see me when I'm dead,' " Landsberg said. " 'Come when I'm alive, when I'm doing something, not when I'm a little box of ashes.' "

It was pure Landsberg. After 35 years in Hollywood as a commercials and TV actor before moving behind the camera as producer and writer on "Herman's Head," "The Cosby Show," "Love Boat" and other series, Landsberg had suffered through several heart attacks -- an experience that changed his views about himself and the world.

"As a writer, I had been Tony Thomas' voice, Aaron Spelling's voice, Dudley Moore's voice, but I had never been mine," he said. "After the illness, I decided it was time to put myself out there, my own plays, my own writing, my own movies. I decided to spend the money this industry has allowed me to attain on my own projects."

After doing a TV series pilot that didn't sell and several plays in his friend Garry Marshall's Falcon Theater in Burbank, Landsberg decided when he turned 65 last fall that it was time to make a movie. He pulled out a script he had been working on for five years, a fictional take on the true story of a short period in 1999 when the IRS took over a Nevada brothel.

In real life, it was sold quickly. In "Sex Tax," an IRS auditor goes there to run the whorehouse, and it changes his life.

Landsberg spent $50,000 to convert his ranch-style home and guesthouse in North Hollywood into a movie studio, complete with state-of-the-art digital technology. Then he put up $350,000 more to shoot in HD with a creative team of energetic newcomers including director John Borges and editor Sean McPherson, along with industry vets who wanted to make a comeback including director of photography Mark Woods and casting director Fern Champion.

"I didn't give people jobs," Landsberg said. "I gave people opportunities. I said, 'If you have a dream, come with me. I'll help make your dream come true, and while I'm doing that, you will help make my dream come true.' "

Landsberg shot under SAG guidelines, paying minimums but with the promise that when the movie was sold and his costs were recovered, they would receive an amount equal to their entire pay for the movie plus a share of any profit. That went for everyone from the stars to the extras and even included musicians whose music he licensed for the soundtrack.

"My star (John Livingston, who plays the IRS auditor) will make as much money as any big star if this is a hit," Landsberg said.

Landsberg already has two other projects for his Landsberg Studios and hopes to shoot two or three movies a year as long as he is able. First up is the romantic comedy "Leading Man," followed by a comedy about the Vietnam War, "The Last Man Drafted," which he has been trying to sell for years.

The Vietnam movie is based on his own experiences. Landsberg, who grew up in New York, was drafted at 22 and sent to Southeast Asia. After his discharge and college, he worked for an ad agency in New York before deciding he wanted a different life. He became an actor and, during the 1970s, did more than 300 commercials and more than 1,000 radio ads. He was a series regular on NBC's "CPO Sharkey," guested on dozens of series and appeared in a handful of movies, including "The Jerk," before moving behind the camera.

He wrote and produced movies for Cannon before serving as head writer and executive producer on "Cosby Show" and "The Love Boat: The Next Wave."

Although Landsberg is the sole backer, the movie is no mere vanity project but the culmination of years as a successful writer and producer. Given his puckish personality, it promises to be witty.

So why didn't Landsberg seek outside financing or a distribution deal, which he now hopes will result from Thursday's screening?

"Because that means opinions," he said. "I'm done with other people's opinions. There were no notes on this. I did this all on my own."

Sex and the City 2 (2010)

2010-04-15T10:52:00.000-07:00

Series runner Michael Patrick King returns to pen the sequel to the 2008 blockbuster movie adaptation of HBO's Sex and the City with this Warner Bros. production, re-teaming the vivacious stars Sarah Jessica Parker, Kim Cattrall, Cynthia Nixon, and Kristin Davis once again for another glitzy romp through... New York City high-life living. ~ Jeremy Wheeler, All Movie Guide Read Full Summary»

Starring: Sarah Jessica Parker, Kim Cattrall, Cynthia Nixon

Director: Michael Patrick King

Theatrical Release: 5/28/2010 (USA)

Released By: New Line Cinema, Warner Bros.

The Elephant Man (1980)

2010-04-15T10:44:00.000-07:00

A Victorian surgeon rescues a severely disfigured man who is mistreated while surviving as a carnival freak.

Genres: Drama
Running Time: 2 hrs. 4 min.
MPAA Rating: PG
Distributors: Paramount Pictures, Weintraub Entertainment Group

Cast and Credits
Starring: Anthony Hopkins, John Hurt, Anne Bancroft, John Gielgud, Wendy Hiller
Directed by: David Lynch
Produced by: Stuart Cornfeld, Jonathan Sanger

The Great Escape (1963)

2010-04-15T10:41:00.000-07:00

Drama based on Paul Brickhill's factual account of the efforts of Allied prisoners to break out of Stalag Luft North during World War II.

Genres: Action/Adventure, Adaptation and War
Running Time: 2 hrs. 48 min.
Release Date: July 4th, 1963
MPAA Rating: Not Rated
Distributors: United Artists Films

Cast and Credits
Starring: Steve McQueen, James Garner, Richard Attenborough, James Donald, Charles Bronson
Directed by: John Sturges
Produced by: John Sturges

The Seventh Seal (1957)

2010-04-15T10:39:00.000-07:00

In medieval Sweden a knight returns from war only to find a ravaged homeland. He meets up with a group of travelling players and eventually confronts the embodiment of death with whom he engages in a game of chess.

Also Known As: Det Sjunde Inseglet
Genres: Art/Foreign, Drama, Adaptation and Politics/Religion
Running Time: 1 hr. 30 min.
Release Date: January 1, 1957
MPAA Rating: Not Rated
Produced in: Sweden

Cast and Credits
Starring: Max von Sydow, Inga Landgre (II), Gunnar Bjornstrand, Nils Poppe, Bibi Andersson
Directed by: Ingmar Bergman, Carl-Henry Cagarp

Hotel Rwanda (2004)

2010-04-15T09:36:00.000-07:00

Ten years ago, as the country of Rwanda descended into madness, one man made a promise to protect the family he loved--and ended up finding the courage to save over 1200 people. Paul Rusesabagina, a hotel manager in Rwanda, secretly used his position and intelligence to shelter over a thousand refugees during the genocide crisis. While the rest of the world closed its eyes, Paul opened his heart to prove that the human spirit can make us stronger than weâd ever imagine.

Genres: Art/Foreign, Drama, Kids/Family, Biopic and Politics/Religion
Running Time: 2 hrs. 1 min.
Release Date: December 22nd, 2004 (NY/LA)
MPAA Rating: PG-13 for violence, disturbing images and brief strong language.
Distributors: United Artists Films
U.S. Box Office: $23,472,900

Cast and Credits
Starring: Don Cheadle, Sophie Okonedo, Joaquin Phoenix, Desmond Dube, David O Hara
Directed by: Terry George
Produced by: Hal Sadoff, Martin F. Katz, Duncan Reid

Some Like It Hot (1959)

2010-04-15T08:20:00.000-07:00

When a pair of bumbling, out-of-work musicians accidentally witness the St. Valentine's Day gangster murders, they disguise themselves as women and join up with a travelling all-womens' band to escape the mobsters who are after them.

Running Time: 2 hrs.
Release Date: January 1, 1959 Limited
MPAA Rating: Not Rated
Distributors: United Artists Films, MGM Distribution Company, MGM Home Entertainment

Cast and Credits
Starring: Marilyn Monroe, Tony Curtis, Jack Lemmon, George Raft, Pat O Brien (II)
Directed by: Billy Wilder
Produced by: Billy Wilder, Doane Harrison, I. A L Diamond

Sin City (2005)

2010-04-15T08:15:00.000-07:00

Welcome to Sin City. This town beckons to the tough, the corrupt, the brokenhearted, Some call it dark. Some call it hard-boiled. Then there are those who call it home. Crooked cops. Sexy Dames. Desperate vigilantes. Some are seeking revenge--others lust after redemption. And then there are those hoping for a little of both. A universe of unlikely and reluctant heroes still trying to do the right thing in a city that refuses to care.

Genres: Action/Adventure, Thriller and Crime/Gangster
Running Time: 2 hrs. 6 min.
Release Date: April 1st, 2005 (wide)
MPAA Rating: R for sustained strong stylized violence, nudity and sexual content including dialogue.
Distributors: Dimension Films
U.S. Box Office: $74,098,862

Cast and Credits
Starring: Jessica Alba, Devon Aoki, Alexis Bledel, Powers Boothe, Rosario Dawson
Directed by: Robert Rodriguez, Frank Miller, Quentin Tarantino
Produced by: Bob Weinstein, Harvey Weinstein, Robert Rodriguez

Amadeus (1984)

2010-04-15T08:11:00.000-07:00

Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart's career and life are threatened by an envious court composer Antonio Salieri.

Genres: Drama, Adaptation and Biopic
Running Time: 2 hrs. 38 min.
Release Date: September 1, 1984 USA; April 5, 2002 Limited Re-Release
MPAA Rating: PG
Distributors: Orion Pictures, New Yorker Films
U.S. Box Office: $366,401

Cast and Credits
Starring: F. Murray Abraham, Tom Hulce, Elizabeth Berridge, Simon Callow, Roy Dotrice
Directed by: Milos Forman, Jan Schmidt
Produced by: Michael Hausman, Bertil Ohlsson, Saul Zaentz

Life Is Beautiful (1997)

2010-04-15T08:06:00.000-07:00

In 1939, Guido, an Italian Jew, falls in love with Dora, who isn't Jewish. He woos her away from the Fascist official she has been dating, and they get married. Their son Giosue grows up among growing anti-Semitism. As the war progresses, Guido and Giosue are arrested and taken to a concentration camp. Dora goes too, determined not to separate the family. In the midst of the horrors of the camp, Guido protects his son by pretending that survival in the concentration camp is an elaborate game with which Giosue must play along or be sent home.

Also Known As: Buongiorno Principessa, La Vita E Bella
Genres: Art/Foreign, Comedy, Drama and War
Running Time: 2 hrs. 2 min.
Release Date: October 23, 1997
MPAA Rating: PG-13 for holocaust-related thematic elements.
Distributors: Miramax Films
Production Co.: Melampo Cinematografica
U.S. Box Office: $57,598,247
Filming Locations: Rome, Italy (Cinecitta Studios)
Produced in: Italy

Cast and Credits
Starring: Roberto Benigni, Nicoletta Braschi, Giustino Durano, Sergio Bustric, Lydia Alfonsi
Directed by: Roberto Benigni
Produced by: Mario Cotone, Elda Ferri, Gianluigi Braschi

There Will Be Blood (2007)

2010-04-15T08:00:00.000-07:00

An epic tale of family, faith, power and oil set on the incendiary frontier of California's turn-of-the-century petroleum boom. The story chronicles the life and times of one Daniel Plainview, who transforms himself from a down-and-out silver miner raising a son on his own into a self-made oil tycoon. When Plainview gets a mysterious tip-off that there's a little town out West where an ocean of oil is oozing out of the ground, he heads with his son, H.W., to take their chances in dust-worn Little Boston. In this hardscrabble town, where the main excitement centers around the holy roller church of charismatic preacher Eli Sunday, Plainview and H.W. make their lucky strike. But even as the well raises all of their fortunes, nothing will remain the same as conflicts escalate and every human value--love, hope, community, belief, ambition and even the bond between father and son--is imperiled by corruption, deception and the flow of oil.

Also Known As: Oil
Genres: Drama and Adaptation
Running Time: 2 hrs. 38 min.
Release Date: December 26th, 2007 (limited)
MPAA Rating: R for some violence.
Distributors:
Paramount Vantage, Miramax International
U.S. Box Office: $40,218,903

Cast and Credits
Starring: Daniel Day-Lewis, Mary Elizabeth Barrett, Paul Dano, Dillon Freasier, Christine Olejniczak
Directed by: Paul Thomas Anderson
Produced by: Scott Rudin, Eric Schlosser, JoAnne Sellar

The Prestige (2006)

2010-04-15T07:56:00.000-07:00

It all begins in rapidly changing, turn-of-the-century London. At a time when magicians are idols and celebrities of the highest order, two young magicians set out to carve their own paths to fame. The flashy, sophisticated Robert Angier is a consummate entertainer, while the rough-edged purist Alfred Borden is a creative genius who lacks the panache to showcase his magical ideas. They start out as admiring friends and partners. But when their biggest trick goes terribly awry, they become enemies for life--each intent on outdoing and upending the other. Trick by trick, show by show, their ferocious competition builds until it knows no bounds, even utilizing the fantastical new powers of electricity and the scientific brilliance of radical inventor Nikola Tesla--while the lives of everyone around them hang in the balance.

Genres: Drama, Science Fiction/Fantasy, Thriller and Adaptation
Running Time: 2 hrs. 15 min.
Release Date: October 20th, 2006 (wide)
MPAA Rating: PG-13 for violence and disturbing images.
Distributors:
Warner Bros. Pictures International, Buena Vista Pictures Distribution
U.S. Box Office: $53,082,743

Cast and Credits
Starring: Hugh Jackman, Christian Bale, Michael Caine, David Bowie, Scarlett Johansson
Directed by: Christopher Nolan
Produced by: William Tyrer, Chris J. Ball, Valerie Dean

2001: A Space Odyssey (1968)

2010-04-08T08:08:00.000-07:00

Story follows the ascent of mankind into the near-future space age through minimalist performances and a strong visual style.

Genres: Action/Adventure, Drama, Science Fiction/Fantasy, Thriller and Adaptation
Running Time: 2 hrs. 40 min.
Release Date: January 1, 1968
MPAA Rating: G
Distributors: MGM Distribution Company, Warner Bros. Pictures Distribution

Cast and Credits
Starring: Keir Dullea, Gary Lockwood, William Sylvester, Daniel Richter, Leonard Rossiter
Directed by: Stanley Kubrick
Produced by: Stanley Kubrick, Victor Lyndon

All About Eve (1950)

2010-04-08T08:05:00.000-07:00

Broadway legend Margo Channing, aging but not gracefully, has everything: a successful career, close friends, a man who loves her. She also has a 'fan' named Eve Harrington, who manages to worm her way into Margo's life, in order to "study her like a blueprint". Eve's sweet facade is soon seen through by a number of people, most quickly by theater critic Addison deWitt, who decides to become her mentor. Eve achieves her goal of Broadway stardom, leaving a trail of unhappiness, but ultimately contentment, behind her.

Genres: Drama and Adaptation
Running Time: 2 hrs. 18 min.
Release Date: January 1, 1950
MPAA Rating: Not Rated
U.S. Box Office: $10,177

Cast and Credits
Starring: Bette Davis, Anne Baxter, George Sanders, Celeste Holm, Gary Merrill
Directed by: Joseph L. Mankiewicz
Produced by: Darryl F. Zanuck

Singin in the Rain (1952)

2010-04-08T08:02:00.000-07:00

In 1927, dashing actor Don Lockwood and blonde bombshell Lina Lamont are one of Hollywood's favorite romantic teams, though Lina mistakenly believes that their on-screen love is for real. Don and his less famous partner Cosmo have worked their way to the top the hard way, through vaudeville, stunt work etc. When "The Jazz Player" arrives and sound changes everything in the movie business, Don is ready. Not so Lina, whose shrill voice makes a mockery of the musical that their new film has been made into, despite the best efforts of a voice coach. Aspiring actress Kathy Selden saves the film by dubbing Lina's voice, but Don is in trouble when he starts to fall in love with her.

Also Known As: Singing in the Rain
Genres: Musical/Performing Arts
Running Time: 1 hr. 43 min.
Release Date: January 1, 1952
MPAA Rating: Not Rated
Distributors: Swank Pictures
U.S. Box Office: $23,894

Cast and Credits
Starring: Gene Kelly, Donald O'Connor, Debbie Reynolds, Jean Hagen, Millard Mitchell
Directed by: Gene Kelly, Stanley Donen
Produced by: Arthur Freed

10 Top 10 Genre Movies

2010-04-07T14:01:00.000-07:00

Damn I knew I'd forget something this week, well last night on television (I can't remember which channel) AFI announced their top-10 genre film lists. ThoughI missed the program, I decided I'd look up the results and post the AFI's picks for your convienence

ANIMATION

1) Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs (1937)
2) Pinocchio (1940)
3) Bambi (1942)
4) The Lion King (1994)
5) Fantasia (1940)
6) Toy Story (1995)
7) Beauty and the Beast (1991)
8) Shrek (2001)
9) Cinderella (1950)
10) Finding Nemo (2003)

Thoughts: I think most of us could've already guessed this list was going to be dominated by Disney films as Disney has pretty much ruled animation throughout the dawn of man. I'm not sure I like the addition of Shrek and Finding Nemo due to personal taste. I'd probably lean more towards either another Pixar film like The Incredibles or a couple other 80s/90s Disney films; The Little Mermaid, Aladdin, or Mulan... But I suppose Nemo and Shrek have been pretty popular so if it's what the people want then it's all good.

FANTASY

1) The Wizard of Oz (1939)
2) The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring (2001)
3) It's a Wonderful Life (1946)
4) King Kong (1933)
5) Miracle on 34th Street (1947)
6) Field of Dreams (1989)
7) Harvey (1950)
8) Groundhog Day (1993)
9) The Thief of Bagdad (1924)
10) Big (1988)

Thoughts: I like how broad this list which includes a handful of my favorites. Though as much as I like Field of Dreams I don't know the 6th best fantasy film of all time? That's pushing it, I'd more likely to give a spot to Rob Reiner's The Princess Bride a film that's certainly lived on and made it's impact in the world of children's fantasy. I'd also say LOTR is a little too high. Sure I loved it, I saw it about three times in theaters, but I don't think enough time has passed for it to earn such a high spot. You got to give it more time to seep into the minds and hearts of moviegoers, at least give it a few more years.

GANGSTER

1) The Godfather (1972)
2) Goodfellas (1990)
3) The Godfather Part II (1974)
4) White Heat (1949)
5) Bonnie and Clyde (1967)
6) Scarface: The Shame of a Nation (1932)
7) Pulp Fiction (1994)
8) The Public Enemy (1931)
9) Little Caesar (1930)
10) Scarface (1983)

Thoughts: Everything here seems to be in order, I haven't really seen a handful of these films so I wouldn't be one to judge. I'm glad to see one my favorites, if not favorite film Pulp Fiction up there. I never really considered it a gangster film, but come to think of it, I'd say it makes sense.

SCIENCE FICTION

1) 2001: A Space Odyssey (1968)
2) Star Wars: Episode IV A New Hope (1977)
3) E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial (1982)
4) A Clockwork Orange (1971)
5) The Day The Earth Stood Still (1951)
6) Blade Runner (1982)
7) Alien (1979)
8) Terminator 2: Judgment Day (1991)
9) Invasion of the Body Snatchers (1956)
10) Back to the Future (1985)

Thoughts: I'd say this is done pretty well as I love all of these films and I'm glad to see that the original Star Wars beats out Empire as it's always been my favorite. It's also funny to think that a movie called Terminator 2: Judgment Day would become as highly respected film as it is today, but I ain't complaining... Remember when Arnold took that shotgun out of a box of flowers to fight Robert Patrick? That was awesome!

WESTERN

1) The Searchers (1956)
2) High Noon (1952)
3) Shane (1953)
4) Unforgiven (1992)
5) Red River (1948)
6) The Wild Bunch (1969)
7) Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid (1969)
8) McCabe & Mrs. Miller (1971)
9) Stagecoach (1939)
10) Cat Ballou (1965)

Thoughts: I still don't see what's so great about Shane, it's really not one the stronger performances I've seen from Alan Ladd and I just hate that kid. Though I did like Jack Palance. I've only seen six of these films thus far (Butch and the Kid is probably my favorite) but this is respectful. I just wish someone would make a really sweet western these days, they just don't make em like they used to. The 90s had a couple nice entries such as Unforgiven or the fun action packed Tombstone but this decade hasn't impressed me much.

SPORTS

1. Raging Bull (1980)
2. Rocky (1976)
3. The Pride of the Yankees (1942)
4. Hoosiers (1986)
5. Bull Durham (1988)
6. The Hustler (1961)
7. Caddyshack (1980)
8. Breaking Away (1979)
9. National Velvet (1944)
10. Jerry Maguire (1996)

Thoughts: I'm itching to watch my copy of Pride of the Yankees that I bought last summer, but since no one ever wants to watch it perhaps I'll half to end up watching it myself one of these days. This is list for the most part is fine, I mean it basically has all my favorites. If Jerry Maguire is considered a sports movie than so is Field of Dreams if you ask me, but I guess they're trying to be a little more broad with their selections. Also I'm not sure if I'd consider "pool" a sport, it's really more of just a game. Sure you have to have skill but you could say the same thing about foosball. I've never even heard of Breaking Away but it sounds interesting.

MYSTERY

1. Vertigo (1958)
2. Chinatown (1974)
3. Rear Window (1954)
4. Laura (1944)
5. The Third Man (1949)
6. The Maltese Falcon (1941)
7. North By Northwest (1959)
8. Blue Velvet (1986)
9. Dial M for Murder (1954)
10. The Usual Suspects (1995)

Thoughts: I wonder if you'd consider Psycho a mystery? Perhaps it would be considered more of "Thriller" but they are trying to find out what happened to the central character. Seems to me to be just as much of a mystery as any of these other films. You find out who the killer is in Rear Windowfairly early in the film, not much of mystery there. I just think it's weird to see these lists and see a classic like Psycho absent. Perhaps if they'd done a thriller or horror list I'd be okay.

ROMANTIC COMEDY

1. City Lights (1931)
2. Annie Hall (1977)
3. It Happened One Night (1934)
4. Roman Holiday (1953)
5. The Philadelphia Story (1940)
6. When Harry Met Sally (1989)
7. Adam's Rib (1949)
8. Moonstruck (1987)
9) Harold and Maude (1971)
10) Sleepless in Seattle (1993)

Thoughts: I'm disappointed to see no Breakfast at Tiffany's but with so many great romantic comedies to choose from I reckon this was one of the hardest lists to do. I understand there's been a lot of wonderful vintage romantic comedies but this list somehow seems somewhat uneven to me. I like Sleepless in Seattle okay but I'd hardly declare it one of the best romantic comedies of all time. Then again I've only seen four of these movies.

COURTROOM DRAMA

1. To Kill a Mockingbird (1962)
2. 12 Angry Men (1957)
3. Kramer Vs. Kramer (1979.
4. The Verdict (1982)
5. A Few Good Men (1992)
6. Witness for the Prosecution (1957)
7. Anatomy of a Murder (1959)
8. In Cold Blood (1967)
9. A Cry in the Dark (1988)
10. Judgment at Nuremberg (1961)

Thoughts: Getting a little too narrow here but hey these are all memorable films. I'm all about 12 Angry Men it's funny that the top three of these don't spend the majority of the film in a courtroom. (12 Angry Men is entirely in the deliberating room) but that's what you get for deciding on including this sub genre. Nothing immediately comes to mind regarding anything this list might have severely overlooked though I am a big fan of My Cousin Vinny, but that's no drama. I look forward to seeing Otto Preminger's Anatomy of a Murder some time in the future.

EPIC

1. Lawrence of Arabia (1962)
2. Ben-Hur (1959)
3. Schindler's List (1993)
4. Gone With the Wind (1939)
5. Spartacus (1960)
6. Titanic (1997)
7. All Quiet on the Western Front (1930)
8. Saving Private Ryan (1998)
9. Reds (1981)
10. The Ten Commandments (1956)

Thoughts: Definitely got to get around to seeing more of these, if I could only set aside some days to watch four hour long moves then I'd be set for life. Chicka click click booyah!

Something I don't understand about this list is where's Horror? Where's the respect for iconic films like Frankenstein, Dracula and The Exorcist? A genre just as important as "Courtroom Drama" or "Sports" which are more of sub-genres. I think a category for just "Film Noir" and even just plain "Drama" (You know for like Citizen Kane) would of worked because this seems like kind of a stretch to put together another list. Anyways I still look forward to seeing some of the films I have yet viewed. This list reminds me of the films I love and what I still need to see, so keep em coming AFI if you make it I will come, Otteni out...

City Lights (1931)

2010-04-07T13:48:00.000-07:00

Add caption

The "Tramp" falls in love with a blind flower girl.
Genres: Comedy
Running Time: 1 hr. 27 min.
Release Date: January 1, 1931
MPAA Rating: Not Rated
U.S. Box Office: $18,165

Cast and Credits
Starring: Virginia Cherrill, Harry Myers, Hank Mann (II), Eddie Baker (II), Henry Bergman

Rebecca (1940)

2010-04-07T13:36:00.000-07:00

The second Mrs. de Winter is a shy and naive young woman, besotted with charming and urbane Maxim de Winter. They meet and fall in love while vacationing on the Riviera, and after a speedy marriage, return to Maxim's vast English estate, Manderly. His wife is introduced to an army of servants who immediately, if subtly, display hostility towards her, as they all adored Rebecca, Max's first wife, whose death is shrouded in mystery. As the servants become more hostile, the second wife grows more fearful, until she eventually learns the secret of what really happened to Rebecca.

Director:Alfred Hitchcock
Tagline: The shadow of this woman darkened their love. See more »
Genres: Drama, Romance and Adaptation
Running Time: 1 hr. 55 min.
MPAA Rating: Not Rated

Cast and Credits
Starring: Reginald Denny
Produced by: David O. Selznick

Modern Times (1936)

2010-04-07T13:31:00.000-07:00

When an oppressed assembly-line factory worker is mistaken for a radical political leader, he is arrested and thrown into jail. Upon his release he tries to find work in a variety of odd jobs, but can't seem to get ahead..or escape the long arm of the law.

Genres: Comedy and Politics/Religion
Running Time: 1 hr. 27 min.
Release Date: January 1, 1936
MPAA Rating: G
U.S. Box Office: $163,245

Cast and Credits
Starring: Charlie Chaplin, Paulette Goddard (II), Henry Bergman, Chester Conklin, Stanley Sandford
Directed by: Charlie Chaplin
Produced by: Charlie Chaplin

Metropolis (1927)

2010-04-07T13:27:00.000-07:00

A futuristic look at the schism created in mankind as industrialization and technological advancement serves to alienate the humans from one another. People are divided into two groups: the thinkers--who make plans, yet don't know how to operate machinery, and the workers--who forward production without having any overview vision. Completely separate, neither group is complete; however, together they make a whole. When one man, a "thinker," dares to journey to the underground, where the workers 'slave away,' he's surprised at what he sees.

Genres: Art/Foreign, Drama and Science Fiction/Fantasy
Running Time: 1 hr. 23 min.
Release Date: March 13, 1927
MPAA Rating: PG
U.S. Box Office: $650,422

Cast and Credits
Starring: Brigitte Helm, Alfred Abel, Rudolf Klein-Rogge, Fritz Rasp, Erwin Biswanger
Directed by: Fritz Lang
Produced by: Michele Cohen, Laurie Howard, George Naschke

Downfall (2005)

2010-04-07T13:17:00.000-07:00

In the dead of a November night in 1942, a group of young women are escorted by SS officers through the woods to Wolf's Lair, Hitler's headquarters in Eastern Prussia. They are candidates for the post of personal secretary to the Fuehrer. Among them is 22-year-old Traudl Junge, a fresh-faced girl from Munich. Traudl is chosen for the job and she is overcome with joy at the thought of serving beside her Fuehrer. BERLIN, APRIL 20, 1945: Hitler has retreated to a bunker system under the German Chancellery. Traudl Junge is asleep in her room, deep beneath the ground. She is awakened by tremors from artillery fire. The enemy is getting closer. Charting the last 10 days of Hitler's life, from his 56th birthday on April 20th, 1945 to his suicide on April 30th, the film uses multiple characters to show the chaos of a country coming apart at the seams, from Hitler's henchman under the streets of Berlin, to the soldiers and civilians fighting and dying as the Soviet Army ravaged the city above.

Also Known As:
Der Untergang
Der Untergang - Hitler und das Ende des 3. Reichs
The Downfall - Hitler and the End of the Third Reich
Genres: Art/Foreign, Drama, Adaptation, Biopic and War
Running Time: 2 hrs. 28 min.
Release Date: February 18th, 2005 (limited)
MPAA Rating: R for strong violence, disturbing images and some nudity.
Distributors: Newmarket Films
U.S. Box Office: $5,501,940

Cast and Credits
Starring: Bruno Ganz, Alexandra Maria Lara, Corinna Harfouch, Ulrich Matthes, Juliane Kohler
Directed by: Oliver Hirschbiegel
Produced by: Christine Rothe, Bernd Eichinger

Raging Bull (1980)

2010-04-07T13:09:00.000-07:00

The story of Jake LaMotta, a former middlweight boxing champion, whose reputation for tenacity and success in the ring was offset by his troubled domestic life: full of rage, jealousy, and suspicion--particulary towards his wife and manager/brother--which, in the end, left him destitute, alone, and seeking redemption.

Genres: Drama, Romance, Biopic and Sports
Running Time: 2 hrs. 9 min.
MPAA Rating: R
Distributors: United Artists Films
U.S. Box Office: $87,307

Cast and Credits
Starring: Robert De Niro, Cathy Moriarty, Joe Pesci, Joseph Bono, Lori Anne Flax
Directed by: Martin Scorsese
Produced by: Irwin Winkler, Robert Chartoff, Peter Savage

New 'Kick-Ass' Clip Lets You Ride Shotgun In The Mist-Mobile!

2010-03-26T15:27:00.000-07:00

"Kick-Ass" hits theaters next month, introducing audiences to a world in which costumed crime-fighters don't have fancy superpowers — but they do know how to administer (and take) a beating.

But what are superheroes without their suped-up equipment? In this exclusive clip from "Kick-Ass," get a bumper-to-bumper tour of The Red Mist's tricked-out Mist-Mobile.

How's that for a sweet ride?

In the film, actors Aaron Johnson and Christopher Mintz-Plasse play Kick-Ass and The Red Mist, respectively, two costumed vigilantes with very different approaches to fighting crime.

Director Matthew Vaughn's adaptation of the hit comic book series by John Romita Jr. and Mark Millar arrives in theaters April 16.

Keep it locked to Splash Page for more "Kick-Ass" movie news as it develops.

'Tron Legacy' Star Jeff Bridges On Shooting In 3-D, Returning To Kevin Flynn And More

2010-03-25T15:24:00.000-07:00

Last June, MTV News traveled up to Vancouver to visit the set of "Tron Legacy," Disney's 3-D stand-alone sequel to the 1982 sci-fi classic. Along with a select group of journalists, we toured the set, talked to cast and crew and immersed ourselves in all things "Tron." A studio-imposed embargo has now lifted and we can bring you the first of our interviews. Here's some of what Jeff Bridges — the star of both the original film and the new one in the role of Kevin Flynn — had to say.
Question: How has Flynn changed?
Jeff Bridges: It’s certainly a different deal. We made "Tron," there was no Internet, man. No cell phones. No laptops or any of that stuff. So it's a completely different world that we're showing up in here and the look of the film, it certainly benefits from that.
Question: What's it like coming back to this character?
Bridges: It seems like we had a long weekend basically because [Steven] Lisberger, who directed the first one is very involved in this one, which is great — having the source of the material still engaged. I think it gave us all a lot of pressures because he’s such a wild cat but it's also kind of grounded in that first movie that was so unique and everything. I heard that years before it came out I heard, "Oh, they're gonna do a "Tron 2" and I couldn’t believe. I said, "You’re kidding me?" Nothing happened and finally this came about and I was so pleased and we did kind of a, "Hey, this is not that strange."
Question: Have you seen the 3-D footage?
Bridges: It’s just great. It’s better, more sophisticated, more refined. Joe [Kosinski], our director was an architect. That's where he's coming from. It's interesting — different filmmakers, where they come from and what they bring to the film and he's an architect, so the film has a very heightened design feel to it.
Question: What was your reason for wanting to come back?
Bridges: Well I got a pitch from Joe, who by the way, this is his first film. Can you imagine? I don’t know if it’s the most expensive ever made but it's right up there. To have a first time guy. Got to give Disney credit for taking that risk. They were smart because he’s such a calm, can do guy. He’s gonna pull this off. He made this wonderful pitch on the story, where it was going, and that was intriguing to me, and he showed me his commercial reel. He's out of commercials, and I saw some of the technology that he had available to him that he could use. And then it was basically the same reason that I did the first one. The first one was cutting edge technology at that time and this one certainly is for this time. And it's a whole different way of making movies I hadn't experienced. A little bit in "Iron Man," but nothing like this.
Question: Tell me about [Steven] Lisberger.
Bridges: Well, it is a little bit strange. I’m excited because I think he's gonna be in it somewhere in the movie. It will be fun to play with him. Just him being involved in it was a big plus for me. I think you asked what made me gave involved again. Another chance to work with Steve and do that. And Bruce too. Bruce is in it. Boxleitner.
Question: Do the younger cast members come to you for guidance?
Bridges: How do I throw this disc? No, I think we just used Frisbees in the old one. We were more sophisticated. It was pretty funky back then.
Question: Compare the directors.
Bridges: It's kind of a shame in a way, but the more seasoned directors a lot of times have more difficult getting a job than first time guys. New kid on the block kind of thing. I’ve had great luck with first time directors. I love working with them because it’s like you know, Orson Welles directing "Citizen Kane." He doesn’t know what he can’t do. He’s just so open, you know. And Steven was like that. I remember I couldn’t believe it, we showed up the first day at work and around the walls of the studio — this is the first "Tron" — are video games that you have to put quarters in just all over. I said "God, Steve you don’t think this is gonna raise a little hell with the work?" He said, "I don’t know. I figured you might want to prepare before you go on the grid." I said okay. So actually both things did happen. It did hold up the work every once in a while, but it was great fun. I remember I got locked into this game, Battlezone. You familiar with that game? The tanks. God, hours, and they would come and try to yank me away. I’d say I’m preparing, I’m preparing.
Question: Do you get the feedback immediately?
Bridges: Well, this is shot in 3-D. The first movie I’ve done in 3-D. Kind of interesting and the video playback is in 3-D, so you can see what that's like, but all of the effects, they're not. They have a thing called privies, which is a preview but in a very low res. So the whole movie is basically privies already, and that helps a lot when you’re doing things where you can't see what's actually gonna be in a movie that the director can actually talk you through.

Interview: Kristen And Dakota Are 'Runaways'

2010-03-24T15:11:00.000-07:00

The Runaways' (8 Clips)

Kristen Stewart and Dakota Fanning sit down again to talk about portraying rock-and-roll stars and how that has translated to their own lives.

The Challenges Of Playing The Runaways
"Playing a real person, that was also going to be there, and singing, for me, was intimidating," Dakota says.

'We Love Watching The Movie'

"It;s so embarassing," Kristen says of her and Dakota's love of "The Runaways."

Working With Joan Jett On Set
"She was funny about it ... she was just like, 'Ask me anything,' " Kristen says.

The Influence Of Joan And Cherie's Relationship
"They definitely do love each other, to this day," Dakota says.

Kristen Talks About Becoming Joan
"Once I cut my hair it was like, 'That's a Joan Jett haircut,' " Kristen says.

Kristen Is Getting A Lot Of Offers To Be In A Band
"I have a lot of friends that saw the premiere ... and they were like 'Let's be in a band,' " she says.

Kristen And Dakota's Music Tastes
"Jenny Lewis ... I lover her, she's amazing," Kristen says.

Kristen Stewart: Lady Gaga's 'Got A Look'
"I don't even know what's on the radio ... but she's really hot," Stewart says.

Jennifer Lopez goes 'Overboard'

2010-03-24T15:00:00.000-07:00

Jennifer Lopez is in talks to star in the remake of the romantic comedy "Overboard," which Overbrook is producing for Columbia.

The 1987 movie, which starred Kurt Russell and Goldie Hawn and was directed by Garry Marshall, centered on a snooty, spoiled woman who falls off her yacht and is taken to the hospital by a local, morally challenged carpenter. When she wakes up with amnesia, he convinces her she is his wife, thereby getting a free housekeeper for his four boys.

Adam Cooper and Bill Collage worked on the current script, as did Leslie Dixon.

Will Smith is producing with Overbrook partner James Lassiter.

The UTA-repped Lopez, who hasn't appeared in a movie since 2006's "El Cantante," next stars in "The Back-up Plan," which opens April 23. "Overboard" appears to signal she's ready to make a more concerted push into pics.
Jennifer Lopez goes 'Overboard'
THR EXCLUSIVE

By Borys Kit

March 18, 2010, 11:00 PM ET
Jennifer Lopez is in talks to star in the remake of the romantic comedy "Overboard," which Overbrook is producing for Columbia.

The 1987 movie, which starred Kurt Russell and Goldie Hawn and was directed by Garry Marshall, centered on a snooty, spoiled woman who falls off her yacht and is taken to the hospital by a local, morally challenged carpenter. When she wakes up with amnesia, he convinces her she is his wife, thereby getting a free housekeeper for his four boys.

Adam Cooper and Bill Collage worked on the current script, as did Leslie Dixon.

Will Smith is producing with Overbrook partner James Lassiter.

The UTA-repped Lopez, who hasn't appeared in a movie since 2006's "El Cantante," next stars in "The Back-up Plan," which opens April 23. "Overboard" appears to signal she's ready to make a more concerted push into pics.

James Cameron trashes Glenn Beck

2010-03-24T14:58:00.000-07:00

"Avatar" director James Cameron lashed out at Glenn Beck at a news conference Tuesday, offering to debate the Fox News personality on environmental and political issues.

Asked what he thought about Beck during a junket appearance in support of the "Avatar" home video release, Cameron said: "Glenn Beck is a fucking asshole. I've met him. He called me the anti-Christ, and not about 'Avatar.' He hadn't even seen 'Avatar' yet. I don't know if he has seen it."

Cameron was apparently referring to Beck's reaction to his 2007 documentary, "The Lost Tomb of Jesus," which casts doubt on the resurrection of Jesus Christ and makes the case that the ancient "Tomb of the Ten Ossuaries" belonged to Jesus' family.

After blasting Beck, Cameron, surrounded by journalists inside a West Hollywood hillside mansion, seemed to reconsider: "I think, you know what, he may or may not be an asshole, but he certainly is dangerous, and I'd love to have a dialogue with him."

What makes Beck dangerous, THR asked Cameron at the junket.

"He's dangerous because his ideas are poisonous," Cameron answered. "I couldn't believe when he was on CNN. I thought, what happened to CNN? Who is this guy? Who is this madman? And then of course he wound up on Fox News, which is where he belongs, I guess."

Asked by THR if he felt the right wing's attacks against him were continuing, Cameron replied: "They're not attacks. They're just people ranting away, lost in their little bubbles of reality, steeped in their own hatred, their own fear and hatred. That's where it all comes from. Let's just call it out. Let's have a public discussion. That's what movies are supposed to do, you know, you can have a mindless entertainment film that doesn't affect anybody. I wasn't interested in that."

The "Avatar" director was equally unsparing in his comments about those who don't accept global warming as fact.

"That's right," Cameron said. "I want to call those deniers out into the street at high noon and shoot it out with those boneheads."

Turning more serious, he added: "Anybody that is a global warming denier at this point in time has got their head so deeply up their ass I'm not sure they could hear me."

By making the environment the theme of his home video release plan, Cameron is sending a message.

"Look, at this point I'm less interested in making money for the movie and more interested in saving the world that my children are going to inhabit. How about that? I mean, look, I didn't make this movie with these strong environmental anti-war themes in it to make friends on the right, you know.

"They're not on my Christmas card list," Cameron added. "It's not going to change my lifestyle at all if they don't talk to me. But, you know, they've got to live in this world, too. And their children do as well, so they're going to have to be answerable to this at some point."

Fox had gathered nearly 100 journalists from around the world for a press junket that included a screening of four vivid video clips from the movie to show the quality of the conversion.

Cameron and "Avatar" producer Jon Landau opened the program by pledging an environmental theme to the release of "Avatar" into the home video market. The video release of "Avatar" is now set for April 22, which is not insignificantly Earth Day, as Beck is likely to notice.

While still working for CNN, Beck teed up an on-air interview with Cameron regarding "Tomb" with the following comment, according to a CNN transcript: "Many people believe James Cameron officially has tossed his hat in the ring today and is officially running for anti-Christ."

The Top 100 Sexiest Movie Posters

2010-03-08T15:05:00.000-08:00

Welcome to MovieBox' selection of the “Top 100 Sexiest Movie Posters" EVER!

Deciding on what is sexy as a movie poster image or design is very subjective. Thankfully all of us have our own interpretation of what we find sexually appealing. A favorite old idiom suggests that “Variety is the Spice of Life”. In our efforts to compile our final list we included both a little variety and a little spice.

We looked at thousands of movie posters to find the ones you are seeing on the "Top 100". The variety comes in the form of posters that are drawn from various countries over the years. You will also see variety in the form of posters that represent films from the 1920’s to today.

The spice is embodied in the inescapable selection of posters for films that starred some of cinema’s most beautiful and sexy stars in spicy outfits or layouts. When compiling a list like ours you must include classic screen goddesses like Marilyn Monroe, Brigitte Bardot, Rita Hayworth and Ava Gardner. We also showcase some contemporary stars like Angelina Jolie and Monica Bellucci.

The Oxford Dictionary describes “sexy” as follows;

* Concerned predominantly or excessively with sex; risqué.
* Sexually interesting or exciting; radiating sexuality.
* Excitingly appealing; glamorous.

We would like to think our list and movie poster choices embody all those dictionary definitions. You be the judge. Enjoy.

What do you think of the collection? Did we miss a movie poster that should be in the "Top 100"? Let us know about a poster that we may have missed and should be on the list. If our judges agree we will send you any movie poster of your choice from our list of The Top 100 Sexiest Movie Posters EVER!


The Top 100 Sexiest Movie Posters (1 - 20)	The Top 100 Sexiest Movie Posters (20 - 40)	The Top 100 Sexiest Movie Posters (40 - 60)


The Top 100 Sexiest Movie Posters (61 - 80)	The Top 100 Sexiest Movie Posters (81 - 100)

'Alice' takes in $116.3 million domestic

2010-03-08T15:03:00.000-08:00

'Brooklyn's Finest' steals second place with $13.5 million

Disney's "Alice in Wonderland" bowed wondrously during the weekend to top the domestic boxoffice with an estimated $116.3 million, as the book-based fantasy popped through the 3D looking glasses and into the history books.

Its opening was the biggest ever for a winter release, surpassing the $83.8 million debut by "Passion of the Christ" in February 2004. "Alice" found $210.3 million in worldwide coin in its extra-dimensional rabbit hole, thanks to simultaneous bows in 41 foreign territories.

Directed by Tim Burton and starring Johnny Depp and Anne Hathaway, "Alice" was produced in a mix of motion-capture animation, live action and CGI for more than $200 million. Originally produced in 2D, the film was converted to 3D due to moviegoer enthusiasm for the format and industry interest in its premium-priced tickets.

Also this weekend, Overture Film's opened cop thriller "Brooklyn's Finest" in second place with $13.5 million, modestly exceeding pre-release expectations.

Warner Bros.' sophomore-session holdover "Cop Out" fell 50% from its opening tally to cop $9.1 million in fourth place, with cumulative boxoffice of $32.4 million. Overture's "The Crazies" dropped 56% to scare up $7 million in sixth, with 10-day cume totaling $27.4 million.

Fox's 3D phenom "Avatar" grossed $7.7 million in fifth place to push its record cume to $720.2 million.

Just outside the top 10, Warners leggy Sandra Bullock starrer "The Blind Side" reached $250.5 million with $1.3 million in its 16th weekend. Summit Entertainment's Iraq War thriller "The Hurt Locker" grossed $439,000 from 274 theaters to pump cume to $14.7 million.

Collectively, the top 10 grossers registered $182.5 million, or a whopping 87% more than top performers in the comparable frame last year, boxoffice tracker Rentrak said.

In a limited bow, GKIDS unspooled animated adventure "The Secret of Kells" -- a nominee in Oscar's feature animation category -- in a single New York location to fetch an impressive $40,715.

Among notable expansions, Summit Entertainment broadened Roman Polanski's "The Ghost Writer" by 103 theaters for a total 143, as the Ewan McGregor starrer grossed $1.3 million. Representing $9,068 per venue, the full-blooded performance brought "Ghost" cume to $2.6 million.

Fox Searchlight's country music drama "Crazy Heart" -- which landed topliner Jeff Bridges in Oscar's best-actor category -- added 126 playdates for a total 1,274 and grossed $3.4 million. That represented a moderate $2,630 per engagement, as "Crazy" cume climbed to $29.6 million.

Sony Pictures Classics' foreign-language nominee "A Prophet" added 21 locations for a total 30 in grossing $264,978, or a pleasing $8,833 per site. The French thriller's cume reached $517,605.

Disney tightened the theatrical window for "Alice" to just 12 weeks -- to accelerate its hitting DVD before summer -- in a move that sparked brief controversy among some exhibitors but ultimately reflects the studio's high hopes for pic profits. Its magical bow gave Burton a new personal best, surpassing his $68.5 million opening with 2001's "Planet of the Apes."

The opening was the best ever by a non-sequel movie release. It also was the biggest debut by a 3D pic, blowing away the $77 million debut by "Avatar" in December.

"Alice" attracted broad support, with core family backing heavily fleshed out by Burton fans and other adult patrons. Support was evident among younger and older males and females.

"It's the quintessential four-quadrant movie," Disney distribution topper Chuck Viane said. "It's phenomenal."

Imax's 188 specialty venues contributed a company-record $11.9 million to the debut, or a mind-besting $63,197 per site.

"Momentum is clearly on the side of 3D," Imax Film Entertainment presidents Greg Foster said. "You have all the people who went to see 'Avatar' and loved it, and this was the next 3D movie. There is a 3D halo effect right now, and this movie builds on that."

Directed by Antoine Fuqua ("Training Day"), "Finest" stars Richard Gere, Don Cheadle, Ethan Hawke and Wesley Snipes.

Its opening audiences skewed 52% female, with 60% of patrons aged 30 or older. African-American moviegoers offered a key base of support -- at 60% -- and 86% of audiences were comprised of non-Caucasian patrons.

"We always thought this weekend was an opportunity for smart counter-programming, and this opening proves that was the case," Overture exec vp distribution Kyle Davies said.

"Finest" was produced by Millennium Films and acquired by Overture for less than $3 million.

Looking ahead, the first post-Oscar frame brings four wide releases to theaters. Universal unspools Paul Greengrass' Iraq War thriller "Green Zone," Fox Searchlight bows Forest Whitaker starrer "Our Family Wedding," Paramount opens romantic comedy "She's Out of My League" and Summit sends out Robert Pattinson starrer "Remember Me."

Why Oscar didn't embrace 'Avatar'

2010-03-08T14:58:00.000-08:00

By the time "The Hurt Locker" won best picture Sunday night, it seemed almost a foregone conclusion since it previously earned honors from the Producer's Guild, BAFTA, Broadcast Critics, the National Society and critics groups in New York, L.A. and elsewhere.

But "Hurt Locker" was anything but a sure thing. In a historical context, its win is surprising.

After all, it is the lowest-grossing best picture winner of all time; it was never on more than 535 movie screens; and it beat the highest-grossing movie in modern history, one that has continued to play on thousands of screens for nearly three months. In the era of blockbusters, "Locker" cost a mere $11 million to make compared with the more than $230 million cost of "Avatar."

To earn its gold, "Hurt Locker" had to break what producer Greg Shapiro called "The Iraq War Curse," referring to all the movies touching on that conflict that had failed to find an audience. It had to weather attacks in the media and from some in the military who questioned the realism of how it portrayed the bomb removal unit.

The film also drew censure for the behavior of one of its producers, the first to be banned from attending the Academy Awards. And it had to win with backing from Summit Entertainment, a relatively new and small distributor that had never before won an Oscar.

There also is the parallel question of whether "Avatar" and distributor Fox contributed to their own demise in the best picture race.

The sci-fi epic had been critically acclaimed, far more widely seen and was widely heralded for its breakthrough technology. And it boasted the deep pocket backing of a major Hollywood studio.

Could it be explained as the ultimate example of the split personality in Hollywood, where movie choices are mostly driven by the need to make large amounts of money but where the people behind the camera still want to be seen as making art? And was it hurt by attacks from the political right on the movie's plot, which was seen as a dig on America's Iraq incursion?

Or was "Avatar's" Oscar hopes doomed because it was sci-fi, a genre that rarely has been rewarded by Oscar? After all, there are precedents.

In 1977, when " Star Wars " was the breakthrough movie, it lost best picture to Woody Allen 's low-budget comedy "Annie Hall." And in 1982, when "E.T.: The Extra-Terrestrial" was rewriting boxoffice records, it was beaten for best picture by the biopic "Gandhi."

The path that "Hurt Locker" took was anything but standard. After Summit picked up domestic distribution in September 2008, it put the movie on the shelf because its release schedule was crowded. Then Summit opened "Hurt Locker" in the summer as counter programming instead of in the fall, when most serious dramas get a showcase launch.

Summit turned the Oscar campaign strategy over to PR firm 42 West, where veteran campaigner Cynthia Swartz called the shots. Swartz was criticized for waiting until early December to send out the DVDs, even though the whole strategy revolved around getting the movie seen by as many voters as possible.

She also had to get attention from Academy voters and guild members for a movie without any marquee names and a subject that put off many people already weary of a war that never seemed to end.

What Swartz did right was to center the campaign around Bigelow, a woman who directed with as much glory and guts as any man, and to feature writer/producer Mark Boal for his screenplay and real-life story as a journalist who was embedded with a bomb disposal unit in Iraq .

She had bound copies of the "Hurt Locker" script sent to every member of the WGA, earning guild honors for the original screenplay and the same award at the Oscars.

Meanwhile, Fox seemed to downplay awards campaigning, letting Cameron take the lead. And what Cameron wanted to talk about was how frustrated he was that his actors, whose performances were captured by CGI technology, were not taken as seriously as live-action actors.

While his righteousness was sincere, that didn't go over well with many real-life actors who feel threatened by the possibility that they might be replaced by synthetic performers. That backlash might have mattered, because actors are by far the largest bloc of voters in the Academy.

At first, Summit's marketing tried to hide the Iraq war theme of "Hurt Locker," just as "Avatar" tried to sidestep the science-fiction label. In the end, both movies tried to position themselves as important parts of screen history. That worked for "Hurt Locker" but not for "Avatar," which will have to settle for being the biggest-grossing movie, even though it didn't gain the respect that comes with the best picture trophy.

Oscar Night Belongs To 'The Hurt Locker'

2010-03-08T14:50:00.000-08:00

Kathryn Bigelow accepts Best Director and Best Picture awards for "The Hurt Locker"

The much-hyped Oscar fight between Kathryn Bigelow's "The Hurt Locker" and James Cameron's "Avatar" turned out to be a knockout Sunday night (March 7), as "Hurt Locker" won Best Picture and Bigelow became the first woman in Academy Award history to win for Best Directing.
Those wins were two of six "Hurt Locker" took home from its nine nominations during the live ceremony at the Kodak Theatre in Hollywood, including Film Editing, Sound Editing and Sound Mixing. Shut out of the major categories, "Avatar" nabbed a total of three wins — out of nine noms — in categories like Cinematography, Visual Effects and Art Direction.
Taking the stage to accept the win for Best Picture just moments after winning for Directing, Bigelow thanked men and women in uniform all over the world, in the military and other services. "They are there for us, and we are there for them," she said.
Minutes earlier, accepting the Directing award, Bigelow said, "I'd just like to dedicate this to the women and men of the military who risk their lives every day in Iraq and Afghanistan and around the world. May they come home safe."
Jeff Bridges capped a remarkable run through awards season with a win for Best Actor in a Leading Role for his role as a washed-up country singer in "Crazy Heart." Accepting the Oscar after four previous winless nominations, Bridges giggled and hooted as he expressed gratitude to his deceased parents. "Thank you, Mom and Dad, for turning me on to such a groovy profession," he said.

Sandra Bullock, star of "The Blind Side," the true story of a woman whose family adopts an impoverished teen, won Best Actress in a Leading Role over 16-time nominee Meryl Streep ("Julie & Julia"). It was her first nomination and her first win.
"Did I really earn this, or did I just wear y'all down?" she began her acceptance speech, adding that her award was dedicated to "moms that take care of their babies and their children no matter where they come from. Those moms and parents never get thanked."
Both the Best Actor and Best Actresses in a Supporting Role went to heavy favorites. Christoph Waltz, who played a calculatingly evil Nazi officer in "Inglourious Basterds" and won awards for the role at Cannes and the Globes, triumphed again Sunday. Mo'Nique, too, had essentially swept awards season based on her turn as an abusive mother in "Precious: Based on the Novel 'Push' by Sapphire" and nabbed the Oscar for Supporting Actress.
"First, I would like to thank the Academy for showing that it can be about the performance and not the politics," said Mo'Nique, who had been criticized at times for not publically campaigning for the award.
The evening kicked off with an elaborate song-and-dance routine from Emmy host Neil Patrick Harris, who announced with a smile, "I know, what am I doing here?" Oscar hosts Steve Martin and Alec Baldwin then descended from the rafters in a silvery contraption to deliver an opening monologue that offered some serious clunkers in the midst of all the jokes at the expense of the night's nominees.
Later in the night, "Twilight" stars Kristen Stewart and Taylor Lautner came out together to fete the finest horror movies from decades past: "Jaws," "The Shining," "Halloween," "Nightmare on Elm Street," "Rosemary's Baby" and more.
To present the award for Makeup, Ben Stiller appeared with his face painted blue like a Na'vi alien from "Avatar," even though Cameron's film was not nominated in the category. Mimicking the Na'vi language in the film, Stiller then said, "That means, 'This sounded like a better idea in rehearsals.' " The category was won by "Star Trek," the only win out of four nominations for J.J. Abrams' rebooted version of the sci-fi franchise.
Molly Ringwald and Matthew Broderick presented a tribute to film legend John Hughes, who died in August at the age of 59, that included scenes from his classic comedies like "Mr. Mom," Broderick's "Ferris Bueller's Day Off," Ringwald's "Sixteen Candles," "Trains, Planes & Automobiles" and "Home Alone." Jon Cryer, Anthony Michael Hall, Ally Sheedy, Judd Nelson and Macaulay Culkin — all stars of past Hughes films — came out onstage to pay their respects to Hughes.
"John always treated me with dignity, even the tiny, 9-year-old version of myself," "Home Alone" star Culkin said. "Because that's what he did — he treated people with respect."
Geoffrey Fletcher took the Writing (Adapted Screenplay) category for his "Precious" script, winning over presumed favorite "Up in the Air." In fact, Jason Reitman's "Up in the Air," nominated for six awards, was entirely shut out Sunday. Journalist Mark Boal won Writing (Original Screenplay) for "The Hurt Locker," beating out Quentin Tarantino ("Inglourious Basterds"), who triumphed in that category in 1995 for "Pulp Fiction."
"Up" scored wins for Animated Feature Film and Music (Original Score). Music (Original Song) went to T-Bone Burnett and Ryan Bingham's "The Weary Kind" from "Crazy Heart." Documentary Feature went to Fisher Stevens' "The Cove," which tells the story of the mass slaughter of dolphins in Japan. Argentina's "El Secreto de Sus Ojos" prevailed in the Foreign Language Film category. A two-time past winner, Sandy Powell won Best Costume Design for "The Young Victoria." Short Film (Animated) went to French-originated "Logorama." Documentary Short went to "Music by Prudence," which follows a 21-year-old disabled Zimbabwean musician. ("Prudence" producer Elinor Burkett stormed the stage for her very own Kanye West moment during the film's win.) "The New Tenants," a 21-minute film about two men moving into an apartment, won Short Film (Live Action).

The Complete List of Oscar Winners!

2010-03-08T14:44:00.000-08:00

Neil Patrick Harris opens the 2010 Academy Awards with a performance onstage

The 82nd annual Academy Awards are over and the winners have been counted. "Avatar" and "The Hurt Locker" squared off in a nomination-leading nine categories, and Kathryn Bigelow's Iraq war story emerged the victor. Her David beat James Cameron's sci-fi Goliath with six wins to the three for "Avatar." Sandra Bullock and Jeff Bridges won for Best Actress and Best Actor, respectively, while Mo'Nique and Christoph Waltz took home statues for supporting actress and actor, all as expected.

Steve Martin and Alec Baldwin co-host the 2010 Academy Awards

Here is a full list of the winners:
Best Picture
"The Hurt Locker"
Best Director
Kathryn Bigelow, "The Hurt Locker"
Best Actress in a Lead Role
Sandra Bullock, "The Blind Side"
Best Actor in a Lead Role
Jeff Bridges, "Crazy Heart"
Best Actress in a Supporting Role
Mo'Nique, "Precious"
Best Actor in a Supporting Role
Christoph Waltz, "Inglourious Basterds"
Best Animated Feature Film
"Up"
Best Art Direction
"Avatar"
Best Cinematography
"Avatar"
Best Costume Design
"The Young Victoria"
Best Documentary Feature
"The Cove"
Best Documentary Short
"Music by Prudence"
Best Film Editing
"The Hurt Locker"
Best Foreign Language Film
"El Secreto de sus Ojos," Argentina
Best Makeup
"Star Trek"
Best Original Score
"Up"
Best Original Song
"Crazy Heart"
Best Sound Mixing
"The Hurt Locker"
Best Sound Editing
"The Hurt Locker"
Best Visual Effects
"Avatar"
Best Writing (Original Screenplay)
"The Hurt Locker"
Best Writing (Adapted Screenplay)
"Precious"

The Top 100 Sexiest Movie Posters (1 - 20)

2010-02-26T04:19:00.000-08:00

Niagara

United States

1953

Ah...Marilyn in a sexy close up and waterfall shot in this Belgian poster with wonderful art.

Lolita

France

1962

Timeless movie poster artwork for the Kubrick classic. How about those shades? Don't even think that guys. Especially don't think about Natalie Portman in the "Professional".

Dracula Has Risen from the Grave

United States

1941

We really liked those two things that begin with "B". You know...the Bandaids!

A Streetcar Named Desire

Germany

1954

Stella! Great German design for the Kazan classic showing Brando and Saint entwined in a "love lock".

Gia

United States

1998

Angelina Jolie at her sultry best - Classic shot - Some totally hot scenes in this flick.

Gilda

United States

1946

We love Rita Hayworth! This is one of the sexier posters ever designed. Great Image. Beautiful Woman.

Who Framed Roger Rabbit?

United States

1988

Wow! Has it really been 20 years since this movie was released? Some would argue there are lots of sexy animated characters. We think none are as sexy as Jessica Rabbit.

The Little Hut

United States

1941

Is it Ava Gardner's eyes that make her so sexy or that outfit she is wearing?

Blow-Up

Germany

1966

Provocative movie poster design from the Michaelangelo Antonioni classic "Blow Up".

La Dolce Vita

Italy

1961

Fellini at his best...Anita Ekberg at her most sexy. You know...Before she started hanging out with the Rolling Stones."

A Woman Like Satan

United States

1959

Another great Brigitte Bardot movie poster - We'll dance with this star anytime.

Germany

1979

There was a time where Bo Derek was considered one of the sexiest women in film. Seeing this movie poster (seen on the German release) only reinforces that fact.

Downhill Racer

United States

1969

Outstanding design - There is something about the juxtaposition of the two people about to kiss with the image of the skier on the mountain - Great logo also.

Affair in Trinidad

United States

1941

Rita is baaaack! How sexy is the image on this movie poster? Forget Monroe...Rita Rocks!

Some Like It Hot

Japan

1959

How could you ever forget those scenes with Marilyn in her black negligee from this film? Now you can remember. Interesting Japanese design.

Romance & Cigarettes

United States

2005

This is got it all. What more can we say?

The Sin of Nora Moran

United States

1933

A very sexy image, one of the best. What makes this special is not only the enduring image for a film from 1934 but also a movie poster for a very obscure film.

Irreversible

United States

2003

This poster was pulled from release due to it's provocative imagery. We think that Monica Belluci is a contemporary in looks to some of the great screen beauties.

Secretary

United States

2002

One of the sexiest movie poster designs in the 21st Century. Forget political correctness. We want this girl working in our office. Would you mind picking up that stapler?

The Outlaw

Mexico

1941

The design screams sensual and provocative. It doesn't deserve to be number one why?

Joan Jett Says Kristen Stewart 'Nailed' 'Runaways' Role

2010-02-26T01:34:00.000-08:00

'I found us to be really, scarily similar,' the real-life Runaway guitarist tells Interview.

When MTV News caught a screening of Kristen Stewart's "The Runaways" at the Sundance Film Festival in January, we came away impressed by how the 19-year-old actress "physically embodies the role [of rocker Joan Jett] and curses and growls as the part demands." What did it take for KStew to embody so movingly a real life '70s rock-and-roll icon?
A keen sense of observation, a willingness to study hard and simply good casting. That's how ex-Runaways guitarist Jett explained it in an Interview magazine story.

"I found Kristen to be through and through totally professional and just great to be around," Jett said. "I found us to be really, scarily similar, just in our physicality, the way we move through space."
Stewart and Jett first met on New Year's Eve 2008, when the actress came to one of the singer's concerts. The pair ended up spending the entire day together, and Jett opened up about everything she could remember from her time as a '70s rock pioneer.
"I just dumped on her about everything I could think about the Runaways — I mean, the good, the bad, and the ugly," she said. "I told her all that stuff and how much it meant to me. Then she went off to do 'New Moon,' and I didn't see her again until about two weeks before the 'Runaways' thing started. But she is so authentic. The thing that came through to me was that it was important to her to capture it. She really wanted to nail it."
"Runaways" didn't begin filming until June 2009, and in the months that followed their New Year's rendezvous, Stewart listened to all the band's music that Jett gave her, as well as tapes of the singer talking. But even all that studying wasn't enough. When they reconvened weeks before the shoot, Stewart trained her powers of observation on Jett.
"[S]he was staring at me the whole time," Jett said. "And I was fine with it, because I knew she was watching my posture, my mannerisms, everything I did, the way I hold my hands, just everything. And she really soaked it in. When we were hanging out together on set, it was like I had a mirror image. Even just sitting around, we'd do the same thing at the same time. It was just great — and it wasn't creepy. It was wonderfully special."

Helena Bonham Carter Enjoyed Impersonating Hermione In 'Deathly Hallows'

2010-02-26T01:31:00.000-08:00

'That was fun, because I always wanted to be Hermione,' actress says of portraying younger character.

HOLLYWOOD — First, it staked its claim among Hollywood's most immensely successful franchises of all time. Then, it was announced that the final movie would be split into two. Last month, it was revealed that those two movies would be released in 3-D.
If you think you can't get any more excited for "Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows," think again. Because Helena Bonham Carter is ready to spill the beans on the upcoming films — and her info is more delicious than a bag of Bertie Bott's Every Flavour Beans.

"I do have lines in this one, which is good," laughed the veteran actress, who has become a standout as evil Bellatrix Lestrange in the films. "I only finished it a couple of months ago.
"I get to torture Hermione," Carter said when asked about her favorite scene, which revolves around an incantation that Bellatrix drops on Emma Watson's character just for fun.
"The best bit about being Bellatrix in this one is also because I got to pretend to be Hermione," she added of a pivotal scene that has the evil witch's identity being assumed by Harry's friend in order to gain access to Gringotts Wizarding Bank, which holds Hufflepuff's cup — and a part of Voldemort's soul. "Because Hermione takes polyjuice potion and gets to look like Bellatrix."
After J.K. Rowling wrote the scene in the final "Potter" book, the film series' producers were faced with a difficult question: Was it preferable to use makeup and CGI to make Watson look like Bonham Carter, or have the older actress act like the younger?
"Rather than put Emma Watson in a helluva load of make-up they just said, 'Now you go act like Hermione,' " Bonham Carter said of their decision. "That was fun, because I always wanted to be Hermione.
"It was great fun," she said of the scene. "[I was] looking at Dan [Radcliffe] and Rupert [Grint] and they were treating me as if I was 17."
The scene itself falls near the middle of the "Deathly Hallows" novel — but Bonham Carter's next statement might shed some important light on where the books will be split, a point on which the "Potter" crew have been elusive.
"I can't remember where they are going to cut," she explained, then remembered. "Yeah, [the scene is] definitely in the second one, because all of my stuff is in the second one. So you won't see me until 2011."
Part 1 of "Deathly Hallows" hits theaters this November; part 2 arrives in July of 2011. But don't worry, HBC fans — the delightfully dark "Fight Club" actress returns March 5 in 3-D as The Red Queen in Tim Burton's "Alice in Wonderland."

Kristen Stewart Says New Movie Shows 'Different Types Of Love'

2010-02-26T01:29:00.000-08:00

'There are different types of relationships ... even in weird circumstances,' actress says of 'The Yellow Handkerchief.'

BEVERLY HILLS, California — Imagine the difficulty in trying to capture true romance onscreen. Think about how difficult it would be to construct a love story that millions would identify with as true to their own experiences, one that hordes of people would believe will last forever, one that will find the truth of a lifetime of companionship, all in about 90 minutes. For every "Titanic" or "The Notebook," there are dozens of clunkers featuring actors with no chemistry, clichéd scenes that show no signs of true soulmate-bonding and countless dollars lost by audience members who enter the theater looking for love and leave with nothing but disappointment.
To many in her generation, "Twilight" star Kristen Stewart is one-half of the greatest love story that exists in cinema. Now she returns this week with "The Yellow Handkerchief," a film that shows remarkable skill in depicting both a grown-up romance (featuring an ex-con played by William Hurt and his old flame played by Maria Bello) and a tale of teenage innocence (depicting a shy boy played by Eddie Redmayne and a mysterious wild child in Stewart). So when we caught up with Kristen recently, we had to ask: What's the secret to making a great romantic movie?

"That's a hard question," Stewart admitted, saying that even after "Handkerchief" and the "Twilight" movies, she still is trying to figure it out. "[The good ones] should all be totally unique."
"And there is uniqueness about [this film]," added Redmayne, a little-known British actor who many are predicting big things for in the future. "In this love story, I like the contrast between the two relationships."
"For me, what's interesting about the film is that the writing is so specific to the idiosyncrasies of relationships, of love," Kristen said of the tear-inducing "Handkerchief" script. "And often I feel like, in Hollywood films, there can be that slightly clichéd perception of what love and what a relationship is."
"In the older one — the William Hurt and Maria Bello relationship — you have a triumphant, real love story, like you really want them to be together and when they're not it feels really wrong," Redmayne explained. "With ours, they may not be together next week — they're crazy kids, like total weirdo loners."
Ultimately, Stewart explained, the best thing about "Handkerchief" may be that it acknowledges that every love story — including yours — is unique. "What I love, that 'The Yellow Handkerchief' actually does, is that it shows there are different types of love," she reasoned. "There are different types of relationships, different types of people that can find a focus and adoration for each other, even in weird circumstances."

The Top 100 Sexiest Movie Posters (20 - 40)

2010-02-16T03:05:00.000-08:00

Pickup

United States

1951

Our kind of woman! Oustanding Fities-style "Bad Girl" art. Clearly a case where the artwork was vastly superior to the film.

Woman of Straw

France

1964

Gina Lollabrigada - The working man's Sophia Loren in a sexy pose and outfit in this Italian movie poster design. Back left you will see 007 not acting as 007 in what? Smoking jacket or bathrobe?

Blonde Sinner

United States

1956

Diana Dors is looking spicy in this movie poster design from a film that was also entitled "Yield to the Night".

The Barefoot Contessa

Italy

1954

Great artwork for the Mankiewcz classic. Ava Gardner was "tres sexy" this image oozes sexuality.

Homeland Security

United States

2008

Breast and Bullets a lethal, yet sexy combination in...You know...In a strange kinda way.

Flame of New Orleans

United States

1941

Marlene Dietrich with the "Welcome to my parlor said the spider to the fly" pose. How sexy does she look on this movie poster?

One Million Years B.C.

United States

1966

We mamaged to get the best of both worlds with this great design. Raquel and Ursulla. How can you go wrong with that? Who has the sexier outfit?

Barbarella

Italy

1968

How could we overlook any movie posters from this movie. Lot's to chose from. We decided on this gem because of the ray gun.

Sullivan's Travel

United States

1941

"Veronica Lake's on the Take". We will take this movie poster anytime. Brilliant design and artwork.

Blonde Bait

United States

1956

"She's a Silken Trap That Waits in the Dark" Great trashy imagery. We'll wait in the dark for her!

Ciudad en Celo

Spain

2005

What is it about how sexy women look in red? Great design. We don't care what the woman looks like. Seeing only part of her is good enough. Wonder what that obelisk in the background is suggesting?

The Graduate

United States

1967

Here's to you Mrs. Robinson. Has there been a more infamous shot of a woman's leg in the foreground on a movie poster? We think not.

Showgirls

United States

1995

"Leave Your Inhibitions at the Door" Great design, may very well be the best thing about this movie.

To Have and Have Not

Italy

1944

You know how to whistle, don't you, Steve? You just put your lips together and...Blow. Need we add more?

La Parisienne

France

1957

One of the best "Woman in Red" movie poster images ever...Yup it's Brigitte again.

Ziegfeld Follies

United States

1946

Vargas at his sexy best...what more can we say?

Rotte Lippen

Spain

1973

AKA "Sadist Erotica" in the USA has sexy "Succubus" star Janine Reynaud at her very kinky best.

Blue Velvet

United States

1986

How well does the artwork on this poster capture the pure kinkiness and weirdness of this film?

Querelle

United States

1983

Fassbinder again. Adds whole new meaning for the expression "To the Bastille". There were two movie poster designs for this film. The other was designed by Andy Wharhol we liked this one better because it's so subtle.

La Notte

Italy

1961

Indicative of a style of artwork found on may European movie posters. What adds to the seductive embrace is the use of the red highlight on Jeanne Moreau lips

Terminator 5 & 6 Plots Revealed?

2010-02-16T02:00:00.000-08:00

Deadline Hollywood got a chance to look at a script done by William Wisher for Terminator 5 and 6 and it seems it goes right back to the roots of the franchise. William Wisher helped write the first two Terminator movies but chose to not be a part of Terminator 3 out of respect for James Cameron. You gotta respect a guy who takes food off his own plate to respect a filmmaker.

In his vision of Terminator 5 and 6 William Wisher would continue the war from Terminator 3 but also incorporate some of Terminator Salvation. The key element would be Sarah Conner's character returning and the time travel element being brought back in so that Conner and Reese get to spend more time then just their own fated visit together.

William Wisher's take on the films would also introduce new Terminators including a terminator that can morph by merging with other Terminators to become a larger one. there is also apparently a shocking role laid into the script for Arnold which according to Deadline is as shocking as his return in Terminator 2 as a body guard and not a hunter-killer. It all sounds quite interesting but at the end of the day after how bad Terminator 4 was the only way I am getting interested in Terminator 5 and 6 is if they say the magic words... James Cameron directing!

Amanda Seyfried Takes on Sexy New Role

2010-02-16T01:54:00.000-08:00

Amanda Seyfried is on the verge of superstardom, and we're not the only one's who think so: Vanity Fair chose to include Seyfried on the cover of its somewhat controversial Hollywood Issue alongside a bevy of beautiful and talented up-and-comers, including Anna Kendrick ('Up in the Air'), Emma Stone ('Zombieland') and Mia Wasikowska ('Alice in Wonderland').

Last weekend, Seyfried ruled multiplexes opposite the equally on-fire Channing Tatum in 'Dear John,' which topped the box office, knocking 'Avatar' from the top spot. So far, the 24-year-old starlet has routinely played the good girl, but that's about to change, according to Entertainment Weekly.

After a string of roles so sweet we got a toothache, Seyfried, who starred opposite none other than Meryl Streep in the monster hit 'Mama Mia,' is about to flex her considerable acting chops in a scandalous new role. In 'Chloe,' Seyfried plays a girl hired by a woman (Julianne Moore) to seduce her husband, played by Liam Neeson.

And according to Wendy Mitchell at EW, "We're talking nudity and girl-on-girl sexytimes with Julianne Moore. But it's not some cheesy flick -- 'Chloe' is directed by Atom Egoyan, the auteur behind the great films 'Exotica' and 'The Sweet Hereafter,' among others."

By taking on supporting roles in films helmed by well-regarded directors, Seyfried seems to be consiously avoiding the "too much, too soon" curse. Good for her; she's clearly more interested in honing her talent than pursuing the sort of immediate celebrity that has stifled the careers of a number of talented young starlets. We knew when we first encountered the blonde beauty all the way back in 2004, when she played the dumb-but-lovable Karen in 'Mean Girls,' that she had much more up her sleeve.

It's refreshing to see the talented, fresh-faced actress rise to the top while maintaining her integrity (and without any silly tabloid antics). Is she heralding the return of the old-school movie star -- bringing class and poise back to the silver screen? It kind of seems that way. She's got an adaptation of Oscar Wilde's 'A Woman of No Importance' in the works, and we dare say there very well may be another kind of Oscar in her future as well.

The Top 100 Sexiest Movie Posters (40 - 60)

2010-02-15T04:43:00.000-08:00

Gun Crazy

United States

1949

A must be seen movie poster with one of the sexiest looking gun molls from the 40's.

Coffy

United States

1973

No one sleeps when they mess with Coffy! We guess not! Pam Grier in the quintessential "Bad Ass" black girl flick...Ouch, how sexy is that?

Bang Bang Wo Ai Shen

Japan

2007

We wanted to have a movie poster design from the Japanese "Pink" cult films and a "sexy school girl" image. We got both on this movie poster.

Attack of the 50 Foot Woman

United States

1958

Tag line for the film says "See a female colossus...Her mountainous torso, skyscraper limbs, giant desires! Sounds like our kind of girl! Iconic imagery does not adequately describe.

Voajer (The Voyeur)

France

1992

Tinto Brass film that says forget all ism's and just look at that a**!

Die Sünderin

Germany

1951

Awesome image of Hildegard Knef from the 1951 German film "The Sinner". The film caused quite a furor in the early 50's for it's very tame (by our standards) nude scene.

She Done Him Wrong

United States

1933

Mae West - Gives a "hot time" to the nation! All woman right here!

The Marriage of Maria Braun

United States

1980

Fassbinder liked to use women in garters in his poster images - See "Lola"

Born to Be Bad

United States

1934

Loretta Young showing a "little back" in this sexy image.

Born to Be Bad (1950)

United States

1950

"Baby-Faced Savage" Hardly, Joan Fontaine looking very provocative on this movie poster!

Aimée & Jaguar

United States

1999

Design harkens back to the dime store novel covers for that "different kind of love".

Pandora and the Flying Dutchmen

United States

1951

Ahh...Ava again in all her glory. Arguably some of the best movie poster art can be found on Belgian posters. This design has James Mason off center staring at...Well, you figure it out!

Ms. 45

United States

1981

"She's Number One with a Bullet" Bad guys worst nightmare, a vengeful garter-clad girl with a gun.

Contempt

United States

1964

"Bardot at her bold, bare and brazen best!" in the Godard classic. She exudes sexy in this movie poster.

Don't Bother to Knock

United States

1952

Marilyn striking the obligatory "hands behind the head" pose looks too sexy. Great image!

Galaxina

United States

1980

Fantasy meets sexuality. Artwork by Robert Tanenbaum gives us a view from the back of the scantily clad heroine. She also has a much cooler ray gun than the one in the Barbarella movie poster.

Supreme Delights

France

1977

Who cares if six people saw this movie? This is one fine and sexy looking movie poster.

Stamboul Quest

United States

1934

Who said eyes weren't sexy? Art deco never looked better.

Why Girls Leave Home

United States

1945

L-O-L-A. Lola. Maybe The Kinks got inspiration from this poster. What is the question mark for?

The Biggest Bundle of Them All

United States

1968

"The World's Sexiest Robbery" We think Racquel Welch never looked better in a bikini. Was that a bikini she is wearing in One Million Years B.C.?

5 Valentines Day Movies For Romantics

2010-02-14T02:00:00.000-08:00

I am not a big fan of Valentines day since I love my sweetie every day of the year and don’t need a commercial event to tell me to love her more and spend gobs of money on flowers, chocolates and cards. Admittedly I do the chocolates and the candies but I also will be doing the Valentines Day movies. So here are 5 Valentines Day Movies for Romantics that you should consider checking out.

It is worth noting I do not consider myself a romantic and my typical film fare includes Terminator, Avatar and Mystery Men not romance novels and fluffy romantic movies. So when I say I enjoyed these movies and consider them worth watching hopefully you will feel safe in enjoying them if your a redblooded male like me. This is 5 films for romantics that men and women can enjoy together! ( So long as you dont mind tearing up a bit )

The Notebook: The notebook is the definition of romance. Its heart wrenching and beautiful while also being extremely tragic. Starring Ryan Gosling and Rachel McAdams it tells the story of a poor and passionate young man falls in love with a rich young woman and gives her a sense of freedom. They soon are separated by their social differences and this film chronicles their love, their lives and most importantly their loss. A truly moving film that will make your heart warm and also make you tear up.

Jerry Maguire: I am not a fan of Tom Cruise. When I look at him I do not see his character he is playing I see who he is in the press and it is far to distracting. What he does with his life is not my business but when it makes it hard for me to focus on him as an actor its tough. Jerry Maguire stars Tom Cruise and Renee Zellwegger who I also am not a fan of. Despite this I loved Jerry Maguire. The story of a sports agent who goes it alone its ripe with romantic one liners and the clear on screen connection between Renee Zellwegger and Tom Cruise make this one of the funniest and warmest romantic comedy to see on Valentines Day. Funny, romantic and warm Jerry Maguire is a movie you will find it hard not to enjoy.

Ghost: When I think Patrick Swayze I think Road House. It was the first movie of his that I saw and the role fit him to a T. Its also typically the genre I gravitated to as a young man. That said GHOST starring Patrick Swayze and Demi Moore is another fine example of Patrick Swayes immense talent. Part dark thriller, part crime tale and all romantic love story GHOST is a definining movie of love that everyone can enjoy. Ghost tells the story of a man who is murdered and doesn’t cross over and tries to connect with his wife who is left behind and is very much in danger. Ghost is both funny and disturbing as well as incredibly romantic. A tragic story of romance, danger and death Ghost is a fantastic movie that offers lots of things for lots of tastes.

Titanic: I saw Titanic in theatres with a female friend of mine and what an experience it was. To have to suck it up and try not to ball my eyes out at the end of this movie was a tough one. Its one thing for me to have a tear or two during a romantic but tragic film when I am with a girlfriend but when its just a female friend I still felt the need to keep up appearances of a macho guy and this movie pushed on the heart strings.

Starring Leonardo Dicaprio and Kate Winslet and directed by James Cameron it is the most epic and moving tale of love and human tragedy ever made. James Cameron proved why he is one of the greatest filmmakers of our time and also showed that he can do much more then send machines back through time to destroy mankind. Combine the fact its based on the Titanic one of the greatest tragedies in human history and you have a really moving experience.

When Harry Met Sally: Starring Meg Ryan and Billy Crystal this is easily one of the funniest and most charming movies you can watch on Valentines Day. It asks the age old question can friends have sex and still be friends? The film follows the lives of the two lead characters Meg and Billy as they fall in and out of love with other people and continue to bump into each other as they live life and have love lost.

Directed by Rob Reiner it really is a character film with emphasis on great writing, believable characters and a love story that makes you smile and laugh out loud. Easily one of the funniest and charming movies you can possibly choose to watch on Valentines day.

'Spider-Man' Reboot Will Be 3-D

2010-02-13T14:19:00.000-08:00

Marc Webb's franchise re-launch is scheduled to hit theaters in July 2012.

If there are two things moviegoers have learned in the past few weeks, it's that the "Spider-Man" series will be re-launching in a major way, and "Avatar" has rewritten all the rules for the cinematic landscape.

Now, word has come down on something that seems like the biggest no-brainer of the year: The next Spider-Man film will feature your Friendly Neighborhood Webslinger leaping off the screen in 3-D.

In a press release sent out Wednesday (February 10), Sony announced that filmmaker Marc Webb's fast-moving Spider-Man film is the latest blockbuster to get the 3-D treatment.

"Spider-Man is the ultimate summer movie-going experience, and we're thrilled the filmmakers are presenting the next installment in 3-D," Jeff Blake, chairman of Sony Pictures worldwide marketing and distribution, said in the statement. "Spider-Man is one of the most popular characters in the world, and we know audiences are eager and excited to discover Marc's fantastic vision for Peter Parker and the franchise."

As comic book fans know, Spider-Man is arguably the most popular of all the Marvel Comics characters, and Marvel Studios head honcho Kevin Feige has spoken in the past about his desire to move their characters — Captain America, Thor and the Avengers all have upcoming films — into the 3-D realm at some point. Feige was a key element in Sam Raimi's three "Spider-Man" films and will most likely serve in the same capacity for this new "Spider-Man" flick, and if it is a success, future Marvel films could follow in its three-dimensional footsteps.

The yet-untitled film is scheduled to begin shooting later this year, targeting a July 3, 2012, release. The movie will focus on Peter Parker's high school years and is being directed by recently appointed "(500) Days of Summer" filmmaker Webb. Casting is currently under way on the film.

Jessica Biel, Kenna's Treacherous Trek Featured In 'Summit On The Summit'

2010-02-12T14:14:00.000-08:00

MTV doc airing March 14 shows Emile Hirsch, Lupe Fiasco and others climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro for clean-water awareness.

Jessica Biel and company are shown the quality of drinking water used in parts of Africa

The dramatic journey to the summit of Mt. Kilimanjaro in Tanzania, Africa, to raise awareness about the global clean-water crisis will be documented in an MTV special titled "Summit on the Summit: Kilimanjaro." The 90-minute documentary, which will air at 9 p.m. ET on March 14, follows musicians Kenna, Santigold and Lupe Fiasco, actors Jessica Biel, Emile Hirsch and Isabel Lucas and a group of scientists and activists on their journey to the top of the highest peak in Africa as they learn about water issues and climb through snow, sleet, rain and treacherous terrain on their way to 19,340 feet.

While the January climb was chronicled on SummitOnTheSummit.com through tweets, photos and video in real time, the documentary will provide never-before-seen footage and insight into the climb while spotlighting the urgency of water issues.

"MTV has a long history of educating its audience to raise awareness on issues that are important to them," Dave Sirulnick, MTV Multiplatform, News and Docs executive vice president, said in a statement. "More than 1 billion people worldwide do not have access to safe, clean drinking water. By airing this documentary, MTV hopes to mobilize a new generation of young people who may not be aware of this global cause to take action and get involved in helping find solutions to the water crisis."

Battling crippling altitude headaches, freezing temperatures, sore bodies and soaking wet clothes and boots, the group trekked their way up the mountain, pushing themselves and each other to make the summit.

"When I was younger, my dad pointed out Kilimanjaro on a huge atlas. It stood in my mind as one of the wonders of the world," said trip leader Kenna, who was determined to reach the summit on his second try. "This climb is dedicated to my father. As a child in Ethiopia, he lost his brother and lost his friends and family to water-borne diseases. A billion people in the world don't have clean water. I had to do something about it. For me it's personal. I could have been one of those kids. I needed to come up with something that would command attention. And the only thing I could think of that was that massive was climbing Kilimanjaro."

From a dramatic demonstration in a steamy Tanzanian village at the foot of the mountain, where the climbers watched first-hand as sludgy brown liquid was turned into drinkable water using the PUR water filtration system, to their bone-chilling final assault on the summit, the documentary traces the climbers' dramatic path up the iconic mountain.

In addition to raising awareness about water issues, the climb also raised funds for the Children's Safe Drinking Water Program, United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), and Water for People's PlayPumps Technology.

"I know all of you want to be at the top of this mountain," Kenna told the trekkers as they neared the summit and conditions got so treacherous that they were warned about their corneas possibly freezing. "But your safety comes first."

Reflecting on the journey, the Grammy-nominated musician said, "I think it's honestly something more powerful than any of us could imagine."

Among the other participants on the climb are: Alexandra Cousteau (National Geographic Emerging Explorer and granddaughter of famed explorer and filmmaker Jacques-Yves Cousteau), Elizabeth Gore (executive director for Global Partnerships for the United Nations Foundation), Simon Isaacs (international development and water expert), award-winning photographers Michael Muller and Jimmy Chin, Kick Kennedy (environmental activist and granddaughter of Robert Kennedy), Bernise Ang (social entrepreneur and recipient of the YouthActionNet Award and Fellowship from the International Youth Foundation), Dr. Greg Allgood (director of the Children's Safe Drinking Water Program at Procter & Gamble), mountaineering expert Melissa Arnot and renowned trainer Jason Walsh.

The Top 100 Sexiest Movie Posters (61 - 80)

2010-02-12T14:13:00.000-08:00

Scorchy

United States

1976

For those of us who may have had a crush on Connie Stevens at one time! Classic American International poster art work.

Mata Hari

United States

1931

How good is the artwork on this movie poster? Garbo with crystal blue eyes stares out at you. Wow!

Female and the Flesh

United States

1941

"More Woman than Any Man can Handle!" Damn Right Mon Cherie!

The Bride Wore Black

United States

1941

Nothing says sexy more than a woman in a negligee sporting a 38 Special! Great movie poster image by Italian artist Mauro Colizzi.

No Mercy

United States

1986

This should be "Oh Mercy!" not "No Mercy". Oh Mercy! Has Kim Bassinger looked any sexier?

Ladies They Talk About

United States

1933

Barbara you bad girl! Nice shoes! We really like the use of the large stylized "S" on this poster.

Monella

Italian

1998

Here's hoping you get this kind of view the next time you're out for a spin around the park on your bike.

The Bod Squad

United States

1933

Guess if you have to go...nothing wrong if you are taken out by the "Most beautiful killers in the world"...There are worse fates...

Guns, Girls, and Gangsters

United States

1941

Mamie Van Doren in all her alluring glory. Classic image.

The Roman Spring of Mrs. Stone

United States

1962

Sensuous design showing a young Warren Beatty and Vivien Leigh. Woddy Allen when asked what he would come back as if he was reincarnated said, "I will come back as Warren Beatty's fingertips".

The Devil is a Woman

United States

1935

Marlene who? How sexy does she look in this movie poster?

The Asphalt Jungle

United States

1950

Marilyn at her risque best. Something about the color purple. Cool skyline backdrop.

Le Sexe de Étoiles

France

1993

OK so we have a thing for bandaids, so what?

Eight Miles High

United States

2008

OK - We'll admit it this one qualified because who wouldn't want this girl to show up at the door?

The Seven Year Itch

France

1955

Iconic image on a French designed movie poster. Who cares if her dress is the wrong color!

The Lady From Shanghai

United States

1948

"I told you...You know nothing about wickedness." We'll tell you this is a wickedly sexy movie poster.

The Hour Before the Dawn

France

1944

This was a promotional poster for the movie starring one of the sexiest of them all, Veronica Lake.

Crucea de Piatrá

Romania

1993

This movie poster suggests that Romanian's certainly know sexy.

Sex and Lucia

Spain

1932

Great image of sexy actress, Paz Vega. This movie poster is an example of one of those rare instances where the American poster is more provocative than its European counterpart.

Montmartre Noctune

France

1954

Japanese poster for an obscure French short film from 1954 starring actress Patchou. Ouch...It's too bad she wasn't in more movies in the fifties.

'The Wolfman': Furball, By Kurt Loder

2010-02-12T11:23:00.000-08:00

Benicio Del Toro and Anthony Hopkins in an unwise remake of the vintage horror classic.

"The Wolfman," here at last, is sadly lacking in snarl. There are plenty of bared fangs and flesh-rending claws, of course, and there's much howling at the moon, too. But the movie is essentially an exercise in Gothic atmosphere. It's lavishly produced, sumptuously scored (by Danny Elfman), and beautiful to look at. It's just not very scary.

But how could it be? Is there anyone who doesn't know the simple story, at least in outline? Or who needs to have it told once again? Given the film's troubled production — the last-minute director switch, the re-shoots and re-editing, the year-long release-date delays — it's probably turned out better than anyone might have hoped. But it still feels redundant.

The movie is a remake of, and inevitably a tribute to, "The Wolf Man," the 1941 Universal horror classic that introduced silver bullets to the werewolf genre, and also the shivery little poem that begins, "Even a man who is pure in heart, and says his prayers by night ... " In this new version, director Joe Johnston (who replaced Mark Romanek) has pushed the story back to 1891. He fondly retains the misty moors and twisted trees of the original film, as well as the big wolf-rousing moon that seems to be stuck on full every night of the year. But he and the writers, Andrew Kevin Walker and David Self, have enlarged the tale in clever ways. Now, Larry Talbot (Benicio Del Toro), the doomed hero, has been called back to England from America — where he was sent as a child following the bloody and still-mysterious death of his mother — by Gwen Conliffe (Emily Blunt), the fiancée of Larry's brother, Ben, who has suddenly gone missing. At the decrepit Talbot Hall, he reconnects uneasily with his cold, disapproving father, Sir John (Anthony Hopkins), who in this version of the story is a, shall we say, more complex character than in the original film.

Ben soon turns up, unfortunately dead, and the story gathers shape. We already know that Larry will be bitten by a werewolf, that he'll seek enlightenment about his alarming new condition from the gypsy crone Maleva (Geraldine Chaplin, stepping in for the incomparably shriveled Maria Ouspenskaya in the 1941 movie), and that he shouldn't bother making any long-range plans for his future. Newly added, though, is a sequence in a London insane asylum (a place so hellacious that when Hopkins' Sir John pays a visit, we half expect a sly smirk of acknowledgement at its resemblance to the Baltimore bin in which Hannibal Lecter was incarcerated in "The Silence of the Lambs"). There's also an early form of waterboarding, a ferocious escape, and a chase across the rooftops of London, with the transformed Larry being pursued by a new character, Scotland Yard Inspector Frederick Abberline (Hugo Weaving). Abberline, of course, is a real historical personage — the lead investigator in the Jack the Ripper case of 1888. Presumably, he's been brought in to help out with the wolf hunt because of the expertise he displayed in failing to catch Saucy Jack. Let us only say that he's more successful here.

As Larry, on the run, attempts to get to the root of what now appears to be the Talbot family curse, there are a lot of expensive gore effects — gut-ripping, entrail-flinging, arm-yanks and head-severings. And the seamless, digitally-assisted wolf transformations are naturally a far cry from the stage-by-stage lap dissolves of yore. And when these effects abate for a bit, we can savor the rich detail in which the decaying family manse has been created — the candles and cobwebs, the leaves drifting across the marble floors, the fireplace big enough to roast a Jeep in.

But the movie itself never catches fire, and the only real thrills in it are cheap fake-outs — a sudden eruption of birds, a hideous creature crawling up on the foot of a bed (only a dream!). Del Toro is a master of hulkish brooding (and of course a better actor than Lon Chaney Jr., the original Larry Talbot), but hulking and brooding are pretty much all he's given to do here. (More robust parts of his performance may have been left behind in the edit bay.) Hopkins brings his usual razory gleam to the part of Sir John, but the character's expansion for this film, although inventive, has left it awfully thin. And while Weaving, with his familiar clenched glare, contributes an enjoyable sourness to the proceedings, his Abberline seems to be on hand mainly to set up a sequel — a more moonstruck objective than anything else in the picture.

'Avatar' Junkies Are Proud Of Their True-Blue Fandom

2010-02-11T14:11:00.000-08:00

'I was starting to recite the lines just before they were happening,' one fan says of his 15 screenings.

"Avatar" fans in Wellington, New Zealand

"Kaltxì! Oeru lu fpom, slä oel tspìyang ngati fa swizaw oeyä! Ngaru tut?" In case you're not yet fluent in the language of the future, I just said, "Hello! I am well, but I am about to kill you with my arrow. And you?" in Na'vi.

Eight weeks into its release, and extreme fandom for "Avatar" is still feverish. But not all "Avatar" fans are created equal. One growing group of superfans is trying to perfect "lucid dreaming" in an effort to transport themselves to Pandora. And while we all wish we had a little distance from our parents, when moms and dads express a deep desire to live on Pandora, that's a whole new set of family issues.

So what's the checklist for extreme fandom? Well, seeing the movie 15 times (or 40 hours' worth), poring over a 600-page version of the script, reading "Avatar: An Activist Survival Guide" and taking a crack at learning Na'vi are all on the list. You will need a flexible schedule, a forgiving and sympathetic boss/teacher and little need for sleep.

But that's exactly the case with Jason Beojekian, a 19-year-old New Yorker whose life now revolves around "Avatar." How does he explain his impressive level of devotion?

"I have a lot of free time," he deadpans.

Though Beojekian can be categorized as an avid fan in anyone's book, he knows how to self-regulate. After 15 screenings, he knew it was time to quit. "I was starting to recite the lines just before they were happening, and that's no way to watch a movie, in my opinion."

Thank goodness for sites like NaviBlue.com, the brainchild of Justin Kloth. The 33-year-old from San Jose has been enjoying his moment in the sun — cultivating a solid fanbase for his site and garnering 33,000 daily page views — and instead of enduring the typical digital dissonance from readers, he sees only harmony. (Hmm, remind you of some faraway neon land much?) Twenty-four percent of members on his site lump themselves as "obsessed beyond belief" — meaning they've seen the film more than nine times, an estimate that doesn't surprise Kloth.

"There's a large contingent of fans that have seen it in the double-digit range," he said. One of his most active members defies the stereotype of a "typical Avatard": She's 57, a moderator on the site, and is believed to have read all "Avatar"-related literature known to man and Na'vi alike and even creates her own fan fiction. Kloth sent along a sampling of "Avatar"-inspired creative expression.

Not all obsessive fandom breeds the same inspirations. While the above example works to dig into and expand on James Cameron's universe, others are simply content with multiple viewings. Lots of them. Matthew Welich plans to see the movie 100 times in his lifetime "at the very least," said the 23-year-old fan from Maple Heights, Ohio.

While most fans have fun with it, what's not funny is when emotional highs and lows run so extreme that withdrawal symptoms are palpable. Some fans say "Avatar" is all they can think about or talk about, and just knowing that there are other equally invested fans out there make them feel less isolated.

Vickie Puckett is a wife and mother of three. She's of sound mind, and she also happens to want to live on Pandora, have an avatar body and fly a dragon. Puckett, like many in the devoted "Avatar" fanbase, said she fell in love with the planet and its people and culture and wishes we humanoids could capture and emulate the Na'vi sense of spirituality and serenity here on Earth. Like many, the Spearfish, South Dakota, mom considers Pandora to be a perfect reality.

Jonathon Dobbs, 27, feels a special kinship to the film. As an administrator for James Cameron's "Avatar" Wikia site, which boasts nearly 2 million registered members, Dobbs hails from Dobbs Rockingham, Western Australia, the same place where star Sam Worthington was born, cementing Dobbs' special attachment to the film.

The ripple effects of "Avatar" are felt in the most unlikely of places; even fashionistas have caught "blue fever," as a recent Valentino runway show nodded unquestionably to our Na'vi counterparts as style icons, to the delight and horror of the fashion community. Reviews blared " 'Avatar' was the theme yet again."

And as with most things in life, once something hits the fashion world, the common folk just can't seem to get enough of it.

The Top 100 Sexiest Movie Posters (81 - 100)

2010-02-11T10:29:00.000-08:00

100

Malena

United States

2000

There haven't been too many sexier women to grace the screen in the last 10 years? This poster deserves to be ranked higher than 100 but we thought we would start off with a bang!

Sin City

United States

2005

Must be sure we don't forget the fanboys. This posters has evoked all kinds of emotions for the comic book crowd. Collectively, we thought the movie was underwhelming, but Jessica still makes for a great tease.

Diamonds are Forever

United States

1971

No "Sexiest" list would be complete without a few James Bond movie posters. Here we find James in an unfamiliar place with two beauties on either side. In this movie poster it looks like the redhead has the whole world strategically placed in her left hand...The diamond world that is...

Guernsey

France

2005

There is something simple yet very alluring about this movie poster. Maybe it is that we have all been looking for a faucet like that in our bathroom.

Last Seduction

United States

1994

Linda Fiorentino's turn as the calculating "Femme Fatale". This is the video poster image that was a toss up with the theatrical movie poster release.

My Stepmother is an Alien

United States

1988

There are so many great Polish designed movie posters. As a rule it is tough to find one that may be considered sexy. This is the exception. It has a whole "Banksy" stencil thing going on

Black Garters

United States

1983

There are many posters that have women in black garters for obvious reasons. We think this is one of the best.

Maitresse

France

1973

Let's think...Full body rubber suit, black corset, mini-cape, arm length leather gloves, stilettos and keys to the "dungeon"...Kinky enough for ya? Wonder what this movie is about? Barbet, you bad boy you!

Promises! Promises!

United States

1941

There were lots of Jayne Mansfield posters to choose from but we like the image of her wearing nothing but bubbles! Check out Jayne Mansfield movie posters here.

Doctor at Sea

France

1956

Gotta like those French movie posters! O-La-La Brigitte again.

Where the Truth Lies

United States

2005

What is it about looking at an image of a woman's naked back in bed that is so damn sexy?

Body Double

United States

1984

Just wouldn't be right if we didn't include a movie poster design with a guy peeping in a window at a woman in a seductive pose. Thing about it is...Is the guy in the neighbor's house or are the blinds on the outside of the window?

1000 Convicts and a Woman

United States

1971

Interesting premise if you are a nymphomaniac. The film was also released as "Fun and Games". Brings a whole new meaning to girl power being sexy in 1971.

It All Came True

United States

1941

This is it alright! Ann Sheridan never looked sexier. Nice touch in the design with the sparkling earring matching the stars in the background.

Cherish

United States

2002

Robin Tunney at her pouty best...Can't ignore that Lolita-esqeue like pose.

The Single Girls

United States

1973

It just wouldn't be right if we did not include some of the "sexploitation" poster designs from the 70's. Here is a gem with some girls described as "Half Clad and Half Bad" Do two halves make a whole in this case?

La Putain Respectueuse

France

1952

Film version of a play Sartre wrote in 1946. The English translation of the title is "The Respectful Prostitute". Is that an oxymoron? Very sexy image - See through blouses and cigarettes - Gotta like it.

Moulin Rouge

United States

1934

Constance Bennett oozes naughty in this early film version of showgirls from the infamous Parisian show. Her girlfriends in the background don't look to bad either

Gloss

Russia

2007

Can't help but think there is some truth to that whole red lipstick on lips, and you know...that other thing...Tell us this image doesn't look sexy.

For Your Eyes Only

United States

1981

This one is for Rob C in our office. Seem to think he liked the cross-bow in this poster. Yeah, that's right, the cross-bow.

Lord Of The Rings prequel made by a fanatic using her £25,000 life savings scores 500,000 views on the internet

2010-02-10T14:48:00.000-08:00

One cost more than £200 million, took eight years to film using the spectacular scenery of New Zealand and won 17 Oscars.

The other cost £25,000, was filmed over a year in muddy English locations, and has not been nominated for any awards.

But for Lord Of The Rings trilogy fanatic Kate Madison, filming a prequel was the purest form of art - a labour of love.
Scroll down to see the film...

Hope: Kate Madison's Lord Of The Rings prequel cost her £25,000 to make - a fraction of the cost of the big screen adaptations of the series

Amateur: Madison as the character Elgarain

And she appears to have been vindicated after posting the hour-long film, Born Of Hope, on the internet where it has been viewed - for free - by more than 500,000 people.

The 31-year-old amateur actress was so inspired by director Peter Jackson's big screen version of the classic J.R.R. Tolkien tale that she decided to make her own movie.

Her own addition to the mythology of Middle-earth was based on two paragraphs Tolkien included in the appendix to his Lord Of The Rings books, which mentioned the adventures of Arathorn and Gilraen, the parents of Aragorn, played in the big budget films by Viggo Mortenson.
The amateur actress raised a £17,000 by posting a trailer on YouTube appealing for donations

Battle: The amateur actress raised a £17,000 by posting a trailer on YouTube appealing for donations
Madison went to great lengths to make sure the costumes were as good as in the Lord of the Rings films

Stunning: Madison went to great lengths to make sure the costumes were as good as in the original films

She ploughed her £8,000 life savings into the project and raised a further £17,000 by posting a trailer on YouTube appealing for donations.

Miss Madison, from Cambridge, co-wrote, helped film, directed and produced the movie, which had a cast and crew of more than 400 people who gave their time for free.

She spent £10,000 on colourful fantasy costumes, make-up and wigs, while catering cost £3,000. Miss Madison worked as an office temp to fund the production.

One of the highlights of the film, the battle with the computer-generated hill troll, was created for free in a professional studio after the owner decided it was an opportunity to showcase his talent.
A scene from Born of Hope which has already become a hit with fans on the internet

Dramatic: A scene from Born of Hope which has already become a hit with fans on the internet

Low cost: The film was shot in Epping Forest, Essex, and West Stow, Suffolk, after seeking permission from local authorities

Miss Madison, who plays a forest ranger called Elgara, said: 'I invested my own money after watching the Lord Of The Rings films and they blew my mind.

'The battle scenes and the array of incredible characters really inspired me and I was desperate to have a go at making an epic myself.

'As we went along the project snowballed and there were moments when money was tight and I wondered what the hell I was doing.

'There were times when it was cold and wet and we were up to our eyes in mud standing in the middle of a forest wondering if we could make this a success

'But now it's all done it's an amazing feeling. We have created a film on a tiny budget which comes complete with battle scenes, orks and even a giant hill troll.'

Winner: Peter Jackson's films took a staggering 17 Oscars in total

The film follows Arathorn and Gilraen, from their first meeting to their journey across a fantasy landscape where they lead their people, the Dunedain, into battle against orks and trolls.

It was shot in Epping Forest, Essex, and West Stow, Suffolk, after seeking permission from local authorities.

Christopher Dane, who plays Arathorn in the film alongside Beth Aynsley as his wife Gilraen, said the experience had been 'exhilarating'.

The 45-year-old actor from Muswell Hill, north London, added: 'It was brilliant fun and we have produced an entire film for less than Peter Jackson spent on breakfast for his cast while he was filming the original in New Zealand.'

Jackson's first Lord Of The Rings film, The Fellowship Of The Ring, was released in 2001, followed by The Two Towers in 2002 and The Return Of The King in 2003.

They became among the most successful films of all time, grossing almost $3billion between them.

Jackson is now collaborating with Mexican director Guillermo del Toro on a two-part adaptation of Tolkien's The Hobbit, due for release in 2011 and 2012.
Born Of Hope

Penelope Cruz Joining Pirates of the Caribbean

2010-02-10T14:34:00.000-08:00

Penelope Cruz is in negotiations to join Johnny Depp in the Rob Marshall-directed Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides, reports Heat Vision.

Scheduled for a release on May 20, 2011, the fourth installment revolves around the Fountain of Youth. Depp is reprising the role of Captain Jack Sparrow and Cruz's character is expected to be "Sparrow's foil and equal in many ways."

The Jerry Bruckheimer-produced film was written by Terry Rossio and Ted Elliot. Shooting will take place in Hawaii this summer.

Cruz starred in Marshall's last film, Nine.

Jennifer Garner Sizzles Wrapped In Leather & Lace

2010-02-10T14:09:00.000-08:00

There's no need to wonder what Ben Affleck sees in his wife Jennifer Garner - just look at her red carpet pics! The actress showed up to the "Valentine's Day" premiere in Hollywood on Monday wearing a form-fitting, strapless black and flesh-colored little number. See more photos after the jump!

Although Jen & Ben are perfectly happy together, particularly with their two beautiful daughters, Jen is unsure about having another little one. The actress recently told Us Weekly, "Ben would like a boy, but I don't want another baby right now."

Garner is reportedly reluctant to abandon the pre-pregnancy figure she worked so hard to achieve. And we can see why - she looks fantastic!

20 Hottest Sex Scenes of All Time

2010-02-01T14:45:00.000-08:00

We like to watch. We think you do, too. Now grab your remote - make sure it's your remote - and go straight for the good parts of these classic depictions of screen heat.

20 Hottest Sex Scenes of All Time

There's a lot to be said for watching a movie on the big screen — the hum of the projector, the collective experience of being in an audience, the sticky floors — but there are also certain films best enjoyed in the privacy of one's own home. Films that require freeze frames, slow-motion, repeat performances or some carefully calibrated combination of the three. Premiere has cherry-picked 20 provocative movies for your home-viewing pleasure, highlighting each one's most titillating sex scene.

20. Y Tu Mamá También (2001)

Directed by: Alfonso Cuarón
Starring: Ana López Mercado, Diego Luna, Gael García Bernal

"Here's to life and love and sex!" toasts Ana (Ana López Mercado) to the two lovable, hormonally overwrought teen knuckleheads she's taken under her wing on an impromptu road trip through Mexico. The boys, played by Diego Luna and Gael García Bernal, can scarcely believe their luck -- that a beautiful older woman has chosen to school them in those three subjects, particularly the third. But an evening that begins with a booze-fueled roadhouse session ends in a very adventurous motel ménage à tequila -- right before the movie reveals Ana's tragic secret.

19. Belle de Jour (1967)

Directed by: Luis Buñuel
Starring: Catherine Deneuve, Jean Sorel, Michel Piccoli, Geneviève Page, Pierre Clémenti

Séverine, a gorgeous, chilly upper-class housewife compelled to while away her afternoons working in a brothel, has yet to truly throw herself into her work. Then along comes a stocky Asian fellow who's got a little box, and a little thing inside it that buzzes like a bee. All the other girls have a look in the box and back away... but Séverine, played to perfection by the ineffable Catherine Deneuve, decides to give it a go, and in the aftermath, we see she's been well and truly turned-out. Nothing explicit here -- we never see what's in the box, for one thing -- but proof positive that the imagination is the most potent erogenous zone.

18. Betty Blue (1986)

Directed by: Jean-Jacques Beineix
Starring: Béatrice Dalle, Jean-Hugues Anglade

Even the most hot-to-trot movies generally make the viewer wait before unveiling any erotic action, but not this crazily emotional romance, whose opening shot tracks in on title character Betty (a near-feral Béatrice Dalle) and her amiable paramour Zorg (Jean-Hugues Anglade) whiling away a summer afternoon, rutting like maniacs. Their fierce bond is immediately established... and to this day, even the most disinterested of viewers may wonder whether the two performers were at it for real, such is the verisimilitude of their thrusts and cries.

17. A History of Violence

Directed by: David Cronenberg
Starring: Viggo Mortensen, Maria Bello

Decent family people can have hot sex lives too, as the early-on coupling of Tom and Edie Stall (Viggo Mortensen and Maria Bello) in this film demonstrates. Of course it helps that Edie's put on her old cheerleader getup for this particular occasion. "Holy... cow!" Tom exclaims. Later, when Tom's secret past is revealed, the emotions that come to the fore aren't nearly as pleasant, and the resultant sex-on-the-staircase remains one of this powerful film's most controversial and challenging scenes.

16. The Unbearable Lightness of Being (1988)

Directed by: Philip Kaufman
Starring: Juliette Binoche, Lena Olin, Daniel Day-Lewis

Shy Tereza (Juliette Binoche) and sassy Sabina (Lena Olin) both love the rakish Tomas (Daniel Day-Lewis) in a story set against the historical turmoil of Soviet-era Czechoslovakia. Politics gets put aside for an intense encounter between the two women; shutterbug Tereza asks Sabina to pose for a nude photo session, which the latter does with ease; then, though, Sabina turns the tables on Tereza and persuades her to strip down. Their erotic rivalry metamorphoses into an erotic affinity in a scene of breathtaking intimacy.

15. Monster's Ball (2001)

Directed by: Marc Forster
Starring: Halle Berry, Billy Bob Thornton

"Make me feel good," the long-suffering Leticia (Halle Berry) begs prison guard Hank (Billy Bob Thornton), who, among other things, presided over her husband's execution. The line has been frequently lampooned, but seen away from the glare of its initial hype and Berry's Oscar, her plaint has a raw reality. And the ensuing sex scene is one of the frankest explorations of lovemaking as catharsis the screen has ever seen.

14. Little Children (2006)

Directed by: Todd Field
Starring: Kate Winslet, Patrick Wilson

It's always a beautiful thing when misfits in suburbia find each other. Sad-sack househusband Brad (Patrick Wilson) kisses dissatisfied, arty Sarah (Kate Winslet) on a dare at the playground -- in front of the titular kids, even. Soon they're inseparable, even as they try to control their baser instincts. But one laundry session, it all comes apart, and they're going at it on the dryer. Gives a whole new meaning to the "extract" cycle.

13. Secretary (2002)

Directed by: Steven Shainberg
Starring: Maggie Gyllenhaal, James Spader

The entirety of this BDSM rom-com is one big teasing mindfuck until the last scene, which doesn't show any explicit sex but still offers the viewer a stingingly-sweet climax. After many flashes of leg and bum, spankings, crawling on hands and knees, and ornate equipment including a saddle, Maggie Gyllenhaal's titular secretary finally gets some TLC from her boss, the equally tormented James Spader. He gently unbuttons the wedding dress she's wearing (long story, but it will definitely have to be dry-cleaned before it's returned to her former fiancée's mother), bathes her and then lays her down on a bed of grass, surrounded by his precious orchids. (Seriously, there are more yonic flowers in this movie than at a Georgia O'Keefe exhibit.) Gyllenhaal's total openness in this scene -- her lolling head while she's being shampooed, her proud, comfortable nudity, the voiceover where she describes how "for the first time in my life, I felt beautiful" -- and Spader's tenderness is what makes this so hot.

12. Angel Heart (1987)

Directed by: Alan Parker
Starring: Mickey Rourke, Lisa Bonet

This super-creepy horror movie is infamous for its sex scene involving a pre-plastic surgery Mickey Rourke, Cosby kid Lisa Bonet, and buckets of fake chicken blood. The oh-so-nearly X-rated Angel Heart is why unrated DVDs were invented. The plot twist at the end will make you feel totally dirty (and not necessarily in a good way) long after the credits roll. There's no proof that Bonet's role as Epiphany Proudfoot got her kicked out of the Huxtable household, but later that year she flew the coop and landed on her own, Cos-approved show A Different World.

11. Blow Up (1966)

Directed by: Michelangelo Antonioni
Starring: David Hemmings, Veruschka

As a metaphor, perhaps it's a bit hackneyed, but as erotic moviemaking, it's still incomparably cool and fresh. Slim David Hemmings, as a photographer who can't get no satisfaction even in Swinging Sixties London, is doing a standard-issue fashion shoot with stick-figure-thin supermodel Veruschka (as herself, of course). Bored to distraction with the standard camera-on-a-tripod setup, he goes handheld, and soon he's straddling her as she writhes underneath him, his directions growing more explicit, her hauteur melting into something both feral and languid, his shouts metamorphosing into orgasmic moans of ecstasy. When it's over, the two recoil from each other, instantly donning a cloak of ennui that could just as well be revulsion. Just like all couples do after sex.

10. Some Like It Hot (1959)

Directed by: Billy Wilder
Starring: Tony Curtis, Marilyn Monroe

He disguised himself as a woman in order to escape from killer mobsters. But Tony Curtis soon finds good reason to go back to being male -- he re-disguises himself as the heir to the Shell Oil fortune, the better to impress his gold-digging (or so he thinks) new colleague Sugar Kane (the luscious Marilyn Monroe). And then he pretends to be impotent -- the better to maneuver her into seducing him while he's got her on "his" yacht. (Long story.) Her efforts and his resistance, intercut with real millionaire Joe E. Brown's attempts to melt down a still-in-drag Jack Lemmon, not only steam up the screen (as well as Curtis's glasses), they prove that sex really is comedy. (And by the way, the heat wasn't all movie magic; describing the shooting of that scene to Premiere in 2001, Tony Curtis recalled, "[Marilyn] liked to lie on me and grind. And as soon as she knew she'd aroused me, she'd look down on me as if to say, 'There you are, you naughty boy.' And I loved it.")

9. Last Tango in Paris (1973)

Directed by: Bernardo Bertolucci
Starring: Marlon Brando, Maria Schneider

"Maybe we can come without touching." Oy, these kids with their wacky idealism. Marlon Brando's Paul makes very down-to-earth requests of Maria Schneider's Jeanne, e.g., "Get the butter." But the gamine is the one who comes up with the truly crazy idea. Brando's character is game -- more pliable than he will be in later, more explicit moments, when Paul tries to dominate the young stranger he has seduced, and later still, when the poor fool has fallen in love with her. But at this moment -- with the two of them facing each other, naked, bathed in improbably warm Parisian sunlight -- one can almost believe in the no-names-please sexual utopia that these two erotic desperados are trying to build. We know that the actors are faking it when they make it "come" "true." But are the characters faking it? We don't know, which is one reason we keep coming back to this ever-provocative film.

8. ...And God Created Woman (1956)

Directed by: Roger Vadim
Starring: Brigitte Bardot

It must have been an unbelievable sight in 1956 to see Brigitte Bardot in Cinema-Scope, nude from head (right side of screen) to toe (left side), sunning herself on her stomach behind a clothesline-held sheet. Such is the sex kitten's introduction in Roger Vadim's she-ain't-no-delinquent-she's-misunderstood melodrama, which is basically a string of scenes in which various suddenly-highly-focused men lose their wits (such as they are) over her. Here it's stiff bourgeois businessman Curd Jurgens, flirtatiously mocking the seemingly materialistic young Bardot with a model of a sports car and not even pretending to do the gentlemanly thing and avert his eyes as she stands to receive his "gift." He thinks he's suave, we think he's a drip, and she flatters us by letting us think she's leaning toward our side. Just as we ourselves are losing our wits, along comes Bardot's guardian (the poor coquette's an orphan) to call her a slut. Buzzkill? Yeah -- the whole movie's like that. It was 1956, after all.

7. Body Heat (1981)

Directed by: Lawrence Kasdan
Starring: William Hurt, Kathleen Turner

Dopey but attractively trim lawyer Ned Racine (William Hurt), who's obviously never seen Double Indemnity, has been going at it with Matty Walker (Kathleen Turner), the coolly elegant trophy wife of a local big shot, for at least a little while before we get to this brief bit. But what happens here is obviously the deal clincher -- that is, there's no way he's going to say no to helping her out with killing her husband after this. The shot begins with the camera lingering on an overflowing ashtray; we hear box springs being tested and breath running out. The camera moves up, and there's Matty, on her stomach, face turned to the camera. The first word she says -- and she's barely able to speak at this point -- is "Don't." The second word, which takes what seems like an eternity to spill out, is "Stop." Do we have to spell it out for you? The following shot of the couple in an ice-filled bathtub could fill in the blanks for those who don't get it. Strangely, every subsequent film directed by Kasdan seemed to deny that this, or really any other, kind of sex actually existed.

6. Vixen (1968)

Directed by: Russ Meyer
Starring: Erica Gavin, Jon Evans

The title character (played by pneumatic, weirdly eyebrowed Erica Gavin), called "Vix" by her biker brother Jud, is a tightly wound coil of sexual tension who can't seem to let go of her disagreeability even as those around her indulge her every whim. Her hubby's laissez-faire for the most part, the attractive guests at their lodge make willing partners, but Vixen just bitches and lashes out at everybody regardless. She saves much of her wrath for her brother and his black comrade, who have biked over into their Canadian lair to avoid the draft. Constantly baiting Jud and calling his pal "Sambo," she's really asking for it, or so the conventional wisdom holds. Turns out she really is asking for it; one day while Jud is showering, she walks in, stark naked, and asks him to soap her back. He balks, and balks and balks, and she taunts him into letting her have it, right there in the shower stall. "Come on, baby brother!" For a minute we forget these are actors, and the sense of transgression is palpable; it's one of the most unpleasant turn-ons out there, all the more of a turn-on for being so unpleasant. Avoid this movie, unless you're some kind of total perv.

5. The Hunger (1983)

Directed by: Tony Scott
Starring: Catherine Deneuve, Susan Sarandon

This was director Tony Scott's first feature; hence, his directorial tics/tricks that have since come to tire us were forgivable, even exciting. That overhead shot of a too-juicy steak presented after an episode of vampiric enthusiasm seemed not just funny and startling but actually interesting. Ah, how naive we were, and how generous -- the guy whose inchoate "touch" we appreciated turned out to be a genuine menace, no? Still, this scene, in which a centuries-old vampire played by Catherine Deneuve defeats the scruples of a reluctant would-be disciple (Susan Sarandon), needs zero special pleading. It's a favorite bit of homoerotica for straight men, true, but gay women also find it moltenly hot -- if you ever run into one who denies it's a turn-on, just get a couple of drinks into her and ask her again.

4. Mulholland Dr. (2001)

Directed by: David Lynch
Starring: Naomi Watts, Laura Elena Harring

One could watch this scene a thousand times (no wisecracks, please) and still not be able to pinpoint who initiates its amorous component. After, um, Betty (Naomi Watts) helps, um, Rita (Laura Elena Harring) devise a -- gee, is it her third? -- persona by putting a silvery-blond wig on her, the duo's rompings as would-be girl detectives turn even more strangely desperate, and poignant, and the pair find themselves achingly alone, and achingly, well, horny. After a good-night kiss turns passionate, Betty asks Rita, "Have you ever done this before?" prompting the amnesiac's classic response: "I don't know. Have you?" Betty says, "I want to... with you," and all abandon is abandoned. The ensuing love scene is one glimpse of heaven before the two descend into a distinctly Lynchian hell. And to think this scene would have never been shot had ABC accepted Lynch's pilot for the proposed Mulholland Dr. series...

3. Walkabout (1971)

Directed by: Nicolas Roeg
Starring: Jenny Agutter, Lucien John

A more pedestrian director would have constructed the scene thusly: Teen girl swims nude in a lush outback pond when the teen aborigine who is escorting her and her brother spies her, and is transfixed with primordial lust. But since Walkabout was directed by the very not-pedestrian Nicolas Roeg, the scene unfolds quite differently. The girl, graceful Jenny Agutter, swims, observed by her brother (the angelic Lucien John, Roeg's son), who then goes off to join the aborigine, who is hunting for food. Roeg intercuts the tranquil views of innocent eros with blunt moments of spearing and hacking; the aborigine and the girl never appear in the same shot in this sequence, but it's here that we learn that she's gotten into his blood, fatally.

2. Sex and Lucía (2001)

Directed by: Julio Medem
Starring: Paz Vega, Tristán Ulloa

Sad but true: One of the most effective ways of insuring a hot sex life is to... well, is to be pretty damn hot yourself. That's a crass generalization, granted, but it's one that's harder to deny once you've checked out this film -- which actually posits that hotness doesn't necessarily guarantee lasting happiness. In a story line that must flatter the vanity of every writer, would-be or otherwise, the title Lucía -- Paz Vega, who must represent some sort of Platonic ideal of sexuality -- semistalks novelist Lorenzo (Tristán Ulloa, who isn't bad-looking himself) and, once she's able to have a conversation with him, convinces him that she should move in with him. Yeah, in my dreams, too. This particular sequence -- to my mind a lot more moving than the Hollywood-processed-cheese striptease of 9 1/2 Weeks -- represents the height of their domestic bliss. The knotty structure of Medem's film lets you know right off the bat that both of them pay a price for their fun. But this scene convinces you that it's worth it.

Five Sex-tras SILENT BUT HOT: Louise Brooks i...

Five Sex-tras

* SILENT BUT HOT: Louise Brooks in 1929's Pandora's Box
* STUPID BUT HOT: Jane Fonda's writhings under the opening credits of Barbarella
* HOT DESPITE HAVING THE VOICE OF LOUISE LASSER: Akiko Wakabayashi in What's Up Tiger Lily
* HOT IN A BORED, GERMANIC, "I'D-JUST-AS-SOON-NAP" WAY: Hanna Schygulla in Beware of a Holy Whore
* HOMICIDALLY HOT: Peggy Cummins in Gun Crazy

Sundance Day 3: Rocking Through the Day and Night!

2010-01-31T01:01:00.000-08:00

Yesterday brought the cast of the highly anticipated “The Runways,” starring Kristen Stewart, Dakota Fanning, and Michael Shannon, to the A-List Art & Soul Center. The story is based on the 1970’s girl group the Runways, out of which came rockers Joan Jett, Lita Ford, Micki Steele, and Cherie Currie. The band was formed in part by 60’s music producer Kim Fowley, played by the talented Michael Shannon in the film who was nominated for an Oscar last year for his dynamic role in “Revolutionary Road” as the disturbed John Givings. On set, Kristen, who takes on the true appearance of the iconic Jett, mentioned that Joan (who also executive produced the biopic) was very present on set and Stewart couldn’t have been happier about that. In fact, she said, “I would have gone crazy without Joan on set. I would have just been a girl with black hair.” And Dakota Fanning, who plays Cherie Currie, the lead vocalist of the Runaways, also had the luxury of learning from her subject. She stated, “Cherie taught me the microphone trick-wrapping the microphone around her legs,” to which Kristen clearly impressed with Dakota’s work, replied, “When did she turn into that?” And Michael Shannon (who was decked out in a Blackheart Records sweatshirt-homage to Jett’s record label) also had some words of advice while preparing for his part as the controversial music figure, Kim Fowley. Fowley jokingly advised him, “’Please do this right, because after I die, people are going to see this movie, and they are going to think what you do is me!’ Oh, that’s not too much pressure!” Shannon continued, “He was joking. It is a huge obligation, so I just kept studying as much as I could, and I didn’t have a lot of time. It was a fast shoot.” It certainly doesn’t hurt to have one of the biggest stars in the world right now (Kristen Stewart) to star in the drama, as evidenced by the onslaught of media coverage garnered by the her presence, both at Sundance and in her real life. Many people here are talking about this film.

I also had the chance to chat with “Holy Rollers” (which is nominated for Grand Jury Prize Dramatic at Sundance) star Justin Bartha who still is reeling from all of the success of the “The Hangover” and he was reminiscing about a surreal moment when he ran into Quentin Tarantino at an awards party and that Tarantino, “started quoting lines from ‘National Treasure 2.’ Can’t top that!” And he did say that he would be coming back for “The Hangover 2” (starting production in the fall.) With that, I headed over to the Variety 10 Directors to Watch in 2010 event, where Philip Seymour Hoffman spoke about his turn as a director of the Sundance favorite, “Jack Goes Boating.” He revealed, “It’s a long process. (What’s important for me) is just trying to stay open. And knowing I might be wrong. But also, sticking firm to the story I wanted to tell.” And will he be directing again anytime soon? Maybe. He disclosed, “I don’t know. If it happens, it happens. But I am not going to wake up tomorrow looking for my next directing job.” Hopefully, his next directing gig isn’t too far off.

To top the night off, I headed to the AT&T House of Hype Lounge to hear a private concert by R&B crooner, Robin Thicke. As he sang directly to the ladies in audience, his attention prompted several of the women in the audience to turn to me and say, “I want a Robin Thicke!” He finished the night by throwing down the cover of the Lil Wayne diddy and one of my hip hop favorites, “A Milli.” Oh what a night!

10 Minor Characters Who Deserve Their Own Movies

2010-01-31T00:55:00.000-08:00

Just like our last delicious meal at Arby’s, these bit characters left us wanting more.

Jesus Quintana, John Turturro (The Big Lebowski)

Why He Deserve His Own Movie: When he wasn’t exposing himself to eight year olds, this pederast with a penchant for purple was knocking down bowling pins with enough Latin flava to make Chris Hansen stand up and cheer. Still, it was the Jesus’ threat to unload his pistol in nemesis Walter Sobchak’s (John Goodman) rotund backside that made us realize this complicated and conflicted man truly needed a film of his own.

Starring next in… Nobody F**ks with the Jesus: The Dude mighta escaped The Big Lebowski with his Johnson intact, but The Jesus still had a bowling final on the agenda, not to mention a bone to pick with Walter. In this somber follow up to the Coen Brother’s beloved cult classic, we’re given an intimate portrait of a wildly flamboyant and deeply misunderstood man who simply wants to soar like a champion.

Uncle Hank, Stanley Herman (Requiem for a Dream)

Why He Deserves His Own Movie: With Jennifer Connolly and her stripper cohort down to their skivvies in Requiem for a Dream, there was only one thing old Uncle Frank wanted to see: “Ass to ass!” And, hell, who doesn’t love a lecherous old man who gave voice to millions of pervy frat boys everywhere?

Starring next in…Uncle Frank, The Assassin!: Busting out of his Boca Raton retirement community, a positively jubilant Uncle Frank heads to the Tampa strip with lust in his eyes, a catheter at his hip and the creepiest catchphrase in movie history at the tip of his dog-wagging tongue.

Felix Leiter, Jeffrey Wright (Casino Royale, The Quantum Of Solace)

Why He Deserves His Own Movie: While there’s no denying Daniel Craig’s status as the most badass James Bond ever, Wright’s raspy-voiced Felix Leiter’s the type of sidekick that simply makes things happen. The minute he matched Martinis with 007 and fronted the cash for a high stakes poker game in Casino Royale, we knew Leiter was our kinda guy.

Starring next in… Bolivia or Bust: Somewhere between the end of Casino Royale and the beginning of Quantum of Solace, Leiter winds up in Bolivia, begrudgingly working for a corrupt CIA boss. In this spin-off/prequel, we follow Leiter as he’s hot on the trail of shady operatives, weeding out baddies who’ve infiltrated the agency and dropping bodies like one bad mutha.

Sea Bass, Cam Neely (Dumb and Dumber)

Why He Deserves His Own Movie: He might huck a luggie on your burger if you a toss a salt shaker in his direction, but behind the tough-guy façade, all Sea Bass wants is to be loved…preferably by another man, in a roadside bathroom stall. And, aw heck, we’re suckers for Rom-Coms!

Starring next in…Gone Fishing…For Dudes!: We join Sea Bass behind the wheel of his big rig, with only the lonely road, his Madonna The Immaculate Collection CD, and his miniature pinscher, Princess, for company. Will this luckless loverboy get his heart ripped out again and again, or does his one true love await at the end of the freeway?

Robbie Klaven, Andy Samberg (I Love You, Man)

Why He Deserves His Own Movie: Big-haired, SNL funny man Andy Samberg takes the cake for playing the most hetero homo (a bromo? a fromo?) to ever grace movie screens. This unabashed playa scored dudes at the gym, and everywhere else he went, while still remaining dad’s favorite, fist-bumping son.

Starring next in…Klaven the Man Maven: Just cause he doesn’t enjoy p**sy doesn’t mean he is one. In this genre-breaking film, we observe as Samberg hilariously balances being a badass dude and doing them.

The Wolf, Harvey Keitel (Pulp Fiction)

Why He Deserves His Own Movie: There’s two things we know about the Wolf: He attends formal cocktail parties at 8 o’clock in the morning and his name alone is enough to shut Sam Jackson up. Now who wouldn’t want to learn more about a smooth operator like that?

Starring next in… Bring Back The Wolf: The fact that the Wolf is the go-to guy to fix problems like having a dead guy’s head splattered all over the back of your car, means that he is constantly in demand. Simply put, it’ll be a pleasure watching him operate.

Mr. Henry, James Caan (Bottle Rocket)

Why He Deserves His Own Movie: One-minute, shady businessman Mr. Henry is your best friend, inviting your unemployed ass to fancy cocktail parties, karate chopping your jag-off big brother, and playing improvised ditties on your parents baby grand piano. The next, he’s robbing your house while you’re off on one of his make-believe missions; dastardly, indeed.

Starring next in…Regarding Mr. Henry: Along with lackeys Kumar and Applejack, Mr. Henry continues to pillage greater Houston’s upper middle class enclaves like some slippery suburban super-villain; until, that is, Dignan (Owen Wilson) is released from prison thanks to good behavior and reunited with fellow men-children Anthony Adams (Luke Wilson) and Bob Mapplethorpe. Will one-time mentor Mr. Henry remain the undisputed master of petty crime, or will his former apprentices claim his dubious title?

Boba Fett, Some Dude in a metal mask (Star Wars et al.)

Why He Deserves His Own Movie: Unless you go by the name of Dog, bounty hunters are always awesome, especially intergalactic ones that rock helmet-mask combos. Sure, the prequels eroded some of the Boba Fett mystique by revealing him to be a one-time whiney ass kid, but as soon as you learned his dad was used as the genetic prototype for the Clone Army, your faith was restored: Homeboy’s got pedigree.

Starring next in… Hey, Vader, Baby I’ve Got Your Money (Gotchyo Money!): An adult Fett only graced about five scenes in the original trilogy, which left everyone wanting more. In this follow up we not only see how the morally bereft dude dropped out of high school to get into the mercenary profession (much to papa’s chagrin), but we also see him tracking and capturing some of the most dangerous men roaming the galaxy, before ending each mission drunk, alien-babe-flanked, and belligerently burning through his hard earned space bucks in hedonistic dens of ill repute.

Kuzzik, Joe Lo Truglio (Role Models)

Why He Deserves His Own Movie: Augie Marks, aka medieval-loving McLovin, might use LARPing—that’s Live Action Roll Playing to you n00bs—as a means of escaping his nerdy teenage existence, but middle-aged Kuzzik lives it. From the moment he wakes up, dude is a chain mail-wearing, sword-wielding super freak and he always leaves his valiancy out on the field of the recreational suburban park where he wages epic, make-believe battle.

Starring next in…King Kuzzik: When his job as an office supplies manager forces him to relocate, mighty Kuzzik has to settle for life as just another corporate goon. That is, until he discovers a beer-LARPing league in his neighborhood that’s ruled by his intimidating new boss. Armed with nothing but his bravery, a foam-rubber sword and magical acorn “lightening bolts,” Kuzzik must learn the true meaning of bravery and standup to his corporate superior on the field of play!

Short Round, Jonathan Ke Quan (Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom)

Why He Deserves His Own Movie: Because we just made fun of him in our “ The Most Annoying Kids in Steven Spielberg Movies” feature and we’re feeling a bit guilty. We knew Short Round was a clever sidekick when he drove a getaway car around the streets of Shanghai with boxes tied to his feet. He became indispensable when he defended Willie with his clutch Kung Fu moves and even saved Indy from some voodoo witchcraftery. Along the way, this jokester and former pickpocket managed to beat Dr. Jones at poker and bust out of a child slave labor camp.

Starring next in…Short Round and the Hunt for Shangri La: At a young age, Short Round had all the makings of a swashbuckling archaeologist, plus an arsenal of quick-witted one-liners to boot. We’d pony up $10 to see a fully-grown Big Round search for the lost Himalayan city of Shangri-La, and of course do battle with Chinese Communists who believe discovery of the mythical city will lead to control of Tibet.

Movie Stars Who Die the Most

2010-01-29T15:30:00.000-08:00

Reaching the top of the Hollywood totem pole usually means you play the hero, get the girl, and ride into the sunset. But sometimes, you don’t even make it to the final fade out.

Mostly Unscathed

Will Smith (2 Deaths)

Death Toll: Seven Pounds, I Am Legend
Close, But No Flatline: Smith “died” temporarily in Hancock, but was revived – therefore, it doesn’t count.

Harrison Ford (2 Deaths)

Death Toll: The Mosquito Coast, What Lies Beneath
Cheater: Ford was made immortal (albeit briefly) in Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade.

Mel Gibson (3 Deaths)

Death Toll: Mrs. Soffel, Hamlet, Braveheart
Glutton for Punishment: Although he only notched three deaths, Mel’s torture numbers are bigger: Lethal Weapon, Conspiracy Theory,Braveheart, Mad Max: Beyond Thunderdome, Payback.

Tom Cruise (4 Deaths)

Death Toll: Taps, Vanilla Sky, Collateral, ValkyrieDeath Before Dishonor: Cruise’s most violent offing was definitely Taps. At the end of the movie where he played the military academy hothead, he lost his shit, opened fire with an M-60, and got thoroughly perforated by National Guard artillery. (“It’s beautiful, man!”)

Check the Pulse

Robert Downey Jr. (5 Deaths)

Death Toll: Less Than Zero, Natural Born Killers, Richard III, The Gingerbread Man, U.S. MarshallsDoppelkiller: Downey was killed – by himself – in The Singing Detective, but it’s a hallucination sequence.

George Clooney (5 Deaths)

Death Toll: Return to Horror High, Red Surf, The Perfect Storm, Confessions of a Dangerous Mind, Syriana
In the Can: Although Clooney notched a couple of early B-movie deaths, his character actually survived in Return of the Killer Tomatoes.

Denzel Washington (7 Deaths)

Death Toll: Cry Freedom, Glory, Heart Condition, Malcolm X, Fallen, The Preacher's Wife, Training Day, Man on Fire
Count It: We gave Denzel half an entry for both Heart Condition (he played a ghost) and The Preacher’s Wife (he played an Angel).

Dead and Loving It

Christian Bale (8 Deaths)

Death Toll: Anastasia: The Mystery of Anna, Henry V, The Secret Agent, Mary Mother of Jesus, Shaft, Harsh Times, The Prestige, 3:10 to Yuma
Dual: Bale got to have it both ways in The Prestige. Those who saw it know what we're talking about.

Dustin Hoffman (9 Deaths)

Death Toll: Midnight Cowboy, Who is Harry Kellerman and Why is He Saying Those Terrible Things About Me?, Lenny, Death of a Salesman, Billy Bathgate, Hook, Wag the Dog, Perfume, Mr. Magorium’s Wonder Emporium
Most Creative Death: In Hook, Hoffman was eaten to death by a reanimated crocodile.

Jack Nicholson (9 Deaths)

Death Toll: Easy Rider, One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest, The Passenger, The Shining, Batman, Hoffa, Mars Attacks!, The Departed, The Bucket List
R.I.P.: Nicholson’s deaths all tend to be horribly violent – shot to death, dropped from high places, beaten to death – with the exception of The Bucket List, where his character was beaten to death with a bucket. Or so we heard.

Al Pacino (9 Deaths)

Death Toll: Scarface, Dick Tracy, The Godfather: Part III, Carlito’s Way, Donnie Brasco, Insomnia, People I Know, The Recruit, Righteous Kill
Funny How? Al has twice been killed by comedians (John Leguizamo in Carlito’s Way and Robin Williams in Insomnia).

Brad Pitt (9 Deaths)

Death Toll: A River Runs Through It, Kalifornia, Legends of the Fall, The Devil’s Own, Meet Joe Black, Troy, The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford, Burn After Reading, The Curious Case of Benjamin Button
Nice Try: Brad “died” in two additional movies: Cool World and Fight Club. But in one he’s instantly revived as a cartoon and in the other he never actually existed.

Johnny Depp (9 1/2 Deaths)

Death Toll: A Nightmare on Elm Street, Platoon, Freddy’s Dead: The Final Nightmare, Ed Wood, Dead Man, The Astronaut’s Wife, From Hell, The Libertine, Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street, Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest (This one gets a half because he comes back to life in the third movie.)
Red Sea: Johnny holds the honor of bloodiest death on this list – in his debut movie, he played an Elm Street teen who was sucked into his bed by Freddy Krueger and turned into a giant plasma fountain.

Bruce Willis (11 Deaths)

Death Toll: Billy Bathgate, Mortal Thoughts, Death Becomes Her, Twelve Monkeys, The Jackal, Armageddon, The Sixth Sense, Hart’s War, Charlie’s Angels: Full Throttle, Sin City, Grindhouse: Planet Terror
Till Death…: Bruce was killed twice by his ex-wife, Demi Moore (Mortal Thoughts and Charlie’s Angels: Full Throttle).

Robert DeNiro (14 Deaths)

Death Toll: Bloody Mama, Bang the Drum Slowly, Mean Streets, Brazil, The Mission, Cape Fear, This Boy’s Life, Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein, Heat, The Fan, Jackie Brown, Great Expectations, 15 Minutes, Hide and Seek
You, You’re Good: DeNiro was killed by Pacino in Heat, and Pacino was killed by DeNiro in Righteous Kill.

Anne Hathaway gets her pudding pot at Harvard

2010-01-29T02:47:00.000-08:00

CAMBRIDGE, Mass. - Oscar-nominated actress Anne Hathaway has received a good-natured ribbing from Harvard's Hasty Pudding Theatricals student drama troupe.

The group's Woman of the Year was honored Thursday with a parade down Massachusetts Avenue near the university followed by a roast where she received her pudding pot from Harvard men in drag.

She joins a distinguished list of past recipients that includes Katharine Hepburn, Lauren Bacall and Meryl Streep.

Hathaway was nominated for an Academy Award for best actress in 2009 for her role in "Rachel Getting Married."

After the parade, Hathaway was roasted on stage in typical Hasty Pudding Theatricals fashion where then she slew a "dragon."

Hasty Pudding Man of the Year Justin Timberlake is to be honored Feb. 5.

10 Sexiest Strippers In Movies

2010-01-29T01:51:00.000-08:00

Well here is another list for us to enjoy, this time it is the top 10 sexiest strippers in movies. Expect lots of shitty screen caps ahead, I did my best at finding good pictures.

10. Jennifer Beals, Flashdance:

See video.

09. Jessica Biel, Powder Blue:

See video.

08. Roselyn Sanchez, Yellow:

See video.

07. Demi Moore, Striptease:

See video.

(Because of nude scenes we are not able to publish it here.)

06. Salma Hayek, From Dusk Till Dawn:

See video.

05. Natalie Portman, Closer:

See video.

04. Rose McGowan, Planet Terror:

See video.

03. Jessica Alba, Sin City:

See video.

Jessica Alba dancing to 'I like the way you move' by the bodyrockers

02. Lindsay Lohan, I Know Who Killed Me:

See video.

01. Elizabeth Berkely, Showgirls:

See video.

NOT: This video has NO NUDITY AT ALL.

Thoughts on the list?