Regular Guy Reviews

Eric Darnell Returns to "Madagascar"

2008-11-05T04:46:00.000-08:00

Kansas City native Eric Darnell returns to the popular island for "Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa." The DreamWorks animator wrote and directed the sequel to the story of four pampered zoo animals who end up on a tropical island.

Read my interview with Eric Darnell by clicking here.

Movie Review: "Tropic Thunder"

2008-08-13T05:07:00.000-07:00

A parody of all those summertime popcorn movies, "Tropic Thunder" is the funny, sometimes over-the-top story of three actors (Ben Stiller, Jack Black and Robert Downey, Jr.) who end up in hostile territory while filming a Vietnam War film.

Read my full review by clicking here: "Tropic Thunder" review

Ben Stiller, Jack Black and Robert Downey, Jr. Bring a Little "Tropic Thunder" to Camp Pendleton

2008-08-08T05:31:00.000-07:00

On Sunday, August 3, Jack Black, Ben Stiller and Robert Downey, Jr. walked the Green Carpet into the MCC Base Theater at Camp Pendleton in San Diego, California. As part of a cooperative effort between Navy Morale Welfare and Recreation (MWR), Marine Corps Community Service (MCCS) and Dreamworks Pictures, the trio hosted a special advance screening of "Tropic Thunder."

In the photo above by Dave Gatley, Ben Stiller is shown greeting fans and signing auotographs before the event.

"Tropic Thunder" tells the story of three Hollywood actors who are filming an action flick that goes way over budget. To cut costs and increase realism, the director decides to send his cast deep into the jungle, where they encounter some very real hostile forces.

"Tropic Thunder, rated R for pervasive language, including sexual references, violent content and drug material, opens nationwide on Wednesday, August 13.

"The Dark Knight" Bat Pod and Bat Tumbler Tour

2008-07-07T21:34:00.000-07:00

On July 4, the Bat Pod and the Bat Tumbler from "The Dark Knight" were on display in Webster Groves Missouri. This is some video I shot of the event.

"The Dark Knight" opens nationwide on July 18.

"The Dark Knight": Bat Pod and Tumbler Tour

2008-06-25T08:24:00.000-07:00

In support of the upcoming release of "The Dark Knight," the second film in the revitalized Batman franchise, Warner Brothers is sending the Bat Pod (see above) and Bat Tumbler on a 14-city tour. St. Louis gets to see the stylized motorcycle and tank on July 4 at the following locations:

11:00am-1:00pm: Six Flags St. Louis
3:00pm-4:45pm: Wehrenberg Ronnies
6:30pm-8:30pm: Webster Groves Community Days

"The Dark Knight," rated PG-13 for intense sequences of violence and some menace, opens nationwide on July 18.

"Hancock" Helps With Your Mortgage

2008-06-24T12:41:00.000-07:00

In a contest inspired Will Smith's upcoming superhero adventure, Columbia Pictures will pay off the mortgage (up to $360,000) of the winner of "Hancock's Helping Hand Mortgage" (up to $360,000).

In the film, Smith plays Hancock, a superhero who has fallen out of favor, but a public relations expert played by Jason Bateman helps him improve his image (see photo above).

To enter Hancock's Helping Hand Mortgage payoff contest and read the official rules, log on to the official "Hancock" website. Entrants need to write a 200 word essay explaining why they deserve the grand prize. You can enter now through July 6.

Hancock opens in theatres everywhere on July 2, 2008, with special advance screenings beginning nationwide at 7:00 pm on Tuesday, July 1.

Sneak Peek:"Notorious"

2008-06-19T04:16:00.000-07:00

After a long search, actor Jamal Woolard (seen in the photo above) won the coveted role of Christopher Wallace in "Notorious." Also known as Biggie Smalls and "The Notorious B.I.G," Wallace made his mark in the rap world before his life was cut short.

For an early look at the film, take a look at this video diary. "Notorious" arrives in theaters on January 16, 2009.

"Welcome Home Roscoe Jenkins": New on DVD

2008-06-17T05:16:00.000-07:00

Now available on DVD from Universal Studios, "Welcome Home Roscoe Jenkins" tells the story of talk show host RJ Stevens (Martin Lawrence) who has made quite a name for himself in Hollywood. When his parents ask him to come home to Georgia for their 50th Wedding Anniversary, he really sees how the California lifestyle has changed him.

Cedric Kyles (aka Cedric the Entertainer), who hails from St. Louis, joins Martin Lawrence, James Earl Jones and Mo'Nique in this family comedy. The DVD features approximately 45 minutes of outtakes and extended scenes plus interviews with cast members who, like Roscoe Jenkins, had some interesting experiences with their families and friends after becoming famous.

"Welcome Home Roscoe Jenkins" is rated PG-13 for crude and sexual content, language and some drug references.

St. Louis Animator Ron Williams Kicks Back With "Kung Fu Panda"

2008-06-09T05:09:00.000-07:00

St. Louis native Ron Williams worked on one of the hottest animated projects of the summer, "Kung Fu Panda." Williams started his career working on cereal commercials before heading over to DreamWorks.

Read the full Ron Williams interview by clicking here: "Kung Fu Panda" interview

"The Love Guru" Visits St. Louis

2008-06-05T05:17:00.000-07:00

Photographic evidence shows Pitka, the hero of "The Love Guru," has visited St. Louis over the last few years. In the photo above, Pitka was present during the 2004 World Series.

And here you can see Pitka taking a ride through the St. Louis Arch.

Pitka, at ground level, plays tourist on the Arch Grounds.

Want to see how Pitka would look on vacation with you? Just follow these steps:

Go to http://www.lovegurumovie.com/

Go to the "Love Guru" website (http://www.lovegurumovie.com/)
Click Enter Site
Click Menu > Features
Click My Vacation with Pitka and follow the steps to create your photo

"The Love Guru" opens nationwide on Friday, June 20.

Movie Review: "Sex and the City"

2008-06-01T11:41:00.000-07:00

After four years, countless rumors and speculation, "Sex and the City" has finally made it to the big screen, but the timing may be a little off. Sarah Jessica Parker and her three co-stars have the same magic that made the HBO series a success, but their problems seem a little trivial these days.

Read my full review by clicking here: "Sex and the City" review

"Tropic Thunder" Stars Ben Stiller, Jack Black and Robert Downey, Jr. Become "The Pips" on "American Idol"

2008-05-23T04:43:00.000-07:00

Ben Stiller, Jack Black and Robert Downey Jr., stars of the upcoming DreamWorks Pictures’ “Tropic Thunder,” performed as a modern version of “The Pips” to back-up legendary R&B artist, Gladys Knight (circa 1973) while she performed her classic hit, “Midnight Train to Georgia” on the season finale of “American Idol.”

Black, Downey and Stiller play actors shooting a war movie who get caught up in a real battle. "Tropic Thunder," which opens on Friday, August 15,has been rated R for pervasive language including sexual references, violent content and drug material.

Movie Review: "Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull"

2008-05-22T04:26:00.001-07:00

After a nearly 20-year wait, the world's most famous archaeologist returns to theaters in "Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull." The George Lucas/Steven Spielberg formula still works, but the franchise really is showing some wear and tear.

It is good to see Karen Allen returning for a second appearance as Marion Ravenwood, Indiana's love interest.

Read the full review by clicking here.

Robert Downey, Jr. is "Iron Man"

2008-05-02T07:09:00.000-07:00

With director Jon Favreau at the helm, "Iron Man" is easily one of the best movie adaptations of a popular, long-running comic character. It's also hard to imagine anyone who could have played wealthy industrialist Tony Stark better than Robert Downey, Jr.

Read my full review by clicking here: Iron Man Review

New on DVD "Charlie Wilson's War"

2008-04-22T05:04:00.000-07:00

Philip Seymour Hoffman received a Best Supporting Actor nomination for this film about real-life congressman Charlie Wilson (Tom Hanks) who got involved in the conflict between Afghanistan and the Soviet Union.

You may have missed this one at the theaters, but it's available starting today on DVD.

Mike Myers is "The Love Guru"

2008-04-21T21:26:00.000-07:00

Mike Myers returns to the big screen on June 20th as "The Love Guru." Myers plays Pitka, a spiritual master in the ways of love. To give you a taste of what the movie is all about, visit these Guru-related sites:

Official Love Guru Movie Site

Vacation with Pitka (upload your photo and insert the Guru). You also can look at stills, the trailer and download some cool things from the film.

The Guru on Facebook

You could win a year’s supply of hot, sticky Cinnabons courtesy of The Guru by fanning our page! You also can check out the Viral Soundboard of funny lines from the film to pass along to friends and view a “Widgetized” video from the film.

The Love Guru on MySpace

Friend our profile for the chance to “Get Lei-ed in Hawaii”
Read the first person character profile created by The Guru Pitka
Check out the weekly character blogs from The Guru Pitka
Plus there's a Guru with Celebrities photo gallery

The Love Guru on YouTube

Weekly “Sutra” videos by Mike Myers as The Guru Pitka - with 1,071,108 video views to date

Guru Pitka Viral Site

This site contains the following "Guru" stuff:

Hub for Weekly “Sutra” videos by Mike Myers as The Guru Pitka
Word of the Week and Compound Word of the Week Videos from Mike Myers plus a Guru with Celebrities photo gallery.

Movie Review: "Forgetting Sarah Marshall"

2008-04-18T04:21:00.000-07:00

In the new film from some of the creative minds behind "The 40-Year-Old Virgin," "How I Met Your Mother" star Jason Segel plays a composer who has a very painful breakup with his longtime girlfriend. The film has some funny moments and Segel shows more of himself than most people want to see.

Click here for the full review: "Forgetting Sarah Marshall" review

"Forgetting Sarah Marshall" opens today (April 18).

Benjamin McKenzie Talks About "88 Minutes"

2008-04-15T10:38:00.000-07:00

Benjamin McKenzie, late of television's "The O.C.", plays opposite Al Pacino in the new thriller "88 Minutes." Read what McKenzie has to say about his famous co-star and what it was like to film both his television series and this film at the same time by clicking here:

Link to Benjamin McKenzie Interview

"Son of Rambow" Short Film Contest

2008-03-19T08:15:00.000-07:00

Hammer and Tongs, the production company that helped produce the upcoming "Son of Rambow," wants all aspiring directors to submit an original short film about any topic that you can imagine. The winning submission will be included in the "Special Features" section of the "Son of Rambow" DVD.

Full contest details are available by clicking here: Filmmaker Frenzy

"Son of Rambow," which opens in May, tells the story of Will, a sheltered boy who makes friends with Lee Carter, an odd child and an aspiring filmmaker. After watching the original "Rambo" movie with Sylvester Stallone, the boys create their own version of the film, with Will acting as the stuntman.

More details about the film can be found here: "Son of Rambow"

Movie Review: Will Ferrell Stars in Semi-Pro

2008-02-29T06:56:00.000-08:00

In Will Ferrell's latest sports comedy, he plays a one-hit wonder who does triple-duty as the owner, coach and player on an ABA franchise in Flint, Michigan. Ferrell is quite likable here and the 1970's styles and fashions are quite detailed.

Read my full review by clicking here.

"Semi-Pro," rated R for language and some sexual situations, opens today.

Michael Haneke Remakes "Funny Games"

2008-02-25T23:52:00.000-08:00

Movies get remade all the time, but it’s rare for a director to remake one of his own films, but that’s exactly what Michael Haneke has done with the new thriller “Funny Games.”

Haneke revisits his 1997 film with a new cast that includes Naomi Watts, Tim Roth, Michael Pitt, Brady Corbet and Devon Gearhart. While on vacation, Anna (Watts), George (Tim Roth), their son and two neighbors are planning to enjoy a nice relaxing summer getaway when things turn violent.

“Funny Games,” rated R for terror, violence and some language, opens in limited release on March 14.

Visit the official "Funny Games" website by clicking here.

Visit the Varitalk site for "Funny Games" by clicking here.

"Aristocats" on DVD

2008-02-05T07:30:00.000-08:00

The 1970 Walt Disney Classic "The Aristocats" is back on DVD in a special edition. I had the chance to participate in an online Question and Answer session with Richard Sherman, who wrote the songs for the film with his brother Robert.

Read the Richard Sherman interview by clicking here.

Cloverfield is Coming

2008-01-16T06:50:00.000-08:00

Movie Review and Interview: "The Kite Runner"

2007-12-25T11:00:00.000-08:00

Based on the acclaimed novel by Khaled Hosseini, "The Kite Runner" is a powerful, moving story about friendship, redemption and second chances.

Read my full review by clicking here.

Read my interview with actor Homayoun Ershadi, who plays Baba, by clicking here.

Movie Review: "The Perfect Holiday"

2007-12-12T09:58:00.000-08:00

Gabrielle Union and Morris Chestnut look cute together in "The Perfect Holiday," a new family friendly holiday comedy. Terrence Howard also gets to deliver some classic one-liners as a grumpy holiday spirit.

Read the full review by clicking here.

Movie Review: "The Golden Compass"

2007-12-07T22:11:00.001-08:00

It took me two viewings to get all the plot details straight, but I can say "The Golden Compass" is a complex but visually stunning movie.

Read my full review by clicking here.

Steve

Pearl Harbor: An Interview with Survivor Richard Fiske

2007-12-07T07:13:00.000-08:00

In memory of all the men and women who died on December 7, 1941, I updated a 2001 interview I did with Richard Fiske, a Pearl Harbor Survivor. His vivid memories of the events can be haunting.

Read the Richard Fiske interview by clicking here.

And a big thanks to all military personnel, past and present, for what you do.

Steve

Survivor:China Update: James Clement Digs His Own Grave

2007-11-30T05:40:00.000-08:00

On the November 29th edition of "Survivor: China," gravedigger James Clement was voted out of the tribe, which is ironic since Clement was in possession of two hidden immunity idols. It looked like he was going to play one of them last night, but he kept silent and was blindsided by Todd's alliance.

Read more about "Survivor: China" by clicking here.

Thanks,
Steve

The Poo-lar Bear

2007-11-28T14:33:00.001-08:00

Looking for an unusual stocking stuffer? How about a polar bear that leaves a little, uh, love note in the Christmas stocking?

Read more about the Poo-lar Bear by clicking here.

San Diego Comic Con 2007: A Look Back

2007-11-25T21:49:00.000-08:00

Last summer, I attended my first Comic Con in San Diego, which, for a comic book nerd like me, is just like docking with the Mother Ship. Here's some footage I shot during the four days I was there and hopefully it will give you an idea of what Comic Con is really like:

San Diego Comic Video Part 1

San Diego Comic Video Part 2

Enjoy!

Steve

Movie Review: "Enchanted"

2007-11-17T20:44:00.000-08:00

A good all-around family film, "Enchanted" pokes fun at the whole Walt Disney/Fairy Tale category of movies. Amy Adams is a charmer and Susan Sarandon is, well, wicked good.

Read my full review by clicking here.

Enjoy!

Steve

Movie Review: "This Christmas": Loretta Devine and Delroy Lindo

2007-11-17T17:32:00.001-08:00

One of the nicest surprises of the holiday season, "This Christmas" is at times funny, outrageous and downright bizarre, but it's worth taking a look.

Read my full review by clicking here.

Enjoy!

Steve

Movie Review: "August Rush": Freddie Highmore and Robin Williams

2007-11-17T17:17:00.000-08:00

Freddie Highmore, the breakout star of "Finding Neverland," plays a young musical prodigy looking for his parents in what I think is the first magical holiday film of the season.

Read my full review by clicking here.

Thanks,
Steve

"Beowulf": Review Plus Some Background Information

2007-11-16T20:55:00.000-08:00

"Beowulf," the computer-animated adventure based on an epic poem, opens today across the country. It's visually stunning, extremely violent with some "Austin Powers" brand nudity in portions of the story.

My review is available by clicking here.

I also interview Dr. Tom Shippey, who gave me some great background information on the epic poem that inspired the film.

Read the "Beowulf" guide by clicking here.

Enjoy!

Movie Review: Mr. Magorium's Wonder Emporium

2007-11-16T06:58:00.001-08:00

Dustin Hoffman plays the eccentric, shoe-wearing owner of a magical toy store in "Mr. Magorium's Wonder Emporium." I really wanted to like this one, but it has an unfinished feel to it, making it less magical than I hoped.

Read my full review by clicking here.

Todd Herzog: Winner of "Survivor: China"?

2007-11-15T23:32:00.000-08:00

After 9 episodes of "Survivor: China," it looks as if flight attendant Todd Herzog, who has emerged as this season's puppet master, will walk away with a million dollars.

Read my reasons for saying so by clicking here.

Take a Ride with Mr. Magorium

2007-11-09T05:12:00.001-08:00

Through Monday, November 12, a magical trolley will take Chicago residents back and forth between Museum Campus and Water Tower Place. This is a free service in honor of "Mr. Magorium's Wonder Emporium," the new Dustin Hoffman movie opening on Friday, November 16.

In an attempt to break the record for the largest toy drive, the trolley also will serve as a mobile collection point for the annual Toys for Tots campaign. 20th Century Fox and Walden Media have set a goal of 12,000 pounds of toys.

"The Bachelor" Update: DeAnna Pappas: The New Mrs. Brad Womack

2007-11-08T06:16:00.001-08:00

The latest edition of "The Bachelor" has come down to one bachelor and two hopeful women: Jenni Croft and DeAnna Pappas. Jenni seemed to have the advantage in the early episodes, but DeAnna has made a surrising turnaround, especially in the last two episodes.

Read my prediction about the eventual winner by clicking here.

Feel free to post your opinions as well.

A Honey of a Recipe From "Bee Movie"

2007-10-31T19:14:00.000-07:00

In honor of "Bee Movie," here's a recipe for Beehive Cookies that calls for honey:

Ingredients:
3 cups flour
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
3/4 cup (6 oz.) butter, lightly chilled, cut in bits
1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed
1/2 cup whipped honey or crème honey
1 Tablespoon (about 2 lemons) lemon zest
1 egg
Coarse sugar, optional, as needed

Directions:

Cream butter, brown sugar, honey and lemon zest until smooth; beat in egg. Add dry ingredients in thirds, mixing well with each addition. Scrape dough onto plastic wrap; shape it into a log about 12 inches long.

Chill an hour or so until firm, or up to 24 hours. Heat oven to 350°F. Thoroughly
mix dry ingredients. Cut log into 1/4-inch slices; place 1 inch apart on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Sprinkle with coarse sugar, if desired, lightly pressing sugar into dough. Bake until edges are lightly browned, about 10 minutes. Cool 5 minutes on baking sheet, then transfer to a rack. Cool completely.

Makes 4 dozen.

For more recipes, healthy hints and useful
information, go to www.Honey.com

Bee Movie ™ & © 2007 DreamWorks Animation L.L.C.
Beehive Cookies

Bee More Like Jerry Seinfeld

2007-10-30T19:57:00.000-07:00

Everybody knows that Jerry Seinfeld is funny, but he's a trend setter, too. His upcoming "Bee Movie" has made black and yellow the new colors for Fall:

"Bee Movie" opens on Friday, November 2.

Carve up "Alvin" for Halloween

2007-10-27T19:43:00.001-07:00

For all you "Alvin and the Chipmunks" fans out there, here's a stencil you can use to carve up an "Alvin" pumpkin--just click on the image above and it will expand so you can print it out and use it. I can't play with sharp objects, so send me some photos of your pumpkins and I'll post them.

The new "Alvin and the Chipmunks" movie also opens on December 14. Jason Lee takes over the David Seville role.

Mira Sorvino Co-Stars in "Reservation Road"

2007-10-26T06:29:00.001-07:00

Oscar-winning actress Mira Sorvino talked with me over the phone about her new movie "Reservation Road. In that film, she plays a music teacher to a student who dies in a tragic road accident.

Read the interview by clicking here...

Does Mr. Magorium Take Visa?

2007-10-24T07:14:00.000-07:00

One of the new "Life Takes Visa" commercials takes place in a toy store that looks a lot like the shop in "Mr. Magorium's Wonder Emporium," which opens nationwide on November 16. Click here to go to the Visa page and scroll down to the ad that says "Juggling."

"Jumper" Opens February 15, 2008

2007-10-18T05:49:00.000-07:00

Here's a sneak peek at a new adventure called "Jumper"--from this trailer, it looks a lot like a hi-tech version of "Highlander."

Two films of note, "The Final Season" and "We Own the Night," open today

2007-10-12T06:49:00.000-07:00

Based on real events, "The Final Season" is one of those rare sports dramas that gets the details right without getting too "Hollywood." In 1991, after winning 19 state championships in 24 years, the high school baseball team in Norway, Iowa is forced to have a final season due to budget cuts.

Powers Booth plays a legendary coach forced out of his job and Sean Astin is his replacement. It's a good solid film and one that's worth a look.

Anyone needing another fix of last year's hit "The Departed" should check out "We Own the Night," a new drama that bears a striking resemblance to Martin Scorsese's film. Mark Wahlberg and Joaquin Phoenix play two brothers who choose very different paths in life. It has twists and turns and is entertaining.

The Geico "Cavemen" Now Are on ABC

2007-10-03T05:21:00.000-07:00

Anyone remember Clara Peller, the tiny grandmother who became an incredibly popular spokesperson for Wendy's hamburgers? Ms. Peller made "Where's the beef?" a national catchphrase, but the advertising agency in charge of the campaign took the ads off the air for a while to avoid overexposure.

Geico ran into the same problem with a long-running series of commercials featuring cavemen in the modern world. The ads themselves, when taken in small doses, are quite clever, with Talia Shire ("Rocky") appearing as a therapist in a few of them. Geico also uses a talking gecko and other ad campaigns to sell insurance, which kept the cavemen ads from becoming too obnoxious over time.

Unfortunately, someone decided to turn the commercials into a weekly half-hour sitcom, which, based on the low quality of the premiere episode, is doomed to become extinct. "Cavemen" sets sitcoms back at least a million years.

Read my full review by clicking here...

"The Seeker": More Clues and Trip to Vegas

2007-09-26T18:57:00.001-07:00

With just over a week to go, I've only found three correct sequences out of 11 for "The Seeker," the new adventure from Fox Walden. After going to the official movie website, enter the following sequence:

Bronze Wood Fire Stone Iron Water

When entered correctly, you will be able to register for a trip to Planet Hollywood in Las Vegas.

"The Seeker" opens on Friday, October 5. Keep Seeking!

"Knocked Up": Judd Apatow's Pregnancy Comedy Now is Available on DVD

2007-09-25T06:49:00.000-07:00

This past summer, Judd Apatow, the director of "The 40-Year-Old Virgin," followed up his Steve Carrell comedy with "Knocked Up." Katherine Heigl and Seth Rogen played two twenty-somethings who, after a one night stand, must deal with the reality of becoming parents.

Funny and touching, "Knocked Up" now is available on DVD. Read my review of the film by clicking here.

"In the Valley of Elah": Paul Haggis Investigates the Death of a American Soldier

2007-09-21T05:22:00.000-07:00

Director/screenwriter Paul Haggis, who created the incredible "Crash," returns with this story of a father (Tommy Lee Jones) looking for his missing soldier son. This one hits close to home for me because Haggis based his screenplay on a real-life family from St. Charles, MO.

Read the full review by clicking here...

"The Seeker: The Dark is Rising" update

2007-09-20T05:49:00.000-07:00

Last night, while leaving a local theater, I passed a poster for "The Seeker: The Dark is Rising," a movie that features a quest for six signs of power. As I reported back in August, Fox Walden, the studio releasing the film, has been promoting it with an unusual quest that involves going to their website and entering the six signs in different sequences to get bonus content from the site.

If you look to the right of this entry, you'll see how well I've done. Up until last night I only had entered one correct sequence, but the poster I saw last night revealed another sequence if you looked at it from the correct angle--it was created with lenticular artwork that changes as you walk by it. To help you out, here's the sequence I saw:

Fire Iron Water Stone Wood Bronze

Keep Seeking!

"The Big Bang Theory" makes science a laughing matter

2007-09-19T06:25:00.000-07:00

Of the five pilots that I've watched for the new television season, the best by far has been "The Big Bang Theory" a new CBS comedy about two geniuses and a cute neighbor. Johnny Galecki from "Roseanne" shines in a role that really lets him show his comic timing.

Read my review by clicking here..

New "Indiana Jones" sequel has a title

2007-09-11T19:07:00.000-07:00

It's been 18 years since the last "Indiana Jones" movie so it's nice to be able to report that "Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull" will be released on May 22, 2008. Read more about it by clicking here...

3:10 to Yuma: Taking the Train

2007-09-07T07:08:00.000-07:00

Remakes can be hit or miss, but "3:10 to Yuma," James Mangold's version of the Glenn Ford classic, is dead on target. Read my review by clicking here.

Fall Movies are Coming

2007-09-06T07:27:00.000-07:00

Fall is here and with it comes a new crop of movies. Read my Fall preview by clicking here and going to page 17:

"Balls of Fury" Doesn't Serve Up Comedy

2007-08-29T06:42:00.000-07:00

Maybe it's me: For the last month, I wrote about this film and attended a special presentation at the San Diego Comic-Con, so my expectations for "Balls of Fury" was quite high. Unfortunately, director Ben Garant and Thomas Lennon just didn't deliver the goods.

You can read my full review by clicking here.

Thomas Lennon has "Balls of Fury"

2007-08-26T05:32:00.001-07:00

Best known as the shorts-wearing Lt. Jim Dangle from Comedy Central's "Reno 911!", Thomas Lennon plays a foreign ping-pong champion in "Balls of Fury." Christopher Walken plays a foreign arms dealer who hosts a win-or-die ping-pong competition.

Lennon and director Ben Garant hosted a panel discussion at the San Diego Comic-Con in July. Find out more about "Balls of Fury" and a secret about Christopher Walken by clicking here

Justin Timberlake Reunites With Mike Myers

2007-08-23T06:13:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, Paramount Pictures announced that Justin Timberlake would play a professional hockey player in "The Love Guru," a new film co-written by Mike Myers. Timberlake plays a professional hockey player who is spending time with the wife of another hockey player.

Robbie Rist Talks About His Career

2007-08-21T06:57:00.000-07:00

One of the hardest-working child actors of the 1970's, Robbie Rist and I spent two hours talking on the phone about his career, music and why Ted Knight was a comic genius.

Read the whole story by clicking here.

Open Auditions For "Notorious"

2007-08-13T05:05:00.002-07:00

Fox Searchlight Pictures announced Friday that anyone, meaning actors and non-actors, are welcome to submit audition videos for "Notorious," the upcoming biopic of late rapper Biggie Smalls.

Read more about it by clicking here.

I'm seeking the signs....are you?

2007-08-09T17:22:00.000-07:00

I have to admit that marketing campaigns are getting more and more inventive, especially the one that Coca-Cola did a few years ago where they distributed cans containing GPS tracking systems and built-in cell phones in 12-paks of their product. If you found one of these cans and pushed the button, you were connected directly to Coke Headquarters and, if you opted to turn on the GPS, they would deliver your prize right to you.

Fox Walden currently has a pretty inventive promotion for "The Seeker." In order to unlock special content on the website, visitors have to enter six symbols of power in the correct sequence. The sequences will be appearing in the movie trailer, on posters and other place; Fox has said they might even put them on mobile billboards.

If I've done the math correctly (6 * 5 * 4 * 3 * 2 * 1), there are 720 possible combinations of the 6 symbols, but only 7 of those unlock special content.

I've included a widget at right that will show you the trailer and also direct you to the official website. The photo on this post is from the official movie poster and also contains the special 6 symbols. Check back here for more updates and clues.

You can also track my progress on the widget, which I'll keep on my site until the films opens on October 5. Feel free to make fun of me if you unlock more sequences than I do.

Good luck.

"Balls of Fury" Moves Up

2007-08-08T07:08:00.000-07:00

The San Diego Comic-Con has become the place where studios bring their best products in order to get feedback from the attendees. Based on the positive reaction to "Balls of Fury," Rogue Pictures is changing the release date from Friday, August 31 to Wednesday, August 29 to maximize its opening weekend.

Read more about it by clicking here...

"Bratz" looks kinda familiar

2007-08-07T06:55:00.000-07:00

Bratz is based on a popular line of children's toys, but it looks and feels a lot like another popular teenage film. Read more about it by clicking here...

I docked with the Mother Ship...

2007-07-29T12:19:00.000-07:00

I'm just finishing up 5 days in San Diego, where I joined 125,000 of my fellow nerds for Comic-Con...a huge for sci-fi and comic fans ever conceived.

More to come, but here's a taste:

More of the same...

2007-07-27T02:05:00.000-07:00

One of the most highly anticipated films of the summer, "The Simpsons Movie" doesn't really break any new ground or take full advantage of the PG-13 rating. Read more about it here...

I love you, Nikki Blonsky

2007-07-20T05:15:00.000-07:00

Newcomer Nikki Blonksy, who reportedly was scooping ice cream at a Cold Stone Creamery about a year of so ago, is FABULOUS in "Hairspray," the adaptation of the stage play which was based on the 1988 film by John Waters. John Travolta steps into the dress vacated by the late, great cross-dressing Divine.

Read my full review by clicking here

I have no reservations about telling you this...

2007-07-18T07:55:00.000-07:00

On Saturday, July 21, there will be special "sneak previews" of the new Catherine Zeta-Jones/Abigail Breslin comedy "No Reservations." If you're in or around the St. Louis area, the screenings will be held at the following theaters:

Wehrenberg Ronnies, Wehrenberg St. Charles 18, Wehrenberg Galaxy, AMC West Olive and Edwardsville Showplace 12.

Zeta-Jones plays a high strung chef who, after the death of her sister, is now taking care of her niece, played by Academy Award nominee Breslin. Wehrenberg and AMC allow you to purchase advance tickets online, so reservations are recommended.

Steve

Have You Heard the One About the Polish Hitman?

2007-07-14T06:13:00.000-07:00

Ben Kingsley, one of the most talented actors on the planet, is wickedly funny in "You Kill Me," the story of an alcoholic hitman for the East Coast Polish Mafia who heads to San Francisco to dry out. This simple, yet hilarious comedy may get overrun by "Transformers" and "Harry Potter," so be sure to see it soon.

Read my full review by clicking here

Are you one of the Bratz?

2007-07-13T07:12:00.000-07:00

You have until 11:59 EST to prove you're one of the Bratz...just text BRATZ and your zip code to 43KIX, but you have to hurry because time is running out.

Cedric the Entertainer Talks to Us

2007-07-12T07:27:00.000-07:00

Cedric the Entertainer came back home to St. Louis for his celebirty bowling tournament and also hosted a special advance screening of "Talk to Me," a powerful new drama about legendary radio personality Petey Green. The film opens nationwide on July 27.

Welcome back, Mr. Potter...

2007-07-11T04:27:00.000-07:00

"Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix" is the first of two big events for Potter fans this summer. First and foremost, David Yates stays about as faithful to J.K. Rowling's original text as a director can without going way overbudget.

Read the rest of my review by clicking here:

Many thanks,
Steve

Vote for the "real" Springfield...

2007-07-08T07:29:00.000-07:00

Do you live in Springfield or does your state have a Springfield? In honor of the upcoming "Simpsons" movie, 20th Century Fox is sponsoring a contest in which one of 14 Springfields across the country will be declared the "real" one.

Click here to read more and cast your vote...

Can you find the secret ingredients?

2007-07-07T06:44:00.000-07:00

"Ratatouille," Pixar's new animated adventure about a rat who wants to be a chef, contains lots of visual gags, inside jokes and other "Easter Eggs". Can you find them all?

Click here for some clues....

"Transformers" Not Quite More Than Meets the Eye

2007-07-01T07:15:00.000-07:00

Michael Bay's live action treatment of the "Transformers" is everything one might expect from him: loud, explosive and a bit on the mature side. Otherwise, there's not much more to it than that.

Read more about it by clicking here:

There's not much rat in it...

2007-06-29T07:33:00.000-07:00

Pixar needed to add little more spice to this story of a rat who wants to be a chef....read more about it by clicking here:

Many thanks,
Steve

NEADS meeting needs

2007-06-27T07:30:00.000-07:00

Since 1976, NEADS has been training service dogs for deaf and disabled Americans. I had the opportunity to chat with the executive director and she had one of her team send me this video...

Follow the Hollywood Walk of Fame...

2007-06-22T06:56:00.000-07:00

It's taken a while, but the Munchkins from "The Wizard of Oz" finally will be getting their own star on Hollywood's Walk of Fame. St. Louis is especially proud of our own Mickey Carroll, who played the Fiddler in the movie.

The date for the ceremony has not been set, but more details to come. In the meantime, check out Mr. Carroll's official website by clicking here.

James Bond Hits the Big 22

2007-06-20T00:32:00.000-07:00

It's hard to believe that Ian Fleming's most famous literary creation is about to star in his 22nd movie. Daniel Craig, who many critics and fans believe owns the role of James Bond after the recent remake of "Casino Royale," returns as 007. Marc Forster, who sat behind the camera for both "Finding Neverland" and "Stranger than Fiction," juat signed on to direct.

Currently known only as "Bond 22," the latest film in the franchise is slated to arrive in theaters on November 7, 2008.

Steve

Nancy Drew and friends in search of a plot...

2007-06-14T23:11:00.000-07:00

Emma Roberts is absolutely adorable in the lead role, but something about this adaptation of the popular series of books doesn't quite work. Read my thoughts about the film by clicking here.

Many thanks,
Steve

Talking With Nancy Drew

2007-06-11T07:38:00.001-07:00

Up-and-coming actress Emma Roberts plays teenage detective Nancy Drew in a new film adaptation of the popular series of books. Emma and I had a chance to spend a few minutes on the phone two weeks ago talking about the movie, so click here to see what she said:

"Surf's Up" is Way Cool

2007-06-08T05:47:00.000-07:00

Until this point, my favorite penguin movie was "Happy Feet," the story of a penguin who danced to the beat of a different drummer, but "Surf's Up" is truly inventive and contains plenty of stuff for the adults as well as the kids.

Read my review here:

http://animatedfilms.suite101.com/article.cfm/surfs_up_shoots_the_curl

Many thanks,

Steve

"Knocked Up" Will Knock Your Socks Off

2007-06-03T06:26:00.000-07:00

Judd Apatow, one of the creative minds behind the suprisingly sweet comedy "The 40-Year-Old Virgin," returns this weekend with "Knocked Up," a cautionary tale about unexpected pregnancy. The title is misleading, though, because Apatow has created an intelligent, funny and even heartwarming film about life and taking responsibility for your actions.

Read my review here:

http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/235521/knocked_up_is_not_a_knockoff_pregnancy.html

Many thanks,
Steve

"Gracie" Really Kicks

2007-06-01T00:17:00.000-07:00

With a solid performance from former "Lizzie McGuire" star Carly Schroeder, "Gracie" is a new sports film with positive messages for both young men and women. Based on events in the lives of the Shue family of New Jersey, Gracie, a character based on actress Elisabeth Shue, tries to prove she's good enough to play soccer on a boy's team.

Read what Schroeder had to say about her experiences on the film here:

http://film-stars.suite101.com/article.cfm/carly_schroeder_scores_as_gracie

And read my review of the film here:

http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/253257/gracie_keeps_her_eye_on_the_ball.html

This one is highly recommended and worth your time.

Many thanks,
Steve

Day 1 of the 1st Annual GI Film Festival

2007-05-27T07:44:00.000-07:00

If you're in Washington, DC this weekend, stop by the Ronald Reagan Building and International Trade Center and check out the 1st Annual GI Film Festival. Read my highlights of Day 1, which include a performance by Pat Boone and the group Valor (above), by following this link:
http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/260191/the_first_annual_gi_film_festival_highlights.html

Many thanks,
Steve

Hey buddy...can you spare a quarter?

2007-05-25T07:22:00.000-07:00

While you're out and about over the holiday weekend, make sure and check your change for a special, limited edition "Silver Surfer" quarter. Only 40,000 have been minted and anyone who finds one can register to win a trip to the world premiere of "Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer."

In the "Fantastic Four" comic book, the surfer made his debut in the 1960's. A resident of the world called Zenn-La, Norrin Radd made a deal with Galactus, a cosmic entity who survives by consuming planets. To save Zenn-La from being consumed, Norrin volunteered to become the herald of Galactus, scouring the universe for planets suitable for his new master.

Galactus endowed his new servant with great cosmic powers and the ability to surf through the cosmos. Eventually, the Silver Surfer found the Earth and had to do battle with the Fantastic Four.

Even if you don't find a quarter, check out www.riseofthesilversurfer for more chances to win cool stuff. The movie, by the way, opens on June 15.

Many thanks,
Steve

The only way to travel....

2007-05-22T00:17:00.000-07:00

The director and stars of "Once," a film that can best be described as an Irish musical, stopped in St. Louis on May 9 to talk about their film and introduce it at a special screening that evening. John Carney, the director, doesn't care for airplane travel, so the group is traveling from city-to-city by bus.
After the screening, Glen Hansard, lead singer of the Frames, and Marketa Irglova, his leading lady and real-life collaborator, answered questions and sang for the audience. Normally, at Q&A sessions, people start to leave right away and, by the end, the auditorium is pretty empty, but the crowd at the "Once" screening couldn't get enough.

I had a chance to sit down with John, Marketa and Glen and chat about the movie and how their real-life realtionships influenced the movie. The interview is available by following this link:

http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/244025/art_imitates_life_in_once.html

Many thanks,
Steve

Put me in, Coach...I'm ready to play

2007-05-20T08:32:00.000-07:00

Former "Lizzie McGuire" cast member Carly Schroeder stopped in St. Louis this month to talk about "Gracie," her new sports drama based on events in the lives of Elisabeth and Andrew Shue.

Read about her preparations for the role and her "worst nightmare" here:

http://film-stars.suite101.com/article.cfm/carly_schroeder_scores_as_gracie

Steve

I wanna "bee" like Jerry

2007-05-17T21:30:00.000-07:00

Thanks to his groundbreaking sitcom, Jerry Seinfeld has been a high-flyer for years and he proved it at Cannes yesterday by dressing in a bee suit and descending by wire from the roof of the Carlton Hotel. Seinfeld was promoting "Bee Movie," which opens nationwide on November 2.

Shhh...there's a big black spider on the wall...

2007-05-16T01:21:00.000-07:00

"Spider-Man 3" has ruled the worldwide box office for two weeks, but his first challenger steps up to the plate this week. "Shrek the Third" is clever, funny and contains plenty of sly jokes for the adults in the audience.

Read my review here:

http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/246718/shrek_the_third_makes_being_green_look.html

"Once" is not enough...

2007-05-13T10:08:00.000-07:00

Glen Hansard, lead singer of the Irish band called the Frames, signs autographs for fans at a recent screening of "Once" at the Tivoli Theater in University City, MO. Hansard stars as a street musician who meets his inspiration in the form of a young immigrant (Marketa Irglova).

Read my thoughts about the film by following this link:

http://foreignfilms.suite101.com/article.cfm/once_is_not_enough

Zombies shouldn't play with their food...

2007-05-13T07:31:00.000-07:00

Robert Carlyle stars in "28 Weeks Later," the sequel to the popular "28 Days Later." It looks like he's the main course for the zombies today.

Read my thoughts on the film by following this link:

http://horrorscififilms.suite101.com/article.cfm/28_weeks_later_is_worth_the_wait

"Waitress" is sweet, juicy and piping-hot

2007-05-11T05:49:00.000-07:00

Keri Russell stars as a small-town pie maker who tries to find a way out of her loveless marriage in this sweet, sometimes heartbreaking romantic comedy. Read my review by following this link:

http://romantic-comedy-films.suite101.com/article.cfm/waitress_is_sweet_and_pipinghot

"Once" around the country please....

2007-05-09T20:48:00.000-07:00

John Carney, director of the Sundance Award-winning "Once" doesn't like to fly, so he and his leading man and woman, Glen Hansard and Marketa Irglova, are doing the promotional tour by bus.

Carney, Hansard and Irglova made a stop in St. Louis tonight to host a special screening of the film.

(More to come...)

Take Mom out for a movie and some pie...

2007-05-08T07:07:00.000-07:00

Looking for something different to do on Mother's Day? Fox Searchlight Pictures is sponsoring an "Easy as Pie" Mother's Day event at 100 theaters nationwide. Anyone attending a special screening of the sweet and spicy new romantic comedy "Waitress" will get a special gift bag and complimentary pie.

For a participating theater, click on this link:

http://www.MOVIEwithMOM.com

To read a review of the film, click this link

http://romantic-comedy-films.suite101.com/article.cfm/waitress_is_sweet_and_pipinghot

Wally Schirra: An astronaut's astronaut

2007-05-05T18:52:00.000-07:00

Back in the late 1950's and throughout the 1960's, astronauts were treated like we treat sports heroes today. They were larger-than-life figures who defied the odds to get into space and Wally Schirra always ranked among the best of the best.

We lost Wally two days ago and I immediately regretted that I never got a chance to hear him lecture in person. I always intended to send him an email or a letter thanking him for his work during the first three space programs (Mercury, Gemini and Apollo). He will be missed and I felt better after I posted a tribute to him on this website (follow the link):

http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/233089/wally_schirra_the_gold_standard_for.html

If you don't go see my movie, I'll web you...

2007-05-04T06:27:00.000-07:00

I looked forward to seeing the latest "Spider-Man" movie for months, even taking a vacation day from work to attend a special screening last week, but this one falls way short of the mark set by "Spider-Man 2."

Read my full review here:

http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/229423/spiderman_3_doesnt_make_my_spider_sense.html

"Gracie" visits St. Louis

2007-05-02T07:22:00.000-07:00

Carly Schroeder, star of the upcoming sports drama "Gracie," stopped in St. Louis as part of a 17-city tour. The film, which is co-produced by Andrew Shue (who is touring with Carly), recounts some events in the lives of the Shue family and Andrew's sister Elisabeth.

"Gracie" opens June 1.

"Dreamgirls" Charity Auction

2007-05-01T06:01:00.000-07:00

Variety, the charity for children, is auctioning off the three peach-colored dresses worn by Jennifer Hudson, Beyonce Knowles and Anika Noni Rose during the first musical number in "Dreamgirls." Eddie Murphy's tuxedo also is up for grabs.

If you want to make a bid, follow this link:

http://stores.ebay.com/Variety-The-Childrens-Charity

We took a trip to the beach and got Thomas Haden Church in our shoes...

2007-04-30T06:16:00.000-07:00

Thomas Haden Church, who turned in an amazing performance in "Sideways," is one of the best elements in the upcoming "Spider-Man 3." Read his thoughts about the "Birth of the Sandman" here:

http://www.helium.com/tm/307588

Steve

Two films, one surprising and one disappointing

2007-04-27T06:36:00.000-07:00

Two new films are opening today, one I found surprisingly good and the other one quite disappointing. Here are links to my thoughts on "The Condemned" and "Year of the Dog":

http://action-films-thrillers.suite101.com/article.cfm/the_condemned_is_pure_escapism

http://filmdramas.suite101.com/article.cfm/year_of_the_dog_misses_the_mark

Twenty years later and Baby is still in the corner...

2007-04-26T05:51:00.000-07:00

It's hard to believe that Johnny and Baby first got together 20 years ago, but it's true. "Dirty Dancing" first appeared in theaters during the summer of 1987 and quickly became a sensation. A television version of the film and a sequel called "Dirty Dancing: Havanna Nights" did not fare as well as the original, however.

In honor of this groundbreaking film, "Dirty Dancing" is returning to the big screen for two days (May 1st and 2nd) with new 35mm prints. Viewers also will see a 20-minute documentary about the making of the film.

Tickets are $10.00 each and available online at http://www.FathomEvents.com.