Way of The James

2007-02-04T07:40:00.000-08:00

THE JAMES' OSCAR PICKS 2007

Howdy all. Thought I would register my picks early, and if it helps you in any office pools, bets, etc...feel free to thank me later. I'll keep commentary and the range of choices limited to my predicted winners and the main categories, but if you want the full spectrum, email me and I'm happy to send it to you. Let's get started:

Nominees for Best Actor: Leonardo DiCaprio (Blood Diamond), Ryan Gosling (Half Nelson), Peter O'Toole (Venus), Will Smith (The Pursuit of Happyness), Forest Whitaker (The Last King of Scotland). I'm going with the safe bet. Not only did this man win the SAG and Golden Globe Awards, but his body of work is most deserving and his performance is supposed to be uncanny as Idi Amin. DiCaprio's "work" as a South African in BD is a joke, and he screwed his chances by being pushed for both BD and Departed, Gosling is a dark horse, but doesn't have the body of work, O'Toole is a sentimental favorite...always nominated but never a win (criminal that he didn't win for Lawrence of Arabia or Becket), and Will Smith just doesn't have the chops. My money and Justice (not that it exists) falls on Forest Whitaker (Ghost Dog, The Crying Game, The Shield, Bloodsport...LOL, that's for you JJ) to take home the statue.

Nominees for Best Supporting Actor: Alan Arkin (Little Miss Sunshine), Jackie Earle Haley (Little Children), Djimon Hounsou (Blood Diamond), Eddie Murphy (Dreamgirls), Mark Wahlberg (The Departed). Arkin is the sentimental favorite, and I'd be fine with him winning. Honsou is just an amazing actor in process of building an impressive list of screen credits...but Blood Diamond isn't one of them. Wahlberg puts in a good performance in Scorcese's remake, and I'd also be fine with him winning...after Boogie Nights and Huckabees, this is my favorite performance of his. Now we come to the real battle: Haley v/s Murphy. Former child actor, Jackie Earle Haley of The Bad News Bears flicks (he played Kelly Leak) comes back to deliver an impressive performance of a truly conflicted individual...a child molester. Any other year, I'd say he would take it...but he's battling Eddie Murphy's comeback in Dreamgirls, and you know how people love comebacks. We remember all the things they did to impress us before, and lose ourselves in the nostaliga of what our lives were like back then...subconsciously linking those memories to that person's performances. They're triumph becomes ours...and that's why I'm betting Eddie will take the Oscar. However, there is the possibility of upset...which Eddie is helping with the release of crap like Norbit, and then I'd say it would be between Haley and Wahlberg.

Nominees for Best Actress: Penelope Cruz (Volver), Judi Dench (Notes on a Scandal), Helen Mirren (The Queen), Meryl Streep (The Devil Wears Prada), Kate Winslet (Little Children). This category really has some talented actresses. Cruz has won acclaim at Cannes for her performance in Pedro Almodovar's Volver, and has a laudable body of work behind her. Likewise Judi Dench has won before, and has several nominations, as does the almost obligatory annual nomination of Meryl Streep (though if anyone argues that this is an Oscar performance for Prada, I would say you're an idiot), but I think it's really between Kate Winslett and Helen Mirren. Go with the safe money, like me, and the pick is Helen Mirren as Elizabeth II in The Queen. She's got the best credits with no wins, and has won all the awards leading up to the show.

Nominees for Best Supporting Actress: Adriana Barazza (Babel), Cate Blanchett (Notes on a Scandal), Abigal Breslin (Little Miss Sunshine), Jennifer Hudson (Dreamgirls), Rinko Kikuchi (Babel). Safe bet again lays the trophy with Golden Globe winner, Hudson, for Dreamgirls. I thought Breslin was amazing in Little Miss Sunshine, but as far as child actresses go...why Ivana Banquero wasn't nominated for Best Actress for playing Ofelia in Pan's Labyrinth remains a mystery to me. However, Breslin needs to develop a list of credits, Blanchett (while awesome as usual) already has a win, and I don't feel any vibe on Bazarra or Kikuchi for Babel...so I believe Jennifer Hudson will take home the statue.

Nominees for Best Picture: Babel, The Departed, Letters From Iwo Jima, Little Miss Sunshine, The Queen. My heart screams Eastwood again and again and again here...since according to all accounts (I'm seeing it next weekend) he has created another masterpiece from the master-artisan phase of his legendary career. However, with 2 wins as Best Director and Best Film, I think it's unlikely. Little Miss Sunshine will not win since it's not exactly Oscar Fare (they don't normally like comedies) and it truly was a triumph to be nominated, and The Queen won't win because not enough people have seen it. This leaves us to the battle...Babel v/s The Departed. The safe bet is Babel...winning the Golden Globe award earlier this year...but I'm picking The Departed. Yes, I said The Departed...even though it made my List of Worst Films of '06. As I said in my review, I liked parts...but Infernal Affairs (the original Hong Kong flick it's based upon) was better and DiCaprio was miscast. Most of the Oscar-alumni haven't seen IA, and are enchanted with DiCaprio (which I hope wears off soon), and I think it's Scorcese's time. They've passed him over time and time again...but now I think and hope that he will be rewarded for Goodfellas, Raging Bull, Cape Fear, Mean Streets, The Last Temptation of Christ, Casino, and other classics. However, Babel may win...since Hollywood likes to think that because they vote a certain way, talk about things they don't understand on television, or wear their smarmy ribbons and t-shirts...that they are actually "doing something" to support causes and highlight issues that are far too complex and, literally, ugly for them to truly dirty their hands with. So they may make themselves feel good and vote for Babel, while their illegal third-world housekeepers and servants work for pennies in their mansions at home.

Nominees for Best Director: Alejando Inaritu (Babel), Martin Scorsese (The Departed), Clint Eastwood (Letters From Iwo Jima), Stephen Frears (The Queen), Paul Greengrass (United 93). My pick here is Scorcese, for all the reasons that I outlined above in the Best Film category. In my mind Eastwood would win every time, but he's beaten Scorcese twice now, and I hope/think that the Academy realizes that sometimes they need to honor Altmans, Kurosawas, Kubricks, Scotts, and other true visionaries with Oscars, and not just the ceremonial kind. Don't know how Greengrass is nominated for Director of a film not considered good enough to make the Best Film category, and the others are again competing against Scorcese's whole body of work, not just his current entry.

Nominees for Best Foreign Film: After the Wedding (Denmark), Days of Glory (Algeria), The Lives of Others (Germany), Pan's Labyrinth (Mexico), Water (Canada). Tough call...if there was any justice then Guillermo Del Toro's Pan's Labyrinth, the only one on the list I've actually seen, would win. That film was amazing...and just another great film in the developing career of a great filmmaker (Blade 2, Hellboy). I've heard good things about Water, but this one is up in the air. I actually wish that Eastwood's Iwo Jima was an entry here, and therefore a sure winner like it did at the Golden Globes, but I'd be thrilled with Del Toro getting some much deserved recognition. So...I'm picking Pan's Labryinth...although it's with my heart, and from nowhere else.

Nominees for Best Adapted Screenplay: Borat, Children of Men, The Departed, Little Children, Notes on a Scandal. This one is tough...Borat has a chance, since it's genius work and this is the only thing it could possibly win. Likewise, it's a crime that Children of Men isn't nominated for Best Film and Best Director, since it's SO MUCH BETTER THAN THE DEPARTED, amongst others in the category. The Departed has a definite shot if the Academy decides to make it Scorcese's night, and I'd put Little Children and Notes up as dark horses. I'm betting on Children of Men to take it, since it should have been nominated and could have won the big two. Let's hope some justice prevails. However, like I said...don't be surprised if The Departed takes this one too.

Nominees for Best Original Screenplay: Babel, Letters From Iwo Jima, Little Miss Sunshine, Pan's Labyrinth, The Queen. Again, my heart says Del Toro's Pan's Labyrinth since he wrote the screenplay also. However, I'd say the competition will come from Iwo Jima and Sunshine. I'm going to go out on a limb and take Pan's Labyrinth again, even though the safer bet will be on Sunshine, I believe, to win a vote on what Hollywood thinks is independent spirit, and just so that cute girl can get more camera time.

Those are my major picks...some are with the heart, and not purely logical...some are what "should be" and not necessarily what will be. On the other hand, if it was me nominating and choosing (like in the perfect world it would be) then nominees for Best Film would be The Fountain, Children of Men, Pan's Labyrinth, Letters from Iwo Jima, and The Departed. Likewise for their respective directors. Yes...I'd put The Departed on the list, but that's because I also feel Scorcese is an unhonored Master, and his body of a work as a whole triumphs over those of filmmakers who haven't won, but are nominated. Anyway, check out the Oscars (the only awards show I watch annually...although I will be watching The Grammy's this year, since The Police are reuniting) on February 25, 2007. Until next time...The James is out.

2007-02-04T06:32:00.000-08:00

ROTJ: NOTES ON A SCANDAL & THE JAMES' FILM CREW MEETING #3

Richard Eyre's Notes On A Scandal was being advertised as a Hitchcockian suspense-driven thriller, so when I made plans to attend a screening as a Film Crew meeting, I was prepared for some stern stuff. It also boasted two grand dammes of cinema: Judi Dench (M in the new James Bond flicks, Shakespeare in Love, Mrs. Brown) and Cate Blanchett (Galadriel in LOTR, Elizabeth, Talented Mr. Ripley). Both fantastic actresses, both former Oscar winners, and both currently nominated for Oscars in Notes. Therefore, my expectations were quite high. This usually represents danger for me...but luckily the film rose to the occasion. The plot revolves around Dench's character, Barbara, and her obsession with a new teacher at their English public school: Sheba, played by Blanchett. What follows is an escalation of obsession, but not one that rings the same predictable bells as all of the film's predecessors. I'd have to compare the plot to Cable Guy (sorry), but the tone to more of One Hour Photo. Avoiding all cliches, especially things that would have altered the tone of the film...or taken it away from its realism and into fantasy...the film conveys a creepy, dread-filled menacing tone which is delivered by Dench's character who is also the narrator of the film. The audience silently watches in dread as things get out of hand, and is prepared to be shocked...unfortunately Hollywood has preconditioned us to just await "when things get out of hand and somebody grabs a hatchet"...but thankfully this film remains more restrained...and hence, believable. No, Notes is not a flick that deters from its original premise...the journey of the audience into the twisted world of Dench's bizarre character, and the ultimate revelations within the film force one examine their own natures, as they learn the consequences of isolation and trust. I'm giving this flick a 4 out of 5, since 5's are reserved for the truly special...films that could be consciousness-altering, groundbreaking, or just the coolest things I ever saw. What was definitely 5 out of 5 was the incomparable performance of Judi Dench as a completely believable monstrosity of a human being dedicated to finding a person (willing or unwilling) to join her in her trap of isolation. Likewise Blanchett gives of herself completely to the film, bringing pathos and understanding to a character that in anyone else's hands might have seemed like a sensationalist stereotype ripped from recent headlines. While I think Helen Mirren and Jennifer Hudson will win the Oscars for various reasons, these ladies give truly Oscar-worthy performances. As far as the Film Crew meeting...let's say that 4 guys meeting to watch a film about 2 women was IRONIC to say the least. However, Williams, Lazenby, Tommy Grotti, and I watched it with due sensitivity and appreciation...except where Judi Dench described how in school she and her female compatriots used to "stroke each other." What followed was adolescent, puerille, and I'm embarrassed to admit to being complicit in our idiotic reactions...we giggled. I blame my company, but regardless...we had a great time, saw a worthy film, and then followed with lunch and a lengthy discussion on its merits. Next week's selection looks like Eastwood's Letters from Iwo Jima...so make plans to attend.

2007-01-28T06:52:00.000-08:00

DINNER WITH FRIENDS...AND A LEGEND

Howdy all. This weekend is the F/X Con in Orlando, and I was previously scheduled to go and hang out with my good pal, John Higashi, and our equally grand amigo, Craig Zablo. I was mostly interested in getting two more of the Serenity crew to sign my film poster, and possibly a couple of the guys to sign my Terminator poster. Artist-wise, I was interested in meeting Gene Ha, artist of Alan Moore's Top 10 and most recently The Authority, and of getting to talk to one of my idols...Writer/Artist Matt Wagner. If you aren't familiar with Matt's work, he is the creator/writer/artist of Mage (modern-day take on the Arthurian mythos with hero Kevin Matchstick as the Pendragon...yes, Matchstick as in part of my email, and I have a tpb cover...the only cover of anything that I own), Grendel (taking the villain of Beowulf's name and several incarnations of an assassain for hire), and several Batman, and other DC projects. (I even have a Batman commission he did for me a few years back air-brushed on to a jean jacket I have) I had met Matt a few times before, but hadn't had the chance to talk with him in the past couple of years. Anyway, circumstances as they are, and with MegaCon so close, I ended up not being able to go. However, my friend John Higashi would not let that stand. He had gone to great lengths to set up a dinner with Matt and Gene Ha on the Friday evening following the convention, and urged me to drive out...if only for the dinner, for which he was graciously picking up the tab. I went back and forth about it in my head, seeing as I truly had no money, was teaching on the Friday, had a rehearsal, and nothing is ever simple about taking off quickly...but when he called me again Friday afternoon, I said "Hell Yeah." I left my MND rehearsal early, grabbed an overnight bag, a couple of Matt's hardcover books, and hauled ass to Orlando...Emerill's at Universal to be exact. I met up with John, Matt, and Gene without a problem and then proceeded to have one of my all-time favorite evenings in the past few years. I did my best not to "geek-out" in front of Matt, and even managed not to do the old Chris Farley thing..."So...Matt Wagner...creator of Mage...you know when you took like, the old Arthurian legends, blended them with the archetypal hero's journey and Greek Mythology, and put them into graphic novel form that shook the world...and continues to spread its influences in both independent and mainstream comics around the world...you remember when you did that?" "Uhh...yeah?" "Yeah...that was awesome." I managed not to do that...although that was going through my head. It turns out that Matt is a huge "foodie" or person who enjoys fine cuisine, and dazzled us all with tales of his culinary adventures across the world. Yes, The James was silent in that part of the conversation...since I'm not exactly the most sohpisticated guy in the world, especially with food...but then films came up. I heard the bell ring folks, and then I could contribute to the conversation and not feel like a complete idiot. After dinner...two had Atlantic Redfish, Gene had Duck, and I went for the steak...I'm a daredevil, we had parts of two desserts, and then left Universal. I followed John as he dropped Matt and Gene off at the hotel, and then went with him back to his lair, surrounded by crack-whores, meth-labs, and junkies in his econo-suite apartments. We stayed up for a while talking about art, looking at some of his new acquisitions (always mind-boggling), and relishing the fact that I had not acted like a complete idiot in front of someone whose work has always been near and dear to me. One drag was that Craig StalloneZone Zablo decided to go back home after the con, so I missed hanging out with another good friend of mine, but hopefully we'll catch up next time. I left early the next morning to make my Film Crew's gathering, leaving my books with John to get Matt to sign, and am now looking forward to hanging with him again for the MegaCon, and further adventures. Thanks again, John...for giving me so many opportunities to meet and hang out with several of my favorite creators outside of the convention arena. You are the Man. Check out Matt Wagner's work in Mage, Grendel, Green Arrow covers (the Green Arrow postage stamp), and Batman mini-series.

2007-01-28T06:16:00.000-08:00

ROTJ: JOE CARNAHAN'S SMOKIN'ACES & THE JAMES' FILM CREW MEETING #2

It was the second scheduled meeting of The James' Film Crew, and I had chosen Smokin' Aces as our new flick. After watching Pan's Labyrinth last week, I wanted something in a completely different direction, and this seemed like the perfect candidate. The film was shot with Carnahan's penchant "shaky cam" action sequences, much like Greengrass and others today, and his flawed characters that display their true natures when embroiled in impossible situations. The plot was fairly simple...the mob wants Buddy "Aces" Israel, played by Jeremy Piven, dead, and they send out a million-dollar contract which gathers a group of competing hit men together at his hotel to kill him. Add Ray Liotta and Ryan Reynolds to the mix as FBI Agents attempting to prevent the hit, and you have the typical "shoot-0ut" plot that seems commonplace. (There is a "twist" that supposedly happens later, but the first half is dreadfully easy to figure out, and the last half doesn't matter) I knew that if Carnahan managed to give us characters that were alive, and had journeys to complete within the film, that the plot would be largely irrelevant, and much enjoyment would be had. Unfortunately, Carnahan failed. The flick wasn't awful, and I did like parts of it very much. Alicia Keys was fine in her role as a hit-woman, Ben Affleck and Peter Berg complemented well as bail-bondsmen sent by Jason Bateman's coked-out lawyer to retrieve Buddy Israel, and Liotta and Reynolds put forth decent performances which seemed out-of-place in this emotionally-empty vacuum of a film. I'm not saying that deaths and violence have to have profound meanings or implications...not every film is a meditation on the nature or consequences of violence like Unforgiven, or A History of Violence, but where Tarantino and even Guy Ritchie succeed in action flicks is in combining brutality and humor inside their invented stylistic worlds...the violence doesn't resonate deep emotional blows, or cause the audience to search for meaning since it's part of the stylistic texture of the film. Carnahan's film, on the other hand, seems abrupt and, absent this style that Tarantino and Ritchie have, it leaves you wondering if you should care deeply when characters die, and even feel cheated when they die and you don't...because ultimately the characterization was brief and shallow. Overall, I thought Jason Bateman's performance was outstanding and hilarious, the kid without his Ritalin doing Kung-Fu was absolutely insane, and others will claim Jeremy Piven was awesome...but I can't stand Piven, so I wasn't impressed.

Our crew this week included the lovely Sheena B-N, her husband the stoic Jeff N, Gallac & Jamin, Williams, Lazenby, and the amazing Kaitlyn G & Rachel M at the flick but not at the lunch following. I hope this crew keeps meeting in various forms, and will be sending out the invites for next week soon...I'm thinking Notes On A Scandal looks good unless something else turns up. Until next time...The James is out.

2007-01-21T04:27:00.000-08:00

ROTJ: GUILLERMO DEL TORO'S PAN'S LABYRINTH

The fact that this film made the top of hundreds of Best Film lists made me annoyed, but unsurprised, that my hometown Butthole, USA would wait weeks to get it here. However, it was the fact that it was Del Toro's next film that made me insane about it. Del Toro, he of the Hellboy, Blade 2, and The Devil's Backbone coolness. After Hellboy, Del Toro decided to go back and make another low budged personal film, much like Devil's Backbone, and now we have Pan's Labyrinth. I was a little disturbed by how the film was being marketed, since it concentrated solely on the fairy tale aspects of the story. It is not a classic fairy tale. Rather it is a dual narrative with a young girl coming to live with her pregnant mother and new stepfather (a cruel military officer) at an outpost in the forest as he tries to crush a rebellion during the Spanish Civil War, and her journey (whether real or imagined) into a world of fairy tale, guided by a faun. Yes Lameos...it's subtitled, and 3 people discovered this during the first 5 minutes and walked out. I rounded up a great crew of people to see this, including Lovely Sheena B-N, fellow poster Gallac & Jamin, and the Dark One...Lazenby. We all shared the same opinion: IT WAS A WORK OF ART. Possibly Del Toro's finest film thus far, it works on multiple levels and doesn't miss any depth for including so many things. It amazes me how some truly fantastic films can include so many things done right, while others fail in the attempt of painting a masterpiece...and it ends up shallow. The acting was amazing, and that's everyone involved in the picture. Ivana Banquero, the little girl playing Ofelia in the film, is absolutely amazing, and on her way to being a huge "Dakota Fanning-like" star. The special effects with the creatures and the other worlds will amaze you, and make you forget that this film is indeed a low-budged artistic project. However, it's Del Toro's ability to render the tragic need for escapism of a little girl caught in an impossibly cruel situation, a mother's inability to help her child though she loves her, the cruelty men who believe they are "right" are capable of, and then manages to wrap them all up in a fairy tale context that will break your heart that makes this film spectacular. I admit to being "moved" once, near the end...and challenge anyone who is not machine or cylon not to be. I saw this film this year, so I'm sure it will end up on my top 10 for '07, but if it was last year...like everyone else in the civilized world, then I'd rank it after The Fountain and Children of Men. I give it a 5 out of 5, and recommend it heartily to the tasteful cinema lover. Now, like many of you, I await Del Toro's next project...Hellboy 2.

2007-01-20T16:33:00.000-08:00

David Beckham Signs With MLS

If you weren't living under a rock, or dead, you might know now that International Soccer Super-Star David Beckham signed a 5 year contract with the L.A. Galaxy in Major League Soccer worth approximately 250 million dollars (after endorsements) to begin as soon as his contract ends with Real Madrid in July. Now the uproar has already been huge, with critics lambasting this as foolish since they claim his best soccer days are behind, Real Madrid's Club President said no "top" level teams wanted him, and it's been suggested that this has more to do with Beckham and Posh wanting to live in L.A. amongst their celebrity friends, like Tom Cruise. Supporters of this huge event (because support or detract, you can't deny it's huge) argue that Beckham's international appeal will turn the spotlight on MLS in a way that will increase its visibility and credibility both at home and abroad, tickets will sell more and players will make more money, the quality of play will rise since he's a former World Cup Team Captain and Manchester United EPL Champion, and Champion's League Winner, and that other top-notch world players will follow his lead and make the move to the United States.

Now...where does The James fit into this huge controversy? I'm a huge International Soccer fan, and watch the EPL, Champion's League, MLS and even Italian Serie A avidly. I think Beckham was a hell of a player, and proved that with his career. He played for Manchester United and Real Madrid, won the highest Club Championships that one can win, and was Team Captain for England for 5 years or so. After the '06 World Cup, and Sven Erikkson was fired as England's Coach, Beckham was asked to step down as Captain, and then left off the squad for their next International matches. I for one am not ready to write off the man when he's only 31, and think England will miss one of the most brilliant passers and set-piece experts I've ever seen. We all watched Zidanne work magic at 36, and Figo was still unbelievable to his mid-thirties, so it's not the age. I'm going to give him the benefit of the doubt, hope he still wants to play, and anything...ANYTHING that gets people talking about MLS is a good thing. As far as the questions surrounding his motivation to make the move...well, I think the President of Real Madrid sounded like a jilted lover. They tried to sign Beckham to a 1 or 2 year deal, so THEY WANTED him, but then didn't want to give Beckham a starting position. How can anyone blame him for taking the highest offer, and a guarranteed start? As far as other European clubs, I don't see the man going back to EPL when he already played for years on Manchester United, the regular top team, and then go on to play for a team further down the table (Although that might have been cool if he went to Chelsea). I think he's smart to take the offer, and hope he retires after his contract to buy an interest in a team. I don't see him as an actor with that panzie voice of his, but that's my opinon. I guess we'll just have to wait and see what happens, but I for one am down for watching MLS next season.

2007-01-15T15:46:00.000-08:00

In Memoriam...Significant Losses from '06 According to The James

Just wanted to recognize a few people who headed off into the great beyond. We will all miss their creativity and talent, but I'd say that each and every one of them have left behind work or legacies that will be enjoyed by millions for years to come. Each and every one of these people (listed in no order of importance) meant something to me at one time or another, and it's the least I can do to recognize that here and now.

1. Robert Altman: This list had to start with one of the true greatest American Maverick Directors that ever worked in the film industry. Where do I start with this legend? His body of work reveals a list of varying genres, eras, and themes...it also varies according to genuine hits (MASH, Nashville, Gosford Park), and misses (Popeye). It's obvious that his actors will miss him, since every one of them look back fondly on their experiences working with him in the collaborative atmosphere that he created on his film sets. In a business where film is mostly commercial at a certain level of significance and exposure, Altman endeavored to keep his integrity complete, and always proceeded with his films in an independent and creative direction. I think he would have rather failed with a film that was pure in its creativity and intent, rather than succeeded after hacking it out with whatever ending or shots tested well. I'll miss his use of dialogue, the way he let the actors portrayals tell the story rather than the plot dictate the portrayals, and especially the genuine feeling of expectation I had whenever watching an Altman film. I mean, you just never really knew where he would take you with the story...like life, his films seemed sentient and evolving with mysterious purpose while you tagged along for the ride.

2. James Brown: The Godfather of Soul has knelt, taken his cape, and been escorted offstage for the final time. I think I first discovered James Brown through Eddie Murphy doing imitations of him on Saturday Night Live, and then in The Blues Brothers flick, and finally seeing him in Rocky IV. Everyone will go on and on about his contributions, and his influence is felt whenever you see today's hottest performers (Prince, MJ, Justin Timberlake, Lenny Kravitz, etc...). I will miss him like I miss the original artwork of a great painting or comic, since it just shines brighter and with more luster than any of the imitations that come after it.

3. Martin Nodell: Many of you might not be familiar with this man, but in fact he was the creator of the Green Lantern. Way back in 1940, Mr. Nodell became inspired by the Wagnerian Ring saga, and created the Golden Age Alan Scott version of the Green Lantern. Illustrating the first few adventures himself, under the pseudonym Mart Dellon, Mr. Nodell began to create one of the most iconic characters of the DC Universe. In the '60's, Julius Schwartz reinvented Nodell's creation with the Hal Jordan version, taking on more of a sci-fi, pulpy direction and adding to the character's evolving mythology. Many Green Lanterns have followed, but all of them are born from the original creation of this gifted artist. Going to a few conventions a year, I had the pleasure of meeting Mr. Nodell a few times, and I'm glad I had the chance to talk, if only briefly, with a creator of his significance. I for one wish that DC would have had the grace to acknowledge Mr. Nodell's accomplishment in Green Lantern comics with a byline that read "GL created by Martin Nodell," in the same way that they give Bob Kane credit for Batman in every Bat comic. Perhaps they will now, after all...it seems our humanity always surfaces after it could do anyone any good.

4. Jack Palance: First time I ever saw Jack Palance act, it was in that version of Dracula he did that was on late-night television when I was a kid. Scared the hell outta me. Next time I saw Jack Palance act was in a low-budged sci-fi cult film called Hawk the Slayer, and he was the villain. Again...scared the hell outta me. Like everyone else, I fell in love with him in City Slickers, and cheered him on as he made the most of his return to the limelight doing 1-arm pushups all the way. Playing "Curly," he taught me one of the great truths of life: "You know what the secret to life is...this. One thing, and nothing else means shit." The only difficulty I have ever had has been figuring out what that one thing is for me. Then in a college film class when we were dissecting messianic archetypes, we watched Shane, and there was Palance again...intimidating, leering, and stealing his scenes as the gunfighter. He was a force of nature on film, and was likewise in life. I remain a fan of his work and legacy that, like my friend Zablo's favorite film icon Rocky, "it ain't over till you hear the bell."

5. Don Knotts: Yes, I watched The Andy Griffith show re-runs when I was a kid, and before I could appreciate the genius of Griffith's dry humor, or many of the other characters on the show...Don Knotts was funny to any kid at any age. Barney-Five is a legendary character, brought to life by the genius physical and character acting skills of an incredible performer. I also loved Mr. Knotts' films, especially The Incredible Mr. Limpet (which I hope they never remake), No Time For Sergeants, and the few films he did with Tim Conway at Disney, like The Apple Dumpling Gang, etc... While I loved Norman Fell's Mr. Roper on Three's Company, I also thoroughly enjoyed Knott's Mr. Furley, even as the show itself became tired. A winner of several Emmy awards, Mr. Knotts' work on television and film will remain a landmark in the minds of multigenerational audiences, and a standard of excellence that all performers can aspire to as an ultimate goal.

6. Dave Cockrum: Who can forget the amazing reboot of Stan Lee's X-Men with Giant Size X-Men Number 1? It was one of the most important modern age comics ever, and one I swindled a guy for back in the early 90's. (I swapped a Web of Spiderman #1 and $20 for his copy) It brought Wolverine, Nightcrawler and Colossus into the X-Men, and they remain my favorite X characters. I had the pleasure of meeting Mr. Cockrum at a couple of conventions, and even managed to get a Nightcrawler sketch from him. I can't tell you the hours I spent growing up reading X-Men, and enjoying stories based on characters that he helped create. I hope the world sees a new crop of amazing artistic talents spring up...because it seems like all the greats are leaving.

7. Peter Boyle: I don't know which movie of his extensive career it was where I first saw him...The Dream Team, Johnny Dangerously, Taxi Driver...but it was Young Frankenstein that made Peter Boyle a legend to me. Besides the fact that the movie is as close to comedic perfection as you can get and is one of the great Mel Brooks/Gene Wilder collaborations from the 70's, it marked my introduction to an actor capable of enormous range in performance. His creature did everything in that film...drama, subtle comedy, physical slapstick, erotic intrigue, and even musical numbers. I only wish Peter Boyle had a few more "great" roles to add to his already impressive resume. In his later years, he worked in television...doing a memorable stint on NYPD Blue and then taking a long-term gig on Everybody Loves Raymond as "Frank Barone."

That's it for last year. Many more moved on, but this list was about ones who meant something significant to me. Until next time...The James is out.

2007-01-14T07:31:00.000-08:00

Best & Worst Events of 2006 in the life of The James

Here's a quick compilation of the highlights (both good and bad) from last year for me. Looking back and analyzing things can give one a clearer mindset to interpret the road ahead, or at least make it easier to set up new goals, and that is the purpose for this post, along with recognizing and crediting some people for things that are important to me...something that I should do more concurrently. Let's start with the best and work our way down to the worst:

Best Moments of 2006 (Listed chronologically, not in any other significance):

1. Directing "Harvey" for the 2nd time at OPHS (Feb): It's not just because this is my favorite play of all time, or sentimentally because it's the first play I ever directed, but because it was a farewell, or last hurrah of one of my most talented and impressive collection of Imagination Players Troupe members since the founders left a few years back. Matt M, Matt W, Rachel W, Jarrell F, Hollie B, Kaitlyn G, Rachel M, and Lazenby...thank you for making it such an enjoyable experience, and know that you are all missed.

2. Running the Gate River Run in Jacksonville, FL...and surviving (March): I'm not a runner, don't claim to be, but am one who occasionally runs. I've always been into lifting and Scottish Heavy Athletics, but I did used to play soccer so running wasn't entirely foreign to me. In fact, my former answer to the question "Do you run?" used to be "Only when chased..." That changed when my mentor at OPHS, Mr. Combs laid down the gauntlet to me about running the River Run. He coached me on my training, and soon I developed 3 goals for said 15k (9.3 miles) race: 1) I wanted to live, 2) I wanted to finish the race, & 3) I wanted to do it in under 2 hours. These might not seem like impressive goals to some of you, but to a guy who had never run more than 2 miles before the training...it seemed like a lot. The good news is...I lived, finished, and did it at about 1:58:37 or so the newspaper said. Look for my results this year in the paper...

3. Reconnecting with the Lisas (March/Dec): I'd hate to jinx this, but I did reconnect with a pair of ladies who were some of my closest friends in the 80's and 90's, and only during this decade have we fallen out of touch...mostly due as usual, to me. Both named Lisa/Lise Fisher, and best friends and roommates, they were satellite members of the Fisher clan who were my second family growing up. Running into them at MegaCon last year was awesome, and then hanging out a little with Lisa at Christmas this year was enough to make some informal plans about visits for this year. Hopefully, this will turn out...my friends that I actually trust are always a short, exclusive clientelle, but unfortunately it only gets smaller...

4. All trips to Atlanta to stay/hang out with the Laytons & Crew (All year...probably more often than the Laytons would like): This proves to be an annual highlight on this list, but I have to mention it nonetheless. For some reason, Eric and Mimi Layton don't seem to mind me coming up to their place in Atlanta periodically and staying for a weekend. Many people think seeing me once in their lifetime is more than enough, but not these two. It's a testament to their graciousness and empathy towards a soulless, single, narcissistic guy like myself that I'm welcome, and actually feel "comfortable" in a world not of my own making. I'm usually travelling with John Higashi, and we ordinarilly include some other regulars in Atlanta there also (Brian, Stine, etc...) in eating, drinking (usually me and too much), and watching an independent flick at the Tara Mark Theatre on Cheshire Blvd. It's always a highlight to me, and one I look forward to again with great anticipation.

5. The 2006 World Cup (June/July): If you don't know what a huge soccer fan I am, then you don't know me. I think 1986 was my first World Cup, and I remember watching Argentina, Italy, and Brazil at my Aunt & Uncle's trailer in Middleburg. When I was a kid I played soccer for 5 or 6 years, and went to several of the Jacksonville Tea Men games, when we had a professional soccer team in the now defunct NASL. Fast forward to 1994 and I watched 48 out of 52 games in the World Cup when it was held here in the U.S.A., and even watched our International Squad take on Moldavia in a friendly after the Cup. It's always been a passion of mine, and the creation of the MLS in USA hasn't taken the edge off of the intensity that I get when World Cup gets closer. It truly is the World's Sport, and the Beautiful Game...nothing, not NFL, NHL, NBA, MLB nor any other sport even comes close. It's my dream to one day get to see a real World Cup match...hopefully one day that will happen. Anyway, while USA sucked thanks to Bruce Arena's backpedalling, and it will probably continue to suck since they won't do what's necessary to hire an elite international coach (IE the recent failure with Jurgen Klinsmann), it was nice to watch some of my favorite players play in their final Cup (Zidanne, Beckham, Figo, etc...) and new favorites discovered (Messi, Fabregas, Henry, Tevez). Italy won the show...but watching Zidanne up until he went nuts in the final with the head-butt was like watching art being created in front of your eyes.

6. Teaching A/P English (August to present): This year, OPHS decided to expand the A/P classes and sections taught to include more kids, so I was offered the chance to teach an A/P English 11 class. It was kind of an honor to be recommended, and I took the opportunity. Working with brighter kids is always a plus for me, and I took and passed the A/P English test when I was in school...so I thought "why not." I had no idea of how much I would have to learn as far as the content and material taught on this test...until I attended a 3 day workshop over the summer. It's intense, folks...and the kids? Well, some of the kids are brighter than the average duck...but others are about normal with good attitudes. We'll see how many, if any, of my kids pass at the end of the year.

7. Dragoncon & YOTJ (September): If you didn't know, last year was officially Year Of The James. I know because I dubbed it so myself, accidentally, and it caught on. People were saying it in communications back and forth that I wasn't even a part of...and Brian Stelfreeze, Artist Extraordinaire, was signing his emails with YOTJ. It all goes back to me declaring that '06 would be my next time to acquire a piece of Stelfreeze original art, to complement my previous pieces of black & white and watercolor pieces. It was supposed to happen at Dragoncon, and I had no clue of what to expect. To say that I was surprised when Eric and Mimi, John Higashi, and Brian wore T-shirts with YOTJ, my picture stolen from MySpace at last year's River Run, and images of my watercolor pieces from Brian, on them would be an understatement of my genuine shock, and the sincere humbleness I felt at this unexpected and moving gesture of their affection for me. Likewise, I was both shocked and moved by Brian's artwork...both pieces. My choice was Ra's Al Ghul, and Brian had pre-done a black & white piece, and did a watercolor piece during the show. It capped off an already awesome weekend at my favorite show to attend every year. Somehow, and for some reason unbeknownst to me...I was blessed with amazing friends. I hope they know how much I appreciate them, and what YOTJ '06 meant to me. Can't wait for the next YOTJ...

8. The Wire Season 4 on HBO (September to November): I love good drama, and if you didn't read my Best Shows Returning to TV post a couple of months ago...The Wire was at the top. The writing was the highest calibre, the acting, the direction...this show is better than all of the other cops shows you've ever seen...and doubled. This season, unbelievably, the show became even better and more complex...focusing subplot attention on a group of inner-city kids, their school, the usual cops/dealers/hoods, and the political arena. This season was also more enjoyable because I could finally talk about it with people who also watched (sometimes I feel like I'm the only one who truly seeks out things that are cool) like Dylan, JJ, Rick, and others. I can't describe the intense satisfaction I gained from watching this season develop, and stay true to the creators' intent. Congrats HBO...now give us those Deadwood films you promised us.

9. The Fox Soccer Channel/English Premier League Soccer (October to present): After watching every World Cup, I go into a heavy Post Soccer Depression. The symptoms are all there...plain as day: food doesn't taste as good, American Football lacks the same intensity, MLS Soccer just isn't enough...and then a miracle happened. I had intended to seek out pubs that catered to European clientelle (was thinking the Beach or 5 Points) and noticed listing for the Fox Soccer Channel. After making inquiries I discovered that it would only be an additional $5 per month, so I jumped on it. Folks...it has been a change in my life so fundamental, that I am almost moved when I talk about it. Every weekend, and sometimes during the week, I tune in to watch the English Premier League play, watch Italian Serie A, Argentinian Soccer, and even Champions League, and the FA Cup. I see the best of the World Cup players playing for their respective professional clubs, and it's so damn awesome. Maybe that's why I'm in a better mood lately than I usually have a right to be. Anyway...this definitely qualified as a highlight on my Best Of List for 2006.

10. Nominated for Teacher of the Year (December): At first I thought this was a joke, but it turned out to be genuine. I was nominated with 3 other people for Teacher of the Year at OPHS. I knew I wasn't going to win (I don't look the part, don't kiss ass, don't network, and don't take enough credit for things I do or claim to do, and I was right...I didn't), but it was "nice" in some ways to be considered. The only reason I even did the ridiculous little interview thing for it was because so many less-than-intelligent people at the school don't consider my department to be a serious entity, worthy of consideration, or "essential" to the curriculum. Congrats to my pal, Kim, for winning...she absolutely rocks, and especially since I voted for her anyway.

11. GCFF VII (December): My annual film festival event just gets bigger and better each year. I was extremely pleased with GCFF VI, and moderately so with VII. We had some glitches this year, but I am endeavoring to learn everything about Powerpoint, Editing, and so on to take more of a "hands-on" approach to the festival's award show finale, and take it to a higher level of coolness next year. Congrats to all my filmmakers this year for making it worthwhile, and especially to Bethany K and Ryan S for writing and directing Grave Silence, this year's Best Film winner.

12. Directing "Amber & Eve" at UNF in Dr. Monteleone's Playwrights Project '06 (December): After writing, directing and acting in last year's Playwrights Project at UNF, I was asked to direct a 1 Act play for the '06 event. Gathering up some former I Troupe members was fairly easy, and it made the experience surreal, nostalgic, wistful, thrilling, enjoyable, and immensely satisfying all simultaneously. I say we kicked some ass, and many others thought so as well. My thanks and my affection pour forth for Sheena, Hollie, Jen, Lazenby, Bad-News Crews, Steve, and Big Mo. I wouldn't have done it if it hadn't been an opportunity to work with you all again.

Worst Moments of 2006:

1. Nominated for Teacher of the Year: All of a sudden people I don't know "know" me, and I hate extra attention...added to the fact that it's a dog and pony show at best, and subjective B/S at worst.

2. Missing HeroesCon in June: I missed my first Heroes Convention in like 9 years or something this past year. I was low on funds since I chose watching the World Cup to be my summer job, and it doesn't pay much in dollars, but infinitely rewards the soul, and I had some family stuff going on, and these things conspired to prevent my attendance. I really like that show, for the art, meeting some of the guests, and hanging out with the crew most of all...and I plan to go back this year.

3. Being Sick for Oct, Nov, and Dec of '06: This totally sucked, since I loathe being sick at all. I was a wreck and just couldn't shake this sinus-infection/flu thing that I had. It prevented me from working out, and made doing the GCFF, directing "Amber," teaching, and pre-production work on "MND" incredibly difficult. Much of that period is a blur to me.

4. Comic Bodega Closing: My pal Dave closed his comic shop, and I lost another cool place to hang out and get comics. I went back to my old shop at Universe, and they are cool...but it's not like hanging with people and talking b/s for an extra hour or two every other week. That's a good comic shop, man.

5. No Money...Paying Off Bills: I had less money this year, since I decided to break the chains of slavery that still operate in this country: Credit Card Debt. I'm paying off stuff now, and unfortunately this leaves funds in a meager state...but I look forward to the day when I only have 1 or two major things taking money out of my check each month. Take my advice people...if you don't have money to pay for it in cash...you don't need it.

So that's it people...more good than bad, although the few bad things felt like forever. '06 was pretty cool, but I'm thinking '07 will be even better.

2007-01-13T03:12:00.000-08:00

WORST FILMS OF 2006...ACCORDING TO THE JAMES

Howdy all, TJ here. This post is for my pal, EZ E aka Bear, aka The Meat-Man, aka The Bloody Butcher, aka Lesbian-Candy, aka Mr. Mimi Layton. Anyway, EZ E claims that I like too many films, and always challenges me to name ones I can't stand. I take challenges...in fact, I recall purchasing a Justin Timberlake cd in Atl recently that EZ himself desired, but was too intimidated to buy. Well, here is my Worst List of '06, and I've limited it to 5 films that I personally had to endure while watching them. I didn't include the obvious awful films that I wasn't dumb enough to pay to see...you know, films that like human excrement, you can smell the stink on them from a mile away. Putrescent gems like The Omen remake, Blood Diamond, Fast & The Furious Tokyo Drift, The Pink Panther, and You, Me, & Dupree. The filmmakers and intelligenstsia behind these cinematic life-stealers should be flayed alive and dropped in acidic bubble baths. Anyway, on with my list in descending order...saving the "best" for last:

5. X-Men 3 The Last Stand: Let me say from the beginning that for once, I don't blame the director here. Brett Rattner (Rush Hour, Red Dragon) was basically brought in as a "jobber" to complete a production that had already been bailed on twice (Singer & Vaughn) and was working to bring the film in on a deadline demanded by the personal ego of Tim Rothman, head of 20th Century Fox Studios, since Rothman was engaged in a pissing contest with Bryan Singer over his departure to make Superman Returns. (Personal Note for everything Rothman did to sabotage X-Men in the beginning, desiring to claim credit when it was a success later, and everything he did to lose Bryan Singer and cost the fans a great trilogy: SCREW YOU ROTHMAN...DIE!!!) The end product was X-Men 3: The Last Stand. I'm thinking that folks came up with that title after watching early screenings of the film, since it was one horrible pile of shit. The opportunities squandered with the quintissential X-Men story, The Phoenix Saga, are incalculable. What is seen is double to triple the usual amount of characters on screen...which equal less characterization (Hell, we learned all there was to know about Angel in the film from the previews...except his schmaltzy look at his father after his messianic rescue effort), a Wolverine that I suppose uses his incredible healing factor to quickly overcome his grief over the death of Jean Grey (it took him 1 scene), and the complete and total gutting of Jean Grey's character into a monosyllabic-terminatoresque monster role, where Famke Janssen had about as much emoting to do as Michael Myers in Halloween. I hated this film on pretty much ever level, excluding the geek-out enjoyment of watching Beast on the screen. Compared to 1 and 2, which are in my top Comic-adaptation films of all time (post coming soon), this one is like a phallic-shaped weed with covered in manure beside 2 long-stem, immaculately groomed roses.

4. The Departed: Yes, I know. I said it, and I meant it. I know it's Scorcese and I freely acknowledge that he is one of the true masters of the artform working today. I also "like" some of the film...Nicholson is awesome as usual, Damon is good, and I like Wahlberg now...in fact his performances in Boogie Nights, I Heart Huckabees, and The Departed almost make me forget "Marky Mark," and Planet of the Apes. Now we get to the real problems: 1) It's an inferior remake of a better film: Infernal Affairs. The rule is that if you remake something, it has to be better...and the ones that usually work are re-envisionings, not revisions...like Snyder's Dawn of the Dead, or Scorcese's own Cape Fear. Unfortunately, this is not better than the wonderful Hong Kong flick I watched the year before, and it's not re-envisioned: the whole plot scenario with the building and the cops and mob showing up at the same time is taken directly from IA. Now we come to the more glaring problem with The Departed: Leonardo Dicaprio. How this guy convinces anybody that he's a tough guy is beyond me. I'm not saying that this guy can't act...I thought he was amazing in What's Eating Gilbert Grape, and very good in Catch Me If You Can, and The Aviator. The problem is when he tries to play tough guys that I start to laugh my ass off...and no actor, not even Daniel Day-Lewis himself possesses the craft to act like Dicaprio is someone to be afraid of, or intimidated by. The roles he plays well acknowledge or make use of his feminine features and lack of masculinity and it works fine for him. However, Dicaprio and Scorcese have missed the boat when they think he's the perfect fit for Gangs of New York and The Departed. What baffles me is WHY Scorcese has adopted "Leo" as his new on-camera persona, after he worked with "Bobby" (Deniro) for so long. Some film critics have explained this as Scorcese literally exploring the masculine with Deniro's "raging" presence and now intent on uncovering the feminine with Dicaprio. I for one, am sick of it, and laugh at all those who buy into Dicaprio's sad-ass tough guy schtick...Go see him butcher a South African accent as a "bad-ass" in Blood Diamond while you're at it. I thought that perhaps Scorcese might be grooming Day-Lewis as Deniro's heir-apparent after Age of Innocence and Gangs of New York, but Day-Lewis doesn't work fast enough...even by Scorcese's standards. I put this on my worst list for wasting a potentially great Scorcese film with such an obvious poor casting choice.

3. Superman Returns: You know, the one consolation I had when I heard that Singer was leaving Fox and X-Men, was that he was going to be heading up the Superman reboot. I am an avid Bryan Singer fan, with The Usual Suspects, Apt Pupil, and X-Men 1 & 2 being some of my favorite films. I was also excited that Singer was going to use former Suspects alumni Kevin Spacey as Lex Luthor. Cool...very cool. Still yet more shockingly, and amazing, was that Singer planned to continue the groundwork from Superman 1 & 2 that Richard Donner had laid. Awesome!!! Then...things started to go down. Kate Bosworth was cast as Lois Lane based on...what, exactly? Her fine performance in the moronic and abyssmal Blue Crush? Win a Date with Tad Hamilton? Or was it that she was in Spacey's Bobby Darin bio-pic, Beyond the Sea? None of these roles captured the spirit of an aggressive, tough, ballsy but hot Lois Lane. However, I could let that slide...for Singer, I mean he hadn't failed me so far. Then the casting of Superman: Brandon Routh. Okay, I saw this guy...and he looked like a good Clark Kent, if a little young. However, I kept getting a little uneasy that no sign of him acting in a scene was available even all the way up until the trailer. When it finally came time to see the film, I was apprehensive, but I had faith in Singer. Folks, that's what I get for having faith. The film's narrative didn't bother me like it did many...although when I thought Singer was going to "follow" the work of Donner, I didn't think that meant directly imitate plot points, (Luthor's after real estate, again?), or borrow lines from those films in a failed attempt at homage that became theft. Spacey and Parker Posey were fine...but Bosworth was horrible and looked so out of place with the tinted dark hair, and Routh...Routh's performance was a bad, bad, bad Christopher Reeve impression done by an actor who doesn't possess a fraction of Reeve's charm, charisma, or humor. I won't even add comment on his physicality, except that from the side he's so thin that if I punched him in the gut, it might go through his back...and Superman doesn't have fey or male-modelesque looks. He's a simple farmboy, bumbling city news employee, and a demigod in a cape...no time for eyebrow plucking. Superman The Movie made me believe a man could fly, and Reeve was the perfect embodiment of a godlike hero who was a farmboy at heart. Anyone with an ounce of pretension could never be Superman, and Reeve became a legend. Unfortunately, all Superman Returns made me believe was that even the best directors make mistakes...and this one cost hundreds of millions of dollars, and jeopardizes the cinematic future of one of pop-culture's greatest icons.

2. The Lady in the Water: M. Night, M. Night, M. Night...this was the "make or break it" film, with The Sixth Sense being great, Unbreakable being a work of art, and then...The Village. The Village strained the confidence of Disney's development staff, enough that they were ready for your ramblings in The Lady in the Water...and they passed. Maybe it was your intention to use their money for scenes that had nothing to do with the plot, but to serve your own ego when you included the character of the movie critic. Get over yourself, dude. The Village sucked, and critics didn't make it suck...you did. So you find a new backer, determined that you're right, and the suits don't understand your genius, and that "narfs" are cool...Get some help, man!!! I like Paul Giamatti in everything, that's not the problem. It's Bryce Dallas Howard for one thing...extremely unattractive and unappealing to look at, and the story itself is anticlimactic, silly, and has a glaring flaw: the complete and total lack of any skepticism over the B/S raised in the film's narrative at all. Everybody just hears this fairy tale crap and immediately shrugs and goes "Yeah, we've got to get involved." WTF? I mean, what about 1 guy who hears that she's a chick named Story from the Blue World and there's a grass-turfy-looking monster after her and says "Blow it out your ass, I think you're full of it." Wouldn't that have added a sense of realism to this otherwise completely sad and assinine melodrama? Okay fine, if she's enchanted and people just immediately flock to her...shouldn't someone at least notice this and comment on that so we get it? I still don't think a skeptic could have helped this debacle of a film succeed, but it bothered me endlessly. Anyway, I hope that M. Night Shymalan comes back with some great stuff, because he's made two awesome flicks...but I fear that he might suffer from some of the success-driven demential that plagued Orson Welles after Citizen Kane.

1. The Davinci Code: You waited for it, and here it is...ladies and gentlemen last year's worst film according to TJ was another collaboration between Ron Howard and Tom Hanks (Splash, Apollo 13.) I've never been a fan of Ron Howard's directing (A Beautiful Mind, Ransom, The Missing)...he's never innovative or particularly interesting with his camera choices, and does much of the same banal material, but Hanks on the project, bringing his Gary Cooperesque brand of sincerity left me a glimmer of hope that this might be at least, enjoyable. Audrey Tatou, Paul Bettany and Alfred Molina being cast lent even further hope, but landing Sir Ian McKellan made this a must-see film for me. Unfortunately, it turns out that Ron Howard could only turn out Ron Howard material, and Tom Hanks was woefully miscast as the inexplicably mulleted Robert Langdon. I have never seen Hanks as an aggressive character, or even what is called a "handkerchief actor" where the actor attempts to steal every scene their in with behavior or gestures. However, the complete passivity of Hanks' Langdon rendered the film almost unwatchable to me during my one and only time ever wasting hours of my life on it. Audrey Tatou made more moves than him, and kicked more cinematic ass as his character just watched everything happened around him. No, I wasn't wanting him to be Indiana Jones, but at least act like a man. It felt like I was watching a classroom presentation on Europe: Architecture & History...with about as much tension or suspense. That much talent in a film based on the world's hottest book (besides all things Harry Potter) and this is the result? That's why The Davinci Code makes the top of the list as '06's worst film of the year.

So that's it folks, and FOTJ. Let me know if I picked on any of your favorites of last year, or if we share the bond of suffering for having survived watching some of these celluloid criminal acts.

2007-01-07T17:08:00.000-08:00

TOP 10 FILMS OF 2006...ACCORDING TO THE JAMES

First, let me just say that this was incredibly difficult. While my friend Eric might say that I "just like every movie," he's far from right. I love CINEMA as a whole to be sure, but I'll do a "Worst Of" list just for his benefit as well. These films include all those I saw in theaters last year, one I had to see on DVD since it was foreign, and 1 I just saw yesterday that only just came to Jacksonville...because it's the "cultural butthole of the world." Anyway, on with the 10 in descending order...

10. Lucky Number Slevin: This film was a complete surprise to me, since I was ready to hate anything with Josh (Pearl Harbor, 40 Days & Nights, etc...) Hartnett, and I hadn't heard of Paul McGuigan's directing work either. (Ironically I rented his Gangster #1 before, and never got around to watching it...I will now.) So, it was on a friend's recommendation that I checked this flick out, and I admit to being completely BLOWN AWAY by it. Don't you love it when you find an unexpected gem, like a surprise present for you when you're sure everything is awful. Hartnett truly evolved, and I admit to liking his past few choices (Black Dahlia, Sin City) so I will not be averse to what he puts out in the future. Bruce Willis makes the smart play here with a fine ensemble piece instead of another gaudy starring action role of questionable merit (Die Hard 4, anyone?), and of course you can't go wrong with Morgan Freeman or Sir Ben Kingsley who graciously allow others to coexist in the scene they happen to be stealing. Lucy Liu...sigh...amazing, cute, sexy...the usual. You can check out the film, but Lucy Liu is mine...

9. Lady Vengeance: Wook-Park Chan is one amazing filmmaker. True, he happened to finish a trilogy of films on vengeance, a thematic issue close to my own heart. However, it's what he managed to "say" about vengeance that makes him special. His view goes back to Ancient Greece, and the warnings of the gods against those who would dispense their own form of retribution. It's true that Lady Vengeance does come after what many consider his magnum opus thus far, Oldboy, and perhaps to many it might seem a little anticlimactic. I think though, that it's getting the Jackie Brown beating, or the same treatment Tarantino's follow-up to Pulp Fiction received. Years later, everyone realizes how awesome that film is, and I believe it will be the same with Lady Vengeance. Check it out...and Sympathy for Mr. Vengeance, and Oldboy.

8. Apocalypto: Man, that Mel Gibson. What a year this guy had...but he finished it with a fantastic film that thrilled and moved simultaneously. While many are focusing on his powerful thematic statements, or rather indictments, of our cultural era, people forget that besides these allusions, it's a pretty kick-ass action flick also. I was blown away at how easily Gibson made these completely foreign people familiar in a few short minutes, necessarily creating the bond with the audience to create empathy for all the struggles to come. While the parallels to current events are obvious, I was surprised to get a real anti-organized religion vibe off this one as well. Curious, considering everything he's been through lately. Anyway, people should remember that everyone in Hollywood is probably nuts and you wouldn't want them for pals...but I damn sure want some more Gibson films like Braveheart and Apocalypto.

7. Casino Royale: Remember all that B/S about "Blonde, James Blonde," and all the reports about what a sissy this guy was during filming, and he couldn't even drive a stick-shift, and etc...Folks, Bond is back and better than everyone since Connery. This film brought it all back to basics (not surprising since the two Bourne films have created the anti-technology spy genre) and it worked...brilliantly. While I wasn't really impressed with anyone besides Daniel Craig and of course Judi Dench, it was an intense film with incredible action and humor (what you need in a James Bond film) and even some emotion...used as perhaps an explanation for the heartless bastard he will become. I look forward to the next one, and hope the usual idiotic producers get a director as good as Martin Campbell.

6. The Prestige: I reviewed this one already, but it still stands in my mind as powerfully as it did the day I saw it. Chris Nolan is a true genius, and he knows how important it is to cast the right people (See Memento, Insomnia, Batman Begins.) Bale, Jackman, and Caine make this film a classic, and Nolan stays true to enigmatical form, taking the audience through the twists and turns to its ultimate satisfying conclusion. I never saw The Illusionist, but can't wait to compare the two. However, I find it very hard to believe that someone could rival Chris Nolan.

5. The Proposition: Many people have commented on Nick Cave's brilliant script about a bloody western set in Australia, and others have commented on how visceral and gritty Guy Pearce and the incredible Ray Winstone are, but I was in awe of John Hillcoat's direction. Check out how truly UGLY and gritty this film is...(the flies, alone.) I used to think the Spaghetti Westerns of Leone and Corbucci were gritty, but this one could top them. The issues of family are complex, along with civilization v/s savagery, and while they are touched on in the film, none are resolved...like life. Life is a messy bunch of contradictory elements that one must navigate on their path through it...much like Guy Pearce's character Charlie in this flick.

4. Brick: A modern film noir set in a high school. Sounds like B/S, but it actually worked, and worked well. Using mostly a cast of unknowns (the kid from 3rd Rock from the Sun was the lead) director Rian Johnson brings back the spirit of Chandler and Hamnett in his tale of murder, vice, and intricate deceptions. While enjoying all the noirish elements on display, I found myself casting it with my own Imagination Players Troupe regulars, and it made it even more hilarious. If you get to watch it...Lazenby would play The Pin. I am eagerly awaiting Johnson's next flick, which supposedly has Rachel Wiesz attached.

3. V for Vendetta: Truly, any of the top 5 films on this list could be swapped around and be #1 to me, but this one perhaps most especially for sentimental reasons. I read this book many years ago as a teenager, and it was a profoundly moving and even consciousness-altering experience for a guy who lives primarily inside his own head. We have all suffered while watching Alan Moore's creations ruined onscreen time after time (League of Extraordinary Gentlemen, Constantine, From Hell) and this one seemed likely to end up the same way, and very well could have except for...the Wachowski Brothers. Forget how bad Matrix 2 & 3 were...and yes, they were bad, but go back to Bound and The Matrix. These guys get film and how to use it to make a person think and feel. While their protege James McTeigue might have directed, their influence was felt all over this flick. You ask me what my politics are...I'd answer "Watch this film." Meeting David Lloyd, the original artist of the book, was another incredible thrill on the otherwise amazing "YOTJ."

2. Children of Men: Just saw this one Saturday with Jess and Jamin, but it has to go on here. Alfonso Cuaron has created a masterpiece...it's that simple. His vision of the nihilistic remnants of a world where the human race is infertile and dying out is grotesque, tragic, and completely believable. While Clive Owen, Julianne Moore, Michael Caine, Chiwetel Ejiofor, and Peter Mullan turn in great performances, it's what Cuaron does with the camera...focusing equally on both humanity's grievous faults and unbelievably selfless actions...that make this visual tapestry of wonder resonate so deeply within. I admit to being..."moved" at least 4 or 5 times. This film should be nominated and win Oscars...but should implies justice, and that's in short supply.

1. The Fountain: I saw this one on a sneak preview deal, and was overcome with its power and scope. I love a film that I "get," but find it hard to explain. "What's it about," people say to me, and the only thing I can think to tell them is "Life and Death and what's important." The movie is a psychedilic allegory, or mediation on life and death and the connection between them both with everything in the universe. It's Hugh Jackman's opus performance thus far, another fine role for the incomparable Rachel Weisz, and a masterpiece for director Darren Aaronofsky (PI, Requiem for a Dream.) I am so glad Chris Nolan is directing Batman, since I can't think of anyone else I wouldn't be wondering "what if" with, since Aaronofsky left the project. Not everyone will appreciate The Fountain, many will simply fail to understand or appreciate its magnitude...since they lack the same qualities about the rest of life. It opens up to those who actually care to speculate on the meanings of things, and not the instinctually-inclined who merely slumph along between sensory-heightening activities. Magnolia was my favorite touchstone film to watch whenever I felt too detached and needed to reconnect with something "human" in humanity, but now I can add Children of Men, and The Fountain.

That's it...and it was rough. Honorable Mentions include: Borat, Beerfest, Running Scared, Talledega Nights, Miami Vice, A Prairie Home Companion, The Matador, and Rocky Balboa. Films I didn't get to see, but wanted to desperately were: Inland Empire, The Science of Sleep, Pan's Labyrinth, Bubble, Thank You For Smoking, The Illusionist, Black Dahlia, and United 93. Until next time...The James is out.

2007-01-01T19:00:00.000-08:00

"AMBER & EVE" DIRECTING AT UNF DECEMBER '06

Just now getting to this one, again catching up. Earlier this semester, Dr. Pam Monteleone had asked me if I would be up for working on her annual Playwrights Project at UNF, and since I had a blast last year (writing, directing, and acting...okay, not so much the acting), I readily agreed. Also, I was only too happy to help out a lady that I think does a thankless job for her students, and not only receives unwarranted apathy, but even abuse for giving so much to them, and only expecting competence and enthusiasm in return. Anyway, I also agreed because it was an opportunity to round up some of my former Imagination Players Troupe members, and work together again. The one act play I was assigned was entitled "Amber & Eve," a short piece about an actress who is forced to make a choice between fulfilling her dream of being onstage, and threatening her relationship with her father...since she has to kiss another woman in the play. It was written by a UNF student named Chris Hill, and he played a part in it as well. After meeting with Chris and going over some rewrites, I was excited about getting my cast together and starting on a two-week production. Now, remember, I was also producing the GCFF, casting/cutting Midsummer Night's Dream, teaching, and battling my dreaded illness throughout the entire month of December. I hope my cast will forgive me if at times I acted less than graciously, and only human. Anyway, my cast was ALL-STAR, not that I didn't have other especially talented people that I couldn't work with for one reason or another, but I was just thrilled about working with my cast...and since I didn't get paid for the gig...my level of enjoyment was paramount. The cast included Chris Hill, the writer, as Nick, the incomparable Hollie Barrett as Jessica (the lead), the sultry Sheena Branton-Nichols as Star, the wonderful Jenny Young as Jasmine, Matt "Pecker" Crews as the Reverend (father of Jessica), the unstoppable Steve Scruby as Bud, and...(drum roll)...the one...the only...Dark One himself...Lazenby as the Director. My crew for the show consisted of my stage manager, and understudy for whoever happend to be late or unable to attend: Big Mo. The brilliant Sasquatch-like boy they call my "son," was not only reliable, but remarkable and his contributions to the success of our show cannot be fairly recounted here. My cast met with me every day for 2 hours, 2 weeks straight, right up to the dress rehearsal and two nights of performance. I will not just say that I was proud...because that would be too small. No, I was ecstatic (like Mike Tyson), ecstatic on the performances they gave. While our Saturday night performance was marred by people who kept arriving late...the Sunday one was better managed, and I thought more effective as a whole. Hollie was her usual impressive self, Sheena humanized a problematic unidimensional role, Jenny moved the audience with her emotional performance, Matt likewise made the most of a flat role, Chris acquitted himself in his first performance admirably, Steve breathed life and humor into the performance as the hormonally-intense Bud, and Lazenby...Lazenby was Lazenby, and the crowd went wild, as usual. (It's amazing how many parts we can find where Lazenby can just play himself to a higher or lower level of affectation...and it works.) I also want to thank all my people who came out to watch the show...those that saw, and the less-than punctual ones who came Sunday and were locked out during our performance. It was a lot of work, and I admit to questioning my decision to do the thing many times during the production, but I never had anything but fun when I was surrounded by, and working with my people again. Anyway, that's about it...next show I'm doing is Shakespeare's Midsummer Night's Dream which opens on the first weekend of March. Make plans to attend...

2007-01-01T14:06:00.000-08:00

GCFF VII: This year's Gotham City Film Festival '06 was a success...in spite of obstacles!!!

Howdy all. If you didn't get to attend '06's GCFF on December 6th, you missed one hell of an event, and I'm just now getting around to commenting on it. Let me end the suspense: GRAVE SILENCE won the Best Film Award, with Best Directors going to its pair of directors: Ryan Simmers and Bethany Koch. Other awards worth mentioning were Christina Christensen winning Best Actress, Tenea Hunter winning Best Supporting Actress, Reed Wilcox winning Best Supporting Actor, Alex Salas winning GCFF Maverick & GCFF MVP, Steve Scruby winning GCFF Maverick, and John Ross winning Best Villain. I thought the show was a success due to the efforts of a large number of people, including Silent Tom, Alex Salas, Rachel Wimmer, Jenny Matsuki, Steve Scruby, and so many more that it's hard to mention them all. There were some obstacles this year, including computer difficulties at the festival, a poor turn-out of 6 films finishing, and many of the films looking rushed due to lack of planning and production on part of the filmmakers. GRAVE SILENCE, on the other hand, looked like it had been crafted over a few weeks, and even with its minor glitches, was the hands-down best choice for effort. A large number of my former students/GCFF award winners came back to present awards, and I'd love to thank them all, or at least the ones I can remember: Jarrell, Matt M, and Matt C, Chris W, Hollie, Rachel W, Kaitlyn G, Neal, Dan & the Mighty Nuge, and the Dark One himself...Lazenby. Thanks so much you guys, I love to see you all come back and support us...it means the world to me. I want to congratulate all the filmmakers, and vow to make '07's GCFF bigger and better than ever before. I will more "hands-on" with the festival production this year, since I have begun learning some things on computer, and am about to take over the Television Production Class at OPHS. I also have a few other ideas in mind to raise the bar yet again. This festival needs to keep growing and getting better...since the only other choice is to stagnate and die. As long as the kids keep wanting to work, I'll keep doing it. Hope to see you all there this year.

2007-01-01T13:43:00.000-08:00

WHERE HAS THE JAMES BEEN???????

Yes, loyal fans...FOTJ, I am back. Where have I been? You might ask...I might even answer, and this post will settle it once and for all. No...it hasn't been a grand holiday, or a two or three month adventure, but rather an ORDEAL. That is what the past few months have felt like and only very recently have I emerged with my former vitality and intensity. A few months ago I started coming down with what felt like a regular winter-season flu, or even a sinus infection. I began my treatment with a self-diagnosis, and with my normal stand-by: Dayquil/Nyquil. Well, this wasn't cutting it. Hell, after the first week and 2 or 3 boxes of the "Quil," I was feeling just as bad, if not worse. My job brings a lot of contamination and germs my way on a regular basis...kids are the worst when it comes to sickness and they love to share, so I didn't give my initial poor feelings much thought. After the first week or two without any help from the "Quil," I reached out to something I had seen on television: Mucinex. The directions scared me a little: two a day...NO MORE, so I asked a few people about it. Everything I heard about this product was great, and I started it. I took it for about 2 days, and slowly...VERY SLOWLY, it began to have an effect. I felt a little better. I wasn't as congested, but I still had headaches, and still felt lethargic. Finally, when about 2 weeks had elapsed, I went off the stuff...I WAS SICK AGAIN WITHIN 3 DAYS!!!!! Now folks, I was sincerely pissed off. I hate being sick...I ABSOLUTELY HATE BEING SICK...and it seemed like I kept getting it again and again. Not to mention this had now become the "crunch time" for me at work, where I had to produce the GCFF, direct a one-act show for UNF, and cast/begin translations for our Spring production of Midsummer Night's Dream at OPHS. I began to despair a little...to tell you the truth, and even considered briefly visiting one of the society of ex-Nazis known as a physician. That's when I decided to give Tylenol Sinus Medicine a go...both normal and SEVERE. Severe worked, and quickly. I felt like hell one night of our dress rehearsals at UNF, and the next day I felt great. I kept taking this all through the first half of December, and only stopped when I came back from visiting the wonderful Laytons in Atlanta. I have now been about 2 or 3 weeks off the "stuff," and am feeling pretty good...with the obvious exception that I HAVEN'T WORKED OUT IN ABOUT 2 OR 3 MONTHS...and I feel/look like hell. So...that's what happened to me...sickness of biblical proportions and deadlines, and any time I wasn't working or feeling miserable I was trying to sleep and get well. I will be back at this more regularly now...at least weekly, like my main inspiration: the StalloneZone, so keep checking back. Happy New Year to all I give a damn about, and let me know what you think of the blog.

2006-10-22T15:23:00.000-07:00

ROTJ: THE PRESTIGE

You saw it here first: ROTJ is Review Of The James, and here is one on THE PRESTIGE. I admit to looking forward to this movie ever since BATMAN BEGINS opened last year, and I'm an acknowledged Chris Nolan addict of the highest order ever since MEMENTO, which is one of my favorite films of all time. So...my expectations were high, and that ordinarily spells doom for any film that I'm anxiously awaiting. NOT IN THIS CASE, HOWEVER...IT WAS FREAKIN' AWESOME, and I mean that in the most sincere, sober tone that I can muster. The story, adapted from Christopher Priest's graphic novel, tells the story of a rivalry between competing Magicians at the conclusion of the nineteenth century. The plot contains surprises and twists that I won't ruin here, but let's just say that if you're smart, and as the movie says "watch closely," then you can figure out what's going on, even if you don't get every thing. I admit to figuring out a few things, but Nolan is such a master at this type of storytelling, that I was only satisfied to the highest degree, and not bored, that the story turned out how I predicted it would. Now I didn't see everything coming, but enough that I was hoping for a "just" conclusion, and Nolan delivered. Coming off the best Batman flick ever made, Nolan took the amazing Christian Bale and legendary Michael Caine to PRESTIGE, and joined them with the charismatic Hugh Jackman and the sultry Scarlett Johanssen for the film's leads. They all perfomed to the height of their abilities, with Caine only getting more nuanced and emotive the older he gets, Bale still protecting his reign in my book as the most talented and intense actor since Daniel Day-Lewis, Jackman probably giving his best performance since the first 2 X-Men flicks, and Scarlett...well I'm sure she was great, but I get lost in just looking at her. David Bowie and Andy Serkis rounded out the main players as Nikola Tesla and assistant, and they brought nothing but class to an already intimidating cast of great players. Folks, I am giving this a 4 on a 5 scale, knocking it only for not totally surprising me, but still being awesome nonetheless. (I love this flick, but have to hold the 5 for films like MEMENTO and PULP FICTION that are landmarks to cinema as a whole itself.) Go see it guys, you won't be disappointed!!!

2006-10-22T14:47:00.000-07:00

GCFF Part Three: Visiting the set of GRAVE SILENCE & Hanging out with Zombies...

Howdy all. It's not every day that one gets invited to a film set, whether student or professional, nor is it every day that one gets to hang out with Zombies. I GOT TO DO BOTH TODAY, and it was pretty awesome. Bethany Koch and Ryan Simmers, the co-writers, creators, & directors of GRAVE SILENCE, invited me to come and take a peek as they did some pick-up shots of their Zombies walking through the woods at a local park. I arrived when asked, around 9:30, and found to my dismay that they still hadn't begun. The make-up should have been already applied, which would have taken around an hour or so, and I was just supposed to watch the shoot. Unfortunately (especially for Bethany & Ryan) I discovered that one of the realities of student-filmmaking had struck them: the unreliability of kids their age. It was the third day of shooting over the weekend for the dynamic duo, and Ryan told me that the past two days had met with considerable success. This Sunday morning though, all the people that he and Bethany had planned on using had suddenly become unavailable, or impossible to reach. So, in order to save the day they had been scrambling all morning recruiting new zombies (Bethany was even driving around town chauffering several of them personally) for the shoot. Anyway, I didn't have anywhere to be until 11, so I hung out and watched the make-up application process. I was extremely impressed, but not surprised, that Bethany was the master behind the make-up, with able assistance from Ryan, Maddy and Jenny, among others. Zombie recruits like Mary, Rachel, Trees, Ben, Brian, Big Mo, Amanda, Victoria, and Dani were joined by the return of one of our most legendary Drama students: LAZENBY. Yes folks, and Lazenby fans, the DARK ONE himself showed up and allowed human hands to apply Zombie make-up to his delicate skin, and then proceeded to demand to be annointed ZOMBIE KING, since he probably would be the snotty, elitist Zombie amongst undead society. After the make-up application was complete, (including the disgusting process where Ryan had them line up and stand while he threw fake blood over them all) Ryan and Bethany planned out the shots (graciously listening to my suggestions since I admit to geeking out and giving unsolicited tips onsite) and then proceeded to execute some cool shots of the Zombies, walking through the woods in search of human flesh. My time quickly ran out, but I happened to grab some cool shots of the whole process, and look forward to not only visiting GRAVE SILENCE during shooting again (and any other of the 10 films that invite me), but also to the final film which I'm calling as the leading contender based on my reading of the script. Hopefully, Ryan and Bethany can match their superior writing skills with some intriguing filmmaking style. I'd love that.

2006-10-20T14:15:00.000-07:00

GCFF Part Two: Director's Meeting & Interviews with Chris Sirmans & John Ross

Howdy all. The GCFF is in full swing now, with filmmakers shooting at random locations and the feeling of overwhelming madness is in the air. In order to combat this very thing, I make it a point to hold weekly Director Meetings on Thursdays after school to cover certain things with the kids (LIKE DEADLINES), keep my board on the wall updated with jobs completed for all the rest of the Drama students (non-filmmakers must complete 3 film jobs by end of 2nd quarter for credit), and to let the directors voice problems that we can solve quickly. At this meeting, we brought up the subject of their shot lists being due, their film poster deadline, this year's GCFF t-shirt and poster designs (we are still in need of both for any would-be designers), and I gave them the date for the Director's Party, which will be the Thursday after the film's ultimate deadline of November 27th. I like to reward them in a small way with food and tokens of my esteem for going through the process, and then listen as they share their stories about the process as a whole. It was productive, but as one who hates meetings (and pretty much humanity as well) I kept it short.

Interview with Chris Sirmans, Director of THE LEGACY:
TJ: Tell 'em who you are, man...
CS: Chris Sirmans, Senior, 17 years old.
TJ: ...and LEGACY is your first film?
CS: Right...this is the first film I've directed.
TJ: Alright...so what inspired you to even attempt this...I mean, you're not even ADVANCED DRAMA...you're a Drama 1--
CS: DRAMA 1.5, actually...I guess I was inspired by the group I've always hung around with...I mean John Ross (Director of THE UNSEEN & this year's HUNTER) and a few of the others...basically just everyone in Drama, and I had a story to tell.
TJ: I'll say...I mean THE LEGACY is quite a unique entry into this year's festival...what inspired this particular story?
CS: Well..I guess I liked THE LEGACY because it represented just taking an idea and breaking it down into something real. I mean, it's about something that's being passed on, from a grandfather to his grandson...and in this case a retiring superhero from a past generation who is passing down the torch to his grandson and--
TJ: Superheroes?
CS: Yeah, I knew I could sell that to you too, Mr. Howell..but it was like bringing something fantastic down to earth, for me...if that makes sense. My own personal relationship with my grandfather has quite a bit to deal with it too, and the issue of respecting and valuing one's elders. Also...it helped because I have virtually no budget.
TJ: Will that be the biggest challenge, do you think? The lack of budget?
CS: I'd say my own self-doubt will be my biggest challenge, to be honest. I mean, I've never done this before...and I'm sort of a perfectionist, so as long as I make myself happy, I'll be pleased with it.
TJ: Okay...so what do you want the audience to experience when they see LEGACY?
CS: I guess I want the audience to take the message of "Appreciate one's elders"...since they have so much wisdom and knowledge to pass on, and I really feel that because my own grandfather almost passed away last year.
TJ: Alright, Chris...thanks. How about a final quote?
CS: Quote? "Legends never die......"

Interview with John Ross, Director of HUNTER:
TJ: Alright, John Ross...
JR: Hey Howell...
TJ: Give 'em the stats.
JR: John Ross, Senior, 17 years old.
TJ: Now I have to start with the fact, that you well know, that I loved THE UNSEEN...it was my pick for Best Film at last year's GCFF....I like THE LIST, but I thought yours was the best...but I don't judge....
JR: Right...thanks.
TJ: So HUNTER is your 2nd film?
JR: Actually it's my 3rd...I made THE UNSEEN, and a sort of untitled experimental one that I'm still working out....
TJ: I see...well what I loved about UNSEEN was it was experimental, complex, ambiguous...I mean you could take a variety of meanings from it...is HUNTER in the same vein?
JR: Definitely. I mean...I don't want to give the plot away right now, but I want the audience to get a certain feeling from it...more than any simple understanding...I guess I'm trying to provoke a similar reaction to how I felt when I thought of it.
TJ: I see...and what inspired HUNTER?
JR: A nightmare actually...
TJ: Really...
JR: Yeah, and some personal experiences that I've gone through this year that felt like a nightmare. It was an atmospheric type of setting where I wake up in the middle of students from foreign countries...all eating and talking...then the students are taken one by one to a metal door, and once through, are strapped down to a chair and have a drill bored into their heads.
TJ: Right....drill in the head, yeah. Now you and I have discussed our favorite filmmakers before, but who would you top out as your main influences here?
JR: Well, my favorite filmmaker is Chris Nolan.
TJ: Rock on...
JR: Yeah, I guess you could say that I'm trying to emulate his sense of grittiness and realism, but the main influence on HUNTER would have to be from Takashi Miike. I mean, he is the one guy that can take any completely normal situation and then through manipulation of mood and atmosphere make the audience feel like they are getting a glimpse of hell.
TJ: So what do you believe will be the biggest challenge you will face in shooting HUNTER?
JR: Probably the environment, or getting my locations and sets to show exactly what I want without interference from the rest of the world.
TJ: Ah, the pressures of low-budget filmmaking. What do you want the audience to experience from HUNTER, or is there a message in the film?
JR: I don't necessarily have a message in the film, unless it's something like "Love can drive a person to lengths they never dreamed possible...."
TJ: Alright, John and thanks. Final quote?
JR: "I hope HUNTER makes you uncomfortable."

2006-10-15T12:42:00.000-07:00

GCFF Part One: The Pitch Process

The GOTHAM CITY FILM FESTIVAL is underway people, and here is yours truly, The James, with a post on the first part of the process that every filmmaker must pass just to qualify for the right to direct a film in the festival: The Pitch. I could be the soulless bastard that most believe me to be anyway, and just let any kid make a film. That would be easy. It would also be easy, and somewhat amusing to then watch their grades crumble along the way with their self-esteem, as they slowly begin to understand the difference between the "idea" of doing something and the reality of the commitment involved in creating something as intensive as an original film. So, to eliminate the "dreamers" from the "doers"...I decided to have them pitch their idea to me, just like they would have to do with any producer in the real world, if they were lucky enough to get an actual meeting. The minimum requirements for the pitch are actually quite simple, but it's sufficient to bring out the best in some, acquaint others with the realities of what they might be facing, and frighten off the few who don't have what it takes to do the job. All that was required was 1) A typed summary of the 10 minute film with working title, and 2) A scene-by-scene outline of the film with actual locations specified for each scene. This lets me know that they are serious, have planned out what story they want to tell, and that they have scouted out possible places to shoot. THAT'S ALL....NOT EVEN A SCRIPT!!!! So...I had about 15 directors (either solo or in pairs) sign up to pitch...and here's the result:

1. Reed Wilcox's BLINK: Reed's a classy guy that has a lot of clout with me. His brother, Neal, acted for me for 4 years in shows, and Reed was even acting for me before he became an Orange Park High student in one of my shows. He and his brother have won GCFF awards before for the BLADES & BUCCANEERS flicks, and his own SIMPLE INSANITIES that he shot with Steve Scruby last year. So...I wasn't really worried about Reed taking this seriously, since it wasn't going to be his first barbeque. Anway, he met me at Firehouse (always a smart move pitching to me at a favorite food spot of mine) and told me about his suspenseful labyrinthine journey of the mind film that he calls BLINK. I was impressed, as usual, and it was easy to approve him even when he candidly told me that he was still working out the ending. Funny thing is, Reed isn't even my student, and has never been, but he loves Drama and filmmaking, and meets every deadline that my kids do because of his sheer love of the craft. APPROVED.

2. Alex Salas' CAN YOU FEEL IT: Alex is pretty much an MVP around the Drama Empire. I count on him, Bethany, and Megan to handle a ton of stuff that I couldn't do alone, so when he expressed interest in doing a film this year, he really could have handed me anything and I would have worked with him on making it acceptable. Like I said, the kid has earned his spurrs in Drama, but let me also say that he is......."unique." Anything Alex does, it's very......"Alex." He just has his own way of seeing the world, and when he told me that he wanted to shoot a musical, with NO DIALOGUE, and even NO ACTUAL SINGING, but with characters lip-synching popular songs for their communication in the film......................................I was a little concerned. However, Alex Salas would not be deterred. I will work with him as best I can, but I am still very concerned; not so much about his grade (he earns more extra credit than any other 5 people) but........with his sanity. CAN YOU FEEL IT?.......I'm starting to think I can.........APPROVED.

3. Steve Scruby's THE ASSET: Possibly one of the most intelligent, articulate, and insightful kids I've ever had the pleasure to work with, Steve is making his own film this year, and it's a 50's Film Noirish Hard-boiled style Detective drama. Of course, he had a definitive story, articulate presentation, had done his research on the genre, but I do worry for him in regards to costuming, sets, and getting people to take his vision (which is often beyond most of the norms) seriously. However, it's Steve...and he does work magic with groups in Drama, so I extend the benefit of the doubt. He's also, along with Reed Wilcox, among the most technologically proficient filmmakers in regards to editing and post-production. I've got my fingers crossed for this one. APPROVED.

4. Chloe Reed's WHO IS MR. R?: Chloe, Chloe, Chloe....this girl is one of a kind. I have always known that she has intelligence, charm, and sophistication but I think that it's finally going to be on display for the world to see this year. It's her 3rd year in my Drama class, and she's directing her first film which would have to be described as a suspense-driven psychological drama. Now, her outline had some problems, which we worked through, and one of the things I love about this girl is while she's tough and stands by her decisions, she is never to pig-headed or obstinate to take direction, especially when you can get her to see problems and then come up with solutions. I sent her away from the initial pitch meeting with suggestions, and she PROMPTLY came back quickly with corrections. In fact, I was extremely impressed with her ideas, and her wish to do something beyond the cliche High School type of story that most girls her age would be obsessed with. I'm a Chloe Reed fan, to be honest, and can't wait to see WHO IS MR. R.? After two subsequent meetings.....APPROVED.

5. Nicalette Thomas' COLOR BLIND: Nikki is one of 2 Drama 1 students who are making first films this year, and that means they have to be at the top of the heap. Ordinarilly, I want Drama 1 students to wait and watch the Advanced kids make films just to see what the process is like, but Nikki would not be denied. She had a story she desperately wanted to tell, and pitched her idea accordingly. Her film is a drama based on the problems that an interracial relationship might engender within the couple's family, friends, and surrounding environment. I was impressed with how seriously she took the pitch process, and hope she finds sufficient support along the way to ensure her film's completion. APPROVED.

6. Emily Hancock & The Valeri Kernell's JUST PLAIN WRONG: E-Ha and TVK doing a film together sounds like a recipe for success to me. They are definitely a yin/yang combination as each has what the other needs to be a dominating force in this highly competitive endeavor. While Val has the top-notch story-telling and script-writing skills along with organization, Em has an unstoppable source of creativity, spontaneity, and energy that when focused makes magic happen. One rules the original scripted realm, and the other rules the world of improv...sounds like a match ready to unleash itself on the GCFF. After batting around a number of ideas, including Stalker's Club (An idea inspired by both of their preferred dating methods), they decided on something closer to home with an unpretentious high school comedy, which is actually both a nice change of pace from our other grim toned entries, and could possibly the sleeper "feel-good" film of the festival. I think both these ladies rock, and am hoping for the best. APPROVED.

7. Erica Law & Samantha "Trees" Ivansco's NEW WORLD ORDER: I just met Erica this year, and she's been great in Advanced Drama, and this is the second year I've had the tiny force of nature that the classes refer to as Trees in my class, but when I heard that these two wanted to do a film...I was a bit concerned. Why? Well, much as I love Trees....and it's hard not to with her positivity and bizarred elfin laughter echoing in our warehouse-like environment, she's not the most organized kid walking the earth. Another thing that Erica shares with her is that they aren't exactly forceful personalitites, and that's something that I think a successful director has to be, on occasion, but especially when dealing with kids their age. That was at the start, then when they told me it was a Vampire film.....I was even more concerned. The possibility of a horrible cliche-driven accident of nature and grade-annhilating fatal thrust began to appear before me, but Trees and Erica assured me that it was a simple film in nature and that they wanted to do it more than anything. I don't know what I was thinking, but I eventually relented after they agreed to a few minor revisions and confirming locations. While I admit to being revulsed to yet another LARP-inspired idea becoming film, I guess with as many Drama kids into that as I have, it was inevitable. Maybe Trees just bewitched me, but...APPROVED.

8. Ryan Simmers & Bethany Koch's GRAVE SILENCE: Just an incredible pair of people that I've had the pleasure of working with for 4 years now. Both have worked for me extensively in class, in shows, and in the film festival as actors and offscreen duties. This year marks their first collaboration as directors, and I'm truly excited for them both. As far back as last year, I remember Bethany talking about making a film this year, and she and Ryan came up with ideas over the summer all in anticipation of where we are now. Their pitch was the most professional of the bunch, with summary, outline, script, and even test photos of their ZOMBIES in action. A story that begins with tragedy, love, and with zombies shot as a silent film will definitely be one not to be missed. I also have a credit in this one, since I inadvertently gave them the title for the film. This pair of insanely talented people will be a force to be reckoned with this year, and the other filmmakers should definitely view them with fear! APPROVED.

9. Chris Sirmans' THE LEGACY: The second Drama 1 student to take on the Herculean task of directing a film, Chris is a bright guy who steps forward from a crew of kids I know and respect to establish himself as a force to be reckoned with. His story follows a kid who is presented with the prospect of inheriting something fantastic from his dying grandfather, and the dilmmas that will be associated with possessor of this gift. I look forward to this film as well, as its subject matter is unique in the festival. Hopefully, if his very professional pitch and subsequent alterations in the outline are any indication, the film will capture the emotions of the characters and have intriguing storytelling that will make this short film palatable to the audience. APPROVED.

10. John Ross' HUNTER: A working title at the moment, it's the latest feature from John Ross, last year's GCFF Maverick and Best Director Awards winner for his previous flick, THE UNSEEN. I have nothing but high hopes for this one too, which is also suspense-driven with horrific twists that seem to emerge from his acknowledged influences of Miike, Wook-Park, Gilliam, and others. While never one of my Drama students, but a former English Honors student and I Troupe player in "Harvey V.2," John has a great deal of talent that I hope goes through the same focused process he used last year to produce a film that was simultaneously accessible to the mainstream audience, but unmistakably his own unique vision. Only someone with his credentials could have shown up at the meeting in less than professional attire (dressed for his part-time job which he would be leaving for) so I stole one from him at last year's GCFF where he was sufficiently dressed. End result...APPROVED.

These are the 10 FILMS that made the cut. There were 3 others that pitched, and for various reasons they decided not to continue the process. Likewise, 2 other potential films never even made it to the pitch, but that's one of the reasons for this initial step: to separate the "dreamers" from the "doers." Next GCFF update will be at one of the weekly directors meetings, and possibly an interview with one or two of the filmmakers. Until next time, the singal's in the sky...and the people of Gotham need me.

2006-10-08T12:01:00.000-07:00

GCFF: THE 8TH ANNUAL GOTHAM CITY FILM FESTIVAL 2006 BEGINS AGAIN...

FOTJ, it's almost that time. The time when the filmmakers start rolling, people start scurrying, chaos, betrayals, and mutinies occur, friendships strengthen and fall apart, and grades/reputations are built and demolished. Yes...The GOTHAM CITY FILM FESTIVAL is beginning again! Almost 8 years ago, when I first began teaching, my only rule of thought for the projects I assigned in Drama were..."Would I think that was cool?" Therefore, being a huge cinephile/film afficinado myself, I couldn't help but think that making a film would be a huge learning experience at multiple levels, and provide an awesome sense of accomplishment on its completion, and provide us with various sources of entertainment in the process. I also decided that we should have the films compete against each other in our own festival, beyond just for grades, but for artistic achievement as well. So, I came up with the afore-mentioned Dark Knight-inspired titular film festival. Honestly, we started out REAL GHETTO...most films were horrible, editing was done on two vcr's hooked up together, and the awards ceremony that culminated in the whole project was an in-school production. Hard to believe that 8 years later, it's something that I have independently judged (I will not be stalked over the judging ever again), people dress up for this night-time event like the Oscars, many of my former filmmakers and students make a point of attending, film festival t-shirts are made for the event, and we have over 150 people show up for our ever-increasing professional production. I admit to feeling a sense of pride with how much it has grown, and now, for the first time, I am going to document its progress through every phase of production. You can expect posts on the director pitches, some director meetings, script deadline and reviews, film posters, trailers turned in, and finally...the films themselves. I might even get to take a trip to a few of the sets in production, and an interview or two to boot. (The kids are hams...they'll talk about themselves all day.) Anway, I'm excited about it...I think we have some really talented people wanting to make some truly original and unique films this year, and I hope you follow along with us.

2006-10-08T05:25:00.000-07:00

BRICK: A film noir set in a high school...and the best film I've seen lately.

Howdy all, it's a return for The James. Sorry to have been away so long, but combatting illness, end of the quarter madness, and getting the new Fox Soccer Channel, all conspired to prevent me from keeping up with the blog. I will try to keep it more current, and thanks for checking back. On to business: I watched a few flicks this weekend: High Tension (Amazing in conception and execution, and I totally recommend this intelligent horror flick), Neighbor #13 (boastfully derivative of Oldboy and Fight Club without anything truly new to add), and Brick! Brick was UNBELIEVABLE...the kind of film that makes you wonder why so much crap is out there when this is possible, and intimidates you if you ever aspire to make one yourself. It's a new feature from writer/director Rian Johnson, who edited the wonderful little horror flick May from a couple of years ago, and it's basically channeling Dashiel Hammett, Raymond Chandler, Bogart, Lorre, and the whole wise-cracking, street-lingo, absence of simplicity, murky morality atmosphere that comes along with Film Noir; but set in a high school. One guy, Brendan, is trying to help his ex-girlfriend, and then has to solve her murder. The characters are all over the top...but still manage to represent the same dark truths about human beings that all film noirs have: we're selfish, there is no goodness, and life (truth) is cheap and only individually relevant. Trust no one in the film, as it is set in an environment of lies, and no one escapes unscathed. I wish all my kids would watch this and judge the usual bullshit they consume against it. Anyway, it's my recommendation for the video store, or a purchase that will hopefully entertain, and inspire you that there are still genuine and authentic voices out there trying to make art in the middle of a commercial vacuum...a film noir setting in itself.

2006-09-17T18:36:00.000-07:00

TOP 10 TELEVISION SHOWS RETURNING THIS SEASON...

I knew that eventually I'd have to get around to doing some "Top 10 Lists," but this really arises out of my concern for my fellow man. Yes, I am concerned, especially when friends of mine innocently announce that they wasted hours of their lives watching complete excrement like "Dancing With The Stars," or "Rock Star Supernova," or even "Flavor Of Love." I give them the pattented "The James Look" of complete disgust, but then realized that without announcing what the best shows on television are, how are they supposed to know? Therefore, I make this list with the intention of serving the good of my fellow man, and not to enflame those with a criminal lack of good taste. Remember that these are the returning shows, so Deadwood can't top the list, and I've left out narrow-appealing shows like Professional Wrestling, since that's an acquired taste, and PPV'S, since they are not consistent. So...here they are, and it was hard narrowing it down to ten:

1. THE WIRE, HBO, Sunday's at 10 p.m. This show is, hands down, the best written, cleverly conceived, consistently creative show that also boasts the most incredible ensemble of talented actors working on television today. The fact that it is not as well known as other "water-cooler" shows like The Sopranos, or Pathetic Bitches...whoops, I mean Desperate Housewives, makes it a complete discovery for most people, but also redeems HBO to me for keeping it around based on its incredible critical acclaim. See my last post for more in-depth analysis. If you're looking for one show this season, choose The Wire. It's the 4th season, but begins with a great jumping-on point for new viewers, plus you know HBO is great about airing the episode several times a week for you to catch it. Trust me, it's worth your time.

2. LOST, ABC, Wednesday's at 9 p.m. I freely admit that I'm a "Lostie," or "Lost-Addict," or "Dharma-Bum," or whatever you call those of us who jones for the next episode of this incredible suspense drama. While last season was certainly entertaining, what with the arrival of the other section of the plane's survivors and the true discovery of The Others, I felt it didn't click as well as the first one. Hopefully, this season will mark a return of the original Locke, savage man of faith, while also giving us plenty of Desmond and Mr. Eko. This show walks a thin line with revealing too much of the island's mystery as to give away the plot, and too little and annoying the viewers. It's time to give some answers to some of the questions that have been raised since the first episode. I just want to know what the damn smoke-monster is, too.

3. 24, FOX, Monday's at 9 p.m. This show is like crack. In fact, it's so bad for me that I usually wait for it to come out on dvd, and spend a weekend holed up watching it. It's a cliffhanger-intense style of plotting that makes it hard to do the weekly watching format. However, no matter how you watch, it's more than compelling, and Keifer Sutherland was never this good on film, so I hope Jack Bauer has plenty more of those kinds of days when nothing goes right. Now if they would only kill off his daughter to save us, the innocent viewers, from ever witnessing her being kidnapped multiple times during a season, and forcing us to try to give a damn about her when her presence is so obviously window-dressing to attract pre-pubescent boys.

4. THE SOPRANOS, HBO, Sunday's at 9 p.m. Granted, this won't be back until '07, but then again neither will 24. Seasons don't all begin at the same time anymore, and I for one think it's a great thing. I remember as a kid knowing that nothing good would be on all summer, except for Saturday nights at 9 on Fox's Black Belt Theater, where I could catch a double feature of some kind of Shaw Brothers Classic, but I digress. This show is the flagship of HBO's awesome Sunday night programming, and made them the success they are now. With only a few episodes left, unless some renegotiating is done (HBO will do almost anything to keep it going), I'm hoping it goes out with the awesome energy and spectacle that has dazzled us since it began just a few short years ago. In fact, it's so immersed within our's country's consciousness now, that it's hard to imagine what the world will be like without watching Tony battle his inner and outer demons as a metaphor for our own battles with life. Oh, and if Tony ends up dead or in the slam, I want Silvio to take over.

5. SURVIVOR, CBS, Thursday's at 8 p.m. I know, I know, I know, it's a Reality Show. I agree, reality shows are the lowest common denominator of entertainment, right above talk shows and below current sit-coms. I also know that they are the current trendy glut on the television channels today, and that if I support one, I am sort of supporting them all as a genre. I know...I hate myself for this. I also wish I could say that this was the only reality show that I watch, but it's not and I'm being honest, so The Amazing Race, and Ultimate Fighter would have to be named as well, just to show that I have a context for judging this show versus others in its crappy classification. IT'S JUST THAT I LOVE THE LYING, SCHEMING, BACK-STABBING, AND HYPOCRISY THAT THIS SHOW ILLUMINATES FOR ALL TO SEE...it's humanity all wrapped up into an hour adventure each week. Also, my criteria for watching this show, and the other two, is that it's a competition, not just putting a group of assholes into a house and seeing if they can get along, that's pathetic. I like that thematically, this show proves that you will do whatever is necessary to get what you want, and the hell with other people in your way. While my pal Stu would like to further complicate the show by adding "The Unknown Survivor" who basically stalks and sabotages each campsite at will, adding to their misery and frustration, I'd like to see some further evidence of humanity and make divorced couples or relatives compete on the show, with a proviso that no money can ever be split between them...then we'd really see some agony! Check out this show, especially this "racial tension" season, if you only check out one reality show.

6. THE 4400, USA, Sunday's at 9 p.m. Bad news first: You're waiting until next summer for the 4th season, but you can still buy, rent, or borrow seasons 1, 2, and 3 of this incredible show. What began as something that I personally wrote off as another of the paranormal glut shows like Threshold (Don't remind me that I gave that one a chance), Surface, and others that followed Lost's success, turned out to be something unique and different from the others. It's not what you think, and when you find out what the 4400 is, you can only compare it to the early Claremont/Byrne issues of X-men, before all the ruination with the interconvoluted chronologies and stories, and so on. The show's conceit is that 4400 people have been "abducted" throughout history, and all of a sudden, they are returned from a big ball of white light. However, when they return, they discover that many of them have special abilities. What follows is realistic, problematic, and reveals sides of the human condition that are both comforting and disturbing. The show is exceedingly well-written, and boasts an impressive cast of journeymen actors that portray their characters with heart and integrity. Plus, how can you not get onboard with a show that has Jeffrey Tooms (Re-Animator) and Summer Glau (Serenity) as regulars?

7. ROME, HBO, Sunday's at 9 p.m. This one will start after the current season of The Wire ends, but if the first season is any indication, it will be worth the wait. Sopranos-like intrigue blended with historicism and plenty of action and sex makes for a must-have on HBO. I must add though, to enjoy it while you can, as the word is that it will be the second and last season to air. Reasons are myriad, but the overwhelming cost of the show (in the hundreds of millions of dollars) is the main factor that keeps being repeated over and over. I try and make a firm rule to not buy shows that don't have at least 3 seasons, since there just isn't that much to hold on to, or get done as far as complete story arcs, etc...but after I saw the scene where Lucius Vorenus, duty-bound philosopher, former soldier and would-be business and family man, jumped into the middle of gladiator combat to help out his continual screw-up friend Titus Pullo, I was yelling at the screen "HELL YEAH, BROTHERS!" Sorry folks, The James doesn't usually get so worked up, especially in today's cynical world of deciet and self-interest, but it reminded me of....well, me...and my freaky, street brother Stu. That scene alone, guarranteed my purchase, and I hope the second season rewards me as well as the first.

8. BOSTON LEGAL, ABC, Tuesdays at 10 p.m. What can I say that the Emmy's haven't already said for me...Spader and Shatner are the best comedy duo on televison in forever. James Spader has been one of my favorite indie film actors for years, taking nothing but the strangest, most disturbing characters and still managing to bring elements of pathos and empathy to them in the darkest of moments. Who the hell doesn't love the man-god that is William Shatner? From Captain Kirk, to ridiculing himself on Saturday Night Live, to finally getting some critical acknowledgement for playing Denny Crane, a larger-than-life, narcissistic parody of himself that people adore, but also managing to steal some great moments of emotion as well, as evidenced in how genuine he portrays a man who knows that he's slowly slipping into the early stages of alzheimers. I watched Spader take over the dying ship of The Practice, and SHINE...luckily, David Chase and the network rewarded him by cutting the dead weight of yet another ridiculous moralizing b/s show about how noble lawyers are, and instead decided to go with a comedic tone, revealing the sharks that masquerade as human beings as lawyers obsessed with themselves, and absorbed in chidish pursuits in the middle of a corrupt system dominated by skillful manipulation. If you want a fantastic laugh from an intelligent comedy, with some fine storytelling, and two of the most awesome actors on television today, check this one out.

9. BATTLESTAR GALACTICA, SCI-FI, Tuesdays at 9 p.m. Stu and I checked this show out when it was just a mini-series, just on a whim, as we were both avid despisers of the original craptacular Star Wars ripoff, and laughed whenever we saw BSG alumni at the many conventions we attended together. To say that we were actually dumbfounded and shocked by the new direction of this show, a remake in names and basic plot only, is a HUGE UNDERSTATEMENT! I will say this now: This show is one of the only ones on the air to actually SURPRISE me consistently. I have read enough now, and seen enough to be able to guess at outcomes in the first quarter of the show, and ordinarily most shows don't let me down, but fulfill my lowest expectations with their predictability. Not the case here, folks...not at all. When the Cylons, machines formerly created and controlled by men and now AI, attack and destroy most of the human's homeworlds, the show begins with Galactica, the last surviving Battleship, leading a raggedy fleet of surviving ships toward a distant goal of another planet capable of sustaining human life, and away from the ever-pursuing Cylons, bent on destruction of the human race. That's the basic conceit and the beginning of the show...or so we thought. The plot evolves and takes a course that shocks, surprises, and compels you to watch in a manner that I wish other shows would follow...by doing the unexpected and challenging the viewer with bold choices and decisions, and not following some sort of esoteric marketing-directive that commands you to have so many cast members of this age or this demographic. Even if you don't watch or enjoy sci-fi material, check this show out. It's about to begin it's 3rd season and is extremely long-term developed, so don't watch until you buy, rent, or borrow the first two.

10. THE SHIELD, F/X, Sunday's at 10 p.m. You're going to be waiting awhile for this one also, but it's more than worth the wait. I've been an addict for the first 3 seasons, and can't wait to get Season 4 on dvd, which is how I've watched all its predecessors. Unfortunately, Season 5 will probably be the last one made, since its star, Michale Chiklis is breaking into films, and I'm sure wants more freedom. Breaking the traditional conception of the cop as the "good guy," Chiklis' Vic Mackie begins the first show of the first season by literally drilling the point home to the viewer with a bullet that he is far from the good guy. Instead, you have a complex character who is at times a hero, and at others worse than the people he pursues. The rest of the ensemble match Chiklis' intenstiy well, and each season usually has a large array of guest stars that have included Glenn Close and Forrest Whittaker. I will watch the end of this show with a mixture of unbridled enthusiasm and heartfelt sorrow, knowing that it, like another favorite of mine: The Sopranos, will only be enjoyed in the future on dvd.

Well, that's it folks. It was a tough call, and for your information MONK, USA, Fridays at 9 p.m. was Number 11. While a little formulaic in plot, and definitely reminiscent of the classic Columbo, Tony Shaloub's multiple Emmy-winning portrayal of Adrian Monk could have taken any position on my countdown, especially since it reminds me of a former student of mine named Lazenby, but I made a tough decision, and decided to include it in a postscript to the actual 10. I hope this helps, as that was my intent, and that it is not taken as a criticism of the shows that you watch that weren't worthy of my countdown, or any rational person's approval. Instead, I hope it directs you all to perhaps enjoy some shows that you haven't given a try before, and maybe we can talk about them sometime. Coming soon: List of shows I'll be trying that are new this season.

2006-09-17T04:09:00.000-07:00

THE BEST UN-WATCHED SHOW ON TV...

Folks and FOTJ, if you don't know about HBO'S THE WIRE, airing several times during the week but with new episodes Sunday night at 10 p.m., you are missing out on how truly great and powerful television can be. In an era of catering to the least intelligent, David Simon and company (the people behind the awesome Homicide: Life on the Street series among others) have created a drama that dares to speak on multiple levels to intelligent audiences and is even, shockingly, the most inclusive and anti-stereotypical show around today. I have never seen a show that was so balanced in terms of actual numbers and positive and negative portrayals of black, white, and even homosexual characters. (Asians, Latinos, etc...just wait awhile, it's coming, and this show is a breakthrough for all in my opinion.) In other words, black people don't just play the evil drug dealers, and whites the unstoppable, saintly police. In fact, the smartest cops on the force are black, but even better is that there are likable characters who you empathize with and support on both sides, and characters who you despise and pray for their imminent destruction on both as well. The show centers on a police unit in Baltimore that uses a wire tap to collect evidence on drug-related crime. However, this is just the beginning of the labyrinthine focus that swirls in the plot of The Wire. Entering Season 4, I was concerned that since the awesome antagonists of Barksdale and Bell had probably left the main storyline, where would the show direct its focus? As an answer, the brilliant minds decided to pick up the political storyline from last season, add in a new element in the unsolvable social problem of crime in the school system, and introduced a subplot about a group of kids caught up in this extremely realistic and dangerous enviroment. In short, we are watching the creation of the next Avon Barksdale, Stringer Bell, and even possibly the next Lester Banks, and Carver.....kingpins of crime or great cops. The suspense on this thread is created by attempting to guess which kid will go in which direction. I'm sure they won't let me down and take any obvious or simple option, since simple is usually never a valid description in life. It's also to the show's credit that their thematic focus doesn't just lay the blame at one level of society, but actually portrays all levels of the system as corrupt with predators working for their own selfish ends, and a few good people trying to work within its boundaries but being overwhelmed in the process. As a teacher in a public high school (although not one of inner-city Baltimore) I can understand the feeling of being overwhelmed. Entering its 4th season, with new antagonists and storylines, this is the perfect jumping-0n point for all of you to come on board. I'll be watching, (My favorite characters are Lester Banks, and of course...OMAR, the trenchcoat-wearing, shotgun wielding assassain who takes down drug-dealers for personal profit....and he's gay, Take that Mr. Stereotype!) and I hope the rest of the world can take a break from the usual cliche and unimaginative shows dominating television to give this incredible show a chance. I applaud HBO for keeping the show going for its universal critical acclaim, and despite the lack of intelligent viewers watching. In fact, HBO already approved Season 5 based on critical acclaim from the first episode in this new season.

2006-09-10T17:26:00.000-07:00

BLADE: The Series...Maybe I judged too soon...

This post is put forth grudgingly, but honestly. I watched Spike TV's Blade: The Series pilot movie back in June, and was severely underwhelmed with the production. It was cheesy, shot horribly, and not even good enough for enjoyment as a "good bad movie." However, my pal Zablo kept on championing the show's virtues, extolling its character development, how they had addressed all of my complaints, and really found their voice in the third or fourth episode. In fact, "Blade becomes a side character to the entire plot of the show," Zablo said, "the true strength of the show is derived from its ensemble cast and ongoing narrative." (Yes, I paraphrase in my own snobby tone. Sorry.) I am here and now admitting that "Yes, Zablo was correct." I watched the Blade marathon on Saturday and Sunday, flipping back and forth between football games on Sunday, and was incredibly impressed. While I won't say this show, shot with Spike TV's budget, possessing a lead actor with questionable skills, and about vampires for chrissakes, is good...I will call it now one of my "guilty pleasures." At least it boasts the creative intent to build something with an ongoing narrative, instead of Blade facing a vampire of the week. I will now be looking forward to the season finale Wednesday night at 10 p.m., and would like to take this opportunity to thank my friend for re-directing my attention to something that I would otherwise have written off completely. Now if I could only remember the authors he mentioned as well...

2006-09-10T07:42:00.000-07:00

DRAGONCON Part Four: Finale and Final Thoughts

The final day at any convention is usually one of pick-ups, last minute deals, and saying goodbyes to people that you might not see for quite awhile, or until the next convention. I don't know what would have had to happen to make the day anything other than a letdown after the incredible Day Of The James, so understand if it seems a little less entertaining than the previous posts. I had no more art to pick up, and that was a relief. I can't tell you how many conventions I've been to where I've had to wait until the end of the show, or even after the show closed (last year's Heroes waiting for my Tex commission) for a piece of art. They've all been worth it, mind you, I'm the first to say that...but when you're facing a drive home of around 6 hours or so, it can make the end of the trip rather gruelling. The crew and I awoke, took care of the last minute details in checking out, packing the car, and taking some last minute pics. Sumbitch had to leave, but it was fantastic to see him again, and I look forward to our next reunion. Pecker, Sweet Will, and I headed to the con with Johnny StarWarz, and we looked again for free stuff, looked over the dealer's room and exhibition rooms, and then went back to Artist Alley, where the rest of the crew was hanging out, watching Brian put an awesome head shot of Batman in some guy's JLA book. Brian, wearing his DOTJ t-shirt, looked fabulous. The main thing we were waiting for on Sunday was Brian's panel on Sequential Art, and JJ and Joanne joined us for it as well. If you've never heard the Grandmaster lecture on Art, either through portfolio review from an aspiring artist, or while he's painting, or at a panel, you are missing out on one of the most illuminating experiences you could ever get. I'm not an artist...I make no claims in that area...but even I can understand all of Brian's "artspeak," and that's a testament to his ability to "illustrate" the indescribable processes that artists must go through in terms of vision and craft. What was supposed to be a 1 hour panel turned into a 2 and 1/2 hour experience as Brian and "Bob," a professor from SCAD, delivered a journey through the power of sequential art, and speaking for myself, it was enlightening. One interesting thing I will comment on from the panel, was Brian explaining how the artists at Gaijin Studios had long ago realized what kind of artist they were, and then played to their strengths. They compared their sequential art sensibilities to film directing styles, and to the directors themselves. Adam Hughes was supposedly like Richard Donner, and favored the incredible emotional impact in character's faces, and was perfect for huge mainstream blockbuster success like a Superman, or a Wonder Woman. Jason Pearson was compared to John Woo, probably like vintage Hong Kong John Woo, and favored the balletic action sequences and a more kinetic sequential style. Brian then said that his sensibilities favored the Michael Mann style of dark, moody, and even expressionistic types of material. This might explain his penchant for the Bat characters, and darker heroes and heroines like Domino and The Matador. I will now go on record and say that Brian was wrong. Yes, Grandmaster...you were wrong. While I agree that you do capture dark and expressionistic sensibilities with your style, and conjure film noirish aspects in your panels with ease...I'd compare you with my favorite director that ever worked in film: Akira Kurosawa. Kurosawa also worked in the moody and expressionistic palette for many films, including The Bad Sleep Well, Stray Dog, and some aspects in Rashomon and The Seven Samurai. In fact, I can only dream at how awesome a Batman film would have been in his hands. Brian's eastern influences are also inescapable in every panel...hell, he's in Gaijin Studios. However, Kurosawa was equally as talented in using colors and dreamlike imagery to convey a variety of different themes and visions, like in Dreams, and his Shakespeare adaptations. It makes perfect sense to me that Brian, modest as he is, would limit his comparison to a talented, journeyman director like Michael Mann, when in fact he ranks up there with the Little Emperor, himself. I just wanted to set the record straight, and not embarrass Brian in the process. My favorite artist and favorite director...it comes as no surprise to me how similar they are. Anyway, after a few farewells and pics, Pecker, Sweet Will, and I finally hit the road out of Atlanta. It was a fantastic trip, Cully Hamner even bought me lunch and took a sweet picture with me, but you have to look on Pecker's myspace to find it, because he didn't send it to me. It will truly be one that sets the standard for any future conventions that I attend. I can only say that the people I hang out with make the trip a success, not how many pieces of art or sweet deals you get (not that Higashi would agree.) I hope to hit a couple more this year, but MegaCon in Feb next year looms as the next huge opportunity. Adios all.

2006-09-09T06:50:00.000-07:00

DRAGONCON Part Three:

I wake up, pleasantly surprised to feel no ill-effects from last evening's ribaldry, and realize that...Yes, It's "The Day Of The James." So, after we all awake, and have a quick breakfast again at the Hilton's Cafe Express, we head to the Con, Artist's Alley in the bottom of the Marriotte. I see that Brian is sketching for someone already, but he stops and we quickly talk "terms," and both of us agree that Ra's Al' Ghul will be the subject of The Year Of The James piece, but then Brian says, "One problem though...will it be Ra's dressed in the suit...or Ra's emerging from the Lazarus Pit? That's my problem...I can't, no, I won't decide...You must decide." I was put in a state of confusion, hysteria...an internal quandary of epic proportions. I had to decide which Ra's Al' Ghul would be the new additon to The James' Stelfreeze Batman Gallery, and I wasn't prepared. I had always relied on Brian to make these decisions, and HAL, master of choices like these was nowhere to be found. Seconds passed by that seemed like hours of torture at unattractive female's hands. Brian must have sensed my perplexed state, because then he spoke again, much like the burning bush must have answered questions for Moses: "I can't decided either...but it's Year Of The James, and that means..." (reaches behind the table) ..."You must have both." Brian then pulls out a finished b/w piece of Ra's standing in a suit, with a brandy snifter in hand. "This is part one of Year Of The James," he says, "Take it, it's yours. Now...now I will begin the color piece of Ra's emerging from the pit." Folks...FOTJ (Friends of The James)...I was overcome with unexpressed emotion that could only have been interpreted as shock at the generosity...the camaraderie...the "Stelfreeze" of the man towards me. I must have seemed like an alcoholic at Beerfest, because I can't truly recall anything after that for awhile. I know that I left Brian to begin the piece, checking with Andrew Robinson to pick up my Batman piece (Awesome), and checking with Eric Powell about my Catwoman piece (To be picked up around 5 or so), and attending to some other signing details, and going to Paul Dini's panel, and later getting my picture taken with him, one of my favorite writers, and talking him into signing my writer's book, with a quote about writing or fiction. The next huge event of DOTJ, was when I returned to Brian's table to witness a nice little crowd enjoying my piece's creation, and was told that Eric and Mimi Layton had arrived. For those who don't know, they are two of my best friends in and outside this little art-fanatic community we belong to, and we had eaten dinner with them the night before. What I did not know was that this was an "AMBUSH," but quickly discovered that the two Layton schemers had made a few T-SHIRTS that commemorated Day Of The James, since they both had them, gave me one, Brian one, Jason Walker, and Higashi had one. It had my picture (cruelly stolen from MySpace after I ran last year's river run) on the front with DOTJ, and on the back had my two other Stelfreeze Watercolors, with accompanying text as well. While I believed that I could not feel any more shocked, I was wrong. This display of affection truly caught me off guard, and made the day even more unbelievable. People kept asking about the t-shirt all day, and The James began to become an icon, itself. (Incidentally, this all grew out of Mimi ribbing me about my WayoftheJames website, and her insistence that it not stop there.) People who didn't get shirts received the bracelets with WWTJD on them, which I suppose makes the wayofthejames a sort of religion now, as well. (Can't do worse than the ones at work in the world today, in my opinion.) Anyway, Brian finished the YOTJ piece, and it was beautiful, also following the themes he had done on the previous two creations, and I was amazed. I picked up my Eric Powell piece, also always outstanding, and my crew and I finished the day watching the Dragoncon Costume Contest in the room on the tv, joined by HAL and his wife Rhonda, Sumbitch, Iron Matt, and eventually Higashi...who had, unsurprisingly, bailed on us to have dinner with other artists. The past two days and nights were beginning to take their toll on me, but next year, I will be up and about all three nights viewing films, etc... While the evening winded to a close, the DOTJ still lived on in my mind, as I relived all of its wonderful moments into sleep. Stine, Brian's wife, emailed me after the con and said that I truly had some "wonderful friends." I can only concur with that statement, and express my never-ending astonishment at that fact, given my natural surly, and unfriendly state. I don't know how I got to be so lucky...but I do have some awesome friends that make simple stories and events feel like sagas and adventures. I hope you all find some friends that give to you a fraction of what I get from mine. Coming up: Day 4 of Dragoncon and final thougts on this adventure.

2006-09-06T15:35:00.000-07:00

DRAGONCON Part Two:

Second day at the con, and we woke up hoarse and tired from the wrestling the night before, but all of us agreed that our energies had been well-spent. HAL and I actually headed out after the wrestling to view a few of the short horror films in the Dragoncon Independent Film Festival, but even the great HAL couldn't hold out for long, and I turned in before 2 a.m. It comes as no surprise that Madman Higashi was up before the rest renewing his parking, and planning his strategies for art acquisitions throughout the day. After meeting JJ and Joanne for breakfast, we all headed for the con where I intended to set up some art buys, and perhaps get a few pics and signatures from some of my favorite authors. I commissioned an Andrew Robinson Batman sketch, my first from one of Higashi's, Zablo's, and "Patch" Beatty's favorite artists, and proceeded to look for my favorite artist and friend, Grandmaster Illustrator Brian Stelfreeze...He of the classic film noirish stylized view of The Batman. 2006 was supposed to be the Year Of The James, and I was hoping that it meant my turn for another Stelfreeze watercolor commission to add to my collection. I met with him and he agreed that Sunday would be the day...the Day Of The James, to be exact, and we also set up dinner plans for the crew later that evening, followed by a viewing of Crank, with Jason Statham. My friends Iron Matt and HAL were on the wait for Eric Powell, one of my favorite artists, and they kindly assented to holding me a spot while I pursued other necessary tasks, like talking with Peter S. Beagle, who had just won a HUGO award for his sequel to The Last Unicorn, and talking to George Romero, writer/director of the famous Living Dead Films. I eventually returned to find Eric Powell setting up and commissioned a Catwoman sketch, suggested by HAL at my desperate request for assistance. I am not the world's greatest art collector in terms of variety, as Batman is my usual default, but HAL is known for his diverse tastes and helped me reach a decision. He didn't even once mention Zatanna, even though that seems to be his weakness. The clock rolled on, and eventually it became time to round up the crew for an Italian dinner at Franco's, famous for our dinner the year before, where Madman John Higashi gave the ORIGIN LECTURE on his collecting obsessions...those in attendance at that spectacle remember its ominous tones, never-ending spin-offs and sequels, and the feeling of fear one had at just how addictions can take hold of a human being. Anyway, Higashi, Joanne, JJ and I drove to the place while HAL, Brian, Sweet Will, and two lovely friends of Brian's from Dallas rode separately. Pecker tagged along with my pal Jason Sumbitch Walker who called in to join us at the last minute. We all met with Eric and Mimi Layton and Brian's wife Stine at Franco's, and were treated to a royal dinner, topped off with a round-robin style dessert event, taking a bite of each item on the menu before passing it along to the next person. I, along with JJ at the start, partook of several domestic beverages that made the time seem more magical...but that of course could have been the result of the awesome company and atmosphere I was in. Many thanks to all for enduring all of my picture-taking, and of course to Johnny StarWarz who again displayed a level of largesse and generosity that went out of style centuries ago, by picking up the dinner tab for the entire party. Finally, we made our exit, and went to a great theater not 5 minutes away, where I was amazed to find that they would also serve me domestic beverages that made Crank even more hilarious than the complete lack of plot, character, realism, or common sense. We HOWLED in laughter at the film, and I remember having a ball! Postscript to the film was Grandmaster Stelfreeze's announcement that since it was past midnight, it was officially the DAY OF THE JAMES, and my new art acquisition was only a few hours away. I rode home on a high, hoping I didn't embarrass myself with consuming too many domestic beverages, and since I couldn't talk any of the crew into going to watch films (You should have come just for that Lazenby), I turned in as well. Coming next...Day Three of Dragoncon and the YOTJ art piece...I mean pieces.

2006-09-05T18:14:00.000-07:00

DRAGONCON Part One:

Folks, I attended my 9th Dragoncon, I believe, this year...and it was one of the greatest adventures in my memory. It will take more than one post to give you the full view of it all, so I will make one for every day. My crew (Sweet Will and Pecker) and I hit the road at 4 a.m. and arrived in Atlanta around 10ish. After securing the car, we checked in at the hotel, got our badges, and proceeded to have a leisurely lunch, awaiting the con to open. JJ and his wife Joanne were on the road also, due to catch up with us later. When we hit the con, I had several things to do: Get pictures with my digital camera I am finally learning how to use, get my Serenity poster signed by Summer Glau and Alan Tudyk, buy books and get signatures from Peter S. Beagle and Peter David, get a signature in my writer's book from Paul Dini, get a couple of dvd's and signatures from George Romero, and of course: get signatures and a sketch from V for Vendetta artist, David Lloyd. This alone would be plenty for a mortal man to accomplish, but that was outside of the art I wanted to procure. I had to skip Heroes Con earlier this year, so my original art obsession had not been fed recently, nor had my joy for attending conventions...I meant to enjoy this one in every way possible. Also, it was probably the last chance for my "Year of the James" piece from the Grandmaster Illustrator, Brian Stelfreeze, with an addition to the two watercolor pieces that I have from him already. In other words, folks...my expectations were quite high. I proceeded to get some autographs done, (Summer Glau is only more breathtakingly beautiful in person than on film), and take care of a few odds and ends for other people. I always try and get as much free stuff as I can for my students back home, and had brought along several requests which I was determined to meet...if at all possible. (It pays dividends in loyalty later if I hook them up with stuff.) Anyway, no art procured on day one...but it ended with JJ and Joanne showing up, hooking up with my pal, HAL, and going to DRAGONCON WRESTLING. This has become an annual tradition for us, attending this "Z" level pro wrestling spectacle, where JJ is the King of Commentating Fans. It usually varies from terrific (bloody Abdulla the Butcher episode and the infamous "cheese-grater incident") to horrible (we actually walked out last year)...but this year was AWESOME. They brought out the cheese grater again, probably due to our insistence and the legend we had created 3 years earlier. The show was okay...but JJ and the crew were in rare form, and it made the night one to remember. Even if you are not a pro wrestling fan, and I can't imagine JJ's wife Joanne is...you have to go to this thing with a great crew to enjoy the spectacle. Professional Wrestling is a unique expereince where the crowd's participation will make or break the show. We laughed so hard that it hurt, screamed until several of us were hoarse, and our presence made the show better...because it honestly could not have been worse. Coming up: Day 2 and my hunt for the Year of The James piece...

2006-08-27T06:24:00.000-07:00

THE DEMISE OF DEADWOOD

Tonight is bittersweet for me, and a significant number of HBO original series viewers. The amazing series, Deadwood, shows its last episode tonight and ends a brilliant three season run. I can't even express my disappointment and frustration at the loss of such a show, especially when the networks seem not just content, but enthused to show endless mind-numbing and cliched crapisodes of other shows that run on, and on, season after season. Yes, I will name names of shows that I think completely suck, and they exist at the behest of lame, risk-averse television executives, less than brilliant viewers, and at the expense of creative shows like Deadwood: Grey's Anatomy (Doctors are not amusing, glamorous, heroic, or intriguing...they are soulless, conceited, self-righteous vampires, same level as lawyers, who make money off your misery), House (See what Doctors are not), DESPERATE HOUSEWIVES (get a brain, a life, and a skin mag if all you want to see is hot chicks, people), Entourage (shows about how "awesome" Hollywood life is are for the desperate and pathetic who either won't pursue their own dreams, or waste their time wishing their lives were different. All Hollywood shows should focus on the realities that exist like how nobody is real, they are all drug-addicted, plastic-surgery using, cliche, name-dropping, self-deluded, backstabbing scumbags who'd sell their own mother for more fame), Prison Break (male himbos on a fox network, which hasn't offered anything substantial since the first couple of seasons of XFiles), not to mention the lame-ass "reality shows" likeAmerican Idol, Dancing, Singing, and probably Desperate Ass-Kissing with Celebrities.

I feel almost the same bitter hatred (a Vendetta) towards network television that V felt for the government, but perhaps worse, since I've never longed for entertainment from the government, and they've never shown moments of brilliance that make you hope for more. I can't hold the cast of Deadwood to blame, a brilliant ensemble including Ian McShane, Brad Douriff, Brian Cox, Gerald McRaney, and Timothy Olyphant among others, since none of them are pulling a David Caruso with the producers, and the mortality rate in Deadwood makes no one's continued existence a certainty. 2 two-hour movies were "announced" that would wrap up the 3rd Season's storyline, but no dates have been set, or scheduled...so it might be just a Hollywood pacifier (a giant lie) meant to keep people positive about the last episodes of the show. HBO is certainly losing its good series and picking up crap, as Six Feet Under wasn't good since Season 3, and is now over, Rome will end after this season, Lucky Louie is awful, Entourage makes my list above, The Comeback was ridiculous, and Sopranos is ending. They did bring back The Wire, another fantastic show, for a 4th Season, and I applaud them for that, but they also cut Carnivale after 2 Seasons, and that was a mistake.

No, I don't blame HBO for Deadwood's demise, I blame David Milch. He created Hill Street Blues, NYPD Blue, and now Deadwood: that's lighting striking 3x, and 2 were awesome (NYPD Blue & Deadwood). Now his energies are focused on a new drama about some surfer......from the man's man world of Deadwood to a drama about a surfer. Yes, folks I believe that I'll be skipping another HBO show in the future, and perhaps Mr. Milch's work will never be on my viewing schedule again, aside from my dvd sets of Blue and Deadwood.

2006-08-26T03:59:00.000-07:00

ORIGIN OF "THE JAMES"

I've always thought that names were like clothes...you put some on for a while and they fit, but you eventually grow out of them. I also have never understood why people are named at birth, before their personality is known, or before they have "earned" a name from deeds done. I remember reading that Uncas, from Fenimore Cooper's Last of the Mohicans, was waiting to earn a name, and Uncas was what they were all called before this right of passage. I agree with that whole system, and it might be that this (the whole absence of "rights of passage" in our culture) is why so many young people don't understand how they should act. You can drive at 16, watched adult films at 17, vote, fight & die for your country at 18, but you can drink alcohol at 21...all of this seems like mixed signals to me. You should clearly know when childhood ends, and adulthood begins...and a name that is earned is one ancient way to symbolize this. While I also believe that I have created myself, in all ways except biologically, "The James" was given to me by my friend, Craig Zablo. I like that it makes me sound like an entity or presence other than human, and with a certain significance...like Batman. I have gone by other names before, some great and others not so much, but this one suits for now.

2006-08-25T17:19:00.000-07:00

FIRST POST

Can't say this will be the wisdom of Yoda or the prose of Dickens, but it will be the thoughts, ideas, and narratives of the adventures of one misanthropic, reclusive, narrow-minded s.o.b. This is the first post of "The Way Of The James."