English Dogs in Bangkok
Saturday, December 31, 2011
Removal Movie Review
Above Pic: Removal Poster from IMDB
Psychological, dark comedy-horror from Lionsgate just in time for the holiday season! Removal tells the twisted tale of a cleaning service employee and a dirty, deranged job in a mansion.
The film opens with Eric Kershe (Billy Burke) losing his job and calling his buddy Cole Hindin (Mark Kelly) over to his house, then delves into the area of madness and insanity, with hallucinations and fragmented reality. Cole witnesses the murder suicide. Cole goes through rehab, then is out again working as a professional floor house cleaner
Nothing is what it seems in Removal, after a double shift, Cole is called to do a cleaning job in a mansion. He hears the shattered fragments of discussions from the owner Henry Sharpe (Oz Perkins) whom he thinks is a deranged man, as all the signs point to it.
I will not delve into the story any further, but I can say that this one has a solid payoff at the end, even if it drags in the middle. This film actually would have benefited from a 10 minute trimming, even though the tension is building, there are times when, it just needs to pick up the pace. The other problem I had with the film is that we never saw the periphery characters enough to care about them, in actions and dialogue.
The acting in Removal is excellent. All three of the male leads are careful in their portrayal of their characters, and deal with the difficult dialogue and emotions with ease. Even the two ladies in the film have minor roles, do a solid job, but unfortunately the script does not allow their characters much development. Elliott Gould has a very minor role as the lead character's Doctor.
The settings, background music, and camerawork in Removal appropriate, but nothing stands out creating a mood like the twists and turns of the plot. The mansion, where the majority of the film takes place is huge, and sparse as it is being packed up for a move, so the setting is eerie, but nothing special. The camera moves slowly throughout the film, the hallucinations show in a fuzzy, sideways way.
Overall, I give Removal a 6 out of 10, a definite watch, however, I believe once you see this tale, the 91 minute film does not have the repeat watch-ability factor. Removal is available from Amazon, shipping 1-3-12.
Official Aurelia Scheppers News Blog
Update 8-9-2014: Aurelia unleashes a hysterical video on the Funny Or Die Website Called Model Behavior @ http://www.funnyordie.com/videos/2a62a9ad93/model-behavior
Above Pic: Behind the scenes from "Champion" video from The Chevin
Update 11-18-13 Snow Queen is Released in Germany and available on AMAZON! Click link for ordering: http://www.amazon.de/Die-Schneek%C3%B6nigin-Iren-Levy/dp/B00F5DXJI2/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1384795421&sr=8-4&keywords=Die+Schneek%C3%B6nigin Check out below photos!
Update 8-15-13 Aurelia in new film called 'The Snow Queen" https://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Snow-Queen/365138933613962?
Update 3-25-13 Aurelia in New TV Pilot: "So excited to be a part of a TV Pilot called The Start Up! Currently filming. It's a 1/2 hour comedy. ;)"
Update 2-21-13 Aurelia in new Music Video: "So happy to be a part of this Steve Aoki music video for his song "Come With Me: feat. Polina directed by Thomas Trail, it was such a cool shoot!! :-)"
Here is the YouTube Link for the new Steve Aoki video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=fWxsSzr_Irg#!
Update 11-25-12 Nov. 27th, the movie "40 Days and Nights"
comes out! I am in the opening scene of the movie. :) It is an
action/disaster film. You can rent in on Netflix or Redbox or buy it/pre
order it on Amazon.com, BarnesAndNoble.com etc. :) Here is the trailer:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xhmvhVyGsYs
Update 11-11-12 Aurelia in winter clothes catalog for Roar Clothes (Photo Below) http://www.roarusa.com/blog/
Aurelia in I (heart) Vampires http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xGCP0SL_XG4
Now available from Disney on DVD.
Update 9-19-12: Aurelia is the lead girl in the new music video for the band "the Chevin" for their new hit single "Champion". Check out the video on you tube @
http://www.youtube.com/watch?
Aurelia is being featured in the September 20th 2012 issue of Backstage West
Magazine under "Actor Spotlight"!
Aurelia has a part in a movie titled 40 Days and Nights produced by The Asylum that will be going straight to DVD, Redbox, Netflix, etc. on November
27th 2012. Go to www.theasylum.cc for more information on the film.
Above Pic: Aurelia in new Roar Campaign.
Aurelia shot another Roar Campaign for the rest of Fall 2012 and Spring 2013.
Aurelia shot a campaign for Trunkettes Swimwear shot by the great Kymberly
Marciano. Go to http://www.trunkettes.com/index.php Below is a photo of Aurelia in one of the swim outfits:
Aurelia has a few exciting projects in the works that can't be released yet...
but keep reading this news and the information will be released very, very soon.
Update 6-29-12: New Acting Reel http://vimeo.com/42228208
Update 6-12-12: Roar Clothing Summer Campaign: Check out these two behind the scenes links:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6Qc5icalkdQ&feature=relmfu
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aNZf03wR4no&feature=relmfu
Above are Screen Caps from the Ad (C) 2012 Roar Clothing
Update 5-27-12:
New head shot and Screen Cap from The Young and the Restless:
Above Pic: Sexy new pic from her Aurelia's Official Page
Above Pic: Aurelia in The Young and the Restless May 11th 2012 (C) CBS 2012
Screen Cap: Danny Shamon
Update 5-11-12: News directly from Aurelia!
Greetings to all my fans, I am in three scenes of this episode of The Young and the Restless. Episode #9904 Aired May 11 2012
I recently Played Tyson Ritter's high school girlfriend in The Kids in the Street music video directed by Jon Danovic
Look for me as a girl facing the struggles of teen
pregnancy, who turns to God for help and finds strength in church and
the Lord to raise the baby on her own, Jessica Reedy's Something Out of
Nothing Video directed by Paul Coy Allen premiered on BET's 106 and Park
tv show. Not online yet, COMING SOON.
Just finished a summer campaign for ROAR clothing.
I have a different ROAR ad in Country Weekly magazine every week. :)
Actress Aurelia Scheppers caught my eye this year as being someone to watch in 2012. She did a solid job on 11/11/11 as the nanny from hell bumping up what would have been a very average film to a very enjoyable one. Aurelia can also be seen in the short film Red Princess Blues. Check her IMDB page @ http://www.imdb.com/name/nm2632064/
In addition to live acting, she recently performed voice work on the Digimon Fusion Battles TV series. Aurelia also does modeling for several companies, check this short, rather grainy clip on youtube modeling Diva: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZybqT9C4l20 . She worked on this hysterical clip of CBS Sports Stay at home Dad Series: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pLJHs7MQ3Ko . Her intellect and professionalism are refreshing in Hollywood, she will make an excellent addition to any production, be it commercial, print, film or TV.
Watch for further information and interview with Aurelia in 2012 and beyond on Dan's Movie Report, in the meantime check out her official twitter @ https://twitter.com/#!/aureliasaid
Thursday, December 29, 2011
The Amityville Haunting
The Amityville Haunting opens with other people who have died over the years in the Amityville House. The new family movies in because they were having money trouble and the father forced the family against their will to move in.
The entire film was about the child of the family making a documentary of the whole ordeal. The Amityville Haunting falls flat on it's face, as the plot was boring. The rehashing of the older films in a paranormal activity style production just was uninspired. There are other victims outside of the family, but we don't care as they are never introduced as true characters.
The Amityville Haunting moves at a snail's pace jamming nearly all of the actual plot developments in the end, this might have worked in a short film like 20 minutes, but to stretch this to 90 minutes is quite agonizing. The repetitive telling the boy to shut the camera off 20,000 times, was very annoying.
Overall, I have to give The Amityville Haunting film a 2 out of 10, a pass.
Actress Krystal Vee upcoming on Dan's Movie Report
Win Win! Brand new Autographed Krystal Vee Photo contest December 2012! http://dansmoviereport.blogspot.com/2012/12/sexy-santa-hot-holiday-contests-400000.html
BRAND NEW PHOTOS 11-13-12! From Krystal's new film "The Cop"! Click Link Below!
http://dansmoviereport.blogspot.com/2012/11/krystal-vee-new-photos-new-film-cop.html
KRYSTAL VEE INTERVIEW ONLINE 1-8-12! With Brand new Pics!!!!!!!! http://dansmoviereport.blogspot.com/2012/01/krystal-vee-interview-c-2012-dans-movie.html
Brand new Hot pics on Dan's Movie Report 1-31-12 @
http://dansmoviereport.blogspot.com/2012/01/actress-krystal-vee-news-and-sexy-new.html
Follow her on Twitter: https://twitter.com/#!/VeeKrystal
Photo Credit: Manny Librodo Location: KUALA LUMPUR
Krystal Vee as Silda, she has sharp pointy objects at her disposal to injure, and smooth skin to tantalize. Hahaha! Photo Credit: Universal Pictures
After contacting Selina Lo to do an interview, I decided to get actress Krystal Vee's perspective on The Scorpion King 3. Yeah they do have a glorious fight in the film, not a spoiler as everyone knows it already. This puts Dan's Movie Report smack in the middle of the four sword madness, and me without protection hahahah. Seriously though Krystal and Selina are smokin' hot, good actresses and fight very viciously, all the characteristics you want in a lady!
Above Pic: Screen Cap from Universal Studio's Scorpion King! Click on it, check the bigger image, right click again select view image and you have a wallpaper!
Check out the Scorpion King 3's Selina lo interview posted 1-5-12! http://dansmoviereport.blogspot.com/2012/01/selina-lo-interview-c-2012-dans-movie.html
Watch for the interview in early 2012 in the meantime check out her official site @ http://www.krystalvee.com
BRAND NEW PHOTOS 11-13-12! From Krystal's new film "The Cop"! Click Link Below!
http://dansmoviereport.blogspot.com/2012/11/krystal-vee-new-photos-new-film-cop.html
KRYSTAL VEE INTERVIEW ONLINE 1-8-12! With Brand new Pics!!!!!!!! http://dansmoviereport.blogspot.com/2012/01/krystal-vee-interview-c-2012-dans-movie.html
Brand new Hot pics on Dan's Movie Report 1-31-12 @
http://dansmoviereport.blogspot.com/2012/01/actress-krystal-vee-news-and-sexy-new.html
Follow her on Twitter: https://twitter.com/#!/VeeKrystal
Photo Credit: Manny Librodo Location: KUALA LUMPUR
Krystal Vee as Silda, she has sharp pointy objects at her disposal to injure, and smooth skin to tantalize. Hahaha! Photo Credit: Universal Pictures
After contacting Selina Lo to do an interview, I decided to get actress Krystal Vee's perspective on The Scorpion King 3. Yeah they do have a glorious fight in the film, not a spoiler as everyone knows it already. This puts Dan's Movie Report smack in the middle of the four sword madness, and me without protection hahahah. Seriously though Krystal and Selina are smokin' hot, good actresses and fight very viciously, all the characteristics you want in a lady!
Above Pic: Screen Cap from Universal Studio's Scorpion King! Click on it, check the bigger image, right click again select view image and you have a wallpaper!
Check out the Scorpion King 3's Selina lo interview posted 1-5-12! http://dansmoviereport.blogspot.com/2012/01/selina-lo-interview-c-2012-dans-movie.html
Watch for the interview in early 2012 in the meantime check out her official site @ http://www.krystalvee.com
Tuesday, December 27, 2011
50,000 Hits on Dan's Movie Report! Selina Lo Upcoming!
Mess with the best die like the rest haha! Selina Lo, chats Scorpion King 3, and action in 2012! That is two more blades than I have! Run cowards! (Photo Credit: Universal Pictures)
Interview posted 1-5-12 Blast over to this post here now! http://dansmoviereport.blogspot.com/2012/01/selina-lo-interview-c-2012-dans-movie.html
Thank you all for helping me reach my goal in 2011, as the site passes the 50,000 page view plateau before the end of the Year. I have changed my site counter to reflect that! In addition to the 50,000 hits, Dan's Movie Report has jumped to 20,000 page views in December!
To Cecily, I sincerely thank you for all you have done to support the site, 2012 will be the Year of The Warrioress! Watch for the review, new interview with Cecily and interview with Warrioress director Ross Boyask!
Look for interviews with dangerous and sexy stunt women Monique Ganderton, Mam Smith, and Ming Qiu. Actress Lisa-Marie Long, and Horror actress/musician Eileen Daly chat about their projects. Look for several massive surprises, contests, and general mayhem in 2012! I am also preparing for a detailed interview with movie maverick Kantz in 2012!
Upcoming on Dan's Movie Report...
Be prepared, death is immanent! Selina Lo Chats about The Scorpion King 3, Check her official site out! Are my minions battle tested!?
http://selinalo.com/
Anna Movie Review (Short Film 2011)
Anna is a short and clever blast of terror that tells the story of David and Laura Cole, a London couple relocating to L.A., and is filmed in a Skype real time video chat style. David is in L.A. a week early getting the new place ready while Laura remains in the U.K. cleaning up loose ends.
The style of Anna is like a Paranormal Activity realism, but the twist of the live video chat is different. I am not sure this video chat idea would translate to feature film, but as a short film it is very entertaining.
Lisa-Marie Long from The Hike plays Laura, with a bit of a subdued playful tone at first, but it works for this film as she does not know about the haunting that is happening in L.A. in their new place. Lisa is an attractive girl next door type who comes across as a regular person, not trying to over act or over react to the situation. Repeat viewings bring out the nuances she brings to the character.
(Above Pic: Lisa-Marie Long as Laura, is a long way from The Hike in Anna, and even further away from her hubby to protect him! Haha!)
We see the couple chat over the course of the week, but things become increasingly strange. I am not going to spoil it, but this film has a solid ending payoff.
The direction from Matthew Solomon, who also plays the lead David, is natural. His character is just a guy in a new place, unfamiliar with his surroundings. He has short conversation with a Realtor named Annette about the place, but video chats with his wife are the main focus.
I watched Anna four times before reviewing it and each time I slightly changed my rating. I can say this is worth checking out for it's singular focus. I do wish that the video would have shown more of them just calmly working around each house separately before the big conclusion. All of that said, I rate this flick a 6.5 out of 10. I rate Lisa-Marie Long as adorable and intelligent. I rate Matthew Solomon as a gentleman with much potential and full of ideas. I now rate this review as over!
For more info on this great film stalk your browsers over to: http://annalivedhere.weebly.com/index.html
Monday, December 26, 2011
Suing The Devil Movie Review
Above Pic: Suing The Devil Poster from IMDB
So I watched this film without finding anything about it. Suing The Devil is an odd story about a young gentleman who decides to sue the devil for 8 trillion dollars. The film was peppered with sarcastic undertones as veteran actor Malcolm McDowell played Satan with vim and panache. Suing the devil poked fun at all aspects of the devil including looking for him at used car lots and strip clubs.
Although most of the film takes place inside the courtroom, outside drama was played like a Court TV battle with host and very quirky, and down right nutty Tom Sizemore as Tony 'The Hip' Anzaldo. In addition to him was the levelheaded and damn cute Rebecca St. James as the tame and demure Jasmine Williams
Not sure what to make of the whole thing, it is definitely open to interpretation, thoughtful, well acted, and very well directed. I thought it was a rip on the ridiculousness of the whole God Satan argument, until the final stage of the film, Suing the Devil develops a more somber tone.
There were many movie references including the "You can't handle the truth" line from A few Good Men. I enjoyed it the script, it was smart and if you have a low vocabulary, you will admonish this as trifle drivel. You do not have to be religious to enjoy this film. Just enjoy the silliness of looking for Satan and the devil leaving a flaming business card.
I loved it, Come to find out, Suing the Devil was apparently a religious film! So what, I rate it a solid 7 out of 10 as Motley Crue would say: I give a "SHOUT AT THE DEVIL!!!!! hahahahah.
I have to support this! Check the site @ http://suingthedevil.com/
Sunday, December 25, 2011
Dracula 3D Trailer leaked without effects and post production Merry Christmas!
Above Pic: Dracula 3d still from IMDB
As a huge Dario and Asia Argento fan I cannot wait to see the horror master's latest salacious blast of celluloid . Check this not safe for work trailer out on youtube @ http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PiRLh5IkaBc
Put your fangs on the official site @ http://www.dracula3d.it/
Saturday, December 24, 2011
The Scorpion King 3: Battle for Redemption Movie Review
Above Pic: Blue Ray Release of The Scorpion King 3: Battle For Redemption (C) 2011 Universal Pictures
Selina Lo Interview Posted on Dan's Movie report! 1-5-12!http://dansmoviereport.blogspot.com/2012/01/selina-lo-interview-c-2012-dans-movie.html Selina Lo Interview Posted on Dan's Movie report!
Krystal Vee Interview Posted on Dan's Movie Report 1-8-12 http://dansmoviereport.blogspot.com/2012/01/krystal-vee-interview-c-2012-dans-movie.html
The third installment of the Scorpion King series is an ultra low budget blast of movie-making insanity. Because the title is so long I shall refer to the film as Battle For Redemption. The film has everything a sword and sandals movie fan could possibly want. If you are not a fan of these types of films, well then go watch Hope Floats!
Battle for Redemption opens with a narrative, those familiar with the previous installments of all the films in the Mummy series know that to establish the storyline this method is employed. With a budget of only six million, I was quite astonished what they came up with. The look of the film, although inferior to the original films, was lush and refined and it had 1/15th of the budget!
Our Hero Mathayus, portrayed by with a quick wit and a fighting spirit by Victor Webster, is a a King without a Kingdom, the last of the Arcadian warriors out there looking to be a mercenary. Webster's portrayal seems to get off to a slow start, but by the middle of the film his is in full form, jabbing with the tongue and including the fist.
Ron Perlman plays Horus the King with surprisingly subdued ferver, and sends him on his quest. Mathayus needs a sidekick, and recruits a wild warrior named Olaf. Bostin Christopher plays the warrior with such silliness and outlandish oneliners you think you were watching a three stooges film! Ha, you think it would be bad, but surprisingly the one liners are clever as the two men are on the quest. Almost an homage to Mongo from Blazing Saddles.
The quest is sidetracked when they meet another king and in return for their help he offers his daughter's hand in marriage, problem is she is kidnapped by this maniacal king. Yeah the plot is a bit wonky, but what he hell there is so much fighting and a myriad of action.
The second half of the film is the true highlight. Battle For Redemption kicks up into high gear when the audience is finally introduced to the fun part of the film. The Evil King summons three Demons with the Book of the Dead. We also see that the seemingly sweet innocent princess is not who she seems. Krystal Vee plays almost a dual role here. Her beauty is sublime, and changes this testosterone fest to something far better to look at, her acting ability and sensuous fighting skills are pretty entertaining as well.
Above Pic: (C) 2011 Universal Pictures: Kimbo, ready to take a slice out of his adversaries
The three demons are the show's true highlight. First off I liked the CGI that they were presented in. Check out Kimbo Slice's nasty, over the top Zulu character who wields a hammer that spews fire. Not to be out done wrestler Dave Bautista as the dead warrior Argomael is epically big and full of much kickassery, yeah dammit I create my own words. Yeah it is outlandish, but these men are just the two big burly guys needed to play the parts haha.
The final demon of the dead, is the most brutal, maniacal, and cutest of them all, and by far the lightest haha. Selina Lo as Tsukai has so many powers, including the ability to fly, create a sphere of visibility, and unleash a holy hell of martial arts fury. Selina is a fantastic actress and seems to bask in the evil limelight. She has a likable quality and a clear speaking voice. Hopefully this will be a springboard for her future acting career.
Above Pic: (C) 2011 Universal Pictures: A long blond wig and a large amount of whoop-ass is Selina Lo as Tsukai!
There are twists and turns in the last 30 minutes of the film and quite frankly, the plot gets lost in all the fighting, but I did not care. Battle for Redemption is well shot even using Elephants as fighting transport, and in battle scenes! Kudos to the cast and crew in Thailand for shooting this on a shoestring budget.
I was on the fence about what rating to give this. Battle For Redemption is a frame of mind type film, as this film requires the viewers to check their brains at the door and enjoy the fun, don't think, relish the action. Maybe I am being generous, but I rate this sardonic, sarcastic, pugilistic masterpiece an 8 out of 10! Now a word to the haters, get a life and a sense of humor! Pre-order is available, item ships January 10th on Amazon, and no I do not work for this production.
Check out Selina Lo's Official site. http://www.selinalo.com/
Also, slice your browser to Krystal Vee's Official site @ http://www.krystalvee.com/
Love and Vigilance Movie Review (Post #150!!!!!!!)
Above Pic: Love and Vigilance Poster
In the loving spirit of the holiday season, I feel it is my job as a writer to present the best in underground films as well as the big budget ones. For post number 150, I present, in my opinion, the most hysterical action comedic 9 minutes ever filmed. The amazing part is that only two people were involved in the entire production including playing all the characters, filming, costumes, etc...! In this day and age it is refreshing to see what just two talented individuals can dream up.
Love And Vigilance is the whole creation of two extremely talented stunt people, who are also damn good at acting and even have a good eye for production behind the camera as well. It helps that Monique Ganderton and Sam Hargrave are a loving couple because in this film as with their other film Seven Layer Dip, the action gets brutal, it almost seems like they enjoy beating the snot out of each other, all be it with a sardonic tinge of over the top humor.
Above Pic: (c) 2011 SamMo Productions: How does one go about obtaining a beat down from Monique?
Love and Vigilance is the simple story of a couple trying to change the rundown, rough neighborhood they live in. A simple knock at the door with cookies in hand, ends up a full on brawl with the inclusion of perhaps the most outlandish weapon ever used, I will not spoil the fun, but as a side comment, a gun was just out of reach, but this particular weapon had far more thrusting power and gives a new meaning to blunt force trauma to the head!
I really enjoyed the clever production values, as we see another couple in the background on a TV screen in a silly workout video, but alas it is just Sam and Monique playing the part of that couple as well! The fight scenes are filmed at the proper angles, thus you can see their facial expressions and then wider shots for the more rough stuff. Love and Vigilance is the best short film I have witnessed since Red Princess Blues.
Above Pic: (C) 2011 SamMo Productions: A workout video in the background adds to the fun!
This film is a MUST see, and Monique, please tell us who is your prop master? That was a weapon far more dangerous than any whip chain, kama, or bo-staff! Love And Vigilance rates a 9 out of 10 for epic fights and slapstick humor. At a mere 9 minutes repeat watching is well worth it. I cannot wait to see what comes next out the twisted minds of Sam and Monique!
Sam and Monique have formed their own production company called SamMo productions a combination of their two names and also the first name of the legendary round mound of action on the ground: Sammo Hung! Look for full length features from the pair shortly, and check out sexy Monique in The new Hansel and Gretel: Witch Hunters flick in 2012.
Check the SamMo website out at http://www.moniqueganderton.com/myproductions.html
The IMDB page for the film is a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt2080338
Friday, December 23, 2011
Movie Anticipation List For 2012!
As 2011 rapidly draws to a close, I figured I have to list the ten films that I need to see in 2012, Warrioress is not theatrical film. I put the reasons why I want to see them after the film's title.
1) Batman: Dark Knight Rises- (IMAX) What a teaser, ears still ringing!
2) The Avengers- A massive superhero buildup, a few years in the making!
3) Rock of Ages- Hey I am in it so go see it dammit!
4) The Expendables 2- That many action hero movie stars in one film has to be good!
5) Warrioress- Sexy Cecily Fay in her own action movie what's not to like!
6) G.I. Joe: Retaliation- There is much action, and more testosterone.
7) The Raven- Fictionalized account of Edgar Allen Poe's last days.
8) Dark Shadows- Classic vampire soap, made into a Tim Burton film.
9) Hansel and Gretel: Witch hunters- Famke, and the witches are cute stunt girls!
10) The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey- Not as high on my list as Lord of the Rings.
1) Batman: Dark Knight Rises- (IMAX) What a teaser, ears still ringing!
2) The Avengers- A massive superhero buildup, a few years in the making!
3) Rock of Ages- Hey I am in it so go see it dammit!
4) The Expendables 2- That many action hero movie stars in one film has to be good!
5) Warrioress- Sexy Cecily Fay in her own action movie what's not to like!
6) G.I. Joe: Retaliation- There is much action, and more testosterone.
7) The Raven- Fictionalized account of Edgar Allen Poe's last days.
8) Dark Shadows- Classic vampire soap, made into a Tim Burton film.
9) Hansel and Gretel: Witch hunters- Famke, and the witches are cute stunt girls!
10) The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey- Not as high on my list as Lord of the Rings.
Wednesday, December 21, 2011
Weather Wars Movie Review
Stacy Keach as a scientist turned maniacal bum in Weather Wars
For Weather Wars I have mercifully decided to give it a mini review and get down to the basics. This film stars Stacy Keach, a down and out scientist named Marcus Grange, who manipulates storms to kill those who have cut his budgetary funding for the weather project he developed. He has such control he can create an area specific lightning bolt out of thin air and one strong enough to damage the Pentagon.
His two sons, David and Jacob, played by Jason London and Wes Brown attempt to stop him, but it is not till the addition of his ex cute research assistant Samantha Winter (Erin Cahill)that the ball to stop him starts to roll. Erin is a rather talented actress and the film picks up once she is on board. I eagerly await her next project, he personality shines through this very average film
One thing leads to another and the last man left for Marcus to kill with his Weather Wars is a Senator. The film moves along at a rapid pace never boring, but the plot is so outlandish, in the fact that how could three able bodied younger folks, FBI, and various other law enforcement folk not catch a 70 year old man who moves like molasses.
Bottom line, I give this a 4.5 out of 10, some decent special effects and one adorable Erin Cahill, save this from a bottom of the barrel stinker.
Tuesday, December 20, 2011
Jasi Cotton Lanier Stuntwoman Profile
Above Pic: Jasi in Wrangler Commercial from her official site
Multi-talented stuntwoman/actress Jasi Lanier is a kick ass lady hailing from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. She is a multitude of films, TV shows, and commercials to her credit and even does fire burns! One of the things that made me interested up was her Crash The Superbowl Doritos spot. I was laughing so hard after watching it multiple times. Check it out @ http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YgFarOqMWDc&feature=related
For more info on this talented lady kick your browsers over to to her official site @ http://www.jasilanier.com/
She also has a FaceBook "Like Page" where she posts videos of some of the cool stunts she has performed. Blast on over to: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Jasi-Lanier/158200157594046?sk=wall#!/pages/Jasi-Lanier/158200157594046
Look for more on her in 2012 on Dan's Movie Report!
The Girl From The Naked Eye Movie Review
Above Pic: The Girl From The Naked Eye movie poster
Update 5-11-12: The Girl From the Naked Eye gets limited theatrical run!
Latin America Premiere! at The Fantaspoa Film festival takes place in Porto Alegre, BRAZIL from May 4th through May 20th, 2012.
The Girl from the Naked Eye - VIII Festival Internacional de Cinema Fantástico de Porto Alegre - FAN
www.fantaspoa.com
For purposes of convenience throughout this review I will refer "Naked Eye" as a shortened form of the full title. The film opens up with a man crying, balling his eyes out as the wide shot reveals a woman, presumably his lady dead in his arms. The rest of the film is spent finding out who did this to her and why.
Naked Eye, plays out like a mystery, a detective story even referencing Nancy Drew at one point in the middle of the film. The protagonist Jake (Jason Yee) is hell bent on finding out the truth who killed Sandy (Samantha Streets) and tries to force it out of every person he meets. Jake is the driver. He drives the girls to their Johns, watches over them and was not there when Sandy died. We never know who the killer is, even suspecting that Jake may have been involved. Jake meets up with several seedy characters along the way and most of the time a full on martial arts battle ensues. This is where Naked Eye shines.
The fight scenes in Naked Eye are a spectacular display of human agility and takes this from an average flick to a must watch. Ron Yuan plays Simon, Jake's boss. In the beginning of the film we are lead to believe he is the killer. Yuan was also the action and fight choreographer and needs to be commended not only on the complexity of the fights, but the way they look on film. Director/writer David Ren did his homework and allowed the characters to show emotion on film, and obviously knows out the proper way to film a fight scene.
Sure some of the fights are outlandish, we see our hero taking on four cops with batons and besting them. Of course after seeing Ming Qiu doubling Lucy Liu in Ballistic: Ecks Vs Sever take down a half a dozen guys in riot gear, nothing in the movies is out of bounds. Flips, jumps, twists and turns occur at a lighting pace, and makes Naked Eye very entertaining to behold.
The only two issues I had with the Naked Eye are the narration, and the amount of flashbacks. The lead character does not need to explain to us what is going on. As the story unfolds, I would have rather seen it with his action. In fact the film's mystery would have been even stronger without the narration. The flashbacks are quirky, happening so often it detracts from the present day story. A back-story for the first 20 minutes or so would have set up the film and allowed the action to transpire more fluidly throughout the remainder of the film.
Those two small gripes behind, Naked Eye is a very good film. The action is fast and furious. The bad guys are ruthless, but so is our protagonist. There are several cool cameos in the film, from James Lew, Michelle Lee, and adult star Sasha Grey. The dialogue is witty, at times a bit silly, but works for the film. There is nudity as "The Naked Eye" is a strip club, and home base of operations for Simon.
Overall I rate The Girl From The Naked Eye a 7 out of 10, this is a must see. According to IMDB the film releases officially in April 2012. In the meantime point your browsers to the official page @ http://girlfromthenakedeye.com/ Or facebook page @ https://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Girl-From-the-Naked-Eye/123779963550
Monday, December 19, 2011
Actress Bai Ling Releases New Single On Itunes
Above Pic: Bai Ling from her Facebook page.
I just spoke with Actress and singer Bai Ling, and she told me that she is releasing a new single in time for Christmas through Itunes called: U Touch Me and I Don't Know U. Bai also wishes everyone a happy holidays "Thank U so much for what you said, happy holidays to U too... A big smile to all my Florida friends:))))))))"
Her older single "Rehab" is still available on Itunes @ http://itunes.apple.com/us/album/rehab/id471916130?i=471916134
In case you haven't read my interview with Bai, click the link @ http://dansmoviereport.blogspot.com/2011/08/bai-ling-raw-and-unfiltered-c-2011.html
December News...
Good Monday morning, lots to report, time to shoot straight into it.
Natassia in Bloodrayne: Deliverance. She shoots from the hip, and looks great doing it!
Actress Natassia Malthe is currently in Malaysia working on a new film from Epic Pictures called Vikingdom. She plays the character of Brynna. The film is expected to release in December 2012 and spins the tale of a warrior facing a god of immense power. check the IMDB link @ http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1785669
Natassia has been in several films including, Elektra as Typhoid, and the last two Bloodrayne films. She is a multi-talented actress who also is the co-founder and director of US operations of the Touhoku Daishinsai Expat Relief Fund (TDERF) Malthe can currently be seen in the new In The Name of The King 2: Two Worlds, which releases in early January 2012.
Actress/Silat Master/Singer Cecily Fay reports she working an a new album. Fay is also putting the final finishing touches on her feature film Warrioress, which should have a cast and crew premiere sometime in Feb 2012. Fay's Silat school is still going strong, check her website link at the side of the page, for more info.
Above Pic: Magnificent Eleven poster
Director/Writer Ross Boyask reports that he has completed second unit filming on The Magnificent Eleven a film that has this unique description. "A modernization of the classic western in which the Cowboys are a struggling local amateur soccer team, the Indians run a nearby Tandoori restaurant and the bandits are a group of menacing thugs led by a maniac known simply as 'American Bob'." The film is set to come out at the end of 2012.
Master Cary-Hiroyuki Tagawa has an informative website available for all to join, a network of folks interested in the martial arts, writers and gamers. The site is called Shang's army, (named after the Mortal Kombat character) Slice your browsers over to https://www.shangsarmy.com/socialnet/
Director/Writer Kantz is back in LA and look for his interview in early 2012. In the mean time check out his Wasteland currently on home video.
Above pic: Eileen Daly from her FB page credit on image
Sultry actress/singer Eileen Daly reports that she is working on new music and she has an updated site for her band The Courtesans at http://www.thecourtesans.net/index.html Look for her feature interview in 2012!
Even on a mountain top you are not safe from the deadly Ming, as she stunt doubles for the Jinx character in GI Joe. Screen Cap: Danny Shamon (Image (c)2011 Hasbro/MGM)
Lovely and talented Stuntwoman/Martial artist Ming Qiu has completed work on G.I. Joe 2 and reports that she worked hard to train actress Elodie Yung to do her own sword work. She was on the set for a few months training and Ming can be seen in the Yellow jumpsuit in the new trailer! I have to say it, Ming kicks ass, and close to five dozen films to her credit. Look for new interview in mid 2012!
Russell Perks and Zara pose for a shot, from Russell's facebook page
Sensei Zara Phythian recently had her student's graduation and awards ceremony for her Personal Best Academy and had Sensei Russell Perks as one of the featured guests. Russell has his own academy as well, check his website at http://www.rpmaa.com
(For Zara See PBA website link on side of page and banner at the bottom of page) Zara is a fantastic teacher of the arts and excels in all of her endeavors. In 2012 she will be starring in several new projects including Iron Monk and a full length feature of Sim Card.
Above Pic: From Chyna's FB page
The multi-talented Actor/Stuntman/Producer Chyna McCoy is hitting the convention circuit promoting his Bayne film concept with a full marketing plan. He posts this pic on his facebook page in full costume and gear even including some cool Bayne sunglasses.
Dean Meadows is moving forward with his Friday's Child film concept through Pentagram Pictures. Check the Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/#!/pentagrampicturesofficial
So far the interview list for 2012 is growing, please note that the interview schedule is subject to change, or cancellation, and I try to have them coincide with the release of a film the subjects are in. Here is the list current of people I plan to interview in 2012: Kantz, Eileen Daly, Cynthia Rothrock, Cary Tagawa, Ming Qiu, Ross Boyask, and Jesse Johnson.
I am working on a couple of other surprises, so keep checking the site for details! Whew that was a lot of news! I am over and out, have news send it!
Natassia in Bloodrayne: Deliverance. She shoots from the hip, and looks great doing it!
Actress Natassia Malthe is currently in Malaysia working on a new film from Epic Pictures called Vikingdom. She plays the character of Brynna. The film is expected to release in December 2012 and spins the tale of a warrior facing a god of immense power. check the IMDB link @ http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1785669
Natassia has been in several films including, Elektra as Typhoid, and the last two Bloodrayne films. She is a multi-talented actress who also is the co-founder and director of US operations of the Touhoku Daishinsai Expat Relief Fund (TDERF) Malthe can currently be seen in the new In The Name of The King 2: Two Worlds, which releases in early January 2012.
Actress/Silat Master/Singer Cecily Fay reports she working an a new album. Fay is also putting the final finishing touches on her feature film Warrioress, which should have a cast and crew premiere sometime in Feb 2012. Fay's Silat school is still going strong, check her website link at the side of the page, for more info.
Above Pic: Magnificent Eleven poster
Director/Writer Ross Boyask reports that he has completed second unit filming on The Magnificent Eleven a film that has this unique description. "A modernization of the classic western in which the Cowboys are a struggling local amateur soccer team, the Indians run a nearby Tandoori restaurant and the bandits are a group of menacing thugs led by a maniac known simply as 'American Bob'." The film is set to come out at the end of 2012.
Master Cary-Hiroyuki Tagawa has an informative website available for all to join, a network of folks interested in the martial arts, writers and gamers. The site is called Shang's army, (named after the Mortal Kombat character) Slice your browsers over to https://www.shangsarmy.com/socialnet/
Director/Writer Kantz is back in LA and look for his interview in early 2012. In the mean time check out his Wasteland currently on home video.
Above pic: Eileen Daly from her FB page credit on image
Sultry actress/singer Eileen Daly reports that she is working on new music and she has an updated site for her band The Courtesans at http://www.thecourtesans.net/index.html Look for her feature interview in 2012!
Even on a mountain top you are not safe from the deadly Ming, as she stunt doubles for the Jinx character in GI Joe. Screen Cap: Danny Shamon (Image (c)2011 Hasbro/MGM)
Lovely and talented Stuntwoman/Martial artist Ming Qiu has completed work on G.I. Joe 2 and reports that she worked hard to train actress Elodie Yung to do her own sword work. She was on the set for a few months training and Ming can be seen in the Yellow jumpsuit in the new trailer! I have to say it, Ming kicks ass, and close to five dozen films to her credit. Look for new interview in mid 2012!
Russell Perks and Zara pose for a shot, from Russell's facebook page
Sensei Zara Phythian recently had her student's graduation and awards ceremony for her Personal Best Academy and had Sensei Russell Perks as one of the featured guests. Russell has his own academy as well, check his website at http://www.rpmaa.com
(For Zara See PBA website link on side of page and banner at the bottom of page) Zara is a fantastic teacher of the arts and excels in all of her endeavors. In 2012 she will be starring in several new projects including Iron Monk and a full length feature of Sim Card.
Above Pic: From Chyna's FB page
The multi-talented Actor/Stuntman/Producer Chyna McCoy is hitting the convention circuit promoting his Bayne film concept with a full marketing plan. He posts this pic on his facebook page in full costume and gear even including some cool Bayne sunglasses.
Dean Meadows is moving forward with his Friday's Child film concept through Pentagram Pictures. Check the Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/#!/pentagrampicturesofficial
So far the interview list for 2012 is growing, please note that the interview schedule is subject to change, or cancellation, and I try to have them coincide with the release of a film the subjects are in. Here is the list current of people I plan to interview in 2012: Kantz, Eileen Daly, Cynthia Rothrock, Cary Tagawa, Ming Qiu, Ross Boyask, and Jesse Johnson.
I am working on a couple of other surprises, so keep checking the site for details! Whew that was a lot of news! I am over and out, have news send it!
Sunday, December 18, 2011
In The Name Of The King 2: Two Worlds Movie Review
Above Pic: International Poster
This 2011 sequel to the 2007 Uwe Boll sword action flick is one of those puzzling films that is not sure where it wants to be, or what it wants to be. The opening of the film the audience is thrust into a forest with a pair of assassins chasing a sorceress. she runs across the forest, kills them and then runs right into the present day. Then We see Dolph Lundgen's character in a Dojo teaching kids. He goes home after teaching and boom that same woman and two assassins appear in his house, and the soceresss opens a portal to go back in time and he becomes the chosen one.
Ok I am lost, the bad English, hokey dialogue, and why is he the chosen one? The fight scenes are good, but the speaking parts are so ludicrously bad it is quite comical. The movie tries to explain itself, but just is silly. After meeting the king He is put in a room to sleep, with a cute harlot. He does not require her services as he is tired. Then in his sleep boom she tries to kill him, huh makes no sense.
Above Pic: Natassia Malthe makes a nice traveling companion.
Strangely enough this movie although bad it has some merits. Natassia Malthe as Manhattan does a good job portraying her character given the muddled and ambiguous script. The dialogue pokes fun at itself and is at times mildly amusing. Malthe is a treat to watch, even though this particular film didn't give her the proper vessel to hone her craft. She has a clear speaking voice and tries to inject an air of importance to their quest to find out why he is the chosen one.
Dolph is decent, but it is obvious he wasn't fully embracing the script. He delivers his dialogue with a smirk at times, underlying a sarcastic tone. There are a few fight scenes, and in those Dolph shines. The fights are kind fun to watch even though there is little blood, and the edits are quick.
Above pic: A scene from a battle In The Name of The King Part 2
The sets and scenery are all over the place, even a modern clothing cabinet in his sleeping room huh!?!. The forest looked a bit washed out, the colors did not pop on screen. I am assuming these were budgetary constrains.
This movie is hard to rate, I cannot recommend it for more than a marginal rent only because of the action. I rate it a 4.5 out of 10.
Saturday, December 17, 2011
Fortress Movie Review
It has been a long while since I have witnessed a decent World War II film. Fortress follows a story based on true events of a squadron of B-17 bombers making strafing runs in Italy from Northern Africa.
Fortress opens with a fantastic air assault including several formations of planes making the bombing run, while axis forces, make machine gun passes across the formation in small planes. The focal plane is called the Lucky Lass and is hit with small arms fire, loses an engine and a couple of guys die inside, but the plane is landed safely.
For a low budget film I thought the aerial combat and filming were fantastic. I liked the sets, and it is obvious that some time was taken on the outfits, and items used during this time period. The attempt at the softer moments seemed a bit forced, but this was about the action. The story development, and humor was a decent try to establish the characters, but leaves one yearning for the flight sequences. The middle of the film drags a bit. There is some tension between the mechanics and airmen which is the highlight of the downtime between flying.
The final 15 minutes is a full on assault on the senses, a tense melodramatic ballet of bullets and bombs in mid-air. The action is tight and tense, and includes spinning and diving action. The inter-splicing of wide shots and close-ups added to the action by placing the viewer into all angles and stages of the combat.
The acting was consistent, no one person stealing the film, but no one detracting from it. Director Mike Phillips and writer Adam Klein obviously took their time to create this and I hope to see more of their work in the near future.
This film works on many levels, and shows how a lower budget production can be as good quality as a big budget theatrically released film. I rate this film a definite rent and a buy if you like war films. Fortress rates a 6.5 out of 10.
Ross Boyask Director Spotlight
Above photo: Ross from his Facebook page.
Hailing from the UK Ross Boyask has made his bloody mark on the action film world. He has several films to his credit including Left For Dead, FIXers, and Ten Dead Men. In 2001 he directed the short film Pure Vengeance, an early film in Scott Adkin's career.
IMDB links to a few of his earlier films:
10 Dead Men http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0854679/
FIXers http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0479214/
Left For Dead http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0378238/
In addition to directing Ross a screenwriter, producer, writer. He has a couple of other guys working with him on several projects. The very talented Chris Regan wrote Ten Dead Men and Manor Hunt Ball. Left For Dead was written by a gifted chap named Adrian Foiadelli. Ross knows how to be a man of all trades, but also allows people who work for him and with him the creativity to make the project work.
2012 is set to be a banner year for Ross as he has several films in various stages of Development. First on the agenda is Warrioress, which is set to be ready for screening January 31st. Warrioress is the story of female warriors on a quest. He has completed the script for See You in Hell, he states that the film is "a high octane action horror - Die Hard meets Dawn Of The Dead". Ross is also in the early stages of pre-production of Manor Hunt Ball a film where the high class society folk hunt down the average Joe's for sport. Check IMDB link: http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1733218/ The film is expecting a 2012 release.
Ross's IMDB page: http://www.imdb.com/name/nm1410110/
Ross has a couple of other films in the very early stages of development. Keep reading Dan's Movie Report in 2012 for additional info!
Friday, December 16, 2011
Cary-Hiroyuki Tagawa Actor Spolight
Above pic: Myself, Master Cary-Hiroyuki, and actress Stephanie Cheeva at H.I.M.A.S Banquet in 2003 Photo credit: Kelsey McNeal
Master Tagawa is a multi-faceted actor who has been in dozens of movies and TV shows. Perhaps his most widely recognized role is Shang Tsung in Mortal Kombat. Most recently he can be seen on the hit TV series Hawaii 5-0 on CBS. In 2012 he will be featured in a few exciting new films.
Dual of Legends http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0849437/
Dual Of Legends film follows the story of a young boy, whose parents are killed,and was raised by a monk. He must fight to survive and find out who is behind the trafficking of young girls.
Mr. Tagawa is also starring in an epic 18th Century Samurai film called 47 Ronin. In this film a roving band of samurai set out on a quest to avenge the death of their master. Keanu Reeves also stars check IMDB for now, I will post official photos soon as the arrive.
IMDB Link for 47 Ronin: http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1335975/
Watch Dan's Movie Report for future news, photos, and interview with Mr. Tagawa in 2012, in the meantime check out his cool official site @ http://www.caryhiroyukitagawa.com/
Mission Impossible: Ghost Protocol Movie Review
Just got back from the 9:01 Pm IMAX showing of Ghost Protocol. My ears are still ringing from the Batman trailer attached at the beginning. Be ready for a new more ominous villain, and some damn loud stunts and action.
Ghost Protocol is a thrill ride that rarely slows down, but the fact that this Mission has a true team effort makes the film thoroughly enjoyable to watch. After the pre-title sequence the film opens with Ethan Hunt (Cruise) in a Russian prison, with the aid of his cohorts he escapes, the very hard way out.
The team is formally introduced and includes Simon Pegg as Benji, Jeremy Renner as Brandt and a very ravishing excruciatingly lethal Paula Patton as Jane. We later find out the connection between team members, but as soon as the action shifts to Dubai, there is no time for pleasantries save for some wisecracks between the team members.
The stunts are jaw dropping in IMAX. The Burg tower is so tall it dwarfs the other structures around it makes for a fitting series of action sequences.
Paula Patton is fun to watch and she matched Mr. Cruise in intensity and intrepidity. Her fight training made it look like she could mix it up with the boys. Her sexiness also became a weapon, the dresses she wears covers several nice non-electronic pieces of equipment haha.
Why should they guys have all the fun! Photo by David James – © 2011 Paramount Pictures.
The film's final act takes place in India, more exotic locations, maniacal action, and a two million dollar prototype BMW. Quite often it was hard to catch my breath, but there was enough talking parts, and futuristic gadgets malfunctioning to keep the story moving even if the plot at times got lost in the action.
The cast all did a solid job with their characters, coming off as natural, not forced. The interplay between the team, the humor, and intensity kept the film flowing. It was nice to see Michael Nyqvist as Hendricks. He is a fantastic actor, and deserves roles in big budget films.
The IMAX production was interesting in that only portions of the film were filmed in the IMAX format, the screen altered in size when IMAX was being used and back to standard size when not. This was very subtle, and did not detract from the continuity and presentation of Ghost Protocol.
Overall I liked it. I think the IMAX format suits an action movie of this magnitude and am glad they chose NOT to do it in 3D. I rate Mission Impossible: Ghost Protocol an 8 out of 10. I recommend this in a theater. The film opens December 21st, but is already playing at selected IMAX theaters.
Thursday, December 15, 2011
Hostel : Part III Movie Review
All I can say is wow. I had rather low expectations for this direct to video feature of Hostel. This is the first film in the series not directed by Eli Roth, and although it had a much lower budget it really delivered, on the intensity.
The movie opens innocently enough with a nerdy college type kid wandering into a hotel room that was rented by a couple. I won't spoil it but lets just say things are never what they seem in Hostel III.
The main story begins with four friends meeting up in Las Vegas for the bachelor party to end all bachelor parties. The guys are partying, gambling drinking etc. The atmosphere, mood, and settings are all typical. Things start to turn south in a hurry when they are escorted to a place way off the strip.
Hostel III is one of those films you do not want to spoil even a bit, as one thing leads to another, all building to a crescendo at the conclusion. The actors and actresses move through the scenes and their actions have direct correlation to what happens next.
Not all of the girls in Hostel have good intentions!
I will say that this film focuses more on relationship and betrayal rather than the torture, there is some truly terrible slicing and dicing, going on but that is not the main focus of Hostel III. That is what makes this film provocative and fresh.
As a side comment kudos go to the filmmakers for finding the hottest ladies to be in this film. Not to sound sexist here, but there is something for everyone, and some of them even are garment challenged haha. Ladies, don't worry lots of big burly scary men are there as well.
Evelina Oboza as Anka, she does a great job in Hostel III, and is pleasant to look at.
We learn about the characters on the fly but that is fine as the story unfolds. This film had such a well thought out story and the concept behind the torture makes Hostel III stand out in the series.
This film is a must watch. I give Hostel III a 7 out of 10. It is available on DVD Amazon for pre-order and ships Dec 27th.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)