Hello folks, welcome to the 8th Five for the Fifth of the year!
As is customary for this monthly feature, I get to post five random news item, observation, trailer, actor/director spotlight, etc. and then turn it over to you to share your take on that given topic. You can see the previous five-for-the-fifth posts here.
1. August 5th is Neil Armstrong‘s birthday. The first man on the moon would’ve been 82 today. When he died almost exactly a year ago on August 25 (see my music-themed tribute here), some articles (like this one) reported on an [inevitable] biopic on his life. Not sure what have become of that project, which is baffling to me as Hollywood LOVES biopics, and Armstrong seems to have a story worth telling, aside from his accomplishments in space engineering.
This Guardian article from 2008 had some casting ideas, but I think some of those might be moot at this point. One name they threw out was Viggo Mortensen, which would be awesome, even if at 54 he’s too old to play Armstrong when he first landed on the moon, which was 38.
Thoughts on this project? Who do you think would be a good fit to play Neil Armstrong?
2. In my June Five for the Fifth, I mentioned about 2 Guns in my question about Mark Wahlberg. Well, that movie tops box office this weekend with $27 mil. Not bad considering its budget is only $61 mil. I guess both Denzel Washington and Mark Wahlberg can open a movie on their own, so combine the two together, I’m not surprised the film does well.
The movie is more of a rental to me though. Terrence gave it a 3 out 5 stars, so it’s not horrible, but not something I have to see on the big screen. I quite like buddy action flicks though, that’s a tried-and-true genre that relies on the charm and chemistry of the cast. Some of my fave buddy action/comedy flicks are Lethal Weapons, Tango & Cash, The Other Guys, Hot Fuzz, and most recently, 21 Jump Street.
How about you, what are YOUR favorite buddy action flicks?
3. Some of you who’ve read my July Recap knows that The Act of Killing documentary is my Movie of the Month. I’m still mulling it over after seeing it last week.
After chatting with the filmmaker Joshua Oppenheimer and attending his Q&A at Walker Art Center this weekend, I have a better appreciation of the filmmaking process, though it’s certainly a film one would be hard pressed to comprehend. I will post my review and interview w/ Joshua later this week, but here’s the trailer:
So far the film has garnered all kinds of accolades and awards from all over the world. It’s Rotten Tomatoes rating is currently 97%, the summary reads like this: Raw, terrifying, and painfully difficult to watch, The Act of Killing offers a haunting testament to the edifying, confrontational power of documentary cinema. Trust me, it’s no hyperbole and it’s easily THE most haunting documentary I’ve ever seen, and I’m not saying that because the subject matter focuses on my homeland Indonesia. I can’t recommend this enough folks, especially if you like history or simply compelling stories that’s told in an inventive way. I certainly hope it’d be nominated for an Academy Awards next year.
Speaking of recommendations, what has been the most memorable documentary you saw in the last 12 months?
4. Actors venturing into directing films are nothing new. We’ve certainly seen some movie stars garnering accolades for directing AND starring in their films (George Clooney, Ben Affleck, etc.), and now Chris Evans is attempting to do just that. Per SlashFilm, the Captain America star reportedly will direct and star in a romantic drama called 1:30 Train. Here’s the initial plot of the film:
Two strangers who meet in Manhattan and spend one night together as the conflicts in their own lives become the basis for their exploration of each other and themselves.”
Some sites are describing it as being in the vein of Richard Linklaters’ Before Sunrise, which intrigues me, Hollywood needs more compelling romantic dramas instead of rom-coms. Now, I’m warming up to Evans as an actor, I mean he’s not a stellar actor by any means but I like that he tries to mix up different genres. He’s fitting in an apocalypse thriller Snowpiercer (hopefully it’ll get a US release date soon), and now this, in between his Avengers gig. Curious who’d be cast as the love interest, but in any case, I wish him the best of luck on this project!
What do you think of Chris Evans’ directorial debut idea? Does the film appeal to you?
5. Now, I know it’s only August, nominations isn’t going to start for another four months. But hey, since they’ve already announced that Ellen DeGeneres will host the Oscars next year (which is awesome as she’s FUNNY without being mean-spirited!), I think it’s fair game to talk about Oscar predictions… or wish list.
The one film that’s a shoo-in come award season is Steve McQueen’s Twelve Years A Slave.
12 YEARS A SLAVE is based on an incredible true story of one man’s fight for survival and freedom. In the pre-Civil War United States, Solomon Northup (Chiwetel Ejiofor), a free black man from upstate New York, is abducted and sold into slavery. Facing cruelty (personified by a malevolent slave owner, portrayed by Michael Fassbender), as well as unexpected kindnesses, Solomon struggles not only to stay alive, but to retain his dignity. In the twelfth year of his unforgettable odyssey, Solomon’s chance meeting with a Canadian abolitionist (Brad Pitt) will forever alter his life.
The cast is incredible, but I’m especially thrilled to see Chiwetel Ejiofor in the lead role!! I’ve been championing the talented Brit for years, he was on my list of foreign actors to watch (along with his co-star Michael Fassbender!). I’m sincerely hoping that this film would come to Twin Cities Film Fest in October (ahead of its limited release on December 27), as MN-native Bill Pohlad is one of the film’s producers.
Oh man, I cried just watching the trailer! I better pack a box of tissue when I watch the film. I LOVE that Benedict Cumberbatch is in this as well, this is the second time he’s doing a slavery-themed film, the first one was Amazing Grace, which I highly recommend if you haven’t seen yet.
Our resident Oscar expert Josh @ Classicblanca has put up his Oscar predictions last week, and I’m thrilled to see he’s predicting Ejiofor under the Best Actor noms. I’d love to see Fassy get a nom in Best Supporting Actor category too, since he was overlooked last year, but I REALLY want Ejiofor to finally get his dues after years of memorable, supporting performances. I know that after seeing him in Endgame, he’s definitely a capable leading man.
P.S. In the Best Actress category, I’d love to Cate Blanchett get a nom as well. I mean, just from seeing a trailer and clip of Blue Jasmine, she’s certainly in top form being the chameleon actor that she is!
Well, now my last question to you is: Which actor (or actress) would you love to getting a nomination come award season?
FLIXCHATTER FILM BLOG 
12 Years A Slave is certainly one of my most anticipated films of the year. Not just because there’s an actor or two I fancy amongst the cast (I think you know which ones in particular), but because McQueen’s last film was a masterpiece. And I’m even more excited because I’ll be seeing it at the Toronto International Film Festival, which will be showing a BUNCH of other possible awards contenders (a number of them I really want to see).
Sorry, I didn’t mean to slightly brag. I’m just really excited about going there.
You’re going to TIFF? That’s awesome Anna, congrats! He…he.. yes, I know you love Fassy and Benedict, but hey, who isn’t? 😉 Which other films will you be seeing at TIFF?
Well, what I’m hoping to see includes the likes of Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom, Only Lovers Left Alive, August: Osage County, Kill Your Darlings and The Fifth Estate. Just to name a few. (My actual “to watch” list is a bit bigger than this one.)
My goodness, great list!! Only Lovers Left Alive is on my top watch list, esp w/ Hiddleston as a vampire!! Oooh, another Benedict’s film. I REALLY want to see The Fifth Estate, hope that gets a decent release here in the US.
I enjoyed ‘2 Guns’ more than I expected. And I agree with your choices for buddy pics (though, I still haven’t seen ’21 Jump Street’).
1. I like your pick as I’m drawing a blank for this.
2. I add two to your list, Ruth: ‘Midnight Run’ for its fantastic chemistry of the leads (De Niro & Grodin) and story, and…wait for it…’Thelma and Louise’. The latter proves you don’t a Y-chromosome for this longtime favorite of a genre.
3. Easily, it was ‘The Invisible War’ (and I will be checking out ‘The Act of Killing’ as I so enjoy a good documentary film).
4. Yeah, as I do like Evans as an actor.
5. Leonardo DiCaprio, but I don’t think ‘The Great Gatsby’ will be it, maybe ‘The Wolf of Wall Street’.
Hi Michael! Always glad to see you stop by 😀
Oh I still need to see Midnight Run but I LOVE that you mentioned Thelma & Louise! I quite like that one and you’re right, it doesn’t have to be a MALE buddy flicks! 😀
I’ve got to check out The Invisible War, thanks for the rec.
I think the premise of Evans’ film is esp. intriguing, I think that’ll give him to exercise his acting muscles 😀
As for Wolf of Wall Street, for some reason I thought McConaughey was more memorable in the trailer but who knows, maybe this’ll be Leo’s year too.
This month’s FFTF is very interesting 🙂
1. I’ll give Viggo a chance.
2. Def Hot Fuzz, Shaun of the dead, and The Mighty Boosh.
3. I haven’t watched many discovery
4. Don’t really care about Evans…sorry.
5. Should I really answer number 5??? 😉
Hey Nov, you must be in a hurry 😀 You meant ‘documentary’ right on #3? Yeah, it’s be cool to see Benedict get an Oscar nod but I don’t think it’ll be on this film, Fassbender probably would get a nod in the supporting role.
Whuahaha didn’t realize I made that mistake.
I actually lost hope in Oscar. Cillian was brilliant on Peacock and since it was an indie, no one when care. And even though I know Benny will do great in 5th Estate (not sure about 12 because we barely see him in the trailer) , I bet award will miss him (maybe except for BAFTA). Remember Bale? It took ages for him to have that Oscar
Yeah, the Academy is S-L-O-W in recognizing talents it seems, they seem to nominate the same ppl over and over again. I think a BAFTA is in the can though.
I do believe he at least gets a nomination in BAFTA 🙂
1. I’m not that big into biopics, especially when Hollywood makes them, they tend to over dramatize or make up stuff to make the film more compelling. Which is fine but most of the biopics I’ve seen just aren’t that great. As for the actor who can play Armstrong, the only one that comes to my mind is Leo DiCaprio, he kind of looks like Armstrong and he’s in the right age. And of course he’s big named star so he can bring in big named talents to work behind the scenes.
2. I’ll also probably rent 2 Guns, not something I want to rush and go see in theater. As for my favorite buddy/cop action films, all of the Lethal Weapon except the 4th one, that one was just sloppy and not that good; Midnight Run, it needs to come out on Bluray pronto!; the two 48 Hrs. films; Freebie and The Bean, the film that “inspired” Shane Black to write Lethal Weapon; and the first Rush Hour was pretty good.
3. I don’t think I’ve seen any documentary that stuck with me since Enron The Smartest Guys in the Room and Shoah. I’ll definitely check out The Act of Killing.
4. Hmm, Evans as a director, not sure about that and the film doesn’t sound like anything I’d watch. But at least he starts out doing something small and doable for him as a director. Dramas are always easier to direct than say action, comedy or sci-fi.
5. If 12 Years A Slave turns out to be just an okay film, Ejiofor will get the Oscars nom for sure. Let’s face it, Hollywood doesn’t produce many films starring a non-white actors so he’s a guarantee nominee. Well as you know I don’t care much about the awards shows and I haven’t any performances that blew me away yet this year, so I don’t know who I hope will get nominated.
I hear ya Ted. But Hollywood continue to make biopics, so why not make one on someone who’s actually contributed something great to humanity, y’know. Well I’m sure if Leo wanted to play Armstrong it’d have happened by now.
I so need to see Midnight Run! I always see that on Netflix Streaming. Oh yeah, the first Rush Hour was ok, but went downhill after thah.
Oh I still haven’t seen that Enron one, thanks for the reminder Ted.
Yeah, I think it’s smart of him to start small, sounds like a low-budget fare that’d focus more on story and character. We’ll see.
I so hope you’re right about Ejiofor getting a nom, though I think it should be on merit, not just because he’s non-white.
I assume the only reason Armstrong’s film hasn’t been made yet is because maybe his family won’t allow Hollywood to overdramatize his life.
The Enron doc will make you angry, those high level executives just screwed the people who worked for them out of their savings. And they didn’t have any remorse at what they did.
I hate to sound so cynical but that’s how Hollywood is, if there’s a “prestigious” film that doesn’t have a white actor as the lead, they’ll make sure to nominate that actor so they won’t be call racists. Don’t get me wrong, I think Ejiofor is a great actor, I thought he’s great in Redbelt, a film no one saw.
I’m seriously interested in watching The Act Of Killing. The poster you featured last time got me intrigued, but now after finding out more about it, I really do want to watch it.
Funny that Chris Evans is directing at a young age. Most actors starve the attention and glamour, so can’t stand being BEHIND the camera. Not at a young age when they’re in hot demand anyway.
Excellent description of Ellen… funny without being mean-spirited!! Actually its much easier to insult someone to be funny compared to the way Ellen does it.
Hi Asrap! Are you able to watch stuff from iTunes? I think it’s available to rent there, but yeah it’s definitely a must-see.
I think it’s cool that Evans wants to branch out into things outside of his comfort zone and not just relying on his looks. He strikes me as someone who’s not ‘vain’ despite his good looks.
Yeah, I think it IS harder to be funny without insulting people but it certainly can be done. Ricky Gervais’ style is just not my thing, plus I don’t find him funny at all!
1. Ed Harris. (Probably too old now, though)
2. Lethal Weapon has great chemistry. Kiss Kiss Bang Bang, Butch Cassidy & The Sundance Kid, and The Blues Brothers are a lot of fun too, wit good performances.
3. memorable documentary? The Imposter (2012)
Hello Chris! Oh, like Ed Harris, maybe if they want to cast someone for Armstrong’s later years he’d be perfect.
Great picks there on buddy action flicks, the chemistry and wit are key to make those work.
Boy I REALLY need to see The Imposter soon!
1. Mortensen would be pretty good for that I reckon, even if he is slightly on the old side. I can maybe see someone like Matt Damon playing him or they might go for a young upstart such as Charlie Hunnam or Sam Worthington (ugh).
2. 2 Guns definitely sounds like a rental at best for me to be honest. Sounds alright but nothing great. As for favourite buddy movie, I’ll throw Wayne’s World in there. Gotta love some Wayne and Garth.
3. Definitely The Imposter. Absolutely crazy documentary. Definitely going to be checking out The Act of Killing as and when I can though, and looking forward to your posts on it.
4. Really not sure about this. It sounds like the typical thing someone would make who is worried about being typecast as all brawn and no brain and is determined to prove otherwise. Sounds a bit pretentious to me.
5. Not just ’cause you’ve mentioned it but I really want Fassbender to get some recognition. How he didn’t even get a nomination for Shame is an absolute scandal. McConaughey probably deserves some praise too, he’s made some really interesting stuff recently.
Great work on the post Ruth, always enjoy these 🙂
Hi Chris! I haven’t seen Viggo in anything lately, I really miss him. Oy, I hope not Worthington!! I reckon he’d be busy with the three Avatar movies anyway, so be it, ahah.
Yep, 2 Guns definitely sounds more like a rental. Ahah, Wayne’s World is a GREAT choice, love those two!
I’m super curious about The Imposter, I wonder which one is more disturbing as both are based on such harrowing true stories.
Oh, I don’t think Evans’ being pretentious, though I can see why you think that.
Yeah, we just might see Fassbender and McConaughey both getting a nod next year!
Got to shout for Midnight Run in the best buddy film part of this. And that documentary sounds fascinating, I’ll be keeping my eyes peeled for that, thanks for the heads up Ruth.
I don’t watch any films Oscar wise really……the best film I’ve seen this year is either The Place Beyond The Pines or Behind The Candelabra, so anyone for either of those I guess 🙂
Hello Tyson! Lovely to see you pop by, mate. Midnight Run is so well-loved, I better watch that one soon 😀 The Act of Killing is certainly fascinating, and I think it’d appeal to horror fans like yourself as some of the re-enactments are quite terrifying and disturbing.
1. I’d love to see a biopic about Neil Armstrong. His life and accomplishments certainly merit that. If they can come up with one about Steve Jobs right after his tragic death and with Ashton Kutcher in the lead, they can certainly make one about Armstrong.
2. My favorite buddy flick in recent memory is End of Watch, which to this day is in my top 5 films of last year.
3. I can’t say I’ve seen very many good documentaries in the last 12 months, but I certainly look forward to The Act of Killing.
4. I like Chris Evans. Though I don’t think he’s a GREAT actor either, he’s capable enough to carry a film like the one he has planned. It will all depend on the casting of the female lead. It’s all about chemistry. Hollywood certainly needs more down to earth romantic films that refrain from the typical structure of rom-coms.
5. I will watch anything Michael Fassbender is on I have decided. I’m still amazed by his turn in Shame (one of my top 5 male performances ever). I’ve never been disappointed by any of his performances. Certainly an actor at the top of the game. If you add he’ll be starring in another McQueen film, then I will for sure be there to enjoy it as soon as it comes out. Can’t wait!
As for an actor/actress who deserve nominations, I’d love to see Mads Mikkelsen who impressed in The Hunt and as Hannibal Lecter on TV (probably the best show of the season).
Hi Niels!
Yeah I think Mr. Armstrong’s life is worth telling, I mean there are so many other biopics of ppl less important than him being made.
I haven’t seen End of Watch yet, but that’s certainly isn’t a comedy, no? I read some reviews that it’s pretty violent.
I think The Act of Killing would get more visibility in the coming months, I REALLY hope it’d be an Oscar contender. It’s certainly one of the most innovative docs I’ve seen, it’s not just full of talking heads.
Evans is a likable actor, so it makes up for his lack of acting range. I do think he tries to broaden his horizon though, which I think it’s cool.
Fassbender is certainly one of the strongest actors of his generations, but I certainly don’t think he’s underrated. That’s why I’d love to see Ejiofor get some attention as he’s a gifted actor in his own right. Oooh, I’d love to see Mads get a nod for The Hunt too, such an incredible performance there!
Just posted my answers!
http://afistfuloffilms.blogspot.com/2013/08/five-for-fifth-my-august-answers-to.html
Wahoo! I’ll be over shortly, thanks Andrew!
You’re very welcome! I love doing this. I hope you enjoy them.
Sorry I haven’t had a chance to comment yet but yes I LOVE your answers. I’ve tweeted it too, but you’re not on Twitter are you?
1. Based only on looks, I think Chris Pratt would be a good fit for Armstrong. Maybe Casey Affleck if he went blonde and put on a little weight.
2. Can’t say I’m a fan of the buddy-cop-flick action subgenre.
3. The most memorable documentary I saw in the last 12 months, I wish I was kidding, is Katy Perry: Part of Me. Surprisingly good!
4. Sounds interesting but maybe too similar to the Before trilogy.
5. I have to say I love the early Oscar buzz for Blanchett,, since she’s one of my favorite actresses, and Oprah Winfrey (The Butler). However, I would LOVE for Joel Edgerton to be nominated for Gatsby.
Hi Fernando, always glad to see you pop by!
Chris Pratt is one of the SEALS in ZDT right? Not sure if he’s got acting chops though.
What? Not a fan of buddy cop flick? Even the good ones like Lethal Weapon?? 😀
Ahah, Katy Perry? Are you a fan of hers in general Fernando?
Hey, I’m glad to hear you love Blanchett too, she is truly my favorite actress, the best in her generation IMO. I forgot about Gatsby already but yeah, Joel was good in there surely.
He’s a pretty good actor but I’ve only see him in comedies or in “comic relief” roles in dramas.
Nope, not even Lethal Weapon. I haven’t seen that one but it doesn’t look like my cup of tea at all.
Yes, I’m a fan but not the biggest. Still, I thought the documentary was very good!
Yes, she’s amazing. I mean, she convincingly played a man in I’m Not There! And yes, he was the highlight of Gatsby for me.
Ahah, that’s interesting that you didn’t care for buddy action flicks, that’s like me w/ horror or Ryan Gosling movies, ahahaha.
You’ve got me curious on that Katy Perry doc now 😀
Gosh I can’t believe I still haven’t seen I’m Not There! I really need to do that soon.
Yep, it’s one of those sub-genres I don’t care for.
And please check out I’m not There! It’s not the best movie ever, but Cate, Christian Bale and Heath Ledger are amazing in it.
I’ll be sure to check it out Fernando. I mean, those are three actors I LOVE, I’m surprised I still haven’t seen it yet to be honest 😀
It happens.
Awesome post! My fave buddy flick is a French-Canadian action movie called Bon Cop Bad Cop. Its not as humorous for people not submerged in our culture though. However, it does have a great chemistry. I mean, Patrick Huard is my favorite French-Canadian actor so this really cool 🙂
As for Chris Evans, I’m interested in seeing him do his directorial debut. I’m a romantic so I like romance a lot. I do prefer rom-coms but I do watch a fair share of romantic dramas plus that plot looks decent. I look forward to it 🙂
Hi Kim! Bon Cop Bad Cop sounds interesting, I should look that up!
Well if you’re into romance then Evans’ project should appeal to you. I like romantic films, though there are few that are well-made in Hollywood. Thanks Kim!
Hi, Ruth:
Interesting Five for the Fifth!
Right now, my favorite buddy action flick would be ‘RED’. With very high hopes for ‘RED 2′.
Chris Evans’ ‘1:30 Train’ radiates a distinct ‘It Happened One Night’ kind of vibe for me. I like that Evans is getting behind the camera and inching away from ‘Captain America’ and taking advantage of other opportunities.
Hello Jack! Always happy to see you stop by, my friend.
I hope you enjoy RED 2, certainly Dame Mirren would not disappoint you 😉
Yeah, I think Evans is trying to carve a niche for himself for when he’s no longer fit enough to be Captain America, ahah.
1. I think Viggo Mortensen does look alike like him. Mm, don’t have a clue. Christian Bale?
2. Would be interesting to see Denzel Washington in a buddy action flick. Favorite of mine, maybe, Rush Hour
3. I missed Act of Killing small screening here, I really want to see it. But from your review, it seems like a must see. The story sells itself. I just saw Side by Side, which was excellent. And I saw Nicky’s Family, which people say it’s like a real Schinder’s List. Documentaries are just excellent.
4. Reading the summary, it does feel Before Sunrise-ish. I don’t know if it’s going to be good, but it’s worth checking out.
5. It seems promising. An oscar bait maybe? Anything with Fassy is worth seeing!
Hi Andina!
I like Bale but I don’t see him in that role though.
Ahah, well Denzel IS in a buddy action flick 2 Guns, girl 😀
I’ll email you about The Act of Killing. I really think every Indonesian has to see that film.
Interesting that you say ‘Oscar bait’, though the filmmaker doesn’t seem to care about award stuff. Ahah yeah, I know you like Fassy 😉
OK. Let’s do this!
1. Not knowing too much about Armstrong himself, I can see Mortensen playing him, based on the picture in this Article alone.
Speaking of Bio-pics though, I’m surprise the Steve Jobs biopic, JOBS, with Ashton Kutcher as Steve Jobs hasn’t gotten the attention I thought it would. I stumbled across the trailer and my jaw dropped, given I knew nothing about it!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FrvkCS0ZGPU Lemme know your thoughts.
2. I like all the Buddy Cop movies you mention. One of my favs though, has to be this little Canadian flick, which is a variation of the Buddy Cop formula. Uptight English Canadian partners with reckless French Canadian. It’s silly, but has it’s moments of awesome.
3. Not a big documentary fan. Can’t even remember the last one I watched. So can’t really contribute here. 😐
4. I’ve always liked Evans. Even during his shitty comedy / action days, his deliveries were crisp and you could tell that with a good Director, he’d be gold. I don’t know about Directing, but then again Affleck proved a better director than actor… so who knows. I’m more excited about Joseph Gordon-Levitt’s Writing & Directorial debut with DON JON. Looks super cool.
5. I’ve been excited for 12 YEARS A SLAVE for a while now. It looks like DJANGO, but not directed by Tarantino. And I’ve been a fan of Ejiofor since he played an atypical bad guy in SERENITY.
Awesome post Ruthie!
Hi Shah, glad to see you taking part in my monthly series!
Oh I’ve heard of JOBS as my hubby & I are Apple freaks, ahah. In fact, I’m going to the screening next week. I’m actually more curious about the other Steve Jobs biopic that’s based on his official biography. Not really keen on Kutcher as Jobs.
Cool! Kim mentioned that Bon Cop Bad Cop yesterday, so thanks for the trailer! I’ll try to see if it’s available on Netflix or iTunes!
You should get into some documentaries, some are actually entertaining as well as educational 😀
Yeah, I guess we’ll see if Chris has the chops to direct, I mean Affleck is not a strong actor but he’s a much better director.
I forgot Ejiofor was in SERENITY! Wow, that guy is versatile. I like him even more now.
I’m all about participation. Have countless copies of the exact same blue ribbon from every sporting event all through elementary school. Oh– 😦
I wanna go to screenings. You semi-professional Reviewers make me mad jelly!
I’m an Apple freak too. OK. Don’t kill me for this but: Kutcher is a half decent actor. Good even. He’s just too douchey to pick good movies. He’s let his arrogance over his ‘image’ in the industry, get in the way of doing ‘good’ movies. I’m interested in seeing him in a role where he’s not half smirking the entire time. So I’m very keen for this.
So I’m not your only Canadian e-friend? Ouch! Damn you Kim. (I bear no ill will.)
I don’t avoid Docs, at the same time, I don’t proactively go and watch them. I want to see the behind the scenes doc of Conan O’Brien on tour, Keanu Reeves’ SIDEWAYS. (I think) Other than those, I wouldn’t even know where to start.
SERENITY is boom! That is all.
Ahah, you rock Shah, seriously you’re one of my fave Canadians (and I LOVE a bunch of them :D)
Soooo, you’re a Kutcher fan eh? Well he was good in That 70s Show, ha..ha.. I dunno, I just think he’s such a pretty boy, but at least w/ JOBS he’s branching out to doing something that involves acting skills!
That Keanu Reeves’ doc is called Side By Side, it’s a good one for film lovers, so yeah check that out. Here’s my review of it: https://flixchatter.net/2012/08/27/weekend-roundup-side-by-side-documentary-review/
Not sure if you guys are on Quora or not, it’s a site that you can ask questions about anything and people with knowledge will answer them. Kutcher is a regular on that site and he answers many questions that was asked about him, surprisingly he sounds like a very intelligent guy. Someone asked him why he took the Jobs role and he gave a lengthy answer, give it a read if you have some free time. Personally I’m not that interested in seeing the movie, it looks too over dramatized for me.
Also, Kutcher is quite busy in the tech world, he invested and made millions on tech start up companies. He’s one of the first investors of Twitter so he’s filthy rich even if he doesn’t want to act anymore.
Oh yeah I know Kutcher is a tech savvy and shrewd businessman, I just think he’s a crappy actor, ahah. I think it’s a good move that he’s playing Jobs, I just can’t see him as someone other than his That 70s Show character. I’m still curious about the film though, I’ll be going to the screening.
The last documentary that I saw that I really enjoyed was Searching for Sugar Man. If you haven’t seen it, I would really recommend it.
It was a civic holiday yesterday here in, sorry I’m late to the party. 🙂
Hey, better late than never Chris 😀 Oh yeah I’ve been meaning to see Searching fo Sugar Man. If you’re in the mood for something mind-blowing, definitely give The Act of Killing a shot 😀
Will do!
1. Don’t have a suggestion for this one. And my enthusiasm for the project would depend on who’s behind it, as i feel it could easily become Oscar baity like too many biopics these days.
2. I will go with the Hot Fuzz/Shaun of the Dead combo
3.I don’t think i’ve watched a documentary in a while. Can’t really think of any recent ones at the moment
4. Not sure about it yet. I actually like Evans as a actor, and right now i honestly would like to see him stretch his acting chops more(I think he did that well in Puncture…too bad the rest of the movie wasn’t up to par) before getting into directing. Plus it seems like every actor/actress is directing now,so it doesn’t really feel notable anymore.
5. Perhaps McConaughey for Mud?I think he was really good in it, and i think it might have a chance at some awards love depending on how crowded the actor categories get. And the Oscars specifically seem to be ignoring his resurgence so far,so that might be another obstacle
I hear ya Julian, I remember your feelings about the plethora of biopics in Hollywood. At the same time, I’d like to see Armstrong’s story brought to life somehow.
Hey, I LOVE those Edgar Wright films too, right on!
Well, maybe give The Act of Killing a shot? 🙂
Glad you’ve seen Puncture, I thought his performance was good even though the movie is just so so.
I’d be curious if McConaughey would get a nod for Mud or Wolf of Wall Street, even just from the trailer, it looks like he outshines Leo in there. Why do you think the Oscars seems to be ignoring his resurgence?
Act of Killing is definitely on my radar. And i think with good material Evans could really excel, but i don’t think he has found that role quite yet. And i think perhaps the subject matter of the films he as been in recently may have put Oscar voters off, as none of them seem even close to Oscar bait.
Hi again Julian, I fixed ur comment there as I think you meant ‘good’ instead of ‘god’ 🙂
Oh I see what you mean, I think you’re referring to The Paperboy and Killer Joe right? Yeah I think Mud and Wolf of Wall Street might be more of the Academy’s liking, we shall see.
Best doc I’ve seen this year so far is definitely Sarah Polley’s ‘Stories We Tell.’ She’s turned into a solid filmmaker over the years, and delving into her family history to make a movie must’ve been a little painful. But she did it, and did it well.
Oh I heard about Stories We Tell on NPR and was immediately intrigued. It’s funny that I first saw Polley in Beowulf & Grendel but haven’t seen any of her films she directed yet. She could be one of those few actors who’ve become more memorable directors than actors.
1. Oh, Mortensen is a fabulous choice! He looks much younger than he is so I think he would be great fit for the part.
2. I really like Lethal Weapon movies and 21 Jump Street was lots of fun, another one I liked and it’s quite new is The Heat, Sandra Bullock and Melissa McCarthy had amazing chemistry.
3. I don’t watch many documentaries, the real world really scares me so that would make the matters much worse for me 🙂
4. That sounds a lot like Before Sunrise indeed! I think I’d watch it, I like Evans, he did well in most of the films I’ve seen him in especially in London.
5. I’d LOVE for Fassbender to be nominated in supporting and for Idris to get in lead category for Long Walk to Freedom. If they both won, I’d explode!
Hi Sati, nice new gravatar girl 😀
I miss seeing Mortensen on film, but his latest film just didn’t interest me much. Yeah he does look sooo much younger than 58!
I still haven’t seen The Heat, not sure when I’ll do that.
Ahah, the real world is scary enough indeed, I hear ya girl. That’s kind of how I feel about horror, I really don’t need to be spooked!
I still haven’t seen ‘London’ yet, that’s the one w/ Jessica Biel right? They were dating at the time I think, before she married Justin.
Ooooh, I’d love to see both getting a nod, esp. Idris!! That’s the Mandela biopic right? Boy he’s gonna be one super HOT world leader, ahah.
Bring on the 5th!
1) No one is coming to mind immediately, but Armstrong is definitely ripe for a biopic. I would watch it.
2) I’m a big fan of the Pegg/Frost/Wright films. Can’t wait for The World’s End!
3) The most memorable documentary I have watched recently was Dear Zachary. So, so depressing though.
4) That sounds a bit too similar to Before Sunrise, I think. I’ll reserve judgment until I hear more info, but right now I don’t have high expectations.
5) I would love to see Ethan Hawke and/or Julie Delpy get a nod for Before Midnight.
Hello Eric! Thanks for making good on your promise 😀
Yeah I’d definitely watch an Armstrong biopic too, he’s a real world hero IMO.
I love those British trio too, I look fwd to The World’s End as well.
What’s ‘Dear Zachary’ about? I’m curious now.
Yeah, I’m curious if Evans could create something fresh instead of just copying Before Sunrise.
Man, I still haven’t seen the second ‘Before’ film, but I should do that before I watch Before Midnight.
Thanks so much for the link, Ruth! 😀
1. It’s a project I’d like to see come to fruition, but I agree Viggo Mortensen is too old. I think Armstrong kind of looks like Jeremy Renner in that picture. I wouldn’t mind that casting choice, as it would get Renner to stop appearing in so many blockbusters. 🙂
2. My favorite buddy action flicks are the Lethal Weapon films, Midnight Run, Shanghai Noon/Knights, and Kiss Kiss Bang Bang
3. The most memorable would probably be Searching for Sugar Man, but the best would be How to Survive a Plague.
4. I’m all for it. Hope he makes a great film. I thought he was a capable actor when I saw Cellular in 2004, and he was really good in Captain America. (I still need to see Puncture.)
5. On Ejiofior, have you seen Dirty Pretty Things? He’s the lead in that, and he’s terrific!
I’ll pick one of each. If I had to pick one actor, I’d go with Jack Reynor for What Richard Did. For actress I’d go with Selena Gomez for Spring Breakers. She gives my favorite supporting performance (male or female) of the year so far.
My pleasure!
Hmmm, I’m not a big fan of Renner at all, but yeah I suppose he could work.
I haven’t seen Shanghai Noon, but yeah Jackie Chan & Owen Wilson sure makes an interesting duo!
How to Survive a Plague? Oy, now that sounds fascinating. I hv to look that up.
I didn’t remember much about Cellular to be honest but he was excellent in both Cap America and Puncture.
No, I haven’t seen Dirty Pretty Things! I might give it a shot because of Ejiofor. The title is worrisome though, ahah. Selena Gomez?? WOW, this is the first time I hear praise for her for her acting.
Hooray! Always love Five for the Fifth! Thanks for keeping it going Ruth. Enjoy the fun questions each time. Okay, here we go.
1. I like Neil Armstrong’s celebrated journey to and steps on the moon, but I’d truly be more interested in a movie about that and not so much an actual biopic. Mortensen wouldn’t be to bad in it. But I’m only watching it if there is a robot whose voice is powered by Kevin Spacey! 🙂
2. Thanks for the mention! Buddy flicks are fun. I like Rush Hour, Tango & Cash, Bad Boys, Dumb & Dumber, 21 Jump Street, Boondock Saints and Lethal Weapon.
3. I do enjoy documentaries quite a bit. I recently watched “Children Underground” (it’s available to stream on Netflix right now. quite memorable. I also just watched “Finnigan’s War” which will be showing at the White Sands International Film Festival…so impressive! Look forward to reading the interview for The Act of Killing.
4. I wouldn’t mind seeing this movie from Evans. It actually seems intriguing because it has that hint of reality with it. Knowing how many times he’s worked with Scarlett Johansson, I wouldn’t be surprised if he approaches her for the part.
5. First off, I am with you and I cannot WAIT to see this film. Oh man. just…gripping. and what a great cast!
I’d like to see Matthew McConaughey nominated for MUD, James Franco for Springbreakers, Michael Shannon and Winona Rider for The Iceman, Rooney Mara for Side Effects, Michael B. Jordan for Fruitvale Station and Leonardo DiCaprio for The Great Gatsby.
I’m hoping The Butler is good enough and that Forest Whitaker can be nominated. Same goes for Chris Hemsworth & Daniel Bruhl in Rush, but I won’t go into movies still to be released.
Jason Clarke deserves a mention somewhere for all the times he has been a believable supporting cast character. 🙂
Great questions, Ruth! Thanks. 🙂
Hurray! Nice to see you stop by T! Well this is my only blog series, so I better keep it up, ahah. You’re much more disciplined with keeping up w/ all the blog series you’ve got on your blog.
1. Oh yeah, I think the film about the trip itself w/ some background about the astronauts would be great. Ahah, a robot w/ Spacey’s voice would be cool, make that happen T 😀
2. Y’know, I’ve never seen the Boondock Saints movies but I’ve been curious about ’em. Maybe I’ll rent it one day.
3. Great recommendations on the docs. Did you review “Finnigan’s War”? I have to read your reviews more closely.
4. Hey, it’s entirely possible that Scarlett get an offer from him, though she’s already in JGL’s debut film as his love interest also 😀
5. Gripping is right, T! I cried just watching the trailer, I’d be a basket case w/ the film I think. Oh, cool that you mentioned Jason Clarke, he was excellent in ZDT but was overlooked. Wasn’t he the baddie in White House Down though, I doubt he’d get a nod for that, mwahahaha!
Thanks T!
I would bet 12 yrs will get but the Oscars have been known to overlook films because they aren’t blockbusters which is a shame. Reading over the list of current noms that were for 2013 I am not entirely surprised but directors I can agree with Ang Lee but neither of the list of actors or actresses impress me. Nor their selection of films either it doesn’t represent an international list to me. I certainly hope this changes for 2014 with a more varied list with some unknowns to give other actors and actresses a chance like Chiwetel Ejiofor or Sally Hawkins or Greta Gerwig
Hi Stella! I know, I wish Oscars would give more indies a chance. I do think 12 Years A Slave probably has a high visibility. I like Sally Hawkins too, but not familiar w/ Greta Gerwig as of yet 😀
1. Viggo Mortensen sounds like a good choice. I don’t really have any names in my head right now actually.
2. The Cornetto Trilogy (haven’t watched The World’s End, but the first two are terrific!) and of course Toy Story! Even though it’s not really a ‘buddy flick’, more of an ensemble cast, but Woody-Buzz is such a great pairing!
3. Glad you finally saw Act of Killing, and thought it’s a great doc too. What an opportunity to also meet and chat with Mr. Oppenheimer (a bit of a typo in your article). Waiting for your full review on the doc 🙂 Act of Killing was the best doc I’ve seen in the past year, if excluding rewatching Bowling for Columbine a few weeks ago. Still one of my favorite docs (and films) ever.
4. Didn’t know about Chris Evans is trying to direct until just now. Wow! Not really looking forward to it, but hope he can surprise us somehow (by being a decent filmmaker of course)
5. I hope Cumberbatch manage to get nominated next year, whether by The Fifth Estate or any other films he’s in this year. I really hope Naomi Watts to win an Oscar too (for Diana), she’s one of the actress that I think is overdue, but the trailer doesn’t seem that convincing. Blanchett is the actress that have the buzz right now to win it, but to be a frontrunner so early on the race might hurt her chance. But who knows…?
Hi Fariz!
I just want to see Viggo do a sci-fi film, even though the biopic doesn’t necessarily have to be in that genre.
Oh yeah, Toy Story is certainly a buddy flick. Glad to have someone mention an animated feature. Right on!
THANK YOU for pointing out the misspelling, can’t believe I did that! I’ve fixed that right away. Well, since you’ve seen the film, I’m super curious to hear what you think of the film. I’ll be posting that review/interview today.
Glad to be the one informing you about Evans 😀 I’m curious how we’d do with that.
Yeah, I think Cumberbatch is due for some recognition. He’s certainly successful in transferring from TV to film. I’m not convinced w/ Diana trailer either, but I so love Blanchett so I’m rooting for her all the way!
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