Tuesday, January 31, 2017

Pick Up A Shovel

My former boss Josh was a guy who always moved. If you could share two sentences with him you'd be lucky. I recall a deadline had to be metnby weekend's end, and he had to.come into the office to confirm I had gotten the job complete.

We have a vault full of disinterested people. The vault houses our media. Film or hard drives, shipping and receiving. As with most unsatisfactory jobs, the employees do it when they feel like it. In this case, the left an entire project, palettes of film to be transferred in another area queued to be rewound. Film is linear. Must be rewound back to the beginning (heads).

Josh was alerted to this fact. He didn't do what most supervisors do. Call up the manager of that department and question why. He called me and we both went and picked up the palette as I rewound the film. A supervisor who walked a dolly with film. Let me repeat...a supervisor who is unafraid of getting dirty and working.

I think Trump believes the same thing. He has a clear checklist on his plate and (like I am) cannot/will not procrastinate. Because that is when things don't get done. Washington doesn't work the same. They bill beat each other to submission until you leverage a little and they leverage a little. Which, for the life of me, never understood how this was acceptable to the American people. Trump sin't doing anything he didn'y say he was going to do. He has no other agenda than to do. Pick up a shovel and dig. Just fucking get it done. Why...I mean why do some people hate this?

Every thing he's done so far is to the benefit of the American people. It is the right of the people to do their best to show their anger. But...if you're not shoveling next to him...get the fuck out of the way. Because we need to do...something. anything is better than making backdoor deals with lawyers. That's when shit doesn't get done.

This could simply be all smoke and mirrors too. I am not proficient enough in seeing the end game. But it is weird that the media doesn't seem to latch ontonl the American spirit I grew up with. Roll up your sleeves and get to digging. Instead of sitting on yout ass and whining. The entitlement led to complacency, led to drugs led to what you see protesting. Smart, college people don't want to physically get dirty and work. It may look like a physical workforce is the new America.

Monday, January 30, 2017

Starbucks Hiring Refugees

Forgive me for not doing cartwheels when there were 10,000 jobs available with department stores closing and you are determined to hire refugees instead of Americans. The people who drank and shat your shit out.

Starbucks, go fuck yourself in your self-righteous fucking ass.

That's right. In Los Angeles, there is a ever growing homeless encampment. The more idiots who come to this city, the more it grows. Why? No fucking jobs. Or they're lazy. Or crazy. Or all.

This announcement shouldn't be EXCLUSIVE to refugees. Because...assholes, at the base level THAT is the definition of discrimination. And we got rid of that. Didn't we? Oh riiight, there's that pesky clause of under the guise of good will.

Again, FUCK YOU Starbucks people.

Yea, we know...everything transparent. But I don't remember any business shillin' this hard for business since Jenna Jameson turned 40 years old. But whatever, keep patting yourself on the back. I'm not going to Starbucks anymore. I shouldn't be anyway.

It's just fucking coffee.

America Got Backhanded

Remember when Ike Turner slapped Tina for her to get in line?
That's what Trump did to America. Guess what America did?
Went looking for another guy to slap back.
Then Trump slapped that dude too.

You don't fucking get it...Trump doesn't wait for talk and more talk. His decisions, though may be dumb in some unforseen long term thing we can't determine...it IS a decision.

We're so fucking scared to do anything these days for ramifications down the line, it seems this is the reason why he is enticing. And others hate him. It's because he's decisive without having to answer to dumbfucks. Because you aren't going to please everyone.

"Making America Great Again" isn't some shoehorned slogan to Trump. And the guy can hardly sit around long enough to be impeached. He's stepping on a lot of Washington toes, and sad sack Liberals. Whilst perhaps a little less than 50% are on aboard or scratching their heads wondering what this dude is doing. And why so fast.

Maybe this is exactly what we needed in politics. I really don't know. It seems reckless to me. Like a slow drip water torture versus drowning. Maybe other countries will jump on the Trump train before they get run over.
...or another backhand.

Sunday, January 29, 2017

We Have Been Had...

...and I'll be the first to report it.
On the world stage what we are about to experience is how little we know about civics.

The bill that held Muslims from different countries back...yeah the one which most people are going batshit over...it was a hoax. Yep...media told us Trump signed the bill...Obama did. In the ultimate reality show spin, protestors have been...well...they've been had. Horn swoggled. Bamboozled.

And a few sitcom lessons to be learned here. We don't know shit. And adults will fuck with you. So there you have it. The list to which everyone is wondering why Trump's relationships weren't effected by were compiled by Obama's administration. And why didn't Obama tweet or talk to media about it. Maybe he thought we needed this lesson too.

Hang your head in shame you angry mob. You were out to make a devil out of someone actually doing their job. Frothing at the mouth to impeach. Instead, you overshot the guy and got kicked in the back on your way to your knees.

This proved a few things actually...Obama isn't a Muslim. And some of your kind hearted friends are desperate to do good.

I hate to say "I told you so"...but even the dog's ass gets sun every once in a while.

Speaking of which...I was wondering why The Orange One was traipsing through protestors like he was on vacation. He knew they were fools protesting their own cause. Wow...diabolical, evil and somewhat brilliant. We were the participants in a wild show. Once the fires die down.

Saturday, January 28, 2017

Protesting Retards

Okay...now I'm pissed.
Do you guys even know what you're protesting? Because I don't have a clue about National Security aaaaand since it's a security thing...who fucking knows why the urgency to lock down borders to specific countries. You expect the state department to issue a statement telling you that the danger is emminent? No you fucking retarded assholes. Who fucking knows? I don't. Do you? All you see are Muslims stuck in airports. Which, we've all been there and are annoyed. What you can't comprehend is what we don't know. The thwarted attempts on American lives were never reported by the previous regime because of this reason. People lose their minds if a Orange dude reported it. If a half-Black one did, he'd be admitting he was wrong.

National security isn't just because they feel like it. It's a tough pill against your fucking feelings. It suuuuuucks. C'mon...this is like the DMV sucks. But it's necessary.

Refugees bottlenecked at border is nothing new. Would you rather be incovenienced for a few weeks or murdered in your own country.

Incidentally, Canada said it would take them. Thanks assholes. Not for just making America look bad, but really undermining our security. Now we gotta look up and down. I know you're often overlooked America's bitch but this is like being the ugly sister and stealing her prom dress. You didn't really do much since it's shit you should already be doing.

I'm not saying we're in danger, but we may not have the full story. Hopefully, it IS just Trump is nuts. That would actually be the best case scenario.

Ban The Muslims?

Holy shit, this Trump guy 'aint playing. As it were signed, so it went into effect. Airports are turning away refugees from 7 Muslim heavy countries. Though...Saudi Arabia should be one of them. Guess he doesn't want to piss off the money Arabs.

Wow is that ballsy. Mostly because I've traveled internationally and I can't fathom A) being turned back onto the plane B) as a refugee.

I would say, at least house them at an Extended Stay with a continental breakfast. But...FUCK! This is super nuts. Which got the ACLU involved. Incidentally...the first part is "American"...suing over something that isn't about America. They should have a different version of it. Like the F.B.I. versus the C.I.A.

Let this be a lesson to you assholes out there who think you can trample on to America...this President isn't like the last one. Which you kinda have to appreciate the brass ones on The Orange One. He really is not fucking around. Even I thought he was. But he's not joking. This is that Dad most liberals hate. Yes, most of the softies come from seriously broken homes and have to right the wrong. Trump reminds me of that shit Dad who was very strict and hated brown people.

That reminds me of a story of how some rich White family didn't necessarily tell me I wasn't welcomed in their home, but they didn't really play gracious host either. Most parents loved that their kid was being more diverse, some...not so much. Trump seems to be that guy. And the kids hate "that guy." Because he is an authority figure that didn't care what you thought of him. Or his family. It was his way or the highway.

These are surreal times we live in. Go ahead and revolt if that makes you feel better. Most of the center of America disagrees with you and have told you so. Most Americans are fed up with being referred to as the "fly-over" states. Guess California and New York will be listening now. Probably not. Stubborn and angry goes pretty deep.

80's Synth Soundtracks

Man do I miss synth soundtrack music. It's so cocaine infused.
When I was a kid, I hated it. Not sure why. Other than it didn't have a rawness (which didn't come later until grunge).

I mean, listen to that syncopated drum machine beat...it makes you feel somehow...wealthier.

Which I think is going to be the new thing. Since "Stranger Things" blew up. Hollywood seems to get really weird when a Republican goes into office. More drugs, and more upbeat movie topics. I suppose if I'd gotten my shit together earlier, I could've raked in on the less cynical side of movies and sold more...hopeful ones. Since I ended my graduate years making what amounts to a Disney movie.

I'd love to bring this back.

Happy Chinese New Years!

It is the year of the rooster. Or...fiery cock.

Eat some dim sum, blow up some fireworks and happy new year!

The Flint Michigan Fiasco

Trump recently cut Environmental Protection Agency budget and froze hiring. And people are pissed. The simple act of halting things to figure things out is somehow seen as...wrong.

Flint's drinking water debacle was a few things that went wrong. People will shit on me for saying it, but a few EPA workers got fired over it and a couple other scientists did as well. Well...now the simple move of "gagging" scientist had caused a bigger uproar. Why? Scientists are heroes? No they're not. They're assholes. Ever talk to these smug dickwads? Self-righteous arrogant dicks. Because they know the periodic table. And you don't. You know what they do do? Ignore humanity. Like drinking water for one thing.

Yes, I know it's real hip to like scientists, and the progress but these are also the same assholes who are trying to make humans obsolete. Progress seems to be downloading us into extinction. Artificial intelligence is already here.

So remember that next time you cry for scientists.

Friday, January 27, 2017

"Hacksaw Ridge" (2016)

I'm sure when some of us sat down to watch this movie it began with "okay anti-semite...whaddya got?" You know what he made? A movie no American can hate. I am a super sucker for American patriotism movies. Even though they paint the Japanese as kamikaze nuts. Which they are...let's be honest. In this movie, they just happen to be the grass which needs to be mowed. Keep in mind...the Japanese haven't bitched and moaned like some women I know, about being painted the animals. I guess...when you LOSE, yes...ladies, y'all lost the election...best to keep your trap shut and preserve your dignity.

This is a solid movie. Director Mel Gibson knows all the buttons to push. Andrew Garfield plays Desmond Doss, a volunteer who goes into the Army as a "conscientious objector." He doesn't bear arms. Though, this isn't the point of the movie. It is about principle. Which Gibson slams home. You feel that he will be an annoying shit bitching about murder and guns, but discover it's a deeper cause. Whether or not you like this type of guy (personally...he's squaresville to me) they paint him out to be...that guy that just builds ships in bottles. Some higher being may have given him purpose, but he answers a call. Very very similar to another Garfield flick "Silence" What isn't completely tackled is his religious zeal. Which is actually thankful that it doesn't get overbearing. It's not completely a religious ideology that creates his objection. Something in him as a person of principle. Which, again, harkens to "Silence."

The battle scenes are brutal. Something about Mel Gibson...you sense he gets a kick out of gore. Maybe in another life he should've been a horror director. This movie is worth a watch though. As a Best Picture Oscar nod though? Yeaaah...okay. Would have rather seen "Nocturnal Animals" in there.

Abortion?

I'm still shocked when people are pro-life but fight to keep their guns. That'a the nuttiness of our lives in America. We hardly stick to a pattern or path. It's been said that a society that has too many choices aren't as happy as those with limited ones. Freedom in America is amazing. Think about the march that just happened. In this country that type of display is probably a massive F.U. to countries that are limited. Out of all the tragedies and fears that occurred, it was Trump who got them out. Never mind ISIS acts of terror didn't draw international ire. France, Belgium being attacked...a simple flag update to show solidarity. Millions actually marched against...well..being losers. Not life losers...but losing to the greater scope of society. That's not my perspective. I think the 8 years of Obama caused one to think everything was hunky dorey. Meanwhile, more people sat in the dark seething.

Let's face it, people on the Left are emotional wrecks. Liberal minded people believe a few concessions means leaps. These are such tiny murmurs in life. The Right are batshit nuts in preserving Christianity...or Jesus or something. Abortion is a weird topic, since in my mind, it makes perfect sense that you can do what you want with your body. It's pretty obvious...until you bring religion into it.

I'm not sure how it got so heated in terms of actual murder. I suppose it is similar to a guy in India stoning his daughter to death because she was out with a boy after hours. If we consider that barbaric, maybe our views on abortion should be left up to the woman. Also...I get that it means women who are promiscuous are fucking (literally) with the system. Taxpayers pay the cost of that. We have to exercisr some common sense.

Thursday, January 26, 2017

The Wall part 2

Pink Floyd sang about it. The one that kept Berlin split. In this case, Trump's extension of a wall that keeps filthy Mexicans out. Errr...I mean...illegal border crossing.

This will cost Americans $60 billion dollars. Why don't they ever say "kajillion billion" At least make people laugh. At first it was making Mexico pay. Right...as if a tab could ever be picked up by a third world nation. So...Trump's solution...ding ding ding...tarriffs! That's right, 20% to imports from our buddies down south. This generates a massive surplus of dough to fund the wall and with change to start massive deportations. I had no idea the financial damage of illegal immigration. The loss is staggering. But look, that's only if Mexico doesn't go looking for alternative partners. We have a deficit of 60 billion due to NAFTA, which benefits them and not us. And it's been going on forever because previous Presidents never wanted to rock the life raft. Or our friendship with our borders. But like most generous deals, you give people an inch, they take a mile. Well...this is a massive shakeup that Trump cannot hide. Why? He has no relationship that is attempting to thrill everyone. See politicians constantly juggle one over another. Obama didn't do much because he had to skate his relationships. It was frustrating to watch. Who needs to fight that hard?

Is a wall the answer? Not sure. It drives a wedge between people, but it saves us money. That is pretty symbolic of what we're to see in Trump America.

America The Beautiful

America's Constitution is in place for a reason. It means you have rights, but none of this falls under the technology of today.

Here's the rub...Trump signed a gag order on scientists in regards to talking on social media about global climate change. Some people are out of their minds. I would say...me Tweeting off a company computer how much film sucks and it's dying is a good comparison. I can blog here, if that were the truth...but I will do it on my own personal place. Not through some professional mainframe. Yes! We live in free times, but people are going apeshit whenever Drump...I mean Trump does anything, which is nothing more than show and tell. Do this on your own time. Go wild and tell people the world is caving in and do it on your own dime. That's all it is.

Wednesday, January 25, 2017

Women's Rights?

Women will continue to be their biggest enemies. No matter how many marches you get to.

You think I'm a woman hater? Nope. I respect women to a point where I am convinced they are equal to me if not better. Both my sisters own their own homes...didn't do it with a man. One has TWO homes. Meanwhile, these cuntrags don pink hats and call themselves "heroes."

Fucking shit, man. The biggest example is to lead by it, and from what I've seen so far...MADONNA, you are the worse of the worse. There is no oppression of women. Seriously. Physically, that's true. We can suplex a woman. So can any dude bigger than me. I understand these limitations and abide by the laws of...not fucking with people like that. So women want to be equal. Why?

I love being man. Sucks though having to suck it up buttercup. That's what you get if you want to be equal. Which I think is where the fallacy comes from. These monsters who marched or are marching want...something...not even sure what...the ability to say what they can do with their bodies? Awesome. But they don't want to stop acting like whores? Okay...slipper slope here...but...they want everyone to deal with it? Huh?

That's where you lose me.

Women don't even know what they want. They want...something. But all the march said to me was they like throwing parties. To which...goddamn it, I should've capitalized by selling Hot Dogs on a stick. I'm the idiot on this one.

One last thing, for the assholes trying to dispel a woman claiming she doesn't feel oppressed or that her rights are infringed on...yes, there were people addressing this. You know they did it? By saying..."don't worry honey, we march for you." Dumbasses, you admit AGAIN women are weaker and YOU have to do things for them. See, that's spin that the media does. Fitting that I should do it here.

I'm sick of the victimization. Trump hasn't done anything any other President hasn't done. MAYBE a little faster, but not the same. Meanwhile, every little move he makes is met with outrage. This is what has made me hate the group I set out to be like. And, of course, some dipshit out there will march for me...due to my weakness. Have at it. It's fucking cold here in Los Angeles. March yourself to death for me. I will thank you at Forest Lawn.

Tuesday, January 24, 2017

Trump's Pen

People realize when things are signed by the President...shit moves fast. I'm guessing the thing is then archived into history.

Many people didn't jump on Obama's case when he swiped his pen to undo a lot of Bush's shit. No one remembers or cares about that. People cared he was Black. And, in the ridiculous notion of inequity...you wouldn't dare question his motives. Now, for whatever reason, the winds of Orange changes things people lose their minds.

The oil thing for instance. Indians have been fighting tooth and nail over the pipeline. Ziiiip...pen swipe...it's moving again. By the way. Are we just at the surface here with that? Did anyone know this is a money deal based on the tribe there felt they weren't being paid enough? These assholes are convering it up under the guise of sacred land and pollution. The liberal side has a miraculous way of spinning this truth like when you argue with a girl. You can't say she's crazy, or you go about 20 rounds over it. Trump simply kept the project moving despite the previous political hemming and hawing over who NOT to offend. I think history is going to see Trump as the true outsider that can take the public ridicule, not worry that his decisions will piss off whiny people and just keep getting shit done. Who really knows what the fuck he's doing, it's better than political jive that is all words and no action. 
It shouldn't surprise you people are so distraught over Trump's moves. We're so use to the bullshit of politicians to cover up for the ineffective duties of a President. What do you think Hillary Clinton would've done by now? Nothing. AND it wouldn't be her place either. Because as a politician..it would be more talk.

And you wonder how we got this complacent. It really feels like the shift is to something getting done. I think people need to get use to the taste of vegetables because it's healthier for you.

Oscar Nomination 2017

Surprise, surprise, surprise...
"La La Land" tied record breaking 14 nominations with "Titanic" and "All About Eve"

I hated "Titanic" Still do.

Anyway, the surprise is the fucking morons who thought...say a movie like "Deadpool" should've been nominated. Yep...40 years from now, that's how I want to look back at history. Like when "Mad Max: Fury Road" cracked the stupid ceiling. Good for you. Try prying that Oscar gold from molesting priest movies cold dead (and chafed) hands.

This year has been the only year I agree with every single nomination. Look, we all know it's political. But it's still fun.

Best Picture
  • "Arrival"
  • "Hacksaw Ridge"
  • "La La Land"
  • "Hidden Figures"
  • "Lion"
  • "Manchester by the Sea"
  • "Hell or High Water"
  • "Moonlight"
  • "Fences"
Lead Actor
  • Casey Affleck -- "Manchester by the Sea"
  • Andrew Garfield -- "Hacksaw Ridge"
  • Ryan Gosling -- "La La Land"
  • Viggo Mortensen -- "Captain Fantastic"
  • Denzel Washington -- "Fences"
Lead Actress
  • Isabelle Huppert -- "Elle"
  • Ruth Negga -- "Loving"
  • Natalie Portman -- "Jackie"
  • Emma Stone -- "La La Land"
  • Meryl Streep -- "Florence Foster Jenkins"
Directing
  • Denis Villeneuve -- "Arrival"
  • Mel Gibson -- "Hacksaw Ridge"
  • Damien Chazelle -- "La La Land"
  • Kenneth Lonergan -- "Manchester by the Sea"
  • Barry Jenkins -- "Moonlight"
Best Actor in a Supporting Role
  • Mahershala Ali – "Moonlight"
  • Lucas Hedges – "Manchester by the Sea"
  • Jeff Bridges - "Hell or High Water"
  • Dev Patel - "Lion"
  • Michael Shannon - "Nocturnal Animals"
Best Actress in a Supporting Role
  • Viola Davis -- "Fences"
  • Naomie Harris -- "Moonlight"
  •   Nicole Kidman -- "Lion"
  • Octavia Spencer -- "Hidden Figures"
  • Michelle Williams -- "Manchester by the Sea"
Cinematography
  • "Arrival"
  • "La La Land"
  • "Lion"
  • "Moonlight"
  • "Silence"
Documentary Feature
  • "Fire at Sea"
  • "I Am Not Your Negro"
  • "Life Animated"
  • "13th"
  • "O.J.: Made in America"
Production Design
  • "Arrival"
  • "Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them"
  • "Hail, Caesar!"
  • "La La Land"
  • "Passengers"
Costume Design
  • "Allied"
  • "Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them"
  • "Jackie"
  • "La La Land"
  • "Florence Foster Jenkins"
Animated Feature Film
  • "Kubo and the Two Strings"
  • "Moana"
  • "My Life as a Zucchini"
  • "The Red Turtle"
  • "Zootopia"
Original Song
  • "Audition (The Fools Who Dream)" -- "La La Land"
  • "Can't Stop the Feeling" -- "Trolls"
  • "City of Stars" -- "La La Land"
  • "The Empty Chair" -- "Jim: The James Foley Story"
  • "How Far I'll Go" -- "Moana"
Original Score
  • "La La Land"
  • "Lion"
  • "Jackie"
  • "Passengers"
  • "Moonlight"
Visual Effects
  • "Deepwater Horizon"
  • "Doctor Strange"
  • "The Jungle Book"
  • "Kubo and the Two Strings"
  • "Rogue One: A Star Wars Story"
Foreign Language Film
  • "Land of Mine"
  • "A Man Called Ove"
  • "The Salesman"
  • "Tanna"
  • "Toni Erdmann"
Makeup and Hairstyling
  • "A Man Called Ove"
  • "Star Trek Beyond"
  • "Suicide Squad"
Live Action Short Film
  • "Ennemis Intérieurs"
  • "La Femme et le TGV"
  • "Silent Nights"
  • "Sing"
  • "Timecode"
Sound Editing
  • "Arrival"
  • "Deepwater Horizon"
  • "Hacksaw Ridge"
  • "La La Land"
  • "Sully"
Sound Mixing
  • "Arrival"
  • "Rogue One: A Star Wars Story"
  • "Hacksaw Ridge"
  • "La La Land"
  • "13 Hours: The Secret Soldiers of Benghazi"
Adapted Screenplay
  • "Arrival"
  • "Fences"
  • "Hidden Figures"
  • "Lion"
  • "Moonlight"
Original Screenplay
  • "Hell or High Water"
  • "La La Land"
  • "The Lobster"
  • "Manchester by the Sea"
  • "20th Century Women"
Animated Short Film
  • "Blind Vaysha"
  • "Borrowed Time"
  • "Pear Cider and Cigarettes"
  • "Pearl"
  • "Piper"
Documentary Short Subject
  • "Extremis"
  • "4.1 Miles"
  • "Joe’s Violin"
  • "Watani: My Homeland"
  • "The White Helmets"
Film Editing
  • "Arrival"
  • "Hacksaw Ridge"
  • "La La Land"
  • "Moonlight"
  • "Hell or High Water"

Monday, January 23, 2017

Madonna Wants To Blow Up The White House

See what I did there?
What everyone does.
Because it's badass news.
She looks great for 58. But, it's like...do you really want your "role model" to be a granny with knuckle rings. Oh, okay. Guess that's the times we live in.

Nothing is going to get undone by Trump with his short time in office. Let's be real here. Politics moves slower than molasses. So people are freaking just to freak. Bored...overreacting. Enter whatever you want.

But to say you dream about blowing up the White House with Trump and his family in it? Really? That's treasonous. Even if you backpedal it as "speaking in metaphor." That's not a metaphor, by the way.

Also, if I remember correctly...
Bitch, you work for us!

Making A Difference For Women

Am I the only one who's ever stood in a line at the DMV?
Do people realize how bureaucracy fucking works?
It doesn't.
So...here's the reality to marchers...you're going to be marching a long time. And in that long time, you will be irritating a ton of people. Especially in this fucking town.
What are you going to accomplish? I know...people turning against YOUR cause. Because most people's cause is just to fucking survive.

Yep...this quote is awesome, and I won't take credit for it but it must be nice to live in a country so privileged, you think equality is oppression. Or take work off and tell your boss it's for a cause and tell them to suck it.

If I may remind you...Amy Pascal, the head of Sony at the time...told us to suck it. And I guess no remembers the rant she put on about how they guided Obama. By the way, "Amy" is a woman's name.

I don't mind the constant nagging, well...I do...but I can't fucking stand the hypocrisy and entitlement. I think the best way to make a difference...which unfortunately is the least interesting, is to write and write and write and make forms. These assholes who keep pushing for...um...who the fuck knows...is getting irritating. And you will likely piss other people off.

Sunday, January 22, 2017

David Ayer Apologizing For "Suicide Squad"

Director David Ayer went on line and wrote a heartfelt note to apologize for the quality (or lack of) his last movie "Suicide Squad." I haplen to think it was fine. Though I had issues with pacing...it is what it is. I also think this is great. It made a ton of money yet he still apologizes. Which tells you integrity isn'y completely dead in this town. What is...real human stories. I know we can sit here all day and debate what makes great movies, we know with superhero movies...we do eventually grow up. And those heroes are no longer relevant.

I wonder what people will say if they dig up "Suicide Squad" again. I imagine there is a cadre of movies I've missed out on that would be watched in irony. I mean, in perspective, there is no fucking way I could dig up "Condorman" and take that shit seriously. Would this movie share the same fate?

I don't think he has anything to apologize for. Making movies is tough. Making one that has built in armchair critics is near impossible to please. You could defer to Marvel on how they get around with "Captain America" or "The Avengers" but those movies already looks cheap. We'll see what the future holds.

Saturday, January 21, 2017

Nag-A-Geddon 2017

Did it change anything?
No.
Was it impressive?
Fuck yeah.
Was it a colossal waste of time?
You betcha.
None of this proved how much you hated The Orange One. Only that you didn't want to miss an event. And that you could post you were there. It really illustrates the sickening narcissism that is our lives today. And of course this travels abroad. Attention seeking losers, screaming how this was a victory. Begging to be taken seriously. Nope.
See you forget...you're asking someone you assume already doesn't have your best interest at heart.

Take heart though...the president works for us. He is our employee. People are overeacting over nothing and has, in fact, galvanized Trump supporters even more.

So...thanks for making it a harder climb...assholes.

Women Be Marching

Who fucking cares. It really only mattered if you bitches cooked. It meant we had to fake be interested in your cause. You aren't any more liberated than I am. You sure as shit have many more rights than me.

Women are really angry these days. Which...I know what you're gonna say..."you are too faggot!" Well A) I 'aint gay and B) that doesn't explain why they've gotten so much more entitled. I pray, wish and hope that I meet a liberated woman who would earn the bulk of the income and then I could make my movies. I think that would wear down on a woman...oh say...4 hours in. A man takes that shit and supports their wives' dumb hobbies to keep the peace.

I personally think they are murdering the sisterhood. If you are an ambitious driven woman...yes...this march speaks to you. But even the most independent smart woman wishes they could marry rich and have a guy just pay for everything. I've heard it so often now it's gotta be the truth.

I'm pretty sure this protest of Trump is most likely they just don't like the guy. If a band of White males protested Obama in that mass it would be a Klan rally. For some reason, Trump doesn't get the same leeway. Women should admit they function more on emotional level than guys. Which isn't being negative. They should. Equality only makes complete sense if you are also willing to come to terms with actually being equal. Which I've seen strides being made.

I still think women are their own worst enemies. They can march now, tomorrow, back to the distrust of Becky with the big tits hanging around your man.

Friday, January 20, 2017

Trump's Inaugral Speech

I just hate his voice.
But...he's angry like me.
Anyone just get wind sucked out of your lungs when he flat out said "Islamic terrorist"?
His promises are really wild and impossible. But said loud enough...I approve.

Bring America back from ruin. Seems a lot of foreign people are going to be massively pissed. India and China for one 'aint gonna get their cheap labor. And why not buy American? We got good shit here.

Trump also fucked with Obama and Clinton while they were there. I don't agree with what he implied, but Got-damn! That is brass ones. Clinton probably wants to wring his neck out.

Is he going to bring much back to America. Who knows. If he was serious he'd re-distribute his own wealth back to building stuff here. Which I'm told he doesn't take a salary. But that may just be "fake news" I am really...weirded out a reality actor took the oath. Seriously weirded out. Like an out of body...is this really happening weird. But that may be my body rejecting all the past politician bullplop. Know what else? I bet you anything he completely stops tweeting. I think that was the ruse to begin with.

Protestors Rights

Hey... I can dig it. You're pissed..and you have every right to be. But they'll probably calculate the massive lost in man hours lost to this and it won't be worth it.

Conviction is a great thing. But you know it stills moves forward. Unless some really mentally ill Leftist sets themselves on fire. Proving the point how overly sensitive liberals can be.

I don't recall this much resistance to any presidency. But...my guess, we're bored and don't have real problems. What??????! The presidency at stake isn't real problem? No dumbfuck...it didn't work before or during the election. So this is the last resort. Fuck...you dummies, the last resort is helping your fellow man (which really should be your first resort) this women's march through the inauguration soldifies why I fucking hate the women's movement. Imagjne if this energy could be used to build housing.

What a waste of time.

Thursday, January 19, 2017

Trump's Inauguration

It's hard to believe. The day is tomorrow. Which coincides with me getting paid. A weird place to be. Do you think the world is safer or more dangerous. I wonder...since during the Ronald Reagan era Asians weren't exactly tolerated. In fact we were mocked mercilessly in movies and pop culture. Do I hold resentment towards the tormentors? Nope. It seems more to be a kitschy part of American history now. Do I think it should come back? Fuck no. The kids today are so thin skinned they'd kill themselves almost immediately.

That's not to say we're mentally more tough. Shit, we sucked it up. My biggest gripe was that hot high school girls wouldn't go out with me. I get a little bit of satisfaction knowing I've actually move to do more with my life. Not that anyone should care. But...I was ignored a lot to my own little movie making endeavors.

I think I may have been the only one who had drive to do that type of shit. Others seemed to waffle or derail themselves. Which I probably should have. What I'm getting at is...the new a Trump regime happens because you have someone who wanted something more than someone else. Think that your yearbook ever said what you hoped to accomplish was the President Of The United States. People would (and should) laugh. People aren't laughing anymore.

I would hope this stood as an example as to not letting anyone tell you what you are capable of. Harness that message and move on with your life. Marching to show your displeasure for the Orange One does nothing but get you sore feet. And you'll be cranky and take it out on humanity. At least do it topless. Someone will watch.

Monday, January 16, 2017

Martin Luther King

Ah...MLK...the day where White folk can post a quick blurb from his teachings and separate themselves from the racist. Thankfully so. Since I can just tap the "like" button and not feel like a complete scumbag for not taking it all that seriously.

A day off is a day off though...the earnest nature of White people to remind us about civil righta makes it seem they have much more to hide. Shame and guilt...the great twins that keep people shackled to religion. Men are not created equal. If they were I could go fuck Stephanie Seymour and she'd just giggle and say nothing. God...what a world that would be.

So don't gimme that shit. We do have i alienable rights as humans and Americans and we are beyond the "I have a speech..." years. Though many continue to believe more work is to be done. Fuck...where?  Pro sports and entertainment has evened the playing field. And let's be frank here...seems to be our only export. We've integrated our shit so deep into other cultures, they cheer for Michael Jordan in some remote island in Tahiti. To play...a kid's game. So if we aren't equal yet in our pursuit of happiness, not sure what else can be done before it becomes just an advantage. Doesn't bother me if a Black president of company hires only Black people. Most likely it won't be a position I qualify for anyway.

So, happy MLK day to those who still celebrate the myth.

Rob Schneider's Twitter-plosion

A friend who assisted for him told me the guy is ancock knocker. Funny how entertainers will turn on each other when the slightest slight is broadcasted. In this case, Schneider commenting on a nobody representative from Georgia about Martin Luther King. Basically this rep told the press he's not attending Trump's thing because he won due to Russian interference. So much for due process.

First off, who the fuck is this guy? Second, who are these social warriors dickwads who have holstered a clever quip about how liberal they are by lambasting Schneider for his words. Also blasting him for his shitty career. As if these assholes would lighten up if it were four time Academy award nominated actor. Nope. This is why liberal agenda is suuuuch garbage. We know conservative closeminded hicks are who they are, all we know about these injustice fighters are that they are full of themselves. You should decide who turns your stomache more.

And yes, announcing your boycott of the next president is childish and immature. Try not showing up and seeing if anyone would even notice. One other thing...Trump's statement to this rep was...figure out why your fucking city is a piece of shit. We should be cheering and doing the wave. That a politician was told to do his fucking job and not worry about stupid parties. How can any American not get behind that? Oh right, you're still so incensed your candidate lost that it's better to throw a tantrum. THIS is why I despise politicians. No one wants to take the higher ground, and want to bicker so they don't get anything done so they bet on America failing so their guy or girl can swoop in and be a hero. Politics, politics, politics. Now that I'm thinking about it, it is entirely possible Trump could bully things to get done. He may be a pit bull, but he's pur pit bull. Though, emotional knudnicks will flail themselves into oncoming traffic to make America great again. Or argue if America needs fixing. Meanwhile, the people arguing to move ground will most likely be buried in it.

It's a no-brainer why people hate Trump in Washington. Everyone plays those fucking games because that's all they know.

"Manchester By The Sea" (2016)

It occurred to me that you could watch this movie and then "Nobody's Fool" (1994) and be perfectly content with the maladjusted townie who lives ib quiet tragedy. In fact Casey Affleck's Lee Chandler is pretty much Paul Newman's Sully many decades later.

This story is about a depressed loner who can't cope with a past tragedy. He works as a handyman to get by, but in reality it just enough to pay rent and get drunk. I've known too many people who live this way. Though more out of despair than tragedy. That comes later. When Lee learns of his brother's sudden death he doesn't react how we believe he should. In fact, no one does because people tend to react to how you act. He's a void. His brother left behind a teenage son. Lee is named the guardian since the mother is deemed irresponsible. Does he take this task to heart? Well, not if you've been a loner desperate to numb yourself from emotion. What follows, depending on your stance for "Hollywood" type movies is up to you. This is a gritty emotiobal, yet humorous depiction of a hard removed man. Incapable of even pretending he is interested in life. Does that sound like you will get redemption?

Lee isn't an original character. Nor is he interesting. That's where "Nobody's Fool" did it right. Sully's ability to recognize his irresponsibilities redeems him. But maybe that will be in hindsight. The nephew/ward is a very independent small town worldly teen. Nothing like the 16 year olds I grew up with. Does he even need a guardian? How many scenes donwe really need of Lee being bothered by life before you scream "we get it!"

There are great moments in this movie. But it is slice of life with no real reason to sit through. It really feels like a bunch of different movies put together, which makes me wonder which one are the critics gushing over.

As a strange anomaly to a simple story told through screen..it wouldn't surprise me if they adapt this to stage. Much like "Fences" it is a lot of exposition. But unlike "Fences" which at least had a point, this movie is so anemic to emotion you aren't exactly exhilerated with an opinion.

Saturday, January 14, 2017

"Silence" (2016)

People are always getting me to admit how much more convenient and cheaper shooting movies on digital are. Fuck them. Nope...wait...fuck me. Yep...apostatizing is renouncing your faith in order to admit one works better than the other. So why can't both exist, because I'm just as stubborn as someone who moves on with life and shoots digital. Where does that leave us? Well, popular society decides I'm wrong...or they just don't care and it was all for nothing. But conviction continues in...yep...silence.

Faith is amazing. Your belief that religion would have a return moves countries and cause others to do unspeakable evil. In this case it's two priests who go in search of one that has disappeared into the bowels of Japan. See, Japan use to have a Christian Catholic population, until Buddhism took hold. Which Christianity was outlawed. Enter missionaries who spread the gospel.

It'a not that I don't believe religion means well, but Hell if it doesn't cause suffering. What is left is very arrogant Westerners inflicting their beliefs onto people who truly could live without. In other words, missionaries are annoying as fuck.

Where does that leave us? Weeeelll...it's up to you. Religious folk will side with the priest...Christian religions anyway. The atheists and everyone else will see the pushiness of the religion. I see it as your conviction on life. Where do your beliefs lie and what are you willing to sacrifice to get it.

People will suffer in pursuit of their dreams. What does it get you in the end...assuming you were promised something? For most disappointment...but...if you can live with some part of you still intact, you can maintain life with your convictions intact. Much like making movies in Hollywood, the old always have convictions the young strip away. Never mind the young become old and the cycle continues.
At the core of  "Silence" our faith is tested. A worthwhile journey for those who must endure.

Friday, January 13, 2017

Princess Leia's Future

With the death of Carrie Fisher, there is a big gaping hole in the Star Wars universe. Ideally, Han and Leia ahould've died in a sacrificial pact. I'm certain this move to keep her along was a marketing one and not a story driven one.

I get the feeling Carrie would've enjoyed the turmoil this has caused Disney.

What would scenarios to send her off with dignity? Well, opening crawl is the quickest. "Leia was called to some distant planet to do something much more interesting, or live her life in exile as Yoda had..." Or with the death of Han, her grief caused her to go into hiding. Or something like that.

They have refused to bring her back from the dead through computer graphics. The fuck is the big deal anyway? She was a hologram jammed within R2D2.

I think she should go out in a blaze. Cut to some footage with her flying some spaceship into the Death Star's corpse. Top of the world, Ma!!!

Admiral Leia becomes a martyr.
Or drop her in carbonite. Lots of options.

Barack Obama's Speech

It's hard not to like the guy. Until you realize he's a fucking politician.

His speech was rousing...and uplifting. And tore at the core of my emotions. Yep...his writers knew how to hit the high notes. But, he left with a great message to us all...not to be cynical and believe in America and Americans.

So much for the supporters of his party having that soak in. Instead, we get...
...MORE cynicism
...MORE anger
and most likely a riot in cities across this nation.

Is he effective now?

No.

But his heart was in the right place.

If it were me, and knowing what I know about "our fellow Americans" I'd tell everyone to suck it, then move to a mountain somewhere and have Secret Service bring me coconut water and squid meat. And I'd be content to watch the feud.

He's a fantastic orator, compared to that grating Pennsylvanian thug drawl Trump has.

But, whatever, I'm not going to be richer or poorer under either of these assholes. I'll continue to just be.

The Hopeless Romantic

Believe it or not, I think the Republicans and America are more hopeless romantics than we like to admit. The liberals seem so angry and self-righteous. A far cry from the ones I knew growing up who were much more kinder. I suppose you could say the puppies were sick of being kicked around. Or you hated your parents and wanted to be different. Who knows...

Here's a theory about why they chose Trump again. It had nothing to do with him other than...he was a true outsider. The guy is clueless about tact and pomp. He knows hownl to give speeches to rally people. Though, not articulate as Obama who grew up giving speeches. Or Hillary.

What I'm shocked at...is the inability for some people to see...the politicians are the ones fucking us. Left or right. Trump was the first to ever crack the glass of the Beltway and be really...of the people. Sure, he lacks class, but he has conviction. The worse that we can hope for is that he learns the political ways. THAT would make him dangerous. So people who desperately want him to be presidential...exactly what does that mean. Play golf and vacation and pop your head out every once in a while to lambast police?

He may not have the sweet kind Kevin Kline of "Dave" but...he certainly may have perspective.

Grabbing Snatch

If you want to know why women are going to rule this world, it's because they can twist and extract words to their benefit.

The Orange One above all should understand this. He is a massive clown and sickens me that I have to explain this to people. He never told women you can grab women by the pussy. He said if you are a celebrity, you can do things like that and get away with it. What is the distinction? YOU aren't a celebrity. Most likely never will be. No one think that's correct except retards. So you believe American male are retarded. Thanks. Oh wait, I twisted your words. Incidentally, The Don isn't wrong. Bill Clinton grabbed lots of snatch. That asswipe got a blowjob in the Oval Office. Fuck, I wish I was famous. We're Americans upset he got blown on taxpayer dime. I wish I was blown on someone else's dime. But I understand...he's famous...I'm not. Suppose it's up to you to decide the details. You most likely believe men don't have the common sense to ignore silliness like that. Low opinion of us guys. That's insulting.

Stop making me protect free speech on behalf of Big Orange. Makes my stomach hurt, to defend these inaccuracies. So why do it? Lying to get your way is worse. And both sides happily do it.

Thursday, January 12, 2017

The Spaghetti Test

Ben Affleck's newest movie "Live By Night" is being blasted as a bloated vanity movie. Having not yet seen it, I think Affleck's worse efforts are some of ours' best.

It should reinforce William Goldman's edict...none of us knows what works. Seriously. Not one of us here in L.A. We think we know. But we don't. Which is no wonder why we use templates. Making movies outside the box is too risky. Which is to say I'm not suggesting you make formulaic moviesx just understand why the movie business does.

I guess there is a level.of ease that goes into knowing even the most talented people will slip. It's hard work to make a movie. Harder work to make a good one. To make one that is powerful...that's the Holy Grail. The magical combination that fulfills the inner core of human stories. Which is why I think movies are so personal and why a lot of people get up in arms when bad movies speak to masses.

Unfortunately, we are working at the spaghetti testing level. That is...throw it to a wall and see if it sticks. Chuck your best ideas to a wall and the ones that hold on...use. Hopefully, you get a meal out of it.

What Makes It Worth It

I got a text from an actress I'd known a while back: "I'm on a film now and the writing is so bad. It got me thinking about the script you'd sent me and how it's much more subtle and cool. Don't get many of those."

I was beyond flattered. She wasn't shilling for a role and didn't have to butter me up. So it blew me away that someone remembered something I'd written, let alone felt she needed to tell me. And this was someone of merit.

I, honestly, can count the horrid moments of working in this town much easier than the great ones, but...moments like these make it...nay
..compels you to push forward.

NOT that I'm ever starved for attention. I can live on an island. But that people who are starved for attention took the time to remind me that my efforts aren't wasted. It meant someone cared...or at least the impression you made was deep.

I hope one day someone would randomly do this for you. It makes it worth it.

A Friend Visited

The other day I went into my kitchen when something skittered across the floor. A slithery something. I won't say I screamed like a bitch, but I did grab my extremes. What the fuck was it?!

So, I moved some of my paper bags jammed in the crevice of a area between my counter and there I saw him...a lizard.

Fuck. How did that thing get this far into my place? Second thought, what do I need to kill it. So...well...I looked on the internet. Lo and behold...don't fucking kill it...you animal. Lizards are our friends and mean you no harm. Catch and release, scoot it out of house but DON'T be an asshole and squash it. Okay..but it skittering around my life wasn't going to work. I dug up a broom and ushered it across the floor. Like pushing a wet noodle, since whenever it sensed something, it darted.

Eventually I pressed it across the floor and out to through the front. He probably felt as much relief as I did. Since it was raining, I'd say more so.

I did do a little more research on lizards and found that cats are found of killing and eating them. This was heartbreaking since there are about a million cats in my neighborhood, and it probably was looking for safe harbor.

I wonder where my friend lizard is. Hopefully not in the belly of some stupid cat.

Wednesday, January 11, 2017

New President

With Obama next to gone...what's next?
Same shit, of course.
People are making out like life is going to change one way or another. Most likely not for you. Maybe bitch and moan more...like yours truly or just keep doing what you're doing until someone tells you to stop.

It's not brain surgery.

So, people need to relax and take it easy. Trump will give us much to laugh about...preferably not as he's starting nuke shit with North Korea.

I think we're also giving him too much credit as we're not crediting him at all. What if he changes America the likes we've never seen. Not likely, as this process moves like a freight train stuck in tar. But who knows. If you know...also let me in on the lotto numbers.

Dead Humor

It occurred to me that when liberals are in charge, sense of humor goes out of the window. Most likely because they're so earnest to tear people down but hate it when it comes back. Ultra-sensitive to their feelings. It's not a bad thing, but recognize the hypocrisy. People like Alex Baldwin can make fun of Trump...but have you ever seen him react when he's fucked with?

Maybe we should all lighten up. Seems the conservatives do seem to be funnier these days. Being earnest is great, being social warriors is lame.  I think Obama's departure is going to open doors to being less PC. Which is a good thing. Using it as discrimination is a bad thing. And I think we're old enough to recognize the difference.

Tuesday, January 10, 2017

Good Bye Barry Obama

Tonight was the capper on 8 years with the Prez. The farewell speech. Not many surprises. Race and togetherness and a few digs at The Orange One.

Can you name one big thing that this guy did? I can't. And that's fine. Like giving the car keys to your step-brother and happy he just came back with a half-tank of gas and just a little bit of tread from tires. Thank you! And so what do you expect of Trump? Idiots believe if they can prove him the fool, we'll be fine. Nope. We'll be royally fucked. Wanting a president to fail is as dumb as it gets. You would pray and hope he gets his shit together and develop ways to get shit done. NOT find ways to derail him. Politics are so fucking childish, whatbwe've learned...is that it ran deeper than we thought. No one can be the bigger person.

So what would I recommend as a speech? "My fellow Americans...chill the fuck out. I'm sick of this us against them. It's us against the world. Let's kick some ass!!!!" And move on.

That would be amazing.

National Championship

Clemson beat Alabama last night.
You know what blows?
They don't show this on network anymore. You have to have ESPN or internet and stream it. Or...if it really mattered, going out to a bar.

I was surprised years ago watching a Clemson game at a bar. Shocked how many fans were there. Where the fuck is Clemson?

I'm glad Clemson won this year. Not just because it sticks it to arrogant Tide fans...but having a different winner every year sort of spreads the wealth. To a lot of people parity is boring, but pitting an underdog against a powerhouse makes for good watching. Especially now where a sure thing is no longer money in the bank.

Dylan Roof Gets Death

Remember that crazy white dude who shot up that black church. He's been sentence to death. In what amounts to the swiftest justice I can remember, the racist terrorist is done. Which begs the question...why doesn't this happen to radical Islamic terrorist. I mean, the ones who don't blow their asses up.

Information is a big thing, I guess. And if you can get them to talk then wring them dry, think you can move on. I have a sneaky suspicion this punk is gonna get a few perks awaiting his destiny. And though he shares no remorse for his actions, the most cruel thing one could do, is show him what world he could've had and yank it from him.

The worse possible scenario for most of us is regret. Regret for what could've been.

Monday, January 9, 2017

Meryl Streep Speech

Golden Globes 2017 will go down as Trump vs. Streep and not that "La La Land" went a perfect 100%. Nominated and win. The seven categories. Most ever. Good to know people just want to sing and dance and prance with low thinking.

Meryl Streep received the Cecil B. DeMille award. Which I guess is a lifetime achievement thing. Streep essentially said Trump made fun of a invalid news reporter and she can't stop thinking about the fact that America voted for him.

Lady...if you don't know, it's time to retire. SHE and the other Hollywood cronies are the problem. Why? They would step on the working class to get past another rejection. Fuck...Emma Stone admitted to it. In fact, the stories of fucking the system and finding stardom, in this town, are celebrated. Know what isn't? Guys and gals who just want a simple job. Guess which left this town. And guess who didn't speak up for them. Time and time again, these so-called celebs with a conscious refuse to stand up for the working class. The class that the rest of America is. They have no clue the factory which builds the platform for which they stand. Streep's spotlight was "manned" by electronics where a guy use to do that. So, stop pretending like they care. Because they don't. The sour grapes is simply their own agenda. It benefits none of us. Speaking of which...they never did cut to Denzel Washington during Streep's speech. Most likely not to catch his eye rolls as she spoke of journalistic freedom.

Bitch...you ever watch what passes as news these days? Man, is she out of touch. But...Hell...I love her movies. And I love her. She's precious and talented. And isn't attractive in the traditional Hollywood starlet way that has walled off her contemporaries that were excluded. Perhaps she suffers from falling in love with her captors.

Don't get me started on the gatekeepers that exclude fat, short or ugly...Trump could learn a lesson from Hollywood's ability to keep undesirables out.

Sunday, January 8, 2017

2017 Golden Globe winners

I really wish they would've cut to Natalie Portman's reaction as her portrayal of "Jackie" a blow-hard performance built up to be a shoo-in win for her was snatched by...Isabella Huppert for "Elle"???
First off, who the fuck knew Paul Verhoeven made a drama? And why haven't I watched it.

See, this is the shit that is wrong with this business. The man that brought us "Total Recall" "Robocop" and "Showgirls" somehow slipped into the backdoor and bamboozled the gatekeepers. What is the problem you say? While others were distracted by Mel Gibson...this swooped in and dotted the eye of Hollywood. Awesome. Fuck these people. What this said was rewarding the cotton candy of "La La Land" meant dramatically we don't need to crown other White folk. Will any of us see "Moonlight", the movie that snagged it from the sure thing "Manchester By The Sea"...probably not. It's got homosexuality, disease and crack addiction. So, they won't win in box office. But then again...neither will "Birth Of A Nation" Nate Parker's diseased horse.

What an interesting year.

"Hidden Figures" (2016)

This looks and feels like a real movie. And it's crafted as such too. There was a time when Black women who are sassy weren't appreciated. In this case they crunched numbers in a shitty room if they worked for NASA.

You would think that a government agency would be safe haven for these women, but it's just as bad as the outside world. Taraji P. Henson plays Katherine Gobel/Johnson a mathemetician who is so brainy she fast tracked out of high school. Her life is numbers, and she is a powerhouse. Sweet and goodnatured, she goes along to get along. AND we're expecting the moment where we hear her mouth off to her co-workers who we sense is smarter than them all. She doesn't. Quiet dignity hits me hard. And I loved it when that realization settles on the big White boss man played by Kevin Costner. He's so wooden you think he could stand outside a tobacco shop and be overlooked.
But that's not the only first Octavia Spencer plays Dorothy Vaughn, a mathematician who desperately wants to climb the accounting pit to be a supervisor. If only for job security. She was on the ground floor when computers took over. And Janelle Monae plays Mary Jackson, the first black female NASA engineer.
I don't give a flying fuck if this was real or not, it makes for great drama. Not just because of racism, but because it makes for great character. These women aren't standing around waiting for things to happen. That should inspire anyone.

I don't understand the criticism of facts when they celebrate the absolute nonsense which was "Braveheart" At least this movie keeps it grounded with who we are now. I love this movie. We need these movies.

Saturday, January 7, 2017

"LA LA Land' (2016)

I scanned the footage for every frame of this movie and I STILL couldn't tell you how they pieced together the opening. It's a lovely opening to a year in the life of two artsy hipsters. Well, one an actress and the other a jazz musician.

I'm certain many people have no interest in jazz. I happen to dig it. Live anyway. They address it. Jazz isn't popular. Neither are musicals. But it is infectious. And so are coordinated shots. As a camera person, you can't help but love the care it takes for these types of shots. They move and move. The camera doesn't stop. And the colors are primary pretty. What about the leads? Well, these two live in Hollyweird that they've somehow captured as a feeling of your first year in this town. Most of us even at 16 years never feel home home here.

As for the performances, the separation runs deep. A crumbling relationship in the shadow of buoyant fun is as tragic as it gets. I mean, it is heartbreaking. Of course, we imagine the what-could've-been. None of it is realistic...in this town.

Most in this town don't find the love of their lives in the same profession. Even the young and ridiculously talented director Damien Chazelle has gone through a divorce.

Go see this in the theater. It is in Cinemascope. A wider format than the standard 2:40. Everyone looks like a movie star and I miss it.

Great job for Emma Stone. And charming as always Ryan Gosling. Will Academy voters reward such youth and beauty. Of course. They love themselves. Warts and all.

Friday, January 6, 2017

Golden Globes 2017

I suspect many of us go into movies to be immortalized. Somewhere down the line, it's just to work.

The Golden Globes are the awards show before the BIG ONE, voted by something called The Foreign Press. I've no idea who these people are but most likely also are the same dinguses showcased at Rotten Tomatoes. Critics and press are dumb. People are never convinced one way or another. You either want to see it or not.

Hence the nominations. I won't go into the list, since a lot of the categories are confusing. I've always said acting is acting. Female or male, a great performance is a great performance. Though, a decade would've passed where Meryl Streep and Robert Deniro would've passed the award back and forth.

Personally, I think writers deserve the most credit. I mean, singular voice writers. That means NO superhero or Star Wars movie. NO fucking Disney animation. These are written by committee. Strong stories with unique voice. NOT voices.

Jimmy Fallon is hosting this. Never thought he was remotely funny. But he's harmless. Which, incidentally, this business is all contradiction. You want edgy movies, but don't like edgy comedy. You celebrate dark mean movies and do Disney musical numbers. Fitting for a bi-polar town.

Thursday, January 5, 2017

Reverse Hate Crime?

4 Black folk were charged with a hate crime towards a mentally challenged White kid. They assaulted him while yelling anti-Trump stuff and anti-White stuff.

A crime is a crime. And maybe this will put a kibbosh on whether assault is hate or not. It's hate, for those not in the know. This is what I fucking hate about American justice...they need a fucking committee to conclude this. Meanwhile, things get pushed back furthwr and further. I get it...assholes who say "it's a flawed system but it's the best" most likely is involved in this job security. There are guys at my job who sluggishly push through their work. Why? There are no deadlines. So, extend it as long as you can....job security.

This moment pushed back Black folk into an image they again cannot come to terms with. We are divided by no other reason but the shit-ass media.

Yeah, yeah, yeah...I'm using it to share my thoughts, but seriously...my thing is to say...don't just read my stupidity. Read others and move on. It's clearly boredom that allows us to debate this.

Let's say media wasn't involved. That means these dumbfucks wouldn't have shot the footage and aired it, media wouldn't show it, and shitbags like me wouldn't blog it.

Now how boring of a living would that be?

Tuesday, January 3, 2017

Movies And Politics

In Obama's administration movies turned really mean and dark. The cynics came out in droves. And they were celebrated. I think it will go down in cinema history similar to the end of Vietnam. I'm not sure why. But movies just turned mean.

What I'm beginning to believe, if you make a movie leave people with hope. Literally all Star Wars movies leave you with hope. And people come out in droves for that feeling. The music gives no excuse to be a downer ending. We go to movies not to suck life out of a person, but revive faith. That we are good people. Problem is...Hollywoof rewards anger and retards, or substance abusers. That's because that is the common people here. Angry at family, entitled and desperately digging for some outlet to express hurt. Why I'm here.
I have been slighted repeatedly in my teens by girls. So I lash out in movies. Dunno why. Maybe to make my dick bigger or whatever, the logic most likely is pretty girls need to link themselves with skilled labor. Bahaha. It's most likely true. Ugly short guys need pretty girls to validate them. Marilyn Monroe juggled plenty of them to get what she needed and they got what they needed.

Oh shit, back to my point...maybe movies will start swinging towards lighter stuff now. Like it was in the 80's. Hope and faith is a fantastic way to go about making movies that people will watch. Not mean comedies by the way. That's weak ass shit. I spent some of my break watching "Highway To Heaven" and you know Michael Landon wasn't religious but he sure made a fortune resting his bank account on the goodwill of man.

Monday, January 2, 2017

The Start Of The Year

Well, are you looking forward to the new year? I suppose. The holidays flew by. What I'm not looking forward to is going back to the grind. Well, grind in terms of dealing with people. It obviously could be worse, but for the new year perhaps looking forward to doing other things with my life. For myself. Though, the need to sustain a livable life while doing what I want to do is the trick. Making money and making movies.

It really has nothing to do with making a ton of money...just enough to eat and buy film. Not much to ask. I should keep writing...in the meantime. I have to believe writing is freedom. And it's free anyway.

"Rogue One"

There is literally a moment when a character says the titular line. If that falls into your kitschy wheelhouse, this movie will knock you up and down and sideways.

Otherwise..who gives a flying fuck. It is a movie that is crammed prior to the answer questions about where the plans of the Death Star came from. Did it matter? That's your call. I think it's silly but a fascinating exercise in fanboy movie making. Which, by all records so far...make better movies than Georgie Lucas himself.

Let's see if this movie covers all the lore. Orphan...calling...reluctance to adventure, hero gets a mentor. Mentor sends on trip. And so forth. Did they read Jason And The Argonauts before this? Oh well, whatever..it's not a repeated watch type movie. Which is so sad. "Star Wars:Force Awakens" has a watchability. Because their key actors just seem so much more within the Star Wars world. These seem like second string pre-season football. It's really well made, but...somehow seem hollow. I can only say...it's because we're in sitcom mode. There is a setup but they have to race to an inevitable ending. Much like in sitcoms, resolution comes at the end of the 2 hours spent.
I'm pretty sure Star Wars would survive not knowing any of this shit. It's more brutal than typical entries, and somewhat...melancholy. Worth a look on your downtime during a holiday wind down.

Sunday, January 1, 2017

"Fences" (2016)

King Kong don't have nothing on Troy Maxon.

"Fences" is a theatrical powerhouse. The modern movie goer isn't going to watch this with all the same joy you watch in a theater. But this is quite honestly THE best picture this year. Is it a fun watch? No. It is a smart watch. AND a solid classic movie. A movie that rivals "Streetcar Named Desire" or "Death Of A Salesman" without being superlame like "Birdman" or "Spotlight." This movie isn't too cool for school.

The story is about a washed up ballplayer in the Negro League who hasn't come to terms he's too old to play in an integrated pro league. He works as a garbage collector still resentful towards the world and what place it has dropped him. He is married ro a wonderfully understanding wife played wonderfully by Viola Davis (who should easily win supporting actress). She humors Troy, with their teen son and makes her best support for another son from a different relationship who visits, it seems, only when he needs money.

So what is Troy left with? Stories. Tall tales and working class jokes. And planting pearls of wisdom from past experience. But is it from a good place? It's from a painful place. But the message isn't angry Black man gets angry...he is so absorbed in what he hasn't gotten in life, but continues to make rules as to why.

What is it that makes this movie unique? That's for you to decide. There isn't massive revelations. They're small moments of people at the edge, just trying to get through life.

I love this movie. It's a character driven human drama. Sooooo starved with the heavy VFX movies. I hope this gains award traction, as I'd like to see more of this type of movie.

"Jackie" (2016)

I'm not entirely sure what the story is here other than, woman who married president grieves over murder than attempts to spin into...a fairy tale (Camelot)?
Let's be honest here...today she would be seen as a nutjob. But therein lies the whispery odd performance by Natalie Portman as the titular wife of John F. Kennedy.

The movie is very much a sideline thing. The assassination is shown in grotesque reality. BUT, seemed to really need to be shown in order to explain the warped direction she turned it to be. A fabrication of two years into a presidency desperate to contain the legacy to that of Abraham Lincoln. To some, this will ring...insane. To others, a emotionally destroyed wife who lost her identity.

The cynic won't be able to look past the silliness which is uplifting the message of JFK. The empathetic will feel sorry for her. I see an oppotunist who needed a day job. But these are the eyes of the 21st century.
Do I know anymore of Jackie than before. Nope. Unfortunately, I didn't care either. The privileged who whine is a terrible topic to tackle properly. Even more odd is the support from liberals who refuse to believe she may have been much more of a gold digging vain persob, the likes of which sunk Hillary Clinton.
The tone of this movie is brilliant though. They captured the style and atmosphere to a degree I can't explain. A friend who saw it likened it to a high school production...which is accurate. With a higher budget. And the overachieving classmates. It's so well done but left me empty. Maybe that is all we know of Jackie Kennedy.