Redefining Rockel

You know I never discuss female thermodynamics - Lou; Rescue Me

Poll
Rockel Recipes
Peeps
Politics
News
Fake News
Stuff
The Film of the Week
The WORD of the Week

Matthew 3:7-10

But when he saw many of the Pharisees and Sadducees coming to where he was baptizing, he said to them: "You brood of vipers! Who warned you to flee from the coming wrath?

Produce fruit in keeping with repentance.

And do not think you can say to yourselves, 'We have Abraham as our father.' I tell you that out of these stones God can raise up children for Abraham.

The ax is already at the root of the trees, and every tree that does not produce good fruit will be cut down and thrown into the fire.


Stupid Fact of the Week
There was only one civilian casualty during the three-day Battle of Gettysburg

22 January, 2008
Oscar, Oscar, Who's Got the Oscar
Alright, the list is out, people.

Same rules as last year. Get your predictions in before the beginning of the (really lame, can barely call it a) ceremony (Feb 24, 5pmPT/8pmET), and we'll have some fun no matter how many actors show up.

Side note: the roomie did manage to throw together some rules before the nominations were announced for his "predict the nominees & winners" competition. So far yours truly is in the lead by 9 - count em, 9 - points with a score of 70-61 (unofficial). However, the roomie still has 19 predicted winners still in play to my 16, and since winners count for two points each, it's anybodies game (read: I will still win).
posted by Rockel @ 9:59 AM   1 comments
11 January, 2008
Eleventh of the Month
Haven't done this in a while... let's stir things up.

Rudy hasn't forgotten...



...have you?

= Reports of explosions from first responders, eyewitnesses, and media reporters;;;
= News agency reporting a building had fallen before it actually did;;;
= Numerous architects, engineers, and professors finding "disturbing discrepancies" among the information/evidence;;;
= The Government changing their official story multiple times;;;


- And the people calling for a legitimate investigation are the crazy ones.

-- This guy is totally sane:

posted by Rockel @ 12:25 PM   0 comments
08 January, 2008
Coming in 2008, part the final
Scanners
Wow. Bousman has been busy. Not only is he releasing "Repo! The Genetic Opera!" (discussed in the third installment), he'll also be spewing forth this remake of the 1981 horror classic. This has fail written all over it, though not to the extent of repo, so... D

Semi-Pro
Ouch. They recently released a red-band trailer of this and I was all excited... then I watched it. This one looks to have the same testosterone-induced groan factor of Anchorman, with less of the stylish (or lack thereof), vintage flair. I'll wait for video. C

Sex and the City: The Movie
Boo. Boo. Just all around boo. I tried watching this tv show once. It was almost painful. And not because I'm a man, but because I have a brain. The early reports are that while the die-hard fans will love this, most other people, including those who enjoyed the show every now and again, will loathe it. I'm sure I will loathe it and never see it, even on video. However, as much as I'd like to give it an F, I have to be (somewhat) objective, so... D+

Son of Rambow
"Son Of Rambow is a comedy about friendship, faith and the weird business of growing up." I'm really excited about this one. It's from Garth Jennings (Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy), it apparently did very well at Sundance this past year, and looks to be a strong candidate for "fun and fancy free feel-good comedy of the year." I'll check it out at full price if I must. B+

Speed Racer
I can't make up my mind here. It's the Wachowski Brothers (boo) directing Emile Hirsch (yay) as Speed Racer (hmm), Christina Ricci (eh) as Trixie (yes), Susan Sarandon (no) and John Goodman (yup) as Mom and Pops, and Matthew Fox (eh) as Racer X (sure). True, there is some dazzling photography in it, however, while I think that (from the looks of it) the Bros. will do the cartoon justice to creating an authentic look for this film version, from the looks of the trailer they may be going a bit "Transformer"-esque in their rapid-fire editing, resulting in cg images that (brilliant though they may be) get lost in the fray (it could just be the way the trailer is cut). Either way, this will be one of the biggest movies of this year, and while it probably deserves an A-, it's the Wachowski brothers (screw objectivity), so... B+

Star Trek XI
Yuck. J.J. Abrams. Not a fan. But every Trekkie I know is looking forward to this with insane anticipation. Of course this means there are only two options: Big success, or utter failure. I think we all know which way I'm leaning, not only because of the director, but because this is basically the "Dumb and Dumberer" of Star Trek, bringing in young, fresh (hot) faces to tell the early stories of the crew... I just sense failure. Maybe that's just the J.J. thing. I don't know. I may even go see this, if a group of friends are going, because SIMON PEGG is SCOTTY. At least the casting people got one right. It pains me to say it... B

Trailer Trash
Man oh man oh man oh man oh man. "What's this?" You ask. "Britney Spears' biopic finally got greenlit?!" No. Unfortunately no. This is a whole bunch of fake movie trailers (previews) combined into a feature length film. Go ahead and re-read that last sentence. I'll Wait. Ok. The director is Eli Roth who is most famous for the brutally twisted horror flick "Hostel." However, Eli also directed the fake trailer segment "Thanksgiving," that appeared between the two (abysmal) "Grindhouse" films by Tarantino and Rodriguez. Unfortunately for Eli, this time around his work will have to stand alone rather than stand out as "not as awful as Tarantino or Rodriguez's work." D- (the only reason it's not getting an F is I really want to distinguish M. Night's work as truly horrendous)

Valkyrie
This just got pushed back again due filming complications associated with the writers strike. It should still make it in 2008, though, and despite Tom Cruise's presence, it will actually be quite good. Bryan Singer and Christopher McQuarrie are teaming up again for the first time since "The Usual Suspects," and a strong supporting cast (Bill Nighy, Carice van Houten, Kenneth Branagh, Stephen Fry, and EDDIE IZZARD) should more than compensate for Tom's presence and American accent. I can't help but feel some Oscar pull here, too. True story, war story, love story, espionage, plot twists, strong cast. I'd say this will be a strong contender for quite a few Academy Awards nominations, possibly even breaking into the double digits. A-

Vantage Point
This one looks (based on the trailer) like a fairly interesting action/suspense film. Unfortunately, it also looks a bit like the Nick Cage conspiracy thriller "Snake Eyes." The cast is better, though, so there's hope. It won't win any awards, change anyones life, or blow anyones mind, but I'll watch it in theaters if I'm looking for a weekend matinee. C+

Wall-E
Pixar animation - check. Sci-fi - check. Cute protagonist - check. They pushed a teaser for this thing nearly one full year ago and the hype has steadily grown to many critics assuming this will be the best Pixar film to date. I hate it when movies get over-hyped (and don't believe this will top Toy Story), but this one looks amazing never-the-less. Plus, you gotta believe this will win the Animated Oscar next year, so I'll pay full price. A-

Wanted
I just watched this trailer again, and although it's got some really awesome special effects/stunts, the plot, along with much of the action, seems quite hokey. As far as action films go, it'll do fairly well and make a decent amount of money. As for me seeing it... maybe. C+

Where the Wild Things Are
I approve of this. You gotta love the book. You gotta love the cast: Paul Dano, Catherine Keener, Benicio Del Toro, Forest Whitaker. And you gotta love that crazy Spike Jonze (Being John Malkovich, Adaptation, some of the best music videos ever) is gonna direct this thing. Thumb up. Definitely seeing this wicked trip of a movie. B+

The X-Files 2
10 years after the release of the first film chronicle of the cult hit tv show, Chris Carter (whose only prior directing experience has been on the television series of the same name) brings you a stand-alone X-Files film (something even the first didn't do) with a truly odd short list of supporting actors (Billy Connolly, Xzibit) that is sure to keep the average viewer at home and leave the true fan mostly disappointed. I'll pass. C-

Zack and Miri Make a Porno
I don't know what to think of Kevin Smith anymore. Clerks was edgy, unique, and completely groundbreaking for independent film making. Mallrats was funny, different, and birthed several (moderately) successful acting careers. But it is growing more and more evident that he is just a one-trick pony with one outfit (although, you gotta love the shants) and an ever-diminishing box-office presence. After the luke warm success of Clerks 2, I don't think this will make a huge splash. I may or may not check it out on video. C-
posted by Rockel @ 8:23 PM   0 comments
Awards, Awards, Awards
So... last night the critics spoke; tonight the people speak.

Last night's results:

Best Picture
No Country for Old Men

No big surprise here. Congrats to the Coens.

Best Comedy
Juno

This reassures me that Juno will land a Best Pic nomination from the Academy; no win, though.

Best Actor
Daniel Day-Lewis, There Will Be Blood

They got the category wrong here. It should be "Best Actor Alive." Oh, well. He better win the Oscar.

Best Actress
Julie Christie, Away from Her

Yeah. She's still my Oscar pick (at the moment). If I can find the cajones I may change that to Cotillard for "La Vie en Rose."

Best Supporting Actor
Javier Bardem, No Country for Old Men

No surprise. He's still the frontrunner for the Oscar, but don't be surprised if a veteran takes it from him (Holbrook, Wilkinson) like last year's Arkin/Murphey showdown.

Best Supporting Actress
Amy Ryan, Gone Baby Gone

Big upset. As I've noted, this category should belong to Cate Blanchett for "I'm Not There." This may change a few minds. I'm still sticking with Cate for the Oscar.

Best Acting Ensemble
Hairspray

Thankfully there is no Acting Ensemble award at the Oscars. The less awards this film gets the better.

Best Young Actor
Ahma Khan Mahmidzada

No effect on the Oscars.

Best Young Actress
Nikki Blonsky, Hairspray

No effect on the Oscars.

Best Director
Ethan and Joel Coen, No Country for Old Men

Hoo-ah. Congrats to the Coens. Well deserved. I don't know if this solidifies an Oscar, but most certainly a nomination.

Best Writer
Diablo Cody, Juno

This is pretty big. The first time screenwriter, ex-stripper beat out the Coens, Aaron Sorkin, and Tony Gilroy ("Michael Clayton" - great script). I'm not sure she'll be able to hold up against the heavyweights at the Oscars, but I'm certainly rethinking things.

Best Composer
Jonny Greenwood, There Will Be Blood

This is awesome. Well deserved. Get that oscar.

Best Song
"Falling Slowly," Glen Hansard & Marketa Irglova, Once

This has been, and will continue to be, my pick for the Oscar. The song category is always pretty obscure and rarely has a clear frontrunner. I gave it to "Falling Slowly" because "Once" is an incredibly beautiful, simple film that, while very engaging and enjoyable, will not (and rightfully should not) be considered for any other categories. I think the Academy voters will feel the same.

Best Foreign Language Film
The Diving Bell and the Butterfly

No effect on the Oscars as "Diving Bell" is not in contention for the Foreign Language category. "Persepolis" is still a solid favorite. I'm still not ruling out "The Counterfeiters."

Best Animated Feature
Ratatouille

No surprise. It's only competition, if any, will come from "Persepolis." And the Academy voters aren't opposed to knocking out a clear favorite (Cars) for a more politically motivated piece (Happy Feet).

Best Family Film
Enchanted

No effect on the Oscars.

Best Documentary
Sicko

As I've noted before, I like what Michael Moore does (ie - stir shit up). I don't know that he deserves (another) Oscar. In fact, while putting together my list of nominees for the roomie's contest, Sicko barely made it in as a nominee. There are so many great, hard-hitting documentaries out there this year that don't come packaged in Moore's rough, dividing antics that I think the Academy voters will pass on this one.
posted by Rockel @ 8:59 AM   0 comments
07 January, 2008
Wow
Just wow.

Just... wow.

Just......... wow.

Just.................. wow.


*negative points for any comments concerning "oral exams," or "studying hard."
posted by Rockel @ 5:08 PM   0 comments
Awards Show down... I repeat, we have an Awards Show down **updated**
Freaking writers and their stupid strike.

The Golden Globes are cancelled.

The Awards will still be given out in a "news event" format...psh.

This better get fixed before Feb. 24.

***UPDATE***

Here's the new TV schedule for the Globes:

"At 7 pm we will air a Dateline with clips and interviews with nominees. (Currently scheduled to air for two hours on Saturday night.)

"At 8 pm, we are negotiating with Dick Clark Enterprises for a one-hour retrospective/clip show.

"At 9 pm [EST] there will be a press conference covered by NBC News announcing the Golden Globe winners. (9pm-10pm)

"At 10 pm we will broadcast an 'Access Hollywood' style, Golden Globes party show...visiting the various parties in Hollywood."

[source]
posted by Rockel @ 1:48 PM   0 comments
02 January, 2008
< / 2 0 0 7 > < 2 0 0 8 >
Happy New Year, Everyone!

2007 is no more. I hope that it was memorable for you all.

I'm still decompressing from the holiday trip, so I will return shortly to finish off the "Coming in 2008" series, as well as discussing many other incredibly interesting things.
posted by Rockel @ 3:58 PM   0 comments
About Me

Name: Rockel
Home:
About Me:
See my complete profile
Recent Comments
News Ticker
Search the Rockel
Previous Posts
Archives
Lyrics of the Week

ON THE NICKEL
by Tom Waits

("I'd like to do a new song here. This is eh, it's about downtown Los Angeles on 5th Street. And eh all the winos affectionately refer to it as The Nickel. So this is kind of a hobo's lullaby.")

sticks and stones will break my bones,
but i always will be true, and when
your mama is dead and gone,
i'll sing this lullabye just for you,
and what becomes of all the little boys,
who never comb their hair,
well they're lined up all around the block,
on the nickel over there.

so you better bring a bucket,
there is a hole in the pail,
and if you don't get my letter,
then you'll know that i'm in jail,
and what becomes of all the little boys,
who never say their prayers,
well they're sleepin' like a baby,
on the nickel over there.

and if you chew tobacco, and wish upon a star,
well you'll find out where the scarecrows sit,
just like punchlines between the cars,
and i know a place where a royal flush,
can never beat a pair, and even thomas jefferson,
is on the nickel over there.

so ring around the rosie, you're sleepin' in the rain,
and you're always late for supper,
and man you let me down again,
i thought i heard a mockingbird, roosevelt knows where,
you can skip the light, with grady tuck,
on the nickel over there.

so what becomes of all the little boys,
who run away from home,
well the world just keeps gettin' bigger,
once you get out on your own,
so here's to all the little boys,
the sandman takes you where,
you'll be sleepin' with a pillowman,
on the nickel over there.

so let's climb up through that button hole,
and we'll fall right up the stairs,
and i'll show you where the short dogs grow,
on the nickel over there.

45113638_202b79dc11