tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21437537980485223942024-03-06T19:34:27.572-08:00PHIL'S FILM ADVENTURESCome along and join in on the cinematic adventures of this passionate and very sexy movie lover!Philip Castorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01920947952027787820noreply@blogger.comBlogger839125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2143753798048522394.post-25992361286477041042020-03-04T15:59:00.011-08:002021-10-06T18:14:34.428-07:00Phil Attends CINEQUEST 30: Day 2 - March 4, 2020<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAw_KZoQOYipHoiW2HcI_CP0Vgq0PMibdobLt9a64XY4wPWVA_7tB8L7Y8jihuRIwqLIo7OOtqCIJsbmT6sne9I85e70YuTuKY39SN8qPQhXehmVb-jhNnJN0e-NWQ35Y0QSxR5gRzx9o/s1600/homepage_hero_1_1940x720-lineupticketslive.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="360" data-original-width="970" height="147" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAw_KZoQOYipHoiW2HcI_CP0Vgq0PMibdobLt9a64XY4wPWVA_7tB8L7Y8jihuRIwqLIo7OOtqCIJsbmT6sne9I85e70YuTuKY39SN8qPQhXehmVb-jhNnJN0e-NWQ35Y0QSxR5gRzx9o/s400/homepage_hero_1_1940x720-lineupticketslive.jpg" width="400"></a></div>
Hello again folks and welcome to Day Two of the 30th Annual Cinequest Film & Creativity Festival! After a celebratory opening night and after party last night, I popped up at 3:30am for work, then afterwards came home to shower and change so I could head back to beautiful Downtown San Jose to see a total of four movies! And In case you’re all wondering how I’m still awake, it’s called caffeine! So let’s talk about all the films I saw today!<br>
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The first screening I attended was held at the ultra cool 3Below Theater & Lounge. Before the main feature, there was a quick short entitled <a href="https://payments.cinequest.org/websales/pages/info.aspx?evtinfo=114056~78899376-35a9-4153-8303-e1557be2dc32&#.XmC3HYWk3w5"><b>LABOR RELATIONS</b></a>, which was about a women named Emogen (<span class="PropValue">Christine Lin)</span>, who goes into labor during her big presentation with her department, and continues the presentation even after her baby's birth! Strangely, her co-workers are unaffected about her going to labor, as the other women are busy with their own children. A very surreal and funny short!<br>
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  The main feature <a href="https://payments.cinequest.org/websales/pages/info.aspx?evtinfo=114131~78899376-35a9-4153-8303-e1557be2dc32&epguid=d52499c1-3164-429f-b057-384dd7ec4b23&#.XmC2eYWk3w5"><b>HOMEWRECKER</b></a> is about a young and beautiful interior designer named Michelle (<span class="PropValue">Alex Essoe</span>) who becomes the obsession of the psychologically unbalanced stalker Linda (<span class="PropValue">Precious Chong of <i>L.A. CONFINDENTIAL</i>, <i>PEARL HARBOR</i>, and <i>ACCORDING TO SPENCER</i> fame)</span>). Linda cons Michelle into coming home with her in hopes to hire her to fix up her place. But then Linda’s true nature unfolds and thus, Michelle becomes her victim and the focus of unhinged madness.<br>
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Good Lord was this film freaking amazing and disturbing! Chong is absolutely creepy and horrifying, yet sympathetic and sad. Her performance was out of this world! The scene that really made my skin crawl and made me twitching in my seat was when she was singing Lisa Loren’s 1994 classic "Stay" while starring directly into the camera! It felt like she was singing directly to me and it pierced my soul. I was so uncomfortable that I wanted to cry because I was so freaked out! This was an excellent psychological dark comedic thriller that had me from the word go! 5 out of 5 stars!<br>
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The film will have three more screening at the Cinemark Century Theaters in Redwood City: Thursday, March 6th at 11am, Wednesday, March 11th at 7pm, and Saturday, March 14th at 10pm.<br>
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I headed over to the Hammer Theatre Center to see the North American premiere of the drama <a href="https://payments.cinequest.org/websales/pages/info.aspx?evtinfo=114112~78899376-35a9-4153-8303-e1557be2dc32&epguid=d52499c1-3164-429f-b057-384dd7ec4b23&#.XmGA44Wk3w4"><b>BEFORE OBLIVION</b></a> from Mexico. The film focuses on the community that resides in the neighborhood called Jonathan Perez Pillar, They're a close nit group that consists of families, friends, outcasts that have made this place their home. But soon there's trouble, as the city has been evicting families and communities from several other neighborhoods; all against their will to build up a new mall. The community at Jonathan Perez Pillar fight back against the city and the authorities, as they refuse to give in and be tossed out on the streets, homeless and hopeless.<br>
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This was powerful film to watch unfold, but it also addressed issues that have plagued many families in Mexico. The people versus the government and the authorities is still common to this day, but it also spotlights the will of the human spirit: to fight for what you believe in and refusing to compromise your morals and beliefs. But this was also very difficult to watch without comparing the events in the film to what has been happening here in the states in the past decade or so. The banking buyouts, the mortgage forclosures that left hundreds of families without a home, and the skyrocketing housing costs here in the Bay Area that has forced families to live in shelters or in their cars. It's sad to think that in the 21st century, we are still dealing with these issues that are affecting everyone from all over the world. 5 out of 5 stars!<br>
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The film will have three more screening: Thursday<span class="DateTime" id="ctl00_CPH1_listShowings_ctl01_StartDateTime"><span class="Day">, </span><span class="Date">March 12th at</span><span class="Time"> 9:30pm here in San Jose, and then at the Century Theater </span></span>in Redwood City on <span class="DateTime" id="ctl00_CPH1_listShowings_ctl02_StartDateTime"><span class="Day">Friday, </span><span class="Date">March 13</span><span class="Time">th at 6:40pm</span></span>, <span class="DateTime" id="ctl00_CPH1_listShowings_ctl03_StartDateTime"><span class="Day">Saturday, </span><span class="Date">March 14th at</span><span class="Time"> 3:00pm. </span></span><br>
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For film number three, I stayed at the Hammer Theatre Center to watch another North American premiere, a British comedy entitled <a href="https://payments.cinequest.org/websales/pages/info.aspx?evtinfo=114143~78899376-35a9-4153-8303-e1557be2dc32&epguid=d52499c1-3164-429f-b057-384dd7ec4b23&#.XmGGxYWk3w4"><b>LOVE TYPE D</b></a>. Meet Frankie (Maeve Dermody). She gets dumped a lot by men. Like, by A LOT of men! Thomas (<span class="PropValue">Oliver Farnworth</span>), the latest man to dump her is the most painful, seeing that he sent his eleven year-old brother Wilbur (<span class="PropValue">Rory Stroud</span>) to break up with her while he starts seeing a breathtakingly beautiful astronaut! How does Frankie move on from this devastating break-up? By enlisting Wilbur's help, since he's a schoolboy science prodigy. Together, they learn of the Type D Gene, better known as the "Dumpee Gene." Through a series of hilarious mishaps and comedic timing, Frankie must contact all of her exes so SHE can dump them! But out of all of them, it's Thomas that proves to be the most difficult to execute, seeing as she's still in love with him and will do anything to get him to love her again. But will it work out for Frankie in the end?<br>
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I absolutely adored this film! I'm also a sucker for romantic comedies, IF it's done right! Seeing how the British have a different take of the affairs of the heart, it's wonderful and interesting to see how a rom-com is done from another country. Maeve Dermod deserves all the credit for pulling this all off. It's her performance as the sad sack Frankie that makes the audience connect with her, and thus we relate to he emotional baggage and hang-ups, as we have all been there! Dermond is just fantastic in the role of Frankie, and truth be told, if Frankie were a real character, I would totally go out with her! Because I can relate to her! This was a fun-filled rom-com that made me smile and warm my heart with laughter and love! 5 out of 5 stars!!<br>
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The film will have two more screening at the Cinemark Century Theaters
in Redwood City: <span class="DateTime" id="ctl00_CPH1_listShowings_ctl02_StartDateTime"><span class="Day">Saturday, </span><span class="Date">March 7th</span><span class="Time"> at 12:20pm, and again on </span></span><span class="DateTime" id="ctl00_CPH1_listShowings_ctl03_StartDateTime"><span class="Day">Saturday, </span><span class="Date">March 14th at</span><span class="Time"> 12:45pm. </span></span><br>
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<span class="DateTime" id="ctl00_CPH1_listShowings_ctl03_StartDateTime"><span class="Time">After the movie was over, I jammed back over to the </span></span><span class="DateTime" id="ctl00_CPH1_listShowings_ctl03_StartDateTime"><span class="Time">3Below Theater & Lounge to see my fourth and final screening, the shorts program entitled <a href="https://payments.cinequest.org/websales/pages/info.aspx?evtinfo=114211~78899376-35a9-4153-8303-e1557be2dc32&epguid=d52499c1-3164-429f-b057-384dd7ec4b23&#.XmGOaYWk3w4"><b>SHOCKS, THRILLS, AND DARK VISIONS</b></a>. Actually, these were really television pilots, and these were awesome pilots as well! There were a total of four pilots (there was a fifth one called <i>GLITCH!</i> that was supposed to be part of this program, but it wasn't shown. As to why it wasn't screened, I have no idea.)</span></span><br>
<span class="DateTime" id="ctl00_CPH1_listShowings_ctl03_StartDateTime"><span class="Time"><br></span></span>
<span class="DateTime" id="ctl00_CPH1_listShowings_ctl03_StartDateTime"><span class="Time"><b>ASKING FOR A FRIEND</b>: After a long day at work, Blake comes home only to find her best friend and roommate Q standing over a freshly dead body, blood soaked in the rug and spilling over on the hardwood floor. Blake helps Q to get rid of the body, in ghastly fashion, and their exploits a funner than hell! This was so gory and over-the-top that I laughed my ass off! If this was on Shudder, I would binge watch the shit outta this!</span></span><br>
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<span class="DateTime" id="ctl00_CPH1_listShowings_ctl03_StartDateTime"><span class="Time"><b>R.L. ALLMAN'S PETER PAN</b>: This re-imagining of the classic children's tale takes place in San Francisco (Neverland), where we met the new incarnations of Peter Pan, The Lost Boys, and Tinkerbell. Peter refuses to grow up, even though he lives among biker gangs, drugs, and the threat of eviction, thanks to the evil conglomerate Hook Corporation. A fanatic take on the Peter Pan tale told through modern storytelling!</span></span><br>
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<span class="Name"><b>S41NT</b>: In the corners of the dark web, there are a group of hackers who rob and steal people's personal information and sell it to anyone who's buying. Unfortunately, a brilliant hacker named S41NT is arrested for selling information to an undercover FBI Agent, But when she gets caught up with the government, she is told that she lived a very different past life that shocks her to her core. A powerful thriller that deserves to be on CBS!</span><br>
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<span class="Name"><b>SUCKED IN</b>: A young woman comes home and finds a dangerous intruder who thinks she's stealing prescription drugs from the hospital she works at. Unfortunately for him, that's not what she's stealing, and now, because of her roommate, he is no longer the dangerous person in the apartment! A great concept pilot for a series!</span><br>
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<span class="Name">I couldn’t help notice that all four pilots contained both political and social commentary. With <b>ASKING FOR A FRIEND</b>, it talked about violence in society, the meaning of friendship, and how women can be just psychologically disturbed as men. </span><span class="Name"><span class="DateTime" id="ctl00_CPH1_listShowings_ctl03_StartDateTime"><span class="Time"><b>R.L. ALLMAN'S PETER PAN</b></span></span> commented on </span><span class="Name"><span class="Name">gentrification</span>, the housing crisis, and the lost of the innocence that made the art world in San Francisco so alive. <b>S41NT</b> pointed out the dark web, the fear that Big Brother is constantly watching you, and identity crisises. <b>SUCKED IN</b> addresses violence against women, home invasion, and what if you’re roommate is a deadly vampire. Okay, I may have made that last one up, but it did cross my mind.</span><br>
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<span class="Name">The program will have one more screening at the Century Theaters in Redwood City on </span><span class="Name"><span class="DateTime" id="ctl00_CPH1_listShowings_ctl01_StartDateTime"><span class="Day">Saturday, </span><span class="Date">March 7th at</span><span class="Time"> 4:15pm.</span></span> </span><br>
<span class="Name"><br></span>
<span class="Name">After the screening, all the filmmakers who were present (which was all of them) partaked in a fun and entertaining Q&A session. Then we all went into the lobby to converse some more and take a plethora of pictures. Then everybody went to the Maverick Meet-Up over at </span><span class="Name"><a href="https://www.sanjose.org/listings/chachos">Chacho's</a>, while yours truly went home, wrote up my review of opening night, and then I went to bed and slept for four hours before waking up and going back to work.</span><br>
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And
folks, there you have Day Two of Cinequest 30! And there's still 11
more days of movie watching for me! Remember the festival ends on
Sunday, March 15th so make sure you come out here to San Jose! To view
the festival's film schedule and purchase tickets and passes, visit
their website at <a href="http://www.cinequest.org/">www.cinequest.org</a>.<br>
<br>
Thanks for reading, and enjoy the show!
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<span class="post-author vcard"></span>Philip Castorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01920947952027787820noreply@blogger.com0San Jose, CA, USA37.3382082 -121.886328636.9339987 -122.5317756 37.7424177 -121.2408816tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2143753798048522394.post-66674572601950408582020-03-03T15:52:00.003-08:002020-03-04T23:53:38.043-08:00Phil attends the Opening Night of the 30th Annual Cinequest Film & Creativity Festival - March 3, 2020<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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It's that most amazing time of the year!! That's right folks!! Tonight was the opening night
of the 30th Annual Cinequest Film & Creativity Festival!! I am
expecting to see some of the very best in independent, foreign, and
documentaries here for the next thirteen days! Once again I got to see
some of my old
friends like Jason Wiener from <a href="http://jasonwatchesmovies.blogspot.com/">Jason Watches Movies</a>
as well as my old buddy Roy from the Niles Essanay Silent Film Museum,
Terra Wood-Taylor, Michael Rabehl, and a few others. At this year's
festival I hope to once again make
new friends and as well as new
memories. Back in 2014, I set an all-time personal record by attending
60
screenings in 13 days! Let's see if I can even bet that record this
year!!<br />
<br />
The opening night was held once again at the beautiful California
Theatre on South First Street. There was the traditional red carpet with
numerous filmmakers talking about their films to the press and posing
for the cameras. Soon I found my way towards the front of the stage,
bouncing in my seat with excitement. Then at 7:15pm, the lights slowly
dimmed and the show
began!<br />
<br />
Cinequest director and co-founder and Halfdan Hussey came out and
greeted everyone and thanked all our <a href="https://www.cinequest.org/our-sponsors">sponsors</a>. He then had the theatre screen this <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EB1r029Fswg">year's festival trailer</a>, which was done once again by <span class="st">SF Bay Area production company </span><a href="http://www.guerillawanderers.com/">Guerrilla Wanders</a>. We also saw SJ Mayor Sam Liccardo, a touching and inspiring trailer from <a href="https://standuptocancer.org/">Stand Up to Cancer</a>
(which was founded by Laura Ziskin, who passed away from breast cancer
in 2011). After, Halfdan introduced Dave Gilliam from Cisco, TJ Rogers
from Clos de la Tech (one of the new sponsers of the festival), and
comedian Matt Donaher performed a hilarious stand-up that had the
audience in stitches! We then saw the funny animated short film <b>CRUEL SHOES</b>,
narrated by Steve Martin,and directed by Kevin Peterson, who also
introduced his short. And then, it was time to watch the festival's
opening night film <a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt7241586/?ref_=fn_al_tt_1"><b>JOHN PINETTE: YOU GO NOW</b></a>.<br />
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The
documentary tells the life of comedian John Pinette, who would become
one of the hottest and fastest rising young comedian of all time. Told
by family, friends, and peers like Lewis Black, Dane Cook, Bill Burr,
Howie Mandel, and Iliza Shlesinger just to name a few, we're told the
story of Pinette's early years dealing with loss and personal setbacks
to becoming one of the biggest stars in stand-up, to his tragic fall
from grace, his redemption and comeback, to his final days. Throughout
his ups and downs, we get a better understanding of who John Pinette
actually was; the man behind the laughs, the fat jokes, and his smile he
wore to cover up his pain.<br />
<br />
Truth be told, I had totally
forgotten about John Pinette. I used to see his Comedy Central specials
back in the day, and it was fantastic to see this footage in the
documentary, along with several clips of him doing his stand-up
throughout the years. I found myself laughing uncontrollably one minute,
then wiping away my tears the next. Pinette hid his pain well from the
rest of the world, and it was so tragically sad when he passed away on
April 5, 2014 at only 50 years old. After the screening, there was a
Q&A with the filmmakers, which was very informative and heartfelt.<br />
<br />
<div>
Now I just became aware that Cinequest here will be having an <a href="https://payments.cinequest.org/WebSales/pages/info.aspx?evtinfo=117021%7E78899376-35a9-4153-8303-e1557be2dc32&epguid=d52499c1-3164-429f-b057-384dd7ec4b23&#.XmAdFKhKhaQ">encore screening</a>
of the documentary on Monday, March 9 at 6:45 at the Hammer
Theatre. This is the first time Cinequest ever had an encore of their opening night
film, which makes this a very rare and special occasion.</div>
<br />
After the Q&A, everybody headed over to the lavish after party, which
was held over at <a href="https://venuesanjose.com/page/3563680/">The Glass House </a>on 12 South Market Street, where there was plenty to eat,
drink, and music to shake our booties to all night long! Drinks were once again
provided by <a href="http://titosvodka.com/">Tito's Vodka</a>, as well as by <a href="https://www.hendricksgin.com/">Hendrick's Gin</a>, <a href="https://drinkdrakes.com/">Drake's Brewing</a>, and <a href="https://www.jlohr.com/">J. Lohr Winery</a>!! <br />
<br />
<b>JOHN PINETTE: YOU GO NOW</b> was the perfect film to kick off Cinequest 30! And
there's still 12 days of movie watching left! So what are you waiting
for? Now you can partake in this very important downtown event. The 30th
Annual Cinequest Film & Creativity Festival runs from March 3rd to
March 15th!! To
view film
schedules, information about the festival, and to purchase tickets and
passes, visit their website at <a href="http://www.cinequest.org/">www.cinequest.org</a>.<br />
<br />
Thanks for reading, and enjoy the show!
Philip Castorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01920947952027787820noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2143753798048522394.post-90622701531991863142019-12-01T19:08:00.001-08:002020-03-04T23:46:14.571-08:00Phil's Cult Classics: GLEN OR GLENDA (1953) from Image Entertainment - December 1, 2019<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU0c0lQzW2dOlxNIzfvXY9b8L7Dc6xolhkJjgC48by51wh3pOK9P9bGRM0XnX5h4RiEBIJBlzgFbCcj39TnabXz4XlQorpCMvX87EQqXahNhb9xuS_eMp2i6JDDpLFU-fvUQhYdFoT7Tg/s1600/71BS42A5HZL.gif" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="475" data-original-width="353" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU0c0lQzW2dOlxNIzfvXY9b8L7Dc6xolhkJjgC48by51wh3pOK9P9bGRM0XnX5h4RiEBIJBlzgFbCcj39TnabXz4XlQorpCMvX87EQqXahNhb9xuS_eMp2i6JDDpLFU-fvUQhYdFoT7Tg/s320/71BS42A5HZL.gif" width="237" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">GLEN OR GLENDA DVD Cover</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b><a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0045826/?ref_=nv_sr_1?ref_=nv_sr_1">GLEN OR GLENDA</a></b> (1953)<br />
<br />
Starring
Edward D. Wood Jr. (as Daniel Davis), Bela Lugosi, Lyle Talbot, Dolores Fuller, Conrad Brooks, Charlie Crafts, 'Tommy' Haynes
<br />
Written by Edward D. Wood Jr.<br />
Cinematography by William C. Thompson<br />
Edited by 'Bud' Schelling<br />
Produced by George Weiss
<br />
Directed by Edward D. Wood Jr.<br />
Originally released by Screen Classics<br />
Re-released by Image Entertainment<br />
<br />
A plethora of adjectives flood my mind when someone mentions the name Edward D. Wood Jr. They includes words like filmmaker, actor, alcoholic, pornographer, and a transvestite with a severe fetish for angora. Wood was all these things and so much more. He was a complex individual, who longed to become a filmmaker like his idol, the great Orson Wells. That did not happen, in fact, the complete opposite transpired. Two years after his death in 1978, film critics Michael and Harry Medved (known as the Medved Brothers) published their book "The Golden Turkey Awards" announced that Ed Wood was voted the "Worst Director of All time" while his 1958 sci-fi film <i>PLAN NINE FROM OUTER SPACE</i> won the "Worst Film of All Time" award. This garnered world wide attention to Wood, and soon after, he garnered a legion of new fans, his movies being played all over the world, VHS and DVD copies of his films selling like wildfire, and Wood himself being championed as a bona fide auteur. This is evident in his feature film debut<b> GLEN OR GLENDA</b>, which has gone on to become not only a cult classic, but an important documentation of transvestism, and a beloved film within the LGBTQ community.<br />
<br />
The film's official synopsis: This is it! The true story of a man who lusted after women so much that he wanted to dress like them. The first film based on the strange tastes of legendary filmmaker Ed Wood and a sordid plea for acceptance in the world of bondage and the sexually confused, decades before <i>THE ROCKY HORROR PICTURE SHOW</i> and TV's Ellen. Starring famous shock star Bela Lugosi as the "Puppet Master" an Wood himself in the role of Glen/Gelnda. It also markes the screen debut of Wood's main squeeze at the time, Dorlores Fuller, who went on to become one of Elvis's star songwriters. An important film document, years before its time. <br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhw6Q0SVj__b5NmglquR2lLrZG1Iez6akxmr9f5I8r6YGnnz3jP6jXtFCpYn8qKw-26tkGlZwS0wz7lm9Z9eUavv4NGqCFK9pDfMOAUazf_o-LcPImos_wJ3_2l_u251rKxMrSFP_TjA0E/s1600/imag007.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="700" data-original-width="459" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhw6Q0SVj__b5NmglquR2lLrZG1Iez6akxmr9f5I8r6YGnnz3jP6jXtFCpYn8qKw-26tkGlZwS0wz7lm9Z9eUavv4NGqCFK9pDfMOAUazf_o-LcPImos_wJ3_2l_u251rKxMrSFP_TjA0E/s320/imag007.jpg" width="209" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Original Theatrical Poster (1953)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Loosely inspired by the sex reassignment surgery of Christine Jorgensen in 1952, exploitation producer George Weiss was hoping to cash in on this hot story that was sweeping the headlines across the country. Wood convinced Weiss that he would be the perfect person to direct the film. However, he would make the ultimate film about self-expression, making a film about the understanding of transvestism (with about five minutes at the end talking about sex change). He would cast the great Bela Lugosi to appear in the film, portraying "The Scientist", or the "Puppet Master", or in actuality "God." By this time, Lugosi had been out of the spotlight and was a drug addict, but was hoping for a comeback. Wood cast himself in the lead role of Glen and Glenda under the handle Daniel Davis (Davis was his middle name), and cast his then girlfriend at the time Dolores Fuller as Glen's girlfriend/fiancée Barbara. He would also cast his friends Lyle Talbot (TV's <i>Ozzy and Harriet</i>) and Conrad Brooks (<i>PLAN NINE FROM OUTER SPACE</i>).<br />
<br />
Shot in four days, Wood would break every conventional rule there was in filmmaking. He would often shoot scenes in one take, his dialogue sounded inept, he would shoot exterior scenes with no permits, spliced in stock footage to make his films look bigger, and continuity was pretty much tossed out the window. In fact, the stories of Wood often directing in drag in later films can
be attributed to this film, having to direct several scenes while
dressed as Glenda. But yet, he made his films to his unique and quarky vision, and he bared his soul in this film without question.<br />
<br />
The movie received a limited released by Screen Classics in April 1953, under the main title, as well as under different titles like <i>I Led Two Lives</i>, <i>He or She?</i> and <i>I Changed My Sex</i> . The film bombed, but when Wood received the Golden Turkey awards, he became a hot Hollywood property. This led major motion picture studio Paramount Pictures to re-release the film to theaters in 1981. In 1983, Kansas City native Wade Williams acquired the rights to Ed Wood's films, along with several other intellectual properties, ranging from movies to television shows. He would team up with Rhino Home Video to release these films on VHS, with Image Entertainment re-releasing them on DVD.<br />
<br />
<b>GLEN OR GLENDA</b> remains a true cult classic, inspiring transvestites and queer kids to dress in drag for decades to come! It also put Ed Wood on the map as a filmmaker, leading him to create some of the most off-the-wall, mondo bizzaro, cult classics that has ever graced the silver screen! The fact that we're still talking about him 41 years after his passing is testimony on how this strange and beloved human being has touched and enriched our lived for the better! And this film is a perfect example of his love of motion pictures, and it's importance to the world of cinema is unapologetic! 5 out of 5 stars!! Highly recommended!!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />
<b>GLEN OR GLENDA </b>is currently available on DVD from Image Entertainment. To purchase a copy, visit your local retailer or visit the Amazon website at <a href="http://www.amazon.com/">www.amazon.com</a>. Also, check out the Wade Williams Collection of films at <a href="http://www.wadewilliamscollection.com/">www.wadewilliamscollection.com</a>.<br />
<br />
Thanks for reading, and enjoy the show!Philip Castorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01920947952027787820noreply@blogger.com0San Jose, CA, USA37.3382082 -121.8863286000000136.9339987 -122.53177560000002 37.7424177 -121.24088160000001tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2143753798048522394.post-11730377628687342742019-08-26T04:39:00.001-07:002019-12-01T17:24:47.364-08:00Phil’s Horror Watch: BASKET CASE (1982) from Arrow Video - August 14, 2019<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9_c3NI5iwlGbdj6ofhJWW0BnQui1rpf7cZKGQ1LZytjRaWryc6s_gFMF50zl_Symn-tTdMwUZIir1WU6uD7x27SQlKMToKACtEZXygTVpe43M9A0v9vlDuApEL9Jatp-dgjemeR-bp20/s1600/BASKET_CASE_OCARD_2D_PACKSHOT_preview.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1210" data-original-width="960" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9_c3NI5iwlGbdj6ofhJWW0BnQui1rpf7cZKGQ1LZytjRaWryc6s_gFMF50zl_Symn-tTdMwUZIir1WU6uD7x27SQlKMToKACtEZXygTVpe43M9A0v9vlDuApEL9Jatp-dgjemeR-bp20/s320/BASKET_CASE_OCARD_2D_PACKSHOT_preview.png" width="253" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">BASKET CASE Slipcover</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0083624/?ref_=nv_sr_1?ref_=nv_sr_1"><b>BASKET CASE</b></a> (1982)<br />
<br />
Starring Kevin Van Hentenryck, Terri Susan Smith, Beverly Bonner, Robert Vogel, Diana Browne, Lloyd Pace, Bill Freeman, Joe Clarke
<br />
Screenplay by Frank Henenlotter<br />
Cinematography by Bruce Torbet
<br />
Edited by Frank Henenlotter<br />
Produced by Arnold H. Bruck (as Arnie Bruck), Tom Kaye, Edgar Ievins
<br />
Directed by Frank Henenlotter<br />
Originally released by Analysis Film Releasing Corporation<br />
Re-released by Arrow Video<br />
<br />
Welcome back horror fans to another edition of Phil's Horror Watch. For today's cinematic fright flick, I thought it would be fun to
stroll down memory lane and visit the old grindhouse theaters that
populated New York's 42nd Street. There, you could see some of the most
outrageous films ever made! Sometimes I feel like I was born in the wrong decade. I would have love to see many of the film I have watched on Blu-Ray or on DVD up on the big screen. Just imagine walking around The Deuce, looking up at all the marquees, seeing what's playing, then buying a ticket to watch a movie and wonder what the hell am I watching! Take for example today's film. I guarantee
that you have never seen a film like <b>BASKET CASE</b> before, nor could you ever forget it!<br />
<br />
The film's official synopsis: Duane Bradley is a pretty ordinary guy. His formerly conjoined twin
Belial, on the other hand, is a deformed, fleshy lump whom he carries
around in a wicker basket. Arriving in the Big Apple and taking up a
room at the seedy Hotel Broslin, the pair set about hunting down and
butchering the surgeons responsible for their separation. But tensions
flare up when Duane starts spending time with a pretty blonde secretary,
and Belial’s homicidal tendencies reach bloody new extremes.<br />
<br />
Now doesn't that sound like a fun film to watch in a 42nd street
grindhouse theater? Well guess what? It DID play at a 42nd street
grindhouse theater! Budgeted at only $35,000, the film was released by
Analysis Film Releasing Corporation in April of 1982, but it gained a
cult following once it was released onto home video by the mid 80's. The
special effects for Belial consist largely of a puppet in some scenes
and stop motion in others, which only added to the magic and the allure
of the film.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3oU2_JseYEUzLTeO5vHLUR7vK-g4hxTvy6Tmbgj9-_y6ss8judm3hTxmkL-noxsXQ7PRVhrtBGpDaLeNGZy9-Td-l0pTxhZv-C5Jdoilf9z-bmSsOCDsGv2Ojrlynyp5yk0IlUgxrp8g/s1600/Basket+Case.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="320" data-original-width="202" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3oU2_JseYEUzLTeO5vHLUR7vK-g4hxTvy6Tmbgj9-_y6ss8judm3hTxmkL-noxsXQ7PRVhrtBGpDaLeNGZy9-Td-l0pTxhZv-C5Jdoilf9z-bmSsOCDsGv2Ojrlynyp5yk0IlUgxrp8g/s1600/Basket+Case.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Original Theatrical Poster (1982)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The film was written and directed by Frank Henenlotter, and it was his
feature length debut. Henenlotter would go on to direct other cult classics such as <i>BRAIN DAMAGE, FRANKENHOOKER</i>, and two sequels: <i>BASKET CASE 2</i> and <i>BASKET CASE 3: THE PROGENY. </i>He also directed the documentaries <i>HERSCHELL GORDON LEWIS: THE GODFATHER OF GORE</i> and <i>THAT'S SEXPLOITATION! </i>(both for Something Weird Video). He also did the audio commentary for <a href="http://philsfilmadventures.blogspot.com/2019/08/phils-exploitation-cinema-fugitive.html"><i>FUGITIVE GIRLS</i></a> along with Ed Wood biographer Rudolph Grey.<br />
<br />
Arrow Video did a tremendous job with this release! It boasts a brand new 4K restoration from the original 16mm negative by MoMA )Museum of Modern Art), a High Definition Blu-ray (1080p) presentation, Original Uncompressed Mono Audio, and Optional English subtitles for the deaf and hard of hearing, and a reversible sleeve featuring original and newly commissioned artwork by Sara Deck, which looks awesome!<br />
<br />
Then there's the Special Features, which are both phenomenal and plentiful: Brand new audio commentary with writer/director Frank Henenlotter and star Kevin Van Hentenryck, <b>BASKET CASE 3-1/2</b>: An Interview with Duane Bradley – Frank Henenlotter
revisits Duane Bradley decades after the events of the original Basket
Case, Seeing Double: <b>The Basket Case Twins</b> – a brand new interview with
Florence and Maryellen Schultz, the twin nurses from Basket Case, Brand new making-of featurette containing new interviews with producer
Edgar Ievins, casting person/actress Ilze Balodis, associate
producer/effects artist Ugis Nigals and Belial performer Kika Nigals, <b>Blood, BASKET and Beyond</b> – a brand new interview with actress Beverly Bonner, <b>Belial Goes to the Drive-In</b> – a brand new interview with film critic Joe Bob Briggs, Outtakes Featurette, <b>In Search of the Hotel Broslin</b> – archive location featurette, <b>SLASH OF THE KNIFE</b> (1972) – short film by Frank Henenlotter, <b>Belial’s Dream</b> (2017, 5 mins) – brand new Basket Case-inspired animated short by filmmaker Robert Morgan, Behind-the-scenes of Belial’s Dream, Extensive Still Galleries, Trailers, TV Spots and Radio Spots! *whew* Holy crap that's a lot of special features!<br />
<br />
<b>BASKET CASE</b> is a true bona fide cult classic, a grindhouse classic, a horror film classic, and still one helluva fun ride to
watch! Take from me folks. Horror, B-movies, and exploitation films are
my main passions in life, and I can assure you that this film is just
awesome to watch!<b> </b>And thanks to Arrow Video, the film looks exquisite, contains astounding special features, and is required for any horror fans film library! This is a must-own release!! 5 out of 5 stars!! Highly recommended!! <br />
<br />
<b></b><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />
<b>BASKET CASE </b>is available on Blu-Ray from Arrow Video. To purchase a copy for yourself, visit the Diabolik DVD website at <a href="http://www.diabolikdvd.com/">www.diabolikdvd.com</a>.<br />
<br />
Thanks for reading, and enjoy the screaming!
Philip Castorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01920947952027787820noreply@blogger.com0San Jose, CA, USA37.3382082 -121.8863286000000136.9339987 -122.53177560000002 37.7424177 -121.24088160000001tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2143753798048522394.post-48512341149270436262019-08-14T19:23:00.002-07:002019-09-22T00:41:43.528-07:00Phil’s Horror Watch: INVASION OF THE BLOOD FARMERS (1972) from Severin Film - August 13, 2019<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfBCQ3gfW3CQVnuUofjGqy1R6ikC4xshIR5w7Pov7H6GBYhrGotDMFJqGKB1Dq-c5f_ub90D8TLxAdv3uIy-4GMyTYw8Jmy_zBIIBsG9WQHGIuATZb8gxLle2rJkFJC7JRyPBRsfr8KUo/s1600/IOTBF_Blu_Cover.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="865" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfBCQ3gfW3CQVnuUofjGqy1R6ikC4xshIR5w7Pov7H6GBYhrGotDMFJqGKB1Dq-c5f_ub90D8TLxAdv3uIy-4GMyTYw8Jmy_zBIIBsG9WQHGIuATZb8gxLle2rJkFJC7JRyPBRsfr8KUo/s320/IOTBF_Blu_Cover.jpg" width="276" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">INVASION OF THE BLOOD FARMERS Slipcover</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0068746/?ref_=fn_al_tt_1"><b>INVASION OF THE BLOOD FARMERS</b></a> (1972)<br />
<br />
Starring Norman Kelley, Tanna Hunter, Bruce Detrick, Paul Craig Jennings, Jack Neubeck, Richard Erickson, Cynthia Fleming
<br />
Screenplay by Ed Adlum, Ed Kelleher<br />
Cinematography by Roberta Findlay (as Frederick Douglass)<br />
Edited by Michael Findlay<br />
Produced by Ed Adlum, Milton S. Greenman<br />
Directed by Ed Adlum<br />
Originally released by N.M.D. Film Distributing Company<br />
Re-released by Severin Films<br />
<br />
Today's film review is an interesting one. It was probably one of the worst films ever made. And I've seen some bad films in my lifetime. Granted, some you have to take with a pinch of salt, while others I wondered how they were even made, let alone how the filmmakers would watch their final cut of the film and say to themselves, "Yup, we have a winner here!" Today's film is one of those films that I would see religiously on the shelves at my local mom & pop video store, but never had the balls to rent it. Over thirty years later, I finally watched <b>INVASION OF THE BLOOD FARMERS</b>, and now I wish that I rented this all those years ago!<br />
<br />
The film's official synopsis: In 1972, a team of New York City exploitation outlaws that included Ed
Adlum (<i>SHRIEK OF THE MUTILATED</i>), Ed Kelleher (<i>PRIME EVIL</i>) and Michael
& Roberta Findlay (<i>THE TOUCH OF HER FLESH</i>, <i>SNUFF</i>) – along with
first-time assistant cameraman and future award-winning cinematographer
Frederick Elmes (<i>ERASERHEAD</i>, BLUE VELVET) – descended on bucolic
Westchester County with 8½ bottles of stage blood to make a movie about a
Druid cult seeking to resurrect their dead queen. The budget was
$24,000. The cast was paid in beer. And the result remains one of the
greatest achievements in schlock/shock cinema history.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHstMriMr8KhsPbPmd58FByHviVVPAjcXjpOkkmoCUG5zjYKA4tJjYyq2zkcS_KWydSmVj3eIdbrs9LGxpFHv7eimuJeg103_OhDvd_zcFzeYLBk1mYpvGPwVx5fjzQajXQ3yqee4owss/s1600/MV5BN2UyMjI1ZTUtNTFjOC00Y2YyLWFhZjQtNjIwMjFhNWU4ZjI1XkEyXkFqcGdeQXVyMTQxNzMzNDI%2540._V1_SY1000_CR0%252C0%252C655%252C1000_AL_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="655" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHstMriMr8KhsPbPmd58FByHviVVPAjcXjpOkkmoCUG5zjYKA4tJjYyq2zkcS_KWydSmVj3eIdbrs9LGxpFHv7eimuJeg103_OhDvd_zcFzeYLBk1mYpvGPwVx5fjzQajXQ3yqee4owss/s320/MV5BN2UyMjI1ZTUtNTFjOC00Y2YyLWFhZjQtNjIwMjFhNWU4ZjI1XkEyXkFqcGdeQXVyMTQxNzMzNDI%2540._V1_SY1000_CR0%252C0%252C655%252C1000_AL_.jpg" width="209" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Original Theatrical Poster (1972)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Believe it or not, despite its low budget, the film has yet made its money back. Which is a real shame, if you ask me. The movie would have killed it at the drive-ins in rural America, and in the grindhouses that laced 42nd Street in New York City. The movie has it all: bewildering story, inane acting (both Richard Erickson () and Richard Kennedy () were so bad that they had to read off cue cards for their lines), and, according Adlum, the production went through eight and a half bottles of stage blood. Seriously, what more do you want in a cheesy low budget horror movie?<br />
<br />
The film was released by N.M.D. Film Distributing Company on August 23, 1972 (364 days before my birthday). It was released on VHS in 1984 by Regal Video. After several years, it was released on DVD by filmmaker Fred Olen Ray's company Retromedia Entertainment in 2001. Afterwards, both Cheezy Flicks Entertainment and Code Red released DVD editions in 2011 and 2013, respectively, before landing at Severin Films. <br />
<br />
Hailed as a “accidental masterpiece” among genre fans, the film has garnered the status as a cult classic, and has been on many horror fans' Blu-Ray wish list. Again, Severin Films have come to the rescue, thanks to a brand new 2k restoration scan from the original negative for the first time ever! Plus they've added some cool bonus features to go along with this collector's release: Audio commentary with director Ed Adlum and actress Ortrum Tippel, moderated by Kier-La Janisse, author of "House of Psychotic Women", <b>Nothing You’d Show Your Mom</b>: Eddie Adlum’s Journey through Exploitation, Coin-Op & Rock n’ Roll, <b>Harvesting the Dead</b>: Interview with actor Jack Neubeck, <b>Painful Memories</b>: An interview with cinematographer Frederick Elmes, and the film's original theatrical trailer.<br />
<br />
<b>INVASION OF THE BLOOD FARMERS </b>is an unspeakable, grizzly, gory, Grade-Z horror flick that will make you go mad just by watching the first five minutes of it! So of course it's gonna be awesome!! It's hard to believe that it's taken me 30 years to get around to watch this movie! And now, thanks to Severin Films, I, along with horror fans, can now watch it whenever we want! And it's never looked this good before! So grab yourself a copy of this diabolical fright flick, and see what the hype is all about! You'll be glad you did! 4 out of 5 stars! Highly recommended!<br />
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<b>INVASION OF THE BLOOD FARMERS </b>is available on both Blu-Ray and DVD from Severin Films. To purchase a copy, visit their website at <a href="http://severin-films.com/">severin-films.com</a>.<br />
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Thanks for reading, and enjoy the screaming!Philip Castorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01920947952027787820noreply@blogger.com0San Jose, CA, USA37.3382082 -121.8863286000000136.9339987 -122.53177560000002 37.7424177 -121.24088160000001tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2143753798048522394.post-88826666355594497552019-08-13T20:30:00.003-07:002019-08-25T17:21:45.762-07:00Phil’s Exploitation Cinema: FUGITIVE GIRLS (1974) from Vinegar Syndrome - August 10, 2019<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqzFH_qb6L_mgH9CFzlraN01cg21ULoiUiHoUkeNjfg90xeuQVOUUWlxxOEiAXlwlgIJmfsdnX1HvM6hiSJTZx1Mh30cwnrfefnkbn46i5iaeHeWJ3jcqBsK1ZmzKPPdBeq72wzbeCuCw/s1600/VS-204_mockup.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="625" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqzFH_qb6L_mgH9CFzlraN01cg21ULoiUiHoUkeNjfg90xeuQVOUUWlxxOEiAXlwlgIJmfsdnX1HvM6hiSJTZx1Mh30cwnrfefnkbn46i5iaeHeWJ3jcqBsK1ZmzKPPdBeq72wzbeCuCw/s320/VS-204_mockup.jpg" width="250" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">FUGITIVE GIRLS Blu-Ray Cover</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0124565/?ref_=nv_sr_1?ref_=nv_sr_1"><b>FUGITIVE GIRLS</b></a> (1974)<br />
<br />
Starring Jabie Abercrombe, Rene Bond, Tallie Cochrane, Donna Young, Margie Lanier, Harvey Shain, Nicolle Riddell, Edward D. Wood Jr.<br />
Screenplay by Stephen C. Apostolof (original screenplay) (as A.C. Stephen), Edward D. Wood Jr. (original screenplay)<br />
Cinematography by Robert Birchall
<br />
Edited by Luigi Rogatoni (as Louigi Rogatoni)<br />
Produced by Stephen C. Apostolof (as A.C. Stephen), S.B. Cooper
<br />
Directed by Stephen C. Apostolof (as A.C. Stephen)<br />
Originally released by SCA Distributors<br />
Re-Released by Vinegar Syndrome<br />
<br />
Awww......is there anything better than 70's exploitation smut? The short answer is no! During this groovy decade, drive-ins and grindhouses were filled with these types of movies: sex crazed fiends, hot nude scenes, sizzling sex scenes, violence, and acting that ranks right below high school drama class. However, they were never boring; sometimes there were really risque with the subject manners ranging from lesbianism, rape, violence towards women, and prison treatment. A lot of these topics appear in the grindhouse sexploitation classic <b>FUGITIVE GIRLS</b> (which was co-written by the late, great Edward D. Wood Jr.) from Vinegar Syndrome!<br />
<br />
The film's official synopsis: Beautiful Dee is implicated in a fatal liquor store shooting committed
by her boyfriend. Sent to an all-female work camp, she quickly finds
herself at the mercy of four other violent and sex crazed prisoners who
force her into their daring escape plan. Once on the outside, the five
fugitives embark on a brutal and sex filled rampage across the
countryside, while making their way to a mystery site rumored to have a
buried suitcase full of money!<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWKHvoc6jF5kXNYcp1Nv8Z6onit3cuS4hxCZ5ai6qXPX9ZBXRGEWvyAQZYDMSSe0r5nnDB_Yg2O-zadHFFHfHVw4rLzrVyPFlzBZIPIpZvT4EllOR6opvisTwIL2fe_TmIoBb4oz_Kj50/s1600/MV5BZmNjOWZkOWQtYTA0My00ZjlkLTk5NWEtMjE5OTNmMzM1ODhjXkEyXkFqcGdeQXVyMTA3NzE5MzE%2540._V1_SY1000_CR0%252C0%252C655%252C1000_AL_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="655" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWKHvoc6jF5kXNYcp1Nv8Z6onit3cuS4hxCZ5ai6qXPX9ZBXRGEWvyAQZYDMSSe0r5nnDB_Yg2O-zadHFFHfHVw4rLzrVyPFlzBZIPIpZvT4EllOR6opvisTwIL2fe_TmIoBb4oz_Kj50/s320/MV5BZmNjOWZkOWQtYTA0My00ZjlkLTk5NWEtMjE5OTNmMzM1ODhjXkEyXkFqcGdeQXVyMTA3NzE5MzE%2540._V1_SY1000_CR0%252C0%252C655%252C1000_AL_.jpg" width="209" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Original Theatrical Poster (1974)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The movie was directed by Stephen C. Apostolof (as A.C. Stephen) and co-written by Edward D. Wood Jr. The same team that brought us <i>ORGY OF THE DEAD</i> (also from Vinegar Syndrome), this dynamic duo hit their peak with this movie (the two made nine films together). Hell, even Wood has a couple of roles in the movie, unfortunately you can see how hard life has hit him. Sadly, Wood would pass away on December 10, 1978, four years later after appearing here. Another legendary sexploitation star appears in the film. Rene Bond got her start acting in several Harry Novak produced exploitation flicks, such as <i>COUNTRY CUZZIN</i>S, <i>COUNTRY HOOKER</i>, and <i>PLEASE DON'T EAT MY MOTHER</i>. She would also appear in several hardcore pornography films, and was one of the first actresses to have a breast enlargement. She left the film industry in the late seventies and was never seen again, until he appeared on the old game show Break the Bank in the mid-eighties. She passed away from of liver problems on
June 2,
1996 at the young age of 45. Apostolof made two more movies after this, then left the film industry. He made several appearances in Ed Wood documentaries, then died on August 14, 2005, aged 77.<br />
<br />
There were actually two different versions of the film being played back then. There was the exploitation version called <b>FUGITIVE GIRLS</b> without the softcore sex scenes, then there was the one with all the softcore sex scenes which was called <i>FIVE LOOSE WOMEN</i>. Now, thanks to Vinegar Syndrome, they were able to restore the film with all of the sexiness and put it out under the title.<br />
<br />
Vinegar Syndrome once again has done an incredible job of restoring the film, featuring a newly 2k scan from the 35mm original camera negative. Some of the special features include the following: Audio commentary track with Frank Henenlotter (Exploitation filmmaker) and Rudolph Grey (Ed Wood biographer), archival audio interview with Tallie Cochrane (actress), moderated by Casey Scott, original theatrical and promo trailer, and English SDH Subtitles. The region free Blu-ray/DVD combo pack is limited to only 2,500 units, ans as I am writing this review, there are only eight copies left on their website!!<br />
<br />
<b>FUGITIVE GIRLS </b>is a sexploitation cult classic for fans who love these films, and is a required addition to any Ed Wood library!! Here is a film that has been long overdue for a reissue and a rediscovery, and now you have a chance to won this amazing sex-filled, nudity laced, Ed Wood hamming it up acting, and lesbian loving gem of a flick! So what the hell are you waiting for? Order this movie now! 4 out of 5 stars! Highly recommended!<br />
<br />
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<br />
<b>FUGITIVE GIRLS </b>is <span class="itemprop" itemprop="name"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">available in a Blu-Ray/DVD combo pack from
Vinegar Syndrome. To order a copy for yourself, visit their website at <a href="http://vinegarsyndrome.com/">vinegarsyndrome.com</a>.<br />
<br />
Thanks for reading, and enjoy the show!</span></span></span>Philip Castorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01920947952027787820noreply@blogger.com0San Jose, CA, USA37.3382082 -121.8863286000000136.9339987 -122.53177560000002 37.7424177 -121.24088160000001tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2143753798048522394.post-43435896874214513842019-08-12T15:25:00.002-07:002019-08-25T13:24:51.877-07:00Phil’s Horror Watch: THE HORROR OF PARTY BEACH (1964) from Severin Films - August 6, 2019<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhA1ancLaMyhphkWyzgEOdFKbkRGm14Eb2v-KYDD_M_JfbSk23CafcpIaCLSv35-lBDmLONsjq0TXgweLU2AwvwqVzUnRoTKsTU2UI26ExJVJOieeLDztYeJSyGfnuHbj8VDg8lNFYQ7wU/s1600/Horror-Of-Party-Beach_Blu-500x636.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="636" data-original-width="501" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhA1ancLaMyhphkWyzgEOdFKbkRGm14Eb2v-KYDD_M_JfbSk23CafcpIaCLSv35-lBDmLONsjq0TXgweLU2AwvwqVzUnRoTKsTU2UI26ExJVJOieeLDztYeJSyGfnuHbj8VDg8lNFYQ7wU/s320/Horror-Of-Party-Beach_Blu-500x636.jpg" width="251" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">THE HORROR OF PARTY BEACH Blu-Ray</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0058208/?ref_=fn_al_tt_1"><b>THE HORROR OF PARTY BEACH</b></a> (1964)<br />
<br />
Starring John Scott, Alice Lyon, Allan Laurel, Eulabelle Moore, Marilyn Clarke, Agustin Mayor, Damon Kebroyd, The
Del-Aires<br />
Screenplay by Richard Hilliard (additional dialogue by Ronald Gianettino, Lou Binder)<br />
Cinematography by Richard Hilliard<br />
Edited by Richard Hilliard, Leonard De Munde, David Simpson<br />
Produced by Del Tenney, Alan V. Isolines<br />
Directed by Del Tenney<br />
Originally distributed by 20th Century Fox<br />
Re-released by Severin Films<br />
<br />
Horror films of the 1960’s were interesting to watch, to say the least. It really depended on the size of its budget. You had the Roger Corman directed, AIP produced, Edgar Allen Poe adaptations that are now considered to be classics in the genre, the game changing reincarnations of classic horror monsters from Hammer Films from Great Britain, and then there were the small, DIY horror films that challenged society’s standards on what was acceptable and what was deemed immoral, grotesque, and offensive. And then there were the cheapie fright flicks, that have gone one to become cult classics despite their limitations. Case in point, the fine people at Severin Films have restored the one and only <b>THE HORROR OF PARTY BEACH</b> for a whole generation of horror fans who may have never seen or heard of the film before!<br />
<br />
The film’s official synopsis: In 1964, 20th Century Fox released an independent shocker – shot in two
weeks for $50,000 outside Stamford, Connecticut by local
producer/director Del Tenney – advertised as ‘The First
Horror-Monster Musical’. More than 50 years later, this “absolute
classic of exploitation cinema” (Legends Magazine) returns like you’ve
never seen or heard it before: When nuclear waste dumped into the ocean
mutates a shipwreck full of corpses, it will unleash an onslaught of
bikini teens, surprising gore, dubious science, an intrepid maid, The
Del-Aires, and arguably the greatest worst monsters in horror movie
history.<br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbA0tmT-o6TJivfNjr4XyTu4LYcQkOuzw6oPpt4Czq1Qu-9JyVfw_jF-uVnnZnBKtYysVzVab_AyzCBzjPY3ONSfBiTaoklVIZ_6L9D2oCeOpM4v9Pwxu7c4jD6O3Xjy2ApcEKF-vK2JQ/s1600/MV5BY2I5ZmVkMDAtMjk5Zi00NjI4LWI3ODgtZGY4NmIxOWYzZGM0XkEyXkFqcGdeQXVyMTYxNjkxOQ%2540%2540._V1_SY1000_CR0%252C0%252C646%252C1000_AL_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="646" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbA0tmT-o6TJivfNjr4XyTu4LYcQkOuzw6oPpt4Czq1Qu-9JyVfw_jF-uVnnZnBKtYysVzVab_AyzCBzjPY3ONSfBiTaoklVIZ_6L9D2oCeOpM4v9Pwxu7c4jD6O3Xjy2ApcEKF-vK2JQ/s320/MV5BY2I5ZmVkMDAtMjk5Zi00NjI4LWI3ODgtZGY4NmIxOWYzZGM0XkEyXkFqcGdeQXVyMTYxNjkxOQ%2540%2540._V1_SY1000_CR0%252C0%252C646%252C1000_AL_.jpg" width="206" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Original Theatrical Poster (1964)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I was first introduced to the movie through the Paramount Pictures tribute to bad movies 1982 film entitled <a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0084156/?ref_=nv_sr_1?ref_=nv_sr_1"><i>IT CAME FROM HOLLYWOOD</i></a>. Years later, I would see the movie again via the cult classic television show <a href="https://mst3k.com/"><i>Mystery Science Theater 3000</i></a> (which is available in one of the many boxsets available from Shout Factory). I was finally to rent a copy at my local mom & pop video store and it was so bad I laughed the whole way through my viewing! Much like Edward D. Wood, Jr., Tenney tried so damn hard to make a good movie, but failed every step of the way! But it's his determination and spirit that makes the movie so much fun to watch!<br />
<br />
Filmed in a mere three weeks with most of the secondary characters in the film were locals of Stamford, Connecticut, Tenney shot this film back-to-back with his other horror film<i> THE CURSE OF THE LIVING CORPSE</i>. The film's original working title was <i>INVASION OF THE ZOMBIES</i> before it was changed to its more infamous title. And despite being billed as "The First Horror Monster Musical" in the advertisements, filmmaker Ray Denis Steckler's The Incredibly Strange Creatures Who Stopped Living and Became Mixed-Up Zombies beat the film to the theaters by a couple of months. However, it did tremendous business at the box office for 20th Century Fox, when they picked up the film and released on June 1, 1964.<br />
<br />
Severin Film did a tremendous job of restoring the film to its original glory, featuring a new 2k scan from the original negative and loaded with all-new special features! The special features include: <b>Return to Party Beach</b>: A Retrospective Documentary on <b>THE HORROR OF PARTY BEACH</b>, <b>It’s the Living End</b>: An Encounter with The Del-Aires – Interview with Band Members Bobby Osborne and Ronnie Linares, <b>Shock & Roll</b>: filmmaker Tim Sullivan On Rock & Roll Horror Movies, Archival Interview With director Del Tenney, and the film's original theatrical trailer.<b></b><br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>THE HORROR OF PARTY BEACH </b>is a truly beloved cult horror film classic that is rip for discovery by a all-new generation of horror fans that might have missed out on it originally! Filled with cheesy rubber monster costumes, insane acting, surf music, teen beach party, it contains everything you would want to watch with a bunch of your friends on a Friday night! Forget about going out to see a movie at the mall! Call up your buddies, grab some pizzas and sodas, kick back and watch this movie! You'll be glad that you did! 5 out of 5 stars!! Highly recommended!!<br />
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<b>THE HORROR OF PARTY BEACH </b>is available on both Blu-Ray and DVD from Severin Films. To purchase a copy, visit their website at <a href="http://severin-films.com/">severin-films.com</a>.<br />
<br />
Thanks for reading, and enjoy the screaming!
Philip Castorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01920947952027787820noreply@blogger.com0San Jose, CA, USA37.3382082 -121.8863286000000136.9339987 -122.53177560000002 37.7424177 -121.24088160000001tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2143753798048522394.post-54049320977444146022019-07-31T20:06:00.000-07:002019-08-12T15:17:11.552-07:00Phil attends the 22nd ANNUAL BRONCHO BILLY SILENT FILM FESTIVAL: DAY THREE at the Niles Essanay Silent Film Museum - July 28, 2019Greetings and salutations everybody and welcome to the third and final day of the <b>22nd ANNUAL BRONCHO BILLY SILENT FILM FESTIVAL </b>here at the Edison Theater, the home of the Niles Essanay Silent Film Museum! A lot of fun and excitement took place on Sunday, so folks, if you don't mind, let's get this day started!<br />
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The morning program was entitled <b>THEY RODE OUT OF THE SILENT SCREEN</b>, which was hosted by friend of the museum Larry Telles.<br />
<br />
The early afternoon screening was 16mm <b>SURVIVORS: THE ROLE OF THE 16mm COLLECTORS IN FINDING LOST FILMS</b>.<br />
<br />
The late afternoon program was the screening of <b>LORRAINE OF THE LIONS</b>.<br />
<br />
Well folks, there you have it! Another great festival and another great
time at the museum. Remember that the museum has weekly Saturday shows,
and they will also be showing Laurel and Hardy talkies on Sunday afternoons. To learn more
about the Niles Essanay Silent Film Museum, how to become a member, and
view their film schedule, visit their website at <a href="http://www.nilesfilmmuseum.org/">www.nilesfilmmuseum.org</a>.<br />
<br />
Thanks for reading, and enjoy the show!
Philip Castorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01920947952027787820noreply@blogger.com0Niles, Fremont, CA 94536, USA37.583668900000013 -121.9871216999999937.533337400000015 -122.06780269999999 37.634000400000012 -121.90644069999999tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2143753798048522394.post-39500797841780022632019-07-31T20:05:00.004-07:002019-08-12T15:11:37.615-07:00Phil attends the 22nd ANNUAL BRONCHO BILLY SILENT FILM FESTIVAL: DAY TWO at the Niles Essanay Silent Film Museum - July 27, 2019<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Hello again folks and welcome to Day Two of my trip to the 22nd Annual Broncho Billy Silent Film Festival here at the Edison Theater, home of the Niles Essanay Silent Film Museum. Today there were several programs, lectures, and films for silent film fans to attend. So let’s not waste anymore time, and let me tell you all what went down!<br />
<br />
First off, we were once again treated another <b>WALKING TOUR OF NILES</b>, lead again by our Niles residents and gurus Rena and David Kiehn (they also did this tour during the Charlie Chaplin Days event). For those who chose to stay at the museum for the festival, they were treated to a screening of <a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt5953132/?ref_=fn_al_tt_1"><b>BRONCHO BILLY AND THE BANDIT’S SECRET</b></a>, along with the making-of documentary <b>WINDOW TO THE PAST</b>.<br />
<br />
Afterwards, there was the <b>A SALUTE TO THE 100th ANNIVERSARY OF THE AMERICAN SOCIETY OF CINEMATOGRAPHERS: ESSANAY CAMERAMEN AND THE BELL & HOWELL CONNECTION </b>presentation at 1pm. Here, David Kiehn talked about all the various cameramen that worked for the Essanay Film Manufacturing Company, both here in Niles and at their Chicago location. Of course, Kiehn talked about the great and legendary cinematographer Rollie Totheroh, who would go on to become Chaplin's main cameraman. He also talked about other cinematographers who would join the ASC, including Fred Jackman, Ira Morgan, and Jackson Rose. Kiehn also talked about Frank D. Williams, the man who invented the Williams travelling matte process for special effects work. <br />
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At 3:30pm was the mid-afternoon screening event, which was called the <b>ESSANAY STUDIO FILMS FROM CHICAGO TO NILES</b>. It was five short film that were shot for both studios. I was super excited about this because I haven't seen too many of the films from Chicago, due to them being rare. Here was the rundown of film shorts:<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0001057/?ref_=fn_al_tt_5"><b>TEN NIGHTS IN A BARROOM</b></a> (1909): A cautionary tale about a family man who ends up spending too much time at his local bar, which ends up having a negative affect on his family and his job. A super cool rare short film from the Chicago studio. The movie was directed by Gilbert Anderson and was released on June 9, 1909.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0001012/?ref_=fn_al_tt_1"><b>A RANCHMAN'S RIVAL</b></a> (1909) Made in the same year as the first short, but filmed in Golden, Colorado. Here, Gilbert Anderson portrays Broncho Billy, . This was the infamous film that Anderson was directing when his lead actor refused to listen to him. As a result, Anderson fired his actor right thee on the spot, and he took over the lead role, thus becoming the world's first cowboy superstar and making cinema history! The movie was directed by Gilbert Anderson and was released on December 11, 1909.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0001560/?ref_=fn_al_tt_1"><b>THE COWBOY COWARD</b></a> (1911): Made in San Rafael, California (located in Marin County in the North Bay), Anderson plays a no-good card gambler that gets rejected by his sweetheart Gladys Field because of said bad habits. She meets the good-looking Robert Henry Gray, but lies to her to cover up his cowardly demeanour. The movie was directed by Gilbert Anderson and was released on December 16, 1909.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0002011/?ref_=fn_al_tt_1"><b>ALKALI IKE'S PANTS</b></a> (1912): Made here in Niles, California, this was part of the Snakeville Comedy series. Here, Alkali Ike tries to woo the lovely and very available Margaret Joslin, but a monkey wrench is thrown into hi plan as Mustang and Coyote steals his only good pair of pants! <br />
The movie was directed by Gilbert Anderson and was released on September 21, 1912.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0002200/?ref_=fn_al_tt_1"><b>FROM THE SUBMERGED</b></a> (1912): Made in Chicago, the film stars E.H. Calvert as a poor homeless man who's about to commit suicide by throwing himself into the river when he is stopped by the good natured Ruth Stonehouse. When Calvert inherits his father's fortune, he remembers Ruth and begins to look for her, only to save her from trying to commit suicide as he tried to earlier. The movie was directed by Theodore Wharton and was released on November 12, 1912.<br />
<br />
After the program, it was time for some dinner! So I headed over to my favorite place in Niles, Broncho Billy's Pizza Palace, where I ate some of the best pizza in town! After filling my belly up, it was time to head back to the museum for the night time show!<br />
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<a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0234913/?ref_=fn_al_tt_1"><b>THE TRAIN WRECKERS</b></a> (1905): A romance between a railroad engineer and the switchman's daughter
is nearly ruined by train wreckers who knock out the girl and leave her
on the tracks to be run over. The engineer perches on the engine's cow
catcher and rescues the girl. Starring Gilbert Anderson and directed by Edwin S. Porter, the short was released by Edison Manufacturing Company on November 27, 1905 (it's also available on the <i>Edison: The Invention of the Movies</i> boxset from Kino Lorber).<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt3610118/?ref_=fn_al_tt_1"><b>THE BROKEN BRAKE</b></a> (1920): Chapter of the popular serial by the name of "The Hazards of Helen", the short stars Helen Gibson, considered to be the first professional stunt woman. Here, she must save a both a train and a boxcar filled with dynamite! And she performs a really cool and dangerous stunt towards the end of the movie. Not many of her shorts survived over the years, so this was a really cool treat to watch! The short was released by the Capital Film Company in 1920.<br />
<br />
Then it was intermission time! After, we all settled back in the theater, where Rena Kiehn awarded author/historian/researcher Marc Wanamaker with the prestigious Ray Hubbard Award for his contributions to preserving and protecting of film history.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0018313/?ref_=fn_al_tt_1"><b>RED SIGNALS</b> </a>(1927): Filmed on the Santa Fe Railway in and around Los Angeles in the late
1920s, the film is packed with action, this film
showcases wooden box cars, speeding freight and passenger trains,
explosions, derailments and almost a complete lack of regard for
safety. There’s even a treacherous switching move with a box car of
dynamite. Starring Wallace MacDonald, Earle Williams, Eva Novak and directed by J.P. McGowan, the film was released by Sterling Pictures on March 1, 1927.<br />
<br />
And that was it for Day Two of the festival!! Remember the Broncho Billy
Film Festival concludes this Sunday! So make plans to attend this
event! To purchase tickets and passes, view the festival's film
schedule, and to become a member, visit the museum's official website at
<a href="http://nilesfilmmuseum.org/"><span style="color: #9e090b;">http://nilesfilmmuseum.org</span></a>.<br />
<br />
Thanks for reading, and enjoy the show!
Philip Castorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01920947952027787820noreply@blogger.com0Niles, Fremont, CA 94536, USA37.583668900000013 -121.9871216999999937.533337400000015 -122.06780269999999 37.634000400000012 -121.90644069999999tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2143753798048522394.post-83743543765008694472019-07-31T19:57:00.000-07:002019-08-12T14:46:07.131-07:00Phil attends the 22nd ANNUAL BRONCHO BILLY SILENT FILM FESTIVAL: DAY ONE at the Niles Essanay Silent Film Museum - July 26, 2019<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkWJg5REccX9csYWetrlqij-uqipIdeqA6XwT3Tj88HYA-nvuqHjCI9mxR_OBM4SLNSqJLav1_bhXy9BqBcLukrTObSZpHFfdA4iGejCDloeTp68whkNfm_UaQWiPqOQbIks67tJil4_A/s1600/174879_133211980138932_567483924_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="202" data-original-width="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkWJg5REccX9csYWetrlqij-uqipIdeqA6XwT3Tj88HYA-nvuqHjCI9mxR_OBM4SLNSqJLav1_bhXy9BqBcLukrTObSZpHFfdA4iGejCDloeTp68whkNfm_UaQWiPqOQbIks67tJil4_A/s1600/174879_133211980138932_567483924_n.jpg" /></a></div>
Greetings from Niles, California! Today begins an annual film event
that I’ve been fortunate to attend for well over a decade! Tonight
begins the <b>22nd ANNUAL BRONCHO BILLY SILENT FILM FESTIVAL</b> here at
the Niles Essanay Silent Film Museum! After a long day at work, I was
really looking forward to a weekend of silent films, lectures, and
friends! So let’s not waste anymore time and let the festival begin!<br />
<br />
The night began with <b>THIS IS FRANCES X. BUSHMAN</b>
(2019), a work-in-progress documentary about the biggest star from the
Chicago Essanay Studio. Produced by the museum, the film was introduced
by the director himself Lon Davis. This was cool to see, mainly because I've only seen a couple of images from the Chicago studio. I cannot wait to see when this project is completely finished!<br />
<br />
After a brief intermission and social mingling, it was time for the feature presentation.<br />
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<a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0018758/?ref_=fn_al_tt_1"><b>THE CHARGE OF THE GAUCHOS</b></a>
(aka Una nueva y gloriosa nación) (1928) is set in the early 1800s colonial Argentina, Manuel
Belgrano (Frances X. Bushman) leads a revolt against the oppressive
Spanish authorities, and his poorly trained and badly equipped army
inflicts a series of stunning defeats on the superior Spanish and
loyalist forces. Monica Salazar (the beautiful Jacqueline Logan),
Belgrano's sweetheart, is the daughter of a prominent loyalist but is
also a spy for Belgrano, sending him valuable information until she is
caught and sentenced to be beheaded. Belgrano must gather his forces to
rescue Monica before she goes under the headsman's axe.<br />
<br />
Directed
by Albert Kelly and released by in Argentina on May 10, 1928, the
film was screened here in the states on September 16th that same year.
However, it only played in theaters for a brief time before fading away
to film obscurity. For years the film was thought to be forever lost,
until a print of the movie was discovered in 2013. Tonight’s screening
was considered to be the film’s first screening here in the states since
1928, and was an astounding silent classic! The print had Italian
titles, which were lovingly translated by Jackie Capurro.<br />
<br />
This was a historic film production, mainly because this was a major Hollywood studio production that was actually financed, supervised and produced by an Argentinean producer, in this case Julián Ajuria. The movie was released Film Booking Offices of America (FBO) to theaters in the fall of 1928. Ironically, Film Booking Offices of America would eventually morph into RKO Radio Pictures. The film's title was changed to <i>THE BEAUTIFUL SPY</i> for the American market, since most didn't know what a gaucho was.<br />
<br />
I was familiar with director Albert Kelly, due to his contribution to the world of exploitation cinema. He directed some true cult classics, such as <a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0217690/?ref_=nm_knf_t1"><i>NO MORE CHILDREN</i></a> (1929), <a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0024199/?ref_=nm_flmg_dr_6"><i>JUNGLE BRIDE</i></a> (1931), <a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0033547/?ref_=nm_knf_i4"><i>DOUBLE CROSS</i></a> (1941), and my personal favorite <a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0040842/?ref_=nm_knf_i3"><i>STREET CORNER</i></a> (1948), which is available on DVD from the fine folks over at <a href="https://www.somethingweird.com/">Something Weird Video</a>!<br />
<br />
And
that my friends was the opening night of the festival! There’s still
plenty more fun to be had, so don’t miss out on all this silent film
festivities! To learn more the festival’s schedule, weekend passes, and
how to become a member, please visit their website at <a href="http://www.nilesfilmmuseum.org/">www.nilesfilmmuseum.org</a>.<br />
<br />
Thanks for reading, and enjoy the show!
Philip Castorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01920947952027787820noreply@blogger.com0Niles, Fremont, CA 94536, USA37.583668900000013 -121.9871216999999937.533337400000015 -122.06780269999999 37.634000400000012 -121.90644069999999tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2143753798048522394.post-32060150058878081512019-07-31T05:53:00.001-07:002019-07-31T20:08:37.663-07:00Phil’s Horror Watch: DEAD PIT (1989) from Dark Force Entertainment/Code Red - July 22, 2019<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7inLoITGsNyq9o4NCqKJNx6O3p-mvIF91RnNmdDnmL34uJtvd2xa_4w-UPVwYz-rDJUx347C3-3nv66yVvzxazmN8nQzCkOcM3UUoWFSuUinUAHhEau1Q4BlDcx12SdYBPpCAqT8PZQA/s1600/DeadPit_OCard__13619.1562125385.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="578" data-original-width="500" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7inLoITGsNyq9o4NCqKJNx6O3p-mvIF91RnNmdDnmL34uJtvd2xa_4w-UPVwYz-rDJUx347C3-3nv66yVvzxazmN8nQzCkOcM3UUoWFSuUinUAHhEau1Q4BlDcx12SdYBPpCAqT8PZQA/s320/DeadPit_OCard__13619.1562125385.jpg" width="276" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">DEAD PIT Blu-Ray Glow-in-the-Dark Slipcover</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0122037/?ref_=nv_sr_1?ref_=nv_sr_1"><b>DEAD PIT</b></a> (1989)<br />
<br />
Starring Jeremy Slate, Cheryl Lawson, Stephen Gregory Foster, Danny Gochnauer, Geha Getz, Joan Bechtel, Michael Jacobs<br />
Screenplay by
Brett Leonard, Gimel Everett<br />
Cinematography by Marty Collins
<br />
Edited by Gimel Everett, Brett Leonard<br />
Produced by Jack A. Sunseri, Gimel Everett<br />
Directed by Brett Leonard<br />
Originally released by Imperial Entertainment<br />
Re-released by Dark Force Entertainment/Code Red<br />
<br />
Hello boils and ghouls and welcome back to another edition of Phil's Horror Watch! Today's film I'll be reviewing is one of my favorite horror films to come out of the late 1980's! The movie holds a special place in my heart, as it was filmed here in the South Bay, Santa Clara to be exact. The special effects were done over the hill in Santa Cruz. And it's one of the most excellent batshit crazy horror flicks this side of the nuthouse! I bought the special edition DVD years ago and I've been waiting it to be released on Blu-Ray. Now, thanks to Dark Force Entertainment, in partnership with Code Red, I just watched the brand new version of <b>DEAD PIT</b> Special Edition Blu-Ray and it was gloriously awesome!!<br />
<br />
The film's official synopsis:Philip Castorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01920947952027787820noreply@blogger.com0San Jose, CA, USA37.3382082 -121.8863286000000136.9339987 -122.53177560000002 37.7424177 -121.24088160000001tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2143753798048522394.post-63075556659738077082019-07-30T21:09:00.001-07:002019-08-11T11:07:55.120-07:00Phil attends the LAUREL & HARDY TALKIE MATINEE Screening at the Niles Essanay Silent Film Museum - July 14, 2019On the second Sunday of every month, the Niles Essanay Silent Film
Museum hosts a Laurel & Hardy Talkie Matinee show, hosted by the
Sons of the Desert gang. The museum has been doing this for years, and
it was the first show I've attended in a very long time. Because I was there volunteering that Sunday, I was able to check out the<b> LAUREL & HARDY TALKIE MATINEE</b>, with all the films dedicated to "The Boys", Charley Chase, and the Our Gang kids. And there were plenty of laughs to had!! Overall, there were four side splitting Hal Roach produced comedy short to watch!!<br />
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<a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0023026/?ref_=fn_al_tt_2"><b>HOOK & LADDER</b></a> (1932): Featuring the Our Gang kids, we see them set-up their own fire station. But when a real five alarm fire breaks out, the gang springs into action to combat the blaze, in their own hysterical fashion.And things get even more crazy, when they find crates of dynamite!<br />
<br />
It's been a long time since I've seen a talkie <i>OUR GANG</i> short. I grew up watching these on TV back when I was a kid, and they're just as funny now as they were then when I was younger! The short was directed by Robert McGowan, produced by Hal Roach Studios, and was released by MGM on August 27, 1932.<br />
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<a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0025873/?ref_=fn_al_tt_1"><b>THEM THAR HILLS</b></a> (1934): Poor ole Ollie! Taking his doctor's advise, he and Stan take a trip into the mountains so
that he can recover from his bad case of gout in his foot. However, a gang of bootleggers just dumped their
moonshine in the well that the boys sample their 'healthy'
mountain water.' from. Then, Mr and Mrs. Hall's car runs out of gas. He leaves his wife there while he heads back to the gas station. When he gets back, he finds his wife plastered, along with the boys! Oopsie!<br />
<br />
This is a perfect example of the comedic timing and genius of Laurel & Hardy! This was one of the funniest short films that the duo made! I laughed my butt off! The short was directed by Charley Rogers, produced by Hal Roach Studios, and was released by MGM on July 21, 1934.<br />
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<a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0024337/?ref_=fn_al_tt_1"><b>MIDSUMMER MUSH</b></a> (1933): Starring the great Charley Chase as a Boy Scout leader, he causes a major traffic jam, keeps falling of his bicycle, causes trouble for a traffic cop, and meets the girl of his dreams in the form of Betty (Betty Mack). He leads her and her father, and his scouts to the camp site, where even more crazy hijinks continues to plague our poor friend Charley!<br />
<br />
This was the very first talkie Charley Chase short I have ever seen, and I loved it! The repeat gag with him falling into the lake over and over again was funny as hell! It's a real shame that Chase never became as big as his peers. Personal demons kept him from becoming a household name, and unfortunately, he's best known for his small role in <i>THE SONS OF THE DESERT</i> with Laurel and Hardy. But we still have his shorts to watch, and because of that, he will live on forever! The short was directed by Charley Chase (as Charles Parrott), produced by Hal Roach Studios, and was released by MGM on October 21, 1933.<br />
<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWQcNJB-QhQNOS-q0q0WS3L6VlSYP9fZSvQ47FQDh6n2kXPTBk5pKgIyvvZ9NX6C3bTAHDK9yof6ZSywRQ_-inVNbmnCFwUXdy0sAOyw0l8Aomg0M576KDBfBYnzLc9YWXPoFm7UJ7yUI/s1600/220px-Titfortattitlecard.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="165" data-original-width="220" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWQcNJB-QhQNOS-q0q0WS3L6VlSYP9fZSvQ47FQDh6n2kXPTBk5pKgIyvvZ9NX6C3bTAHDK9yof6ZSywRQ_-inVNbmnCFwUXdy0sAOyw0l8Aomg0M576KDBfBYnzLc9YWXPoFm7UJ7yUI/s320/220px-Titfortattitlecard.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0027113/?ref_=ttmi_tt"><b>TIT FOR TAT</b></a> (1935): Picking up after the events in <i>THEM THAR HILLS</i>, Stan and Ollie encounter their old nemesis Mr. Hall, whose grocery shop
is next door to their home appliances store. Unable to let bygones be
bygones, a war breaks out between the two camps. Will those tit-for-tat battles ever end?<br />
<br />
This was new to me, and it was quite the surprise! Here's another example of continuity that bridges shorts together to create a universe with the Hal Roach Studio. This was really neat to see! Yeah, I sound like a dork, but who cares! Anyway, I laughed my ass off again, but that shouldn't come as no surprise. It's Laurel and Hardy people! You're supposed to laugh your ass off! But that fact that a short that was made 84 years ago says something. These guys are comic legends, and this one of the many reasons why they are legends! The short was again directed by Charley Rogers, produced by Hal Roach Studios, and was released by MGM on January 5, 1935. <br />
<br />
Well, there you have it folks! Another fun-filled cinematic adventure
here in Niles!! And I can't wait to come back for more silent film and
talkie comedies! The museum
is open for tours every weekend from 12pm-4pm and every Saturday night
there's a silent film show starting at 7:30 (doors open at 7pm). So if
you would like to learn more about the Niles Essanay Silent Film Museum,
becoming a member, to view their film schedule, visit <a href="http://www.nilesfilmmuseum.org/">www.nilesfilmmuseum.org</a>.<br />
<br />
Thanks for reading, and enjoy the show!
Philip Castorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01920947952027787820noreply@blogger.com0Niles, Fremont, CA 94536, USA37.583668900000013 -121.9871216999999937.533337400000015 -122.06780269999999 37.634000400000012 -121.90644069999999tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2143753798048522394.post-70592580230951131442019-07-30T19:56:00.000-07:002019-07-30T19:56:08.095-07:00Phil sees AVENGERS: ENDGAME (WITH BONUS CONTENT) for the fourth time at the Cinemark Century 20 Oakridge and XD - July 11, 2019<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoNCq9DgbdB26pDWzLQv60hTSaDW-9LmSszPcCjLYwd-ok47TVGhq5nAlJ1hLDkPadF2HIe6ds5iMw-kduqoRScvmtE5H1Dv5-3agkUQsR99wP-UQ8-7iXGnA3gWADaQBKwLtWImGS4sc/s1600/lg_avengers_endgame_bringback.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="300" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoNCq9DgbdB26pDWzLQv60hTSaDW-9LmSszPcCjLYwd-ok47TVGhq5nAlJ1hLDkPadF2HIe6ds5iMw-kduqoRScvmtE5H1Dv5-3agkUQsR99wP-UQ8-7iXGnA3gWADaQBKwLtWImGS4sc/s320/lg_avengers_endgame_bringback.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
<a href="https://www.marvel.com/movies/avengers-endgame"><b>AVENGERS: ENDGAME</b></a><br />
<br />
Starring Robert Downey Jr., Chris Evans, Chris Hemsworth, Mark Ruffalo,
Scarlett Johansson, Jeremy Renner, Don Cheadle, Paul Rudd, Brie Larson,
Karen Gillan, Josh Brolin<br />
Based on the Comic Book by Stan Lee, Jack Kirby, Jim Starlin<br />
Written by Christopher Markus, Stephen McFeely
<br />
Cinematography by Trent Opaloch
<br />
Edited by Jeffrey Ford, Matthew Schmidt
<br />
Produced by Kevin Feige, Jon Favreau, James Gunn, Stan Lee, Victoria Alonso, Trinh Tran
<br />
Directed by
Anthony and Joe Russo<br />
Released by Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures<br />
<br />
I know what you're all thinking. And yes, I'm a total freaking nerd. Moving on now...<br />
<br />
So, I went and saw <b>AVENGERS: ENDGAME</b> with the bonus content at the Cinemark Century Theater in Oakridge Mall today after work, and it was totally worth it. Not so much for the bonus content, but for the film itself. This was going to be the very last time I would be able to see the movie on the big screen. And that's the main reason why I went to see it again.<br />
<br />
As for the bonus content, they were OK. The big one for me was the lovely tribute to the Man himself, Stan Lee. I still find it hard to believe that he's really gone. It doesn't feel like it, since we, the fans, still talk about him. Then there was a cut scene featuring the Hulk, but it wasn't completely rendered. The last bonus was featured the opening scene of <i>SPIDER-MAN: FAR FROM HOME,</i> which I just saw earlier this week. But as I stated earlier, I just wanted to see the film on the big screen one last time, and it was so worth it!!<br />
<br />
<span itemprop="director" itemscope="" itemtype="http://schema.org/Person"><span class="itemprop" itemprop="name"></span></span><b>AVENGERS: ENDGAME (WITH BONUS CONTENT) </b>is <span class="itemprop" itemprop="name"><span class="itemprop" itemprop="name">currently playing in</span></span><span class="itemprop" itemprop="name"><span class="itemprop" itemprop="name"> theaters nationwide, </span></span>including the Cinemark Century Theaters here in the Bay Area. To view showtimes, visit their website at <a href="http://cinemark.com/">http://cinemark.com</a>.<br />
<br />
Thanks for reading, and enjoy the show!
Philip Castorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01920947952027787820noreply@blogger.com0San Jose, CA, USA37.3382082 -121.8863286000000136.9339987 -122.53177560000002 37.7424177 -121.24088160000001tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2143753798048522394.post-32574908268144741972019-07-30T19:55:00.001-07:002019-07-30T19:59:23.997-07:00Phil sees SPIDER-MAN: FAR FROM HOME at the Cinelux Tennant Station Stadium 11 - July 8, 2019<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVMd7oE533u78n3SjzFGNoGvRc9VZYUXE0ZATC_d1eMUXg2e8d89yRdy7ufISRhFLWkfl8wtwnQt180bL648nJKQp6QGYnaxke_oMABBZSDS7bAEmMFLKsfGrKji78EHF0mGA0STLhzfQ/s1600/Spider-Man.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="674" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVMd7oE533u78n3SjzFGNoGvRc9VZYUXE0ZATC_d1eMUXg2e8d89yRdy7ufISRhFLWkfl8wtwnQt180bL648nJKQp6QGYnaxke_oMABBZSDS7bAEmMFLKsfGrKji78EHF0mGA0STLhzfQ/s320/Spider-Man.jpg" width="215" /></a></div>
<a href="https://www.sonypictures.com/movies/spidermanfarfromhome"><b>SPIDER-MAN: FAR FROM HOME</b></a><br />
<br />
Starring Tom Holland, Samuel L. Jackson, Jake Gyllenhaal, Marisa Tomei, Jon Favreau, Zendaya, Cobie Smulders
, Jacob Batalon <br />
Screenplay by Erik Sommers, Chris McKenna<br />
Based on the comic book by Stan Lee and Steve Ditko <br />
Cinematography by Matthew J. Lloyd<br />
Edited by Leigh Folsom Boyd, Dan Lebental
<br />
Produced by Kevin Feige, Avi Arad, Stan Lee,Victoria Alonso
<br />
Directed by Jon Watts
<br />
Released by Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures<br />
<br />
When I first saw <i>SPIDER-MAN: HOMECOMING</i> two years ago, I thought to myself, "Finally!! They did it right!! We finally have the Spider-Man we the audience have been waiting for!!" And it was glorious!! Unfortunately, the bad part was that we were gonna have to wait a while for the sequel, since the <i>AVENGERS</i> films would be released first. After the emotional rollercoaster that was <i>AVENGERS: ENDGAME</i>, I finally got to see the final chapter of the now called "The Infinity Saga" that first began with <i>IRON MAN</i> back in 2008. And needless to say, <b>SPIDER-MAN: FAR FROM HOME</b> lives up to the hype and is a fitting epilogue to this first epic conclusion of the Marvel Cinematic Universe!<br />
<br />
The film's official synopsis: Our friendly neighborhood Super Hero decides to join his best
friends Ned, MJ, and the rest of the gang on a European vacation.
However, Peter's plan to leave super heroics behind for a few weeks are
quickly scrapped when he begrudgingly agrees to help Nick Fury uncover
the mystery of several elemental creature attacks, creating havoc across
the continent.<br />
<br />
<span itemprop="review" itemscope="" itemtype="http://schema.org/Review"><b>SPIDER-MAN: FAR FROM HOME </b>is a high intense, </span>action packed, hilariously funny, ultimate superhero comic book movie sequel you've been waiting for! It's also a very satisfying and logical conclusion to the "The Infinity Saga" and sets up the next phase of the MCU perfectly!! So grab the family and go see the last MCU film of the year on the big screen!! 5 out of stars!! Highly recommended!!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/Nt9L1jCKGnE/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Nt9L1jCKGnE?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></div>
<br />
<span itemprop="review" itemscope="" itemtype="http://schema.org/Review"><b>SPIDER-MAN: FAR FROM HOME </b>is currently playing in theaters in 2D, 3D, and IMAX nationwide,
including at the Cinelux Theaters here in the Bay Area. To view
showtimes, visit their website at <a href="http://www.cineluxtheatres.com/">www.cineluxtheatres.com</a>.</span><br />
<span itemprop="review" itemscope="" itemtype="http://schema.org/Review"></span><br />
<span itemprop="review" itemscope="" itemtype="http://schema.org/Review"><span itemprop="review" itemscope="" itemtype="http://schema.org/Review">Thanks for reading, and enjoy the show!
</span></span>Philip Castorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01920947952027787820noreply@blogger.com0Morgan Hill, CA, USA37.1305012 -121.654390137.0292232 -121.8157516 37.2317792 -121.4930286tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2143753798048522394.post-80456393187339327792019-07-30T19:53:00.002-07:002019-07-30T19:53:38.955-07:00Phil sees TOY STORY 4 at The Cinelux Almaden Theatre & Lounge - July 3, 2019<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpXm_Cd1hs_YSgTe4uuEzTqRxzupyDmaIDJVgLLkPFVYr38bFcm_eH-E9Xxnw7rrQPJrg4v4aFBSGm2kvZsW1JE21nSpNsKV6jSiRGKHXGoSlzToHMLd6SK_VMeG7PLhN3gcWSvWy66Gk/s1600/Toy+Story+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="674" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpXm_Cd1hs_YSgTe4uuEzTqRxzupyDmaIDJVgLLkPFVYr38bFcm_eH-E9Xxnw7rrQPJrg4v4aFBSGm2kvZsW1JE21nSpNsKV6jSiRGKHXGoSlzToHMLd6SK_VMeG7PLhN3gcWSvWy66Gk/s320/Toy+Story+4.jpg" width="215" /></a></div>
<a href="https://movies.disney.com/toy-story-4"><b>TOY STORY 4</b></a><br />
<br />
Starring
Tom Hanks, Tim Allen, Annie Potts, Tony Hale, Jordan Peele, Keegan-Michael Key, Madeleine McGraw, Christina Hendricks, Keanu Reeves
<br />
Screenplay by Andrew Stanton, Stephany Folsom
<br />
Cinematography by Patrick Lin, Jean-Claude Kalache<br />
Edited by Axel Geddes<br />
Produced by Pete Docter, Andrew Stanton, Lee Unkrich, Mark Nielsen, Jonas Rivera<br />
Directed by Josh Cooley <br />
Distributed by<br />
<br />
When I saw <i>TOY STORY 3</i> back in 2010, I balled my eyes out! Seriously balled my eyes out! If you saw that movie and said that that last half hour of the film didn't leave you a weeping like a little girl, then you are lying your monkey ass off!! Everyone I spoke to since the film's release have stated that they cried like a three-year-old. As I walked out of the theater all those years ago, I thought for sure that this would be the last time I would see Woody, Buzz, Jessie, Slinky, Mr. and Mrs. Potato Head, and the rest of the gang. Then in 2018, Pixar announced that they were making <b>TOY STORY 4</b>, for a 2019 release. And yes, I went and saw it this past weekend, and it was very good, just not great.<br />
<br />
The film's official synopsis: Woody (voice of Tom Hanks) has always been confident about his place in the world, and that his priority is taking
care of his kid, whether that’s Andy or Bonnie. So when Bonnie’s beloved new craft-project-turned-toy, Forky (voice
of Tony Hale), declares himself as “trash” and not a toy, Woody takes it upon himself to show Forky why he should
embrace being a toy. But when Bonnie takes the whole gang on her family’s road trip excursion, Woody ends up on
an unexpected detour that includes a reunion with his long-lost friend Bo Peep (voice of Annie Potts). After years of
being on her own, Bo’s adventurous spirit and life on the road belie her delicate porcelain exterior. As Woody and
Bo realize they’re worlds apart when it comes to life as a toy, they soon come to find that’s the least of their
worries. <br />
<br />
So, let's get down to the nitty gritty of this movie. The computer animation is absolutely, mind-blowingly stunning!! I am always taken aback on just how awesome and realistic the animation looks! It's just astounding!! It's light years from what the original film looked like! You can see the blades of grass, hair blowing in the wind, individual rocks and pebbles, dust bunnies, it's all there for you to behold with your own two eyes!!<br />
<br />
As for the story itself, it was OK. Truth be told, I found the film to be more of an epilogue than a true sequel. The third film ended on such an emotionally satisfyingly conclusion that there was no way this film could top it. And it doesn't even come close to that. With <i>TOY STORY 3</i>, we were on such an emotional roller coaster of ride, especially those last twenty minutes. Here, I felt like this was more of, "Hey, let's see where these characters are now. Just in case you were wondering." I wasn't wondering at all. In the years between the third and fourth film, we've been treated to some hilarious shorts and a couple of half hour specials, and I was fine with that. I didn't need, nor did I want, this sequel. It's totally unnecessary, but I can see why Pixar made it. I just wasn't emotionally invested in it, but if you have kids, then they are gonna love this! And that's why it was made: this is a love letter for all those kids who have now grown up with it, thanks to their parents, who watched these when they were kids. <i>TOY STORY</i> crosses generations, and it brings families together. It doesn't matter if your a child or a parent; there's something for everyone to love and enjoy. And. in the long run, that's all that matters. So pay no attention to me, I'm just sounding like "Old Man Phil" but I'm still glad I saw the movie. It made me want to bring my family to see.<br />
<br />
<span itemprop="director" itemscope="" itemtype="http://schema.org/Person"><span class="itemprop" itemprop="name"><span itemprop="review" itemscope="" itemtype="http://schema.org/Review"><b>TOY STORY 4 </b></span>is
a solid entry to this beloved franchise and is Pixar's best animated film to date!! You
have never seen a film like this before!! And FYI, you might cry during
the film, especially at the end!
Anyway, this was a great movie for fans of the series! So take the family to your favorite theater
and go see this movie!! 4 out of 5 stars!! Recommended!!</span></span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe width="320" height="266" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/wmiIUN-7qhE/0.jpg" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/wmiIUN-7qhE?feature=player_embedded" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>
<span itemprop="director" itemscope="" itemtype="http://schema.org/Person"><span class="itemprop" itemprop="name"> </span></span> <br />
<span itemprop="review" itemscope="" itemtype="http://schema.org/Review"><b>TOY STORY 4 </b>is currently playing in theaters in 2D, 3D, and IMAX nationwide,
including at the Cinelux Theaters here in the Bay Area. To view
showtimes, visit their website at <a href="http://www.cineluxtheatres.com/">www.cineluxtheatres.com</a>.<span itemprop="review" itemscope="" itemtype="http://schema.org/Review"> </span></span><br />
<br />
<span itemprop="review" itemscope="" itemtype="http://schema.org/Review"><span itemprop="review" itemscope="" itemtype="http://schema.org/Review">Thanks for reading, and enjoy the show!
</span></span>Philip Castorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01920947952027787820noreply@blogger.com0San Jose, CA, USA37.3382082 -121.8863286000000136.9339987 -122.53177560000002 37.7424177 -121.24088160000001tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2143753798048522394.post-48261123862144664032019-07-27T13:31:00.003-07:002019-07-30T16:29:58.293-07:00Phil attends the CHARLIE CHAPLIN DAYS Event at the Niles Essanay Silent Film Museum - June 28-30, 2019<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgayK11W_KelrXwAupbT2BniVxT-FpXXfYy4potVFem_3wp-GrFJdiOrm2JWlgRt3U_DyXiLGr0fE45fwvpzlCGwM6Z9iOq2m2ZcDknduknTJ-rbw_YML_p7J4kMR5qRL3ACsdKPbIPl9E/s1600/Charlie_Chaplin.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1280" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgayK11W_KelrXwAupbT2BniVxT-FpXXfYy4potVFem_3wp-GrFJdiOrm2JWlgRt3U_DyXiLGr0fE45fwvpzlCGwM6Z9iOq2m2ZcDknduknTJ-rbw_YML_p7J4kMR5qRL3ACsdKPbIPl9E/s320/Charlie_Chaplin.jpg" width="256" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Charlie Chaplin as The Tramp (1915)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
During the year of 1915, the world of cinema was making history. D.W. Griffith's <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_594261387">THE BIRTH OF A NATION</a></span><a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0004972/"> </a> changed
the landscape of cinema forever. Producer/distributor William Fox
founded the new Fox Film Corporation. Also in the small town of Niles,
California, a little comedian came into town, made about five films in
three months, and then left. However, those five films helped paved the
way for Charlie Chaplin's signature character The Tramp to become one of
cinema's most beloved icons. This past weekend, the town of Niles, as
well as the Niles Essanay Silent Film Museum, celebrated its most famous
actor with its annual Charlie Chaplin Days, which are held this year
on the last weekend of June.<br />
<br />
<br />
Before I begin, let me tell you how Mr. Chaplin found his way to Niles
real quick. In late 1914, Essanay Studio co-founder G.M. Anderson (also
known as Broncho Billy, the screen's first cowboy superstar) signed the
then yet well known comedian Charlie Chaplin. Chaplin had been
discovered by Mack Sennett, founder of Keystone Films, the home of
Roscoe "Fatty" Arbuckle, Mabel Normand, and the infamous Keystone Cops.
Anderson offered the young comedian complete creative over his films: he
would write, direct, and star in his films. To sweeten the deal,
Anderson offered Chaplin a $10,000 signing bonus, which was a large sum
of money back in late 1914. Chaplin made one film for the Chicago
Essanay Studio branch, but he didn't get along very well with co-owner
George Spoor. Chaplin soon left to make films out in Niles. During this
time he made an astounding five films in just three months, as well as
discovering his leading lady Edna Purviance.<br />
<br />
However, Niles was a little
too boring and country-ish for Chaplin, who loved the city life. So
with Anderson's permission, Chaplin took Purviance and a small crew to
Los Angles, where he finished up his contract. The following year,
Chaplin singed a deal with Mutual Pictures, where they offered him more
money, his own production company, and a $150,000 signing bonus. But it
was his time in Niles is where he developed his Tramp character. By
combining pathos, sympathy, while still bringing a smile to our faces,
Chaplin's Little Tramp became an overnight sensation, and thus creating
one of cinema's most treasured characters.<br />
<br />
The festivities began Friday evening at the museum, but the fun actually started in the early afternoon in San Francisco. Conducted by my old friend and a staple at the SF Silent Film Festival Rory O'Connor (under the auspices of the Friends of the Library City Guides), T<b>he WALKING TOUR OF SF SILENT FILM LOCATIONS</b> took the group all over the city, showing the buildings, parks and locations where Chaplin filmed his movies.<br />
<br />
Then at the museum, the fun began at 7:30 pm, where we had special guest visiting us, Dan Kamin! If you didn't know, Kamin created the Chaplin moves for Robert Downy, Jr. for his film <i>CHAPLIN</i> and worked with Johnny Depp for his role in <i>BENNY AND JOON</i>. Then was saw 1918's <b>SHOULDER ARMS</b>, which was a video transfer from an vintage film print. The great Jeff Rapsis provided the musical accompaniment. Afterwards, we saw the short film <b>CHAPLIN STUDIO TOUR</b> from 1953. This was exciting because not only this was very informative and cool, but this was a 35mm film print that we were watching! I visited the studio back in 2011, and it's now known as the Jim Henson Studios. Chaplin's cinematographer Rollie Totheroh was the host in the film, giving us a tour of the famed studio.<br />
<br />
On both Saturday (in the expansion are of the museum) and Sunday (in the main theater), the Niles Essanay Silent Film Museum showed all five of Chaplin's films he made here in Niles: <b><a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0005810/">A NIGHT OUT</a> </b>(co-starring Ben Turpin), <b><a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0005074/">THE CHAMPION</a></b>, <b><a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0005542/">IN THE PARK</a></b>, <b><a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0005571/">A JITNEY ELOPEMENT</a></b>, and his most famous film <b><a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0006177/">THE TRAMP</a></b>,
featuring the most iconic image and ending in film history of the
Little Tramp walking away in Niles Canyon. One of Chaplin's most
important films he ever made.<br />
<br />
On Saturday morning in the main theater, the museum screened <a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt5953132/?ref_=fn_al_tt_1"><b>BRONCHO BILLY AND THE BANDIT'S SECRET</b></a> along with the documentary of the making of the 2012 silent film. Then the afternoon consisted of the following: <b>CHAPLIN AND HIS MUSIC</b> with host and moderator Nigel Dreiner, where he discussed the music that Chaplin written for his films, the documentary short<b> <a href="http://philsfilmadventures.blogspot.com/2012/04/phil-attends-100th-anniversay.html">THE MOVIES GO WEST</a></b>,
the 1974 PBS short that was narrated by the late, great Hal Angus, <b>THE IMPORTANCE OF CHUCK REISNER</b>, who contributed with Chaplin in several of his films and was conducted by author Hooman Mehran, then it was the repeat screening of the short film <b>CHAPLIN STUDIO TOUR</b>.<br />
<br />
Later that night, the museum screened one of Chaplin's overlooked films <b><a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0014358/?ref_=fn_al_tt_1">THE PILGRIM</a> </b>from 1923. In the film, Chaplin's The Tramp is an escaped convict who is mistaken as a pastor in a small town church. Also shown was Chaplin's short <a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0430199/?ref_=fn_al_tt_1"><b>HOW TO MAKE MOVIES</b></a> from 1918, the short <b>CHAPLIN STUDIO TOUR </b>again, and <b><a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0009018/?ref_=fn_al_tt_2">A DOG'S LIFE</a> </b>released by First National in 1918, which was introduced by Hooman Mehran.<br />
<br />
On Sunday the day began with the aforementioned Chaplin Essanay shorts from 1915. After the screenings, the museum held their annual Charlie Chaplin Look-a-Like Contest! Later, it was the special screening of the 2019 documentary entitled <b>CHARLIE CHAMPION</b>, which told the story of Dr. Ashok Aswani, who helped create the Charlie Chaplin Fan Club over in India. <br />
<br />
This was such a fun filled weekend! It was a lot of hard work, but
everything went well and everyone had a great time! I can't wait for
next year's Chaplin weekend. In the meantime, there are plenty
more excitement happening at the museum. To learn more about the Niles Essanay Silent Film Museum, how to become a
member, and to view their film schedule, visit their website at <a href="http://www.nilesfilmmuseum.org./">http://www.nilesfilmmuseum.org.</a><br />
<br />
Thanks for reading, and enjoy the show!
Philip Castorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01920947952027787820noreply@blogger.com0Niles, Fremont, CA 94536, USA37.583668900000013 -121.9871216999999937.533337400000015 -122.06780269999999 37.634000400000012 -121.90644069999999tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2143753798048522394.post-49275409198053251162019-06-30T23:57:00.000-07:002019-07-28T08:47:37.290-07:00Phil sees AVENGERS: ENDGAME for the third time at the AMC Saratoga 16 - June 3, 2019<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZLXFckBCLlRJ1BwNxa3tgJ9Fk9LeS8DVl3BEUZca-z-jB55r2-q9HIK-Q9WI_ZfjKlMeSry8RA__T84N8oRxdzuh4Hi3BfsL5xHCBkWrfQBeC0HpLi7vkcEZrLbqhyphenhyphen-LeinasWrFPNUQ/s1600/MV5BMTc5MDE2ODcwNV5BMl5BanBnXkFtZTgwMzI2NzQ2NzM%2540._V1_SY1000_CR0%252C0%252C674%252C1000_AL_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="320" data-original-width="216" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZLXFckBCLlRJ1BwNxa3tgJ9Fk9LeS8DVl3BEUZca-z-jB55r2-q9HIK-Q9WI_ZfjKlMeSry8RA__T84N8oRxdzuh4Hi3BfsL5xHCBkWrfQBeC0HpLi7vkcEZrLbqhyphenhyphen-LeinasWrFPNUQ/s1600/MV5BMTc5MDE2ODcwNV5BMl5BanBnXkFtZTgwMzI2NzQ2NzM%2540._V1_SY1000_CR0%252C0%252C674%252C1000_AL_.jpg" /></a></div>
<a href="https://www.marvel.com/movies/avengers-endgame"><b>AVENGERS: ENDGAME</b></a><br />
<br />
Starring Robert Downey Jr., Chris Evans, Chris Hemsworth, Mark Ruffalo,
Scarlett Johansson, Jeremy Renner, Don Cheadle, Paul Rudd, Brie Larson,
Karen Gillan, Josh Brolin<br />
Based on the Comic Book by Stan Lee, Jack Kirby, Jim Starlin<br />
Written by Christopher Markus, Stephen McFeely
<br />
Cinematography by Trent Opaloch
<br />
Edited by Jeffrey Ford, Matthew Schmidt
<br />
Produced by Kevin Feige, Jon Favreau, James Gunn, Stan Lee, Victoria Alonso, Trinh Tran
<br />
Directed by
Anthony and Joe Russo<br />
Released by Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures<br />
<br />
Yup, I saw <b>AVENGERS: ENDGAME</b> again for the third time. So sue me!<br />
<br />
Anywho, I thought it would be nice to take my girlfriend to see
it over at the AMC Saratoga 16 as an early Mother's Day night out. We'd
go see a movie, have dinner afterwards, so that was my plan. Now, since
we've been together, I've made it my mission to take her to see every
MCU film in the theaters, and tonight I lived up to my duties as
boyfriend.<br />
<br />
But for tonight's screening, we saw the movie in IMAX!! Holy shit what a difference!!<br />
<br />
Last year around this time, I took her to see <i>AVENGERS: INFINITY WAR</i>
at the same theater. Needless to say, she was pissed on how that film
ended. That whole week she just tore into that movie, yelling about how
it ended, that Thanos won, and its cliffhanger ending, yeah, she was
pissed. Truth be told, up until that point, I have never heard her cuss
more than see that movie.<br />
<br />
After the screening, she was very relieved that everyone came
back, good triumphed over evil, Thanos was snapped out of existence, but
cried when Tony Stark died and his funeral. However, she absolutely
loved the movie! And after that, we had a nice dinner, had some alone
time together, and went home to be with our son. <b> </b><br />
<br />
<b>AVENGERS: ENDGAME </b>is playing in 2D, Real 3D, and in IMAX <span itemprop="director" itemscope="" itemtype="http://schema.org/Person"><span class="itemprop" itemprop="name">in</span></span><span itemprop="director" itemscope="" itemtype="http://schema.org/Person"><span class="itemprop" itemprop="name"> theaters nationwide,
including at the AMC Theaters here in the Bay Area. To view
showtimes, visit their website at <a href="http://www.amctheatres.com/">www.amctheatres.com</a>.</span></span><br />
<br />
<span itemprop="director" itemscope="" itemtype="http://schema.org/Person"><span class="itemprop" itemprop="name">Thanks for reading, and enjoy the show!</span></span>
Philip Castorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01920947952027787820noreply@blogger.com0San Jose, CA, USA37.3382082 -121.8863286000000136.9339987 -122.53177560000002 37.7424177 -121.24088160000001tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2143753798048522394.post-51796575374490895712019-05-11T11:43:00.001-07:002019-06-30T23:56:03.741-07:00Phil's Horror Watch: THE DEAD NEXT DOOR (1989) from Tempe Entertainment - May 8, 2019<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizjRkRusTYc4N3YDOKu3RMMNHjvXZBJxP8dvs4EdOMEhjlOYeM_15KALpqHYHZSkwatJ4CimDbLfQnxY0y1nQxRvnGWCMhCiqcSnngPm_UL4sOMKKozp_pee4fx2bzMyhznWHtclXX3QM/s1600/Dead-Next-Door-poster.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="749" data-original-width="560" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizjRkRusTYc4N3YDOKu3RMMNHjvXZBJxP8dvs4EdOMEhjlOYeM_15KALpqHYHZSkwatJ4CimDbLfQnxY0y1nQxRvnGWCMhCiqcSnngPm_UL4sOMKKozp_pee4fx2bzMyhznWHtclXX3QM/s320/Dead-Next-Door-poster.jpg" width="239"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">THE DEAD NEXT DOOR Slipcover</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0094962/?ref_=nv_sr_1?ref_=nv_sr_1"><b>THE DEAD NEXT DOOR</b></a> (1989)<br>
<br>
Starring
Pete Ferry, Bogdan Pecic, Michael Gross, Jolie Jackunas, Robert Kokai, Floyd Ewing Jr., Maria Markovic, Roger Graham, Bruce Campbell
(voice) (uncredited)<br>
Screenplay by J.R.
Bookwalter<br>
Cinematography by Michael Tolochko Jr<br>
Edited by J.R.
Bookwalter<br>
Produced by J.R.
Bookwalter, Michael Todd, Sam Raimi (under the pseudonym The Master Cylinder) <br>
Directed by J.R.
Bookwalter<br>
Originally distributed by Tempe Video<br>
Re-released by Tempe Entertainment<br>
<br>
The independent and underground film world unleashed some of the greatest, important, and infamous horror films of all time! Filmmakers like George A. Romero, Wes Craven, Sam Raimi, and John Carpenter have become industry icons and legends within the horror genre. One such filmmaker to emerge from this environment J.R.
Bookwalter, a 19 years old from
Akron, Ohio wrote, produced, and directed a zombified, Super-8mm full length feature film that became a popular video rental. Three decades later, <b>THE DEAD NEXT DOOR</b> remains a cult classic from the mom & pop home video era!<br>
<br>
The film's official synopsis: Two and a half decades before "The Walking Dead" made zombies
mainstream on cable television, 19-year-old writer/director J.R.
Bookwalter (<i>OZONE</i>, <i>WITCHOUSE 2: THE COVEN</i>) embarked on <b>THE DEAD NEXT DOOR</b>, an ambitious horror feature pitting an elite team of Zombie
Squad soldiers against hoards of the undead and the secretive religious
cult hell-bent on protecting them. The film would ultimately take four
years to complete with the help of a now-famous Hollywood director and
more than 1,500 Northeast Ohio residents, who portrayed the multitudes
of bloodthirsty ghouls.<br>
<br>Philip Castorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01920947952027787820noreply@blogger.com0San Jose, CA, USA37.3382082 -121.8863286000000136.933999199999995 -122.53177560000002 37.7424172 -121.24088160000001tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2143753798048522394.post-35397609104558730082019-05-09T18:54:00.000-07:002019-07-28T09:30:35.573-07:00Phil sees AVENGERS: ENDGAME (again) at the Cinelux Plaza Theater - May 6, 2019<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiI0mgH9xALYPuo0HVALaAr9A-jmSgqMGlSdJu8Ydme3RpC0FJny8gqpblgk4tUikWJ1ZaPtf-9eMH5pi-lzlu1dZqmWfrJLagScDmOiJAPgXa_7OU2p7a6E4n8DXyygrtzsp-WJN9KwFo/s1600/MV5BMTc5MDE2ODcwNV5BMl5BanBnXkFtZTgwMzI2NzQ2NzM%2540._V1_SY1000_CR0%252C0%252C674%252C1000_AL_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="320" data-original-width="216" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiI0mgH9xALYPuo0HVALaAr9A-jmSgqMGlSdJu8Ydme3RpC0FJny8gqpblgk4tUikWJ1ZaPtf-9eMH5pi-lzlu1dZqmWfrJLagScDmOiJAPgXa_7OU2p7a6E4n8DXyygrtzsp-WJN9KwFo/s1600/MV5BMTc5MDE2ODcwNV5BMl5BanBnXkFtZTgwMzI2NzQ2NzM%2540._V1_SY1000_CR0%252C0%252C674%252C1000_AL_.jpg" /></a></div>
<a href="https://www.marvel.com/movies/avengers-endgame"><b>AVENGERS: ENDGAME</b></a><br />
<br />
Starring Robert Downey Jr., Chris Evans, Chris Hemsworth, Mark Ruffalo,
Scarlett Johansson, Jeremy Renner, Don Cheadle, Paul Rudd, Brie Larson,
Karen Gillan, Josh Brolin<br />
Based on the Comic Book by Stan Lee, Jack Kirby, Jim Starlin<br />
Written by Christopher Markus, Stephen McFeely
<br />
Cinematography by Trent Opaloch
<br />
Edited by Jeffrey Ford, Matthew Schmidt
<br />
Produced by Kevin Feige, Jon Favreau, James Gunn, Stan Lee, Victoria Alonso, Trinh Tran
<br />
Directed by
Anthony and Joe Russo<br />
Released by Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures<br />
<br />
After a long five days of watching silent films in San Francisco, I decided to treat myself to a flick at the Cinelux Theaters. Because I was attending the 24th San Francisco Silent Film Festival, I was itching to see a new movie! A plethora of new movies were released, and I was super excited to see them all! But instead, I went and saw <b>AVENGERS: ENDGAME</b> again! Why did I see it again, some of you are asking? Because I felt like it!! Plus I really, really liked the movie!<br />
<br />
When I saw it at the Thursday Night Preview screening, I didn't have the best seat to really watch the film and to pay attention to all of the details within its frames. One was why did the Avenger fly Star-lord's ship to confront Thanos when Thor's new battle-axe Stormbreaker can open the Bifröst? How was Steve Rogers able to return the Infinity Stones in their current state when they were all in their original forms? And when Steve returned the Soul Stone to , what was his confrontation with the Red Skull was like? These are just some of the questions that popped in my head upon my second viewing. But overall, I love this freaking movie!<br />
<br />
<span itemprop="review" itemscope="" itemtype="http://schema.org/Review"><b>AVENGERS: ENDGAME </b>is currently playing in theaters in 2D, 3D, and IMAX nationwide,
including at the Cinelux Theaters here in the Bay Area. To view
showtimes, visit their website at <a href="http://www.cineluxtheatres.com/">www.cineluxtheatres.com</a>.<br />
<br />
Thanks for reading, and enjoy the show!
</span>
Philip Castorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01920947952027787820noreply@blogger.com1Campbell, CA, USA37.2871651 -121.949956837.236627600000006 -122.0306378 37.3377026 -121.8692758tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2143753798048522394.post-60356693578981636672019-05-09T18:29:00.003-07:002019-05-09T18:29:49.349-07:00Phil attends the 24th SAN FRANCISCO SILENT FILM FESTIVAL: DAY FIVE - May 5, 2019 <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGDOaal7MZ4NWadB5NPbTT8L_GGm1V1c3i2fjLj2bmnT0Vu2GzzCvoYqUrKTvfSM_F2wJABC3kk2CW6GDOTbyeGJ09_1MWq5T6AwTWv8be1iyWpVYVQQgxNApROcKzAjW6K0bx3ayTQp8/s1600/SFSFF_Logo_Print.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1200" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGDOaal7MZ4NWadB5NPbTT8L_GGm1V1c3i2fjLj2bmnT0Vu2GzzCvoYqUrKTvfSM_F2wJABC3kk2CW6GDOTbyeGJ09_1MWq5T6AwTWv8be1iyWpVYVQQgxNApROcKzAjW6K0bx3ayTQp8/s200/SFSFF_Logo_Print.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
Hello again everybody and welcome to the fifth and final day of my trip
to the 24th San Francisco Silent Film Festival! Oh how time
flies, especially when you're watching silent movies for the past five
days! It was a bittersweet Sunday. Hard to believe that it's all over!
*sniff* It's OK, I'm not gonna cry yet. But before I let the fat lady
sing, I still have five movies to talk about. So ladies and gentlemen,
without any further ado, let's get on with the reviews!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0igfGepMkccIbuxEjlIVUC5tLPu57U3osFW32-2_j50H3DeB0UB0MhC184vvTKIrBPZ5u0G1FIoC86CBwg_JKhHdrNRLB85MUIakFvDimxLxQI8x6efXVejbOJv5-oJGXWZ2IBz_OlRg/s1600/Japanese+Girls.19.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1383" height="249" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0igfGepMkccIbuxEjlIVUC5tLPu57U3osFW32-2_j50H3DeB0UB0MhC184vvTKIrBPZ5u0G1FIoC86CBwg_JKhHdrNRLB85MUIakFvDimxLxQI8x6efXVejbOJv5-oJGXWZ2IBz_OlRg/s320/Japanese+Girls.19.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
The first screening of the day was artistically and emotional <a href="https://prod3.agileticketing.net/websales/pages/info.aspx?evtinfo=436765~d9133282-4896-49aa-be18-b053ee8cefc3&epguid=7ecd8d33-d7d0-46b0-a62a-af16bcbe6fc6&"><b>JAPANESE GIRLS AT THE HARBOR (MINATO NO NIHON MUSUME)</b></a>. The film focuses on Dora (Yukiko Inoue) and Sunako (Michiko Oikawa), who are best friends and students in Yokohama. The two are inseparable and vow never to let anything come between them. Enter bad boy Henry (Ureo Egawa) and his motorcycle, who in one fell swoop, breaks their vow and steals their hearts. But it's Sunako who's heart is broken, after she finds out from Dora the he's seeing another girl. In a fit of rage, she takes down Henry and his girl, and she kills her. Fast forward years later, and Dora and Henry are married while Sunako lives as a life of prostitution and despair, hoping one day to be worthy of Dora's friendship again.<br />
<br />
This is a perfect example of how silent films transcend into works of art. This was the equivalent of a poem being written on celluloid. Director Hiroshi Shimizu crafted one of the most beautiful and emotionally charged films I have ever seen! His directing brings the characters to life as we see how they struggle with being just decent people. It was a breathtaking examination of love, friendship, loyalty, and redemption. I cannot praise the film enough! This was probably one of my favorite films of the festival! The film was originally released in Japan on June 1, 1933. Musical accompaniment
was provided by Guenter Buchwald and Sascha Jacobsen.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTPrQDJpdB8y5ZeOdOXhSlE0DeZf44T0w70QSbNPEqP9pgIxw6sDETXrb0YqChG-mLQL6nio6Wzq-qXHOgYoFH7CD_y3B0tSDVJRLwsZXF53AmNF7YizsLNoBHebfrOhXgibO6y2RwTn4/s1600/Home+Maker.1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1236" data-original-width="1600" height="247" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTPrQDJpdB8y5ZeOdOXhSlE0DeZf44T0w70QSbNPEqP9pgIxw6sDETXrb0YqChG-mLQL6nio6Wzq-qXHOgYoFH7CD_y3B0tSDVJRLwsZXF53AmNF7YizsLNoBHebfrOhXgibO6y2RwTn4/s320/Home+Maker.1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
The second silent movie shown was the Universal drama <a href="https://prod3.agileticketing.net/websales/pages/info.aspx?evtinfo=436766~d9133282-4896-49aa-be18-b053ee8cefc3&epguid=7ecd8d33-d7d0-46b0-a62a-af16bcbe6fc6&"><b>THE HOME MAKER</b></a>. Meet Lester Knapp (Clive Brook) and his wife Eva (Alice Joyce). He's unhappy with his job,
he gets no respect, and he gets passed over for that big promotion that was supposed to be his. Eva is overwhelmed home maker, can't control her rowdy youngest child, and is constantly cleaning the house. When the house is caught on fire, he tries to commit suicide so his family will have the money they need to start over. Unfortunately, he only manages to cripple himself. Now Lester stays at
home, only to find the role of homemaker quite enjoyable and is very happy with himself. Then life takes an unexpected turn when Eva
takes a low-paying job with his old company, only to get promoted and rises up the
corporate ladder, leaving Lester somewhat jealous. <br />
<br />
This was interestingly funny, poignant, and radical film for its time. Here's a movie, with a plot the flips the script of the roles of men and women, and challenges the norms of society. It was very clever of how to go about doing what they did, and the end results reflect today's world. The movie was way ahead of its time, and it speaks volume of where the country would end up! Amazing piece of silent art! The film was originally released by Universal Pictures on November 22, 1925. Musical accompaniment
was provided by the great Stephen Horne.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinxEoDjm84OhB83TRQjDuvu44G-0TowMCWJL19QL0LfOmRxRgqSvTuIRyVM6qcRK3XYgnxWZak-pGBaiMIeSVFG_pL-uCmEbsTJfyo5_05gkqjeVjhFh5kLWh1qy6_Vi2i-pQgAkFzxlw/s1600/Shiraz.6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1210" data-original-width="1600" height="241" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinxEoDjm84OhB83TRQjDuvu44G-0TowMCWJL19QL0LfOmRxRgqSvTuIRyVM6qcRK3XYgnxWZak-pGBaiMIeSVFG_pL-uCmEbsTJfyo5_05gkqjeVjhFh5kLWh1qy6_Vi2i-pQgAkFzxlw/s320/Shiraz.6.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
The third film of the day was one I was anxiously waiting to see the whole festival! <a href="https://prod3.agileticketing.net/websales/pages/info.aspx?evtinfo=436767~d9133282-4896-49aa-be18-b053ee8cefc3&epguid=7ecd8d33-d7d0-46b0-a62a-af16bcbe6fc6&"><b>SHIRAZ: A ROMANCE OF INDIA</b></a> <span>is a historical romance movie set in the Mughal Empire. </span>Though of royal lineage, Selima (Enakashi Rama Rao) was an infant
foundling raised by a kind potter and her adoptive brother, Shiraz
(Himansu Rai). She is kidnapped and sold as a slave to Prince Khurram,
who would later become Emperor Shah Jehan (Charu Roy). The prince falls
for his beautiful slave girl, much to the consternation to dark-hearted
schemer Dalia (Seeta Devi) who has her own plans for the prince. When
Shiraz tracks down her beloved sibling, their tearful reunion ends after
Shiraz is thrown in prison and sentenced to die. Only a pendant --
which proves Selima's royalty -- saves Shiraz's live. Selima marries
Emperor Shah Jehan, becoming Empress Mumtaz Mahal. When she dies, the
Emperor builds the Taj Mahal in her memory.<span></span><br />
<br />
<span>I'm a big fan of Indian films and Bollywood films in general, and it was simply extraordinary to see a film from India from the silent film era! Not too many films have survived since, but the cinematography captured the beauty and exotic locations of India of the past! This was such a sight to see and I'm very fortunate and delighted to have seen it at the majestic Castro Theatre! Filmed </span>entirely in and around Agra, the movie was one of three cinematic collaborations between pioneering actor/producer Himansu Rai and German-born director Franz Osten. The film was originally released in Germany by Universum Film (UFA) on December 20, 1928. Musical accompaniment
was provided by the talented Utsav Lal.<br />
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After an hour lunch break, it was time for another dramatic Swedish export silent entitled <a href="https://prod3.agileticketing.net/websales/pages/info.aspx?evtinfo=436768~d9133282-4896-49aa-be18-b053ee8cefc3&epguid=7ecd8d33-d7d0-46b0-a62a-af16bcbe6fc6&"><b>SIR ARNE'S TREASURE (SIR ARNES PENGAR)</b></a>. <span>A trio of Scottish mercenaries -- Sir Filip (Erik Stocklassa), Sir
Donald (Bror Berger) and Sir Archi (Richard Lund) -- escape from
prison. As winter rages, they arrive at the mansion of Arne (Hjalmar
Selander). They loot Arne's treasure and burn the house, killing
everyone inside except for an orph<span class="yZlgBd">an girl, Elsalill
(Mary Johnson). Despite the circumstances, Elsalill becomes
romantically involved with Sir Archi, unaware that the stolen treasure
might lead to disaster.</span></span><br />
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<span><span class="yZlgBd">Another classic example of how European silent films were superior than the American movies. Their set-ups and compositions, the storylines and complex characters, harsh and beautiful landscapes. Whenever I watch a foreign film, I look at it and think just how advance they were with the art of filmmaking. They really took chances on the way they made their films, the subject matters, and at times political and social commentaries. And another film I enjoyed immensely. </span></span><span><span class="yZlgBd">The film was originally released in Sweden by </span></span><span><span class="yZlgBd">Svenska Bios Filmbyrå on </span></span><span><span class="yZlgBd">September 18, 1919. Musical accompaniment
was provided by the amazing </span></span><span><span class="yZlgBd">The Matti Bye Ensemble.</span></span><br />
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<span><span class="yZlgBd">And then it was time for the closing night film of the festival! As we opened the festival with Buster Keaton, it only seemed fitting that we would end it with another one of his all-time classics! <a href="https://prod3.agileticketing.net/websales/pages/info.aspx?evtinfo=436769~d9133282-4896-49aa-be18-b053ee8cefc3&epguid=7ecd8d33-d7d0-46b0-a62a-af16bcbe6fc6&"><b>OUR HOSPITALITY</b></a> finds Keaton playing </span></span><span>a character named Willie </span><span>McKay, who travels from New York (where he's been living with his aunt since he was an infant) back to his hometown </span><span>after he receives a letter saying he has inherited his father's estate. Unbeknownst to Willie that his family has been locked in a deadly feud with rival family </span>the Canfields. They learn of Willie's arrival and plan to kill him off, but he falls for a lovely woman on the train ride named Virginia (Natalie Talmadge), who just happens to be the daughter of the Canfields patriarch Joseph (Joe Roberts). Crazy stunts, hilarious sight gags, and a sincere, but comedic, love story soon unfolds for <span>Willie and </span>Virginia.<br />
<span><span class="yZlgBd"><br /></span></span>
<span><span class="yZlgBd">It's been a long time since I've watched this, and it's still just as funny than when I first saw it. Keaton is my favorite comedian of this era of cinema. More than Chaplin or Lloyd. Reason is that there was something magical in his performance. He always had that same look on his face, but it was his eyes that were so expressive. In his eyes you can tell if he's happy, sad, confused, angry, or scared. He had a range of emotions and he could say all those feeling with only his eyes. Of course, it also helped that he made some of the greatest slapstick comedies of all time! </span></span>Natalie Talmadge is the middle sister of Constance and Norma Talmadge, and was married to Keaton from 1921 till they divorced in 1932. <span><span class="yZlgBd">The film was originally released by </span></span><span><span class="yZlgBd">Metro Pictures Corporation on </span></span>November 19, 1923. <span><span class="yZlgBd">Musical accompaniment
was provided by the astounding </span></span>Mont Alto Motion Picture Orchestra.<br />
<br />
Well
folks, there you have it! Another SF Silent Film Festival has come to a
close. I just want to say "hi" to all my friends that I got to see again,
and to all my new friends that I meet this year, I cannot wait to see
you all again at next year's festival (dates for it has yet to be revealed) but there two more events coming up later this year! On Saturday, October 19th, the SFSFF will be having an event called <b>JANE'S DECLARATION OF INDEPENDENCE</b>, and then on December 7th will be <b>A DAY OF SILENTS</b> event! Check their website for more information as it follows. I had so much fun this past
weekend! Now if you'd like to learn more about the SF Silent Film Festival,
and how to become a member, visit their website at <a href="http://www.silentfilm.org/">www.silentfilm.org</a>.<br />
<br />
Thanks for reading, and enjoy the show! Philip Castorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01920947952027787820noreply@blogger.com0San Francisco, CA, USA37.7749295 -122.4194155000000136.9717915 -123.71030900000001 38.578067499999996 -121.12852200000002tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2143753798048522394.post-53111018813333237442019-05-08T20:49:00.002-07:002019-05-08T20:54:04.380-07:00Phil attends the 24th SAN FRANCISCO SILENT FILM FESTIVAL: DAY FOUR - May 4, 2019<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidmtPT4IhpDQ84rTporJmAN4T0tMvOmGEETezm9KjVS_OoV23V5QIfp-L7xOvmnBRcwHpoD2WFXmejNJoi7CNEx4g_SvDxkSMKdt-B0cIH47IDgf0PvtQD1Ld06YxOmVH7OwqDTsE_xoU/s1600/SFSFF_Logo_Print.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1200" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidmtPT4IhpDQ84rTporJmAN4T0tMvOmGEETezm9KjVS_OoV23V5QIfp-L7xOvmnBRcwHpoD2WFXmejNJoi7CNEx4g_SvDxkSMKdt-B0cIH47IDgf0PvtQD1Ld06YxOmVH7OwqDTsE_xoU/s200/SFSFF_Logo_Print.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
Hello again and and welcome to Day Four of my trip to the 24th Annual
San Francisco Silent Film Festival! Holy cow! I have seen some truly amazing silent films thus far at the festival! So far I have seen a staggering 12 films! For today, I woke up early, took a nice warm shower, and drove from San Jose back up to the city to watch a total of six more films! Kids, don't try this at home. I am a trained professional! And with that, let the reviews begin!<br />
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The first screening of the day was the silent comedy <a href="https://prod3.agileticketing.net/websales/pages/info.aspx?evtinfo=436759~d9133282-4896-49aa-be18-b053ee8cefc3&epguid=7ecd8d33-d7d0-46b0-a62a-af16bcbe6fc6&"><b>LIGHTS OF OLD BROADWAY</b></a> starring the lovely and funny Marion Davies. In the film, Davies plays twins who were separated at birth aboard a ship traveling to the states. Anne is adopted by a wealthy family in New York’s high society circle, while Fey lives with her poor but loving Irish family in the city's slums. Life for Fey changes forever when, on her way to her job at the music hall in the Lower East Side, she meets Dirk de Rhonde (Conrad Nagel), who just happens to be Anne's brother! Unfortunately, their fathers do not like each other at all, and they blame each other for their current woes and situations. Hilarious shenanigans transpire, but when a mob of angry Irishmen plane to take out Dirk's father, it's up to Fey to save the day and unite their families.<br />
<br />
Based on the Broadway play of the same name, the movie was produced by William Randolph Hearst's company Cosmopolitan Productions. Davies is funny, beautiful, and was so damn talented and lovable that I found myself falling for her as well! The movie benefited from a good script, and great directing from Monta Bell. It also featured the use of tinting, Technicolor, and the Handschiegl color process. Another fabulous film starring the great Marion Davies! The film was originally released by
Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer (MGM) on November 1925. Musical accompaniment
was provided by the great Philip Carli.<br />
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Movie number two had a short film before it called <a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0012008/"><b>BROWNIE'S LITTLE VENUS</b></a> and starred the last living silent film star and close friend to the Niles Essanay Silent Film Museum Baby Peggy, aka Diana Serra Cary. She co-stars with Brownie the Wonder Dog as they both help her parents in foiling a burglar's crime spree! A classic short comedy that showed us just how talented and adorable Baby Peggy was. Fan fact: she was only <i>eighteen months old</i> when she made the film! At her age I couldn't walk properly yet! And here she was making movies! Damn I sucked as a toddler!<br />
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The main feature was the western <a href="https://prod3.agileticketing.net/websales/pages/info.aspx?evtinfo=436760~d9133282-4896-49aa-be18-b053ee8cefc3&epguid=7ecd8d33-d7d0-46b0-a62a-af16bcbe6fc6&"><b>HELL BENT</b></a> directed by the iconic John Ford. Harry Carey stars as Cheyenne Harry, a card cheatin' cowboy he heads for Rawhide to start anew. There he meets his new best buddy Cimmaron Bill (Duke Lee) and gets a job working at the town dance hall where he falls for Bess Thurston, portrayed by Neva Gerber. Things become crazy for Cheyenne as Bess' lazy, good-for-nuthin' brother ack (Vester Pegg) teams up with riffraff Beau Ross (Joseph Harris) to plan a heist, then he kidnaps Bess, which forces Cheyenne to do the right thing and go rescue his love and bring Beau back to Rawhide to face justice.<br />
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John Ford (named Jack Ford here) has become s<span class="st">ynonymous</span> with the western genre and with good reason. No one made a western film quite like John Ford. NO ONE!! Period! Even in this early stage of his career, we see his style beginning to form: the sweeping landscapes, his moral code of good and bad, where men were men and men died for what they believed in. Carey worked with Ford on several films, and here Cary perfects the anti-hero cowboy that drove him to success! The film was originally released by Universal Pictures on July 6, 1918. Musical accompaniment
was provided once again by the great Philip Carli.<br />
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After a quick break, I was ready for the film of the day! And this was an interesting screening. The film <a href="https://prod3.agileticketing.net/websales/pages/info.aspx?evtinfo=436761~d9133282-4896-49aa-be18-b053ee8cefc3&epguid=7ecd8d33-d7d0-46b0-a62a-af16bcbe6fc6&"><b>GOONA GOONA</b></a> (yes that it the actual title) is something unique. Told to an anthropologist about a prince falls in love with a low class girl, but cannot marry
her. His scheming sister gets goona-goona (a narcotic plant mixture)
and feeds it to the girl. The prince rapes the girl while she is
drugged, but leaves behind his kris (ceremonial knife), leading to
tragedy. That's the plot in a nutshell.<br />
<br />
Also known as <i>GOONA GOONA: </i><i>AN AUTHENTIC MELODRAMA OF THE ISLE OF BALI</i>,<i> LOVE POWDER</i>, and <i>KRISS: THE SWORD OF DEATH</i>, this would be the movie that would kick off a subgenre of exploitation films called Bali-sploitation. In fact, the term goona-goona refers to native-culture exploitation films set in exotic locations like the Far East, Southeast Asia, Africa, South America, and
the South Pacific. These movies rely heavily on stock footage of travelogues that feature semi-nude native peoples performing exotic rituals, traditions, and customs and were often interspliced with new footage shot here in the states. These pseudo-documentary films were very popular in the exploitation genre, with some titles to be considered to be cult classics like <i>VIRGINS OF BALI</i>, <i>BEAUTY IN BALI</i>, and <i>MAU MAU</i>. The film was originally released to theaters by First Division Pictures in 1931. Musical accompaniment
was provided by the amazing Club Foot Gamelan, the combination of Club Foot Orchestra and Gamelan Sekar Jaya.<br />
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The fourth film I watched was the French drama <a href="https://prod3.agileticketing.net/websales/pages/info.aspx?evtinfo=436762~d9133282-4896-49aa-be18-b053ee8cefc3&epguid=7ecd8d33-d7d0-46b0-a62a-af16bcbe6fc6&"><b>L’HOMME DU LARGE (MAN OF THE OPEN SEAS</b></a>. Devout Breton fisherman Nolff has taken a vow of silence and lives as a hermit beside the sea. Reasons for this is sad and depressing. As we flashback to see his story unfold, the tale begins when his wife gives birth to his son, Michel. He comes to the decision to have his wife raise their daughter while he raises his son to become a great fisherman like himself. But as we see, Michel
grows up to become a punk young man who spends his time in taverns with his so-called friends, whom have a bad influence on him. This affects the family, especially when his mother is on her deathbed and he's nowhere to be found. Once Nolff finds him, he sends him off to the sea to be judged.<br />
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Like I stated earlier, this was really a sad and depressing movie, but really artistically poetic and meaningful. I hated the son and his dad, I felt sorry for the mom and sister, and I really wished someone would punish that damn kid! Anyway, filmmaker Marcel L'Herbier based the film on a short story by Honoré de Balzac. A rare and outstanding gem of a silent film! The film was originally released to theaters in France by Comptoir Ciné-Location Gaumont on December 3, 1920. Musical accompaniment
was provided by Guenter Buchwald and Frank Bockius with intertitle narration by Paul McGann.<br />
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Up next was director <span class="PropValue">Erich von Stroheim's epic love drama <a href="https://prod3.agileticketing.net/websales/pages/info.aspx?evtinfo=436763~d9133282-4896-49aa-be18-b053ee8cefc3&epguid=7ecd8d33-d7d0-46b0-a62a-af16bcbe6fc6&"><b>THE WEDDING MARCH</b></a>. </span>Here, <span class="PropValue">Stroheim portrays </span>Prince Nikki, Lieutenant of the Guard in pre WWI Vienna, is flat
broke, but the only advice he gets from his parents is either to shoot
himself or to marry money. During the Chorpus Christi parade his horse
accidentally hurts poor Mitzi (Fay Wray), the daughter of inn-keepers in a Viennese
suburb, who are trying to get her going to marry
the local butcher Schani (Matthew Betz). When Nikki visits her at the hospital, they fall in
love, much to the chagrin of her parents and Schani. While this happening, Nikki's parents have arranged a prospective marriage with Cecilia (Zasu Pitts), the limping
daughter of a very rich non-aristocratic industrial. Will Nikki follow his heart, or would he marry money instead?<br />
<br />
Well, it doesn't get more melodramatic than this people!! And what an ending!! I thought how it could end like it did, but then I remembered that this was a <span class="PropValue">Erich von Stroheim film, so I was fine with its conclusion. The beautiful </span><span class="PropValue">Fay Wray was only eighteen years old when she made the film, while </span><span class="PropValue">Stroheim was forty-three years young. Looking back on it now, it looks kinda creepy, but hey, it's </span><span class="PropValue"></span><span class="PropValue">his movie! The story went back and forth, tugging on the audiences' heartstrings, and when it reached its ending, there was a gasp in the theatre! I absolutely loved the film! </span><span class="PropValue"><span class="PropValue"></span><span class="PropValue">Stroheim made a sequel called <i>THE HONEYMOON</i> in 1930 and it picks up right where this one left off. </span>This was one of best </span><span class="PropValue"><span class="PropValue"></span><span class="PropValue">Stroheim </span>films from the silent era! </span>The film was originally released to theaters by Paramount Pictures on October 6, 1928. Musical accompaniment
was provided by the beloved Mont Alto Motion Picture Orchestra.<br />
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The sixth and final film of the night was <a href="https://prod3.agileticketing.net/websales/pages/info.aspx?evtinfo=436763~d9133282-4896-49aa-be18-b053ee8cefc3&epguid=7ecd8d33-d7d0-46b0-a62a-af16bcbe6fc6&"><b>L'INFERNO (DANTE'S INFERNO)</b></a>, another export silent from Italy. Loosely adapted from Dante's Divine Comedy and inspired by the illustrations of Gustav Doré, the film chronicles poet Virgil as he guides the lost Dante through the 9 Levels of Hell, at the request of Beatrice. During his journey, Dante witnesses unspeakable horrors, as he and Virgil make their way to Paradise.<br />
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While visually sticking and containing some truly horrific imagery and amazing special effects, the film was soooo sloooowwww. It was shot like a staged, static style with no camera movement at all, and even though its run time was only 116 minutes, it felt like three hours. But there is a gratuitous amount of nudity, so that was interesting. The film was originally released to theaters in Italy by Milano Films on March 10, 1911. Musical accompaniment
was provided once again by the Mont Alto Motion Picture Orchestra.<br />
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And that's the end of Day Four of the 24th Annual
San Francisco Silent Film Festival! And with one day left, you don't want to miss out on all the screenings I saw on the final day! To view the festival's film schedule, purchase
tickets and passes, location of hotels to stay at during the festival,
please visit their official website at <a href="http://www.silentfilm.org/">www.silentfilm.org.</a><br />
<br />
Thanks for reading, and enjoy the show!
Philip Castorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01920947952027787820noreply@blogger.com0San Francisco, CA, USA37.7749295 -122.4194155000000136.9717915 -123.71030900000001 38.578067499999996 -121.12852200000002tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2143753798048522394.post-49769168932179393012019-05-07T19:46:00.001-07:002019-05-08T20:09:15.449-07:00Phil attends the 24th SAN FRANCISCO SILENT FILM FESTIVAL: DAY THREE - May 3, 2019<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjih7gyH-U7DHysfbAHY3bXStMnc7MRyW8KhzdVwOP5yk-j3VKBjiUs3hvbD6LuSu4okKXLLcqKfTtKDY4me1UO-CpkAa0T_8L__f9hQZrEo8idrpfhssWr4Wvzos73v1lWqJpGjFgILlM/s1600/SFSFF_Logo_Print.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1200" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjih7gyH-U7DHysfbAHY3bXStMnc7MRyW8KhzdVwOP5yk-j3VKBjiUs3hvbD6LuSu4okKXLLcqKfTtKDY4me1UO-CpkAa0T_8L__f9hQZrEo8idrpfhssWr4Wvzos73v1lWqJpGjFgILlM/s200/SFSFF_Logo_Print.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
Greetings and salutations and welcome to Day Three of my trip to the 24th Annual
San Francisco Silent Film Festival! After the first two days, I was on a silent film high! With the exception of three movies, I have never seen any of the other films playing at the festival, let alone heard of them or know of their existence. This is what makes me so excited about attending the festival year after year after year! So, let's talk about all the wonderful silent films I saw today, shall we?<br />
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The first movie was the love<b> </b>triangle drama entitled <a href="https://prod3.agileticketing.net/websales/pages/info.aspx?evtinfo=436753~d9133282-4896-49aa-be18-b053ee8cefc3&epguid=7ecd8d33-d7d0-46b0-a62a-af16bcbe6fc6&"><b>YOU NEVER KNOW WOMEN</b></a>. Magician and escape artist Norodin (Clive Brook) and his partner Vera (Florence Vidor) are performers in a traveling Russian circus troupe. He is madly in love with Vera, but she doesn't recuperate those same feelings for him. But when pompously rich aristocrat Eugene Foster
(Lowell Sherman) enters the picture, she falls for him but under false conditions. And he won't stop until Vera is all his, by any means necessary.<br />
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Now this was a great dramatic love story that really gets you invested emotionally! You couldn't help feel sympathy for Norodin, as he wears his heart on his sleeve, only to have Vera dismiss it. Both Vidor and Brook have great chemistry together, and Foster made for a great heel performance. The film's director William Wellman went on to become a very successful filmmaker, and is best known for the 1927 Academy Award-winning film <i>WINGS</i> and as the writer/director of the original 1937 film <i>A STAR IS BORN</i>. Due to his larger-than-life personality and lifestyle, he was also known as "Wild Bill," the nicknamed he was bestowed upon with during his time as an aviator during World War I. The film was originally released by
Paramount Pictures on September 20, 1926. Musical accompaniment was provided by the great Philip Carli.<br />
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The second movie I saw was <a href="https://prod3.agileticketing.net/websales/pages/info.aspx?evtinfo=436754~d9133282-4896-49aa-be18-b053ee8cefc3&epguid=7ecd8d33-d7d0-46b0-a62a-af16bcbe6fc6&"><b>TONKA OF THE GALLOWS (TONKA SIBENICE)</b></a>, an intense <span class="PropValue">Czechoslovakian drama.Big city woman Tonka (</span><span class="PropValue">Ita Rina) comes back home to visit her mother in their small town and showers her with gifts. Little does her mother know that Tonka is actually a </span><br />
prostitute, who on one fateful day, accepts an offer form the police to spend the night with a condemned man before he is to executed the next day. Because of her selfless deed, she becomes condemned herself and thus is cast disowned by her mom and her fiance. Shunned by society, she becomes a homeless drunk, but can she be redeemed by those who chastised her, but more importantly, can she learn to forgive herself?<br />
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<span class="PropValue">Rina is just so stunningly breathtaking in the movie, and she is one of the finest actresses I have ever seen from this era! I was memorized by her beauty, her pose, and her performance, which was heartbreakingly exquisite!! How in the hell have I not heard of her before? I'm making it a mission to learn about this overlooked actresses! </span><span class="PropValue">Karl Anton did an amazing job of directing the film, capturing the painful story of our poor unfortunate Tonka! The film was originally released in on </span><span class="LrzXr kno-fv">March 4, 1930. </span>Musical accompaniment was provided by the always incredible Stephen Horne.<br />
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Next up was <a href="https://prod3.agileticketing.net/websales/pages/info.aspx?evtinfo=436755~d9133282-4896-49aa-be18-b053ee8cefc3&epguid=7ecd8d33-d7d0-46b0-a62a-af16bcbe6fc6&"><b>HUSBANDS AND LOVERS</b></a>, a smart and hilarious comedy that tickled my funny bones! Grace Livingston (Florence Vidor) is married to her ungrateful and insensitive husband James (Lewis Stone). After feeling mistreated and talked down to, she flips the table and decides to work on her self-image and makes James to fend for himself. But when James' friend and co-worker Rex Phillips
(Lew Cody) sees Grace all dolled up, he pays attention to her and soon the both develop feelings for one another. While their love grows, James must contemplate whether to break them up or bow out the picture gracefully.<br />
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Co-writer and director John M. Stahl is best known for the 1945 film noir film <i>LEAVE HER TO HEAVEN</i>. Florence Vidor proved that she had grace and beauty while showing off her comedic timing. Lewis Stone played a terrific jerk off, but then redeemed himself in the end. Overall, I found the film delightful, funny, and charming! The film was originally released by First National Pictures on November 2, 1924. Musical accompaniment was provided again by the great Philip Carli.<br />
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After a quick break, it was time to watch <a href="https://prod3.agileticketing.net/websales/pages/info.aspx?evtinfo=436756~d9133282-4896-49aa-be18-b053ee8cefc3&epguid=7ecd8d33-d7d0-46b0-a62a-af16bcbe6fc6&"><b>RAPSODIA SATANICA</b></a>, an interesting export from Italy. A variation on the Faust myth, the film's about Contessa Alba d'Oltrevita (Lyda Borelli), an elderly woman who makes a deal with the demon Mephisto (Ugo Bazzini) to make her youth and beautiful again. However, there is a catch (of course there is) and it's that she must stay away from love or she will lose her new found beauty. But right after this, she meets Tristano (Andrea Habay) and Sergio (Giovanni Cini), two
brothers who fall madly in love with her. The question becomes whether or not she can resist their love, and which brother wins her heart?<br />
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Upon the conclusion of the film, two things popped in my mind. The first on was, "Wow! That was a fast, short film!" The second thought was how poetic and artistic it was. It examination on themes such as life, love, and death are subjects that we still deal with to this very day. Plus there were scenes that were colorized with stencil-colors, which gave those particular scenes a veil of depth and importance. Unfortunately, this would be the final film for its director <a href="https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0654581/?ref_=tt_ov_dr">Nino Oxilia</a>, who passed away on November 18, 1917. The film was originally released in Italy by Società Italiana Cines in July 1917. Musical accompaniment was provided by the beloved Mont Alto Motion Picture Orchestra.<br />
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Film number five was the German export <a href="https://prod3.agileticketing.net/websales/pages/info.aspx?evtinfo=436757~d9133282-4896-49aa-be18-b053ee8cefc3&epguid=7ecd8d33-d7d0-46b0-a62a-af16bcbe6fc6&"><b>THE LOVE OF JEANNE NEY (DIE LIEBE DER JEANNE NEY)</b></a>. Set the Crimea after the Soviet Revolution,, the Reds and the Whites aren't done fighting, and
Jeanne (Édith Jéhanne) discovers her man Andreas Labov (Uno Henning) is a Bolshevik soilder (he even kills
her father, but that doesn't stop her from loving him). After losing her father's home and fortune, she leave for Paris, where she works as a secretary for her
uncle Raymond (Adolph Edgar Licho) private eye office. Soon after, Andreas arrives in France to organize the
sailors in Toulon. Also in town is the no good sleazebag Khalibiev (Fritz Rasp), who wants Jeanne in the worse way. His plan includes marrying Raymond's blind daughter Gabrielle (Brigitte Helm), then kill her afterwards, steal a priceless diamond from Raymond's safe, and run away with Jeanne! The only thing that stands in his way is Andreas, but even he might be no match for Khalibiev's evil scheme.<br />
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This was a stellar crime drama that was filled with twists and turns and in the middle was a great love drama! Filled with political and social commentary, espionage, and mind-blowing camerawork and compositions, the movie felt way ahead of its time! It was an extraordinary cinema experience and I'm hoping this movie is available on Blu-Ray!! Another aspect I loved was seeing Brigitte Helm as the blind and naive Gabrielle. Helm is most famously recognized as Maria
in Firtz Lang's 1927 sci-fi classic <i>METROPOLIS</i>. The film was originally released by Universum Film (aka UFA) in Germany on December 6, 1927. Musical accompaniment was provided by the Guenter Buchwald Ensemble: Guenter, Frank Bockius, and Sascha Jacobsen.<br />
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The sixth and final film of the night was a classic that I've seen several times before, but never at the Castro Theatre. <a href="https://prod3.agileticketing.net/websales/pages/info.aspx?evtinfo=436758~d9133282-4896-49aa-be18-b053ee8cefc3&epguid=7ecd8d33-d7d0-46b0-a62a-af16bcbe6fc6&"><b>WEST OF ZANZIBAR</b></a> stars The Man of a Thousand Faces himself, the great Lon Cahney Sr. as The Great Phroso, a magician whose wife Anna (Jacqueline Gadsdon) leaves him for another man Crane (Lionel Barrymore). After their fight leaves Phroso crippled, be vows revenge against him and takes their illegitimate daughter Maizie (Mary Nolan) with him. Eighteen years later, he has been living in East Africa under the name "Dead Legs." He begins to put his plan for revenge in motion, only to have Crane turn his plan against him when he unveils the shocking truth about Maizie's true parentage!<br />
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Director Todd Browning was well known for making dark, disturbing, and macabre movies with controversial topics and bizarre subject matters. Both Browning and Chaney made a total of ten movies together, and they were planning on making <i>DRACULA</i> for Universal. Unfortunately, Chaney passed away from throat hemorrhage on <time datetime="1930-8-26">
August 26,
1930. His acting was second to none, and having dead parents, he was able to express himself more so than other actors of the silent film era (in today's term he would be classafied as a C.O.D.A. which stands for Child of Deaf Adults). Browning went on to direct other horror classics, such as <i>THE UNHOLY THREE</i>, <i>LONDON AFTER MIDNIGHT</i> (a lost silent film), <i>FREAKS</i>, <i>MARK OF THE VAMPIRE</i>, and of course <i>DRACULA</i>. </time>The film was originally released by
Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer (MGM) on November 24, 1928. Musical accompaniment was provided once again by Stephen Horne and percussionist Frank Bockius.<br />
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And that was Day Three of the 24th Annual
San Francisco Silent Film Festival! I'm getting down to the wire, with only two more days left! To view the festival's
film schedule, purchase
tickets and passes, location of hotels to stay at during the festival,
please visit their official website at <a href="http://www.silentfilm.org/">www.silentfilm.org.</a><br />
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Thanks for reading, and enjoy the show!
Philip Castorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01920947952027787820noreply@blogger.com0San Francisco, CA, USA37.7749295 -122.4194155000000136.9717915 -123.71030900000001 38.578067499999996 -121.12852200000002tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2143753798048522394.post-87448558757440368682019-05-06T21:12:00.001-07:002019-05-07T19:46:58.245-07:00Phil attends the 24th SAN FRANCISCO SILENT FILM FESTIVAL: DAY TWO - May 2, 2019<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Hello again folks and welcome to Day Two of my trip to the 24th Annual
San Francisco Silent Film Festival! Today I saw five films and a
presentation that has been a time honored tradition of the festival. Oh, before I forget, I was able to take time off from work, and so, I was able to see the entire festival!! Oh yeah baby!! Again, it's been four years since I've attend the SFSFF and I was so excited to be back in the City by the Bay! The bad part was that since hotels are so damn expensive, I had to commute to and from the festival, which is an hour drive both ways. But I can't complain cause I was back! So let's not waste anymore time, and let's get the show on the road!<br />
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At 10am the festival had a free admission to their annual <b>TALES FROM THE ARCHIVES</b>, which has garnered a lot attention. This year's <b>ARCHIVES</b> presentation was probably one of my favorites, due to its incredible importance to film preservation. First up was the dynamic duo of SFSFF Board President Robert<b> </b>Byrne<b> </b>and researcher Thierry Lecointe their "cinematic wonders they discovered" in what is called fin de siècle novelty flipbooks. What's cool about these flipbooks that they would feature films like from the great Georges Méliès. Also, some of these cinematic flipbooks would be of lost films. They were scanned and then shown up on the screen! Next up was Stefan <span class="st">Drössler</span>, who's the head of Filmmuseum München. He talked about the restoration of Robert Reinert’s <b>OPIUM</b> (which was screened later that day) and the rise of German Cinema at the conclusion of WWI. Up next was the director of the National Film Archive of Japan Hisashi Okajim, and he discussed about the Mina Talkie Sound System that was used for Kenji Mizoguchi’s<i> </i>1926 drama <i>FURUSATO</i>. Last, but not least, was an old friend of the festival Bruce Goldstein, the director of repertory programming at New York’s Film Forum and founder
of Rialto Pictures. He talked about how “Silents Got No Respect”once talkies became all the rage, and how a majority of the Hollywood studios dismissed their own heritage. Musical accompaniment was provided by the awesome Stephen Horne. Overall, this was a very informative, insightful, and funny program!<br />
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The first film of the day was the western <b><a href="https://prod3.agileticketing.net/websales/pages/info.aspx?evtinfo=436748~d9133282-4896-49aa-be18-b053ee8cefc3&epguid=7ecd8d33-d7d0-46b0-a62a-af16bcbe6fc6&">WOLF SONG</a>,</b> directed by Hollywood legend director Victor Fleming. Set in the year 1840, it stars another legend Gary Cooper as Sam Lash, a trapper who loves the Great Wide Open. However, he finds something else to love, rather someone, in the form of Lola, played by the absolutely stunning Lupe Velez!! They fall hard in love with one another, with wedding bells shortly thereafter. But the Wolf Song he hears beckons him to leave Lola and head out once more. But what love will he chooses?<br />
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Good grief was this a great movie! Fleming's directing was smooth, fluid, and looked amazing! Cooper was great as always, but his on-screen chemistry with Velez was smoldering and intense! Eventually, these two would also get married in real life! The film was originally released by Paramount Pictures on March 30, 1929. Musical accompaniment was provided by the great Philip Carli.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibUn_A446fUmrdfBw-pqSu0Nltrz2lvBraUnUEWtuqYULxDQQU4BQJt7rQRS-KiPbC7e-BKcyZhVNTRtuD_JVlYjH6kng8IpJTJqGAHmGijHoVwvjQqFISx0imDHk_MfBSl8IEGq5UZUo/s1600/Oyster+Princess.1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="169" data-original-width="224" height="241" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibUn_A446fUmrdfBw-pqSu0Nltrz2lvBraUnUEWtuqYULxDQQU4BQJt7rQRS-KiPbC7e-BKcyZhVNTRtuD_JVlYjH6kng8IpJTJqGAHmGijHoVwvjQqFISx0imDHk_MfBSl8IEGq5UZUo/s320/Oyster+Princess.1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Film number two was <a href="https://prod3.agileticketing.net/websales/pages/info.aspx?evtinfo=436749~d9133282-4896-49aa-be18-b053ee8cefc3&epguid=7ecd8d33-d7d0-46b0-a62a-af16bcbe6fc6&"><b>THE OYSTER PRINCESS (DIE AUSTERNPRINZESSIN)</b></a>, directed by and starring the crazy talented <span class="PropValue">Ernst Lubitsch. </span>Oyster-king Quaker (Victor Janson) cannot be impressed anymore. He is so rich that
he even has a special butler holding his cigar while he is smoking. The
only thing Quaker would be impressed by is if his daughter Ossi (Ossi Oswalda) were to
marry a real prince. He makes an offer to the poor prince Nucki (Harry Liedtke), who
sends his friend Josef (Julius Falkenstein) to get a clear idea of the woman. In short, they get married and hilarious shenanigans ensues!<br />
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Holy hell was this movie funny!! This was <span class="PropValue">Lubitsch's first real comedic movie and it was hilarious! The "Wedding Foxtrot" scene was one of the funniest things ever captured on celluloid! I was almost in tears, but the complexity of it all was so damn impressive! That scene alone must have taken days to rehearse and shoot! The film was released on DVD by Kino Lorber as part of their </span><a href="https://www.kinolorber.com/product/lubitsch-in-berlin-5-dvd-box-dvd">Lubitsch in German 5-Disc DVD Boxset</a> and also VOD. The film was released in Germany by Universum Film (aka UFA) on June 26, 1919. Musical accompaniment was by Wayne Barker, making his second appearance at the festival.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh11UNotZEI7Mqby2UbBnYHRotOk34VvkYrndbAADF6sQMdL65h2sQFllVH7_0PXNlQvsjCZBDh-2dfpTVoDRDBDYxrDDLXKDoCiiAvbSuwMDJZP_7tCvBzymazYBCgBA4Zs3O7L3rjTZc/s1600/Earth.1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="147" data-original-width="224" height="210" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh11UNotZEI7Mqby2UbBnYHRotOk34VvkYrndbAADF6sQMdL65h2sQFllVH7_0PXNlQvsjCZBDh-2dfpTVoDRDBDYxrDDLXKDoCiiAvbSuwMDJZP_7tCvBzymazYBCgBA4Zs3O7L3rjTZc/s320/Earth.1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
The third silent of the day was the Russian drama <a href="https://prod3.agileticketing.net/websales/pages/info.aspx?evtinfo=436750~d9133282-4896-49aa-be18-b053ee8cefc3&epguid=7ecd8d33-d7d0-46b0-a62a-af16bcbe6fc6&"><b>EARTH (ZEMLYA)</b></a>. The film was director <span class="PropValue">Aleksandr</span> Dovzhenko’s third installment of his “Ukraine Trilogy." Here, a small group of rich and poor landowners begin to fight with one another when they receive a tractor as a gift from the Bolshevik government. Soon, tensions begin rise, which leads to mistrust, betrayal, and eventually death.<br />
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Truth be told, while I enjoyed the film's visuals, quick edits, and social commentary, I found it kinda boring and it seriously dragged in points of the film. Granted, this is an artistic achievement unto itself, it didn't have the flare like Sergei Eisenstein. Granted, no one can compare with Eisenstein, but Dovzhenko tries his damnest to achieve this. Originally released in the USSR on October 30, 1930, many Soviets viewed the film negatively due to its exploration of death and other dark issues that came with revolution. It was released here in the states that same year by Amkino Corporation with English title cards inserted. Musical accompaniment was provided by extraordinary The Matti Bye Ensemble, who received a standing ovation for their performance!<br />
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After a short break, it was time for silent film number five! <a href="https://prod3.agileticketing.net/websales/pages/info.aspx?evtinfo=436751~d9133282-4896-49aa-be18-b053ee8cefc3&epguid=7ecd8d33-d7d0-46b0-a62a-af16bcbe6fc6&"><b>THE SIGNAL TOWER</b></a> stars Rockcliffe Fellowes as a signal towerman who works in the redwood forest of Mendocino on the Fort Bragg railroad line. He's got a beautiful wife Sally (Virginia Valli) and kid Sonny (Frankie Darro). Life is great, but new towerman Joe Standish (Wallace Beery) comes into the picture, things become bad, and it soon escalates as Joe sets his sights on Sally! Things become worse when a runaway train on a dark and stormy night threatens to crash into another train!<br />
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This was a brand new restoration print by the SFSFF and icon Kevin Brownlow's Photoplay Productions and the results were awesome! Director <a href="https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0113284/?ref_=tt_ov_dr">Clarence Brown</a> would go on to direct many other films, including <i>FLESH AND THE DEVIL</i>, <i>THE GOOSE WOMAN</i> (which I saw here at the festival years ago), <i>ANNA CHRISTIE</i>, <i>NATIONAL VELVET</i>, and <i>ANGELS IN THE OUTFIELD</i>. The film was originally released by Universal Pictures on July 20, 1924. Musical accompaniment was provided by Stephen Horne and percussionist Frank Bockius.<br />
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The final screening of the night was the aforementioned earlier German drama <a href="https://prod3.agileticketing.net/websales/pages/info.aspx?evtinfo=436752~d9133282-4896-49aa-be18-b053ee8cefc3&epguid=7ecd8d33-d7d0-46b0-a62a-af16bcbe6fc6&"><b>OPIUM</b></a>. The film's about a Chinese opium dealer Nung-Tschang (Werner Krauss) who takes his revenge on Professor Gesellius (Eduard von Winterstein), who is a Westener and it was a Westener who corrupted his wife. But the good Professor saves a young woman from his evil opium den and brings her back home, which doesn't sit well with his wife, who's in love with the Professor's favorite student, who then dies and now his wife blames him for her lover's death. What's the Professor do now? How can he deal with such loss? How can he overcome his grief? With opium, of course!!<br />
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This was one of the most bonkers silent film I have ever seen! Geez, I have no idea where to begin! Well, it wasn't boring, that's for sure! I have to say that this was one of the most over-acted, over-exaggerated, overdone anti-drug move I have ever seen! I would pair this movie with <i>REFER MADNESS</i> as a double bill! It was that over-the-top and it was hysterical! Granted, this was obviously not what the filmmaker Robert Reinert intended it to be, but it came across that way. Now I'm looking at it with 2019 eyes and not 1919. But the end result is that I loved this movie! The film was originally released in Germany by Stern-Film in January 29, 1919. Musical accompaniment was provided by Guenter Buchwald, who did a great job with his performance!<br />
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And that was Day Two of the festival! I'm having so much fun here! And to think, I still had three more days of silent cinemas to watch! To view the festival's
film schedule, purchase
tickets and passes, location of hotels to stay at during the festival,
please visit their official website at <a href="http://www.silentfilm.org/">www.silentfilm.org.</a><br />
<br />
Thanks for reading, and enjoy the show!
<br />
<i></i>Philip Castorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01920947952027787820noreply@blogger.com0San Francisco, CA, USA37.7749295 -122.4194155000000136.9717915 -123.71030900000001 38.578067499999996 -121.12852200000002tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2143753798048522394.post-57203240968670762982019-05-01T14:26:00.000-07:002019-05-06T15:19:38.499-07:00Phil attends the Opening Night of the 24th SAN FRANCISCO SILENT FILM FESTIVAL at the Castro Theatre - May 1, 2019<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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After a long five year absence, I finally made my way to the City by the Bay to attend the fantastic San Francisco Silent Film festival!! Again, the last time I attended the festival was back in 2014, not counting the Greatest Hits by Club Foot Orchestra one day event I attended back in September of 2018. This was a very big deal to me, and I could not wait to emerse myself again in this cinematic treasure trove of long, lost, rarely seen silent films!<br />
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I arrived to the historic Castro Theatre (aka The Cathedral of Cinema) early to help set-up the <a href="http://nilesfilmmuseum.org/">Niles Essanay Silent Film Museum</a> table up on the mezzanine. It was nice to have the theatre quiet and pretty much all to myself. I made my way to the front row, where I picked out my favorite seat for tonight's opening film, and boy oh boy, was I ever looking forward to seeing it again!!<br />
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Before the film, the festival The 2019 SFSFF Award for commitment to the preservation of silent cinema
will be presented to Gian Luca Farinelli on behalf of the Cineteca di
Bologna before the screening. The Italian archive has taken the lead in
restoring Keaton’s entire body of work.<br />
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The opening night film of the festival was a silent comedy classic starring Mr. Stoneface himself, Buster Keaton. <b><a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0018742/">THE CAMERAMAN</a></b>
was Keaton's first film for MGM under his new contract. Our friend
portrays a tin-type photographer who falls madly in love with Sally
(Marceline Day), a secretary who works for MGM Newsreels. To be close to
her, he abandons in his old camera career and attempts to become a
motion picture cameraman. Soon Buster is out on the streets, shooting
anything and everything, but there's just one problem: he's not very
good. But when Sally gives him a tip on a hot story, he rushes into what
I think is one of the funniest action scenes ever captured onto
celluloid! Helping Buster out is his new partner: a talented street
preforming monkey who knows how to work a movie camera! Yes folks, it's
that funny!<br />
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As I previously stated, this was Keaton's first film for MGM. However,
within a year of his contract, the studio took away Keaton's creative
control over his pictures, which in the long run harmed his career. He
would later say that his move to
MGM was "the worst mistake of my career." But fans have called it his
best work, and it was added to the National Film Registry in 2005! The
film was released to theaters on September 22, 1928. In 2004, Turner
Classic Movies (TCM as it's affectionately known) released a boxset
entitled <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Buster-Keaton-Collection-Cameraman-Marriage/dp/B00049QQ78/ref=sr_1_8?s=movies-tv&ie=UTF8&qid=1342807122&sr=1-8&keywords=buster+keaton"><i>Buster Keaton Collection</i></a>,
which included <b>THE CAMERAMAN</b> as well as two other films. The film that was shown was the new 4k digital restoration undertaken by The Criterion Collection, Warner Bros., and Fondazione Cineteca di Bologna. The musical
accompaniment<b> </b>was done<b> </b>by Timothy Brock conducting the amazing and crazy talented students of the <a href="https://sfcm.edu/">San Francisco Conservatory of Music</a>! These students blew me away with their high level of musicianship!! I hope the festival has them come back next year!<br />
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After the film, we all made our way to the after party, which was held yet again at the <a href="http://www.mcroskey.com/">McRoskey Mattress Company</a> building down on Market Street! There were food, fine wines and some
very good micro beers for the guests to enjoy while listening to
great music! Fun was had by all! <br />
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What a night I had! And there's still four more days of silent films to
watch! So come on out to the San Francisco Silent Film Festival, here
at the Castro Theatre! To view the festival's film schedule, purchase
tickets and passes, location of hotels to stay at during the festival,
please visit their official website at <a href="http://www.silentfilm.org/">www.silentfilm.org.</a><br />
<br />
Thanks for reading, and enjoy the show!
Philip Castorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01920947952027787820noreply@blogger.com0San Francisco, CA, USA37.7749295 -122.4194155000000136.9717915 -123.71030900000001 38.578067499999996 -121.12852200000002tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2143753798048522394.post-64165974871887752222019-04-28T10:18:00.002-07:002019-05-07T19:51:42.451-07:00Phil attends the Thursday Night Preview of AVENGERS: ENDGAME at the Cinelux Almaden Café & Lounge - April 25, 2019<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://www.marvel.com/movies/avengers-endgame"><b>AVENGERS: ENDGAME</b></a><br />
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Starring Robert Downey Jr., Chris Evans, Chris Hemsworth, Mark Ruffalo, Scarlett Johansson, Jeremy Renner, Don Cheadle, Paul Rudd, Brie Larson, Karen Gillan, Josh Brolin<br />
Based on the Comic Book by Stan Lee, Jack Kirby, Jim Starlin<br />
Written by Christopher Markus, Stephen McFeely
<br />
Cinematography by Trent Opaloch
<br />
Edited by Jeffrey Ford, Matthew Schmidt
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Produced by Kevin Feige, Jon Favreau, James Gunn, Stan Lee, Victoria Alonso, Trinh Tran
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Directed by
Anthony and Joe Russo<br />
Released by Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures<br />
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On Tuesday, April 29, 2008, I attended a special advance screening of Marvel Studios' first feature film <i>IRON MAN</i>, starring
Robert Downey Jr., Gwyneth Paltrow, Jeff Bridges and directed by Jon Favreau. It was on this day that I witnessed the birth of the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Eleven years and twenty-one films later, I found myself at the Cinelux Almaden Café & Lounge to watch the final chapter of what Marvel Studios head honcho Kevin Feige
has called "The Infinity Saga." I suddenly realized just how fast time goes, as I have seen every single MCU installment in the cinemas. And here I was, eagerly awaiting the closure of what has become one of the most important chapters in my cinematic experience, and it did not disappoint. It goes without saying that <b>AVENGERS: ENDGAME</b> will go down as one of the important and entertaining films of all time!<br />
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The film's official synopsis: The grave course of events set in motion by Thanos that wiped out half
the universe and fractured the Avengers ranks compels the remaining
Avengers to take one final stand in Marvel Studios' grand conclusion to
twenty-two films, <b>AVENGERS: ENDGAME</b>.<br />
<br />
I'm not going to spoil the film here in my review. Instead, I'm just going to issue the following statement: THIS WAS THE BEST MCU FILM OF ALL TIME!! <br />
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As I write this post, the film has broken several cinema records. First, it broke the record Thursday Night screenings, earning an impressive $60 million, breaking the previous record held by <i>STAR WARS: THE FORCE AWAKENS</i>, which was $57 million total. On Friday, it grossed $305 million internationally, combined with Thursday Night's earnings for a staggering $365 million! As of Sunday morning, it has been reported that the film has now grossed globally an incredible<b> $1.2 BILLION</b>!! The breakdown from that is $350 million domestically and $859 internationally!! It now has become the first film in cinema history to surpass $1 billion in its opening weekend!! I seriously doubt that this record will be broken anytime soon!!<br />
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<b>AVENGERS: ENDGAME</b> is one of the most epic, satisfying, blockbuster and film of the year and a fitting conclusion to the Marvel Cinematic Universe that fans could ever wanted or hoped for!! It's also an end of an era, has this closes the chapter of the MCU, and is the beginning of the next phase that will entertain us with new characters, new adventures, and new films!! But before that, I would like to say "Thank You" to everyone who has been involved with the MCU and applaud you for all your hard work these past eleven years!! 5 out of 5 stars!! Highly recommended!!<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/TcMBFSGVi1c/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/TcMBFSGVi1c?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></div>
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<span itemprop="review" itemscope="" itemtype="http://schema.org/Review"><b>AVENGERS: ENDGAME </b>is currently playing in theaters in 2D, 3D, and IMAX nationwide,
including at the Cinelux Theaters here in the Bay Area. To view
showtimes, visit their website at <a href="http://www.cineluxtheatres.com/">www.cineluxtheatres.com</a>.<br />
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Thanks for reading, and enjoy the show!
</span>Philip Castorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01920947952027787820noreply@blogger.com0San Jose, CA, USA37.3382082 -121.8863286000000136.933999199999995 -122.53177560000002 37.7424172 -121.24088160000001