A Sad Day For Sports Fans – And Fans Of GREAT Memoirs!

“You spend a good piece of his life gripping a baseball, and in the end it turns out that it was the other way around all the time.” – Jim Bouton

I grew up in Seattle, and in a city that for man-years had NO major league teams, there was the legendary pro baseball team, The Seattle Pilots – who only lasted one season – 1969 – before moving to Milwaukee to become the Brewers…a black eye on the sport…

Luckily for Seattle sports fans, former Yankee Pitcher Jim Bouton wrote a diary about his year with the expansion Seattle Pilots, as he was trying to make a comeback in baseball.

The result is the greatest sports book ever written – that also happened to be a “history” of the team, which moved to Milwaukee after a single season – on April Fools Day!

The Brilliant “Ball Four!”

This candid book about major league baseball tore the cover off the sport – this was a time when there were NO “tell-all” books about sports…but Bouton was honest, acerbic, candid and revealing.

Mickey Mantle’s Hangover Home Run!

Baseball fans were outraged when Bouton revealed that the great Mickey Mantle once hit a home run after a night of binge-drinking – his hangover was massive, and after he rounded the bases he went into the dugout and said, “they’ll never know how tough that was.”

Tragic News About Bouton Revealed:

Bouton has always been honest about his life – and The New York Times has just published a poignant and honest story about the Pitcher’s recent stroke – and the news that he has revealed that he is locked in a losing battle with brain disease:

Bouton has publicly revealed a degenerative brain disease – just five years after he acknowledged having a stroke.

The NY Times story is beautifully reported – and very sad – here is an excerpt, beginning as the Reporter visits Bouton at his home:

“It is good for Bouton to have company, said his wife, Paula Kurman, who has a doctorate in interpersonal communications from Columbia. They have been married for 35 years and have lived here for more than 20, among the foxes and black bears, surrounded by pine trees. A cloud might roll by, straight through the screened-in porch, and there are no other homes in sight. Their children are grown and live elsewhere.

Bouton had a stroke five years ago this Aug. 15. They know the date because it was the 15th anniversary of the death of Bouton’s daughter, Laurie, in a car accident.”

“The body knows, you know?” Kurman said, softly. “The body knows.”

The wife’s candid comment sets up the latest bad news to hit Bouton:

“Bouton’s body was largely unaffected by the stroke. But his mind, the one whose pointed and poignant observations produced the classic memoir “Ball Four” in 1970, will never be the same. This weekend in New York, at the convention for the Society of American Baseball Research, Bouton went public about his brain disease: cerebral amyloid angiopathy, which is linked to dementia.”

The Pitcher/Author/Actor is fighting a brain disease that leads to dementia – a horrible fate for anyone – but always shocking to see happen to someone who has faced so many tragedies in the past already.

It’s another great piece of reporting from The New York Times – you can see the entire story at their website:

https://www.nytimes.com/2017/07/01/sports/baseball/jim-bouton-brain-disease.html?smprod=nytcore-iphone&smid=nytcore-iphone-share

As I said, “Ball Four” tore the cover off of baseball – and it’s hilariously self-deprecating as well – as when Bouton finds out the Pilots traded him to Houston for Pitcher Dooley Womack.

“Wait – THE DOOLEY WOMACK??!?!?!?”

Bouton also writes about trying to sneak a fast ball by one hitter and the result:

“He snuck it over the fence.”

Here is a look at this book, and the fallout that followed its release:

https://johnrieber.com/2013/09/17/ball-four-baseballs-most-controversial-and-best-book/

Bouton also did acting, like the great Robert Altman take on “The Long Goodbye” – check out this classic movie poster, which references Bouton and his baseball book:

Altman’s updated take on the Raymond Chandler novel is a quirky masterpiece, starring Elliott Gould. The movie was filmed in one of LA’s great locations: the famous Hollywood Hightower:

See more about the film – and this iconic location – here:

https://johnrieber.com/2014/09/14/hollywoods-hightower-movie-past-vintage-los-angeles-climbs-these-legendary-stairs/

Here’s wishing the best for Jim Bouton and his wife…

Tokyo Just Got Naked!

Here’s something I’ve never seen on the streets of Tokyo: naked dancing robots!

I came across the single most amazing music video of all, thanks to Director David Lewandowski!

Lewandowski’s latest music video “Time For Sushi” was showcased on RocketNews24, and it’s something! This director has delivered another phenomenally entertaining piece of video magic – before we discuss further, check it out:

The creator of this incredible video is David Lewandowski, who has made a number of incredible videos like this one…he’s a filmmaker based in Los Angeles, and here is a link to his website:

http://dlew.me

This stuff is truly astounding:

Of course, I discovered this thanks to my favorite website, RocketNews24.com, which recently changed its name to SoraNews24 – whatever the name, they continue to post terrific stories like this one, and SoraNews24 tells the story behind this video as well – they also showcase all of his previous videos in this series…you can see them all here:

http://en.rocketnews24.com/2017/07/01/naked-bodies-invade-streets-of-japan-in-bizarre-new-time-for-sushi-video/

Bravo to David Lewandoski – truly magical stuff – follow him to see more at:

YouTube/David Lewandowski

Of course, this isn’t the first music video I’ve shared from Tokyo….

All Hail Genki Sudo and World Order!

Here is the most amazing synchronized music video of all time! Click here to see this amazing group and their incredible video:

https://johnrieber.com/2014/03/26/this-might-be-the-greatest-music-video-ever-genki-sudo-world-orders-must-see-synchronized-dance-music/

What incredible creativity!

But if it’s more robots you want, then why not try these:

Yes, Tokyo also has “Bikini Robot Battles!” Check them out here:

https://johnrieber.com/2013/03/27/giant-bikini-robot-dolls-tokyos-crazy-nightlife-strikes-again-tamborine-man-too/

Bravo to Tokyo once again for the amazing entertainment!

Time To Watch Some Movies!

There is nothing better than seeing a great film and wanting to share it with others – and thanks to the internet, we can do it all day long!

Ten Great Films That Begin With the letter “A”!

A terrific social media trend is going around where people share lists of their favorite films, A-Z. More on this in a moment.

But first, I decided to do it one letter at a time, so here we go – ten of my favorite movies that begin with the letter “A”!

10 – Animal House!

Yes, it is official “National Lampoon’s Animal House” but since this is arguably the funniest film ever made, I am going to go with the shortened title.

Check out the vintage trailer:

John Belushi showed that he could command the big screen, and togas were never funnier than in this hilariously profane look at college life…I suggest watching it as a double bill with “Old School” – here’s a bunch of fun trivia about the movie and the trailer as well:

https://johnrieber.com/2015/04/15/sex-togas-bluto-blue-schools-out-for-animal-house-and-old-school/

From comedy to horror, this is also arguably the greatest film of its genre:

9 – Alien

The most shocking sci-fi horror film of all – with the greatest poster as well! So many reasons to love this movie, and this scene is certainly iconic, isn’t it?

What a way to introduce a new cast member! None of the subsequent films can measure up – remember, “Aliens” is an action film more than horror – and that shocking introduction of the aline will never be topped!

Now onto one of the most interesting psychological biographies about Hollywood I’ve ever seen:

8 – Auto Focus

Greg Kinnear is mesmerizing as Bob Crane, who shot to fame as the star of “Hogan’s Heroes” – but he was a, shall we say, FAN OF WOMEN?

Check out the trailer – a blend of Hollywood bio-pic and sleazy exploitation:

Bob Crane loved to film himself having sex with female fans, and sleazy sidekick Willem Dafoe had no problem being his cameraman! A fascinating character study directed by Paul Schrader, who wrote “Taxi Driver.”

This is based on a true story, while our next film is a fictionalized version of Cameron Crowe’s teenage years – writing for Rolling Stone!

7 – Almost Famous

Cameron Crowe released a director’s cut of this great film – with more funny scenes, context and music – a classic movie about rock’n’roll!

Read more about the film, and the girls who followed by band:

https://johnrieber.com/2012/12/01/pamela-des-barres-the-groupie-trilogy-almost-famous-the-groupie-life/

Now, here’s a movie that has one of cinema’s more iconic lines:

“No, YOU’RE Out Of Order!”

6 – “And Justice For All”

Al Pacino shows that he’s got a set of lungs and he’s not afraid to use them in this late 70’s courtroom drama.

Next up is one of my all-time favorite films: a masterpiece about the horror of war – and working with Marlon Brando:

5 – “Apocalypse Now”

Franci Ford Coppola went into the jungle and came back with this anti-war masterpiece. Yes, Brando was a nightmare to work with, but the ending of the film has even been parodied on “Seinfeld”, and Coppola’s wife even made a documentary about how the experience almost destroyed their life:

What a great double bill!

Next on the “A” list is a Best Picture winner from 1977- yes, it beat “Star Wars” – Woody Allen’s masterpiece:

4 – “Annie Hall”

Diane Keaton won Best Actress for her portrayal of the title character – a film full of humor, insight, and of course, a small bit with Christopher Walken that is classic:

“Annie Hall” is an example of a film that is perfection: every scene works. A more recent comedy also balanced serious and funny – thanks to a “career best” performance by Hugh Grant:

3 – “About A Boy”

“You could end up childless and alone!”

“Well, fingers crossed, YES.”

Check out the trailer:

Hugh Grant has said that this 2002 film is the closest to his “real life” persona – a guy who simply doesn’t want to connect with anyone for any length of time – until “a boy” enters his life in the best way…Chris Weitz directed this, and its a terrific film – funny, emotional, and inspiring.

Now, one of the greatest “growing up” films of all time – directed by a guy who went on to make an “outer space movie”:

2 – “American Graffiti”

“Where Were You In ’62?”

The trailer asks this simple question – check it out:

One night in central California, as a group of high school graduates try to determine their future – a classic “coming of age” film with a great cast, expertly directed by George Lucas, who used this success to convince 20th Century Fox to let him make his passion film “Star Wars”….

Finally, a brilliant movie that is as topical today for reasons we all know:

1 – “All The President’s Men”

The story of the downfall of President Richard Nixon – Robert Redford and Dustin Hoffman are terrific as the Reporter who won’t let the Watergate story fade away – even with overwhelming odds against them…a history lesson worth watching:

It’s one of a number of great political films, check them out here:

https://johnrieber.com/2012/10/17/dont-put-baby-in-a-binder-presidential-politics-political-movies/

There you have it, ten great films that begin with the letter “A”!

Yes, so many left off: from “Anti-Christ” to “Anchorman”, “Airplane!” to “Anvil!”, but I had to choose a list – so let me know what yours are!

It all started with a great social media experiment – everyone posting their favorite movie lists from A-Z – here’s a look at it:

https://johnrieber.com/2017/05/11/my-movie-alphabet-an-a-z-of-my-favorite-and-most-offbeat-films/

I loved taking part, and guess what – there’s another one that is just as fun!

My friend Beetley Pete has been doing a musical countdown to the alphabet – and here is the latest – the finger-snappin’ letter “N” – check his list out here:

https://beetleypete.wordpress.com/2017/07/09/a-musical-a-z-n/comment-page-1/#comment-30033

I will be doing a music version as well – but for now, movies with an “A” are here to enjoy.

As you can see, we have so many to choose from, let me know your favorite “A” movie!

Caucasian woman watching move in empty theater

How About Some Classic “B” Movies!

In Hollywood parlance, a “B” movie used to refer to the second film on a double feature – a lesser known movie that viewers got as a bonus…here’s an example:

It’s too bad there are no longer double bills like this, but it gives me a way to launch into ten great movies that begin with the letter “B” – and I begin with what I call:

The Original “Hunger Games!”

Yes, you may know “Hunger Games”, but this is the film that started it all: a group of students forced to survive on a secluded island – battling against each other – the intense and controversial Japanese film from 2000:

10 – Battle Royale

This ultra-controversial film began in Japan as a controversial novel – the story is simple: one high school class is taken to an island – and only one lone survivor leaves! Here is the trailer:

This subject matter was so controversial in Japan that members of the Japanese Parliament tried to get the novel banned, and then later tried to ban the film as well. It backfired, as both became mega-hits based on the controversy.

You can read more about this great movie here:

https://johnrieber.com/2012/03/18/behold-battle-royale-the-original-hunger-games/

Next up is one of my favorite movies – about the changing nature of TV news – while it’s 30 years old, it’s amazing topical today:

9 – “Broadcast News”

William Hurt, Holly Hunter and Albert Brooks star in this inside look at the changing nature of TV news. You can see so many parallels to what is happening today….one of the best films about TV, TV news, and chasing ratings at all costs…

It’s just one of many films that captured where we are today – see that story here:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/05/31/political-chaos-2016-network-and-broadcast-news-nailed-it-this-town-confirms-the-shenanigans/

Next up is a classic science fiction film from 1982 with the iconic line:

“Wake Up, Time To Die”

8 – Blade Runner

This Ridley Scott films stars Harrison Ford as a “blade runner” who must terminate four “replicants” who stole a ship in space and have returned to Earth to find their creator.

Here is the trailer:

According to IMDB, Ridley Scott’s first cut ran four hours! When he showed it to the cast and crew, they “admitted that while it looked beautiful, it was mostly incomprehensible, necessitating additional editing and an explanatory voice-over.”

The imagery of the film is haunting, and one of the greatest moments is when Rutger Hauer, one of the replicants, leans over Ford and whispers:

“Wake up, time to die.”

I can’t wait for the sequel, “Blade Runner 2049”, which will be out later this year!

Here is one of the most seminal films of the 60’s, which ushered a whole new era of explicit violence in film:

7 – Bonnie & Clyde

In 1967, Arthur Penn directed this brilliant film starring Warren Beatty, Faye Dunaway, Gene Hackman and Michael J. Pollard – a raw, violent and controversial look at these modern day outlaws:

My friend Alison Martino hosted a screening in LA with Pollard in attendance, here is a look at that event:

https://johnrieber.com/2015/03/17/bonnie-clyde-vintage-la-screening-amazing-live-guest-pictures-from-a-revolution/

Time to lighten the mood, with the the highest grossing R-rated female comedy of all time!

6 – Bridesmaids

Kristen Wiig catapulted to stardom in 2011, along with Melissa McCarthy, thanks to this hilariously funny look at the world of “bridesmaids” – check out the trailer:

This ensemble cast is amazing – and Jon Hamm is hilarious is a small role as Wiig’s sex-crazed boyfriend:

Here is some surprising trivia, thanks to IMDB:

“Before he came to Hollywood, Jon Hamm, who plays Ted in this movie, was a high school drama teacher at the John Burroughs School in Ladue, Missouri. One of his acting students was Ellie Kemper, who plays Becca.”

Wow, I love that!

Now that I have you laughing, time to thrust you into a political assassination drama that was overlooked upon release, but now is considered a masterpiece!

5 – Blow Out

Legendary Director Brian DePalma made this political thriller set during the 1976 bicentennial election. John Travolta has never been better as a Sound Engineer who accidentally captures a political assassination – here is the trailer:

Travolta is terrific in the film, which bombed upon release, but is now considered a masterpiece. DePalma’s previous film was “Dressed To Kill”, and while that thriller was a smash hit, this was considered too dark by audiences at the time:

DePalma’s then wife Nancy Allen starred as well, and she did a great job…read more about this film, and other DePalma masterpieces, here:

https://johnrieber.com/2012/03/03/a-celebration-of-depalma-the-best-least-known-classics/

Here’s another great film that was overlooked upon release, even though it starred one of the biggest stars of 1971:

4 – The Beguiled

Clint Eastwood stars as the injured civil war solder taken in by a woman’s school – and the erotic issues that arise. Here is the trailer:

“The Beguiled” was overlooked in 1971, partly because Eastwood had two other films the same year – here they are:

https://johnrieber.com/2017/01/12/clint-eastwoods-1971-triple-play-of-classic-films-dirty-harry-play-misty-for-me-the-beguiled/

Time to lighten up with one of my favorite movies about Hollywood – and arguably Eddie Murphy’s greatest comedic role!

3 – Bowfinger

Steve Martin wrote this affectionate look at the underbelly of Hollywood, and Eddie Murphy is hilarious in two roles!

Click here to see the trailer:

This is a great ensemble cast, an affectionate look at the “anger ons” in Hollywood, and a really funny movie as well – click her for a ton of trivia about this great movie:

https://johnrieber.com/2014/06/24/eddie-murphys-comic-brilliance-his-bowfinger-redemption/

Here’s a movie that starred a Hollywood legend:

2 – The Big Sleep

Humphrey Bogart and Lauren Bacall sizzle in this classic film noir directed by Howard Hawks from a script by legendary Writer William Faulkner!

Check out the classic trailer:

Bogart plays Private Investigator Philip Marlowe, who is hired by a wealthy general to find out and stop his youngest daughter, Carmen, from being blackmailed about her gambling debts…

According to Lauren Bacall, production was such fun, that they got a memo from Jack L. Warner saying “Word has reached me that you are having fun on the set. This must stop.”

The film is based on the series of novels by Raymond Chandler…all of them are worth reading as well!

Finally, here is a modern “film noir” classic, which took the genre that “The Big Sleep” epitomized and added a frank sexuality:

1 – Body Heat

Lawrence Kasden directed this brilliant film noir in 1981 – a steamy erotic thriller starring William Hurt and Kathleen Turner – here is the trailer:

“Body Heat” is one of my favorite movies of all time – a great thriller that has a mystery that unfolds beautifully…a classic – see more here:

https://johnrieber.com/2012/09/29/steamy-body-heat-and-double-crossing-indemnity-film-noir-sizzles/

There you have it – ten films beginning with the letter “B” – let me know what you think, and don’t forget to check out my “A” list as well – click here!

https://johnrieber.com/2017/07/09/give-me-an-a-ten-classic-films-that-begin-with-a-movies-a-z/

Time For Some “C” Cinema!

My countdown of favorite movies “A-Z” continues with another great letter, which is full of comedy, drama, horror and John Travolta!

REMEMBER: This is not a top ten, just ten movies, so if your favorite pops in at #8, that doesn’t mean the next 7 are better!

I’m really torn on this list, as I didn’t include “Crimes & Misdemeanors” OR “Charley Varrick” with Walter Matthau – but I wanted to make the list eclectic so I moved around many genres…

Let’s get started with movies starting with the letter “C” – one that may not be well known, but it is beloved!

10 – Chuck & Buck

This is one of those quirky classics that, when you mention it to someone, they embrace you as if you’re part of a secret club!

Here’s the plot: an offbeat, naive “man-child” stalks his childhood best friend win Hollywood in order to rekindle a long ago friendship.

“Chuck & Buck” was directed by Miguel Arteta, and was written by Mike White, who also stars as Buck.

Check out the trailer:

Chris Weitz stars as Chuck, a successful Hollywood Producer hounded by an unwanted childhood friend. Aside from acting, Weitz is an acclaimed Writer/Director – he directed another great film “About A Boy.”

His brother Paul Weitz, currently the Executive Producer of “Mozart In The Jungle”, almost steals the film in a hilarious supporting role…this movie is offbeat, a bit dark at times, and a real treat…a great movie to begin our list, and one of my favorite “forgotten cult classic” – here are some more:

https://johnrieber.com/2012/03/03/5-great-forgotten-cult-classics/

Next up is one of my top 5 favorite films – a masterpiece of horror and suspense!

9 – Carrie

Director Brian DePalma took Stephen King’s debut novel about a girl with special powers and turned it into the ultimate “teen angst” movie. Sissy Spacek is terrific as Carrie, a shy girl who doesn’t wish anyone harm, until they make a very bad decision at the prom.

John Travolta and Nancy Allen also star in the film, which is one of the best horror films ever made – read more trivia here about Carrie’s “Star Wars” connection!

https://johnrieber.com/2016/10/30/shocktober-day-30-brilliant-carrie-brian-depalmas-horror-classics-star-wars-connection/

Back to forgotten films – have you heard about the town that was paid $25-million to quit smoking – by a tobacco company?

8 – Cold Turkey

This 1970 film was a flop, but it’s an inspired black comedy starring Dick Van Dyke and Bob Newhart.

Here is the trailer, with a very young Paul Dooley as an Anchorman:

“Cold Turkey” was directed by Norman Lear, who wen ton to make the classic TV comedy “All In The Family!”

Next up, Francis Ford Coppola won Best Picture in 1974 for “The Godfather Part II” – but he was competing against himself!

7 – The Conversation

Coppola made this “quiet masterpiece” in 1974 as well – and Gene Hackman is terrific as an audio specialist who works on a job that includes murder! Check out the trailer:

This movie is terrific, if you haven’t seen it, there is a nicely remastered blu-ray you can find.

Speaking of offbeat films worth finding on blu-ray:

6 – Countess Perverse

Looking for a classic tale of a woman who is hunted – by a naked woman with a bow and arrow?

European Director Jess Franco made more than a hundred films – all were outrageous, erotic and fascinating – “Countess Perverse” is one of his best, starring his wife Lina Romay – and you can find special blu-ray editions with alternate takes as well!

Read more about it, and check out the trailer here:

https://johnrieber.com/2017/06/30/sexy-nature-the-notorious-francofriday-cut-of-countess-perverse-with-lina-romay/

From naked hunting to classic musicals, this “C” list has them all!

In 1991, Director Alan Parker made a classic, modern day musical from Ireland!

5 – The Commitments

One of the great modern musicals – the story of the rise and fall of a Dublin Soul band, The Commitments. The film chronicles the creation of the band, put together by Jimmy Rabbitte, an unemployed wheeler/dealer with a vision: he wants to create “The Worlds Hardest Working Band”!

here is the trailer:

Yes,one band member is Glen Hansard, who went on to star in the great musical “Once”, and he won the Oscar for best original song “Falling Slowly!”

And here is one piece of amazing trivia, thanks to the great website IMDB:

“The kid on the skateboard who appears outside Robert Arkins’ (Jimmy’s) window during the first third of the movie when the band are recruiting members is the (now grown up) boy from the covers of U2’s “Boy” (1980) and “War” (1983) albums. At the time The Commitments (1991) was filmed, he owned a skate shop in Dublin and was a champion skateboarder!”

Read more about this film, and see the classic music video for “Mustang Sally” here:

https://johnrieber.com/2014/11/19/best-modern-musicals-once-the-commitments-glen-hansards-musical-oscar/

Now, let’s go back to a time when “blaxploitation cinema” was tearing up movie screens, thanks to one very tall kick ass lady!

4 – Cleopatra Jones

Tamara Dobson stars as a US Drug Agent who takes on the mob to destroy an opium field.

Check out the trailer:

Dobson also starred in a sequel – these films showed empowered women of color kicking ass – if you want to see more of it, check out my story here:

https://johnrieber.com/2017/01/27/female-empowerment-indeed-foxy-brown-cleopatra-jones-blaxploitations-kick-ass-women/

Next up is one of the most commanding movie performances ever:

3 – Cast Away

Tom Hanks is alone on screen for over an hour – a man who survives a plane crash and end up on a deserted island…here is the trailer:

I love this film, and Hanks is brilliant.

Director Robert Zemeckis shot the first half of the film with a “normal” Tom Hanks, then stopped production for a year so Hanks could lose fifty pounds – and when you see the weight loss in the film, it is stunning…the film is also iconic for the character of “Wilson”:

“Wilson” was, of course, the soccer ball that also washed ashore from the wreckage, and became the only “person” Hanks had to talk to during the entire middle of the film.

I love this movie for the flawless filmmaking and a mesmerizing performance by Hanks. Subtle and powerful.

Now, if you DON’T want subtle in your entertainment right now, well I’ve got you covered as well:

2 – Crimes Of Passion

Get ready to have your eyeballs sucked out of your head!

This 1984 erotic thriller was directed by Ken Russell – and Anthony Perkins and Kathleen Turner chew up the scenery with a deliciousness that is eye-popping…

Here is the plot: A mysterious woman, who is a fashion designer by day, is also a prostitute by night, and of course, she’s accused of murder! Who can help her? Why wacko Priest Perkins of course!

Check out the trailer:

According to film critic Roger Ebert, the picture “required massive cuts in the movie before it could qualify for an R rating” in the USA with studio distributor New World Pictures reluctant to release the film stateside with an X rating – because Director Russell lets it all hang out – and it wildly entertaining!

But don’t worry, there is an uncut version on blu-ray now – this is a pulpy must see!

Finally, I leave you with one of my all-time favorite films – as inky black as any black comedy can be:

1 – Catch – 22

It’s one of the most revered novels of modern times – a darkly black comedy about the horrors of war. Check out the trailer:

If you don’t know, the “catch” is this: if you are mentally ill, you cannot fly a war plane – BUT if you know you are mentally ill, then you MUST be sane, therefore you must fly!

As they say in the film:

“That’s some catch, that catch-22!”

Alan Arkin plays Yossarian, a WW2 pilot desperate to get out of the war – he heads an all-star cast, including Charles Grodin, Jon Voight, Art Garfunkel, Bob Newhart, Richard Benjamin, Paula Prentiss and Orson Welles!

Click here to find out more about this neglected masterpiece, including the DVD that includes a fascinating conversation between Mike Nichols and Steven Soderbergh!

https://johnrieber.com/2014/03/24/the-brilliant-black-comedy-catch-22-a-neglected-movie-masterpiece/

There you have it – a list of “C” movies worth finding – and if you want to see my “A” list, here’s an example of a classic one:

You can see my list of ten “A” movies here:

https://johnrieber.com/2017/07/09/give-me-an-a-ten-classic-films-that-begin-with-a-movies-a-z/

If you want to see some classic “B” movies, try this one:

Here are more of my favorite “B” movies as well:

https://johnrieber.com/2017/07/13/b-movies-indeed-my-list-of-ten-great-films-beginning-with-b/

Let me know what I left off – I know there are many!

Martin Landau — TV and movie actor Martin Landau discussing his role in new Woody Allen movie to open soon. October 09, 1989. (Photo by Michael Schwartz/New York Post Archives / (c) NYP Holdings, Inc. via Getty Images)

RIP Martin Landau…

The great Actor Martin Landau died July 15th at the age of 89 following “unexpected complications”, his publicist Dick Guttman confirmed Sunday.

I met this great Actor once, and he was a generous , compassionate person who was loved by all – and you can find multiple homages to him on social media from Actors and Directors.

Landau was well known for a variety of roles, including the hit TV series “Mission: Impossible” in the 60’s…I first saw him in the classic 1989 Woody Allen film “Crimes & Misdemeanors”:

Landau was brilliant as the Dentist who makes a life-changing decision – one that forces him to confront the evil that is in all of us.

Here is the trailer for the film:

Landau won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor in 1994 with his mesmerizing portrayal of legendary Horror Actor Bela Lugosi…

Tim Burton’s film “Ed Wood” was an affectionate look at the world’s worst Director, and his friendship with a drug-addled movie star…

These two roles cemented his place as one of entertainment’s great Talents…RIP to a terrific Actor and great person – he recently discussed his view on life – and acting:

‘Ageism is something that does exist. I don’t like to do what I call “the grunters” — a character who sits at a table and grunts, and young people make fun of. I turn a lot of those down. I like a character that is still alive, and is necessarily thinking, and either grows or diminishes, or whatever.’ – Martin Landau

RIP Martin Landau…

Martin Landau — TV and movie actor Martin Landau discussing his role in new Woody Allen movie to open soon. October 09, 1989. (Photo by Michael Schwartz/New York Post Archives / (c) NYP Holdings, Inc. via Getty Images)

Meet Susan George!

Fans of cult cinema already know this terrific Actress, Producer and Arabian horse breeder – yes, horse breeder!

A woman of many talents, there are a few classic cult films that George has made that are worth re-visting…

The Actress has starred alongside some great Hollywood names – in both action comedy as well as thrillers and a very controversial drama – opposite Charles Bronson!

Twinky!

Yes, Susan and Charles Bronson starred in this film from 1969 – with a very controversial subject matter.

A 38-year-old writer of pornographic novels meets and falls in love with a sixteen-year-old school girl in London. Here is the trailer:

Interestingly, Woody Allen made “Manhattan” in 1979, about a middle-aged man having a relationship with a 17-year old high school student. Hard to imagine that sort of film being made today…

Here’s some interesting trivia: “Twinky” was directed by Richard Donner, who went on to make “The Omen” and “Superman” with Christopher Reeve!

George went on to star in “Straw Dogs” in 1971 – a revenge thriller with a very controversial scene involving the Actress:

Here is the trailer:

Dustin Hoffman stars as a bookish US teacher whose new wife, played by Susan George, convinces him to move back to her small hometown in England…

By far the most controversial scene in the film occurs when George is raped by a former lover…

The film was directed by Sam Peckinpah – and the rape scene was widely criticized at the time for suggesting she enjoyed the act of violence.

It continues to be one of the most polarizing scenes in movie history. Here is a look at some of the other most controversial and shocking scenes from films:

https://johnrieber.com/2014/03/19/cover-your-eyes-a-serbian-film-martyrs-the-worlds-most-extreme-censored-cinema/

“Straw Dogs” ends with an extended sequence involving Hoffman and George fighting off local thugs – it is also a brutal scene that was very controversial at the time…

When asked in a 2013 interview about working with Hoffman and director Sam Peckinpah , George said:

“I had a love-hate relationship with Sam, but he was a brilliant director and a genius of his time. Dustin was a generous actor to work with, who could be intense at times, but had a great personality and an incredibly mischievous sense of humour. Making the film was a fantastic experience and one that I cherish to this day.”

Sam Peckinpah was the Director of such great movies as “The Wild Bunch” and “Pat Garrett & Billy The Kid” – but he was a wild man – see more here:

https://johnrieber.com/2014/08/05/the-wild-bunch-billy-the-kid-sam-packinpahs-soup-tossing/

That same year, Susan starred in the thriller “Die Screaming, Marianne” – but it was a short time later that she had her biggest success – opposite Peter Fonda…

Dirty Mary, Crazy Larry!

This is, without a doubt, one of the best car chase movies of the 70’s – an action-filled romp across America’s back roads – here is the trailer:

DIRTY MARY CRAZY LARRY, Susan George, 1974, TM and Copyright (c) 20th Century Fox Film Corp. All rights reserved.

“Dirty Mary Crazy Larry” was a huge hit, and gave George her biggest exposure in the US – and she seemed to love the attention…

As you can see, she was being sold as a sex kitten in these films, but it was her next performance that was perhaps her most notorious!

Mandingo!

1975 saw the release of perhaps her most outrageous film, because it was one of the wildest, most racist films of all time!

The film is everything you think it is and more – and George plays the daughter of a Plantation owner in the deep south who has a fling with one of his slaves – boxer Ken Norton!

See the trailer for this film, and more about the notorious plot, here:

https://johnrieber.com/2013/04/14/django-please-mandingo-klansmen-ojs-movie-debut-most-offensive-70s-movies-ever/

Susan’s film appearances slowed down in the 80’s, and as I said before, she and her husband were horse breeders…

Here is a shot of Susan at a film event from 2007:

Susan George made a number of great films, a few that continue to be controversial to this day – bravo Susan!

Here Are Ten Great “D” Movies!

Continuing my alphabetical countdown of movies I love, here are ten that begin with the letter “D” – they are full of sex, violence and Paul Giamatti too!

Remember, these are not in order, just ten films to share – so let’s get going with the most realistically bloody fist fight ever captured on film!

10 – “Darker Than Amber”

There was a great series of hard-boiled crime novels by Author John D. MacDonald featuring the ultra-cool Travis McGee. In 1970, a film was released starring Rod Taylor, and it included the most violent – and real – fish fight in film history!

Here is the fight scene:

The movie wasn’t a hit, but it is terrific – and you can read all about it here:

https://johnrieber.com/2013/03/01/darker-than-amber-film-noirs-legendary-fight-scene-a-brutal-hidden-gem/

I have posted about many obscure films like “Amber”, and also many films like this one:

9 – “Dead Sushi”

That’s right, killer sushi!

Folks, the wild wild filmmaking going on in Japan is worth checking out, and if you want to bite into a hilariously over-the-top killer sushi film, this is the one for you! You can see the trailer here:

https://johnrieber.com/2015/01/28/killer-sushi-toilet-zombies-karaoke-terror-tasty-japanese-exploitation/

You know how they say “revenge is a dish best served cold?” Well, here is my ultimate revenge flick:

8 – “Dead Man’s Shoes”

Director Shane Meadows made this terrific revenge movie, starring Paddy Considine, who also-cowrote with Meadows. Check out the trailer:

Trust me when I tell you this is a dark revenge story – but I loved it!

If you want something a big more “mainstream”, how about some Michael Douglas?

7 – “Disclosure”

This is classic Michael Douglas: playing a man who is “sexually harassed” by Demi Moore – all while a really “so dated its funny” high-tech espionage story unfolds.

Michael Douglas made his “penis trilogy” around this time – click on my story to see how “Disclosure” is part of his perfect storm of penis films!

https://johnrieber.com/2014/01/13/fatal-attractions-basic-instincts-full-disclosure-the-infamous-michael-douglas-penis-trilogy/

Now, time to head to the 70’s, where all the women were “Dirty” and the men were “Crazy!”

6 – “Dirty Mary Crazy Larry”

Peter Fonda and Susan George star in this wild action adventure – if you haven’t heard of it, you are missing out!

Check out the trailer:

Susan George is a great Actress, and has an incredible career – see all of her great movies, from “Straw Dogs” to “Mandingo” by clicking here:

https://johnrieber.com/2017/07/21/terrific-actress-susan-george-from-straw-dogs-to-dirty-mary-and-mandingo-a-controversial-british-sex-kitten/

Now, time to celebrate the beginning of the longest running movie series – which began in 1962 when we first met Secret Agent 007!

5 – “Dr. NO”

Yes, Sean Connery became a super star when he starred as James Bond, the coolest spy in the world.

Here is the first ever trailer, introducing 007 to the world!

“Dr. NO” was a huge hit, and it led to the greatest action series of all time – and not only was Connery the greatest Bond, but many feel that Ursula Andress was the greatest “Bond Girl” as well!

Andress set the stage for all Bond girls to come – click here to find out why her nickname was Ursula “UNDRESS!”

https://johnrieber.com/2016/03/28/ursula-andress-or-undress-007s-first-bond-girl-60s-sex-kitten-frolicked-with-nature/

In 1980, Director Brian DePalma made one of his greatest movies, the shocking thriller:

4 – “Dressed To Kill”

Angie Dickinson stars as a sexually repressed woman who picks up the wrong man at a museum…check out the trailer:

DePalma was on a roll at this time, having made “Carrie” and “The Fury”, and next up was “Scarface!”

DePalma’s shocker is worth watching, as is this controversial shocker from a decade earlier:

3 – “The Devils”

Director Ken Russell made this intense drama about possessed Nuns – with a strong sexual desire!

Oliver Reed stars as the “Witchfinder” who must determine if these Nuns are possessed by the devil!

See the trailer, and bunch of movie trivia, here:

https://johnrieber.com/2014/12/23/unleash-the-devils-movie-lovers-demand-ken-russells-sexy-controversial-masterpiece/

Here’s another controversial film from 1971 – with the iconic line:

“Do You Feel Lucky, Punk?”

2 – “Dirty Harry”

Clint Eastwood starred as “Dirty Harry” Callahan, who was given every crummy job the SF police department didn’t want to handle.

His iconic monologue near the beginning of the film cemented this as a classic movie thriller, but it was controversial at the time for its portrayal of police – read more about it here:

https://johnrieber.com/2017/01/12/clint-eastwoods-1971-triple-play-of-classic-films-dirty-harry-play-misty-for-me-the-beguiled/

Finally, I will leave you with an interesting comedy/drama that will have you whistling a classic tune!

1 – “Duets”

Gwyneth Paltrow, Huey Lewis and Paul Giamatti head up a great cast of karaoke singers who dream of winning the big competition – here is the trailer:

My favorite moment in the movie is when Paul Giamatti gets up and sings Todd Rundgren’s classic song “Hello, It’s Me.” Click here to hear the song:

https://johnrieber.com/2015/08/12/paul-giamatti-singing-duets-with-gwyneth-paltrow-todd-rundgren-hello-its-me-karaoke/

Now everyone knows I am a huge fan of Todd as well:

This is one of his signature songs, and he still performs in on tour.

Here is Todd performing it live in 2016:

There are my ten “D” movies, I’m sure I left out many more – leave a note to let me know!

Also, I have been posting these stories for a while now, including this classic slice of cinema:

It’s just one of the ten “A” movies, I shared, so make sure to check out my “A” list here:

https://johnrieber.com/2017/07/09/give-me-an-a-ten-classic-films-that-begin-with-a movies-a-z/

And of course, the “B” list included this classic movie:

One of cinema’s steamiest film noir made the list, and you can see all of my “B” choices here:

https://johnrieber.com/2017/07/13/b-movies-indeed-my-list-of-ten-great-films-beginning-with-b/

Those two letters didn’t include this film, which is one of my all-time favorites:

That is, of course, a film that begins with the letter “C” – and you can see them all here:

https://johnrieber.com/2017/07/16/the-c-list-great-cult-movies-beginning-with-c/

Let me know your favorites!

Welcome To The Hollywood Bowl!

Just a short distance from Hollywood and Vine, the iconic Hollywood Bowl has a terrific lineup of performances all summer long, including tonight, when Kool & the Gang were headlining a night of funk, with Morris Day & The Time as the opening act…except there was a third group on the bill – who came out to warm up the crowd and wow them with several of their iconic hits:

The Village People!

Yes, it was straight back to the disco era when the wildly-dressed group warmed up the crowd of 17,000+ with a short set of classic hits…here I am with my wife Alex and her sister Lauren, ready to dance the night away…

The Village People may have changed a bit over the years, but they seem to be more popular than ever!

As noted by The Hollywood Bowl website:

“The one-of- a-kind VILLAGE PEOPLE is synonymous with dance music. Their impact on music has earned them the title “Kings of Disco” and they have sold more than 100 million recordings worldwide. These six talented men combine energetic choreography with outrageous fun and lots of bumping and grinding! Their music provides entertainment for all and will have you singing & dancing!”

A1J7KX Can t Stop The Music Year 1980 Director Nancy Walker Village People

More on this photo in a moment, but for those who wonder who is still in the band, here is the latest on the group:

“In the summer of 2013, Let’s Go Back to the Dance Floor, Village People’s first worldwide release in 25 years (available on iTunes, Amazon etc.) and written and produced by Harry Casey (KC & the Sunshine Band!) joins their other hits as a super-popular addition to their stage show. It’s also the last collaboration with beloved members David Hodo and Jeff Olson before they retire after decades with the group. Jim Newman replaces Jeff Olson as the Cowboy and Bill Whitefield takes over the Construction Worker from David Hodo– Felipe, Alex, Ray and Eric remain as the longtime members. You can’t stop the music…and the party continues.”

And the party did in fact continue at The Hollywood Bowl on July 22, as dusk settled over the crowd, the boys came on stage and put on a party!

They had the crowd in the palm of their construction worker/policeman/indian chief/cowboy/soldier hands from the first note – but of course, everyone was there to hear that one song:

“YMCA” Live!

Yes, it was all about this one song – and they didn’t disappoint – here is the video of the live perforance, beginning with a tutorial by the band on how to form the letters to the song – it’s a great live moment as 17,000+ dance to the music:

As you can see, it was an amazing night for everyone – and as the colors show, a night of inclusion for all as well!

FYI, The Guinness World Records book certified The Village People’s Sun Bowl appearance on December 31, 2008 as the world’s largest YMCA dance with over 40,000 fans “doing the YMCA moves” while the group performed!

Speaking of great Village People performances:

CAN’T STOP THE MUSIC, front from left: The Village People: Ray Simpson, Randy Jones, Glenn Hughes, David Hodo, Alex Briley, Felipe Rose, 1980, © Associated Film Distribution

Yes, the boys starred in the amazingly ill-conceived musical starring Bruce Jenner called “Can’t Stop The Music!”

Yes folks, this is as wildly entertaining and misguided as anything you have ever seen! Click here for the trailer and the story behind this film:

https://johnrieber.com/2015/07/16/the-caitlyn-jenner-nobody-knows-bruce-jenners-cant-stop-the-music-madness/

Let me know if you enjoyed The Village People at The Hollywood Bowl!

Albert Brooks Gets “Lost” Again!

Actor/Director Albert Brooks posted this note on Twitter, letting fans know that The Criterion Collection is releasing a new, expanded blu-ray edition of his 1985 comic gem “Lost In America!”

“You couldn’t change your life on a hundred thousand a year?”

The film includes this great line about changing your life…and so much more!

First of all, bravo to Criterion for continuing to release remastered editions of great movies, with tons of extras!

Before we dig into the details, refresh your memory about his comic cult classic:

Prior to making “Lost In America” in 1985, Albert Brooks was well known in the 70’s for his short films that aired on “Saturday Night Live” – he was also a Standup Comedian, Writer, Director and Actor. His first film was “Real Life”, a parody of the groundbreaking PBS documentary-series about the Loud family…

This prescient comedy imagined an era when camera crews invaded your house and captured your entire life – without being “intrusive”…so the Camera people wore them on their heads!

For his second film, Brooks told the story of a couple who decide to “drop out” of society and travel across America by Winnebago…

Julie Hagerty plays his wife – you will know her from “Airplane” – and as you can see from the trailer, EVERYTHING goes wrong:

“Twenty-two, twenty-two, come on back to me, come on back to me!”

Julie Hagerty is incredible in the film, exhibiting perfect comic timing, especially when she has a “hunch” on the number twenty-two at the Roulette table…

While their journey to “touch Indians” is a fiasco, the film is a hilarious look at Reagan-era Yuppies who want to drop out, but still need their big salaries – as the Employment Director in a small town says to him:

“You couldn’t change your life on a hundred thousand a year?”

Bravo to Monica Johnson, who co-wrote the script. Here is what’s on the Criterion Blu-Ray:

DIRECTOR-APPROVED EDITION:

New 2K digital restoration, with uncompressed monaural soundtrack on the Blu-ray
New conversation with director Albert Brooks and filmmaker Robert Weide
New interviews with actor Julie Hagerty, executive producer Herb Nanas, and comic writer and director James L. Brooks
Trailer
PLUS: An essay by critic Scott Tobias

I can’t wait to see this again, and check out all of the supplements…

If you aren’t familiar with Brooks, you are missing out on terrific movies like this one and “Defending Your Life” with Meryl Streep – and Brooks is a great Actor as well:

Brooks is great in “Drive” with Ryan Gosling from a few years ago…as well as “Broadcast News” and “Out Of Sight” – check out more of his great performances here:

https://johnrieber.com/2012/01/22/albert-brooks-great-acting-moments-pt-1/

Here’s a film you may not even remember he starred in:

That’s right, Brooks was one of Cybil Sheppard’s co-workers in the film – and he was sharp in the role:

“Taxi Driver” is one of the greatest films ever made, and it recently had a big 40th anniversary screening – check it out here:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/04/21/travis-bickle-turns-40-taxi-driver-tribeca-screening-3-reasons-to-love-him-one-big-reason-to-hate/

Let me know if you haven’t seen “Lost In America”!

Happy 72nd Birthday To Helen Mirren!

Iconic Actress Hellen Mirren turned 72 on July 26 – and it’s time to celebrate some of her early work in film!

Helen Mirren has become well known for such films as her Oscar-winning turn in “The Queen” and recent hits like “Eye In The Sky” and “RED”. But did you know she got her start in a more “natural” film?

Her breakout role came early: in 1969 she co-starred with James Mason in a film about artistic freedom and rebirth – and the “age of consent”.

Mason plays an Australian artist who wants to regain the edge he had as a young man, so he heads to a small island on the Great Barrier Reef.

There he meets a young Helen Mirren, who ends up becoming his model, and his muse…check out the trailer, which tries a bit too hard to make this movie far more salacious than it is:

Mirren captures the innocence of a young girl who is on the verge of becoming a woman, and the film is clearly “of its time”…legendary Director Michael Powell’s last film.

Mirren went on to co-star in my second favorite film of all time:

The Brilliant “O Lucky Man!”

Mirren co-starred with Malcolm McDowell in an amazing film from 1973 called “O Lucky Man”, which was written by McDowell and directed by Lindsay Anderson.

If you haven’t heard of this movie, check out my story, with the film’s trailer and lots of great trivia about this masterpiece of cinema:

https://johnrieber.com/2013/03/22/o-lucky-man-malcolm-mcdowells-seinfeld-connection/

Mirren also starred in one of the best gangster films ever made, the gritty and violent “The Long Good Friday”:

The late Bob Hoskins gave the performance of his career as the gangster who doesn’t see that times are changing in the London underworld…

Mirren is his loyal wife who is trying to keep her husband alive in a rapidly changing world – she is terrific in the movie, one of the best gangster films ever…read more about this great film here:

https://johnrieber.com/2012/08/08/bob-hoskins-retires-celebrate-this-great-long-good-friday-star/

Mirren has been in more than a hundred films and TV shows in her career, many of them unique, challenging and very adult in theme.

And speaking of that, let’s look at one of the most controversial movies ever made – with an All-Star cast!

Caligula!

This is one of the most notorious films ever released for many reasons, like the fact that an all-star cast finds themselves in a xxx-rated film!

First, let’s look at the trailer, which is for the R-rated version of the film – just one of several cuts that were shown…

Here is the plot: ”

The rise and fall of the notorious Roman Emperor Caligula, showing the violent methods that he employs to gain the throne, and the subsequent insanity of his reign – he gives his horse political office and humiliates and executes anyone who even slightly displeases him. He also sleeps with his sister, organises elaborate orgies and embarks on a fruitless invasion of England before meeting an appropriate end.”

Malcolm McDowell chews up the scenery in the film, which also starred such legendary Actors as Peter O’ Toole an Sir John Gielgud!

Mirren also starred in the film, which was the first mainstream movie produced by the Publisher of Penthouse magazine…

The Many Cuts Of “Caligula!”

Here is where the story of “Caligula” gets even more fascinating: there are various versions of the film, ranging from the “R”-rated version which was heavily edited to remove a lot of sex and graphic violence…

There is also the legendary 160-minute “hardcore” version of the film, where xxx-rated sex scenes were added to the movie long after production had finished!

ROMAN ORGY SCENE IN THE FILM – CALIGULA (1979)
01/05/1979
CTD11873…Scarborough…North Yorkshire…England…Group Shot

The film was always intended to be a graphic look at this controversial leader, and the film’s original Director Tinto Brass had a long history making “software” erotica – but this went even too far for him!

What happened was this: Penthouse publisher Bob Guccione added hardcore sex scenes into the movie – long after the original cast had finished filming – they had no idea it was being done!

Acclaimed writer Gore Vidal did not want credit for his work on the screenplay, and legendary Actors Peter O’Toole and John Gielgud claimed to have been unaware hardcore sex footage was being shot for the film.

So, Was The Film “Disowned” By The Creators?

Even though the Actors had no idea what was happening behind-the-scenes, apparently the film’s creative team wasn’t upset because of the sex.

Here is great trivia courtesy of IMDB:

“Despite popular beliefs, Gore Vidal and Tinto Brass did not disown this film because Bob Guccione inserted hardcore sex and graphic violence sequences and changed the point of the film.

In reality, only five or six minutes of the 156-minute version of the film was part of Guccione’s reshoot – that five or six minutes consists of the lesbian tryst in the secret room, and several inserts in the imperial bordello scene.”

“Everything else was shot by Brass. Vidal disowned the film because Brass and lead actor Malcolm McDowell changed the point of view of his screenplay. Brass disowned it because Guccione locked him out of the editing room (some in the industry suspect it was because Brass didn’t want to use Guccione’s hardcore inserts) after assembling the first 40 minutes (which was probably disassembled shortly afterward).

Guccione then proceeded to edit the film himself, but he often chose shots that were never meant to be included (the many zooms, out-of-focus shots, etc.), and also cut up certain scenes and put them in the wrong order.”

Hear The Inside Story!

Now you can hear exactly what happened here, by some of the stars involved!

In 2007, Image Entertainment released a 3-disc special edition known as the Imperial Edition. It features two cuts of the film, the 156-minute print and a new edit created from an alternate pre-release version which re-arranges some scenes and does not include most of the explicit sexual inserts added by Guccione (a few shots were left in by mistake and various outtakes from Brass’ shoot and a handful of 16 mm behind-the-scenes footage were used to fill in for the deleted material).

Both Malcolm McDowell and Helen Mirren take part in a full-length audio commentary, discussing the non-hardcore, pre-release version of the film – the film they THOUGHT they were making…the DVD also includes interviews with Tinto Brass, who discusses the film’s hectic production and botched editing; and Penthouse Pet Lori Wagner, who discusses the addition of the hardcore footage, including the lesbian sex scene in which she participated.

There is also a booklet included with the 3-disc set includes a discussion of the many different versions of the film, and states that a significant amount of footage remains unaccounted for – this movie should be studied in film school as a classic example of “crazy gone wild” – and with so much behind-the-scenes information and commentary, here is a ton to study!

Mirren of course has gone on to make many great movies and TV shows, but these early films showcased her beauty, talent and passion for performance that have stayed with her ever since!

Get Ready For Some “E”eccentric Cinema!

My alphabetical countdown of my favorite movies – the 26-part “Movies A-Z” – continues with the letter “E” – another letter full of incredible cinema – as always, I have tried to find some mainstream choices as well as cult cinema and eclectic movies that may not be on your radar!

Remember, this is not a countdown, I am just listing ten great films in no particular order, so let’s get started – with a black comedy that shows how corrupt elections can be – and what certain candidates will do to win – whatever the cost – sound familiar?

10 – “Election”

Reese Witherspoon starred with Matthew Broderick in this 1999 black comedy about a high school election that spirals wildly out of control, and how the campaign changed both of their lives forever.

Check out the trailer:

This is a great movie from Director Alexander Payne, who also made the terrific “About Schmidt” and “Sideways”. “Election” is a really funny, acerbic and timely film!

Now, I want to share one of cinema’s most original journeys ever!

9 – “Enter The Void”

Argentinan Director Gasper Noe takes you on a mesmerizing journey through Tokyo – take a look at the trailer:

This is a challenging and hypnotic film – from a Director who has made such controversial films as “Irreversible” and “Love”. They are provocative films that will immerse you in darkly troubled worlds, and in this case, with a visual style that is mesmerizing:

“Enter The Void: is one of the most unique movies you will ever see – it’s one of three very challenging films that I focused on recently – take a look here at all of them:

https://johnrieber.com/2014/11/01/audacious-mind-blowing-cinema-enter-the-void-vanishing-waves-and-holy-motors/

I love movies, and so does Tim Burton – in fact, he loves the story of Hollywood, especially those who struggle to make it in the business – case in point: Director Ed Wood, widely considered to be the worst Director of all time!

8 – “Ed Wood”

Was he Hollywood’s worst Director? Who cares, he made his movies like “Plan Nine From Outer Space” – and for that we should applaud him – as Burton did with this terrific bio-pic starring Johnny Depp in a terrific performance – check out the trailer:

I love this movie. Johnny Depp gives Wood a warmth and empathy – and he wears a pink Angora sweater very well! Bill Murray is terrific in a supporting role as well…

Martin Landau’s amazing portrayal of Bela Lugosi won his the Academy Award as Best Supporting Actor….RIP to Landau – you can see more about this great Actor here:

https://johnrieber.com/2017/07/17/rip-martin-landau-oscar-winning-actor-and-mission-impossible-star/

Speaking of amazing performances, how about these two Hollywood legends battling it out atop a moving train?

7 – “Emperor Of The North Pole”

This 1973 film is a gritty action drama that took place during the depression – and the title was so confusing to people – expecting a film about Santa Claus – that they shorted the title after the film was already released!

“Emperor” was directed by Robert Aldrich, who also made “The Dirty Dozen” and “Whatever Happened To Baby Jane.” It the story of a hobo, Lee Marvin, who attempts to ride the “north Pole” train, while sadistic guard Ernest Borgnine stalks him! Here is the trailer:

These two legendary Actors take each other on in a brutal series of fights on the moving train – while there are moments of quiet reflection, this really is a classic action thriller – one of many that Lee Marvin starred in during his career – here are more:

https://johnrieber.com/2012/11/01/hit-man-tough-guy-emperor-too-lee-marvin-hollywoods-coolest-tough-guy/

Marvin was a Hollywood legend, and so is Julia Roberts – perhaps for different reasons, but she won her Oscar for a dynamite portrayal of a woman who put her life on the line to discover the truth!

6 – “Erin Brockovich”

In 2000, Roberts mesmerized us as Brockovich, a woman who stumbles onto a legal case that made her famous. Here is the trailer:

ERIN BROCKOVICH, director Steven Soderbergh, Julia Roberts, on-set, 2000, © Universal

Director Steven Soderbergh made a dynamite film that year – called “Traffic!” That’s right, he was nominated twice in 2000 for directing that film as well – and that is the one he won the Oscar for, while Roberts took home the acting award for “Brockovich”!

Now, one of horror’s more iconic images:

5 – “The Evil Dead”

Director Sam Raimi gathered a bun of friends, went into the woods, and created on of cinema’s most iconic horror films! Check out the original trailer:

Bruce Campbell became a star thanks to this 1981 film, which had two sequels that are equally as beloved, especially because “Evil Dead 2” is as much a comedy as a horror film!

See more about this and other classic independent horror films here:

https://johnrieber.com/2012/10/07/halloween-horror-bloody-tension-scary-changelings-and-the-evil-dead/

Next up is a great David Cronenberg film starring Viggo Mortensen and Naomi Watts:

4 – “Eastern Promises”

Cronenberg made two great films with Mortensen – “A History Of Violence” and then in 2007, this great crime drama.

A Russian teenager living in London who dies during childbirth leaves clues to a midwife in her journal that could tie her child to a rape involving a violent Russian mob family.

here is the trailer:

Naomi Watts is great in the film, but it’s Mortensen’s fully nude knife fight in a steam bath that is the centerpiece of the movie – wow!

Next up is the scariest horror film of all time – with iconic moments like this:

Yes, the pea soup flies in the shocking film known as:

3 – “The Exorcist”

What can you say? It’s one of the greatest films of all time – directed by William Friedkin, starring Ellen Burstyn and Linda Blair as the 12-year old girls possessed by Satan – or is she?

Here is a look at the filming of the movie – with lots of great trivia:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/10/31/the-exorcist-the-greatest-horror-film-of-all-shocktober-2016-says-happy-halloween/

Everyone knows I love kung fu movies, and here is the greatest one ever made:

2 – “Enter The Dragon”

Bruce Lee became an international superstar because of this film, which showcased his amazing physical ability – none of his scenes were sped up – this was Lee in real time! Check out the trailer:

Bruce Lee died soon after this film became a success – what a loss – he was one of cinema’s most dynamic characters – if you don’t believe me, check out this clip of him playing competitive ping pong – using nunchucks!

https://johnrieber.com/2016/11/27/happy-birthday-bruce-lee-lees-amazing-nunchuck-ping-pong-his-brilliant-movie-career/

Wow, what an incredible athlete.

Finally, the last “E” movie on my list is also from the early 70’s – a counterculture classic:

1 – “Electra Glide In Blue”

Robert Blake starred as a Highway Patrolman who uncovers a murder conspiracy – check out the trailer – and pay attention to the musical score over the beginning:

Robert Blake is terrific in the film, but the music is also unique – it was produced by the film’s Director James William Guercio, who was the Manager of the band Chicago, who performs it!

Band members also have small roles in the film as outlaw bikers – there is so much more to share about this classic film – see it here:

https://johnrieber.com/2013/04/19/electra-glide-in-blue-forgotten-masterpiece-robert-blakes-best-role/

Of course I left many great “E” films off the list, so feel free to remind me!

If you’ve missed any of my other letters, here’s a short recap:

An amazingly iconic movie poster sets the stage for a list of classic “A” movies, see them here:

https://johnrieber.com/2017/07/09/give-me-an-a-ten-classic-films-that-begin-with-a-movies-a-z/

If you want to see some classic “B” movies, try this one:

“Broadcast News” is a great movie. Here are more of my favorite “B” movies as well:

https://johnrieber.com/2017/07/13/b-movies-indeed-my-list-of-ten-great-films-beginning-with-b/

I also posted on ten great “C” movies, like this cult classic:

“Chuck & Buck” was joined by a wide range of great movies that began with the letter “C” – see them here:

https://johnrieber.com/2017/07/16/the-c-list-great-cult-movies-beginning-with-c/

I also posted a list of ten films that began with the letter “D”, like this one:

Yes, “The Sushi Bites Back!” That’s just one of the amazing movies with the letter “D” – see them here:

https://johnrieber.com/2017/07/22/movies-with-a-d-ten-classic-d-list-movies-revenge-sex-the-dawn-of-007/

Let me know what I left off the “E” list and don’t forget that “Enter The Dragon” has an amazing new blu-ray!

Welcome To The Hotel California!

The iconic Beverly Hills Hotel on Sunset Blvd announces that you are at the center of the entertainment universe…the streets surrounding the hotel are lines with palm trees and movie stars:

While Beverly Hills is one of America’s most glamorous cities, it is also filled with great houses like this – which I walk by on a regular basis:

Yes, this beautiful house in Beverly Hills has a Hollywood history, because there is a story behind this door – it’s a story of sex, betrayal – AND MURDER!

Lana Turner’s Personal Hollywood Scandal!

Here was the shocking LA Times headline: a huge movie star’s daughter stabbed a mobster to death!

Here is the story:

Lana Turner was one of Hollywood’s biggest stars – and she was dating reputed Mobster Johnny Stompanato – in fact, the great film “L.A. Confidential” includes a scene with Turner and Stompanato at The Formosa Cafe in Hollywood:

See more about this iconic Hollywood institution here:

https://johnrieber.com/2017/06/07/has-hollywoods-iconic-formosa-cafe-been-saved-finally-a-great-hollywood-story/

Turner’s love affair was quite scandalous at the time, since Stompanato’s mob ties were well-reported – and it was allegedly a volatile relationships well – in fact, it was so volatile that it ended with the mobster dead on Turner’s floor!

Here is what happened, according to news reports:

“On April 4, 1958, at age 14, Cheryl Crane stabbed her mother’s boyfriend Johnny Stompanato to death. It was said that she was defending her Mom, and Johnny ran into the knife.”

Yes, the daughter was holding a knife to protect her Mom, and Stompanato ran into it!

The case immediately became a huge Hollywood scandal – a big star, a dead Mobster – the headlines wrote themselves! Ultimately, the case went to trial – here is Turner discussing the murder weapon on the witness stand…

At the end of the trial, the killing was ruled a justifiable homicide: Crane was deemed to have been protecting her mother.

Of course, this was huge news in those days – and only cemented Turner’s reputation as a wild cat…

The James Bond Connection!

This is a fascinating true Hollywood story, and there is a lot of back story here as well, like this trivia – it turned out that Stompanato was a very jeolous guy, and he didn’t like his movie star girlfriend kissing 007!

According to wikipedia:

“Stompanato was well-known to have been abusive, extremely jealous of Turner and had previously pointed a gun at actor Sean Connery, her co-star in ‘Another Time, Another Place’, only to have Connery “take the gun from him, beat him and force him from the movie set” and “Scotland Yard had him deported”!

Wow! What a scandalous altercation for the young Actor who would become the first James Bond 007 a few years later!

Now, here’s a recent twist in the case:

A new book suggests that Stompanato was murdered – by Turner!

In “Lana Turner: Hearts and Diamonds Take All”, Author Darwin Porter reveals interviews with some of the case’s key figures, including detective Fred Otash, which tell a different story.

Before his death in 1992, Mr Otash apparently admitted rearranging the crime scene with Miss Turner’s lawyer, Jerry Giesler. He also said Mr Giesler – whom Miss Turner called before police – urged his client to let her daughter take the blame because, as a minor, she would not face a trial. The book claims Mr Otash said: ‘I was the one who wiped the fingerprints off the knife in Lana’s bathroom sink. I was a naughty boy doing what I’m not supposed to do.’

Well, this is a fascinating twist – no idea how true these allegations are, but if you want to read more, here is the story in the Daily Mail:

Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/tvshowbiz/article-4347848/Did-Hollywood-sex-symbol-Lana-Turner-kill-lover.html#ixzz4merejzfA

And if you want to read more about the Stompanato case, here is a great writeup from the LA Times:

http://www.latimes.com/local/california/la-me-stompanato-turner-20150810-story.html

The Lana Turner / Johnny Stompanato story is a classic “True Hollywood Story”.

Hollywood’s history is filled with “mysteries & scandals” like Lana Turner’s, and this one as well:

Beverly Hills Sex Kitten Yvette Vickers is another Hollywood tragedy – she was found dead in her home after living in seclusion for years! Read the story here:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/01/27/death-in-beverly-hills-the-shocking-story-of-legendary-sex-kitten-yvette-vickers/

Here is the Lana Turner house on a sunny Sunday morning in Beverly Hills last week:

Settle in at the cinema! It’s time to have some fun with movies that begin with the letter “F”, all part of my “A-Z” of film!

Remember, while these are ten GREAT movies with an “F”, they are not in any order – all ten are amazing, mix and match and watch them all!

Let’s get started with the greatest “empowered female” exploitation film of all time!

10 – “Faster Pussycat! Kill! Kill!”

It has one of the most iconic movie titles in history – and it celebrates female empowerment!

Director Russ Meyer LOVED WOMEN – in fact, most of his movies involved women who loved to kick ass!

“Faster Pussycat! Kill! Kill!” not only has the greatest movie title ever, but it parades a bevy of buxom women across the screen – living hard and loving hard as well – that’s what Meyer was known For!

Check out this campy trailer:

Meyer’s films are low budget classics, and this is without a doubt his most memorable. See more about the cast of “Pussycat” here!

https://johnrieber.com/2012/03/16/sexploitation-classics-the-russ-meyer-edition/

Speaking of empowered women, what about Frances McDormand as the smart Cop who solves a murder?

9 – “Fargo”

Frances McDormand won the Academy Award for Best Actress in 1996 for her work in this brilliant thriller – check out the trailer:

William H. Macy was also outstanding as the used car salesman who unwittingly sets off a murder spree – you can click here to see more about the film:

https://johnrieber.com/2012/04/12/hungry-cops-working-girls-and-martyrs-these-women-can-act/

From one classic movie to another – and I’m serious, this next movie was nominated for a Best Picture Oscar in 1987!

8 – “Fatal Attraction”

Yes, it’s a pulp classic, but it’s also a great film! Check out the iconic trailer:

Glenn Close was also Oscar-nominated for her performance, a brilliant portrayal of a woman who “won’t be ignored!”

Here is some great trivia for you:

Did you know that the boiling bunny was real? That’s just one fascinating bit of trivia about this great film, and you can see a lot more here:

https://johnrieber.com/2015/12/26/elevator-sex-boiled-bunnies-the-wild-oral-history-of-fatal-attraction/

Glenn Close gave an amazing performance, and next up is another terrific one as well – by Michelle Pfeiffer:

7 – “The Fabulous Baker Boys”

This 1989 musical drama tells the story of two brothers – The Fabulous Baker Boys – who perform together in Seattle bars, wedding receptions, or wherever they can book a gig for “piano duos.”

They decide to hire a singer – and their world changes forever – check out the trailer:

Michelle Pfeiffer is terrific as the “singer with spunk” who quickly shakes things up between the brothers – who are played by real life brothers, Jeff and Beau Bridges….

This is a great film – terrific performances, a sharp script that is funny honest and heartbreaking at times.

Next up is a gritty crime drama from 1973 starring one of Hollywood’s legendary bad boys:

6 – “The Friends Of Eddie Coyle”

Robert Mitchum gives one of his great, late career performances as Eddie Coyle, a “worker bee” in the world of Boston mob life, who is facing prison time and quickly running out of options…check out the classic movie trailer:

Criterion has a great new blu-ray with a pristine copy of the film – a great action drama – and if you want a full night of “mobster middle men”, this makes a great double bill with Al Pacino in “Donnie Brasco” – see more about that here:

https://johnrieber.com/2012/12/29/everyday-goodfellas-donnie-brasco-and-eddie-coyle-great-mob-movies/

There are many great action movies, and Director John Woo made a couple of the best, like this one:

5 – “Face/Off”

This 1997 action thriller is a classic!

John Travolta plays an FBI Special Agent trying to find a biological weapon placed in Los Angeles by a sadistic terrorist-for-hire and criminal mastermind, played by Nicolas Cage.

Oh yeah, and then they trade faces!

Check out the trailer:

You know when they say it’s “so crazy you can’t make it up?” Well, this movie is that! And as terrific as John Travolta is in the film, he’s no match for the “subtle” acting of Nicolas Cage, who chews up the scenery in the most wildly entertaining way!

I love Nicolas Cage as an Actor because he will put it all out there – and I really do wish that Tim Burton’s Superman film starring Cage had become a reality:

There is a terrific documentary that tells that story – see the trailer here:

https://johnrieber.com/2017/05/26/superman-lives-nicolas-cage-is-superman-incredible-documentary-on-tim-burtons-amazing-superman-reboot-debacle/

In 2002, Director Todd Haynes told the story of a frustrated housewife in the 50’s – who befriends a black man as her own husband discovers Conneticut’s gay underground:

4 – “Far From Heaven”

Julianne Moore, Dennis Quaid and Dennis Haysbert star – check out the trailer:

Director Haynes evokes the tone and style of a classic Douglas Sirk 50’s melodrama, as he tackles the issues of sexuality and racial tension in a bucolic northeast town:

Julianne Moore is, as always, dynamite in the film – a great drama in the classic 50’s style…now, if you want to celebrate movies “of their time”, then how about this!

3 – “Fuzz”

Yes, the early 70’s were full of action comedies like this one starring Burt Reynolds and Raquel Welch as Boston cops out to stop a mad bomber!

Check out the trailer to see Burt Reynolds in a Nun’s habit!

“Fuzz” is good, old-fashioned 70’s movie fun, with offbeat humor that winks to the audience – along with fun action scenes.

Allegedly, Raquel Welch hated Burt Reynolds at the time and refused to do scenes with him! Here is more about the movie and about Raquel, who has an incredible body of work!

https://johnrieber.com/2016/07/18/raquel-welch-dinosaur-slayer-burt-reynolds-feud-seinfeld-catfight-a-million-reasons-to-love-this-iconic-sex-kitten/

Any list of “F” films has to include the 1971 Best Picture, which has one of the greatest action sequences ever captured on film!

2 – “The French Connection”

Gene Hackman also won an Oscar as Best Actor for his portrayal of the NY Cop Popeye Doyle, who tries to break up a french drug ring!

The action centerpiece involves a car chasing a subway train – and Director William Friedkin operated the camera from inside Hackman’s car because it was too dangerous to ask the Director Of Photography to do it!

Click here for more trivia about this movie, and for my list of Gene Hackman’s ten greatest performances:

https://johnrieber.com/2017/01/30/happy-birthday-gene-hackman-ten-roles-that-defined-a-hollywood-legend/

Finally, I wrap my list with an obscure 70’s horror film from France!

1 – “Fascination”

Cult Director Jean Rollin has made many moody, eerie horror films, but his one from 1979 is my favorite – check out the trailer:

How can you not love a film with this imagery? While Rollins made many classic horror films, this is his best – you can see more of them here:

https://johnrieber.com/2015/09/13/bloody-fascination-sexy-shockers-wildest-cult-horror-directors/

I love discovering obscure movies and the Artists who create them, and share them on list like this….like this one from my “A” list:

Greg Kinnear’s portrayal of Actor Bb Crane is fascinating – see more about it – and all of my “A” list films here:

https://johnrieber.com/2017/07/09/give-me-an-a-ten-classic-films-that-begin-with-a-movies-a-z/

If you want to see some classic “B” movies, try this one:

“Body Heat” is a great film noir, smoldering and sensual, with a script that darts and weaves as the net around William Hurt closes. Here are more of my favorite “B” movies as well:

https://johnrieber.com/2017/07/13/b-movies-indeed-my-list-of-ten-great-films-beginning-with-b/

I also posted on ten great “C” movies, like this cult classic:

“Chuck & Buck” was joined by a wide range of great movies that began with the letter “C” – see them here:

https://johnrieber.com/2017/07/16/the-c-list-great-cult-movies-beginning-with-c/

I also posted a list of ten films that began with the letter “D”, like this one:

A great slice of 90’s pulp! That’s just one of the amazing movies with the letter “D” – see them here:

https://johnrieber.com/2017/07/22/movies-with-a-d-ten-classic-d-list-movies-revenge-sex-the-dawn-of-007/

My most recent post was for “E” movies, and how can you go wrong with this one?

The “subtle” charms of “The Exorcist” are just one of the “E” gems, see them here:

https://johnrieber.com/2017/07/28/incredible-cinema-with-a-capital-e-my-movies-a-z-countdown-continues/

Let me know how many of my “F” films you’ve seen!

Celebrating Cinema – One Letter At A Time!

For those who have been playing along, I’ve been looking at great films that begin with the same letters – so far I’ve gone from “A” to “F”…highlighting great movies like these:

The concept is simple, but it’s a fun way to share ten movies from each letter – in no particular order, but I did try to mix up genres so there were blockbusters and cult gems as well.

Of course, I missed some great ones – I mean, how could I leave this out of the “B” list?

Most recently, my list of ten great “F” movies didn’t have this masterpiece:

As you can see, there are just too many great films – still, it’s great when people give me more options!

If you’ve missed any of my letters, here’s a short recap of “Movies A-F”:

An amazingly iconic movie poster sets the stage for a list of classic “A” movies – from “Alien” to “Auto Focus” and more – see them all here:

https://johnrieber.com/2017/07/09/give-me-an-a-ten-classic-films-that-begin-with-a-movies-a-z/

If you want to see some classic “B” movies, try this one:

“Broadcast News” is a great film, a prescient look at television news in a time to great social change. Here are more of my favorite “B” movies as well:

https://johnrieber.com/2017/07/13/b-movies-indeed-my-list-of-ten-great-films-beginning-with-b/

I also posted on ten great “C” movies, like this cult classic:

“Chuck & Buck” was joined by a wide range of great movies that began with the letter “C” – see them here:

https://johnrieber.com/2017/07/16/the-c-list-great-cult-movies-beginning-with-c/

I also posted a list of ten films that began with the letter “D” – a few ere big hits like “Disclosure” with Michael Douglas – and some were more offbeat, like this one:

Yes, “The Sushi Bites Back!” That’s just one of the amazing movies with the letter “D” – see them here:

https://johnrieber.com/2017/07/22/movies-with-a-d-ten-classic-d-list-movies-revenge-sex-the-dawn-of-007/

If you like “movies with an “E”, there was classic “Evil Dead” horror, the black comedy “Election”, and this early 70’s cult gem:

This cult 70’s film is now on blu-ray – see more from my “E” list here:

https://johnrieber.com/2017/07/28/incredible-cinema-with-a-capital-e-my-movies-a-z-countdown-continues/

Finally, I recently posted my list of “F” movies like “Fargo” and “Fascination”, as well as this Best Picture nominee from 1987:

Yes, it was nominated and deservedly so, it’s classic pulp cinema that Hollywood does better than anyone! Oh, the boiled bunny was real, too! Read more here:

https://johnrieber.com/2017/07/31/my-favorite-movies-with-a-big-f-fatal-bunnies-faster-pussycats-fuzz-too/

More “Movies A-Z” to come!

Listen Up! My “A-Z” Celebration OF Cinema Continues With “G”!

Lean in closely, because I’ve got ten great films that begin with the letter “G” – if they are good enough to get Don Corleone’s attention, then they should be good enough for you!

As always, this is NOT a countdown, just ten movies from a variety of genres that capture what make cinema so great – although this list does happen to end with my favorite movie of all time!

Let’s begin with a movie that showcases some of our greatest Actors!

10 – “Glengarry Glen Ross”

Yes, this is an acting masterclass from Jack Lemmon, Ed Harris, Alan Arkin, Al Pacino and Kevin Spacey – and of course, Alec Baldwin!

It’s one of the great films about selling – and the salesmen whose motto is “Always Be Closing!”

Check out the trailer for this great 1992 film from the David Mamet play:

Here is some amazing trivia:

Alec Baldwin’s part was written specifically for the movie – that scene wasn’t in the play!

That’s right – the “always be closing” speech was written by Mamet specifically for the movie! See more great trivia here:

https://johnrieber.com/2012/08/25/a-b-c-always-be-cheering-glengarrys-brightly-burning-movie-addition-alec-baldwin/

Speaking of great performances, here is one of the great ones from the 70’s:

9 – “The Gambler”

James Caan is terrific as a gambler who just needs one more score to pay off his debts. Here is a great scene with James Woods as a banker who disrespects Caan’s Mom:

This is a terrific film about gambling addiction, and of course James Caan is perfect in the role as a guy who is on the edge…it’s one of then great “Wrath Of Caan” movies, and you can see the others here:

https://johnrieber.com/2012/02/05/the-wrath-of-caan-james-caans-greatest-hits/

As I said, I want to hit all kinds of movie genres with this countdown, so how about an offbeat British thriller from the early 70’s with a very strange title?

8 – “Girly”

A teenage girl and her brother play strange parlor games with the men who visit their house – and while “Girly” isn’t that strange of a title, you have to celebrate a neglected horror movie that had the audacity to originally be called:

“MUMSY, SONNY, NANNY AND GIRLY!”

Oh yes, it did. Here’s a spanish language trailer for the film, and guess what? Even in spanish you can see EXACTLY what it’s about!

As you can see, Girly and her brother have plans for the guys who come to visit…this is a quirky goofy British horror film from the early 70’s – one of those obscure films that has been rescued by the home video market.

You can see more funny trivia about the movie here:

https://johnrieber.com/2014/10/15/killer-girly-sex-kitten-vanessa-howards-neglected-british-horror-thriller/

Now, I am listing ten great “G” films, trying to mix and match so that I am hitting on all sorts of genres….thanks to my wife, I can share an example of pure 80’s filmmaking:

7 – “Gotcha!”

Full disclosure: I had never seen this film – but my wife did when she was young – and so now we own it, I’ve watched it, and let’s be honest – it’s kind of fun!

Check out the TV ad for the film:

Pre-“E.R.” Anthony Edwards plays a game called “Gotcha” in which he hunts and is hunted by other college students with paint guns.

Yes, this game would NEVER FLY TODAY!

While on vacation, he meets the sexy Linda Fiorentino, who gets him involved in a real-life game of espionage. It’s a fun 80’s movie and turned Florentine into a sex symbol!

Next up is a serious look at high school reunions, highlighted by this line:

“Everyone Has Swelled!”

Yes, it’s a terrific “high school reunion” film from 1997, “Grosse Pointe Blank”, starring John Cusack, Minnie Driver and an inspiringly wacky Dan Aykroyd!

This film is dark, violent, and very funny, a deadly high school reunion with laughs and romance as well! It’s part of a classic “reunion” double bill you need to watch now. Here it is:

https://johnrieber.com/2012/08/03/hilarious-high-school-reunions-romy-michelle-john-cusack-too-gross-points-indeed/

My next choice is one of 2017’s best movies so far, the acclaimed thriller that caught everyone off guard!

5 – “Get Out!”

Jordan Peele wowed Critics and audiences alike with his terrific thriller about a black man who goes into the country to meet his white girlfriend’s family – yes, it a horror version of “Guess Who’s Coming To Dinner!”

Click here to see the trailer and get more trivia on this great movie!

https://johnrieber.com/2017/03/06/get-out-and-get-to-a-theater-jordan-peele-shocks-you-with-the-best-film-of-2017/

Michael Caine is one of our greatest Actors, but you don’t think of him as a “tough guy”…well, think again:

4 – “Get Carter”

The setup for this early 70’s London gangster film is simple: Michael Caine returns to town and want to find out what happened to his brother – and nothing will stop him from getting answers…check out the trailer:

Michael Caine knows how to play it tough, and this gritty thriller is worth checking out.

Another great 70’s action film stars another iconic Actor:

3 – “The Getaway”

Steve McQueen and Ali McGraw fell in love while making this great Sam Peckinpah thriller – check out the trailer:

This is a classic 70’s action film, and Peckinpah gives it a lot of stylized action – a really fun movie with great performances as well!

See more about this film and other classic 70’s action movies here:

https://johnrieber.com/2014/01/24/the-greatest-70s-action-films-ever-biggest-stars-with-the-biggest-guns/

I love films about Hollywood, and next up is one of my favorites:

2 – “Get Shorty”

This classic 1995 comedy skewers the entertainment industry as it tells the story of a mobster who “goes Hollywood”…check out the trailer:

John Travolta and Rene Russo head a terrific cast, including Gene Hackman, Danny DeVito, James Gandolfini and Dennis Farina – from a novel by Elmore Leonard, it’s one of the best “movies about movies” – here are five more:

https://johnrieber.com/2012/02/25/lights-camera-oscars-5-more-great-movies-about-movies/

We wrap up our ten “G” movies with what is, for me, the great film of all time:

1 – “The Godfather”

What can you say? The Best Picture of 1972 is a masterpiece, the story of Don Corleone and his family 0 a cast headed up by Marlon Brando, along with James Caan, Al Pacino, Robert Duvall and Diane Keaton.

What can you say about this film – well, aside from the fact that Marlon Brando didn’t like memorizing his lines, so Robert Duvall wore them off camera!

Cue The Horses Head!

Or what about this trivia: the horses head in that bed was REAL!

Here’s so much more fun trivia about the greatest film of all time!

https://johnrieber.com/2017/02/15/brandos-cue-cards-real-horse-heads-the-godfathers-best-stories-2/

If you’ve missed any of my other letters, here’s a short recap:

An amazingly iconic movie poster sets the stage for a list of classic “A” movies, see them here:

https://johnrieber.com/2017/07/09/give-me-an-a-ten-classic-films-that-begin-with-a-movies-a-z/

If you want to see some classic “B” movies, try this one:

“Broadcast News” is a great movie. Here are more of my favorite “B” movies as well:

https://johnrieber.com/2017/07/13/b-movies-indeed-my-list-of-ten-great-films-beginning-with-b/

I also posted on ten great “C” movies, like this cult classic:

“Chuck & Buck” was joined by a wide range of great movies that began with the letter “C” – see them here:

https://johnrieber.com/2017/07/16/the-c-list-great-cult-movies-beginning-with-c/

I also posted a list of ten films that began with the letter “D”, like this one:

Yes, “The Sushi Bites Back!” That’s just one of the amazing movies with the letter “D” – see them here:

https://johnrieber.com/2017/07/22/movies-with-a-d-ten-classic-d-list-movies-revenge-sex-the-dawn-of-007/

If you like “movies with an “E”, you might like this one:

A cult 70’s gem that is now on blu-ray – see more from my “E” list here:

https://johnrieber.com/2017/07/28/incredible-cinema-with-a-capital-e-my-movies-a-z-countdown-continues/

If you like the letter “F”, then you had a ton of great films to enjoy, like this Best Picture nominee from 1987:

Yes, it was nominated and deservedly so, it’s classic pulp cinema that Hollywood does better than anyone! Oh, the boiled bunny was real, too! Read more here:

https://johnrieber.com/2017/07/31/my-favorite-movies-with-a-big-f-fatal-bunnies-faster-pussycats-fuzz-too/

Let me know your favorite “G” movie!

A New Action Buddy Comedy Is About To POP!

My friends at “Action-A-Go-Go” showcased the terrific trailer for this new TV series premiering in the US on August 9 – and here’s some more great news – Keanu Reeves is part of it!

Make Room For these “Swedish Dicks!”

There is so much great TV on right now – and you will have to make room for one more!

“SWEDISH DICKS”, the new scripted procedural comedy about a mismatched pair of L.A.-based detectives, premieres on Pop Wednesday, August 9, at 8/7c.

Check out the trailer:

First of all, Peter Stormare is a great character Actor – one of his best roles is in “Seinfeld”, as one of the thugs hired to help George move the “Frogger” game….and of course, he was great in the movie “Fargo” as well…

FARGO, Peter Stormare, Steve Buscemi, 1996

Keanu Reeves Is Part Of The Show As Well!

The great news is that “John Wick” himself, Keanu Reeves, has a recurring role in the show! Here is the press release:

Starring Peter Stormare (“John Wick: Chapter 2,” “Fargo,” “American Gods”) and actor/comedian Johan Glans (Best Male Comedian, “Swedish Comedy Awards”) with special recurring guest star Keanu Reeves (“John Wick,” “The Matrix”), SWEDISH DICKS is a half-hour single camera comedy about an aging ex-stuntman (Stormare) stuck in the past, and an overly optimistic Swedish DJ (Glans) stuck in the digital world. Together they get unstuck by forming the private detective firm ‘Swedish Dicks’ – solving some of the strangest and wildest cases L.A. has ever seen. The 10-episode first season features an array of guest stars, including Traci Lords (“Cry-Baby,” “Melrose Place”), Margaret Cho (“Fashion Police,” “Drop Dead Diva”), Anthony LaPaglia (“Without a Trace,” “Frasier”) and Eric Roberts (“The Dark Knight,” “Suits”).

So, along with having a bunch of great guest stars in the series, Keanu is going mohave a recurring role in the show.

Wow. Lots of great guest stars! Thanks to my friends at “Actionagogo” for sharing this – you should check out their website, as they have tons of new trailers and other features about action movies, tv shows, pop culture, comics – from all around the world!

http://actionagogo.com

Aside from the hit “John Wick” series, Keanu keeps making great action films, like this one he directed a couple of years ago:

“Man Of Tai Chi” is a great martial arts action film – you can see the trailer and lots more about Keanu here:

https://johnrieber.com/2013/07/28/keanu-reeves-kung-fu-fight-club-man-of-tai-chi-47-ronin/

Kudos to Keanu for taking part in this show.

Let me know if you’d be watching these “Dicks!”

Movies, Movies, Movies…

Ahh, the joy of a packed movie palace, settling in to enjoy a great film with a crowd full of friendly strangers….it’s why we love the cinema, right?

Well, we also love it because of great Actors like George C. Scott, shown here being “choked out” a bit – and guess what: Scott shows up TWICE on my “A-Z” countdown of great movies that begin at the letter “H”!

In addition to George C, we have angry cowboys, bad breakups, chainsaw hookups AND shamefully mis-titled Hookers!

As always, this is not a countdown – all ten films are equal in my book – so let’s get to counting – with an incredible action movie starring a hospital full of babies!

10 – “Hard Boiled”

I want to begin with this 1992 movie, directed by John Woo, because it has some of the most incredible action sequences ever put on film, including an extended climax that takes place inside the baby ward of a hospital!

Chow Yun Fat is outstanding as a Cop who won’t back down – even when the mob storm a children’s hospital – this is one of the most action-packed sequences ever captured on film.

“Hard Boiled” brought Chow Yun Fat and Tony Leung to American audiences – it’s an amazing action film – check out this trailer, which is basically 3 minutes of incredible action scenes set to music!

this film takes no time to mesmerize: in the first five minutes, you meet Chow Yun Fat when he literally wipes out a whole room full of gangsters – while sliding down a bannister!

If you haven’t seen this film, search it out now – it is incredible! Read more about this genre of Hong Kong action film here:

https://johnrieber.com/2012/06/30/killer-assassins-hard-boiled-killers-death-by-hammer-classic-asian-thrillers/

I am a fan of westerns: classics with John Wayne, more modern versions with Clint Eastwood and everything in between, which takes us to this gritty 1971 oater:

9 – “The Hunting Party”

This is an obscure 1971 film starring Gene Hackman, Oliver Reed and Candace Bergen – check out the trailer:

Oliver Reed is the outlaw who wants to learn to read, and Candace Bergen is the school teacher he kidnaps to teach him – except she’s also the wife of cattle baron Gene Hackman – who rustles up a “Hunting Party” and begins to pick off the bad guys one by one.

There is lots of grindhouse violence here, but kind of interesting to watch a B-movie being acted out by some well-known “A”-list Actors. This came out the same year that Hackman won Best Actor for “The French Connection!”

Speaking Of Oscar-winning performances:

8 – “Hannah & Her Sisters”

In 1986, Michael Caine and Diane Wiest both won Supporting Acting Oscars for their work in this terrific Woody Allen film – check out the trailer:

Mia Farrow and Barbara Hershey are also outstanding – a film with heart, humor and a lot of emotion. Woody Allen won the Oscar for his screenplay and the film was nominated as well for Best Picture.

Now, another Oscar-winning Actor in a very powerful role:

7 – “Hardcore”

First, while this poster is incredibly powerful, George C. Scott NEVER says that line in the movie!

He does, however, experience the most intense movie screening of all time – check out the trailer:

Paul Schrader directed Scott and Season Hubley in this gritty thriller about a father searching the porn districts of LA and San Francisco, looking for his runaway daughter.

The movie was shot in the real XXX-rated theater districts of those two cities. It’s a powerful film, and you can see more trivia about the making of it here:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/09/28/hardcore-a-journey-into-70s-porn-hell-classic-george-c-scott-performance/

Let’s lighten things up with an offbeat comedy from 1972 that made Charles Grodin a star:

6 – “The Heartbreak Kid”

Grodin stars as a man who meets – and falls in love with – the beautiful Cybill Shepard – while on his honeymoon! Check out the trailer:

This is a great film, do NOT watch the awful remake with Ben Stiller – search this one out instead.

OK, our countdown continues now with an 80’s cult classic:

5 – “Hollywood Chainsaw Hookers”

The classic horror comedy came out in 1988, and it’s an over-saturated ball of fun!

This blend of comedy, violence and good clean “naughty fun” is a real treat – and I found a clip of pre-movie star Greg Kinnear at the film’s premiere!

Check it out here:

https://johnrieber.com/2015/10/21/hollywood-chainsaw-hookers-greg-kinnears-movietime-premiere-shocking-halloween-2015-horror/

Now, time to check-in with Doctor George C. Scott again:

4 – “The Hospital”

In 1971, Scott starred in this great black comedy about hospitals, doctors, and crazy patients!

Here is the trailer:

Paddy Chaefsky wrote the screenplay, which skewers the health care industry – he would go on to the do the same to television five years later with “Network.”

See more about this movie here:

https://johnrieber.com/2014/01/16/movie-medical-malpractice-the-hospital-classic-caustic-comedy-where-does-it-hurt/

Are you yearning for some “J-Sploitation?” Or just wondering what it is?

3 – “Helldriver”

Welcome to the amazingly inventive genre of film known as “Japanese exploitation” – widely imaginative and eye popping – here is a trailer that offers up a ton of proof!

These movies always feature young women who have been wronged – and they always exact bloody revenge…this is a great example of the genre, and you can see more o them here:

https://johnrieber.com/2012/05/01/female-ninja-warriors-extreme-asian-cinema-updated/

Have you ever seen a movie that had been re-titled? Who knows why – perhaps the first name didn’t resonate – but here is one with THREE DIFFERENT NAMES!

2 – “Hooker’s Revenge!”

I love the “Queen Of Artsploitation” Christina Lindberg. In the early 70’s she shocked American audiences with her performances in european art films that were full of sex and nudity. Here is the classic “double bill” trailer for one of her movies:

There is just one problem: “Hookers Revenge” was the third title for the movie – it had already been released TWICE before in the US!

Yes, the film was originally released as “Thriller: A Cruel Picture”, then a year later as “They Call Her One Eye” – and finally years after that as “Hookers Revenge” – and it was the same movie!

It’s classic sexploitation, and Christina is terrific in it – the wild thing is the titling – because she was NEVER a hooker!

Read more about Lindberg’s amazing career, which inspired Quentin Tarantino, by clicking here:

https://johnrieber.com/2014/08/11/christina-lindberg-speaks-the-queen-of-artsploitation-bares-all/

Finally, what many consider to be the greatest film shocker of all wraps up my countdown:

1 – “Halloween”

“The night HE came home!” Director John Carpenter scared us to death with this movie – remember the classic trailer?

Jamie Lee Curtis was dubbed America’s greatest “Scream Queen” because of this film, and it has influenced horror films ever since…see the trailer and a ton of movie trivia here:

https://johnrieber.com/2016/10/03/shocktober-day-3-screams-halloween-scream-queen-jamie-lee-curtis/

So there you have it, a great collection of “H” films to get caught up on or enjoy again…

If you missed by first six letters of the alphabet, here is a story about “Movies A-F”:

https://johnrieber.com/2017/08/04/classic-movies-a-f-sixty-great-movies-with-one-thing-in-common-the-alphabet/

And you can’t miss “G”, which is full of great stuff like this:

Yes, that “Godfather” scene with the horse’s head was real! Check out all of my “G” list here:

https://johnrieber.com/2017/08/05/g-is-for-gangsters-gotcha-and-a-b-c-too-my-movie-celebration-continues-with-classic-g-films/

Let me know your favorite films with the letter “H”!

Michael Fassbender Is Gritty Cop Harry Hole, Battling “The Snowman!”

Fans of the classic “nordic noir” series of Detective Harry Hole thriller are celebrating today – the trailer for “The Snowman” is here!

“The Snowman” is from best-selling Author Jo Nesbo, and it’s a terrific thriller about a cop trying to catch a serial killer, who uses snowmen to very gruesome effect.

The first of the Harry Hole novels to be made into a movie is opening worldwide in October.

Here out this amazing trailer for the film

Michael Fassbender is perfect for the role of Harry Hole, Norway’s version of “Dirty Harry” – his unorthodox methods frustrate his superiors – and always draw out the worst in his adversaries.

According to IMDB:

“Fassbender bought drinks for the whole crew after a long day of shooting. The next day, rigging electrician Karl Andre Bru walked up to the famous actor and said jokingly: “thanks for the hangover, man!”. Rumor has it Fassbender cracked up and was unable to keep a straight face for the rest of the day.”

How about this trivia as well:

“Costars Michael Fassbender and Charlotte Gainsbourg have both played extreme sex addicts for the directors they’re best associated with; Fassbender in Steve McQueen’s Shame (2011) and Gainsbourg in Lars von Trier’s Nymphomaniac: Vol. I (2013) / Nymphomaniac: Vol. II (2013)”.

So there you go, this should be an adult thriller that captures the intensity of the book with no holding back.

“The Snowman” is the seventh book in the Harry Hole series, but a great place to jump in…and Nesbo just released the latest Harry Hole thriller as well:

Here is a look at all of the books in this great, nordic noir” crime series!

https://johnrieber.com/2017/05/13/jo-nesbos-the-thirst-detective-harry-hole-is-back-new-nordic-noir/

I cannot wait to see this film!