Filmmaker Interview: Your Mommy Kills Animals

Curt Johnson knows what he’s doing. If you’re gonna direct a controversial documentary, you may as well shock ‘em right from the title. Michael Moore would probably agree.
Your Mommy Kills Animals (my review on filmcritic.com) tells the story of the current animal rights movement in America, and it’s not an easy story to tell. The […]

Harry Potter Conundrum: New Movie or New Book?

Looks like Harry Potter has taken a chunk of interest away from… well, Harry Potter.
After zooming its way to a few box office records upon its July 11 release, Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix may have been affected by this weekend’s unveiling of the new Potter book, “Harry Potter and the Deathly […]

Hairspray Reviews: Critics Nearly Unanimous

The newest screen version of Hairspray has emerged as one of the most critically acclaimed films of 2007.
With a 94 Rating on Rotten Tomatoes, Hairspray ranks 8th for the year, and fourth among major releases, behind Once, Ratatouille and Away from Her. From David Ansen of Newsweek to the Boston Globe’s Ty Burr to Joanne […]

Filmmaker Interview — Colma: The Musical

Two weeks ago, we highlighted Colma: The Musical, the impressive, spirited debut film from director Richard Wong and mega-hyphenate screenwriter / songwriter / actor H.P. Mendoza.
We spent some time with H.P. (left) and Rich (below, right), talking about filmmaking, musicals and the little movie that’s become a darling of the critics.
THE LOBBY: First, I should […]

How Quickly Will Video Stores Die?

The first video rental store appeared in L.A. in 1979. Nearly 30 years later, the in-store movie rental experience seems destined to disappear.
1) Blockbuster announced in late June they’ll be closing 282 stores. In 2006, they closed 290, many in close proximity to other Blockbuster locations.
2) In early July, Movie Gallery — the 2nd largest […]

Episode #2 Summary: Yankees ESPN Miniseries “The Bronx Is Burning”

The Bronx Is Burning — Episode #2 (aired 7/17)
Oliver Platt’s performance as Yanks’ owner George Steinbrenner is getting as big as his expansive belly. In contrast: John Turturro’s understated turn as manager Billy Martin. Maybe back then George really was a clownish jackass. Or maybe he still is…
SUMMARY
:: Martin and Steinbrenner make up before Opening […]