Movie Review: Whiplash [2014]

How far would you go to challenge yourself and be the number one?

We all will probably do a lot, but not everything. Unlike us, Andrew Nieman (Miles Teller) went all the way to be the best at Shaffer Conservatory of Music, in New York, in the whole world. At Shaffer, being the best means to be accepted by Terence Fletcher (J.K. Simmons) at his class and still, it's always just the beginning and the road is never easy. Fletcher is an eccentric, charismatic, harsh, indifferent asshole. He is the best teacher and the worst person the same time, so it's always intense to be in the same room with him. Nieman, to the contrary, is an young boy full of dreams, skills and guts who is just starting to step into the jazz world. His temper and obsession with jazz grabs Terence's attention who invites the newbie to the class.

Even though Andrew has heard a lot horrible things about Fletcher, he experiences something only one man had experienced before - and he then committed a suicide. Even though Teller's character is extremely talented, there is never enough for his teacher, who does literally everything to turn his students into someones exceptionally brilliant. Unheardly difficult practice sessions are the least of problems, when you might be thrown a chair at, if you play a note slightly faster or slower.  But Nieman is never ready to give up - ends relationship, sleeps with drums and does everything to get a permanent drummer place. And it all ends up with mind blowing competition between two brilliant minds creating a spectacular journey from day one of their meeting to its end.

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Movie Review: The Skeleton Twins [2014]

The Skeleton Twins is director Craig Johnson's second movie, starring Bill Hader and Kristen Wiig as twins who've been apart for a while and are reunited after Milo's (Hader) suicide attempt. Every siblings' story has a background, deeply buried in their memories but somehow sticking up to the surface of each's mind time after time. Maggie and Milo have their own.

Milo is out gay man with romance history with his professor, whose career and life was almost ruined when Maggie learned about their relationship. Even though all went well, Milo lost love of his life, which contributed him moving to L.A. to pursue an acting career. Just because he dreamed too big, he kept feeling like a real loser which boiled down to unsuccessful act of suicide. Now Maggie - who really enjoys playing a big sister - is the one to take care of him. When they are forced to go back to each other, they re-examine their relationship and personal lives.

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Movie Review: The Theory of Everything [2014]

The Theory of Everything is a James Marsh's movie about the life, struggles and greatest discovery of today's greatest physic Stephen Hawking (played by Eddie Redmayne). The movie starts when Stephen - a Cambridge science student meets Jane, his future wife, an arts student and leads to the point where they divorce and Mr. Hawking becomes widely acknowledged scientist for his black hole theory. Anthony McCarten's screenplay tells the whole story in between, how those two fought against motor neuron disease, Stephen was diagnosed while attending Cambridge.

This movie caught my attention from the very first trailer, which gave a brilliant idea about masterful acting of Eddie. It's always fancy to watch an actor playing someone living in the same decade as you, a person you have admired, read about, watched and especially, if that person has such some kind of disability - it definitely makes acting work a lot harder. So, I was very much wanting to know how Redmayne, who I'd loved for Les Miserables, dealt with it. Accordingly, it would be fair if I start with performances and especially him.

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Movie Review: Interstellar [2014]

Unlike most of Christopher Nolan fans, I'm never freakishly excited about his upcoming films. Mostly because that he's not one of my favorites, even though I love most of his movies and second of all, I know that Chris can always think of something, I'd not adore that much. Interstellar was not an exception and I just went to theater having in mind whatever I've heard or read about it. 

Imagine the Earth on the edge of extinction, cataclysm and windy storms, that threatens lives of everyone and probably the generation we live with may be the last one. The only way out is to think of new home, where mankind can safely reside with all its species. Interstellar is a story of the voyage that aims saving our civilization and this journey takes place not only within the space, but minds of each character. It's a plain illustration of who we really are, what is our destiny (if there is any), if there is anything superficial than human mind and what is beyond the space we see.

Cooper (Matthew McConaughey) is a farmer living with his two kids and father-in-law in the corn fields. He is an ex NASA astronaut, who's given up the job after the tragic incident and abolition of NASA itself. His ten year old daughter Murphy (Mackenzie Foy) believes that she's seeing ghosts in her room, who try to talk to her, to give some kind of signs but of course, nobody believes it. Until Cooper himself finds encrypted coordinates in the dust storm and gets to secret NASA base. Professor Brand (Michael Cane), who is the head of this secret mission, explains that the organization has been working on options to save humanity, by sending astronauts through a wormhole in another galaxies. Obviously, Cooper turns out to be a perfect candidacy as a pilot to save the world. While deciding to be the hero, his daughter Murphy is not that happy thinking of father gone for indefinite period of time, baring in mind that her "ghost"  urges to "STAY" on the earth. But who listens to kids!

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The Good Wife 6x05: Shiny Objects

Last week episode Oppo Research mostly explored Alicia's past in the perspective of her candidacy as a States Attorney. Her new manager, Jonathan, tried to dig out every possible loophole in her and her family's past that lead us to secrets we never knew. Practically, 4th episode was a single subject one, having almost nothing to do with Mrs Florrick's new firm or litigation.

Shiny Objects, to the contrary, suggest multi-plot episode taking us into the courtroom, in Florrick/Agos/Lockhart office and guiding us through Alicia's campaign start. In this case, once again, The Good Wife writers managed to bring an amazingly paced episode, very smart story and witty dialogues - whole package of what we love about this show. 

**Spoilers from now on**

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Movie Review: Gone Girl [2014]

You will read a lot spoilers here

I have waited for this moment from the very first trailer of David Fincher's Gone Girl. Back that time, I had not read the book. But first look seemed interesting enough to bring me to Gillian Flynn's bestseller, I had no idea before. The Book has the most intrigue start, I've ever read:

When I think of my wife, I always think of her head. The shape of it, to  begin with"

Enough suspense to later blame Nick Dunne in disappearance of his wife, on the exact day of their 5th anniversary. But even later, Flynn gives a lot reasons to believe that a good wife, amazing Amy, loving woman became a victim of unfaithful husband. And you will partly be true. The most brilliant thing about Gillian's book is that she never hints about Nick actually killing Amy, there is no direct indication of that, but she just makes a bad guy out of him, a guy anybody would hate and blame for anything and she makes you believe that he is the cold blooded killer. This is exactly what Gone Girl is about, among many other things.

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The Good Wife 6x04: Oppo Research

In previous episode, Alicia approaches to Eli Gold regarding her running as States Attorney. And of course, he was more than ready for this moment and start of new exciting campaign. So, Oppo Research mostly concentrates on Alicia's issues, her background check and chances of winning the elections.

**Spoilers from now on**

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The Good Wife 6x03: Dear God

Dear God, third episode of The Good Wife, returns with Cary's trial - ASA is now trying to revoke his bail on the grounds that he contacted DA's the only witness and allegedly killed him. Diane Lockhart, now as a lawyer of Agos, is trying to keep her partner out of jail, which definitely seems unusually hard, since States Attorney office is spending all their resources to somehow imprison Cary.

**Spoilers from now on**

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Modern Family 6x02: Don't Push

You will read spoilers here

In Don't Push the Dunphys go to Caltech university for Alex's future admission, while Gloria and Jay are trying to get perfect presents for their anniversary and Pritchett-Tucker family is taking a family photo. And they all have some trouble.

Alex is determined to go to MIT, because Caltech is too close to home and she's willing to be as far as possible for more independence, finally. Regardless, she attends open house day with her family, which tries to be supportive in the biggest decision she's going to make. Phil, Haley and Luke decide to participate in an experiment, promising to reward participants with fifty dollars. They are left in a room with red button saying Do Not Push (pictured above). As they think this is part of the experiment, they seek for solution and the process of doing so brings number of family problems to the surface.

Meanwhile, Alex meets some nerdy guy and changes her mind about MIT, understanding that it's not that bad to be around family.

Jay sculptures a bunny for Gloria as a reminder of their first date. But she thinks that her favorite bracelet is hidden inside so breaks the present right  in front of husband.

Lily is troubling her parents while taking a family photo. She gives that awkward, forced smile and of course, Cameron and Mitchell are panicking. After number of photo sessions, they finally get that their daughter is quite determined about her smile.

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The Good Wife 6x02: Trust Issues

After this season kicked off with Cary Agos drug trial, nothing is ordinary in The Good Wife. We all are following SA hunting down him, Lemond Bishop and maybe someone else? Someone we never thought of to be targeted in this war.

**Spoilers from now on**

The previous episode ending by paying Cary's bail fee and ASA asking for sources of these payment boils down to another hearing in this episode, that leads to subpoenaing Alicia. It seems, that ASA is trying to bring Mr. Bishop to court  and ask him about his business under oath.

The same time, Florrick/Agos is facing number of client trials, one including their biggest client ChumHum. This particular class action was led by Cary and now Alicia has to take it over, while dealing with Eli still trying to ensure her to run. Alicia does not look like to be wanting to run, she's determined and absolutely sure that politics is no place for her. But then, there is a small line and scene in elevator, that makes me think that she might start considering to agree with Eli, because she smiles when realizing that polls are in her favor and people love her.

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Movie Review: The Maze Runner [2014]

I was lucky enough to get early screening of one of my most anticipated films this year. Well, here it it and I've seen all I needed. 

The Maze Runner is adaptation of James Dashner's postapocalyptic bestseller about youngsters, who are imprisoned inside the mysterious maze and their struggle of living together, while trying to escape this nightmare. Movie opens with Thomas (Dylan O'Brien) waking up in the cage, that moves pretty fast upwards, right into iron doors. He is confused, he remembers nothing and does not understand how he got in here. When the cage reaches top, it suddenly stops and then he sees a very bright light and some young boys staring at him. Now, he is even more confused.

If you are not a book reader, like me, you can be also confused, even though trailer told most of it. But not that much to lose interest how it goes. Because, you know, most of movie in this genre are well predictable stories, just with actors who we are delighted to see on a big screen and some sentiments also. As the plot starts to open up, Thomas starts remembering some small details, it get more interesting. Later, The Maze Runner also suggest whole load of action, chasing and good fantasy. Without going into the deep of story, it has pretty much predictable ending. I've never read the book, but I was absolutely sure where it would go. But here, let me explain things I liked.

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Modern Family 6x01: The Long Honeymoon

You might read spoilers here

5 times Emmy winner Modern Family starts new season with episode The Long Honeymoon, taking place after three month from The Wedding. Pritchett-Tuckers are back from their honeymoon, Dunphys are enjoying their summer, without Alex and Delgado-Pritchetts are, the same loving couple.

From the very beginning we feel like something has changed about these families. It's not a really good start to remembering your favorite characters. Cameron has become even more sensitive, trying to prolong their honeymoon and making lots of presents to Mitchell: flowers, balloons and some random romantic stuff, while Mitchell, himself, is trying to get back the way it was before wedding. Gloria and Jay still are having minor disagreements about Jay's appearance, how he does not care anymore about his outfits, which drives Mrs Delgado-Pritchett crazy. And Dunphy's, they are having a marvelous, quiet, sweet, comfortable summer - giving each other compliments, making each other laugh and having peaceful dinners, while Alex is away doing some volunteer stuff. And you know?! This feels kinda wrong.

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Movie Review: Honeymoon [2014]

A newlywed couple Paul [Harry Treadaway] and Bea [Rose Leslie] drive to lake house for their honeymoon to spend some time alone. The place meets all creepy requirements the houses in horror movies have: skinned bear hanging on the wall, no sign of life, woods around it and silence.

Paul and Bea are madly in love, kind of hipsterish couple, without much money, but huge feelings towards each other. They are the people who can find happiness in every detail. In the very first scenes, we see their wedding videos, explaining how and why they got married, recorded in the tent, somewhere. Director and writer Leigh Janiak tries to make them one of those young couples that we meet in the streets, bars or anywhere. But soon, everything changes after Bea starts sleepwalking in the woods and Paul believes that something really bad happened to her. They suddenly stopped having sex, because she refuses, her mood transformed from happy-go-lucky to maniacal depression. Bea suffered from strange physical transformation neither she nor husband could explain.

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The Good Wife 6x01: The Line

photo credit: IMDB

The Good Wife, probably last years one of the best shows and definitely the most underrated one, is back to screen after thrilling season 5. The first episode The Line aired today placing us right in the center of mindblowing events and now I believe, its writers are never going to upset us.

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Audiomachine: making trailers more epic since 2005

Since the beginning of sound era, music is no less important than dialogues to make moviegoing experience more impressive. Even more, it can double, triple the emotions that come from acting or witty chat lines. A good music is half job well done. For me, liking a movie starts with liking the trailer, because today when there are hundreds of different films per year, with quite busy life schedule, I have to carefully select those couple of hundred movies I wanna watch. Trailer, that can make me watch any specific movie, should also have some qualitative soundtrack. And Audiomachine is one of those few companies that produce the most epic music for trailers.

Based in LA, California, Audiomachine is a production music company founded in 2005 by Paul Dinletir and Carol Sovinski. Music is basically composed by  Paul Dinletir and Kevin Rix. In the beginning, they started to create music only for professional uses in Hollywood aka as film trailer soundtracks. However, since 2012 they record albums for general public [and thanks for that]. The long list of such movies include: Avatar,  Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix, Hancock, The Express, Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street, Beowulf, Tree of Life and most recently trailers of Noah and How To Train Your Dragon 2.

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Rewatch Saturday: Mr. & Mrs. Smith [2005]

"As for now, I do more rewatch of old movies, than just watching new ones. So I decided to review one film each Saturday, as a part of Rewatch Saturday post series"

In 2005 two of Hollywood's hottest actors teamed up to film an incredibly dark, bold and entertaining Mr. & Mrs. Smith, directed by acclaimed creator of Bourne series. It tells a story of two paid assassins, married couple Jane and John Smith, who yet are unaware of each others real jobs. On the surface they seem to be an average, kinda richy American family, leaving really calm and boring lives. John, as a coverup story, is owner of Smith Engineering, Inc., while Jane owns a company I-Temp Technology Staffing. In fact, both use the marriage for safety of their real works. The couple successfully manages to keep in secret their professions during five or six years of "holy matrimony", until both are sent to kill the same guy... Two of the best agents going against each other is never a simple story and here they both fail to fulfil the mission. This is when things get complicated, because now they are ordered to get rid of their spouses.

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For Your Oscar Consideration: Song of the Sea

Probably, Animated Feature category is one of the easiest to predict. But sometimes, even its nominees can surprise us. For example, omission of Monsters University, nomination of The Pirates! Band of Misfits or A Cat in Paris. Even a very beautiful animation The Secret of Kells can be regarded as dark horse of 83rd Oscars.

The creator of latter returns with even more beautiful work this year: Song of the Sea. It tells a story of Saoirse - the last of selkies - women who can transform from seals to people, according to Irish and Scottish legends. She manages to escape from her grandmother to travel through seas and its various creatures. But leaving alone the plot, it seems that Tomm Moore has an amazing job by bringing an exquisitely beautiful feature that easily bring him another Oscar nomination. Check some outstanding shots here:

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Movie Review: The Fault In Our Stars [2014]

- Okay?
- Okay.

The Fault In Our Stars stuck in my sights since the huge success of book. I could see it everywhere I go and I love bookshops. Frankly, book cover is truly original and catchy. But I'm not really into these teenage dramas and never read it. However, I did consider watching film because of  two leads: talented and beautiful Shailene Woodley and newcomer Ansel Elgort.

Golden Globe nominee Woodley [The Descendants] plays a girl, Hazel Grace Lancaster, with thyroid cancer, who's been diagnosed of disease in early age and since then her life mostly happens in between home, hospital and support groups. While Elgort's character, Gus, is an ex basketball player, cancer survivor with an amputee leg. As they meet at the most boring support group meeting, their friendship gets a weird and interesting start that turns into unconditional love [whatever it is]. Even from the very beginning we all know that this is not going to work, because any of them can just die and leave another behind. Gus and Hazel knowing this are truly having the moments of their lives, making all their dreams come true, which includes trip to Amsterdam - a place where the author of Hazel's favorite book lives.

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Top 10 movies I can't wait this season

We are more than half way through the end of this movie season, however most high calibre films are still to be premiered. As usual, a big number of my favorite films come out in theaters either in the Autumn or Winter. 

I've already watched some films that most probably fall into my top ten movies of 2014 like How To Train Your Dragon 2, Guardians of the Galaxy and The Grand Budapest Hotel. But there are 7 more spots left and I have quite many pictures I desperately want to see this year and here are ten most wanted:

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Have I already told ya how much I can't wait for Gone Girl?

I guess no, yet. But I've been excited about David Fincher's new movie Gone Girl, since the very first trailer. For no reason, it just clicked: I love it. Well, basically, the reason was Rosamund Pike's haunting voice and the very strange story told in brilliantly thought trailer. And Fincher, of course.

Now that I have finished reading the book, all my excitement has just boosted and shaped into some reasonable expectations I really really hope Fincher meets. It can easily be my most favorite film of the year.

**Plot**No Spoilers**
The story focuses on a couple, married of five years after the wife - Amy Elliott Dunne [Rosamund Pike] disappeared on their fifth anniversary and her husband Nick Dunne [Ben Affleck] is a primary suspect. He claims he is innocent in this tragedy, however, is Nick absolutely blameless here?

**End of Plot**No Spoilers**

This is the most important question the book develops around. Author Gillian Flynn managed to tell the whole story with permanent suspicion in Nick's guilt until the very end of the novel. And when you think you know everything you could, here comes another surprise that will just blow your mind.

I liked almost everything about Gone Girl [book]: story - it's brilliant, simple but complicated, very easy to follow, full of surprises and cliffhangers; interesting characters with so many layers that they stay uncovered till the end of story; fresh and catchy dialogues and style - novel is told according to Amy's diaries from the past and Nick speaking in the first person. Because of this, plot flows logically and you get the right information just where you need to get. This also helps to keep the reader in suspicion all the time.

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Movie Review: How to Train Your Dragon 2 [2014]

It was the most anticipated movie of this year and finally, I watched it.

How To Train Your Dragon was a phenomenal animation, nearly as good as Toy Story 3. Unluckily for Dragon fans, which includes me, those two premiered the same year and there was nothing that could beat Toy Story either on market or at Oscars.

This year Dean DeBlois returns with second installment, continuing a splendid adventure of Hiccup and Toothless, fighting for integrity of dragons and safety of Burk. Second movie takes place after five years vikings started to cohabitate with dragons. It's been a quite long peace time for them. No enemy to fight against, Burk turned into a heavenly place. Movie opens with dragon race game, where most outstanding young dragon-riders compete to win. It's a beautifully shot scene, featuring all known and favorite characters and kind of bringing the same emotions we've missed for four years.

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Movie Review: Boyhood [2014]

Richard Linklater started a project in between the "before" series that most of directors are either incapable, or have no patience to do. He decided to film a life of one family, in particular a member of this family Mason [Ellar Coltrane] through 12 years until his young adulthood. More amazingly, he did not change any of actors, instead filmed different scenes of movie year by year, so that every actor grew old naturally in the film. The concept of Boyhood is similar to Linklater's acknowledged trilogy which also follows a couple through 18 years, visiting them in every 9 years. Here, instead, film is done as a one [damn] long story skipping from year to year and transforming to a later periods quite quickly. Having brought an impressive cast of Patricia Arquette, Ethan Hawke, and his own daughter Lorelei Linklater, Richard created an realistic journey with Mason, his sister Samantha and mom.

First, we are introduced to this small family of three, where mother [Arquette] is divorced and still tries to partner with the guy taking care of her children. This unsuccessful attempt results in those three departing to another city to make it work better. The next guy turns out to be tyrant, beating his wife and abusing children. So, this story also has no happy ending. While they are struggling, kids' father and ex-husband of Patricia's character - Ethan Hawke - is living his life, seeing children on weekends and holidays and doing the best of him to be a dad. 

Film feels extremely natural, as if you are looking at real life of real people. The fact that actors grow up, get old and progress through one movie and you know that this is not fake, makeup or special effects, just aggravates sense of reality. On the other hand, it sometimes gets as boring as the lives of others [and ours too]. Regardless all the good stuff I'm gonna say below, Boyhood sometimes felt a little long [it's 165 minutes] and hard to follow.

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Movie Review: Guardians of the Galaxy [2014]

I can only imagine how much hard work it took for Vin Diesel to films this.

If someone had ever told me that I'd love any film by James Gunn, I'd have laughed at his or her face, because last year Gunn managed to write for the trashiest movie with the most brilliant cast - Movie 43. To the contrary, Guardians of the Galaxy is probably one of the best superhero movies ever made for its decent, very nice humor, outstandingly good cast and catchy story. I believe very shortly, all superhero movies will pretty much look like each other, unless someone makes even a little difference. In this case, making action movie comedy was such a thing. I know, you can name other "funny" pictures from the genre, but come on, this was more than just funny.

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Emmys Winners

The winners of 66th Emmy awards are:

Outstanding Drama Series:
Breaking Bad

Outstanding Comedy Series:
Modern Family

Directing Drama Series:

Directing Comedy Series:
 "Las Vegas" Modern Family

Lead Actor, Drama Series:
Bryan Cranston, Breaking Bad

Lead Actress, Drama Series:
Julianna Margulies, The Good Wife

Supporting Actor, Drama Series:
Aaron Paul, Breaking Bad

Supporting Actress Drama Series:
Anna Gunn, Breaking Bad

Lead Actor, Comedy Series:
Jim Parsons, The Big Bang Theory

Lead Actress, Comedy Series:
Julia Louis-Dreyfus, Veep 

Supporting Actress, Comedy Series:
Allison Janney, Mom 

Supporting Actor, Comedy Series:
Ty Burrell, Modern Family

Writing, Drama Series:
Ozymandias, Breaking Bad

Writing, Comedy Series:
"So Did The Fat Lady" Louis

Guest Actor, Drama Series:
Joe Morton, Scandal

Guest Actress, Drama Series:
Allison Janney, Masters of Sex

Guest Actor, Comedy Series:
Jimmy Fallon, SNL

Guest Actress, Comedy Series:
Uzo Abuda, Orange is the New Black

Outstanding Mini Series:
Fargo

Outstanding TV Movie:
The Normal Heart

Movie/Mini Series Actress:
Jessica Lange, American Horror Story: Coven

Movie/Mini Series Actor:
Benedict Cumberbatch Sherlock: Last Vow

Movie/Miniseries Supporting Actress:
Kathy Bates, American Horror Story: Coven

Movie/Miniseries Supporting Actor:

Martin Freeman, Sherlock:His Last Vow

Movie Mini Directing:
Colin Bucksey, Fargo

Movie Mini Writing:
Steven Moffet, Sherlock: His Last Vow

Movie Review: The Apartment [1960]

The Apartment is a classic film directed by Billy Wilder - a creator of one of my most favorite comedies Some Like It Hot. Despite being filmed back in 1960 it, as a comedy, brings something you can not easily find in modern era - a true joyful fun, some brilliant lines, very decent and enjoyable story. The Apartment alongside with Hitchcock's Psycho had been a brilliant start of 60's - a period of so many notable movies in history.

The Apartment is a story of C.C. Baxter [Jack Lemmon] - an insurance company employee - who lets his company executives to use his apartment for trysts in late evenings. In exchange, he hopes and gets some promotions moving up the corporate ladder. One day, he is called by personnel director Jeff Sheldrake informing about his sudden promotion in exchange of minor favor - adding married mr. Sheldrake to list of welcomed guests to his apartment. C.C. could not have been any happier, especially not knowing that Jeff is dating Baxter's darling Fran Kubelik [Shirley MacLaine] - an elevator girl C.C. liked for quite a long time. Despite the unsuccessful date with Fran, Baxter is still trying to win her heart and one day, he finds Miss Kubelik unconscious in his apartment. As it turns out, she has an overdose of sleeping pills after the date with Mr. Sheldrake. With the help of Dr. Dreyfuss young lady is safe, however she's to stay at Baxter's for couple of days to recover. And here their little romance and attraction starts to grow, while they are trying to cohabitate for their own comfort.

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Top 10 Movies That Tear Me Emotionally Apart

I love the movies I remember. We all have a lot reasons to remember specific films - our favorite actors, directors and simply a touching story, that runs through your body and explodes all emotions inside you. Emotional influence is the most powerful weapon of director to make audience love his/her film.

Most of my favorite pictures have made a huge impact on me and some brought me to tears, which I'm not ashamed of at all. So, here are my Top 10 such kind of films [massive spoilers are ahead]:

Honorable mentions

• Up
• Life is Beautiful
• The Hours

Maybe Mel Gibson has not done many memorable movies, but he sure did one of classic flicks such as Braveheart - a movie from my childhood which I used to watch so many times. Winning 5 Academy Awards, film manages to bring most tragic period of Scottish history in a heartbreaking manner.

The moment that kills me: Scene where William Wallace screams out FREEDOM which costs him life.

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66th EMMY Nominations Update: Submitted Episodes

According to Gold Derby, HBO has already made episode submissions for Drama/Comedy Series and nominated actors. DVDs with these episodes will be distributed to judges for voting consideration next week. This year, HBO has most nominations with Game of Thrones [19] in lead.

In my post about episode submissions for Game of Thrones, I considered following six episodes for Drama Series to be most credible:

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Movie Review: Snowpiercer [2014]

I think most directors are obsessed with post apocalyptic universe. In the beginning they tried to demonstrate different ways the world would end. Today, the question is what happens after these events and for no particular reason, the picture ain't beautiful.

Director Joon-ho Bong sees that the world can end as the result of Ice Age. There are few survivors who luckily get into the longest train that goes round and round the Earth. The train and railways connecting all continents were built by mystery man Mr. Wilford [Ed Harris] - a magnate in pre apocalyptic world. After deadly events, he puts number of people in this enormous iron machine and goes to nonstop journey around the globe. For more than 17 years they've been travelling through the same path, nonstop. Guarantee of the safe and never ending relocation is an Engine also invented by Mr. Wilford and his company.

In this genre movies it is a majority opinion that survivors will once again go through slavery, segregation, violence and many other disgusting stuff mankind has forgotten in past centuries. The train has a lot cages: the front ones are for high class passengers - so called elite ones, who's main job is to make the machine go, and keep other people safe. the tail is for, let's say, slaves - people who work, have shitty beds, do not take shower and only eat protein for breakfast/lunch/dinner. Most of workers are "thankful" for being alive but there is always someone willing to go against the crowed and government. Curtis [Chris Evans] is true, naturally born leader, who [of course] is not willing to lead anyone, he's just a rebel soul, who remembers the Earth as it was and still misses barely remembering taste of freedom. With his friend, Edgar [Jamie Bell] he's been waiting for a good chance to fight back and after 17 years somebody from the front decided to help poor people, sending them secret messages through protein bars. Curtis with the courage of Gilliam [John Hurt] - previous leader of the train - starts a rebellion.

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66th EMMY Predicted Nominees

We are getting close to the biggest event in Television industry - 66the Annual Primetime Emmy Awards. Tomorrow, on July 10 5:40 AM, PT outstanding nominees are announced. I have a lot hopes this year: recognition my favorite show Shameless, another win of Modern Family and some more praise of Game of Thrones and Julianna Margulies for Best Drama Actress, of course.

But there always are bad surprises, because the television academy has its favorite like Mad Men and Downton Abbey - they can get in even most tight competition and if they do, they always leave out more deserved candidates.

Even more, Shameless is submitted as comedy, which I absolutely don't agree, and it can hurt a lot. Because there has not been anything like comedy in the latest season. Well, it's true that drama category is more overcrowded with bigger names, but it would not raise chances much.

So, here we go - Predicted Nominees Are [sorted by likelihood of nominating]:

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TV Series: Under the Dome S2E01 & The Leftovers S1E01

While my top shows are giving me a hard time to wait for next fall/spring seasons, I have some favorite summer TV Series, that are actually good to watch. Last year, Under the Dome was adapted from Stephen King's novel of the same name, which is one of my favorite works of him and after pretty impressive first season, it lands second more valuable one. As a huuuge fan of King, I could not wait for its premiere.

These days twitter was blown by new HBO mystery The Leftovers and since it's HBO, not porn, I decided to check it out. 

So, here are my thoughts on two recent premieres [heavy spoilers ahead]

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Top 10 Tattoos in Movies

I have a great passion about tattoos, obsession that never goes away. In movies tattoos are either used to somehow express the character or just make their bodies hotter. In any case, they always double my thirst to watch these movies. 

So, here are my Top 10 Tattoos in Movies, which I would not mind to wear some time:

They say Brad Pitt can be sexy in everything and this pretty much proves it. I like his very minimalist and carefully designed tattoos. Those who have seen Snatch might remember that it almost covers every inch of Brad's top.

I'd not be willing to have those tattoos but what I really like about them is diversity and mix of colors. They are also massive and for the purposes of movie truly expresses the character.

This is kind of tattoo that does not make sense separately but all together it is pretty cool. Those numbers, japanese alphabet and stuff - it's pretty lame. But as a whole, they look kind of one great work.

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Are You Excited about Star Trek 3?

I'm excited to hear that third installment of new Star Trek generation will be released in 2016. The moment I watched Star Trek Into Darkness I could not wait to hear about the next movie. Director and writer Roberto Orci explained that the new film will take place in the deep space. 

This new adventure of Enterprise will take place five years after defeating Khan.

Bad news for me is that J.J. Abrams is not going to direct third part, which on the paper does not sound good. Orci, who's co-written previous two parts now takes the top chair and probably will try to do it better than his predecessor. I really hope he does, otherwise movie will suck and we all be disappointed. Especially, when you have to wait for more two years.

Good thing is that it will bring more new characters to the screen and gets closer to original TV Series of the same name.

Check out my reviews of: Star Trek and Star Trek Into Darkness

Source: MovieWeb

Movie Review: Flowers in the Attic [2014]

Flowers in the Attic is a TV adaptation of Virginia C. Andrews's book of the same name, also first installment of Dollanganger Series. On the paper - and I don't mean the book - the idea of first installment seems interesting, kind of catchy, dramatic and intrigue. Sadly, movie does not bring much to the table.

Christopher Sr and Corrine Dollangangers are happily married couple and parents of 4 children [pictured above], they live quiet and true american life on their own. Christopher does a lot business trips and is mostly away from family. On his birthday, while the rest family is arranging a big surprise party for him, he had a car accident and died. Since Chris was the only one working, they lose everything and Corrine is forced to move to her parents house, which seems to be a salvation for them, however everything turns out to the contrary.

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Top 10 TV Drama Episodes of 2013-2014

This TV season has ended. In fact, only Emmys are left to conclude 2013-2014 season of television to celebrate bests of this year. 

It's been an amazing year for my favorite series and we had some newcomers, like True Detective. I watched Shameless for the first time, finished long awaited Game of Thrones and House of Cards. Had some disappointment with The Following and Dexter and I did not expect that Hostages would only last for one season.

Finally, all comes down to these 10 TV Drama episodes as the most outstanding achievements this year, that I will remember quite long and quite well: [spoilers ahead]

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For Your Oscar Consideration: The Judge [2014] Trailer

I think I've seen a poster
like this before

Director David Dobkin has brought an amazing cast together for something, that looks quite cliche on the paper. The Judge is a story of very successful lawyer Henry Palmer [Robert Downey Jr.] who goes back to his hometown for his mother's funeral. However, soon he founds out that his estranged father town's Judge Joseph Palmer [Robert Duvall]  is convicted for her murder. Henry has to defend him in court. However this is not a battle against state prosecutor Dwight Dickham [Billy Bob Thornton], but he also has to settle differences with his own father.

The cast also includes Oscar nominee Vera Farmiga, Leighton Meester and Vincent D'Onofrio [Full Metal Jacket/Men in Black]. 

I labeled this film as Oscar consideration picture, because Robert Duvall can be a major contender in supporting actor race. I predict him to be nominated this year for portraying a troubled, stubborn and convicted father, who constantly refuses to rebond with his son.

As for random thoughts after first look:

There are a lot shots like this and it makes me think Henry Palmer's character is going to be one of those cliche, cool lawyers who tend to win ALL cases, just like Harvey Specter [Suits]. But in reality those people do not exist and I hate characters like this.

This is a look of kid-hating guy, who is not married and is not a father to anyone, but enjoys insulting nieces and nephews. I don't like it.

But later it gets more interesting. This father and son relationship complicates everything and redefines Downey Jr.'s character for me. Robert Duvall seems to be quite good to play a man who is justice to whole city and now has to defend himself.

As a verdict, I am not sure whether it's going to be a huge hit, however it can easily be one of those small, good movies that bring a late year nominations to its oldest cast member, for making a heartwarming, bad father portrait. Other than that, it first trailer does not suggest much to predict. It can still surprise in a good way, you know?!

Here you can watch trailer itself:

So, what do you think of it?

Emmy Drama Series: Which episodes should be included on The Good Wife Emmy DVD?

This year, The Good Wife had the best year. 5th season had been amazing in all aspect, but most importantly very interesting plot twists and complicated, engaging stories. In my [humble] opinion, it is this season's number 1 show. Two episodes, which I'll talk later - Hitting the Fan and Dramatics, Your Honor, is possibly the best episodes of entire TV year. 

Producers have made 20 submissions in major categories:

Writing for a drama series: [total: 1]

The Last Call

Directing for a drama series: [total: 3]

A Weird Year | Dramatics, Your Honor | The Decision Tree 

Lead Actress in a drama series: [total: 1]

Julianna Margulies

Supporting Actor/Actress in a drama series: [total: 6]

Josh Charles | Matt Czuchry | Matthew Goode | Zach Grenier | Christine Baranski | Archie Panjabi

Guest performers: [total: 8]

Dylan Baker | Michael Cerveris | John Benjamin Hickey | Nathan Lane | Jason O'Mara | Jeffrey Tambor | Malik Yoba | Carrie Preston

I think this year The Good Wife can score most nominations in its history either in acting or creative categories. So, here are my suggested episodes for lead/supporting cast members:

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Emmy Comedy Series: Which episodes should be included on Modern Family Emmy DVD?

Four times Emmy champ kicks off its fight for the fifth trophy with dozens of nomination submissions. If it wins for current season, it will tie for most wins with Frazier [5] and since it's been renewed for 6th season, this show can break another record, which will definitely make me happy.

Producers have made following submissions:

Writing for a Comedy Series [total 8]

A Jay's Night | Message Received | Suddenly, Last Summer | The Help | The Late Show | The Wedding Part II | Under Pressure | Las Vegas

Directing for a Comedy Series [total 9]

Australia | ClosetCon '13 | Larry's Wife | Suddenly, Last Summer | The Freud | The Late Show | The Old Man and The Tree | The Wedding Part II | Las Vegas

Supporting Actor/Actress in a Comedy Series [total 10]

Ty Burell | Jesse Tyler Ferguson | Nolan Gould | Ed O'Neill | Rico Rodriguez | Eric Stonestreet | Julie Bowen | Sarah Hyland | Sofia Vergara | Ariel Winter

Guest Performers [total 12]

Rhys Darby [ep: Australia] | Jesse Eisenberg [ep: Under Pressure] | John Benjamin Hickey [ep: Under Pressure] | Nathal Lane [ep: The Wedding Part II] | Stephen Merchant [ep: Las Vegas] | Chazz Palminteri [ep: Three Dinners] | Rob Riggle [ep: Under Pressure] | Fred Willard [ep: The Help] | Elizabeth Banks [ep: The Wedding Part II] | Jane Krakowski [ep: Under Pressure] | Jennifer Tilly [ep: Three Dinners] | Celia Weston [ep: The Wedding Part II]

According to rules, each supporting actor/actress shall submit one episode for voters consideration and producers shall select 6 episodes for Best Comedy Series nomination consideration. Here is what I think:

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Random Thoughts on Emmys, Oscars and Game of Thrones Finale

Game of Thrones is over and before we [the fans] miss it, we have many other things to worry about. For instance, upcoming Emmy season and whatever indifference we show, we all want that out favorite show wins. I've been rooting during all three previous seasons for GoT, even though I knew that Mad Men and Breaking Bad [at Golden Globes] were voters favorite. 

Before I move on awards, here are some words about Game of Thrones. It's been an amazing season, my favorite one after last year, The Red Wedding still remains as my most favorite scene on TV lately. To my opinion, the best episode of GoT this year was The Laws of Gods and Men, first of all because of Tyrion's speech and secondly, because of amazingly crafted story. I think that this episode can bring Peter Dinklage second win, unless voters don't stick to Aaron Paul again. 

Also, The Watchers on the Wall is best directed episode this year. I actually think that it is one of the best episodes of GoT in four years. Epic battle scenes always work for directors, these huge shots, massive attacks and lots of blood. 

I think it's time for Sophie Turner to be recognized for her amazing job in this show. Really people? She's been through everything person can be. I believe she's got best chances this year, because we all saw her transformation from victim to fighter and someone who can stand for her future. I think female voters will like it. I've always believed that Sansa is a good character, somehow interesting and she can be very important one, in fact [I don't know about book, but I feel so]. 

Now, let's talk about EMMYS:

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Top 10 Sports Movies of All Time

Inspired by this WorldCup hysteria,  here are my Top Ten sports movies of all time. Before I start, I should acknowledge that not big fan of any kind of sport, except Tennis, therefore I'm not into films that are related to any of these sports. However, some of them managed to grab my attention and I actually remember many of them. So, here is my list:

Story of Harvard student Matt Buckner (Elijah Wood), who was falsely convicted in drag abuse and is forced to move to London, where he falls in with West Ham football firm [aka the Green Street Elite].

It tells the story of two athletes in the 1924 Olympics: Eric Liddell, a Scottish Christian who runs for the glory of God, and Harold Abrahams, a discriminated Jew who runs to overcome prejudice he faces in University of Cambridge.

This is not another sports movie, it's a brilliant picture about what drives people to succeed, to be outstanding and to achieve something they've always dreamed. Though Chariots of Fire is best picture of 1981 it is often criticized for being chosen over  Raiders of the Lost Ark, which I actually agree.

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For Your Oscar Consideration: Birdman [2014] teaser

Two times Oscar nominee director Alejandro González Iñárritu returns with intrigue and well-casted movie Birdman. Yesterday, Fox Searchlight released its first teaser trailer.

Michael Keaton [pictured above] stars as Riggan Thomson - famous for portraying an iconic superhero. But it's been in past and now he struggles with himself, nonfunctional family and career, trying to recover his lost name by playing on Broadway. 

Rounding out the cast are Emma Stone, Edward Norton, Zach Galifianakis. The film is based off of the Raymond Carver short story What We Talk About When We Talk About Love.

I personally, did not like teaser very much. It did not make me wow, but I'm pretty intrigued, because I really want to know what's going on there. I expect more from first official trailer, it is supposed to tell more about the story. 

So, what do you think about its Oscar chances?

Check out my Academy Award predictions for Birdman.